Unveiling Mormonism

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Join Ross Anderson and Bryan Dwyer, pastors with over 50 years of combined ministry experience in Utah, as they take a deep dive on everything Mormon – from theology to history to culture. New topic every Monday.

HÁ 4 DIAS

Who Are the Jehovah's Witnesses?

Some modern day religions claim to be Christians...but are they really? Go through this series with a small group or mentor, and let's take a closer look at some religions that may actually be cultish. This week: Jehova's Witnesses. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism. Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series. Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- In the last episode we talked about what is a cult (how to identify a cult, etc.). If you missed that one, be sure and go and check that out. In today’s episode we will focus our attention on a group that claims to be the real Christians, but as we will show today the Jehovah’s Witnesses are not Christians. The Jehovah’s Witnesses originated in the late 19th century with Charles Taze Russell, an American preacher deeply interested in Bible prophecy. Here’s a concise history of the organization: Part I: The HistoryOrigins and Founder:Charles Taze Russell (1852–1916): Russell was influenced by Adventist teachings, particularly their focus on Christ’s second coming. Disillusioned with mainstream Christianity, he began his own Bible study group in the 1870s in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.1870s The group now known as Jehovah’s Witnesses was initially called Bible Students or International Bible Students Association (IBSA) during its early years. This name reflected their focus on studying the Bible and disseminating their teachings.Publication of Zion’s Watch Tower (1879): Russell launched this magazine to spread his interpretations of the Bible, emphasizing end-time prophecies and the imminent return of Christ.Why was it called Watchtower? The name "Watchtower" comes from the Bible, where watchtowers were used as places to keep watch and warn of danger. In ancient times, people would stand in tall towers to look out for enemies or protect their vineyards from animals.Jehovah's Witnesses use the name Watchtower because they believe they are like spiritual watchmen. They think their job is to warn people about the coming of God’s Kingdom and the end of the current world system (what they call Armageddon). They see themselves as sounding the alarm and helping people prepare for what they believe is God’s judgment.The name also reflects their focus on being alert and vigilant about spreading their teachings, which they view as essential for saving others. The magazine The Watchtower became their main way to share these warnings and spread their message worldwide. Formation of the Organization:Incorporation as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society (1884): Russell formally organized his followers under this name, focusing on mass publication and distribution of literature.Today’s Stats and Organizational Structure8.6 million members today (2023)Governing Body: A centralized leadership that claims exclusive authority in interpreting the Bible.Emphasis on door-to-door evangelism, distribution of "Watchtower" and "Awake!" magazines.Rutherford’s Leadership (1916–1942): After Russell’s death, Rutherford took control....

58min
3 DE JAN. · BÔNUS

Was America Founded on Biblical Principles? - The PursueGOD Truth Podcast

The U.S. Constitution, finalized in 1787, is a cornerstone of governance and liberty. While it does not explicitly mention God, many of its principles align with biblical truths. These truths emphasize the role of moral law, the divine origin of human rights, and the purpose of government. In this episode we explore three pillars of God and government, enriched with Scripture to reveal how these principles reflect biblical teaching. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org. Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series. Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- 1. There Is a God, and He Has Established a Fixed Moral LawThe Constitution assumes the existence of universal truths—principles that govern justice and fairness. This idea aligns with the Bible’s declaration: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1, NLT) By acknowledging a Creator, the foundation of the Constitution reflects an ordered world governed by divine laws. These moral laws are evident in the Ten Commandments, given to guide human behavior: “You must not steal. You must not testify falsely against your neighbor.” (Exodus 20:15-16, NLT) The rule of law, central to the Constitution, echoes biblical justice. In God’s eyes, righteousness and impartiality are essential: “Judges must be impartial. They must hear the case of those who are poor just as they hear the case of those who are rich.” (Deuteronomy 1:17, NLT) The Constitution reflects this concept by establishing a legal system grounded in objective, unchanging principles that mirror God’s moral law, ensuring fairness and accountability. 2. God, Not the Government, Gives Rights to Every Human BeingThe Constitution’s protection of inalienable rights—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—rests on the belief that rights are given by God, not government. Scripture affirms this truth: “What are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them? Yet you made them only a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honor.” (Psalm 8:4-5, NLT) Every human being possesses dignity and worth because they are created in God’s image: “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27, NLT) This foundational truth underscores the Constitution’s emphasis on individual freedoms. By safeguarding these rights, the document reflects God’s design for humanity. Government’s role, then, is to protect these God-given freedoms, not to grant or revoke them. 3. Government Exists to Protect Rights and Enforce Moral LawThe Constitution defines government’s purpose as protecting rights and maintaining order. The Bible reinforces this by teaching that government is a servant...

