My Faith Crisis And A Message To Those Who Struggle

So who is Jacob Hansen and what inspired him to start this channel? Jacob explains how his own faith remodeling needed to happen and how it led him to an entirely new paradigm around faith.
A Message from Jacob:
I suggest finding the books/videos/podcasts by or about the ideas of the following individuals or organizations. This is by no means a comprehensive list but rather a list of some of the people who I believe have the most compelling things to say (even if I don’t agree with all they have to say).
Level 1 conversation: The Nature of Reality
Jordan Peterson
William Lane Craig
John Lennox
Carl Jung
Thomas Aquinas
Blaise Pascal
Alvin Plantinga
Steven Meyer
William Dembski
Jonathan Pageau
Frank Turek
Greg Bahnsen
Level 2 Conversation: The Nature of God
CS Lewis
GK Chesterton
George Macdonald
NT Wright
Bishop Robert Barron
Tom Holland (Historian)
Level 3 Conversation: The Nature of Christ.
Hugh Nibley
Blake Ostler
Tyrrell Givens
Robert Boylan
Brant Gardner
FAIR LDS
Evidence Central (AKA Book of Mormon Central)
“LDS Truth Claims” KZbin channel (36 Lectures) by Brett Mcdonald
For more about me and my story see the link below.
www.thoughtful...
Our Links
Website: thoughtfulfaith...
Instagram: / thoughtful.faith
TikTok: / thoughtful.faith
Podcast: www.buzzsprout...
DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this video are entirely the opinion of the creator and do not necessarily reflect any officially endorsed positions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints or channel sponsors.

[@kxnt_joel1238]

As a Christian , you’ve really helped me grow my knowledge for the Latter Day Saints and I’ve developed a new found respect for them , wishing you the best

[@noskalborg723]

Thank you for being charitable towards us.

[@Sagart999]

As a [fellow] Christian, you've reall helped me.... // There. Fixed it. //

[@Whatiftheresmore1314]

Thank you for your respect and kindness.❤️☀️

[@ZelphBones]

@@Sagart999So…”Mormons” are Christians-so it goes. Now…Does that mean Christians are “Mormons?” Also while you’re at it-if it took a revelation in 1978 to lift the priesthood ban--please show us all in the comment section -where the original revelation was -to even initiate a ban? Why no record of the revelation-to start the ban? Emma Smith didn’t stay “LDS” -as you know.

[@mountainghoti1671]

​@@Sagart999 Assumptive

[@underscorechaialegria5932]

As a new member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, whenever I see your new upload, I would always click and watch. I have grown so much because of the knowledge you share through your channel. Keep going ❤

[@Whatiftheresmore1314]

Me too!🙌🏻❤️☀️

[@Skyesoceaneyes]

I'm not that new but I've also learned so much and my testimony has been strengthened by the information and the testimonies of others.

[@ahh-2-ahh]

❤

[@Total_Freedom]

Yup. Jacob is a Godsend!

[@ppgranja3]

Have you read the Gospel Topic Essays the church released in 2013? There is a lot of good stuff for new members there. I recommend!

[@BUSBYPRODUCTION]

This was amazing bro. I am so sorry about your family. I am currently less active and your videos have urged me to come back. Much love from NZ bro 🙏

[@bobtheaccountant2534]

You can do it brother. The gospel is true.

[@BUSBYPRODUCTION]

It is true. I never doubted that, I have just been struggling with the word of wisdom.

[@bobtheaccountant2534]

@ do your best. The word of wisdom is such a small issue in the overall scope of things. Don’t beat yourself up on that. We often blow it out of proportion. Once you make the decision to be all in, things will fall into place and those issues can be overcome. I can’t imagine a scenario where one finds himself/herself standing in front of the Savior, having a life review and judgement, being asked “Did you obey the word of wisdom?”

[@thoughtfulfaith2020]

We all have sins we struggle with... that is why we go. The church is not a place where the righteous go, its a place where sinners go that don't want to give up.

[@jacoboneil1524]

@@bobtheaccountant2534 "...not by way of commandment..."

[@JorgeGalvez-d7q]

Jacob, I am a convert with academic background in law, philosophy, and theology,but more importantly to me, I have been blessed with a theophany-like testimony of the Restoration. Thank you for your three-level analysis. It has taught me a lot, and it reminds me of Oliver Wendell Holmes aphorism that “nothing is more practical than good theory.” Thank you for your generosity in sharing your story, process, and thinking. We, LDS are lucky to have you. Gracias 😊

[@debbyelliott4634]

This has helped Me to understand why I believe in the restoration. I am a convert, and I came with a firm foundation in God and Jesus Christ. The restoration IS the best option in Christianity. I love this video!

[@KarenTaylorLDS]

I love this channel too Debby! 🙂

[@ppgranja3]

Have you ever read the Gospel Topic Essays the church released in 2013? They detail all the different versions of the first vision. Very interesting material for sure.

[@chinookwind8535]

And your point in bringing this up is???

[@ldsoperative]

This is a fascinating way of looking at it. I remember my first most memorable spiritual experience was me asking God if he really existed and if he loved me. The answer - "More than you can possibly imagine". This has been the basis of my belief, the building block for everything.

