Doctrine and Covenants 67–70
We all want assurance, but the Lord reminds us that signs follow faith—not the other way around. What can we learn from those who demanded signs in scripture, and how do we cultivate faith first?
We all want assurance, but the Lord reminds us that signs follow faith—not the other way around. What can we learn from those who demanded signs in scripture, and how do we cultivate faith first?
This week—June 9th—marks the 47th anniversary of the 1978 revelation that ended the Church’s 126-year ban on Black members receiving the priesthood and entering the temple. It’s a moment we often point to with reverence and gratitude—but the story we’ve inherited about how it happened is, in many ways, incomplete.To help us understand more fully what led to that pivotal moment, we’re joined by Dr. Matthew Harris, whose new book Second-Class Saints draws on previously unavailable documents—including the complete, unredacted journals from Pres. Spencer W. Kimball and private papers from several other apostles and prophets who were part of this story. What emerges is a story of complex revelation—one that didn’t arrive all at once, but unfolded slowly through conversation, persuasion, and deep personal growth.We sometimes talk about the 1978 revelation as if it came out of nowhere—a sudden command from heaven. But Matt helps us see the reality that this was a process shaped by years of thoughtful wrestling and dialogue, by courageous individuals who quietly worked to open hearts and minds, and by the unwavering faith of Black members who carried impossible burdens with grace and conviction.In our conversation today, we explored what it means to be part of a living church—one that’s capable of change because it’s built on continuing revelation. We talked about how “doctrine” has been defined and redefined across the Church’s history, the vital role each of us plays in the process of institutional revelation, because this isn’t just about the past—it’s about how we show up today: how we answer President Nelson’s call to root out racism and build a more inclusive future within the body of Christ.We’re deeply grateful to Matt for his careful, bold work. And with that, we’ll jump right into our conversation with Matt Harris.
Spiritual gifts aren’t just for prophets—they’re meant for you! But which ones should you seek? John discusses the gifts listed in section 46, how they benefit the Church, and what President Marvin J. Ashton taught about “less conspicuous” gifts like listening, caring, and avoiding contention.
Dr. Kenneth Alford continues to examine the introduction of the Law of Consecration, dealing with false revelations and prophets, and the importance of General Conferences.
Mornings can be rough—but what if there was a spiritual hack to make your whole day (and life) run smoother? Carmen Herbert shares a simple but powerful truth that will help guide you in everything! It can help you figure out your morning routine, major life choices, or even help you see who needs your help today.
This isn't your typical Sunday School lesson about Joseph Smith. Historian Gerrit Dirkmaat shares the personality behind the prophet Joseph. You’ll see how one man’s experiences transformed Christianity - and the world - forever. WARNING: includes wrestling prophets and a testimony that will give you chills! Whether you're a lifelong member or just curious about who Joseph Smith really was, this message will challenge everything you thought you knew about America's most controversial prophet.
Have you ever heard someone say, “Show me where Jesus said that in the scriptures”? Carmen Herbert reminds us of a crucial truth—Jesus Christ still speaks today through living prophets. Just because something isn’t explicitly written in the Bible doesn’t mean it isn’t inspired. President Nelson’s counsel on modesty, media, and moral choices isn’t just about rules—it’s about receiving divine blessings.
Nijay Gupta of Slow Theology joins Steve for a chat about Tell Her Story, Gupta's exploration of women preachers, prophets, and leaders in the Bible.
This week, we are thrilled to welcome back Terryl Givens—one of our all-time favorite guests and collaborators and someone we always have a running list of topics for. This time, we’re finally diving deep into the topic of agency and free will: it’s something that has come up in many of our past conversations but never had its own dedicated discussion. Terryl’s new book, Agency, is part of the Maxwell Institute’s Doctrine & Covenants theological series, and it explores some of the most profound and challenging questions about what it truly means to have agency. For centuries, theologians and philosophers have debated whether free will truly exists or if what we call agency is merely an illusion— our choices predetermined by the unfolding of the universe, or so shaped by our biology and past that we don't have real choice.
“In the Space of Not Many Years,” Elder Bednar | Please join us as we learn to have “eyes to see, ears to hear, minds to comprehend, and hearts to understand the lessons we should learn to “beware of pride lest we should enter into temptation.” What principles did you learn from this talk?