Afleveringen
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(00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.
(05:08) Elijah calls down fire from heaven to consume King Ahaziah’s soldiers that were sent to apprehend him.
(12:02) Elisha is wrapped in the mantel of Elijah. Youth that mock Elisha are attacked by bears.
(25:30) Possible reasons for Elijah being taken to heaven and translated.
(26:29) Judah, Israel, and Edom join forces against Moab. They are in desperate need of water as they pass through the Negev desert. Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, directs his partners to the prophet Elisha who can provide the miracle they need.
(30:08) The king of Edom, desperate to escape Judah, Israel, and Edom, sacrifices his own son to his god Chemosh. He is able to escape. This story emphasizes that monolatry existed in the ancient Near East.
(33:27) Elisha multiplies the widow’s oil. If we are willing to give what we have to God, he will give us back so much more.
(38:07) Elisha raises the son of a widow woman from the dead. Prophets are types of Christ.
(40:38) Naaman comes to Elisha to be healed of leprosy, but then second-guesses Elisha’s instructions because they seemed too simple. One dip blessings compared to seven dip blessings. Faithfulness to God’s commandments brings miracles.
(48:12) Elisha refuses to accept a reward from Naaman for being healed. Gehazi secretly obtains the reward and is cursed with leprosy.
(50:33) Naaman desires to take home some dirt from the place of his miraculous healing. Cultural context helps us understand why he would want to do this.
(53:53) The sons of the prophets leave for more space. Elisha causes an ax to float.
(56:44) Syria wages war against Israel in an effort to capture Elisha, their secret weapon. The Syrians are smitten with blindness and are led away in peace.
(1:02:14) A seam in the text can be found in 2 Kings 6. Oral traditions that were written and later stitched together by editors leave evidence of their work. Israel, under siege by their enemy and experiencing a famine, is in need of a miracle. The Syrians leave their spoils behind and Elisha’s promise of plentiful food is fulfilled.
(1:08:40) Jezebel’s death fulfills the earlier prophecy of Elijah. Time vindicates the prophets.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 379 | 2 Kings 2-7, Come Follow Me 2026 (July 6-12) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) An overview of these chapters. The kingdom of Israel divides when Solomon’s son Rehoboam refuses to reduce the burden on the northern tribes.
(06:55) A brief history of the Lost Ten Tribes in the north and Judah in the south.
(10:48) Jeroboam, worried that his people will turn their hearts towards the leaders in the south when they go to the temple in Jerusalem, decides to build rival sanctuaries in Dan and Bethel.
(13:25) Do not take counsel from your fears or be fooled by an imitation.
(19:18) A man of God warns Jeroboam against false worship, prophesying of a future day when Josiah will destroy it.
(22:17) What happened to the Ark of the Covenant? Could Shishak of Egypt have taken this treasure from the Jerusalem temple?
(29:13) Elijah, an embodiment of great power, is a type of many prophets. All prophets are types of Christ.
(31:49) Elijah seals the heavens and is fed by a raven. He goes to Zarephath and asks a widow woman for her barrel flour and jar of oil, promising they will never become empty during the famine.
(40:30) Elijah raises the widow’s son from the dead. Jesus duplicates the miracles of Elijah.
(43:28) Obadiah, part of Ahab’s court, saves 100 prophets from Queen Jezebel and also helps Elijah.
(47:29) Obadiah and Elijah’s “50” can be seen as part of a bigger picture, as members of a choral arrangement that were connected to the temple and the sacred drama in many ancient cultures.
(52:37) Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to call down fire from heaven. They fail.
(57:14) At times the Lord will manifest miracles to show his might and prove that he is God. The Book of Mormon is that proof for us today.
(1:03:40) The famine ends and Queen Jezebel seeks the life of Elijah. In his loneliness, Elijah experiences deep sadness, believing that the prophets are dead. At times, we may feel as Elijah did. Being with the Saints and remembering the truth of the gospel message can bolster our resilience.
(1:11:44) Elijah’s experience with the still small voice of the Lord.
(1:18:17) Ahab, king of Israel, is attacked by the Syrian army. A prophet tells Ahab that Israel will win. Ahab later desires the vineyard of Naboth, who refuses to sell his land. Jezebel, Ahab’s wife, orchestrates a conspiracy to frame Naboth for blasphemy, and Ahab acquires the land through deceit. Elijah comes to inform Ahab that Ahab’s line will cease, that Jezebel will be eaten by dogs, and that Ahab’s blood will be licked up by dogs in the very spot where Naboth was killed. Time vindicates the prophets.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 378 | 1 Kings 12-22, Come Follow Me 2026 (June 29-July 5) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) An overview of these chapters.
