Church History Matters

208

The Church History Matters Podcast features in-depth conversations between Scott and Casey where they dive deep into both the challenges and beauty of Latter-day Saint Church History

Recent Episodes
  • 113 - D&C 30-36 - CFM - The Lamanite Mission - E15 - April 7-13
    Apr 1, 2025 – 01:52:25
  • 112 - D&C 29 - CFM - The End of the World as We Know It? - E14 - March 31-April 6
    Mar 26, 2025 – 01:15:24
  • 111 - D&C 27-28 - CFM - Sacrament & Seer Stones - E13 - March 24-30
    Mar 24, 2025 – 01:14:36
  • 110 - Full BONUS EPISODE on Emma Smith w/Jenny Reeder - CFM - 12b - March17-23
    Mar 18, 2025 – 01:12:09
  • 109 Emma Smith: Elect & Complicated - Come Follow Me - E12 - March 17-23
    Mar 11, 2025 – 01:33:04
  • 108 Our History & Doctrine Are Inseparable - Come Follow Me - E11 - March 10-16
    Mar 4, 2025 – 01:21:54
  • 107 Sacrificing for Others' Salvation is HARD - Come Follow Me - E10 - March 3 - 9
    Feb 26, 2025 – 46:55
  • 106 What a Soul Is Worth - Come Follow Me - E9 - Feb 24 - March 2
    Feb 18, 2025 – 01:10:45
  • 105 The Intractable Witnesses of the Book of Mormon - Come Follow Me - E8 - Bonus Episode - Feb 17-23
    Feb 13, 2025 – 01:19:06
  • 104 Collaborating with Angels - Come Follow Me - E8 - Feb 17-23
    Feb 11, 2025 – 01:42:52
  • 103 God Playing Chess, Satan Playing Checkers - Come Follow Me - E7 - Feb 10-16
    Feb 4, 2025 – 01:07:32
  • 102 The Miraculous Book of Mormon Translation - Come Follow Me - E6 - Bonus Episode - Feb 3-9
    Feb 1, 2025 – 01:18:48
  • 101 Oliver & Revelation - Come Follow Me - E6 - Feb 3-9
    Jan 28, 2025 – 01:13:24
  • 100 God is Merciful - Come Follow Me - E5 - Jan 27-Feb 2
    Jan 21, 2025 – 01:11:34
  • 099 The Second Vision - Come Follow Me - E4 - Jan 20-26
    Jan 14, 2025 – 01:37:15
  • 098 BONUS *The Smith Family* - Come Follow Me - E3b - Jan 13-19
    Jan 12, 2025 – 01:14:52
  • 097 The First Vision - Come Follow Me - E3 - Jan 13-19
    Jan 7, 2025 – 01:32:36
  • 096 The Lord's Preface - Doctrine & Covenants 1 - Come Follow Me - E2 - Jan 6-12
    Dec 31, 2024 – 01:03:00
  • 095 The Restoration - Intro to the Doctrine & Covenants - Come Follow Me - E2 - Dec 30-Jan 5
    Dec 26, 2024 – 01:08:05
  • 095 “Peace on Earth”—How Can We Help? An Interview with Patrick Mason
    Dec 24, 2024 – 01:02:52
  • 094 "Vengeance Is Mine," An Interview with Richard Turley and Barbara Jones Brown
    Dec 17, 2024 – 01:16:04
  • 093 What Was Brigham Young's Role in the Mountain Meadows Massacre?
    Dec 10, 2024 – 01:09:27
  • 092 What Happened at Mountain Meadows?
    Dec 3, 2024 – 58:43
  • 091 "Buchanan's Blunder" and the Utah War
    Nov 26, 2024 – 01:10:48
  • 090 What Was the "Mormon War" of 1838?
    Nov 19, 2024 – 01:17:31
  • 089 Was Zion's Camp Violent?
    Nov 11, 2024 – 01:05:13
  • 088 The First Violence Against Latter-day Saints
    Nov 5, 2024 – 57:01
  • 087 Does Religion Make People More Violent?
    Oct 29, 2024 – 01:01:58
  • 086 Why Does God Guide Those Not of His Church? (w/Dr. Christopher Blythe)
    Oct 22, 2024 – 59:38
  • 085 Mormon Fundamentalism (w/Dr. Brian Hales)
    Oct 15, 2024 – 01:04:16
  • 084 A Deep-Dive Into the Community of Christ (w/ Andrew Bolton)
    Oct 8, 2024 – 01:03:56
  • 083 A Deep-Dive Into the "Bickertonite" Movement (w/Josh Gehly)
    Oct 1, 2024 – 01:05:30
  • 082 A Deep-Dive Into the LDS Strangite Movement (w/ Dr. Kyle Beshears)
    Sep 24, 2024 – 01:01:08
  • 081 Who Are the Strangites, the Josephites, and the Bickertonites?