26min
30/12/2024

Is Tithing Biblical or Just a Mormon Thing?

Tithing isn’t mandated by the New Testament, but Christians should be good stewards of their money by giving regularly, proportionately, and sacrificially. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism. Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series. Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Tithing, the practice of giving 10% of your income to God, is a topic that Christians still talk about a lot. In the Old Testament, tithing is part of the Mosaic Law, but in the New Testament, people debate its place. Surprisingly, the word “tithe” (or its variations) only shows up four times in the New Testament. Before we dive into the New Testament, let’s quickly look at tithing in the Old Testament to understand what it tells us about the practice. The Nebulous Nature of the Tithe in the Old Testament In the Old Testament, the concept of the tithe is mentioned multiple times, but its exact application and scope were somewhat complex and varied. For example: Levitical Tithe: Numbers 18:21-24 describes a tithe given to the Levites as compensation for their service in the Tabernacle. This tithe was based on agricultural produce and livestock, not monetary income.Festival Tithe: Deuteronomy 14:22-27 outlines a tithe that was set aside for annual festivals. This tithe was consumed by the giver and their household in a celebratory feast before the Lord.Charity Tithe: Deuteronomy 14:28-29 refers to a tithe given every third year to support the poor, including the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow. So, the “tithe” wasn’t a one-size-fits-all thing. It was actually a bunch of different obligations that served different purposes in ancient Israelite society. And guess what? It mostly applied to people who worked in farming, not to everyone who made money or had stuff. This is important to keep in mind when we think about how tithing might work in our modern world. The Four Appearances of the Tithe in the New Testament Now let’s dive into the four references to the tithe in the New Testament. Surprisingly, we never find Jesus or any New Testament author commanding us to tithe. Instead, the tithe serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting what NOT to do when it’s done with the wrong intentions. 1. Matthew 23:23 In Matthew 23:23, Jesus says to the Pharisees: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former." Jesus acknowledges the Pharisees’ strict tithing, even of garden herbs, but points out that they neglected more important things like justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He doesn’t say tithing is wrong, but he emphasizes the importance of having a pure heart and focusing on the bigger picture of living a godly life. 2. Luke 11:42 Luke’s Gospel includes a parallel to Matthew 23:23, where Jesus says: "Woe to you Pharisees,...

38min
27/12/2024 · BÔNUS

Mormons (Cultish 02) - The PursueGOD Truth Podcast

Some modern day religions claim to be Christians...but are they really? Go through this series with a small group or mentor, and let's take a closer look at some religions that may actually be cultish. This week: Mormons. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org. Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series. Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- https://www.pursuegod.org/unveiling-mormonism/

1h3min
24/12/2024 · BÔNUS

Three Reasons Baby Jesus Came into the World (In His Own Words) - The PursueGOD Truth Podcast

