Shows
Standard of TruthS5E30 Bad Sources and the Quorum of the Twelve Part 2In this episode, we start with an email from an Australian missionary in Croatia and a bishop requesting a good Kristy’s KorneЯ. We continue our defense of accusations against the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles with a good old-fashioned discussion of Cochranite spiritual wifery in Saco, Maine, in the early 1800s.
Gerrit Dander Meter: 901,284 (scale was previously 1 to 10, but we felt it lacked the precision required and therefore changed it to 1 to 1,000,000)
Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit reads a letter from Stephen Burnett claiming that all the witnesses...2025-07-171h 13Standard of TruthS5E29 Bad Sources and the Quorum of the Twelve Part 1In this episode, we finally share the identity of Bill the Adulterer, and Gerrit provides context of Abraham Lincoln playing Dixie after the North’s victory in the Civil War. We answer a litner’s email where verifiably false claims against early Church leaders seem to get Gerrit’s dander is fully up. Who knew that would be a trigger for Dr. Dirkmaat
Gerrit Dander Meter: 11
Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): Gerrit reads an excerpt from a Brigham Young sermon relating to D&C 76. We hope that you raise your hand in class and read...2025-07-1059 minStandard of TruthS5E28 John C. BennettWe 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@standardoftruthp2025-07-0348 minStandard of TruthS5E24 Was Hyrum Smith Called as an Apostle?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 deli...2025-06-051h 12Standard of TruthS5E23 Faith CrisisIn this episode, we receive another email from an expecting mother and discuss whether Sir Isaac Newton dabbling in wizardry. We also talk about loved ones who go through a faith crisis and Gerrit shares experiences from the frontlines of faith conversations.
Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): We introduce a new stinger and Gerrit gives a couple of nuggets for D&C 54
Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2026: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th – 6 spots
Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th – SOLD OUT
P...2025-05-291h 10Standard of TruthS5E22 Anti-Mormon Claims on Social MediaIn 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 the summer of 2026: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 14th through June 20th – 12 spots remaining
Palmyra/Kirtland – June 21st through June 27th – SOLD OUT
Palmyra/Kirtland – July 12th through July 18th – SOLD OUT2025-05-221h 23Standard of TruthS5E20 The Power of Shared VisionsThis 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 sacrament meeting talk and then we discuss shared visionary experiences that make LDS history uniquely hard to dismiss.
Kristy’s KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): D&C 45 Stand in Holy Places
Standard of Truth Pope Predictions:
Pietro Parolin
Luis Antonio...2025-05-081h 09Standard of TruthS5E18 The Pope and Mary MagdaleneIn 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 history of the genesis of Mary’s bad reputation. As always, we depart slightly from things of a spiritual nature to discuss our favorite pies.
Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Tem...2025-04-241h 22Standard of TruthS5E17 Easter Special – D&C 19In 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 prevailing 19th-century Protestant beliefs by emphasizing a Savior who deeply desires us to avoid suffering through sincere repentance. Gerrit also draws on connections between biblical texts and early Christian writings, including Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Hippolytus.
Most importantly, this episode underscores the Savior's desperate plea...2025-04-201h 18Standard of TruthS5E15 Guess Who's Coming to Dinner? It's ElijahThis 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, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com
2025-04-101h 01Standard of TruthS5E14 Worshiping a Different JesusIn 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 Nephi’s reminiscent account in the small plates.
Episodes Discussing Trinitarian Theology:
S1E15 - D&C 93 and the Nature of God Part 1
S1E16 - D&C 93 and the Nature of God Part 2
S1E17 - D&C 93 and th...2025-04-0352 minStandard of TruthS5E13 Calvinism vs The Standard of Truth PodcastIn 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 ALL of God's children.
Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for...2025-03-271h 27Standard of TruthS5E10 Thus Saith the LordGerrit 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-b8f2-84f7a5625440
Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, pleas...2025-03-061h 02Standard of TruthS5E9 Missionary Madness and Brigham Young’s LeadershipIn 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 Young, explaining why revelation through a living prophet is the foundation of our faith—not just scripture or past teachings.
Richard and Gerrit also discuss Brigham Young’s leadership style and whether apostles were afraid to speak their minds in the 19th century.
