http://www.fairblog.org Defending Mormonism Thu, 16 May 2013 13:52:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5 Winner of the People's Choice Podcast Award for Best Podcast in the Religion Inspiration category. FAIR, The Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing well-documented answers to criticisms of LDS doctrine, belief and practice. Questions or comments about the podcast can be sent to podcast@fairlds.org. Or join the conversation at fairblog.org. Hosted by FAIR no Hosted by FAIR mike@mike-parker.org mike@mike-parker.org (Hosted by FAIR) Copyright © FAIR Blog 2011 Defending Mormonism mormon, lds, fair, apologetics, christian http://i863.photobucket.com/albums/ab192/lifeongoldplates/FairPodcastLogo-2-1.jpg http://www.fairblog.org http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/15/mormon-fair-cast-147-using-objects-to-receive-revelation/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/15/mormon-fair-cast-147-using-objects-to-receive-revelation/#comments Wed, 15 May 2013 21:50:18 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4344 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/15/mormon-fair-cast-147-using-objects-to-receive-revelation/feed/ 0 What did it mean in the Book of Commandments to say that Oliver Cowdery had the gift of working with the “rod of nature.” What is the “gift of Aaron?” Are there other examples of physical objects being used to receive revelation? What did it mean in the Book of Commandments to say that Oliver Cowdery had the gift of working with the “rod of nature.” What is the “gift of Aaron?” Are there other examples of physical objects being used to receive revelation? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on January 13, 2013, Martin Tanner responds to this question and discusses many of the anti-Mormon attacks. Further discussion of this topic can be found at the FAIR Wiki. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:57 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/08/mormon-fair-cast-146-science-and-religion/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/08/mormon-fair-cast-146-science-and-religion/#comments Wed, 08 May 2013 14:47:44 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4328 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/08/mormon-fair-cast-146-science-and-religion/feed/ 0 In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on October 14, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses our pursuit of truth and the way in which science and religion both help us in this pursuit. - In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on October 14, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses our pursuit of truth and the way in which science and religion both help us in this pursuit. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:43 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/01/mormon-fair-cast-145-kinderhook-plates-and-zelph/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/01/mormon-fair-cast-145-kinderhook-plates-and-zelph/#comments Wed, 01 May 2013 17:50:59 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4337 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/05/01/mormon-fair-cast-145-kinderhook-plates-and-zelph/feed/ 1 What were the Kinderhook Plates? Were they real or a forgery? Was Joseph Smith fooled by them? Who was Zelph? Do Joseph Smith’s comments regarding Zelph prove that the Book of Mormon events occurred in North America? In this episode of Religion Today, What were the Kinderhook Plates? Were they real or a forgery? Was Joseph Smith fooled by them? Who was Zelph? Do Joseph Smith’s comments regarding Zelph prove that the Book of Mormon events occurred in North America? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on December 9, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses these questions. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. (Listeners will note that the first part of this recording is missing.) SteveDensleyJr no 19:29 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/24/mormon-fair-cast-144-mormon-book-review-shaken-faith-syndrome/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/24/mormon-fair-cast-144-mormon-book-review-shaken-faith-syndrome/#comments Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:49:29 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4530 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/24/mormon-fair-cast-144-mormon-book-review-shaken-faith-syndrome/feed/ 0 In this episode of the Mormon Book Review, host Kirk Caudle talks to Mike Ash about the second edition of Shaken Faith Syndrome. They  talk about what it means to doubt, the declining lack of literacy, how to stay a member of the church, In this episode of the Mormon Book Review, host Kirk Caudle talks to Mike Ash about the second edition of Shaken Faith Syndrome. They  talk about what it means to doubt, the declining lack of literacy, how to stay a member of the church, and what it might mean for one to leave faithfully. This episode was originally posted at the Mormon Book Review on April 20, 2013 and is re-posted here by permission. Shaken Faith Syndrome can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore. Tickets to the 2013 FAIR Conference can be purchased here. SteveDensleyJr no 27:30 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/17/mormon-fair-cast-143-responding-to-anti-mormons/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/17/mormon-fair-cast-143-responding-to-anti-mormons/#comments Thu, 18 Apr 2013 03:48:30 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4342 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/17/mormon-fair-cast-143-responding-to-anti-mormons/feed/ 0 What can you do if you have friends or family members who are leaving the Church because of anti-Mormon attacks? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on February 3, 2013, Martin Tanner responds to this question and dis... What can you do if you have friends or family members who are leaving the Church because of anti-Mormon attacks? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on February 3, 2013, Martin Tanner responds to this question and discusses many of the anti-Mormon attacks. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:57 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/12/4th_watch_4the-kingdom-of-the-cults-shock-terms/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/12/4th_watch_4the-kingdom-of-the-cults-shock-terms/#comments Fri, 12 Apr 2013 17:30:02 +0000 Ned Scarisbrick http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4442 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/12/4th_watch_4the-kingdom-of-the-cults-shock-terms/feed/ 0   - In this episode Brother Scarisbrick discusses how the use of "shock terms" can skew the angle from which we view the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  Some in the Anti-Mormon community use this tactic to distract potential investig...   In this episode Brother Scarisbrick discusses how the use of "shock terms" can skew the angle from which we view the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  Some in the Anti-Mormon community use this tactic to distract potential investigators of the Church by trying to generate fear in those who hear the Church’s message.  Brother Scarisbrick uses his colorful style to bring light to these falsehoods and offers an open approach to gospel discussions: that love, kindness and reason are the hallmarks of the Lord's value system, and that we can put our trust in His gospel. Ned Scarisbrick no 14:55 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/10/mormon-fair-cast-141-was-the-book-of-mormon-set-in-heartland-america/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/10/mormon-fair-cast-141-was-the-book-of-mormon-set-in-heartland-america/#comments Wed, 10 Apr 2013 19:24:42 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4331 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/10/mormon-fair-cast-141-was-the-book-of-mormon-set-in-heartland-america/feed/ 3 Where did the events of the Book of Mormon take place? What evidence is there that the events took place in Mesoamerica? What evidence is there that these events did not take place in the heartland of the United States? In this episode of Religion Today, Where did the events of the Book of Mormon take place? What evidence is there that the events took place in Mesoamerica? What evidence is there that these events did not take place in the heartland of the United States? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on October 28, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses these questions. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. (Listeners will note that the first part of this recording is missing.) SteveDensleyJr no 19:23 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/05/4th_watch_5the-theolgy-of-john-jacobus/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/05/4th_watch_5the-theolgy-of-john-jacobus/#comments Fri, 05 Apr 2013 17:00:26 +0000 Ned Scarisbrick http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4451 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/05/4th_watch_5the-theolgy-of-john-jacobus/feed/ 0 The topic of predestination has been debated from the days of the early Church fathers and continues to energize gospel discussions regarding the level of responsibility and personal accountability for our behavior. The topic of predestination has been debated from the days of the early Church fathers and continues to energize gospel discussions regarding the level of responsibility and personal accountability for our behavior. In this podcast the teachings of John Calvin and Jacobus Arminius, two of the most prominent theologians of the protestant reformation, are compared  to the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Ned Scarisbrick no 17:24 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/03/mormon-fair-cast-139-the-book-of-abraham-and-the-prophetic-power-of-joseph-smith/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/03/mormon-fair-cast-139-the-book-of-abraham-and-the-prophetic-power-of-joseph-smith/#comments Wed, 03 Apr 2013 17:35:56 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4348 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/04/03/mormon-fair-cast-139-the-book-of-abraham-and-the-prophetic-power-of-joseph-smith/feed/ 2 Now that we have some of the papyrus that was in the possession of Joseph Smith when he translated the Book of Abraham, can it be demonstrated that Joseph Smith is a fraud? In this episode of Religion Today, Now that we have some of the papyrus that was in the possession of Joseph Smith when he translated the Book of Abraham, can it be demonstrated that Joseph Smith is a fraud? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on January 27, 2013, Martin Tanner responds to this question and discusses some of the ways in which the Book of Abraham actually provides evidence of the prophetic calling of Joseph Smith. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:55 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/29/4th-watch-3-salvation-are-mormons-saved/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/29/4th-watch-3-salvation-are-mormons-saved/#comments Fri, 29 Mar 2013 19:40:32 +0000 Ned Scarisbrick http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4293 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/29/4th-watch-3-salvation-are-mormons-saved/feed/ 0 In this podcast, Brother Scarisbrick illustrates the various stages of life and how our choices determine what we receive in the life to come from an LDS perspective.  From our entrance into the world of spirits when we pass from this life into the next, In this podcast, Brother Scarisbrick illustrates the various stages of life and how our choices determine what we receive in the life to come from an LDS perspective.  From our entrance into the world of spirits when we pass from this life into the next, to the final judgment at the last day, Brother Scarisbrick uses common sense answers in a conversational style that makes this topic easy to understand. Ned Scarisbrick no 14:42 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/27/mormon-fair-cast-137-the-anthon-transcript/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/27/mormon-fair-cast-137-the-anthon-transcript/#comments Wed, 27 Mar 2013 17:16:06 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3428 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/27/mormon-fair-cast-137-the-anthon-transcript/feed/ 1 What is the Anthon transcript? Can we rely on what Martin Harris said about his encounter with Proffessor Charles Anthon? How long did it take Joseph Smith to translate the Book of Mormon? In this episode of Religion Today, What is the Anthon transcript? Can we rely on what Martin Harris said about his encounter with Proffessor Charles Anthon? How long did it take Joseph Smith to translate the Book of Mormon? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on July 15, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses these issues. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. (Listeners will note that the first part of this recording is missing.) SteveDensleyJr no 19:15 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/22/4th-watch-2-testimony-and-lifelong-conversion/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/22/4th-watch-2-testimony-and-lifelong-conversion/#comments Fri, 22 Mar 2013 19:38:46 +0000 Ned Scarisbrick http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4222 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/22/4th-watch-2-testimony-and-lifelong-conversion/feed/ 1 The 4th Watch is a new series of podcasts based on the 14th chapter of Matthew in which the Savior meets the apostles by walking on the water.  Brother Ned Scarisbrick talks about how he received his testimony while serving in the U.S. Navy in Vietnam. The 4th Watch is a new series of podcasts based on the 14th chapter of Matthew in which the Savior meets the apostles by walking on the water.  Brother Ned Scarisbrick talks about how he received his testimony while serving in the U.S. Navy in Vietnam. Brother Scarisbrick also reviews an article written by Vicky Gilpin on the anti-Mormon website called “Mormonism Investigated UK,” regarding Chapter 3 of the Lorenzo Snow Manual, “Lifelong Conversion: Continuing to Advance in the Principles of Truth.”  Brother Scarsbrick’s discussion reveals a common set of misunderstandings and false assumptions regarding what we teach.  He uses a simple question and answer format to allow us to draw our own conclusions on what is being taught in this lesson. Ned Scarisbrick no 31:22 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/20/mormon-fair-cast-135-shaken-faith-syndrome-2nd-ed/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/20/mormon-fair-cast-135-shaken-faith-syndrome-2nd-ed/#comments Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:27:05 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4411 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/20/mormon-fair-cast-135-shaken-faith-syndrome-2nd-ed/feed/ 0 How can we help family members or friends who are struggling with their faith in the gospel? What should someone do who experiences a crisis of faith? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on March 17, 2013, How can we help family members or friends who are struggling with their faith in the gospel? What should someone do who experiences a crisis of faith? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on March 17, 2013, Martin Tanner talks with Michael R. Ash, author of Shaken Faith Syndrome. The second edition of this important book can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore, here. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. (Listeners will note that the first part of this recording is missing.) SteveDensleyJr no 18:53 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/15/4th-watch-1-introduction/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/15/4th-watch-1-introduction/#comments Fri, 15 Mar 2013 19:37:40 +0000 Ned Scarisbrick http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4157 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/15/4th-watch-1-introduction/feed/ 0 The 4th Watch is a new series of podcasts based on the 14th chapter of Matthew when the Savior meets the apostles by walking on the water.  Brother Ned Scarisbrick is a convert to the Church and uses his unique style to bring us  closer to our Savior b... The 4th Watch is a new series of podcasts based on the 14th chapter of Matthew when the Savior meets the apostles by walking on the water.  Brother Ned Scarisbrick is a convert to the Church and uses his unique style to bring us  closer to our Savior by keeping our focus where it belongs.  On the Lord Jesus Christ and his abilities to see us through the winds and waves of life.  Brother Scarisbrick has been a member of the Church since 1970 when he was baptised in Vietnam while serving in the US Navy.  He has been involved in apologetic work for over thirty years and looks forward to addressing  listeners with a practical approach to gospel issues by offering a question and answer format for the average Church member and those who desire to understand the basic gospel truths. Ned Scarisbrick no 15:28 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/13/mormon-fair-cast-133-apologetics-organizations/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/13/mormon-fair-cast-133-apologetics-organizations/#comments Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:07:33 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4334 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/13/mormon-fair-cast-133-apologetics-organizations/feed/ 2 In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on November 11, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses FAIR and the Interpreter Foundation and the way in which they help to defend the Church and strengthen the faith of its members. In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on November 11, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses FAIR and the Interpreter Foundation and the way in which they help to defend the Church and strengthen the faith of its members. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:57 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/06/mormon-fair-cast-132-the-book-of-mormon-and-new-world-dna/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/06/mormon-fair-cast-132-the-book-of-mormon-and-new-world-dna/#comments Wed, 06 Mar 2013 22:31:55 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4275 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/03/06/mormon-fair-cast-132-the-book-of-mormon-and-new-world-dna/feed/ 3 Miraculous claims surrounding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon are an evidence of the prophetic calling of Joseph Smith. Critics intent on discrediting the Restoration point to DNA studies on indigenous American peoples in an attempt to expose Jo... Miraculous claims surrounding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon are an evidence of the prophetic calling of Joseph Smith. Critics intent on discrediting the Restoration point to DNA studies on indigenous American peoples in an attempt to expose Joseph, the Book of Mormon, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as frauds. Claiming that scientific evidence excludes any possibility that Middle Eastern or ancient Jewish travelers came to the Americas in antiquity, such critics attempt to sow seeds of doubt in the minds of Latter-day Saints and those of other faiths concerning the authenticity of the Book of Mormon as an ancient religious text. Are these studies credible? Do the data actually show what the critics claim? Do they discredit the Book of Mormon, or is there biological and other scientific evidence that supports the claims that it is indeed an ancient record of a people that once inhabited the Americas? The Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research (FAIR) interviews scholars and scientists to answer these important questions and reveals the faith-affirming truth that not only are the critics' conclusions and methods flawed, but that there is credible scientific evidence in favor of the Book of Mormon as an ancient religious text. This is an audio recording of a video entitled The Book of Mormon and New World DNA." The DVD can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore here. More about DNA can be found at the FAIR Wiki here. SteveDensleyJr no 56:19 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/27/mormon-fair-cast-131-blacks-and-the-lds-priesthood/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/27/mormon-fair-cast-131-blacks-and-the-lds-priesthood/#comments Wed, 27 Feb 2013 17:20:25 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3615 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/27/mormon-fair-cast-131-blacks-and-the-lds-priesthood/feed/ 2 In this episode, Darius Gray provides a partial chronology concerning Blacks and the LDS priesthood. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established in 1830, at which time, its first president and prophet, In this episode, Darius Gray provides a partial chronology concerning Blacks and the LDS priesthood. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established in 1830, at which time, its first president and prophet, Joseph Smith ordained all men unto the priesthood.  The only qualification is that they embrace the teachings of the Savior Jesus Christ and the promised restoration in preparation for the Second Coming of Christ.  After the death of Joseph Smith at the hands of a mob, it would be three years before Brigham Young was officially named as the next president, leader and prophet of the church. In 1847, President Brigham Young began the practice of withholding the priesthood only from men of Black African descent.  It would be another two years before any official statement was made.  Even though there was never any clear explanation as to why there was a change in course from what the prophet of the restoration had begun, the practice was continued on through the years with a number of exceptions.  Enoch Abel, the son of Elijah Abel who was a Black man and ordained to this priesthood by Joseph Smith himself, was ordained to the priesthood in 1900.  Then in 1934, his son, Elijah, was also ordained to the priesthood.  There was much speculation as to why the priesthood was withheld from Blacks, in addition to attempts by church leadership to squash the ever growing possible reasons.  However, in light the absence of the originating justification and the inequality of man at the time, the created folklore permeated the LDS church. The practice even managed to survive through the Civil Rights Movement, and then in 1978, then President Spencer W. Kimball announced a revelation which ended the priesthood ban.  At that time, many of African descent came into the church from all over the world.  It was genuinely assumed that the problem was now officially over.  However, again in light of the lack of explanation as to why the change in course, as well as the addressing of prior teaching, the majority of the members of the church continued, and continue to teach those things which the mere occurrence of the change contradicts. This has created an incredible stumbling block for people of all races in and outside of the LDS church.  Missionaries and members don’t know how to answer the questions had by critics or investigators, and those who think they do unintentionally reinforce the discriminatory reputation the church is labeled with.  Many who see the blessings of the gospel or who would see them, can’t or won’t allow themselves to “look” because of the inability to receive adequate answers to past teachings and current scriptural passages. This episode is an audio version of segment 4 of the Blacks in the Scriptures DVD Series . The complete DVD can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore here. This presentation has been provided courtesy of Blacks in the Scriptures. The opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent the official views of FAIR or of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 36:00 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/20/mormon-fair-cast-130-equality-and-priesthood/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/20/mormon-fair-cast-130-equality-and-priesthood/#comments Wed, 20 Feb 2013 17:21:04 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3611 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/20/mormon-fair-cast-130-equality-and-priesthood/feed/ 2 Marvin Perkins provides a scriptural compilation of the Lord’s command for all to be equal and to ordain to the priesthood all who will embrace the gospel work. - This episode is an audio version of segment 3 of the Blacks in the Scriptures DVD Series . Marvin Perkins provides a scriptural compilation of the Lord’s command for all to be equal and to ordain to the priesthood all who will embrace the gospel work. This episode is an audio version of segment 3 of the Blacks in the Scriptures DVD Series . The complete DVD can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore here. This presentation has been provided courtesy of Blacks in the Scriptures. The opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent the official views of FAIR or of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 27:35 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/13/mormon-fair-cast-129-skin-color-curses/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/13/mormon-fair-cast-129-skin-color-curses/#comments Wed, 13 Feb 2013 17:19:50 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3606 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/13/mormon-fair-cast-129-skin-color-curses/feed/ 1 How can the Church better reach African Americans? What do the scriptures mean when they say that a person is “black?” Does it refer to skin color or is it metaphorical? What do the scriptures mean when they say that a person or people are cursed? - How can the Church better reach African Americans? What do the scriptures mean when they say that a person is “black?” Does it refer to skin color or is it metaphorical? What do the scriptures mean when they say that a person or people are cursed? This episode is an audio version of segment 2 of the Blacks in the Scriptures DVD Series . The complete DVD can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore here. This presentation has been provided courtesy of Blacks in the Scriptures. The opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent the official views of FAIR or of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 45:47 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/06/mormon-fair-cast-128-blacks-in-the-bible/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/06/mormon-fair-cast-128-blacks-in-the-bible/#comments Wed, 06 Feb 2013 17:19:07 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3601 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/02/06/mormon-fair-cast-128-blacks-in-the-bible/feed/ 2 In a study performed by the Higher Education Institute, in association with UCLA, which concluded in 2005, African Americans ranked number one in seven of the twelve spirituality categories measured.  These deeply spiritual roots have been passed on fr... In a study performed by the Higher Education Institute, in association with UCLA, which concluded in 2005, African Americans ranked number one in seven of the twelve spirituality categories measured.  These deeply spiritual roots have been passed on from generation to generation of church goers and Bible faithful.  This commitment is especially impressive in light of the absence of positive religious teachings, mentions or artistic renderings of Black African ancestors in today’s Christian religions. There are many who regularly mention Cain and Ham and the curses associated with them, leaving and reinforcing the impression that Black equates to cursed or less than.  Was there a positive Black presence in the biblical days?  If there was, wouldn’t the entire world benefit from this knowledge?  Those of African descent could gain a greater sense of self.  This could also help to repudiate much of the confusion about race and encourage unity. Blacks in the Bible is the first of four segments in the Blacks in the Scriptures DVD series. The complete DVD can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore here. This presentation has been provided courtesy of Blacks in the Scriptures. The opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent the official views of FAIR or of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 47:02 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/30/mormon-fair-cast-127-did-an-apostasy-actually-occur/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/30/mormon-fair-cast-127-did-an-apostasy-actually-occur/#comments Wed, 30 Jan 2013 17:12:11 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3408 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/30/mormon-fair-cast-127-did-an-apostasy-actually-occur/feed/ 2 What is an "apostasy?" Are there any scriptures that say there was an apostasy that required a restoration? Do we know when the apostasy ocurred? Does that matter? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on August 19, 2012, What is an "apostasy?" Are there any scriptures that say there was an apostasy that required a restoration? Do we know when the apostasy ocurred? Does that matter? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on August 19, 2012, Martin Tanner responds to claims that an apostasy did not occur. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. (Listeners will note that the end of the recording is cut off prematurely.) SteveDensleyJr no 18:42 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/23/mormon-fair-cast-126-anti-mormon-criticisms-of-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/23/mormon-fair-cast-126-anti-mormon-criticisms-of-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Wed, 23 Jan 2013 17:16:54 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3437 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/23/mormon-fair-cast-126-anti-mormon-criticisms-of-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 2 Why does the Book of Mormon say Christ was born in Jerusalem? Why does a French word appear in the text of the Book of Mormon? Didn't Joseph Smith simply borrow Book of Mormon names from the Bible? Why was the Book of Mormon written in Reformed Egyptian? Why does the Book of Mormon say Christ was born in Jerusalem? Why does a French word appear in the text of the Book of Mormon? Didn't Joseph Smith simply borrow Book of Mormon names from the Bible? Why was the Book of Mormon written in Reformed Egyptian? Are there any other instances of such writing? How can one believe the Book of Mormon when so many of the Book of Mormon witnesses left the Church? Why did Nephites build temples outside of Jerusalem? Isn't the mention of coins in the Book of Mormon an anachronism? Why do the words "church," "synogogue," "book," and "Jesus Christ" appear in the Book of Mormon? Did crucifixions and crosses exist before Lehi left Jerusalem? Wasn't Joseph Smith fooled by the Kinderhook Plates? Did Elder B.H. Roberts lose his faith? Why haven't Book of Mormon cities been found? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on May 29, 2011, Martin Tanner responds to these questions. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 20:01 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/16/mormon-fair-cast-125-deification-in-lds-and-early-christian-thought/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/16/mormon-fair-cast-125-deification-in-lds-and-early-christian-thought/#comments Wed, 16 Jan 2013 17:15:02 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2472 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/16/mormon-fair-cast-125-deification-in-lds-and-early-christian-thought/feed/ 2 Do Mormons believe they will become gods? Is this belief supported in the Bible? Are there other Christian religions that have similar beliefs? In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 27, 2011, Do Mormons believe they will become gods? Is this belief supported in the Bible? Are there other Christian religions that have similar beliefs? In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 27, 2011, Martin Tanner discusses the concept of deification, or theosis, and the way in which it has been discussed in the Bible, by early Christians, and by leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 18:56 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/09/mormon-fair-cast-124-controversies-regarding-the-nature-of-christ/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/09/mormon-fair-cast-124-controversies-regarding-the-nature-of-christ/#comments Wed, 09 Jan 2013 17:13:58 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3418 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/09/mormon-fair-cast-124-controversies-regarding-the-nature-of-christ/feed/ 3 One of the primary reasons some claim that Mormons are not Christians is because the Mormon view of the trinity differs from that of most modern Christians. Mormons claim that their view of the Godhead is correct and that the view of God as set forth i... One of the primary reasons some claim that Mormons are not Christians is because the Mormon view of the trinity differs from that of most modern Christians. Mormons claim that their view of the Godhead is correct and that the view of God as set forth in various creeds, such as that which was proclaimed at the Nicean Council, is a corrupt version of the truth. Some modern Christians counter that the concept of the trinity as believed by most Christians today was already considered doctrine by the time of the Council of Nicea and the council was simply held to address other heresies. So what really happened? Why does the majority view of the nature of Christ differ from the view of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on September 2, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses these issues. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 18:51 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/02/fair-questions-4-whats-wrong-with-masturbation/ http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/02/fair-questions-4-whats-wrong-with-masturbation/#comments Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:08:55 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4051 http://www.fairblog.org/2013/01/02/fair-questions-4-whats-wrong-with-masturbation/feed/ 12 This is FAIR Questions, on the Mormon FAIR-Cast. FAIR Questions features a question that was submitted to FAIR volunteers through the FAIR website at fairlds.org. The answer in each episode is compiled from the various responses provided by the volunte... This is FAIR Questions, on the Mormon FAIR-Cast. FAIR Questions features a question that was submitted to FAIR volunteers through the FAIR website at fairlds.org. The answer in each episode is compiled from the various responses provided by the volunte... SteveDensleyJr no 13:56 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/26/mormon-fair-cast-122-changes-in-the-bible/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/26/mormon-fair-cast-122-changes-in-the-bible/#comments Wed, 26 Dec 2012 17:11:47 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3002 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/26/mormon-fair-cast-122-changes-in-the-bible/feed/ 1 Is the Bible the complete, inerrant, inspired, infallible word of God? Is it a book that has errors in it now, but that did not have errors in the original? Have changes in the Bible been made? If so, why and what were some of those changes? Is the Bible the complete, inerrant, inspired, infallible word of God? Is it a book that has errors in it now, but that did not have errors in the original? Have changes in the Bible been made? If so, why and what were some of those changes? These questions and others are discussed in this episode of Religion Today, with Martin Tanner, which originally aired on KSL Radio on June 3, 2012. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. Note that the first part of this recording has been lost. SteveDensleyJr no 18:33 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/19/mormon-fair-cast-121b-mark-wright-and-mayan-mysteries/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/19/mormon-fair-cast-121b-mark-wright-and-mayan-mysteries/#comments Wed, 19 Dec 2012 20:10:38 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4041 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/19/mormon-fair-cast-121b-mark-wright-and-mayan-mysteries/feed/ 1 This is the second of a two-part episode. This is the second of a two-part episode. SteveDensleyJr no 31:08 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/19/mormon-fair-cast-121a-mark-wright-and-mayan-mysteries/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/19/mormon-fair-cast-121a-mark-wright-and-mayan-mysteries/#comments Wed, 19 Dec 2012 20:09:25 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4030 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/19/mormon-fair-cast-121a-mark-wright-and-mayan-mysteries/feed/ 8 Did the Mayans prophesy that the world would end in 2012? What is the probability that the Mayans are direct descendants of Lehi? Were the Lamanites and Nephites located in North America? What did Joseph Smith say about the location of Zarahemla? Did the Mayans prophesy that the world would end in 2012? What is the probability that the Mayans are direct descendants of Lehi? Were the Lamanites and Nephites located in North America? What did Joseph Smith say about the location of Zarahemla? What about Zelph? Where there horses in the Americas before Columbus? Were there two hills Cumorah? Is there archeological evidence that proves the Book of Mormon is true? Mark Alan Wright earned his BA in Anthropology at UCLA and his MA and PhD in Anthropology (with a subfield of specialization in Mesoamerican Archaeology) from UC Riverside. His dissertation is entitled “A Study of Classic Maya Rulership.” He regularly conducts research in Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and Belize. Dr. Wright is Assistant Professor of Ancient Scripture at Brigham Young University This is the first of a two-part episode. This recording is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 59:04 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/12/keeping-the-faith-7b-the-reel-story/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/12/keeping-the-faith-7b-the-reel-story/#comments Wed, 12 Dec 2012 08:02:28 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4020 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/12/keeping-the-faith-7b-the-reel-story/feed/ 5 This is the second part of a two-part episode. This is the second part of a two-part episode. SteveDensleyJr no 37:24 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/12/keeping-the-faith-7a-the-reel-story/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/12/keeping-the-faith-7a-the-reel-story/#comments Wed, 12 Dec 2012 08:00:21 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=4014 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/12/keeping-the-faith-7a-the-reel-story/feed/ 8 Bill Reel talks about how he became converted to the Church, became a bishop and then nearly resigned his membership in the Church. He discusses the role the internet, on-line chat groups and podcasts played in both weakening his testimony as well as s... Bill Reel talks about how he became converted to the Church, became a bishop and then nearly resigned his membership in the Church. He discusses the role the internet, on-line chat groups and podcasts played in both weakening his testimony as well as strengthening it. He also talks about how bad apologetics contributed to undermining his faith, how good apologetics reinforced his faith, and the central role the spirit plays in establishing a foundation for our testimonies. SteveDensleyJr no 1:05:24 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/05/keeping-the-faith-6b-a-household-of-partial-faith-pt-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/05/keeping-the-faith-6b-a-household-of-partial-faith-pt-2/#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2012 08:01:37 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3939 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/05/keeping-the-faith-6b-a-household-of-partial-faith-pt-2/feed/ 0 This is the second part of a two-part episode. This is the second part of a two-part episode. SteveDensleyJr no 36:55 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/05/keeping-the-faith-6a-a-household-of-partial-faith-pt-1/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/05/keeping-the-faith-6a-a-household-of-partial-faith-pt-1/#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2012 08:00:08 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3910 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/05/keeping-the-faith-6a-a-household-of-partial-faith-pt-1/feed/ 1 How can we help activate less-active family members and friends? What happens when we can’t? What does a person do when a spouse leaves the Church? How can we maintain our faith when those closest to us are losing theirs? In this interview, How can we help activate less-active family members and friends? What happens when we can’t? What does a person do when a spouse leaves the Church? How can we maintain our faith when those closest to us are losing theirs? In this interview, we hear from a woman who grew up with a less-active father. After she was married in the temple, her husband too became less-active, and eventually had his name removed from the records of the Church. She discusses her experience with these family members and what she has done to retain her faith in the gospel. SteveDensleyJr no 1:06:30 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/02/mormon-fair-cast-119-defending-the-king-and-his-kingdom/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/02/mormon-fair-cast-119-defending-the-king-and-his-kingdom/#comments Sun, 02 Dec 2012 14:57:29 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3979 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/12/02/mormon-fair-cast-119-defending-the-king-and-his-kingdom/feed/ 2 This is an audio recording of the article entitled "Defending the King and His Kingdom," by Louis C. Midgley, published in Interpreter:  A Journal of Mormon Scripture, and posted here by permission. - Abstract: Some vocal cultural Mormons, This is an audio recording of the article entitled "Defending the King and His Kingdom," by Louis C. Midgley, published in Interpreter:  A Journal of Mormon Scripture, and posted here by permission. Abstract: Some vocal cultural Mormons, busy asking themselves “why stay,” claim that it is not at all probable that there is a God, or that there even was a Jesus of Nazareth. They also ridicule the Atonement. In the language of our scriptures they are antichrists—that is, they deny that there was or is a Christ. Being thus against the King and His Kingdom, their trumpet does not give a clear sound; they are clearly against the one whom they made a solemn covenant to defend and sustain. Instead of seeking diligently to become genuine Holy Ones or Saints, they worship an idol—they have turned from the Way by fashioning an idol. They preach and practice a petty idolatry. Genuine Saints, including disciple-scholars, have a duty to defend the King and His Kingdom. Louis Midgley (PhD, Brown University) is an emeritus professor of political science at Brigham Young University. Dr. Midgley has had an abiding interest in the history of Christian theology. He wrote his doctoral dissertation on Paul Tillich, the then-famous German-American Protestant theologian and political theorist/religious-socialist activist. Midgley also studied the writings of other influential Protestant theologians such as Karl Barth. Eventually he took an interest in contemporary Roman Catholic theology, and was also impacted by the work of important Jewish philosophers, including especially Leo Strauss and his disciples. SteveDensleyJr no 34:12 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-4/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-4/#comments Wed, 28 Nov 2012 21:12:56 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3890 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-4/feed/ 1 This is part four of a four-part interview. This is part four of a four-part interview. SteveDensleyJr no 1:03:01 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-3/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-3/#comments Wed, 28 Nov 2012 21:11:26 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3888 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-3/feed/ 1 This is part three of a four-part interview. This is part three of a four-part interview. SteveDensleyJr no 1:26:24 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-2/#comments Wed, 28 Nov 2012 21:10:26 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3886 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-2/feed/ 2 This is the second part of a four-part episode. This is the second part of a four-part episode. SteveDensleyJr no 1:19:35 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5a-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-1/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5a-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-1/#comments Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:00:49 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3833 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/28/keeping-the-faith-5a-don-bradley-seeing-with-an-eye-of-faith-pt-1/feed/ 3 Don Bradley is a writer, editor, and researcher specializing in early Mormon history. In his early years as a historian, he found it difficult to understand and explain many of the actions of Joseph Smith. He found that he could make sense of much of t... Don Bradley is a writer, editor, and researcher specializing in early Mormon history. In his early years as a historian, he found it difficult to understand and explain many of the actions of Joseph Smith. He found that he could make sense of much of the history if he assumed that Joseph Smith was a fraud who sought after money, sex and power. As he pursued this strategy of analysis, he drifted further and further away from the Church in which he had been raised. Along the way, he spent time as an agnostic and atheist, then back to theist, then Baha’i, then generic Protestant. As he continued his research into the history of Joseph Smith, he found that the Joseph-as-fraud approach proved increasingly inadequate to explain what he was finding. In this interview, Don talks about what eventually led him back to the Church, why he finally decided that Joseph Smith is truly a prophet of God, and how adopting this new interpretive model has helped him to understand Joseph Smith better than he ever did before. Don recently performed an internship with the Joseph Smith Papers Project and is completing his thesis toward an M.A. in History at Utah State University. He has published on the translation of the Book of Mormon, plural marriage before Nauvoo, and Joseph Smith’s “grand fundamental principles of Mormonism” and plans to publish an extensive analysis, co-authored with Mark Ashurst-McGee, on the Kinderhook plates. Don’s first book, The Lost 116 Pages: Reconstructing the Missing Contents of the Book of Mormon,is slated to be published by Greg Kofford Books. His 2012 FAIR Conference address can be read here: Piercing the Veil: Temple Worship in the Lost 116 Pages. SteveDensleyJr no 1:22:46 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/23/book-review-shaken-faith-syndrome/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/23/book-review-shaken-faith-syndrome/#comments Fri, 23 Nov 2012 23:50:23 +0000 Stephen Smoot http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3926 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/23/book-review-shaken-faith-syndrome/feed/ 1 Shaken Faith Syndrome and the Case for Faith Stephen O. Smoot Abstract: Michael R. Ash is a Mormon apologist who has written two thoughtful books and a number of insightful articles exploring a wide range of controversial issues within Mormonism. Shaken Faith Syndrome and the Case for Faith Stephen O. Smoot Abstract: Michael R. Ash is a Mormon apologist who has written two thoughtful books and a number of insightful articles exploring a wide range of controversial issues within Mormonism. His recent book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt is an outstanding apologetic resource for individuals searching for faith-promoting answers that directly confront anti-Mormon allegations and criticisms. Ash does an excellent job in both succinctly explaining many of the criticisms leveled against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and articulating compelling answers to these criticisms. Review of Michael R. Ash. Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt. Redding, CA: Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research, 2008. x + 301 pp., with index. $19.95 (paperback). “Wherefore Didst Thou Doubt?” (Matthew 14:31) A favorite scripture of Latter-day Saint scholars is Doctrine and Covenants 88:118: “And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.” While it is usually the last phrase (“seek [Page 106]learning, even by study and also by faith”) of this scripture that resonates with LDS scholars, the first part of this passage is equally profound. As “all have not faith,” or, one might say, have had their faith challenged or shaken, we are to teach each other words of wisdom from the best books. This scripture is a mandate to bolster each other’s faith as much as it is an invitation to pursue truth. Additional scriptures from the Doctrine and Covenants invite Latter-day Saints to engage with the Gospel intellectually as well as spiritually. “Seek not for riches but for wisdom,” admonishes D&C 6:7. “Study and learn and become acquainted with all good books, and with languages, tongues and people,” we are instructed in D&C 90:15. “Obtain a knowledge of history, and of countries, and of kingdoms, of laws of God and man,” dictates D&C 93:53. The Latter-day Saints, accordingly, have long been keen students of history and cultures. As Elder Marlin K. Jensen, the previous Church Historian and Recorder, summarized: Several latter-day revelations speak to the subject of church history. In them the Lord clearly says He wants “a record kept” (D&C 21:1), and the record is to be kept “continually” (D&C 47:3). The record is to include “all things that transpire in Zion” (D&C 85:1) and is to chronicle the “manner of life” and the faith and works of the Latter-day Saints (D&C 85:2). It is to be written “for the good of the church, and for the rising generations that shall grow up on the land of Zion” (D&C 69:8). Those who keep the record—provided they are faithful—are promised “it shall be given [them] . . . by the Comforter, to write these things” (D&C 47:4).1 [Page 107]The need to buttress faith in the restored Gospel through study and prayer is necessitated by a sustained history of both sectarian and secular attacks on LDS beliefs and practices. Those bent on destroying the faith of the Saints, or at least trying to morph their faith into something totally alien to thefoundational tenets of Mormonism, have long been engaged in a crusade against Mormonism from both the pulpit and the press. Others have been subtler in their subterfuge, and have, like wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15), attempted to undermine the faith of the Saints “from within.”2  Their goal has been, and remains, to prove that the ground and content of LDS faith is untenable, outrageous, or even a dangerous deception.3 The goal of these critics is frequently to convince Church members to totally abandon Mormonism, or to radically remold Mormonism into a meaningless pastiche of moral relativism and benign atheism that denies the existence of God, Stephen Smoot no 36:05 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/21/keeping-the-faith-4-mike-parker-navigating-difficult-doctrinal-historical-or-political-issues/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/21/keeping-the-faith-4-mike-parker-navigating-difficult-doctrinal-historical-or-political-issues/#comments Wed, 21 Nov 2012 08:03:08 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3784 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/21/keeping-the-faith-4-mike-parker-navigating-difficult-doctrinal-historical-or-political-issues/feed/ 5 A long-time member of FAIR, Mike Parker, addresses a variety of questions related to apologetics and gospel learning: Where should gospel teaching begin? To what extent should teachers bring up and address troubling historical or doctrinal issues? A long-time member of FAIR, Mike Parker, addresses a variety of questions related to apologetics and gospel learning: Where should gospel teaching begin? To what extent should teachers bring up and address troubling historical or doctrinal issues? Should missionaries tell investigators about such issues before they are baptized? What should be the goal of a Gospel Doctrine teacher or missionary? How can a faithful member navigate the challenges that are posed by difficult doctrinal, historical or political issues? Mike provides his insight on this issues and many others. SteveDensleyJr no 1:04:03 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/14/keeping-the-faith-3-cody-anderson-cultivating-the-seeds-of-faith-pt-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/14/keeping-the-faith-3-cody-anderson-cultivating-the-seeds-of-faith-pt-2/#comments Wed, 14 Nov 2012 21:01:47 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3827 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/14/keeping-the-faith-3-cody-anderson-cultivating-the-seeds-of-faith-pt-2/feed/ 0 This is the second part of a two-part interview. This is the second part of a two-part interview. SteveDensleyJr no 32:50 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/14/keeping-the-faith-3-cody-anderson-cultivating-the-seeds-of-faith-pt-1/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/14/keeping-the-faith-3-cody-anderson-cultivating-the-seeds-of-faith-pt-1/#comments Wed, 14 Nov 2012 21:00:18 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3782 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/14/keeping-the-faith-3-cody-anderson-cultivating-the-seeds-of-faith-pt-1/feed/ 1 Cody Anderson was an exemplary young member of the Church. As a teen, he was an Eagle Scout, a quorum president, and had experienced a spiritual conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. But as he began to encounter opposition and sin, Cody Anderson was an exemplary young member of the Church. As a teen, he was an Eagle Scout, a quorum president, and had experienced a spiritual conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. But as he began to encounter opposition and sin, he became discouraged and developed a sense of shame and unworthiness. He began to attend church less frequently and he gradually stopped reading the scriptures and praying. Eventually, he encountered anti-Mormon literature and found a rational justification for his disaffection from the Church. For a number of years, he pursued a lifestyle that was simply guided by his base desires. While some people like Cody never return to the Church, he instead returned to full activity, became sealed in the temple, and now volunteers for FAIR. In this interview, he explains what it was that brought him back into the Church and provides some insight into why some people leave the Church, and what friends and family members can do to help them return. SteveDensleyJr no 58:50 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/07/keeping-the-faith-2-michael-ash-and-shaken-faith-syndrome-pt-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/07/keeping-the-faith-2-michael-ash-and-shaken-faith-syndrome-pt-2/#comments Wed, 07 Nov 2012 09:31:27 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3810 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/07/keeping-the-faith-2-michael-ash-and-shaken-faith-syndrome-pt-2/feed/ 0 This is the second part of the two-part interview with Michael R. Ash. This is the second part of the two-part interview with Michael R. Ash. SteveDensleyJr no 51:55 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/07/keeping-the-faith-2-michael-ash-and-shaken-faith-syndrome-pt-1/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/07/keeping-the-faith-2-michael-ash-and-shaken-faith-syndrome-pt-1/#comments Wed, 07 Nov 2012 09:30:10 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3780 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/11/07/keeping-the-faith-2-michael-ash-and-shaken-faith-syndrome-pt-1/feed/ 1 As a young, faithful member of the Church, Mike Ash found his faith to be shaken by the anti-Mormon book The Kingdom of Cults. He worked through that experience and later found his faith to be challenged once more by the movie the God Makers, As a young, faithful member of the Church, Mike Ash found his faith to be shaken by the anti-Mormon book The Kingdom of Cults. He worked through that experience and later found his faith to be challenged once more by the movie the God Makers, and later by Church historical documents that were being “discovered” by a man named Mark Hoffman. In this interview, Brother Ash discusses how he was able to overcome doubts that were created by his encounters with anti-Mormon material and the Hoffman forgeries. He talks about the role apologetics played in strengthening his faith, how he became involved in FAIR, and he offers advice for family members and friends of those who are struggling with their faith. Michael R. Ash, is the author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One's Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, Of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. SteveDensleyJr no 44:59 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/31/keeping-the-faith-1-letter-to-a-doubter/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/31/keeping-the-faith-1-letter-to-a-doubter/#comments Wed, 31 Oct 2012 13:48:21 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3729 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/31/keeping-the-faith-1-letter-to-a-doubter/feed/ 4 Often, doubt and uncertainty arise not from facts and evidence that actually undermine what we thought was true, but rather from assumptions we might be making about those facts. Our confidence in the gospel can be strengthened as we adopt more sound a... Often, doubt and uncertainty arise not from facts and evidence that actually undermine what we thought was true, but rather from assumptions we might be making about those facts. Our confidence in the gospel can be strengthened as we adopt more sound assumptions. However, we do not necessarily need to be alarmed in the face of uncertainty and doubt. In this fireside presentation written by Terryl Givens, we find that in order for us to experience growth in this life, and to engage in an authentic test of our true desires, there must be grounds for doubt as well as belief. This is the first episode in the Keeping the Faith series of podcasts. This series explores ways in which our faith can be challenged, and ways in which we can overcome those challenges. This episode, is taken from a fireside presentation by Professor Terryl Givens given to the Single Adult Stake in Palo Alto, California in October of 2012. Brother Givens is a professor of religion and literature at the University of Richmond and author of many books and articles, including The God Who Weeps: How Mormonism Makes Sense of Life, which he co-authored with his wife, Fiona. This presentation is entitled, “Letter to a Doubter,” and is read by Steve Densley, Jr. This address is presented here by permission of Terryl Givens. The full text of the address can be found here. If there is an issue that you have been wondering about, you can often find the latest answers at the FAIR wiki, found at fairmormon.org. If you can't find your answer there, feel free to pose your question to the FAIR apologists by visiting the FAIR contact page. Tell your friends about us and help increase the popularity of this podcast by subscribing in iTunes and by writing a review. Music for this episode was provided courtesy of Paul Cardall. The opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 29:19 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/24/mormon-fair-cast-112-dead-sea-scrolls/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/24/mormon-fair-cast-112-dead-sea-scrolls/#comments Wed, 24 Oct 2012 21:17:50 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3452 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/24/mormon-fair-cast-112-dead-sea-scrolls/feed/ 1 How were the Dead Sea Scrolls discovered? How many scrolls have been found? Has there been an attempt to prevent scholars from translating them? Have some of the scolls been withheld from the public? Who were the authors of the Dead Sea Scrolls? How were the Dead Sea Scrolls discovered? How many scrolls have been found? Has there been an attempt to prevent scholars from translating them? Have some of the scolls been withheld from the public? Who were the authors of the Dead Sea Scrolls? Were they Christians? Did the Dead Sea Scrolls authors believe in a pre-earth life? What value should Latter-day Saints place in the Dead Sea Scrolls? Kevin Barney discusses these questions in this live interview with Mills Crenshaw that appeared on K-Talk radio on July 12, 2012, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Kevin Barney, a public finance attorney in Chicago, has published dozens of articles about Mormon studies in academic journals. He also serves on the Board of Directors of FAIR and of Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought and writes for By Common Consent. This recording is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 46:34 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/17/mormon-fair-cast-111-more-on-dna-evidence-and-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/17/mormon-fair-cast-111-more-on-dna-evidence-and-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Wed, 17 Oct 2012 22:11:27 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3398 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/17/mormon-fair-cast-111-more-on-dna-evidence-and-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 0 How much Native American DNA has actually been tested? Has any of the testing revealed a connection to the Middle East? If so, what conclusions can we draw from this? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on August 12, How much Native American DNA has actually been tested? Has any of the testing revealed a connection to the Middle East? If so, what conclusions can we draw from this? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on August 12, 2012, Martin Tanner follows up on his interview with Dr. Ugo A. Perego regarding DNA research. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:26 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/10/mormon-fair-cast-110-john-sorenson-takes-questions/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/10/mormon-fair-cast-110-john-sorenson-takes-questions/#comments Wed, 10 Oct 2012 20:49:23 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3472 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/10/mormon-fair-cast-110-john-sorenson-takes-questions/feed/ 1 Dr. John Sorenson takes questions in this live radio interview that took place on July 30, 2012 on Drive Time Live with Mills Crenshaw on KTKK Radio. Dr. Sorenson first explains how he became in involved in MesoAmerican studies. Dr. John Sorenson takes questions in this live radio interview that took place on July 30, 2012 on Drive Time Live with Mills Crenshaw on KTKK Radio. Dr. Sorenson first explains how he became in involved in MesoAmerican studies. He then responds to a variety of questions, including: Is there archeological evidence for the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon? What of the Native American settlements and Hebrew DNA among Native Americans in North America? What are we to make of the mention of elephants, horses, cows, oxen, etc. in the Book of Mormon? And, is there any evidence of a form of “Reformed Egyptian” writing in MesoAmerica? John L. Sorenson is professor emeritus of anthropology at Brigham Young University. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in archaeology from BYU, a master’s degree in meteorology from the California Institute of Technology, and a Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of California at Los Angeles. He originated the program in anthropology at BYU, heading it for fourteen of his twenty-four years of faculty service. His primary academic and professional emphasis was in sociocultural anthropology, including many years as an applied anthropologist. Among other positions, he served as director of social sciences at General Research Corporation in Santa Barbara, California, in the 1960s and later founded Bonneville Research Corporation in Provo, Utah. He is the author of more than 200 publications. Despite following a variety of other professional interests throughout his career, Dr. Sorenson never lost his strong interest in Mesoamerican archaeology, the subject that first drew him to anthropology. Since his retirement from BYU in 1986, he has concentrated his research and writing in that area. One of the key figures in the early development of the Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies (now part of the Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship), Dr. Sorenson served for several years as the editor of its Journal of Book of Mormon Studies. His 1985 book An Ancient American Setting for the Book of Mormon, published by FARMS and Deseret Book, has become the most influential treatment of Book of Mormon peoples and history in their Mesoamerican context. This recording is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 44:46 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/03/mormon-fair-cast-109-response-to-criticisms-of-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/03/mormon-fair-cast-109-response-to-criticisms-of-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Wed, 03 Oct 2012 22:13:33 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2479 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/03/mormon-fair-cast-109-response-to-criticisms-of-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 1 In a movie entitled "The Bible vs. The Book of Mormon," the Living Hope Ministries levels a set of common attacks against the Book of Mormon. In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on May 29, 2011, In a movie entitled "The Bible vs. The Book of Mormon," the Living Hope Ministries levels a set of common attacks against the Book of Mormon. In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on May 29, 2011, Martin Tanner discusses various arguments against the Book of Mormon and provides responses to these criticisms. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:51 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/02/fair-radio-promotion/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/02/fair-radio-promotion/#comments Tue, 02 Oct 2012 16:48:00 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3682 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/10/02/fair-radio-promotion/feed/ 3 We are encouraged when we receive notes of gratitude from those of you who have used our services. We regularly hear that FAIR has helped to answer difficult questions and strengthen testimonies. However, one of the most difficult things we hear  are t... We are encouraged when we receive notes of gratitude from those of you who have used our services. We regularly hear that FAIR has helped to answer difficult questions and strengthen testimonies. However, one of the most difficult things we hear  are the stories of family members of those who have left the Church and the frustration felt by those who wonder whether it would have made a difference if the family had known about FAIR sooner. Too often, it seems that by the time people discover FAIR, it is after a friend or family member has lost faith. If FAIR is going to be more effective in helping to prevent people from losing their testimonies, people need to know about FAIR before a crisis sets in. For this reason, FAIR is undertaking a more aggressive effort to advertise. Our first step will be to run ads on KSL radio around the time of and during General Conference. We will expand our efforts beyond this in the future, perhaps with television advertising as well, but it takes money! Due to the generosity of many of you over the past few weeks, we have been able to produce the radio advertisement that accompanies this message. With your continued support, we can continue to spread the word about FAIR to more people. Please consider making a donation of $500, or $300, or $100.  For those who are able, maybe you could donate $1,000. If that is too much of a stretch, maybe $50 or $25. A donation of any amount would be welcome.  Please make a donation now! To do so, go to the FAIR Blog donation page here. Thank you for your support! SteveDensleyJr no 1:01 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/26/mormon-fair-cast-108-jeffrey-bradshaw-on-temple-themes-in-the-scriptures/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/26/mormon-fair-cast-108-jeffrey-bradshaw-on-temple-themes-in-the-scriptures/#comments Wed, 26 Sep 2012 20:37:48 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3493 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/26/mormon-fair-cast-108-jeffrey-bradshaw-on-temple-themes-in-the-scriptures/feed/ 0 Dr. Jeffrey Bradshaw discusses his book, Temple Themes in the Book of Moses as well as some examples of temple worship among early Christians, and the Jews. He also touches on the Book of Enoch, the Council in Heaven and ancient temple architecture. - Dr. Jeffrey Bradshaw discusses his book, Temple Themes in the Book of Moses as well as some examples of temple worship among early Christians, and the Jews. He also touches on the Book of Enoch, the Council in Heaven and ancient temple architecture. Jeffrey M. Bradshaw (Ph.D., Cognitive Science, University of Washington) is a Senior Research Scientist at the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) in Pensacola, Florida. Formerly, he led research groups at The Boeing Company and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. He has authored hundreds of research articles and edited several volumes on topics relating to human and machine intelligence and interaction. Jeff was a missionary in the Belgium-Brussels mission, and has since served in a variety of teaching and leadership capacities including early-morning seminary teacher, bishop, high councilor, counselor in a stake presidency, stake executive secretary and temple ordinance worker. He and his wife Kathleen are the parents of four children. Dr. Bradshaw has published a number of books addressing temples themes in the scriptures including “In God’s Image and Likeness,” “Temple Themes in the Book of Moses,” and “Temple Themes in the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood.” Each is available for purchase at the FAIR Bookstore, here. Dr. Bradshaw also gave a presentation at the Temple on Mount Zion conference in Provo, Utah on September 23, 2012 regarding temple symbolism in the story of Noah's ark, and is available for viewing on YouTube. This recording is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 45:21 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/19/mormon-fair-cast-107-mesoamerican-connections-to-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/19/mormon-fair-cast-107-mesoamerican-connections-to-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Wed, 19 Sep 2012 21:24:23 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3524 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/19/mormon-fair-cast-107-mesoamerican-connections-to-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 5 Professor Mark Alan Wright reflects on a number of Mesoamerican practices and their possible connection with the Book of Mormon, including “day-keepers,” Shamanism and divine investiture, taking the countenance of a god by wearing deity masks, Professor Mark Alan Wright reflects on a number of Mesoamerican practices and their possible connection with the Book of Mormon, including “day-keepers,” Shamanism and divine investiture, taking the countenance of a god by wearing deity masks, and the Maya calendar system and prophecy. For Dr. Wright’s presentation on Nephite Daykeepers, see this YouTube video. Mark Alan Wright earned his BA in Anthropology at UCLA and his MA and PhD in Anthropology (with a subfield of specialization in Mesoamerican Archaeology) from UC Riverside. His dissertation is entitled “A Study of Classic Maya Rulership.” He regularly conducts research in Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and Belize. Dr. Wright is Assistant Professor of Ancient Scripture at Brigham Young University. This interview appears here by courtesy of the Interpreter. This views expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 35:14 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/12/mormon-fair-cast-106-temple-study-fireside-3-importance-of-the-temple/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/12/mormon-fair-cast-106-temple-study-fireside-3-importance-of-the-temple/#comments Wed, 12 Sep 2012 14:22:14 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3483 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/12/mormon-fair-cast-106-temple-study-fireside-3-importance-of-the-temple/feed/ 1 This is the third in a series of on-line fireside discussions of the book Temple Worship: 20 Truths That Will Bless Your Life, by Andrew C. Skinner. This discussion discusses the temple as being the “ultimate” of our worship, This is the third in a series of on-line fireside discussions of the book Temple Worship: 20 Truths That Will Bless Your Life, by Andrew C. Skinner. This discussion discusses the temple as being the “ultimate” of our worship, what it means to “serve” in the temple, where temples or temple worship can take place on the earth, the first endowments given in the Nauvoo Temple attic, temple “work” vs. temple “worship,” the fact that the Nauvoo temple was only in use for 2 months (8 weeks) before it was destroyed which makes us reflect on the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem in ancient times, what it means to have a “fullness of the Holy Ghost” which we can attain to in the temple, and the profound importance of the temple in the lives of Latter-day Saints and in our worship in the Church. Panelists include Bryce Haymond, Gary Anderson, Gerald Smith, and William Hamblin. This discussion was conducted live on August 22, 2012 through Google’s Hangouts on Air. It was streamed live on TempleStudy.com, where the video can also be found. A rough transcript of the discussion can be found here. Andrew C. Skinner is a professor of ancient scripture at Brigham Young University, was dean of Religious Education and the first executive director of BYU's Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. He holds master's degrees in Biblical Hebrew and Jewish Studies and a Ph.D. in Near Eastern and European History, specializing in Judaism.  He is the author or co-author of over 100 publications. SteveDensleyJr no 46:10 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/05/mormon-fair-cast-105-temple-study-fireside-2-the-dead-sea-scrolls-and-jacob-at-bethel/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/05/mormon-fair-cast-105-temple-study-fireside-2-the-dead-sea-scrolls-and-jacob-at-bethel/#comments Wed, 05 Sep 2012 19:16:44 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3372 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/09/05/mormon-fair-cast-105-temple-study-fireside-2-the-dead-sea-scrolls-and-jacob-at-bethel/feed/ 1 Professor William J. Hamblin leads the second of this series of on-line fireside discussions of the book Temple Worship: 20 Truths That Will Bless Your Life, by Andrew C. Skinner. This discussion focusses on the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Essenes, Qumran, Professor William J. Hamblin leads the second of this series of on-line fireside discussions of the book Temple Worship: 20 Truths That Will Bless Your Life, by Andrew C. Skinner. This discussion focusses on the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Essenes, Qumran, the Temple Scroll, Jacob at Bethel the symbolism of Jacob’s Ladder, as well as some thoughts from Elder Carlos E. Asay. Others who participated in this disussion were Bryce Haymond and Gary N. Anderson. This discussion was conducted live on August 16, 2012 through Google’s Hangouts on Air. It was streamed live on TempleStudy.com, where the video can also be found. A rough transcript of the discussion can be found here. Andrew C. Skinner is a professor of ancient scripture at Brigham Young University, was dean of Religious Education and the first executive director of BYU's Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. He holds master's degrees in Biblical Hebrew and Jewish Studies and a Ph.D. in Near Eastern and European History, specializing in Judaism.  He is the author or co-author of over 100 publications. SteveDensleyJr no 42:44 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/29/mormon-fair-cast-104b-temple-worship-fireside-introduction-pt-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/29/mormon-fair-cast-104b-temple-worship-fireside-introduction-pt-2/#comments Thu, 30 Aug 2012 04:31:10 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3351 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/29/mormon-fair-cast-104b-temple-worship-fireside-introduction-pt-2/feed/ 0 This is the second part of the two-part introuductory episode of the on-line fireside discussions of the book Temple Worship: 20 Truths That Will Bless Your Life, by Andrew C. Skinner. This is the second part of the two-part introuductory episode of the on-line fireside discussions of the book Temple Worship: 20 Truths That Will Bless Your Life, by Andrew C. Skinner. SteveDensleyJr no 35:44 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/29/mormon-fair-cast-104a-temple-worship-fireside-introduction-pt-1/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/29/mormon-fair-cast-104a-temple-worship-fireside-introduction-pt-1/#comments Thu, 30 Aug 2012 04:19:33 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3329 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/29/mormon-fair-cast-104a-temple-worship-fireside-introduction-pt-1/feed/ 2 Bryce Haymond of TempleStudy.com hosts this first in a series of on-line fireside discussions of the book Temple Worship: 20 Truths That Will Bless Your Life, by Andrew C. Skinner. Bryce is joined in this discussion by Frederick M. Huchel, Gary N. Bryce Haymond of TempleStudy.com hosts this first in a series of on-line fireside discussions of the book Temple Worship: 20 Truths That Will Bless Your Life, by Andrew C. Skinner. Bryce is joined in this discussion by Frederick M. Huchel, Gary N. Anderson, Steve Reed, and Tevya Washburn. This discussion was conducted live on August 5, 2012 through Google’s Hangouts on Air. It was streamed live on TempleStudy.com, where the video can also be found. A rough transcript of the discussion can be found here. In this session, the participants discuss such things as what details about the temple can be discussed outside the temple, and the temple as a model of the universe. Andrew C. Skinner is a professor of ancient scripture at Brigham Young University, was dean of Religious Education and the first executive director of BYU's Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. He holds master's degrees in Biblical Hebrew and Jewish Studies and a Ph.D. in Near Eastern and European History, specializing in Judaism.  He is the author or co-author of over 100 publications. SteveDensleyJr no 55:50 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/22/mormon-fair-cast-103-does-dna-research-disprove-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/22/mormon-fair-cast-103-does-dna-research-disprove-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Wed, 22 Aug 2012 22:30:44 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3269 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/22/mormon-fair-cast-103-does-dna-research-disprove-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 1 Why do some people claim that DNA research proves that the Book of Mormon is not historical? Are they right? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on August 5, 2012, Martin Tanner interviews Dr. Ugo A. Why do some people claim that DNA research proves that the Book of Mormon is not historical? Are they right? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on August 5, 2012, Martin Tanner interviews Dr. Ugo A. Perego about what we can conclude about the ancient inhabitants of American based on DNA research and what we cannot conclude. Dr. Perego received a BS and a MS in Health Sciences from Brigham Young University (Provo, Utah) and a PhD in Genetics and Biomolecular Sciences from the University of Pavia (Pavia, Italy) under the mentorship of Professor Antonio Torroni. During the past decade, he has given nearly 200 lectures on DNA topics relating to population migrations, ancestry, forensics, and history (including LDS history). Ugo has also authored and co-authored a number of publications, including the recent: “Joseph Smith, the Question of Polygamous Offspring, and DNA Analysis” (in Craig Foster and Newell Bringhurst’s The Persistence of Polygamy, 2010); “The Initial Peopling of the Americas: A Growing Number of Founding Mitochondrial Genomes” (in Genome Research, 2010); “The Book of Mormon and the Origins of Native Americans from a Maternally Inherited DNA Standpoint” (in Robert Millett’s No Weapon Shall Prosper, 2011); “The Mountain Meadows Massacre and “Poisoned Springs”: Scientific Testing of the More Recent, Anthrax Theory” (in International Journal of Legal Medicine, 2012); and “Rapid Coastal Spread of First Americans: Novel Insights from South America’s Southern Cone Mitochondrial Genomes” (in Genome Research, 2012). Ugo is married to Jenna and they are the parents of four boys and a girl. They live in Rome, Italy. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:55 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/16/mormon-fair-cast-102-what-can-we-learn-from-the-dead-sea-scrolls/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/16/mormon-fair-cast-102-what-can-we-learn-from-the-dead-sea-scrolls/#comments Thu, 16 Aug 2012 21:10:26 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2998 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/16/mormon-fair-cast-102-what-can-we-learn-from-the-dead-sea-scrolls/feed/ 1 What are the Dead Sea Scrolls? What do they have to say about Christianity? Do they prove that the LDS Church is true? Do they prove that any other church is false? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on May 27, 2012, What are the Dead Sea Scrolls? What do they have to say about Christianity? Do they prove that the LDS Church is true? Do they prove that any other church is false? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on May 27, 2012, Martin Tanner introduces the history behind the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls and discusses their importance to the Christian and Jewish faiths. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. Note that the first part of this recording has been lost. SteveDensleyJr no 18:49 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/08/mormon-fair-cast-101-dan-peterson-takes-questions/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/08/mormon-fair-cast-101-dan-peterson-takes-questions/#comments Thu, 09 Aug 2012 04:02:56 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3216 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/08/08/mormon-fair-cast-101-dan-peterson-takes-questions/feed/ 4 Dan Peterson takes questions from callers who both support and oppose the Church on this live interview with Mills Crenshaw that appeared on K-Talk radio on July 31, 2012, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Brother Peterson answers questions about the Book of Ab... Dan Peterson takes questions from callers who both support and oppose the Church on this live interview with Mills Crenshaw that appeared on K-Talk radio on July 31, 2012, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Brother Peterson answers questions about the Book of Abraham and a variety of questions about the Book of Mormon, including ones pertaining to DNA studies, Mesoamerican and Near-Eastern archaeology, and Joseph Smith’s production of the Book of Mormon. A native of southern California, Daniel C. Peterson received a bachelor’s degree in Greek and philosophy from Brigham Young University (BYU) and, after several years of study in Jerusalem and Cairo, earned his Ph.D. in Near Eastern Languages and Cultures from the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Peterson is a professor of Islamic Studies and Arabic at BYU and founder and the editor-in-chief of the University’s Middle Eastern Texts Initiative (METI). He is a past chairman of the board of the Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies (FARMS) and, until very recently, served as Director of Advancement for its successor organization, the Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. From 1988, when he founded it, through mid-June of 2012, he edited the FARMS Review, which was renamed the Mormon Studies Review in late 2011. He is the author of several books and numerous articles on Islamic and Latter-day Saint topics, including a biography of the Prophet Muhammad (Eerdmans, 2007). A former bishop, Dr. Peterson served in the Switzerland Zürich Mission, and, for approximately eight years, on the Gospel Doctrine writing committee for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He currently serves as a Gospel Doctrine teacher in his home ward. He is married to the former Deborah Stephens, of Lakewood, Colorado, and they are the parents of three sons. This recording is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 1:23:37 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/30/mormon-fair-cast-100-dan-peterson-on-apologetics/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/30/mormon-fair-cast-100-dan-peterson-on-apologetics/#comments Mon, 30 Jul 2012 15:06:39 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3171 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/30/mormon-fair-cast-100-dan-peterson-on-apologetics/feed/ 0 In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on July 29, 2012, Martin Tanner talks with Dan Peterson talks about what it means to be an “apologist,” what drew him to apologetics, the history of Mormon apologetics, In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on July 29, 2012, Martin Tanner talks with Dan Peterson talks about what it means to be an “apologist,” what drew him to apologetics, the history of Mormon apologetics, and some of the evidences of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. Professor Peterson is one of the presenters at the 2012 FAIR Conference. For more information about the conference, go to FAIRlds.org. A native of southern California, Daniel C. Peterson received a bachelor’s degree in Greek and philosophy from Brigham Young University (BYU) and, after several years of study in Jerusalem and Cairo, earned his Ph.D. in Near Eastern Languages and Cultures from the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Peterson is a professor of Islamic Studies and Arabic at BYU and founder and the editor-in-chief of the University’s Middle Eastern Texts Initiative (METI). He is a past chairman of the board of the Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies (FARMS) and, until very recently, served as Director of Advancement for its successor organization, the Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. From 1988, when he founded it, through mid-June of 2012, he edited the FARMS Review, which was renamed the Mormon Studies Review in late 2011. He is the author of several books and numerous articles on Islamic and Latter-day Saint topics, including a biography of the Prophet Muhammad (Eerdmans, 2007). A former bishop, Dr. Peterson served in the Switzerland Zürich Mission, and, for approximately eight years, on the Gospel Doctrine writing committee for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He currently serves as a Gospel Doctrine teacher in his home ward. He is married to the former Deborah Stephens, of Lakewood, Colorado, and they are the parents of three sons. Listeners will note that parts of this recording were unfortunately cut out. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 18:46 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/29/mormon-fair-cast-99-an-open-letter-to-dr-michael-coe/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/29/mormon-fair-cast-99-an-open-letter-to-dr-michael-coe/#comments Sun, 29 Jul 2012 17:05:35 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3100 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/29/mormon-fair-cast-99-an-open-letter-to-dr-michael-coe/feed/ 9 In August of 2011, Mormon dissident John Dehlin interviewed mesoamarican scholar and non-Mormon Dr. Michael Coe about “Book of Mormon archaeology” on Dehlin's podcast called "Mormon Stories." In response, the Mormon mesoamerican scholar Dr. In August of 2011, Mormon dissident John Dehlin interviewed mesoamarican scholar and non-Mormon Dr. Michael Coe about “Book of Mormon archaeology” on Dehlin's podcast called "Mormon Stories." In response, the Mormon mesoamerican scholar Dr. John Sorenson has drafted an open letter to Micahel Coe. It points out a variety of matters where Dr. Coe’s (and Dehlin’s) characterizations of both the discipline of Mesoamerican archaeology and the Book of Mormon account are either erroneous or greatly oversimplified. After quoting statements from the podcast, the “open letter” draws attention to technical literature that contradicts or modifies faulty claims, lest the errors be repeated. Instead of being a record that can be lightly dismissed, the Book of Mormon deserves to be studied with an open mind as a primary, if unconventional, source from an early Mesoamerican setting. The full text of the letter can be found at fairlds.org. The opinions expressed in this letter do not necessarily represent the views of the Church of Jesus Christ of Letter-day Saints, or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 30:21 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/25/mormon-fair-cast-98-john-welch-on-chiasmus-in-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/25/mormon-fair-cast-98-john-welch-on-chiasmus-in-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Wed, 25 Jul 2012 22:00:03 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3109 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/25/mormon-fair-cast-98-john-welch-on-chiasmus-in-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 1 In 1967, an ancient form of Hebrew poetry, called "chiasmus," was discovered by a young Mormon missionary named John Welch, while he was serving in Germany. When Hugh Nibley learned of the discovery, he told Welch, "Young man, In 1967, an ancient form of Hebrew poetry, called "chiasmus," was discovered by a young Mormon missionary named John Welch, while he was serving in Germany. When Hugh Nibley learned of the discovery, he told Welch, "Young man, I think you have made the first significant discovery to come out of the BYU." In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on July 22, 2012, Martin Tanner talks with FARMS founder John Welch about what chiasmus is, how he discovered it in the Book of Mormon and some of the implications of that discovery. Professor Welch is one of the presenters at the 2012 FAIR Conference. For more information about the conference, and to purchase tickets, go to FAIRlds.org. John W. Welch is the Robert K. Thomas Professor of Law at the J. Reuben Clark Law School, where teaches courses on tax exempt organizations, ancient laws in the Bible and Book of Mormon, and Joseph Smith and the law. He was educated at Brigham Young University with a B.A. in History and a M.A. in Classical Languages. He served a mission in South Germany (during which he discovered chiasmus in the Book of Mormon), studied Greek philosophy at Oxford University as a Woodrow Wilson Fellow, earned his law degree at Duke University, and practiced law in the Los Angeles firm of O’Melveny and Myers. He is well known as the founder of FARMS (the Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies) and since 1991 he has served as the editor-in-chief of BYU Studies Quarterly. He also was a Director of Special Projects for the BYU Religious Studies Center, the general editor of the Collected Works of Hugh Nibley, a member of the board of editors for Macmillan’s Encyclopedia of Mormonism, and on the steering committee of the Biblical Law Section of the Society of Biblical Literature. A number of his recent publications presenting striking discoveries concerning Joseph Smith and the law, the Sermon on the Mount, the parable of the Good Samaritan, the Trial of Jesus, King Benjamin’s speech, the Book of Mormon as a handbook of Church administration, and the nature and roles of evidence in law, science, and the nurturing of faith. He is married to Jeannie Sutton. They have four children and sixteen grandchildren. He has served twice as bishop and also as counselor in a stake presidency. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:14 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/17/mormon-fair-cast-97-building-the-nauvoo-temple/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/17/mormon-fair-cast-97-building-the-nauvoo-temple/#comments Wed, 18 Jul 2012 04:21:29 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3066 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/17/mormon-fair-cast-97-building-the-nauvoo-temple/feed/ 1 The Nauvoo Temple was both the second and the 113th temple constructed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The temple has remained close to the hearts of members of the Church ever since the time the Saints in Nauvoo had to leave the te... The Nauvoo Temple was both the second and the 113th temple constructed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The temple has remained close to the hearts of members of the Church ever since the time the Saints in Nauvoo had to leave the temple behind when they fled the city and moved West. Once the temple burned to the ground in 1848, it seemed lost to history. Yet, with its iconic Sunstones, it remained an integral part of the panorama of American religious history. So in 1999, it was with great excitement that the news was received that the temple would be rebuilt. Steve Goodwin was the project architect on the Nauvoo Temple. In this interview, he shares his experiences researching the original design of the temple and seeing the project through to its magnificent finish. He also shares his insights regarding symbolic aspects of the temple and the way in which modern temple architects approach symbolism in their designs. For more information about the symbolism of the Nauvoo Temple, see the FAIR Wiki entry found here. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the opinions of FAIR or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 1:06:53 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/11/mormon-fair-cast-97-fair-on-the-radio-pt-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/11/mormon-fair-cast-97-fair-on-the-radio-pt-2/#comments Wed, 11 Jul 2012 17:22:17 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3055 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/11/mormon-fair-cast-97-fair-on-the-radio-pt-2/feed/ 1 This is the second part of the interview with John Lynch and Stephen Smoot that originally aired on June 27 and is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The... This is the second part of the interview with John Lynch and Stephen Smoot that originally aired on June 27 and is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 47:11 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/11/mormon-fair-cast-97-fair-on-the-radio-pt-1/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/11/mormon-fair-cast-97-fair-on-the-radio-pt-1/#comments Wed, 11 Jul 2012 17:13:26 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3040 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/11/mormon-fair-cast-97-fair-on-the-radio-pt-1/feed/ 2 FAIR Board Chairman John Lynch and FAIR Member Stephen Smoot appeared on K-Talk radio, in Salt Lake City, Utah to discuss the mission of FAIR, its history and to take questions from callers. Some of the issues addressed were: - FAIR Board Chairman John Lynch and FAIR Member Stephen Smoot appeared on K-Talk radio, in Salt Lake City, Utah to discuss the mission of FAIR, its history and to take questions from callers. Some of the issues addressed were: What are the core beliefs one must maintain in order to be considered an “orthodox” Mormon? What is the distinction between knowledge and belief? Why are there different versions of Joseph Smith’s first vision? If Mitt Romney is elected President, will he be required to adopt the political positions of the Church? Is the Church a racist or sexist organization? John and Stephen also discussed the 2012 FAIR Conference that is being held in Utah on August 2 and 3 in Sandy, Utah. This recording originally aired on June 27 and is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 46:46 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/04/mormon-fair-cast-96-the-reality-of-the-resurrection/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/04/mormon-fair-cast-96-the-reality-of-the-resurrection/#comments Thu, 05 Jul 2012 04:21:26 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2954 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/07/04/mormon-fair-cast-96-the-reality-of-the-resurrection/feed/ 1 Can people really come back to life? What evidence is there for the resurrection of Christ? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on April 8, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses the reality of the resurrection and the hope th... Can people really come back to life? What evidence is there for the resurrection of Christ? In this episode of Religion Today, which originally aired on KSL Radio on April 8, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses the reality of the resurrection and the hope that lies therein for all of us. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. Note that the first part of this recording has been lost. SteveDensleyJr no 19:25 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/06/30/mormon-fair-cast-94-gay-mormon-finds-happiness-in-churchs-teachings/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/06/30/mormon-fair-cast-94-gay-mormon-finds-happiness-in-churchs-teachings/#comments Sun, 01 Jul 2012 00:43:03 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=3013 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/06/30/mormon-fair-cast-94-gay-mormon-finds-happiness-in-churchs-teachings/feed/ 0 Joshua Johanson, a scheduled speaker at the 2012 FAIR conference on August 2-3 in Sandy, Utah appeared recently on K-Talk radio to discuss his experience as an active Mormon who experiences same-sex attraction, and who is also happily married to a woman. Joshua Johanson, a scheduled speaker at the 2012 FAIR conference on August 2-3 in Sandy, Utah appeared recently on K-Talk radio to discuss his experience as an active Mormon who experiences same-sex attraction, and who is also happily married to a woman. “Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints can find happiness in following the Church’s teachings against same-sex relationships” said Joshua. A news article reporting on his interview can be found here. More information on the 2012 FAIR Conference, as well as how to purchase tickets, can be found here. This recording originally aired on June 27 and is posted here by permission of K-Talk Radio. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 47:09 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/06/13/mormon-fair-cast-93-deification-as-understood-by-the-greek-orthodox-church/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/06/13/mormon-fair-cast-93-deification-as-understood-by-the-greek-orthodox-church/#comments Wed, 13 Jun 2012 22:51:59 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2940 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/06/13/mormon-fair-cast-93-deification-as-understood-by-the-greek-orthodox-church/feed/ 1 Mormons have been criticized for believing that they can become like God. But are they alone among all the religions of the world in this belief? In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 25, 2012, Martin Tanner interviews Dr. Mormons have been criticized for believing that they can become like God. But are they alone among all the religions of the world in this belief? In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 25, 2012, Martin Tanner interviews Dr. Tom Roberts, Academic Dean, St Elias Seminary and Graduate School. They discuss the way in which the Greek Orthodox Church views the concept of deification. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:55 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/30/mormon-fair-cast-90-mormons-on-the-bbc/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/30/mormon-fair-cast-90-mormons-on-the-bbc/#comments Wed, 30 May 2012 22:50:10 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2884 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/30/mormon-fair-cast-90-mormons-on-the-bbc/feed/ 3 This episode of the BBC World Service program, World Have Your Say, features members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. - The five-member panel answers questions from listeners from all over the world, This episode of the BBC World Service program, World Have Your Say, features members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The five-member panel answers questions from listeners from all over the world, including: Whether Mormons want to be recognized as a mainstream religion? What part of the Mormon faith is influenced by the Bible, and what part is influenced by the culture of its founders? Why is polygamy stereotypically linked to Mormonism? Would Mitt Romney be expected to spread the Mormon faith as a president? Why are Mormons secretive? Why are they not as open as other churches? What effect will the past ban on ordaining African Americans to the priesthood have on Mitt Romney’s ability to win over minority voters? What is the purpose of temples? What has generated the rapid spread of Mormonism? What would Christ think of a religion that teaches that it is the only true church? What is the Mormon view on the separation of church and state? What is it like to be a female member of the Church and a member of the Relief Society, the largest women’s organization in the world? This program is posted here by permission of the BBC. The opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent the opinions of FAIR or of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint. SteveDensleyJr no 37:24 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/23/mormon-fair-cast-87-are-mormons-christians/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/23/mormon-fair-cast-87-are-mormons-christians/#comments Thu, 24 May 2012 01:23:54 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2588 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/23/mormon-fair-cast-87-are-mormons-christians/feed/ 7 Martin Tanner discuss the reasons why some say that Mormons are not Christian and provides a response to these contentions in this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on February 12, 2012. - This recording was used by permission of KSL Rad... Martin Tanner discuss the reasons why some say that Mormons are not Christian and provides a response to these contentions in this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on February 12, 2012. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:57 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/16/mormon-fair-cast-88-evidences-of-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/16/mormon-fair-cast-88-evidences-of-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Thu, 17 May 2012 01:24:36 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2657 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/16/mormon-fair-cast-88-evidences-of-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 1 In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 4, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses some of the evidences for the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. - This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent... In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 4, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses some of the evidences for the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:59 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/09/mormon-fair-cast-87-fostering-faith-and-countering-criticism-the-role-of-apologetics-in-in-the-information-age/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/09/mormon-fair-cast-87-fostering-faith-and-countering-criticism-the-role-of-apologetics-in-in-the-information-age/#comments Thu, 10 May 2012 01:05:01 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2837 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/09/mormon-fair-cast-87-fostering-faith-and-countering-criticism-the-role-of-apologetics-in-in-the-information-age/feed/ 4 On March 29, 2012, Scott Gordon appeared at the UVU Conference on Mormonism and the Internet. In this address, he explains the mission, purpose and history of FAIR. On March 29, 2012, Scott Gordon appeared at the UVU Conference on Mormonism and the Internet. In this address, he explains the mission, purpose and history of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 21:55 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/02/mormon-fair-cast-86-mesoamerican-evidences-for-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/02/mormon-fair-cast-86-mesoamerican-evidences-for-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Thu, 03 May 2012 01:20:01 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2513 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/05/02/mormon-fair-cast-86-mesoamerican-evidences-for-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 4 Martin Tanner discusses various mesoamerican evidences for the historicity of the Book of Mormon in this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on September 4, 2011. - This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessaril... Martin Tanner discusses various mesoamerican evidences for the historicity of the Book of Mormon in this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on September 4, 2011. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:41 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/26/mormon-fair-cast-85-foundations-of-fundamentalist-polygamy/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/26/mormon-fair-cast-85-foundations-of-fundamentalist-polygamy/#comments Fri, 27 Apr 2012 02:34:42 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2651 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/26/mormon-fair-cast-85-foundations-of-fundamentalist-polygamy/feed/ 8 What is the connection between some of the modern polygamist groups and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on February 26, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses the arguments used by some fu... What is the connection between some of the modern polygamist groups and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on February 26, 2012, Martin Tanner discusses the arguments used by some fundamentalist groups to justify their practice of polygamy, and why these arguments are inconsistent with the modern doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:56 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/18/mormon-fair-cast-84-journey-of-faith-the-new-world/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/18/mormon-fair-cast-84-journey-of-faith-the-new-world/#comments Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:00:22 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2730 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/18/mormon-fair-cast-84-journey-of-faith-the-new-world/feed/ 0 This is a collection of audio clips from the 2007 movie entitled "Journey of Faith: The New World," directed by Peter Johnson and produced by the Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies. - Thoughtful insights from 32 top scholars continue t... This is a collection of audio clips from the 2007 movie entitled "Journey of Faith: The New World," directed by Peter Johnson and produced by the Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies. Thoughtful insights from 32 top scholars continue the journey into the Book of Mormon's thousand-year span, aiding understanding of this sacred text. Mormon's description of the land, religious history, culture, and traditions create a fascinating mosaic. Stunningly beautiful images filmed on location in Guatemala and Mexico combined with the art of Joseph Brickey illuminate the right culture of the Book of Mormon. The video includes audio tracks in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Special features address specific topics such as the law of Moses and the Book of Mormon, DNA and the Book of Mormon, language and the Book of Mormon, metal in Book of Mormon lands, and more.  The full video runs approximately 90 minutes and can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore. These clips were posted by permission of the Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. SteveDensleyJr no 8:20 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/04/mormon-fair-cast-82-evidences-for-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/04/mormon-fair-cast-82-evidences-for-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Wed, 04 Apr 2012 19:18:26 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2722 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/04/04/mormon-fair-cast-82-evidences-for-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 1 In 2005, a film was released titled: “The Bible vs. The Book of Mormon”. Produced by an evangelical Christian ministry, the primary purpose of the film was to present arguments against the authenticity of The Book of Mormon, In 2005, a film was released titled: “The Bible vs. The Book of Mormon”. Produced by an evangelical Christian ministry, the primary purpose of the film was to present arguments against the authenticity of The Book of Mormon, a text sacred to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Members of the LDS Church believe the Bible and the Book of Mormon are authentic ancient scriptures revealed by God to prophets, and join with other Christians in proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is an audio version of the video presentation produced by FAIR that addresses some of the concerns raised by the film. FAIR's video presentation can be viewed on YouTube. SteveDensleyJr no 1:14:08 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/28/fair-questions-3-sharing-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/28/fair-questions-3-sharing-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Thu, 29 Mar 2012 04:33:09 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2556 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/28/fair-questions-3-sharing-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 1 FAIR Questions features a question that was submitted to FAIR volunteers through the FAIR website at fairlds.org. The answer in each episode is compiled from the various responses provided by the volunteers. - And now for the question: - FAIR Questions features a question that was submitted to FAIR volunteers through the FAIR website at fairlds.org. The answer in each episode is compiled from the various responses provided by the volunteers. And now for the question: I just want to start out by saying that I have the highest respect for all church apologists. I am 19 years old and just saving up some money before I send my papers in to serve a mission. I download the podcasts from FAIR and I listen to them all the time. I just want to say, thank you so much for everything you do. After having some questions of my own answered, my testimony has been strengthened beyond words. I have also been able to help others because of what I have learned from the podcasts and books I have read. I just want to ask a question from the point of view of someone who deals with non-members and apostate members on a daily basis: What is the best advice you can give me as a prospective missionary in regards to teaching people about The Book of Mormon? I know it's a very general question, but if you could leave one ounce of your knowledge with me it would be a blessing to me! And now for the answer: Thank you for your kind words. We here at FAIR are not compensated monetarily. Our only "payment" is kind words of gratitude that we get from individuals such as you. Congratulations on your decision to serve a mission! Although it will be challenging at times, it will be completely worth it. Can you think of anything the world needs right now more than the Gospel of Jesus Christ?  Unfortunately, the world is extremely divided as to what is meant by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Bible alone, as magnificent as it is, has not united the believing world under one Lord, one faith or one baptism. In fact, it seems that the Bible itself has never come under more criticism or skepticism at any time since its inception than it is today. Many around the world are concluding that the Bible is irrelevant in their lives. They say that Jesus may have been just a legend or a mere myth which, over time, transformed him into a God in the minds of a group of people who came to call themselves Christians. The very value of scripture seems to be assailed constantly. What if there was a record that shared a common genesis with the Biblical record, yet was maintained and revealed to us from a separate nation apart from Judea? What if another people, or several groups of people had preserved their own witness of the divinity of Christ? What would be its value to the world today? What if there was a volume of scripture, apart from the Bible, that bore witness of the foundational truths contained in the Bible? What if that volume came to us as a result of God calling a Prophet today to once again bear witness that Jesus is the very Eternal God manifesting Himself to all nations - a book that reminds us of the important promises and Covenants made long centuries ago, to a people long dead, which are being fulfilled in our day? Wouldn't that go a long way toward showing that God is the same yesterday, today and forever, and that he remembers his covenants to the children of men, and that no matter how long it seems to take to the human mind, He has not forgotten or forsaken his ancient promises? The Book of Mormon was published in 1830 before Joseph Smith was even 25 years old. In a few short years you will be that same age. Even with all the educational advantages you will have between now and the time you are that age, can you imagine producing a volume like the Book of Mormon? Could you sit day after day in front of a scribe and recite endless passages of Isaiah, or even Jacob chapter 5? Could you speak for days in one long paragraph, without any double checking, without any punctuation, without any proof reading, and then submit the final product of hundreds of pages to a publisher? Several months before the Book of Mormon was published, SteveDensleyJr no 11:46 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/21/mormon-fair-cast-80-the-controversy-surrounding-mormon-baptisms-for-the-dead/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/21/mormon-fair-cast-80-the-controversy-surrounding-mormon-baptisms-for-the-dead/#comments Wed, 21 Mar 2012 22:39:20 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2695 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/21/mormon-fair-cast-80-the-controversy-surrounding-mormon-baptisms-for-the-dead/feed/ 1 In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 18, 2012, Martin Tanner and Steve Densley, Jr. of FAIR discuss the recent controversy regarding the practice of baptisms for the dead as practiced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-... In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 18, 2012, Martin Tanner and Steve Densley, Jr. of FAIR discuss the recent controversy regarding the practice of baptisms for the dead as practiced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. How did this controversy arise? Why do Mormons perform this ordinance? Were baptisms for the dead really practiced in the ancient Church? These and other topics are discussed. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 19:54 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/14/mormon-fair-cast-79-does-mitt-romney-belong-to-a-racist-religion/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/14/mormon-fair-cast-79-does-mitt-romney-belong-to-a-racist-religion/#comments Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:25:48 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2682 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/14/mormon-fair-cast-79-does-mitt-romney-belong-to-a-racist-religion/feed/ 1 In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 11, 2012, Martin Tanner and the president of FAIR, Scott Gordon, discuss the recent allegation of a Florida minister that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a "racist reli... In this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on March 11, 2012, Martin Tanner and the president of FAIR, Scott Gordon, discuss the recent allegation of a Florida minister that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a "racist religion." The minister has called on Mitt Romney to, as the minister puts it: "openly renounce his racist Mormon Religion." Tanner and Gordon discuss the past history of racism that was pervasive in many Churches, even before the founding of the LDS Church, and the way in which some racist attitudes and myths may have crept into the thinking of some early members of the Church. They emphasize the more recent statements from the Church that "unequivocally condemn[] racism, including any and all past racism by individuals both inside and outside the Church." (See Official Statement here.) Listeners should note that the first part of this recording was cut off. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 18:36 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/09/fair-conversations-episode-16-max-mueller-on-blacks-and-the-priesthood/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/09/fair-conversations-episode-16-max-mueller-on-blacks-and-the-priesthood/#comments Fri, 09 Mar 2012 13:00:35 +0000 bhodges http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2675 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/09/fair-conversations-episode-16-max-mueller-on-blacks-and-the-priesthood/feed/ 5 The most recent public discussion on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and race was spurred by the comments of a BYU religious education professor which were published in the Washington Post. Professor Randy Bott related justifications fo... The most recent public discussion on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and race was spurred by the comments of a BYU religious education professor which were published in the Washington Post. Professor Randy Bott related justifications for the ban which included ideas about the curse of Cain, and the restriction being a means of divine protection. An official response from the LDS Church quickly appeared online at mormonnewsroom.org. It read, in part: The positions attributed to BYU professor Randy Bott in a recent Washington Post article absolutely do not represent the teachings and doctrines of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints....The Church’s position is clear—we believe all people are God’s children and are equal in His eyes and in the Church. We do not tolerate racism in any form...We condemn racism, including any and all past racism by individuals both inside and outside the Church. Max Mueller, a Ph.D. candidate in religious history at Harvard University, wrote a response for Slate which stated: For many Mormons, reading Bott’s words was like unearthing a theological dinosaur long thought extinct but suddenly rediscovered in the corner of an obscure BYU office. His positions seem radically out of place in a modern church with an international membership that includes probably some 500,000 Mormons of African descent. The church’s expensive and ubiquitous “I’m a Mormon” public relations campaign has been carefully and deliberately multiethnic; Mormon leaders want the world to view the religion as the diverse global community it has become. Unfortunately, Bott’s beliefs, though arcane, represent a strain of Mormonism that has persisted well past the 1978 revelation. Mueller, also the associate editor of a forthcoming online journal called "Religion & Politics," joins host Blair Hodges for the latest episode of FAIR Conversations. The views expressed by Mr. Mueller here or elsewhere do not necessarily represent the views of FAIR or of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions or comments about this episode can be sent to podcast@fairlds.org. Or, join the conversation in the comments here.  Runtime: 89:51 To download, right click the “Download” link below and select “Save link as…” You can also download the episode or subscribe to all episodes of the Mormon FAIR-Cast in iTunes here.   ______________________________ Apologies for the occasional sound pops in this episode, production was a bit rushed. See also the FAIR Blog posts by Mike Parker and Scott Gordon which also include links to other discussions on this subject.     bhodges no 1:18:38 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/07/fair-conversations-episode-15-matthew-bowman-on-his-new-book-the-mormon-people/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/07/fair-conversations-episode-15-matthew-bowman-on-his-new-book-the-mormon-people/#comments Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:00:03 +0000 bhodges http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2664 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/07/fair-conversations-episode-15-matthew-bowman-on-his-new-book-the-mormon-people/feed/ 2 The latest, greatest one-volume history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was published just in time for Mitt Romney's 2012 presidential bid. It's Matthew Bowman's The Mormon People: The Making of an American Faith. The latest, greatest one-volume history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was published just in time for Mitt Romney's 2012 presidential bid. It's Matthew Bowman's The Mormon People: The Making of an American Faith. He's been all over the place since the book came out, including appearances in Slate, the Huffington Post, the Christian Science Monitor, and on MSNBC's Morning Joe. In this episode, Bowman talks about the genesis and production of his new book. Find out why he describes Bruce R. McConkie as a "Progressive-minded" leader, and why he sees the LDS Correlation department as being a sort of "catechism" constructor. We also discuss Bowman's view of how the media has treated Mormonism during this, the latest of many Mormon moments. Bowman earned his Ph.D. in American religious history at Georgetown University. He currently teaches that exact subject at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia. He's also the associate editor of Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought and the author of a variety of award-winning articles on Mormonism. Questions or comments about this episode can be sent to podcast@fairlds.org. Or, join the conversation in the comments here.  Runtime: 69:48 To download, right click the "Download" link below and select “Save link as…” You can also download the episode or subscribe to all episodes of the Mormon FAIR-Cast in iTunes here. bhodges no 1:09:49 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/01/fair-issues-32-a-lutheran-bishops-perspective-on-mormon-baptism-for-the-dead/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/01/fair-issues-32-a-lutheran-bishops-perspective-on-mormon-baptism-for-the-dead/#comments Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:15:12 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2621 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/03/01/fair-issues-32-a-lutheran-bishops-perspective-on-mormon-baptism-for-the-dead/feed/ 2 The Mormon practice of baptism for the dead has been the subject of heated discussion of late by many who seem to not understand the practice. Suprisingly, one of the most sympathetic views of this ancient practice come from an eminent New Testament sc... The Mormon practice of baptism for the dead has been the subject of heated discussion of late by many who seem to not understand the practice. Suprisingly, one of the most sympathetic views of this ancient practice come from an eminent New Testament scholar named Krister Stendahl. Professor Stendahl served as chaplain and dean of Harvard Divinity School and as the Lutheran bishop of Stockholm (i.e., effectively, as the head of the state church of Sweden). Professor Daniel Peterson shares how Professor Stendahl became the author of the article on baptism for the dead in the Encyclopedia of Mormonism. The articles referenced by Dr. Peterson include: 1) "Salvation for the Dead in Early Christianity," by Roger D. Cook, David L. Paulsen and Kendel J. Christensen; 2) "Baptism for the Dead in Early Christianity," by David L. Paulsen and Brock M. Mason; 3) "Redeeming the Dead: Tender Mercies, Turning of Hearts, and Restoration of Authority," by David L. Paulsen, Kendel J. Christensen and Martin Pulido; and 4) "Redemption of the Dead: Continuing Revelation after Joseph Smith," by David L. Paulsen, Judson Burton, Kendel J. Christensen and Martin Pulido. The first three are accessible online at maxwellinstitute.byu.edu/publications/jbms/; the most recent article is available in print, but hasn't yet been put online. Dr. Peterson also referenced the video entitled "Why Mormons Build Temples." The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Daniel C. Peterson is a professor of Islamic studies and Arabic at BYU, where he also serves as editor in chief of the Middle Eastern Texts Initiative and as director of advancement for the Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. He is the founder of MormonScholarsTestify.org. Daniel Peterson is the author of many books and articles, including Offenders for a Word, which is available, along with other talks by Brother Peterson, at the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 5:56 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/23/fair-issues-31-translation-of-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/23/fair-issues-31-translation-of-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Fri, 24 Feb 2012 04:04:02 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2560 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/23/fair-issues-31-translation-of-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 1 Among LDS scholars there are at least two main theories regarding the transmission of the Book of Mormon text into English. Some believe in a "tight control" theory and others in a "loose control" theory. Still others believe in a combination of the two. Among LDS scholars there are at least two main theories regarding the transmission of the Book of Mormon text into English. Some believe in a "tight control" theory and others in a "loose control" theory. Still others believe in a combination of the two. In this article, Michael R. Ash describes these theories. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 6:12 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/15/fair-examination-9-polygamy-as-an-abrahamic-sacrifice-dr-valerie-hudson/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/15/fair-examination-9-polygamy-as-an-abrahamic-sacrifice-dr-valerie-hudson/#comments Thu, 16 Feb 2012 04:57:30 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2570 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/15/fair-examination-9-polygamy-as-an-abrahamic-sacrifice-dr-valerie-hudson/feed/ 15 The Book of Mormon condemns polygamy, and calls it abominable. Modern leaders of the Church have condemned the practice. In light of this, what are we to make of the ancient practice of polygamy and of the practice of polygamy by early Mormons? The Book of Mormon condemns polygamy, and calls it abominable. Modern leaders of the Church have condemned the practice. In light of this, what are we to make of the ancient practice of polygamy and of the practice of polygamy by early Mormons? Does the Book of Mormon contradict the Doctrine & Covenants? What of polygamy in the next life? Is polygamy necessary to exaltation? If polygamy is legalized in the United States, will the Church reinstitute polygamy? In this episode of FAIR Examination, Dr. Valerie M. Hudson shares her thoughts on these and other questions. While Dr. Hudson was a professor of political science at Brigham Young University, she was listed as one of the "100 Top Global Thinkers of 2009" by Foreign Policy Magazine. In January 2012, she became a Professor and George H.W. Bush Chair in the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, teaching in the masters of international affairs program. More of her views on polygamy, women and the priesthood, and other women's issues are discussed in the book Women in Eternity, Women in Zion that she co-authored with Alma Don Sorenson. For further information on polygamy, see the FAIR Wiki article posted here. SteveDensleyJr no 1:00:07 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/08/mormon-fair-cast-73-purpose-history-and-offerings-of-fair/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/08/mormon-fair-cast-73-purpose-history-and-offerings-of-fair/#comments Thu, 09 Feb 2012 04:46:26 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2508 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/08/mormon-fair-cast-73-purpose-history-and-offerings-of-fair/feed/ 1 Mike Ash and Martin Tanner discuss the purpose of FAIR, the history of FAIR, various FAIR publications and the topics covered in the 2011 FAIR Conference in this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on July 31, 2011. - Mike Ash and Martin Tanner discuss the purpose of FAIR, the history of FAIR, various FAIR publications and the topics covered in the 2011 FAIR Conference in this episode of Religion Today that originally aired on July 31, 2011. This recording was used by permission of KSL Radio and does not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 20:01 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/01/fair-examination-8-aversion-therapy-at-byu-dr-eugene-thorne/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/01/fair-examination-8-aversion-therapy-at-byu-dr-eugene-thorne/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:53:44 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2461 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/02/01/fair-examination-8-aversion-therapy-at-byu-dr-eugene-thorne/feed/ 8 Dr. Eugene Thorne was a member of the psychology department at BYU during the 1970s, and was involved with studies into what is called “aversion therapy.” In this interview, Dr. Thorne explains the studies that were done, Dr. Eugene Thorne was a member of the psychology department at BYU during the 1970s, and was involved with studies into what is called “aversion therapy.” In this interview, Dr. Thorne explains the studies that were done, and helps clear up some of the misperceptions, false innuendo, and outright lies that have been told regarding aversion therapy. One of his patients, who is happily married and active in the Church, though wishes to remain anonymous, has made this statement about his experience with aversion therapy at BYU: "I have absolutely no negative feelings or memories of the experience. It truly didn't 'cure' anything (SSA or lust addiction), but it certainly did not leave any physical or mental 'scars' and was carefully and lovingly conducted." For further information on aversion therapy, see the FAIR Wiki article posted here. The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the opinions of FAIR or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SteveDensleyJr no 1:09:29 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/24/fair-conversations-episode-14-tom-mould-on-folklore-and-personal-revelation/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/24/fair-conversations-episode-14-tom-mould-on-folklore-and-personal-revelation/#comments Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:00:11 +0000 bhodges http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2450 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/24/fair-conversations-episode-14-tom-mould-on-folklore-and-personal-revelation/feed/ 1 Perhaps the most underrated Mormon-themed book of 2011 was Tom Mould's Still, the Small Voice: Narrative, Personal Revelation, and the Mormon Folk Tradition. As the title suggests, Mould explores how the Spirit's "small voice" is still an important par... Perhaps the most underrated Mormon-themed book of 2011 was Tom Mould's Still, the Small Voice: Narrative, Personal Revelation, and the Mormon Folk Tradition. As the title suggests, Mould explores how the Spirit's "small voice" is still an important part of religious life for Latter-day Saints. The book is a folklorist's examination of the stories Mormons share about personal revelation. In this episode of FAIR Conversations, Mould describes some ways revelatory narratives highlight distinctive Mormon beliefs such as stewardship and agency. He highlights the role revelation plays in Mormon decision making, in relieving anxiety, and in dealing with the ambiguities of everyday life. The stories Mormons tell about the revelation we seek and receive suggest important clues about our values. Mould's work is thought-provoking, challenging, and inspiring, religiously and academically. He brings the perspective of a thoughtful outsider but speaks with an insider's knowledge. Mould is associate professor of anthropology and folklore at Elon University in North Carolina. Check out the author bio on Utah State University Press's website here, and my full review of Still, the Small Voice here. Questions or comments about this episode can be sent to podcast@fairlds.org. Or, join the conversation in the comments here.    Runtime: 80:59 To download, right click the "Download" link below and select “Save link as…” You can also download the episode or subscribe to all episodes of the Mormon FAIR-Cast in iTunes here. bhodges no 1:21:00 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/19/mormon-fair-cast-70-the-gift-and-power-translating-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/19/mormon-fair-cast-70-the-gift-and-power-translating-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:34:09 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2421 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/19/mormon-fair-cast-70-the-gift-and-power-translating-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 1 Brant Gardner is interviewed on KTKK Radio and on KSL Radio regarding his new book, The Gift and Power: Translating the Book of Mormon (available for purchase at the FAIR Bookstore) He talks about seer stones, the Spaulding manuscript, stylometrics, Brant Gardner is interviewed on KTKK Radio and on KSL Radio regarding his new book, The Gift and Power: Translating the Book of Mormon (available for purchase at the FAIR Bookstore) He talks about seer stones, the Spaulding manuscript, stylometrics, various theories on Book of Mormon translation and the Book of Mormon in the context of Mesoamerican culture. Brant Gardner's academic background includes work towards a Ph.D. in Mesoamerican Ethnohistory at the State University of New York, Albany. His published works on Mesoamerica include an analysis of classical Nahuatl kinship terminology, an ethnohistoric investigation into the identification of the use of Coxoh to designate a people and language in Southern Mexico, and an examination of the Aztec Legend of the Suns. He has written articles that have appeared in the FARMS Review, and his widely acclaimed six-volume commentary on the Book of Mormon, Second Witness: Analytical and Contextual Commentary on the Book of Mormon, is published by Kofford Books and available for purchase at the FAIR Bookstore. These interviews are posted here by permission of KTKK Radio and KSL Radio. The views expressed in these interviews do not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 40:53 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/11/fair-examination-7-therapy-and-same-sex-attraction-david-matheson/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/11/fair-examination-7-therapy-and-same-sex-attraction-david-matheson/#comments Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:48:58 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2349 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/11/fair-examination-7-therapy-and-same-sex-attraction-david-matheson/feed/ 14 David Matheson is a licensed professional counselor at the Center for Gender Wholeness in Salt Lake City, Utah. His practice focuses on helping people with unwanted same-sex attraction.  David received his Masters of Science degree in Counseling and Gu... David Matheson is a licensed professional counselor at the Center for Gender Wholeness in Salt Lake City, Utah. His practice focuses on helping people with unwanted same-sex attraction.  David received his Masters of Science degree in Counseling and Guidance from Brigham Young University in 1996. Afterwards, he practiced for seven years as a psychological assistant under Dr. Joseph Nicolosi.  During his tenure, he co-created the "Journey into Manhood" experiential weekend with Ben Newman and began serving on the board of directors of People Can Change. He is an active member of the Church and shares how the gospel of Jesus Christ has influenced his desire to serve men with same-sex attraction.  He talks about some modern approaches and how these approaches fit within the stances of major medical institutions and the relationship with the Church.  He shares stories of success as well as some potential for harm associated with therapy.  He clarifies some common misconceptions around therapy and the need to make this therapy available for those seeking it.  He talks about how family, friends and leaders can help people with same-sex attraction and how that fits in with their duty to bear one another's burdens. SteveDensleyJr no 1:13:49 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/04/fair-examination-6-overcoming-same-sex-attraction-blake-smith/ http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/04/fair-examination-6-overcoming-same-sex-attraction-blake-smith/#comments Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:05:35 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2346 http://www.fairblog.org/2012/01/04/fair-examination-6-overcoming-same-sex-attraction-blake-smith/feed/ 1 Blake Smith is a member of the church who has a history with same sex attraction.  In this interview, he shares how he reconciled his sexual attractions to men with the gospel of Jesus Christ and how the law of chastity has brought him peace. Blake Smith is a member of the church who has a history with same sex attraction.  In this interview, he shares how he reconciled his sexual attractions to men with the gospel of Jesus Christ and how the law of chastity has brought him peace.  He begins talking about his unsuccessful attempts at aversion therapy and subsequent failed marriage.  He then shares why he decided to stay in the church and what helped him.  He talks about the love and encouragement he received from his ecclesiatical leaders and from a support group called North Star.  He tells his story of finding true love to the woman of his dreams and of finally overcoming same-sex attraction. SteveDensleyJr no 1:09:24 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5c-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5c-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/#comments Thu, 29 Dec 2011 20:03:53 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2405 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5c-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/feed/ 0 This is the third of a three-part interview. This is the third of a three-part interview. SteveDensleyJr no 1:03:20 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5b-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5b-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/#comments Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:58:40 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2398 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5b-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/feed/ 0 This is the second part of a three-part episode. This is the second part of a three-part episode. SteveDensleyJr no 1:01:44 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/#comments Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:52:30 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2344 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/29/fair-examination-5-marriage-to-a-man-with-same-sex-attraction-joshua-alyssa-johanson/feed/ 9 How does a man with same-sex attraction find the only woman in the world to whom he is attracted? In this interview, Joshua Johanson talks about his history with same-sex attraction, his experience as a BYU student and as a member of a singles ward, How does a man with same-sex attraction find the only woman in the world to whom he is attracted? In this interview, Joshua Johanson talks about his history with same-sex attraction, his experience as a BYU student and as a member of a singles ward, and introduces us to his wife, Alyssa Johanson. Alyssa shares her insights into being married to a man with same sex-attraction. Joshua and Alyssa also discuss the things that have helped make their marriage successful. As they do so, it becomes clear that their relationship is not all that different from anyone else’s. They also discuss Proposition 8, Elder Packer’s October 2010 General Conference address, as well as the following questions: Does the Church recommend marriage as a therapeutic measure for someone experiencing same-sex attraction? What is wrong with homosexual activity (kissing, etc.) that stops short of intercourse? If gays can marry, why would sex in that relationship be a violation of the law of chastity? Did Jesus speak out against homosexuality? How can the Church uphold its standards while still extending love to those who experience same-sex attraction? SteveDensleyJr no 50:29 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/21/fair-examination-4-fred-marilyn-matis/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/21/fair-examination-4-fred-marilyn-matis/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:50:26 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2317 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/21/fair-examination-4-fred-marilyn-matis/feed/ 3 Fred & Marilyn Matis are Co-Authors with Ty Mansfield of the book published by Deseret Book called, "In Quiet Desperation: Understanding the Challenge of Same Gender Attraction." Fred and Marilyn are the parents of Stuart Matis, Fred & Marilyn Matis are Co-Authors with Ty Mansfield of the book published by Deseret Book called, "In Quiet Desperation: Understanding the Challenge of Same Gender Attraction." Fred and Marilyn are the parents of Stuart Matis, a young man who struggled with same gender attraction. After successfully serving a mission for the LDS Church, Stuart returned home and continued to struggle with same gender attraction for many years until, in February of 2000, at the age of 32, he took his own life. Since that time, Fred & Marilyn have reached out to other individuals who experience same gender attraction and their families to help foster better understanding and support for those who struggle with the unique challenges of same gender attraction. SteveDensleyJr no 1:19:49 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/14/fair-examination-3b-two-mothers-of-sons-with-same-gender-attraction/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/14/fair-examination-3b-two-mothers-of-sons-with-same-gender-attraction/#comments Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:34:21 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2336 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/14/fair-examination-3b-two-mothers-of-sons-with-same-gender-attraction/feed/ 2 This is the second part of a two part interview. This is the second part of a two part interview. SteveDensleyJr no 45:10 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/14/fair-examination-3a-two-mothers-of-sons-with-same-gender-attraction/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/14/fair-examination-3a-two-mothers-of-sons-with-same-gender-attraction/#comments Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:29:32 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2313 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/14/fair-examination-3a-two-mothers-of-sons-with-same-gender-attraction/feed/ 11 How do Mormon parents respond when they find out they have a son or daughter with same sex attraction? What happens when the child decides the leave the Church and engage in homosexual activity? What can parents do to show love for such a child while s... How do Mormon parents respond when they find out they have a son or daughter with same sex attraction? What happens when the child decides the leave the Church and engage in homosexual activity? What can parents do to show love for such a child while still remaining faithful to the Church? In this episode, two active, LDS mothers talk about their experiences raising sons who are involved in homosexual relationships. It should be noted that they will not be referred to by name out of respect for their sons and for other family members, and they did not feel comfortable using pseudonyms. SteveDensleyJr no 58:42 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/07/fair-examination-2-an-active-lds-mother-with-same-gender-attraction/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/07/fair-examination-2-an-active-lds-mother-with-same-gender-attraction/#comments Thu, 08 Dec 2011 04:33:49 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2288 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/12/07/fair-examination-2-an-active-lds-mother-with-same-gender-attraction/feed/ 8   - When we think of people with same sex attraction, we usually don't imagine a temple-married, active LDS, mother of two. Yet that is what we find in this interview with "Samantha." Interestingly, a person such as she may not be as uncommon as we of...   