Engaging Gospel Doctrine: Recent Episodes
Jared Anderson
I can’t believe we have been producing Engaging Gospel Doctrine for ten years! This special episode discusses the purpose and past of the podcast as well as milestones in my own journey and process. I also discuss the future of the podcast and the Olam Institute and its projects. Olam SiteWorkplace Wellness Presentation
The Reign of the Judges Judges is one of the most memorable books of the Bible, but also one of the darkest. We must first grapple with the moral ambiguity of these stories before we can learn from the power and courage of Deborah, the vulnerability and trust of Gideon, and appreciate Samson for the… Continue Reading
Covering the Old Testament this year in Sunday School means that we get to study the Exodus, Passover, and Easter at the same time. This striking alignment invites us to explore where in our lives we are in need of Liberation (Exodus), Commemoration (Passover/Sacrament), and Resurrection (Easter). Reading: Exodus 1-17; Easter You can access my… Continue Reading
While Joseph seems tricky and somewhat annoying, a deeper reading of Genesis 37-50 reveals themes of accountability and reconciliation. These chapters invite us to reflect on how we can remain true to ourselves and make the best of difficult situations, and how we can live in such a way that we are ready for whatever… Continue Reading
In these chapters we read about the inter-generational machinations and drama around the family of Rebekah and her twin sons Jacob and Esau. We are invited to reflect on marriage and family, culture, mindset, relationships, and reconciliation. Class Reading: Genesis 24-27; 28-33 Related Episodes
How do we move forward when the world feels like it is ending? How do we bear the pain of feeling the pain of the world? We learn from Noah and Enoch in this episode, who teach us lessons of preparation and compassion. Reading: Genesis 5-11; Moses 6-8 You can access my Reading Notes hereYou… Continue Reading
This episode grapples with the fundamental questions of human nature and purpose. How do we increase and responsibly use our agency, given human limitations? Reading: January 16: Genesis 3-4; Moses 4-5 January 9: Genesis 1-2; Moses 2-3; Abraham 4-5 You can access my Reading Notes hereYou can access my Lesson Notes here Related Episodes
We have our greatest chance to progress toward our divine potential when we take seriously our human nature. This introductory episode for Come Follow Me 2022 reviews the schedule and approach of the podcast for next year, reviews the nature and approaches to scripture, explores the Old Testament and Pearl of Great Price. Class Reading:… Continue Reading
Celebrating Easter and resurrection is incomplete if we do not also celebrate the Holy Week, which is full of not just life and resurrection, but also disappointment, betrayal, and death. Easter invites us to increase our acceptance of death, which allows us to increase our engagement with life. We, like the women at the tomb,… Continue Reading
This is a time to celebrate renewal and resurrection. In this bonus episode I explain the purpose and contribution of Engaging Gospel Doctrine, comparing its approach to other Sunday School podcasts. There are so many great resources out there! I also reread Carol Lynn Pearson’s Holy Week, which applies the Easter message to our every… Continue Reading
It is a shame we shorten this phrase to “The only true Church”, because I think “living” is a very important part of the statement. What does it mean to say the LDS Church is the “only true and living Church”? How do our Heavenly Parents interact with their children? What is the relationship between… Continue Reading
Thank you to all of you who have continued to support the podcast! My goal is to create a library of content indexed to scripture sections so that the podcast will be useful for the foreseeable future. That said, I will also continue to produce the podcast while you continue to support it! This Bonus… Continue Reading
So much to discuss as we conclude our study of the Book of Mormon this year. Points we will explore this lesson: Mormon’s sublime letter on faith, hope, and charity in Moroni 7 Moroni’s promise in chapter 10–perhaps the most read section of the Book of Mormon. How do we know what is true? What does… Continue Reading
These chapters are straightforward–Moroni, shocked he hasn’t been killed yet, shares information about the organization of the church. He introduces: The Gift of the Holy Ghost Ordination of priests and teachers The sacrament prayers Baptism and Church order This is an ideal time to discuss the question: Why do we go to Church? What is… Continue Reading
This lesson contains one of the crown jewels of the Book of Mormon–the sublime verse on weakness and strength in 12:27. There are other gems worthy of study, discussion, and application in this chapter. We have the idea that we can be the angels whom God uses to answer prayers, and Moroni comments on how God… Continue Reading
In this lesson we get to discuss the sealed portion of the Book of Mormon (which made up the bulk of the plates as Joseph described them)! What is contained in the sealed portion? What can we learn from the instructions regarding how to access them? We are going to examine these chapters on several… Continue Reading
After Mormon’s final plea to the House of Israel, Moroni takes over the record. His despair and loneliness is palpable and touching in the beginning of Mormon 8. There are several thought provoking gems in these chapters about weakness, pride, caring for the needy, and theological points about the nature of God and judgment. Moroni’s… Continue Reading
Poignantly placed after the description of the Lehite utopia, these are the darkest, most disturbing chapters in the Book of Mormon. It seems a fitting time to wrestle with the human potential for evil, the reality of the terrible things we do to each other, almost as a rule. And after reading his life’s work,… Continue Reading
These chapters include an account of the happiest, most righteous, productive years in all of Book of Mormon history, the model utopian society that endured almost two hundred years after Jesus’ appearance. Unfortunately, we only read about that time period (which surpasses the time covered by Mosiah, Alma, Helaman, and 3 Nephi!) for eighteen brief… Continue Reading
These chapters function as a sermon and reflection about the scriptures. Jesus quotes from Isaiah 54 and Malachi 3-4. He recommends the writings of Isaiah and urges Nephi to supplement his own records. Then in a bittersweet twist, we are excluded from the climax of the story–Mormon tells us that Jesus reveals all things, that… Continue Reading