[@eldenscity87]

Wonderful ... It was On The MTC that i began to more fully About God, Jesus Christ, The Old Testament Prophets, The New Testament, Joseph Smith Again, Then Brigham Young, John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff then i Skip and Ask of The Living Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley (and the Apostles) it had taken some time UNTIL on my First Area (i think on my 3rd Month) that testimony rested upon me, my mind was enlightened (and the earth was without form and void) with Gordon B. Hinckley's Word "The Earth is Beautiful" it is So Profound... Since Then Every New Prophet, New Stake President, and New Bishop even my E.Q President - will ask for confirmation And From Time to Time Will Question, My Existence, Purpose and The Reality of God - Our Loving Heavenly Father This video of Jacob Reminds Me Again to Evaluate ReEvaluate, Consider and Reconsider ...

[@nickhoward3040]

Amazing! 🎉

[@randolphchristensen6428]

As a scientist, I am constantly treated as if my spiritual side is somehow not rational. Thank you for explaining the work you have done to find -- and clearly define -- the rational in belief.

[@GravityFalloutPines]

Alex O'Connor has actually accidentally helped me out - he mentioned that it would take a profound spiritual experience for him, not compelling evidence, to convince him of God's existence. I have found myself spending too much effort trying to convince my kids with evidence, and not enough effort pushing them to build their testimonies spiritually, so I've made an adjustment (thanks Alex!)

[@FebbieG]

Both are important; a balance is needed.

[@aurea232]

IT is only through personal spiritual experience that we can gain the firm foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. WE learn that if we first have just a simple desire or hope to believe and then exercise that belief that this can become knowledge. The brother of Jared is a really good example, so strong was his faith and trust in the lord that he saw the lords finger and then then more. His faith was so strong that it became knowledge that the lord could no longer hide himself., Science, evidence is secondary to the conversion that comes through the spirit. This is the exact reason Jesus left behind the holy ghost when he left the earth so that we would not be left alone on our own.

[@davidfrey5654]

@@FebbieG. You might be right. For me, my overwhelming spiritual experiences are enough to hold my testimony solid. The only real evidence I need is the Book of Mormon, which for me, proves this church is true every time I read it.

[@andreaferreiradev]

And that's probably why the Lord says we should not ask for signs. So many have seen signs, pieces of evidence, and even angels, but still didn't believe. The greatest testimony comes directly from a personal experience with Him, and evidences come to strengthen, but never should be or are the foundation of testimonies.

[@jonny6man]

It's kind of like meditation. For some, it's easier to do. Same with convincing yourself that an external entity is giving you a sign.

[@mymomplaysminecraft7026]

I hope your family members watch this and come back. You are amazing.

[@CatchTheBuzz1]

@@mymomplaysminecraft7026 He shows a really good example here too. When you look at how successful he's been in reaching people yet, those that know him best are likely not listening. That's my experience as an LDS podcaster and I'm sure must be common amongst many of them as well.

[@brettacook2406]

Thanks for representing our faith with sincerity, knowledge and happiness. We are with you brother!

[@gerritvandewal6113]

Jacob, I’m so glad that when I joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at age 25 from another Christian denomination (I was not active in, but had a strong upbringing in), and when I learned the plan of salvation, and prayed like never before, and had a manifestation by Holy Spirit like never before and went on a mission a year later, I have very luckily never had a faith crisis. And I love the simplicity beyond the complexity and having the faith of a little child even in the meat of the gospel of Jesus Christ I love it , their is nothing and I mean nothing else that comes close to it. You my Brother are doing an amazing work, keep going:)🙏❤️

[@joshuathompson1357]

I happen to be a fundamentalist mormon, raised with around 30 to 40 siblings. I have one sister who remained fundamentalist with me, and zero other siblings who stayed mormon. Several of them joined the mainstream Church, but soon left following the online onslaught of anti mormon material with very little rebuttling. So grateful for people like you who have taken this on. Don't stop.

[@Skyesoceaneyes]

Wow, that's interesting. Do you now practice plural marriage?

[@joshuathompson1357]

@Skyesoceaneyes I do, yes. I've actually spoken on some podcasts and KZbin channels on my belief and my faith.

[@ppgranja3]

Anti-mormon material = historical facts

[@jonny6man]

Why do you find truth in the fundamental church instead of the mainstream one?

[@joshuathompson1357]

@ It's quite difficult to answer something like that in a KZbin post. Suffice it to say, I believe the Church has slowly given up the fullness of the gospel in exchange for world favor and political appeasement... and that in 1886, the Lord opened a way through John Taylor to keep the fullness alive irrespective of Church policy on plural marriage.

[@debbieess3670]

The last man standing - you keep good company with Moroni ❤

[@christopheryuen9498]

I can relate Jacob. My siblings have left too, as well as my parents. My faith is Rock Solid, but I often feel like a period at the end of a short sentence.

[@racealexander1660]

That would be rough. Especially your parents! Endure!

[@safrew1]

Me too. Six return missionaries.

[@Flowerpowwow]

@@safrew1keep the faith. I truly believe that those who leave, will return someday. They will find emptiness and darkness and will once again seek for light and knowledge someday!

[@CatchTheBuzz1]

@@christopheryuen9498 Thank you for sharing this. I think this is another one of the purposes for us to do our family history work because the people on the other side are in a different position right now and when the Savior comes and we see those resurrected loved ones, We can then have a huge family cheering section. They will be so happy to see us and tell us Thank you!

[@thisdudedraws5718]

I think that as we help our relatives who have passed on, their prayers will join our prayers for our spiritually lost living relatives. The power of familial love is strong, even across the veil. In my own life, it is the only thing I can point to to explain the emotional support that suddenly came to me in my darkest, most hopeless of hours. Life is long and takes unexpected twists and turns. There is hope yet for all of our spiritually lost relatives, though it might take them longer to be ready for rescue than we would prefer.

