The Third Hour Podcast: Recent Episodes
The Third Hour Podcast
Welcome to the Third Hour, a Latter-Day Saint home study podcast!This year we're doing a deep dive into the New Testament. Some of our talking points will be familiar. Other ideas may sound new. That's okay! Together, we'll learn something about the New Testament no matter what our starting level.Every week, we'll let you know which verses we're studying. If you miss some reading, we'll recap what's going on. And don't worry about spoilers; this stuff is two thousand years old.
The Books of Obadiah and Malachi complete our tour of the Twelve Minor Prophets and the Hebrew Bible. But wait! There's more!
What do the books of Joel and Jonah have in common? Spurious provenance! But what's more unexpected is the way they present contrasting approaches to the peoples who live around Judea. Join us on the Third Hour Podcast to learn more!
The second half of the Book of Daniel concerns apocalyptic images — although those images refer to an apocalypse that never arrived, and which was never intended to communicate anything about the modern world. Today on the Third Hour, we discuss the not-so-hidden history of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a big jerk whose reign directly led to the theological invention of a bad place after death.
The first six chapters of the Book of Daniel recount a handful of folktales. Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we examine these tales in detail, touching on not only their historical inaccuracies, but also their profound moral meanings to those in the diaspora.
The Book of Esther takes us into the realm of historical fiction, riffing on ancient figures and sparking a drinking festival. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss its background, departures from reality, and why it's a worthwhile text.
Today we investigate the books of Haggai and Zechariah, which illuminate another perspective on the beginning of the Second Temple Period, and in some cases contrast with the narratives found in Ezra and Nehemiah.
The Book of Nehemiah portrays yet another step in the reconstruction of post-Exile Jerusalem. Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss some of the ways Nehemiah's priorities differ from Ezra's, the composition of the religious classes, and the politics behind the rebuilding of the city walls.
At long last, the Babylonian Exile is over! Thanks to the edicts of Cyrus the Great, the Jewish people have been released, allowing the reconstruction of Jerusalem as a client state of Persia. However, the state of affairs is far from perfect, leaving the inhabitants of the Province-Across-the-River uncertain about their families' future.
The Song of Solomon, also known as the Song of Songs, doesn't have a good reputation in Mormonism. Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss the reasons behind the poem's ignominy, as well as the beauty of its prose and some of the ways it has been interpreted throughout history.
The Book of Job has been interpreted and reinterpreted countless times across the centuries. Today, we look at two modern retellings: Joel and Ethan Coen's A Serious Man and Edward Greenstein's Job: A New Translation. Along the way, we discuss the book's many meanings, its ancient context, and how this most unorthodox story may have entered the Biblical canon.
The Book of Job ranks among the Hebrew Bible's most poetic and enigmatic books, an examination of suffering and the answers we offer to that suffering. Today on a double-length episode of the Third Hour Podcast, we dig into the particulars of the story, our own reactions to it, and the ways it challenges our behaviors and even our broader religious traditions.
The Babylonian Captivity is the watershed event of the Hebrew Bible, a catastrophe that will preoccupy its latter books. Today we examine Lamentations and Ecclesiastes, which offer contrasting responses to the destruction of Jerusalem.
Whoa! Another Isaiah! This week on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss Trito-Isaiah in some depth, including the textual clues that have led most scholars to conclude that it was written by a different author than those who wrote the first two Isaiahs, the way its author's understanding of the covenant differs from his predecessors, and the milieu that influenced his work.
Early Christians often identified the Book of Isaiah as "the fifth gospel." Yet its theology, rhetoric, and even authorship complicates such easy description. Today, the Third Hour Podcast talks about the book's second major section. Who was Deutero-Isaiah? What did they hope their audience would learn from their writing? Hopefully we can shed some light on those enduing questions.
In its second half, the Book of Ezekiel tones down the sexual imagery but becomes no less enigmatic. This week on the Third Hour Podcast, we investigate some of the book's most notable passages, including the valley of dry bones and the destruction of Gog and Magog, and discuss some complicating factors in the way these have been interpreted throughout history.
Age Warning! The Book of Ezekiel has traditionally been withheld from students until the age of thirty — the reasons for which we will investigate in this episode as we discuss the extreme visions, behaviors, and ethical code that are the hallmarks of this prophet.
In stark contrast to the first half of the Book of Jeremiah, the second half shifts tone, genre, and even theology. Join us for a discussion of Jeremiah's politicking, prophecy, and his unique approach to Babylon.