Am I correct in concluding that these chapters fall in that category of scripture that most members read without comprehension? When we think “Isaiah chapters” 2 Nephi comes to mind, but 3 Nephi has its share as well, with some Micah thrown in. These chapters in brief talk about how in the latter days Israel… Continue Reading
These chapters of the Book of Mormon contain some of the most moving and tender moments in all of scripture. Jesus heals the sick, one by one. The crowd weeps with joy. Jesus blesses little children and the scene becomes ineffable. Angels minister to the children and Jesus weeps. All take the sacrament and Jesus… Continue Reading
These chapters give a literal chance to “feast upon the words of Christ” since they consist almost exclusively of Jesus’ teachings. Chapters 12-14 parallel the Sermon on the Mount and focus on issues of the happy life (Beatitudes), discipleship, the relationship of Jesus to the Law of Moses, and proper prayer and fasting. Other points… Continue Reading
Nephi 11 is one of the most familiar chapters in Mormon scripture, shared by missionaries daily in countless languages. 3 Nephi 11-28 recount the personal ministry of Christ to the Lehites. Some of the most touching and powerful chapters in the Book of Mormon are found in this section. But before that ministry, there is… Continue Reading
The beginning of 3 Nephi overflows with intense extremes as it describes the decades leading up to the appearance of Jesus to the Lehites. The sign of Jesus’ birth is given; people believe then disbelieve. A protracted war with the Gadianton robbers forces the people to prepare and unite. Society is rebuilt and then collapses.… Continue Reading
These chapters are about Samuel the Lamanite posting to his wall (I know, bad joke, but some of us can relate to the stones and arrows). Samuel’s wall top preaching alternates between predictions of destruction, contrasting the Lamanite reaction to the truth, and prophesying concerning the coming of Christ. This lesson and discussion will focus… Continue Reading
Pretty much everyone is depressed in these chapters. The prophet Nephi and editor Mormon both complain about human nature and the state of wickedness of the people at this time. This is where the Lamanites become more righteous than the Nephites. Highlights will include Lessons from Lamanite and Nephite reactions to the Gadianton Robbers Book… Continue Reading
Even with the impending ministry of Christ among the Nephites, Mormon sees this section as the beginning of the end (Hel. 2:13). Helaman is a dark book with powerful highlights. This is a bad time to be a chief judge, and a bad time for the Nephites. The Nephites expand their territory, but wars divide… Continue Reading
The Book of Alma concludes with a bang as we read of wars of multiple fronts and severe internal turmoil and dissent. We can learn a great deal from the behavior of Moroni, Helaman, and their armies. And of course we can’t forget the 2000 stripling warriors and their mothers! There are several embedded letters… Continue Reading
With this lesson we march into the “War chapters” of Alma. Sometimes it seems readers of the Book of Mormon don’t know quite what to do with these twenty odd chapters, but there are many important lessons and intriguing details we can glean. Reading: Alma 43-52 Highlights of this lesson include: Important themes about motivation… Continue Reading
For my next trick, I will work through the entirety of Alma in one episode! It was a rewarding experience to look through the longest book of the Book of Mormon in one sitting, and I saw details and patterns that I had missed before. Alma is a rich and complex book that reveals some… Continue Reading
This core episode puts the provocative idea of God losing godhood in the context of the Plan of Happiness and its opposite, the Plan of Damnation. Reading: Alma 39-42 You can access my Lesson Notes here.
These chapters are chock full of doctrinal substance touching upon the “Great Plan of Happiness”. We will explore: Resurrection and Spirit World Justice and mercy Role of this life The nature of God, including the unusual and compelling idea of a “limited God”. Reading: Alma 39-42 Look forward to an engaging discussion with Jennifer, Stefanie, Keith and Dan. You can… Continue Reading
In this bonus episode, I describe my process of preparing for the podcast and reading the scriptures, as well as make recommendations for scripture reading in general. I discuss literary, personal, intertextual, and historical approaches, and send scripture reading down the rabbit hole. The takeaway is that we can both find personal scripture that nourishes and… Continue Reading
Alma’s intimate words to his sons model a way to use honest sharing about the past to better the present and future. This core episode covers Alma’s path to peace, the principle that we cannot feel greater joy than we have experienced pain, the underappreciated figure of Shiblon, and finally, challenge to the unhealthy idea… Continue Reading
This lesson and the next provide a precious and intimate window in the family life of Alma, one of the great Book of Mormon prophets. These chapters fit into the genre of “Testament”, which records the wisdom and blessings imparted by the patriarch of a family (unfortunately, we don’t have any records of a matriarch… Continue Reading
This reading proves not only interesting for discussion, but can be life changing. This core episode discusses the power and importance of experimenting on the word, the distinction between belief, knowledge, and faith, and how we can experience heaven on earth. Reading: Alma 32-35 You can access the Lesson Notes here.
Plant this Word in your Hearts How many superstars of theology can we fit into a few chapters? Truth. Prayer. Atonement. These chapters contain some of the most memorable lessons and gems in the Book of Mormon. The “experiment upon the word” in Alma 32, Amulek’s powerful sermon on the Atonement and role of this… Continue Reading
“All Things Denote There Is a God” One of the problems with our beliefs is that they are obvious–to us. The familiar is so self-evident that often we can’t even imagine how anyone could believe anything different. Further, even if “all things denote there is a God”, we as humans are not equipped to understand… Continue Reading
“All Things Denote There Is a God” I jokingly call this lesson “Apostates week”. The key exchanges this lesson are Alma vs. Korihor and then Alma and his companions vs. the Zoramites. We are going to push a bit in approach with this lesson, use these scriptures to challenge us a touch. Kind of like… Continue Reading
These chapters tell of conversions through miraculous and even troubling means, inspiring devotion to principle, and overwhelming joy. We also have angel-wannabe Alma teaching us a powerful truth about God calling prophets among all people. Class Member Reading: Alma 23-29 You can access my Annotated Reading here.You can access my Lesson Notes here.
