Thinking Celestial - A ”Follow The Prophet” Series Podcast

Ep 192 S7 Kirk & Shauni Burbidge ‘Eternity’s Great Gifts' Gerrit W. Gong

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and his wife, Shauni Burbidge, reflect on the meaning of Easter through the lens of prophetic counsel from Elder Gerrit W. Gong, President Russell M. Nelson, and other modern prophets and apostles. Together, they explore how Easter is more than a seasonal tradition, it is a sacred invitation to place Jesus Christ firmly at the center of our worship, our homes, and our discipleship. Drawing on prophetic messages of hope, healing, and covenant renewal, Kirk and Shauni testify that Easter points us to the living Christ, whose Resurrection gives purpose to our suffering, power to our repentance, and joy to our faith.
 
Review the messages discussed in this podcast here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/topics/easter?lang=eng 
 
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Enroll in this institute class here:
https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
_______________
Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus.
These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class.
The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org  
If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it! 
 

Ep 191 S7 Matt Merrill ‘The Book of Mormon — An Immeasurable Treasure on Our Journey’ Ozani Farias

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Dr. Matt Merrill dive into Elder Ozani Farias’s talk “The Book of Mormon — An Immeasurable Treasure on Our Journey.” Together they explore how the Book of Mormon anchors us to Christ, offering clarity, hope, and direction as we navigate life’s challenges. Their discussion highlights the pattern Elder Farias teaches, seeking truth, receiving spiritual strength, and allowing the doctrines of Christ to transform our daily walk, and a remind listeners that this sacred record is more than a book, it’s a divine companion for the covenant path.
 
Review the original talk here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/10/57farias?lang=eng
 
Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference!
_______________
Enroll in this institute class here:
https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
_______________
Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus.
These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class.
The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org  
If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it! 
 

Ep 190 S7 Blake Dalton ‘The Atoning Love of Jesus Christ" Neil L. Anderson

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Blake Dalton sit down for a open hearted discussion on Elder Neil L. Andersen’s “The Atoning Love of Jesus Christ.” Together they explore how the Savior’s infinite love reaches into the real details of our lives, strengthening us in weakness, refining our desires, and anchoring our hope in Him. They reflect on personal experiences, favorite teachings from the talk, and the quiet but transformational power that comes from turning to Christ with trust, humility, and a willingness to be changed by His grace.
 
Review the original talk here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/10/35andersen?lang=eng 
 
Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference!
_______________
Enroll in this institute class here:
https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
_______________
Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus.
These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class.
The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org  
If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it! 
 

Ep 189 S7 Kirk Burbidge ‘Be Reconciled to God’ Kelly R. Johnson

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge explores Elder Kelly R. Johnson’s message, Be Reconciled to God, reflecting on the spiritual rhythm Elder Johnson describes. The discussion centers on the powerful cycle of repenting, receiving renewed faith, feeling the joy that follows, and then turning again to repentance as we grow. Bro. Burbidge highlights how this pattern is not a sign of failure but the very process by which the Savior changes our hearts and draws us closer to Him.
 
Review the original talk here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/10/17johnson?lang=eng  
Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference!
_______________
Enroll in this institute class here:
https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
_______________
Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus.
These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class.
The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org  
If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it! 
 

Ep 188 S7 Deseret Peak HS Seminary Council 'Remembering the Sheep' William K. Jackson

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge meets with the Deseret Peak High Seminary Council to discuss Elder William K. Jackson’s October 2025 General Conference message about what he truly meant by "Remembering the Sheep." Together, they explore how simple acts like learning names, noticing who is missing, and reaching out with real intent can break through the loneliness so many youth face today. The conversation highlights that remembering people is a Christlike pattern that strengthens belonging, lifts burdens, and helps every member of the fold feel seen and valued.
Review the original talk here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/10/34jackson?lang=eng 
Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference!
_______________
Enroll in this institute class here:
https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
_______________
Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus.
These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261  
We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class.
The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org  
If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it! 
 

Ep 187 S7 Gary Nelson ''Coming Closer to Jesus Christ' Dallin H. Oaks

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge sits down with Institute Director Gary Nelson to explore President Dallin H. Oaks’ recent BYU devotional address, "Coming Closer to Jesus Christ." Together, they reflect on President Oaks’ clear and steady voice as a prophet, especially in a time when well meaning but mistaken ideas sometimes circulate among Church members. The discussion highlights how prophetic guidance helps us distinguish truth from error, stay centered on the Savior, and build our discipleship on revealed doctrine rather than shifting personal interpretations.
Review the original talk here: https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/dallin-h-oaks/coming-closer-to-jesus-christ/ 
Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference!
_______________
Enroll in this institute class here:
https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261 
_______________
Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus.
These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261 
We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class.
The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org 
If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it! 

Ep 186 S7 Jesika Woodall 'Look to God and Live' D. Todd Christopherson

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge sits down with Taylorsville Institute student Jesika Woodall to reflect on Elder D. Todd Christofferson’s message, “Look to God and Live.” Their conversation highlights how turning to the Savior brings clarity, peace, and spiritual strength, and they explore practical ways disciples can look to God in everyday challenges while trusting His power to heal and guide.
Review the original talk here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/10/45christofferson?lang=eng 
Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference!
_______________
Enroll in this institute class here:
https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261
_______________
Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus.
These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261
We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class.
The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it! 
 

Ep 185 S7 Aidan Davis ‘The Lord Looketh on the Heart’ Ronald M. Barcellos

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge sits down with Aidan Davis, LDSSA president at the Taylorsville Institute, to explore Elder Ronald M. Barcellos’s talk “The Lord Looketh on the Heart.” Together they discuss why the Savior cares far more about sincere intent than outward perfection, and how our discipleship efforts, however small, carry real power when centered on Christ.
Review the original talk here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/10/14barcellos?lang=eng 
Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference!
_______________
Enroll in this institute class here:
https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261
_______________
Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus.
These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1701261
We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class.
The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!