Teaching Restored

Kevin Jones

Exploring the HOW of teaching the restored gospel for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Think of this as your weekly Teacher Council Meeting.

  1. 3D AGO

    E121: Understanding the New Adjustments - Where do we go from here?

    Something big is about to change how gospel teaching happens, and we’re feeling the impact. We share our honest reactions and dig into what these adjustments actually mean for us, our homes, and our wards/branches. This episode is driven by real questions: what’s the difference between a tiny tweak and blowing up the old ways? We discuss what “lifelong discipleship” means and why the leaders keep repeating it. You’ll hear our debate about how the new home-centered approach affects ordinary wards, why some feel like it’s a radical shift while others see more of the same, and how leaders see things from a global perspective that most of us never experience. Key topics include: Whether the change is a “blow up” or just a small tweakThe focus on lifelong discipleship and what it signalsPressure and challenges for families and teachers at homeHow local wards and stakes differ in adapting to church-supported, home-centered principlesThe pain and reality of people leaving, and how these adjustments might helpWe hash out what we see, what we feel, and what might be coming next, emphasizing the ongoing tension between church and home, between tradition and meaningful change.

    55 min

  2. MAR 30

    E120: The Power of Variety with Marie Owens

    Looking to become a more effective gospel teacher for your class, family, or friends? This episode dives into the importance of using variety in teaching—which keeps students engaged, sparks curiosity, and invites the Spirit into every lesson, whether at home or in the classroom. Marie Owens shares practical, doable strategies like changing up your physical setup, incorporating multimedia and technology (including music and art), and using active learning activities to make gospel principles memorable and meaningful. The hosts and guest emphasize that small changes—like switching rooms, trying new types of questions, or letting students create—can have a big impact. You’ll also get tips for finding new ideas and balancing creativity with solid doctrine, all while keeping your focus on bringing others closer to Christ. 1. Mix Things Up: Small adjustments in classroom setup, technology use, and lesson activities can engage learners and make every lesson fresh and exciting. 2. Involve Everyone: Let students participate in teaching, discussion, and creative activities—they’ll remember and feel the gospel more deeply. 3. Stay Centered on Christ: Whatever methods you use, the goal is always to help others feel the Spirit and draw nearer to Jesus Christ.

    1h 13m

  3. MAR 23

    E119: Ready to Teach General Conference? Here's How to Prep

    Many miss out on the full impact of General Conference by only listening passively, but viewing the talks with a "teacher mindset" brings deeper inspiration and understanding. Kevin and Julie share practical ways to dive into topics, ask meaningful questions, and prepare to teach, whether at church or in your own home. Applying this approach will transform your Conference experience and make gospel teaching and learning more exciting and relevant. 1. Approach General Conference talks with a teacher’s perspective—search for topics and questions you can discuss and teach, not just information to absorb. 2. Focus on real discussions about gospel topics and invite genuine questions, instead of just “teaching a lesson” or covering content. 3. Use study and discussion tools (like the Gospel Library app) to link conference topics, deepen your preparation, and involve others in meaningful gospel learning.

    50 min

  4. MAR 16

    E118: Kristen Walker Smith-Scripture Study That Sticks: Real-Life Tools for Teaching the Gospel in the Home

    Struggling to make scripture study meaningful (or even possible) with your family? You’re not alone! Join Kevin, Julie, and guest Kristen Walker Smith as they get real about the trials and triumphs of teaching faith at home. Learn practical, flexible strategies like the "One Minute Scripture Study," the SWORD method for scripture engagement, plus tips for working with busy, neurodiverse, or resistant family members. This episode is filled with encouragement and wisdom for every gospel teacher or parent—because when it comes to bringing the gospel home, every effort counts. 1. Focus on Feelings, Not Just Format: Shift the goal from the “perfect” scripture study routine to creating a positive, meaningful experience—even a single verse, hymn, or heartfelt discussion counts. 2. Adapt to Your Family’s Needs: Use ceiling and floor goals, adjust for neurodivergent or reluctant children, and lean on practical tools like the SWORD method to engage everyone. 3. Emphasize Patterns and Personal Application: Consistency and personal connection to the scriptures are more important than length or depth—help kids build their own spiritual habits and see themselves in God’s word.

    58 min

  5. MAR 9

    E117: Teaching Types & Shadows of Jesus Christ with Kyle Smith

    Is it sometimes difficult to see Jesus Christ in certain chapters of the Old Testament? In this episode, we examine why Christ is present throughout scripture—even in passages where he seems invisible—and how to strengthen our ability to recognize him, both in the text and in our everyday lives. We talk about how types and shadows work and why everything God gives bears record of the Savior. By practicing with everyday objects and familiar stories, we show how spiritual muscles can be developed to find Christ everywhere—including pens, power chargers, and even McDonald's drive-thrus. The conversation covers: Definitions and differences between types and shadowsPractical methods for teaching these concepts in classrooms and at homeCautions against overcomplicating or forcing symbolism that isn’t thereThe importance of explicitly connecting principles and experiences back to Jesus ChristHow seeing Christ in scripture transforms personal relationships with himOur discussion encourages a shift from merely identifying connections to deepening our ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ. We share practical tips, memorable stories, and honest reflections about how to make gospel study more transformative for ourselves and those we teach.

    56 min

  6. MAR 2

    E116: Navigating Tough Gospel Questions with Compassion with Jasmin Rappleye

    Ever wondered how to tackle tough gospel questions with love and clarity? Join us as Jasmin Rappleye shares her inspired approach to teaching the gospel on social media, embracing curiosity and empathy! Discover tips for asking deeper questions, balancing faith and facts, and connecting with God amidst the challenges. Plus, practical resources that empower you to grow and help others on their faith journey.

    1h 3m

  7. FEB 23

    E115: Rethinking Gospel Teaching

    This episode explores how gospel teachers can shift from focusing on delivering content to supporting real conversion and daily scripture study. Kevin and Julie dive into the Come Follow Me booklet’s introduction, discussing its guidance for teachers to prioritize personal spiritual experiences and the companionship of the Spirit. Rather than just presenting new information, the true goal is to help others grow and share their experiences, creating a supportive classroom culture. The conversation invites teachers to reframe their role, focusing on supporting their class members’ study and application at home.

    1h 11m

  8. FEB 16

    E114: Becoming Gospel Mechanics: Making Deep Doctrine Simple, Real, and Powerful with Brent Top

    In this episode of Teaching Restored, Brent Top joins Kevin and Julie to explore how to teach complex gospel principles in a way that truly connects with people’s lives. Brent Top introduces the idea of being a “gospel mechanic”—breaking down deep doctrines into simple, understandable parts and then letting learners piece them together for themselves. The discussion covers real-life experiences from the mission field, handling tough gospel questions, and how authentic listening can lead to real learning and growth. Instead of just providing answers, teachers are encouraged to guide discovery and help others see how gospel pieces fit together in their own lives. This approach makes learning the gospel easy, meaningful, and spiritually powerful for everyone involved. 1. Break it Down to Build it Up: Make even the deepest gospel subjects simple and relatable by breaking them into smaller pieces students can connect and assemble themselves. 2. Let Learners Discover: True conversion happens when individuals put the gospel puzzle together rather than just being told the answers—guide with questions, not just explanations. 3. Focus on Real Connection: Successful teaching is rooted in authenticity and listening; sometimes, the most powerful lessons come from letting others share and process their own challenges.

    57 min
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4.9
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Exploring the HOW of teaching the restored gospel for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Think of this as your weekly Teacher Council Meeting.

Information

  • Creator
    Kevin Jones
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    122
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Kevin Jones
  • Show Website
    Teaching Restored

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