Joseph Smith claimed that “the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.” So what exactly does the Book of Mormon teach?
I began by compiling a list of topics, but quickly realized that attempting to make anywhere near a comprehensive list would be impossible. Every chapter contains a rich source of material for spiritual learning and edification. I decided to begin by taking one chapter at a time, selecting at least a verse or two from each and giving a very brief perspective on what it is saying. In this way, this is a celebration of the richness of the Book of Mormon and its perfect harmony with all of the doctrine and teaching of the restored church of Jesus Christ. My chapter-by-chapter compilation of the precepts of the book is contained in this 68 page document entitled “Precepts of the Book of Mormon: a chapter-by-chapter compilation”.
After extracting around 270 precepts, or relatively short passages teaching eternal truths, from the 239 chapters, I went back through and added #hashtags after each passage for the recurring themes. Here is an alphabetical list of those themes:
#accountability, #agency, #all-gods-children, #apostles, #ask, #atonement, #baptism, #blessings, #bloodshed, #book-of-mormon-purpose, #broken-heart, #change-of-heart, #charity, #chasten, #chastening, #church, #commandment, #contention, #contrite-spirit, #covenants, #deliverance, #diligence, #doctrine-of-christ, #endure-to-end, #eye-single, #faith, #fear-god, #follow-the-savior, #forgiveness, #freedom, #glory, #god-head, #gratitude, #healing, #holy-ghost, #holy-spirit, #hope, #house-of-israel, #humility, #integrity, #isaiah, #jesus-christ, #joy, #judgement, #kindness, #kings, #knowledge, #light-and-trut, #light-of-christ, #love, #love-of-god, #love-one-another, #love-thy-neighbor, #mercy, #miracles, #missionaries, #missionary-work, #mysteries-of-god, #name-of-christ, #obedience, #open-hearts, #opposition, #parents, #patience, #plan-of-salvation, #ponder, #poor, #power, #praise, #praise-of-world, #prayer, #precepts, #pride, #priestcraft, #priesthood, #priesthood-authority, #priests, #prophesy, #prophets, #redemption, #redemption-of-dead, #rejoice, #remember, #repentance, #revelation, #revenge, #riches, #righteousness, #sacrament, #salvation, #savior, #scriptures, #sealing-power, #search, #service, #spirit-of-prophesy, #steadfast, #still-small-voice, #straight-and-narrow,, #support-from-god, #temptation, #testimony, #traditions, #truth, #unchanging-god, #unity, #wisdom, #wisdom-of-world, #word-of-god, #zion
These are all contained in the essence of what present-day members of the LDS church teach and learn in regular meetings. People may name other things when they think about Mormons, but the above principles form the true essence of what we believe, or the fullness of the gospel.
I then organized these tags into theme categories. In alphabetical order they are:
Atonement of Jesus Christ
#atonement, #savior
Blessings from God
#blessings, #deliverance, #support-from-god, #redemption
Broken heart and contrite spirit
#broken-heart, #contrite-spirit, #change-of-heart
Church of Christ
#church, #unity, #contention, #love-one-another, #zion
Chastening
#chastening, #chasten
Covenants
#covenants, #house-of-israel
Doctrine of Christ
#faith, #repentance, #baptism, #doctrine-of-christ, #straight-and-narrow
Eternal life and salvation
#salvation
Faith, hope, and charity
#faith, #hope, #charity, #love, #love-of-god
Forgiveness
#forgiveness
God's Mercy
#mercy
Governments and leaders
#freedom, #kings, #priestcraft, #priests
Happiness and joy
#joy, #rejoice
Holy Ghost
#holy-ghost, #holy-spirit, #still-small-voice
Parents
#parents
Miracles
#miracles, #healing, #power
Missionary work
#missionaries, #missionary-work
Name of Christ
#name-of-christ
Obedience
#commandments, #obedience
Plan of salvation
#agency, #opposition, #plan-of-salvation, #temptation, #judgement
Prayer
#prayer
Prophesy and Revelation
#revelation, #spirit-of-prophesy, #prophets, #prophesy, #isaiah
Priesthood and authority
#priesthood, #priesthood-authority, #sealing-power, #apostles
Purpose of the Book of Mormon
#book-of-mormon-purpose
Remember God
#remember, #sacrament
Revenge (the gospel opposes revenge)
#bloodshed, #revenge
Scriptures
#word-of-god, #scriptures
Serving others
#service, #poor
Testimony
#ask, #precepts, #testimony, #truth, #knowledge, #ponder, #light-and-truth, #mysteries-of-god, #open-hearts, #search
Those without the law
#accountability, #traditions, #all-gods-children, #light-of-christ, #redemption-of-dead
Unchanging God
#unchanging-god
Ways to be
#gratitude, #diligence, #endure-to-end, #eye-single, #fear-god, #follow-the-savior, #kindness, #humility, #integrity, #love-thy-neighbor, #wisdom, #praise, #righteousness, #patience, #steadfast
Worldly pride (the gospel opposes worldly pride)
#riches, #praise-of-world, #glory-of-world, #wisdom-of-world, #pride
Sunday, October 29, 2017
The truth of these things
Effective learning requires faith in the source of the knowledge. In the classroom most people trust in the knowledge of the teacher and the veracity of his/her teachings, and this goes a long way to promote effective learning. In contrast, if we are always doubting that the lesson has any value to us, we will be unlikely to benefit. In this way, the things I learn from the Book of Mormon have come because I have exercised faith in its truthfulness. As I have done so, the knowledge of its correctness has continually increased over many years of study, and my soul is filled with joy and gratitude for such a pure source of truth.
Instead of saying 'I found the truth!', I should rather say 'I have caught hold of a galloping horse called truth!' My continued effort to hold on for the ride has been a central focus of my life ever since I was introduced to the Book of Mormon more than 20 years ago. These words of the LDS poet John Jaques (1827-1900) capture my feelings:
At times, the pursuit of truth can be scary, because we don’t always know ahead of time whether it will be good news or bad news. Perhaps it seems more desirable to not know and remain in ignorance. In reality, there is no reason to be afraid because the truth is good news.
The good news is that God lives, and we can absolutely know Him. But there is more good news. He is a loving God, the father of our spirits, a forgiving God, and His plan and objective is to help us be happy.
Not only happy but also eternal:
Coupled with the knowledge that God loves us, wants us to be happy, has infinite mercy, and has a plan for us to return to Him, the truth is actually very sweet. God is our loving Father. The purpose of our coming to earth is to gain experience, make choices, become part of families, gain physical bodies and ultimately return back to our Heavenly home. In fact God has provided us with everything we need to gain this eternal life, including a beautiful world, good people, and most importantly a Savior who loves us so much that He gave His life so that death would have no lasting effect on us nor on our families.
“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)
All of this is wonderful news. But how do I know it is true? For me, it is because of the Book of Mormon, whose claimed origins are fantastic and almost unbelievable. Yet the purpose of the Book of Mormon is clearly stated throughout its pages. The central goal is to convince all men and women that indeed Jesus is the Christ (title page, 2 Ne 25:23, and throughout). That is to say that the good news of the gospel is true, and the Book of Mormon is available precisely for the purpose of convincing us of that truth, if we desire to know it.