(04:11) David stays in Jerusalem instead of going to war with his troops. He lies with Bathsheba and then tries to cover his sin by arranging for the death of her husband, Uriah. Reading this story through the lens of the honor culture in the ancient Near East.
(08:13) David’s fall helps us see the lines of defense we can put in place to prevent us from breaking the law of chastity.
(19:10) Chaos ensues in David’s family because of his example. Nathan pitches a legal case to David where a wealthy man steals a poor man’s little lamb. Nathan says, “Thou art the man!” He prophesies chaos in the House of David as a consequence of his choices.
(20:05) David’s son Amnon takes his sister Tamar by force. Tamar’s other brother Absalom kills Amnon in revenge. Absalom rebels against his father David and declares himself the king. David’s general Joab slays Absalom.
(28:24) In the Book of Mormon, Jacob rebukes those who excuse themselves in committing sins like David and Solomon. Their immoral transgressions broke the hearts of their wives. Their children lost confidence because of their bad examples.
(31:30) The last four chapters of 2 Samuel are an appendix containing diverse materials arranged in a chiastic order.
(35:47) Solomon becomes the king. He asks the Lord for a wise and understanding heart.
(38:42) Two mothers contend over a baby and Solomon determines who the true mother is. His wisdom and understanding exceed that of all men, but then Solomon begins to worships false gods. Our strengths can also be our downfall.
(44:24) The First Israelite Temple is built by Solomon. We can find increased divine assistance when we attend the temple and partner with the Lord.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 377 | 2 Samuel 8-24; 1 Kings 1-11, Come Follow Me 2026 (June 22-28) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) The story of David and Goliath. The Hebrew and Greek versions of 1 Samuel 17 render different accounts of Goliath’s height. An overview of Goliath’s weapons and armor.
(05:10) Goliath as a symbol of the unconquerable foes that we all face. David employs six strategies to defeat Goliath that can also be applied to our challenges.
(13:53) The sword of Goliath as an article of kingship and evidence that God is with us.
(16:25) King Saul is jealous of David and is obsessed with killing him.
(26:32) Jonathan is a true friend to David, even though he has reason to be jealous of his success.
(29:56) David continues his quest of goodness, yet Jonathan is not threatened.
(32:26) David has opportunity to kill Saul, but doesn’t.
(32:55) Nabal rebuffs David and refuses to give him food. Abigail acts as a peacemaker, thus saving Nabal’s life.
(36:11) King Saul consults with the Witch of Endor for revelation. He interacts with the ghost of Samuel, who has died. This experience with the spiritualist medium destroys hope.
(39:31) The Philistine leaders send David away during their attack on Saul’s forces. David goes to Ziklag and finds that his city has been sacked by the Amalekites and his family has been taken captive. David rescues all the people and shares the spoils of war.
(41:58) The Philistines defeat Israel. King Saul and his sons are slain.
(43:19) The rise of King David in 2 Samuel.
(46:47) Uzzah is smitten for steadying the Ark.
(51:03) David acts as both king and priest in his return to Jerusalem. He wears the ephod and offers sacrifice.
(53:50) David obtains the threshing floor, where the Ark will rest. The threshing floor can be seen as the foundation stone, the heart of the Holy of Holies and a symbol of Jesus Christ as Savior of the world.
(55:43) David desires to build a temple for the Lord. Nathan prophesies that the House of David will continue forever. This prophecy finds fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
(1:02:13) David is not to build the temple, but his son Solomon will built it.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 376 | 1 Samuel 17-31, 2 Samuel 1-7, Come Follow Me 2026 (June 15-21) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) Israel wants to have a king like everyone else. Saul is chosen.
(07:41) Forms of unrighteous dominion.
(11:14) Saul was chosen as Israel’s first king for his goodness, but falls into unrighteous dominion.
(24:18) Jonathan, King Saul’s son, is victorious in battle but disobeys his father.
(27:38) King Saul builds altars. He disobeys Samuel’s specific instructions. To obey is better than to sacrifice.
(39:55) The Lord tells Samuel to find Jesse, as he is the father of the future king of Israel. This shepherd’s son is David, founder of the “House of David.” Three traditions of David’s ascent to the throne are given.