“Converted unto the Lord” Here is the full episode on Lesson 26. These chapters tell of conversions through miraculous and even troubling means, inspiring devotion to principle, and overwhelming joy. We also have angel-wannabe Alma teaching us a powerful truth about God calling prophets among all people. Debbie, Whitney, Adam and Jason join the class.… Continue Reading
The sons of Mosiah are not the only powerful characters in these chapters–or even the main characters. We learn much from Lamanite kings, queens, and servants. This new core episode returns to Alma 17-22 and focuses on vulnerability and authenticity, meeting and serving people where they are, and coming to know God through letting go… Continue Reading
“They Taught with Power and Authority of God” These chapters begin the story of the missionary efforts of the sons of Mosiah. Ammon and Lamoni take center stage, but the Lamanite woman Abish and her queen play key roles and Mormon emphasizes the contrasts between missionary and conversion experiences by paralleling the stories Ammon and Lamoni, Aaron… Continue Reading
“Give Us Strength According to Our Faith … in Christ” This lesson confronts us with hard, perhaps impossible questions. We read about a God who intervenes sometimes, but not others. Alma and Amulek are saved, but only after an extended time in prison. And the worst atrocity is not prevented at all–the murder of women… Continue Reading
It’s time to talk about podcast support! Funny how we don’t like talking about money details. The podcast is not currently sustainable, so please contribute how you can. And if you want to join the inner quorum of supporters, please email me at engaginggospeldoctrine@gmail.com
“More Than One Witness” Alma and Amulek’s tag-team preaching raises profound questions about how we with our limitations can know anything. Truly we have need of “more than one witness.” Class Member Reading: Alma 8-12 You can access the Annotated Reading here. You can access the Lesson Notes here. Resources Dan Ariely, Predictably Irrational Dan… Continue Reading
“Have Ye Received His Image in Your Countenances?” Alma has some impressive rhetorical skills on display in his interrogative sermon in chapter 5. He encourages his audience to access their past selves, future selves, ideal selves, and imagine dying and standing accountable before God. Class Member Reading: Alma 5-7 Diana and Jacob join the class.… Continue Reading
More chapters about good guys vs. bad guys! Or is there more to the story? A careful reading of these chapters invite questions about Nephite power and conflict, as well as the nature of motivation, reform, and healthy communities. Who are the “good guys” and “bad guys”, insiders and outsiders? Reading: Mosiah 29; Alma 1-4… Continue Reading
“Alma … Did Judge Righteous Judgments” Reading: Mosiah 29-Alma 4 In these chapters, we need to challenge the narrator. Mormon assures us that Alma is right and Nehor is wrong, that the Nephites are just and the Amlicites are wicked. But a closer reading challenges, or at least nuances these claims, giving us an opportunity… Continue Reading
God made Alma the Elder’s burdens light… but it appears Alma the Younger did not have the same experience. Alma the Younger’s conversion experience transformed the most difficult period of his life into the fuel for his ministry. We can act rather than react, even in the most difficult circumstances. And even when we act… Continue Reading
We all know the story of the conversion of Alma the Younger, but too rarely pause and ask the deeper questions that add richness and applicability to this narrative. Why did Alma want to destroy the Church? If God can send an angel ex machina to convince someone of their existence, why doesn’t that happen… Continue Reading
God delivers us in our trials before God delivers us from our trials. It has to be that way. The only choice is whether we choose to submit ourselves from the beginning, as Alma as his people do, or whether we fight the process until we have no other choice, as Limhi and his people… Continue Reading
“None Could Deliver Them but the Lord” This reading is a study in contrasts–covenantal cooperation vs. exploitation, desperate vengeance vs. trusting submission. Alma’s baptismal covenants teach us to bear each other’s burdens, mourn with those that mourn, and comfort those in need of comfort. The contrasting stories of the enslavement of Limhi and Alma’s people… Continue Reading
Abinadi is a pretty amazing spy-prophet-debater-theologian, but his message also applies to us personally. How can we hold ourselves accountable? What would our personal commandments be? In what way are we both “Divine Parent and human child?” Reading: Mosiah 11-17 You can access the Annotated Reading here.You can access my Lesson Notes here. Related Episodes… Continue Reading
“God Himself … Shall Redeem His People” Abinadi is like a Spy-Prophet-Debater-Theologian as he sneaks back into the land of Shilom, speaks out against wickedness of king and people, and finally digs into some hard-hitting theology as he debates Noah and his priests. These chapters address themes such as submission, the nature of God, dealing… Continue Reading
Limhi and his people had suffered, been enslaved, and been decimated by war for generations by the time Ammon found them. His courageous honesty, hope, and diligence can teach us about bondage, liberation, and “effectual struggles” in our own lives. Reading: Mosiah 7-10 You can access my Lesson Notes here.You can access the Annotated Reading… Continue Reading
We must claim and care for each other for God to care for and claim us–King Benjamin makes the connection very clear. Yet order of operations is essential, as is wisdom. We don’t improve so we can be loved; we improve because we love ourselves and God. This sermon maps our path to a virtuous… Continue Reading
King Benjamin begins his sermon emphasizing the condescension of God, the depravity of human nature (less than dust and an enemy to God), and urges us to be grateful as we serve God and our fellow humans. These chapters invite reflection on the relationship between the human and divine, the role of Jesus, and how… Continue Reading
Celebrating Easter and resurrection is incomplete if we do not also celebrate the Holy Week, which is full of not just life and resurrection, but also disappointment, betrayal, and death. Easter invites us to increase our acceptance of death, which allows us to increase our engagement with life. We, like the women at the tomb,… Continue Reading