2025-02-271h 10Standard of TruthS5E7 D&C 10 Part 1In 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 Nephi, Mormon, and Joseph Smith. Along the way, Gerrit breaks down the Book of Mormon translation process, the role of small and large plates, and how Latter-day Saints wrestle with changing scripture. It takes us one hour one minute and twenty-nine seconds, but we...2025-02-131h 01Standard of TruthS5E6 Stillbirths and MiscarriagesIn 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 President Start Time: 14:05
Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th (4 spots available)
Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
2025-02-061h 07Standard of TruthS5E5 Great Rebukes from Church History: Almon BabbittIn 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 – June 22nd through June 28th
Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd through August 9th
Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you have any questions or poss...2025-01-301h 10Standard of TruthS5E4 D&C 3 Part 2In 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 stolen and read D&C 3 verse 10:
“But remember, God is merciful; therefore, repent of that which thou hast done which is contrary to the commandment which I gave you, and thou art still chos...2025-01-2347 minStandard of TruthS5E3 D&C 3 Part 1In 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 of 2025: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th (10 spots available)
Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you h...2025-01-161h 06Standard of TruthS5B1 Search These Commandments and a New Theme SongIn 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: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th (10 spots available)
Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly...2025-01-1317 minStandard of TruthS5E2 Can Satan Repent?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 monthly (that doesn’t go out 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.com2025-01-091h 06Standard of TruthS5E1 Joseph Smith Raising the DeadIn 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 shares several miraculous experiences performed in Nauvoo during this malaria breakout. Gerrit also shares a story told by Levi Curtis about William Huntington being raised from the dead. What would you say if you had just been ra...2025-01-021h 11Standard of TruthS4E52 The Importance of the Temple (Interview with President Roggero)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 22nd through June 28th
Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd through August 9th
Sign up for our free monthly (that doesn’t go out monthly) email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you have any quest...2024-12-2655 minStandard of TruthS4E51 Fallacies, Forgeries, and FootballIn 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 of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th
Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd through August 9th
Sign up for our fr...2024-12-191h 11Standard of TruthS4E49 Additional Witnesses of the Gold Plates Part 2In 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 Kirtland, when Lyman moves to Nauvoo Joseph expresses his love
Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th
Palm...2024-12-051h 18Standard of TruthS4E48 Additional Witnesses of the Gold Plates Part 1In 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 the summer of 2025: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th
Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd through August 9th [SOLD OUT]
Sign up for our free monthly email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you...2024-11-281h 02Standard of TruthS4E47 Where is Zion?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.” – Brigham Young
Websters 1828 definition of sweepstakes: “A man that wins it all”
“Do all the good we can and as little harm as possible. And any man or woman that will do this and fol...2024-11-211h 02Standard of TruthS4E46 Questions About Eternal SealingsIn 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 “die in Jesus Christ”
Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th
Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd throug...2024-11-141h 05Standard of TruthS4E45 Sidney Rigdon’s Apostasy Part 3In 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 being an honest broker.
Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th
Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd through August 9th
Sign up f...2024-11-071h 22Standard of TruthS4E43 Sidney Rigdon’s Apostasy Part 1In 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 donated to Sweetwater Rescue. You have donated over $38,000 to pay for 100 members of the Rio Gallegos District to go to the Buenos Aires Temple the week of November 25th. Thank you so much. Below are links...2024-10-241h 13Standard of TruthS4E41 Six Days in AugustIn 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/8JcNJzfDtyY?si=Fa7lKg2yUyOaATpd
Where to find the film: https://witnessesfilm.com
Picture of Gerrit as a missionary in Wisconsin: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YbvYLklH80gbm-ijfjHI2otZ_ir9zYPL/view?usp=sharing...2024-10-101h 11Standard of TruthS4E40 The Essential Answers to the Most Important Questions Part 2In 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 reference but 93 sure seems high.
Joseph Smith sermon Gerrit reads from during the episode: https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/discourse-7-april-1844-as-reported-by-wilford-woodruff/5#full-transcript
Standard of T...2024-10-031h 32Standard of TruthS4E39 The Essential Answers to the Most Important Questions Part 1In 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 false choice that exists between the teachings that come through revelation in the restoring gospel and mainstream Christianity. We play several audio clips from sermons trying to explain away mysteries of God to his nature, the problem...2024-09-261h 33Standard of TruthS4E38 Super Special Secret Source on Polygamy?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 charged political times The Standard of Truth Podcast finally takes a controversial stance. We stand with Connecticut against the 3rd Amendment. Cynical people may say that we are only doing this for website traffic, but they are all James Madison apologists.
...2024-09-191h 15Standard of TruthS4E37 Secret Ways to Prepare for the Second ComingWe 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 proven incorrect as the cartoon Gummi Bears originally appeared on NBC from 1985 to 1989, season 5 was on ABC, and only aired on the Disney Channel with season 6 and in syndication up to 1997.
Alvin and the Chipmunks “Wall” Song: https://www.youtub...2024-09-121h 05Standard of TruthS4E35 Changes to the Aaronic PriesthoodThe 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 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
Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
Missouri...2024-08-291h 35Standard of TruthS4E34 Sweetwater RescueGerrit 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 being done to help them.
Sweetwater Rescue website: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org
President Hinckley's conference address about the Sweetwater Rescue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYS6rohbE4k
Sign up for our free monthly...2024-08-2258 minStandard of TruthS4E33 Theory for the Origin of the Book of MormonAttacking 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 line “I have dreamed a dream” (1 Nephi 8:2) from the 1980 musical Les Misérables. Gerrit also sets up the context of one of his favorite stories from Church history.
Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer...2024-08-1559 minStandard of TruthS4E32 Questions About Joseph SmithWe 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 Joseph’s financial circumstances? What were some of the radical teachings from the Prophet Joseph Smith?
