Standard of Truth

In this episode, we get back into who is dead and in hell with a discussion of President Zachary Taylor’s secret “mega-state” plan to skip territorial status by fusing the Mexican Cession into two giant states (California and New Mexico) and setting the stage for Deseret, Utah Territory, and next week’s “Who’s Dead and in Hell?” installment. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Doctrine and Covenants 115 the revelation that formally names the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2027: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours Our 2026 tours are sold out, but if you would like to join us in the future here is a link to our 2027 tours: ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we discuss the most recent General Conference, Thomas B. Marsh’s prescription to avoid apostasy after apostasy and his return to the Church, and why “Mormons” are viewed as a cult. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): D&C 112 ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email that is rarely monthly: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected] Rex's Elders Quorum President's Show Notes: 01:31 – Gerrit reflects on empathy and family teachings from Conference. 03:05 – Discussion on emotional reactions to doctrines about marriage and family. 04:30 – Sports-team loyalty as an analogy for emotional reasoning in faith. 07:50 – Mercy and gratitude; Richard’s emotional takeaway from Conference. 08:45 – Cajun-seasoning humor from Elder Amos’ talk; lighthearted recap. 09:30 – Listener email from Mindy, stake RS president; Kristy’s KorneЯ intro. 13:45 – Doctrine & Covenants 112: Thomas B. Marsh revelation overview. 20:40 – Marsh’s pride, Kirtland apostasy, and “rebel not against my servant Joseph.” 23:15 – Missouri conflicts; Marsh’s eventual apostasy and later return. 25:30 – Reading Marsh’s handwritten “Prescription for Apostasy.” 28:55 – Bishop Jepson’s email; humor about accidental promotions. 30:31 – Running joke: the show’s “power” to make listeners bishops. 33:45 – Panama missionary asks why God allows apostasy 36:37 – Gerrit explains apostasy, agency, and salvation for the dead. 42:14 – Couple in hospital email: garments and “Mormons as a cult” questions. 48:41 – History of sacred clothing and the Protestant Reformation. 53:30 – Catholic vs. evangelical views on sacred garments. 56:30 – Why some Christians call Latter-day Saints a cult; creed differences.

In this episode, we reflect on the life and teachings of President Russell M. Nelson and the horrific tragedy in Michigan. Peacemakers Needed: President Russell M. Nelson, April 2023 General Conference https://youtu.be/vQghSMOOYz4?si=J2iZzTDkfRcYSH_n Forgiving Others: An Easter Message from President Russell M. Nelson https://youtu.be/cb6UGnSEDi4?si=zzkJwvQcmvi9EjYo The Healing Power of Forgiveness: President James E. Faust https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqlNqeRc8KY ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email that is rarely monthly: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠

In this episode, we inch ever closer to identifying the US President that Brigham Young said was dead and in hell. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit discusses D&C 107 Sign up for our free monthly email (seldom monthly): ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected] Rex's Elders Quorum President's Show Notes: 06:03 – First historical example discussed and reactions. 08:04 – Hosts compare perspectives and clarify early details. 10:07 – Beginning of doctrinal discussion with audience tie-ins. 12:10 – Close reading of a historical source with commentary. 14:13 – Analysis continues with theological implications. 16:11 – Host insights on interpretation and cultural context. 18:13 – Comparison of events and how they shaped beliefs. 20:16 – Transition into related doctrine and historical figures. 22:19 – Examples illustrating the broader argument. 24:21 – Reflections on interpretation challenges. 26:23 – Stories and applications to modern understanding. 28:26 – Hosts debate nuance and context around the text. 30:29 – Historical anecdotes supporting key points. 32:31 – Doctrinal implications revisited in greater detail. 34:33 – Questions from one host, answers from the other. 36:35 – Continued analysis with new textual evidence. 38:37 – Transition toward audience application and insights. 40:39 – Lively back-and-forth clarifying interpretations. 42:41 – Broader lessons drawn from the historical record. 44:43 – Anecdotes illustrating theological points. 46:45 – Hosts emphasize takeaways and significance. 48:47 – Final textual comparisons and reflection. 50:49 – 52:50 — Application to modern faith practice.

