The Scriptures Are Real

Kerry created some extra content on these sections that you will love. You can access this content by joining us at TSAR.website.Consider joining us on a cruise where Kerry, Anthony Sweat, Elaine Dalton, and others will speak, and where Nathan Pacheco, Jeanny Oaks Baker, David Osmond, and others will perform. This will be an amazing trip. Go to goanddotravel.com and look for the Momentum 26 cruise. Use the code KERRY to get a discount.In this episode Kerry and Sharalyn Howcroft go over the background of how we get D&C 20. They investigate the use of the Book of Mormon in creating a first draft of the section, and then how the Lord changed what was being created and revealed to them what they needed, and the relationship between the draft Oliver Cowdery had made and the revelation Joseph received. They look at the use of Section 20 in the original Pearl of Great Price. They explore the importance of this section in our ability to have the Church function. They also look at the relationship between Section 21 and Section 20. They also talk about God's instructions to keep records in the Church and the impact that has had on us. They also look at God's description of Joseph Smith's roles, including his being a translator, and the way Joseph receives the word of God as if from His own mouth.We are grateful for our Executive Producer, B. Fisher, and for our generous donors, and for Launchpad Consulting Studios who produce the podcast, and for Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Join us at TSAR.Website for more fantastic content! If you have any marketing, production, brand, or social media advertising needs, use who we do: Launchpad Consulting Studios. Email us at TheScripturesAreReal@gmail.com and we will give you all the information you need to be as well taken care of as we are. In this episode Kerry and Andrew Skinner explore the historical background of the revelation, which gives surprising added meaning to this profound section. They help us see how Martin Harris and his questions about financing the publication of the Book of Mormon draw forth this revelation, and how it is about consecrating, and how Christ uses His own consecration to the Father to help Martin, and by extension all of us, to give ourselves fully to God. They delve into the profound teachings about Christ's sufferings that are a part of Christ's teachings, one of the few places we hear Christ Himself describe the depth of His suffering for us. We are grateful for our executive producer, B. Fisher, and for all our generous donors. We are grateful for Launchpad Consulting Studios for producing the podcast, and to Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

Please support us by joining us on our Patreon channel (TSAR.website) to get fantastic content and to help keep the podcast going. We have so much amazing content available there!In this episode Kerry and Scott Esplin explore the background of Section 18, along with its meaning. They talk about what it teaches us about ourselves and how it should affect the way we see and interact with everyone around us. They also talk about repentance and how we should see it. They delve into what this section teaches us about apostles and the role of apostles. We are grateful for our generous donors, and for Launchpad Consulting Studios who produce the podcast, and for Rich Nicholls who composed and plays the music for the podcast.

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.