Explore every episode of the podcast LDS Discussions - Mormon Truth Claims Examined
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 74: Mormon Sealings & Nate Oman w/ Bryan Buchanan | 03 juin 2026 | 03:19:20 | |
In this episode, we expand on ideas presented by Nate Oman during a discussion on Faith Matters and trace the complicated, evolving history of Mormon sealings from Joseph Smith through the 20th century.Today, “eternal families” are often presented as the central purpose of temple sealings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But historically, the story is much messier.In this conversation, we explore how early sealings were not originally centered on the modern concept of nuclear families being together forever. Instead, sealing theology developed gradually during the Nauvoo period and often functioned as a way to create dynastic networks, priesthood connections, and systems of authority –what some critics compare to an MLM-style hierarchy of spiritual relationships. We discuss the evolution of sealing theology from Joseph Smith to Brigham Young, baptisms for the dead and the trauma surrounding Alvin Smith’s death, the rise of dynastic sealings and the “Law of Adoption” where men were sealed to other men. We also discuss the relationship between sealings and plural marriage, how the sealing language changed over time, why Joseph Smith never initially sealed himself to Emma, the story of Jane Manning James and how she was “attached” to Joseph Smith instead of sealed. We also discuss the racial restrictions for Black Mormons, questions of informed consent, authority, and prophetic consistency, and whether the modern LDS concept of “forever families” would have been recognizable to Joseph Smith himself. We also examine how doctrines once treated as essential and eternal –including the Law of Adoption –were later abandoned entirely, raising larger questions about revelation, institutional change, and the development of Mormon theology. Whether you’re believing, questioning, post-Mormon, or simply interested in religious history, this episode offers a deep dive into one of the most controversial and misunderstood developments in Mormon history. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 73: LDS Church Leaders Falling for Frauds | 27 mai 2026 | 02:08:33 | |
Welcome to Episode 73 in our LDS Discussions series!In this episode, we explore the long history of fraud, forgery, and "discernment" within Mormon history –from Joseph Smith’s treasure digging and the Kinderhook Plates to the Salamander Letter, Paul Dunn, Tim Ballard, and Jodi Hildebrandt.We discuss why people believe extraordinary claims, the role of critical thinking and skepticism, and whether church leaders who claim divine guidance have actually demonstrated the “Gift of Discernment” they preach about. Along the way, we examine the Book of Abraham, the Kinderhook Plates controversy, Mark Hofmann’s forged documents, hidden church history, and modern scandals that continue to raise difficult questions for believers and critics alike.The episode also looks at how faith can remain resilient even after exposure to false claims, and why many argue that institutional dishonesty –rather than belief itself –is the deeper issue.Topics include: Joseph Smith’s treasure digging, the Book of Abraham facsimiles, how Elder Oaks defended the Salamander Letter, and the hiding of early Mormon documents. This discussion asks a central question: If church leaders claim special spiritual discernment, why were so many frauds, forgeries, and harmful figures embraced or defended for so long?If you enjoy long-form Mormon history and analysis, consider subscribing and supporting the channel.If you have thoughts on other topics you wish for us to cover, please leave them in the comments! Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 72: Language Density in Joseph Smith's Reformed Egyptian | Ep. 2145 | 08 mai 2026 | 02:17:50 | |
Welcome to Episode 72 in our LDS Discussions series! This episode is a treat because for the first time in the history of LDS Discussions, every panelist is actually IN studio!Today we are doing a deep dive into one of the most foundational (and controversial) questions surrounding the Book of Mormon: What does the text actually claim about itself –and do those claims hold up?We explore the Book of Mormon’s own statements about its origins, including the assertion that it was written in “Reformed Egyptian,” the idea that Egyptian is more information-dense than Hebrew, and the claim that “none other people knoweth our language.” From there, the discussion expands into linguistics, ancient writing systems, and the internal logic of the text itself.Along the way, we examine: What Egyptian and Hebrew writing actually look like from a linguistic standpoint, the practicality of engraving dense records onto metal plates, the role of editors like Mormon and Moroni (who abridged the records) and whether their explanation makes sense, and the implications of “unfallisifiable” claims in religious texts.We also take a close look at historical developments like the decipherment of Egyptian (think the Rosette Stone and Champollion), Joseph Smith’s own attempts at creating or translating languages (including the Kirtland Egyptian Papers), and the broader 19th-century context that may have influenced these ideas.By comparing the Book of Mormon’s claims to what we know about ancient languages and writing systems today, this episode raises important questions about authorship, translation, and historical plausibility. If you enjoy thoughtful, in-depth discussions on LDS history and truth claims, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below! Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 71: What Happened to Joseph Smith’s Stone Box? | Ep. 2126 | 19 mars 2026 | 02:06:42 | |