Baby Jesus couldn’t tell us anything about his birth, because he was fully baby. But grown-up Jesus can. In this episode we'll look at three reasons Jesus came into the world... in his own words. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org. Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series. Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- 05 Baby Jesus (Christmas Eve) Title: Three reasons Jesus came into the world (in his own words) Intro: Kids and ChristmasI’m not sure if kids really write letters to Santa anymore. You can probably just tweet at him or send him your wishlist on Instagram. But I did come across a couple actual letters from kids to Santa that I wanted to share with you: Dear Santa,You did not bring me anything good last year.You did not bring me anything good the year before that.This is your last chance.Signed, MadisonDear Santa,There are three little kids who live at our house.There is Jeffrey; he is 2.There is Ashley; she is 4.And there is Norman; he is 7.Jeffrey is good some of the time.Ashley is good some of the time.But Norman is good all of the time.I am Norman. Kids love Christmas. Do you know who was the first kid at Christmas? Jesus! (Did you ever think about that?) Tonight we’re finishing our Christmas series The Story of Christmas from People Who Were Actually ThereThe innkeeper: make roomThe shepherds: The wise men:King Herod:Today: Baby Jesus The most important person who was actually there is… Jesus. We don’t have his viewpoint as a babyBecause he was fully baby, so he doesn’t rememberHow many of you remember when you were a baby?Some people claim to remember their birth, but that’s bogus:We have "infantile amnesia," the inability to recall events from the first few years of life. Memory formation, particularly episodic memory (the ability to recall specific events), begins to function more reliably around the age of 3–4.My earliest memory is about 5 Sunday morning, brother’s face bit by a German ShepherdSo, baby Jesus couldn’t tell us much about his birthBut grown-up Jesus canAt Christmas we tend to think of Jesus as a baby, but Jesus didn’t come to just be a baby, He came because He’s Immanuel, “God with us” Today: three reasons Jesus came into the world (in his own words) John 3:16 (NLT) 16 “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son….” Jesus came as the ultimate demonstration of God’s lovePrinciple: the gift you give is a demonstration of your loveNot everyone understands this (me, AJ)“This is how _____ showed his love: he gave me ______”God understands this principle, that’s why he gave his one and only sonUltimate...

9min
18/12/2024 · BÔNUS

How Do You Know It’s a Cult? (Cultish 01) - The PursueGOD Truth Podcast

Some modern day religions claim to be Christians...but are they really? Go through this series with a small group or mentor, and let's take a closer look at some religions that may actually be cultish. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org. Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series. Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- In this series: The Big Three Christian Cults (disclaimer #2) Mormonism (17 million)Jehovah’s Witnesses (8 million)Seventh Day Adventists (22 million) - Is it or is it not a cult? Debated for 70 years What is a Cult?A Clear Explanation of the Term "Cult"Define "cult" in a religious context: Groups that claim to be Christian but deviate significantly from core biblical doctrine.Disclaimer: Not every person who is in these groups aligns with everything we are going to cover How do cults start? “Many cults begin with a charismatic leader or group claiming special revelation or insight that goes beyond or distorts the Bible. They often address unmet spiritual or emotional needs, offering certainty in confusing times or claiming to restore ‘lost truths.’ Over time, they develop exclusive doctrines, emphasize obedience to their authority, and create a sense of dependency by isolating followers from outside perspectives. The common thread is a departure from the core gospel of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, replacing it with human authority, works-based salvation, or extra-biblical teachings.”Second Great Awakening, burnt over district, restorationismCane ridge revival 1801Back to basic ChristianityEnd Times fervor1844If not careful we see this happening on YouTube today. Signs You’re in a Cult (Allen Asks)Explain that any deviation from these essentials leads to a distorted or false version of Christianity. So what are some of the essentials? Distortion of Scripture & Sound DoctrineSufficiency of Scripture (Sola Scriptura): The group uses its own interpretation of the Bible or an altered version of Scripture to fit its teachings.The authority and sufficiency of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17).Extra-biblical writings or revelations are often elevated to the same level as, or higher than, the Bible.Example: Jehovah’s Witnesses’ New World Translation and Mormonism’s Book of Mormon. Deity of ChristThe group teaches a view of the deity of Christ that diverges from the traditional Christian view of Jesus being fully human and fully divine Salvation by WorksThe group teaches that salvation is earned through strict adherence to their specific rules, laws, or practices.Grace and faith in Christ alone are downplayed or...