[@GravityFalloutPines]

Thanks this is a good wakeup call for me as a father, i need to put in a better effort to help my kids build their own testimonies

[@bobtheaccountant2534]

Thanks! Your videos have really been uplifting. Thanks!

[@mountainghoti1671]

Ugh. Do-gooder accountants. 😉

[@GravityFalloutPines]

You make another good point, even if other Christian figures condemn our faith, i still appreciate how they help provide evidence for God and Jesus which is the bedrock of the restoration

[@Skyesoceaneyes]

This is so true. I still think we are on the same team as other Christians, even if they don't really feel that way.

[@towardcivicliteracy]

@@Skyesoceaneyes Pretty sure that’s how Jesus sees it, too. There will be exceeding mercy and grace for all, as we grow together in the millennium.

[@JerryAshl223]

Happy fruitful year, I'm beyond excited! In just one week I'll be debt-free, having paid off my entire $285,000 debt and begun a new chapter of financial freedom.

[@DianaSchmidt-mf6kh]

How were you able to do It?

[@DianaSchmidt-mf6kh]

Am a born Christian and sometimes I feel so down 😭 of myself because of low finance but I still believe God

[@JerryAshl223]

its luck, it's me just being at the right place at the right time. I met a financial and trading consultant at a seminar back at Los Angeles later last year, where she was featured and interviewed and I reached out to her afterwards. Her name is Elizabeth Ann Hanson, I didn't know much about trading and investing so I spoke to her about it, she then later introduced me to her platform where I and other people could invest.

[@JerryAshl223]

Elizabeth Ann Hanson's doing she's changed my life. A BROKER- like her is what you need.

[@zinkkayoto]

Lovely! I enjoyed it like I enjoy a $100k monthly around the turn!!!

[@christianthompson9734]

When my youngest sister Spring committed suicide in 2023, it rocked everything. She's the youngest of 10, and it was evident that for her as well as for others of my family who have since abandoned their faith, that they lack a sufficient trust in the existence of God, and of Christ, and of His Gospel. Without a knowledge of God, you can not know yourself, and your life will not have meaning or hope enough to carry you beyond your trials. I am still deeply pained and devastated at my sister's death, but I am not without hope. That hope is deep, and it's crucial that it is so. It is because I believe in God, and I believe in Christ, and in the restoration of His Gospel. Without any of this, I would have every reason, or none at all, to follow my sister's steps to self-destruction. My foundation of faith was not all built in the study of philosophy or a comprehensive study of every religious teaching. I can't articulate perfectly why I believe, but I know in the depths of my soul that I do, and that it is right and reasonable to believe. The Holy Ghost gives me this undeniable understanding and anchor for my life that not even death can destroy. Thank you for your testimony, Jacob. It strengthens mine.

[@kristinrichmond8185]

Thank you.

[@aurea232]

My brother there is hope in gospel Jesus Christ brought. His atonement is sufficient for all, After reading your post tears rolled down my cheek. I know that god love each and every one of us and knows the trials we all go through. It is personal spiritual experiences that i have come to know and trust in the lord. Im not perfect at this but i know there holy ghost is there to comfort us and lead us back to our father in heaven.

[@millennialfalkon]

So sorry for you family’s pain. I know it’s not easy some times. The Spirit and influence of God when I have leaned on prayer and the scriptures has always helped me through back into the sunshine. Jesus and the Atonement are real.

[@tsmithson1]

While I agree that an Atheistic worldview lends itself to nihilism, I'm not sure I agree that characterizing suicide as predominantly a lack of faith is true or helpful. I don't pretend to know why or how suffering is parsed out to individuals, but I think attempting to explain it as a lack of faith only further exacerbates the religious crowd into making justifications for staying their hands. Additionally, I don't think suffering is any respecter of persons or that you won't find significant suicidal tendencies within very active faith communities. I'm happy that your faith serves as a firm foundation for you, but I don't think the point of the gospel, as Jesus taught it, was to secure your own good life, although that is a very nice byproduct, but the essence of religion is not a way to explain suffering, but instead, it's a way to respond to it.

[@christianthompson9734]

@tsmithson1 I agree with what you're saying, though I probably was not very clear in explaining what I mean by faith and what a lack of faith entails. Faith is the motivating force behind everything we do and the power to act and to improve. A lack of faith is not necessarily a conscious decision or a deliberate rejection of religiosity or of God, though these examples are included. Our response to hardship, struggles, pain, and suffering in their many forms and degrees is a measure of our faith. Faith is not restricted to faith in religious teachings. The faith I'm referring to is faith in a higher power, faith in salvation, hope for a better world, hope for eternal life, and for peace and for better things that this world can not satisfy. When we are blind to that glorious view, or give up in our pursuit of it, that is despair, and the road to destruction - and it is what we are left to if we have failed for one reason or another to grasp that understanding of God and ourselves which produces faith and hope. When someone lacks faith like this, and are adversely affected in mind, in heart, body and spirit, a poor response would be to say, "just have more faith and everything will be better." That is too simplistic and not helpful.

[@taggman34]

When I had my faith crisis a few years ago it made me think deeply about what I believe. I’m still an active member but I will say that my testimony is in God and Christ and that the church is the vehicle to nourish that relationship with God and Christ.

[@SteveClark1412]

Remarkable how similar our faith journey has been, and how my whole family has also left. Great stuff Jacob.