Enos, Jarom, Omni, Words of Mormon… never before have I so appreciated these short books that take up so much room in the Primary song. Not only does Enos provide a powerful example of spiritual devotion and transformation, but his descendants hint at cataclysmic cultural shifts among their people. I place this discussion in a… Continue Reading
Covid-19 has disrupted our lives both personally and globally. I hope we are all taking care of ourselves and each other as best as we can. The secret to disruption is that it can be an invitation to lasting change and nurturing of relationships. I have issued this special episode to provide resources to support… Continue Reading
Nephi maps out our path from here to God: faith, repentance, baptism, gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. He also emphasizes that God speaks unto us as we are, which brings up important questions about the relationship between revelation and reality. And sensitive, anxious Jacob praises the Lamanites and condemns the… Continue Reading
The Isaiah chapters baffle most of us, but they really do come down to a few fundamental questions that all of us grapple with: How do we deal with loss? Specifically, how do we deal with loss when it feels as if our promises and hopes are shattered and burning? How do we move forward… Continue Reading
The Book of Mormon is a story about dysfunctional families and intergenerational trauma. These masterful chapters at the beginning of 2 Nephi teach us about the importance of agency and the quest for joy. Our reading will be most constructive as we take seriously the fact that the Book of Mormon is about and shaped… Continue Reading
As a rule, it is the most difficult experiences that shape us the most. We don’t like that fact, but we can’t avoid it! The story of Lehi’s family in the wilderness provides a model (positive and negative!) of our own lives and relationships. Everything is an opportunity to grow closer to God and salvation.… Continue Reading
One of the most interesting thing about Lehi’s dream is what he notices and when. These first chapters of the Book of Mormon teach us a great deal about the power of attention and follow through. You can find the Lesson Notes here. Find the Annotated Reading here. Related Episodes and Resources175: God’s Will (1… Continue Reading
We’ve all started 1 Nephi, but not one of us has read the actual beginning of the Book of Mormon! In this bonus episode I discuss the lost pages of the Book of Mormon with scholar Don Bradley. Watch until the end to listen to his inspiring testimony of the Book of Mormon and restoration.… Continue Reading
Before we dig into the Book of Mormon this year, we should ask some introductory questions. Turns out the most important question is about you! What is your relationship to the Book of Mormon? After that, it is helpful to know what the Book of Mormon is and how we can constructively read it. Because… Continue Reading
I am reissuing the wonderful conversation I had four years ago with Grant Hardy and McArthur Krishna about the nature of and relationship to the Book of Mormon. Before we begin the Book of Mormon Sunday School year, I sit down (virtually) with Grant Hardy and McArthur Krishna (In North Carolina and India respectively) to… Continue Reading
The way we celebrate Christmas… with lights on trees, sharing gifts, carols with loved ones… is a mix of different traditions, and its present form is surprisingly recent! All traditions go back to Winter Solstice festivals… the hopeful celebration of the power of light in darkness, and the return of life after death and darkness.… Continue Reading
Revelation may be the most attention-getting book of the Bible. What could be more dramatic and exciting than the end of the world!! Revelation is also a book easy to misunderstand and misapply… I believe the most important lesson of Revelation is that we can live lives of faith and victory even in the midst… Continue Reading
Hebrews urges us to face the future with faith, not slide into the mistakes of the past, and above all, relationship with the ever-present living God. I hope this eloquent book will inspire us to move beyond “types and shadows” and improve our relationship to God and true principles. Reading: Hebrews 1-6 (Nov 10); Hebrews… Continue Reading
I love gospel paradoxes, which are life paradoxes. What makes a good leader? The same characteristics that make someone a good servant or disciple. What makes us ready to die? The same principles that make us ready to live. How can we be prepared for Jesus to return? By doing the same things that make… Continue Reading
How are you liking Church? The answer depends largely on your personality and context. One of the trickiest challenges about being human is that well-being exists beyond preference… Whether it’s going it’s exercising or serving our neighbor, it’s usually those things that we didn’t want to do that we are glad to have done! This… Continue Reading
When we read the letters of Paul we only hear half the conversation… and even that half not very well sometimes! It is easy to forget who Paul is arguing with. Well in Galatians, he makes his opponents very clear.. surprisingly, they include Peter and Jesus’ other brother James! 2 Corinthians and Galatians invite us… Continue Reading
Paul had a bit of a tortured relationship with the saints (who often were nothing but) in Corinth. We benefit from his struggles however, as he addresses these problems with gospel living. In these chapters Paul teaches about life in the spirit, sanctification and resurrection, and our daily new life in Christ. Reading: 1 Cor.… Continue Reading
Yes, I’ve had the Beatles’ song going through my head as well. The Corinthian Church has plenty of problems, from the rich gorging on the Lord’s supper, to confusion over meat sacrificed to idols, to Christians suing each other, to the bold man who married his stepmother. Paul’s answer is that a true understanding of… Continue Reading
In this bonus portion I complete Adam Miller’s superb paraphrase of Romans, “Grace is not God’s Backup Plan” (Romans 10-16). Buy the book here.
In this bonus portion I read Adam Miller’s superb paraphrase of Romans, “Grace is not God’s Backup Plan” (Romans 1-9) . Buy the book here.