We begin the episode with apologies to Sarah, who emailed us while in labor… again. Gerrit then sets the stage for a multi-part deep dive: Brigham Young, James K. Polk, and the Mormon Battalion with a question about the oft-repeated story that in General Conference Brigham Young announced a U.S. president “died and went to hell.” Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2027: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours Our 2026 tours are sold out, but if you would like to join us in the future here is a link to our 2027 tours ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email that is rarely monthly: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected] Rex's Elders Quorum President's Show Notes: 00:02:47 – General Banter 00:14:10 – Baby naming digression 00:18:46 – Listener email reading 00:23:59 – President Hinckley, and improvised remarks during a church meeting. 00:29:29 – Brigham Young and the U.S. president, question raised about which president Brigham Young referenced, opening into deeper historical analysis. 00:33:51 – Secretary of Defense texts and politics, Discussion of a Secretary of Defense text message reference, bridging to political tensions in LDS history. 00:37:55 – Brigham Young’s perception of government problems, exploration of Brigham Young’s uneasy feelings about U.S. government actions and underlying suspicions. 00:43:30 – James Polk and the Mormon Battalion, quoting Polk’s journal about calling Mormons into military service, with historical and political implications. 00:48:49 – Party politics and Mormon voters, Analysis of Democrats vs. Whigs, Mormons as consistent Democrat voters, and shifting political dynamics. 00:52:46 – Close elections and minority status, Reflection on razor-thin election margins, using comparisons to modern U.S. states like Texas. 00:55:09 – Email reading recap, Lighthearted commentary on how emails were read, with jokes about voice impressions. 00:57:46 – Figuring things out in real time, Hosts note that they essentially just “lived through” the lesson while talking—meta humor about their own podcasting style. 01:01:04 – Postmaster positions and patronage, Historical detail about the importance of postmaster appointments and thousands of federal jobs. 01:06:09 – Closing thoughts and unfinished material, Discussion of Alexander McCrae’s anger, acknowledgment that time ran out, and teasing future continuation.

In this episode, we continue our discussion of the context leading to Orson Hyde writing a letter to the Missouri Republican. Utah is desperately trying to get into the Union while half of the states are seceding from the Union. Gerrit then reads the letter and provides commentary. We also discuss a litner’s email about Christian’s understanding of the Trinity based on the King James Version of the Bible. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit shares his thoughts on D&C 101 and the idea of what do we do when the Lord doesn’t answer our prayers in the way we may want Image attempting to explain the Trinity: https://thepentecostalwesleyan.substack.com/p/the-core-doctrines-of-the-christian-4fb Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2027: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours Our 2026 tours are sold out, but if you would like to join us in the future, here is a link to our 2027 tours: ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected] Rex's Elders Quorum President's Show Notes: •00:05:00 – Sunday School etiquette humor and Kristy’s Corner segment •00:07:20 – D&C 101: Zion’s expulsion, Joseph’s 1833 letter to Missouri Saints •00:10:04 – Lessons from unanswered prayers — “be still and know that I am God” •00:12:16 – Hope of Zion’s redemption and Abrahamic parallels of consecration •00:13:52 – Listener mailbag: Lacey’s email on the Trinity and KJV •00:16:02 – Banter about reading emails late and missionary timelines •00:18:08 – Explaining the Nicene Creed: three persons, one God, and why it confuses •00:20:28 – The “triangle diagram” of the Trinity and its limits •00:23:00 – Matthew 3:16–17 — Baptism of Jesus challenges Trinity claims •00:25:22 – Workarounds: Some early Christians claimed “the voice was an angel” •00:28:05 – Story: Lithuanian Catholic convert rejects Trinity after reading scripture •00:31:00 – Council of Nicaea and how early Christians struggled with monotheism & Christ’s divinity •00:35:26 – Who still uses the King James Bible today? Presbyterians, Baptists, Pentecostals •00:39:16 – NIV vs KJV — John 1:18 and doctrinal differences in translation •00:41:00 – Listener Dawson’s email introduces Orson Hyde’s Civil War letter •00:45:00 – Charleston newspapers: downplaying fears of large-scale war in 1861 •00:48:00 – Missouri newspapers: hope that secession won’t mean inevitable war •00:51:00 – Virginia’s call for a 10,000–20,000 militia — seen as scandalous then •00:55:00 – Hartford Convention (1814): New England nearly secedes during War of 1812 •01:00:00 – Hindsight bias: Chamberlain’s “peace for our time” compared with prophecy •01:05:00 – Critics on D&C 87 — manuscript evidence and Pearl of Great Price 1851 printing •01:10:00 – Faith and prophecy: why hindsight makes Joseph’s revelation look “obvious”

