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In this episode, Brandi and AJ share how unanswered questions, painful discovery, and an honest search for truth led them from “grinding for godhood” in Mormonism to encountering the real Jesus of the Bible. Check out Brandi's Book: The Journey to Jesus: Finding Christ after Leaving Mormonism Brandi's Instagram -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- Brandi and AJ’s Story: Mormon to Atheist to ChristianBrandi and AJ were doing everything “right.” They were BYU grads, married, building a life, raising kids, and fully committed to the LDS vision of a faithful future. AJ describes it like “grinding for godhood”—a life built on steps, worthiness, temple goals, and constant striving. But then the foundation started to crack. For AJ, some of the doctrinal history raised unsettling questions (including ideas like “blood atonement,” which they mention they’ll unpack later). For Brandi, the tipping point was watching changes in the LDS church after COVID and feeling like the church was shifting in a more progressive direction. She tried to address it the way a devoted member would: she wrote letters to Salt Lake City headquarters about what she saw as inconsistency—especially related to abortion and human life. She wasn’t trying to tear anything down. She genuinely believed the LDS church was true, and she wanted it to be consistent. But the response felt dismissive—more like a polite pat on the head than a meaningful engagement. That frustration pushed them into a place they never thought they’d go: researching. Looking for answers… without wanting to “deconstruct”Brandi makes an important clarification: they weren’t hunting for “gotcha” moments. They didn’t go searching because they assumed the church was false. In fact, they needed it to be true. That’s why reading outside sources felt dangerous. AJ describes that fear as avoiding the “cognitive dissonance fire”—because their hearts were convinced, and they didn’t want their minds persuaded that everything was a lie. But once they started reading, the “genie” didn’t go back in the bottle. They looked at sources like MormonThink because it included multiple perspectives—both critical claims and apologetic responses. That felt more balanced. Still, it wasn’t official, and Brandi felt guilty even being there. Eventually, as more historical issues piled up (like multiple First Vision...

The Seven Attributes of Jesus (Christology 1)Big Idea: Jesus Christ is not just a chapter in the story of God; He is the Author, the Hero, and the Ending. When we see Jesus for who He truly is, every other priority in our lives finds its proper place. Today we begin a nine-week journey through the Book of Hebrews, a letter written to magnify the greatness of Jesus Christ. Hebrews isn’t primarily about religious rules, moral improvement, or spiritual techniques. It’s about Jesus—who He is and what He has done. Everything else flows from that foundation. The original audience was likely Jewish Christians living under Roman rule, facing intense persecution. As pressure mounted, many were tempted to abandon their faith in Jesus and return to the familiarity and safety of traditional Judaism. Hebrews speaks directly into that tension with one clear message: Jesus is greater than anyone or anything that came before Him. To walk away from Him would be to walk away from the fulfillment of all God’s promises. The author of Hebrews remains anonymous, one of the great mysteries of the New Testament. While Paul may have influenced it, the writing style is far more polished and rhetorically sophisticated than Paul’s letters. Hebrews chapter 1 proves this immediately. Verses 1–4 form a single, majestic sentence in the original Greek—an exordium, designed to grab attention with both beauty and weight. Hebrews 1:1–4 (NLT) sets the stage: “Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son…”In the Old Testament, God spoke in fragments—a dream here, a burning bush there, a prophet’s warning along the way. But in Jesus, God didn’t just send messages; He sent the Message. This is Christology—the study of the person and work of Jesus Christ—and Hebrews wastes no time getting to the point. In verses 2–3, the author unleashes a rapid-fire description of Jesus using seven distinct attributes. In Scripture, the number seven represents completeness and perfection. Together, these form a full portrait of the Son. Jesus is the Heir—the goal of history. God has promised everything to Him as an inheritance. History is not random; it is moving toward the coronation of King Jesus. He is the “why” behind all creation. Jesus is the Creator—the architect of reality. Through Him, God made the universe. Jesus is not a created being; He is the source of all things. Nothing exists apart from His will. Jesus is the Radiance—the shining glory of God. He doesn’t merely reflect God’s glory like the moon reflects sunlight; He radiates it. The Son is the visible manifestation of the invisible God—“Light from Light.” Jesus is the Expression—the exact imprint of God’s nature. The Greek word charaktēr refers to a stamp or seal. Jesus doesn’t resemble God; He perfectly represents Him. To see Jesus is to see God. Jesus is the Sustainer—the glue of the cosmos. He holds everything together by the power of His word. The universe doesn’t persist on autopilot; it endures because Jesus commands it to. Jesus is the Savior—the cleanser of sin. When He purified us from our sins, the work was finished. Unlike Old Testament priests who never sat down, Jesus completed the work once for all. Finally, Jesus is the Ruler—the seated King. He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven, a position of total authority. The victory is won. Hebrews 1:4 reminds us that Jesus is far greater than angels, traditions, or anything else we might be tempted to trust. For believers facing hardship, this truth re-centers everything. The message of Hebrews is clear:...

