BYU Studies

Author Warner Woodworth describes what he calls "practical Christianity," that is, actively perusing service by caring for the poor. Woodworth offers many examples of Church members who have started non-profit humanitarian organizations that serve the global community, taking initiative to follow Christ's invitation to live charitably. The systems Woodworth advocates to address inequality are sustainable and empowering, meant to elevate the poor to better support themselves using the privileges and capital granted to us. These bottom-up, grassroot non-profits are crucial to this mission.

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This article by Clark G. Gilbert was originally given as a keynote address at the BYU Religious Freedom Annual Review. It focuses on the value of religious freedom and our responsibility to defend it. While formalized legal protection of this right is crucial, social and interpersonal advocacy is required to maintain true religious freedom. Religious restriction and repression has negative impacts on society. As we defend religious pluralism, we create a better world for all.

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This is a book notice for Bruce W. Worthen's biographyMormon Envoy: The Diplomatic Legacy of Dr. John Milton Bernhisel was written by Matthew B. Christensen. It describes the life and career of Bernhisel, with special emphasis on his diplomatic and political influence on behalf of Latter-Day Saints on the US Government. Worthen's analysis is thorough and clearly rooted in extensive research, creating an engaging work for history enthusiasts and scholars.

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This article by Mark Alan Wright and Neal Rappleye offers a fascinating look into Korihor being "struck dumb" in Alma 30 from an ancient Mesoamerican cultural lens. Patterns in ancient languages demonstrate instances of word-play connecting punishment to the crime, particularly in and around the Mayans. Wright and Rappleye dive into historical and linguistic clues to not only argue that Korihor's fate demonstrates an example of this, but also that this cultural similarity serves as evidence linking The Book of Mormon to Mesoamerican history.

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This article by J.B. Haws explores the early career of influential Latter-Day Saint Historian Richard Bushman, whose joint focus on both theology and academics helped to foster a harmony between these two valuable pursuits. Bushman was an incredibly knowledgeable across many fields and found ways to integrate and connect his work across disciplines. Rather than accolades, Bushman found teaching to be his most important calling in life, and was a beloved member of many academic boards and institutions. His work is monumental and his influence cannot be overstated.

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This essay by Liz Busby explores a literal and figurative interpretation of Colossians 2:2 through discussion of what it means to be “knit together” in our relationship. The author offers a compelling and introspective at her own relationship with her sister through this lens.

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This Poem by Isaac James Richards was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It artfully explores what exists at the intersection of different things.

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This is a review by Kenneth L. Alford of Sherman L. Fleek and Robert C. Freeman's Book The Mormon Military Experience: 1823 to the Cold War. Alford lauds the authors' authority on the subject and the comprehensive undertaking they embarked on, though found the lack of a connected theme left him "wanting." Overall, he finds few historical errors, and considers this book a valuable resource for those interested in a "broad-brush historical overview" of American Latter-Day Saint military involvement.

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This article by TJ Uriona explores the phrase "skin of blackness" used in 2 Nephi 5:21. Uriona provides evidence in support of the claim that, within an ancient near-eastern context, this phrase can be understood as a motif for death. Uriona pulls from multiple sources to support his claim, including texts contemporary to Nephi's era that use similar phrases, and passages of the Old Testament. He also explores other potential meanings of the phrase, supported by historical evidence. This essay offers a valuable reading of 2 Nephi that enhances the anti-racist effort of the church, as church leaders have clearly rejected a racialized reading of this verse.

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This is a book notice by Katie Lewis about Kate Holbrook's essay compilation entitled Both Things are True. These essays explore areas of doctrine in which Holbrook (a renowned gospel scholar and historian focusing on LDS women) from points of tension, or contraries. Holbrook then works through a Christlike approach to find a place of coexistence for ideas that appear, at first glance, to be in opposition. The essays are entitled “I Belong to the True and Living Church,” “Revelation Is a Process,” “Housework Is a Crucible of Discipleship,” “Forgiving and Remembering,” and “The Weight of Legacy.” This essay compilation is a great tool for learning how to compassionately navigate the challenges and contradictions of life and faith.

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