I could listen to this man talk about his late wife all day. Their love is so sweet and wholesome.

@ceeceebeebee889

9 күн бұрын

I'm literally tearing up!

@Anabee3

9 күн бұрын

I'm so mad at uou r.n.! 😉. I accidentally fell asleep & woke up to this ch & this lovely man talking about his wife & children, not knowing his wife has passed til I read your comment. (Sweet comment anyway, & I could listen to him talk about his family, too🤗. ).

@johnsanchez4765

9 күн бұрын

🎉

@Ramman1983

3 күн бұрын

Those who know M&J remain shocked at how he treated her towards the end. Instead of letting her pass with kindness, he cruelly loaded her up with things that deeply wounded her. Thinking critically doesn’t have to mean deconstructing faith. Deep sympathy for Martin that he only learned to do this aged 73. “I don’t want to damage anybody’s faith…” (proceeds to sit with JD and rehearse age-old concerns). The church isn’t dying in the UK. Love for Martin but these faith deconstructions are best dealt with family and trusted and trustworthy friends.

I grew up in Martin and Jan's ward near Bristol, they and their children used to babysit me as a kid. I also lived with them for a month while they were on the temple presidency and I was a temple worker. They are the most wonderful, beautiful people you could possibly know. I was in SHOCK when I saw Martin on Mormon stories, but this interview has made me so happy. Love you Martin, and Rest in Peace Auntie Jan ❤❤❤

@biancawest5595

7 күн бұрын

So sweet. ❤

@BeckyMonique123

6 күн бұрын

Nice to see you here, Luke!

@marshafish6984

6 күн бұрын

An incredibly articulate guest. I can relate to his devastation in learning the truth on Joseph Smith

@Anabee3

5 күн бұрын

Oh how fun to get such a surprise 😊. Listening to him talk about his his wife & fam made me imagine what a wonderful thing it would have bn to be a part of that. (Not Mormonism- but his family).

@Francis-px2oc

6 сағат бұрын

I remember how let down I was about Joseph. I used to defend him like I would Jesus. Bad thing I know….but my husband started to discover his truth before me and made comments about him. Comments that almost made me leave. I thought I had married a monster. Thankfully the Holy Spirit kept me safe in my marriage and led me to truth. It came later for me but I remember being led. The church hi jacked truth and twisted it with lies, but God still has a way of saving us if we just stay close to him.

When I was a Mormon, I attended the temple WEEKLY. I participated in the initiatory and the endowment rituals. I knew most of the wording by heart. When I resigned from the church, I was angry because I knew that I had spent hour upon hour upon hour in the temple -- years, really. I wish that I could get that time back (as well as my tithing back)!

@bodytrainer1crane730

9 күн бұрын

😭😭😭

@jenniferglover9905

9 күн бұрын

The work and dedication to go as often as possible, taking time to drive an hour and then be there for around 3 hrs and then go home, plus tithing and interviews. What a waste

@gigi1332

9 күн бұрын

All based on what they knew were lies. It should be illegal. It's just fraud in every way and so sad.

@jeffcarlin5866

9 күн бұрын

​@@jenniferglover9905 I attended the Portland Oregon Temple. I loved going because I firmly believed that I was lending a helping hand in the salvation of the dead. What a TITANIC waste of time and energy! If Jesus is really the Savior of humanity...why would he be so dependent on me (and everyone else in the temple) for the salvation of others...? The God of Mormonism is capricious....

@greg-op2jh

9 күн бұрын

❤❤❤

Listening to Mormon Stories is way better than watching TV. 💙

I’m not yet done watching this full interview, but I did want to note that the thing that sticks out to me most is how caring and empathetic Martin is. What an amazing person with such a vast capacity for love and kindness!

I'm a former sealer. Harold B. Lee bestowed the sealing power on me in 1973. After assigned by my supervisor at The Church Offices in 1975 to research The Church Archives in our work to expand Church Welfare Services globally, I read diaries and journals of the earliest Church leaders and became shocked by what I saw and read. I'd been a sealer and temple ordinance worker for decades. However, for the most part, I agree with this man's testimony, experience, and choices. They've been my own also. Thanks for sharing this interview. I believe in The Gospel of Grace, and in the principles that reach into Eternity: Love, Light, and Truth. The Christ Resurrected is the only way, this I know!

@Anabee3

9 күн бұрын

I cannot convey how elated I am to read your testimony. SO MANY who leave LDS reject Jesus Christ & it's heartbreaking. I thank Jesus for your salvation! 😊

@colleenclarke1451

9 күн бұрын

Your kind words soothed my questioning soul!

@amybaker1880

9 күн бұрын

​@@Anabee3It's like a divorce. Some are still interested in dating, others give up, no longer have faith in relationships. Not exclusive to the LdS church.

@chubbuck35

8 күн бұрын

@@Anabee3I’m having trouble finding any God to fill the vacuum created by the Mormon God once it was gone.

@CatskillsGrrl

7 күн бұрын

@@chubbuck35for me I discovered a larger humanity. I am not apart from it. I joined the Human Condition.

I had a friend who was preparing to go to the temple a few years ago. I was a believing but slightly irreverent member at the time. I told her with a smile, "whatever you do, don't fall off the goat!" She was very concerned, and I told her I was just teasing. We went a few times to the temple after that. Earlier this year, I revealed to her that I'd left the church. She let me know that she's also left the church with the response, "I fell off the goat." I laughed so hard.

I grew up in my childhood ward with Martin and Jan. They were great people and strong righteous examples. I empathise with Martin and the hard year he's had losing his wife and his faith in the church.

@guymcdude5634

9 күн бұрын

I don't know hi, and I send my condolences for his wife and my congratulations for seeing through the lies of the church. Never too late to take the reigns of your life free of the church's indoctrination!