(41:53) Samuel is told by the Lord to not look upon David’s outward appearance. God sees the intent of our hearts, not just our actions.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 375 | 1 Samuel 8-16, Come Follow Me 2026 (June 8-14) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) Ruth, a Moabite, becomes a central character in Israel’s history as the great-grandmother of King David, through whose line comes Jesus Christ. Her story shows that God is the God of the whole world.
(10:52) After becoming a widow, Ruth goes to Bethlehem and gleans in the fields of Boaz. The Law commanded that owners “not reap the corners of their fields,” thus providing for the poor.
(13:53) How Boaz symbolizes Christ and how Ruth represents all of us coming unto him to be redeemed.
(23:15) Ruth proposes marriage to Boaz. The threshing floor as a symbol for covenants and the temple. Jesus says “I will gather my people as a man gathereth his sheaves into the floor.”
(29:46) The other kinsman that has claim upon Ruth can be seen as a symbol of Jesus reconciling and paying our debts for the things that have claim on us. God will compensate us for the difficult times in our lives.
(33:03) All the characters in the story of Ruth are demonstrating hesed, or covenant love. The image of the circle and square coming together as a symbol for the union of heaven and earth.
(38:46) In the Book of Samuel, Hannah comes to the tabernacle at Shiloh to pray for God to give her a son. Like Hannah, all of us experience times of deprivation, even when it is a righteous desire we seek.
(43:02) Hannah’s prayer led to the birth of Samuel and then an even more abundant blessing of many children. God is bounteous in his loving kindness.
(45:39) The Song of Hannah as a triumphant song of praise and overcoming adversity. It gives reference to the King, but there is no monarchy yet. This song can be seen as a prophecy of the Savior and contains temple imagery.
(49:13) Eli’s sons reject the Lord, so Samuel will take their place as High Priest.
(50:08) The Lord calls young Samuel to be a prophet, but he doesn’t immediately understand. Eli helps him open his ears. Sometimes we brush off impressions as coincidence, but oftentimes they are revelation.
(54:32) Samuel is recognized as a prophet. Prophets advise Israel’s kings and when they listen to the prophet they are blessed.
(57:42) The Israelites are defeated by the Philistines. Eli and his sons die. Samuel exhorts Israel to serve the Lord and the Philistines are subdued.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 374 | Ruth; 1 Samuel 1-7, Come Follow Me 2026 (June 1-7) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.
(06:25) The pride cycle explained.
(11:29) The pride cycle illustrated in the Book of Judges.
(15:56) Successive generations of Israelites forget God and the things he has done for them.
(17:56) The theme of denigrating the northern tribes of Israel.
(21:33) Othniel is the first judge. Ehud, the second judge, brings a “gift” to Eglon, the fat king of Moab.
(27:24) Deborah is the third judge. How her story compares to the Ishtar myth.
(36:51) Gideon is the fourth judge and humbly trusts in God.
(47:43) Gideon refuses the invitation to be the king of Israel and teaches that Israel should make God their King.
(53:20) Samson is the 7th judge and is blessed with great strength. His ultimate destruction is symbolic of the descent of the House of Israel. Other myths of the ancient world, those of Nergal and Oedipus, may indicate that Samson’s story contains recontextualized tropes from older times.
(1:11:00) Abimelech is the 5th judge and slays his seventy brothers.
(1:14:15) Jephthah is the 6th judge and makes a rash vow and sacrifices his only daughter.
(1:17:47) In the first epilogue Micah sets up a false religion.
(1:19:59) In the second epilogue a Levite woman is horribly violated and killed. Civil war ensues among the Israelites. We see that if Christ isn’t our King, we will be without civilization.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 373 | Judges, Come Follow Me 2026 (May 25-31) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.
(02:47) Balancing the violence in Joshua with modern revelation and other ways of interpreting the text.
(12:49) If we want the Lord’s help in conflict, then we need to do things the Lord’s way. The three rules of conflict: have the right attitude, have the right motive, and do not be guilty of the first or second offense.
(21:46) Some archaeological evidence does not match the book of Joshua’s description of the conquest of the Land of Canaan.
(28:00) Models of how Israel came to exist in scholarship.
(32:28) Get off the beach. Joshua illustrates how the Lord guides us and how revelation works.
(41:43) What mean these stones? The God who did wonderful things in the past will do wonderful things in your life.