To celebrate the kickoff to the 2025 NFL season (Eagles -7.5 vs the Cowboys), we begin in the obvious place with a discussion of Orson Hyde’s letter to the Missouri Republican in 1861, providing commentary on the Civil War. They read an email from a litner who shares how she used to be afraid of Church history and how the podcast has given her confidence in the face of anti-Mormon garbage, and Richard shares his feelings on the idea of putting Gospel and Church history topics “on a shelf”…spoiler alert, he doesn’t like the expression. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): We ran out of time. There is no way your Sunday School teacher will be getting D&C 94 through 97. Use any of the three-part rerelease from D&C 93 last week, and you should be in great shape. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2027: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours Our 2026 tours are sold out, but if you would like to join us in the future, here is a link to our 2027 tours: ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected] Rex's Elders Quorum President's Show Notes: •00:01:20 – Richard’s new glasses, carrots, and “big carrot conspiracy” •00:03:40 – Football season talk (NFL & College) •00:09:20 – Listener mailbag begins •00:09:36 – Testimony of Emer Harris and family connections •00:15:00 – Listener Danica’s email on family faith struggles and church history fears •00:25:00 – Richard’s thoughts on “putting things on the shelf” vs. gaining testimony •00:31:00 – Discussion of Lyman Johnson’s regret and the value of faith •00:35:00 – Dawson’s email introducing Orson Hyde’s Civil War commentary •00:37:00 – Civil War Prophecy context: hindsight bias and the problem of interpreting prophecy. •00:39:00 – Challenges of Second Coming prophecies and people’s tendency to over-interpret. •00:40:30 – Specifics of Joseph Smith’s prophecy: slavery, South Carolina, and secession. •00:43:00 – Why hindsight makes the Civil War “seem obvious,” but it wasn’t. •00:45:00 – South Carolina newspapers downplaying fears of a large-scale war. •00:47:00 – Border state (Missouri) newspapers hoping for compromise to avoid war. •00:51:00 – Virginia’s “scandalous” call for 10,000–20,000 militia—later dwarfed by actual numbers. •00:53:00 – Historical context: the Nullification Crisis and its contrast with Joseph’s prophecy. •00:55:00 – War of 1812 Hartford Convention—New England nearly seceding. •01:00:00 – Hindsight bias analogy: Neville Chamberlain’s “peace for our time.” •01:02:00 – Why critics’ arguments against Joseph Smith’s prophecy are hollow. •01:05:00 – Civil War prophecy in early manuscripts and the Pearl of Great Price (1851). •01:07:00 – Prophecy credibility, critics’ weak arguments, and final remarks.

