Episodes

  • The Real Story of Christmas
    Dec 21 2025

    Narrated by the renowned Francis Urey and originally produced in the 1960s, this production unveils chapters of the historical account of the first Christmas that modern day pageants frequently omit.

    Performed for a time at Temple Square in Salt Lake City, discover the story of Zacharias and his divine encounter with the angel Gabriel, leading to the miraculous birth of John the Baptist. Follow the journey of Mary, a Jewish princess, as she receives a celestial message and conceives Jesus, the Son of the Highest.

    Experience the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the magnificent angelic visitations to shepherds, and the profound visit of the wise men. Learn about the perilous escape to Egypt and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies.

    This presentation not only relates the historical and scriptural details of the Nativity but also reflects on the broader purpose of the Savior's mission. As you listen, let the spirit of peace and goodwill fill your heart, and share this uplifting message with your loved ones, as you experience the Real Story of Christmas.

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    29 mins
  • Personal Discovery of the Old Testament
    Dec 15 2025

    The beauty of the Gospel of Jesus Christ comes alive in the Old Testament. The backbone of learning the Gospel in the Old Testament begins with a historical understanding, which W. Cleon Skousen lays out masterfully by helping the student learn the easy hook dates of critical learning. Weaving these hook dates among the major players in the Old Testament pulls together the storyline and fasinating tapestry of God's master plan for all His children.

    From Adam to the Great Flood, to Abraham, Joseph and Moses, you will learn how to remember who, when and what each of these prophetic leaders did, promoting and testifying of Jesus Christ and the Plan of Salvation for all mankind. You will discover the linage of Abraham traced through the ages and into our present day, along with the promise of Abraham and the responsibilities of Priesthood leadership residing on his descendants today.

    God is the same and ever-present today, yesterday and forever, demonstrating His unchanging power and love through Old Testament times, and continuing through your lifetime today and the lives of your posterity in the tomorrows to come.

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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • The Christmas Story
    Dec 7 2025

    The Christmas Story as only W. Cleon Skousen can tell so beautifully and personally. Experience the birth of Christ as a living, human story from the hush of a temple’s incense in Jerusalem to the bright surprise of angelic visitations, weaving the lives of Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, and Joseph into a vivid journey toward Bethlehem.

    Witness the shock of sudden revelation, the breaking and healing of Joseph's heart, the humble stable, the wonder of shepherds under a bursting sky, and the quiet courage of a family pursued by a jealous king — all brought to life with intimate details and the music of the season.

    More than history, this episode becomes a reflection on sacrifice and mercy, drawing threads from scripture and memory into a narrative that invites listeners to experience the birth of our Savior, the Christ child.

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    47 mins
  • The Old Testament Predicts Our Day
    Nov 30 2025

    The Old Testament prophets saw our day, prior to Christ's return, and describe these events for our learning and preparation.

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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • D & C 137 - 138 The Redemption of the Dead
    Nov 23 2025

    Section 137 – Given on January 21, 1836 in Kirtland, Ohio.

    Historical Background: The Kirtland temple was nearing completion. In preparation for its dedication, Joseph Smith, along with other leaders of the church in Kirtland and Missouri, gathered in the upper-west room of the temple. A spiritual manifestation was received by Joseph and an extract of the vision is contained in Section 137 which was added to the Doctrine and Covenants in 1981.

    • Recap: Joseph sees the Celestial Kingdom and the throne of God. He also sees his brother Alvin who died 6 years previously. All those who die without a knowledge of the gospel, who would have accepted it, and all those children who die prior to the age of accountability, qualify for the Celestial Kingdom.

    Section 138 – Revelation to Joseph F. Smith on October 3, 1918 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    Historical Background: 1918 was the final year in the life of Joseph F. Smith and was one of heartache and sorrow. His eldest son, apostle Hyrum Mack Smith, had a bright future as a leader of the church. But in January, 1918, he died suddenly from a ruptured appendix. Two of his daughters-in-law also died that year, leaving orphaned children. World War I was coming to a close with the miseries of post-war realities, along with a global pandemic of the Spanish Flu. Joseph F. Smith was also gravely ill and would die 6 weeks following the October, 1918 general conference. On the night before this conference, he received a magnificent revelation which he dictated to his son, Joseph Fielding Smith, shortly afterwards. It was then shared and accepted as revelation by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve. This revelation was added to the Doctrine and Covenants in the 1981 edition.