    Sep 17, 2024 – 01:14:12
  • 080 What If All the Apostles Died At Once? Succession Q&R with Dr. Daniel C. Peterson
    Sep 10, 2024 – 56:15
  • 079 What If the Church President Can't Serve Due to Poor Health?
    Sep 3, 2024 – 58:04
  • 078 A Young Apostle Questions Succession By Seniority
    Aug 27, 2024 – 01:06:50
  • 077 The Two Orsons and the Question of Succession
    Aug 20, 2024 – 01:09:35
  • 076 The Contested Reorganization of the First Presidency in 1847
    Aug 13, 2024 – 01:17:17
  • 075 Six Days in August
    Aug 5, 2024 – 01:15:49
  • 074 Two Contenders: Sidney Rigdon vs. Brigham Young & The Twelve
    Jul 30, 2024 – 56:51
  • 073 The Eight Possible Succession Paths
    Jul 22, 2024 – 01:09:35
  • 072 New Series Announcement!
    Jul 16, 2024 – 01:07
  • 071 “Carthage CSI” with Sam Weston
    Jul 9, 2024 – 54:26
  • 070 The Fate of the Persecutors of the Prophet Joseph Smith
    Jul 2, 2024 – 01:12:23
  • 069 Carthage Controversies
    Jun 25, 2024 – 01:10:04
  • 068 What Happened in Carthage? A Careful Walk-Through of the Martyrdom
    Jun 18, 2024 – 01:03:21
  • 067 The Carthage Decision: Why Joseph and Hyrum Chose to Go
    Jun 11, 2024 – 55:45
  • 066 The Nauvoo Expositor: the Spark That Lit the Fuse
    Jun 4, 2024 – 55:27
  • 065 "A Judas In Our Midst"
    May 28, 2024 – 01:09:00
Recent Reviews
  • Zaach b
    Well researched but plays it safe
    It’s disappointing how the hosts refuse to be critical of historical figures, especially Brigham Young. Whenever Emma Smith (or other people who became pariahs) is brought up, the line is “well it’s important to remember that she wasn’t that great and was actually very difficult” but when it’s Brigham, it’s “well it’s important to remember the context and all the great things he did!” Still worth listening to. A safe starting point for faithful Latter-day Saints looking for a more advanced understanding of Church history.
  • UofU11160
    Fearless and faithful
    This podcast addresses several of the thorniest questions I had tabled. Informative, accurate, scholarly and still faithful. Great work!
  • SteffenMD
    Excellent scholarship this is the podcast for you!
    I have to say that I love a number of the come follow me podcasts. But this is my go to podcast because of the scholarship. Yes, I’m entertained with this podcast, but most importantly I’m taught. Thank you so much.
  • KeepinMyFaith25
    Very faith promoting. Thank you!
    There is a big movement of members in my area that are leaving the church. I have been able to resolve all of my concerns (brought up by these members) through this podcast, and feel my testimony is finally getting back to where I need it to be. So nice to have this as a resource I can trust. Keep up the good work!
  • Kamibova
    Absolute Favorite!
    This is my new favorite podcast for my Come Follow Me study. I love both of your voices, I love the insight you add, and I absolutely love the format. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your expertise. I have shared your podcast with my family members who are also hooked!
  • Fairy Tail.team.Jellal
    Thanks
    Thank you so much for all you do The more I learn about Emma the more I love her. She was an amazing woman. Also I have been meaning to write that last year I drove my family to Nauvoo. It was our first time and we listened to your series about the road to Carthage on our way there and it really made the experience so much better having all the history fresh in our minds as we toured those sacred sites. It was an experience that I will never forget
  • Quincy Gal
    Rebecca
    I just recently discovered this podcast and it has quickly become my favorite. I started with their first episode and have listened my way through every one. I appreciate the knowledge and experience Casey and Scott bring to the table. They do not shy away from sensitive subjects at all. Anyone with a true interest in Church History will be hooked just as I am.
  • joaniesbalonie
    So informative
    I have really appreciated Scott and Casey’s presentation of the doctrine and covenants this year. They have given me so much knowledge that I would not have otherwise. I recently discovered the closed caption feature while you are listening to the podcast. That has been extremely helpful. They also add the appropriate amount of humor as they discuss difficult topics.
  • ETStrand
    High Quality and Accessible
    I am delighted to find this podcast - it doesn’t shy away from delving into any aspect of the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and does so by looking at primary sources, talking to experts, and the hosts are themselves scholars and believers. They are not afraid to say outright the facts that are uncomfortable, disappointing or inexplicable, or to say when they don’t know something. And the icing on the cake is that it’s fun listening. Along with edifying and inspiring. Thank you so much for this needed podcast!!
