Right and Wrong Level 1: God's Law

This is a follow on to my earlier post: Two Levels of Right and Wrong

As I wrote about earlier, I've come to the conclusion that there are two levels of right and wrong.  One is global while the other is personal.  In this post I want to discuss the first level, God's law.

I'm sure I don't need to go into too much detail explaining how God is righteous and holy, and that He ultimately sets the standard for what is right and wrong.  In fact the scriptures state that not only is He perfectly righteous and good, but if He were to deviate from this just a little, He would cease to be God (Alma 42: 13, 22, 25; Morm. 9: 19).  Of course there is no chance of that ever happening (his goodness and righteousness wouldn't allow it), so we're all safe.

Since God wants us to become like Him in all of His attributes and perfection (Moses 1: 39) He has given us His law to guide us (Prov. 6: 23; 3 Ne. 15: 9).  This is why I consider God's Law the foundation of all right and wrong.

His laws also go beyond mere morality.  Since He created the world, all of creation follow the laws He ordained from the beginning (including fundamental laws like gravity and electro-magnetism) (D&C 88: 13).  It would make no more sense to try to live a good life while disregarding God's moral laws, than it would be to try to build a computer while disregarding the laws of electro-magnetism.  All goodness and blessings come only from following God's laws (D&C 130: 20-21).  As Alma clearly taught, "wickedness never was happiness." (Alma 41: 10).

So how do we find out God's laws?  The scientific method has been very effective at identifying the laws God uses to govern the physical world, but hasn't been quite as effective at identifying God's moral laws.  (In my opinion that's why the physical sciences tend to progress further and faster than the social sciences.)  While we are spiritual creatures, we're living in a fallen and carnal world.  Without God's direct involvement, I doubt we'd even be able to properly frame the necessary questions much less identify the answers.  We'd be "ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (2 Tim. 3: 7).

This is precisely why God has declared His law to mankind through prophets (Jer. 35: 15; Mosiah 3: 13; Moses 5: 58).  This law has then been preserved for us in the Scriptures.  The Old Testament records God's dealing with mankind from the creation to before the coming of Christ.  While it was geared most specifically towards the Children of Israel, it is the foundation upon which are other scriptures are build (i.e., all other scriptures assume you have an understanding of the Old Testament.)  It's probably the most widely accepted book of scripture in the world today and formed the basis of just about all modern law and government.

The New Testament records the fulfillment of the Law of Moses by Christ.  It's teachings build upon the Old Testament, and it provides further understanding of how it's necessary to center your life on Christ.  While it teaches that the actual practices of the Law of Moses are no longer necessary, the righteous principles that under-girded the Law of Moses still apply.  All who accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior are obligated to accept the Old and New Testament (the Bible) as authoritative.

Finally, in our day God has provided further guidance and direction with the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price.  These books of scripture are meant to clarify and expand on the teachings of the Bible.  All who have come to accept the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as Christ's restored church on earth today, and have joined it through baptism, are bound follow the teachings found in all these scriptures.

In short, God has given us the Scriptures to be a guide in this life.  It is His law as contained in the scriptures that are binding and authoritative (D&C 42: 59).  Any teaching, doctrine, or guidance must be found in the scriptures, or they're not binding on us as a whole.  There is also only one person on the earth who has been authorized to add, delete, or modify what's spelled out in the scriptures: God's ordained prophet (D&C 43: 2-6).  If it comes from anyone else, you can be assured that it's not authoritative or binding, even if it may be true.  (If it is true, but hasn't yet been revealed to the Church through the Prophet, that person should have kept it to themselves in accordance with Alma 12: 9.)

The Scriptures don't speak kindly of those who would try to supplant God's words with their own.  Whether it's false prophets (Jer. 14: 14-15), false teachers (2 Pet. 2: 1), or people using their own standard for judgment instead of what the Lord has given (James 4: 11-12), the result is not good.  That is why it is so important to diligently search the scriptures ourselves.  Not only does this help us know how to best govern our own lives, but it helps us to identify false teachers who misinterpret or go beyond what is actually written.

[I've heard people try to use D&C 1: 38 and D&C 68: 4 to argue that the teachings of any church leader given in an official capacity are scripture and binding.  However, these scriptures need to be read in light of D&C 43: 2-6, referenced above.  Their teachings are scripture when they're proclaiming the gospel by "reasoning with and expounding all scriptures unto them," (D&C 68: 1) not making up brand new scripture.   For more information this statement by the Church or this talk by J. Reuben Clark, Jr. can be useful.  I'll have more to say about it in my next post.]

In summary, God's Law provides the ultimate source of right and wrong.  While it may be binding only to those who have made covenants with Him, it's still very beneficial for all people.  The Scriptures contain the portion of His law that He expects all of us to follow.  If anyone tries to teach you something that can't be found in the Scriptures, you can be assured it isn't from God (unless that person is His ordained Prophet and he's acting in that capacity.)  This forms the baseline from which everything else is established.

The next level of right and wrong, which comes into play where the Scriptures are silent, is your own individual conscience as guided by the Holy Ghost.  That will be the subject of my next post.

The Who, What, When, Where, Why and How of Repentance

[The following is a talk that was given in our Sacrament Meeting by a good friend, Suzie.  I liked it so much I asked for her permission to post it here on my blog.  She consented so here it is.  I hope you find it as rewarding a I did.]

Today my talk is on Repentance.

I was assigned read Elder David A. Bednar talk “Clean Hands and a Pure Heart” and to teach with that as my tool. In his talk he stated that Prophets throughout the ages have emphasized the dual requirements of (1) avoiding and overcoming bad and (2) doing good and becoming better. We call this process of refinement repentance.

