Jesus for Mormons

Jesus for Mormons #27: Is Christianity Ridiculous for Ex-Mormons

December 24, 2024

Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di respond to a comment on the Mormon Stories Podcast Facebook page about key Christian concepts like the Trinity and salvation by faith alone. They explain that God's anger is a righteous response to sin, not vengeance, and that salvation is available to all through faith in Jesus, whose sacrifice covers all sin. The speakers emphasize divine justice, encouraging believers to trust in God's judgment rather than seek vengeance. They contrast Christianity and Mormonism, discussing salvation, grace, and the nature of God, particularly the differences in their views on the Trinity. The conversation also addresses the challenges of transitioning from Mormonism to Christianity, encouraging open exploration of faith and trust in God's grace. Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com  Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #26: Community ExMormon Sacrifice

December 18, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven reflects on the isolation he experienced after leaving the Mormon church and the challenges of rebuilding a sense of community. Initially skeptical of church life, he eventually found support and authenticity at Venture Church and later in Kauai, discovering that both large and small church environments can offer meaningful connections. Pastor Di emphasizes the importance of community, noting that genuine relationships are often easier to build in faith-based settings. The speaker highlights the transformative power of finding a supportive community, especially for those leaving religions like Mormonism, and the deep bonds that form through shared faith and experiences. Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com  Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #24: Gospel of Obedience

December 4, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the control mechanisms in the Mormon Church, focusing on the extreme obedience demanded from missionaries and the psychological toll of strict rules. They critique the legalistic environment at Mormon-affiliated schools like BYU and how it fosters feelings of unworthiness. The hosts argue that teachings on obedience and blessings create guilt and spiritual confusion, exemplified by Joseph Smith's controversial polygamy doctrine. Emphasizing that God's love is unconditional, they advocate for embracing grace, self-forgiveness, and a more liberated, grace-centered approach to faith. Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com  Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #23: F(ETCH) the Mormons

November 26, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di explore the impact of anti-Mormon chants at sports events, focusing on a 2001 game between Oregon and BYU. Kai shares his personal struggle with anger and resentment after leaving the Mormon Church, and how these emotions strained his relationships with family. The conversation highlights the challenges of processing anger toward a former faith and emphasizes the importance of healing, particularly through the concept of "selfish forgiveness"—forgiving not for others, but for personal peace. The speakers discuss how media, such as the Mormon Stories podcast, can fuel anger and impede emotional healing. They acknowledge that while anger after leaving the Mormon Church is natural, holding onto it can harm one’s well-being. Forgiveness is framed as an ongoing, individual process that doesn’t excuse past wrongs, but helps release negativity, ultimately improving emotional health and relationships. Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com  Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #22: Are Mormon "Spiritual Experiences" Real?

November 19, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss Kai's spiritual experiences in the Mormon Church and how he now views them after leaving the faith. Kai shares two key moments: feeling divinely prompted to invest in a difficult property and to marry his wife at a young age. While he once saw these as divine interventions, he now questions if they were his own efforts. Di argues that spiritual experiences can happen outside any specific religious context, and the conversation explores how people interpret such experiences, especially when transitioning between faiths. They discuss the challenge of distinguishing divine guidance from emotional responses and encourage listeners to reconsider their experiences beyond religious frameworks. The episode invites listeners to share their own stories, as doing so can help deepen their spiritual journey. Show Notes: Mormon Segulls: https://issuu.com/utah10/docs/uhq_volume38_1970_number3/s/107089 Jesus for Mormons Ep18: https://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exgp2wao0no Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com  Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #21: What is Worship

November 12, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven interviews Pastor David Diaz to discuss what worship is in the Christian church. David explains that worship is not just music but a lifestyle of honoring God through actions, generosity, and praise. He touches on tithing as a heart matter and highlights various forms of worship expression, like raising hands or waving flags. Ultimately, worship is about honoring God in all aspects of life. The hosts highlights that worship is a way to connect with God, and it can take many forms, from singing to quiet reflection. It emphasizes that worship isn’t about performance but about the heart’s posture. People are encouraged to experiment with different ways of worship, as it can lead to healing and a deeper relationship with God. Ultimately, worship is about encountering God's presence, which brings transformation. Check out our playlist of worship songs: https://open.http://spotify.com/playlist/5vb0yihgxqhsdqy11ejx3m?pi=u-clpayuimtuap&si=1uiosblmtucvm_fnjtghrg Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com  Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #20: Mormon Garments