The Book of Jeremiah is famous for its lamentations. What might surprise some listeners, however, is the ways that Jeremiah inverts expectations. In this episode, we discuss the prophet's laments, sarcasm, and perhaps most importantly, his invective for the priests, temple, prophets, and even God.
As the destruction of the Northern Kingdom of Israel progressed, the prophets of the Kingdom of Judah reacted in a variety of ways. Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we're looking at four such prophets, each with their own perspective on the invasion of Assyria: Micah, Zephaniah, Nahum, and Habakkuk.
You've heard it before: the Book of Isaiah is notoriously difficult, nigh impossible to decipher without a deep understanding of symbolism. Nothing could be further from the truth! Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the particulars of First Isaiah — the original author whose works fill the first 39 chapters of the final book — including some essential historical context that makes Isaiah a cinch to understand.
The Book of Hosea is a challenging text for a number of reasons: translation, transmission, and complex political dynamics, not to mention the distastefulness of its central metaphor. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we examine what we can learn from engaging with a difficult text.
With the Book of Amos, we witness the birth of a new literary tradition, one that will continue throughout the remainder of the Hebrew Bible. Utilizing song, poetry, persuasive essays, oracles, and other forms, the author expresses a new ethical model, complete with a novel understanding of covenant, causality, and justice.
The Books of Chronicles have always presented unique problems to Biblical scholars and religious authorities. Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss not only what makes Chronicles difficult, but also why it can prove instructive to our understanding of the history and theology of its time.
The final chapters of Kings cover two collapses as Assyria defeats Israel and Babylon defeats Judah. Interspersed with these disasters are accounts of kings both righteous and wicked — according to the Deuteronomist, that is. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we dig into the authorship and history of these twin collapses.
As successor to Elijah, Elisha immediately sets about either replicating or one-upping his predecessor's miracles — by having two bears chow down on some churlish adolescents. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss Elisha and some bonus royal squabbles.
Elijah looms large in the imagination of multiple religions. Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we examine the passages behind that reputation and ask whether it comports to our understanding of this enigmatic figure.
The division of King David's United Monarchy marks a watershed moment in the Hebrew Bible, not to mention the Deuteronomistic History. Blending history, folktale, and propaganda, the feud between Rehoboam's Judah and Jeroboam's Israel soon becomes a tale of multiple succession crises, conflicts, and dynasties — and the Third Hour Podcast is working to clarify these interconnected strands.
The tale of King Solomon has inspired countless interpretations, filled with wisdom narratives about divided babies and flattering visits from the Queen of Sheba. But the story that comes to us is filled with editorializing from our good friend the Deuteronomist. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we dig into the realities of Solomon's court.
As we reach the conclusion of King David's life, readers of the Hebrew Bible are confronted with a troubling image: a feeble old man who in his last words requests vengeance against those who slighted him. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the appendix to the Books of Samuel, the succession of Solomon, and why we should be cautious whenever we hear somebody make big claims about chiasm.
The tale of Absalom — son of David, avenger of Tamar, murderer of Amnon, rebel king of Israel — is an enigmatic chapter in the long tale of King David. It's a story full of cowardly justice and bold injustice, one that touches upon courtly intrigues and distasteful sexual ethics. What can we learn from this Biblical story? Read along as the Third Hour Podcast tries to find out!
Something is wrong in King David's court, but it's even worse than you've been told. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the curdling of David's tale, including the fate of Jonathan's son, David's rape of Bathsheba and murder of Uriah, and Nathan's rebuke of the king's behavior.
Through sheer serendipity, the path has been paved for David's ascent to the kingship, and his good favor continues when his rivals stumble over themselves time and time again. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss holy dice, cheapened revelation, and why David is perhaps not the paragon of virtue you've been led to believe.
With his options quickly running out, David decides that it isn't enough to be a criminal — he must also join the Philistines. Meanwhile, King Saul is so uncertain about his future that he resorts to necromancy, raising Samuel's spirit to ask for advice. In the end, Saul is killed in battle entirely without David's involvement, a suspicious turn of events to say the least. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the etymology of "spirit," the welcome circumstances of David's enemies being swept from the field, and what the author of the Book of Samuel might be trying to say about these complicated characters.
We all know the story. On the run from King Saul, David assembles a band of outlaws to survive both the rugged landscape and the pursuits of the King. Except the text doesn't quite line up with the plucky image. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss David's time as a ruffian, from his two run-ins with Saul to some light racketeering on the frontier.