In his official 1838 history, Joseph Smith described discovering the golden plates inside a carefully constructed stone box in the Hill Cumorah. According to his account, the box contained the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and a breastplate.But what happened to that stone box?In this episode of LDS Discussions, we take a deep dive into the historical record surrounding the stone box narrative. We compare Joseph Smith’s 1838 history with earlier and later accounts, statements from witnesses like David Whitmer, Martin Harris, and Oliver Cowdery, and later retellings from leaders such as Brigham Young.We explore:-What Joseph Smith said was inside the box-Whether early Saints believed there was MORE than one box-Claims about swords, the Liahona, and other Nephite artifacts-The evolution of the story over time-Whether codex-style plates create anachronistic problems-The “magic worldview” shared by early Mormon leaders-Comparisons to treasure-digging culture-Why there is no physical evidence of the stone box todayWe also examine 19th century newspaper references discussing the stone box, Whitmer’s later (contradictory) interviews, and the strange disappearance of a stone structure that supposedly survived for over a thousand years.If the box was real and physically constructed with stone slabs and pillars –as described –why did it leave no trace? Why didn’t believers preserve fragments the way people took pieces of the Berlin Wall? And why does the Hill Cumorah today appear completely undisturbed?This episode wrestles with a central question: Does the detail of a stone box strengthen Joseph Smith’s credibility –or create new historical and epistemological problems?This is Episode 71 in our LDS Discussions series! Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 70: Where Did Joseph Smith Get the Idea for Ancient Plates? | 23 janv. 2026 | 01:49:30 | |
Welcome to Episode 70 of our LDS Discussions series!In this episode, our panel takes a deep dive into one of the most debated questions surrounding the Book of Mormon: were ancient metal plates a known concept in Joseph Smith’s world, and are they truly comparable to the golden plates he described?We examine historical sources from the 18th and 19th centuries that reference metal records –brass, copper, lead, and stone –and place them within Joseph Smith’s cultural and intellectual milieu. From biblical scholarship and early American speculation about Native American origins to apologists’ use of presentism, this episode carefully distinguishes between general awareness of metal inscriptions and the specific, unprecedented claims of a large golden codex containing extensive narrative text.Along the way, we explore major figures, books, and ideas circulating before and during Joseph Smith’s lifetime, assess whether these sources were likely known to him, and ask a crucial question: at what point does probability break down –not because of a single anachronism, but because of the sheer scale and complexity of the plates described in the Book of Mormon?This conversation builds toward a detailed timeline of Joseph Smith’s environment, highlighting how concepts expanded, evolved, and were ultimately synthesized into something entirely new.Leave a comment letting us know if you like this format with John Dehlin being “not home.” Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 69: The Other Isaiah Problem w/ Kolby Reddish | 17 déc. 2025 | 02:16:00 | |
Join Kolby, Nemo, Julia, and Dr. John Dehlin for one of our most in-depth LDS Discussions episodes yet as we unpack “The Other Isaiah Problem” and what it means for the historicity of the Book of Mormon. In this episode, we explore why scholars overwhelmingly view isaiah as a multi-author work, how the Great Isaiah Scroll challenges the Book of Mormon’s use of Isaiah, and why the text consistently aligns with the King James Version rather than ancient sources. We walk through the history of the brass plates, the transition from scrolls to codex technology, and the anachronisms the Church now quietly acknowledges. We compare the Great Isaiah Scroll, the Masoretic Text, the Original Manuscript of the Book of Mormon, and the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible, revealing where Joseph Smith appears to be pulling from later biblical scholarship –including Adam Clarke’s commentary –and where verses in the Book of Mormon simply did not exist in ancient manuscripts. We ask the question: What does this mean for believers who want the text to be historical? Whether you’re deeply familiar with LDS scholarship or just starting your faith journey, this episode lays out the evidence clearly, accessibly, and respectfully –while still asking the hard questions. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 68: Could Joseph Smith write or dictate a well-worded letter? | 02 déc. 2025 | 02:17:20 | |
