What happens when your own daughter starts asking the questions you never dared to? In this new series, Beyond the Manual, my daughter Lou sits me down and asks what so many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints never do: Why don’t people know more about their own faith? Why don’t they ask? I grew up LDS. Lou didn’t. And that gap between us is exactly what makes this conversation so real. This is not scripted. This is not rehearsed. This is me, being asked the tough questions—by my daughter—and trying to answer with honesty, vulnerability, and as much grace as I can muster. If you’ve ever wondered what’s behind the silence, the certainty, or the fear of asking... join us. #exmormon #lds #faithcrisis #deconstruction #mormonwomen #beyondthemanual

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟This week the Come Follow me curriculum takes a sideways step for Easter.We will explore Easter and the resurrection through the lens of the Early LDS Church. What can we see about how the LDS Church views Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus🗣️ Interactive Q&A:Got questions or thoughts? Join the discussion live and share your voice!

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟After Hiram Page received his revelations, Joseph needed to assert his authority. New Characters in the restoration are joining the Church. This week we explore these revelations, and how they show the power struggles and the assertion of authority as the church establishes itself.🗣️ Interactive Q&A:Got questions or thoughts? Join the discussion live and share your voice!

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟After establishing the Church in Fayette, Joseph and Emma head back to Harmony. What was going on? And what was the purpose of Emma's revelation (D&C 25)? This week we explore D&C 23-26 and look at what happened after the church was established.

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟The Book of Mormon, is complete and has been published. This week we explore D&C 20-22 with the 'Church of Christ' being formally established. We dig into the revelations surrounding the establishment of the church and see what they could mean to us, and explore where challenges coincide with faith.

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟After a busy February exploring the translation of the Book of Mormon, I am joined again by Peter Bleakley from Mormon Civil War to look back at and analyse some of the key messages from the Come Follow Me January Curriculum.Join us as we look back over the month, and come with your thoughts, questions and comments for a dynamic interactive exploration of this months key messages.

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟This week we round off the Book of Mormon Translation. I am joined by my special guest Kathryn to explore Martin Harris and how he financed the printing of the Book.Join us to look behind D&C 18 and understand the context of the revelation.

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟Who was asked to set up the Church? And was Joseph the only person to receive revelations?Join us to look behind D&C 18 and understand the context of the revelation.

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟This week we are joined again by Ganesh Cherian to explore together the core narratives surrounding the restoration of the priesthood.we meet David Whitmer and Joseph Knight and consider the revelations they received in D&C 12 and 14 called them and empowered them to the work as part of the restoration.We also explore the background for D&C 13, the restoration of the Aaronic priesthood as Ganesh delves into the back story of this key scripture and how it links to the Ohio/Missouri periods of the gospel.We also briefly consider the three witnesses to the Book of Mormon, and try to understand how they fit into the story and impact of their testimonies.

🎙️ Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟Two weeks ago we explored Martin Harris and the lost pages of the Book of Mormon. But what on earth was Joseph to do about it? This week we will investigate.Joseph's brother Hyrum also wanted a revelation... we will look at this as well.

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟Oliver Cowdery wanted to translate the plates... what happened and what does that mean in terms of who can receive revelation?And a chat about translation of the Book of Mormon is not complete without a Rock in a Hat. Yes we are going to go there...

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟 After an exciting January, I am joined today by Peter Bleakley from Mormon Civil War to look back at and analyse some of the key messages from the Come Follow Me January Curriculum. Join us as we look back over the month, and come with your thoughts, questions and comments for a dynamic interactive exploration of this months key messages.

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟 This week I am joined by the amazing Ganeshji Cherian to explore the background of the 'Lost 116 pages' and the impact this had on Joseph and Martin Harris. An enigmatic character in the early days of the LDS Church, no analysis of the lost 116 pages can be complete without considering Martin Harris, and who he was so sit back as we dive into Martin and his background. Ganeshji is a former LDS Bishop from New Zealand and is currently writing his first book, looking at Early Church history and exploring Joseph Smith.

Beyond Belief - Exploring "Come, Follow Me" Insights 🌟 Dive deep into the weekly Come, Follow Me curriculum with Beyond Belief, a podcast that explores the story behind the lesson. This week, we'll uncover the historical context, doctrinal themes, and often-overlooked insights about the Restoration and its connections to ancient prophecy. 🔍 What to Expect: A nuanced perspective on Doctrine and Covenants 2 and the mission of Elijah. A critical look at early accounts of angelic visitations and their role in LDS theology. Thought-provoking questions to challenge and expand your understanding. ✨ Why You Should Tune In: This is more than a podcast—it's a conversation. inviting you to consider the complexities of history and faith. Whether you're a questioning Latter-day Saint, a former member, or simply curious, this live stream is for you.