Brothers and sisters, it is possible for us to have clean hands but not have a pure heart. Please notice that both clean hands and a pure heart are required to ascend into the hill of the Lord and to stand in His holy place.

Let me suggest that hands are made clean through the process of putting off the natural man and by overcoming sin and the evil influences in our lives through the Savior’s Atonement. Hearts are purified as we receive His strengthening power to do good and become better. All of our worthy desires and good works, as necessary as they are, can never produce clean hands and a pure heart. It is the Atonement of Jesus Christ that provides both a cleansing and redeeming power that helps us to overcome sin and a sanctifying and strengthening power that helps us to become better than we ever could by relying only upon our own strength. The infinite Atonement is for both the sinner and for the saint in each of us.

As King Benjamin concluded his instruction, he reiterated the importance of these two basic aspects of spiritual development.

And now, for the sake of these things which I have spoken unto you—that is, for the sake of retaining a remission of your sins from day to day, that ye may walk guiltless before God (Mosiah 4:26)

Some who hear or read this message may think the spiritual progress I am describing is not attainable in their lives. We may believe these truths apply to others but not to us.

We will not attain a state of perfection in this life, but we can and should press forward with faith in Christ along the strait and narrow path and make steady progress toward our eternal destiny. The Lord’s pattern for spiritual development is “line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little” (2 Nephi 28:30). Small, steady, incremental spiritual improvements are the steps the Lord would have us take. Preparing to walk guiltless before God is one of the primary purposes of mortality and the pursuit of a lifetime; it does not result from sporadic spurts of intense spiritual activity.

Who needs to repent?

We all need to repent. The only person in this world who has never needed to repent was Jesus Christ. Who will be forgiven if they repent? Everyone will be forgiven. There is one small catch. We must also forgive others, if we want to reap the rewards of our own forgiveness.

Doctrine and Covenants 64:10

I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.

Doctrine and Covenants 82:1

Verily, verily, I say unto you, my servants, that inasmuch as you have forgiven one another your trespasses, even so I, the Lord, forgive you.

Hugh Nibly said that there are only two things that human beings can do well; and we are envied by the angels, Those two things are 1) to repent, and 2) to forgive.

President Monson said this about forgiving ourselves:

There are some who have difficulty forgiving themselves and who dwell on all of their perceived shortcomings. I quite like the account of a religious leader who went to the side of a woman who lay dying, attempting to comfort her—but to no avail. “I am lost,” she said. “I’ve ruined my life and every life around me. There is no hope for me.”

The man noticed a framed picture of a lovely girl on the dresser. “Who is this?” he asked.

The woman brightened. “She is my daughter, the one beautiful thing in my life.”
“And would you help her if she were in trouble or had made a mistake? Would you forgive her? Would you still love her?”

“Of course I would!” cried the woman. “I would do anything for her. Why do you ask such a question?”

“Because I want you to know,” said the man, “that figuratively speaking, Heavenly Father has a picture of you on His dresser. He loves you and will help you. Call upon Him.”

What is repentance?

BIBLE DICTIONARY says that Repentance is:

The Greek word which denotes a change of mind, a fresh view about God, about oneself, and about the world. Since we are born into conditions of mortality, repentance comes to mean a turning of the heart and will to God, and a renunciation of sin to which we are naturally inclined. Without this there can be no progress in the things of the soul’s salvation, for all accountable persons are stained by sin, and must be cleansed in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. Repentance is not optional for salvation; it is a commandment of God

President Ezra Taft Benson has explained that if we truly want to repent, we must demonstrate faith in Jesus Christ:

Repentance means more than simply a reformation of behavior. Many men and women in the world demonstrate great willpower and self-discipline in overcoming bad habits and the weaknesses of the flesh. Yet at the same time they give no thought to the Master, sometimes even openly rejecting Him. Such changes of behavior, even if in a positive direction, do not constitute true repentance.

Repentance Includes Forgiving Yourself. Feelings of guilt can be a healthy sign; they remind us that we have sinned and need to repent. But feeling guilty after we have genuinely repented will make us become discouraged, leaving us vulnerable to temptation again. This is one of Satan’s greatest weapons.

When do we repent?

Jesus Christ said:

Now this is the commandment: Repent, all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me and be baptized in my name, that ye may be sanctified by the reception of the Holy Ghost, that ye may stand spotless before me at the last day (3 Nephi 27:20).

You may notice he didn’t say, come unto me as soon as its convenient for you. He didn’t say when you think you are up to it. Jesus said this is a commandment, do it now. Today is the time to act.

We need to repent all the time. All day long and every evening. There is always something we could be doing better with our lives. Situations we could have handled better. Thoughts that maybe we shouldn’t have. Did we yell at someone we shouldn’t have? Is there anger in our hearts or worse hatred?

Major transgressions such as murder, adultery, or theft are not the only sins that require us to repent. We also need to repent of small things we do every day. Such things as dishonest actions, losing our tempers, showing disrespect to our family and friends, gossiping, or failing to follow through on an assignment all weaken our characters and keep us from enjoying the companionship of the Holy Ghost and becoming like our Heavenly Father.

I think Hugh Nibley described it much better then I could.

Who is righteous? Anyone who is repenting. No matter how bad he has been, if he is repenting, he is a righteous man. There is hope for him. And no matter how good he has been all his life, if he is not repenting, he is a wicked man. The difference is which way you are facing. The man on the top of the stairs facing down is much worse off than the man on the bottom step who is facing up. The direction we are facing, that is repentance; and that is what determines whether we are good or bad. (from "Of All Things" p. 7, a Hugh Nibley quote book edited by Gary Gillum, 2nd edition.)

Where do we repent?

