
The Scriptures Are Real
The Scriptures Are Real (TSAR) with Kerry Muhlestein is a podcast where we look at elements of the scriptures that have become real to us. We interview both experts (people with language, archaeological, historical backgrounds, etc.), and lay folks, and explore times when the scriptures became real to them. This is done from the viewpoint of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We believe that there is real power in the scriptures and that as they become more real we can better apply them to our lives and draw more power from them.
If you listen to this podcast you will learn all kinds of interesting background information that will help you understand and learn more from the scriptures. We believe it will allow you to add real power to your life.
My gratitude to my co-host Lamar Newmeyer. Also to my friend Rich Nicholls, who composed the introductory music.
Latest episodes

Dec 15, 2024 • 1h 1min
S3 E76 The Truth of All Things with Andrew Skinner (Moroni 10)
Please give even $10 to help the podcast keep going. Go to TheScripturesAreReal.org to see ways to donate.Also, please register for the Church History Workshop that will be held on January 2nd (not the 3rd) at my house. Go to TSAR.website to register. Here is what we will talk about:10 am: Welcome10:15 – 11:00: Smith Family and First Vision11:00-12:00: Moroni’s visits and Joseph’s Tutoring12:00-12:15: break12:15 – 1:00 Translation of the Book of Mormon and the development of a prophet1:00 – 1:45: lunch1:45 – 2:45: Translation of the Bible and its impact on revelation2:45 – 3:45: Consecration in Ohio and Missouri and what it teaches us about consecration today in our lives3:00 – 4:00 break4:00 – 5:00 Missouri Period and how it ties to the development of the ChurchAfterwards, those who want to go to dinner together can.In this episode Kerry and Andy talk about the role of Moroni and how he leaves us with a powerful testimony. They especially explore the role of the Holy Ghost in the way that Moroni talks about it, and how it draws on the Doctrine of Christ. Dr. Skinner points out and teaches about the 8 exhortations that Moroni gives us in this one chapter. He touches on the need to remember, and to ask, and the power of the Holy Ghost and how it enters us and changes us and helps us understand and know all things. They also talk about the gifts God gives us and how they are not over and we should experience them. They also talk about how pride can rob us of joy and these gifts. They also talk about loving godliness more than ungodliness, and letting God prevail in your life. They talk about the grace of God in all of this.

12 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 1h 8min
S3 E75 Hope and Charity through Grace with Robert Millet (Moroni 7-9)
Renowned scholar Robert Millet dives into the profound teachings of Moroni 7-10, exploring the interconnectedness of hope, faith, and charity. He highlights how these virtues spring from one another and emphasizes the role of the Holy Ghost in enhancing our spiritual promptings. The discussion touches on the significance of Christ's atoning sacrifice, particularly regarding infant baptism, shedding light on divine mercy and the innocence of children. Engaging and insightful, the conversation invites deeper reflections on spirituality and grace.

15 snips
Dec 1, 2024 • 56min
S3 E74 The Family's Hope in Christ, a Roundtable Discussion (Moroni 1-6)
Jenet Erickson, a BYU professor with a PhD in Family Science, and Byran Korth, a BYU professor specializing in Human Development, engage in a profound discussion on family and faith. They explore how Moroni's teachings can guide families in nourishing relationships and finding joy amid struggles. The role of covenants and Christ's influence in overcoming parenting challenges and maintaining hope is highlighted. They also address the complexities of parental love, emphasizing the need for genuine support and the importance of nurturing faith amidst life’s hurdles.

Nov 24, 2024 • 1h 6min
S3 E73 After the Trial of Your Faith (Ether 12-15)
In this engaging talk, Brett Miller, a passionate seminary teacher and former missionary, shares valuable insights on faith and resilience. He discusses how trials refine us, inspired by the teachings of Moroni and Ether. Both reflect on personal journeys, emphasizing reliance on Christ and the personalized sanctuaries He prepares for us. Miller and his co-host stress the importance of love and connection during tough times, illustrating how setbacks can lead to profound spiritual growth and transformation.

