Revisit this classic episode, now rereleased as a bonus, for a reminder that even in the Restoration's earliest years, the gospel was already colliding with the religious fringe. We go back to early 1831 and unpack one of the most unusual revelations in the D&C 49. Directed to the now all-but-extinct Shaker community, this revelation responds direc…

In this episode, we discuss a cornucopia of issues from our Hindu and Buddhist friends to claims of sex trafficking by the New York Times. It takes about 45 minutes, but Gerrit’s dander is up. In fact, Gerrit’s dander has never been higher. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): D&C 49 discussion about Shakers Standard of Truth Tour dates for t…

In this episode, we hope the litners will also enjoy a heartfelt shout-out to Elder Crum, Elder Crum, possibly a third Elder Crum and his Deseret flag sewing companions, a reflection on the doctrine of intelligence from D&C 93, and a deeper exploration into the Latter-day Saint rejection of creation ex nihilo. Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Pr…

This episode begins with a high-stakes battle of identity between Richard and his more successful French Canadian biochemist doppelgänger. Things escalate quickly to NBA heartbreak, papal betting odds, and whether Calvinist theologians would bet on a Pope “if predestination already picked the winner.” Gerrit helps Kristy prepare her Mother’s Day sa…

In this episode we answer another email written by a litner in labor. We discuss grace and how do Latter-day Saints understand it differently than other Christians. Along the way we also have a heated debate over how to pronounce “pecan” and discuss what a terrible parent Richard is as he tries to justify missing his son’s MTC drop-off and return. …

In this episode, we review General Conference 2 weeks late with a segment we like to call “Fun with General Conference”. Gerrit answers a litner question about how the Book of Mormon was distributed and Joseph and Hyrum’s preaching to the Native Americans. Richard’s dander is way up after reading a question about Mary Magdalene. Gerrit provides the…

In this Easter special, we explore the profound teachings about the Savior's suffering in Gethsemane and its eternal implications. We discuss how early Latter-day Saints grappled with the concepts of repentance, eternal punishment, and the infinite nature of Christ's atonement. We also explore the radical truths in D&C 19 that challenge the prevail…

In this episode, we dive into a discussion about misconceptions surrounding "The Sound of Music," particularly the differences between the movie and the original Broadway play. The conversation then transitions to a look at an upcoming groundbreaking publication in the Latter-day Saint Historical Studies journal, featuring newly uncovered secret po…

This week, Gerrit and Richard discuss the powerful symbolism of Elijah’s appearance during Passover and its profound connection to both Jewish traditions and Latter-day Saint teachings. Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts…

In this episode, we explore a listener’s question: Are Latter-day Saints Christians if they don’t believe in the Trinity? Gerrit unpacks the theological and historical roots of Trinitarian Christianity, oneness Pentecostalism, and modalism and explains why other Christians often say Latter-day Saints “worship a different Jesus.” We also discuss Nep…

In this episode, we revisit a popular format of playing a clip and listening to Gerrit's dander levels increase. We have 6 clips and we get through one and a half of them. The audio discusses the big theological questions from the perspective of Calvinism. The episode ends with a quote from Brigham Young on the beauty of the Plan of Salvation for A…

In this bonus episode, we dive into the Standard of Truth Bracket standings. We also cover vital spiritual matters like… groin sensitivity in NCAA officiating, listening to the Tabernacle Choir on the Vegas Strip, and why missionary door approaches like “You wouldn’t want to hear this, would you?” are slightly less effective than you’d think. We al…

In this episode, we discuss the revelation that established the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon. We explore how the Three Witnesses were chosen, what the Book of Mormon says about future witnesses and how it shaped this moment, the miraculous event where the angel of the Lord revealed the plates, sword of Laban, and Liahona, why the testimony…

In this bonus episode we dive into missionary emails and March Madness. We talk about the hundreds of missionary emails we have received and discuss the best litner names for the bracket buster challenge. There is still time so please click on the link below and join us in the Standard of Truth Bracket Buster Challenge. Standard of Truth NCAA Brack…

In this episode, we discuss the potential problems associated with using ChatGPT and other AI as a source. The topics we review are Abraham Lincoln’s views on religious liberty, polygamy, and the witnesses of the Gold Plates. Standard of Truth NCAA Bracket (password = rice) https://fantasy.espn.com/tc/sharer?challengeId=257&from=espn&context=GROUP_…

Gerrit also takes on a listener question about why modern prophets don’t declare "Thus saith the Lord" like in early revelations. Standard of Truth NCAA Bracket (password = rice) https://fantasy.espn.com/tc/sharer?challengeId=257&from=espn&context=GROUP_INVITE&edition=espn-en&groupId=1d5c280f-2dc4-4104-8176-cc1fa81237f6&joinKey=3767b450-8248-37f2-b…

