Cwic Media- LDS Podcast / Latter-day Saints

Polygamy and the Church's Conflict with the US Government Cristina Rosetti and I talk about the build-up to the 1890 Manifesto known as Official Declaration 1 in the Doctrine and Covenants. The Manifesto is a result of decades of conflict with the US Government and was perhaps the major motivation for the Saints' move west. What is the legal history of plural marriage in the US and what finally brought about the Manifest from President Wilford Woodruff? Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

The Soteriological Problem is one that Christianity has grappled with for 2,000 years. If God is just and loving, but only those who know of Jesus Christ and are baptized by one with authority can be saved, and very few ever get that chance, then . . ? The Restored Gospel answers that question and Baptism for the Dead is a big part of that answer. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

The Salvation Army recently presented a document to their organization's employees and volunteers on racism, encouraging their organization to read Ibram Kendi and Robin DiAngelo. It implied tenets of Critical Race Theory and Critical Social Justice. A backlash forced them to remove it. But the organization is just another example of Christianity sliding toward a Social Justice Gospel and Liberation Theology. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

"Like a Lamb to the Slaughter" - The power of Joseph Smith - He knew what was coming - The transfer of the keys of the priesthood Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Recap of the Week! - Comments on the Church Microaggression Email - Elder Bednar and Choosing to be Offended - Understanding Demons and the Context of the Sermon on the Mount - President Oaks, The US Constitution and Ideologies Attacking It Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

President Oaks Parses Out the Constitution From his April, 2021 General Conference talk, President Oaks analyzes the US Constitution and states that it is inspired of God and that the whole world needs to look to it and its principles of liberty and limited government. Critical Social Justice and Critical Race Theory decry the liberties of the US Constitution and its focus on opportunity. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Dan Ellsworth and I talk about whether demons are real, how their characteristics apply to you, and why you need to understand them. Dan also gives some great insight into the temptations given to Jesus by Satan and the Sermon on the Mount as a reaction to those temptations. In many ways, this is a continuation of our previous discussion on the War in Heaven. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Weakness and The Suffering Servant The beginning (Section 1) and the original end (Section 133) both refer to Isaiah 53-53 and both invoke "weakness". In this episode, we journey through these two Sections and Isaiah 52-53 to put all into context. In some regards, we are all Isaiah's Suffering Servant as followers of Christ. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

The University of Maryland, due to the success of Asian-American students, has altered two of its ethnic enrollment categories; 'People of Color" is now "People of Color Minus Asians" and "White" is now "White or Asian". At Yale Law School, a trainer of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion attacks capitalism, whiteness, and the "Western World". Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Commentary on Doctrine and Covenants Section 132 Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

This week an email communication from the Church included the term, "Microaggression". Some members were a little distraught over this. In this episode we try to do some "clear thinking" and look at how the language and religion of academia will continue to be the major influence on culture and the difficult path the Church must navigate going forward. We also talk about how microaggressions are both a way to be more sensitive to others but can also be a tool for victimhood. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Wrap up of Critical Race Theory (CRT) news this week. Microsoft videos show presenters self "identifying" before they present including gender, sexuality, ethnicity, and what they are wearing. Nicole Hannah Jones does not believe in the individual. Everyone is assigned to a group. Juan Williams says Parents' rights' is code for white race politics. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

"Angels and Handshakes" The examples of angels and handshakes can also play as a metaphor on the world's ideologies and temptations. Keys, "knowledge", and ordinances are all part of the priesthood found in the temple. Using the Cwic Interpreter of Temple Imagagery and Drama helps us to understand the concepts found in these Sections. Section 132 will follow in a subsequent episode. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Aside from the political lightning rod that Dr. Fauci has become, what is he doing in a position of trust as a spokesperson for the US Government when he was involved in funding the Wuhan Lab and getting in bed with the Chinese. Using a context from comedian John Stewart and Senator Rand Paul, regardless of what you think of Fauci, these issues demand attention. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

DBR, Order, Ordinance, and Ordain Joseph Smith talks of the "deep water" of opposition becoming a "second nature" to him. He glories "in tribulation like Paul. The role and Doctrine of Christ are not as a liberator from earthly oppressors, but as a liberator (Savior) of over sin for personal progression of individuals, families, and Zion. Baptisms for the dead are part of our participation in Isaiah 52:7, our "feet" are upon the mountain. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Wrap-up on recent episodes! Cwic Show and Greg Matsen are featured on the anti-Mormon YouTube Channel Mormon Stories in regards to Natasha Helfer. We revisit our conversation with Patrick Mason on polygamy and the doctrine of plural marriage. Also, why statue removal matters. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