Continuing into 1 Samuel, we reach one of the most famous stories in all of human literature: David and Goliath. Or rather, two intertwined stories about David and Goliath, plus a third later in 2 Samuel. Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we not only peel apart those tales, but also dig into David's marriage to Michal, his love for Jonathan, and the presence of household gods in the royal court.
The people want a king to rule over them. Sound familiar? Samuel balks at the idea, but he soon finds a suitable candidate in the person of Saul. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss Samuel's scheming, Saul's bumbling, and why we really ought to read the text of the Bible before coming up with scriptural takeaways.
The Book of Samuel offers an enigmatic and compelling portrait of multiple men of power. This week, we examine the passing of the mantle from the House of Eli to Samuel, including questions of authorship, the way we read the text versus what it actually argues, and the value of thinking outside the box. Meanwhile, the Ark of the Covenant goes on a solo adventure.
There's a good chance you know the story of Ruth. After the horror and bloodshed of Judges, this is the one where everybody's courteous and does the right thing. Right? Well, about that. Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we're talking about who wrote Ruth, why they wrote it, and how that should inform what we draw out of it.
The last few episodes in the Book of Judges contain some of the most difficult material in the entire Hebrew Bible. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss Micah's idol, the Levite's concubine, and the Benjamite War — and why these episodes exhibit the Bible at its most morally coherent.
Abimelech! Jephthah! Samson! This week on the Third Hour Podcast, there isn't a single male role model to be found. Join us as we discuss the bloodsickness evident in Judges — and why, despite all that, it might be one of the most moral books we've read in the Hebrew Bible so far.
The Book of Judges throws the triumphal narrative of Joshua into disarray, introducing a chaotic landscape dominated by guerrilla warfare, extreme violence, and charismatic leaders. Today, the Third Hour Podcast discusses the Song of Deborah, the many identities of Gideon, and why Judges might have been considered humorous to its original recipients.
It's time for everybody's favorite scriptural topic — land allotments! The second half of the Book of Joshua is markedly less thrilling than the first, parceling out land to the various tribes of Israel. Fortunately, we're also taking the time to discuss the origins of the tribal system and how to cope with the Deuteronomist's peculiar approach to history-making.
As the Book of Joshua begins, the Camp of Israel crosses the Jordan and begins conquering the Promised Land. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss holy war, archaeological evidence (or lack thereof), and the long history of massaging these tales to make them more palatable.
With the blessing and death of Moses, the Torah is finished. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the final chapters of Deuteronomy, the various covenants presented in the Torah, and what we can draw from altered scripture.
The middle portion of Deuteronomy is the torah itself, the scroll of law that forms the basis for King Josiah's reforms. Yet it's filled with difficult material: child sacrifice, human spoils, rape, temple prostitution. What can we learn from troublesome scripture? Moreover, where does this material come from, and how can it help us foster a relationship with the divine? Join the Third Hour Podcast as we ponder those very questions.
Meet the Deuteronomist! The final authorial school of the Torah brings an entirely new way of looking at scripture, and the Third Hour Podcast investigates how it modifies what's come before.
The final portion of the Book of Numbers makes for a rough journey. Balak, the King of Moab, asks Balaam to curse Israel, only for Balaam to have a peculiar interaction with a speaking donkey. The Israelites and Midianites spend some intimate time together, resulting in slaughter. The daughters of Zelophehad request a landholding from Moses and the assembly, granting property rights to women — but with hefty restrictions. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we wrestle in the wilderness.
The middle portion of Numbers contains a few familiar passages, most notably the Bronze Serpent and Moses's thoughts on the goodness of God. We tend to skip over the rest: divine anger and vanity, selective punishments, and a worldview very unlike our own. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss reading morality stories, corporate versus individual sin, and racial dynamics in the camp of Israel.
Numbers may be named after its two censuses, but it also begins with two major examples of oath-taking: the Nazirite vow and the test of bitter waters. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we delve into their possible meanings — and explore what it means to read scripture that's vague or horrifying.
Somewhere around the halfway mark of Leviticus, the tone changes to an entirely different legal and cosmological perspective. Meet the Holiness Code! Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the identity and aims of the code's author, along with some bonus child sacrifice and jubilee years.
Leviticus isn't often considered very exciting. We're determined to fix that! Between the identity and mindset of the book's first author, the difference between cleanliness and sin, and whatever is going on with the scapegoat, there's plenty to learn on this week's episode of the Third Hour Podcast.
