Please support us by joining our Patreon site (TSAR.website), where you will get a lot of fantastic extra content! In this episode Mark Staker, who helps direct the restoration and management of the Church's historic sites, tells us some of the process of figuring out more about when, where, and how the visit of John the Baptist took place. He and Kerry explore what it meant for Joseph and Oliver, and for all of us. This is a truly seminal event in the restoration that is worth studying. We are grateful for our generous sponsors. We are also grateful for our producer, Launchpad Consulting Studio, and for our Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Susan Easton Black, a pioneer in Church history and a renowned scholar, shares her insights on the pivotal moments in the Doctrine and Covenants. She delves into the revelation to Hyrum Smith and uncovers the intriguing story of Martin Harris and the lost manuscript. Susan brings to life details about these crucial events that many may not know. The conversation also highlights Hyrum's significant role in Joseph Smith's life, emphasizing themes of trust, familial bonds, and the lessons we can learn from their experiences.

Janiece Johnson, an expert in American religious history and editor at Deseret Book, joins the discussion about recognizing how God communicates with us. She shares insights into personal revelation and the importance of understanding its subjective nature. The conversation highlights misconceptions about spiritual guidance and emphasizes the significance of integrating both emotional and intellectual aspects in faith. They also explore historical revelations and the diverse ways individuals can perceive divine guidance in their personal journeys.

Gerrit Dirkmaat, a BYU professor specializing in 19th-century American history and Latter-day Saint traditions, joins to delve into the fascinating story behind the translation of the Book of Mormon. They discuss Joseph Smith's use of the Urim and Thummim and seer stones, clarifying myths about the translation process. Dirkmaat highlights the significance of cultural context and explores the role of early church figures like Oliver Cowdery. Their insights reveal the miraculous nature of this sacred translation and challenge misconceptions surrounding it.

Richard Bushman, a renowned historian and author of "Rough Stone Rolling," delves into the dynamic relationship between Joseph Smith and divine guidance. He recounts the dramatic loss of the 116 pages, explaining Martin Harris's crucial role in the events surrounding it. The conversation also highlights the emotional struggles of Joseph as he navigated guilt and the pressure of leadership. Bushman emphasizes the importance of listening to God’s voice and learning from past mistakes, showcasing how revelations shaped early church governance.

In this engaging discussion, Robert Millet, a prolific gospel author and teacher at Southern Virginia University, dives into the significance of angel Moroni's visits to Joseph Smith. They explore prophecies from Malachi about Elijah's return and the power of familial bonds through priesthood authority. Millet shares insights on the transformative role of the Book of Mormon, the implications of the Aaronic priesthood given by John the Baptist, and the enriching nature of personal scripture experiences, guiding listeners on their spiritual journeys.

In this discussion, Andrew Skinner, a scholar on Joseph Smith and the Restoration, uncovers the fascinating prophecies tied to Joseph Smith and the societal forces that set the stage for the Restoration. He shares insights into the Smith family's struggles, revealing how their experiences shaped Joseph's spiritual journey. The conversation also explores the profound significance of the First Vision, highlighting the mental and emotional preparation Joseph underwent. Skinner connects biblical prophecies to Joseph’s mission, emphasizing the divine orchestration behind this pivotal moment.

Get a discount on all D&C and Church History books and products (including Kerry's on the First Vision called "I Saw the Lord") by going to Seagullbook.com and using the code KERRY2025. In this episode Kerry interviews Robin Jensen from the Church History Department of the Church. Together they explore what it means to receive revelation from God, and how God worked with Joseph Smith as He revealed truths to His children. They talk about what that would have looked like for the early Saints. They delve into the simultaneously sacred and mundane nature of God speaking to His prophet, and how important it is that God does speak to prophets. They investigate the intimate nature of revelations, and the process of them becoming public. They speak about how this process applies to us in our personal revelation. They show how what we learn about Joseph receiving revelation echoes our own lives and is valuable for us to learn about. They discuss how Section One was revealed to be a preface for the D&C, and then they talk about how revelations came in general, and how that can help us understand the revelations we will study this year. Robin leads us through a discussion of what the Doctrine and Covenants is in general. They also explore the resources that are available as we study revelations this year. We are so grateful for our generous donors, and for Launchpad Consulting Studios for producing the episode, and for Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Join us for extra and fantastic content on our Patreon website each week (TSAR.website). This week Steve Harper talks about different ways to learn from the Restoration material there. Also, you can get a 15% discount at Seagullbook.com on Church History and D&C products by using the code KERRY2025. In this episode Steve Harper takes us through how we can know about the Restoration and how to learn about and think through the history and issues of the restoration. He helps us see family and other factors that brought Joseph Smith to the Grove, and how to think about that and understand that. He and Kerry discuss resources and go through little known stories that help us learn about Joseph Smith and those who knew and believed him. We are grateful for our generous donors, and for Launchpad consulting studios for producing the episode, and for Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Andrea Woodmansee, an expert on Jewish wedding traditions from the time of Jesus, shares fascinating insights into the Christmas story. She highlights the cultural significance of betrothal, explaining societal pressures faced by Mary and Joseph. The discussion delves into the poetic elements of the Gospel of Luke, linking Mary’s role to ancient prophecies and temple symbolism. Woodmansee also connects the manger to Christ as the 'living water,' adding depth to our understanding of divine motherhood and the rich tapestry of biblical narratives.