@CharlieTaylor-wk4wr

9 күн бұрын

Isn't it amazing that they don't even mention christ ever, the center of everything. John delin never talks about christ in his podcasts

@TheSandyStone

9 күн бұрын

@@CharlieTaylor-wk4wrisn't it amazing how the interviewee did talk quite a bit about Christ and John let the interviewee talk about what he wanted to talk about? Arnt you tired of people using Christ and good messages of him to control others? Wouldn't you allege John as bad guy for using Jesus if he did talk more about Jesus? I guarantee you did this out of fear. And that's ok.

@shermannorton8723

9 күн бұрын

​@@CharlieTaylor-wk4wrIsn't it amazing that people can make a statement about the content of a video without ever having watched it?

@guymcdude5634

9 күн бұрын

@@CharlieTaylor-wk4wr why should John talk about Christ, other than to help people escape the cult of Christianity?

I just want to sit down and have a cup of tea with this man. Such a kind demeanor.

I have listened to this podcast twice now. As an avid Mormon Stories Podcast listener, and one who left the church 34 years ago, my heart was so filled with this humble man’s story….someday I will tell mine. Thank you John for making this place for people like me to heal. Even after 34 years (I left at 30) the wound of growing up Mormon in Southern California is still deep.

@bedazzlejuju

2 күн бұрын

I, for one, would like to hear your story. I also “left” 40 years ago and still live with the split from family members and general fallout. SoCal native as well.

I served in the London South Mission. I loved serving the people in England. It is shocking what is happening in the UK and how the church is trying to turn the narrative and hide the demise. Thank you Martin for speaking out. People need to hear this. 😢

@summerlake356

6 күн бұрын

England has much worse problems than anything that goes on in Mormonism.

@carlifegarage2340

6 күн бұрын

Me too. Birmingham mission 07-09

Loved Martin’s honesty, generosity, and candid observations

This is the single greatest interview on MS I’ve seen in these many years. I’m out of Mormonism +40years. I’ve told many a therapist “Mormonism killed God for me”.. After so much study (when no internet existed). This one Man: Martin Lock 3:32:- Brought Jesus alive again for me in this one moment (and I’m an agnostic/yogi/buddhist) no handshakes, passwords, or 10%$… “Grace” is the key! Jesus did it all for Us- even if he was only a man- he’s a man that said “you’re good enough” “I Forgive you”. “Try forgiving others and see how you feel” Martin mentions Satan in temple endowment (Lucifer). IT IS SATANIC. Why?= because having to earn saving is literally Anti-CHRISTian- it’s Lucifer’s plan in Mormon doctrine. Jesus taught Agape (look it up). Thank You Martin Lock, I’ve read the ‘red words’ (Jesus’ words) yet the pain has been too great these 58 years. Through you 🙏 I can finally conceptualize Jesus’ true message: GRACE. Namaste

@bradkittelsen

9 күн бұрын

Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them proceeds the human descent of Christ, who is God over all, forever worthy of praise! Amen.Romans 9:5

@Applest2oApples

5 күн бұрын

Luke 19:27 is my favorite scripture!

@Pamela33

4 күн бұрын

Such a beautiful comment. I agree completely. Thank you to Martin and John for your dedication to truth in speaking up about this. 🙏💖

@user-ds3rb7dc3h

4 күн бұрын

I’m in tears and looking forward to listening!

Oh my! I’m on the brink of tears. I joined the church in 1973. I was 19. The church was very strong in my state of Georgia. I met and actually converted a man 1974, and we went to the temple outside of Washington DC. the following year. By 1983,’we had 4 children. For many reasons marriage ended in 1988 and it pretty well ended both of our activity in the Church. For me, it was too hard to be divorced and being a member. I truly loved listening to this podcast. Thank you so much!

@Luluisraging.86

9 күн бұрын

I’m so sorry. Lots of Divorced Members in the Church. I’m in my late 50’s. I’m still single. Oh well!

What a articulate, insightful, human, one of the best interviews I've heard in a long time

Martin Lock was a very nice guest and interview, John. I enjoyed his expressing his integrity and fully agree with the position he has taken regarding the church. It is wonderful hearing from an older member for a change. Those of us who are older and have left, are also living rich spiritual lives, in spite of our feelings of loss and betrayal. We have a collective memory of how much the church has morphed into something that feels quite different from what we were raised in. Please include more interviews of older members in the future. Many of us are at a stage of reconciling our beliefs and tying up loose ends in the absence of certainty in our faith. It feels like quite an adventure has opened up. Thank you.

After leaving the church, I felt I had to go back to long lost friends and apologize and make amends. I felt I needed to repair relationships cause I put the church first even before my father and family. I feel I fixed those frienships, told them i loved them, shared drinks and solidified those relationships based on real things. Loved this episode, thank you.

Being a 100% active member was like being third class on the Titanic. We were all on the same boat but feeling inadequate around wealthier long time members. The ship is going down but since jumping ship we've never been happier.

@marilynaustin7488

9 күн бұрын

Well said. Very much my experience as an”stay at home mother” and married to someone not making very much money. It seemed that all the lawyers, doctors and successful business owners set the standard in our stake.

@RoyEbarle-pq4of

9 күн бұрын

It's accident; mistake; imperfections and weaknesses. We cannot blame captain whose driving the boat. They are human and carnal. We jumped and survive? Not all jumping survivors. Why are you use title" titanic"? it's my childhood memory hunger of love, always cry, wit my pillow every night.. the only one hope is to repent and be numbered..