In this episode, Bryan sits down with Brandi and AJ to hear how a lifetime of devotion to Mormon exaltation turned into what they call “grinding for godhood”—a relentless pursuit of worthiness, temple marriage, and eternal approval. Their story reveals the hidden pressure of a works-based faith and sets the stage for how God began to unravel everything they thought was true. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- Check out Brandi's Book: The Journey to Jesus: Finding Christ after Leaving Mormonism Grinding for Godhood: Life Inside Mormon ExaltationIn this episode, Bryan talks with Brandi and AJ, two former Mormons who were fully committed to their faith from childhood. Brandi introduces a phrase that captures their experience perfectly: “grinding for godhood.” It describes a life shaped by striving—keeping covenants, qualifying for temple blessings, and doing everything necessary to reach exaltation. What does “grinding for godhood” mean?Brandi explains that from a young age she believed her purpose was to tap into her divine nature and eventually become like God. This wasn’t driven by ego or a desire to be worshiped. It felt like obligation—this is what I was created for, and I have to take it seriously. AJ felt the same pressure. The temple represented the ultimate goal: exaltation, eternal family, and eternal progression. Getting to the temple—and staying worthy—was everything. Women, godhood, and the templeFor Brandi, godhood wasn’t just a “male” idea. She fully expected to become like a “Heavenly Mother,” even though Heavenly Mother was rarely discussed in Mormonism. Eternity was tied to temple marriage, which meant finding the right husband wasn’t optional—it was essential. That belief raised the stakes on dating, college decisions, and life itself. Utah vs. California MormonismAJ grew up in Utah, where Mormonism was normal and rarely questioned. Brandi grew up in California, constantly interacting with non-Mormons and Christians who challenged her beliefs. Instead of weakening her faith, that pressure made her more confident and outspoken. Brandi actively debated theology, defended the Restoration, and gave Book of Mormons to friends and teachers—believing she was sharing something life-changing. BYU and the pressure to marryAt BYU Provo, the urgency intensified. Brandi describes the dating culture as competitive and...

In this episode, Bryan and Layne show why the Holy Spirit isn’t a reward you earn or a feeling you chase—but God’s personal presence given to everyone who trusts in the real Jesus. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- How the Holy Spirit Works Personally (and Why Mormonism Leaves People Unsure)In the last episode, we talked about how a biblical church doesn’t need one “capital P” Prophet to speak for God. Jesus didn’t set up His church to be led by a single man with exclusive access to heaven’s messages. Instead, the book of Acts shows something radically different: God gives His Holy Spirit to every believer, revealing truth through Scripture and confirming it through the people of God. But here’s the question that hits closer to home: How does the Holy Spirit work on a personal level? That’s where this conversation gets especially helpful—because Layne lived for 40 years inside Mormonism, where the Holy Spirit is often treated like something you earn, maintain, or even lose. And if you grew up LDS, you know the anxiety: Do I have the Holy Ghost? Did I lose it? Am I worthy enough today? The “Holy Ghost” in Mormonism: A Gift You’re Never Quite Sure You HaveIn Mormon teaching, people are told about the “gift of the Holy Ghost,” along with ideas like “confirmations,” “warm feelings,” and the famous “burning in the bosom.” It’s often described as something that comes after baptism, through priesthood hands, and after ongoing obedience and ordinances. But here’s the problem: many Latter-day Saints live with what Layne calls Holy Spirit insecurity. You might feel something during prayer or a testimony meeting—then you mess up later and wonder if God is gone. The whole cycle can become spiritually exhausting, emotionally draining, and mentally confusing. Instead of a steady relationship with God, you’re chasing a spiritual signal that feels like it comes and goes. The Holy Spirit Is a “He,” Not an “It”One of the practical moments in this episode is when the guys stop and talk about pronouns—because it reveals something deeper. In biblical Christianity, the Holy Spirit isn’t an impersonal force. He is a person. Not a “thing” or “energy” or “vibe.” He has personhood. That’s why Christians speak of Him as “He,” not because the Spirit has a gender, but because He’s personal—God Himself dwelling in believers. Mormonism may technically describe the Holy Ghost as a person, but it’s within a very different framework: Father, Son, and Holy Ghost as separate beings (and functionally separate gods). That changes everything. Instead of God’s direct presence, the Holy Ghost becomes more like a messenger—someone sent—while leaving people unsure what God the Father is doing, and unsure whether they can really trust what they’re experiencing. Feelings vs. Fruit: What Are You Actually Chasing?A big “aha” in this conversation is how Mormon “spiritual feelings” often function differently...