    • Recap: The prophet ponders the New Testament messages of Peter regarding the spirits of the dead. Suddenly his eyes are opened and he sees the hosts of the dead in the spirit world at the time of Christ's death. The righteous dead were filled with joy, anticipating the appearance of Christ after his crucifixion. Joseph sees the Spirit of Christ who appears to the righteous dead and delivers them from captivity. Christ organizes messengers to go among the wicked spirits to preach the light of the gospel. This faithful army of missionaries includes Adam, Able, Noah and all the great prophets, the righteous elders, and the glorious mother Eve with all her righteous daughters. Those spirits who accept the gospel from these messengers can be redeemed through faith on Christ, repentance, and vicarious baptism and vicarious laying of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. After they have paid the penalty of their sins and are washed clean, they will receive a reward according to their works.
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    30 mins
  • D & C 135 - 136 Joseph and Hyrum Seal Their Testimony with Their Blood
    Nov 16 2025
    Section 135 - Historical Background: John Taylor and Willard Richards were witnesses to the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. John Taylor was shot several times and fell to the floor but saved his life by rolling under the bed. He was assigned to write the official declaration of the church concerning the assassination. The effort to destroy the Prophet came from two directions: One was from the apostate conspirators within the church, the other was from the gentile mobs outside the church. Once the United States President refused to help the saints, the governors of Missouri and Illinois were emboldened to work together to destroy Joseph Smith. After a failed attempt to kidnap Joseph back to Missouri, Joseph learned that about 200 apostates in Nauvoo conspired together to deliver Joseph to the authorities. This mutiny was led by William Law, second councilor in the First Presidency. They aroused the surrounding communities by publishing outlandish lies in a local paper called the Expositor. Feeling justified by these lies, the Expositor was destroyed by the saints, which further enraged the mobs and conspirators of violating free speech. Joseph and Hyrum fled Nauvoo with the intent of going into the West, but after Governor Ford of Illinois promised to secure the safety of Joseph while sorting out the charges, and promising to actually stay with Joseph in Carthage, Joseph consented to return, even though he knew he was going “like a lamb to the slaughter.” The governor hired the Carthage Greys to guard Joseph even though most of the soldiers were made up of the very mob that wanted to kill him. Then, breaking his promise, Governor Ford left Joseph and Hyrum in the hands of the Greys and fled for Nauvoo. Seeing the obvious setup, the jailor moved his family out of the jail and allowed Joseph and Hyrum to use his bedroom on the upper floor. Around 5:00 PM, about 100 members of the mob rushed past the “guards” and into the jail, stormed up the stairs and tried to force their way through the bedroom door. A bullet fired at the door penetrated into the face of Hyrum who immediately dropped. Willard Richards, John Taylor and Joseph pressed against the door and struck down the gun barrels forced through the small door opening, with bullets pouring into the room from every direction. Joseph knew the mob wouldn’t be satisfied until he was dead. Realizing that he might save the lives of his friends, Joseph turned from the door and sprang to the window. He was shot in the back twice from the door and one in the chest from outside. Joseph fell lifeless from the second floor window and struck the cobblestone below. Making certain of his death, four of the mob propped Joseph’s body against the well, raised their rifles and shot Joseph point-blank into his chest. Then someone shouted “Here come the Mormons!” and the entire mob fled like cowards back into the woods. Recap: Joseph and Hyrum Smith were martyred to seal their testimony of the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants. Joseph Smith has done more, save Jesus Christ only, for the salvation of men, than any other man. Joseph died innocent and was murdered in cold blood. Just prior to the rushing assassins, Joseph read Ether 12:36-38. The restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ cost the best blood of the nineteenth century. The innocent blood of Joseph and Hyrum will mingle with the blood of all martyrs of ancient times that John saw, and will cry unto the Lord of Hosts until he avenges that blood on the earth. Section 136 - Historical Background: Within 2 years of the murder of Joseph Smith, the saints knew they would suffer the same fate unless they fled to the west. For many years, the leaders of the church had known that eventually the body of the church would have to make a massive migration to the Rocky Mountains. Practically while fleeing the city, the final finishing touch was completed on their beautiful Nauvoo Temple. Over the next few weeks, as mobs grew restless to drive the saints out, over 5,300 saints, at the risk of their lives, delayed their flight in order to receive their temple endowments. Then, amidst the mobbing, burning and violence of the mobs, the remaining saints crossed the Mississippi River in the freezing winter and into the savagery of the unconquered West. Near what is now Omaha Nebraska, a temporary station was established called Winter Quarters. It was here that Brigham Young received the following revelation. Recap: The saints are to be organized in companies, as ancient Israel was organized, in 100’s, fifties, and tens, and covenant among themselves and God to obey the commandments. Each company is to prepare themselves for the westward journey, taking a share of the poor and widows. The leading company will cut roads and plant crops on their way for the benefit of those companies who will follow. The Lord assures the saints that their enemies cannot stop them. Just as the Lord saved the Israelites ...
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    46 mins
  • The Real Story of Thanksgiving: From Communism to Capitalism
    Nov 14 2025