  • Rueskiette
    My New Favorite
    This is my new favorite podcast. I love the insights, and this helps my scripture study! Thank you so much for making it!! I hope you make this an annual podcast with every CFM. Also, because I can’t find an email to send a thought to: I just listened to the episode on Section 19, and I do want to say that the controversy in 19 for me is how it was right for Martin to mortgage his farm when his wife was so against the church and would not have given her consent. Women were treated differently at that time, so perhaps that was part of it, but I would love Casey & Scott’s thoughts on that. How does a believing spouse balance their relationships with their non-believing spouse and God?
  • Lynda in MO
    Yes! Yes It Does!!
    It is easy to understand why church history matters when seen through historical lenses that are balanced, spiritual and fair as possible to all parties involved. This podcast makes church history come alive and helps us understand what was going on behind the scenes of this glorious and earth changing time in history. Enjoyed every episode and come away with a fuller view of the restoration. Great job!!
  • mcrannberry
    Great listen
    I’ve listened to this insightful podcast for over a year! I always learn so much. One of my must listen to podcasts weekly. Thanks for sharing all the great knowledge.
  • tkkcad5
    Great Info
    Love the discussions on different topics, and the D&C episodes are extremely helpful.
  • chrisroz
    Favorite Cone Follow Me podcast
    My new favorite for Come Follow Me study. Love history and church history -the context - enriches my study and deepens my faith in the Church.
  • Allbroz
    Must Hear Podcast
    I absolutely love each and every episode in this series! I have learned to incorporate these valuable insights into my daily studies!
  • NYUte.
    Questionable credibility
    For historians it is surprising how often they rely on secondary sources when they contradict primary sources (church history created in the early Utah period contradicting original documents created in Nauvoo/Missouri/Kirtland). However unless you are familiar with original sources in the Joseph Smith Papers Project they can get away with telling you whichever narrative they want you to believe. Not credible historical work.
  • bigdhatch
    Fair and balanced
    Great podcast. I appreciate that both sides to topics are explored and they don’t shy away from controversies.
  • Liv the Listener
    Spiritually Uplifting!
    I took Casey Griffith’s classes at BYU and loved them, so it’s no surprise I also really enjoy this podcast! I love the way they approach difficult topics with openness. It’s a favorite of mine!
  • Dose Donovan
    Logical and faith based understanding
    I have really enjoyed the Church History Matters podcast. I find it a wonderful balance of both historical and Dr. Noel faith base testimonies of the how God acts in relationship to his children here on earth. Any honest seeker after the gospel of Jesus Christ or investigator of the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints would find great benefit to the review of this material.
  • Darcievan
    Wonderful!
    I have very much enjoyed listening to this podcast! They do a very thorough job!
  • Im a culinary hermit
    Love it!
    My favorite Church podcast! It helps promote Faith in Jesus Christ.
  • Hildy Hildegard
    Awesome!
    Great addition to my gospel study. They answer questions with primary sources and with open minds.
  • Matt Denhalter
    So grateful for the shoving matches
    I’ve listened to every episode and freely recommend your podcast to friends, family and my patients. This episode, I appreciated the argument about what was considered abominable to Christ. I was taught the abomination was about the need to restore the plain and precious truths lost through the apostasy, which is still true. But Scot’s emphasis on restoring the power of Godliness through Priesthood and the New and Everlasting Covenant is also true. I agree that it needs to be equally emphasized. Im so grateful for the humble arguments and your scholarship making these things so accessible. I’ve never met you in this life, but I love you both as brothers and fellow disciples of Christ.
  • Sipho Amandla
    Exceptional Podcast
    Thank you for the time, love, and earnest effort put into these podcasts. Beautiful gospel considerations interwoven into church history insights touching on sensitive topics and lesser known information. And I like the short jazzy music beats or insert interludes. The music offers time for my thoughts to rest and is a nice change from overly traditional churchy hymnal music.
  • guylgardner
    Wonderful
    I love this podcast. Very informative and well done. Keep up the great work.
  • Schmoosta
    Honest and engaging
    At first I thought these episodes would be too long for me to listen to but I have found I can’t get enough. This is beyond helpful as I try to enhance my Come Follow Me material
  • Gussaubte
    Listen and have your questions answered
    I love this podcast. I love Scott and Casey. They are so informative and help answer questions I have about not only church history, but spiritual and gospel matters. I love hearing their takes on things, love hearing them go back and forth on a matter, playing both sides of you will. I’m thankful they take the time to share with us their knowledge and insights!