In this episode, Bryan and Layne show from Acts and the Old Testament that Jesus didn’t set up His church to be led by “one guy,” but by the Holy Spirit—giving every believer direct access to God with Jesus as the Head. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- How Does God Lead His Church Today?Many people assume that if God is real, and if the church matters, then God must lead His people through one central human authority—one prophet, one president, one pope, one voice you can always trust. That’s a natural assumption, especially if you grew up in a system where spiritual certainty came from the top down. In Mormonism, that “one guy” model is baked into the culture. You’re taught to trust the prophet’s voice. You stand when he enters. You sing songs about him. You learn, subtly, to confuse the voice of the Spirit with the voice of a leader. And over time, it can become so normal that you don’t even notice what’s happening: you start substituting God’s voice for the voice of man. But here’s the key question: Is that how Jesus set up His church to work? When we open the Bible, the answer is clear—no. Jesus did not design His church to depend on one human “main character” who can’t be questioned. Instead, Jesus promised something far more personal, more powerful, and more stable: He would lead His church by the Holy Spirit, with Jesus as the Head. Jesus’ Blueprint Starts in ActsIf you want to understand how God leads the church, you have to start in Acts 1:8. Right before Jesus ascends to heaven, He gives His disciples their mission: they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes, and they will be His witnesses—starting in Jerusalem and spreading outward to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8 Notice what’s missing: Jesus doesn’t single out Peter and say, “I’ll speak through him now.” He doesn’t announce an ongoing chain of centralized authority. Instead, He points them to the Spirit’s power and the global mission ahead. Then comes Acts 2, and it’s one of the most important moments in church history. At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit comes—not on one leader—but on all believers gathered together. That’s the point. The Spirit is not reserved for one office or one “elite” class. God’s presence is now available to every follower of Jesus. Acts 2:1-4 That alone challenges the entire “one guy” model. The Apostles Were a Foundation, Not a Forever OfficeMormons and Catholics both appeal to the idea of apostolic succession. But the New Testament treats the original apostles as something unique: a foundation. Paul says the church is “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets.” Ephesians 2:20 A foundation is laid once. You don’t rebuild it every generation. Acts itself supports this. After Judas dies (after betraying Jesus), the apostles replace him to restore the Twelve. Acts 1:15-26 But later, when James is martyred, the church...