When Moses comes down the mountain, he's greeted by the graven image of a golden calf. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we examine Aaron's culpability in this idolatry, the ensuing discussion between God and Moses, what this story can teach us about its author's politics, and, in the end, how Exodus affects our approach to the divine.
This week, the Third Hour Podcast discusses the blueprints for the Tabernacle! No, really, that's what we're talking about. Bonus: a brief discussion about the meaning of "sin."
Now that the Children of Israel have escaped Egypt, their minds turn to the business of survival. Manna and quail, water from the ground, and battles with neighboring tribes all demand attention. For Moses, however, it's time to climb the mountain and receive instructions from God.
When Moses and the Children of Israel are finally permitted to leave Egypt, they strike out along an unusual route—after some plunder, of course. This week on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss the history of the Passover, the parting of the Reed Sea, and, most importantly, how we react when we encounter a God we don't recognize in scripture.
Now when Israel was in Egypt land, oppressed so hard they could not stand, so the Lord said, "Go down, Moses, way down Egypt land, tell old Pharaoh to let my people go." You know the rest. But have you considered some of the story's peculiarities? Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss hardened hearts, poetic structure, whether God harms the innocent to prove something to the guilty, and the necessity of liberation.
As we enter the Book of Exodus, the state of affairs has changed in Egypt. As the Children of Israel suffer in captivity, a child is saved by water and grows into a man concerned with justice. When he encounters a burning bush in the wilderness, his life trajectory is altered to encompass the liberation of his people. Join the Third Hour Podcast to discuss Moses, dangerous encounters with divinity, and the archaeology of Exodus.
Joseph has come a long way. Now working as Pharaoh's governor, Joseph uses his newfound influence to play tricks on his brothers and ultimately reunite with his family. Meanwhile, the Third Hour Podcast discusses his divination cup, the implications of his governorship on Egypt, and the blessings and prophecies offered by Jacob.
Poor Joseph. Poor, poor Joseph. Sold into slavery in Egypt, tempted by Potiphar's wife (really?), and thrown into a dungeon. Meanwhile, Pharaoh has dreams and Judah reneges on his responsibilities to Tamar. How will these stories resolve? Find out right here on the Third Hour Podcast.
The trickster is tricked! Jacob meets Rachel, marries Leah (and then Rachel), wrestles with a stranger, and returns home. If only his troubles ended there.
With Abraham's uncertain relationships behind us, the Third Hour Podcast dives into some of the most pronounced contrasts in the entire Book of Genesis: the vibrant Rebecca, the absent Isaac, and their quarreling children Esau and Jacob.
Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss Abraham's debate with God over the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah, the particularities of the "sin of Sodom," the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, and that promise's uncomfortable fallout. What a week!
The Era of the Patriarchs opens with an obscure but skilled herdsman named Abram, who will in time become many things: warlord, father to nations, recipient of God's covenant. Or is that covenants, plural? Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we investigate Abram's identity, the nature of God's favor, an influential supporting character named Melchizedek, and the uncomfortable sexual politics that will come to dominate the lives of Sarai and Hagar and their descendants.
Join the Third Hour Podcast as we read about a series of unfortunate events that beset early humankind: the murder of Abel by Cain, a great flood, and the collapse of the tower of Babel.
Did you know Genesis opens with two contrasting accounts of creation? It's true! Today on the Third Hour Podcast, we examine the second account, including its parallels to the Epic of Gilgamesh.
As we begin the third season of the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss the first of two creation accounts in Genesis — and what we hope to accomplish through our study of the Hebrew Bible.
The Third Hour Podcast is taking a break! We might be back next year. Until then, thank you for joining us in our investigation of the New Testament and Book of Mormon.
At long last, we've reached the end of the Book of Mormon. Join us as we discuss testimony, doubt, action, and Moroni's promise.
As Mormon and Moroni exchange high counselor talks, the Third Hour Podcast discusses bitter fountains, charity, and child baptism.
As we enter the first few chapters of Moroni — which also happen to be some of the Book of Mormon's most prescriptive — the Third Hour Podcast asks about the essential portions of various ordinances and how we can see to the welfare of souls in the Church.
As the Book of Ether concludes with another series of cataclysmic battles, the Third Hour Podcast discusses the function of recounting so many fights, some ambiguity in discussing faith and grace, and the difficulties in comparing the Book of Mormon and the New Testament.
