Standard of Truth

In this episode, we dive into listener questions about Catholic doctrine and why every Latter-day Saint chapel does not have a crucifix. Gerrit walks through Catholic doctrine, including venial vs. mortal sin and purgatory’s purpose. We discuss the history of the Christian cross as a symbol, tracing how early Protestants saw it as Catholic idolatry, why Joseph Smith and early Saints avoided it, and how Protestant denominations eventually reversed course under cultural pressure.   Gerrit Dander Meter: 373,641   Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): We ran out of time, so this will be a separate mini-bonus episode Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

We didn’t have room for Kristy’s KorneЯ in our regular episode this week, but never fear, we’ve cut a fresh bonus episode devoted often overlooked D&C 83. What happens to consecrated property when landholders pass away? We dig into original 1830s stewardship contracts, make temple recommend parallels, and BYU Honor Code analogies.   Early Stewardship Agreement for Consecrated Land: ⁠https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/f8edb331-484b-4f4a-9b99-0138932c0075/0/1?lang=eng⁠   Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

A lively banter kicks off with a unique 'Dandermeter' to spice up church history discussions. Delve into the complexities of faith as hosts explore Stephen Burnett's controversial claims about the golden plates, infusing humor into serious debates. They share humorous anecdotes from missionary life and the challenges of addressing spiritual concerns. A listener's email from Djibouti sparks a discussion on cultural nuances, while the importance of scrutinizing sources in church history is emphasized, especially regarding priesthood authority.

Unpack the story behind Bill the Adulterer and hear about Abraham Lincoln playing Dixie after the Civil War victory. The hosts dive into the complexities of historical accuracy, discussing William McClellan's betrayal and the nuances of church history. They explore radical teachings of universal salvation from Doctrine and Covenants Section 76, while mixing in humor about sports and community dynamics. Expect lively banter as they tackle listener questions and share excitement for an upcoming historical tour.

We record this episode in the shadow of the Keokuk, Iowa Walmart in front of a live studio audience. We have some fun with litners on the Standard of Truth Tour and Gerrit answers an email about everyone’s favorite doctor, veteran, adulterer, and liar John C. Bennett.    Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): D&C 74    Sign up for our free monthly email (almost never monthly): ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

Martin Luther's disgust with the used car salesmen of indulgence peddlers, Johann Teztel, drive him to cross the religious Rubicon and nail his 95 theses to the door.  The Protestant Reformation is about to explode. If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com⁠ ⁠Subscribe to our free newsletter⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/⁠⁠ Please visit our website at ⁠⁠www.standardoftruth.com⁠

Before we dive headfirst into Martin Luther we spend a little time talking about a few of his predecessors. We discuss the impact that Augustine of Hippo (354-430), John Wycliffe (1328-1384), and Jan Huss (1369-1415) had on Christian thought. We also discuss the merits of throwing people out of windows as a solution to your problems.  Subscribe to our free newsletter⁠ - ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/⁠ Please visit our website at ⁠www.standardoftruth.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

In this episode, we discuss whether or not God created the Dodge Dart. Marcion also had a question about whether or not the God of the Old Testament was the same as Jesus. His heretical arguments lead to the formation of the accepted Christian canon. ⁠Subscribe to our free newsletter⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/⁠⁠ Please visit our website at ⁠⁠www.standardoftruth.com⁠⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com⁠

We begin the episode with Richard recounting a personal spiritual experience at a sacrament meeting in Fruita, Colorado… home of Mike the Headless Chicken. We then answer a litner’s question: Was Hyrum Smith an apostle? We discuss Hyrum’s unique role in the Church, drawing from Doctrine & Covenants 124 and the Council of Fifty minutes. Gerrit walks through the complexity of 19th-century Church leadership structure, why modern categories like “apostle” don’t always cleanly map to early Church roles, and why Hyrum’s spiritual authority was second only to Joseph’s. Finally, Gerrit shares a powerful, little-known sermon from Hyrum Smith delivered just months before his death, where Hyrum tells the Council of Fifty to stop worrying about how God’s work will be done, and start believing that He will do it.   Mike the Headless Chicken: https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34198390   Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): The Lord chastens Richard (D&C 58:4 and D&C 3:1)    Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours/ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th – 3 spots left   Sign up for our free monthly email (almost never monthly): ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

The discussion opens with a humorous take on potential podcast sponsors and mishaps with chilling Yoohoo. They dive into cultural challenges within Mormonism and the historical significance of seer stones, inspiring deep reflections on faith crises. Personal anecdotes reveal the emotional struggles of supporting loved ones navigating doubt, emphasizing compassion and genuine connections. The hosts balance serious themes with playful banter, creating a relatable environment that explores the complexities of belief and personal growth.