Sign up for our free monthly email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you have any questions or...2024-08-081h 13Standard of TruthS4E31 Joseph Smith Removed as Prophet Part 2In 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: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com
2024-08-051h 12Standard of TruthJoseph Smith Removed as Prophet Part 2In 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: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com
2024-08-011h 15Standard of TruthS4E30 Lectures on Faith and Joseph Smith Removed as Prophet Part 1We 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:
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th
Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd through August 9th
Sign up for our free monthly email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
If you have any que...2024-07-251h 00Standard of TruthS4E29 Having Faith Isn’t a Cop OutIn this episode, we respond to a litner’s email who has had many friends and family leave the Church. Gerrit describes all of the problems with the standard definitions of God without the further light we receive from the Restored Gospel. We cover just about everything from mosquitos to syphilis. Gerrit also answers a question about canes made from the coffins of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.
Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2025:
Missouri/Nauvoo – June 22nd through June 28th
Palmyra/Kirtland – August 3rd through August 9th We also received an email that r...2024-07-181h 06Standard of TruthS4E27 Of Adultery and BaptismWe start the podcast with a discussion of General Authorities conference talks that focus on adultery. For the prize of a $50 Olive Garden gift card, we play everyone’s favorite game “Fun With Adultery” where Gerrit has to guess which decades adultery was a larger focus and which prophets and apostles spoke about the topic the most. Gerrit lost and Richard retained the $50 gift card for use in a future “Fun With _________” game. We answer a litner’s question about the change to the language used in the ordinance of baptism. We also announce the Standard of Truth Tour dates for 20...2024-07-0451 minStandard of TruthS4E26 Can Adulterers Go to the Celestial Kingdom?We start with an email we received from a Catholic in Quebec and a new litner from France that we met on our recent Church history tour. In this episode we discuss the following quote from Joseph Smith "If a man commit adultery, he cannot receive the celestial kingdom of God. Even if he is saved in any kingdom, it cannot be the celestial kingdom." We discuss where this quote comes from, the context of the quote, and Gerrit shares a story about George Adams having a child through an adulterous relationship and the statement from Joseph Smith when G...2024-06-2756 minStandard of TruthS4B6 180 Years Since the MartyrdomIt has been 180 since the prophet Joseph Smith was murdered in Carthage Jail. In this bonus episode, Gerrit discusses the martyrdom and shares his feelings about the Prophet Joseph Smith.
2024-06-2714 minStandard of TruthS4E25 Sword of LabanAs Gerrit and Richard return from several weeks of Church history tours there is much to discuss. Because of this, we wanted to provide a full Rex’s Elders Quorum President Warning that we begin our discussion of the Sword of Laban 42 minutes and 18 seconds into the episode.
In this episode, we talk about our exploits on our recent Standard of Truth Tour. Have you ever wondered what it means to out kick your coverage or what a coffin corner punt is? You are in luck, Gerrit gives a great description. We read several litner emails and be...2024-06-201h 18Standard of TruthS4E24 Top Villains of the RestorationThis episode was recorded in front of a live studio audience on the banks of the Mississippi River in Keokuk, Iowa. In this episode, we answer questions from the litners that are on the Standard of Truth Tour in Missouri and Illinois.
Question: An LDS press was destroyed in Independence, but it was a big deal when the City of Nauvoo destroyed the Nauvoo Expositor. Other than LDS bias why was it different or was it different?
Question: How can we start a Mormon Reparations movement?
Question: Gerrit, Disney has their top 10 villains...2024-06-1348 min
Latter-day Saint FAIR-CastMe, My Shelf, & I – Episode 8 – Seer Stones w/ Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat (Full Interview)
Gerrit Dirkmaat was featured in episode 5. This is the full interview. Check out Dr. Dirkmaat’s podcast with Prof. Richard LeDuc: https://standardoftruth.com/
Gerrit Dirkmaat is an associate professor of Church history and doctrine at Brigham Young University. He received his PhD from the University of Colorado in 2010, where he studied nineteenth-century American expansionism and foreign relations. He worked as a historian and writer for the Church History Department from 2010 to 2014 with the Joseph Smith Papers Project. He is the coauthor, along with Michael Hubbard MacKay, of the award-winning book From Darkness unt...2024-06-1100 minMe, My Shelf, & IMe, My Shelf, & I – Episode 8 – Seer Stones w/ Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat (Full Interview)
Gerrit Dirkmaat was featured in episode 5. This is the full interview. Check out Dr. Dirkmaat’s podcast with Prof. Richard LeDuc: https://standardoftruth.com/
Gerrit Dirkmaat is an associate professor of Church history and doctrine at Brigham Young University. He received his PhD from the University of Colorado in 2010, where he studied nineteenth-century American expansionism and foreign relations. He worked as a historian and writer for the Church History Department from 2010 to 2014 with the Joseph Smith Papers Project. He is the coauthor, along with Michael Hubbard MacKay, of the award-winning book From Darkness unt...2024-06-1100 minSarah Allen Archives | FAIRMe, My Shelf, & I – Episode 8 – Seer Stones w/ Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat (Full Interview)