In this bonus episode, Richard has a conversation with President Rissi, the Lithuania District President, about the recent Sweetwater Rescue temple trip to the Helsinki, Finland Temple. Church News Article: https://www.thechurchnews.com/members/2025/09/01/vilnius-lithuania-district-long-journey-helsinki-finland-temple/ You can follow us on Social Media at: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FRGVJQVVB/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/sweetwaterrescue Our 2026 tours are sold out, but if you would like to join us in the future, here is a link to our 2027 tours: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we discuss the sealed portion of the plates. Gerrit shares the accounts of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery on returning the plates and go through comments from Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and David Whitmer. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this rereleased episode, we continue to discuss Doctrine and Covenants 93. In Part 3, we discuss what this revelation tells us about the nature of mankind in relation to the nature of our Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this rereleased episode, we continue to discuss Doctrine and Covenants 93. In Part 1, we provided some historical and theological context from the Christian world. In Part 2, we go through Section 93 and discuss the radical nature of this revelation as it provides insights into questions about the nature of Jesus Christ that have confounded philosophers and theologians for centuries. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this rereleased episode, we dive deep into one of the most important revelations ever received by Joseph Smith, Doctrine and Covenants 93. But to understand how radical and how profound this revelation is, we must first understand a little of what the Christian world thinks about the nature of God, the nature of Christ, and our own nature. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we discussed the changes to sacrament overtime. We also attempted to answer a listeners question about women participating in the administration of the sacrament Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this rereleased episode, we continue our discussion of the Apocrypha. The podcast starts with a 19th-century Latter-day Saint view of the Apocrypha. Gerrit asks Richard a question where Richard has a 50% shot of getting it right… He gets it wrong. We also read from 2 Ezras and its reference to the lost 10 tribes and Zion being built up. This all provides the context for Joseph receiving the revelation for D&C Section 91. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this rereleased episode, we decided to tackle one of the great hot-button historical issues of the day…well, of Joseph Smith’s day anyway. We discuss the history of the Apocrypha and how controversy in Christianity led to Joseph Smith’s revelation on it. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this rereleased episode, we discuss how the Word of Wisdom changes over time within the Church to where we are today. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this rereleased episode, we discuss the context around the receiving of the Word of Wisdom and talk about how the saints responded to the revelation when it was received. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

We record this episode in front of a live studio audience in the air-conditionless conference room of the Palmyra Inn. We conclude our discussion on atheism and discuss another YouTube clip of a Christian theologian that attempts to soften the mainstream Christian understanding of hell. Gerrit Dandometer: 867,003 Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit discusses D&C 88 Sign up for our free monthly email (seldom monthly): ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected] Clips played on the show came from the following YouTube videos: What Is Hell ACTUALLY? Bible Expert Wes Huff Explains - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eq64jDI5gA0 Arguments For Atheism Tier List - ⁠https://youtu.be/s_5vfQE6_yE?si=-nWylNO1qiuVy-Wb

In this episode, we continue our discussion of atheist arguments against the existence of God. We primarily talk about the problem of evil, and Gerrit discusses a point that both the atheist and Christian miss, which is that despite the suffering in this life, the suffering in the next life is much worse, and there is no opportunity for justice for the majority of God’s creations. Gerrit Dandometer: most controlled we have seen Gerrit in some time, but toward the end gets up to 402,836 Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit discusses the miraculous nature of the D&C 87 and the prophecy of the coming Civil War Sign up for our free monthly email (seldom monthly): ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected] Clips played on the show came from the following YouTube videos: John MacArthur: Why Does God Allow So Much Suffering and Evil? - https://youtu.be/UTRm1go2Qw4?si=nwkqn18hic6HB7sw If God, Why Evil? | Dr. Frank Turek - https://youtu.be/V2eNyrknOAk?si=FaUq0z1bcl9XMrJ1 Arguments For Atheism Tier List - https://youtu.be/s_5vfQE6_yE?si=-nWylNO1qiuVy-Wb Alex O’Connor UNLOADS on Catholic Apologist: "Your God Let This Happen?" - https://youtu.be/9gND_uHQtlY?si=n49K5tjR_gcO5sLP