(46:03) The circular pattern of stones at Gilgal can invite readers to see Joshua as an ascension text.
(51:33) Joshua taking the land as a type of Jesus conquering sin and death. Rahab and the scarlet thread as symbols of sin and the atonement.
(1:06:14) Joshua’s final speech. “Choose you this day whom ye will serve: … but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 372 | Joshua, Come Follow Me 2026 (May 18-24) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) There is evidence that the Five Books of Moses and specifically the Book of Deuteronomy were edited both before and during the Babylonian captivity, around 600 B.C.
(03:14) Many scholars see Deuteronomy as the “Book of the Law” that was discovered during Josiah’s reign from 640-609 B.C.
(06:15) Examples of additions and redactions which demonstrate the history of the text.
(12:54) The Book of Mormon and the New Testament bring balance to the religious reforms during Josiah’s reign.
(15:35) The Deuteronomistic History is a term used in modern biblical studies to describe the books of Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel and 1-2 Kings. The Deuteronomistic History portrays a cohesive view of Israel.
(18:46) Lehi and Nephi were at odds with the Jews at the time they left Jerusalem in 600 B.C. Examples from the Book of Mormon show how prophets disagreed with some of Deuteronomy’s ideas.
(23:26) Deuteronomy centralizes worship and prohibits any altars outside of the temple. Visionaries were denigrated, yet Nephi knew the mysteries.
(25:42) Deuteronomy focuses on the Abrahamic Covenant and stresses that Israel is to remember the Lord.
(32:39) Deuteronomy has covenant renewal ceremonies and is constructed in the pattern of an ancient Near Eastern vassal treaty. This pattern is also used in King Benjamin’s speech in Mosiah 1-6.
(38:22) The scattering and gathering is prophesied in both Deuteronomy and the Book of Mormon. God wants to bring Israel back home.
(46:12) Deuteronomy 31.6 shows a direct connection to the Book of Joshua. Blessings for keeping the commandments can be seen as a generational promise, not necessarily a 1:1 relationship. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not a “cosmic vending machine.”
(48:53) Both Deuteronomy and the Book of Mormon are writing with the future in mind, knowing that their discovery will bring religious reform.
(51:14) Both books warn of the pride and destruction that can come with prosperity.
(55:28) Moses “dies,” and the text of Deuteronomy says his sepulcher is not known. The Book of Mormon teaches that Moses was translated. Josephus’ history says he disappeared in a cloud. The New Testament shows Moses appears at the Mount of Transfiguration.
(1:02:01) As a resurrected being, in April 1836, Moses came to Joseph Smith to give him the keys of the gathering of Israel. In this way, we are all connected to Moses and his mission. As modern day Israel, we carry the torch of Gospel light and are commanded to spread the Gospel.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 371 | Deuteronomy, Come Follow Me 2026 (May 11-17) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.
(02:35) The Israelites murmur and complain in the wilderness. How we respond to our afflictions will shape our character. We can strive to see God’s hand in our lives like Nephi and Francis Webster.
(15:34) The book of Numbers contains evidence that it is a compilation of separate traditions. Understanding these traditions helps to explain some contradictions in the text.
(21:48) Israel murmurs and lusts for meat instead of manna. The Lord abundantly blesses them with quail.
(25:11) Moses complains that he can’t bear the burden alone and is commanded to choose 70 to assist him. The very essence of Christianity is to have compassion for those who are downtrodden.
(29:24) The Greek translation of manna leads to fascinating possibilities. The Israelites loathe the manna and want something exciting and new.
(35:41) Aaron and Miriam challenge Moses’ authority. Numbers 12 portrays Moses as God’s authorized representative, emphasizing hierarchical priesthood authority.
(39:08) Moses sends 12 spies to search the land of Canaan. Ten of them bring back a negative report, telling of giants inhabiting the land. Joshua and Caleb give a positive report and say that Israel can take the land of Canaan.
(43:20) Moses stands as intercessor, working to convince the Lord to not smite the Israelites. The adult Israelites murmur and want to die in the wilderness. The Lord grants this request, while also emphasizing that he desires to have a righteous people who will build Zion.
(47:34) Miriam and Aaron die in the wilderness. Moses will see, but not enter the promised land.
(49:42) The king of Edom refuses to let Israel pass peacefully through his land. We can choose to not be offended.