@blazefairchild465

7 күн бұрын

@@marilynaustin7488 if your children are on the low end of the house hold income spectrum, will this give them low self esteem? I wonder if growing up in a LDS ward like that where money & status / expectations might have a negative impact on family members, cause them unhappiness or worse ?

@droundyCubby

7 күн бұрын

I never felt the way some of you felt. Never felt second class. I see some of the members who are wealthier working so hard for us, setting aside work and family responsibilities so they can help others. I know some have quietly, anonymously given to a ward member in need and no one else knows, occasionally I was called into service or I would not know even that. I always felt secure in my position with God. Always known I could not buy his grace and I did not need to, but my good works could be my gift to him, my Savior. I had ancestors who knew brother Joseph personally. They have left their journals, a few of them. Very simple people. Poorly educated. But born before electricity, modern medicine, so many things we have. The world was a puzzlement to them. When others attacked them and they were driven barefoot across the corn stubbled fields running, adult and child, leaving their bloody trail, there were no walkie talkies, let alone cell phones, to help them get aid. They were totally alone and isolated. They were against slavery and their respect for their fellow man was mocked by their neighbors. We cannot understand this world. We lack the understanding of a world where women were totally vulnerable, and a pregnant woman especially so. A world that controlled with pillage and rape. One of our own was so brutally raped that it was only in hushed whispers referred to. Unless a woman was tough as nails in these hash environments at the edge of civilization. Only with a man was a little respite from fear available. Polygamy offered some safety, if chosen. It was much as in the time of Christ when a woman caught in adultery or rape was guilty, always. She was stoned, she wore the scarlet letter, while the other party threw the stone and walked off scot-free. Think of the mountain massacre. We judge them on the big picture we can clearly see. We had no cell phones, no opportunities to negotiate. Fear. What would they do to the innocent. The decision was made and now the world judges, but the world judges on a different set of values and with so much more. How can we, the rich, the knowledgable, those blessed with the history books and the big picture, judge them when they made their decisions given what they had, no communication, the fear of the women. People always make the best decisions based on the information available to them. We talk of being kind to one another, of stepping into their shoes for a day, but do we apply it to the past? I am glad for this good man’s life. So sad for the death of the wonderful woman that stood beside him. No good act will go unnoticed by our Savior when he reaches out to him and says, “come back home to me, blessed child. I’ve waited for so long, come back home.” I wonder if his wife is on the other thin side of the veil praying for him. She must be. May they both be blessed. A beautiful life dedicated to God. No matter where he goes beyond the veil, I am sure he will be happy.

@Francis-px2oc

6 сағат бұрын

I saw this too. When I was primary President the rage from the women of the doctors was unreal. Apparently a wealthier woman wanted the position. I walked into the primary room one day to see a woman of a doctor screaming and pointing her finger in the face of the bishops first counselor about me being called. The women that I asked to be my helpers began to sabatoge and it turned into such a dark energy. People say this is why I left but it was this experience that got me to ask God deeper questions and ultimately set me free. It is not God running that church. I’ve moved several times and to many states and the fruits are always the same. It’s an evil that runs that place.

He is a wonderful story-teller. Thank you, John, for not rushing him along.

Martin, thank you so much for voicing what so many of us have been through. When you said that it was 'devastating' to you to find out the Church's teachings weren't true, I felt you to the very core. I also had to follow my integrity and follow the same path. It is not an easy thing to do. You have definitely been my most favorite speaker on Mormon Stories. Again, many thanks and much love...

Dear Martin - your story touched my heart. Your love story is beautiful! If anyone ever asked me if they should leave the church, I would never recommend that road. Because contrary to LDS lore, people do not leave activity in the church because it is an easier path. Leaving exacts a cost. It is not for people who do not know how to embrace change, or who can’t make new friends, or who can’t find joy in other pursuits. Thank you for sharing.

@jivajenmoreno-adams9984

9 күн бұрын

It’s for people who value truth, personal autonomy, and an informed decision for all OUR progeny. I’ve four grandchildren- do I wish them to believe their worthiness of parental love is conditional to obedience?? No Way- that’s the ubermensch concept Hitler brought to our time. And even for Mormon doctrine, it’s the rule-by-submission-without-free will concept of Lucifer the fallen angel.

What an amazing interview! It was really valuable and inspiring to listen to Martin's life experiences. I'm 32, I've been born "in the church" and all of my close family members still go. It's been 10 years that I left, after a long time researching while still a member. Listening to him and relating to his truth crisis brings some comfort to us who are younger and still developing authority in our environments. It wasnt a "young rebel" phase, it wasnt "influence from the enemy", it was in fact a search for truth, for coherence, for integrity, something that doesnt have any relationship with age. And relating to other people's ways, reaffirming that we are not alone in all those feelings while in these ways, it brings peace and a sense of purpose. Our stories have to be shared. Thank you John and Mormon Stories crew for all the good you bring us!

One of the best interviews I've watched John! Thank you Martin for sharing your story. Your love for people and your community shines thru your words. Truly enjoyed listening to your Mormon story today. Thank you John, and Mormon stories for providing this space. I can't express how healing it is.

I never learned anything new in the temple. I was always stressed out and confused in the temple.

@orisonorchards4251

9 күн бұрын

And a little traumatized after the nekkid touching and the sui(ide pacts.

@debbieshrubb1222

9 күн бұрын

@@orisonorchards4251 🤣 extremely weird.

@DarkFire1536

9 күн бұрын

Same.

@Gree263

8 күн бұрын

​@@orisonorchards4251????

@charlesmendeley9823

2 күн бұрын

It's confusing until you understand that Joseph stole the ceremony from the Freemasons.