We should confess to the person we have wronged. We must also confess to the Lord. In addition, the seriousness of the transgression may require that we go to the bishop. The bishop is there to help and not to condemn. Bishops always keep such information confidential.

We can repent anywhere and at anytime. The sooner the better. We have all put off repenting for some reason or another. But all those times were worse then they could have been. The feelings of guilt – that were finally lifted when we repented, could have come a lot sooner if we had just stopped being stubborn.

So the time to repent is now.

Why do we repent?

D&C 18: 22

And as many as repent and are abaptized in my name, which is Jesus Christ, and bendure to the end, the same shall be saved.

Plain and simple – we repent because 1st we are commanded to, so that is showing our obedience. And the second reason, is we came here to this earth so that we may return to live with our Heavenly Father again. Repentance is our first step to get back to him.

A story I always liked is the Forgotten Wedges by Samuel T. Whitman. I am sure most of you have heard it, but I shall share it again today.

The ice storm wasn't generally destructive. True, a few wires came down, and there was a sudden jump in accidents along the highway. Walking out of doors became unpleasant and difficult. It was disagreeable weather, but it was not serious. Normally, the big walnut tree could easily have borne the weight that formed on its spreading limbs. It was the iron wedge in its heart that caused the damage.

The story of the iron wedge began years ago when the white-haired farmer was a lad on his father's homestead. The sawmill had then only recently been moved from the valley, and the settlers were still finding tools and odd pieces of equipment scattered about...

On this particular day, it was a faller's wedge - wide, flat, and heavy, a foot or more long, and splayed from mighty poundings. The path from the south pasture did not pass the woodshed; and, because he was already late for dinner, the lad laid the wedge ... between the limbs of the young walnut tree his father had planted near the front gate. He would take the wedge to the shed right after dinner, or sometime when he was going that way.

He truly meant to, but he never did. It was there between the limbs, a little tight, when he attained his manhood. It was there, now firmly gripped, when he married and took over his father's farm. It was half grown over on the day the threshing crew ate dinner under the tree. ... Grown in and healed over, the wedge was still in the tree the winter the ice storm came.

In the chill silence of that wintry night, with the mist like rain sifting down and freezing where it fell, one of the three major limbs split away from the trunk and crashed to the ground. This so unbalanced the remainder of the top that it, too, split apart and went down. When the storm was over, not a twig of the once-proud tree remained.

Early the next morning, the farmer went out to mourn his loss. "Wouldn't have had that happen for a thousand dollars," he said. "Prettiest tree in the valley, that was."

Then, his eyes caught sight of something in the splintered ruin. "The wedge," he muttered reproachfully. "The wedge I found in the south pasture." A glance told him why the tree had fallen. Growing edge-up in the trunk, the wedge had prevented the limb fibers from knitting together as they should.

This story shows how small things can become big things. WE need to take the time to deal with them as they come into our lives. If we keep putting them off, we can never truly heal, and someday our own lack of action on a small thing, may be the cause of some very large problem. Today is the day to take care of our futures.

How do we repent?

• a. Recognize our sins
We take a look at our selves and see what we need to change. What are we doing wrong? Pick out the things in our lives that need to be improved.

• b. Feel sorrow for our sins
We need to feel sorrow and regret so that it helps us not want to do it again. These emotions while unpleasant – are a very good guideline to follow. How would we be able to tell write from wrong with out sorrow or remorse?

• c. Have faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ
We can change everything in our lives, but without faith in Jesus Christ, his atoning sacrifice does NOT cover our sins. He willingly suffered for all our sins, but he cant help us if we do not believe in him.

• d. Confess our sins
You must be the judge of this. To whom should you confess? If you are unsure, you can always call on your Bishop. Most time if you have done something to someone else, you must confess to them. The greater the transgressing, the more things that will be required of you to do to gain your forgiveness. This is also for our benefit, as it help us not do it again.

• e. Abandon our sins
We must not do what we repented of again. We must move beyond that sin and cling to it no more. Sometimes we will slip and fall, just get up and repent again and keep going forward, each and every time.

• f. Make restitution for our sins
We must make the wrong write. If you stole something, give it back. If you said something unkind, apologize. If you are unsure about this step – its always safe to ask the Bishop.

• g. Keep His commandments and endure to the end
Well keeping the commandments while not easy – is pretty straight forward. But what does it mean to endure to the end? It means that to prove our sincerity we must be on guard every day so that we do not fall back into old habits. To earn God’s forgiveness we should go the extra mile, not only forsaking our sins, but doing good wherever we can. President David O. McKay said, “Happiness is righteousness”

Heavenly Father knows and loves each of us. He knows what we do, and he knows what is in our hearts. Our sins bring great sorrow to him and unhappiness to us. It is never too late to repent and start over, no matter how bad we may think we are. None of us is so good that we cannot improve in some way. When the Lord said, “Come unto me,” he was speaking to everyone.

I bear my testimony that these things are true. We can all be forgiven of our sins. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love us very much and as waiting for us to take the first steps of repentance and back to our Heavenly Father. Amen

Book of Mormon Gospel Doctrine Lesson 10: 2 Nephi 26-30

This was a very difficult lesson for me to prepare.  It covers 5 chapters of the teachings of Nephi, and I could probably very easily spend the whole time on any one of the chapters.  How could I do any of it justice?

While the lesson manual was filled with lots of good ideas, it seemed a little too random for my taste (the parts didn't flow together very well into one overall theme.)  If that wasn't enough, today was Ward Conference so the Stake Presidency would be attending the class (and since Sacrament Meeting went long, I only had 30 minutes for the lesson instead of the usual 40 minutes.)

While I was struggling to put something together I felt I just wasn't up to the task, so I humbly asked for the Spirit's assistance.  While I pondered about how to organize the lesson a thought came to me and I went with it.  In the end I think everything worked out wonderfully.