In this episode, Bryan and Layne explore how the Bible teaches direct access to God through Jesus, not through prophets or religious institutions, using the torn temple veil as the key turning point. Drawing from Layne’s journey out of Mormonism, they explain why trusting the Holy Spirit over human authority leads to true freedom. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- Torn Veil, Open Access Layne (a former Mormon of 40 years) and Bryan talk about what access to God looks like in Mormonism compared to biblical Christianity. The big contrast: Mormonism tends to route access through an institution and its leaders, while the Bible teaches direct access to God through Jesus, guided by the Holy Spirit. They anchor the whole conversation in a key moment from the crucifixion: when Jesus died, the temple veil was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51). That wasn’t just a detail in the story—it was God’s way of saying, “The separation is gone. The way is open.” What This Episode CoversAccess to God: simple vs. structuredLayne describes growing up Mormon with a built-in ladder of authority—bishop, stake president, prophet—where “hearing from God” felt filtered through leadership. Bryan points out that the idea of having a personal relationship with Jesus often feels like “Christian language,” not the normal relational emphasis inside Mormon culture. Why the torn veil changes everythingIn the Old Testament temple system, the veil represented a barrier between people and God’s presence. Only the high priest could pass through, and only once a year, with a sacrifice. But when Jesus died, God tore the veil Himself—from top to bottom—showing that man didn’t open the way; God did. The cross didn’t just pay for sin. It also removed the whole structure of “you need someone else to get you to God.” Prophets then vs. the Holy Spirit nowThey walk through the New Testament idea that God used prophets “in times past,” but something changes after Jesus (Hebrews 1:1–2). Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would guide believers into truth (John 16:13). Layne puts it plainly: dependence on a prophet is replaced by direct access through Jesus and the indwelling Spirit. Why people prefer a prophet anywayEven if it’s not biblical, a prophet can feel comforting because he’s visible, official, and “safe.” Bryan compares it to legalism: rules feel helpful because they’re clear and controllable—but clarity isn’t the same thing as truth. Layne agrees: when a system is built on control, it can’t survive if people learn they can truly hear and trust God directly. “What about chaos?” Pastors vs. prophetsThey address a common objection: If you don’t have a prophet, won’t everything fall apart? Their answer: biblical Christianity still values church, leadership, and community—but a pastor isn’t a prophet, and no leader gets to trump Scripture. The moment any person

Comparison is the silent killer of joy. It steals your confidence, shifts your focus, and leaves you spiritually drained. In this episode, we dive into 1 Samuel 18 to look at the lives of Saul and David. David’s victory over Goliath should have been a moment of national unity, but instead, it exposed the dangerous power of comparison in King Saul’s heart. Join us as we explore how to break free from the "sideways energy" of jealousy and find true confidence in your identity in Christ. Key Takeaways:Comparison Strangles Your Joy: Saul had every reason to celebrate, but he let a song of praise for David turn into personal insecurity. When we look sideways at what others have, we forget the goodness God has already given us.Comparison Stunts Your Growth: Jealousy is like "cancer in the bones" (Proverbs 14:30). It keeps you from being mentored by or mentoring others because you view everyone as a threat rather than a partner in God’s kingdom.Comparison Steals Your Focus: You cannot follow Jesus effectively while watching someone else's calling. What you stare at is what you steer toward—if you stare at others' success, you'll steer toward envy. Episode Highlights:[00:00] The Celebration That Turned Into Jealousy David’s victory was celebrated by the nation, but Saul fixated on the lyrics: "Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands!" (1 Samuel 18:7). Saul heard a threat where he should have heard a victory for God. [04:30] The Modern Comparison Trap Social media has made comparison effortless. We discuss how "scrolling" affects our spiritual health and why Psalm 34:10 is the antidote: "Those who seek the Lord will lack no good thing." [09:15] Sideways Energy Saul spent more time watching David than ruling his kingdom. We look at Jesus’ words to Peter in John 21:22: "What is that to you? As for you, follow me." [15:45] From Competition to Confidence The Gospel replaces insecurity with identity. Like the Apostle John, we can move from chasing status to resting in the love of the Father (1 John 3:1). Scripture References:1 Samuel 18:7-12 – Saul’s jealousy of David.Psalm 34:10 – Lacking no good thing in the Lord.Proverbs 14:30 – The physical and spiritual toll of jealousy.John 21:22 – Jesus’ command to focus on our own walk.1 John 3:1 – Our identity as children of God. Mentions & Resources:Learn more about David’s life and biblical leadership at pursueGOD.org.Start a Conversation: Use this episode to talk with a friend or small group. Find the full discussion guide at pursueGOD.org/david.span class="ql-ui"...