Gerrit Dirkmaat was featured in episode 5. This is the full interview. Check out Dr. Dirkmaat’s podcast with Prof. Richard LeDuc: https://standardoftruth.com/
Gerrit Dirkmaat is an associate professor of Church history and doctrine at Brigham Young University. He received his PhD from the University of Colorado in 2010, where he studied nineteenth-century American expansionism and foreign relations. He worked as a historian and writer for the Church History Department from 2010 to 2014 with the Joseph Smith Papers Project. He is the coauthor, along with Michael Hubbard MacKay, of the award-winning book From Darkness unt...2024-06-1100 minMe My Shelf & I Archives | FAIRMe, My Shelf, & I – Episode 8 – Seer Stones w/ Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat (Full Interview)
Gerrit Dirkmaat was featured in episode 5. This is the full interview. Check out Dr. Dirkmaat’s podcast with Prof. Richard LeDuc: https://standardoftruth.com/
Gerrit Dirkmaat is an associate professor of Church history and doctrine at Brigham Young University. He received his PhD from the University of Colorado in 2010, where he studied nineteenth-century American expansionism and foreign relations. He worked as a historian and writer for the Church History Department from 2010 to 2014 with the Joseph Smith Papers Project. He is the coauthor, along with Michael Hubbard MacKay, of the award-winning book From Darkness unt...2024-06-1100 minMe, My Shelf, & I (video)Me, My Shelf, & I – Episode 8 – Seer Stones w/ Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat (Full Interview)
Gerrit Dirkmaat was featured in episode 5. This is the full interview. Check out Dr. Dirkmaat’s podcast with Prof. Richard LeDuc: https://standardoftruth.com/
Gerrit Dirkmaat is an associate professor of Church history and doctrine at Brigham Young University. He received his PhD from the University of Colorado in 2010, where he studied nineteenth-century American expansionism and foreign relations. He worked as a historian and writer for the Church History Department from 2010 to 2014 with the Joseph Smith Papers Project. He is the coauthor, along with Michael Hubbard MacKay, of the award-winning book From Darkness unt...2024-06-1100 minStandard of TruthS4E20 Gerrit Goes Hard in the Paint on Hurlbut and Solomon Spaulding Part 2If you love the anti-Mormon book Mormonism Unvailed boy, do we have an episode for you. In this episode, Gerrit reads from Mormonism Unvailed where definitive statement after definitive statement is given by friends and family of Solomon Spaulding saying how the Book of Mormon was taken word for word from Spaulding’s manuscript called “Manuscript Found”. Unfortunately for all of Spaulding’s lying friends and family, Manuscript Found is found and doesn’t resemble anything in the Book of Mormon at all. We also replay part of Gerrit’s rant from a previous premium episode.
Sign up for our fr...2024-05-161h 09Standard of TruthS4E19 Gerrit Goes Hard in the Paint on Hurlbut and Solomon Spaulding Part 1
In a premium episode several weeks ago Gerrit may or may have gone on a rant about Doctor Philastus Hurlbut and Solomon Spaulding and we wanted to play a section of that rant. So In this episode, Gerrit provides additional context to Hurlbut and the Solomon Spaulding Manuscript. Gerrit also talks about the Restoration Proclamation that was read during General Conference in April 2020.
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
2024-05-0954 minStandard of TruthS4E18 Lesser Known Heroes from Church History - Eliza Dana Gibbs Part 2We continue our discussion of Eliza Gibbs and the trials she suffered in Nauvoo, Iowa, and Utah. Despite her difficulty, she remained faithful. Gerrit shares a letter to Eliza from Wilford Woodruff to comfort her and share with her the laws that govern angels and spirits that depart this life.
Sign up for our free monthly email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
We had a couple of cancelations and have a couple of spots available on the Palmyra/Kirtland tour and 2 spots available on the Missouri/Nauvoo tour. https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
If you have any quest...2024-05-021h 09Standard of TruthS4E16 The Angel Raphael and Other Ninja Turtles
In this episode, Gerrit discusses D&C 128 and the identity of the Angel Raphael. We start with what we know from modern revelation and then bring in the Apocrypha. We talk about the Book of Tobit, written by Tobit, where Raphael is discussed but his identity is not disclosed. Gerrit also discusses the Book of Jude and the Book of Enoch. The Book of Enoch is not in the Apocrypha but was mentioned in the Book of Jude and was in circulation at the time of Jesus.
Photo of Raphael binding a demon: https://drive.google.com...2024-04-181h 06Standard of TruthS4B5 Thoughts on Following the Prophet After Conference
Gerrit shares some of his thoughts about the responses to several talks during General Conference. He compares the responses of General Conference to the responses to “The Vision”. We read a letter from Joseph Smith discussing the response to “The Vision”.
We also had a very kind anonymous donor offer to pay for the Standard of Truth Tour for six people. We are calling it the Dirk Moss Scholarship. The gift is for the Palmyra/Kirtland tour and people would still be responsible for booking their airfare and paying for about half of their meals. The transportation, hotels...2024-04-1529 minStandard of TruthS4E15 The Angel Gabriel and a Good Old-Fashioned Feet Dusting
In this episode, Richard starts by thanking all the kind listeners who donated money to help 118 people in Peru travel to the Arequipa Temple. We discuss a listener’s question about Joseph Smith telling the missionaries in Cincinnati to wash the dust of that wicked city off their feet. Gerrit talks about the likely origin of that story and provides additional context. We also discuss the keys given to Joseph Smith by Michael and Gabriel and where we learn that Michael is Adam and Gabriel is Noah.