November 5, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the significance of Mormon garments—sacred underwear worn by church members—covering recent changes like sleeveless styles and the belief in their protective symbolism. They also address the controversy surrounding Joseph Smith not wearing his garments at his death, which raises questions about their importance. The conversation critiques the rigid modesty standards, particularly the pressures faced by women, emphasizing the guilt and shame associated with these expectations. The hosts argue that linking worthiness to clothing is harmful and advocate for a more compassionate approach to spirituality. Show Notes: Joseph F. Smith describes garments as unchanged. | B. H. Roberts: https://bhroberts.org/records/09wgh3-ko8oec/joseph_f_smith_describes_garments_as_unchanged Sleeveless LDS temple garments are coming to the U.S. Here’s when: https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2024/10/17/heres-when-sleeveless-lds-temple LDS Garments and Agency | The Religious Studies Project: https://http://www.religiousstudiesproject.com/podcast/lds-garments-and-agency Joseph F. Smith - Wikipedia: https://en.http://wikipedia.org/wiki/joseph_f._smith Church Updates Temple Recommend Interview Questions: https://newsroom.http://churchofjesuschrist.org/article/october-2019-general-conference-temple-recommend Mormon Church Introduces SLEEVELESS Garments: https://youtu.be/mq9rmio7ec4?si=d-diwnxy_gakdsl9 Juvenile Instructor » From the Archives: Brigham Young on Joseph Smith’s Last Mistake: https://juvenileinstructor.org/from-the-archives-brigham-young-on-josephs-smith-last-mistake Temple Garments: https://mormonr.org/qnas/0ddnd/temple_garments Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com  Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #19: Life in Crisis: Fight or Flight

October 29, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the "fight or flight" response, focusing on Kai's journey after leaving the Mormon Church. He reflects on his past as a fighter and his struggle with avoidance, highlighting his attempts to escape through travel and major life changes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of confronting challenges for healing, the clarity gained from living minimally, and the value of processing emotions and seeking support from therapists. Kai also shares his experience adjusting to life in Hawaii while finding purpose in his move. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to seek help and build resilience on their healing journeys. Show Notes: Cleveland Clinic: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-happens-to-your-body-during-the-fight-or-flight-responsehttp://clevelandclinic.org/what-happens-to-your-body-during-the-fight-or-flight-response  Huberman on Grief: https://youtu.be/dzovi0aa2ea?si=bd-k-850mo1bqpcb  How do disappear: https://medium.com/@hijab7437/the-art-of-disappearing-how-to-disappear-without-a-trace-f5a3e26396a3  Chad Zapitul Story: https://www.win-magazine.com/2012/03/13/unfulfilled-ncaa-promises-still-sting-20-years-later-for-zaputil/  Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Jesus for Mormons #18: Elevated Emotion vs. Holy Spirit

October 22, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss emotions and spirituality for those leaving Mormonism. They highlight the church's focus on feelings as truth and the risks of emotional manipulation. Using testimonies, including one from a young woman in a polygamist group, they advocate for balancing emotional awareness with critical thinking. They introduce "elevation emotion," the positive feelings from witnessing kindness, which can enhance connection and purpose. They emphasize that actions speak louder than words, encourage seeking joy beyond material possessions, and reference Jesus' teachings on living in the present. They also suggest a decision-making framework involving biblical insights and trusted counsel, inviting listeners to explore their faith journeys thoughtfully. Show Notes:  Ask Reality, My LDS Journey: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycuvc9s4vyahttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycuvc9s4vya  ​​Elevation, What it is and Why do we need it? https://www.thepositivepsychologypeople.com/elevation-what-is-it-and-why-do-we-need-it/#:~:text=haidt%20(2000)%20characterised%20elevation%20as,motivation%20to%20behave%20more%20altruisticallyhttp://www.thepositivepsychologypeople.com/elevation-what-is-it-and-why-do-we-need-it#:~:text=haidt%20https://www.thepositivepsychologypeople.com/elevation-what-is-it-and-why-do-we-need-it/#:~:text=haidt%20(2000)%20characterised%20elevation%20as,motivation%20to%20behave%20more%20altruistically.  CES Letter: https://cesletter.org/ces-letter.pdf  Elevation study by Thomson, A. L., & Siegel, J. T. (2017). : https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2017-31938-013  Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #17: You Have Mail

October 15, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, hosts Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the relationship between faith and works, emphasizing that genuine faith in Jesus leads to good deeds. Kai reflects on his past in the Mormon Church, encouraged by a friend to view his experiences as valuable rather than wasted. He shares a boating mishap as a lesson in learning from mistakes and highlights the lasting impact of a heartfelt letter from a family he influenced during his missionary work. The episode encourages listeners to embrace their past positively and focus on personal growth and relationships. Show Notes: Sunk Cost Reality: https://youtu.be/o_pzkpudjdw?si=iqrpbqgxfttkafqj  Contact us: Email: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hs692rdmcji8 Website: https://jesusformormons.com

Jesus for Mormons #16: Follow the Profit

October 1, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the financial structure of Mormon wards, estimating they generate around $600,000 in tithing annually with minimal expenses. Kai compares this to Circus Circus in Las Vegas, highlighting themes of financial accountability. They also emphasize the importance of transparency in church finances and community-building activities, concluding with a focus on trust and respect in church leadership, inviting listener engagement. Contact us: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com, and Facebook: Jesus for Mormons.