Begetting and battling — the two pastimes of the Jaredites. Join us as we discuss Jaredite religion, historical models, and how we approach ancient documents.
The Book of Ether presents a number of new questions, especially as the Brother of Jared prays for guidance and receives salvation through his knowledge. The Third Hour Podcast discusses the Tower of Babel, the function of Ether's inclusion of genealogy, the specifics of prayer, salvation through knowledge, and the possible inclusion of Gnostic and Sumerian religion in the Book of Mormon.
As we read Mormon's last words and get to know Moroni better, we also discuss the interactions between the Bible and Book of Mormon, and give our individual takes on what it means to "condemn not."
The Book of Mormon turns its thoughts from ideal society to inevitable decline, raising a number of questions for the Third Hour Podcast. If the teachings of Jesus were so transformative, where did the divisions of this later book emerge from? Is a similar collapse inevitable today? If so, why should we work if there's no hope? If not, what does that say about our attitudes? How can we build Zion?
The Messiah's appearance marks the beginning of two centuries of peace. The Third Hour Podcast discusses the possible causes of such an occurrence, along with what draws us to Christ, and how that can sometimes cause tension with our surroundings.
As Jesus turns to prophecy and quotations from both Isaiah and Malachi, the Third Hour Podcast discusses some of the ways we might have blind spots to particular passages, the inclusion of certain scriptures, and what the Book of Mormon teaches about the value of future events.
As Jesus continues ministering to the Nephites, we discuss the depth of His concern, how to make His foundation sure, and the particularities of prayer.
As Jesus delivers the equivalent of the Gospel of Matthew's Sermon on the Mount to the Nephite people, the Third Hour Podcast discusses the relevance of this repetition and some of the changes found therein.
At long last, we've reached the apex of the Book of Mormon — the appearance of the Messiah in the Americas. The Nephites are rightfully astounded to hear the voice of Jesus Christ. For this episode of the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss the difficulty of miracles, the impact of the Law of Moses being fulfilled, the Book of Mormon's Trinitarian passages and what we can learn from them, and possible meanings of the "spirit of contention."
For a day and a night and a day, there was no darkness. This was the miracle that attended the birth of the messiah. Yet very soon the Nephites found ways to dismiss this event. In an anxious episode of the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss what went wrong. What were the signs of decay that led to such forgetfulness? And more importantly, are those same signs evident in our own approach to faith, certainty, and doubt?
Samuel the Lamanite calls the Nephites to repentance — and us by extension, sparking a conversation about treasure, inertia, and complacency.
As Nephi prays in his garden tower and calls his people to repentance, the Third Hour Podcast discusses some repentance of our own — namely, how the concept is expressed in the Book of Mormon, what it has to do with signs and famines, and how we apply it to the politics of today.
As we trade the war chapters of Alma for the war chapters of Helaman, the Third Hour Podcast talks about the suffering and persecution of the most humble, how to become humble rather than acting as persecutors, and what we can learn about the Gadianton Robbers, conspiracy theories, and being prudent.
As Captain Moroni continues to wage war, the Third Hour Podcast discusses the legalities and ethics by comparing modern and ancient warfare, asks who the Messiah would have us emulate, and attempts to reconcile the story of the Stripling Warriors with instances when the faithful are not saved by divine intervention.
War! What is it good for? As Captain Moroni squares off against Amalickiah, the Third Hour Podcast asks a number of pressing questions on the topic of warfare. What do these chapters teach us about the qualifications for righteous war? What charges do we levy against our opponents? Is the Title of Liberty a meaningful casus belli? Can we judge the characters and actions of the Book of Mormon by modern standards? And what are the desirable — or undesirable — traits of leaders like Captain Moroni or Amalickiah?
After sharing some fatherly advice with his sons Helaman and Shiblon, Alma gives "the talk" to Corianton. But what is Alma principally concerned with? The Third Hour Podcast discusses sexual sin, some pitfalls and even inaccuracies with our application of the law of chastity, and a possible translation error between works and covenants.
Alma counsels his sons Helaman and Shiblon, and the Third Hour Podcast discusses the ways God reaches out to us, comfort and the Comforter, and bridling our passions.
It's a phrase every seminary student knows: "Now we will compare the word unto a seed." But have we always taken the idea in the right direction? This week on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss the parameters and even some of our possible blind spots in respect to Alma's parable.