Welcome to another epsiode of our LDS Discussions series! In this episode, we take a detailed, evidence-based look at one of the most repeated claims in Latter-day Saint apologetics: that Joseph Smith was incapable of producing a well-written text –and therefore could not have authored the Book of Mormon. Drawing from Joseph Smith’s three earliest letters (written in 1829-1830), historical context, church manuals, apologetic arguments, and modern scholarship, we critically explore where the evidence leads. We don’t care where you land on the belief spectrum –our is clarity, transparency, and accuracy. We are joined today by Kolby Reddish and Julia (Nemo couldn’t make it), who walk us through the major claims, the apologetic narratives, and the documents themselves. This is an episode you won’t want to miss! Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 67: Nahom – The Strongest Evidence for the Book of Mormon? | 05 nov. 2025 | 01:45:45 | |
Is Nahom really the strongest evidence for the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon? In this episode, we take a deep dive into one of the most cited archaeological “proofs” of the Book of Mormon -the discovery of altars inscribed with the letters NHM in Yemen. John Dehlin and attorney and former clerk from the Idaho Supreme Court, Kolby Reddish examine what the text of the Book of Mormon actually says about Nahom, where it’s supposed to be located, and whether the archaeological evidence matches up. Along the way, we look at how apologists, scholars, and critics have each interpreted this find -and what it really says about the historicity of the Book of Mormon. We also examine whether or not Joseph Smith could have known about Nahom (or Nehem) from maps or Biblical references, and how issues like confirmation bias and faith-based reasoning play into the debate. This conversation aims to be evidence-based, thoughtful, and respectful -seeking understanding amid polarization in the Mormon and ex-Mormon communities. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 66: Was Joseph Smith Credible? | 29 oct. 2025 | 03:11:29 | |
Sandra Tanner is back with us on LDS Discussions to conclude our conversation on three new church essays recently published by the LDS Church. In this episode, we’ll finish our coverage of the essay on polygamy and move on to the final essay, which addresses the character of Joseph Smith. Topics include: Join us as we unpack these final issues and reflect on what they reveal about Joseph Smith and early church history. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 65: New Church Essay on Translation and Polygamy | 17 sept. 2025 | 02:53:04 | |
We are thrilled to have Sandra Tanner as a guest on our LDS Discussions series this week! Along with John, Julia, and Nemo, Sandra is here to offer commentary on three new essays recently released by the LDS Church, addressing the issues of Book of Mormon translation, polygamy, and Joseph Smith’s character. In part one of this two-part episode, we will focus on Joseph Smith’s “translation” of the Book of Mormon and on polygamy. Among the topics we’ll cover: You won’t want to miss this fascinating conversation with the one and only Sandra Tanner, as we dissect the essays point by point and offer a unique perspective on these issues. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 64: CES Letter v. The Book of Mormon Pt. 2 | 10 sept. 2025 | 01:44:29 | |
We are back today for part two of our examination of the CES Letter vs. the Book of Mormon. The CES Letter is perhaps one of the most influential documents in Mormon studies, and for years the LDS Church has criticized it and its author, Jeremy Runnells. Is this a fair treatment by the Church, or are Jeremy’s questions on church doctrine valid? In this series, we are going point by point through the questions raised in the CES Letter to discuss how they line up with the Book of Mormon, as well as the responses the Church has provided thus far. Some of the questions we’ll cover include: Join us today as we attempt to answer these questions—and more Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 63: CES Letter vs. The Book of Mormon | 26 juin 2025 | 02:05:30 | |
In this episode, we dive deep into the attacks on the CES Letter and its author, Jeremy Runnells, unpacking why apologetic responses—no matter how weak—are often accepted by believing members. This is the first in a multi-part series analyzing the LDS Discussions CES Letter project. We tackle critical questions about the Book of Mormon, including:
Along the way, we explore FAIR Mormon’s increasingly irrelevant defenses, the hidden Gospel Topics Essays, and shifting church narratives. This is an essential deep-dive for anyone curious about Mormonism’s truth claims, historical issues, and the apologetics surrounding them. Join the conversation and subscribe for future episodes in this CES Letter series. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 62: Did Joseph Smith Have Sex With His Plural Wives? | 13 févr. 2025 | 03:19:28 | |
Many have asked the question: Did Mormon Prophet Joseph Smith have sex with his polygamous wives? During his lifetime, Joseph Smith engaged in polygamy (which was illegal in the state of Illinois) and his wives consisted of women who were underage, women who were single, women who were widowed, and women who were already legally married. What is the evidence for his sexual relations with them? Additionally a number of the brethren were also commanded to live polygamy, what is the evidence for sexual relations in those unions? Were any children born in polygamy during the prophet’s life? Join us for a unique LDS Discussions episode where we explore these topics and answer these questions. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 61: Faithful Historian Deceives Mormons -Keith Erekson | 06 févr. 2025 | 03:36:56 | |
