Showing posts with label scriptures. Show all posts
Showing posts with label scriptures. Show all posts
Sunday, May 26, 2019
The Second Coming - Don't Be Deceived
First, what is Joseph Smith Matthew?
Joseph Smith re-translated Matthew chapter 24 of the New Testament, and that translation is what we know today as the book of Joseph Smith Matthew. It's a very important book of scripture that gives prophesies from the Savior himself about the Second Coming, so important that it has been included in the canonized book of scripture known as the Pearl of Great Price.
How does this apply to me?
Within this chapter, Jesus warns that wickedness will abound as it did in the days of Noah. He warns of great signs and wonders that would be performed by false prophets and false Christs insomuch that they would "deceive the very elect, who are the elect according to the covenant." Listen up if you do not want to be deceived (nobody wants to be deceived, right?).
Who are the elect?
So, who are the elect? The children of the covenant! His covenant people have always been the House of Israel, and those baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are adopted into the House of Israel. If you've received your Patriarchal Blessing, you have a bit more insight into how this applies to you personally.
What does Jesus tell his elect to protect them from deception?
Jesus tells his elect to not be troubled when they hear of wars and rumors of wars for they "must come to pass; but the end is not yet."
Most important of all, the Savior tells his elect the key to avoiding deception. First, his elect will know the prophesies about the Second Coming and be prepared when they they see their fulfillment. Second, He says, "whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived."
What does it mean to "treasure up" Christ's word?
Because treasure is something of great value, we treat it differently than other things. If someone gave you a treasure chest full of gold, silver, and precious stones, how would you take care of it? I'm sure you wouldn't leave it out in the open. You'd also probably be inclined at some point to carefully go through that chest, examining each piece - I know I would. I'd find a special place for the treasure, perhaps for each piece. I'd take care of and protect it. I'd want to share it with those I love as well. A gift like this would change your life.
How do we look at the word of Christ, the scriptures? Do we give it a careful examination? Do we consider it to be of great worth to us? Do we share it with those we love? Do you let it change your life?
It's helpful to consider the words that the Savior didn't use here. He didn't say "whoso readeth my word, shall not be deceived" or "whoso has heard my word" or "whoso has my word on their bookshelf." He uses a word that describes more than even an action like "studying." To "treasure up" connotes a happiness and value. I looked it up in the dictionary and it had two definitions that both fit:
(1) to keep or take great care of something because it is very valuable or important to you
(2) to feel happy, for example because you are doing something that you enjoy
Conclusion
Reading the scriptures is great. Studying the scriptures is even better. Treasuring up the scriptures is ideal and the admonition given by the Savior himself to help us see through the deceit of the adversary at the last day (today!). May we all (myself included) make greater efforts to treasure up the Word of Christ so that we can be prepared for His Second Coming and not be deceived in the meantime.
Saturday, January 9, 2016
In Which Tree of Life Group Do You Want to Be?
In Lehi's vision in 1 Nephi 8, he sees and describes four different multitudes of people striving to reach the tree of life and partake of its fruit. Each multitude can represent a different group of people in our day, and the distinctions between the groups is instructive.
Group 1: Lost Their Way in the Mists of Darkness
In 1 Nephi 8:21-23, the first group was "pressing forward that they might obtain the path which led unto the tree." Like all of us, they were seeking for the truth, trying to find the right path for their lives to obtain happiness and salvation. But unfortunately, as they did "commence in the path that led to the tree,...there arose a mist of darkness" that caused them to "lose their way." Because of this mist, they "wandered off and were lost."
From the interpretation given by the angel in 1 Nephi 12:17, we learn that "the mists of darkness are the temptations of the devil, which blindeth the eyes, and hardeneth the hearts of the children of men, and leadeth away into broad roads, that they perish and are lost." This interpretation helps us understand that the first group of people are those who seek the truth, but fall into temptation and lose their way before they are able to achieve their goal. This group never tastes of fruit and does not achieve baptism to make covenants with God.
Group 2: Partook of the Fruit and Were Ashamed
In 1 Nephi 8:24-28,34, the second group was able to overcome the temptations or mists of darkness by "clinging to the rod of iron." This group, like the first, had an interest in following the path that leads to the tree of life; however, by clinging to the word of God (the iron rod) or scriptures and teachings of modern prophets, they are able to navigate the world of temptation successfully without losing their way. Because of their diligence, they are able to partake of the fruit. These are baptized members of the church.
Unfortunately, there was a great and spacious building full of mocking, ridiculing people within earshot of the tree of life. After partaking of the fruit, the second group "cast their eyes about as if they were ashamed...because of those that were scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost." This is a lesson in enduring to the end. For members of the church, baptism and temple covenants are no guarantee of salvation. If we allow ourselves to give into peer pressure and focus on the things of this world, we are in danger of falling away. We need to learn how to resist the world and its enticements. This group has fallen into inactivity and no longer keeps the covenants they made at baptism.
Group 3: Partook of the Fruit and Heeded Not the Scorners
In 1 Nephi 8:30,33, the third group is the one of which we want to be part. Similar to the second group, the third group overcomes the temptations or mists of darkness by "continually holding fast to the rod of iron" until they are able to partake of the fruit. This group also notices the great and spacious building full of scorning, mocking people, but the key difference is that this group "heeded them not."
