Episode 107: "I Am" Statements in the Book of Mormon (Joshua M. Matson)

Episode 107: "I Am" Statements in the Book of Mormon (Joshua M. Matson)

Author: BYU Religious Education July 1, 2024 Duration: 49:57

Throughout the Book of Mormon, the Savior pronounces fifty-three "I am" statements as he details his purpose and declares his divine identity. In 2 Nephi 29: 8 – 9 he explains that he does so for a particular reason, "Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. […]. And I do this that I may prove unto many thatI amthe same yesterday, today, and forever […]" (emphasis added). In this next episode Dr. Joshua M. Matson, assistant professor of ancient scripture, discusses his recent article "Coming to Know Christ through the 'I Am' Statements in the Book of Mormon" and explains the significant presence of these statements in the Bible and Restoration scriptures. He outlines how the Savior utilizes two forms of "I am" statements—metaphorical(depicting what he does) andabsolute(his titles or depicting who he is)—throughout the scriptures to proclaim his role and character. Professor Matson explains that the "I am" statements in the Book of Mormon serve as another witness of Jesus Christ, alongside similar "I am" statements presented in the Old and New Testaments, and that they are spoken by both the premortal Jehovah and the resurrected Jesus Christ. In studying the "I am" statements we may come to know the Savior in his own words and through his own perspective. 

 

Publications 

 

Clickhereto learn more about Joshua M. Matson 


Behind the academic papers and detailed studies produced by the faculty at Brigham Young University, there are personal journeys of faith and intellectual curiosity. Y Religion, from BYU Religious Education, opens a window into that process. Each episode sits down with the professor behind the research, moving beyond the published conclusions to explore the human questions that sparked the inquiry. Conversations delve into why a particular historical detail, scriptural insight, or theological concept demanded a closer look, and what it means for both scholarly understanding and personal belief. This isn't about dry lectures; it's about the intersection of rigorous scholarship and lived discipleship within the context of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The podcast serves as a unique bridge, making specialized academic work accessible and relevant to anyone pondering deeper spiritual truths. You'll hear scholars articulate the challenges and rewards of their dual commitment to the mind and the heart, offering listeners a richer appreciation for the ongoing dialogue between faith and learning. Tune in for thoughtful discussions that illuminate how dedicated study can deepen, rather than distance, one's spiritual journey.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Y Religion
Podcast Episodes
Episode 106: Jesus Christ as a Revealer of Ordinances (David Calabro) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:54
In 3 Nephi and Moroni, the resurrected Savior provides specific directions to the Nephites regarding four rituals: baptism by immersion, the bestowal of the gift of the Holy Ghost, communal prayer, and the sacrament. Why…
Episode 101: Jacob and Mental Health (Jared Halverson) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:42
The word anxiety (or anxious) is used nine times in the Book of Mormon, and it appears in both positive and negative forms. In the positive form it refers to something more akin to "eagerness" (see Mosiah 29:38 and 3 Nep…
Episode 100: I Know That My Redeemer Lived (Tyler J. Griffin) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:33
As we prepare for the Easter season and celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, we often sing the hymn "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." But what if we temporarily shift our focus from rejoicing that the Redeemer live…
Episode 99: Mourning with Hope (Hank R. Smith) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:51
In John 11:35 we learn that "Jesus wept" with Mary and Martha as they mourned the loss of their brother Lazarus. Like the Savior, we too might experience "the sting of death" (Mosiah 16:7-8) as we bereave our loved ones.…
Episode 98: Unique Voices in the Book of Mormon (John Hilton III) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:28
Some 150 voices unite in the Book of Mormon to provide a clear witness of the Savior Jesus Christ. What insights might we gain from examining their distinctive voices? And what meaning can studying unique voices of the p…
Episode 97: The Power of Stillness (Ty Mansfield) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:41
Elder M. Russell Ballard expressed, "It is important to be still and listen and follow the Spirit. We simply have too many distractions to capture our attention, unlike any time in the history of the world." The Restorat…