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The Cause for Christ Episode 1: “Uncovering the Truth About Grace” by Ryan Sorensen ft. Brent Schmidt

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We are pleased to introduce a new podcast series that will be hosted by Ryan Sorensen. In this first episode, he talks with Brent Schmidt about “Uncovering the Truth About Grace.”

Brent’s book may be downloaded here.

Brent J. Schmidt earned degrees in history and classics from the University of Utah and a Ph.D. in classics from the University of Colorado-Boulder. He teaches in the religion and humanities departments at BYU-Idaho. He specialized in Greek and Latin moralistic literature and he wrote and later published his dissertation on ancient utopian communities. He has published works on Biblical subjects including word studies about grace and faith. He is an author and editor of the BYU New Testament Commentary series. He enjoys reading, especially the Book of Mormon and Bible, gardening, collecting ancient coins, world travel, skiing and learning ancient and modern languages. For fifteen years now he has read at least one academic book a day. He and his wife, Judith, are the parents of one son.

Ryan Sorensen is a native of Cache Valley, Utah. He earned his Bachelor’s degree at BYU-Idaho and is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Abilene Christian University, with plans to become a chaplain after graduation. Ryan previously hosted a podcast called The Whom Shall We Go? Podcast. In his spare time, he enjoys being involved in interfaith work, reading about Latter-day Saint theology and history, training for triathlons, and spending time with friends and family.

Sacred Scriptures: The Original Handheld Device of Faith and Guidance

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Have you ever considered that books, especially sacred scriptures, are the most enduring “handheld devices” in history?

Elder Quentin L. Cook, in his General Conference address Sacred Scriptures—the Foundations of Faith, highlights the eternal significance of sacred scriptures like the Bible and the Book of Mormon in providing divine guidance, comfort, and doctrinal clarity. He emphasizes their role in strengthening faith amidst modern challenges and the increasing digital noise of our era. Elder Cook’s reflections resonate deeply with those grappling with questions of faith, showing how scriptures can illuminate the path to truth and joy. [Read more…] about Sacred Scriptures: The Original Handheld Device of Faith and Guidance

Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 1 – Mike Parker

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Introduction; reception, editing & publication of Joseph Smith’s revelations

(D&C Section 1)

by Mike Parker

(Mike Parker is a long-time FAIR member who has graciously allowed us to use materials he originally prepared for the Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class. The scripture passages covered in his lessons don’t conform exactly to the Come, Follow Me reading schedule, so they will be shared here where they fit best.)

Class Notes [Read more…] about Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 1 – Mike Parker

Be the Wind: Supporting Others on the Covenant Path

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How often do we feel “forgotten” in a world that measures our value by appearance, status, or wealth? Or perhaps we know someone who, despite their faith and goodness, remains unseen and unrecognized.

In his General Conference address, The Wind Did Never Cease to Blow, Elder Aroldo B. Cavalcante reminds us of our divine mandate to seek out and support the unseen, misunderstood, and overlooked as we progress along the covenant path. Using powerful examples of selfless service and divine assistance, Elder Cavalcante’s message aligns closely with key teachings in Come, Follow Me this week, where we explore how The Restoration offers personal access to divine blessings and guidance. [Read more…] about Be the Wind: Supporting Others on the Covenant Path

Apostate Patterns Show Our Need for Prophetic Proclamations

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by Matthew Sailors

Introduction

Church history provides many cautionary tales of people who apostatized for various reasons. Today in the Church, the adversary is stirring up apostate movements similar to their historical predecessors, threatening the spiritual lives of some Church members.  Yet God has not left us defenseless against the adversary’s counterfeits, such as the philosophies of men mingled with scripture.1 By learning from Church history and nurturing our testimonies of the restored truths contained in official Church proclamations, we can avoid deception and lay a firm foundation for our faith on the “rock” of Jesus Christ (see Helaman 5:12).

I take my definition of “apostasy” from the Church’s General Handbook: [Read more…] about Apostate Patterns Show Our Need for Prophetic Proclamations

The Power of Gospel and Church Together: Understanding God’s Design for Our Transformation

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What does it mean to belong to “His Church”? For many, the concept of belonging to an organized religion feels restrictive or even antiquated. Yet, Elder Dale G. Renlund’s talk, This is My Gospel – This is My Church sheds light on why The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is essential to God’s plan—not just as an institution but as a transformative, power-filled support for individuals. By exploring how the gospel and the Church work in harmony, Elder Renlund offers insights that can help address both common critiques and lingering questions about the Church’s role in the lives of its members. Why does the Church matter, and how does it enable spiritual growth? [Read more…] about The Power of Gospel and Church Together: Understanding God’s Design for Our Transformation

Trusting God’s Boundaries: Faithfully Navigating Modern Challenges

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Can faith and trust in God’s guidance coexist with personal doubts?

Elder David P. Homer’s recent General Conference address, “Trusting Our Father,” explores a fundamental question: How can we fully trust God’s will, even when it challenges our own understanding? Drawing on historical and scriptural examples, Elder Homer emphasizes that God’s boundaries are eternal and defined by His love for us. As we seek to understand these divine truths, this talk offers valuable insights for those facing doubts or challenges to their faith. [Read more…] about Trusting God’s Boundaries: Faithfully Navigating Modern Challenges

Seeking Divine Guidance: Finding Answers to Spiritual Questions in an Age of Doubt

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How can we find answers to spiritual questions in a world full of doubt and uncertainty? For many, questions about the gospel, Church history, and personal faith can be complex and emotionally charged. Sister Tracy Y. Browning’s talk, “Seeking Answers to Spiritual Questions,” offers profound insights into navigating spiritual curiosity with patience, trust, and a willingness to follow God’s guidance, even when answers seem elusive. [Read more…] about Seeking Divine Guidance: Finding Answers to Spiritual Questions in an Age of Doubt

Choosing Joy in a Troubled World: The Power of Worship and Christ-Centered Living

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In a world where “happiness” often seems fleeting, Elder Patrick Kearon’s talk “Welcome to the Church of Joy” offers a profound answer to one of life’s biggest questions: How can we find lasting joy? His talk addresses foundational gospel principles like the Plan of Salvation, agency, and the essential nature of organized worship as pathways to joy. Elder Kearon asserts that true joy flows from understanding God’s plan, reverencing Christ, and gathering as an organized church to partake of the sacrament. Let’s explore how these principles answer common questions and critiques about the Church’s teachings on worship, joy, and mental well-being. [Read more…] about Choosing Joy in a Troubled World: The Power of Worship and Christ-Centered Living

Living as Children of the Covenant: Understanding Our Birthright and Responsibility

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“Why are Latter-day Saints so different?” This is a question many young members of the Church find themselves facing. In a world that values conformity, living differently can feel daunting, even isolating.

In his talk, “O Youth of the Noble Birthright”,  Brother Brad Wilcox speaks to the youth of the Church, reminding them of their noble birthright as covenant children of God. He emphasizes that this identity calls for a distinct way of life, not because they are better than others but because they have a greater purpose to fulfill. Brother Wilcox’s words don’t just offer comfort but also a deeper understanding of how living differently aligns with God’s trust in His children and how it impacts their divine mission. This talk speaks directly to questions of identity, purpose, and divine trust, making it relevant for anyone encountering questions about faith, doctrinal beliefs, or the demands of discipleship.

Common Questions, Misconceptions, and Criticisms

[Read more…] about Living as Children of the Covenant: Understanding Our Birthright and Responsibility