I find it interesting that the group that succeeded actually faces the same challenges as the first two groups. No shortcut or easy path was taken to bypass the challenges and safely arrive at the tree. They experienced the same mists of darkness (temptation), had to persevere along the same straight and narrow path, and then had the same building of mocking people pointing and scorning them after they partook of the fruit. The difference is that this group clung to the word of God during their journey, and then chose to pay no attention to the scorners upon their arrival. They cared more about God's work than the world, more about what God thought of them than what the world thought of them. This group is able to experience the true joy that comes from the fruit of the gospel.
Group 4: Were Feeling their Way to the Great and Spacious Building
In 1 Nephi 8:31-33, the final group was less a group and actually described as "other multitudes." These were lost in the darkness "feeling their way towards the great and spacious building." Lehi says that "great was the multitude that did enter into that strange building" but also "many were drowned in the depths of the fountain" or "lost from his view, wandering in strange roads" while making their attempt towards the building. Those that arrived at the building successfully, immediately pointed "their finger of scorn" at those who were partaking of the fruit.
This group never even faced the challenge of holding to the rod or withstanding the world while partaking of the fruit. They never even desired the fruit. Their focus from the start was on getting to the great and spacious building. This group had the same opportunities, for surely they could have chosen the straight and narrow path, but they used their agency to choose misery and death. These are they who never look for happiness by giving God's gospel a chance. They look for joy in the pleasures of the world that are impossible to satisfy and then exacerbate their situation by mocking those who are on the right path, trying to make them miserable like unto themselves.
Group 1: Lost Their Way in the Mists of Darkness
In 1 Nephi 8:21-23, the first group was "pressing forward that they might obtain the path which led unto the tree." Like all of us, they were seeking for the truth, trying to find the right path for their lives to obtain happiness and salvation. But unfortunately, as they did "commence in the path that led to the tree,...there arose a mist of darkness" that caused them to "lose their way." Because of this mist, they "wandered off and were lost."
From the interpretation given by the angel in 1 Nephi 12:17, we learn that "the mists of darkness are the temptations of the devil, which blindeth the eyes, and hardeneth the hearts of the children of men, and leadeth away into broad roads, that they perish and are lost." This interpretation helps us understand that the first group of people are those who seek the truth, but fall into temptation and lose their way before they are able to achieve their goal. This group never tastes of fruit and does not achieve baptism to make covenants with God.
Group 2: Partook of the Fruit and Were Ashamed
In 1 Nephi 8:24-28,34, the second group was able to overcome the temptations or mists of darkness by "clinging to the rod of iron." This group, like the first, had an interest in following the path that leads to the tree of life; however, by clinging to the word of God (the iron rod) or scriptures and teachings of modern prophets, they are able to navigate the world of temptation successfully without losing their way. Because of their diligence, they are able to partake of the fruit. These are baptized members of the church.
Unfortunately, there was a great and spacious building full of mocking, ridiculing people within earshot of the tree of life. After partaking of the fruit, the second group "cast their eyes about as if they were ashamed...because of those that were scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost." This is a lesson in enduring to the end. For members of the church, baptism and temple covenants are no guarantee of salvation. If we allow ourselves to give into peer pressure and focus on the things of this world, we are in danger of falling away. We need to learn how to resist the world and its enticements. This group has fallen into inactivity and no longer keeps the covenants they made at baptism.
Group 3: Partook of the Fruit and Heeded Not the Scorners
In 1 Nephi 8:30,33, the third group is the one of which we want to be part. Similar to the second group, the third group overcomes the temptations or mists of darkness by "continually holding fast to the rod of iron" until they are able to partake of the fruit. This group also notices the great and spacious building full of scorning, mocking people, but the key difference is that this group "heeded them not."
I find it interesting that the group that succeeded actually faces the same challenges as the first two groups. No shortcut or easy path was taken to bypass the challenges and safely arrive at the tree. They experienced the same mists of darkness (temptation), had to persevere along the same straight and narrow path, and then had the same building of mocking people pointing and scorning them after they partook of the fruit. The difference is that this group clung to the word of God during their journey, and then chose to pay no attention to the scorners upon their arrival. They cared more about God's work than the world, more about what God thought of them than what the world thought of them. This group is able to experience the true joy that comes from the fruit of the gospel.
Group 4: Were Feeling their Way to the Great and Spacious Building
In 1 Nephi 8:31-33, the final group was less a group and actually described as "other multitudes." These were lost in the darkness "feeling their way towards the great and spacious building." Lehi says that "great was the multitude that did enter into that strange building" but also "many were drowned in the depths of the fountain" or "lost from his view, wandering in strange roads" while making their attempt towards the building. Those that arrived at the building successfully, immediately pointed "their finger of scorn" at those who were partaking of the fruit.