Join us for a thought-provoking live discussion on one of the most defining moments in Latter-day Saint history—Joseph Smith’s First Vision. In this episode of Beyond Belief, we’ll delve into: ✨ The traditional LDS narrative of the First Vision. 📜 How Joseph’s other accounts compare and what the differences might mean. 🧠 The science of flashbulb memories and how it could explain the narrative’s development over time. 📖 The impact of inconsistencies with early Church teachings, such as the Lectures on Faith. 🌍 The wider context of the Burned-over District and Second Great Awakening. 🔍 Vision accounts from others during the same period, including Elias Smith and Billy Hibbard, and their striking similarities to Joseph’s story. This session will explore the historical, cultural, and theological significance of the First Vision, inviting you to reflect on its meaning and implications. Whether you're a faithful Latter-day Saint, a questioning believer, or simply curious about religious history, this episode offers something for everyone.

Episode Summary: In this episode of Beyond Belief, we explore Doctrine and Covenants Section 1, focusing on how its teachings about the Second Coming and prophetic authority have evolved throughout the history of the LDS Church. We examine early teachings from Joseph Smith, the shifting narrative in modern Church manuals, and how some voices within and outside the Church continue to emphasize apocalyptic urgency. Key Discussion Points: Historical Context: The revelation of D&C 1 during a conference in Hiram, Ohio, and its role as a divine preface. Joseph Smith’s Perspective: His belief in the imminent return of Christ, including statements from his patriarchal blessings. Modern Reframing: Comparison of the 1985, 1999, and 2025 Come, Follow Me manuals, highlighting the shift from urgency to personal spiritual growth. Post-LDS Views: Influences from Denver Snuffer, Chad Daybell, and Tim Ballard regarding apocalyptic teachings. Theological Implications: How shifting narratives impact faith development and prophetic reliability. Key Quotes Referenced: “Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh.” (D&C 1:12) “I was answered that Jesus Christ would not come until I am 85 years old.” (Joseph Smith, History of the Church, Vol. 5) “No man knoweth the day nor the hour.” (Matthew 25:13) Referenced Sources: Early Patriarchal Blessings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (JSTOR) Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Gospel Doctrine Teacher’s Manual (1985, 1999, 2025) Salt Lake Tribune (Tim Ballard references) Next Episode Teaser: Join us next time as we explore Joseph Smith—History 1:1-26, focusing on the First Vision and how its narrative has shifted over time. Connect with Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and leave a review!

Join us in Episode 2 of Beyond the Manual as we explore the foundational claims of the Restoration in Latter-day Saint theology. We delve into the First Vision, the need for a Restoration, and the early Christian Church's teachings. How does the modern LDS Church align with its claim to be the "restoration" of the Church established by Jesus Christ? Highlights from this Episode: The inspiration of James 1:5–6 in Joseph Smith’s journey. A closer look at the Restoration Proclamation and its implications. A critical analysis of the First Vision accounts, their evolution, and the challenges they present. Restorationist movements of the 19th century and their parallels to the LDS Church. How well does the LDS Church align with early Christian practices and doctrines? 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and click the bell icon to stay updated with new episodes! 💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments: How does your understanding of the Restoration evolve after learning more about these topics? Follow Us on Social Media: Stay connected for exclusive clips, updates, and discussions! 📷 Instagram: /goingbeyondbelief 🐦 Twitter: @goingbeyondbel 🎥 Facebook: /goingbeyondbelief References 1 Adam-God Doctrine Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 1, p. 50 (April 9, 1852). 2 Eternal Progression Lorenzo Snow, Biography and Family Record of Lorenzo Snow (1884), p. 46; Joseph Smith, King Follett Discourse, History of the Church, vol. 6, p. 305-306. 3 Eve as One of God's Wives Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 1, p. 50 (April 9, 1852). 4 Jesus Was Married Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 13, p. 309 (October 6, 1870); Orson Hyde, Journal of Discourses, vol. 4, p. 259 (March 18, 1855); Jedediah M. Grant, Journal of Discourses, vol. 1, p. 345 (August 7, 1853). 5 Priesthood and Temple Ban for Black Members Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 7, p. 290-291 (October 9, 1859). 6 Black Members Receiving the Priesthood Only After Others Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 2, p. 143 (February 5, 1852). 7 Black Members and Recapture into Servitude Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 1, p. 111 (January 23, 1852); Brigham Young, Territorial Legislature, Act in Relation to Service (February 4, 1852). 8 Interracial Marriage Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 10, p. 110 (March 8, 1863); Spencer W. Kimball, General Conference (October 1965). 9 Doctrine About Women: Blessings, Roles, and Equal Status Joseph Smith, History of the Church, vol. 4, p. 604 (March 17, 1842); Eliza R. Snow, Woman’s Exponent (June 1, 1884). 10 Skin Becoming Lightened Through Faithfulness Spencer W. Kimball, General Conference (October 1960). 11 Eternal Gender Roles The Family: A Proclamation to the World (1995), issued by Gordon B. Hinckley. 12 Changes to the Endowment Ceremony Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 2, p. 31 (February 6, 1853). 13 Second Anointing Joseph Smith, History of the Church, vol. 5, p. 139 (May 4, 1842). 14 Baptism for the Dead Joseph Smith, Doctrine and Covenants, Section 124:29-31. 15 First Vision Narratives Joseph Smith’s 1838 First Vision Account, Pearl of Great Price, Joseph Smith—History 1:16-20. 16 Teaching of the Lost Ten Tribes Orson Pratt, Journal of Discourses, vol. 18, p. 68 (July 25, 1875). 17 Lectures on Faith Lectures on Faith (1835). 18 Ancestry of Native Americans Book of Mormon, Introduction (pre-2006). 19 Prophecy on the Redemption of Zion Joseph Smith, Doctrine and Covenants, Section 57:1-3. 20 Hill Cumorah as the Location of the Final Battle Oliver Cowdery, Messenger and Advocate, vol. 1, no. 10 (July 1835), Letter VII. 21 End of Days Joseph Smith, Doctrine and Covenants, Section 45:26-27. 22 The Global Flood Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, vol. 1, p. 121. 23 Evolution Joseph Fielding Smith, Man: His Origin and Destiny (1954). 24 Christ Visiting Missouri Joseph Smith, Doctrine and Covenants, Section 84:2-4. 25 Polygamy Joseph Smith, Doctrine and Covenants, Section 132. 26 The United Order Joseph Smith, Doctrine and Covenants, Section 104:1. 27 Word of Wisdom Joseph Smith, Doctrine and Covenants, Section 89:1-21.