Jesus for Mormons #15: Mormon Assets

September 24, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the Mormon Church’s significant financial assets, valued at $265 billion, and question whether the church is fulfilling its non-profit mission or simply accumulating wealth. They highlight declining membership and outdated traditions as signs of disconnect and draw parallels to the "Parable of the Talents," criticizing the church for hoarding resources. The conversation emphasizes the importance of transparency, honesty, and using resources for the benefit of the community. Show Notes: 46% of millennials are active: https://religionnews.com/2019/03/27/how-many-millennials-are-really-leaving-the-lds-church 2016 History of sacrament meeting: https://http://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/topics/sacrament-meetings?lang=eng https://en.http://wikipedia.org/wiki/membership_history_of_the_church_of_jesus_christ_of_latter-day_saints#cite_note-9 - population of the church  https://widowsmitereport.http://wordpress.com/2023update - Widows Mite Report Contact us: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com, and Facebook: Jesus for Mormons.

Jesus for Mormons #14: Why I Hated Brandon

September 17, 2024

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss Kai's initial hostility towards Brandon, Di's husband and a pastor, due to his past bias against religious leaders from outside his former Mormon faith. Despite his skepticism, Kai was taken aback by Brandon's genuine and down-to-earth approach, which contrasted with his preconceived notions. This encounter led Kai to reconsider his negative views and engage more openly with the church community. The narrator reflects on their surprising encounter with Brandon, a former Mormon bishop, who was much more humble and authentic than expected. This experience challenged their preconceived notions about church leaders and made them reconsider their own biases. They emphasize the importance of grace, patience, and personal growth while acknowledging the ongoing struggle to overcome past frustrations and show kindness to others. Contact us: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com, and Facebook: Jesus for Mormons.

Jesus for Mormons #13: Secret Lives of Mormon Wives - Mormons Gone Wild - Sex in Mormon Church

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss how detailed confessions in the Mormon Church can cause unnecessary shame and guilt. They contrast this with the simple, direct forgiveness from Jesus. They argue that these practices can lead to guilt and psychological harm, making forgiveness seem conditional. They also address the harm from strict teachings on sexual sin and early marriages. They stress the importance of grace and respectful conversations about intimacy, advocating for removing shame and focusing on God's grace rather than institutional processes.   Show Notes:   Protest Secret Lives of Mormon Wives: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3a%2f%2fwww.abc4.com%2fnews%2flocal-news%2fabc4-meets-with-cast-members-for-the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives%2f&data=05%7c02%7c%7cc05747a9104447544e7808dccdbfe84a%7c84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7c1%7c0%7c638611471316722409%7cunknown%7ctwfpbgzsb3d8eyjwijoimc4wljawmdailcjqijoiv2lumziilcjbtii6ik1hawwilcjxvci6mn0%3d%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=0f%2fwnc1iuqdgsxscjge1awlnxpvgalryqg1sjny19i8%3d&reserved=0http://www.abc4.com/news/local-news/abc4-meets-with-cast-members-for-the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives   Secret lives of Mormon Wives https://www.hulu.com/series/58cd73be-408d-4eed-8e3d-82339f3f93e2?cmp=11932&utm_source=google&utm_medium=sem&utm_campaign=cm_sem_various+niche+originals&utm_term=&gad_source=1&gclid=cjwkcajw_4s3bhaaeiwa_64yhhluehf22t34mkolbyjrnvwrm-zboinqnvga3y0ghxufrudfaosrohocciyqavd_bwe&gclsrc=aw.ds   Under the Banner of Heaven: https://www.hulu.com/series/under-the-banner-of-heaven-9c4ae394-e9c4-4a6d-985e-314270602c6b   Mormon No More: https://www.hulu.com/series/mormon-no-more-61c6289d-1038-45a4-a982-6fad782a00f1   Bishops guide for handling sexual sin {Handbook 2} https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/bc/content/shared/content/english/pdf/language-materials/08702_eng.pdf?lang=enghttp://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/bc/content/shared/content/english/pdf/language-materials/08702_eng.pdf?lang=eng  Contact us: mailto:jesusformormons@gmail.com, and Facebook: Jesus for Mormons.