In this episode of the PursueGOD podcast, we dive into the life of David to discover a fundamental truth: God’s promises always come with a process. Long before David stood on the battlefield against Goliath, he was being shaped in the "darkroom" of the wilderness. Through faithful obedience in small things, private victories over hidden temptations, and the courage to lead with his unique giftings, David became a man after God's own heart. Whether you feel hidden in an "inglorious" season or are facing your own "lions and bears," this conversation will help you recognize God's hand at work in your development. Learn why your private faithfulness is the prerequisite for your public calling and how God is already orchestrating the "good things" planned for your life. Key Discussion Points1. Developed in the DarkroomThe making of a leader happens in hidden places. Like a photograph, if we are exposed to the "light" of fame or responsibility too soon, the image is ruined. David’s journey to the throne began with a "cheese run"—a simple act of obedience to his father (1 Samuel 17:17-20). The Principle: If you’re too big to serve, you’re too small to lead.Bible Link: “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities.” (Matthew 25:21) 2. Private Victories Protect Public CallingsBefore David faced the giant, he faced the lion and the bear in solitude (1 Samuel 17:34-37). Your private battles—with pride, envy, or lust—are the training ground for your future. The Principle: Hidden obedience produces visible power.Bible Link: “People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13) 3. Walk in Your Own ArmorDavid refused Saul’s heavy armor because he hadn't "tested" it. He knew that a sling he was used to was better than a sword he couldn't carry (1 Samuel 17:38-40). The Principle: If you don’t walk in it, you can’t war in it. God equips you uniquely for your specific calling.Bible Link: “Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received...” (1 Timothy 4:14) 4. God Prepares the Worker and the WorkGod isn’t improvising your story; He is orchestrating it. Just as the head of the idol Dagon fell before the Ark years prior, David’s victory over Goliath was a prophetic echo of God’s supremacy. The Principle: God’s preparation always runs ahead of our participation.Bible Link: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:10) Weekly Takeaways (The Challenge)The Service Challenge: Identify one “inglorious” assignment this week...

In this episode, we kick off a 6-week series exploring the life of David, one of the most significant figures in the Bible. But to understand the king David became, we first have to look at the man he replaced: Saul. Saul looked like a king on the outside—tall, handsome, and commanding—but his heart drifted from God on the inside. Through the story of Israel’s first king, we discover that it’s possible to "look the part" while lacking spiritual power. We’ll contrast Saul’s heart with David’s and identify three dangerous spiritual drift patterns: fear, expedience, and pride. Key Discussion Points1. From Fear to TrustWhen God doesn’t show up on our timeline, fear often takes the driver’s seat. Saul felt "compelled" to disobey God’s instructions because he was afraid of his dwindling army and a looming enemy. The Lesson: Every sin begins as a failure to trust. Faith is the ability to wait on God when fear tells you to rush.Scripture: 1 Samuel 13:12-14 2. From Expedience to ObedienceExpedience is taking the convenient shortcut rather than doing what is right. Saul tried to mask his partial obedience as a "sacrifice" to God, but Samuel reminded him that "obedience is better than sacrifice." The Lesson: Integrity means doing what is right even when it’s inconvenient. You are only as accountable as you make yourself.Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:22 3. From Reputation to RepentanceEven when confronted with his sin, Saul’s primary concern was his public image. He asked Samuel to honor him before the elders rather than humbling himself before God. The Lesson: True repentance doesn’t make excuses or worry about saving face; it focuses solely on returning to God.Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:30 The Man of the Moment: David and the Grace of GodGod rejected Saul’s man-made efforts and chose David—a man after His own heart. While Saul represented human effort, David’s story points us toward grace. Centries later, Jesus (the "Source and Heir of David") offers us the same Spirit that empowered David. When we fail, Jesus provides the transformation we cannot achieve on our own. Resources & Next StepsReflect: Are you currently making decisions based on fear or trust?Go Deeper: Find more Bible studies, videos, and leadership resources at pursueGOD.org.Discuss: Share this episode with a friend or your small group to talk about the "drift patterns" in your own life.

In this episode, Bryan wraps up 2025 and gives us a clear snapshot of what God has been doing through PursueGOD—and what’s coming next in 2026. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- Check out our YouVersion reading plans Want to donate? Click here

In this episode, Bryan talks with Noemi about her journey leaving Mormonism and discovering a relationship with the God of the Bible. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now --

