Standard of Truth Podcast: Episode S5E14 – "Worshiping a Different Jesus"

Host: Dr. Garrett Dirkmaat
Co-Host: Dr. Richard Leduc
Release Date: April 3, 2025

Overview

In episode S5E14 of the Standard of Truth podcast, hosts Dr. Garrett Dirkmaat and Dr. Richard Leduc delve into the nuanced topic of "Worshiping a Different Jesus." The conversation navigates through personal anecdotes, listener questions, and theological discussions, primarily focusing on the distinctions between Latter-Day Saints' beliefs and mainstream Christian doctrines, particularly concerning the nature of the Trinity versus Oneness theology.

Personal Anecdotes and Light-Hearted Banter

Bracket Games and Mission Memories (00:01 - 06:03)
The episode opens with Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc engaging in humorous banter about their ongoing bracket game competition related to the podcast. Their playful exchange sets a relaxed tone for the episode. They reminisce about their mission experiences, sharing stories about playing strategy games like Risk and Axis and Allies during their missions. Notably, Dr. Leduc recounts how their group would lose interest and quit the game after eliminating an intense player, Elder Byrd.

Dr. Dirkmaat [02:10]: "We played essentially until he was eliminated, and then collectively, everyone would lose interest and we just quit."

Listener Engagement: Social Media and Christian Identity

Sierra’s Inquiry on Christianity Definition (07:20 - 17:36)
A listener named Sierra poses a question via email about the definition of Christianity, especially in the context of Latter-Day Saints being labeled as non-Christian by other Christian denominations. Sierra highlights the debate over the LDS belief in the Godhead versus the traditional Christian Trinity, noting the frequent derogatory responses received on social media platforms.

Sierra [07:20]: "Several of the posts I come across boldly declare that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is a Christian church. And then of course other Christians take up their pitchforks and torches to argue that it is not the case."

Hosts' Response and Theological Clarifications (09:32 - 24:24)
Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc address Sierra’s concerns by explaining the fundamental differences between LDS theology and mainstream Christian beliefs. They discuss the concept of boundary maintenance within Christianity, where differing beliefs about the nature of God lead to exclusion from the Christian identity. The hosts elaborate on the historical development of the Trinity doctrine and how it contrasts with LDS beliefs in the Godhead.

Dr. Dirkmaat [17:44]: "If you do what Jesus says, if you believe in Jesus and not Buddha, then I'm going to call you a Christian. But inside of Christianity, there is a boundary maintenance that takes place."

Deep Dive: Trinity vs. Oneness Theology

Understanding Trinitarian and Oneness Beliefs (24:24 - 40:05)
The conversation shifts to a detailed exploration of Trinitarianism versus Oneness theology. Dr. Dirkmaat explains how the Trinity, as understood by most Christian denominations, posits three distinct persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) within one Godhead. In contrast, Oneness Pentecostals reject the Trinity, advocating for a modalistic view where God manifests in different forms but remains a single entity.

Dr. Dirkmaat [28:00]: "So one does Pentecostals argue that there's only one God. There's not this three separate persons thing. It's just that God manifests himself in three different ways."

He further discusses the historical context, referencing early Christian heresies like modalism and the Council of Nicaea, highlighting why mainstream Christianity rejects Oneness theology as heretical.

Listener Insights and Theological Reflections

Parker’s Email on Book of Mormon Sources (34:04 - 40:56)
Another listener, Parker, submits a thought-provoking question regarding the canonical sources of the Book of Mormon, particularly focusing on Nephi's writings. Parker contemplates the reliability of Nephi as a source, given that his accounts may not be contemporary and are written with prophetic insight rather than as a daily journal.

Parker [34:04]: "Should we trust Nephi completely as a source? That's hilarious. I'm not saying he is not inspired or questioning his calling."

Hosts’ Analysis on Historical and Scriptural Context (38:34 - 40:56)
Dr. Dirkmaat responds by comparing Nephi’s retrospective accounts to historical figures like Joseph Smith and Biblical authors, emphasizing the importance of understanding the context in which these records were written. He argues that prophetic insight allows for a selective recounting of significant events, similar to how the Gospel of John focuses on key aspects of Jesus’s divinity and miracles rather than mundane daily activities.

Dr. Dirkmaat [39:51]: "One thing reminiscent accounts do is they demonstrate for us what a person looking back on their life thinks is most important."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Reflections on Faith and Theological Debate (31:00 - 50:59)
In the concluding segments, Dr. Leduc shares personal struggles with reconciling LDS beliefs with criticisms from other Christian groups. Dr. Dirkmaat reinforces the value of understanding differing beliefs to strengthen one’s own faith. The hosts emphasize the mission of the podcast to provide historical context and theological insights to support Latter-Day Saints in their faith journey.

Dr. Dirkmaat [33:48]: "Use it as an opportunity to look into what your relationship with Jesus really is. How the prophet Joseph Smith and the restoration of the gospel teach us things about Jesus that no one else knows."

The episode wraps up with a mix of humor and heartfelt appreciation for listener engagement, highlighting the collaborative effort between Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc to address complex theological questions while maintaining an approachable and relatable dialogue.

Key Takeaways

• Christian Identity Debate: The episode underscores the ongoing debate about whether Latter-Day Saints are considered Christians by other denominations, primarily due to differing beliefs about the nature of God.

• Trinitarian vs. Oneness Theology: A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to explaining the differences between traditional Trinitarianism and Oneness theology, including historical contexts and theological implications.

• Scriptural Source Analysis: The hosts engage in a thoughtful analysis of scriptural sources, particularly the Book of Mormon, emphasizing the importance of understanding the context and perspective from which these texts were written.

• Personal Faith Journeys: Through personal anecdotes and listener interactions, the episode highlights the importance of personal faith journeys and the role of historical and theological education in strengthening one’s beliefs.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Dirkmaat [17:44]: "If you do what Jesus says, if you believe in Jesus and not Buddha, then I'm going to call you a Christian."

• Sierra [07:20]: "Usually, eventually, this is me speaking... getting into it. Usually you only get into about maybe 10 to 15 comments before you're called a Nazi."

• Dr. Dirkmaat [28:00]: "So one does Pentecostals argue that there's only one God. There's not this three separate persons thing. It's just that God manifests himself in three different ways."

• Parker [34:04]: "Another example for me would be he seems pretty harsh on Laman and Lemuel..."

Final Thoughts

Episode S5E14 of the Standard of Truth podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of theological distinctions between Latter-Day Saints and other Christian denominations. Through engaging dialogue, personal stories, and thoughtful analysis, Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc provide listeners with a deeper understanding of faith, identity, and the complex nature of religious beliefs. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the podcast, this episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the intricacies of worshiping a "different Jesus."