(52:04) The Israelites are plagued and bitten by fiery serpents. Moses lifts up a serpent of brass to save those who will look upon it. This story is told in greater detail in the Book of Mormon. We should not be slothful because of the easiness of the way.
(1:00:00) Og, the king of Bashan, is described as the last of the giants. His bed is described with the same dimensions as that of Marduk, a Mesopotamian deity.
(1:02:16) Balak offers Balaam money, cattle, and great honors to curse Israel. Balaam refuses, and instead pronounces great blessings upon Israel.
(1:13:54) Another perspective on why the Lord was angry with Balaam.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 370 | Numbers, Come Follow Me 2026 (May 4-10) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.
(04:02) The Nephites saw the Savior Jesus Christ in the Law of Moses.
(12:08) The children of Israel willingly donated material to construct The Tabernacle, giving even more than was needed.
(15:52) The articles of The Tabernacle.
(20:01) Aaron and his sons are washed, anointed, and clothed in priesthood robes.
(22:20) The Tabernacle is a miniature cosmos, which parallels the creation of the earth in its literary construction. The glory of the Lord fills it.
(26:13) Scholars have mapped a chiastic structure in the first five books of the Bible. The apex can be seen as Leviticus 16, which focuses on the Day of Atonement. In this way, we see that the center of the Pentateuch is Jesus Christ.
(27:48) Walking through the steps of offering a sacrifice at The Tabernacle.
(37:29) The five offerings are meant to separate the clean from the unclean. Leviticus contains only a fragmentary record of the institution of the priesthood.
(40:40) Kosher and purity laws in Leviticus 11-15.
(45:41) Yom Kippur or the Day of Atonement.
(50:11) The scapegoat, as portrayed in the Day of Atonement, can be interpreted in many ways.
(58:35) Israel is commanded to not reap the corners of their fields and to leave their gleanings for the poor. This symbol of the circle in the square can also represent the temple, the unification of heaven and earth, and is found in the book of Ruth.
(1:01:47) Prohibition of mingling seed and garments of linen and wool. The holy and the profane are not to be mixed.
(1:04:58) Israel is commanded to be different from their neighbors in grooming standards.
(1:06:29) Israel is to keep the Feasts of the Passover, of Unleavened Bread, of Pentecost or Firstfruits, of Trumpets, of the Day of Atonement, and of Tabernacles.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 369 | Exodus 35-40; Leviticus, Come Follow Me 2026 (April 27-May 3) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.
(06:04) The Lord covenants to make Israel a peculiar treasure, a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. Time, pressure, and heat create jewels.
(14:07) The cultural context of Exodus 19.15. Our doctrine is that intimacy and having children is holy and good within the bonds of marriage.
(15:08) The greatness of the glory of God requires transfiguration for individuals to enter into his presence.
(17:14) D&C 84 adds that Moses was preparing Israel for temple covenants to bring them into the presence of God.
(20:13) The Lord reveals the Ten Commandments.
(28:34) Rhymes to easily remember the Ten Commandments.
(33:37) An example of a modern day set of Ten Commandments.
(52:06) Additions to The Ten Commandments are found in chapters 21-23, The Covenant Code. There are conflicting messages in the Bible about slavery.
(59:26) The Israelites accept the covenant and ratify it. The Joseph Smith Translation clarifies the ambiguity in the Bible about whether or not God can be seen.
(1:02:55) As we are willing to receive light, we will receive more light.
(1:07:32) The Tabernacle is planned. Elder Bednar encourages us to discuss the temple more often.
(1:13:49) Symbols of Christ in The Tabernacle portray our journey back to our Heavenly Home.
(1:19:56) Artisans furnish The Tabernacle. The Lord doesn’t give a commandment without preparing a way for it to be accomplished. The talents we posses are part of God’s divine plan.
(1:23:46)The Sabbath Day is observed. We need to rest and be refreshed.
(1:24:49) Aaron makes a golden calf for Israel to worship while Moses is on the mountain. The Levites enact violence against the apostates.
(1:32:59) When the Kingdom of Israel splits around 921 BC, Jeroboam constructs golden calves in Dan and Bethel. The story of the golden calf may be a message to Israel casting Jeroboam as an apostate king, perhaps portraying a theological rift after the schism in Israel.
(1:34:46) The bull (calf) was a symbol for God in the ancient Near East and represents strength and might. It may also be a representation of the pedestal or footstool of God.
(1:37:38) The stone tablets are broken and the Israelites are given a lesser law. This may also help us see the Book of Mormon in a new light.