    Often overlooked and unappreciated, the history of the early settlers who initially practiced a form of communism that led to widespread starvation and hardship. The miraculous shift to free enterprise transformed their lives, replacing scarcity with abundance. This life-saving transition is the real reason behind the Thanksgiving celebration.

    Learn the adventures of John Smith, the harsh realities faced by the Jamestown settlers, and the ultimate triumph of the Pilgrims at Plymouth. This 30-minute audio selection is a journey through the pivotal moments that shaped America's foundation and offers valuable lessons on the principles of hard work and perseverance.

    Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this episode provides a deeper understanding of Thanksgiving's significance, making it an ideal listen during the holiday season.

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    30 mins
  • D & C 133 - 134 Prepare for the Second Coming of Christ
    Nov 9 2025

    Section 133 received Nov 3, 1831 in Hiram Ohio

    Historical background - By November, 1831, Joseph had compiled many of the Lord’s revelations which would eventually become a Book of Commandments, later known as the Doctrine and Covenants. On November 1, 1831, the Lord revealed a “Proclamation” to the world which became the preface to the Book of Commandments, or section 1. Two days later, on November 3, 1831, the Lord revealed an appendix to the Book of Commandments, or section 133 which is a prophetic declaration of what must occur prior to the second coming of Christ.

    • Recap: Christ will appear suddenly in his temple. The saints must flee from Babylon and gather in Zion. Christ will stand on Mount Zion with his 144,000. The continents will become one land and the lost ten tribes will return. The gospel will be preached worldwide. Christ will appear in red apparel. The righteous shall be resurrected and the New Jerusalem will be established while the wicked will be destroyed by fire.

    Section 134 declared and adopted Aug 17, 1835 in Kirtland Ohio

    Historical Background – On August 17, 1835, the church held a conference in Kirtland, Ohio to accept the Book of Commandments as scriptural revelations from God. Also, due to the political turmoil and abuses of power, especially the disregarding of constitutional rights and privileges that should have been afforded the saints, it was felt necessary that a statement of beliefs in Governmental laws should be included in the Book of Commandments. Joseph Smith was in Canada at this time and was not present at the conference. Therefore, Oliver Cowdery wrote section 134 outlining the role and purposes of earthly government. This was presented to the saints and it was accepted to be included in the Book of Commandments but as a declaration and not a revelation. When Joseph returned and reviewed the document, he allowed it to stand as is because the saints had already voted their approval during the conference.

    • Recap: Governments are instituted by God for the benefits of mankind and should preserve freedom, protect rights, life and property. Laws should be administered fairly and equally. The people are bound to obedience to the laws of the land. Punishments should be made according to the nature of the crime.
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    52 mins