Things I Wish I Could Say in Sunday School

Topics: 1) Joseph Smith's time in Liberty Jail; and 2) Thoughts on the Liberty Jail texts. We discuss the harsh conditions of Liberty Jail and the legal situation Joseph Smith and others were facing. We look closely at sections 121-123 and see new ways to view the writings. We end by discussing the call to "cheerfully do all things that lie in our power."

Topics: 1) The name of the church; 2) Adam-ondi-Ahman; 3) Tithing; 4) Danites; and 5) The Missouri Mormon War of 1838. We question institutional messaging about the church name, trace Joseph Smith’s evolving fundraising methods culminating in tithing, examine vigilante and militia actions by and against Mormons, and connect these events to escalating violence and tragic outcomes. Short, candid, an...

Topics: 1) Kirtland temple; 2) Priesthood keys; 3) Salem, MA; 4) Kirtland Safety Society; and 5) Thomas B. Marsh. This episode takes a frank look at Doctrine and Covenants sections 109–114, covering the Kirtland Temple dedication and vision, the doctrine of priesthood keys, the failed Salem treasure venture, the collapse of the Kirtland Safety Society bank and its fallout, and Thomas B. Marsh.  Ra...

Topics: 1) Zion's camp; and 2) Church administration This episode examines Zion's Camp and early church administration questioning the traditional narrative about Zion's Camp and its outcomes. It also discusses the creation of the Quorum of the Twelve and Seventy, the church's evolving administrative changes, and personal observations about shrinking membership and its consequences.

Topics: 1) Chastening; 2) Being accepted of the Lord; and 3) The timing of section 97. We critique common practices of chastening, argue for unconditional divine acceptance over performance-based love, question the heavy emphasis on sacrifice, and raise concerns about the factual timeline of revelations related to events in Missouri. 

Topic: Decoding. This episode shares candid reflections questioning the clarity and purpose of Joseph Smith's language about truth, knowledge, light, and intelligence. We describe how Section 93 felt cryptic and repetitive, and draw an analogy to online "decoders" and QAnon—arguing the text invites puzzling rather than practical spiritual growth. The episode emphasizes honest, critical thinking ov...

Topics: 1) Education and learning; 2) All things for our good; 3) Vienna Jaques; and 4) The Word of wisdom. This episode offers candid reflections focusing on education and learning, the church's relationship with intellectual inquiry, the limits of the promise that "all things shall work together for our good," and the application of the Word of Wisdom. We also highlight the story of Vienna Jaque...

Topics: 1) Priesthood; 2) South Carolina; and 3) One Mighty and Strong. Welcome to this week's episode of "Things I Wish I Could Say in Sunday School," where we dive into some thought-provoking topics from Doctrine and Covenants sections 84 through 87, exploring new perspectives that challenge traditional narratives. This episode, featuring discussions on Priesthood, South Carolina, and the enigma...

Topics: 1) Changes to the D&C (United Firm and Jesse Gause); 2) I, the Lord, am bound; and 3) Virginia H. Pearce’s story. In this episode, we delve into thought-provoking topics regarding the Doctrine and Covenants. We explore changes to the text over time, including the intriguing story of the United Firm and Jesse Gause. The discussion sheds light on the motivations behind these alterations...

Topics: 1) Coping with church criticism; 2) Church roles evolution; and 3) Afterlife vision. In this thought-provoking episode, we focus on the topics of coping with church criticism, the evolution of church roles, and beliefs about the afterlife. Drawing from the historical critiques faced by the church, the speaker examines how institutional responses have historically fallen short. The discussi...

Topics: 1) Forgiveness; 2) William McLellin; and 3) The Book of Commandments. In this episode, we delve into ideas often left unsaid in Sunday School. We explore the concept of forgiveness as depicted in the Doctrine and Covenants, questioning conventional teachings and emphasizing personal peace over institutional demands. The narrative of William McLellin offers an intriguing story of faith, dis...

Topics: 1) Unfulfilled promises; 2) Ezra Booth; and 3) Chaste thoughts. In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the topics of unfulfilled promises, the story of Ezra Booth, and the concept of chaste thoughts. Reflect on the journey of the Colesville Saints, who faced repeated relocations based on unmet promises, and consider the broader implications for those who question institutional gua...