"Living the gospel isn’t always easy. From time-consuming commitments to reconciling personal values with Church teachings, navigating faith can feel overwhelming. The Come Follow Me curriculum provides a structured way to study the scriptures, but how much of the story are we really being told? Welcome to Going Beyond Belief, where we dive deeper into the lessons, history, and doctrines of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This episode is the prologue to our Beyond the Manual series, focused on exploring the Doctrine and Covenants—a fascinating yet complex book of scripture central to the LDS Restoration narrative. 🧐 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why gospel living can be both rewarding and challenging. The role of the Come Follow Me curriculum in shaping LDS teachings. How Church lesson materials often sanitize history and doctrine for simplicity. The importance of asking questions and uncovering the full story behind the Restoration. Whether you're a faithful member seeking deeper understanding or a questioning soul searching for answers, this series is for you. 🎙️ Want More? Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for bite-sized content and discussions. Join the conversation in the comments! What are your thoughts on the Doctrine and Covenants and its role in the Restoration? Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to Beyond the Manual 2:41 - The challenges of living the gospel 3:39 - Exploring the Doctrine and Covenants 3:46 - How Church lessons simplify history References Doctrine and Covenants https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament?lang=eng Description: The central text of this year’s Come Follow Me curriculum, offering a mix of revelation and Church history. Come Follow Me Manual https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/come-follow-me?lang=eng Description: The Church’s official study guide, providing structured yet simplified lessons on the Doctrine and Covenants. Saints, Volume 1 https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/saints?lang=eng Description: A narrative history of the early Church that balances faith-building stories with selective transparency. Gospel Topics Essays https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics-essays?lang=eng Description: Church-published essays addressing complex issues in LDS history and doctrine, from the First Vision to polygamy. Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling by Richard Lyman Bushman https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Smith-Rough-Stone-Rolling/dp/1400077532 Description: A biography of Joseph Smith offering a balanced, critical, and faithful perspective on the Restoration. Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought https://www.dialoguejournal.com/ Description: An academic journal exploring LDS history, theology, and culture in depth for questioning and scholarly readers. Mormon Stories Podcast https://www.mormonstories.org/ Description: A platform featuring personal faith journeys, interviews, and discussions on LDS faith, history, and transitions. LDS Discussions (Mormon Stories Series) https://www.mormonstories.org/category/lds-discussions/ Description: A series of essays and podcast episodes critically examining Mormon truth claims, authored by Mike, providing in-depth analysis of LDS history and doctrine. LDS Discussions Website URL: https://www.ldsdiscussions.com/ Description: An independent site offering detailed essays and resources critically analyzing LDS truth claims and historical context.