I say all of this not to boast or brag, but simply so you can understand that if you find anything here useful or insightful, I can't take any credit for it.  It was all the Lord's doing.   On the other hand, if you find anything rough or pedestrian, that's all me.

Introduction

     •  I'm sure all of us have witnessed some illusion or another, whether a magic show or a mirage

          •  When we're aware of the illusion, it can be fun trying to guess how it's done, but often illusions are made to intentionally deceive or mislead us

          •  Satan uses many illusions to lead us away from the path of life

     •  Likewise, sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish between a real article and a counterfeit

          •  Experts at detecting counterfeits say it's better to study the real thing than the counterfeits

          •  The better we know the real thing, the quicker we'll notice when something is amiss

     •  Nephi spend much of is time in these chapters describing who the Savior really is so we can better identify how Satan tries to lead us astray

Overview

     •  At the heart of these chapters, Nephi foretells what is going to happen to his people from his time on through to when the Savior reigns again on the Earth

          •  Wars and Contentions (2 Ne. 26:2)

          •  Signs at Christ's Birth and Death (2 Ne. 26:3)

          •  Wicked Destroyed and Righteous Spared (2 Ne. 26:3-8)

          •  Christ Appears to Righteous (2 Ne. 26:9)

          •  A Few Righteous Generations (2 Ne. 26:9)

          •  People Destroyed Due to Wickedness (2 Ne. 26:10)

          •  Gentile Nations Persecute Descendants (2 Ne. 26:15)

          •  Great Wickedness of Gentiles (2 Ne. 26:20-22; 28)

          •  Coming of the Book of Mormon (2 Ne. 26:16-17; 27)

          •  Restoration of Israel (2 Ne. 29:14; 30:3-8)

          •  Wicked Divided From Righteous (2 Ne. 30:10)

          •  Wicked Destroyed (2 Ne. 30:10)

          •  Peace on the Earth (2 Ne. 30:12-15)

          •  All Things Revealed (2 Ne. 30:16-18)

          •  Satan Bound (2 Ne. 30:18)

     •  Interspersed within this prophesy, Nephi makes extensive doctrinal comments

Christ's Way

     •  Manifests himself by the Holy Ghost (2 Ne. 26:13)

     •  Works mighty miracles, signs, and wonders according to faith (2 Ne. 26:13; 27:23)

     •  Never works in darkness (2 Ne. 26:23)

     •  Always works for the benefit of the world (2 Ne. 26:24)

     •  Sacrifices his own life (2 Ne. 26:24)

     •  Draws all to him (2 Ne. 26:24, 33)

     •  Never rejects those who come to him (2 Ne. 26:25)

     •  Gives freely without cost (2 Ne. 26:25)

     •  Persuades all to repent (2 Ne. 26:27)

     •  Forbids all priestcrafts [preaching for personal gain and glory] (2 Ne. 26:29)

     •  Commands charity (2 Ne. 26:30)

     •  Forbids all types of iniquity (2 Ne. 26:31)

     •  Works plainly (2 Ne. 26:33)

     •  Provides ample witnesses (2 Ne. 27:12-14)

     •  Same yesterday, today, and forever (2 Ne. 27:23; 29:9)

     •  Teaches gospel to all nations who are willing to hear (2 Ne. 29:7-9)

Satan's Way

     •  Magnifies pride (2 Ne. 26:10; 28:12-15)

     •  Stirs up anger against that which is good (2 Ne. 28:20)

     •  Lulls into carnal security, "All is well in Zion" (2 Ne. 28:21)

     •  Flatters, "There is no hell or devil" (2 Ne. 28:22)

     •  "Lord has done his work" (2 Ne. 28:5-6)

     •  "Eat, drink, be merry ... it shall be well" (2 Ne. 28:7)

     •  "God will justify a little sin" (2 Ne. 28:8)

     •  Leads carefully with a flaxen cord (2 Ne. 26:22; 28:21)

     •  Binds with strong cords and chains (2 Ne. 26:22; 28:22)

     •  Builds up many churches for gain (2 Ne. 26:20; 28:3)

     •  Puts down the miracles of God (2 Ne. 26:20; 28:6)

     •  Teaches own wisdom and learning (2 Ne. 26:20; 28:4)

     •  Causes envy, strife, and malice (2 Ne. 26:21; 28:4)

     •  Builds secret combinations (2 Ne. 26:22)

     •  Works in darkness (2 Ne. 26:22; 28:9)

     •  Denies power of the Holy Ghost and God (2 Ne. 28:4-5)

     •  Seeks to hide counsels from God (2 Ne. 28:9)

     •  Robs the poor (2 Ne. 28:13)

     •  Persecutes the meek (2 Ne. 28:13)

     •  Commits wickedness, abominations, and whoredoms (2 Ne. 28:14)

     •  "Wo, wo, wo" to those who follow after Satan's way (2 Ne. 28:15)

What We Need to Do

     •  Hearken to the words of the prophets [timely advise with General Conference approaching] (2 Ne. 26:8)

     •  Look forward to Christ with steadfastness (2 Ne. 26:8)

     •  Withstand all persecutions (2 Ne. 26:8)

     •  Persuade all to repent (2 Ne. 26:27)

     •  Labor for Zion, not for money (2 Ne. 26:31)

     •  Repent and believe in Christ (2 Ne. 30:2)

Conclusion

     •  Nephi plainly differentiates between the way of the Lord and the way of the adversary

     •  By understanding the strategies of Satan, we can protect ourselves from them

     •  The best way to protect ourselves from the wiles of the devil is to constantly be repenting and looking to the Lord with faith

Book of Mormon Gospel Doctrine Lesson 9: 2 Nephi 11-25

Main Theme: "My Soul Delighteth in the Words of Isaiah"

Introduction

     •  There once was an LDS soldier who was sent off to war.  During a fire fight, he took a bullet in the chest and went down.  The medics immediately went over to check him out, but as they removed his jacket and shirt, they couldn't find a bullet wound anywhere on him.  Checking his jacket pocket they found a serviceman's edition of the Book of Mormon with the bullet embedded in it.  Amazed that a little book like that would stop a bullet, the serviceman simply replied, "That just goes to show that nothing can get through 2 Nephi."