Topics: 1) Correct teachings and Leman Copley; 2) Marriage; and 3) Stewardship. This episode of "Things I Wish I Could Say in Sunday School" explores unconventional ideas and perspectives on Doctrine and Covenants, Sections 49-57. The discussion touches on topics such as correct teachings, the story of Leman Copley and his struggle with Shaker beliefs, and the complexities surrounding marriage and...

Topics: 1) Jesus Christ is our advocate with the Father; 2) Stand in Holy Places; and 3) Is the Church welcoming? In this episode, we dive into unconventional thoughts and ideas that challenge traditional narratives within the church community. We begin by exploring the role of Jesus Christ as our Advocate, questioning the necessity of intermediation between us and our Heavenly Parents. Moving on,...

Topics: 1) Zion; and 2) The Law In this week's episode, we delve into thought-provoking topics related to personal freedom, belonging, and the true essence of unity. As we explore Doctrine and Covenants sections 37 through 44, we reflect on the concept of Zion and the significance of building a community where individuals are valued for their unique identities rather than forced conformity. We dis...

Topics: 1) Missionary work; 2) People who leave. In this week's episode, the focus is on sharing candid thoughts about missionary work and the experience of people who leave the church. The lesson challenges traditional ideas and encourages open conversations about personal spirituality and faith. The discussion questions the approach of pushing spiritual beliefs onto others and critiques the "ora...

Topics: 1) Sacrament food and drink; 2) Hiram page’s revelation; 3) All things unto me are spiritual; and 4) The devil cannot tempt children. Welcome to another episode where we delve into sometimes unspoken ideas in Sunday School teachings. This week, we explore the concept of focusing on the spirit rather than the letter of the law, as demonstrated in the doctrine of sacrament food and drink. Th...

Topics: 1) Emma Hale Smith; and 2) Common consent. In this episode of "Things I Wish I Could Say in Sunday School," we delve into the complexities surrounding the life of Emma Hale Smith, the wife of Joseph Smith, and her tumultuous relationship with the early Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We explore her challenges, her defiance against polygamy, and her strained relations with Brig...

Topics: 1) The need for a church; 2) Women and priesthood; and 3) Obeying the prophet yields divine protection. In this episode, we dive into a refreshing perspective on common teachings, particularly challenging the notion of the necessity of organized religion. We question prevailing beliefs on why religious organizations, especially churches, are deemed essential and explore if they truly align...

Topics: 1) The worth of souls is great; and 2) Manipulating Martin Harris. In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the concept of the worth of souls as taught in Doctrine and Covenants sections 18. The discussion challenges societal conditioning that assigns unequal value to individuals based on wealth, race, gender, and other factors. By exploring these biases, we uncover the importance...

Topics: 1) The 116 lost pages; 2) Restoration of the priesthood; and 3) Witnesses of the Book of Mormon. In this episode of "Things I Wish I Could Say in Sunday School," we embark on a journey to explore some lesser-discussed aspects of the Latter-day Saint history. We dive into the intriguing story of the 116 Lost Pages, shedding light on the tensions and theories surrounding their disappearance....

Topics: 1) Translation of the Book of Mormon; 2) Martin Harris and Professor Charles Anthon; and 3) Oliver Cowdery’s translation attempt. Explore the lesser-known account of the Book of Mormon's translation process, uncovering how Joseph Smith used a seer stone rather than the traditional Urim and Thummim. This casts doubt on what many were taught and the Church's main narrative. Dive into the int...

Topics: 1) The term First Vision; 2) Four different versions; and 3) The narrative of Joseph Smith-History. This episode questions the use of the term "first vision" and explores the inconsistencies among four accounts provided by Joseph Smith. We discuss how the term "vision" signifies a superficial experience, possibly undermining the profound impact it's presumed to have. We also look into Jose...

Topics: 1) Restoration; 2) Only true and living church; and 3) Voice of my servants is the same. In this episode, we explore unconventional ideas about familiar religious teachings, focusing on the concept of restoration within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. By examining the original organization of the Christian church and comparing it with modern structures, the discussion chal...

Topics: 1) Moroni's promise; 2) Spiritual gifts. In this episode, we delve into Moroni Chapter 10, discussing concepts like Moroni's promise and spiritual gifts with a fresh perspective. This episode marks the conclusion of the Book of Mormon series, with reflections on finding truth beyond literal interpretations and understanding the subjective nature of spiritual experiences. We break down Moro...