Pictures of the Saints at the Arequipa Temple: https://drive.go...2024-04-111h 05Standard of TruthS4B4 Explaining Poor Audio and Conference Report
On Thursday we released an episode that sounded like it was recorded in Gerrit’s bathroom in a cave. We fixed the audio and explained how you can access it. We also give our thoughts from the 194th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Spoiler Alert, we liked it.
Sign up for our free monthly email: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com
The Kirtland temple is under new management. See it with us the first week of June. We have ordered a larger bus, and 10 spots are still available. https://standardoftruth.com...2024-04-0825 minStandard of TruthS4E14 Statements from the Three Witnesses (primarily Martin Harris)
We had a corrupted audio file that made the episode sound terrible. We have fixed the audio quality, however, the terrible content remains. We apologize for the inconvenience.
We begin the episode with how a person can resolve concerns they may have with Church history. Gerrit begins by sharing several statements from Martin Harris as he witnesses of the Gold Plates. He also shares a testimony of Oliver Cowdery
For details about our live studio audience recording on Saturday, March 16th please sign up for our free newsletter: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/
If you wo...2024-04-041h 07Standard of TruthS4E12 Live Studio Audience Part 1 (Phebe Draper Palmer Brown Mail Bag)Like every sitcom in the 1980s, this episode was recorded in front of a live studio audience. We cannot even begin to thank all the amazing people who attended the event. People came from all over the country and we cannot properly articulate how much fun we had. Many listeners to the show brought friends and significant others who do not listen and have never listened. These people brought to the show against their will are the true heroes among us just behind the military, teachers, emergency responders, Officer R, and the men and women working at Jersey Mike’s...2024-03-211h 11Standard of TruthS4E10 The Church Acquires the Kirtland Temple and Nauvoo PropertiesIn this episode, we discuss the historic purchase of the Kirtland Temple and other Nauvoo properties. Gerrit provides additional insight into the properties that the Church has acquired.
Map of Nauvoo: https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/bc-jsp/content/jsp/images/content/library/pdf/D10_Nauvoo-Plat.pdf
For details about our live studio audience recording on Saturday, March 16th please sign up for our free newsletter: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/
If you would like to join us on a Standard of Truth Tour in Palmyra and Kirtland on June 7 spots are still available: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
2024-03-071h 13Standard of TruthS4E9 Questioning Scriptures and Frustration with Politics
In this episode, we begin the podcast by talking about the pseudepigraphal nature of some of the books of the New Testament and the problem with the process academics use for identifying pseudepigraphal records. We also talk about the importance of modern-day revelation in understanding the scriptures. A litner talks about their frustration with politics making their way into their Sunday experience and Gerrit shares a quote from Brigham Young that squashes the idea of political arguments in the Church calling it “political gentile warfare” and saying there is no place for it in the Kingdom of God.
F...2024-02-291h 07Standard of TruthS4E8 Oliver Cowdery Attempts to Translate
In this episode, we take a slight departure from the Witnesses of the Book of Mormon to answer a litner’s question about Oliver’s attempt to translate the Book of Mormon. Gerrit provides additional context for Doctrine and Covenants Sections 7, 8, and 9. In addition, we find out that California exports 56 million pounds of cilantro per year.
For details about our live studio audience recording on Saturday, March 16th please sign up for our free newsletter: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/
If you would like to join us on a Standard of Truth Tour in Palmyra and Kirtland o...2024-02-221h 07Standard of TruthS4E7 Witnesses of the Book of Mormon Part 4
Richard feels so confident coming off his first ever successful football pick (Kansas City over San Francisco) that he predicts the Collingwood Magpies to repeat winning back-to-back McClelland Trophies under the veteran leadership of Jack Crisp. Gerrit discusses the context and history of Doctrine and Covenants sections 10 and 17. Gerrit also talks about the items seen by the Three Witnesses, the Urim and Thummim, and the pattern the Lord has in making changes to revelations.
For details about our live studio audience recording on Saturday, March 16th please sign up for our free newsletter: https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/
2024-02-151h 09Standard of TruthS4E4 Witnesses of the Book of Mormon Part 1In a surprise usurpation of power, Richard presents a top five list of facts surrounding modern day polygamy before Gerrit can shut his microphone off. We answer a listener's question about when Joseph might have realized that he was indeed called as a prophet and then begin a discussion about the heavy burden Joseph Smith carried even after he obtained the plates because he was not allowed to show others. Lucy Harris demands to see the plates.
If you would like to join us on a Standard of Truth Tour in the summer of 2024 please sign up at...2024-01-251h 03Standard of TruthS4E2 Obscure Anti ArgumentIn this episode, we discuss an obscure anti-Mormon argument that confronted a missionary in the field. The story is about Arnold Potter a former member of the Church that became a self-declared Messiah and referred to himself as Potter Christ. At the end of the episode, Gerrit brings this crazy story back to current issues that we face from modern-day apostate arguments.