[@ChrisNordfelt]

Jacob - bless you, my brother. I can't imagine how challenging it must be to have all seven of your siblings leave the gospel. You inspire me to follow Christ and be converted to Him and HIs gospel.

[@Omhikmat]

Brother Hansen, thank you for sharing your story. My wife of more than twenty-five years decided to leave the church after having an intense affair. She was always the rock of our family, very observant, but also strict in that observance but her knowledge of the gospel was superficial in part because she did not enjoy reading and studying. Her partner in crime groomed and seduced her to change her attitude on everything relating to her family and her faith and now she is nothing like the woman that I shared my life with. She has, so far, pulled four of our six children out of the faith as well and I have struggled with keeping our youngest children interested in spiritual things since their mother entices them with shopping on Sunday, coffee and tea, vulgarity, tattoos, facial piercings, etc. Your words have given me ideas on how to fortify my own faith in God, Christ, and the restored gospel and I hope to apply them in our family discussions. Please keep up your good work!

[@7997martymar]

I'm very sorry you have had to go through all that, brother. My heart goes out to you. Stay strong and keep trying your best to instill faith and values in your children.

[@JohnSmith-fd4ws]

That's really tuff

[@evanvanorden6553]

I can not properly express the depth of my gratitude for you and your channel, Jacob. I've always had the desire for intellectual strength and clarity to match the faith and spiritual understanding that seemed to come easier to me than others. This video gave me a blueprint to renovate and strengthen the foundation of my personal temple of belief. Thank you and God bless you for your service to me!

[@oglugnut]

I’ve been a fan since first discovering you on KZbin. Likely on Ward Radio. The human in me often enjoys WR but the saint in me feels it’s often goes too far. I guess at the end of the day, I don’t feel Jesus needs anybody punching back on his behalf. Anyway, I really appreciate your approach and take. Thank you for being you and for all your effort to build up His kingdom on earth as you share knowledge & truth. God bless you my brother!! I hope to cross paths at some point!

[@nancylowe2692]

I love that God gave us just enough reason to doubt Him that we have to make a hop, skip & jump across that gap with our faith to land safely in His arms! I love this gospel! ❤

[@colbyboothe7576]

I think people confuse what is commonly said by the Book of Mormon being the keystone to our religion. The keystone of an arch holds the entire arch together, but it's utterly useless if there's no arch to begin with. I think this video does a really good job explaining that. The Book of Mormon helps teach and refine foundational Christian beliefs. When I was on my mission, my mission president made it clear that we needed to focus more on the first principle in the first lesson of preach my gospel; "God is our loving Heavenly Father." The more I understood that principle, the more the Book of Mormon, and the restored church, came to life for me.

[@VeryHungryButterfly]

I agree with this 100%!

[@austinnajar]

But if the Book of Mormon teaches things that are fundamentally false, why should it be trusted? For instance in some points it teaches Trinitarianism. In other points, it teaches Modalism. Those aren’t compatible. So why should one believe it came from God when it can’t even get the nature of God right?

[@kristenskousen1317]

Sure. The keystone is important, but it's different from the foundation, which is also different from the mortar that adheres it all together. A strong structure needs all of the above. On my mission, I characterized it as Jesus Christ being the foundation of our church, the Book of Mormon being the keystone, and revelation being the mortar throughout.

[@colbyboothe7576]

@austinnajar I appreciate the question. I think one of the main scriptures you might be referring to, in terms of trinitarianism, is Mosiah 15, where Abinadi give his discourse on the nature of God. I used to struggle with understanding it myself until someone explained it to me this way; when Christ is referred to as the Father, it means one of two things. First, He is the Father because He inherited the power of our Heavenly Father by performing the atoning sacrifice. Because of this inheritance, He was given power and authority to act in Heavenly Father's name. Second, as we come to Him, and make covenants with Him, He becomes our COVENANT Father; since we have chosen to align ourselves with Him. When Christ is referred to as the Son, it the the common reference as the Son of God, or the Only Begotten of our Heavenly Father. So, the times that the Book of Mormon has more of a trinitarian view, I've come to look at it as an explanation of the different roles of Jesus Christ, not necessarily the entire Godhead. I'm sure others could have explained it better, and more concise, or may even have different answers entirely, but I hope that answers the question in part. If not, I can only say that I've spent countless hours in the Book of Mormon and have come to believe, through spiritual experiences and confirmations, that it is true, even if I myself might not have all the answers. And for me personally, the teachings I have pulled from it have led me closer to my Saviour, and that is where I hold its true value.

[@austinnajar]

@@colbyboothe7576 actually Mosiah 15 is where Joseph Smith inserts Modalism because he wasn’t sound theologically and didn’t understand Trinitarian theology well enough to invent the Book of Mormon and have it hold up to scrutiny.

[@worthyofzion]

Wow, that was really interesting. I had a hard time shaking the idea of having so many family members leave the church. I’ve been very impressed with how you construct your arguments and with your depth of knowledge. Thank you for your testimony.

[@peterman3594]

I just discovered your channel today. I’ve already watched three of your videos and subscribed! What great content! You’re amazing! Keep up the great work!

