Episode 137: A Modern Guide to an Old Testament (Joshua M. Sears)

Episode 137: A Modern Guide to an Old Testament (Joshua M. Sears)

Author: BYU Religious Education January 1, 2026 Duration: 52:47

How can the Old Testament feel relevant and approachable to us today? In this episode, Dr. Joshua M. Sears, associate professor of ancient scripture, discusses his new book A Modern Guide to an Old Testament. Designed for everyday readers, this resource helps demystify the Old Testament by providing historical context, literary insights, and practical applications for modern discipleship. Professor Sears explains why the Old Testament matters, how its themes connect to Christ, and offers tips for studying its complex narratives with confidence and faith. Whether you're a seasoned scripture scholar or just beginning your study, this conversation will inspire you to see the Old Testament in a new light.

Publications:

·      Previous Y Religion Podcast Episodes: https://religion.byu.edu/y-religion


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 126: Women Witnesses of the Easter Events (Gaye Strathearn) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:17
The first witnesses of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ were some of his female disciples. Mary Magdalene witnessed the empty tomb and was the first to encounter the risen Savior. Additionally, Joanna, Mary the mother of…
Episode 125: Envisioning the Last Supper (Matthew Grey) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:42
According to the earliest gospel accounts, on the night before his crucifixion, Jesus dined with his disciples to observe the feast of the Passover and institute what would later become the Christian eucharist (or sacram…
Episode 124: Sacramental Connections (Matthew O. Richardson) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:20
How does understanding the interconnected purposes of the sacrament, as presented in Doctrine & Covenants 27, deepen our appreciation for this sacred ordinance? In this episode Matthew O. Richardson, professor of Church…
Episode 121: The Family Proclamation in Context (Michael A. Goodman) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:25
Contemporary views on marriage and family have changed significantly over time. How much of our understanding of marriage and family is shaped by societal norms versus prophetic guidance? In this episode, professor of Ch…
Episode 120: The True Identity of Christ (Krystal V. L. Pierce) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:51
On the day after his Resurrection, the Savior appeared to those who knew him best during his mortal ministry—Mary Magdalene, Cleopas, ten of the apostles, and many other followers. While they saw him physically, they did…
Episode 119: Hear Him! The Restored Voice of the Lord (Anthony Sweat) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:00
As Professor of Church History and Doctrine Anthony Sweat dropped off a recent painting entitled Jesus of Nazareth, he was met with the response, "That's not what Jesus looks like." After a few laughs, Professor Sweat re…
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…