Rick Duke’s Top 5 Favorite Potters
Beatrix Potter (wrote The Tale of Peter Rabbit)
Lily Potter (Harry’s mom)
Harry Potter (Harry Potter)
James Potter (Harry’s dad)
Fleamont Potter (really the Abraham of the Po...2024-01-111h 12Standard of TruthS3E45 Moroni Part 3In this episode, we discuss the book I gave Gerrit for his birthday. The book was a review of the opinion that the Supreme Court rendered in 1878 in the case of George Reynolds on the issue of polygamy. It was a ploy to get Gerrit to discuss polygamy...which he did. We also continued our discussion on the things Moroni taught Joseph Smith that prepared him to receive the Gold Plates.
If you would like to join us on a Standard of Truth Tour in the summer of 2024 please sign up at: https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
If...2023-11-091h 06Standard of TruthS3E33 Why Me?
In this episode, we finally get to a persistent listener’s email. We didn’t come close to answering his question, but by reading a portion of his email we felt that we met him halfway. Gerrit and Richard answer a listener's question about the awkward phrasing of "the Ohio" in the Doctrine and Covenants. They then focus on a question from a listener about the sometimes overwhelming thought that some of us have found the Restored Gospel while so many billions have not.
Subscribe to our free newsletter - https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/
Please visit our web...2023-08-171h 08Standard of TruthS3E32 ”Mormon Hell”
Richard and Gerrit discuss Gerrit’s favorite topic…Mormon Hell…or the lack thereof in response to a listener’s question.
Rex’s Elder’s Quorum President should begin listening at the 9th minute
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
2023-08-101h 13Standard of TruthS3E28 Getting ”Bogged” Down by Alleged Prophecy Part 2Gerrit and Richard continue discussing John C. Bennett's role in claiming Joseph Smith ordered Porter Rockwell to murder Boggs and put up a reward for it. They examine what Joseph did say about Boggs and then discuss the California settlement of both the Saints and Boggs and the likely origin of the rumored prophecy...Gerrit can't help himself and mentions the Compromise of 1850 and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and goes on a tangent about a scheme to make a Mega Giant California when it first became a state.
Subscribe to our free newsletter - https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.co...2023-07-1356 minStandard of TruthS3E27 Getting ”Bogged” Down By Alleged Prophecy Part 1In this two-part conversation, Richard and Gerrit discuss a listener's inquiry about a rumored Joseph Smith prophecy about the death and grave of former Missouri Governor Lilburn Boggs, of Extermination Order infamy. Gerrit discusses some of the background surrounding Boggs and of course gets angry about what happened in Missouri. He gets more angry when they start talking about John C. Bennett.
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: quest...2023-07-0656 minStandard of TruthS3E26 Apostles and Apostates Part 1 (the Calling of the Twelve Apostles)
We apologize that we had some sound issues with Richard’s microphone. The good news is that Gerrit’s mic sounds great. In this episode, we begin our discussion on apostles and apostates by discussing the calling of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. We also talked about the inaugural Standard of Truth Tour and gave tour dates for next year. As a service to Rex’s Elders Quorum President the silliness of this episode ends around minute 22 so, please feel free to skip ahead.
Subscribe to our free newsletter - https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/
Please visit o...2023-06-2956 minStandard of TruthS3E22 Happiness Part 2In this episode, we continue our discussion of the “Happiness Letter” and how it came to be regarded as an authentic teaching of the prophet Joseph Smith. Gerrit also answers an emailer’s question about a person being sealed to more than one spouse in the most unsatisfying way possible.
Link to The Deseret News “Happiness” article published on December 12, 1855 - https://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/digital/collection/desnews1/id/3090/rec/11
Gerrit’s article on the “Happiness Letter” - https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.5406/jmormhist.42.3.0094
Subscribe to our free newsletter - https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/
Please visit ou...2023-06-0159 minStandard of TruthS3E16 Missionary Extravaganza
In this episode, we discuss some of the topics that are important to study as you prepare to serve a mission. Gerrit also shares several stories of early missionary work in the Church. If you would like the links to the episodes that discuss the missionary preparation topics, please sign up for the newsletter. The link is below:
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@standa...2023-04-2054 minStandard of TruthS3E11 Do We Choose Our Family in the Premortal Existence?
I mean, maybe, we don’t know. In this episode, we respond to a listener's email about whether we choose our families in the premortal existence or are assigned them in a more random way. Gerrit references a talk by Brigham Young, a dream by Mosiah Hancock, and the documentary film Saturday’s Warrior.
Mosiah Hancock Autobiography:
http://boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/MHancock.html
Did we choose our families and spouses in the premortal life:
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/new-era/2016/06/to-the-point/did-we-choose-our-families-and-spouses-in-the-premortal-life?lang=eng
Join us on the Standard of Truth Tour (a few slots still available):
Monday, June 5th thro...2023-03-1649 minStandard of TruthS3B1 Presidents Day Potpourri of Potent Potable QuestionsIn this bonus episode, Richard fires away random questions to Gerrit from the fun for Latter-day Saint family game "Blast from the Past". #RIPMillardFillmore
Join us on the Standard of Truth Tour (a few slots still available): Monday June 5th through Sunday June 11th - https://standardoftruth.com/tours/
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
2023-02-2029 minStandard of TruthS3E3 Brigham Young and John Taylor “Never Friends”
In this episode we discuss the relationship between Brigham Young and John Taylor. We read an email from a descendant of John Taylor who shares a story from her family history that the two of them were never friends.