This group never even faced the challenge of holding to the rod or withstanding the world while partaking of the fruit. They never even desired the fruit. Their focus from the start was on getting to the great and spacious building. This group had the same opportunities, for surely they could have chosen the straight and narrow path, but they used their agency to choose misery and death. These are they who never look for happiness by giving God's gospel a chance. They look for joy in the pleasures of the world that are impossible to satisfy and then exacerbate their situation by mocking those who are on the right path, trying to make them miserable like unto themselves.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Benefits and Blessings of Scripture Study - the reason why we're told to study the scriptures daily
I recently (yesterday) spoke in Church about feasting on the word and its benefits. I wanted to share some of the notes I took (mostly quotes) about scripture study as I prepared for the talk- much of what I shared was from these quotes. I don't have links and references in all of these, but you can search on Google or LDS.org and find any of these talks- leave me a comment if there is one you can't find and I'll send you a link.
Scripture study brings us closer to God by increasing our faith, testimony, and spirituality.
-Elder Eyring: “The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, and we learn about Him in its pages. We know that it has great power. It has the power to change lives. It has the power to convert. If you read it with an open heart, you will know that it is the word of God and that it is true...Another reason to study it regularly, for me at least, is that I can pick up the Book of Mormon, open to any page, read, and the Holy Ghost bears personal witness to me that it is the word of God. I know the Lord is speaking. I know the Book of Mormon is what it claims to be.”
-Elder Bednar: “Studying and feasting suggest a focus and an intensity that reach far beyond casual reading or quick perusing. Studying and feasting, followed by sincere prayer and steadfast application of the truths and principles we learn, yield personal resolve, spiritual commitment, and the bright light of testimony. Studying, learning, praying, and appropriately applying gospel truths are all key elements in the process of coming unto the Savior.”
-President Harold B. Lee: “If we’re not reading the scriptures daily, our testimonies are growing thinner, our spirituality isn’t increasing in depth.”
-President Spencer W. Kimball taught: “I find that when I get casual in my relationships with divinity and when it seems that no divine ear is listening and no divine voice is speaking, that I am far, far away. If I immerse myself in the scriptures the distance narrows and the spirituality returns”
-Elder Bateman of 12: There are certain blessings obtained when one searches the scriptures. As a person studies the words of the Lord and obeys them, he or she draws closer to the Savior and obtains a greater desire to live a righteous life. The power to resist temptation increases, and spiritual weaknesses are overcome. Spiritual wounds are healed.
Scripture study helps us overcome temptation
-Nephi answered his brothers’ questions about the tree of life in 1 Ne 15:24 “And I said unto them that it was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction.”
(explains how) -Elder Eyring: “The Holy Ghost confirms to us the word of God when we read it. That confirmation, repeated often, strengthens our faith. And it is by faith that we overcome obstacles and resist temptation.”
Scripture study helps us receive personal revelation and guidance from the Lord
-(two major ways the Lord guides us) Elder Kendrick of 70: “Our Heavenly Father continues to communicate with us through revelation. These revelations are communications of divine directions. They may come to us personally or through the voice of the Lord’s chosen servants...Those revelations received by prophets are given to us in the form of scripture or by the voice of the living prophets. Thus the scriptures become a road map, a set of divine directions to assist us on our journey through mortality and our return trip home.
-Elder Hales: “For when we want to speak to God, we pray. And when we want Him to speak to us, we search the scriptures; for His words are spoken through His prophets. He will then teach us as we listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit...If you have not heard His voice speaking to you lately, return with new eyes and new ears to the scriptures. They are our spiritual lifeline.”
-Sister Cheryl Lant (Gen Primary President): “I find that if I pray not only to have a witness of the truthfulness of the scriptures but also to have the Spirit with me as I read, my sensitivity is heightened, and I see ever so much more clearly. I can see where I am in my life and where my Heavenly Father wants me to be. I can understand principles of truth, and I can see how to make the needed changes in my life. I can feel assured that the Lord will help and strengthen me to accomplish the task.”
-President Benson, in the April 1986 general conference, expressed these thoughts: “However diligent we may be in other areas, certain blessings are to be found only in the scriptures, only in coming to the word of the Lord and holding fast to it as we make our way through the mists of darkness to the tree of life.”
-Remember President Hinckley’s promises that he made to the members who committed to read the Book of Mormon: “an added measure of the Spirit of the Lord, a strengthened resolution to walk in obedience to His commandments, and a stronger testimony of the living reality of the Son of God.”
-When Elder Eyring was asked how studying the scriptures had benefited him personally, he responded: “The scriptures were one of the ways God spoke to me—even when I was a child—about my needs, my situation, and my life. They still are. Since our needs change over a lifetime, God has different things to tell us at different times. Sometimes I go to the scriptures for doctrine. Sometimes I go to the scriptures for instruction. I go with a question, and the question usually is “What would God have me do?” or “What would He have me feel?” Invariably I find new ideas, thoughts I have never had before, and I receive inspiration and instruction and answers to my questions.“
-Eyring: “Going to the scriptures to learn what to do makes all the difference. The Lord can teach us. When we come to a crisis in our life, such as losing a child or spouse, we should go looking in the scriptures for specific help. We will find answers in the scriptures. The Lord seemed to anticipate all of our problems and all of our needs, and He put help in the scriptures for us—if only we seek it.”
Scripture study teaches us to recognize the Lord’s voice
-David McConkie (sunday school presidency) in a conference address last year taught: “The Lord has commanded us to search the scriptures, to feast upon them, and to treasure them up. As we earnestly search and ponder the word of the Lord, we will have His Spirit with us. We will become acquainted with His voice.
