This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in July 2020.

David Butler is a religious educator at Utah Valley University. He also cohosts the popular YouTube scripture study channel Don’t Miss This and is the author of many religious books, including Almighty: How the Most Powerful Being in the Universe Is Also Your Loving Father, Redeemer: Who He Is and Who He Will Always Be, and Spirit: The Gift that Connects You to Heaven. David has previously served as a bishop. He and his wife Jenny are the parents of six children.

Links

Don’t Miss This
Instagram: @mrdavebutler
Instagram: @dontmissthisstudy
Books by David Butler
Y Religion podcast
Seekers Wanted | An Interview with Anthony Sweat
Church Doctrine, Policy, & Leadership | An Interview with Prof. Anthony Sweat
Read the transcript of this podcast

Highlights

Dave shares his journey into teaching, which began unexpectedly during his college years when he took a class on teaching the gospel. Despite initially vowing never to become a teacher, he found himself drawn to the profession, particularly in the context of teaching youth and sharing the gospel. Dave reflects on his experiences as a bishop, discussing how he approached leadership with a focus on people rather than programs. He emphasizes the importance of creating a meaningful sacrament meeting experience that fosters a deeper connection with God, rather than adhering strictly to traditional formats.

Throughout the episode, Dave challenges the conventional norms of church leadership and encourages listeners to question established practices. He advocates for a people-centered approach, urging leaders to consider the needs of their congregations and to innovate rather than simply follow the unwritten rules. The discussion also touches on the significance of the Come Follow Me program, with Dave suggesting that it should be viewed as a resource rather than a rigid program. He encourages families to focus on their unique needs and to create their own meaningful experiences in scripture study, ultimately aiming to foster a deeper love for God and each other.

04:04 – Dave’s Journey into Teaching
06:12 – Unexpected Path to Teaching
10:03 – Balancing Teaching and Leadership
12:26 – Embracing Individuality in Leadership
13:04 – Questioning the Status Quo
20:20 – Focusing on People Over Programs
24:02 – Creating a Meaningful Sacrament Meeting
28:07 – Innovative Approaches to Sacrament Meeting
32:50 – Collaborating with Stake Leadership
36:17 – The Importance of Individual Worship
40:50 – Grace in the Come Follow Me Program
42:43 – Viewing Come Follow Me as a Resource
45:00 – Interview with Anthony Sweat

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