(1:48:21) Moses represents the Savior Jesus Christ as he offers a prayer pleading for the Israelites.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 368 | Exodus 19-20; 24; 31-34, Come Follow Me 2026 (April 20-26) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.
(02:16) The children of Israel murmur and complain in the wilderness. As a comparison, Nephi’s trust in God blesses his wilderness experience.
(08:42) The Book of Mormon gives added insight as to why murmuring is such a problem. The key to happiness is to remember the greatness of God in both pain and prosperity.
(19:07) A possible location of Sinai is discussed as evidence of historicity in the book of Exodus. Revelation came to Moses “when he was on the move.”
(23:26) The night crossing of the Red Sea can represent Jesus conquering chaos in our lives. Psalm 74 also addresses these themes.
(29:00) The children of Israel sing the Song of the Sea and rejoice in their deliverance.
(36:40) The beginning and end of the Exodus story has women standing as witnesses to the miraculous. Miriam is there at Moses’ birth and at the Song of the Sea.
(42:46) Some approaches to Biblical scholarship may be helpful in understanding why the Bible has some traditions that cast Miriam in a bad light.
(46:58) Miriam dies at Kadesh and the water dries up. Miriam as a symbol of the women in the New Testament named Mary who witnessed Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection.
(51:07) The bitter water is sweetened with a tree. The Savior heals us too.
(54:59) The Lord rains manna from heaven and sends quail for meat to feed the children of Israel for 40 years. God will take care of us in the deserts of our lives.
(1:02:07) Moses smites a rock and water gushes forth. Jewish theologians over the years had a tradition that the rock at the beginning and at the end of Exodus was the same rock. Paul worked this tradition into his discussion of Christ, and so to him, the rock was Jesus.
(1:07:27) Amalek battles with the Israelites and Moses’ hands are held up so that Israel may be victorious. We sustain the prophet and our local leaders, and by so doing, we hold up their hands that hang down.
(1:10:22) An invitation to remember what God has done for us.
(1:13:23) Jethro counsels Moses to delegate certain tasks. Delegation gives opportunities for growth.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 367 | Exodus 14-18, Come Follow Me 2026 (April 13-19) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) Multiplying signs and the law of increasing witnesses. God increases in severity as an act of kindness towards those he strives to redeem.
(05:02) The Lord wants to save Israel. A summary of the escalation of the plagues as a sign of God’s mercy towards Egypt.
(17:11) Nephi’s journey to the Promised Land has many parallels with the Exodus story.
(19:38) Pharaoh’s heart is hardened and he is angry that the Israelites are spared from the plagues. The world often attempts to dismiss God’s miracles.
(21:06) The ten plagues can be seen as a contest between the Egyptian gods and the power of Jehovah. Later, Christians will interpret the signs given by the magicians of Pharaoh as the power of the adversary.
(30:26) Moses did not present the whole truth to Pharaoh, rather he only gave him what was needful. Truth is to be given gradually.
(43:39) The significant and relevance of the Passover. The blood of the Lamb saved Israel anciently and continues to do so today. Jesus is the Passover Lamb, slain for the sins of the world.
(52:34) The Passover ordinance was changed from a local family experience to a national pilgrimage in the writings of Deuteronomy.
(53:59) The mark of the blood of the lamb saves the righteous.
(56:11) Accurately numbering the Israelites is difficult because of the nuanced meaning of the word eleph. Israel likely was composed of a mixed multitude when they departed Egypt.
(1:00:10) These chapters emphasize the importance of remembering. As we remember who saved Israel from destruction, our hearts are pointed to the Savior who saves us as well.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 366 | Exodus 7-13, Come Follow Me 2026 (April 6-12) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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→ Timestamps:
(00:00) Stories of Jesus.
(01:19) Jesus teaches a woman of Samaria at the well.
(06:04) The woman with an issue of blood.
(11:55) Oliver Cowdery’s prayer.
(14:23) A woman with a sinful life anoints the feet of Jesus.
(16:12) The woman caught in adultery.
(18:12) Jesus knows us.
(24:37) Jesus is a “one by one” God.
(30:11) Jesus saw his seed.
(35:52) Horizontal and vertical relationships.
(36:55) Peter is called to catch men.
(41:28) Jesus heals a leper.
(43:13) Temple work for the dead.
(43:47) Action and grace.