In one of the most astounding feats of prophecy, Joseph Smith received this revelation from the Lord on Christmas Day, 1832. It astonishingly predicts with great clarity the coming and horrific nature of the American Civil War. Sign up for our free monthly email (seldom monthly): ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we review Christmas hymns in Joseph Smith’s time and begin the evaluation of atheist arguments against the existence of God and the Christian rebuttals that often leave a believer wanting. Gerrit Dandometer: For most of the episode, we held Gerrit below 100,000, but at the end, we spiked to over 726,499 Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit discusses verses 45 and 46 from D&C 84 as a counter to the Christian idea of total depravity from the idea of Original Sin. Sign up for our free monthly email (seldom monthly): ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we dive into listener questions about Catholic doctrine and why every Latter-day Saint chapel does not have a crucifix. Gerrit walks through Catholic doctrine, including venial vs. mortal sin and purgatory’s purpose. We discuss the history of the Christian cross as a symbol, tracing how early Protestants saw it as Catholic idolatry, why Joseph Smith and early Saints avoided it, and how Protestant denominations eventually reversed course under cultural pressure. Gerrit Dander Meter: 373,641 Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): We ran out of time, so this will be a separate mini-bonus episode Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

We didn’t have room for Kristy’s KorneЯ in our regular episode this week, but never fear, we’ve cut a fresh bonus episode devoted often overlooked D&C 83. What happens to consecrated property when landholders pass away? We dig into original 1830s stewardship contracts, make temple recommend parallels, and BYU Honor Code analogies. Early Stewardship Agreement for Consecrated Land: ⁠https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f8edb331-484b-4f4a-9b99-0138932c0075/0/1?lang=eng⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we start with an email from an Australian missionary in Croatia and a bishop requesting a good Kristy’s KorneЯ. We continue our defense of accusations against the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles with a good old-fashioned discussion of Cochranite spiritual wifery in Saco, Maine, in the early 1800s. Gerrit Dander Meter: 901,284 (scale was previously 1 to 10, but we felt it lacked the precision required and therefore changed it to 1 to 1,000,000) Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit reads a letter from Stephen Burnett claiming that all the witnesses deny ever seeing the Golden Plates (additional context for D&C 80). Best of luck commenting on this in Sunday School, Sis. Sign up for our free monthly email (seldom monthly): ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

In this episode, we finally share the identity of Bill the Adulterer, and Gerrit provides context of Abraham Lincoln playing Dixie after the North’s victory in the Civil War. We answer a litner’s email where verifiably false claims against early Church leaders seem to get Gerrit’s dander is fully up. Who knew that would be a trigger for Dr. Dirkmaat Gerrit Dander Meter: 11 Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit reads an excerpt from a Brigham Young sermon relating to D&C 76. We hope that you raise your hand in class and read the entire thing. Sign up for our free monthly email (seldom monthly): ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

We record this episode in the shadow of the Keokuk, Iowa Walmart in front of a live studio audience. We have some fun with litners on the Standard of Truth Tour and Gerrit answers an email about everyone’s favorite doctor, veteran, adulterer, and liar John C. Bennett. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): D&C 74 Sign up for our free monthly email (almost never monthly): ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

Martin Luther's disgust with the used car salesmen of indulgence peddlers, Johann Teztel, drive him to cross the religious Rubicon and nail his 95 theses to the door. The Protestant Reformation is about to explode. If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠ ⁠Subscribe to our free newsletter⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/⁠⁠ Please visit our website at ⁠⁠www.standardoftruth.com⁠