Soon after I was called to be a stake president, our stake presidency received training from an Area Seventy. During the training, I asked a question to which he responded, “That is a good question. Let’s turn to the Church Handbook of Instructions for the answer.” We then went to the handbook, and there was the answer to my question. A little later in our training, I asked another question. Once again he responded, “Good question. Let’s turn to the handbook.” I did not venture to ask any more questions. I thought it best to read the handbook.
I have thought since that the Lord could give a similar response to each of us as we go to Him with concerns or questions. He could say, “That’s a good question. If you will review Alma chapter 5 or Doctrine and Covenants section 76, you’ll remember that I have already spoken to you about this.”
Brothers and sisters, it is contrary to the economy of heaven for the Lord to repeat to each of us individually what He has already revealed to us collectively. The scriptures contain the words of Christ. They are the voice of the Lord. Studying the scriptures trains us to hear the Lord’s voice.”
-The Lord himself taught that the scriptures are his voice (D&C 18:34–36.): “These words are not of men nor of man, but of me; …“For it is my voice which speaketh them unto you; for they are given by my Spirit … , and by my power you can read them one to another. …“Wherefore, you can testify that you have heard my voice, and know my words.”
-Elder Eyring: “The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, and we learn about Him in its pages. We know that it has great power. It has the power to change lives. It has the power to convert. If you read it with an open heart, you will know that it is the word of God and that it is true...Another reason to study it regularly, for me at least, is that I can pick up the Book of Mormon, open to any page, read, and the Holy Ghost bears personal witness to me that it is the word of God. I know the Lord is speaking. I know the Book of Mormon is what it claims to be.”
-Elder Bednar: “Studying and feasting suggest a focus and an intensity that reach far beyond casual reading or quick perusing. Studying and feasting, followed by sincere prayer and steadfast application of the truths and principles we learn, yield personal resolve, spiritual commitment, and the bright light of testimony. Studying, learning, praying, and appropriately applying gospel truths are all key elements in the process of coming unto the Savior.”
-President Harold B. Lee: “If we’re not reading the scriptures daily, our testimonies are growing thinner, our spirituality isn’t increasing in depth.”
-President Spencer W. Kimball taught: “I find that when I get casual in my relationships with divinity and when it seems that no divine ear is listening and no divine voice is speaking, that I am far, far away. If I immerse myself in the scriptures the distance narrows and the spirituality returns”
-Elder Bateman of 12: There are certain blessings obtained when one searches the scriptures. As a person studies the words of the Lord and obeys them, he or she draws closer to the Savior and obtains a greater desire to live a righteous life. The power to resist temptation increases, and spiritual weaknesses are overcome. Spiritual wounds are healed.
Scripture study helps us overcome temptation
-Nephi answered his brothers’ questions about the tree of life in 1 Ne 15:24 “And I said unto them that it was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction.”
(explains how) -Elder Eyring: “The Holy Ghost confirms to us the word of God when we read it. That confirmation, repeated often, strengthens our faith. And it is by faith that we overcome obstacles and resist temptation.”
Scripture study helps us receive personal revelation and guidance from the Lord
-(two major ways the Lord guides us) Elder Kendrick of 70: “Our Heavenly Father continues to communicate with us through revelation. These revelations are communications of divine directions. They may come to us personally or through the voice of the Lord’s chosen servants...Those revelations received by prophets are given to us in the form of scripture or by the voice of the living prophets. Thus the scriptures become a road map, a set of divine directions to assist us on our journey through mortality and our return trip home.
-Elder Hales: “For when we want to speak to God, we pray. And when we want Him to speak to us, we search the scriptures; for His words are spoken through His prophets. He will then teach us as we listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit...If you have not heard His voice speaking to you lately, return with new eyes and new ears to the scriptures. They are our spiritual lifeline.”
-Sister Cheryl Lant (Gen Primary President): “I find that if I pray not only to have a witness of the truthfulness of the scriptures but also to have the Spirit with me as I read, my sensitivity is heightened, and I see ever so much more clearly. I can see where I am in my life and where my Heavenly Father wants me to be. I can understand principles of truth, and I can see how to make the needed changes in my life. I can feel assured that the Lord will help and strengthen me to accomplish the task.”
-President Benson, in the April 1986 general conference, expressed these thoughts: “However diligent we may be in other areas, certain blessings are to be found only in the scriptures, only in coming to the word of the Lord and holding fast to it as we make our way through the mists of darkness to the tree of life.”
-Remember President Hinckley’s promises that he made to the members who committed to read the Book of Mormon: “an added measure of the Spirit of the Lord, a strengthened resolution to walk in obedience to His commandments, and a stronger testimony of the living reality of the Son of God.”
-When Elder Eyring was asked how studying the scriptures had benefited him personally, he responded: “The scriptures were one of the ways God spoke to me—even when I was a child—about my needs, my situation, and my life. They still are. Since our needs change over a lifetime, God has different things to tell us at different times. Sometimes I go to the scriptures for doctrine. Sometimes I go to the scriptures for instruction. I go with a question, and the question usually is “What would God have me do?” or “What would He have me feel?” Invariably I find new ideas, thoughts I have never had before, and I receive inspiration and instruction and answers to my questions.“
-Eyring: “Going to the scriptures to learn what to do makes all the difference. The Lord can teach us. When we come to a crisis in our life, such as losing a child or spouse, we should go looking in the scriptures for specific help. We will find answers in the scriptures. The Lord seemed to anticipate all of our problems and all of our needs, and He put help in the scriptures for us—if only we seek it.”