Link to Sunstone Conference discussion mentioned by Gerrit: https://sunstone.org/never-friends-brigham-young-and-john-taylor/
Subscribe to our free newsletter
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
2023-01-191h 09Standard of TruthS2E50 Are ”Mormons” Christian? Part 1A recent uptick in social media conversations about whether or not Latter-day Saints (Mormons) are really Christians causes Gerrit and Richard to wade into early Christian theology. You have not lived until you have had a discussion about Arianism.
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
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG0yyZlH_HYWmKegHoC96ig/featured
2022-12-151h 00Standard of TruthS2E49 The Problem with PunctuationIn this episode Gerrit examines the claims that particular emphasis was given to part of Joseph Smith History by way of punctuation. Few things are more exciting than punctuation.
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
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG0yyZlH_HYWmKegHoC96ig/featured
2022-12-0851 minStandard of TruthS2E48 Mormon Battalion Part 4In this episode, Gerrit finally gets to the Mormon Battalion and exposes James K. Polk as the liar he is. Controversial we know, we only hope that Gerrit’s aggressive attacks on President Polk will not offend our Polkite listeners. We also discuss the temple work done for the Founding Fathers and Wilford Woodruff’s vision.
Link to Wilford Woodruff’s journal:
https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/assets/eb07ddd8-d258-43b3-82fd-1b0bc186b269/0/275
Link to conference address (end of page 89):
https://archive.org/stream/conferencereport1898a/conferencereport681chur_dj...2022-12-011h 06Standard of TruthS2E46 Mormon Battalion Part 2We start the episode as we usually do by ranking hells. Mormon hell is obviously the best, then Jehovah's Witness hell and Catholic purgatory. Gerrit has been upfront with his anti-camping agenda but extends his feelings about camping to Trek.
We discuss Samuel Brannan, head of the Church in the Eastern U.S., telling Brigham Young that the Secretary of War is saying that the saints need to be obliterated. We also talk about Manifest Destiny and Gerrit says that this time in history Mormons are the American can opener, rarely used but hugely useful.
Pl...2022-11-171h 02Standard of TruthS2E43 Counterfeiting Scholarship Part 1We received a question from a listener about a self-published anti-Mormon book and we again examine why using real sources matters. We talk about the difference between a person who likes history and a historian. Example: Richard likes history (not really, but for the purpose of this example we will say that he does). Dr. Dirkmaat is a historian. We also discuss the problem with self-publishing books and making arguments that no one else is making.
We show an example from Church history on how mistakes can be made by well-meaning people where Emma is said to ha...2022-10-271h 05Standard of TruthS2E39 Prosperity Theology Part 2In this week's episode, we continue to discuss the theology of the Prosperity Gospel. We play a clip from a Joel Olsteen sermon to help the listener understand how these ideas are also taught outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Gerrit shares several heartbreaking experiences from early Saints (Wilford Woodruff and Stillman Pond) who experience struggle after struggle and trial after trial despite being incredibly faithful and obedient. Gerrit ends with a quote from Joseph Smith where he talks about how, in the end, God will make up for all of our losses.
Please...2022-09-291h 09Standard of TruthS2E38 Prosperity Theology Part 1In this week's episode, we respond to a listener's email about the ideas surrounding Prosperity Gospel Theology. Gerrit begins with a discussion about paganism and the idea of worshiping a god for immediate gain as a contrast to Jesus saying that His Kingdom is not of this world. Gerrit also talks about how the notion that all of our suffering or all of our prosperity is directly connected to our level of righteousness can create faith crises.
Please visit our website at www.standardoftruth.com
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion f...2022-09-221h 06Standard of TruthS2E37 Signs of the Times Part 3In this week's episode, we conclude our discussion about the signs of the times. We start with an email from the Ebenezar Hazard Mailbag and discuss a book about the Second Coming written by Latter-day Saint authors mentioned in an earlier email. Gerrit shares several problematic statements made about the Second Coming and explains that while every day the Second Coming is closer than the day before, the Lord will let us know what we should do through his prophet and not through cryptic interpretations of well-intentioned people.
Sign-ups for the Standard of Truth Tours are available. P...2022-09-1553 minStandard of TruthS2B2 Standard of Truth TourIn this bonus episode, we talk about the details of the Standard of Truth Tour that Gerrit will be leading from Boston to Cleveland starting on Monday, June 5th, and going through Sunday, June 11th. We discuss some of the details of the tour and Gerrit shares additional information about the sites we will be visiting. The tour bus we have booked has room for 44 people and we have 20 spots remaining. Thank you for your interest and we hope to see you in June.