As the Zoramites worship with the aid of a Rameumptom, the Third Hour Podcast asks what our own Rameumptoms might be, whether obsessive defense of the Church that prevents us from seeing the needs of others, missing opportunities to serve because of our pride, or mistaking our privileges for an excuse to not act.
As the Anti-Nephi-Lehies bury their weapons, the Third Hour Podcast discusses the natural fears that come with welcoming the stranger.
At long last, it's time for everybody's favorite Book of Mormon missionary story! The Third Hour Podcast discusses the chopping of arms, living among the targets of our missionary work, and some of the things we don't do as modern missionaries.
As Alma and Amulek are miraculously delivered — and many other believers are not — the Third Hour Podcast discusses how our tribulations may be informed by our worldview and how to search for good information.
As Alma continues to preach and eventually contends with Zeezrom, the Third Hour Podcast discusses the methods of debate present in the Book of Mormon and how those might inform our approach to doubters and nobelievers, the miracle of being saved from sin rather than in sin, and a message of inclusion and discipleship.
Alma delivers teachings about salvation, and the Third Hour discusses what we can learn about building the Kingdom of Heaven.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, King Mosiah proposes replacing patrilineal primogeniture — better known as "kingship" — with a system of judges, Nehor and Amlici promote some much worse ideas, and we talk about misplaced priorities, how both ancient and modern people are trapped in paradigms, and how to talk about the Book of Mormon's curse of skin color in today's setting.
As Alma the Younger is reproached by an angel for his wicked ways, the Third Hour Podcast discusses God's intervention, non-intervention, and the ways in which we become converted.
Alma's people escape from King Noah into the wilderness, King Limhi's people escape from the Lamanites, and the Third Hour Podcast engages in some escapism of our own by discussing the differences and similarities between ancient and latter-day baptism, the consequences and effects of supporting wicked rulers, and how to consider Lamanite agency.
This week, Abinadai faces the wicked King Noah while the Third Hour Podcast discusses Abinadai's theology, how it feels when it seems God is slow to hear us, and a possible "escape route" for Isaiah.
With the appearance of Zeniff, the Third Hour Podcast discusses unreliable narrators, the theological differences between consequences and effects, the prosperity gospel, and forgiveness.
The Third Hour Podcast wraps up the address of King Benjamin, and discusses immediate and long-term transformations of testimony, the condescension of God in forging covenants with us, and our responsibility to others.
As the Third Hour Podcast begins reading King Benjamin's address, we discuss how he cuts to the core of the Gospel, the value of scripture, and the placement of the Messiah in history.
As the Third Hour Podcast covers the books of Enos, Jarom, Omni, and Words of Mormon, we discuss the potency of conversion events and whether they can last a lifetime, pride cycles and our place within them, and the promptings of the spirit we sometimes ignore.
Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss Jacob's Allegory of the Olive Tree, including the straightforwardness of its historical model and how it can be applied to testimonies, followed by a discussion of Jacob's contention with Sherem.
As the Third Hour Podcast begins the Book of Jacob, we discuss his perspectives on poverty, polygamy, and race, and how they may have been informed by his people's distance from the land of their forefathers.
As the Third Hour Podcast at last bids farewell to Nephi, we discuss what we've learned across the Book of Mormon's first two books, the origins of baptism, and how to internalize the scriptures.
The Third Hour Podcast discusses self-prophecy, the value of multiple testimonies running together, and what the scriptures teach us about saying "all is well."
As the Third Hour Podcast continues reading the Isaiah portions of the Book of Mormon, we discuss historical context improving or diminishing our personal interpretations, possible reasons for this duplication of scripture, and sing A-ha.
As the Third Hour Podcast forges into the Isaiah chapters of 2 Nephi, we discuss the historical Isaiah, how it would have been interpreted in the seventh century BCE, and what we can draw from it today.
As we enter the second book in the Book of Mormon, the Third Hour Podcast investigates the final teachings of Lehi, including who the text is in conversation with, some refreshing theology, anachronisms, and a particularly uncomfortable curse.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss dying in the wilderness, the ways Nephi frames his text, and lost prophets.
Continuing from last week, the vision of the Tree of Life is now revealed to Nephi, and the Third Hour Podcast discusses the many prophecies therein.
This week, the Third Hour Podcast discusses Lehi's vision, including the possible meaning of ancient baptism, universal symbology, and subpar parenting techniques.
