Episode 134: "Thunder and Roar Out the Gospel"–The Brigham Young Journals (Gerrit Dirkmaat)

Episode 134: "Thunder and Roar Out the Gospel"–The Brigham Young Journals (Gerrit Dirkmaat)

Author: BYU Religious Education November 15, 2025 Duration: 1:09:43

From the moment Brigham Young emerged from the waters of baptism in 1832, a fire burned within him to preach the restored gospel: "I wanted to thunder and roar out the Gospel to the nations. It burned in my bones like fire pent up…." That same passion drove him to keep detailed records of his labors and later his service as a Church leader and prophet. In this episode, professor of Church history and doctrine Gerrit Dirkmaat discusses his work on The Brigham Young Journals: Volume 1: April 1832–February 1846. Dr. Dirkmaat shares the behind-the-scenes insights into the editorial process, explores the significance of Brigham Young's pre-Utah writings, and explains what these documents teach us about his remarkable journey from convert to prophet. Whether you're a student of Church history or simply curious about the making of a leader, this conversation offers a rare and riveting look into the testimony, labors, and special witness of the second latter-day prophet.

Publications:

 

Click here to learn more about Gerrit Dirkmaat


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 7: Asking Good Questions (Jan Martin & Jared Halverson) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:54
How can teachers transform their classrooms into collaborative learning spaces? In this episode professors Jan Martin and Jared Halverson discuss the power of guiding discussions with open-ended, scripture-anchored quest…
Episode 4: Teaching by the Spirit (Hank Smith & Ryan Sharp) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:44
How does the Holy Ghost assist in our preparation and delivery of lessons? In this episode professors Hank Smith and Ryan Sharp demystify what it means to teach by the Spirit. They discuss ways to invite the Spirit to gu…
Episode 3: Organizing a Lesson (Mark L. Pace and Ken Alford) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:16:07
The Lord has invited, "Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the king…
Episode 2: Knowing Your Audience (Emily Belle Freeman & Brad Wilcox) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:18:15
How do you prepare and adjust a message to connect with those you are leading? What methods can teachers—from all backgrounds and experiences—use when preparing for different teaching moments? In this episode, sister Emi…
Episode 1: The Power of Teaching (Clark Gilbert & Chad Webb) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:46
What makes powerful gospel teaching? What are the effective elements that any teacher— no matter their training, situation, or personality—can implement so that deepened faith and conversion can happen in the lives of le…
Episode 127: Understanding Our Jewish Neighbors (Shon Hopkin) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:27
The John A. Widtsoe Foundation recently introduced the Understanding Our Neighbors series to "foster respect and interfaith dialogue." In this episode Professor Shon Hopkin, Department Chair of BYU Ancient Scripture, dis…