In this Scripture Study section I read some introductory material on Romans from Raymond Brown’s superb New Testament Introduction, as well as the introduction to Adam Miller’s Grace is Not God’s Backup Plan. Reading: Romans 1-6; 7-16. You can access my Lesson Notes here.Annotated Reading Related Episodes and Resources162: Paul to the RomansGrace is Not… Continue Reading
If we are saved by grace, what’s the point of going to Church? In his magnum opus, Paul wrestles with such questions as the relationship of faith and works, the fate of Jews and Gentiles, and sets the record straight about his own mission. Reading: Romans 1-6; 7-16. You can access my Lesson Notes here.Annotated… Continue Reading
Paul tells us he is “all things to all people” (1 Cor. 9), and in these chapters we see the master at work. Watch for how he adapts his message to each audience. And underneath that adaptability is his resolution to follow God’s will and preach from Jerusalem to Rome. Reading: Acts 16-21 (Home Study);… Continue Reading
Good thing my last episode was about being wrong… because I’ve been wrong! I asked listeners what they want, and most encouraged me to refocus on the scriptures. So that’s what I’m going to do! Let me know if you have any other feedback, questions, or thoughts!
We like to tell conversion stories, but we don’t like to think about where conversion starts… with being wrong! And while we are painfully aware of the many ways we fall short and are wrong in our behavior, we are literally unable to know where we are wrong in our beliefs! These chapters teach important… Continue Reading
The beginning of Acts tells of conversion, courage, and community. Peter, now converted so he can strengthen others, powerfully testifies no matter the cost. People are “troubled in their hearts” and turn to Christ, and join an ideal community where all are cared for. Reading: Acts 1-5 You can access my Lesson Notes here (or… Continue Reading
Have faith in Jesus, even though you haven’t seen him. This is the message of each of the gospels. And Jesus’ message to us is to love each other during this life. In addition, each gospel has a distinct emphasis: Mark teaches us to overcome fear with faith; Matthew encourages us to tell the world… Continue Reading
Jesus’ crucifixion isn’t really about his death… it is about misunderstanding, humiliation, and the tragic subversion of Jesus’ proclamation that the Kingdom has come near. Reading: Mark 15; Matthew 27; Luke 23; John 19 Related Episodes You can access my Lesson Notes here (or PDF).
Gethsemane. These chapters teach us some of the hardest, most essential lessons life requires. How do we deal with betrayal? How do we have the strength to show up for each other? And most importantly, how do we align what we want with what must be? How do we shift, turn, return, to God’s path?… Continue Reading
SECRET BIBLE CODE REVEALS THE EXACT DATE OF THE END OF THE WORLD!! As attention getting as that headline is (though would we really want to know? I doubt it), what these chapters teach is far more useful: How we can live so well, so awake, and so ready that it does not matter when… Continue Reading
Jesus’ protest in the temple got him killed. In these chapters we see him as the powerful Messiah, coming into the seat of power triumphant yet humble and then standing up to corruption in the holiest most powerful institution of his day. These powerful actions drive home Jesus’ teachings that we should align our principles… Continue Reading
Most of our stories have to do with relationships, usually relationships that end “happily ever after”. In reality, marriage is much more complicated! This episode explores the idea, ideal, and history of marriage, as well as what makes a good marriage on earth as it is in heaven. And yes, I have a compelling answer… Continue Reading
In these chapters we have shepherds going to rescue the lost sheep, and a Priest and Levite who avoid the potentially dead man. In John, Jesus declares himself the water of life, the light of the world, and the Good Shepherd. Taken together, Jesus’ teachings challenge our insider/outsider tribal thinking. Class Reading: Matthew 18; Luke… Continue Reading
In this bonus episode I read Carol Lynn Pearson’s Easter short story, “Holy Week”. I hope you find it as moving as I did. http://carollynnpearson.com/short-writings The return address said “Your Friend Jesus.” I’d never heard from him this directly before, and my hand shook as I opened the envelope. You are invited to join me… Continue Reading
The idea that we humans are “enemies to God” is disturbing, but the deeper and equally troubling truth is that we are mostly just disappointing. Paradoxically, it is by fully acknowledging our humanness that we redeem it through humble orientation toward grace, God, and goodness. You can access the text of my talk here (or… Continue Reading
I think the most significant thing about Holy Week is that it fosters a holistic approach to Easter. It is not cheap celebration; it is full priced, high cost joy. It does not just celebrate life. It celebrates new, glorious, unexpected life after the agony of disappointment, betrayal, loss, rejection, and the death of everything… Continue Reading
What would we think of ourselves transfigured? Are we prepared for the effort and pain that experiencing our better selves would require? These chapters teach us about cooperating with those who have common goals, transformation, and ask the provocative question: What are we purchasing with the currency of our soul? This episode follows the Come… Continue Reading
Jesus teaches that greater than the miracle of feeding the multitudes or even healing the body is feeding and healing the soul. And one key to feeding the soul is to nurture our personal relationship with the Bread of Life. Reading: Mark 6-7; Matthew 14-15; John 5-6 You can access my Lesson Notes here (or… Continue Reading
Jesus teaches about priorities and virtuous and vicious cycles. In other words, if we make good use of what we have we will gain more; if we make poor use of what we have we will lose “even what we seem to have” (Luke 8:18). Once again, Jesus clearly emphasizes that we must pay attention… Continue Reading
