There are thousands upon thousands of talks in Latter-day Saint history, from the sermons of Joseph Smith to the latest televised session of General Conference.
Today, I’d like to highlight 10 really amazing talks from the past few years that you may not have heard before. Talks which are worth more than a single listen. If you make a playlist with these talks, you’ll enjoy listening to it over and over again as the deeper meanings sink in and your worldview changes.
So, without further ado, and in no particular order, here are 10 of the best talks you’ve probably never heard of:
What is Truth? By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
President Uchtdorf spoke at length on the subject of finding “truth.” This talk examines the difference between secular and eternal truths, how we should approach our search for truth, and what to do when you encounter things which seem to contradict what you know. Elements of this talk would go on to make appearances in his later speeches, and in media created by the Church.
To Confirm and Inform: Blessings of Higher Education by Terry B. Ball
Professor Ball speaks about how our education helps confirm and inform our faith as we progress through life. With humorous anecdotes and insightful usage of his own higher education, Professor Ball shares a masterful sermon on faith, the scriptures, and finding purpose in your life, all while teaching us a bit about ancient botany. This is one you should listen to or watch over reading.
Things as They Really Are – Elder David A. Bednar
Elder Bednar gave a deep and powerful sermon on the importance of our body, and the influence of the digital world. He warns prophetically of specific dangers we face and provides deep doctrines on how minimizing our bodies puts our spirits at risk. Profound and stirring, this talk will get you thinking differently about modern life.
For audio of the speech click here.
The Spirit Beareth Record – Elder Boyd K. Packer
One year after his call to the apostleship, Elder Boyd K. Packer gave a talk where he addressed a question that had been asked him many times since his call: “Have you seen Him?” This talk is referenced again and again throughout the speeches given by Elder Packer for the rest of his life.
The Inexhaustible Gospel – Elder Neal A. Maxwell
In 1992, our most powerful speaker went to Education Week on the campus of BYU and delivered a speech that stood out among his already amazing speeches. In “the Inexhaustible Gospel” he examines the subjects of intelligence and knowledge, and the intersection of the Gospel into our search for knowledge. You can listen to this speech 20 times and still learn something new each time.
The Atonement: All for All – Elder Bruce C. Hafen
The always inspiring Elder Hafen gives a landmark talk on the Atonement, preaching on the depth of the sacrifice by our savior, and providing an eternal perspective on our choices and our interactions with the Plan of Salvation.
That’s How the Light Gets In – Tyler J Jarvis
Math professor Tyler J. Jarvis teaches us about some of the impossible math problems out there, and how if we insist on getting a perfect answer, we will never arrive at our destination. This becomes a powerful lesson on embracing imperfection in our lives and finding joy in our imperfect journey, with the reassurance that we are, if not perfect, then “good enough.”
On Knowing and Caring – Kevin J. Worthen
Before becoming president of BYU, professor Worthen gave this speech which considers the importance of knowing the truth, and how it relates to our caring for others. This talk will call on you to do some serious introspection as you ask yourself questions like “would I rather be right, or would I rather be happy?”
His Grace is Sufficient – Brad Wilcox
Ok, you’ve probably heard of this one, but if you haven’t you should stop what you’re doing and go watch it RIGHT NOW. Brad Wilcox takes the subject of “Grace” and shows us how we’ve put too much pressure on ourselves to find perfection. Our job isn’t to be perfect, or even halfway to perfect. Our job is to just practice, day by day, the lessons that God has put in front of us.
Gifts of the Spirit for Hard Times – Elder Henry B. Eyring
Elder Eyring addresses the question, “Is it really possible to have the spirit ALWAYS to be with you?” In this speech he outlines the way each of us can receive the Holy Ghost. This ought to be a primer for every person who gets any calling at all in our church.