Martin you are so refreshing! I’m 66 , left the church four years ago when I learned all this stuff. Joined when I was fifteen, the only member in my family. Totally understand the loneliness you are feeling after leaving! Thank you for sharing your story!💕

This man is so delightful!❤

The first time I went to the temple, I didn’t realise that you had to pay to rent clothes… so I was super stressed because I had to wait for someone to bring me my wallet. So instead of thinking about Jesus and feeling relaxed it was stress and money…. Really?? With all the tithing payed and they are still asking for a few dollars for clothing rental. Looking back it was so ridiculous

@Gree263

8 күн бұрын

Really? What did you rent? I've never heard of such a thing! Jesus would hate that😢

@UTAHtheN0bleBirthright-

8 күн бұрын

​@@Gree263 If you are doing baptisms, you might borrow a white jumpsuit . If you don't have a white dress or white pants and shirt of your own or slippers you would rent those items for the main ceremonies.

@droundyCubby

7 күн бұрын

Wow, sorry no one told you. The rental was to pay for washing the clothes and provided jobs for handicapped and for poor women. It went to a good cause. There are also other paid jobs in the temple. Keeping our temples pristine takes a few people to oversee the nightly cleaning crews. Hired are often young people needing a job and employment for college. I miss being able to get an inexpensive, high quality meal at some of the temples. Again, the handicapped, the single moms, the older saints were given employment. So sorry, again, that you did not know. It must have been quite embarrassing for you.

@Mel-ry5jc

6 күн бұрын

The first time I entered the temple, the first thing I heard was a cash register. Such an affront to everything I was expecting or hoping for. Killed it. All I could think was how Jesus chased the money lenders out of the temple..Major red flag. First thing on the shelf. Out now 20+ years thankfully x

@carlifegarage2340

6 күн бұрын

Money changing in the temple

What a truly lovely bloke! A fascinating interview, one of my favorites! My heart hurts for the loss of his sweet wife and his lifelong dedication to an institution that lied to him. He seems very young in spirit and I hope his next chapter is an eyes wide open and joyful one. 🥰❤

Martin, you were always a Christian living the mormon experience. Now you have the wisdom and freedom to live the Christian life without the feeling of judgmental guilt or shame. Congratulations! Freedom at last, YES!

I’m in my 70’s, during the pandemic I went thru the same experience, I feel the same way. I feel cheated, nothing is the way I was I learned thru my life in the church 😢

Martin Lock you are a true and lovely man. I know you are speaking truth. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and pain. You are loved.

Martin made an excellent point that the main purpose of the temple was likely to provide a mechanism and venue for secret polygamous marriages. I’d never thought of that before, but it makes so much sense! And then the other perks of having a super secret/sacred thing for people to aspire to etc.

Martin, thanks for your honesty and love of God that has guided your life now, and I'm sure into the eternities.

@greg-op2jh

9 күн бұрын

❤

I thoroughly enjoyed this interview. Especially having grown up in the church in the 60s. Martin is right, the church’s purpose then was community and fellowship. Our friends joined the church because the Mormon kids were fun and did a lot of cool things. The boys had competitive baseball and basketball. The girls had volleyball and softball. We were fierce competitors in road shows. We had dance festivals and music fests. Stake and area dances and the Gold and Green Ball that was a bigger deal than school prom. The church WAS our lives. Even baptisms for the dead were a once-a-year social event. We had to drive 2.5 hours each way and we’d have a nice lunch and each do about 50 names. Only problem, some of us didn’t get as lucky as Martin and find the love of our lives because we were Mormon. Some of us had our self esteem sucked out of us by the church in our teens and replaced with shame and guilt. We were pressured way more about marriage back then and some of us felt like we were lucky if ANY temple worthy man wanted to marry us and we made really bad marriage decisions because we were 21 with no better marriage prospects. And when you marry a narcissistic sociopath and have children by them, you pay for that in many ways that affect the rest of your life. Even long after the marriage ends. But still we trudged on, being the best Mormons we could be. Until faced with a crisis of conscience when we stumbled upon the truth about church history and how it evolved into today’s Mormon church. And today many things are better than I thought they would be when I was nearing 70. But I know I’d have had a much easier retirement if I’d made better education, marriage, and child bearing decisions-decisions that were mostly influenced by our Mormon culture. But I wouldn’t trade my post-Mormon life for that of many of my friends and family who are more financially secure but still steeped in Mormonism. And I remind myself of that often.

It’s always about Grace. Thank you for sharing this truth and your faith journey.

Martin and Jan have always had a very special place in my heart/childhood. As a kid growing up in the church I would often see them when they would come to Spain in the Summer holidays. They had a house in the country side, with a pool so it was always exciting when my parents said "we're gonna spend the day with the Lock family" . They were one of the first people I remember thinking as a kid: one day I wanna learn their language (English) and be able to speak with them as they were so nice to me. Now as an adult and father (living in the UK), seeing Martin in the podcast has hit me very hard. As I'm in the same position as him. Thank you Martin for sharing your life experience. I really really enjoyed it. Alfonso Martinez Jr (Cartagena)

I think what he's trying to say is he was deceived and while he was deceived through no fault of his own, he deceived others. There is no ignoring that feeling or coming back to the church from that knowledge

@debbieshrubb1222

9 күн бұрын

One of the hardest things is knowing you exposed your children to such toxic dogma. Also as Mike said, the time taken from relationships with non member family.

The love story is truly beautiful. It’s fascinating to see how all of us are connected. It’s my great grandfather, grandfather and father who served in England and helped to grow the church there during the 60’s and 70’s (Joseph Fielding, and my grandfather, his son, as a mission president in Manchester, and my dad serving there). And now I’m out with 5 children after coming through Hyrum Smith and all the Mormonism in my past. It’s been a heartbreaking journey but there is no other way.