Scripture study teaches us to recognize the Lord’s voice
-David McConkie (sunday school presidency) in a conference address last year taught: “The Lord has commanded us to search the scriptures, to feast upon them, and to treasure them up. As we earnestly search and ponder the word of the Lord, we will have His Spirit with us. We will become acquainted with His voice.
Soon after I was called to be a stake president, our stake presidency received training from an Area Seventy. During the training, I asked a question to which he responded, “That is a good question. Let’s turn to the Church Handbook of Instructions for the answer.” We then went to the handbook, and there was the answer to my question. A little later in our training, I asked another question. Once again he responded, “Good question. Let’s turn to the handbook.” I did not venture to ask any more questions. I thought it best to read the handbook.
I have thought since that the Lord could give a similar response to each of us as we go to Him with concerns or questions. He could say, “That’s a good question. If you will review Alma chapter 5 or Doctrine and Covenants section 76, you’ll remember that I have already spoken to you about this.”
Brothers and sisters, it is contrary to the economy of heaven for the Lord to repeat to each of us individually what He has already revealed to us collectively. The scriptures contain the words of Christ. They are the voice of the Lord. Studying the scriptures trains us to hear the Lord’s voice.”
-The Lord himself taught that the scriptures are his voice (D&C 18:34–36.): “These words are not of men nor of man, but of me; …“For it is my voice which speaketh them unto you; for they are given by my Spirit … , and by my power you can read them one to another. …“Wherefore, you can testify that you have heard my voice, and know my words.”
Why Study the Scriptures?
Feasting Upon Sweet Scriptures
In contemplating the phrase "feast upon the words of Christ" it's easy to wonder how one really feasts upon the scriptures. Anyone can read the scriptures. With a little bit of additional effort it isn't too hard to study the scriptures. But what does it take to feast upon the scriptures? Anyone who reads the scriptures much knows that they taste good. What I mean by that is that you feel the truth of what you're reading and it makes you feel good. But to feast on the scriptures, they'd have to be delicious to you and Alma teaches us how they can:
The Psalmist said it another way, "How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalms 119:103). If we're to feast upon the word, I think it's safe to say the scriptures need to be sweet honey to our taste.
A Reservoir of Living Water
Read this masterful discourse given by Elder Bednar: A Reservoir of Living Water.
Consider how important water is to sustaining physical life. The Savior referred to his word as the "living water." Elder Bednar: "And as water is necessary to sustain physical life, so the Savior and His doctrines, principles, and ordinances are essential for eternal life. You and I need His living water daily and in ample supply to sustain our ongoing spiritual growth and development."
I like the analogy that the scriptures are a reservoir of living water. We know that the Savior is the fountain of living water, so it makes sense to consider the scriptures a reservoir where His word is stored and readily accessible for our consumption.
In contemplating the phrase "feast upon the words of Christ" it's easy to wonder how one really feasts upon the scriptures. Anyone can read the scriptures. With a little bit of additional effort it isn't too hard to study the scriptures. But what does it take to feast upon the scriptures? Anyone who reads the scriptures much knows that they taste good. What I mean by that is that you feel the truth of what you're reading and it makes you feel good. But to feast on the scriptures, they'd have to be delicious to you and Alma teaches us how they can:
"Now, we will compare the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give place, that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it be a true seed, or a good seed, if ye do not cast it out by your unbelief, that ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it will begin to swell within your breasts; and when you feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me." (Alma 32:28)Alma compares the word of God (the scriptures) unto a seed. If you bring the word into your heart and believe the word, it will continue to enlarge your soul, enlighten your understanding, and finally begin to be delicious to you. This is a process that takes time - it doesn't happen overnight.
The Psalmist said it another way, "How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalms 119:103). If we're to feast upon the word, I think it's safe to say the scriptures need to be sweet honey to our taste.
A Reservoir of Living Water
Read this masterful discourse given by Elder Bednar: A Reservoir of Living Water.
Consider how important water is to sustaining physical life. The Savior referred to his word as the "living water." Elder Bednar: "And as water is necessary to sustain physical life, so the Savior and His doctrines, principles, and ordinances are essential for eternal life. You and I need His living water daily and in ample supply to sustain our ongoing spiritual growth and development."
I like the analogy that the scriptures are a reservoir of living water. We know that the Savior is the fountain of living water, so it makes sense to consider the scriptures a reservoir where His word is stored and readily accessible for our consumption.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
How the Bible and the Book of Mormon are Testaments of Jesus Christ
Much of the Christian world believes in the Old Testament and the New Testament. These books, or collections of books, are testaments of the Savior of the World, Jesus Christ. In this dispensation (the last days) we've been blessed with another testament of Jesus Christ, The Book of Mormon. Both books are written by prophets and apostles who were called of God to preach and write his doctrine. In both cases the doctrine centers around Jesus Christ and his gospel plan through which salvation can be obtained.