A central principle, again stated within the pages of the book itself, is that a testimony of the book can only come through the witness of the Holy Spirit (Moroni 10). Elder Dallin H. Oaks, a leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints stated: “It is our position that secular evidence can neither prove nor disprove the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. Its authenticity depends, as it says, on a witness of the Holy Spirit.”
Although I have indeed obtained this witness through study and prayer, I do not always feel the loving, positive, reassuring spirit that tells me that God’s arms are around me. When I feel troubled with doubts, I have learned to press forward with faith, holding tight to the overwhelming evidence and understanding I have accumulated that these things are true. The fruits of that faith always follow.
The miracle of the Book of Mormon
The fundamental question regarding the authenticity of the Book of Mormon is: how did it come about? The spectacular account given by Joseph Smith is provided in his history (Joseph Smith History chapter 1), and involves a vision he had when he was 14 years old in which God the Father and Jesus Christ personally appeared to him in answer to a sincere prayer and a firm desire to know the truth (James 1:5). Gordon B. Hinckley (former President of the LDS church) explained: “Our whole strength rests on the validity of that vision. It either occurred or it did not occur. If it did not, then this work is a fraud. If it did, then it is the most important and wonderful work under the heavens.”
The Book of Mormon claims to have been translated by the power of God from an ancient record written on gold plates. The circumstances of this translation process; the personal witnesses of those involved in the translation/dictation/printing procedure, the written testimonies of those who actually handled the plates, and the history surrounding this singular achievement, form a compelling case for the veracity of Smith’s claims.
But accepting that the Book of Mormon is true cannot be a trivial process. On the one hand I am tempted to record all of the evidences I have accumulated over my lifetime to convince everyone I know to embrace the book and become members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. But alas it is not purely a matter of academic persuasion. As stated in the Book of Mormon itself, it takes hope, faith, study, and prayer to gain such a conviction. It takes work, and in fact Latter-day Saints know that once we have gained what we call a testimony, we must strive diligently to keep this spiritual witness in our hearts. But to begin, it only takes a bit of hope. Hope that there is a God, a forgiving God, and that He did provide a way for us to gain peace in the world, eternal happiness and life after death.
Joseph Smith claimed that “the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.” If this book were a fraud, would it stand the test of time, and would millions of men and women revere it as the “keystone of [their] religion”? After nearly 200 years would the religion founded upon this scripture still embrace it as the most correct book? Would every principle contained in the book remain a core part of the teachings of that church? If it were fraudulent, there would certainly be at least some principles and teachings in its 531 pages that would no longer be included in the teachings of that church. And most importantly, would adherence to the teachings and principles of that book bring people, as promised, closer to God, convince them to do good, to live peaceably, to love one another, and to believe in Jesus Christ?
To me the miracle is that the Book of Mormon has indeed withstood the test of time, and with flying colors! The fact to celebrate here is that every teaching and principle in that book remains a core part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ as taught throughout the present-day LDS church: in worship services, Sunday school, conferences, meetings, councils, religion classes, and many other forums. The converse is also true, that every eternal teaching of the church is consistent with (if not found directly within) the teachings of the Book of Mormon, as well as the bible “as far as it is translated correctly” (8th article of faith; see also 1 Ne 13:40).
Joseph Smith dictated the Book of Mormon primarily over the course of only three months in 1829. With the release and scholarly documentation of journals and other primary source documents in the ‘Joseph Smith Papers’, the veracity of the claims about the time period and the nature of the dictation (e.g., as a single pass through the book without any reference materials) is more evident than ever. Could Joseph Smith have achieved this fraudulently? To that question I joyfully answer that no, he absolutely could not have fabricated the book. I know that his account is true, and that he did it by the power and gift of God.
Instead of saying 'I found the truth!', I should rather say 'I have caught hold of a galloping horse called truth!' My continued effort to hold on for the ride has been a central focus of my life ever since I was introduced to the Book of Mormon more than 20 years ago. These words of the LDS poet John Jaques (1827-1900) capture my feelings:
Oh say, what is truth?
Oh say, what is truth? 'Tis the fairest gem
That the riches of worlds can produce,
And priceless the value of truth will be when
The proud monarch's costliest diadem
Is counted but dross and refuse.
Yes, say, what is truth? 'Tis the brightest prize
To which mortals or Gods can aspire.
Go search in the depths where it glittering lies,
Or ascend in pursuit to the loftiest skies:
'Tis an aim for the noblest desire.
The sceptre may fall from the despot's grasp
When with winds of stern justice he copes.
But the pillar of truth will endure to the last,
And its firm-rooted bulwarks outstand the rude blast
And the wreck of the fell tyrant's hopes.
Then say, what is truth? 'Tis the last and the first,
For the limits of time it steps o'er.
Tho the heavens depart and the earth's fountains burst,
Truth, the sum of existence, will weather the worst,
Eternal, unchanged, evermore.
#272 from the hymnal of
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
At times, the pursuit of truth can be scary, because we don’t always know ahead of time whether it will be good news or bad news. Perhaps it seems more desirable to not know and remain in ignorance. In reality, there is no reason to be afraid because the truth is good news.
The good news is that God lives, and we can absolutely know Him. But there is more good news. He is a loving God, the father of our spirits, a forgiving God, and His plan and objective is to help us be happy.
“... men are, that they might have joy.” (2 Nephi 2:27)
Not only happy but also eternal:
“For behold, this is my work and my glory—
to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” (Moses 1:39)
to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” (Moses 1:39)
Coupled with the knowledge that God loves us, wants us to be happy, has infinite mercy, and has a plan for us to return to Him, the truth is actually very sweet. God is our loving Father. The purpose of our coming to earth is to gain experience, make choices, become part of families, gain physical bodies and ultimately return back to our Heavenly home. In fact God has provided us with everything we need to gain this eternal life, including a beautiful world, good people, and most importantly a Savior who loves us so much that He gave His life so that death would have no lasting effect on us nor on our families.
“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)
All of this is wonderful news. But how do I know it is true? For me, it is because of the Book of Mormon, whose claimed origins are fantastic and almost unbelievable. Yet the purpose of the Book of Mormon is clearly stated throughout its pages. The central goal is to convince all men and women that indeed Jesus is the Christ (title page, 2 Ne 25:23, and throughout). That is to say that the good news of the gospel is true, and the Book of Mormon is available precisely for the purpose of convincing us of that truth, if we desire to know it.
A central principle, again stated within the pages of the book itself, is that a testimony of the book can only come through the witness of the Holy Spirit (Moroni 10). Elder Dallin H. Oaks, a leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints stated: “It is our position that secular evidence can neither prove nor disprove the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. Its authenticity depends, as it says, on a witness of the Holy Spirit.”
Although I have indeed obtained this witness through study and prayer, I do not always feel the loving, positive, reassuring spirit that tells me that God’s arms are around me. When I feel troubled with doubts, I have learned to press forward with faith, holding tight to the overwhelming evidence and understanding I have accumulated that these things are true. The fruits of that faith always follow.