[@devin6272]

This was meant for me in part. I have been struggling with health. In the past the harder things got the better my faith was. However, this time around, the stakes are high, the bitterness is peaking and there seems to be no end in sight. My immune system is killing me, my liver is at the least disease and at most damaging my brain and ability to think clearly and rationalize. I'm letting down my family. I'm letting down the people around me in my work. But I still feel the importance of fulfilling my calling. It has helped me for sure. I have been asked to do more than ever lately but yesterday I asked the question, 'Do I even believe in God anymore?' The answer is I have a desire to but the foundation of my pyramid is crumbling. The restoration has always been a hard topic for me and I used my testimony of Christ and God to develop one of the restoration. I realized I was seeking Christian but not LDS opinions because somehow they weren't as biased. Which I can't make sense of why I felt that way other than my mind seeking something different but familiar because its been years of suffering and my subconscious feels like something has to change because this isn't working. All of this to say thank you. Thank you for being a catalyst to help me 'seek... first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness...'

[@debbieess3670]

Good bless you as you strive ❤

[@mountainghoti1671]

Prayers for your righteous desires, and and for your knowledge and faith to be strengthened.

[@jameseverett9037]

That's similar to my experience. Invisible health issues have destroyed my life & potential completely, and made me avoid human contact, because everyone just insists "it's all in my mind". It's tiring having to constantly defend & explain myself to people who know all the answers to my problems. Like exercise, or vitamins, never occurred to me. I once had to tell the missionaries to leave my home, after inviting them in, thinking I would give them a refreshing glass of orange juice or something on a hot day, because I knew what tracting was like. They mocked me in my own home, and I couldnt' believe what I was hearing from these 2 clowns. They seemed to take everything for granted. Even after I told them to leave [in a VERY loud and angry tone], they stood there and argued with me like it was their house, and I should probably be the one to leave. Anyway I remember way back in my mid 20's, having to decide once and for all whether I would let people influence my belief in the church or not. So many have joined "The Church of Nice People" and when they're offended by someone not being "Christlike", they leave, because they link the members to the church. It's also why I despise the idea of "friendshipping" people into the church. Talk about building on a "sandy foundation"....... if they join because you're "nice people", they will also leave when the 'friendshipping' stops, or lulls, or someone crosses them.

[@tyrelkoyle8315]

I have not seen a better explained video ever. Thank you Jacob!! Love all your content! I do not follow anyone I like more than you.

[@enelson501]

I appreciate your testimony and your story. Thank you for the time you spend putting these videos together. Well done thou good and faithful servant!

[@Become1inChrist]

Thanks for sharing some of your story! Mine is similar. I was thinking about this earlier today, and how something that causes a faith crisis for someone may not pose a problem at all for someone else. You give a good explanation of some of these reasons.

[@MagicJonesMusic]

Brilliant! New found respect for you, brother. It sounds like you've really gone through it and it seems like that's why your videos are so compelling. Thank you so much for sharing and being vulnerable.

[@crazyplanedude]

These videos are awesome. They have helped me with focusing my life more on the gospel

[@vendingdudes]

That CS Lewis quote is 🔥 🔥 🔥

[@ralphtaite598]

The CS Lewis quote is silly. It implies there are only two possibilities about Jesus: crazy or god. Bullsh*t. First of all, no one actually has first hand accounts from Jesus, so we have no idea what the real Jesus said. Second, even if the Gospel accounts are 100% accurate (and they do have contradictions of fact and only John clearly says Jesus is God), Jesus could have been completely convinced that he is god because of the religious revelation he had, but he's not crazy even if he was wrong. Many humans have strange irrational beliefs like astrology, mysticism, numerology, lucky charms, psychics, fortune tellers and so on, but they are not crazy -- they are just human. They believe things which are not true because the rational explanations are unsatisfying.

[@mountainghoti1671]

I've had a friend tell me, after I quoted that, he still just gleans the 'good teachings' of Christ- without needing to believe all of it. I was shocked into silence. This video has given me a better way to strengthen myself, and hopefully he'll others.

[@suzannebeckstead8171]

I think it is amazing that God will speak to you in your language... That's what you needed to learn and that's the steps you were willing to go to to learn those precious truths.. God bless you in your journey!

[@MaryYoungblood-xy8vg]

I had a really good friend who was an atheist when the Elders knocked on his door. He used the promise found in Moroni 10:3-5 to not only build a testimony of Book of Mormon or Joseph Smith but as you say God the Father and Jesus Christ. After careful building of testimony he was baptized. He was active and faithful until his death last year.

[@isabelle7029]

I really enjoyed this video. As a convert, I feel like I can understand some of the claims those who are on the fence about leaving make. Often times they feel like they can’t ask questions or question things at all. I am a Sunday school teacher for the older teenagers and lately my mantra has been: ask questions. Though I’m not deeply knowledgeable or educated like you are, I always encourage the kids in my class to ask any and all related questions and we will find answers together. I want to encourage them to have a true foundation and understanding in how to learn more about this foundation in hopes that when they’re older and in the world, they’ve already done this work and can turn back to it when things get difficult. This video will definitely help me in continuing to adapt my mindset around this and the things I share with them!

[@godsoffspring4195]

WOW! That must've been rough, Jacob. Good on you!!

[@threegreendown414]

Jacob, I love your videos, this one is exceptional! I can only imagine the pain you must feel having your family leave the Church. You are a tremendous example for them to regain a testimony. Keep up the good work.

[@laurimoncur2628]

Your content is always very good, but Jacob this is the most excellent of all! Thank you for sharing your experience and taking time to be so thorough from the ground up.

[@debbyelliott4634]

Thanks!

[@shellyhansen8634]

How has ALL of siblings left the church with your knowledge. You have strengthened my Faith. How can they not listen to you and not get it! You do amazing work! Stay strong for all of us

[@seekeroftruth3656]

Thank you for this amazing gift - clarity of why various people have different problems with disbelief! This gives me understanding of where my little brother's issues with belief begin!! You do great work, please continue to bless us on our personal trail of tears!