In the Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 29 explains really well the purpose of having the Bible and the Book of Mormon as two witnesses of Christ. Verse 8 says:
In the New Testament, Paul declares, "To [Jesus Christ] give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins." He clearly teaches that God calls prophets to witness of Jesus Christ. This is the purpose of scripture, both the Bible and Book of Mormon. Anyone who has a problem with God giving us another witness of Jesus Christ is in danger of rejecting his holy prophets who speak His word.
What does this mean for you!?
This means that you have another testament of Jesus Christ to help you draw closer to God and learn his gospel plan for you. The Book of Mormon has helped me grow so much closer to God; in fact, the book has changed my life and helped me become who I am today. It can help you as well- I know it can. Put it to the test- request a free copy of the Book of Mormon by visiting http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/.
In the Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 29 explains really well the purpose of having the Bible and the Book of Mormon as two witnesses of Christ. Verse 8 says:
"Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also." 2 Nephi 29:8This passage in 2 Nephi explains that God remembers all his people wherever in the world they may be. He speaks to them and commands them to write His words. We should not complain about receiving more of His word as it is another testimony of Him.
In the New Testament, Paul declares, "To [Jesus Christ] give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins." He clearly teaches that God calls prophets to witness of Jesus Christ. This is the purpose of scripture, both the Bible and Book of Mormon. Anyone who has a problem with God giving us another witness of Jesus Christ is in danger of rejecting his holy prophets who speak His word.
What does this mean for you!?
This means that you have another testament of Jesus Christ to help you draw closer to God and learn his gospel plan for you. The Book of Mormon has helped me grow so much closer to God; in fact, the book has changed my life and helped me become who I am today. It can help you as well- I know it can. Put it to the test- request a free copy of the Book of Mormon by visiting http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
What does the Bible say about the Book of Mormon?
The Bible Talks about Jesus Visiting the People Recorded in the Book of Mormon
John 10:16 talks about "other sheep" that Jesus said were of a different fold than the Jews. He told the Jews that he must also bring them in so that there was "one fold, and one shepherd." I believe this was referring to other people in a different area of the earth, in the American continents. I believe this for three reasons:
1. He was already among his sheep while among the Jews, so he was not referring to the Jews as "other sheep." Further, Jesus said that he was only sent to "the lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matthew 15:24), which means not to the Gentiles. The people inhabiting the Americas are a branch of the house of Israel (tribe of Joseph- see 1 Nephi 5:14).
2. Jesus visited the Americas after his resurrection. You can read all about it in 3 Nephi 11 in the Book of Mormon.
3. Most importantly, Jesus himself said that this is the case in 3 Nephi 15:21 while among the Nephites in the Americas. He told the Nephites, "And verily I say unto you, that ye are they of whom I said: Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd." It doesn't get much clearer than that.
The Bible talks about the Sticks of Joseph and Judah becoming One
In Ezekiel 37:15-17 a prophecy is given about the union of the Bible and the Book of Mormon. The word "stick" in this context likely refers to wooden writing tablets used during this time. The phrase "Stick of Judah" would be the writings of the Jews, known to us as the Bible. Remember, it wasn't called "the Bible" back then and most of it didn't even exist yet. The Bible does not contain a record of Joseph, so I expect most Bible scholars and historians would assume that these records had been lost thousands of years ago.
The great truth is that they were not lost. The "stick of Joseph" - or scriptural account of the descendants of Joseph - is the Book of Mormon. And the prophecy has literally been fulfilled as I carry my Book of Mormon and Bible in my hand as one. As I mentioned previously in this post, the Book of Mormon contains the record of a people who were descendants of Joseph and were guided by the hand of the Lord to the Americas. Their record became the Book of Mormon.
Isaiah in the Bible Prophesied of the Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon
Isaiah prophesied of a people "speaking out of the dust" (Isaiah 29:4). I believe that he is referring to the Nephite people who lived in the Americas and wrote what is now the Book of Mormon. Around AD 400, the prophet Moroni buried the Book of Mormon, which was written on metal plates, in a stone box beneath the earth. They were preserved there until the latter-day prophet Joseph Smith was led to them and translated them by the power and gift of God in AD 1829. The Book of Mormon was literally buried in the earth and now has been brought forth "out of the dust" to speak to us.
Isaiah prophesied further about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon later in the same chapter. Isaiah wrote: "And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed" (Isaiah 29:11). The Book of Mormon had a portion of it which was sealed and remains sealed to this day. Martin Harris met with Charles Anthon, a professor in New York City and expert in ancient writings. Martin Harris presented him with some of the characters from the Book of Mormon and Joseph's translation of them. Anthon asserted that the translation was true and asked to translate the plates himself. Martin informed him that part of the plates were sealed and he unknowingly fulfilled prophecy with his response, "I cannot read a sealed book!" (Joseph Smith- History 1:63-65).
Isaiah continues in verse 12: "And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned." Isaiah sees the boy Joseph, who didn't have more than a Jr. High education and felt overwhelmed by the calling to translate ancient scripture into English. Isaiah continues to describe the time in which the Book of Mormon was restored and the "marvelous work and a wonder" that He performed through his prophet Joseph Smith to restore his Church to the earth (Isaiah 29:13-18).