When we think of people with same sex attraction, we usually don't imagine a temple-married, active LDS, mother of two. Yet that is what we find in this interview with "Samantha." Interestingly, a person such as she may not be as uncommon as we often believe. LDS Family Social Services estimates that 4-5 members in the average LDS ward experience same gender attraction. Most of those are married with children. In this interview, “Samantha” tells about her experiences with Church leaders at BYU and in her home ward over the years. She also helps to provide insight into how fellow family members and ward members can help lift the burden of someone who experiences same gender attraction. SteveDensleyJr no 1:11:54 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/30/fair-examination-1b-why-would-a-gay-man-with-aids-join-the-church/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/30/fair-examination-1b-why-would-a-gay-man-with-aids-join-the-church/#comments Thu, 01 Dec 2011 01:07:27 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2205 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/30/fair-examination-1b-why-would-a-gay-man-with-aids-join-the-church/feed/ 13 homosexuality,podcast This is the second half of a two part interview with Steven Wilson. This is the second half of a two part interview with Steven Wilson. SteveDensleyJr no 48:50 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/30/fair-examination-1a-why-would-a-gay-man-with-aids-join-the-church/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/30/fair-examination-1a-why-would-a-gay-man-with-aids-join-the-church/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 23:13:46 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2126 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/30/fair-examination-1a-why-would-a-gay-man-with-aids-join-the-church/feed/ 68 homosexuality,podcast Steven Wilson is a member of the Church living in the San Francisco Bay area. Twenty years ago, he was introduced to the Church by a recently returned missionary he met in a gay bar. The two eventually moved in together and during the next seven years, Steven Wilson is a member of the Church living in the San Francisco Bay area. Twenty years ago, he was introduced to the Church by a recently returned missionary he met in a gay bar. The two eventually moved in together and during the next seven years, Steven developed addictions, contracted AIDS and became severely depressed. As Steven's condition worsened and he began to feel that he was going to die, he turned to an in-depth investigation of the Church. This is his story about how he joined the Church, and eventually became an ordinance worker at the Oakland Temple. He is now happy and no longer experiences temptations with same gender attraction. He was baptized by the same returned missionary that first introduced him to the Church and with whom he has lived for the past 20 years. During the past 13 years of active Church membership, the two men have maintained a close bond of love, friendship and brotherhood within the gospel. He attributes his success in overcoming same gender attraction and his addictions to the Church’s 12 Step Addiction Recovery Program and to the atonement of Jesus Christ. He shares his thoughts on gay marriage, President Packer's October, 2010 Conference talk, and his strong testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is the first part of a two part interview. SteveDensleyJr no 43:35 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/27/mormon-fair-cast-62-a-most-remarkable-book/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/27/mormon-fair-cast-62-a-most-remarkable-book/#comments Mon, 28 Nov 2011 04:34:33 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2246 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/27/mormon-fair-cast-62-a-most-remarkable-book/feed/ 12 In this KSL Radio interview, Religion Today host, Martin Tanner, talks with Tyler Livingston, Stephen Smoot and Mike Ash, some of the producers of the recently released DVD on the Book of Abraham called "A Most Remarkable Book: Evidence for the Divine ... In this KSL Radio interview, Religion Today host, Martin Tanner, talks with Tyler Livingston, Stephen Smoot and Mike Ash, some of the producers of the recently released DVD on the Book of Abraham called "A Most Remarkable Book: Evidence for the Divine Authenticity of the Book of Abraham" This broadcast is posted here by permission of KSL Radio. SteveDensleyJr no 9:59 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/25/fair-issues-30-josephs-translation-shows-remarkable-consistency/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/25/fair-issues-30-josephs-translation-shows-remarkable-consistency/#comments Sat, 26 Nov 2011 04:05:58 +0000 Mike Ash http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2110 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/25/fair-issues-30-josephs-translation-shows-remarkable-consistency/feed/ 5 Book of Mormon,podcast,translation The entire Book of Mormon was translated in a span of 65 to 75 days. As Joseph translated, he did not have any manuscripts or books from which to read. After spending hours dictating the translation, Joseph would take a break for a meal or other interr... The entire Book of Mormon was translated in a span of 65 to 75 days. As Joseph translated, he did not have any manuscripts or books from which to read. After spending hours dictating the translation, Joseph would take a break for a meal or other interruption, then pick up the translation where he had left off, without either seeing the manuscript or having any portion of it read to him. If Joseph was dictating fiction and never had past portions read back to him, how did he keep things straight and consistent for nearly six hundred pages without forgetting at least some of the details? We stand in awe at how this relatively uneducated young man could produce a work that not only teaches eternal doctrinal principles but also weaves many tales of war, politics, migrations, and geography. Not only are the records of these events consistent, but they often match what we now know about ancient societies in the Near East and early Americas. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. Mike Ash no 6:22 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/21/mormon-fair-cast-61-mormon-voices/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/21/mormon-fair-cast-61-mormon-voices/#comments Tue, 22 Nov 2011 03:39:08 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2229 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/21/mormon-fair-cast-61-mormon-voices/feed/ 2   In this KSL Radio broadcast of Religion Today, host Martin Tanner interviews John Lynch about the announcement of Mormon Voices. To better reflect its organizational focus and methods, The Mormon Defense League (MDL) announced today that it has chan...   In this KSL Radio broadcast of Religion Today, host Martin Tanner interviews John Lynch about the announcement of Mormon Voices. To better reflect its organizational focus and methods, The Mormon Defense League (MDL) announced today that it has changed its name to “MormonVoices.” The new web site is MormonVoices.org. Scott Gordon, president of FAIR and Managing Director of Mormon Voices has commented: “This new name better reflects our helping Mormons become involved in online discussions where positive representation of the Church is needed to offset offensive stereotypes and misinformation. In the current politically charged environment where issues of Mormon beliefs are frequently discussed, Mormons increasingly want to properly represent themselves and not let stereotypes and caricatures remain,” Gordon explained. “We want to empower members of The Church to respond to the articles that are appearing in the press. As Elder Perry said in General conference, ‘The growing visibility and reputation of the Church presents some remarkable opportunities to us as its members. We can help “disabuse the public mind” and correct misinformation when we are portrayed as something we are not. More important, though, we can share who we are.’” “As an organization we will continue to publicly stand up for the LDS Church and correct misinformation spread by public figures, but our new name more clearly reflects our approach and fits well with the admonition by our leaders to get involved online,” stated John Lynch, Chairman of FAIR and a Managing Director of the newly named MormonVoices. The general public can go to MormonVoices.org to find accurate information about issues regarding The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Corrections regarding common misconceptions are provided, along with willingness to help writers and others who want to verify the accuracy of information regarding the Church, its doctrines, teachings, or history. MormonVoices serves as an organizing force to help Church members become involved, and to share online resources to be more effective in their discourse. It is a non-profit wholly owned subsidiary of FAIR and is operated by self-motivated Mormons who seek to improve the public understanding about the Church.  MormonVoices is dedicated to providing reliable, independent information about the doctrine, beliefs, and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. MormonVoices is not owned by, controlled by, or affiliated with the Church. This broadcast is posted here by permission of KSL Radio. SteveDensleyJr no 9:58 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/21/fair-conversations-episode-13-steven-l-peck-on-evolution-part-2-of-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/21/fair-conversations-episode-13-steven-l-peck-on-evolution-part-2-of-2/#comments Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:30:01 +0000 bhodges http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2190 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/21/fair-conversations-episode-13-steven-l-peck-on-evolution-part-2-of-2/feed/ 32 evolution,podcast Here's part two of the Steven L. Peck interview on "FAIR Conversations" (check part one here). Peck is associate professor of biology at Brigham Young University. Peck has interacted with many students who begin to experience difficulties in reconcilin... Here's part two of the Steven L. Peck interview on "FAIR Conversations" (check part one here). Peck is associate professor of biology at Brigham Young University. Peck has interacted with many students who begin to experience difficulties in reconciling their faith with what they learn in biology classes about the origins of human life. Various LDS Church leaders have expressed a variety of opinions on the topic of organic evolution. In part two, Peck discusses the historical situation in which early LDS debates on evolution took place. He also talks about multiple live options Latter-day Saints can embrace in good faith without doing away with belief in God or the scriptures. We also discuss the problem of natural evil, suffering, and a loving God's involvement in the world. Incidentally, Peck also recently published a great fictional book called The Scholar of Moab. It can be purchased at Amazon.com. Note: This episode has a few technical glitches, you will hear some light pops and skips through the beginning of the interview. Questions or comments about this episode can be sent to podcast@fairlds.org. Or, join the conversation in the comments here at fairblog.org.    Additional Links: Gary James Bergera, “The 1911 Evolution Controversy at Brigham Young University,” (from the volume, Search for Harmony: Essays on Science and Mormonism, eds. Gene A. Sessions and Craig J. Oberg, Signature Books, 1993). James M. McLachlan, “W.H. Chamberlin and the Quest for a Mormon Theology,” Dialogue 29, no. 4 (Winter 1996) Duane E. Jeffery, “Seers, Savants, and Evolution: The Uncomfortable Interface,” Dialogue 34, no. 1 (Spring 2001). This is an updated version of the original article, which was published in Dialogue 8, no. 3/4 (Autumn/Winter 1974). Steven L. Peck, “Crawling Out of the Primordial Soup: A Step toward the Emergence of an LDS Theology Compatible with Organic Evolution,”Dialogue 43, no. 1 (Spring 2010). Peck’s blog, “The Mormon Organon: A BYU Biology Professor Looks at Science and the LDS Faith” Essay by Peck, “Why Mormons Should Embrace Evolution.” (Posted as a guest blogger at Jana Riess’s blog, Flunking Sainthood.) My book review of a recent book on evolution by the late Howard C. Stutz: "Let the Earth Bring Forth." A few other sources I drew on to prepare for the podcast include Thomas Dixon’s Science and Religion: A Very Short Introduction and Conor Cunningham’s Darwin’s Pious Idea.  (My gratitude to Dan Wotherspoon at mormonmatters.org,who put together this useful collection. Image above from Psychology Today.)   Runtime: 1:02:37 Download: To download, right click the "Download" link above and select “Save link as…” You can also download the episode or subscribe to all episodes of the FAIR Podcast in iTunes here. Support FAIR: FAIR relies on contributions from readers and listeners. To help support FAIR, make a donation today. bhodges no 1:05:30 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/17/fair-conversations-episode-12-steven-l-peck-on-evolution-part-1-of-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/17/fair-conversations-episode-12-steven-l-peck-on-evolution-part-1-of-2/#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:43:56 +0000 bhodges http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2182 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/17/fair-conversations-episode-12-steven-l-peck-on-evolution-part-1-of-2/feed/ 24 evolution,podcast In this episode of "FAIR Conversations," associate professor of biology Steven L. Peck discusses the relationship between science and religion.  Latter-day Saints have long praised the blessings of science, In this episode of "FAIR Conversations," associate professor of biology Steven L. Peck discusses the relationship between science and religion.  Latter-day Saints have long praised the blessings of science, including medical advances and various technological developments. But our relationship with various scientific theories hasn’t invariably been particularly cozy, particularly on the subject of evolution. A 2009 Pew Forum survey asking respondents if evolution is the best explanation for human life discovered that the general American public is evenly divided, with 48% saying it is the best explanation and 45% rejecting that position. Strikingly, only 22% of Mormons say it is the best explanation for human life, with three-in-four (75%) disagreeing. Only Jehovah's Witnesses rank lower, at 90%. Although the survey's phrasing may skew the stats a little, Peck feels that many Latter-day Saints do reject evolution without knowing that Mormons need not do so. In part one of this episode, Peck gives a basic overview of the idea of "science" and how it helps us better understand the world. He also outlines the theory of evolution and describes some of its yet-to-be-solved puzzles.  He tackles a few common questions like: "Science has been so wrong in the past, how can we rely on it in the present with any confidence?" and "If evolution is true, why don't we see half monkey-men walking around today?" Incidentally, Peck also recently published a great fictional book called The Scholar of Moab. It can be purchased at Amazon.com. Note: This episode has a few technical glitches, you will hear some light pops and skips through the beginning of the interview. Questions or comments about this episode can be sent to podcast@fairlds.org. Or, join the conversation in the comments here at fairblog.org.   Additional Links: Gary James Bergera, “The 1911 Evolution Controversy at Brigham Young University,” (from the volume, Search for Harmony: Essays on Science and Mormonism, eds. Gene A. Sessions and Craig J. Oberg, Signature Books, 1993). James M. McLachlan, “W.H. Chamberlin and the Quest for a Mormon Theology,” Dialogue 29, no. 4 (Winter 1996) Duane E. Jeffery, “Seers, Savants, and Evolution: The Uncomfortable Interface,” Dialogue 34, no. 1 (Spring 2001). This is an updated version of the original article, which was published in Dialogue 8, no. 3/4 (Autumn/Winter 1974). Steven L. Peck, “Crawling Out of the Primordial Soup: A Step toward the Emergence of an LDS Theology Compatible with Organic Evolution,” Dialogue 43, no. 1 (Spring 2010). Peck’s blog, “The Mormon Organon: A BYU Biology Professor Looks at Science and the LDS Faith” Essay by Peck, “Why Mormons Should Embrace Evolution.” (Posted as a guest blogger at Jana Riess’s blog, Flunking Sainthood.) My book review of a recent book on evolution by the late Howard C. Stutz: "Let the Earth Bring Forth." A few other sources I drew on to prepare for the podcast include Thomas Dixon’s Science and Religion: A Very Short Introduction and Conor Cunningham’s Darwin’s Pious Idea.  (My gratitude to Dan Wotherspoon at mormonmatters.org,who put together this useful collection.)   Runtime: 46:52 Download: To download, right click the "Download" link above and select “Save link as…” You can also download the episode or subscribe to all episodes of the FAIR Podcast in iTunes here. Support FAIR: FAIR relies on contributions from readers and listeners. To help support FAIR, make a donation today.   bhodges no 41:01 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/16/best-of-fair-13-uh-oh-to-ah-ha-in-apologetics-2020-foresight-for-a-faithful-future-in-defending-the-church/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/16/best-of-fair-13-uh-oh-to-ah-ha-in-apologetics-2020-foresight-for-a-faithful-future-in-defending-the-church/#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 04:39:11 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2113 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/16/best-of-fair-13-uh-oh-to-ah-ha-in-apologetics-2020-foresight-for-a-faithful-future-in-defending-the-church/feed/ 2 In this address from the 2009 FAIR Conference, John Lynch provides practical advise on how to help those who are struggling with their faith. "What we're about at FAIR is the idea of tending the gardens of the heart. . . . In this address from the 2009 FAIR Conference, John Lynch provides practical advise on how to help those who are struggling with their faith. "What we're about at FAIR is the idea of tending the gardens of the heart. . . . Our real objective is the preservation of faith and not the presentation of definitive answers. To that end, it's not enough to answer the arguments of the critics any more than it is enough to weed the flowers in our garden. We must also nourish them and water them and give them ongoing light to reach towards. This means several things need to occur. Answers need to include not only refutation of false ideas, but affirmations of true concepts. We need to not only respond with evidences against the arguments of our critics but arguments in favor of the hope that is in us. We need to help members interpret their religious world in the light of true principles including those that allow for mistakes." The text of Brother Lynch's address can be found here. John Lynch is a Silicon Valley sales and marketing executive specializing in high-tech startup ventures. He is a member of the Board of Directors of FAIR and serves as its Chairman. Having served in many missionary callings, including twice as a Stake Mission President, multiple times as a Ward Mission Leader, and having worked at the Provo Missionary Training Center as a teacher and trainer, John has seen the impact of both well-prepared and poorly prepared defenders of the faith. John is currently the Young Men’s President for the Los Gatos Ward, Saratoga California Stake. SteveDensleyJr no 57:09 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/09/fair-issues-29-some-mormons-may-not-understand-josephs-translation-process/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/09/fair-issues-29-some-mormons-may-not-understand-josephs-translation-process/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 04:05:04 +0000 Mike Ash http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2106 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/09/fair-issues-29-some-mormons-may-not-understand-josephs-translation-process/feed/ 5 Book of Mormon,podcast,translation In reviewing the history of the Book of Mormon translation, some members may be troubled that the process doesn't match their conceptions of how they thought the process worked. For members who were unaware of the seer stone in the hat, In reviewing the history of the Book of Mormon translation, some members may be troubled that the process doesn't match their conceptions of how they thought the process worked. For members who were unaware of the seer stone in the hat, at least two questions or concerns may arise: 1) Is it strange that Joseph used a stone in a hat? 2) Why have we have always been told that Joseph used the Urim and Thummim? 3) Why isn't the seer stone used today? Mike Ash addresses these questions in this episode. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. Mike Ash no 5:48 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/02/fair-issues-28-how-a-seer-stone-helped-in-the-book-of-mormon-translation/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/02/fair-issues-28-how-a-seer-stone-helped-in-the-book-of-mormon-translation/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:59:21 +0000 Mike Ash http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2071 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/11/02/fair-issues-28-how-a-seer-stone-helped-in-the-book-of-mormon-translation/feed/ 2 Book of Mormon,podcast,translation Before starting the translation of the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith was familiar with the concept of using stones to “see” things. Like some others of his time, he actually engaged in the practice of using stones in an effort to find things. Before starting the translation of the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith was familiar with the concept of using stones to “see” things. Like some others of his time, he actually engaged in the practice of using stones in an effort to find things. His familiarity with seer stones may have prepared him for the concept of using the Nephite interpreters to translate once he received them along with the golden plates from the angel Moroni. After the Nephite interpreters were taken from him, he was able to continue the translation process with a seer stone that he owned. Some of the history surrounding these events is discussed in this article. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. Mike Ash no 6:15 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/26/fair-issues-27-mormons-not-christian-that%e2%80%99s-a-fallacy-of-equivocation/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/26/fair-issues-27-mormons-not-christian-that%e2%80%99s-a-fallacy-of-equivocation/#comments Thu, 27 Oct 2011 02:48:15 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2068 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/26/fair-issues-27-mormons-not-christian-that%e2%80%99s-a-fallacy-of-equivocation/feed/ 5 The claim that Mormons are not Christian often rests upon the classic logical fallacy known as “equivocation.” Dr. Daniel C. Peterson explains this fallacy and further explains how, while Mormons do not claim to be traditional Christians, The claim that Mormons are not Christian often rests upon the classic logical fallacy known as “equivocation.” Dr. Daniel C. Peterson explains this fallacy and further explains how, while Mormons do not claim to be traditional Christians, it would be quite misleading to claim that they are not Christians at all. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Daniel C. Peterson is a professor of Islamic studies and Arabic at BYU, where he also serves as editor in chief of the Middle Eastern Texts Initiative and as director of advancement for the Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. He is the founder of MormonScholarsTestify.org. Daniel Peterson is the author of many books and articles, including Offenders for a Word, which is available, along with other talks by Brother Peterson, at the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 7:10 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/19/everything-you-always-wanted-to-know-about-plural-marriage-but-were-afraid-to-ask/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/19/everything-you-always-wanted-to-know-about-plural-marriage-but-were-afraid-to-ask/#comments Thu, 20 Oct 2011 02:24:13 +0000 Greg Smith http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1997 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/19/everything-you-always-wanted-to-know-about-plural-marriage-but-were-afraid-to-ask/feed/ 4   - Greg Smith examines the anti-Mormon charge raised against Joseph Smith that he was lecherous from an early age and that this is somehow the psychological or psychiatric or pathological background to plural marriage. - The text of Dr.   Greg Smith examines the anti-Mormon charge raised against Joseph Smith that he was lecherous from an early age and that this is somehow the psychological or psychiatric or pathological background to plural marriage. The text of Dr. Smith’s address can be found at Fairlds.org. The listener should be aware that there are helpful notes in the written version that help provide clarifications and corrections to some comments that appear in the oral presentation. For example, a question from the audience stated that Richard Bushman believes polygamy was a faulty revelation. However, FAIR contacted Dr. Bushman and he clarified that, while he believes that section 132 is complex and difficult to interpret in our time, he has never said that it was a faulty revelation. Similarly, Todd Compton denied that he would have used the word “mistake” to describe the practice of polygamy. Greg Smith studied physiology and English at the University of Alberta, but escaped into medical school before earning his degree. He then did his medical residency in Montréal, Québec, learning all the medical vocabulary and all the French Canadian slang that he didn't learn during his LDS mission to Paris, France. He is now an old-style country doctor in rural Alberta with interests in internal medicine and psychiatry. A clinical preceptor for residents and medical students, he has been repeatedly honored for excellence in clinical teaching. A member of FAIR since 2005, Greg helps manage the FAIR wiki. Due to his research interest in plural marriage, he has spoken to the Miller-Eccles study group and been published in the FARMS Review on this and other topics. With twelve years of classical piano training, he is a life-long audiophile and owns far too many MP3 files. He lives happily with his one indulgent wife, three children, and four cats. Greg Smith no 1:02:39 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/12/fair-issues-26-seer-stone-nephite-interpreters-are-religion-not-magic/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/12/fair-issues-26-seer-stone-nephite-interpreters-are-religion-not-magic/#comments Thu, 13 Oct 2011 01:40:13 +0000 Mike Ash http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1972 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/12/fair-issues-26-seer-stone-nephite-interpreters-are-religion-not-magic/feed/ 1 In Joseph Smith’s day, the term Urim and Thummim applied to two different translating tools: the Nephite interpreters, as well as what is called a “seer stone.” In order to understand what a seer stone is and why Joseph Smith would use it to translate ... In Joseph Smith’s day, the term Urim and Thummim applied to two different translating tools: the Nephite interpreters, as well as what is called a “seer stone.” In order to understand what a seer stone is and why Joseph Smith would use it to translate the Book of Mormon, it is important first to understand the cultural context of Joseph Smith’s time, and practices in which people were engaged that today we may refer to as “magic.” The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. Mike Ash no 6:10 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/11/mormon-fair-cast-nominated-for-a-people%e2%80%99s-choice-podcast-award/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/11/mormon-fair-cast-nominated-for-a-people%e2%80%99s-choice-podcast-award/#comments Wed, 12 Oct 2011 01:18:14 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=2022 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/11/mormon-fair-cast-nominated-for-a-people%e2%80%99s-choice-podcast-award/feed/ 0 The Mormon-FAIR-Cast has been nominated to receive a Podcast Award in the “Religion Inspiration” category. The People's Choice Podcast Awards, better known as the Podcast Awards, are an annual set of awards given to the best podcasts as voted on by lis... The Mormon-FAIR-Cast has been nominated to receive a Podcast Award in the “Religion Inspiration” category. The People's Choice Podcast Awards, better known as the Podcast Awards, are an annual set of awards given to the best podcasts as voted on by listeners. This year, 1,441,712 listeners nominated 2,698 shows. Ten shows were chosen as nominees in each of 22 different categories. Nominations were open for 15 days in September. Podcasts that received votes were reviewed by a 22 member committee that took a variety of factors into account. The total number of votes a podcast received accounted for only 40% of the grading, with the quality of the website's design (15%), quality of sound (15%), quality of deliverance and show format (10%), and relevance of content (20%) also being considered. Voting for the awards will begin on October 12th and will end on October 27th at 11:59pm HST. While a single person could only cast one nominating vote, during final voting, each person (verified by IP address) may vote once each day during the 15 days that voting is open. In other words, a single person can cast 15 votes. Please support the Mormon FAIR-Cast by casting your vote at podcastawards.com each day that voting is open. Spread the word by telling your friends. Post a link with instructions on Facebook, Twitter and Google Plus. Remind your friends to vote each day. And thank you for your continued support of the Mormon FAIR-Cast! SteveDensleyJr no 1:50 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/05/fair-issues-25-what-exactly-were-the-nephite-interpreters/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/05/fair-issues-25-what-exactly-were-the-nephite-interpreters/#comments Thu, 06 Oct 2011 02:14:47 +0000 Mike Ash http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1962 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/10/05/fair-issues-25-what-exactly-were-the-nephite-interpreters/feed/ 2 When Joseph Smith received the golden plates, he also received interpreters that are sometimes referred to as “the Urim and Thummim.” Where did the interpreters come from? Is this the only Urim and Thummim, or are there others? When Joseph Smith received the golden plates, he also received interpreters that are sometimes referred to as “the Urim and Thummim.” Where did the interpreters come from? Is this the only Urim and Thummim, or are there others? And what about that curtain we hear about? Was there actually a curtain between Joseph Smith and Martin Harris as the translation took place? In this episode, Michael Ash begins a discussion of the way in which the Book of Mormon translation occurred and the role played by the Urim and Thummim. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. Mike Ash no 6:02 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/28/believest-thou-faith-cognitive-dissonance-and-the-psychology-of-religious-experience/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/28/believest-thou-faith-cognitive-dissonance-and-the-psychology-of-religious-experience/#comments Thu, 29 Sep 2011 01:37:51 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1980 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/28/believest-thou-faith-cognitive-dissonance-and-the-psychology-of-religious-experience/feed/ 16   - In this episode of Best of FAIR, Wendy Ulrich, Ph.D., observes: “In my experience, neither critics nor apologists for the Church do much to convince me whether or not to believe. Debates, analysis,   In this episode of Best of FAIR, Wendy Ulrich, Ph.D., observes: “In my experience, neither critics nor apologists for the Church do much to convince me whether or not to believe. Debates, analysis, and scientific evidence may alternately undermine or support my beliefs, but belief itself is a choice I wrestle God for, somewhere in a dark swampland of my inner landscape, where not only God's credibility but my own are at stake. …. “I have noticed that many of the people I have known who have left the Church did not do so because they believed too little, but because they believed too much. In their excessive idealism, they have held Church leaders or God to expectations which were inevitably disappointed, and they have felt betrayed. They have not believed God when He told them that ours is a lonely, dreary world where we will surely die, and they have chosen instead to believe another version of reality, one which claims that they can be protected from being molested, disappointed, or made afraid. They have been angry at God or other Church leaders for not keeping promises which God has not, in fact, made. I note with interest that of all the names for the Savior in holy writ, He is never called the Preventer. Agency is the plan, and this means that all of us, including Church leaders, learn by our mistakes and are subject to misinformation, blindness, hubris, and error. The old joke is too often true: In the Catholic church everyone says the pope is infallible but nobody believes it; and in the Mormon church everybody says the prophet is fallible but nobody believes it. “When Christ asks the question of His remaining disciples, ‘will ye also go away?’ it seems to be in recognition that they may be feeling betrayed or disillusioned by His words and requirements, as others were. Their response is not brimming with irrational enthusiasm. They seem to say, somewhat wistfully, as if recognizing that perhaps leaving would be an easier choice, ‘to whom, Lord, shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.’ We do not leave because we are blind to the challenges or brainwashed into commitment, but because we will have more cognitive dissonance, more to explain to ourselves, if we leave. We have found here things that we hold dear, that support and enrich our lives. We, like the reluctant disciples of old, have found here words of eternal life, which is to say that we have found knowledge of God and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. These relationships, these pearls of great price, are worth the sacrifices and the disappointments and the askance looks of our friends who wonder what we could be thinking.” Wendy Ulrich, Ph.D., was a psychologist in Ann Arbor, Michigan for 20 years before moving to Montreal, Quebec for a three-year mission. She has served as president of the Association of Mormon Counselors and Psychotherapists, has authored numerous professional articles in both psychology and business, and has done consulting and training for such corporations as Marriott, Johnson & Johnson, University of Michigan, General Electric, and United Way. Dr. Ulrich is founder of Sixteen Stones Center for Growth in Alpine, Utah, providing seminar-retreats for LDS members seeking personal and spiritual growth and development. She and her husband have three children. Dr. Ulrich is the author of the book Weakness is Not a Sin. The full text of Dr. Ulrich’s talk can be found at Fairlds.org. SteveDensleyJr no 53:25 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/21/fair-issues-24-the-cure-for-in-an-intellectual-apostasy/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/21/fair-issues-24-the-cure-for-in-an-intellectual-apostasy/#comments Thu, 22 Sep 2011 02:11:39 +0000 Mike Ash http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1959 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/21/fair-issues-24-the-cure-for-in-an-intellectual-apostasy/feed/ 13 “The cure for an intellectual apostasy is enlarging both one’s spiritual and intellectual knowledge.” One important thing to know is the way in which God works through prophets. “[T]he Lord doesn’t typically drop revelation into the minds of prophets. “The cure for an intellectual apostasy is enlarging both one’s spiritual and intellectual knowledge.” One important thing to know is the way in which God works through prophets. “[T]he Lord doesn’t typically drop revelation into the minds of prophets. More often than not, the Lord grants revelation according to petitions for help or understanding.” Some examples of this are given in this article. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. Mike Ash no 5:52 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/12/fair-conversations-episode-11-claudia-bushman/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/12/fair-conversations-episode-11-claudia-bushman/#comments Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:50:28 +0000 bhodges http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1944 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/12/fair-conversations-episode-11-claudia-bushman/feed/ 2 mormon, feminism, oral history, latter-day saints, bushman In this episode of "FAIR Conversations," historian Claudia Bushman joins host Blair Hodges. Bushman, who specializes in Latter-day Saint women's history, holds degrees from Wellesley College, Brigham Young University and Boston University. In this episode of "FAIR Conversations," historian Claudia Bushman joins host Blair Hodges. Bushman, who specializes in Latter-day Saint women's history, holds degrees from Wellesley College, Brigham Young University and Boston University. Most recently she served as an adjunct professor at Claremont Graduate University where her husband historian Richard Bushman was chair of the Mormon Studies program. Bushman's 2006 FAIR Conference address, "The Lives of Mormon Women" is available in audio here, video here, and text here. This episode begins with a few biographical details about Bushman's education and early experiences as a Mormon. Bushman shares her interesting perspectives on feminism, women, and the priesthood. We also discuss her recent publication Pansy's History: The Autobiography of Margaret E. P. Gordon, 1866-1966. Above all, Bushman emphasizes the unique utility of oral history. She reads a few excerpts from the Claremont Graduate University's on-going "Mormon Women's Oral History Project," and gives a few tips for listeners who want to gather oral histories from their own family members.   Questions or comments about this episode can be sent to podcast@fairlds.org. Or, join the conversation in the comments here at fairblog.org. Runtime: 82:41 Download: To download, right click the "Download" link above and select “Save link as…” You can also download the episode or subscribe to all episodes of the FAIR Podcast in iTunes here. Support FAIR: FAIR relies on contributions from readers and listeners. To help support FAIR, make a donation today. bhodges no 1:22:41 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/10/fair-issues-23-%e2%80%9creformed-egyptian%e2%80%9d-an-evidence-for-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/10/fair-issues-23-%e2%80%9creformed-egyptian%e2%80%9d-an-evidence-for-book-of-mormon/#comments Sun, 11 Sep 2011 02:12:10 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1921 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/10/fair-issues-23-%e2%80%9creformed-egyptian%e2%80%9d-an-evidence-for-book-of-mormon/feed/ 2 Did Joseph Smith make up the idea of “reformed Egyptian?” Would devout Israelites have written in the language of pagans such as the Egyptians? Do modern archeological discoveries provide parallels for such a concept? If the Nephites spoke Hebrew, Did Joseph Smith make up the idea of “reformed Egyptian?” Would devout Israelites have written in the language of pagans such as the Egyptians? Do modern archeological discoveries provide parallels for such a concept? If the Nephites spoke Hebrew, why is there no evidence for the Hebrew Language in Ancient America? The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 6:25 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/04/best-of-fair-9-on-being-an-apologist-imperatives-predicaments-perils-and-blessings/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/04/best-of-fair-9-on-being-an-apologist-imperatives-predicaments-perils-and-blessings/#comments Mon, 05 Sep 2011 03:26:32 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1924 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/09/04/best-of-fair-9-on-being-an-apologist-imperatives-predicaments-perils-and-blessings/feed/ 2 Robert White discusses his experience as a church leader and as an apologist. He explains why apologetics is important and cautions against some pitfalls of apologetics. As C.S. Lewis said, “nothing is more dangerous to one’s own faith than the work of... Robert White discusses his experience as a church leader and as an apologist. He explains why apologetics is important and cautions against some pitfalls of apologetics. As C.S. Lewis said, “nothing is more dangerous to one’s own faith than the work of an apologist. Because no doctrine of that Faith seems to me so spectral, so unreal as one that I have just successfully defended. . . . That is why we apologists take our lives in our hands and can be saved only by falling back continually from the web of our own arguments ... from Christian apologetics [in]to Christ himself.  That is also why we need one another’s continual help -- oremus pro invincem (let us pray for one another).” He shares his thoughts on the idea of inoculating the saints against anti-Mormon arguments. In providing an inoculation, can we be sure we know what disease, or argument, each individual will be exposed to? Is it possible that we may do more harm than good in administering the wrong inoculation? He contrasted inoculations with transfusions. The Gospel Principles manual is designed “not [to] inoculate but transfuse into the lives of the Latter-day Saints the fundamental faith in the fundamental gospel restored through the Prophet.” If people know the Church is true, then they will be strengthened against the attacks of anti-Mormon arguments when encountered. The full text of this address can be found at FAIR LDS. Robert B. White, Q.C., served a mission in Eastern Canada after which he returned to Edmonton and received degrees in finance (with distinction) and law (with distinction and the Silver Medal) at the University of Alberta. He is a senior partner and litigation practice group leader in a large, multi-national law firm with offices across Canada and in Japan. Robert works exclusively in trials and appeals and loves the law. He is listed in each of the three published, peer reviewed “Best Lawyers in Canada” lists. He was hired as an adjunct professor in law while in my third year of law school, and while practicing he taught for 18 years. He has written four law books, all published by Canada Law Book, with a second edition of one under way. Robert has served in many Church positions, including bishop, stake president, and area seventy. He is married to Lonni. They have six children and twenty grandchildren. SteveDensleyJr no 1:01:35 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/28/fair-questions-2-recognizing-the-voice-of-the-spirit/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/28/fair-questions-2-recognizing-the-voice-of-the-spirit/#comments Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:49:36 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1910 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/28/fair-questions-2-recognizing-the-voice-of-the-spirit/feed/ 60 FAIR Questions features a question that was submitted to FAIR volunteers through the FAIR website at fairlds.org. The answer in each episode is compiled from the various responses provided by the volunteers. - And now for the question: - FAIR Questions features a question that was submitted to FAIR volunteers through the FAIR website at fairlds.org. The answer in each episode is compiled from the various responses provided by the volunteers. And now for the question: How do I find a way to not only discern the Spirit from emotion, but how can I become convinced that the Spirit is actually real? How can I come to know that spiritual experience is not just a product of chemical processes in the brain? I mean, I've prayed about the truth of the Book of Mormon and the gospel and I have gotten answers to my prayers, but how can I come to know whether or not this is from God, and not just either a part of my subconscious or a delusion. And now for the answer: John taught us that there are a variety of influences, or “spirits,” that can be mistaken for revelation. He taught us that we should put these various influences to the test to see if they are of God. (1 John 4:1.) Similarly, Paul taught us to “Prove all things.” (1 Thess. 5:21.) Christ Himself warned, “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” (Matt. 7:15.) In order to put the various voices we hear to the test, it is first important to learn how the Spirit communicates with us. The Spirit can manifest itself in a number of ways. In the account of the two disciples who met the resurrected Savior on the way to Emmaus, one of the believers said, “Did not our heart burn within us?” (Luke 24:32.) We are all familiar with the counsel given to Oliver Cowdery as he attempted to translate the Book of Mormon. He was told that, after he studied it out in his mind, and prayed about it, he would experience a “burning in the bosom” if he was right, but a stupor of thought if not. (D&C 9:7–9.) On another occasion, Oliver was told that, if he needed further confirmation regarding the truth of the work in which he was engaged, he needed to simply remember the peace he experienced in his mind that came to him when he had earlier prayed about it. (D&C 6:23.) Christ called the Holy Ghost “the Comforter.” (John 14:26.) Paul also taught that the Spirit brings peace. It can also fill one with love, joy, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. (Gal. 5:22-23.) The Spirit may sometimes give us a sense of constraint so that we will feel that we should do something, or not do something that is contrary to our natural inclinations. (See, e.g., 1 Ne. 4:10; Alma 14:11.) The spiritual experience of the Nephites following King Benjamin's famous speech teaches us how the spirit actually softens our heart, makes us willing to covenant with God, and diminishes our disposition to do evil. (See Mosiah 5:1-5.) This is a wonderful yardstick to use. If you feel no desire to do evil, but to do good continually, and your heart is softened so that you are willing to make covenants with God, then you can rest assured that it is the Spirit that is working upon you. While the Spirit often communicates in the language of emotion, people have reported hearing an audible voice, or at least words that pop into their minds. Enos reported that while he was “struggling in the spirit, . . . the voice of the Lord came into [his] mind.” (Enos 1:10.) The Spirit has been described as a “still small voice.” (1 Kings 19:11-12.) As it speaks to our minds, as well as our hearts, it may bring things to our remembrance. (John 14:26.) Joseph Smith, before receiving revelation on baptism for the dead, reported that the subject seemed “to occupy [his] mind, and press itself upon [his] feelings the strongest.” (D&C 128:1.) The Lord told Oliver Cowdery, “I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.” (D&C 8:2.) Alma taught that as the Spirit helps a person to recognize the truth of God’s word, that person will notice that God’s word “beginneth to enlarge [his] soul; yea, SteveDensleyJr no 10:56 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/20/fair-issues-22-analyzing-the-best-historical-book-of-mormon-evidence/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/20/fair-issues-22-analyzing-the-best-historical-book-of-mormon-evidence/#comments Sun, 21 Aug 2011 02:41:30 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1886 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/20/fair-issues-22-analyzing-the-best-historical-book-of-mormon-evidence/feed/ 5 Michael Ash begins a series of episodes that examine the best historical evidence relating to the Book of Mormon. In this first episode, he concludes that Joseph Smith did, in fact, have actual plates. - The full text of this article can be found at D... Michael Ash begins a series of episodes that examine the best historical evidence relating to the Book of Mormon. In this first episode, he concludes that Joseph Smith did, in fact, have actual plates. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 6:10 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/17/fair-issues-21-book-of-mormon-in-ancient-setting-not-19th-century-work/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/17/fair-issues-21-book-of-mormon-in-ancient-setting-not-19th-century-work/#comments Thu, 18 Aug 2011 01:00:47 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1884 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/17/fair-issues-21-book-of-mormon-in-ancient-setting-not-19th-century-work/feed/ 10 Mike Ash discusses the importance of understanding use of language and ancient context when analyzing the Book of Mormon. He writes: “If we try to understand the Book of Mormon as a real ancient document, written by real ancient people who lived and th... Mike Ash discusses the importance of understanding use of language and ancient context when analyzing the Book of Mormon. He writes: “If we try to understand the Book of Mormon as a real ancient document, written by real ancient people who lived and thought just like other ancient people and interacted with their environment, and recorded their doings in ways that are similar to other ancient people, then the arguments of the critics lose any power they might have had.” The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 6:10 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/14/fair-cast-42-from-panthers-to-priesthood/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/14/fair-cast-42-from-panthers-to-priesthood/#comments Sun, 14 Aug 2011 21:55:08 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1870 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/14/fair-cast-42-from-panthers-to-priesthood/feed/ 3 Marvin Perkins interviews Ed and Wanda Willis who discuss their past involvement with the Black Panthers and the way in which they both joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They are joined by Bishop Fred Bethel from the African Ameri... Marvin Perkins interviews Ed and Wanda Willis who discuss their past involvement with the Black Panthers and the way in which they both joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They are joined by Bishop Fred Bethel from the African American outreach program. Two of the DVD’s referenced in the interview are available at the FAIR Bookstore, Nobody Knows: The Untold Story of Black Mormons and Blacks in the Scriptures. This interview has been provided courtesy of Marvin Perkins and Blacks in the Scriptures. The opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or of FAIR.   SteveDensleyJr no 1:23:13 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/10/fair-questions-1-truth-in-other-religions/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/10/fair-questions-1-truth-in-other-religions/#comments Thu, 11 Aug 2011 01:31:37 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1842 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/10/fair-questions-1-truth-in-other-religions/feed/ 24 FAIR Questions features a question that was submitted to FAIR volunteers through the FAIR website at fairlds.org. The answer in each episode is compiled from the various responses provided by the volunteers. - And now for the question: - FAIR Questions features a question that was submitted to FAIR volunteers through the FAIR website at fairlds.org. The answer in each episode is compiled from the various responses provided by the volunteers. And now for the question: I am a life-... SteveDensleyJr no 5:31 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/06/best-of-fair-10-mormon-defense-league-announcement/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/06/best-of-fair-10-mormon-defense-league-announcement/#comments Sun, 07 Aug 2011 01:16:28 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1836 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/06/best-of-fair-10-mormon-defense-league-announcement/feed/ 0 Scott Gordon and John Lynch report from the 2011 FAIR Conference on the announcement of the Mormon Defense League, its purpose, and the way in which it has been received. Scott also reviews the various websites associated with FAIR. Scott Gordon and John Lynch report from the 2011 FAIR Conference on the announcement of the Mormon Defense League, its purpose, and the way in which it has been received. Scott also reviews the various websites associated with FAIR. SteveDensleyJr no 14:03 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/03/best-of-fair-9-the-lives-of-mormon-women/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/03/best-of-fair-9-the-lives-of-mormon-women/#comments Thu, 04 Aug 2011 04:01:37 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1816 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/08/03/best-of-fair-9-the-lives-of-mormon-women/feed/ 1 Claudia Bushman asks, is the self sacrifice motif for women in the Church so strong that no interest and care should be taken about their own lives? She observes that “too many women in the church live passive lives. We cannot afford to do that. Claudia Bushman asks, is the self sacrifice motif for women in the Church so strong that no interest and care should be taken about their own lives? She observes that “too many women in the church live passive lives. We cannot afford to do that. We have talents to multiply.” She also addresses the role of feminism in the Church. Only a few years ago, she told a Salt Lake Tribune writer that feminism was dead and that the word itself had become so frightening that the movement was now moribund and extinguished. She nevertheless, acknowledges that there are still “many old self-described LDS feminists around.” In fact, she considers herself to be a feminist and said “I doubt that many people would disagree with my definition of feminism, that the talents of women should be developed for the benefit of their communities, their church, their families and themselves.” By this definition, the Relief Society organization itself is a feminist organization. “Mormon women find emotional support and personal and spiritual growth there. The Relief Society, even in its curtailed form, provides a network for us to know, teach, and befriend each other. In Relief Society we are encouraged to exercise that most important feminist strategy, reaching beyond our patriarchal structure to a personal relationship with deity through which we can discover our own personal revelation and destinies.” She adds: “Without autonomy, women would seem to have little power in this religion. But what is power in religion? Leadership seems important, but many religions, certainly ours, have stressed the humble vineyard worker as the powerful position. The greatest of all is the servant of all.” She concludes by asking, what can women hope for from the Church? She states: “Women should realize that the Church is a great enabler, not a hindrance. The Church provides a wonderfully welcoming arena for working out our own ideas and building our talents as we seek for and follow our own revelation.” The full text of Sister' Bushman's address can be found here. Claudia L. Bushman holds degrees in literature and American Studies from Wellesley College, Brigham Young University, and Boston University and now teaches history and American studies at Columbia University in the City of New York. Dr. Bushman is the author and editor of ten books including Mormon Sisters: Women in Early Utah, Building the Kingdom (with Richard Bushman), and Contemporary Mormonism: Latter-day Saints in Modern America, as well as a variety of other American history books. She was the founding editor of Exponent II. Dr. Bushman is married to Richard Lyman Bushman and is the mother of six. Having held all the usual Church positions, she now finds most of her Church work off the books in such areas as chairman of the Harlem Bridge Builders committee, producer of the Manhattan Temple Jubilee at Radio City Music Hall, and chairman of the committee to install a statue of Joseph Smith near Wall Street in New York in honor of his 200th birthday. SteveDensleyJr no 40:51 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/30/fair-issues-20-book-of-mormon-geography-may-be-smaller-than-you-think/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/30/fair-issues-20-book-of-mormon-geography-may-be-smaller-than-you-think/#comments Sun, 31 Jul 2011 01:06:40 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1808 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/30/fair-issues-20-book-of-mormon-geography-may-be-smaller-than-you-think/feed/ 4 Where did the events of the Book of Mormon take place? Is it possible that ancient writers of the scriptures exaggerated their populations and the geographic scope of certain events? How might this possibility help us to better understand the events of... Where did the events of the Book of Mormon take place? Is it possible that ancient writers of the scriptures exaggerated their populations and the geographic scope of certain events? How might this possibility help us to better understand the events of scripture? Listen to this episode for some surprising insights. The full text of this article can be found at Deseret News online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 6:31 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/27/fair-issues-19-imperfect-scriptures/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/27/fair-issues-19-imperfect-scriptures/#comments Thu, 28 Jul 2011 03:52:59 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1788 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/27/fair-issues-19-imperfect-scriptures/feed/ 0 “Once we realize that all prophets who produce scripture do so according to their own world views, we can appreciate that some things we read into the scriptures are different from what the author intended to convey. “Once we realize that all prophets who produce scripture do so according to their own world views, we can appreciate that some things we read into the scriptures are different from what the author intended to convey.” The world view of a prophet includes the prophet’s knowledge of science, myths and legends, and general knowledge about the way the world works. Mike Ask expands upon this idea in this episode by focusing on Noah and the flood. Mormon Times is in a state of transition at this time. Therefore, the full text of this article is not currently available online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 5:51 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/23/fair-issues-18-can-imperfect-scriptures-lead-to-god/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/23/fair-issues-18-can-imperfect-scriptures-lead-to-god/#comments Sun, 24 Jul 2011 02:24:34 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1781 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/23/fair-issues-18-can-imperfect-scriptures-lead-to-god/feed/ 9 Mormons believe the Bible to be the work of God, so far as it is translated correctly. We therefore readily accept the possibility of error within the Bible on the basis that there may have been mistranslations. But what about the Book of Mormon? Mormons believe the Bible to be the work of God, so far as it is translated correctly. We therefore readily accept the possibility of error within the Bible on the basis that there may have been mistranslations. But what about the Book of Mormon? As it was translated by a prophet of God, should we consider it to be inerrant? What effect can language have on the transmission of prophesy or in the translation of scriptures? If it is possible for even the Book of Mormon to contain errors, how are we supposed to know what is true in the scriptures? These issues are discussed in this episode. Mormon Times is in a state of transition at this time. Therefore, the full text of this article is not currently available online. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 5:52 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/20/best-of-fair-8-dna-and-the-book-of-mormon/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/20/best-of-fair-8-dna-and-the-book-of-mormon/#comments Thu, 21 Jul 2011 02:52:38 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1772 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/20/best-of-fair-8-dna-and-the-book-of-mormon/feed/ 5 Dr. David Stewart examines the issues surrounding DNA studies used to condemn the Book of Mormon.  He concludes: “The recent explosion of molecular DNA data has led to a considerable increase in knowledge about our roots. However, Dr. David Stewart examines the issues surrounding DNA studies used to condemn the Book of Mormon.  