Jesus told the apostles to preach that the kingdom of God was near… and then make that happen with their deeds. And as always, Jesus warns that we must live the word rather than merely think ourselves righteous. Reading: Mark 2, 8; Matthew 10-12; Luke 7, 11. You can access my Lesson Notes here (or… Continue Reading
What is religion for? What are people for? These are exciting, challenging chapters that tell how Jesus’ family thought he was crazy and the religious elite thought he was blasphemous, all for teaching that caring for our fellow humans is more important than religious observance. Reading: Mark 2-5; Matthew 8-9 You can access my Lesson… Continue Reading
My name is Jared, and I’m a recovering idealist. Anyone else? I used to waste so much energy being anxious. Well, Jesus said not to. These days I try to live each day well, to live with proper form. This is what Jesus taught–to live well each day, to be good for the sake of… Continue Reading
Jesus’ teachings get at the heart of the gospel: Be good. Be happy. Be whole. The tricky thing is, we humans are terrible at predicting what will make us happy and well, which is why it is so important to internalize the principles of the gospel. We become good as we practice goodness. When that… Continue Reading
If we have not faced our darkness, we are not good…merely fortunate. The account of Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness masterfully teach us to use our strengths to manage appetite, ego, and greed. We also learn the best way to manage temptation… to devote ourselves to the good we can do in the world. Reading:… Continue Reading
What are the first steps toward our vocation? Baptism reminds us that we can become new versions of ourselves, new versions that better align with that self that can improve the world. As we follow Jesus’ example, we invite others to “come and see” and bring the Kingdom near. Reading: Mark 1; Matthew 3; Luke… Continue Reading
Christmas comes a bit late! This first episode where we actually get into the New Testament covers the first two chapters of Matthew and Luke. I review the new, more devotional/ministry focused format of the episode, and focus the lesson on what we learn from members of Jesus’ family. Video Audio Lesson Resources You can… Continue Reading
I reissued this introductory episode to provide additional perspective on studying the New Testament from both devotional and academic approaches. Review the Sunday School lessons and approach Explain the format of Engaging Gospel Doctrine this year Provide recommendations for devotional New Testament reading Provide recommended resources (also linked below) Explain what you can do as… Continue Reading
Welcome to the new curriculum! This introductory podcast Outlines the devotional-centered podcast approach for the year Reviews the Come, Follow Me curriculum (Both Sunday School and for Individuals and Families) Recommends resources for effective scripture study Provides an overview for understanding the New Testament You can access my Lesson Notes here (or PDF) ResourcesCome, Follow… Continue Reading
“The Great and Dreadful Day of the Lord” The Second Coming (or “Day of the Lord” in Old Testament language) is the blockbuster of scripture topics. But focus on the sensational aspects can distract us from more important questions. This portion discusses beliefs about the end of the world from a historical-critical perspective. … Continue Reading
“The Great and Dreadful Day of the Lord” The Second Coming (or “Day of the Lord” in Old Testament language) is the blockbuster of scripture topics. But focus on the sensational aspects can distract us from more important questions. This episode explores three themes all important in an LDS context: the Second Coming, tithing,… Continue Reading
“Let Us Rise Up and Build” We don’t talk about this section of the Jewish Scriptures much–we have no primary songs about Ezra and Nehemiah’s contributions to rebuilding the temple after the Babylonian Exile. these events and the examples of Ezra and Nehemiah prompt discussion of remaining constructive and dealing with difference and opposition. Jody and Brian continue the… Continue Reading
“Let Us Rise Up and Build” We don’t talk about this section of the Jewish Scriptures much–we have no primary songs about Ezra and Nehemiah’s contributions to rebuilding the temple after the Babylonian Exile. these events and the examples of Ezra and Nehemiah prompt discussion of remaining constructive and dealing with difference and opposition. Jody… Continue Reading
“A Kingdom, Which Shall Never Be Destroyed” Daniel interprets the vision of the stone cut out of a mountain without hands, but what does the stone mean, exactly? Is it the gospel? The Kingdom of God? The LDS Church? Is there a difference between these terms? This portion discusses Daniel’s vision in literary and historical… Continue Reading
“A Kingdom, Which Shall Never Be Destroyed” Daniel interprets the vision of the stone cut out of a mountain without hands, but what does the stone mean, exactly? Is it the gospel? The Kingdom of God? The LDS Church? Is there a difference between these terms? Gina and Carl join the class. … Continue Reading
“A Kingdom, Which Shall Never Be Destroyed” “Let Us Rise Up and Build” “The Great and Dreadful Day of the Lord” The final three lessons of the year fit together quite nicely. Lesson 47 evokes the inbreaking of the kingdom, and the dominion of God… hoped for on earth, but more urgent in our… Continue Reading
“If I Perish, I Perish” What is worth giving our lives for? This lesson uses the stories of Daniel and Esther to explore the topics of integrity and faithfulness. This portion examines the literary and historical context of Daniel and Esther and continues the discussion of integrity and sacrifice. Julie and Kevin continue… Continue Reading
“If I Perish, I Perish” What is worth giving our lives for? This lesson uses the stories of Daniel and Esther to explore the topics of integrity and faithfulness. Julie and Kevin join the class. Class Member Reading: Daniel 1; 3; 6; Esther 3; 4; 5; 7; 8; D&C 89:18-20 Additional Reading: Esther… Continue Reading
