Standard of Truth Podcast Summary Episode: S5E19 "Saved by Grace"
Host: Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat
Co-host: Dr. Richard Leduc
Release Date: May 1, 2025

Introduction and Light Banter

The episode kicks off with Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat welcoming listeners to another installment of the "Standard of Truth" podcast, accompanied by his co-host Dr. Richard Leduc. The initial moments are filled with friendly banter about personal anecdotes, notably Dr. Leduc’s wife's pie-making prowess, which serves as a light-hearted segue into the episode's content.

Notable Quote:

[02:09] Dr. Richard Leduc: "Becky makes a mean series of pies. They're absolutely fantastic."

Missionary Updates and Logistical Matters

The hosts transition into discussing updates related to missionaries and upcoming church tours. Dr. Dirkmaat shares information about how missionaries access podcast content through a specialized Google Drive, ensuring they have resources despite internet restrictions during missions. The conversation also touches on personal stories about family members involved in missions, adding a personal touch to the discussion.

Notable Quote:

[05:20] Dr. Garrett Dirkmaat: "All we need is their missionary email address."

Listener Emails and Humorous Interactions

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to reading and responding to listener emails. These interactions are characterized by humor and personal stories, including playful exchanges about writing emails during labor and the challenges of encoding genuine messages amidst humorous attempts by listeners.

Notable Quote:

[27:12] Dr. Richard Leduc: "We don't give it to you for free."

Main Topic: The Church’s Perspective on Grace Since Joseph Smith

The core of the episode delves into the theological discussion on how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints' (LDS) understanding of grace has evolved since the time of its founder, Joseph Smith. Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc explore the distinctions between LDS teachings on grace and those of mainstream Protestantism, particularly Calvinism and Methodism.

Historical Context and Theological Foundations

Dr. Dirkmaat provides a historical overview, explaining that during Joseph Smith’s era, the prevalent Protestant belief emphasized preordained salvation through God's sovereign grace alone, without the necessity of works or ordinances. In contrast, LDS theology introduces the concept that while salvation is by grace, it also necessitates active participation through ordinances such as baptism and temple rites.

Notable Quote:

[12:16] Dr. Richard Leduc: "We don't become perfect and none of us are even close, that grace is what's actually going to take us over the finish line."

Samuel Smith’s Struggle with Salvation by Grace Alone

A compelling narrative is shared about Samuel Smith, Joseph Smith's brother, who initially struggles to reconcile the necessity of ordinances for salvation with his existing Protestant beliefs that salvation is solely by grace. This story underscores the radical shift LDS teachings represented at the time.

Notable Quote:

[48:46] Dr. Richard Leduc: "How could the brother of Joseph Smith, who's had all these incredible experiences hearing firsthand from a brother that he trusts, bristle at this idea?"

Modern Interpretations and Teachings on Grace

The discussion moves to contemporary teachings, highlighting how modern LDS discourse on grace has expanded compared to Joseph Smith’s time. The hosts note an increase in references to grace in recent church teachings and scriptures, emphasizing a balanced view that incorporates both divine grace and human agency.

Notable Quote:

[64:43] Dr. Garrett Dirkmaat: "We've always thought it was strange that the song Amazing Grace wasn't included in the hymn book until just recently."

Doctrine and Covenants Insights

Dr. Leduc references Doctrine and Covenants, particularly Section 45 and Section 93, to illustrate how grace is portrayed within LDS doctrine. The discussion emphasizes that while grace is fundamental to salvation, it operates in conjunction with personal righteousness and adherence to church ordinances.

Notable Quote:

[62:32] Dr. Richard Leduc: "We are saved by grace of Jesus Christ."

Concluding Thoughts on Grace and Salvation

The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of balancing faith and works within the LDS framework. Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc advocate for a holistic approach to grace, where believers are encouraged to strive for personal improvement and adherence to church teachings while relying on divine grace for salvation.

Notable Quote:

[77:29] Dr. Garrett Dirkmaat: "Remember, God is far less concerned with who you were yesterday than who you're going to be tomorrow."

Closing Remarks

Dr. Dirkmaat thanks the listeners for tuning in and encourages them to share the episode with others who might benefit from its insights. The hosts sign off with a reminder of their gratitude and anticipation for future discussions.

Key Takeaways

• Evolution of Grace: The LDS Church’s understanding of grace has evolved to incorporate both divine grace and essential ordinances, differentiating it from solely grace-based Protestant views.
• Historical Challenges: Early members like Samuel Smith grappled with integrating new LDS doctrines with existing religious beliefs, highlighting the radical nature of the Church's teachings.
• Modern Application: Contemporary teachings emphasize a balanced approach to grace, encouraging personal righteousness while relying on Christ’s atonement.
• Personal Stories: The blend of humor and personal anecdotes underscores the hosts' relatable approach to discussing complex theological topics.

This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the concept of grace within the LDS Church, juxtaposed against historical and modern theological perspectives. Through engaging dialogue and illustrative examples, Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc provide listeners with a deeper understanding of how grace shapes the faith and practices of Latter-Day Saints.