John 10:16 talks about "other sheep" that Jesus said were of a different fold than the Jews. He told the Jews that he must also bring them in so that there was "one fold, and one shepherd." I believe this was referring to other people in a different area of the earth, in the American continents. I believe this for three reasons:
1. He was already among his sheep while among the Jews, so he was not referring to the Jews as "other sheep." Further, Jesus said that he was only sent to "the lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matthew 15:24), which means not to the Gentiles. The people inhabiting the Americas are a branch of the house of Israel (tribe of Joseph- see 1 Nephi 5:14).
2. Jesus visited the Americas after his resurrection. You can read all about it in 3 Nephi 11 in the Book of Mormon.
3. Most importantly, Jesus himself said that this is the case in 3 Nephi 15:21 while among the Nephites in the Americas. He told the Nephites, "And verily I say unto you, that ye are they of whom I said: Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd." It doesn't get much clearer than that.
The Bible talks about the Sticks of Joseph and Judah becoming One
In Ezekiel 37:15-17 a prophecy is given about the union of the Bible and the Book of Mormon. The word "stick" in this context likely refers to wooden writing tablets used during this time. The phrase "Stick of Judah" would be the writings of the Jews, known to us as the Bible. Remember, it wasn't called "the Bible" back then and most of it didn't even exist yet. The Bible does not contain a record of Joseph, so I expect most Bible scholars and historians would assume that these records had been lost thousands of years ago.
The great truth is that they were not lost. The "stick of Joseph" - or scriptural account of the descendants of Joseph - is the Book of Mormon. And the prophecy has literally been fulfilled as I carry my Book of Mormon and Bible in my hand as one. As I mentioned previously in this post, the Book of Mormon contains the record of a people who were descendants of Joseph and were guided by the hand of the Lord to the Americas. Their record became the Book of Mormon.
Isaiah in the Bible Prophesied of the Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon
Isaiah prophesied of a people "speaking out of the dust" (Isaiah 29:4). I believe that he is referring to the Nephite people who lived in the Americas and wrote what is now the Book of Mormon. Around AD 400, the prophet Moroni buried the Book of Mormon, which was written on metal plates, in a stone box beneath the earth. They were preserved there until the latter-day prophet Joseph Smith was led to them and translated them by the power and gift of God in AD 1829. The Book of Mormon was literally buried in the earth and now has been brought forth "out of the dust" to speak to us.
Isaiah prophesied further about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon later in the same chapter. Isaiah wrote: "And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed" (Isaiah 29:11). The Book of Mormon had a portion of it which was sealed and remains sealed to this day. Martin Harris met with Charles Anthon, a professor in New York City and expert in ancient writings. Martin Harris presented him with some of the characters from the Book of Mormon and Joseph's translation of them. Anthon asserted that the translation was true and asked to translate the plates himself. Martin informed him that part of the plates were sealed and he unknowingly fulfilled prophecy with his response, "I cannot read a sealed book!" (Joseph Smith- History 1:63-65).
Isaiah continues in verse 12: "And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned." Isaiah sees the boy Joseph, who didn't have more than a Jr. High education and felt overwhelmed by the calling to translate ancient scripture into English. Isaiah continues to describe the time in which the Book of Mormon was restored and the "marvelous work and a wonder" that He performed through his prophet Joseph Smith to restore his Church to the earth (Isaiah 29:13-18).
Thursday, May 27, 2010
The Blessing of Scripture by Elder D. Todd Christofferson
Quotes and remarks are based on the talk entitled "The Blessing of Scripture" by Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles in the April 2010 General Conference- the complete talk can be found here.
Elder Christofferson begins his message by relating the story of William Tyndale, how he translated the Bible into English, and finally was martyred for it. He also speaks of many others who suffered and risked much to preserve the word of God throughout the centuries. He poses these thought-provoking questions:
The talk's thesis:
Elder Christofferson begins his message by relating the story of William Tyndale, how he translated the Bible into English, and finally was martyred for it. He also speaks of many others who suffered and risked much to preserve the word of God throughout the centuries. He poses these thought-provoking questions:
"What did they know about the importance of scriptures that we also need to know? What did people in 16th-century England, who paid enormous sums and ran grave personal risks for access to a Bible, understand that we should also understand?"I wonder how much we really take the Bible and other scriptures for granted when people literally gave their lives in order to have this sacred text and to make it available for us...
The talk's thesis:
"Through the scriptures, God does indeed “show forth his power” to save and exalt His children. By His word, as Alma said, He enlarges our memory, sheds light on falsehood and error, and brings us to repentance and to rejoice in Jesus Christ, our Redeemer."He then continues to expound some of the ways the scriptures can and should bless our lives:
"The scriptures enlarge our memory by helping us always to remember the Lord and our relationship to Him and the Father. They remind us of what we knew in our premortal life."
"...And as these things penetrate our minds and hearts, our faith in God and His Beloved Son takes root."
"God uses scripture to unmask erroneous thinking, false traditions, and sin with its devastating effects. He is a tender parent who would spare us needless suffering and grief and at the same time help us realize our divine potential. "Another good quote to get you thinking:
"In Tyndale’s day, scriptural ignorance abounded because people lacked access to the Bible, especially in a language they could understand. Today the Bible and other scripture are readily at hand, yet there is a growing scriptural illiteracy because people will not open the books. Consequently they have forgotten things their grandparents knew."