Keith Erekson serves as the director of the historical research and outreach for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On January 12, 2025 he gave a fireside in which he answered tough questions. Today we are responding to that fireside and discussing such topics as polygamy, Joseph Smith marrying women who were already married, and the church hiding aspects of its history. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 60: BYU Professor Brings CES Letter To Life through Art - Anthony Sweat | 21 janv. 2025 | 02:36:20 | |
In this episode of LDS Discussions, we explore how BYU Professor Anthony Sweat’s artwork reflects the troubling aspects of church history found in the CES Letter by Jeremy Runnells. Despite being excommunicated for questioning the church, Runnells’ CES Letter, published in 2013, exposes discrepancies in the official narrative. Meanwhile, Sweat’s art, starting in 2014, delves into controversial topics like Joseph Smith's treasure digging, the use of a seer stone, and polygamy. We compare Sweat's paintings to the CES Letter's criticisms, highlighting how the church’s history is often presented inaccurately. Join us as we discuss these bold portrayals and the ongoing tension between church teachings and historical truth. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 59: Church Backtracks on Deceptive Change to Book of Mormon Introduction? | 09 déc. 2024 | 02:43:28 | |
The LDS Church is quietly but significantly updating the introduction to the Book of Mormon, shifting its focus from historical claims to a broader, more spiritual narrative. In this episode , we dive deep into these changes, exploring what they reveal about the Church's evolving stance on the historicity of its sacred text. Is this an effort to address long-standing critiques about the lack of archaeological and genetic evidence? Or does it reflect a broader shift to make the Book of Mormon more approachable for a global audience? Join us as we unpack the implications of this significant change and discuss what it might mean for the future of Mormonism. Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 58: Skin of Blackness and Mormon Apologetics | 11 oct. 2024 | 01:46:18 | |
In this gripping third installment of our series, we dive deep into the Book of Mormon to unravel the true meaning of the cursed “Skin of Blackness." Are recent apologetic theories—claiming it's just paint, dark coats, or tattoos—offering genuine insights, or are they merely attempts to gloss over the text's troubling implications? Join us as we confront these arguments head-on and question whether we should trust the prophets or the apologists. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion! Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: Our Platforms: Contact us: Social Media: | |||
| 57: Skin of Blackness: The Book of Mormon Curse | 20 sept. 2024 | 02:08:47 | |
In this episode, we dive into part two of our exploration of the "skin of blackness" mentioned in the Book of Mormon. Historically, leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints identified Native Americans as the Lamanites. But as we approach the early 2000s, new theories have emerged. Could the "skin of blackness" refer to paint, tattoos, or dark animal skins? Join us as we unpack these intriguing ideas and their implications for understanding the text. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion! LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 56: How Modern Mormons Still Defend Racist Scripture | 02 août 2024 | 01:41:10 | |
Can ancient scripture be reinterpreted to erase racism? Mormon apologists are attempting just that with controversial “skin of blackness” passages in the Book of Mormon. But can these efforts stand up to historical scrutiny, or do they merely obscure uncomfortable truths? Critics argue it whitewashes history and denies lived experiences. Join us as we critically examine how modern LDS apologists attempt to explain away racist teachings in early Mormon history and scripture by comparing their modern interpretations with the information they avoid most strenuously–the original words and primary sources of the doctrines to begin with.
Our Platforms:
Contact us: PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:
| |||
| 55: Witnesses Roundup & Finale | 07 juin 2024 | 02:01:19 | |
We're back to wrap up our series on the Book of Mormon witnesses with what happened to them later in life.
_________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 54: Additional "Witnesses" of the Book of Mormon Gold Plates | 31 mai 2024 | 01:43:56 | |
In this riveting interview, @nemothemormon and @analyzingmormonism are back to delve into the lesser-known accounts surrounding the plates of the Book of Mormon. Witness testimonies, some published decades after the events, paint a conflicting picture of the plates' appearance, size, and the circumstances under which they were allegedly shown. From the curious case of Josiah Stoll, who claimed to be the first to handle the plates, to Mary Whitmer's visionary encounter with an enigmatic figure, "Brother Nephi," who purportedly showed her the plates, we explore the enduring myths of Mormonism's foundational narrative.
