Scripture Central

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems and Heroines, we explore two of the most expansive and identity-shaping chapters in all of scripture: Moses chapter 1 and Abraham chapter 3. Together, these chapters lift our eyes beyond the mortal world and remind us who we really are—and why we are here. Beginning with Moses 1, we witness a powerful confrontation between Moses and Satan. This chapter teaches how spiritual clarity comes from knowing our divine identity as children of God, and how that knowledge gives us strength to resist the temptations, deceptions, and counterfeits of the adversary. Moses’s declaration—“I am a son of God”—becomes a model for discipleship in a world filled with competing voices. Turning to Abraham 3, we are invited into a grand vision of the cosmos and the premortal life. Abraham learns of intelligences, divine order, and God’s eternal plan—revealing that we existed before this life and were chosen to participate in God’s great work. These verses help us see mortality not as an accident, but as a purposeful step in a loving, eternal design. Together, Moses 1 and Abraham 3 testify of the work and glory of God: to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of His children. This study encourages faith, spiritual courage, and a deeper sense of divine belonging—reminding us that knowing who we are changes how we live.

Explore the Old Testament like never before as John W. Welch uncovers its significance in connecting to Christ. Delve into the imagery of Eliakim in Isaiah and discover how it symbolizes the security of the Atonement. Learn about the organization of the Old Testament, its foundational doctrines, and why it remains central to all scripture. Gain insights on effective study tips, including modern translations and exciting AI tools to enhance your understanding. Uncover the fascinating storyline that traces the journey of Israel from creation to exile.

Lynne Hilton Wilson delves into the profound connections between Old Testament figures and Christ, highlighting lesser-known women and their roles. She shares fascinating statistics on women's presence in scripture, explains the structure of the Hebrew Bible, and explores Joseph Smith's translations that shed new light on these ancient texts. By tracing the paths of faith and doubt faced by these characters, she invites listeners to view the Old Testament as a living testament to Jesus, encouraging a deeper, spirit-led study of this sacred literature.

In this episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson uncovers little-known details of the Nativity story by bringing together the unique accounts found in the books of Luke and Matthew. Dive deeper into Luke’s intimate portrait of Mary—her lineage, her spiritual preparation, the symbolism of her “highly favored” calling, and the cultural realities she faced as a young mother in ancient Judea. Then explore Matthew’s distinctive focus on Joseph—his royal Davidic heritage, his revelatory dreams, his quiet strength, and the legal and spiritual responsibilities he carried in protecting the Holy Family. Lynne illuminates how these two perspectives weave together a richer, more complete tapestry of the birth of Christ. This episode goes beyond the familiar Christmas narrative to highlight historical context, overlooked verses, and surprising insights that reveal the faith, courage, and divine guidance surrounding Jesus’s arrival into the world. Perfect for viewers looking to deepen their understanding of the Nativity and appreciate the beauty in both Mary’s and Joseph’s stories.

Uncover the hidden layers of the Nativity story as unique perspectives from Luke and Matthew are explored. Discover Mary's intimate lineage and her profound response to Gabriel. Dive into Joseph's royal heritage and the surprising dreams guiding his protective role. From betrothal customs to the significance of Jesus’s name, this discussion weaves a rich tapestry of faith and history. Additionally, learn about the prophetic moments at the Temple and how unlikely witnesses played vital roles, linking the story of Christ from birth to death.

In this episode of Come Follow Church History, host Lynne Hilton Wilson welcomes special guest BYU Professor Jenet Erickson for a deep and inspiring discussion on The Family: A Proclamation to the World. Together, they explore the historical roots, doctrinal foundations, and continuing relevance of this landmark declaration from the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Dr. Wilson and Professor Erickson unpack the Proclamation’s teachings on marriage, family roles, identity, and divine potential—values that stand as both a beacon and a counter-current in today’s rapidly shifting cultural landscape. With warmth, scholarship, and faith, they examine why these traditional principles remain central to Latter-day Saint belief, how they connect to broader themes in Church history, and why they continue to offer clarity and hope in a world of competing philosophies. Whether you're studying the Proclamation for the first time or seeking deeper understanding, this conversation will enrich your appreciation of the eternal truths at its heart. Join us for an uplifting, thoughtful, and timely exploration of one of the Church’s most influential modern documents. Visit us online: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books

In this thought-provoking episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson sits down with historian Janiece Johnson for a candid and insightful exploration of Race and the Priesthood in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together, they trace the historical context leading up to the 1978 revelation—Official Declaration 2—that extended priesthood and temple blessings to all worthy members worldwide. Lynne and Janiece discuss the complex historical factors, the lived experiences of Black Latter-day Saints, and the spiritual significance of the revelation. They highlight how Church leaders sought divine guidance and how this landmark moment continues to shape the global Church today. Whether you’re a student of Church history or simply seeking deeper understanding, this episode offers a compassionate, clear, and faithful look at one of the most pivotal chapters in modern Latter-day Saint history.

In this episode of Come Follow Church History, host Lynne Hilton Wilson is joined by BYU professor and historian Janiece Johnson for a captivating deep dive into one of the most pivotal—and often misunderstood—moments in Latter-day Saint history: the 1844 succession crisis. In the immediate aftermath of the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faced an uncertain and deeply emotional crossroads. Without its founding prophet, who would lead the Saints? Lynne and Janiece unpack the confusion, tension, and spiritual searching that followed, exploring the claims of various contenders—including Sidney Rigdon, who argued for guardianship of the Church—as well as other voices who stepped forward during this turbulent period. Together they trace how fear, grief, and competing visions for the future created a moment of genuine crisis for the Saints. With expert insight, Janiece Johnson provides rich historical context, helping viewers understand the different claims to take leadership of the Church—and how the eventual path forward reshaped the trajectory of the Restoration. If you’re interested in Latter-day Saint history, the legacy of Joseph Smith, or the development of Church leadership, this episode offers a thoughtful and faith-focused look at a defining moment in 1844. Tune in for a conversation filled with depth, clarity, and remarkable historical detail.

In this episode of Come Follow Church History, host Lynne Hilton Wilson sits down with historian Janiece Johnson to explore one of the most pivotal and tragic moments in Latter-day Saint history—the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Together, they uncover the remarkable and turbulent events leading up to June 27, 1844, when Joseph and Hyrum Smith were killed at Carthage Jail. From Joseph Smith’s unprecedented run for President of the United States to the formation of the Council of Fifty, Lynne and Janiece trace how faith, politics, and power collided in Nauvoo. They also examine William Law’s rebellion and infidelity, the publication of the Nauvoo Expositor, and the rising tensions that set the stage for Joseph’s final days.

In this inspiring episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson dives deep into the Book of Abraham, one of the most profound and revelatory texts in Latter-day Saint scripture. With a warm and faithful perspective, Lynne explores the incredible doctrines revealed through this ancient record—truths about the divine nature of men and women, our premortal existence, and our eternal standing as beloved children of God. Lynne also highlights the groundbreaking research of Dr. John Gee, renowned Egyptologist at BYU, whose decades of study on hundreds of Egyptian facsimiles shed new light on Joseph Smith’s inspired translation. His work provides fascinating insights that support and enrich our understanding of how the Book of Abraham connects ancient symbols with eternal truths.