The miracle of the Book of Mormon
The fundamental question regarding the authenticity of the Book of Mormon is: how did it come about? The spectacular account given by Joseph Smith is provided in his history (Joseph Smith History chapter 1), and involves a vision he had when he was 14 years old in which God the Father and Jesus Christ personally appeared to him in answer to a sincere prayer and a firm desire to know the truth (James 1:5). Gordon B. Hinckley (former President of the LDS church) explained: “Our whole strength rests on the validity of that vision. It either occurred or it did not occur. If it did not, then this work is a fraud. If it did, then it is the most important and wonderful work under the heavens.”
The Book of Mormon claims to have been translated by the power of God from an ancient record written on gold plates. The circumstances of this translation process; the personal witnesses of those involved in the translation/dictation/printing procedure, the written testimonies of those who actually handled the plates, and the history surrounding this singular achievement, form a compelling case for the veracity of Smith’s claims.
But accepting that the Book of Mormon is true cannot be a trivial process. On the one hand I am tempted to record all of the evidences I have accumulated over my lifetime to convince everyone I know to embrace the book and become members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. But alas it is not purely a matter of academic persuasion. As stated in the Book of Mormon itself, it takes hope, faith, study, and prayer to gain such a conviction. It takes work, and in fact Latter-day Saints know that once we have gained what we call a testimony, we must strive diligently to keep this spiritual witness in our hearts. But to begin, it only takes a bit of hope. Hope that there is a God, a forgiving God, and that He did provide a way for us to gain peace in the world, eternal happiness and life after death.
Joseph Smith claimed that “the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.” If this book were a fraud, would it stand the test of time, and would millions of men and women revere it as the “keystone of [their] religion”? After nearly 200 years would the religion founded upon this scripture still embrace it as the most correct book? Would every principle contained in the book remain a core part of the teachings of that church? If it were fraudulent, there would certainly be at least some principles and teachings in its 531 pages that would no longer be included in the teachings of that church. And most importantly, would adherence to the teachings and principles of that book bring people, as promised, closer to God, convince them to do good, to live peaceably, to love one another, and to believe in Jesus Christ?
To me the miracle is that the Book of Mormon has indeed withstood the test of time, and with flying colors! The fact to celebrate here is that every teaching and principle in that book remains a core part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ as taught throughout the present-day LDS church: in worship services, Sunday school, conferences, meetings, councils, religion classes, and many other forums. The converse is also true, that every eternal teaching of the church is consistent with (if not found directly within) the teachings of the Book of Mormon, as well as the bible “as far as it is translated correctly” (8th article of faith; see also 1 Ne 13:40).
Joseph Smith dictated the Book of Mormon primarily over the course of only three months in 1829. With the release and scholarly documentation of journals and other primary source documents in the ‘Joseph Smith Papers’, the veracity of the claims about the time period and the nature of the dictation (e.g., as a single pass through the book without any reference materials) is more evident than ever. Could Joseph Smith have achieved this fraudulently? To that question I joyfully answer that no, he absolutely could not have fabricated the book. I know that his account is true, and that he did it by the power and gift of God.
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
All God's children
Jesus taught that “... except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5) and said “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). On the other hand, Peter taught that “God is no respecter of persons” (Acts 10:34). Does God only offer salvation to those of his children who happen to be born into circumstances that can lead to a Christian baptism? I keep this question in my mind as I study and ponder the teachings of Christ. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, temple worship is central to this contemplation. In the holy temple, I learn of God’s infinite love for all of his children, as evidenced by the infinite atonement of Jesus Christ, which offers salvation to all people
The Book of Mormon confirms the biblical teaching that the only way to salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ, repentance and the ordinance of baptism (see 3 Ne 11:32-38). But the principle that God loves all of His children and invites all to “partake of his goodness” (2 Ne 26:33) is also emphasized throughout.
In chapter 19 of the First Book of Nephi we learn that ultimately all people will come to a knowledge that Christ is the savior -- “Yea, and all the earth shall see the salvation of the Lord, saith the prophet; every nation, kindred, tongue and people shall be blessed” (1 Ne 19:17).
In chapter 22, Nephi describes the work that the Lord is doing in these Latter days to “...[bring] about his covenants and his gospel unto those who are of the house of Israel… [that] they shall know that the Lord is their Savior and their Redeemer, the Mighty One of Israel” (1 Ne 22:11-12). The Lord will “... gathereth his children from the four quarters of the earth; and he numbereth his sheep, and they know him; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd; and he shall feed his sheep, and in him they shall find pasture.” The Church is global in its scope to bring the gospel to all people throughout the world.
Toward the end of the Second Book of Nephi we see that the Lord extends his mercy and offers salvation to all people, for “all are alike unto God” (2 Ne 26:33). “... Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation. Behold, doth he cry unto any, saying: Depart from me? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; but he saith: Come unto me all ye ends of the earth, buy milk and honey, without money and without price. Behold, hath he commanded any that they should depart out of the synagogues, or out of the houses of worship? Behold, I say unto you, Nay. Hath he commanded any that they should not partake of his salvation? Behold I say unto you, Nay; but he hath given it free for all men; and he hath commanded his people that they should persuade all men to repentance. Behold, hath the Lord commanded any that they should not partake of his goodness? Behold I say unto you, Nay; but all men are privileged the one like unto the other, and none are forbidden… and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile.” (2 Ne 26:24-28,33).
Chapter 29 makes it clear that God is impartial toward nations. “Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth? … 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. And I do this that I may prove unto many that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and that I speak forth my words according to mine own pleasure. And because that I have spoken one word ye need not suppose that I cannot speak another; for my work is not yet finished... Wherefore, because that ye have a Bible ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that I have not caused more to be written ... For behold, I shall speak unto the Jews and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the Nephites and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the other tribes of the house of Israel, which I have led away, and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto all nations of the earth and they shall write it…. And it shall come to pass that the Jews shall have the words of the Nephites, and the Nephites shall have the words of the Jews; and the Nephites and the Jews shall have the words of the lost tribes of Israel; and the lost tribes of Israel shall have the words of the Nephites and the Jews” (2 Ne 29:7-13).
In chapter 30, Nephi continues to prophesy about the restoration of the gospel and the gathering of His people from “... all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people” (2 Ne 30:8). In chapter 31 we are exhorted to have “a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men”. Then in the second chapter of Jacob, we read that every soul is as precious in the sight of God as the other (Jacob 2:21).
In the next chapter Jacob councils his people not to judge the Lamanites even though they do not believe in God and have a hatred toward the Nephites, because this is what they had been taught by their parents. “Behold, their husbands love their wives, and their wives love their husbands; and their husbands and their wives love their children; and their unbelief and their hatred towards you is because of the iniquity of their fathers… Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, which is the word of God, that ye revile no more against them … but ye shall remember your own filthiness...” (Jacob 3:7,9). Jacob then concludes his writings with prophesies of the gathering of Israel in the latter-days and beseeches his brethren to not harden their hearts, and to come unto Christ (Jacob 6:5).