In this episode, we dig into the ever-growing missionary litenership and announce a March Madness-style contest to see which mission can get the most missionaries listening to the podcast. Gerrit unpacks why sustaining President Nelson is essential to the restored gospel and comparisons to early Latter-day Saints following Joseph Smith and Brigham …

In this episode we continue our deep dive into D&C Section 10, focusing on the intense opposition Joseph Smith faced and the cunning plan of those who sought to discredit the translation of the Book of Mormon. We explore the reality of Satan’s influence, the importance of discerning spiritual voices, and the miraculous nature of Joseph’s ability to…

In this episode we dive into Doctrine and Covenants Section 10, exploring its historical context and doctrinal significance. They discuss the stolen 116 pages of the Book of Mormon, the Lord’s warning to Joseph Smith, and how God prepared for this loss centuries in advance. examines how prophets act in faith without knowing why, with examples from …

In this episode, Gerrit addresses a heartfelt listener email on a deeply personal topic—miscarriages and stillbirths. Gerrit shares both historical and doctrinal perspectives, drawing on early Christian beliefs and statements from Latter-day Saint leaders while acknowledging the lack of definitive revelation on the subject. Rex’s Elders Quorum Pres…

In this episode, we examine some of the greatest rebukes in the Doctrine and Covenants. There are just so many people who refuse to follow the Lord’s direction that the list is long. Gerrit spends a decent amount of time on Almon Babbitt. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠https://standardoftruth.com/tours/⁠ Missouri/Nauvoo – Jun…

In the thrilling conclusion of D&C 3 Gerrit begins with a story of Joseph’s stagecoach ride from Harmony to Palmyra. Gerrit paints the picture of the despair in the Smith home when Martin comes to tell share the news about the stolen 116 pages. No matter what you have done in your life reflect upon the state of Joseph Smith after the 116 pages we s…

In this episode, Gerrit discusses Doctrine and Covenants section 3. Gerrit spends this episode providing context for the section. This can be one of the most profound revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants when we understand the context. There is a lot of discussion of everyone’s favorite Lucy Harris. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer …

In this bonus episode, Richard makes his Super Bowl picks and Gerrit talks about how we will be weaving Search These Commandments in and out of the premium content. As an example we will be releasing D&C 3 on the free side. We also share a new theme song that comes from a friend of the show. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠htt…

In this episode, Gerrit discusses a question from a litner’s nonmember brother-in-law. Can Satan repent? Not that he would, but if he could is that option available? Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠https://standardoftruth.com/tours/⁠ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th (10 spots available) Sign up for our free monthl…

In this episode, we answer a litner’s question about a story they heard about Joseph Smith raising someone from the dead in Nauvoo. Many may not be aware of this, but apparently, the flood plains of the Mississippi River may have an above-average number of mosquitos and there is a breakout of malaria that leaves many Saints nigh unto death. Gerrit …

In this episode, we share an interview that Gerrit had with one of our younger litners, JT, and we also share an interview that Gerrit and I had with President Roggero, the district president for the Rio Gallegos district in Argentina. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠https://standardoftruth.com/tours/⁠ Missouri/Nauvoo – June 2…

In this episode, Gerrit shares a story about a fight that broke out in a BYU football game on Christmas Day in their second season. He also shared several stories about letters and documents he has recently come across. Team Photo of the BYA Football Team: http://www.byhigh.org/History/SportsHistory/1896-BYA-1st-Football-Team-650x492-a.jpg Standard…

In this episode, we discuss the Sweetwater Rescue temple trip to Buenos Aires with the Saints of Rio Gallegos. We talk about the Lord’s hand in the miraculous events of our daily life. They run out of time to play a message from President Roggero and will have to put it on next week’s episode. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠h…

In this episode, we begin with a discussion of the anti-Mormon claim that others should have seen the angel Moroni as he appeared to Joseph in a room where his other siblings were sleeping. Gerrit goes on to discuss Lyman Johnson’s witness of the Gold Plates. Lyman ends up leaving the Church and despite being responsible for much of the apostasy in…

In this episode, Gerrit shares stories about additional witnesses of the Gold Plates. We discuss Mary Whitmer and Josiah Stoal’s witness of the Gold Plates and talk about Emma’s experience with translation. Also, early evidence suggests that the Pennsylvania Pittsburgh Mission is the smartest mission in the Church. Standard of Truth Tour dates for …

In this episode, we discuss a litner’s email about the location of Zion and Gerrit shares a lesser-known quotes from Joseph Smith from one of his last sermons. Gerrit also share a sermon from Brigham Young about Zion. “When I heard brother Joseph make his proclamation yesterday about North and South America, I thought it was a sweepstakes.” – Brigh…

In this episode, Gerrit’s dander is way up as we focus on a question from a litner about celestial marriage. A wonderful sister who was baptized later in life has a husband who has no desire to join the Church, and she wanted to know the opportunity for eternal marriage for people like her. Gerrit shares a quote from Joseph Smith about those who “d…