In this episode, we compare the church in the book of Acts with the church Joseph Smith built—showing how the LDS ‘restoration’ actually rebuilds the hierarchy, temples, and priesthoods Jesus fulfilled and the Reformers fought to remove. It’s not a return to the New Testament but a reversal of the freedom Christ brought. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- SUMMARY Latter-day Saints teach that after the apostles died, the church fell into total apostasy—losing authority, truth, and the gospel—and that Joseph Smith “restored” the original church in 1830. But when we compare the Bible, early church history, and the medieval church, a clear pattern emerges: the LDS system doesn’t look like the church in the book of Acts. It looks like the institutional system that developed centuries later. This episode walks through that history and shows why Mormonism isn’t a restoration of the New Testament—it’s a rebuilding of the very system Jesus fulfilled and the Reformers worked to correct. 1. What the Early Church Actually Looked Like (Book of Acts)No templesNo priestly hierarchyNo prophet-presidentNo exclusive priesthood lineageBelievers met in homes, prayed, broke bread, and studied ScriptureLeadership was shared among elders/pastorsEvery believer was a priest (1 Peter 2)Access to God came directly through Jesus, not through mediators Bottom line: The early church was simple, Spirit-led, and centered entirely on Jesus. 2. How the Church Drifted in the Middle AgesBy the 4th century, especially after Constantine: The church became tied to political powerBishops became rulersPriests acted as mediatorsSalvation was tied to rituals and sacramentsA single head (the Pope) claimed God-given authority This system dominated medieval Christianity and buried the gospel under layers of tradition and hierarchy. 3. The Reformation: Returning to ScriptureLuther, Calvin, Zwingli, and the Anabaptists didn’t invent a new church. They removed the medieval layers and returned to: Scripture aloneGrace aloneChrist aloneFaith alone Real renewal happens when ordinary believers open the Bible again. 4. Joseph Smith Recreates the Medieval SystemDespite claiming to “restore” the church, Joseph Smith introduced: A layered priesthood (Aaronic & Melchizedek)A prophet-president with final authorityTemple rituals and restricted accessOrdinances required for salvationCentralized headquarters claiming exclusive truth This mirrors the medieval Catholic model, not the church in Acts. 5. The LDS Temple: The Most Striking IronyJesus

In this episode, we trace how small movements, bold revivals, and ordinary believers shaped the explosive growth of Protestant Christianity from Europe to America—and created the denominational family tree we’re part of today. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- Episode SummaryIn today’s final episode of our Church History series, we trace how Protestantism crossed the Atlantic, sparked massive revival movements, and gave rise to the denominational landscape we see today. From the Moravians and the First Great Awakening to Pentecostalism and the modern church, this episode connects the dots and shows how the global church family took shape. 1. The Moravians: The Spark Behind Modern MissionsWhere we left off last time. • Descendants of John Hus (the Hussites / Unity of the Brethren) • Refugees who fled to Count Zinzendorf’s estate in Saxony (3–600 people total) Why they mattered: • Experienced a powerful renewal on Aug 13, 1727 • Launched a 24/7 prayer chain that lasted 100 years • Sent more missionaries than all Protestants combined by 1760 • Known for radical sacrifice—including missionaries willing to sell themselves into slavery • Mission field spread across the West Indies, Africa, Asia, and North America The John Wesley connection: • Wesley encountered Moravians during a terrifying storm at sea in 1736 • Their fearless faith pushed him toward his own conversion • This eventually shaped the Methodist movement—the largest U.S. denomination by the 1850s 2. The First Great Awakening (1730s–1740s)A transatlantic revival that birthed the modern evangelical identity—people committed not only to studying Scripture but sharing the gospel. The Big ThreeJohn Wesley – The Organizer • Anglican priest, Oxford “Holy Club” leader • Had his conversion at Aldersgate (“heart strangely warmed”) • Formed Methodist societies and class meetings • Emphasized holiness, discipline, and new birth • By his death: 72k British & 57k American Methodists George Whitefield – The Preacher • Electrifying communicator; could preach to 20k–30k without amplification • Crossed the Atlantic seven times, preaching across all 13 colonies • Popularized the phrase “born again” • First international Christian “celebrity” • Outdoor, mass evangelism pioneer Jonathan Edwards – The Thinker • Pastor, theologian, philosophical genius • Sparked revival in Northampton (1734–35) • Wrote Religious Affections, the defining book of revival theology • Fired for restricting communion to true believers • Later became president of what is now Princeton • Legacy...