In chapter 14 of Mosiah we learn from Abinadi that those who “have died … in their ignorance, not having salvation declared unto them… have eternal life, being redeemed by the Lord. And little children also have eternal life” (Mosiah 15:24-25). He also prophesies that in the last days “...the salvation of the Lord shall be declared to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people” (Mosiah 15:28).
In chapter 28 of Mosiah we learn of the great charity the sons of Mosiah had for all people, and the anxious concern for the welfare of everyone, even their enemies, and that this charity was a gift of the Spirit of God: “Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not bear that any human soul should perish; yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble” (Mosiah 28:3).
In the first chapter of Alma the Nephites are “steadfast and immovable in keeping the commandments of God” (vs. 25). Priestcraft was not practiced: “...the preacher was no better than the hearer, neither was the teacher any better than the learner; and thus they were all equal, and they did all labor, every man according to his strength” (vs. 26). “And they did impart of their substance, every man according to that which he had, to the poor, and the needy, and the sick, and the afflicted; and they did not wear costly apparel, yet they were neat and comely” (vs. 27). “They did not send away any who were naked, or that were hungry, or that were athirst, or that were sick, or that had not been nourished; and they did not set their hearts upon riches; therefore they were liberal to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, whether out of the church or in the church, having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need” (vs. 30).
In Alma 6 we learn that none were excluded from the church meetings: “Now I would that ye should understand that the word of God was liberal unto all, that none were deprived of the privilege of assembling themselves together to hear the word of God” (Alma 6:5). The people cared for those not of their faith: “... [they joined together in] fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those who knew not God” (vs 6).
In chapter 16, Alma and Amulek go throughout the land preaching the gospel and establishing the church. “And as many as would hear their words, unto them they did impart the word of God, without any respect of persons, continually” (vs 14). “And there was no inequality among them” (vs 16).
Chapter 18 contains an interesting exchange between Ammon and king Lamoni, where Ammon teaches the king about God. They were not of the same faith, nevertheless Ammon built on a common belief in a supreme creator. “And Ammon began to speak unto him with boldness, and said unto him: Believest thou that there is a God? And he answered, and said unto him: I do not know what that meaneth. And then Ammon said: Believest thou that there is a Great Spirit? And he said, Yea. And Ammon said: This is God. And Ammon said unto him again: Believest thou that this Great Spirit, who is God, created all things which are in heaven and in the earth? And he said: Yea, I believe that he created all things which are in the earth; but I do not know the heavens. And Ammon said unto him: The heavens is a place where God dwells and all his holy angels” (vs 24-30).
At the end of the next chapter we see once again that the Lord’s desire is for His work to go to all of his children “And thus the work of the Lord did commence among the Lamanites; thus the Lord did begin to pour out his Spirit upon them; and we see that his arm is extended to all people who will repent and believe on his name” (Alma 19:36)
The next chapter contains the well-known account of the Zoramites and their prideful manner of worship at the Rameumptom (Alma 31:21). They preached falsely that they were the “elect” while everyone else was “elected to be cast by the wrath [of God] down to hell” (vs 17).
In chapter 37, Alma testifies of the purpose of the ancient records which have become the Book of Mormon. He prophesies that the records “should be kept and handed down from one generation to another, and be kept and preserved by the hand of the Lord until they should go forth unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, that they shall know of the mysteries contained thereon” (Alma 37:4).
Alma testifies to his son that God is no respecter of persons: “Behold, I say unto you, is not a soul at this time as precious unto God as a soul will be at the time of his coming? Is it not as necessary that the plan of redemption should be made known unto this people as well as unto their children?” (Alma 39:17-18).
In chapter 7 of Helaman we see that the Lord holds people accountable according to the knowledge they have received: “Now therefore, I would that ye should behold, my brethren, that it shall be better for the Lamanites than for you except ye shall repent. For behold, they are more righteous than you, for they have not sinned against that great knowledge which ye have received; therefore the Lord will be merciful unto them” (Helaman 7:23-24).
The entire content of Helaman chapter 15 teaches that God judges us according to the light that we have received. This is at a time when the Nephites have rebelled against the knowledge they had been given, and so the words are harsh. “Yea, wo unto this people who are called the people of Nephi except they shall repent, when they shall see all these signs and wonders which shall be showed unto them; for behold, they have been a chosen people of the Lord; yea, the people of Nephi hath he loved, and also hath he chastened them; yea, in the days of their iniquities hath he chastened them because he loveth them. But behold my brethren, the Lamanites hath he hated because their deeds have been evil continually, and this because of the iniquity of the tradition of their fathers. But behold, salvation hath come unto them through the preaching of the Nephites; and for this intent hath the Lord prolonged their days… And behold, ye do know of yourselves, for ye have witnessed it, that as many of them as are brought to the knowledge of the truth, and to know of the wicked and abominable traditions of their fathers, and are led to believe the holy scriptures, yea, the prophecies of the holy prophets, which are written, which leadeth them to faith on the Lord, and unto repentance, which faith and repentance bringeth a change of heart unto them— Therefore, as many as have come to this, ye know of yourselves are firm and steadfast in the faith, and in the thing wherewith they have been made free… Therefore I say unto you, it shall be better for them than for you except ye repent. For behold, had the mighty works been shown unto them which have been shown unto you, yea, unto them who have dwindled in unbelief because of the traditions of their fathers, ye can see of yourselves that they never would again have dwindled in unbelief. Therefore, saith the Lord: I will not utterly destroy them, but I will cause that in the day of my wisdom they shall return again unto me, saith the Lord. And now behold, saith the Lord, concerning the people of the Nephites: If they will not repent, and observe to do my will, I will utterly destroy them, saith the Lord, because of their unbelief notwithstanding the many mighty works which I have done among them” (Helaman 15:3-5,7-8,14-17).
The words of Christ to the more righteous part of the people who survived the destructions at the time of his death show that his arm of mercy is extended to all. “Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me... Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for such I have laid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore repent, and come unto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved” (3 Ne 9:14-22).
He commands them not to forbid anyone from worshipping with them. “And behold, ye shall meet together oft; and ye shall not forbid any man from coming unto you when ye shall meet together, but suffer them that they may come unto you and forbid them not; But ye shall pray for them, and shall not cast them out” (3 Nephi 18:22-23).
The next two verses describe the conditions of the people who belonged to the Church of Christ: “And it came to pass in the thirty and sixth year, the people were all converted unto the Lord, upon all the face of the land, both Nephites and Lamanites, and there were no contentions and disputations among them, and every man did deal justly one with another. And they had all things common among them; therefore there were not rich and poor, bond and free, but they were all made free, and partakers of the heavenly gift” (4 Ne 1:2-3).
The following verse speaks of the unity of the people: “There were no robbers, nor murderers, neither were there Lamanites, nor any manner of -ites; but they were in one, the children of Christ, and heirs to the kingdom of God. And how blessed were they! For the Lord did bless them in all their doings...” (4 Ne 1:17-18).