Witnesses Series:
LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: _________________________ LDS Discussions Platforms: _________________________ Contact LDS Discussions:
_________________________ Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 _________________________ Social Media: | |||
| 53: How Credible Were the Book of Mormon's EIGHT Witnesses? | 09 mai 2024 | 02:08:18 | |
Were the 8 witnesses to Joseph Smith's golden plates actually credible? Or just gullible relatives caught up in his delusion? Shockingly candid statements from witnesses like Hiram Page and John Whitmer seem to contradict and undermine official LDS teachings about their testimonies. What are the implications of the past witnesses on today’s modern church? _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 52: Are the 3 Witnesses to the Book of Mormon Credible? | 12 avr. 2024 | 03:25:35 | |
Julia, Nemo, and Mike are back to discuss the varying accounts of the three men who supposedly saw Joseph's "gold plates" that eventually became the Book of Mormon. What did they say about what they REALLY saw? _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 51: John C. Bennett Pt 2 - Allegations of Homosexuality | 10 févr. 2024 | 01:57:36 | |
The team discusses controversial allegations of sexual impropriety against Joseph Smith and John C. Bennett in Nauvoo, the existence of the Danites as a violent vigilante group, Bennett's subsequent exposes of Mormonism after his excommunication, the succession crisis and various Mormon offshoots after Joseph Smith's death, and questions around the authenticity of Mormon truth claims such as the golden plates. There is debate around the accuracy of some historical sources, as well as acknowledgment that early Mormonism contained cult-like elements such as polygamy and unquestioning loyalty tests.Episode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 50: Polygamy & Abortion in Joseph Smith’s Nauvoo - John C. Bennett Pt 2 | 19 janv. 2024 | 01:58:44 | |
In this episode, we expose the layers of Bennett's role in divulging Joseph's polygamous secrets. From secret women's organizations with captivating names like Cyprian Saints to the complex web of polygamous relationships, we journey through a fascinating exploration of historical allegations and denials. Brace yourself for a captivating ride through the world of John C. Bennett, where accusations, clandestine affairs, and the shadowy specter of abortionist connections add layers of complexity to this historical puzzle.Episode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 49 - The Rise and Fall of John C. Bennett Pt 1 | 05 janv. 2024 | 01:57:01 | |
Dive into the captivating saga of John C. Bennett, an enigmatic figure woven into the intricate tapestry of early Mormonism. John, Mike, Nemo, and Julia from Analyzing Mormonism unearth together the layers of his rise, from esteemed physician to Mayor of Nauvoo and right-hand man to Joseph, and the scandalous allegations that led to his name becoming a hiss and a byword among Mormons even to this day. Tune in for an enthralling journey that peels back the layers of secrecy and intrigue surrounding this controversial historical figure.Episode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 48: If Joseph Got it right, who got it wrong? | 10 nov. 2023 | 02:40:19 | |
Does accepting Joseph Smith as a prophet require rejecting vast fields of science and scholarship? Join us as we consider long-held assumptions about Joseph Smith and the truth claims of Mormonism. We highlight problematic beliefs like dark skin being a curse from God, Native Americans as a cursed and loathsome people, evolution and DNA studies being incompatible with LDS teachings, and linguistic, archaeological, and historical evidence contradicting the Book of Mormon's divine origins. LDS Discussion EssayEpisode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 47: Russell M. Nelson's Miracle Stories | 03 nov. 2023 | 02:09:19 | |
In this captivating episode with John Dehlin, Nemo @NEMOTHEMORMON , and Mike on LDS Discussions, we delve into the controversial miracle stories of Mormon Prophet Russell M. Nelson. What are the implications for a spokesperson of God to fabricate and exaggerate, including (or especially) in regards to revelation like the November 2015 LGBT exclusionary policy. Join us in unraveling the motivations behind these distortions and why they hold significant consequences. How do these accounts shape our understanding of religious leadership? | |||
| 46: Mormon Apologetics: The Problems | 06 oct. 2023 | 02:40:38 | |
Mormon apologetics have been around ever since Mormonism has existed. Join with Mike, Nemo and John as they discuss the types of apologetics that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints engage in and why they are all flawed. LDS Discussions Essay on Apologetics: Overview of Apologetic Responses Within Mormonism _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 45: Mormon Prophet, Russell M. Nelson on Doubts | 15 sept. 2023 | 01:51:38 | |
In this interview, we delve into how Russell M. Nelson, the leader of the LDS Church, addresses doubt. Nelson's 2021 talk on doubts and "lazy learners" encourages members to "choose to believe" and not dwell on doubts. He suggests applying this approach to real-world situations, reframing faith to transcend evidence, and using the bandwagon effect to suppress doubts. The conversation also explores how Nelson portrays both fulfillment and failure as aspects of faith. The church historian in 2023 acknowledges compelling reasons for doubt, yet Kyle McKay uses Nelson's talk to instill fear of doubt in members.