“If I Perish, I Perish” The stories of Esther and Daniel invite a dramatic question: “What would you die for?” Dramatic stories and questions aside, the truth is that we answer this question every moment of every day. With each thought and decision we answer the questions, “What do we live for?” “What do we… Continue Reading
“Every Thing Shall Live Whither the River Cometh” This lesson focuses on the temple, but I suggest we focus first on the water–the water that gives life and healing. The scriptures teach that this water, the tree of life and its fruit all represent the love of God. This portion discusses historical context as… Continue Reading
“Every Thing Shall Live Whither the River Cometh” This lesson focuses on the temple, but I suggest we focus first on the water–the water that gives life and healing. The scriptures teach that this water, the tree of life and its fruit all represent the love of God. This episode discusses the principles of… Continue Reading
“Every Thing Shall Live Whither the River Cometh” What does it mean to be alive? What is the difference between surviving and thriving? How can we both sip and gulp the water of life, the love of God? These chapters of Ezekiel invite us to reflect on living abundantly, sacredness, and bringing together heaven… Continue Reading
The Shepherds of Israel Turns out when you are assigned to care for sheep as a shepherd, eating them instead is not the recipe for success. This episode discusses the attributes of good leadership, how to support leaders, and what to do in the case of shepherds who make mistakes. This section explores Ezekiel… Continue Reading
The Shepherds of Israel Turns out when you are assigned to care for sheep as a shepherd, eating them instead is not the recipe for success. This episode discusses the attributes of good leadership, how to support leaders, and what to do in the case of shepherds who make mistakes. Nancy and George… Continue Reading
The Shepherds of Israel Is it better to be a shepherd or sheep? Is there another option? As social creatures, we crave status. We love feeling important. Both Ezekiel and the Good Shepherd himself taught a better way… that we lead through service, and have authority through gentleness, persuasion, and love. Class Member Reading:… Continue Reading
“I Will Write It in Their Hearts” What motivates our actions? Is it better to “fake it until we make it”, or wait until we are sincere? This episode discusses the externals and internal aspects of living the gospel in the context of the “new covenant” spoken of by Jeremiah. This portion also discusses… Continue Reading
“I Will Write It in Their Hearts” What motivates our actions? Is it better to “fake it until we make it”, or wait until we are sincere? This episode discusses the externals and internal aspects of living the gospel in the context of the “new covenant” spoken of by Jeremiah. Anna and Mike join… Continue Reading
“I Will Write It in Their Hearts” Is there any secret more important to discover than how to live well, and how to be better every day? This update digs into key questions of what is right, what should motivate us, and how to pull it off. Recurring Donation: $5 $10 $25 $50… Continue Reading
“I Have Made Thee This Day … an Iron Pillar” This section discusses the composition of Jeremiah and continues to explore issues related to vocation and prophets. Maxine and Christian continue the discussion. Recurring Donation: $5 $10 $25 $50 One Time Donation: $10 $25 $50 $100 You can access the Annotated Reading here (or PDF). You can access the… Continue Reading
“I Have Made Thee This Day … an Iron Pillar” Jeremiah was not only faithful during the most difficult time of Judaean history, but honest about his struggles. Maxine and Christian provide a rich discussion. Class Member Reading: Jeremiah 1; 2; 15; 20; 26; 36; 37; 38 Additional Reading: Jeremiah 3; 9;… Continue Reading
“I Have Made Thee This Day … an Iron Pillar” Jeremiah is a fascinating figure, both powerful and poignant. It all seems well and good to read about him now, but during his life he was punished for sharing the unpopular message that rather than God forever protecting Jerusalem, the Babylonians would prove the winners.… Continue Reading
“Enlarge the Place of Thy Tent” These final chapters of Isaiah give us much more to think about than the name of our Stake Centers. This lesson discusses the need for community, how we can both feel comfortable within and foster our communities. These chapters make challenging points about insiders, outsiders, points that lead to… Continue Reading
“Enlarge the Place of Thy Tent” These final chapters of Isaiah give us much more to think about than the name of our Stake Centers. This lesson discusses the need for community, how we can both feel comfortable within and foster our communities. These chapters make challenging points about insiders, outsiders, points that lead… Continue Reading
“Enlarge the Place of Thy Tent” We can use the fertilizer of past and present grief and difficulty to tend future Edenic gardens in our lives. In these Isaiah chapters God consoles a suffering Israel and promises a covenant of steadfast love and eternal peace, and promises growth beyond what they can imagine. How can… Continue Reading
“How Beautiful upon the Mountains” Past episodes have covered the Atonement and suffering, so this lesson specifically explores the ways our suffering can be redemptive. This section of the podcast covers: The “Servant Songs” in historical context Vicarious sacrifice in Jewish tradition Suffering Messiah Jesus down the rabbit hole Suffering and accountability Class Member Reading: Isaiah… Continue Reading
“How Beautiful upon the Mountains” Past episodes have covered the Atonement and suffering, so this lesson specifically explores the ways our suffering can be redemptive. This section of the podcast covers: Understandings of the Atonement Review of the reading Distinguishing types of pain Causes of suffering When is suffering redemptive? Redemption and Atonement in our… Continue Reading
“How Beautiful upon the Mountains” These chapters present poignant contrasts… abandonment and misery shift into reclaiming and vindication. Desert wilderness becomes Eden. And most importantly, suffering can bring redemption. Recurring Donation: $5 $10 $25 $50 One Time Donation: $10 $25 $50 $100 You can access my Lesson Notes here (or PDF).