     •  Joking aside, 2 Nephi is notoriously difficult to read for one reason: Isaiah

     • Elder Packer has even suggested merely skimming through the Isaiah chapters until you get back to the plain teachings of Nephi

     •  If you are willing to put in the time and effort, you can come to understand and appreciate why Nephi would quote so much from Isaiah

Why Isaiah?

     •  Why is Isaiah so difficult to understand?

          •  It is written in a poetic style, and poetry in general can be very hard to understand

          •  Poetry is filled with imagery and allusions

          •  Poetry is usually dense with meaning and must be understood on many different levels

          •  Living in a different time and culture, it seems to us to be written in code

          •  Requires the Spirit to correctly interpret (2 Nephi 25:4)

     •  Despite its difficulties, why did Nephi still believe it was important to preserve the words of Isaiah?

          •  To "more fully persuade them to believe in the Lord" (1 Nephi 19:23)

          •  To provide another witness of Jesus Christ (2 Nephi 11:2-4)

          •  To help us rejoice (2 Nephi 11:5-6, 8)

          •  To reveal God's judgments (2 Nephi 25:3)

How Isaiah Fits into 2 Nephi

     •  After Nephi has recorded the establishment of the land of his people, he turns to recording three witnesses of Christ and His dealings with mankind (2 Nephi 11:2-3)

          •  He starts with the teachings of his brother Jacob (2 Nephi 6-10)

          •  He then turns to the writings of Isaiah (2 Nephi 12-24)

          •  He finishes with his own testimony (2 Nephi 25-33)

     •  Jacob not only spoke of how the atonement applies to us individually (2 Nephi 9) but how it also applies to Israel as a people (2 Nephi 10)

     •  Isaiah prophesies about the Lord's dealings with the world generally, and the people of Israel specifically

          •  2 Nephi 12—The Grand Overview

               •  The triumph and glory of the Lord on earth (2 Nephi 12:2-5)

               •  The current situation in the world (2 Nephi 12:6-12)

               •  The Lord to cleanse the world (2 Nephi 12:13-22)

          •  2 Nephi 13-15—Judah and Israel as Examples

               •  Judah's apostasy, pride, cleansing, and redemption (2 Nephi 13; 14)

               •  Israel to be broken and scattered, but then restored (2 Nephi 15)

          •  2 Nephi 16—Isaiah's call as a prophet

          •  2 Nephi 17-22—Israel to be destroyed, then redeemed by the Lord

               •  Israel to be destroyed by Assyria, but Judah spared (2 Nephi 17; 18)

               •  As a sign that God is in control, a virgin to give birth to a son (2 Nephi 17:14-16)

               •  The Lord to be a light to a darkened world (2 Nephi 19)

               •  Assyria to be destroyed for its pride (2 Nephi 20)

               •  The gathering of Israel and the reign of the Lord (2 Nephi 21; 22)

          •  2 Nephi 23-24—The fate of Babylon and the triumph of the Savior over Lucifer

               •  Destruction of the wicked of the world (Babylon) (2 Nephi 23)

               •  The fall of Lucifer and the triumph of the Savior (2 Nephi 24)

     •  Nephi describes the destruction of the Jews and their eventual restoration (2 Nephi 25:9-19)

          •  Jews to return from the Babylonian exile (2 Nephi 25:11)

          •  Christ to be born among the Jews (2 Nephi 25:12-13)

          •  Jews to be destroyed and scattered again (2 Nephi 25:14-15)

          •  When the Jews come to accept Jesus as the Christ, they will be restored (2 Nephi 25:16-18)

     •  Just as the destruction of the nations of Israel and Judah was true, so is their eventual redemption

How Isaiah Applies to Us Today

     •  Even though Isaiah lived a long time ago and wrote specifically to a different people, much of his writings still directly apply to us today

     •  Temples (2 Nephi 12:2-3; 14:6)

          •  God's laws and ordinances are found in the temple (2 Nephi 12:3)

          •  Temples serve as a place of refuge (2 Nephi 14:6)

     •  An ensign to the nations (2 Nephi 15:26; 21:12)

          •  An ensign is a banner of flag—it's used to rally people to a certain place at a certain time

          •  The Church today is to serve as an ensign (D&C 64:41-43; 105:39; 115:4-6)

     •  The gathering of Israel (2 Nephi 20:20-21)

          •  A major purpose for missionary work (D&C 110:11)

Nephi's Testimony of Christ (2 Nephi 25:20-30)

     •  Nephi glorifies in Christ just as Isaiah did (see 2 Nephi 22)

     •  Christ is the only name by which we can be saved (2 Nephi 25:20)

     •  After all we can do, it is only by the grace of Christ that we can be saved (2 Nephi 25:23)

     •  Preaching, teaching, and writing are all to bring people to Christ (2 Nephi 25:23, 26)

     •  The only true path for salvation is to believe in Christ (2 Nephi 25:28)

     •  The necessity to worship Christ with all our might, mind, strength, and whole soul (2 Nephi 25:29)

Conclusion

     •  Isaiah is a powerful witness of Christ and how it is necessary to come to Him

     •  It is our responsibility and privilege to participate in the Lord's long promised gathering of Israel

     •  May the central goal of everything we do be to bring people to Christ

Book of Mormon Gospel Doctrine Lesson 8: 2 Nephi 6-10

Today I got to teach a lesson on another of the greatest chapters in the Book of Mormon.  For understanding the basics of the atonement and what is necessary to take advantage of it, 2 Nephi 9 can't be beat.