The Third Hour Podcast goes back to the reign of King Zedekiah to discuss why someone might not want to stick around Jerusalem circa 600 BCE, the major themes of the Book of Mormon's first few chapters, and some thoughts on that elephant in the room.
As we begin the second season of the Third Hour Podcast, we talk about the title page of the Book of Mormon — and what we hope to accomplish over the coming year.
As the Third Hour Podcast concludes the New Testament, we discuss what we've learned along the way.
As the Third Hour Podcast reaches the final chapters of the New Testament, we discuss a few historical approaches to Revelation, the renewal of Earth and Jerusalem, and some of the perils of focusing too heavily on apocalyptic literature.
In this cheery episode of the Third Hour Podcast, we investigate the first eleven chapters of the Apocalypse of John, better known as the Book of Revelation, and discuss the book's authorship, the number seven, and a whole lot of scary cataclysmic symbolism.
At long last the Third Hour Podcast concludes the epistles by looking at 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, and Jude, and discussing early Docetic opposition to the gospel, the Johannine Comma, and the magnificent love of God.
The Third Hour Podcast discusses the authorship of Peter's epistles, the apostle's eyewitness testimony, and the ups and downs of Christian conduct.
Continuing from last week's discussion of the Epistle to the Hebrews, the Third Hour Podcast discusses this elegant letter's second half, including the identity of Melchizedek, the high priest who makes a sacrifice for all, and the identity of Jesus as the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.
Nestled within the Epistle to the Hebrews is one of the Bible's greatest mysteries. Although this represents some of the finest writing in the entire New Testament, featuring educated language, a developed Christology, and concise rhetorical arguments, the epistle itself is anonymous. On the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss the first six chapters of this landmark work, including possible authors, what it represents to Christianity and Latter-day Saints, and the ways it portrays Jesus Christ.
The Pastoral Epistles — 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus — are short but difficult to decode, in part because of the ways they diverge from the rest of the Pauline Epistles. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss what's good, bad, and in between about some of the New Testament's most controversial inclusions.
As the Third Hour Podcast dives into the epistle to the Ephesians, we discuss the formation of New Testament canon, differing approaches to pseudepigrapha, and how to reconcile deutero-Pauline epistles.
The Third Hour investigates the last of the epistles likely written by Paul's own hand, discussing topics of citizenship, households, and slavery found in Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.
The Acts of the Apostles may have begun with Peter, but its final nine chapters are a farewell to Paul, repeating his conversion story and bearing witness to multiple authority figures as he heads first to Jerusalem and later to Rome. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the last portion of the New Testament's most directly historical book.
As Paul concludes his epistle to the Romans and prepares to journey back to Jerusalem, he leaves his readers with some final advice, including strong words for those who judge and those who despise.
Paul continues his epistle to the Romans, and the Third Hour Podcast discusses the crux of his central argument, from the universal problem of sin to the solution of justification by faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul's epistle to the Romans is often considered his magnum opus, a definitive statement on how mankind can be set at rights with the divine. Today, the Third Hour Podcasts investigates the first three chapters of Paul's most comprehensive letter, beginning with a massive existential problem — that everyone falls short of the glory of God.
Is Paul's second epistle to Corinth really the second epistle, or the third? Or even the fourth? Is it one letter or multiple? Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the difficulty of decoding Second Corinthians, possible later additions, and some of the differences between reading Jesus and reading Paul.
Continuing the First Epistle to the Corinthians, the Third Hour Podcast discusses Paul's take on marriage, sexuality, women, unity, spiritual gifts, and resurrection.
As Paul completes one missionary journey and begins another, he receives distressing news from the congregation he founded in Corinth — and begins one of his most difficult epistles yet. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we investigate Acts 18-19 and the first six chapters of 1 Corinthians!
Paul's second missionary journey takes him to Greece, where he spends some time in prison, preaches about the unknown god of Athens, and sends two epistles to the converts in Thessalonica. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we investigate the particulars of Paul's journey and the ways these epistles answer the questions of the Thessalonians — and raise a few new ones.
As Gentile converts flood into the fledgling Christian church, questions about adherence to the Law of Moses threaten to become points of division and contention. Peter, Paul, and other leaders gather in Jerusalem to formulate a response, resulting in two very different accounts — one in Acts, the other in Paul's Epistle to the Galatians.
This week, the Third Hour Podcast takes a look at the Epistle of James, its place in history, what it's arguing and why, and some useful tools for decoding the epistles in general.
