This episode explores the books of Ruth and 1 Samuel 1–7, highlighting selfless devotion amidst moral chaos. It contrasts the unwavering loyalty of Ruth and Hannah's desperate prayer with the corruption of Eli's sons and Israel's spiritual decline. The narrative emphasizes the power of covenant loyalty, divine provision, and remembering God's past mercies through significant milestones like the Ebenezer stone.
This episode delves into the Book of Judges, revealing Israel's recurring 'Pride Cycle' of prosperity, pride, sin, suffering, supplication, and salvation. It explores the leadership of figures like Deborah and Gideon, Samson's tragic descent due to weak self-discipline, and the societal decay when individuals abandon divine law for personal preference. The discussion emphasizes God's consistent mercy despite humanity's repeated failures, offering lessons on humility, covenant fidelity, and guarding against moral relativism.
Delve into the Book of Joshua, examining how Israel transitioned from Moses' Law to Joshua's leadership, symbolizing the shift to grace. The discussion covers significant events like Rahab's faith, the crossing of the Jordan, the fall of Jericho, and the consequences of Achan's sin. It emphasizes how God's power enables victory, the importance of personal covenants, and Joshua's powerful final plea to "choose you this day whom ye will serve."
Jared Halverson delves into the book of Deuteronomy, highlighting Moses's masterclass in divine persuasion as he prepares Israel for the Promised Land. The discussion covers key themes like remembering history, internalizing identity, the Shema's call to love God, the dangers of prosperity, and the shift from ritual to heart transformation. It ultimately focuses on Moses's dramatic invitation to choose life through covenant and obedience, emphasizing God's relentless love and desire for his people to return home.
The episode explores the Book of Numbers, revealing how Israel's journey from Egypt to the Promised Land turned into 40 years of wandering due to murmuring, disobedience, and lack of faith. It unpacks key narratives like the spies' report, Korah's rebellion, and Balaam's prophecies, drawing parallels to modern spiritual progress and the importance of individual readiness for God's blessings. The discussion emphasizes learning from past mistakes to quicken our pace in preparing for the coming of the Savior.
Delving into Exodus's conclusion and the heart of Leviticus, this episode transcends ancient laws to uncover deeper meanings of holiness, sacrifice, and Christ's Atonement. It examines the construction of the Tabernacle from a "willing heart," dissects the five types of sacrifices, and explores why God uses symbolism to teach profound truths. The discussion also highlights the importance of distinguishing between clean and unclean, the Day of Atonement, and the recurring theme, "I am the Lord," as justification for all commandments.
In this episode, Jared Halverson delves into Exodus 19-34, exploring Israel's invitation to become a "kingdom of priests" at Mount Sinai and the tragic irony of their quick fall to idolatry with the Golden Calf. The discussion highlights the protective nature of the Ten Commandments, the intricate symbolism of the Tabernacle's design, and God's balanced approach to justice and mercy as He offers Israel a second chance through a preparatory law and priesthood. Halverson prompts listeners to consider whether they are using their blessings to build a sanctuary for God or idols for themselves.
This episode of Unshaken Saints deeply examines Exodus chapters 14-18, tracing Israel's journey from Egyptian bondage through the wilderness. It highlights God's miraculous deliverance at the Red Sea, the challenges of murmuring and the divine provision of manna and water. The discussion culminates with Jethro's pivotal wisdom on effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of delegation, teaching correct principles, and sustaining prophets to foster a community of independent, spiritual growth.
This episode of Unshaken explores Exodus chapters 7-13, interpreting the ten plagues not just as historical events but as a "War of the Gods" proving Jehovah's supremacy and a masterclass in repentance. It examines Pharaoh's hardening heart and his failed "negotiations" as a metaphor for our own resistance to fully letting go of sin, contrasting partial obedience with the complete surrender God requires. The meticulous details of the Passover lamb and its blood are highlighted as profound symbols pointing directly to the Atonement of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need to leave "Egypt" without looking back, consecrating all our resources to God's kingdom.