This episode shows how the church moved from state-controlled religion to voluntary, Scripture-governed communities—and how the Baptists, Congregationalists, Evangelical Free, and eventually Methodists emerged. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- How England’s Reformation Took a Very Different PathWhile Luther and Calvin led theological reform on the continent, England’s story began with politics. Henry VIII wanted a male heir, the Pope refused to annul his marriage, and the king broke from Rome. The Act of Supremacy (1534) created the Church of England—but it simply replaced the pope with a king. It wasn’t a movement of revival; it was a power play. After Henry, England spun between Protestant and Catholic identities depending on the monarch. Edward VI pushed Protestant reforms, Mary I violently restored Catholicism, and Elizabeth I settled for a middle-way Anglicanism. The constant whiplash raised a crucial question: If kings can change doctrine overnight, where does true faith come from—crown or conscience? Puritans, Separatists, and the Search for a Church Governed by ScriptureTwo groups rose in response: Puritans — Anglicans who wanted deeper biblical reform.Separatists (Pilgrims) — Puritans who believed the system was beyond repair. King James I shut down most Puritan reforms (except authorizing the King James Bible). He made Anglican worship mandatory by law, and that pressure pushed both groups out of England. The Separatists, who fled first, would shape the future of the church in profound ways. The Birth of the Baptists and CongregationalistsThe Gainsborough Group escaped to Amsterdam and encountered the Anabaptists—believers who rejected state-run religion and emphasized personal faith. John Smyth and Thomas Helwys embraced these ideas and in 1609 founded the first Baptist church. They insisted: Faith must be personalBaptism belongs to believersLocal churches should govern themselvesGovernment must never control conscience Helwys returned to England in 1612 and founded the first Baptist church on English soil, writing boldly to the king, “You have no power over the souls of your subjects.” Another group—the Scrooby Separatists—fled to Holland, then boarded the Mayflower and founded Plymouth Colony in 1620. Their self-governing church became the root of Congregationalism, shaping early American values of freedom, conscience, and community. Europe’s Crisis and the Rise of PietismMeanwhile, Europe erupted into the Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648) over forced religion. Millions died. When the war finally ended, the dream of a unified Christendom...

In this episode, we trace how the Reformation rediscovered the gospel—from Luther’s 95 Theses to the rise of Protestant movements—and how God used ordinary people, Scripture, and the printing press to bring His Word back to the world. -- 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 [email protected]. Donate Now -- Episode SummaryBy the early 1500s, the Catholic Church had become powerful, wealthy, and deeply political. Salvation was treated like a transaction through rituals and indulgences, and the gospel was buried under centuries of human authority. The Bible was locked away in Latin, unreadable to most people. But God was preparing a movement of rediscovery—the Protestant Reformation. In this episode, we’ll see how men like Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, John Knox, and the lesser-known Anabaptists helped bring Christianity back to the simple gospel of faith in Jesus Christ. The Reformation wasn’t rebellion—it was rediscovery. It was a return to the gospel buried under layers of religion.The Reformation BeginsMartin Luther, a German monk, struggled with guilt and never felt good enough for God. While reading Romans 1:17, he discovered that righteousness is a gift from God—received by faith, not earned by works. Around that time, the Church was selling indulgences to raise money for St. Peter’s Basilica, claiming that people could buy forgiveness. Outraged, Luther wrote his 95 Theses and nailed them to a church door in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517. The document spread quickly thanks to the newly invented printing press, and a movement was born. Luther stood before church authorities and declared, “My conscience is captive to the Word of God. Here I stand. I can do no other.” While hiding from persecution, he translated the Bible into German so ordinary people could read it for themselves. Other Reformers Across EuropeWhile Luther led in Germany, others joined the cause across Europe: Ulrich Zwingli in Switzerland preached directly from Scripture, opposed indulgences, and emphasized simple, Bible-centered worship.John Calvin in France and later Geneva wrote The Institutes of the Christian Religion, organizing Christian theology and emphasizing God’s sovereignty, grace, and the authority of Scripture.John Knox in Scotland, a student of Calvin, boldly preached the gospel to kings and queens and helped establish the Presbyterian Church, governed by elders with Christ as its head.William Tyndale in England translated the Bible into English so people could read it in their own language. The Reformation spread rapidly, dividing Europe between those who followed the old system and those who embraced this rediscovered gospel of...