- Section 124 is a roadmap for Joseph Smith - The Doctrine of Christ and "weakness" - Eagles Wings - Thomas Grover Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Condoleezza Rice co-hosts The View chiding Joy Behar and Sunny Hostin on Critical Race Theory and makes some very good points. Also, YouTube comments on a previous BYU Cwic Show episode. Website - https://www.cwicshow.com

"Liberty" and The Doctrine of Christ The exchange between Joseph Smith and the Lord in Liberty Jail should be seen through the lens of the Doctrine of Christ. What was the Lord teaching Joseph and what does He teach us? It's not always the circumstances that need to change but rather us that need to change. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Many in the media call this action in New York City a menial occurrence. But the media also said in 2017 that the removal of Confederate statues would not lead to the founding fathers like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. They are wrong again. This is part of a national plan by supporters of CRT and Critical Social Justice to "reset" the founding of America. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

LDS Scholar Patrick Mason As political divides increase and intensify both in the US and in the Church, how do we hold it together? What was the significance of Elder Holland's BYU speech and when it comes to the family, what is doctrine? In Patrick's new book, Proclaim Peace, how should we look at conflict? And is there a political problem in academia? Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

The temple is built after patterns both in form and function. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Several BYU professors teaching and activating students as they support Critical Race Theory and advocate for Ibram Kendi's anti-capitalist, anti-liberal democracy agenda and book. Shout out to the Black Panther Party, a touch of Liberation Theology and several examples of promoting political involvement. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

The Higher and the Lower Laws show us that the "treasure" to be found in Salem, Massachusetts was not a physical treasure, but the spiritual treasure of souls. The Doctrine of Christ is outlined through submission and humility, to lower oneself and to be exalted by God. This is represented by the Tree of Life in Lehi's Dream. Those that raise themselves up will fall. They are represented by the Great and Spacious Building. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

BYU Professor Ralph Hancock discusses his most recent article outlining the academic and religious response to Elder Holland's BYU speech. Focusing on a Faith Matters podcast episode, we discuss the "skirting around the issue" of the Doctrine of the Family and temple marriage. Also, the Office of Belonging and "continual revelation." Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Wrap up of Critical Race Theory events. Saturday Night Live skit covers mock school board with "crazy" parents talking about CRT and segregation. Real school board struggles with "banning" Critical Race Theory. Young "antiracist" with Antiracist social media channels equates antiracism with getting rid of the United States. Because that's what it really is. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Comments, Feedback, and Fallout - Antiracism and Language - The Black National Anthem in Forbes Magazine - Education's war on men is only a slice of a larger problem - WaPo's "Rise of the Liberal Latter-day Saints" and the author's comments on the article Website- https:/www.cwicmedia.com

- The title of God, "Lord God of Israel" - Covenant - We are a part of the hierarchal structure seen in visions of Temple Imagery and Drama. We are the "Servants." - Who is Elias? Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

In this Washington Post Magazine article, the author creates a narrative that depicts a conflict between "bottom-up" revelation and "top-down" revelation. The article, while well written, assumes that the Church should react to the people's desire for change. Those interviewed expect that the Doctrine of the Family and temple marriage will change. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

"Where Have All The Men Gone?" We have arrived at a point where for every man that graduates from college, nearly two women will graduate. This is not only a problem for men but for women as well. Girls and women dominate scholastic leadership roles, student government, college admissions, valedictorians, and diplomas. And there is no reversal in sight. The only group this helps, are the highly educated males. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

The NFL is playing the Black National Anthem before games. Why is there a push to have two National Anthems? What is the purpose? Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Intersectionality are the engines behind this push. They seek to tear down liberal democracy by breaking us into groups and reforming our institutions. America was built for all. That means "assimilation" for all to its principles of freedom. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

Arizona State University library viral video. Two male students called out for supporting the police. The University of Washington begins a new "Critical Librarianship" program indoctrinating librarians and stating that libraries are about power and privilege. CVS CEO has a discussion with Ibram Kendi who states that the solution to racism is to "diagnose" employees with racism The solution, in part, is to "diagnose" employees as "racist" in order to help them become "antiracist". Plus, California Ethnic Studies

"Checks and Balances" The General Priesthood and organization of the Church has a built-in "checks and balances" similar to the US Constitution. There are three quorums that can "check" each other with a unanimous vote. Section 107 provides great detail for the Higher and Lower Laws administered by the Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

With works and grace, and personal responsibility and comfort, the gospel pendulum seems to be rapidly swinging toward the latter. But a "Teddy Bear" Jesus is not the answer nor is it the true Doctrine of Christ. "Comfort" is turning to victimhood and resentment, forming victim groups and expecting Jesus Christ to be the "liberator" of such griefs. This turns the gospel into a "Therapy" Gospel coddling victimhood and stealing personal responsibility. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