"His commandments are the voice of reality and our protection against self-inflicted pain. The scriptures are the touchstone for measuring correctness and truth, and they are clear that real happiness lies not in denying the justice of God or trying to circumvent the consequences of sin but in repentance and forgiveness through the atoning grace of the Son of God (see Alma 42)."This is why the scriptures are so essential to society:
"Where scriptural truths are ignored or abandoned, the essential moral core of society disintegrates and decay is close behind. In time, nothing is left to sustain the institutions that sustain society."And why they are so incredibly important for us:
"In the end, the central purpose of all scripture is to fill our souls with faith in God the Father and in His Son, Jesus Christ"
"Faith comes by the witness of the Holy Spirit to our souls, Spirit to spirit, as we hear or read the word of God. And faith matures as we continue to feast upon the word."The role of the Holy Ghost and revelation:
"Therefore, being in the scriptures is one way we receive the Holy Ghost. Of course, scripture is given through the Holy Ghost in the first place (see 2 Peter 1:21; D&C 20:26–27; 68:4), and that same Spirit can attest its truth to you and me. Study the scriptures carefully, deliberately. Ponder and pray over them. Scriptures are revelation, and they will bring added revelation."Let us not take the scriptures for granted. Let us remember their value in our lives and the benefit that can be ours as we study them. We are so blessed to have the scriptures in so many forms including free online: scriptures.lds.org. "Surely with this blessing the Lord is telling us that our need for constant recourse to the scriptures is greater than in any previous time."
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Who is God?
I want to explore a little bit about what the scriptures teach about God because without a basic understanding of God, we cannot understand our relationship to Him or his plan for us.
God Is the Supreme Ruler and Creator of the Universe
God told Moses very plainly who he was when he said, "I am the Beginning and the End, the Almighty God; by mine Only Begotten I created these things; yea, in the beginning I created the heaven, and the earth upon which thou standest." (Moses 2:1)
In the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin exhorted his people, "Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend." (Mosiah 4:9)
God Has a Body
We know that God is perfect, all-knowing, and all-powerful, but what is his body like? A couple scriptures teach us the answer. In Genesis Moses writes, " Let us make man in our image, after our likeness...So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." (Genesis 1:26-27)
Likeness and image suggests that God and man are similar in their appearance, so God looks like a man, though perfect and glorious. Another insightful scripture is found in the Doctrine and Covenants where the Lord revealed to the prophet Joseph Smith, "The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s..." (D&C 130:22)This scripture goes on to explain that Jesus Christ also has a tangible, physical body like the Father, but the Holy Ghost is a personage of Spirit, without a tangible body.
Other Scriptures about God
There are many other scriptures that teach us more about God. Here are a couple that I like because they testify of his love, mercy, and power:
Get to Know God
Jesus Christ taught us that it is very important for us to get to know God and who he is. The Savior said, "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." (John 17:3)
The best way to get to know God and Jesus Christ is by studying their words. As we immerse ourselves in the holy scriptures, we will get to know them on a more personal level. I also recommend sincere, heartfelt prayer to pour out our hearts to God and seek his guidance in our daily lives. We can also trust and love God more by committing ourselves to obey all of his commandments, for the Lord said, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15)
God Is the Supreme Ruler and Creator of the Universe
God told Moses very plainly who he was when he said, "I am the Beginning and the End, the Almighty God; by mine Only Begotten I created these things; yea, in the beginning I created the heaven, and the earth upon which thou standest." (Moses 2:1)
In the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin exhorted his people, "Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend." (Mosiah 4:9)
God Has a Body
We know that God is perfect, all-knowing, and all-powerful, but what is his body like? A couple scriptures teach us the answer. In Genesis Moses writes, " Let us make man in our image, after our likeness...So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." (Genesis 1:26-27)
Likeness and image suggests that God and man are similar in their appearance, so God looks like a man, though perfect and glorious. Another insightful scripture is found in the Doctrine and Covenants where the Lord revealed to the prophet Joseph Smith, "The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s..." (D&C 130:22)This scripture goes on to explain that Jesus Christ also has a tangible, physical body like the Father, but the Holy Ghost is a personage of Spirit, without a tangible body.
Other Scriptures about God
There are many other scriptures that teach us more about God. Here are a couple that I like because they testify of his love, mercy, and power:
"And my joy is carried away, even unto boasting in my God; for he has all power, all wisdom, and all understanding; he comprehendeth all things, and he is a merciful Being, even unto salvation, to those who will repent and believe on his name." (Alma 26:35)
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
"O Lord God Almighty, hear us in these our petitions, and answer us from heaven, thy holy habitation, where thou sittest enthroned, with glory, honor, power, majesty, might, dominion, truth, justice, judgment, mercy, and an infinity of fulness, from everlasting to everlasting." (D&C 109:77)
Get to Know God
Jesus Christ taught us that it is very important for us to get to know God and who he is. The Savior said, "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." (John 17:3)
The best way to get to know God and Jesus Christ is by studying their words. As we immerse ourselves in the holy scriptures, we will get to know them on a more personal level. I also recommend sincere, heartfelt prayer to pour out our hearts to God and seek his guidance in our daily lives. We can also trust and love God more by committing ourselves to obey all of his commandments, for the Lord said, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15)
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