Sign-ups for the Standard of Truth Tours are available. Please visit our website...2022-09-1241 minStandard of TruthS2E36 Signs of the Times Part 2In this week's episode, we continue our discussion about the signs of the times and the Savior's Second Coming. Gerrit discusses religious movements from history where the end of the world was predicted. He goes into detail on William Miller and the Great Disappointment of 1844. Gerrit shares a quote from Joseph Smith talking about the Millerite Movement and says that all that give exact times of the Savior's Second Coming are false teachers.
Also, as assumed by many, Samuel Osgood's Estate refused to pay naming rights for the mailbag segment and Richard apologizes for the sports gambling jo...2022-09-0848 minStandard of TruthS2E35 Signs of the Times Part 1In this week's episode, we discuss the signs of the times of the Savior's Second Coming. Gerrit discusses several quotes that are used when teaching about the Second Coming and provides historical context. Gerrit also describes how people use proof-texting to prove a point or win an argument. The episode ends with a Millerite tease, the worst tease in podcast history, that we will discuss in Part 2. Richard attempts to gain sponsorship for the opening mailbag segment to no avail.
Sign-ups for the Standard of Truth Tours will be available next week. Please visit our website at w...2022-09-011h 03Standard of TruthS2E34 After Much Tribulation Come the Blessings (D&C 58)In this episode, we give a tribute to a great friend who recently passed away. We discuss one of his favorite scriptures (D&C 58:4) and provide additional content for section 58 of the Doctrine and Covenants. This larger context leads to a discussion about trials and tribulations and the promised blessings from the Lord. We also discuss the faithfulness of Lydia and Edward Partridge. Gerrit may also take occasional pot shots at Independence Missouri.
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at:
questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com
2022-08-251h 03Standard of TruthS2E31 Apocrypha Part 2In this episode, we continue our discussion of the Apocrypha. The podcast starts with a 19th-century Latter-day Saint view of the Apocrypha. Gerrit asks Richard a question where Richard has a 50% shot of getting it right… He gets it wrong. We also read from 2 Ezras and its reference to the lost 10 tribes and Zion being built up. This all provides the context for Joseph receiving the revelation for D&C Section 91.
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at:
questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com
questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com2022-08-0452 minStandard of TruthS2E29 Polygamy, Kind of...That’s Part of It Part 2In this episode, we continue our discussion of the 1861 letter to Brigham Young from W. W. Phelps. We provide insight into Brigham Young's feelings for W.W. Phelps as well as an 1831 account of the mission to the Native Americans from Ezra Booth. We conclude with the words of W. W. Phelps from the Council of Fifty minutes in 1845 that cast doubt on the accuracy of Phelps' memory of the events of 1831
We have received interest in hosting a Church History tour led by Gerrit for our podcast listeners in the summer of 2023. We are gauging demand s...2022-07-2155 minStandard of TruthS2E28 Polygamy, Kind of...That’s Part of It Part 1In this episode, we find out what a terrible friend Gerrit is as he recommends a brutal history class for Richard to take. Richard has still not forgiven him. We also talk about polygamy.
In 1861 Brigham Young receives a letter from W. W. Phelps that discusses a revelation Phelps claims Joseph Smith received in 1831. The Civil War and polygamy feature prominently. We talk about the merits of the revelation and why it was not included in the Joseph Smith Papers.
We have received interest in hosting a Church History tour led by Gerrit for our...2022-07-141h 01Standard of TruthS2E27 Is This Safe For Sunday SchoolIn this episode, we discuss the different types of sources that historians have to examine for accounts of miraculous events and respond to the inquiry of a listener of how we can determine whether or not some of these accounts are credible. We discuss in particular the source of the well-known expression that Joseph Smith said that if people knew how great the telestial kingdom was, they would commit suicide just to get there.
We have received interest in hosting a Church History tour led by Gerrit for our podcast listeners in the summer of 2023. We are g...2022-07-071h 02Standard of TruthS2E26 4th of July ExtravaganzaIn this episode, we talk about the way the Saints celebrated the 4th of July early in the Nauvoo period and the change that occurs after the murder of Joseph Smith. We have touched on this topic before, but this is a deeper dive into the treatment of the Saints and the national response to their protest.
Gerrit also talks about a recent Church History tour he led and asks if there would be interest from the podcast listeners to go on a Standard of Truth History Tour in the summer of 2023. If you would be interested...2022-06-301h 03Standard of TruthS2B1 - Renee Dirkmaat (Gerrit’s Mom)In this President's Day bonus episode, we introduce you to Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat's mother Renee Dirkmaat. If you love Hubert Humphrey and embarrassing stories about Gerrit you are going to love this episode. Gerrit and Richard learn pretty early in this bonus episode that Renee did more in her first 22 years of life than they will ever hope to do.
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at:
questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com
2022-02-2149 minStandard of TruthS2E1 The Book of MosesAs 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
2022-01-061h 00Standard of TruthS1E31 Brigham Young and the Council of Fifty Part 3In Part 3 of our discussion on the Council of Fifty, we discuss the role of Brigham Young after the death of Joseph Smith and the Saints' plan to leave the United States. Gerrit also shares a story about Porter Rockwell.
If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at:
questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com
2021-12-301h 10Standard of TruthS1B3 Gerrit Dirkmaat, The Man Behind the HistoryMerry 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...2021-12-251h 04