What a lovely man and full credit to him for leaving the church once he discovered the true history of it rather than ignore the awful history and carry on as if everything was fine. Wish there were more like him.

Fantastic interview what a lovely man and he speaks the truth. I wasted 38 years in fear of being unworthy I feel free as a bird now but feel very sad I was made to feel I was never enough x

Fabulous interview from brother Mr. Lock. His faith was real, his service was real, his heart was in the right place of service. Unfortunately, truth is truth. The LDS church has a cloke over the truth of it's conception and tales. I, like so many others, served in many positions in the auxiliaries. Serving with the thought that my calling was a calling of inspiration. Not true. I filled a spot that needed to be filled. I taught what was in the lesson manual. All the while, not fitting in with the members because I questioned, i had questions that i was told to, " just have faith" Just another sheep....no more....

What an absolute delight to listen. Thank you for sharing Martin Lock. I was raised mormon in New Zealand. Im grateful that I was free of the church as a young adult, but your perspective of have no regrets resonates with me, as I still had a good childhood. Moved to tears. You are a good man and your beautiful wife must be proud of you.

Thank you for sharing your story and providing truth to our active LDS families. Leaving is terribly difficult and can be lonely. But walking hand in hand with Jesus Christ is the definition of happiness.

Oh Martin thank you so much for your story! Our journeys are all somewhat unique and different and it’s always so interesting to me to see the various directions it leads. To hear you speak of your sweet wife was so beautiful.

Active member of the lds church here… I’m very appreciative of the respectfulness of John.

@jivajenmoreno-adams9984

9 күн бұрын

And hopefully the honesty. Someday maybe TBM like you can be the heroes who can acknowledge the lies, fraud, abuse and destruction of the early deceptions and let an honest Christian denomination emerge. IOW NOT the ONLY true church (which is red light Hitler style narcissism) but, another community who embraces their culture through the love of a Man/God (doesn’t matter) offering GRACE.- namaste

@westivus

9 күн бұрын

He's not the demon TBMs wish him to be.

@jacoblewis2961

9 күн бұрын

Do you believe what this gentleman said? If so why are you still an active member?

@missedinformationpod

9 күн бұрын

@@jacoblewis2961 I believe that this man was genuine, and I trust and respect his experience. I’ve heard a lot (almost everything) against the church, but my experience and faith is based on things a lot deeper than what I’ve heard. That’s the best way I can explain it.

@jacoblewis2961

9 күн бұрын

​@@missedinformationpod I can respect that, in my own experience I cannot overlook a lot of the facts that he discussed especially about the history and it's founded Joseph Smith. For instance the book of Ambraham is not the book of Abraham and the translation is not even close to what is says. Yet the church has presented it as cannonized doctrine! It's based completely off of pure bullshit...

Martin, thank you so much for sharing your story. This was one of the best Mormon stories I have ever heard. Your relationship with your wife is absolutely beautiful and something most people can only dream of.

I LOVE THIS MAN!!!!! His experiences and the way of thinking makes you become even a bigger critical thinker about the church's teachings.

I have never had my name removed. I did get the bishops, relief society presidents, etc to stop calling me. It only took moving 3 time, and finally raising my voice to get them to stop.

Such a relatable deconstruction story shared by Bro. Lock. Thank you for this episode. My heart is with you.

Martin is an absolute gem! I thoroughly enjoyed listening to his story. Jan seems like an incredible woman. We are lucky to have had them both in this lifetime. My condolences to Martin, their children, and Jan’s family. ❤

Wow. This man is sharp. His memory seems to be very clear.

@droundyCubby

7 күн бұрын

It í sad that older people are all classed as feeble-minded when most are sharp and with age comes a beautiful time when the mind is able to expand and make beautiful and insightful connections, taking past learnings, see them in the big picture, and come up with what? Greater wisdom.

@jeffcarlin5866

7 күн бұрын

@@droundyCubby I would rather converse with a man who is 75 than a boy who is 17. The man who is 75 is TEEMING with experience and wisdom and cool stories; the boy who is 17 is probably entitled and cynical and addicted to his phone.

@jeffcarlin5866

7 күн бұрын

@@droundyCubby I don't think that our current president is sharp, though. I believe that President Biden is too old to be an effective leader. I'm not a Trump supporter, by the way.

@user-bw3fl7fj9w

4 күн бұрын

​@@jeffcarlin5866but, who to vote for is the biggest question!!

This podcast makes me so grateful to have been a Methodist for the last forty years.

@guymcdude5634

9 күн бұрын

Oh the pain you could feel upon realizing the con of Christianity. Take note this episode could easily be you.

@philmabarak5421

9 күн бұрын

@@guymcdude5634 Don't be so arrogant. We all realize that. The distinctions in theology is what's important in this case!

@chadwickgordon5817

6 күн бұрын

@@guymcdude5634 I agree 100%. If this man ends up applying the same logic when researching the “truth” of Christianity and the Bible as he did with the LDS faith and BofM. He ain’t out of the woods yet, not by a long shot.

What a story. Lovely to hear that he has come to understand that the grace and sufficiency of Jesus is all that is needed. Wishing him all the best as he moves forward.

Martin, thank you! As John played devil's advocate you answered his questions with the most logical and lovely responses! It's been more than 40 years since the church and I parted ways but I have only in the last 2-3 years listened to and read many of the sources you've mentioned. I knew it was wrong back then but just didn't know why. Back then my father had given me a copy of the Miracle of Forgiveness. Bad, bad book!!!!! I came inches from ending myself to stop feeling the pain of loosing the connections I once had and erase my evil self. But folks like you, John, Bill Reel, RFM, Nemo, Alyssa Grenfell...all of you bring sanity and sweet reason to this person who has felt so conflicted for so long. May you see that lovely wife again. I fear my anger and disgust with the church and it"s leaders who knowingly lead all ASTRAY has soured my belief in anything spiritual. But even that is okay. I look forward to an eventual eternal sleep. As I've since told my believing father, if there is an afterlife, God and I will have a very serious talk where I accuse him of being the worst parent and manager in the universe!

