The Book of Mormon is a scripture that tells the story of a group of Hebrews who migrated from Jerusalem to the Americas around 600 BCE. It describes their history, including their division into two main groups: the Nephites and the Lamanites. The book emphasizes the appearance of Jesus Christ to these people after his resurrection, where he teaches them and establishes his church. It also discusses various doctrinal topics such as the fall of Adam and Eve, the nature of God, baptism, and the importance of faith and repentance. The book ends with Moroni's testimony and an invitation to readers to come unto Christ and be perfected in him[1][3][5].
Todd Compton's "In Sacred Loneliness: The Untold Story of the Polygamy in the Early Mormon Church" offers a detailed account of Joseph Smith's plural marriages. The book delves into the lives of the women who were involved, providing insights into their experiences and perspectives. Compton's research draws on a wide range of historical sources, including personal journals, letters, and legal documents. The book challenges traditional narratives surrounding polygamy in the early Mormon Church, offering a more nuanced and complex understanding of this controversial practice. It raises important questions about power, gender, and the complexities of religious belief.
In today's episode, John sits down for a conversation with immigration attorney, Justin Sweeney. Justin grew up LDS in Mesa, AZ, served a mission in Argentina, and has served in many leadership positions within the church. He was even serving in his branch presidency up until the end of 2024. Justin discusses how he felt overworked in his church callings, questioning polygamy and masonry, and his journey of discovering the true history of the church.
Show Notes
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00:01:20 Justin’s experience with a “Truth Crisis” not “Faith Crisis” and Intentions
00:14:43 Growing up, High School, and sports
00:26:17 Justin’s experience at the MTC
00:36:35 “Fraudulent” baptisms in Latin American missions
00:40:55 Being called to YSA bishopric
00:53:47 Justing finishing law school & became immigration attorney
01:09:57 Justin began to feel like an outsider from mormonism
01:18:00 Discussion about the Godmakers and the lack of women in the Eternal Plan
01:25:15 Justin Sweeney’s “Truth crisis” begins
01:39:30 Justin was “using his lawyer brain to asses Mormonism”
01:44:50 Learning about the “stone in the hat” and that the church still has it
01:55:00 Comparing Mormonism to Santa Claus
02:05:33 Women are second class people in Mormonism
02:10:52 Justin discussing the LDS SEC order from an attorney’s perspective
02:23:00 Reading Second Class Saints by Matt Harris with his wife and kids
02:26:20 Why not keep it to himself and continue to “fake it”
02:32:25 “My intention is not to tell people to leave the church”
02:38:47 Elder Holland “stay in the boat” marketing video
02:44:35 Why isn't he afraid of excommunication by coming on Mormon Stories?
02:54:09 Final thoughts - Is he happier now no longer believing?
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