(46:39) Joseph’s loss of the manuscript.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 365 | Easter – The Magnificent Messiah, Come Follow Me 2026 (March 30-April 5) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) The children of Israel are placed in bondage by the Egyptians. Moses is born and saved through the efforts of heroic women like Jochebed, Shiphrah, Puah, Miriam, and Pharaoh’s daughter.
(08:58) Moses flees from Egypt, meets Jethro, marries Zipporah, and speaks with God at the burning bush.
(11:48) The Lord knows our sorrows and suffering. Deliverance is a process.
(18:34) God helps us bear our burdens in the space between bondage and deliverance. Our bones thicken to match the weight they carry.
(25:49) Moses is called to deliver Israel from bondage and God gives him signs or tokens.
(28:26) Meanings of the divine name “I Am That I Am.”
(34:52) We are encouraged to act and not be acted upon.
(37:21) God tells Moses that He will lead Israel to a land flowing with milk and honey.
(50:26) Making time for rest and connecting with heaven is essential.
(57:24) Ways to interpret God making Pharaoh’s heart “heavy.”→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 364 | Exodus 1-6, Come Follow Me 2026 (March 23-29) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.
(08:03) Joseph acknowledges to his brothers that God was aware of his trials, and that ultimately they were for his good.
(13:25) A comparison of God’s fairness and mercy.
(21:51) Judah offered himself in place of Benjamin for his father’s sake.
(26:41) The Savior can fix broken things.
(29:25) Jacob adopts Ephraim and Manasseh as tribes of Israel.
(38:34) A closer look at some complicated passages you may be wondering about.
(41:54) How the Egyptian Book of the Dead may be related to the book of Genesis.
(48:58) Jacob knew loss and what it was like to live in a world of chaos and sin.
(54:19) Jacob confers patriarchal blessings upon each of his sons before he passes away.
(1:02:13) The Bible and the Book of Mormon were destined to come together and bless the world.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 363 | Genesis 42-50, Come Follow Me 2026 (March 16-22) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) Joseph of Egypt: An example of living the covenant with steady discipleship.
(06:51) Shechem defiles Dinah. Simeon and Levi seek revenge by wiping out the inhabitants of the city.
(13:02) Rachel bears Benjamin and dies in childbirth. She is buried in Bethlehem.
(17:57) Reuben sins with Bilhah.
(21:29) Joseph is sold into Egypt by his brothers. Joseph is a visionary man.
(25:01) Alternate readings of “the coat of many colors.”
(28:45) In Jewish legend, Joseph of Egypt possessed a sacred stone that was passed down from Adam.
(36:05) Judah sins with Tamar, his widowed daughter-in-law, and she bears twins.
(43:11) Joseph rises to prominence wherever he goes. Joseph is a seer.
(46:57) We can employ Joseph’s strategies for overcoming temptation.
(51:34) Joseph interprets dreams and eventually becomes a ruler of Egypt.
(55:46) Finding temple symbolism in this story.
(58:41) Joseph marries Asenath. Hugh Nibley’s research teaches us more about her identity.
(1:03:49) Joseph as a type of Christ.
(1:06:48) As descendants of Joseph, we are called to gather God’s children.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 362 | Genesis 37-41, Come Follow Me 2026 (March 9-15) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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(00:00) Those searching for an eternal companion can learn valuable lessons from the story of Isaac and Rebekah.
(04:18) “He shall send his angel before thee to help” in Genesis 24.20.
(06:47) A caution: The Lord may have not chosen one particular person to be your spouse.
(09:16) The servant’s test of how to choose an eternal companion. If you are looking for a 3-3 marriage, be a 3!
(23:05) Four ways to read the text, with three important lenses. The temple symbolism of Rebekah at the well.
(30:17) Abraham marries Keturah after the death of Sarah.
(33:15) The sons of Ishmael and their “castles” in Genesis 25.12-18.
(34:50) Abraham died and was gathered to his people. These verses echo eternal truths regarding the reunification of families in the Spirit World after death.
(38:38) Rebekah and Isaac have twins named Jacob and Esau. These men represent two nations.
(45:51) Esau is the progenitor of the Edomites.
(49:20) Esau sells the birthright in Genesis 25.29-34. Esau’s tears remind us to not despise the blessings within our reach.
(57:46) The people of the covenant always seek sacred places to commune with God.
(1:03:13) The literal reading (peshat) of Genesis 27.1-40 with 4 points of emphasis from the Institute Manual.