I understand his pain and disappointment towards the church. It broke me when I found there truth. I cried and asked why would they lie to so many good people? But now I know the truth and feel free.

Compulsive viewing & listening, what a totally warm, honest, beautiful, engaging man Martin is. His love for his wife shone through. It's sad that he felt betrayed by the Church he served so faithfully, but he is being true to himself & thats the most important thing. I wish him all the best. Wonderful interview John.

This is the most interesting and informative interview you’ve done, John Dehlin. Martin Lock is a wise and knowledgeable man who knows the truth about the deception of the Mormon church. It confirms once again to me that I made the right decision to leave the church 3 years ago.

This is the best guest you have had on, that I have seen in your shows. He is someone I could so relate to. I feel so better after watching this, that I am not crazy, I have absolutely every reason to believe the new things I have learned these last several months. I was so confused by the way I have felt about the church for the last ten plus years, and the bad experiences I had/have all make so much more sense now. I believe and have faith in Christ, so ask for God's blessings for you and those like minded, who struggle with the hurt, shame, the disgust, the manipulation from a belief system that consumed the majority of my lifetime, family members lives, and all of the sacrifice, the commitment, the betrayal to family and friends in the name of the LDS church. Shame, shame, shame on those who knew the truth and still held the secrets to themselves in God's name, I can only think, how evil; all their filty lies, and knowing I am not alone here.

This has been one of the most impactful interviews I’ve seen on here. I’ve been inactive for several years and questioning things that whole time. This perspective gives me a lot to think about. Thank you for the stories and perspective.

What a lovely man Martin is. Thanks for having him, John!

Non Morman from Southern Ireland. So interesting to hear this and do go look up Irish History John!!!!! I'm facinated with your history so go look at mine!!!! Wonderful man lovely insights. CC. S o enjoy your podcasts totally fascinating insights into the human condition. And at least the ornate Catholic Churches welcome visitors and their spires ain't quite so controversial or "sacred". Ha ha go Nemo!!!!!We have a troubled and rich history and today the Catholic Church hasn't the personal intrusive and state control it had in the past. And in looking at the Mormon Church it seems amazing that 21st century people can be so stuck and brainwashed in a very blinkered very 19th century view of life and religion.

@user-fr4ye3yd7v

8 күн бұрын

Yes!! Everyone and anyone is welcome in our Catholic churches and cathedrals. And they are all so beautiful and unique, reflecting the culture of each location. When we visited the San Diego LDS temple open house I was so disappointed in the interior design and artwork. It’s all very homogenized.

@charlesmendeley9823

2 күн бұрын

​@@user-fr4ye3yd7vThe LDS Church is like a franchise. The local units are run by cookie cutter methods such as handbooks. They are even planning to produce a new hymnbook where each number indicates the same song globally, so in France they will have the same song translated into French, etc. Similarly, the temples are now modular, reusing the same design elements for each temple.

I have a feeling another reason for the temple boom might be a way for the church to deal with the money hoarding issues without giving it away to charity. Real estate is one of a few legal avenues the wealthy have to move money around.

@loraleenunley7979

9 күн бұрын

Agree

@suzan1mal

9 күн бұрын

They learned how to do that from the Scientologists. The Co$ does the same thing building all their buildings. The members think that with all the new buildings, it “proves” the church is growing

@AntonioAFelizJr

8 күн бұрын

Don't forget about all of the free publicity benefiting proselytizing efforts gained by just the existence of a huge beautiful temple in rural areas! Even local city councils in turmoil about it are great free publicity for The Church.

@user-bw3fl7fj9w

4 күн бұрын

​@AntonioAFelizJr and then the preceding open house tour of the Temple

@AntonioAFelizJr

3 күн бұрын

Yeah, of course. It's pretty obvious, really. It's all good, though. Blessings 🙌

Martin is such an amazing man. His story is so interesting, and hearing him talk about his lovely wife Jan, you can see the love radiate across his face!

In relation to the temple, my wife and I are both converts. She at 13, me at 26. We were married in the San Diego temple in 1999. Her family flew from England, my family drove 10 hours from Northern California. Guess what we did? Yep they all had to wait outside and only be there for family photos. Of course we told ourselves we were doing the right thing. They were hurt for years because of that. I only realized how wrong that was about a year ago. I've been doing an apology tour to all of them for excluding them. Oh how wrong we were. So messed up.

I was born and raised in the LDS/Mormon church. I was a TBM and knowing the truth about the church didn’t come to my knowledge until my 50s. I love truth. Went through quite an experience coming out of Mormonism and am blessed to be on this side of things. Made me feel like a liar having served a mission and baring testimony for the church. SMH

His story is very touching, I really felt his love for his wife coming through. It’s never too late to learn and grow ❤

Thank you Martin for telling your story. Your love of the members, the gospel and your beloved wife shown brilliantly. Your pain and sadness is identical to mine. Your words of wisdom have been documented and will help thousands. Thank you.

Martin is a wonderful, wonderful man; thank you John for this lovely interview. I just hope that Bart Ehrman (a biblical scholar and now an atheist) doesn't destroy Martin's faith in Jesus, because it is beautiful, and worth hanging onto.

The leader of this church is insane for building these Temples where they will eventually just,"sit there, rotting!" Perhaps, ego is at play here? 🤔

@dl1130

9 күн бұрын

I think the SEC investigation and fine came into play as well. The church was not using tithing money for charitable or church purposes as a tax exempt organization. So, I believe they decided to build all the temples to utilize their massive amount of wealth they built up over the years from excess tithing donations.