44min
16/12/2024

First Vision Accounts (LDS Gospel Topics)

Bryan, Bo and KD talk about the multiple accounts of the First Vision and the article in the Gospel Topics series. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism. Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series. Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Find the article here. The First Vision is one of the most pivotal events in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), regarded as the moment when Joseph Smith, the founder of the church, received a divine visitation from God the Father and Jesus Christ. This vision, which Smith claimed to have experienced in 1820 in the woods near his home in Palmyra, New York, is foundational to LDS theology, marking the beginning of the Restoration of the gospel and the establishment of the LDS Church. As such, the account of this vision is central to the faith of millions of Latter-day Saints. In an effort to address the complexities surrounding the multiple accounts of the First Vision, the LDS Church published an article titled "The First Vision Accounts" in its Gospel Topics series. The article is part of the Church's broader effort to engage with historical scholarship, acknowledging that there are discrepancies between the various accounts Joseph Smith gave of his vision over the years. While the article seeks to harmonize these differences and present the vision as a consistent and inspired event, a closer critical examination reveals several concerns, particularly regarding its treatment of historical context, the inconsistencies between accounts, and the theological implications of these discrepancies. 1. Acknowledging Multiple AccountsThe article begins by acknowledging that Joseph Smith gave several accounts of the First Vision over the years, each with varying details. This is a notable step in the Church's public engagement with historical criticism, as it is an issue that has long been raised by scholars and critics alike. The article lists the key versions of the First Vision: the 1832 account, the 1835 account (given to a man named Joshua, later written down by a scribe), the 1838 account (which is the version published in the History of the Church), and later retellings in the 1840s. The acknowledgment of multiple accounts is an important admission, especially given that some critics have argued that the differing versions undermine the credibility of Joseph Smith’s vision. The article explains that these differences are not contradictions, but rather reflections of Joseph Smith's evolving understanding of the experience, the audience he was addressing, and his desire to emphasize certain aspects of the vision depending on the context. While this approach offers a plausible defense for the differing accounts, the article could be seen as somewhat dismissive of the deeper implications of these discrepancies. A more robust engagement with the question of why Joseph Smith's retellings varied so widely, both in terms of content and theological emphasis, would provide a more...

48min
09/12/2024

The Masonic Roots of Mormonism (LDS Gospel Topics)

The LDS church released a gospel topics essay on Masonry... and the eerily suspicious overlap of Masonic rituals and symbols with the Mormon temple. Then they removed it from their Gospel Topics section. Let's talk about that. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism. Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series. Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now --

40min

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106 avaliações

Very helpful in transition

01/12/2024

Grav385

Born and raised in the LDS Church. Had various questions about the teachings and the BOM and Joseph Smith my entire life. Been inactive for a few fears, and am now pursuing God.
Respectful dialogue

07/07/2024

Nbs93555

I left the Mormon Church when it was ok to it that! I always loved Jesus and appreciate the years as a Latter Day Saint, for this helped me be a better Christian and love the Church I joined later. Great conversations.
Mormonism through Christian lens

12/11/2024

cyborgxcreeper

I saw a billboard in SLC for this podcast so I decided to check it out. Having come from a similar lens as Bo(?), someone driven even in Mormonism by a love of the Bible, there were a lot of things to appreciate here. I listened to 3 episodes before deciding it wasn’t for me. I think most of the critiques are spot on. Where it falls short for me is where it transitions to what they view as truth. They have ample knowledge of issues in Mormonism but are completely uncritical of their own faith. I know a good chunk of people exiting Mormonism end up in mainstream christianity, so perhaps this would appeal more to them. I worked so hard to dissect my own faith but I didn’t arbitrarily draw a protective border around those things that were specific to Christianity. I discarded everything. It’s possible that I’m just not the target audience. But I was nodding along for the majority of the episodes but would be immediately turned off when they would be so matter-of-fact about their truth with little introspection.
I’m sure they mean well but they’re misrepresenting the Mormons church

16/10/2024

StrikerAC

Well-meaning pastors focused not on the good word of God but instead how others aren’t doing Christianity as well as they are. The depth of their arguments are at the most basic level where they proudly proclaim the same things they vilify the Mormons for doing. The pastors will quote Bible passages (which Mormons also believe in) draw different conclusions from the same passages and claim their position is superior and the Mormons have it wrong—based on what exactly? Their opinion being different? It’s well-meaning and peacefully delivered but lacks substance worth taking as “gospel”.