J. Watkins is a long-time commenter on the site and someone off whom I often bounce ideas in the Ancient Studies room of the BYU Library. He defines himself in the following terms: “I’m Justin Watkins. I’m from Cardston, Alberta and I’m an undergraduate senior at BYU studying ancient near eastern studies. My focus is in the NT but I’d like to study the LXX for my graduate work. I also love studying Church history as a hobby. I’ve been... Read more
Hello and welcome back. I have been thinking a lot about the influence of LDS academics on the landscape of our church. They do have influence, but is it enough or the right variety? What is the role of the LDS academic? Well, what better way to begin this than with a web-poll. To that end, I was wondering if you feel that, since we’ve had LDS academics of one stripe or another since the 50’s, if they have had... Read more
This story relates progress in the excavation of Suba Cave, located about 15 miles west of Jerusalem. The link to the Baptist is controversial, resting mainly on some drawings on the walls and some evidence of baptisms. The real news is that this cave was a happenin’ place in the 7th century BCE, making it a feature of Isaiah’s era. The original website is here. I totally recommend you click that link for the pictures. To my non-archeologist’s eye, the... Read more
King David is one of the most dynamic and enigmatic of all the figures of the Bible (Halpern, 3-13). He was favored of God, but utilized whatever means he could to secure the throne, including murder and treason. Yet it is through his unorthodoxy that God works out common good for Israel. One piece of the text of the books of Samuel which I found intriguing are David’s two anointings: one at Hebron by the house of Judah, and the... Read more
The Restoration of the Priesthood has beaten the Book of Mormon in a poll of the most influential forces in today’s Mormonism. The final vote was 18-13. I would like to thank everyone who participated. So, does this tell us anything interesting? Also, any suggestions for the return of Historical Mormon Smackdown next week? Read more
Here it is. Your votes have determined that these are the two most influential forces in Mormonism today. 1 – The Book of Mormon vs. 11 – Restoration of the Priesthood Which is the more influential force in Mormonism today? The Book of Mormon Restoration of the Priesthood Free polls from Pollhost.com Vote and Comment below! Read more
And the winners are: 11 Restoration of Priesthood Authority 21 1 Joseph Smith 17 1 The Book of Mormon 26 6 Sacrament Meeting 10 So, the championship game tomorrow will be 1 The Book of Mormon vs. 11 Restoration of Priesthood Authority Maybe this means good things for George Mason. Read more
1 Joseph Smith vs. 11 Restoration of Priesthood Authority Which is the more influential force in Mormonism today? Joseph Smith Restoration of Priesthood Authority Free polls from Pollhost.com 1 Book of Mormon vs. 6 Sacrament Meeting Which is the more influential force in Mormonism today? The Book of Mormon Sacrament Meeting Free polls from Pollhost.com Vote and comment! Please! Read more
The Elite Eight results are: 1 – Joseph Smith 23 9 – Gordon B. Hinckley 22 11 – Restoration of Priesthood Authority 24 12 – Saving Ordinances 11 1 – The Book of Mormon 31 8 – The 2nd Official Declaration 4 6 – Sacrament Meeting 26 10 – Relief Society 7 The final four matches are: 1 Joseph Smith vs. 11 Restoration of Priesthood Authority 1 Book of Mormon vs. 6 Sacrament Meeting Wow! That Joseph Smith/Gordon B. Hinckley... Read more
The Joseph Smith/Gordon B. Hinckley race is a tie. Do not let it be so! The race is extended until tomorrow. Read more
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