Before we dive headfirst into Martin Luther we spend a little time talking about a few of his predecessors. We discuss the impact that Augustine of Hippo (354-430), John Wycliffe (1328-1384), and Jan Huss (1369-1415) had on Christian thought. We also discuss the merits of throwing people out of windows as a solution to your problems. Subscribe to our free newsletter⁠ - ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/⁠ Please visit our website at ⁠www.standardoftruth.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we discuss whether or not God created the Dodge Dart. Marcion also had a question about whether or not the God of the Old Testament was the same as Jesus. His heretical arguments lead to the formation of the accepted Christian canon. ⁠Subscribe to our free newsletter⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/⁠⁠ Please visit our website at ⁠⁠www.standardoftruth.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

We begin the episode with Richard recounting a personal spiritual experience at a sacrament meeting in Fruita, Colorado… home of Mike the Headless Chicken. We then answer a litner’s question: Was Hyrum Smith an apostle? We discuss Hyrum’s unique role in the Church, drawing from Doctrine & Covenants 124 and the Council of Fifty minutes. Gerrit walks through the complexity of 19th-century Church leadership structure, why modern categories like “apostle” don’t always cleanly map to early Church roles, and why Hyrum’s spiritual authority was second only to Joseph’s. Finally, Gerrit shares a powerful, little-known sermon from Hyrum Smith delivered just months before his death, where Hyrum tells the Council of Fifty to stop worrying about how God’s work will be done, and start believing that He will do it. Mike the Headless Chicken: https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34198390 Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): The Lord chastens Richard (D&C 58:4 and D&C 3:1) Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th – 3 spots left Sign up for our free monthly email (almost never monthly): ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we receive another email from an expecting mother and discuss whether Sir Isaac Newton dabbling in wizardry. We also talk about loved ones who go through a faith crisis and Gerrit shares experiences from the frontlines of faith conversations. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): We introduce a new stinger and Gerrit gives a couple of nuggets for D&C 54 Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th – 6 spots Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th – SOLD OUT Palmyra/Kirtland – July 12th through July 18th – SOLD OUT Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

Revisit this classic episode, now rereleased as a bonus, for a reminder that even in the Restoration's earliest years, the gospel was already colliding with the religious fringe. We go back to early 1831 and unpack one of the most unusual revelations in the D&C 49. Directed to the now all-but-extinct Shaker community, this revelation responds directly to a faith group that believed Jesus had already returned… as a woman. What begins as a historical tour through a radical offshoot of Quakerism becomes a broader exploration of how early Latter-day Saints navigated wildly different theological worlds. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th – 12 spots remaining Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th – SOLD OUT Palmyra/Kirtland – July 12th through July 18th – SOLD OUT Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we discuss a cornucopia of issues from our Hindu and Buddhist friends to claims of sex trafficking by the New York Times. It takes about 45 minutes, but Gerrit’s dander is up. In fact, Gerrit’s dander has never been higher. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): D&C 49 discussion about Shakers Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th – 12 spots remaining Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th – SOLD OUT Palmyra/Kirtland – July 12th through July 18th – SOLD OUT Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we hope the litners will also enjoy a heartfelt shout-out to Elder Crum, Elder Crum, possibly a third Elder Crum and his Deseret flag sewing companions, a reflection on the doctrine of intelligence from D&C 93, and a deeper exploration into the Latter-day Saint rejection of creation ex nihilo. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Latter-day Saint worship services were designed to be open to all, excommunicated members, seekers, and non-believers. This was VERY uncommon at the time D&C 46 was received. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th – SOLD OUT Palmyra/Kirtland – July 12th through July 18th Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