The purpose of the Book of Mormon is given in the third chapter of Mormon. The book is written for all God’s children. “Therefore I write unto you, Gentiles, and also unto you, house of Israel, when the work shall commence, that ye shall be about to prepare to return to the land of your inheritance; Yea, behold, I write unto all the ends of the earth; yea, unto you, twelve tribes of Israel, who shall be judged according to your works by the twelve whom Jesus chose to be his disciples in the land of Jerusalem. And I write also unto the remnant of this people, who shall also be judged by the twelve whom Jesus chose in this land; and they shall be judged by the other twelve whom Jesus chose in the land of Jerusalem. And these things doth the Spirit manifest unto me; therefore I write unto you all. And for this cause I write unto you, that ye may know that ye must all stand before the judgment-seat of Christ, yea, every soul who belongs to the whole human family of Adam; and ye must stand to be judged of your works, whether they be good or evil; And also that ye may believe the gospel of Jesus Christ, which ye shall have among you; and also that the Jews, the covenant people of the Lord, shall have other witness besides him whom they saw and heard, that Jesus, whom they slew, was the very Christ and the very God. And I would that I could persuade all ye ends of the earth to repent and prepare to stand before the judgment-seat of Christ” (Mormon 3:17-22).
The Book of Mormon is consistent throughout making it clear that God extends his love and offers salvation to all his children, regardless of race, nationality, gender, or any other distinction. All are alike unto God. Furthermore we see clearly that all people will be judged according to the truth and light they had been given while in mortality, and we will be shown great mercy as the Lord understands that many are taught incorrect traditions. Those who have been blessed with testimonies of Christ while in this life, on the other hand, are held responsible for being valiant in that testimony.
The Book of Mormon confirms the biblical teaching that the only way to salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ, repentance and the ordinance of baptism (see 3 Ne 11:32-38). But the principle that God loves all of His children and invites all to “partake of his goodness” (2 Ne 26:33) is also emphasized throughout.
In chapter 19 of the First Book of Nephi we learn that ultimately all people will come to a knowledge that Christ is the savior -- “Yea, and all the earth shall see the salvation of the Lord, saith the prophet; every nation, kindred, tongue and people shall be blessed” (1 Ne 19:17).
In chapter 22, Nephi describes the work that the Lord is doing in these Latter days to “...[bring] about his covenants and his gospel unto those who are of the house of Israel… [that] they shall know that the Lord is their Savior and their Redeemer, the Mighty One of Israel” (1 Ne 22:11-12). The Lord will “... gathereth his children from the four quarters of the earth; and he numbereth his sheep, and they know him; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd; and he shall feed his sheep, and in him they shall find pasture.” The Church is global in its scope to bring the gospel to all people throughout the world.
Toward the end of the Second Book of Nephi we see that the Lord extends his mercy and offers salvation to all people, for “all are alike unto God” (2 Ne 26:33). “... Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation. Behold, doth he cry unto any, saying: Depart from me? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; but he saith: Come unto me all ye ends of the earth, buy milk and honey, without money and without price. Behold, hath he commanded any that they should depart out of the synagogues, or out of the houses of worship? Behold, I say unto you, Nay. Hath he commanded any that they should not partake of his salvation? Behold I say unto you, Nay; but he hath given it free for all men; and he hath commanded his people that they should persuade all men to repentance. Behold, hath the Lord commanded any that they should not partake of his goodness? Behold I say unto you, Nay; but all men are privileged the one like unto the other, and none are forbidden… and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile.” (2 Ne 26:24-28,33).
Chapter 29 makes it clear that God is impartial toward nations. “Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth? … 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. And I do this that I may prove unto many that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and that I speak forth my words according to mine own pleasure. And because that I have spoken one word ye need not suppose that I cannot speak another; for my work is not yet finished... Wherefore, because that ye have a Bible ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that I have not caused more to be written ... For behold, I shall speak unto the Jews and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the Nephites and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the other tribes of the house of Israel, which I have led away, and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto all nations of the earth and they shall write it…. And it shall come to pass that the Jews shall have the words of the Nephites, and the Nephites shall have the words of the Jews; and the Nephites and the Jews shall have the words of the lost tribes of Israel; and the lost tribes of Israel shall have the words of the Nephites and the Jews” (2 Ne 29:7-13).
In chapter 30, Nephi continues to prophesy about the restoration of the gospel and the gathering of His people from “... all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people” (2 Ne 30:8). In chapter 31 we are exhorted to have “a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men”. Then in the second chapter of Jacob, we read that every soul is as precious in the sight of God as the other (Jacob 2:21).
In the next chapter Jacob councils his people not to judge the Lamanites even though they do not believe in God and have a hatred toward the Nephites, because this is what they had been taught by their parents. “Behold, their husbands love their wives, and their wives love their husbands; and their husbands and their wives love their children; and their unbelief and their hatred towards you is because of the iniquity of their fathers… Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, which is the word of God, that ye revile no more against them … but ye shall remember your own filthiness...” (Jacob 3:7,9). Jacob then concludes his writings with prophesies of the gathering of Israel in the latter-days and beseeches his brethren to not harden their hearts, and to come unto Christ (Jacob 6:5).
In chapter 14 of Mosiah we learn from Abinadi that those who “have died … in their ignorance, not having salvation declared unto them… have eternal life, being redeemed by the Lord. And little children also have eternal life” (Mosiah 15:24-25). He also prophesies that in the last days “...the salvation of the Lord shall be declared to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people” (Mosiah 15:28).
In chapter 28 of Mosiah we learn of the great charity the sons of Mosiah had for all people, and the anxious concern for the welfare of everyone, even their enemies, and that this charity was a gift of the Spirit of God: “Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not bear that any human soul should perish; yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble” (Mosiah 28:3).
In the first chapter of Alma the Nephites are “steadfast and immovable in keeping the commandments of God” (vs. 25). Priestcraft was not practiced: “...the preacher was no better than the hearer, neither was the teacher any better than the learner; and thus they were all equal, and they did all labor, every man according to his strength” (vs. 26). “And they did impart of their substance, every man according to that which he had, to the poor, and the needy, and the sick, and the afflicted; and they did not wear costly apparel, yet they were neat and comely” (vs. 27). “They did not send away any who were naked, or that were hungry, or that were athirst, or that were sick, or that had not been nourished; and they did not set their hearts upon riches; therefore they were liberal to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, whether out of the church or in the church, having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need” (vs. 30).
In Alma 6 we learn that none were excluded from the church meetings: “Now I would that ye should understand that the word of God was liberal unto all, that none were deprived of the privilege of assembling themselves together to hear the word of God” (Alma 6:5). The people cared for those not of their faith: “... [they joined together in] fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those who knew not God” (vs 6).
In chapter 16, Alma and Amulek go throughout the land preaching the gospel and establishing the church. “And as many as would hear their words, unto them they did impart the word of God, without any respect of persons, continually” (vs 14). “And there was no inequality among them” (vs 16).
