Standard of Truth

As we start Season 2 of the Standard of Truth Podcast we begin with a discussion around the context of Joseph Smith receiving The Book of Moses in June of 1830. Gerrit goes through Moses Chapter 1 and talks about the radical nature of the revelations received. The understanding of both the nature of God and the nature of Mankind are turned on their head in this early revelation. If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com  

Professor Richard LaDuke, a close friend of Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat, dives deep into Brigham Young’s pivotal role after Joseph Smith's death. They discuss the Saints’ daring plans to establish a new community in the Rocky Mountains amidst intense persecution. Interesting tales of Porter Rockwell’s bravery emerge, showcasing the blend of personal sacrifice and community resilience. The dialogue also touches on the church's complex relationship with governance and the spiritual lessons gleaned from trials faced by early Latter-day Saints.

Merry Christmas We have received quite a bit of feedback from listeners who expressed interest in getting to know Dr. Dirkmaat a little better. Gerrit has always wanted the podcast to focus more on Joseph Smith and Church History and less on his High School basketball career in Shelley, ID. That said after much cajoling Gerrit has finally acquiesced and in this episode, we are joined by his wife Angie Dirkmaat and his brother Dallan Dirkmaat. This is a fun episode where we shed light on Gerrit's upbringing and talk about how he met his lovely wife. We promise to get Gerrit's mom on at some point in the future. Richard does quite a bit more talking in this episode than in other episodes and he felt it was important to provide a disclaimer so that you are aware that you are about to waste your time and not listen. If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

In part 2 of our discussion of the Council of Fifty and the lost teachings found in the minute books of that organization, we discuss some of the harsh feelings the Saints felt after Joseph's murder.  The continued mob violence against the Saints in 1845 further alienated them from the United States and gave them greater resolve to leave the nation.  One of the council members featured in this discussion is Porter Rockwell, and some of the things he has to say in these council meetings. If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

Dive into the historical significance of the Council of Fifty, established by Joseph Smith in 1844 to seek a safe haven for the Saints. Discover the Council's ambitious goal to draft the Constitution for the Kingdom of God. Explore the balance between personal revelation and collaboration, and the crucial role of open dialogue in governance. Unpack teachings on inclusivity and religious liberty, showcasing Smith's vision of compassion within the community. Engage with the legacy of leadership woven throughout the decision-making processes.

During the Christmas season, believers talk more about angels than they usually do.  Latter-day Saints might not know just how radically different their understanding of angels is from the beliefs of other Christians.  Joseph Smith received many revelations that provided a new understanding of angels. The article referenced in the episode is called "The Development of Winged Angels in Early Christian Art" by Dr. Therese Martin and the link is below: https://digital.csic.es/bitstream/10261/17726/1/eserv.pdf If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

Part 3 of our examination of the Joseph Smith's decision to run for President of the United States.  In this final segment we examine Joseph Smith's radical presidential platform in detail.   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

Part 2 continues our discussion of Joseph Smith's reasons for declaring himself a candidate for President of the United States.  Joseph responds to the leading politicians of the day who are too cowardly to pledge to help the suffering Saints.   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

Part 1 of our three-part podcast examining Joseph Smith's presidential campaign.  We discuss the political situation of 1843-1844 America.  It is not quite as scintillating as discussing townships, but it is a solid second.   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

In part two of our discussion on the revelations, we talk about the major changes that were made to the Doctrine and Covenants in 1876 and how other revelations were added over time. If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com