[@Niels89740]

Wow..this is absolutely beautiful. Love the thoughtful challenge. Thank you

[@markjacobsen8335]

You are highlighting the great need for all of us to have our own personal redemptive experience with Jesus Christ. A testimony is not enough. Elder Bednar calls it being converted unto the Lord. When you are redeemed directly from Jesus Christ out of sin, guilt from sin, anxiety, stress, etc., it makes an indelible mark on your soul. Very important we all have such an experience.

[@DallinBunnell]

Wow, thank you. This was very inspiring and faith-promoting. It makes me want to actually discover my faith from the foundations. I believe, and I want to believe, but a journey like you described sounds transformative.

[@darrenjorgensen1917]

Present Nelson's comments about lazy learners certainly applies here. Most of us study very little in regards to spiritual or temporal topics. (Go to your local library and ask yourself how many of these books have I read and of the books I have read how much do I understand them.) Then when the fiery darts of the adversary or whirlwinds come up most of us are ill-prepared to handle the adversity when it comes. Thanks for sharing your faith journey and your thoughts on these very important matters.

[@timothyfowers]

I guess he was talking about members with that quote

[@timothyfowers]

You have to realize a lot of members stay in the early stages of fowlers stage of faith and they aren't going to go very deep

[@jameseverett9037]

@@timothyfowers Studying something is unfortunately "outdated" in the minds of the cellphone generation. Too busy with all the duties of texting, 'following' and dopamine cultivation. Study requires the application of steady attention, and it takes quite a bit of entertainment intensity to compete with the never ending supply of youtube channels, comment sections, and cell phone interruption.

[@jenshansen1931]

people in the church don't study it because those who do aren't in the church. the church isn't founded on good doctrine

[@clintstarr1625]

Thank you so much for your sharing your deep thoughts and contemplation I loved it

[@ItsSnagret]

Keep up the great work Jacob 🙏🏼

[@WhaEagle]

Hi Jacob, I really resonate with what you have said here. Thank you! This also helps me understand why you do what you do. My wife and I went through a 4 year deconstruction and we went through something very similar. While going through it and trying to piece each wall together we recognized that we still very much had a beautiful relationship and foundation in the biblical Christ. We've since left about a year ago (left the Mormon church)and there is no one that wanted it to be truer than us. After going to the temple, reading the scriptures, praying, etc. We realized that the Mormon church is completely different than that of what Jesus created in the new testament. I think your point is very sound though, it's crucial to not abandon your entire foundation of God with the Mormon church. I have seen it happen way too many times and it is heartbreaking to see. When many people leave, many times they not only leave the church, they leave God all together. We attend a local Christian church and are Loving it To anyone reading this that is done with Mormonism but not done with God, I highly encourage you to please stick it out. God is so good and Life is so much better with Hm in it. There's beauty in life after Mormonism and yes there is hope.

[@BGCflyer]

...my wife and I have had a very similar experience like you. We left Joseph Smith, not Jesus. We attend a local Christian church and find great inner peace hearing His word. God Bless!

[@WhaEagle]

​That is awesome, there are not too many of us out there. (Most people go agnostic or atheist) Leaving Joseph for Jesus is the best decision I've ever made. ​@@BGCflyer

[@jimoray3]

Brilliantly expressed. Thank you

[@duanethorup8286]

Thank you for sharing. I had never coherently considered these things

[@kensrobertson]

Glad.to hear the renovation of your faith has made your foundation so much stronger, and equipped you to stand as a light in the swirling mists of darkness of our day!

[@paulcrave3826]

well done. So sorry to hear of your family's struggles.

[@CatchTheBuzz1]

Amen. I have been compiling so much knowledge and information over the years and I'm only 44, that I couldn't tell people where I have gotten a lot of this knowledge from because I have sought it out with God for him to teach me things I would need to know that would help me to be a better person and help me to know and understand more people, my brothers and sisters of this world and those that have gone before. To think about those that will come after

[@Cabledeluz1977]

Amazing video! THIS is what has been missing for members that have been struggling with their faith crisis! We need more people that understand the nuances of the struggles from every side both secular and of the gospel! This will be a good reference to use!

[@MarvelousWonderPodcast]

This resonated with me when you first put it out, because I had been through my own similar experience. I had wrestled with question 3 when the Lord knew I needed to be dealing with questions 1 and 2. He blessed me with an undeniable experience that answered both of those for me. I've been considering doing a video about my experience on my new channel.

[@mountainghoti1671]

Bring it forward! Good luck with the channel!

[@richardwilliamsmusic]

Very interesting! And great to hear the context

[@kip2703]

My experience was somewhat similar. I grew up in an inactive home but I always had a strong belief in God and Christ. I studied other faiths and though I can't explain as clearly as you I came to see my faith in him led to my understanding of the need for Joseph Smith

[@Whatiftheresmore1314]

I love your channel Jacob! You’re doing a wonderful work!☀️🙏🏻❤️

[@mcbeezy03]

As a return missionary now of 10 years this video resonates on many levels. You do a great job articulating a simple framework that I've been discovering to be more and more true over this last decade. I've had close friends, also return missionaries, leave the church and I largely believe it's caused by weak level 1/level 2 foundations of God and Jesus Christ. Sometimes the weak foundations crumble more suddenly under the pressure of hardship, but more often than not I find it to be a slow, corrosive crumbling caused by (I think as you put it) the "acid of secularism". It's obvious that society at large will continue to move further away from God and Christ which underscores the importance of every believer to fortify their own foundation of faith (Hel 5:12). Watching videos like this gets me excited to continue my own renovation of faith by seeking out more light, truth, and knowledge. Thanks Jacob!