Nov 17, 2024 • 1h 22min
S3 E72 Faith in the Midst of Insanity (Ether 6-11)
Discover the fascinating parallels between the Jaredite barges and Noah's Ark, exploring themes of faith amidst chaos. Unpack the cycles of righteousness and the impact of secret combinations on society. Delve into the importance of personal preparation and divine guidance highlighted by Moroni's reflections. The discussion emphasizes the dangers of power and pride, urging vigilance against moral decay. Throughout, the transformative power of redemption and Christ’s atonement is celebrated, encouraging deeper connections within the community.

Nov 10, 2024 • 56min
S3 E71 Revelation Rocks: Michelle Craig on Light, Faith and Redemption on the Journey (Ether 1-5)
In this episode Kerry and Sister Michelle Craig talk about learning to ask for blessings and miracles from God. They delve into how that interacts with personal revelation. They also talk about the archetypal journey the Jaredites were on and how we can learn from it They explore the practice God gave them on that journey, and the miracles that came as a result. They also talk about the fears, growth and faith of the brother of Jared. They tie that faith into the ability to move forward with God's power, tying that into Sister Craig's call and her response to it. They then see God's redemptive power in the story. We are grateful for our generous sponsors, and for Launchpad Consulting Studios for producing the podcast, and to Rich Nicholls who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Nov 3, 2024 • 1h 3min
S3 E70 Gathering Israel According to Mormon and Dennis B. Neuenschwander (Mormon 7-9)
In this episode Kerry and General Authority Emeritus Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander discuss Mormon's last address. They particularly key in on how Mormon emphasizes the need to recognize Israelite heritage. They look into what that means and how it should impact us. Elder Neuenschwander's experience in various parts of the world and as a patriarch give him a wonderful insight on this topic. We are grateful for our very generous donors, and for Launchpad Consulting Studios for producing the podcast, and for Rich Nicholls who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Oct 27, 2024 • 1h 5min
S3 E69 Tasting Sweet Faith in Bitter Moments with Hank Smith (Mormon 1-6)
If you would like to use our studio, or are in need or marketing, production, or brand services, contact us at thescripturesarereal@gmail.com to be put in touch with Launchpad Consulting Studios. In this episode Hank Smith and Kerry explore the difficult circumstance during which Mormon was writing. They talk about Mormon as an author. They also explore the way Mormon hears from God and the sweet experiences he had as a result. They also discuss how much he wants to help his people repent, and the wonder of repentance. We are grateful for our generous sponsors, and for Launchpad Consulting Studios for producing the episode, and for Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Oct 26, 2024 • 1h 10min
S3 E 68 Love, Unity, and the Path: 4th Nephi and President Nelson's Guidance to Zion (3 Nephi 27-4 Nephi)
We would love it if you joined us on a cruise to start 2025 with spiritual momentum. Join Julianne and me, and Elaine Dalton, and the Tops, and Jenny Oaks Baker, and the Bonners, and Nathan Pacheco, and many others on the Momentum 25 West Cruise, leaving from San Diego and going to beautiful Mexican destinations, all with a powerful purpose of creating spiritual strength and momentum. Go to goanddotravel.com, join the Momentum 25 West Cruise, and use the promo code Kerry to get a discount and to make sure we get to be together. See you there!!!! We also hope you enjoyed seeing our new studio. If you would like to use this studio and its incredible equipment to create edifying content, contact us at thescripturesarereal@gmail.com In this episode Julianne and Kerry explore the powerful elements of 4 Nephi that lead them to Zion. They examine what that path is, and delve into how President Nelson has been helping us to do the same thing. As they do so, they help us see that we have a clear path forward to experiencing the love, unity and joy that are part of becoming Zion. We are grateful for our generous sponsors who made the studio and podcast possible, and for Launchpad Consulting Studios who produces and markets the podcast, and for Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Oct 13, 2024 • 1h 17min
S3 E67 From Word to Fulfilled: Christ's Malachi Prophecies (3 Nephi 20-26)
To take advantage of our new recording studio, email us at thescripturesarereal@gmail.com In this episode Kerry and Josh Matson explore how Christ uses Malachi's prophecies. They look into his covenant promises and how that interacts with what President Nelson has been teaching and how the expansion of temples are part of that. They also tie that into the keys restored in the Kirtland Temple. They also talk about Malachi's tithing prophecies.We are grateful for our generous sponsors. We are also grateful for our producer, Launchpad Consulting Studios, and for Rich Nicholls who composed and plays the music for the podcast.