| |||
| 44: How the Church Handles Doubt | 18 août 2023 | 02:09:57 | |
In this eye-opening episode of LDS Discussions, Mike, John Dehlin, and Nemo the Mormon explore the Mormon church's approach to handling doubt. They take a brief historical journey into the realm of Mormon doubt and apologetics. We critically examine the church's framing of doubters as “unruly children” and labeling doubts that lead away from the church as “evil.” They discuss the reliance on the church as the sole source of authority on truth and the discouragement of critical thinking. With insights from various church authorities, this episode provides valuable perspectives on navigating doubt within the Mormon church. Listeners who have experienced doubts or questioned their faith may find this episode particularly enlightening and relatable. Overview of How the Church Handles DoubtsEpisode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 43: Spiritual Witnesses | 20 juil. 2023 | 03:34:32 | |
Join hosts Mike, Nemo, and John Dehlin as they delve into the intricacies of spiritual witnesses within Mormonism. How do sincere seekers often end up with different answers when appealing to "the Spirit"? Can individuals be exploited by circumstances deliberately designed to create feelings of spiritual confirmation? What are the consequences when "spiritual witnesses" go wrong? Join us as we dive into the psychological phenomena of spiritual witnesses. We examine topics such as indoctrination, repetition, and the Illusory Truth effect, as well as other psychological mechanisms like confirmation bias, the backfire effect, and motivated reasoning. This episode can provide insight to your own spiritual experiences and provide tools to recognize attempts to manufacture the experience in you. Overview of Testimonies and Spiritual Witnesses in Mormonism (ldsdiscussions.com) _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 42: The Transfiguration of Brigham Young | 06 juil. 2023 | 01:42:33 | |
Did Brigham Young transform into Joseph Smith's appearance? We discuss the rise of Brigham Young from the “Transfiguration” that altered Mormonism's course. Mike, Nemo, and John explore this event by analyzing historical records, contemporary journals, and a carefully constructed narrative. We unveil the astonishing accounts of backdated miracles and the use of carefully worded descriptions in "Saints." Discover why the Transfiguration holds immense significance for Mormonism and how it guides the birth of miracle stories. LDS Discussions Essay on the Transfiguration _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 41: Where did Joseph get his ideas? | 02 juin 2023 | 01:31:37 | |
Join John, Nemo, and Mike in a captivating episode as they unravel the intricate tapestry of influences that shaped the founder of Mormonism, Joseph Smith. From the unique doctrines of Mormonism to the enigmatic Book of Mormon, they embark on a thought-provoking journey through history and religious texts. Discover the surprising connections between revival sermons and the sermons in the Book of Mormon, and explore the profound influence of figures like Alexander Campbell on Joseph Smith's religious framework. Delve into the visionary experiences that shaped Smith's spiritual journey, from the lesser-known first visions of Norris Stearns and Asa Wild to the fascinating early versions of "memes" in American history. Uncover the intriguing connections between the priesthood restoration and the teachings of the Campbellites, as well as the incorporation of the Book of Enoch in the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible. Journey through the Word of Wisdom and its links to the Temperance Movement and explore the historical contexts that influenced Smith's perspectives on the Curse of Cain and the Curse of Ham. Finally, peel back the layers of the Endowment Ceremony and its similarities to the Masonic Ceremony, shedding light on Joseph Smith's quest to restore ancient rituals. Prepare for an eye-opening exploration of the diverse influences that shaped Joseph Smith and the emergence of Mormonism. In this episode, you'll uncover the intricate connections between historical events, religious movements, and Joseph Smith's visionary experiences, shedding new light on the foundations of one of America's most influential religious movements. _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 40: Mormon Patriarchal Blessings | Revelations Pt. 6 | 12 mai 2023 | 01:30:15 | |
Discover the truth behind Mormon Patriarchal Blessings in this eye-opening interview with hosts Mike, Nemo, and John. From reflections on their own blessings to the harmful effects of this mechanism of control over members, the hosts delve into the nuanced nature of these individualized messages from God. With insights on how even past prophets have framed patriarchal blessings, and the agelessness of their messages, you won't want to miss this deep dive into revelation in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. LDS Discussions essay on personal revelation Episode Show Notes_________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 39: The Problems with Mormon Personal Revelation | Revelations Pt. 5 | 28 avr. 2023 | 01:32:31 | |