[@dancole3187]

Thank you Jacob! You are going a great work and are helping many people. Thank you for your faithfulness and diligence.

[@clontstable1]

Jacob, thanks for doing the homework that so many have chosen not to do.

[@jeffreyelliott2428]

Thanks Jacob this was really great,I’m newer on your channel but I’ve been enjoying it thoroughly and I can see there are some great philosophers I’ve missed. I have stumbled upon Jordan Peterson so I’m pleased you mentioned him. Your approach is a great remedy for all the unbelief. I to have watched one of my siblings walk away from the church and 2 of my wife’s siblings. I’ve also gone through the post mission trial of faith and although I’m not as logical as you I can see that I too ended up having that level one conversation with myself. Strangely an experience on my mission coupled with looking into research in Near Death Experience has pointed me to god being real and Jesus being an integral part in the reality beyond this mortal vale.

[@Trixxmagna]

For long time in soc med me as member I am proud that somebody stood. Up about our doctrine

[@Acroft96]

You’re doing amazing things, Brother! Thank you for putting in the time to explain the gospel so well🙏🏼

[@oceancoast92657]

Good video.. Amen. I whole heartedly agree too many ex-Mormon's who struggle with the faith have a belief in God that was driven by being a member of the faith because it was the faith of their parents.. So it wasn't a foundation built upon a belief in God. And when something comes along to challenge the faith.. there isn't a strong foundation. That's the challenge for every member.. get your testimony of God and Christ.

[@grizzZlyBear]

This video is sooo good. Thanks for the time and the efforts. One note is that you request the viewer to read. As a person who hates/doesn't like reading, I can tell you that I had a hard time investigating. I wish there was more audio/video materials. Of course these videos and podcasts really help.

[@benjaminroe311ify]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey/process and testimony. Very compelling stuff. I'm a new subscriber by the way and the Church member. I saw you first on Jubilee recently.

[@benjaminroe311ify]

Oh and sorry for the 2nd comment. But I wanted to say I really appreciated you sharing the basics about your upbringing and family and situation with them leaving the Church. It definitely humanizes you and makes you very relatable.

[@jeffhagen9840]

Fantastic job Jacob.

[@pauljessee8611]

Reminds me of the talk given by Elder Corbridge called Stand on the rock of Revelation. Great insight, Jacob. Thanks for sharing. I hope this reaches and helps many people.

[@peculiar_teej]

My favorite part was realizing that you laid out the resources to help on each level of this “faith renovation” in the description of the video 👏

[@OllertonMD]

Such an amazing video my friend. I am an LDS psychiatrist and often ponder the more fundamental epistemological questions about the existence of the divine or about existence itself. Just the fact that stuff exists instead of not existing blows my mind if I think about it for too long haha

[@Deadite_Scholar]

I've noticed also that members of the church, when they stop believing Joseph Smith's story, often become atheists. I think the reason is for many, if you come to doubt the spiritual experience that led you to the church of Jesus Christ, then you won't ever trust another spiritual inclination towards any other faith system either.

[@iknovate]

As of recent I've been wanting to share a thought that came out of witnessing the ex-mo movement (but haven't hit the pulpit with it yet). With great respect for everyone's testimony and where they are in their journey, it seems prudent to caution against testimony claims such as, "I have a testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ..." Why? It implies an inverted belief system that rests on that premise. As soon as questions arise that challenge the perceived truthfulness of the Church, it all falls apart. There are many ex-mos who fit this exact model. Jacob expressed something similar with a failed belief in Joseph Smith unraveling all other belief. Personally. I can't relate to this, but there seems to be many examples which support it.

[@Trixxmagna]

🎉agree same observation and started stop praying

[@99SigP]

Thank you for beautifully articulating what I have been thinking and feeling for years on this topic.

[@adamcroft3705]

You’re a good man Jacob. You’re doing the Lord’s work.

[@laurelbutts1374]

Thank you for letting me know. 😃👍🏼

[@alvarolemos7086]

Gracias por tus videos Jacob, adelante con tu trabajo es.claro y bien argumentado, fuerte abrazo desde Montevideo Uruguay

[@Mike-og4jf]

I went through a similar process - a faith renovation. I too noticed that when LDS members leave the Church they leave it all including their belief in God and Christ. Like you, I had to go back to the basic building blocks. I realized I had based my belief system almost exclusively on Joseph Smith and the Restoration and very little of it was based on Christ. I had to turn that around and restructure my worship and belief system. I’ve gone to the same sources, Jordan Peterson, historian Tom Holland, New Testament scholars like N.T. Wright and others. I have a much stronger faith in the Savior and still believe in the wonderful claims of the Restoration. I appreciated your video on your faith journey and was surprised how similar our paths have been. We should spend more time teaching our youth reasons why nilihism is a dark abyss of hopelessness and why there are so many good, rational reasons to believe in God and Christ and the Restoration. Thank you.

[@sveinhaland2975]

This was truly great! Thank for all your hard work on you channel!

[@cellcoreable]

I absolutely love this approach! There is so much "noise" out there today that it can confuse anyone as to what is truth. For me... it comes down to Moroni's promise (as well as the reason even Joseph Smith went to the grove to pray), we need to seek truth from the source. All other channels can give us some guidance or even encouragement however, time on our knees is time well spent. I don't believe there is a such thing as "faith crisis" only a "faith journey"! Which we are all on....