The main theme of this lesson is "O How Great the Goodness of Our God"

Introduction

     •  Now that Nephi and his people have separated themselves from those who followed Laman and Lemuel, he gets into teaching them the gospel

     •  Nephi's brothers, Jacob and Joseph, have been consecrated as teachers for the people

     •  These chapters cover a speech given by Jacob to the Nephites about Christ

2 Nephi 6-8

     •  Mostly contain the writings of Isaiah.  Why?

          •  Nephi asked him to (2 Ne. 6:4)

          •  Isaiah's words apply to all the house of Israel (2 Ne. 6:5)

          •  Isaiah is a witness of Christ (2 Ne. 11:2)

     •  According to these writings of Isaiah, what are some of the things the Savior does for us?

          •  He delivers us (2 Ne. 6:17; 7:2)

          •  He redeems us (2 Ne. 7:2)

          •  He comforts us (2 Ne. 8:3, 12)

          •  He's a light for us (2 Ne. 8:4)

          •  He judges us (2 Ne. 8:4-5)

          •  He saves us (2 Ne. 8:5-6)

     •  He is able to do all of this for us, and much more, because of his atonement

2 Nephi 9

     •  This chapter has three general parts, which model a good way to teach nearly any lesson

          •  Doctrine (2 Ne. 9:4-20)

          •  Application (2 Ne. 9:21-38)

          •  Invitation (practically begging) (2 Ne. 9:39-52)

     •  Our problem (2 Ne. 9:6-9)

          •  Left to ourselves, all of us are hopelessly lost

          •  Our bodies would die and be lost to us forever (2 Ne. 9:7)

          •  Our spirits would be corrupted by the devil and we would become just like him (2 Ne. 9:8-9)

          •  These are natural consequences of living in this fallen world (2 Ne. 9:6)

     •  We are subject to two deaths (2 Ne. 9:10)

          •  Physical death:  The separation of our spirit from our body

          •  Spiritual death (also called hell):  Our separation from God

     •  What the Savior personally did to save us (2 Ne. 9:5, 21)

          •  He came and dwelled with us as one of us

          •  He suffered every pain and affliction of all people of all time

          •  He sacrificed his own life on our behalf

     •  The results of the Savior's atonement (2 Ne. 9:11-16)

          •  All will be resurrected, both physically and spiritually (2 Ne. 9:11-12)

          •  All will be restored to their perfect state (2 Ne. 9:13-14)

          •  All will be brought into God's presence for judgement (2 Ne. 15-16)

     •  These things demonstrate God's character

          •  His wisdom, mercy, and grace (2 Ne. 9:8, 19)

          •  His goodness (2 Ne. 9:10)

          •  His planning (foresight) (2 Ne. 9:13)

          •  His greatness and justice (2 Ne. 9:17)

          •  His holiness and knowledge (2 Ne. 9:20)

     •  Our requirements to be judged righteous

          •  Believe in Christ (2 Ne. 9:18)

          •  Endure the crosses of the world (2 Ne. 9:18)

          •  Hearken to His voice (2 Ne. 9:21)

          •  Repent, be baptized, have faith (2 Ne. 9:23)

          •  Be spiritually minded (2 Ne. 9:39)

          •  Feast upon that which perisheth not (2 Ne. 9:51)

          •  Remember the words of God (2 Ne. 9:52)

          •  Pray continually (2 Ne. 9:52)

          •  None of us can do all of this all of the time, but we should never stop trying

     •  Warnings (2 Ne. 9:27-38)

          •  Don't waste your time on Earth (2 Ne. 9:27)

          •  Don't put learning or riches ahead of God (2 Ne. 9:28-30)

          •  Don't be spiritually blind or deaf (2 Ne. 9:31-32)

          •  Don't be uncircumcised of heart (2 Ne. 9:33)

          •  Don't lie, murder, commit whoredoms, or worship idols (2 Ne. 9:34-37)

          •  Don't die in your sins! (2 Ne. 9:38)

2 Nephi 10

     •  What the atonement does for us as individuals, it also does for Israel as a people

          •  They will reject Christ (sin) (2 Ne. 10:3)

          •  They will suffer and lose the land of their inheritance (death) (2 Ne. 10:6)

          •  They will come to believe in Christ (repentance) (2 Ne. 10:7)

          •  They will be restored to their land (resurrection) (2 Ne. 10:8)

     •  Concluding words (2 Ne. 10:23-24)

          •  Be cheerful

          •  We're free to act for ourselves

          •  Reconcile ourselves to the will of God, not to the will of flesh

          •  It is only in and through the grace of God that we are saved

Book of Mormon Gospel Doctrine Lesson 7: 2 Nephi 3-5

I was recently called as the Sunday School President for my ward.  No sooner was I called, than our ward Gospel Doctrine instructor was given a Stake calling.   As a result, until a new instructor is called, I get the privilege of teaching this class.

I couldn't have picked a better place to begin teaching this class.  2 Nephi is so chalked full of wonderful teachings, I just wish we had more than only 40 minutes a week to talk about them.  At least on this blog I don't have the time constraints as I do in class.

The main theme of this lesson is "I Know in Whom I Have Trusted"

Introduction

     •  Lehi's party has now completed their journey to the new world and established their new home there, called "the Land of First Inheritance".