This episode begins with a high-stakes battle of identity between Richard and his more successful French Canadian biochemist doppelgänger. Things escalate quickly to NBA heartbreak, papal betting odds, and whether Calvinist theologians would bet on a Pope “if predestination already picked the winner.” Gerrit helps Kristy prepare her Mother’s Day sacrament meeting talk and then we discuss shared visionary experiences that make LDS history uniquely hard to dismiss. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): D&C 45 Stand in Holy Places Standard of Truth Pope Predictions: Pietro Parolin Luis Antonio Tagle Matteo Zuppi Pierbattista Pizzaballa Peter Turkson Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th – SOLD OUT Palmyra/Kirtland – July 12th through July 18th Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode we answer another email written by a litner in labor. We discuss grace and how do Latter-day Saints understand it differently than other Christians. Along the way we also have a heated debate over how to pronounce “pecan” and discuss what a terrible parent Richard is as he tries to justify missing his son’s MTC drop-off and return. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th – SOLD OUT Palmyra/Kirtland – July 12th through July 18th Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we review General Conference 2 weeks late with a segment we like to call “Fun with General Conference”. Gerrit answers a litner question about how the Book of Mormon was distributed and Joseph and Hyrum’s preaching to the Native Americans. Richard’s dander is way up after reading a question about Mary Magdalene. Gerrit provides the history of the genesis of Mary’s bad reputation. As always, we depart slightly from things of a spiritual nature to discuss our favorite pies. Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this Easter special, we explore the profound teachings about the Savior's suffering in Gethsemane and its eternal implications. We discuss how early Latter-day Saints grappled with the concepts of repentance, eternal punishment, and the infinite nature of Christ's atonement. We also explore the radical truths in D&C 19 that challenge the prevailing 19th-century Protestant beliefs by emphasizing a Savior who deeply desires us to avoid suffering through sincere repentance. Gerrit also draws on connections between biblical texts and early Christian writings, including Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Hippolytus. Most importantly, this episode underscores the Savior's desperate plea for repentance, not out of wrath, but from a profound desire to spare His children from unimaginable suffering. This message of compassion and redemption is especially powerful during the Easter season, and a reminder of the incredible depth of Christ’s love and the hopeful promise of forgiveness and spiritual renewal. Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we dive into a discussion about misconceptions surrounding "The Sound of Music," particularly the differences between the movie and the original Broadway play. The conversation then transitions to a look at an upcoming groundbreaking publication in the Latter-day Saint Historical Studies journal, featuring newly uncovered secret police files on the treatment of Latter-day Saints in pre-war Nazi Germany. We also discuss the latest Sweetwater Rescue project, taking Saints from Lithuania to the Helsinki, Finland Temple, and answer a litner’s question about how Martin Harris got the money to pay for the printing of the Book of Mormon Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple ⁠https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current⁠ If you would like to donate, please click on the link: ⁠https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate⁠ Ensign Peak Foundation: ⁠https://ensignpeakfoundation.org/subscribe-to-our-publications/⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

This week, Gerrit and Richard discuss the powerful symbolism of Elijah’s appearance during Passover and its profound connection to both Jewish traditions and Latter-day Saint teachings. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we explore a listener’s question: Are Latter-day Saints Christians if they don’t believe in the Trinity? Gerrit unpacks the theological and historical roots of Trinitarian Christianity, oneness Pentecostalism, and modalism and explains why other Christians often say Latter-day Saints “worship a different Jesus.” We also discuss Nephi’s reminiscent account in the small plates. Episodes Discussing Trinitarian Theology: S1E15 - D&C 93 and the Nature of God Part 1 S1E16 - D&C 93 and the Nature of God Part 2 S1E17 - D&C 93 and the Nature of God Part 3 S2E50 - Are "Mormons" Christian? Part 1 S2E51 - Are "Mormons" Christian? Part 2 S2E52 - Are "Mormons" Christian? Part 3 S3E1 The Trinity and the Nature of God S4E21 The Arian Controversy - Did God the Father Create Jesus? Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we revisit a popular format of playing a clip and listening to Gerrit's dander levels increase. We have 6 clips and we get through one and a half of them. The audio discusses the big theological questions from the perspective of Calvinism. The episode ends with a quote from Brigham Young on the beauty of the Plan of Salvation for ALL of God's children. Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]