[@austintracy2010]

Your efforts for helping others find support for the most foundational things in life are certainly appreciated. Be not weary in well doing; you're up to a great work.

[@andrewolsen2711]

Jacob, thank you for your testimony and speaking up for the gospel of Jesus Christ and for the prophets. Thank you also for the recommendations - I would also add that we should be careful to rely solely on the wisdom of human thinkers and philosophers for our faith and testimony. Most importantly we should cultivate the spirit in prayer and be very disciplined in daily reading the word of God and a serious study of the words of the prophets along with educating ourselves in philosophy and evidence.

[@hankthetank18]

Totally agree which is why I really like the ending quote. A lot of the time we either focus on spiritual confirmation or logical evidence but really we need both to have a firm belief

[@andrewbragg5555]

Great stuff Jacob! Couldn’t agree more with the needed foundation of faith that you have laid out. A belief in an intelligent designer comes first, then Christ as our Redeemer and Savior, and then in the Restoration. All this knowing mankind is imperfect, and that God is capable of great miracles and working through imperfect men who seek wisdom through Him, to better His children in this mortal journey.

[@dougmills6504]

Interesting to see your family photo and seeing your father. I was a couple years behind him in high school. I don't know him that well but well enough that I would recognize him on the street and we would know each others name and be able to talk about our families with each other. I appreciate your thoughts in this video and they give me cause to reflect. I feel the same as you on this topic but you have related it in a way that helps me clarify my thoughts. Thank you.

[@StandforTruth712]

Thank you so much, Jacob. This was awesome! It has given me material I can study and hopefully use to help others who are struggling and looking for answers. Be sure to stay humble, Brother.

[@STRIPLING-LIFE]

👊ROCK ON BROTHER!! Somewhat same journey here. 13 kids. Half have left God altogether. Blew my mind. As a doctor, I analyze and question all aspects of life. My faith grew in God as kid while mom was dying of cancer: she raised me in God. After that, built on Christ. After that, restoration (but definitely not church members as a whole 😉). I’ve watched 6 of your vids now, all in the last week and emailed you. It’s a blessing to cross paths with a brother living in the stewardship of his blessings. Best, Bruce/STRIPLING

[@jacobbuzan374]

This might sound a little cliche, but what helps a lot duirng spiritual journeys like this is the Holy Ghost. The feelings that swell inside of you, the inspiration that comes to your mind, as well as the opposite of those feelings all help guide you to truth. I have always loved to watch debates between atheists and believers, and just from the overall appearance and tones of the people debating give you hints as to what is worth listening and believing in. One is dark and pessimistic, the other is enlightening and inspiring.

[@mountainghoti1671]

Cliche or not, the Holy Ghost/Spirit is part of the Godhead, and He is responsible for/capable of more than we can imagine. He should always be acknowledged.

[@daleclark7127]

Excellent way to develop the blueprint of determining truth. There is no other way but through true diligence and effort to actually live by faith and the life we live should be based off what we have faith in. Otherwise work without faith is dead or vice versus faith without the sign of works is also dead.

[@NanasHealthyKitchen]

I did a similar dive through all the steps and looking in all kinds of places. I was hoping the restoration wasn't true because the path of repentence seemed too daunting. It took 2 years or more but one day while reading a buddhist text and feeling very zen and open minded I had the thought come to me that truth can be found anywhere even among the philosophies of men but that I already posessed the answers to my questions. It was my 'stop kicking against the pricks' moment. It is hard to describe the light that flooded my mind. After that, with a firm foundation, I was able to make the changes that needed to be made. I loved your video. Thank you. You are one of my favorite influencers, I love your tough but fair take on dealing with controversial subjects, your humility and thoughtfulness you exhibit.

[@byucougarfamily]

I have long believed that the whole structure of faith (especially my faith) must sit securely on the foundation of truth that we are children of Heavenly Parents who love us. It all begins with that. And why do I believe that? In part because the existence of humanity depends entirely on children being born to and loved by earthly parents who teach their children to trust and honor their parents and to love one another. That’s reality and it’s a pattern of our familial relationship with God. Thank you for outlining your pattern of belief.

[@mckennal.c.walker1336]

Jacob, that was an excellent breakdown. I cannot recommend it enough! I've gone through faith crisis (essentially 2008-2013), and I hadn't intellectually compartmentalized the levels of epistemology, but as you explained it, it really brought back memories to me of me having questions on each level, and yeah, you have to start by examining at the very bottom and then move up, the bottom being: IS THERE EVEN A GOD? At this point in time, I'm settled on levels one and two, and I'm somewhere between level three and level four. Four being, Joseph Smith was a prophet, but what does God truly expect of me? What is the actual Celestial culture and way of living? I want to look at Christ and His covenants clearly, so that I can clearly understand how to repent.

[@jeffwelch5877]

Thanks for the content you put out and this is very helpful. There are a number of different names missing from this list. One of those in the more current mediums is Jacob Hansen (along with some others). Thanks for what you do.

[@hughtyrone]

Good video, Mr. Jacob

[@geoffreydowdle5751]

Yeah, that kinda happened to me. I described it like a couple where the relationship feels estranged for a time but then by trying and being patient, we fell in love again. And the second time is far more experienced and committed.

[@lauraolsen9545]

Wow! That was amazing. Thank you.

[@davidgappmayer1526]

Loved this!

[@ClintThomsen]

This is excellent, Jacob. Thank you.