     •  Lehi is near death and is giving his final words of counsel and admonishment to his children and grandchildren

2 Nephi 3

     •  Lehi now addresses his youngest son, Joseph

     •  This chapter talks about four men named Joseph whose lives span some 3500 years

          •  Joseph of Egypt

          •  Joseph, son of Lehi

          •  Joseph Smith, Sr.

          •  Joseph Smith, Jr.

     •  Why do you think Lehi thought it was so important to spend so much time talking about Joseph in Egypt?

          •  "Great were the covenants of the Lord which he made unto Joseph." (2 Ne. 3:4)

          •  "He truly prophesied concerning all his seed." (2 Ne. 4:2)

          •  Great example of how the Lord takes care of those but their trust in him

          •  Demonstrates how the Lord is always in control and guides his work throughout history

     •  What were some of the promises made by Joseph of old?

          •  A righteous branch to come from him, but not the Messiah (2Ne. 3:5)

          •  As seer will be raised up from the fruit of his loins (2 Ne. 3:6-8)

          •  The knowledge of God's covenants will be restored (2 Ne. 3:7)

          •  The power to convince others of the Lord's word (2 Ne. 3:11)

          •  Book of Mormon (2 Ne. 3:12)

               •  Confounds false doctrines

               •  Lays down contention

               •  Establishes peace

               •  Brings the knowledge of the fathers to the latter days

               •  Brings the knowledge of the covenants

          •  The seer will be named Joseph, and have the same name as his father (2 Ne. 3:15)

     •  All of these great promises will be realized through faith (2 Ne. 3:21)

2 Nephi 4

     •  Children of Laman and Lemuel promised that the Lord won't forget their descendants, but will in time restore them to the truth (2 Ne. 4:3-9)

     •  Lehi dies (2 Ne. 4:12)

     •  "Psalm of Nephi" (2 Ne. 4:15-35) [A beautiful musical rendition of these scriptures can be found here (Lyrics: John Tanner, Music: Sibelius, Arrangement: Ronald Staheli)]

          •  Probably gives the best insight to the heart and mind of a righteous man of all scripture

          •  Provides a four step process to continually draw nearer to the Lord

               •  Step 1 - Learn God's commandments (2 Ne. 4:15-16)

                    •  Scriptures

                    •  Words of the living prophets (D&C 1:38)

                    •  Whisperings of the Holy Ghost (D&C 68:4)

               •  Step 2 - Recognize your inability to live up to your knowledge (2 Ne. 4:17-19)

                    •  The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matt. 26:41)

               •  Step 3 - Maintain trust and hope in the Lord (2 Ne. 4:19-29)

                    •  This is a critical juncture, the other option is to fall into misery and despair

                    •  Remember all that the Lord has already done for you (D&C 6:22-23)

               •  Step 4 -  Depend on the Lord's strength, not your own (2 Ne. 4:30-35)

                    •  "Nephi's Prayer"

                    •  You must do what you can do, but depend on the Lord to make up for what you can't do (due to weak flesh or otherwise)

2 Nephi 5

     •  While Nephi's anger caused his heart to turn to the Lord for forgiveness and strength, Laman's and Lemuel's anger caused their hearts to turn to murder (2 Ne. 5:2-3)

     •  The Lord warned Nephi to leave with those who would go with him (2 Ne. 5:5-6)

     •  Because of Nephi's trust and faithfulness in the Lord his people were given the chance to live "after the manner of happiness" (2 Ne. 5:27)

Conclusion

     •  The Lord is faithful to those who follow him, and we can put our full faith and confidence in him

     •  The examples of Joseph of Egypt and on through Joseph Smith, Jr. demonstrate how the Lord's promises will always be fulfilled

     •  "Nephi's Psalm" shows us how we can always trust in the Lord's help and forgiveness despite our own failings and weaknesses

     •  As we are faithful to the Lord, we can trust that He will also protect and guide us in our temporal, as well as spiritual, well being

TOPOTC: Joseph Smith - Lesson 2

I was asked to teach the lesson in Priesthood Meeting today which was the second chapter in the Joseph Smith book.  One thing I learned (or was reminded of) by teaching this lesson is how hard it is to put a good lesson together.  Unlike the Sunday School curriculum, there's no lesson outline, only various quotes generally grouped topically.  It takes a lot to turn that into something interesting with a good flow.

My goal with this lesson was to mostly lead a discussion on this week's topic, God the Eternal Father (after all, there really wasn't much I could add to what the members of the class already knew).  I think there were mixed results, but there were times when the Spirit was definitely there.  That is the most important since the Spirit can teach so much more (and so much better) than I ever can.

These are the questions I tried to use to lead the conversation:

1) Why is it important to talk about God?

2) How can we know God exists?

3) How is God our father?

4) What are some of God’s attributes?

5) How does knowing who God is affect our relationship with him?

6) How does our view of God differ from other churches?

7) What is God the Father’s role in he godhead?

8) What kind of example does the unity of the Godhead show us?

I think the questions that were most effective in bringing the Spirit were the fifth and eighth.  Maybe that was because those are the ones that affect us most personally.  Someone in the class shared an experience about how God helped him through a divorce.  In a way it was like the story in the Book of Mormon where Nephi and his brothers were told to go get the Brass Plates.  Whatever they did with their own efforts were futile, but by relying completely on God for his help they were successful.  Often we are put in situations where we are at a complete loss of what to do.  If we simply put our complete faith in trust of the outcome to him, then simply do whatever thing he wants us to do right now, our success is assured.