  • jj_crow3
    Amazing and also a question
    I’ve listened to various series you have done in the past and always enjoyed your approach. This year I have become a regular weekly listener. I have a quick question on a recent episode. Relating to the loss of the 116 pages: I understood you to mean that 1 Nephi-Omni in our current Book of Mormon to be 116 pages, however that’s not the case (it’s about 142). So then I thought maybe in the original 1830 version? But as far as I can tell, the book of Omni ends in the 140s in that edition as well. Can you help me out? Were you referring to the foolscrap pages of the manuscript of 1 Nephi-Omni? Or maybe the printers transcript? I guess my ultimate question is: where does the number 116 actually come from?
  • PNWSUNDANCEKID
    Great resource
    Live the format and balance between historical context and modern/practical application. Great job guys! Keep up the good work. Thank you.
  • Jeffrey Purtee
    Great Insights
    Discovered Church History Matters only recently. Thankful I did because I love the church of Jesus Christ and I love history. This podcast fits those two loves perfectly. Now on my must listen list.
  • Jassspa
    Fair and Faithfilled
    Great podcast if you are looking for context behind every section of the Doctrine & Covenants. I also appreciate and love that they do not shy away from the controversial history of the church, but dive in giving multiple viewpoints, and the hosts even disagree sometimes - which is a great lesson for all people.
  • Fjwise
    Love this podcast
    Love this podcast. On episode 103 — I think God knowing our future doesn’t interfere with our agency. I think it is our concept of time that confuses us. The scriptures say all things are present unto God. That’s just not something we can wrap our minds around given our linear view of time
  • Cjgusa
    Great!
    I loved this most recent episode with insight about the translation of the Book of Mormon! So good!
  • Brindikins
    Love what I’m learning
    I love the knowledge these scholars share with all of us. I do find the constant music breaks annoying and not needed. I would love for them to just keep talking.
  • cbsstew51
    Great Content
    Anyone wanting to learn more about church history needs to listen to this podcast.
  • Docsladie
    Music
    Have to disagree with the poster who doesn’t like the jazzy music interludes. That was actually one of the first things that caught my attention when I begin listening to this series! It’s a clever alternative to the more serious hymn/style music that might’ve been selected, telling the listener that this podcast will be different than any other church program they have heard. Don’t change it!
  • Antofaman
    Wonderfully Uplifting
    I so appreciate the faith promoting approach to church history. Thanks for looking at the church’s past from all angles, considering the antagonists view and presenting it, while letting the truth speak for itself.
  • The Adam Reynolds
    My favorite podcast
    I love listening to church history podcasts, and reading church history book. This is my favorite by far! I really like that they dive deep without becoming overly academic adding nuance, complexity and context in a light manner. Great to share for questions or learning!
  • #ihave8cats
    Suggestion
    I would really enjoy it if you talked about hauns mill.
  • At1a5
    Wonderful Content, Odd Music
    Great content and approach to history. Only two things I’d change is (1) switch out the modern music for something more befitting a podcast on history, and (2) provide a way for listeners to provide feedback.
  • Rich B from CA
    Music
    Love the context and the controversy sections especially. Also very grateful that the host do not draw undue attention to themselves. I find the jazz interludes VERY distracting and entirely unnecessary.
  • TetonSerenade
    Thank you
    The episodes have become a staple of my gospel study. I appreciate this historical analysis in context. It has deepened, strengthened, and broadened my testimony of the truthfulness of the Restoration and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
  • Mwickee
    Just one thing could improve it
    I love this podcast. I love how it is broken up in 3 sections & makes it easy to follow along. I like their voices. It’s a great complement to the Come, Follow Me manual. The only thing I don’t like are the instrumental music breaks. They seem unnecessary & last too long.
  • Nicholas Wozniak
    Deeply insightful.
    I enjoy many faith promoting podcasts. This one is quickly becoming my favorite, especially as a support resource as we study D&C and JSH in come follow me this year.
  • T from Mesa
    It’s good
    I appreciate their dialog and thoughtfulness. I’m a lifelong member and would recommend this podcast.
  • shayebeebaby💘
    Favorite!!
    I’ve listened to a lot of church podcasts and this one is the BEST
  • GranAnne50
    Faith Building
    I’m so grateful for all the work you do and for sharing your knowledge openly. Great faith building podcast! I’ve recommended it to many.
  • nuflac10
    Gold Mine
    Every episode is a gold mine of information and faith building discussion. Scott & Casey never disappoint. Thank you gentlemen.
  • basghfszvhfd
    Great teachers!
    You two are the perfect people to teach us about D&C, can’t wait to listen. Do you all have transcripts of your show because I already need to look up quotes you shared.
  • Scam Warning Headout
    I highly recommend
    I appreciate the scholarship and thoughtfulness that goes into each topic. The insights help to illuminate multiple perspectives and give context to our past. “The past is like a foreign country and we are but visitors.” - Griffin. Thank you for helping us to be more informed and thoughtful visitors.
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