In the decade following the ascent of Jesus, this small movement of disciples and believers grows from a cult to a community, from a Way to a Church, from nameless to Christianity — and faces stiff opposition from both within and without.
As the Gospels conclude and Jesus ascends into heaven, the apostles must now decide how to proceed with building the church and awaiting the return of their Messiah.
At long last, the climactic miracle of the Gospels. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the women at the tomb, the appearances of Jesus, and the final chapters of the Gospels.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, the tragedy of the Gospels reaches its lowest moment as the Son of Man is tried by his enemies, convicted by his people, and crucified.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, Jesus hosts the last supper, prays in the Garden Gethsemane, and gets arrested — and is ultimately deserted by his disciples.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, we investigate the portions of the Last Supper unique to the Gospel of John, from Jesus washing his disciples' feet to a handful of comforting sermons.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, Jesus delivers a discourse on the Mount of Olives, which includes the desolating sacrilege, the parable of good and wicked servants, and the parable of the ten bridesmaids.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, Jesus defends against multiple traps in the temple, discussing parables of authority and questions about Caesar's tax, resurrection, and the great commandment.
At long last, the long journey to Jerusalem concludes with the raising of Lazarus, the anointing of Jesus's feet, and the triumphal entry into the city. But is this meant as a crescendo or a letdown? Join the Third Hour Podcast as we discuss the particulars of the beginning of Holy Week.
As the narrative of Luke's Gospel merges with those of Matthew and Mark, the Third Hour Podcast discusses some hard parables about wealth, the rich young man's question, and the architecture of gates in Jerusalem.
Today on the Third Hour Podcast, Jesus pauses his journey to Jerusalem to teach a number of parables, including the Prodigal Son, Dishonest Manager, and Lazarus and the Rich Man.
Continuing from last week's introduction to the Gospel of Luke's journey toward Jerusalem, the Third Hour Podcast talks about slavery, redefining the sermons of Matthew, a radical interpretation of the parable of the barren fig tree, and the merciful frankness of Jesus.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, we begin the second act of the Gospel of Luke, a ten-chapter journey in which Jesus sets his face to go to Jerusalem, shares the parable of the Good Samaritan, and teaches about priorities.
While Jesus heals a blind man and attends the Festival of Dedication, the Third Hour Podcast discusses foreordination, the process of conversion, and the struggles of first-century Christian communities.
The Third Hour Podcast shifts into the Gospel of John, in which Jesus crashes the Feast of Tabernacles, defends a woman caught in adultery, and makes a staggering proclamation of his divinity.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, Jesus offers an unexpected answer to the question, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" and offers instruction on proper behavior in the church that will bear his name.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, we discuss the transfiguration of Jesus, the identities and roles of Elijah and Elias, and the temple tax.
Directly following last week's controversial sermon, Jesus has an encounter with a Gentile woman, clashes once more with the Pharisees, and asks his disciples, "Whom say ye that I am?"
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, the Gospel of John takes Jesus on a detour to Jerusalem, and we discuss some possible reasons why this narrative is so different from the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Later, Jesus miraculously feeds five thousand, walks on water, and delivers a difficult pronouncement.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, Jesus teaches about the coming of the kingdom through parables. Join us as we discuss the parables of the sower, growing seed, tares, mustard seed, leaven, hidden treasure, pearl, and drawing in the net.
This week on the Third Hour Podcast, Jesus answers a plea from John the Baptist, receives kind treatment from an unexpected guest, and foretells of the “Sign of Jonah.”
Following the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus continues his tour through Galilee and shares his second great discourse. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we study his words and deeds!
This week, the Third Hour Podcast finishes studying the Sermon on the Mount, the first of five discourses in the Gospel of Matthew.
Join the Third Hour Podcast as we begin studying the Sermon on the Mount, the first of five sermons in the Gospel of Matthew.
As Jesus begins his ministry in Galilee, he performs numerous miracles — and attracts escalating controversy in the process. Join the Third Hour Podcast as we inspect both the miracles and the discussions surrounding them.
The Third Hour Podcast takes a detour into the Gospel of John, wherein Jesus attends a wedding, speaks with a curious Pharisee, and visits a well in Samaria.
From Bethlehem to Egypt to Nazareth. From adored infant to his baptism and temptations. For our second episode, the Third Hour Podcast studies the life of Jesus prior to the beginning of his ministry.
The Third Hour podcast investigates the good news of two miraculous births, the authorship of the four Gospels, and the lineage of Jesus.