As for question eight, I think that really points to the end goal of the gospel.  If we are living the gospel so that one day we can become like God, that means more than possessing similar power and glory.  We need to learn to become one with each other, in families and wards, in the same way the Godhead is one.  We each need to learn and act our part, while completely helping and supporting others with their part.  Ultimately, the goal is that all of us be one with the Godhead in the same way they are one with each other.  Often, I think it's better to think of salvation and exaltation in collective terms instead of individual terms.

But above all, I absolutely know that there is a God.  He has touched my heart and helped me in ways that I cannot deny.  I know He loves me and will help and guide me to the extent I allow Him.  I pray I may do more to follow His guidance and direction, and emulate His goodness and righteousness.  Not just for my sake, but more for the sake of my family and those around me.  It's quite literally the least I can do to show Him my gratitude for all He's already done for me.

One Latter-Day Saint's View on Politics

Once again I find myself wandering into the world of politics on this blog.  I have no intention in making this a regular occurrence, but with us being in the midst of a presidential election where Mormonism has played a significant role, I'd like to share some of my thoughts on the matter.  Specifically I'd like to discuss the part my religion plays in informing and shaping my political view and outlook.

I think I grew up in the typical conservative LDS household.  I was taught from a young age the importance of faith in God, self reliance, individual liberty, personal responsibility and accountability, selfless service, community spirit, and respect for the law.  I was also taught that the US Constitution was an inspired document (D&C 101:80) and that America is the land of promise, but that God will only bless and protect us as long as we worship Him and keep His commandments (Ether 2:9-12).

Because of my upbringing, I've come to identify myself mostly with the conservative movement, and hence the Republican Party which is home to that movement.  However I've never felt completely comfortable labeling myself as a "Conservative" or a "Republican" (I generally chafe at any kind of pigeonholing.)  Instead I view myself as a son of God who has been given certain blessings and responsibilities.

One of those blessings is to live in a free country where we enjoy the privilege of self rule (extremely remarkable when you look at the governments found throughout human history.)  The associated responsibility is to seek out and uphold good, honest, and wise men as our leaders (D&C 98:10).  My primary concern is that my selections are based on true principles that are in harmony with the Lord's revealed gospel.  Party association or loyalty are secondary.

Once I have fulfilled my responsibility by participating in the political process, I feel the rest is left in God's hands.  Since God is ultimately in control I really have no fear over whatever the outcome.  While it is true that "when the wicked rule the people mourn" (D&C 98:9) the Lord has consistently promised to help and preserve those who honor and serve Him (1 Ne 22:17). As a result, how we live day-to-day may play a bigger role in the success of this country than who is in office at any given time.  In short, I put more faith and confidence in the Lord's help and protection (as long as I fulfill my duties and obligations towards Him) than in the government's.

After all, the scriptures are full of passages that refer to the eventual wickedness and destruction of all the governments of the earth in the last days (for example, see 1 Ne. 14: 11-15 and D&C 87:6).  While it's definitely not something that's nice to think about, if you believe in the revelations, you must admit that it's all a part of God's plan for the world.  I don't believe these scriptures were given to scare us, but to prepare us for when the eventual day does come.

In the meantime I will continue to do what I can to promote what in my estimation is good government.  While I fully understand the eventual situation leading up to the return of the Savior, I chose to remain optimistic about what lies ahead.  There is still so much to appreciate and cherish of the marvelous time in which we live.

New First Presidency

Now that the First Presidency has been reorganized, I want to send my best regards to President Monson, President Eyring, and President Uchtdorf.  They'll wholeheartedly get my sustaining vote this coming Conference, not to mention my family's prayers in their behalf.  I'm absolutely confident the affairs of the Church are in good hands.

As a side note, I've updated the Apostle Info in the side bar to reflect these recent changes.  Once the new apostle is called, I'll add his information as soon as I get it.

Final Thoughts About President Hinckley

After watching the funeral of President Hinckley today, I wanted to pay my last respects to this great man.  The more I learn about him through the reminisces of others, the more in awe I become of him.  His selfless service, humility, dedication, work ethic, good humor, optimism, and faith are an example to all.  While I'm sure he had his faults (none that I could see), he was truly the kind of role model people wish we had more of today.

I'll admit that tears flowed freely at the conclusion of the memorial service when the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sang "My Shepherd Will Supply My Need" during a video montage of his life.  It was weird, but they were tears of sadness and happiness at the same time—sadness over the fact we'll never see his smile or listen to him speak again, but happiness and gratitude for what he left behind.  Not only the Church, but the world is a better place because he was here.

One thing that struck me was how much more his passing affected me than that of the other Prophets I've known who preceded him.  I was only 11 when President Kimball died, and while I recognized him as the Prophet, I think I was too young to have developed much of bond to him.  When President Benson passed, he had been sick and out of the limelight for so long I think I mostly felt relief that he no longer had to suffer the effects of old age.  Then President Hunter came and went so quickly there wasn't any time to develop much of a bond with him.  But through all of that, in both sickness and health of the Prophets, President Hinckley was there assuring us that the Lord was still and always directing the church according to His will.

As long as I can remember, he has been the consistent face of steady Church leadership.  While I knew he was old, it rarely ever showed.  When he passed on, it was without much warning.  Suddenly that consistent face of Church leadership was gone.  While I know the Church is still in good hands (President Monson has now served longer as an Apostle and in the First Presidency than President Hinckley had when he became the President) I can't help but miss his presence.  While this day was inevitable, it simply seemed to come too soon.

So with the rest of the Church, I hail you President Hinckley:

God be with you till we meet again;

Keep love's banner floating o'er you;

Smite death's threat'ning wave before you.

God be with you till we meet again.

Till we meet, tell we meet,

Till we meet at Jesus' feet,

Till we meet, tell we meet,

God be with you till we meet again.

[Just in case you haven't seen it yet, here's another tribute to President Hinckley from Glenn Beck.]