@bodytrainer1crane730

9 күн бұрын

It's such a waste! They could change millions of lives but they build dead things

@norgepolo

9 күн бұрын

It’s primarily ego, combined with a need to convert their financial reserves into tangible, non-taxable assets.

@jonziegler6538

9 күн бұрын

Perhaps...

It's been 5 years since the Don Casias interview. Love to see an update on what's going on in temples.

What a wonderful man! Who clearly married a wonderful woman and raised a beautiful family. You will see her again! I hope you have no regrets - this life is a school, we learn and grow every single day. God bless you and your family ❤

This is pinnacle Mormon Stories right here. I love those episodes that involves former GAs and former high ranking mormon leadership people because of their insight of being in and out of the mormon faith.

That's the kind of salvation we need: the courage to speak the truth. Thank you Martin for sharing the truth.❤️👏🏽

I was recently taken to a Masonry Grand Lodge. The visit was cloaked in secrecy because women are not welcomed. It was quite an eye opener. I can't understand how Joseph Smith thought he would get away with what he founded. How did he not foresee that his creation would be exposed as a complete ripoff of Free Masonry? I'm Irish. The guest and John are I'll informed on Irish history. Ireland was the victim of British oppression. The Mormon/Masonry hated Catholicism, blaming it for all of the world's ills. Catholicism looks upon the LDS movement as the abuser of women. Today, Ireland is a flourishing country. Britain is a sad basket case.

@Aaron-SLC

9 күн бұрын

Because he was a conman. He was focused on the now and his ability to gaslight people. Tons of people are aware of the mason connections but never leave

@debbieshrubb1222

9 күн бұрын

I'm from the UK. The historical commentary re Ireland was cringe worthy. Our Irish son in law would not have been impressed.

@Aaron-SLC

9 күн бұрын

Interesting

@PatriciaNoel-qp2ff

9 күн бұрын

I think he thought he’d get away with the Masonic ceremony because he NEVER thought we’d have computers and global communication. 😮

@Aaron-SLC

9 күн бұрын

@@PatriciaNoel-qp2ff and his ability to gaslight and con people. lots of people know about masonry but are still mormon

I joined alone @ 14 and got asked to sit down in a branch meeting when I gave a talk. I was 16. Never went back.

@Anabee3

9 күн бұрын

I hope & pray you went on to a real relationship with Jesus Christ & accepted the salvation he offers.

@Chicken-dq9zg

9 күн бұрын

LOL. Curious if you ever leaned toward another religion. No judgment. I left religious beliefs many years ago and find it freeing. For me, living a life of curiosity, integrity, compassion and community eliminates the hell, fire, and brimstone. Being free of mind controlling (this way or the Highway) and the big grift $$ felt most freeing.

@debbieshrubb1222

9 күн бұрын

​@@Anabee3 One cult to another?

@pscCRPS

7 күн бұрын

I am sorry. That is messed up

@romanstarr01

6 күн бұрын

Pardon my ignorance, but what do you mean you were told to sit down .. A bit confused.

What a genuine, sweet, humble man! I enjoyed Martin Lock’s story so much. I could relate to the betrayal that he felt. I felt so betrayed by the Church and was hurt by learning that the “anti-Mormon” literature given to me, was not “anti” at all, but the factual history of the Church. It hurt learning all of the facts about Joseph Smith but I am better off for it now. I have my faith in Christ and I am good. I love sharing with LDS friends when they are open to truth.

I can relate to this story. That's exactly what I feel now after learning church history..😢 thank you for this interview. That really helps and supports people who are in pain .

I did not want this interview to end…. Wow.

Looking forward to this episode!

2:35:00 feed the hungry, love the addict, help the homeless, there is the mission field

This was a pleasure to listen to. So relatable for me. I know one of Martin’s daughters from when I lived in London, and visited the London Temple when he served there. So many of his sentiments ring true. A real blessing during my own faith crisis!

This man’s experience and knowledge of the LDS organization has served him well - well enough, along with a honest heart - to see through the darkness taught in that organization and come out. His testimony he presents is well supported by the Bible in such passages as Proverbs 30:5, 6; 2 Corinthians 11:2-4; Galatians 1:6-9. Sincere emotionalism does not establish God’s truth; it just contributes to one being sincerely wrong. The Lord Jesus Christ made a statement that stuck with me when I studied with the LDS missionaries: “Nevertheless, the hour is coming, and it is now, when the true worshippers will worship the Father with spirit and truth, for indeed, the Father is looking for ones like these to worship him. God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him must worship with spirit and truth.” (John 4:23, 24) The message is clear: sincerity, emotion, intentions are not sufficient with the Father; these qualities must be accompanied with “truth” based upon the word of Jehovah as revealed through the prophets and apostles of the Bible.

@chadwickgordon5817

6 күн бұрын

I dare you to truthfully comment on any of ungodly acts that your “prophets” of Jehovah participated in during their ministries that are recorded in the Bible. They make Joseph Smith Jr. look like a choir boy. And if you’re not getting the real message that’s hidden in that Bible, you yourself are every bit as ignorant as this man was during his time as a member of the LDS faith.

