Episode 116: Using Precepts to Draw Closer to Jesus Christ (Maclane Heward)

Episode 116: Using Precepts to Draw Closer to Jesus Christ (Maclane Heward)

Author: BYU Religious Education November 15, 2024 Duration: 46:15

The Prophet Joseph Smith taught "that the book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the key stone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book." But what exactly are precepts? And how are those recorded in an ancient record relevant to our lives today? In this episode Church history and doctrine professor Dr. Maclane Heward discusses ways to identify key precepts in the Book of Mormon and intentionally incorporated them into our lives. He examines a micro approach (like verse-by-verse analysis) and a macro approach (such as examining larger sections or entire books for overarching themes) for uncovering and understanding precepts. Further, he shares how applying such precepts can lead to personal growth, increased spiritual understanding, and a deeper sense of purpose and direction. By studying and applying the precepts found in the Book of Mormon, we can strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ and develop a closer relationship with him. 

 

Publications:

 

Click here to learn more about Maclane Heward


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 117: Kenneth L. Alford (Using the Book of Mormon Art Catalog) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:20
In an address to religious educators, Elder Richard G. Scott taught that "the use of an appealing visual aid can clarify truth." One platform for accessing such righteous and clarifying images is the Book of Mormon Art C…
Episode 114: Learning from People of Other Faiths (Joshua M. Sears) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:39
Since the organization of the Church, leaders have called for world-wide religious liberty and harmony: "We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all me…
Episode 112: Use Boldness but Not Overbearance (Jan J. Martin) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:56
As Alma mentored his sons in teaching the gospel, he counseled them not only to cultivate qualities such as diligence, temperance, humility, and self-reflection, but to also use "boldness, but not overbearance" (Alma 38:…
Episode 111: Missionary Work in the Digital Age (Scott L. Howell) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:46
Description Since the introduction of missionary work in 1830, Saints have used a variety of tools and practices to share the good news of the gospel and bring people unto Christ. Some of the most common methods have inc…
Episode 109: One Like the Son of Man (Jared W. Ludlow) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:02
The title Jesus preferred to use for himself more than any other in the New Testament Gospels was "Son of Man." According to the Bible Dictionary, this title was used approximately eighty times in the Gospels and used ex…
Episode 108: Intentional Fatherhood (Mark D. Ogletree) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:08
Ancient and latter-day prophets have often testified of the importance of gospel-centered parenting. King Benjamin once taught, "But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to lo…