In this episode, we begin with a discussion of academic procrastination and how desperate Richard’s dissertation committee is to read about implied referrals. We look at Rigdon’s movement away from the teachings of the Prophet Joseph. Gerrit shares the things Rigdon was saying publicly verses things he shared privately showing how Sidney was not be…

In this episode, we begin with a discussion of the impact of Sidney Rigdon’s tarring and feathering injuries on his mental health. We then move to Sydney Rigdon's attack on Joseph Smith and the Quorum of the Twelve and his founding of the Church of Jesus Christ (Bickertonite). Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠https://standardof…

In this episode, Gerrit discusses the claim that President Joseph Fielding Smith destroyed pages of Joseph Smith’s history so that the saints wouldn’t be upset with some of the things found in the history. Gerrit also destroys Sidney Rigdon’s claims to lead the Church after the death of the Prophet Joseph Smith. THANK YOU to all of those who donate…

In this episode, we read a couple of missionary emails and talk about why the Church is mocked. We discuss our experience at the premier of the movie 6 Days in August and go on to talk about how Brigham Young follows the Prophet Joseph Smith and his teachings after Joseph and Hyrum’s death. Link to The Prodigal Son: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v…

In this episode, we begin with a celebration of the Milwaukee, Wisconsin temple. We play everyone’s favorite game “Fun with General Conference”. We discuss the historical context behind the movie Six Days in August which is a dramatization of the succession crisis after the murder of Joseph Smith. Six Days in August Trailer: https://youtu.be/8JcNJz…

In this bonus episode, we play a recording that we did on the 2024 standard to tour in Palmyra. We hear the comments of tour participants and the things that they liked the most about the tour. We hope that you enjoy this bonus episode and that you are having a lovely conference weekend. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: ⁠https:/…

In this episode, we continue a deeper theological discussion of the problem of evil and what happens to the billions upon billions of people who never hear the name Jesus let alone be given the opportunity to accept Him. Gerrit’s dander is way up. In fact, in this episode on the Gerrit Dander Meter we are at a 93. Is that high? We have no frame of …

In this episode, we discuss the theological impact of the restored gospel on Christianity. Most if not all of us have family or friends that have had a crisis of faith over some aspect of the church, church, history, or doctrine. Many of these people leave the church while still having a strong love and belief in Jesus Christ. We discussed the fals…

In this episode, Gerrit discusses a book that was randomly sent to a litner, Joseph Smith Revealed: A Faithful Telling: Exploring an Alternate Polygamy Narrative. Gerrit provides an academic breakdown of the argument taking it apart piece by piece. Richard provides a slightly less comprehensive review by calling the book stupid. In these highly cha…

We continue our discussion on President George Albert Smith’s apocalyptic vision and Gerrit shares other quotes and warnings from modern prophets on how to prepare for the great calamities and signs of the times of the Second Coming. In addition, Richard accused Gerrit of being wealthy enough to have the Disney Channel in his youth. Richard is prov…

The Standard of Truth Podcast is nothing if not hip to the kids and current social media trends. Recently a recollection of an apocalyptic vision attributed to George Albert Smith has been making its way around the interwebs. In this episode, we go through the vision and the original source. BYU archived source: https://archives.lib.byu.edu/reposit…

The episode begins with a TREMENDOUS amount of gratitude for those who donated to Sweetwater Rescue’s fundraiser to help Latter-day Saints in Rio Gallegos get to the temple (https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org). Gerrit answers litner’s questions about the changes made to Aaronic Priesthood offices and responsibilities. Sign up for our free monthly ema…

Gerrit is asked for his favorite story from Church history, leading to a discussion of the rescue of the Willie and Martin handcart companies at the Sweetwater River. Richard talks about the organization Sweetwater Rescue and their goal to help people get to the temple. He shares a miraculous story about saints in southern Argentina and the work be…

Attacking the Book of Mormon is a staple of anti-Mormon commentary, however, the fact that it exists creates a problem. There are many theories about the origin of the Book of Mormon that attempt to explain it away and in this episode, we explore a lesser-known theory. Gerrit also makes a definitive statement that Joseph Smith did not steal the lin…

We start the episode by providing an answer to a litner’s email, if they could choose the date for their child to be born, what date from Church history would Gerrit choose. We then go on to answer the following questions about Joseph Smith from a missionary’s email: What was Joseph Smith’s education? What was Joseph’s military service? What were J…

In this episode, Gerrit’s dander and blood pressure both continue to remain way up as he continues to refute the assertion that Joseph was in any way a fallen prophet. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd through August 9th Sign up for our free monthly email…

We begin with a discussion about the author of Lectures on Faith and why was it removed from the Doctrine and Covenants. Then the episode takes a sharp turn as Gerrit refutes an argument made on social media that Joseph Smith was taken from the earth because he refused to practice polygamy. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: Misso…