This was one of my favorite Mormon Stories interviews I've ever listened to. He is such an incredible and sweet man

Thank you for this episode. I was raised by parents that were seriously divided. My Mother espoused the LDS church to us. My father was not able to join her in this, in fact he had been an active member of a non denominational Christian church. He was terribly upset by his pastor having an affair with another member. I don’t know if it’s true because I never heard it from him. My Mother or his Mother started this rumor and we never heard the word God out of his mouth. I did here him say regarding my beginning going to AA to stay sober. He apparently knew that AA means believing in a power greater than oneself, and over coffee he ,”it’s ok to believe in God”. I was so stunned I couldn’t speak. I regret that I wasn’t able to respond to him because I might have been able to have a conversation about God with him. So thankfully I never got hooked into the Mormon church. Over the years I had missionaries call on me and when I questioned them about the belief they had that polygamy would be practiced in heaven. They said “God would not have anything in heaven that would make us unhappy “. I ended up living in Bountiful and Salt Lake City and eventually was excommunicated. I also had found, in a used book store, in Logan, Utah. The place my mother’s mother came from! That book helped me so much and I passed it on to my older sister, who had been a believer, and it helped her tremendously. Thank you again, in Christ’s name.

@patriciacourtier-rouse1173

3 күн бұрын

The book was No Man knows my History, Fawn Brodie. I still own my copy. It saved me from even considering Mormonism to be legit. I was living in Bountiful Utah at the time. My neighbor warned me “ they will check under your kitchen sink to see if you are hiding coffee” lol.

Boy do I agree about the mistake the church has made in getting rid of all those cultural events the church use to have- we barely have any activities anymore- and what few we do have very little effort is put into them. Church nowadays is pretty much attend Sunday meetings and that is it.

I knew this guy from east grinstead ward and served in the same mission. Awesome to hear a uk relatable story on here 😀

I met my wife on my mission, she from New Orleans and me from San Diego, I was her zone leader for 10 months. She was a district leader over a sister’s district. That was in 1979 and we’re still together 43 years later. It’s a fascinating story, our journey together, which involves us leaving the church.

You missed some key point on why the church builds so many temples.. You are correct in that 1- The only way to show growth. 2- You commit to pay tithes and offerings to go to the temple and be sealed to your family..( like catholic indulgences in a way). 3- Self hypnosis you have to believe in the restoration 4- The Loyalty Oaths... You have to say that the 15 are prophets seers and revelators and you sustain them as such and as the only men on earth with priesthood keys etc... Do you have a testimony of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ? Do you sustain the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the prophet, seer, and revelator and as the only person on the earth authorized to exercise all priesthood keys? Do you sustain the members of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators? Do you sustain the other General Authorities and local leaders of the Church? I taught GD, served two missions, my wife served one.. We left the church in 2023.

@mormonstories

7 күн бұрын

So true.

I'm a never Mo, but I've always wondered how come no one talks about the fact that there are many families members, spouses, even grown children that someone may not want to spend eternity with! Why is it assumed that all mormon families are loving kind wonderful ones that none of them would want to be apart in the eternal kingdom? What happens with that?

@joeswife

9 күн бұрын

Temple ordinances offer potential for eternity together. They don't guarantee it. We'll still have our agency in the hereafter and God won't force people to be together who don't want to be.

@jillhughes9009

9 күн бұрын

Ok that's a new twist on what is preached-- makes it all more convenient doesn't it. Never is it said your sealed in temple for eternity UNLESS you get there and decide you want other options.

@suzan1mal

9 күн бұрын

Well, in the non-LDS King James Bible, it states that there is no marriage in heaven, which also means that we are not “sealed” to each other when/if we get there.

@chadwickgordon5817

6 күн бұрын

That’s if you take any translations of the Bible literally.

@toltecofficial2107

6 күн бұрын

Well, we won’t have bodies, now will we? Makes sense.

I enjoyed his interview so much, I felt his pain.

This man is so wise & beautiful in what he says. God bless him!

I have, for many years, considered Polygamy to be “legalized” adultery in Mormonism.

Great podcast! My grandad was also a sealer in the London temple - must be about 20 years ago now. He sealed me to my husband in 2005, beautiful memories - even if we no longer attend church.

Best interview yet, John. As a never Mormon, I am so sad for the multigenerational fraud that is the LDS church. When the simple message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is right in front of them, these folks are made to fear and serve men rather than to love and worship a forgiving God, whose death and resurrection was all that was necessary for their full salvation. Makes me angry that they use Jesus’ name to legitimize their abuse.

Thank you so very Much sir for this great insight👀I could listen to your soothing voice all day ❤️Best interview ever God bless ❤️🙏

Martin, your love story with your wife is the most beautiful story I’ve ever heard!!! 🩷🩷🩷😭😭😭Sending lots of love and light in your grief, RIP Jan.

Please be careful about Emma. For all we really know, Joseph had an abusive hold on her or a powerful hand of scripture over her head. The fact she didn't believe in polygamy but later did. She knew of only four wives . She kept a lot to herself. I am currently reading No Man Knows My History. Joseph was not a good person. I too am very saddened by this. He manipulated so many people . Faithful people who trusted and believed in him.

Loved this. I like these episodes where it's all about what happened and the emotions and the change someone has experienced. What a great guy! More like this please.

I was baptized before finishing missionary teachings...then I discovered I would probably never make it to temple and definitely never make it into the highest kingdoms...how disappointed I was 😢😢I believed I was a Failure 😢I never had a testimony 😢

i think it wise to remember Johns last words here "Be kind" Especially in the stream chat. I think the mod went a bit to rough with our faithful visitor today. And it would be best if we remember to not treat them as so many of them have treated us, did treat us, still treat us to this day. If this community is to grow, especially as a safe space for people questioning and leaving the church, we should do better at creating that environment, or they will stay in their perceived safe space- which will not be here with likes of us. i think there is a happy medium we can find between saying our piece with honesty and calling out the things we disagree with. We should try to find that balance, in hopes we do not alienate each other and others. thats all. Great pod today fam. You are all beautiful people thanks for being here.