Mike, Nemo, and John discuss the problems with personal revelation. LDS Discussions essay on personal revelation Episode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 38: Problematic Revelations After Joseph Smith | Revelations Pt. 4 | 24 mars 2023 | 02:42:19 | |
In this engaging interview, Mike from LDS Discussions, Nemo the Mormon, and John Dehlin review the failed prophecies of Mormonism's founder, Joseph. They start by discussing what the Bible says about failed prophecies and those who tell them. They then delve into specific failed prophecies, including the Second Coming of the Lord in 1891, the fall and overthrow of the US government, and the "everlasting" covenant of the United Order. Other failed prophecies discussed include the failed treasure seeking mission to Salem and the failed attempt to sell the Book of Mormon copyright. Was Joseph was wrong or is it was God's fault? What good is having General Conference, either way? The hosts also discuss how FAIR Mormon tries to spin failures into fulfillments and concludes with some final thoughts on the implications of these failed prophecies of Joseph for Mormons today. LDS Discussion Essay on Joseph Smith's Revelation. _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 37: Joseph's Failed Prophecies | Revelations Pt. 3 | 10 mars 2023 | 02:13:59 | |
In this engaging interview, Mike from LDS Discussions, Nemo the Mormon, and John Dehlin review the failed prophecies of Mormonism's founder, Joseph. They start by discussing what the Bible says about failed prophecies and those who tell them. They then delve into specific failed prophecies, including the Second Coming of the Lord in 1891, the fall and overthrow of the US government, and the "everlasting" covenant of the United Order. Other failed prophecies discussed include the failed treasure seeking mission to Salem and the failed attempt to sell the Book of Mormon copyright. Was Joseph wrong or is it was God's fault? What good is having General Conference, either way? The hosts also discuss how FAIR Mormon tries to spin failures into fulfillments and concludes with some final thoughts on the implications of these failed prophecies of Joseph for Mormons today. LDS Discussion Essay on Joseph Smith's Revelations. Donate to Nemo _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 36: Problematic Patterns | Revelations Pt. 2 | 24 févr. 2023 | 02:20:16 | |
Today we identify and analyze four problematic patterns in Joseph Smith's "revelations": 1) Using revelations to convince others to submit to his requests, 2) Using revelations to get out of a jam, 3) Changing revelations to fit Joseph Smith’s evolving theologies, and 4) a look at Biblical errors made in Joseph Smith's revelation. We are joined by Mike of LDS Discussions and @NEMOTHEMORMON. LDS Discussion Essay on Joseph Smith's Revelations. _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 35: Joseph Smith's Backdated Prophecies | Revelations Pt. 1 | 17 févr. 2023 | 03:24:20 | |
Radio Free Mormon joins the usual crew (Mike, John & Nemo) as they discuss evidence for prophecies that appear to have been backdated after the events of the supposed prophecy already happened. LDS Discussion Essay on Backdating Prophecy _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 34: Overview of Joseph Smith's Translations | 20 janv. 2023 | 02:07:05 | |
In this episode we recap all the different areas where Joseph Smith claims to have translated an ancient source and we analyze his work and compare it against modern scholars and experts in the field to see how he did. Co-host: Nemo the Mormon LDS Discussion Essay: Overview of Joseph Smith's Translations _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 33: The Kinderhook Plates | 10 janv. 2023 | 02:15:39 | |
Did Joseph Smith have another shot at translating ancient scripture, or is it just rumor? Mike and John take a look at the Kinderhook Plates. What were they? Did Joseph Smith try to translate them, and what was the result? As usual, we dive into the apologetics around multiple scenarios and why they are each attractive to differing views. Co-host: Nemo the Mormon LDS Discussion Essay on the Kinderhook Plates _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 32: Book of Abraham, Part 3: A look at the text itself | 27 déc. 2022 | 02:47:03 | |
In Parts 1 and 2 of this series Mike, John, and Nemo explored the history and controversies over whether the Book of Abraham is a literal translation of Egyptian as claimed by Joseph Smith. Now for Part 3 they are back to look at what the text of the Book of Abraham actually says, including many prime LDS doctrines. What have been the consequences of believing those doctrines? Does the Book of Abraham merit being considered “revelation” and therefore binding to believing Saints today? LDS Discussion Essay on Book of Abraham _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 31: Book of Abraham Pt 2: Translation Apologetics | 16 déc. 2022 | 02:35:15 | |