Chapter 18 contains an interesting exchange between Ammon and king Lamoni, where Ammon teaches the king about God. They were not of the same faith, nevertheless Ammon built on a common belief in a supreme creator. “And Ammon began to speak unto him with boldness, and said unto him: Believest thou that there is a God? And he answered, and said unto him: I do not know what that meaneth. And then Ammon said: Believest thou that there is a Great Spirit? And he said, Yea. And Ammon said: This is God. And Ammon said unto him again: Believest thou that this Great Spirit, who is God, created all things which are in heaven and in the earth? And he said: Yea, I believe that he created all things which are in the earth; but I do not know the heavens. And Ammon said unto him: The heavens is a place where God dwells and all his holy angels” (vs 24-30).
At the end of the next chapter we see once again that the Lord’s desire is for His work to go to all of his children “And thus the work of the Lord did commence among the Lamanites; thus the Lord did begin to pour out his Spirit upon them; and we see that his arm is extended to all people who will repent and believe on his name” (Alma 19:36)
The next chapter contains the well-known account of the Zoramites and their prideful manner of worship at the Rameumptom (Alma 31:21). They preached falsely that they were the “elect” while everyone else was “elected to be cast by the wrath [of God] down to hell” (vs 17).
In chapter 37, Alma testifies of the purpose of the ancient records which have become the Book of Mormon. He prophesies that the records “should be kept and handed down from one generation to another, and be kept and preserved by the hand of the Lord until they should go forth unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, that they shall know of the mysteries contained thereon” (Alma 37:4).
Alma testifies to his son that God is no respecter of persons: “Behold, I say unto you, is not a soul at this time as precious unto God as a soul will be at the time of his coming? Is it not as necessary that the plan of redemption should be made known unto this people as well as unto their children?” (Alma 39:17-18).
In chapter 7 of Helaman we see that the Lord holds people accountable according to the knowledge they have received: “Now therefore, I would that ye should behold, my brethren, that it shall be better for the Lamanites than for you except ye shall repent. For behold, they are more righteous than you, for they have not sinned against that great knowledge which ye have received; therefore the Lord will be merciful unto them” (Helaman 7:23-24).
The entire content of Helaman chapter 15 teaches that God judges us according to the light that we have received. This is at a time when the Nephites have rebelled against the knowledge they had been given, and so the words are harsh. “Yea, wo unto this people who are called the people of Nephi except they shall repent, when they shall see all these signs and wonders which shall be showed unto them; for behold, they have been a chosen people of the Lord; yea, the people of Nephi hath he loved, and also hath he chastened them; yea, in the days of their iniquities hath he chastened them because he loveth them. But behold my brethren, the Lamanites hath he hated because their deeds have been evil continually, and this because of the iniquity of the tradition of their fathers. But behold, salvation hath come unto them through the preaching of the Nephites; and for this intent hath the Lord prolonged their days… And behold, ye do know of yourselves, for ye have witnessed it, that as many of them as are brought to the knowledge of the truth, and to know of the wicked and abominable traditions of their fathers, and are led to believe the holy scriptures, yea, the prophecies of the holy prophets, which are written, which leadeth them to faith on the Lord, and unto repentance, which faith and repentance bringeth a change of heart unto them— Therefore, as many as have come to this, ye know of yourselves are firm and steadfast in the faith, and in the thing wherewith they have been made free… Therefore I say unto you, it shall be better for them than for you except ye repent. For behold, had the mighty works been shown unto them which have been shown unto you, yea, unto them who have dwindled in unbelief because of the traditions of their fathers, ye can see of yourselves that they never would again have dwindled in unbelief. Therefore, saith the Lord: I will not utterly destroy them, but I will cause that in the day of my wisdom they shall return again unto me, saith the Lord. And now behold, saith the Lord, concerning the people of the Nephites: If they will not repent, and observe to do my will, I will utterly destroy them, saith the Lord, because of their unbelief notwithstanding the many mighty works which I have done among them” (Helaman 15:3-5,7-8,14-17).
The words of Christ to the more righteous part of the people who survived the destructions at the time of his death show that his arm of mercy is extended to all. “Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me... Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for such I have laid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore repent, and come unto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved” (3 Ne 9:14-22).
He commands them not to forbid anyone from worshipping with them. “And behold, ye shall meet together oft; and ye shall not forbid any man from coming unto you when ye shall meet together, but suffer them that they may come unto you and forbid them not; But ye shall pray for them, and shall not cast them out” (3 Nephi 18:22-23).
The next two verses describe the conditions of the people who belonged to the Church of Christ: “And it came to pass in the thirty and sixth year, the people were all converted unto the Lord, upon all the face of the land, both Nephites and Lamanites, and there were no contentions and disputations among them, and every man did deal justly one with another. And they had all things common among them; therefore there were not rich and poor, bond and free, but they were all made free, and partakers of the heavenly gift” (4 Ne 1:2-3).
The following verse speaks of the unity of the people: “There were no robbers, nor murderers, neither were there Lamanites, nor any manner of -ites; but they were in one, the children of Christ, and heirs to the kingdom of God. And how blessed were they! For the Lord did bless them in all their doings...” (4 Ne 1:17-18).
The purpose of the Book of Mormon is given in the third chapter of Mormon. The book is written for all God’s children. “Therefore I write unto you, Gentiles, and also unto you, house of Israel, when the work shall commence, that ye shall be about to prepare to return to the land of your inheritance; Yea, behold, I write unto all the ends of the earth; yea, unto you, twelve tribes of Israel, who shall be judged according to your works by the twelve whom Jesus chose to be his disciples in the land of Jerusalem. And I write also unto the remnant of this people, who shall also be judged by the twelve whom Jesus chose in this land; and they shall be judged by the other twelve whom Jesus chose in the land of Jerusalem. And these things doth the Spirit manifest unto me; therefore I write unto you all. And for this cause I write unto you, that ye may know that ye must all stand before the judgment-seat of Christ, yea, every soul who belongs to the whole human family of Adam; and ye must stand to be judged of your works, whether they be good or evil; And also that ye may believe the gospel of Jesus Christ, which ye shall have among you; and also that the Jews, the covenant people of the Lord, shall have other witness besides him whom they saw and heard, that Jesus, whom they slew, was the very Christ and the very God. And I would that I could persuade all ye ends of the earth to repent and prepare to stand before the judgment-seat of Christ” (Mormon 3:17-22).
The Book of Mormon is consistent throughout making it clear that God extends his love and offers salvation to all his children, regardless of race, nationality, gender, or any other distinction. All are alike unto God. Furthermore we see clearly that all people will be judged according to the truth and light they had been given while in mortality, and we will be shown great mercy as the Lord understands that many are taught incorrect traditions. Those who have been blessed with testimonies of Christ while in this life, on the other hand, are held responsible for being valiant in that testimony.
Sunday, August 20, 2017
Worldly pride and humility
The Book of Mormon clearly opposes the seeking of worldly praise, the pursuit of riches without the intent to do good, putting trust in the wisdom of the world in place of the wisdom of God, and in general being puffed up in boasting of one’s own merits and strength. On the positive end, disciples of Christ are encouraged to be humble, recognizing their dependence on God for their very lives and for everything they possess.