What do you do when your "Promised Land" feels like a distant memory and your current reality feels like a slave pit? Moses found the answer in a bush that burned but was not consumed—and that same fire is available to help you break free today. Summary: In this episode, we begin the book of Exodus (chapters 1–6). We move from the family intimacy of Genesis to the national deliverance of Israel, uncovering profound patterns of how God remembers His covenants and empowers the "weak things of the ...
Theology calls it "Good Friday," but for the disciples standing at the foot of the cross, it was anything but good. It was horrific, silent, and seemingly final. If you are in a season where your life feels like a "Mourning Friday," this episode is for you. Summary: In this special study on the Passion of Jesus Christ, we explore why we must endure the "Not-So-Good" moments of Friday to truly appreciate the victory of Sunday. We dive into the "Stations of the Cross" and the necessity of honest l...
Joseph’s brothers thought they had buried their secret in a pit decades ago. But when a global famine drives them to the feet of the most powerful man in Egypt, they discover that while you can hide from your past, you can't hide from God’s plan for your redemption. Summary: In this final episode on the book of Genesis, we cover chapters 42–50. We witness the emotional climax of the Joseph saga and discover how one man’s integrity provided salvation for the entire House of Israel. The Test of Ch...
He was the favorite son, destined for greatness, until his own brothers stripped him of his coat and sold him into slavery. If you’ve ever felt betrayed by those closest to you or wondered where God is in your darkest "pit," Joseph’s story is the roadmap you need. Summary: In this deep dive into Genesis 37–41, we follow Joseph from the fields of Hebron to the dungeons of Egypt. We look past the colorful fabric of his coat to see the resilient character of a man who refused to let his circumstanc...
On March 18, 2020, the ground literally shook in Salt Lake City, causing the trumpet to fall from the hand of the Angel Moroni. It was a physical wake-up call for a spiritual reality: our world—and our faith—will be shaken. The question isn't if the earthquake is coming, but whether your foundation is built on something that cannot be moved. Summary: In this episode, we answer the "Why" of the "Finding Faith" course, exploring the deep symbolism of earthquakes in scripture to see why this kind o...
Is your family tree a bit... messy? If you feel like your life is full of sibling rivalry, deception, or "unanswered" prayers, you are in good company. From the tents of Isaac and Rebekah to the wrestling match at Peniel, the story of Jacob proves that God doesn't call perfect people—He transforms people who are willing to hold on until they receive a blessing. Summary: In this massive study of Genesis 24–36, we follow the Covenant through three generations of trials, travels, and transformation...
"Is any thing too hard for the Lord?" This is the question that defines the lives of Abraham and Sarah. From a biological impossibility to a heartbreaking command on a mountain top, their journey proves that God can bring life out of "deadness"—if we are willing to trust Him with everything. Summary: In this episode, we study Genesis 18–23, following the "Father of the Faithful" and the "Mother of Nations" through their ultimate trials. We explore the transition from the joy of Isaac's birth to ...
God told Abraham to "get thee out of thy country" and promised him a legacy that would bless all the families of the earth. But for decades, Abraham and Sarah had no land and no children. How do you keep walking when the promises of God seem impossible? Summary: In this episode, we dive into the heart of the Old Testament: The Abrahamic Covenant. We look at Genesis 12–17 and Abraham 1–2 to see how a "foreigner and a stranger" became the Father of the Faithful. The Search for Greater Happiness: W...
Are you experiencing a faith crisis or know someone who is? Then welcome to "Finding Faith," a master class on navigating faith crisis brought to you by the creator of Unshaken, Jared Halverson. Summary: In this introductory lesson, we explore the contents of the course - lessons on doubt and disappointment, stages of faith, proving contraries, anti-Mormon strategies, and becoming unshaken. In the course of the course, we will follow an outline suggested by a medical metaphor: learning "the heal...
When the world became "filled with violence," God sent a Flood. Was it a fit of divine anger, or a desperate act of love to save future generations from a world without hope? Discover why Noah’s Ark is the ultimate symbol of the Atonement. Summary: In this episode, we dive into the deep waters of Genesis 6–11. We move past the Sunday School "flannel board" version of Noah to find a profound story of covenants, agency, and second chances. The Problem of Wickedness: We explore why the earth was "c...