Today we’re going through various apologetics and theories around the Book of Abraham to reconcile it being considered scripture along with what we know the literal interpretation of these things to be. What problems do these apologetics create in other areas for believers? Do these theories hold water without a strong bias to believe in spite of all evidence? Do some apologists even admit it? LDS Discussion Essay on Book of Abraham _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 30: Book of Abraham Pt 1: Joseph's Translation | 05 déc. 2022 | 01:51:23 | |
For many, the Book of Abraham is one of the most problematic subjects within Mormonism due to our ability to translate Egyptian after Joseph Smith released the Book of Abraham. We want to give a brief overview of the history of the Book of Abraham, looking at the facsimiles and manuscripts, and then review the church's response to how this can all be reconciled. For a very brief history of how the Book of Abraham came to be, we quote from the official LDS essay: In the summer of 1835, an entrepreneur named Michael Chandler arrived at Church headquarters in Kirtland, Ohio, with four mummies and multiple scrolls of papyrus. Chandler found a ready audience... By the time the collection arrived in Kirtland, all but four mummies and several papyrus scrolls had already been sold. A group of Latter-day Saints in Kirtland purchased the remaining artifacts for the Church. After Joseph Smith examined the papyri and commenced "the translation of some of the characters or hieroglyphics," his history recounts, "much to our joy [we] found that one of the rolls contained the writings of Abraham." LDS Discussions Essay Overview of the Book of Abraham. _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 29: Polygamy Apologetics | 17 nov. 2022 | 03:08:55 | |
Join John, Mike & Elisha Lee as they discuss common problematic apologies around the practice of polygamy in early Church History. From lies being called “carefully worded denials” and attempts to differentiate between “plural marriage” which God approved of or “spiritual wifery” which was not, and the fact that this is still current doctrine and what women have to look forward to in eternity and the harms caused past and present from this doctrine. Special Guest: Elisha Lee
LDS Discussion Essay on Polygamy Apologetics LDS Discussions 6-Part Series on Polygamy:
_________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 8411 | |||
| 28: The Happiness Letter (Joseph Smith's Proposition to Nancy Rigdon) | 10 nov. 2022 | 02:56:53 | |
In part 5 of our 6-part series on polygamy within the LDS Discussions project, we discuss "The Happiness Letter," which was the letter Joseph Smith wrote to Nancy Rigdon to try to convince her to become one of his plural wives. Special Guest: Nemo the Mormon LDS Discussion Essay on the Happiness Letter LDS Discussions 6-Part Series on Polygamy:
_________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 27: Joseph Smith's Plural Marriage Proposals Part 2 | 04 nov. 2022 | 01:57:41 | |
Join Mike (LDS Discussions), Elisha, and John for Part 2 as they look at the techniques of influence that Joseph Smith used to propose to his plural wives. Helen Mar Kimball's age reduction digital illustration by Adam Worthington https://www.knowbrotherjoseph.com/ Special Guest: Elisha Lee
LDS Discussion Essay on Plural Marriage Proposals LDS Discussions 6-Part Series on Polygamy:
_________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 26: Joseph Smith's Plural Marriage Proposals Part 1 | 28 oct. 2022 | 02:02:04 | |
Join Mike (LDS Discussions), Elisha, and John as they look at the techniques of influence that Joseph Smith used to propose to his plural wives. Special Guest: Elisha Lee
LDS Discussion Essay on Plural Marriage Proposals LDS Discussions 6-Part Series on Polygamy:
_________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: | |||
| 25: D&C 132: Joseph Smith's Polygamy "Revelation" | 20 oct. 2022 | 03:05:40 | |
Today’s episode continues the discussion on Polygamy with the (in)famous revelation still canonized in Mormon/LDS scripture as Section 132 of the Doctrine & Covenants. Mike sets up the historical & personal context of the timing of this revelation and the problematic ideas presented in it as coming from God including how God views women, redefining adultery and other moral issues, and the various rules and justifications given by God to practice polygamy. Mike goes on to show that Joseph admits himself that polygamy is something he wanted, and despite being the receiver of the various specific rules defined by God, he nevertheless proceeds to break every one of them. Finally, Mike goes over the many apologetics around this section of the Doctrine & Covenants and the problems with most of the arguments attempting to justify the revelation, Joseph’s polygamy, and the resulting polygamy among many of the branches of Mormonism, some continuing to this day. Special Guest: Elisha Lee
LDS Discussion Essay on Polygamy LDS Discussions 6-Part Series on Polygamy:
_________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors!
LDS Discussions Platforms: Contact LDS Discussions:
| |||