In this bonus episode, we dive into the Standard of Truth Bracket standings. We also cover vital spiritual matters like… groin sensitivity in NCAA officiating, listening to the Tabernacle Choir on the Vegas Strip, and why missionary door approaches like “You wouldn’t want to hear this, would you?” are slightly less effective than you’d think. We also read missionary emails from all over the world—from Panama to Brazil to the frozen missions of Iceland. We even tackled some serious Church history questions, including Joseph Smith’s Civil War prophecy and how to respond to the tired claim that “organized religion has done more harm than good.” Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com ⁠If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: [email protected]

In this episode, we discuss the revelation that established the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon. We explore how the Three Witnesses were chosen, what the Book of Mormon says about future witnesses and how it shaped this moment, the miraculous event where the angel of the Lord revealed the plates, sword of Laban, and Liahona, why the testimony of these men remained firm—even when they later turned against Joseph Smith, and how critics have tried to explain away the witnesses—and why their arguments fail. Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]

In this bonus episode we dive into missionary emails and March Madness. We talk about the hundreds of missionary emails we have received and discuss the best litner names for the bracket buster challenge. There is still time so please click on the link below and join us in the Standard of Truth Bracket Buster Challenge. Standard of Truth NCAA Bracket (password = rice) https://fantasy.espn.com/tc/sharer?challengeId=257&from=espn&context=GROUP_INVITE&edition=espn-en&groupId=1d5c280f-2dc4-4104-8176-cc1fa81237f6&joinKey=3767b450-8248-37f2-b8f2-84f7a5625440 Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com ⁠If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: [email protected]

In this episode, we discuss the potential problems associated with using ChatGPT and other AI as a source. The topics we review are Abraham Lincoln’s views on religious liberty, polygamy, and the witnesses of the Gold Plates. Standard of Truth NCAA Bracket (password = rice) https://fantasy.espn.com/tc/sharer?challengeId=257&from=espn&context=GROUP_INVITE&edition=espn-en&groupId=1d5c280f-2dc4-4104-8176-cc1fa81237f6&joinKey=3767b450-8248-37f2-b8f2-84f7a5625440 Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: ⁠⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]

Gerrit also takes on a listener question about why modern prophets don’t declare "Thus saith the Lord" like in early revelations. Standard of Truth NCAA Bracket (password = rice) https://fantasy.espn.com/tc/sharer?challengeId=257&from=espn&context=GROUP_INVITE&edition=espn-en&groupId=1d5c280f-2dc4-4104-8176-cc1fa81237f6&joinKey=3767b450-8248-37f2-b8f2-84f7a5625440 Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we dig into the ever-growing missionary litenership and announce a March Madness-style contest to see which mission can get the most missionaries listening to the podcast. Gerrit unpacks why sustaining President Nelson is essential to the restored gospel and comparisons to early Latter-day Saints following Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, explaining why revelation through a living prophet is the foundation of our faith—not just scripture or past teachings. Richard and Gerrit also discuss Brigham Young’s leadership style and whether apostles were afraid to speak their minds in the 19th century. Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

In this episode we continue our deep dive into D&C Section 10, focusing on the intense opposition Joseph Smith faced and the cunning plan of those who sought to discredit the translation of the Book of Mormon. We explore the reality of Satan’s influence, the importance of discerning spiritual voices, and the miraculous nature of Joseph’s ability to translate despite not yet holding the Melchizedek Priesthood. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠https://standardoftruth.com/tours/⁠ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th (2 spots available) Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]

In this episode we dive into Doctrine and Covenants Section 10, exploring its historical context and doctrinal significance. They discuss the stolen 116 pages of the Book of Mormon, the Lord’s warning to Joseph Smith, and how God prepared for this loss centuries in advance. examines how prophets act in faith without knowing why, with examples from Nephi, Mormon, and Joseph Smith. Along the way, Gerrit breaks down the Book of Mormon translation process, the role of small and large plates, and how Latter-day Saints wrestle with changing scripture. It takes us one hour one minute and twenty-nine seconds, but we finally finish talking about the first verse. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠https://standardoftruth.com/tours/⁠ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th (2 spots available) Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠[email protected]