The Plan of Salvation asks us to all be "saviors of men." God is not just a "Healer" or a therapist. The Plan is for us to become like Him, not just to be "fixed." As we receive more light, we are to shine that light for others. This is why those at the Tree of Life do not gather and store the fruit for themselves, rather, they partake of it. This signifies that they become like the Tree. They are to become like Christ. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

Agreement and disagreement on Elder Holland's BYU Speech. Ben Pacini is a teacher at BYU-Idaho and the host of the "Radical Civility" podcast. We discuss the speech, Critical Race Theory in schools, save spaces in schools, and the role of civility in disagreement in the Church. It was a great conversation. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

A strong tenet of Postmodernism is a "Lived Experience." In reality, it is a hijacking of knowledge. The arrival of "Deconstruction" and "Lived Experience" have already arrived in mainstream creedal Christianity and are wreaking havoc. This episode shows how this may show up in a Latter-day Saint context and how it can be used perniciously with our testimonies. Also, three different ways (epistemologies) to come to a knowledge of the veracity of the gospel and the Church. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

In an ever-increasing polarization of politics, how will the Church create dialogue? What does it mean to be "civil within the Church? How do we avoid political extremities and keep a dialogue on issues? Just a few thoughts on what I'm hearing. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

"The Law of Liberty" Oddly, the Lord lifts up the banner of the US Constitution exactly when it is failing the early saints. He speaks of the "principle of freedom" within the Constitution and says that is should be given to all of mankind. We also see how agency plays a role in these sections, the "Law of Liberty" from Irenaeus, and the gathering of Israel is temple-centered. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

This is a great discussion with Pastor Derwin, the founder of Transformation Church who also played football under Lavell Edwards from 1989-992. He also played in the NFL for six years. Dr. Derwin Gray's church is a non-denominational, multi-ethnic church on purpose. This is how he designed it. We talk about his journey in life, BYU, and many lessons that apply to Latter-day Saints, a faith he is very familiar with. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

A weekly wrap-up of what we covered this week with additional insights.

BYU Professor Advocating for Critical Race Theory at BYU and Public Schools. A BYU Professor Emeritus advocates for the teaching of Critical Race Theory at BYU and in public schools. He also equates statements from Ibram Kend and Joseph Smith. By dissecting his points in an article he wrote recently, we can break down much of what we see in the advocacy, teaching, and activation found in CRT. This is yet another example of what BYU is facing. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

Lehi's Dream can be an anchor point for context and insight with ideas, groups, worldviews, and ideologies. Here I share a few thoughts asking the audience to make a couple of assumptions with me in order to create a mental diagram for the examples of Critical Race Theory and Racism. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

In an October 2020 address at BYU, President Oaks explained that we need to have "clear thinking" about social issues. This address seems to have set the table for Elder Holland's recent BYU speech. In this episode, I try to use the "clear thinking" principle and apply it to the Church's partnership with the NAACP, Elder Hollan's BYU speech, and the relationship between the Church, and the LGBTQ community. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

A BYU professor, messaging me directly, states that Jesus taught social justice from the left. That his message was to fight off oppression. This is after Elder Holland's speech. The professor also brings up new language and tries to redefine "equity." Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

"Temple and Light" As the Lord calls for His temple to be built, His language includes many of the themes of the temple including, light, creation, the Tree of Life, Charity, and the Doctrine of Christ. Is the love of God unconditional? How does He "love" us? What does "meek" mean? Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

More response to Elder Holland's speech at BYU with additional insights. The office of Belonging (Orwellian?) at BYU and the "Light of Christ" with a hierarchal structure. Website- https://www.cwicmedia.com

The Hyperbolic Aftermath of Elder Holland's BYU Speech The response to Elder Holland's BYU speech earlier this week includes many that support Elder Holland and many, louder and hyperbolic reactions that are grounded in a twist of Elder Holland's words, spirit, and intent of his speech. The "muskets" have been used as a distraction. The metaphor has been appropriated as an aggressive attack on the LGBTQ community. Many are rallying around this false narrative. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Unlike most other universities that have put into place a "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" office, the Office of Belonging at BYU seems to want to be different. Time will tell. Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com

Elder Holland gave a stirring speech to BYU yesterday, August 23, 2021. He was direct in his approach while expressing his love for the institution of Brigham Young University. In this episode, I comment on why I believe he mentioned certain specifics, how BYU must stay true to its mission, and what does the future hold. Elder Holland's remarks included a focus on the Doctrine of the Family and marriage as well. This was a monumental speech deserving of its full delivery. I have linked it below- Elder Holland's Full Speech - https://youtu.be/CUEBJ3NdaCs Website - https://www.cwicmedia.com