The History and Theology of Mormon Temples | Interview with Jonathan Stapley

In this episode of All Those in Favor, Baylor and Cade sit down with historian Jonathan Stapley (PhD in Chemistry; Oxford University Press author) to explore the origins, theology, and evolution of LDS temple liturgy.

From the biblical roots of washings, anointings, and priesthood vestments to the community role of the Kirtland Temple and the kinship networks of Nauvoo, Stapley traces how temple rituals expanded to include both men and women, reshaping the Saints’ vision of heaven as a network of eternal relationships.

We also dive into sensitive but vital topics: racial restrictions in priesthood and temple access, the impact of new historical sources, and the ongoing revelations that continue to shape Latter-day Saint cosmology today.

Chapters:
00:00 INTRO
05:24 Temple Experiences and Historical Development
15:23 Kirtland Temple's Sealing Practices Origin
16:38 Religious Cosmology and Relationships
22:44 Ancient Priest Garments Revealed
28:19 "Exploring Temple Liturgy History"
34:34 Fired Up by Biblical Revelations
42:14 Covenants and Exaltation Explained
48:00 "Evolving Ideas and Understanding"
53:06 Latter Day Saint Ideological Evolution
55:01 Understanding Early Church Perspectives
01:00:01 Racial Restrictions in Church History
01:07:55 Understanding Temple Experiences
01:10:36 "Perseverance in Community Efforts"

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