“Beside Me There Is No Saviour” These chapters emphatically declare that there is no God but the God of Israel. Yet even in the Bible we have differing views on God, let alone throughout history, the world, and our individual lives. This section goes deeper into what we learn about God from these chapters, how our… Continue Reading
“Beside Me There Is No Saviour” These chapters emphatically declare that there is no God but the God of Israel. Yet even in the Bible we have differing views on God, let alone throughout history, the world, and our individual lives. This section discusses what we learn about God from these chapters, how our personal… Continue Reading
“Beside Me There Is No Saviour” These Isaiah chapters contain some of the most beautiful expressions by God–I love you, God says. Please come back, remember all the good things I have done, and together, we can move forward and bless others. God’s conversation with Israel provides a powerful pattern for our own relationships. Isaiah… Continue Reading
“Thou Hast Done Wonderful Things” These Isaiah chapters are challenging, but full of gems about the nature of God. This episode explores gratitude, miracles, and the wonderful things done by both divine beings and fellow humans beings. This portion of the episode covers: Literary and historical analysis of the reading The nature of God Spiritual… Continue Reading
“Thou Hast Done Wonderful Things” These Isaiah chapters are challenging, but full of gems about the nature of God. This episode explores gratitude, miracles, and the wonderful things done by both divine beings and fellow humans beings. This portion of the episode covers: Gratitude and emulation Review of the Reading What has Christ done… Continue Reading
“Thou Hast Done Wonderful Things” Wonderful sounds really nice, but I’m sure I’m not the only one who sometimes wonders if God knows what They are doing! The assigned chapters prove baffling, but do invite exploration of how the unexpected in life often leads us to repentance and transformation. Recurring Donation: $5 $10 … Continue Reading
The Glory of Zion Will Be a Defense We know that Isaiah is important, but probably couldn’t say why, and almost certainly don’t understand it! This first of five lessons on Isaiah introduces the book. This portion of the episode covers: The historical context of Isaiah Dating Isaiah 1-30 More on Isaiah and the Book… Continue Reading
The Glory of Zion Will Be a Defense We know that Isaiah is important, but probably couldn’t say why, and almost certainly don’t understand it! This first of five lessons on Isaiah introduces the book. This portion of the episode covers: The value of Isaiah Isaiah as a testimony of Christ Devotional and… Continue Reading
The Glory of Zion Will Be a Defense Great are the words of Isaiah… and great is the Sunday School coverage thereof! We will be in Isaiah for the next FIVE lessons (10% of the year!). You aren’t excited yet? Hopefully this update will help… I review the whats and whys of scripture and then… Continue Reading
God Reveals His Secrets to His Prophets What is the “secret” that God reveals to his prophets? And what do we make of the fact that Amos was called from outside all institutional structure? This section explores how Amos’ critiques apply to our modern lives and institutions and how we can care better for each… Continue Reading
God Reveals His Secrets to His Prophets What is the “secret” that God reveals to his prophets? And what do we make of the fact that Amos was called from outside all institutional structure? This episode explores how God speaks to us, the important message of social justice, the end of the world, and… Continue Reading
God Reveals His Secrets to His Prophets The marvelous thing about LDS doctrine is we learn that God reveals secrets to EVERYONE through personal revelation! Amos and Joel can be difficult to understand (so get your study Bible ready!), but at the core, these readings are about revelation, consequence, and responsibility. Class Member… Continue Reading
“I Will Betroth Thee unto Me in Righteousness” The book of Hosea presents a difficult mix of profound theology and historically situated abuse. Hosea teaches of God’s devotion to us and our responsibility to be faithful to Them and each other, but does so in the context of intensely troubling treatment of women and children. This… Continue Reading
“I Will Betroth Thee unto Me in Righteousness” The book of Hosea presents a difficult mix of profound theology and historically situated abuse. Hosea teaches of God’s devotion to us and our responsibility to be faithful to Them and each other, but does so in the context of intensely troubling treatment of women and children.… Continue Reading
“I Will Betroth Thee unto Me in Righteousness” The core message of Hosea is fidelity: fidelity to God, which extends to fidelity to each other and ourselves. At it’s core, fidelity is about congruence between our values and our actions, and congruence between our relationship to ourselves and our relationship to others. There is much… Continue Reading
Sharing the Gospel with the World This section explains how the literary and historical contexts illuminate the central message of the story and applications for our culture and lives. Recurring Donation: $5 $10 $25 $50 One Time Donation: $25 $50 $100 David and Gretta continue an important and insightful discussion. You can access the Annotated… Continue Reading
Sharing the Gospel with the World Jonah and Micah seem like an odd pairing, but both have to do with the covenantal, steadfast love we are commanded to have for each other… a commandment Jonah tries to flee, and the commandment Micah uses as a standard for both God and humankind.
Recurring Donation:
$5 $10 $25 $50
One Time Donation:
$25 $50 $100
Class Member Reading: Jonah 1; 2; 3; 4; Micah 2; 4; 5; 6; 7
Additional Reading: None
You can access my Lesson Notes here (or PDF).
Thanks to Trent Oliphant for editing the updated and rereleased episodes.
“I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” We all know the story of Job, but the book itself proves more challenging and complex than you remember. That said, it provides one of the most powerful wrestles with questions of loss and meaning in scripture.
This portion of the episode includes:
- Literary issues in the book of Job
- Did Job exist?
- Translation issues in Job 19:25
- A return to theodicy
Recurring Donation:
$5 $10 $25 $50
One Time Donation:
$25 $50 $100
Class Members: Job 1; 2; 13; 23:10; 19; 23:10; 27; 42; James 5:11; 3 Nephi 15:9
Additional Reading: D&C 121:1-10; look through the rest of Job
Other Reading: None (as long as you have already looked through Job)
You can access the Annotated Reading here (or PDF).
You can access the Lesson Notes here (or PDF).
Resources
Do’s and Don’ts about Mourning with those who mourn, Ensign
Reaching Out to Those Who Mourn, Ensign
The question Why? according to Job, RadioWest
The question of Why/Suffering from various perspectives, RadioWest
Approaching Prayer, On Being
Thanks to Jim Henderson for content editing the discussion. I did my own audio editing which is why it is not as good as usual!
“I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” We all know the story of Job, but the book itself proves more challenging and complex than you remember. That said, it provides one of the most powerful wrestles with questions of loss and meaning in scripture.
This portion of the episode includes:
- Initial reflections/comments on Job (including the discrepancy between the ends and middle and the oddness of God and Satan gambling with Job’s suffering)
- Review of the reading
- Dealing with suffering, loss, and death
- Meaning and blame
- How we support each other in tragedy
- A personal relationship with God
Recurring Donation:
$5 $10 $25 $50
One Time Donation:
$25 $50 $100
Class Members: Job 1; 2; 13; 23:10; 19; 23:10; 27; 42; James 5:11; 3 Nephi 15:9
Additional Reading: D&C 121:1-10; look through the rest of Job
Other Reading: None (as long as you have already looked through Job)
You can access the Annotated Reading here (or PDF).
You can access the Lesson Notes here (or PDF).
Resources
Do’s and Don’ts about Mourning with those who mourn, Ensign
Reaching Out to Those Who Mourn, Ensign
The question Why? according to Job, RadioWest
The question of Why/Suffering from various perspectives, RadioWest
Approaching Prayer, On Being