Rethinking Sexual Ethics Through Jacob’s Temple Sermon: A Conversation with Spencer P. Greenhalgh

How should we read scripture when ancient texts meet modern ethical questions?

In this episode of Dialogue Out Loud, Dialogue co-editor Margaret Olsen Hemming speaks with Spencer P. Greenhalgh about his Summer 2026 Dialogue article, “Jacob’s Temple Sermon as Reinterpretation of Scripture and Rethinking of Sexual Ethics.“ Greenhalgh argues that Jacob 2 is more than a condemnation of polygamy—it is an example of prophetic reinterpretation, showing how scripture can be reread in light of enduring moral values and changing circumstances.

Their conversation explores Jacob’s use of the stories of David and Solomon, feminist approaches to reading scripture, the overlooked experiences of women in the Book of Mormon, and what it means to understand scripture as an ongoing conversation rather than a fixed set of rules. They also discuss the implications of Jacob’s interpretive approach for contemporary questions surrounding marriage, LGBTQ relationships, prophetic authority, and sexual ethics.

Whether or not listeners agree with Greenhalgh’s conclusions, this episode offers a thoughtful invitation to read familiar scripture with fresh eyes and to consider how faithful interpretation has always involved wrestling with both tradition and context.

About the Guest

Spencer P. Greenhalgh is an associate professor in the School of Information Science at the University of Kentucky, where he studies online social spaces, including those related to Mormonism. A member and minister in Community of Christ, his research interests include Restoration theology, the Book of Mormon, and the intersection of religion and technology.