Lehi, in his vision of the tree of life, sees multitudes of people gathered in a “large and spacious building” representing the “world and the wisdom thereof” (1 Ne 11:35) and the “pride of the world” and that “... it fell, and the fall thereof was exceedingly great” (1 Ne 11:36). Nephi prophesies that the people in these days will “... wear stiff necks and high heads; yea, and because of pride, and wickedness, and abominations, and whoredoms, they have all gone astray save it be a few, who are the humble followers of Christ” (2 Ne 28:14).
In chapter 27, Nephi prophesies of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and describes how the “learned” will reject the book because they seek the “glory of the world and to get gain…, and not for the glory of God” (2 Ne 27:16). So the book was instead translated by the unlearned Joseph Smith, by the words given him by God, “... for I will show unto the children of men that I am able to do mine own work” (2 Ne 27:20-21). Alma later in the book explains that “by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise” (Alma 37:6).
Jacob warns his people sharply about pride and the danger of seeking riches, and thinking ourselves better than others. “And the hand of providence hath smiled upon you most pleasingly, that you have obtained many riches; and because some of you have obtained more abundantly than that of your brethren ye are lifted up in the pride of your hearts, and wear stiff necks and high heads because of the costliness of your apparel, and persecute your brethren because ye suppose that ye are better than they. And now, my brethren, do ye suppose that God justifieth you in this thing? Behold, I say unto you, Nay...“ (Jacob 2:13-14).
In the fourth chapter of Alma, Mormon contrasts the prideful members of the church with those who are humble. “[Alma and the priests and teachers] saw and beheld with great sorrow that the people of the church began to be lifted up in the pride of their eyes, and to set their hearts upon riches and upon the vain things of the world, that they began to be scornful, one towards another, and they began to persecute those that did not believe according to their own will and pleasure… yea, there were envyings, and strife, and malice, and persecutions, and pride, even to exceed the pride of those who did not belong to the church of God… while others were abasing themselves, succoring those who stood in need of their succor, such as imparting their substance to the poor and the needy, feeding the hungry, and suffering all manner of afflictions, for Christ’s sake, who should come according to the spirit of prophecy; Looking forward to that day, thus retaining a remission of their sins; being filled with great joy because of the resurrection of the dead, according to the will and power and deliverance of Jesus Christ from the bands of death” (Alma 4:8-9,13-14).
Later in the book of Alma we learn of the Zoramites and their prideful manner of worship at the Rameumptom (Alma 31:21). They preach falsely that they were the “elect” while everyone else was “elected to be cast by the wrath [of God] down to hell” (vs 17). They had their hearts set on riches (vs 24), and boasted in their pride (vs 25).
In chapter 45 of Alma, we see the potential pitfalls that can befall people when they obtain riches due to being prospered by the Lord. “But they grew proud, being lifted up in their hearts, because of their exceedingly great riches; therefore they grew rich in their own eyes, and would not give heed to their words, to walk uprightly before God” (Alma 45:24).
In contrast, at a later period the people do not allow themselves to be corrupted by riches. “And they began to grow exceedingly rich. But notwithstanding their riches, or their strength, or their prosperity, they were not lifted up in the pride of their eyes; neither were they slow to remember the Lord their God; but they did humble themselves exceedingly before him” (Alma 62:48-49).
The ultimate consequences of pride are outlined in chapter 4 of Helaman. “And it was because of the pride of their hearts, because of their exceeding riches, yea, it was because of their oppression to the poor ... And because of this their great wickedness, and their boastings in their own strength, they were left in their own strength; therefore they did not prosper, but were afflicted and smitten, and driven before the Lamanites, until they had lost possession of almost all their lands” (Helaman 4:12-13).
The pride of our day is foretold by Moroni toward the end of the book. “And I know that ye do walk in the pride of your hearts; and there are none save a few only who do not lift themselves up in the pride of their hearts, unto the wearing of very fine apparel, unto envying, and strifes, and malice, and persecutions, and all manner of iniquities; and your churches, yea, even every one, have become polluted because of the pride of your hearts. For behold, ye do love money, and your substance, and your fine apparel, and the adorning of your churches, more than ye love the poor and the needy, the sick and the afflicted” (Mormon 8:36-37).
When I think of the opposite of pride, humility, I think of people like the teachers of my children at Walton Farm Elementary School, including their wonderful gym teacher. I am so impressed with how generously he gives of his time and energy because he cares about the children. Everyone admires him and his many obvious talents, but it is clear he doesn't do this to boast. His intentions are out of love for the children.
Worldly pride is a prevalent attribute in today's world as many people foolishly seek riches and notoriety, without the intent to do good and often at the expense of others. The Book of Mormon, on the other hand, is a steady voice encouraging us to be humble and selfless, acknowledging our delicate state, and expressing to God our understanding that every talent and blessing originates from Him.
Lehi, in his vision of the tree of life, sees multitudes of people gathered in a “large and spacious building” representing the “world and the wisdom thereof” (1 Ne 11:35) and the “pride of the world” and that “... it fell, and the fall thereof was exceedingly great” (1 Ne 11:36). Nephi prophesies that the people in these days will “... wear stiff necks and high heads; yea, and because of pride, and wickedness, and abominations, and whoredoms, they have all gone astray save it be a few, who are the humble followers of Christ” (2 Ne 28:14).
In chapter 27, Nephi prophesies of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and describes how the “learned” will reject the book because they seek the “glory of the world and to get gain…, and not for the glory of God” (2 Ne 27:16). So the book was instead translated by the unlearned Joseph Smith, by the words given him by God, “... for I will show unto the children of men that I am able to do mine own work” (2 Ne 27:20-21). Alma later in the book explains that “by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise” (Alma 37:6).
Jacob warns his people sharply about pride and the danger of seeking riches, and thinking ourselves better than others. “And the hand of providence hath smiled upon you most pleasingly, that you have obtained many riches; and because some of you have obtained more abundantly than that of your brethren ye are lifted up in the pride of your hearts, and wear stiff necks and high heads because of the costliness of your apparel, and persecute your brethren because ye suppose that ye are better than they. And now, my brethren, do ye suppose that God justifieth you in this thing? Behold, I say unto you, Nay...“ (Jacob 2:13-14).
In the fourth chapter of Alma, Mormon contrasts the prideful members of the church with those who are humble. “[Alma and the priests and teachers] saw and beheld with great sorrow that the people of the church began to be lifted up in the pride of their eyes, and to set their hearts upon riches and upon the vain things of the world, that they began to be scornful, one towards another, and they began to persecute those that did not believe according to their own will and pleasure… yea, there were envyings, and strife, and malice, and persecutions, and pride, even to exceed the pride of those who did not belong to the church of God… while others were abasing themselves, succoring those who stood in need of their succor, such as imparting their substance to the poor and the needy, feeding the hungry, and suffering all manner of afflictions, for Christ’s sake, who should come according to the spirit of prophecy; Looking forward to that day, thus retaining a remission of their sins; being filled with great joy because of the resurrection of the dead, according to the will and power and deliverance of Jesus Christ from the bands of death” (Alma 4:8-9,13-14).