He concludes: “The recent explosion of molecular DNA data has led to a considerable increase in knowledge about our roots. However, some individuals have drawn and widely publicized conclusions far beyond those validated by existing data. The claims of critics that DNA evidence disproves traditional LDS teachings about Native American ancestry are based in a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of science and ignorance of history and scripture. There is still much we do not know about the genetics of ancient and modern populations, but careful study demonstrates that the teachings of LDS prophets are fully consistent with existing DNA data.” The full text of this address can be found at FAIR LDS. David Stewart, M.D., was raised in Massachusetts and Maryland. He was a presidential scholar at Brigham Young University, graduating with summa cum laude honors in molecular biology in just two years. He received his medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine in 1999. He completed surgical internship and orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch and completed fellowship training in pediatric orthopedic and scoliosis surgery at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Dr. Stewart is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society and has received numerous awards for excellence in clinical practice and medical research and for his contributions to international health. He is fluent in several Eastern European languages and is active in international medical charity and education work in Eastern Europe and Asia. He served a full-time LDS mission in Russia and has written on LDS topics including church growth, missionary work, and DNA and the Book of Mormon. He lives in Las Vegas with his wife and young children. SteveDensleyJr no 1:01:15 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/16/fair-issues-17-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-17/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/16/fair-issues-17-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-17/#comments Sat, 16 Jul 2011 22:08:52 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1760 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/16/fair-issues-17-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-17/feed/ 0 Does God reveal everything to His prophets? What types of things are revealed? How does the way in which prophets receive revelation compare to the way in which the rest of us receive it? Michael Ash discusses these and other questions in this episode. Does God reveal everything to His prophets? What types of things are revealed? How does the way in which prophets receive revelation compare to the way in which the rest of us receive it? Michael Ash discusses these and other questions in this episode. The full text of this article cannot be found at Mormon Times at this time due to changes to the database. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 6:23 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/14/fair-issues-16-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-16/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/14/fair-issues-16-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-16/#comments Fri, 15 Jul 2011 03:01:44 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1692 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/14/fair-issues-16-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-16/feed/ 6 In what ways might a prophet err, and still be considered to be a prophet? Is a prophet required to be morally perfect? Why would a prophet have erroneous views about Book of Mormon Geography or the history of the Bible? In what ways might a prophet err, and still be considered to be a prophet? Is a prophet required to be morally perfect? Why would a prophet have erroneous views about Book of Mormon Geography or the history of the Bible? Is it expedient for modern-day prophets to have infallible views on the location of the Hill Cumorah or the breadth and depth of Noah's flood? Should a prophet know everything about quantum physics or chemistry? Listen to this episode for a discussion of these issues. The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 6:25 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/10/fair-issues-15-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-15/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/10/fair-issues-15-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-15/#comments Mon, 11 Jul 2011 03:00:52 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1685 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/10/fair-issues-15-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-15/feed/ 0 In this episode, Michael Ash asks, what are the consequences of not following the prophet? What happens to those who privately or publicly disagree with the prophets or official church doctrines? The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Tim... In this episode, Michael Ash asks, what are the consequences of not following the prophet? What happens to those who privately or publicly disagree with the prophets or official church doctrines? The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing to this podcast in iTunes, and by rating it and writing a review. SteveDensleyJr no 6:25 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/06/best-of-fair-7-the-joseph-smith-papers/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/06/best-of-fair-7-the-joseph-smith-papers/#comments Thu, 07 Jul 2011 04:22:43 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1701 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/06/best-of-fair-7-the-joseph-smith-papers/feed/ 0 What are the Joseph Smith papers? Why are they important? How does the project work? And what does this all tell us about Joseph Smith? In the address from the 2008 FAIR Conference, Ron Esplin gives a behind-the-scenes look at the publication of the Jo... What are the Joseph Smith papers? Why are they important? How does the project work? And what does this all tell us about Joseph Smith? In the address from the 2008 FAIR Conference, Ron Esplin gives a behind-the-scenes look at the publication of the Joseph Smith papers. He explains that the project is first and foremost an effort to be like other documentary editing projects that provide materials that historians can use to write about Joseph Smith. He discusses how this is being done and why it's important. The full text of this address can be found at FAIR LDS. Ron Esplin is the managing editor of The Joseph Smith Papers project and the former director of the Joseph Fielding Smith Institute for Latter-day Saint History at BYU. The Joseph Smith Papers, The Revelations and Translations, Volume 2, Published Revelations, can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore. SteveDensleyJr no 1:00:05 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/02/fair-issues-14-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-14/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/02/fair-issues-14-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-14/#comments Sun, 03 Jul 2011 04:21:34 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1678 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/07/02/fair-issues-14-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-14/feed/ 2 If Mormon prophets can make mistakes, are we allowed to pick and choose which of their words we should follow? And why should we follow their counsel if they might be wrong? What if the prophet is wrong? What are the consequences of following a prophet... If Mormon prophets can make mistakes, are we allowed to pick and choose which of their words we should follow? And why should we follow their counsel if they might be wrong? What if the prophet is wrong? What are the consequences of following a prophet's erroneous opinion? Listen to this episode for a discussion of these issues. The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no 6:25 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/29/best-of-fair-6-adam-in-ancient-texts-and-the-restoration/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/29/best-of-fair-6-adam-in-ancient-texts-and-the-restoration/#comments Thu, 30 Jun 2011 02:40:20 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1681 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/29/best-of-fair-6-adam-in-ancient-texts-and-the-restoration/feed/ 5 In the address from the 2006 FAIR Conference, Matthew Roper states: “Critics of Latter-day Saint Scripture and teachings have generally paid very little attention to the Book of Moses. Those who have condescended to comment on it have generally dismiss... In the address from the 2006 FAIR Conference, Matthew Roper states: “Critics of Latter-day Saint Scripture and teachings have generally paid very little attention to the Book of Moses. Those who have condescended to comment on it have generally dismissed it as a shallow plagiarism of New Testament doctrines and themes if they do not ignore it altogether. Such dismissals show an unawareness on the part of these commentators of the often striking convergences between the Latter-day Saint scripture and the ancient world. Critics, skeptics and the disaffected have in my view greatly underestimated the revelations of Joseph Smith. Unfortunately, so have many members of the Church of Jesus Christ.” The full text of this address can be found at FAIR LDS. Matthew Roper (MS from Brigham Young University), is a resident scholar at the Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship at Brigham Young University. SteveDensleyJr no 1:09:45 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/25/fair-issues-13-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-13/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/25/fair-issues-13-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-13/#comments Sat, 25 Jun 2011 21:49:25 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1590 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/25/fair-issues-13-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-13/feed/ 5 A prophet speaks the words of the Lord. But if a prophet is not always acting as a prophet, how are we supposed to know when the President of the Church or another Church leader is speaking as the mouthpiece of the Lord? A prophet speaks the words of the Lord. But if a prophet is not always acting as a prophet, how are we supposed to know when the President of the Church or another Church leader is speaking as the mouthpiece of the Lord? Listen to this episode for a discussion of these issues. The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Click the "like" buttton below to share a link on your Facebook page. Help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by subscribing, writing a review and rating this podcast in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no 6:23 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/22/fair-conversations-episode-10-john-e-sanders/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/22/fair-conversations-episode-10-john-e-sanders/#comments Thu, 23 Jun 2011 01:09:09 +0000 bhodges http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1662 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/22/fair-conversations-episode-10-john-e-sanders/feed/ 0 If Jesus Christ is "the way, the truth, and the life," and no one can receive salvation except through Him, what happens to those who die without having heard of Him? What is the destiny of the "unevangelized"? If Jesus Christ is "the way, the truth, and the life," and no one can receive salvation except through Him, what happens to those who die without having heard of Him? What is the destiny of the "unevangelized"? The revelations of Joseph Smith articulate an impressive response to this question, a question which has confronted Christian thinkers for centuries. In this episode of FAIR Conversations, Professor John E. Sanders joins host Blair Hodges to discuss how various Christians have sought to resolve this problem over time. Sanders is an American Christian theologian with an Evangelical background. He currently serves as chair of religious studies at Hendrix College in Arkansas. He is the author of No Other Name: The Destiny of the Unevangelized. Sanders has provided a useful chart outlining the individuals and positions discussed in this podcast here. Questions or comments about this episode can be sent to podcast@fairlds.org. Or, join the conversation in the comments here at fairblog.org. Runtime: 73:14 Download: To download, right click the "Download" link above and select “Save link as…” You can also download the episode or subscribe to all episodes of the FAIR Podcast in iTunes here. Support FAIR: FAIR relies on contributions from readers and listeners. To help support FAIR, make a donation today. bhodges no 1:13:14 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/18/fair-issues-12-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-12/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/18/fair-issues-12-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-12/#comments Sun, 19 Jun 2011 00:21:54 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1594 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/18/fair-issues-12-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-12/feed/ 0 What constitutes “official” Mormon doctrine? Clearly, the scriptures contain official doctrine. But what counts as “scripture?” Are statements of the First Presidency official “doctrine?” What about statements of Joseph Smith, What constitutes “official” Mormon doctrine? Clearly, the scriptures contain official doctrine. But what counts as “scripture?” Are statements of the First Presidency official “doctrine?” What about statements of Joseph Smith, the Journal of Discourses or general conference addresses? Listen to this episode for a discussion of these issues. The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no 6:05 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/15/fair-issues-11-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-11/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/15/fair-issues-11-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-11/#comments Thu, 16 Jun 2011 03:57:01 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1586 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/15/fair-issues-11-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-11/feed/ 3 Why would God allow prophets to make mistakes? Aren’t general authorities supposed to be perfect? Are there exceptions to the rules given by the prophets and apostles? How can we know if our personal circumstances justify an exception? These issues, Why would God allow prophets to make mistakes? Aren’t general authorities supposed to be perfect? Are there exceptions to the rules given by the prophets and apostles? How can we know if our personal circumstances justify an exception? These issues, and others are explored in this episode. The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no 6:38 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/11/fair-issues-10-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-10/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/11/fair-issues-10-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-10/#comments Sun, 12 Jun 2011 01:10:49 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1563 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/11/fair-issues-10-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-10/feed/ 3 Can prophets make mistakes? If so, then what does it mean that they won't "lead the people of the church astray?" Do members of the Church have the power themselves to keep from being led astray? The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Tim... Can prophets make mistakes? If so, then what does it mean that they won't "lead the people of the church astray?" Do members of the Church have the power themselves to keep from being led astray? The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no 6:07 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/08/fair-issues-9-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-9/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/08/fair-issues-9-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-9/#comments Thu, 09 Jun 2011 02:07:42 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1559 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/08/fair-issues-9-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-9/feed/ 1 In this episode, Michael Ash asks, why are some intelligent and rational members negatively affected by critical claims, while others are not?  The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. - In this episode, Michael Ash asks, why are some intelligent and rational members negatively affected by critical claims, while others are not?  The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no 6:25 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/04/fair-issues-8-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-8/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/04/fair-issues-8-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-8/#comments Sat, 04 Jun 2011 23:33:41 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1521 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/06/04/fair-issues-8-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-8/feed/ 0 Are those who leave the Church simply acting rationally? Is an LDS testimony based only on emotional “feelings?” Or do believers and non-believers alike base their positions on a combination of rational, irrational and extra-rational factors? Are those who leave the Church simply acting rationally? Is an LDS testimony based only on emotional “feelings?” Or do believers and non-believers alike base their positions on a combination of rational, irrational and extra-rational factors? Michael Ash discusses these issues in this episode. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the Mormon FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the Mormon FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no 6:44 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/31/best-of-fair-5-a-black-man-in-zion-reflections-on-race-in-the-restored-gospel/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/31/best-of-fair-5-a-black-man-in-zion-reflections-on-race-in-the-restored-gospel/#comments Wed, 01 Jun 2011 01:49:13 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1526 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/31/best-of-fair-5-a-black-man-in-zion-reflections-on-race-in-the-restored-gospel/feed/ 25 Marcus H. Martins was the first Black man to serve a full-time mission after the revelation that extended the priesthood to worthy men with Black African ancestry in 1978. He was also among the first to be ordained a high priest in 1981 and quite possi... Marcus H. Martins was the first Black man to serve a full-time mission after the revelation that extended the priesthood to worthy men with Black African ancestry in 1978. He was also among the first to be ordained a high priest in 1981 and quite possibly--at least outside of Africa--may have been among the first to be ordained a bishop in 1987. Since 1994, he has been the first Black man to work as a religion professor in the Church's universities: Brigham Young University; then Rick's College; BYU-Idaho and BYU-Hawaii. In this 2006 FAIR Conference address, he speaks of the burden carried by Latter-day Saints with Black African ancestry, and how he has been able to reconcile the pain he has experienced with his faith in the Church. Brother Martins is the author of the book Setting the Record Straight - Blacks and the Mormon Priesthood, which can be purchased at the FAIR Bookstore. The full text of this address can be found at FAIR LDS. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/28/fair-issues-7-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-7/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/28/fair-issues-7-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-7/#comments Sat, 28 May 2011 21:41:12 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1517 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/28/fair-issues-7-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-7/feed/ 0 People can experience discomfort, and even distress, when they encounter new information that conflicts with deeply held beliefs. This is called “cognitive dissonance.”  When this happens, we either: (1) reject the new information as false; (2) reject ... People can experience discomfort, and even distress, when they encounter new information that conflicts with deeply held beliefs. This is called “cognitive dissonance.”  When this happens, we either: (1) reject the new information as false; (2) reject the new information as unimportant; (3) reject old beliefs in favor of the new information; or (4) find new information to validate the original belief. These various ways of resolving cognitive dissonance can be rational, irrational, or extra-rational and are used by faithful members as well as by anti-Mormons alike. The full text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/25/fair-issues-6-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-6/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/25/fair-issues-6-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-6/#comments Thu, 26 May 2011 02:18:19 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1510 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/25/fair-issues-6-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-6/feed/ 0 What happens when the average member of the Church first encounters anti-Mormon literature? Why do some members casually reject it and others become deeply unsettled? In this episode, Michael Ash explores these questions. What happens when the average member of the Church first encounters anti-Mormon literature? Why do some members casually reject it and others become deeply unsettled? In this episode, Michael Ash explores these questions. The complete text of this article can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/22/fair-issues-5-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-5/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/22/fair-issues-5-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-5/#comments Sun, 22 May 2011 16:01:09 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1498 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/22/fair-issues-5-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-5/feed/ 0 What is an “anti-Mormon?” When did anti-Mormons first appear? Is the term “anti-Mormon” pejorative? In the episode, Michael Ash discusses these issues and sets forth differences between two different types of anti-Mormons: sectarian critics and secular... What is an “anti-Mormon?” When did anti-Mormons first appear? Is the term “anti-Mormon” pejorative? In the episode, Michael Ash discusses these issues and sets forth differences between two different types of anti-Mormons: sectarian critics and secular critics. The full text of this article is available at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/18/best-of-fair-episode-4-shaken-faith-syndrome/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/18/best-of-fair-episode-4-shaken-faith-syndrome/#comments Thu, 19 May 2011 03:54:32 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1491 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/18/best-of-fair-episode-4-shaken-faith-syndrome/feed/ 0 In this address from the 2008 FAIR Conference, Michael R. Ash discusses “shaken faith syndrome.” He explains that “a shaken faith typically arises from two scenarios—1) Someone loses their faith because of a disaster in their life (such as a death, In this address from the 2008 FAIR Conference, Michael R. Ash discusses “shaken faith syndrome.” He explains that “a shaken faith typically arises from two scenarios—1) Someone loses their faith because of a disaster in their life (such as a death, divorce, or other tragedy.) 2) Someone’s faith is shaken because they are exposed to information that seems to question the truth claims of the Church.” His address focuses on the second category. Confronting information that seems to question the truth claims of the Church can create cognitive dissonance. “When we encounter cognitive dissonance with weighty issues—such as religious beliefs—we can experience a very uncomfortable and emotional state of mind. This discomfort has been called a “negative drive state” because it causes psychological tension almost like hunger or thirst and requires immediate attention and resolution. Reducing this distress may require a change in belief or behavior. There are at least four ways in which this is generally accomplished, and we are not often consciously aware of doing so. We will either: (1) reject the new information—the competing cognition—as false; (2) reject the new information as unimportant; (3) reject old beliefs in favor of the new information; or (4) add information (additional cognitions) to validate the original belief.” Ash goes on to explain, “When critical information destroys conclusions based on straw men or false assumptions, some members will lose their entire testimonies. The most common misconceptions that seem to factor into personal apostasy include: (A) Unrealistic Expectations of Prophets (B) Confusing Tradition With Doctrine (C) Imposing Our View on Others (D) Unrealistic Expectations of Science and Scholarship” He concludes with some thoughts on inoculation against shaken faith syndrome: “While adding cognitions may salvage damaged testimonies, a change in paradigms before encountering challenging issues often serves as an inoculation against shaken faith syndrome. Inoculation, however, can also cause damage on its own.” The full text of this address can be found at FAIR LDS. You can also watch the video of this presentation on YouTube. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/14/fair-issues-episode-4-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-4/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/14/fair-issues-episode-4-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-4/#comments Sun, 15 May 2011 04:03:45 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1472 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/14/fair-issues-episode-4-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-4/feed/ 0 Michael Ash provides some history and background of some of the organizations that defend the Church, including FARMS (now known as the Neal A. Maxwell Institute), and FAIR. The full text of this episode can be found at Mormon Times. - Michael Ash provides some history and background of some of the organizations that defend the Church, including FARMS (now known as the Neal A. Maxwell Institute), and FAIR. The full text of this episode can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/11/best-of-fair-episode-3-online-apologetics/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/11/best-of-fair-episode-3-online-apologetics/#comments Thu, 12 May 2011 02:56:35 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1462 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/11/best-of-fair-episode-3-online-apologetics/feed/ 2 Scott Gordon, President of FAIR, provides an insider’s view into the history of FAIR and the development of online apologetics. He provides excellent advice on how to be effective in defending the Church on the internet. Scott Gordon, President of FAIR, provides an insider’s view into the history of FAIR and the development of online apologetics. He provides excellent advice on how to be effective in defending the Church on the internet. Toward the end of the presentation are testimonials from two women whose lives have been affected by FAIR. Some of the websites he references include FARMS (now known as the Neal A. Maxwell Institute), Mormonanity, SHIELDS, Mormon Fortress, and, of course, FAIR LDS. There are numerous other Mormon apologetic sites. Some of these include: Mormon Haven, Mormonism Researched, and Response to Anti-Mormon Critics. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/07/fair-issues-episode-3-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-3/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/07/fair-issues-episode-3-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-3/#comments Sat, 07 May 2011 21:52:34 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1457 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/07/fair-issues-episode-3-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-3/feed/ 3 Does truth need a defense? Who should be an apologist? Why don’t the leaders of the Church engage in apologetics? Michael Ash raises these questions in this episode of FAIR Issues. The full text of this episode can be found at Mormon Times. Does truth need a defense? Who should be an apologist? Why don’t the leaders of the Church engage in apologetics? Michael Ash raises these questions in this episode of FAIR Issues. The full text of this episode can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/04/best-of-fair-episode-2-humble-apologetics/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/04/best-of-fair-episode-2-humble-apologetics/#comments Thu, 05 May 2011 02:49:22 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1442 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/05/04/best-of-fair-episode-2-humble-apologetics/feed/ 0 In this 2008 FAIR Conference address, Daniel C. Peterson says “there is a tendency on the part of a lot of apologists, if we don’t know everything, to at least pretend that we do.” However, we often do not have a clear answer for everything. In this 2008 FAIR Conference address, Daniel C. Peterson says “there is a tendency on the part of a lot of apologists, if we don’t know everything, to at least pretend that we do.” However, we often do not have a clear answer for everything. God sometimes deliberately withholds things from us to allow us freedom. Daniel Peterson is the author of many books and articles, including Offenders for a Word, which is available, along with other talks by Brother Peterson, at the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no http://www.fairblog.org/2011/04/30/fair-issues-episode-2-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-2/ http://www.fairblog.org/2011/04/30/fair-issues-episode-2-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-2/#comments Sat, 30 Apr 2011 19:49:34 +0000 SteveDensleyJr http://www.fairblog.org/?p=1435 http://www.fairblog.org/2011/04/30/fair-issues-episode-2-challenging-issues-and-keeping-the-faith-pt-2/feed/ 2 Is it a sin to have doubts? What if we hold some beliefs that are out of line with the views of most members of the Church? Michael Ash raises these questions in this episode of FAIR Issues. The full text of this episode can be found at Mormon Times. Is it a sin to have doubts? What if we hold some beliefs that are out of line with the views of most members of the Church? Michael Ash raises these questions in this episode of FAIR Issues. The full text of this episode can be found at Mormon Times. Brother Ash is author of the book Shaken Faith Syndrome: Strengthening One’s Testimony in the Face of Criticism and Doubt, as well as the book, of Faith and Reason: 80 Evidences Supporting the Prophet Joseph Smith. Both books are available for purchase online through the FAIR Bookstore. Tell your friends about the FAIR-Cast. Share a link on your Facebook page and help increase the popularity of the FAIR-Cast by rating it in iTunes. SteveDensleyJr no