Why These 3 Worldviews Are Leading People Away from God and Faith | Jeffery Thayne, Latter-day Saint E0024 On this episode of Let's Get Real with Stephen Jones, join our conversation with Psychology Professor Dr. Jeffery Thayne, who believes, "We often have very little idea what various world views are shaping our faith, our questions, our doubts, our convictions. These worldviews invariably frame the questions that we ask." Does the Gospel work for me? This question, rooted in what we treasure most, reveals four competing worldviews—self-expression, prosperity, personal fulfillment, or redemption. Each worldview promises different outcomes, yet many find disappointment when life’s challenges interrupt their plans. The Gospel of Jesus Christ, however, offers a deeper, more transformative solution. By valuing reconciliation with God above all, we shift from seeking outward success to inner transformation. The Gospel of Jesus Christ works not by removing obstacles but by shaping who we become, offering lasting peace and purpose regardless of life’s circumstances. BIO: Dr. Jeffery Thayne graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor's degree in psychology. He continued his graduate studies, earning a master's degree in psychology and a doctorate in instructional technology and learning sciences from Utah State University. He is a faculty member in the Department of Psychology at BYU-Idaho.   “Let’s Get Real with Stephen Jones” is a Scripture Central original production.

In this engaging discussion, Jasmin Rappleye, a passionate influencer and advocate for positive messaging in the Latter-day Saint community, dives into the challenges of countering negative stereotypes spread on platforms like TikTok. She takes a stand against the sensationalism surrounding temple ceremonies, illuminating the importance of respectful dialogue. Jasmin also discusses the significance of social media in reshaping misconceptions about the LDS faith, encouraging a nuanced understanding while promoting the transformative power of sacred ordinances.

Jenet Erickson, a BYU professor and researcher specializing in family dynamics, discusses the ideal family structure and its impact on identity. She highlights the distinct roles of mothers and fathers, emphasizing their emotional bonds during child development. The conversation addresses the complexities of parental separation and the power of faith in healing family wounds. She also explores the significance of eternal families and how nurturing strong connections can enhance individual well-being, resilience, and spiritual growth.

How can Christ help us forgive those who have wronged us in the most egregious ways? As a young, Muslim girl in Iran, Shima Baughman’s mom was betrayed by a family member and sent to one of the world’s worst prisons in the middle of a war-torn country. Shima shares how her family has navigated the deep wounds of betrayal. Can she and her family forgive the woman who betrayed her mom?

Renowned historian Dr. Steven C. Harper discusses multiple First Vision accounts, exploring discrepancies and broader implications for faith and history. They touch on complex church history, navigating faith, doubt, emotions, and divine communication amidst noise. The importance of balancing faith and logic in interpreting church history is emphasized, along with insights into Joseph Smith's visionary world and reflections on faith, love, hope, covenant, and becoming one with God.

BYU President Shane Reese has been in his role for a year now. We had a lot of questions for him. Is there anything he’d do differently? What is BYU's "divinely established" mission? What's at stake if BYU doesn't fulfill its mission? What is the current student experience, and how can we improve it? We discuss President Reese’s hard time acclimating as a new student at BYU, what it’s like to report to General Authorities, and his hopes for the future of BYU. If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing on your platform of choice.  

For episode 18, I get real with Grammy Award-winning vocal director Mauli Bonner.  After uncovering controversial and lesser-known stories about Black pioneers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mauli, feeling embarrassed about his ignorance, is inspired to become a film writer and director. His mission: To craft an enlightening film that breaks the silence. Despite facing societal hesitation to confront painful, controversial histories, Mauli aims to use the film's proceeds to fund a monument at This is the Place, transforming his newfound knowledge into a beacon of awareness and reconciliation.  

Dr. John Thompson, an acclaimed Egyptologist with expertise in ancient scriptures, dives into the frequently misunderstood concept of curses in sacred texts. He clarifies that supposed racial curses in the Book of Abraham actually refer to legal disinheritance, a temporary spiritual condition irrelevant to race. The discussion covers generational curses, covenant lineage, and the significance of adherence to divine laws. It emphasizes God's unconditional love and the importance of understanding spiritual inheritance within a broader cultural context.

I sat down with Dr. John Hilton III and discussed the FBI investigation that proves Joseph Smith DIDN'T write the Book of Mormon. From this episode, you will learn how stylometry, the same method that unmasked the Unabomber, unveils the complex tapestry of voices within the BOM, suggesting a divine collaboration beyond Joseph Smith's capacity. You will learn of Joseph Smith's translation process, highlighting his divine gift and the remarkable efficiency with which the BOM was translated, reinforcing our appreciation for this sacred text. John Hilton III is an associate professor of Ancient Scripture at BYU.  Together, we explore the Book of Mormon (BOM) through the lens of stylometry and faith. With a Master's degree from Harvard and a Ph.D. from BYU in Education, John brings a unique blend of academic rigor and spiritual insight to the study of the BOM, as showcased in his work, "Voices in the Book of Mormon." Hilton shares personal reflections and insights from applying his grandfather's research, enhancing his faith and understanding of the BOM's spiritual messages.

On this episode of Let's Get Real with Stephen Jones, I sat down with Jennifer Roach, a licensed mental health Therapist and Senior Research Associate at FAIR Latter-day Saints.  From an ordained Anglican Pastor to a passionate mental health therapist in the LDS community. Overcoming her own traumatic experiences in high school at the hands of her church pastor, Jennifer now offers her expertise to support trauma survivors. She shares her personal story and research, providing invaluable perspectives on preventing abuse. Her narrative is both enlightening and poignant, serving as a guide to resilience and self-protection.  Listener Discretion: The content includes references to past abuse. Listen and learn how we can collectively foster safer environments.