(1:10:27) Patterns, types, and figures may provide deeper meaning to Genesis 27. Reading this text with an allegorical (remez) and sacred temple approach (sod).
(1:21:36) The three fold structure of the creation and the three Patriarchs may increase our understanding of temple symbolism and show us Rebekah’s essential purpose in this story.
(1:31:10) We can accept the responsibility of the Abrahamic Covenant by sharing the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jacob’s story emphasizes the importance of keeping the covenant in the family first.
(1:36:46) The geopolitical situation between Judah and Israel may have influenced the text.
(1:38:29) The Book of Mormon teaches that when we treat family like the enemy, we open the door to the real enemy.
(1:39:42) “Jacob’s Ladder” can be viewed as a heavenly vision of the Lord. Bethel as a representation of modern-day temples.
(1:47:56) Jacob meets Rachel at a well. The matriarchs are often associated with water.
(1:50:02) Laban tricks Jacob into marrying Leah first since she is the older sister. He then marries Rachel, but serves 7 years for her because he loves her. The challenges of plural marriage.
(1:53:47) The image of opening a mother’s womb as a manifestation of heavenly power. The sanctity of life is very important to God.
(1:58:30) The names of the children of Israel are puns that expose the rivalry between the sisters Rachel and Leah.
(2:06:20) Faith in God includes faith in his timing, even for righteous desires. God remembered Rachel and he will remember you.
(2:09:11) The Lord (or an angel) tells Jacob to leave Haran. Jacob and Laban hold a contest regarding the fertility of their flocks. Rachel hides Laban’s “household gods.”
(2:14:41) Jacob’s reconciliation with Laban through a covenant.
(2:18:38) Jacob asks God for a blessing to endure well and reconcile with Esau in Genesis 32. Jacob wrestles with a “man” or God. A comparison between Jacob’s wrestle in Genesis and Enos’ wrestle in the Book of Mormon.
(2:25:06) Jacob’s name is changed to Israel, which can mean “let God prevail.” We also receive a new name when we become followers of Christ and in other times of our lives. The symbol of the embrace.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 361 | Genesis 24-33, Come Follow Me 2026 (March 2-8) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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→ Detailed Show Notes
→ Timestamps:
(00:00) An overview of these chapters.
(02:05) Abraham’s prophetic call and the symbolism of the mighty tree with sacred associations.
(13:26) “Is anything too hard for the Lord?”
(14:00) Hebrew word play with laugh, rejoice, and Isaac’s name. Doubts and hopes are tied together in this story.
(16:36) Abraham bargains with the Lord for Sodom and Gomorrah to be saved because he knows the mercy of God.
(23:25) The story of Sodom and Gomorrah also portrays God’s justice.
(24:34) Lot makes efforts to save his family from destruction in Genesis 19.
(29:33) Lot pitching his tent toward Sodom cost him his family.
(33:41) The troubling narrative of Lot’s two daughters and the cave in Genesis 19.30-38.
(38:22) Beauty for ashes in Isaiah 61.3. Through tragic experiences, beauty can come to pass. Your origin story is not who you are.
(41:48) Genesis 20 is a triplet of the same story. This chapter introduces the Elohist’s narrative, a source text most likely related to Lehi’s Brass Plates text.
(43:04) The long-promised day finally comes and Isaac is born. We should trust and have faith in promises that take time to be fulfilled. The Song of Sarah.
(44:57) Hagar and Ishmael are cast out of Abraham’s household and they wander in the wilderness. Their water runs out and God shows her a well of water. God helps us, but also wants us to do all we can.
(55:22) Complexities, gaps, and anachronisms in Genesis 21. A covenant, a sacred well, and a tree at Beer-sheba are illustrations of temple imagery, connecting the Patriarchs to figures of the temple and visionary experiences.
(58:41) The burial of Sarah in Genesis 23. Different ways to read Abraham’s “mourning” and “weeping” for Sarah.
(1:03:00) The Lord asks Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac upon Mount Moriah, the foundation stone, Jerusalem’s most sacred ground.
(1:06:47) We are here to be tested. We will have trials of faith equal to Abraham’s.
(1:11:05) Isaac is an excellent type of Jesus Christ. Elder Melvin J. Ballard shares his feelings regarding Heavenly Father sacrificing his Son.→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
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The post Ep 360 | Genesis 18-23, Come Follow Me 2026 (February 23-March 1) appeared first on Talking Scripture.
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