Delving into Moses 7, this episode uncovers the profound truth of a God with passions, deeply pained by his children's choices and suffering. It highlights Enoch's journey from shock at God's tears to a visceral understanding of divine empathy, paralleling Christ's Atonement. The discussion traces the building and ascension of Zion, Satan's dark influence, and God's unwavering plan to gather his elect through a "flood of truth," culminating in Christ's millennial reign and the glorious reunion of all his people.
Have you ever felt completely unqualified for what God has asked you to do? Enoch felt the same way. He was "but a lad" and "slow of speech," yet he became the man who led an entire city to be translated. Discover how your weaknesses can become your greatest strengths. Summary: In this episode, we explore the rich doctrines found in Genesis 5 and Moses 6. We look at the legacy of Adam and the rise of Enoch, uncovering the patterns of faith that define the patriarchal priesthood. The Book of Reme...
Was the Fall of Adam and Eve a "plan B" or the "plan all along"? Most of the world views the events in Eden as a catastrophe, but the Pearl of Great Price reveals it was the beginning of our redemption. Summary: In this episode, we dive into Genesis 3–4 and Moses 4–5 to understand the "Fortunate Fall" and the true nature of opposition. We explore how the choice made in Eden opened the door to mortality, family, and joy—on the condition of our redemption through Jesus Christ. Tactics of the Adver...
Most people read the Creation story looking for how the world was made. But the scriptures are more interested in why it was made and who made it. Are you missing the temple hidden within the pages of Genesis? Summary: In this episode, we bridge the gap between Genesis, Moses, and Abraham to uncover the deep doctrine of the Creation. We move beyond the "scientific" debates to discover a "visionary" account of our divine origins. The 3-Story Creation: We analyze the "Cosmic Temple" by looking at ...
When Moses stood on a "high mountain" and saw God face-to-face, his first realization was shocking: "Man is nothing." But God didn't leave him there. He revealed a truth that changes everything about how you see yourself and your purpose in this life. Summary: In this episode, we explore the profound "prefaces" to the Bible found in Moses 1 and Abraham 3. We dive into the deep doctrine of our divine identity and the Plan of Salvation. Moses 1: Identity and Discernment. We analyze Moses' encounte...
Most people find the Old Testament confusing, dusty, or even intimidating. But what if it’s actually the essential foundation for everything you believe about Jesus Christ? Today, we unlock the "Library of Books" that makes up the first half of our scripture and discover why it is the indispensable foundation of the covenant. Summary: In this introductory lesson, we lay the groundwork for a year-long journey through the Old Testament. We move beyond seeing it as a singular book and begin to view...
We've come to the end of 2025 and after 6 years of largely verse-by-verse scripture study following the Come Follow Me schedule, we've got some announcements to make. Amazing days behind us and incredible days ahead!
Merry Christmas to all of my beloved Unshaken Saints! In this video, I share a Christmas message I wrote as a 19-year-old missionary, linking my first Christmas in Puerto Rico to the first Christmas in Bethlehem. May this beautiful holiday season bring you a greater measure of "peace on earth, good will to men."
When "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" was issued in 1995, some called it a "duh document". Today, it is a subject of controversy, dismissed by some as outdated and praised by others as a powerful, prophetic anchor. This lesson breaks down the nine paragraphs of this crucial declaration, understanding why the family is central to the Creator's plan. The Plan of God: Marriage between a man and a woman is "ordained of God" and the family is "central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal de...
How does a church navigate change, controversy, and continuing revelation while staying true to its foundation? The Articles of Faith lay the groundwork, but the two Official Declarations provide proof of a living church, led by a living prophet. We'll analyze the deep counsel given in these landmark sections. Official Declaration 1: The End of Plural Marriage President Wilford Woodruff faced a devastating dilemma: adhere to the law of plural marriage and lose the temples, ordinances, and leader...
Imagine seeing your brother, who died before being baptized, standing as an heir of the celestial kingdom. This profound experience, recorded in D&C 137, opens the door to understanding God's infinite mercy. Decades later, another prophet received a vision (D&C 138) that dramatically expanded our knowledge of the work for the dead. D&C 137: The Desire of the Heart In January 1836, Joseph Smith beheld the celestial kingdom. He "marveled" to see his deceased brother, Alvin, there. The ...