Later in the book of Alma we learn of the Zoramites and their prideful manner of worship at the Rameumptom (Alma 31:21). They preach falsely that they were the “elect” while everyone else was “elected to be cast by the wrath [of God] down to hell” (vs 17). They had their hearts set on riches (vs 24), and boasted in their pride (vs 25).
In chapter 45 of Alma, we see the potential pitfalls that can befall people when they obtain riches due to being prospered by the Lord. “But they grew proud, being lifted up in their hearts, because of their exceedingly great riches; therefore they grew rich in their own eyes, and would not give heed to their words, to walk uprightly before God” (Alma 45:24).
In contrast, at a later period the people do not allow themselves to be corrupted by riches. “And they began to grow exceedingly rich. But notwithstanding their riches, or their strength, or their prosperity, they were not lifted up in the pride of their eyes; neither were they slow to remember the Lord their God; but they did humble themselves exceedingly before him” (Alma 62:48-49).
The ultimate consequences of pride are outlined in chapter 4 of Helaman. “And it was because of the pride of their hearts, because of their exceeding riches, yea, it was because of their oppression to the poor ... And because of this their great wickedness, and their boastings in their own strength, they were left in their own strength; therefore they did not prosper, but were afflicted and smitten, and driven before the Lamanites, until they had lost possession of almost all their lands” (Helaman 4:12-13).
The pride of our day is foretold by Moroni toward the end of the book. “And I know that ye do walk in the pride of your hearts; and there are none save a few only who do not lift themselves up in the pride of their hearts, unto the wearing of very fine apparel, unto envying, and strifes, and malice, and persecutions, and all manner of iniquities; and your churches, yea, even every one, have become polluted because of the pride of your hearts. For behold, ye do love money, and your substance, and your fine apparel, and the adorning of your churches, more than ye love the poor and the needy, the sick and the afflicted” (Mormon 8:36-37).
When I think of the opposite of pride, humility, I think of people like the teachers of my children at Walton Farm Elementary School, including their wonderful gym teacher. I am so impressed with how generously he gives of his time and energy because he cares about the children. Everyone admires him and his many obvious talents, but it is clear he doesn't do this to boast. His intentions are out of love for the children.
Worldly pride is a prevalent attribute in today's world as many people foolishly seek riches and notoriety, without the intent to do good and often at the expense of others. The Book of Mormon, on the other hand, is a steady voice encouraging us to be humble and selfless, acknowledging our delicate state, and expressing to God our understanding that every talent and blessing originates from Him.
Assisting the poor and needy
The Book of Mormon is abundantly clear about what are attitude should be toward the poor and those in need. Disciples of Christ are anxious to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit and provide relief to the suffering and afflicted, never considering themselves above or better than those less fortunate than themselves. Whenever the church is established among the people, the members love one another, serve one another, and in the very best of times share all things in common so that there are no poor among them. On the other hand, whenever the people are lifted up in pride, they despise the poor. In the worst of times they even cast them out.
Jacob teaches his people to give willingly, but that the pursuit of riches is a good thing provided that the intent is to do good. “Think of your brethren like unto yourselves, and be familiar with all and free with your substance, that they may be rich like unto you. But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God. And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted” (Jacob 2:17-19)
In another period, King Benjamin explains that we are all beggars, in the spiritual sense, being indebted to God for our very lives and every blessing that we enjoy. Therefore the people of the church must “administer of your substance unto him that standeth in need; and ye will not suffer that the beggar putteth up his petition to you in vain, and turn him out to perish” (Mosiah 4:16). He warns against the attitude that the beggar has “... brought upon himself his misery” (Mosiah 4:17). He pleads with his people to love and serve one another, explaining that “... when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17).
Later, Alma tells the people of the church to give willingly “every one according to that which he had; if he have more abundantly he should impart more abundantly; and of him that had but little, but little should be required; and to him that had not should be given” (Mosiah 18:27). He tells them that this should be done of their own free will, out of the desire to do good and to relieve the suffering of “every needy, naked soul” (Mosiah 18:28). The people served one another regardless of their place in the society, “having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need” (Alma 1:30).
At yet another time, all the people of the land, both Nephites and Lamanites were “converted unto the Lord” (4 Ne 1). “And they had all things common among them; therefore there were not rich and poor, bond and free, but they were all made free, and partakers of the heavenly gift” (4 Ne 3). There is nothing in the book that steps away from these principles, nor does it teach anything but to love and serve the poor with all our hearts.
Members of the Church of Jesus Christs of Latter-day Saints are asked to fast at least once per month, foregoing food for two meals (or 24 hours) and donating the money saved to assist the poor. Thus people of all income levels are able to contribute and participate. These donations are called fast offerings. Those who have been blessed with a greater portion of wealth are encouraged to give generously beyond the cost of two meals as their circumstances allow.
As a financial auditor in the local congregations of the church I see first hand how these offerings benefit those who, for whatever reason, are unable to provide the necessities of life to themselves and to their families. Without the assistance of these fast offerings (distributed freely without stipulation by the bishops of the congregations) these, our brothers and sisters, would need to choose between food, warmth, and shelter.
As I walk the streets of Manhattan each week when I travel to work, I observe great need and suffering. I know that those begging on the street corners represent the tip of the iceburg, so to speak, of individuals and families with food and shelter insecurity. Among the (too small) number of wonderful organizations that assist the poor in New York, City Harvest is one that salvages a portion of the vast excess food that would otherwise go to waste. By donating to this organization, I believe each dollar goes a long way in helping New Yorkers who may be struggling to make ends meet. These are our brothers and sisters who need help.
One of my greatest joys is to assist the poor by making a generous fast offering to the church, as our families circumstances allow. It is a way to show gratitude to our Heavenly Father who has blessed us so richly. As I read the Book of Mormon, I experience great joy knowing that we are following the will of the Lord in this matter. In this way I strive to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Jacob teaches his people to give willingly, but that the pursuit of riches is a good thing provided that the intent is to do good. “Think of your brethren like unto yourselves, and be familiar with all and free with your substance, that they may be rich like unto you. But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God. And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted” (Jacob 2:17-19)
In another period, King Benjamin explains that we are all beggars, in the spiritual sense, being indebted to God for our very lives and every blessing that we enjoy. Therefore the people of the church must “administer of your substance unto him that standeth in need; and ye will not suffer that the beggar putteth up his petition to you in vain, and turn him out to perish” (Mosiah 4:16). He warns against the attitude that the beggar has “... brought upon himself his misery” (Mosiah 4:17). He pleads with his people to love and serve one another, explaining that “... when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17).
Later, Alma tells the people of the church to give willingly “every one according to that which he had; if he have more abundantly he should impart more abundantly; and of him that had but little, but little should be required; and to him that had not should be given” (Mosiah 18:27). He tells them that this should be done of their own free will, out of the desire to do good and to relieve the suffering of “every needy, naked soul” (Mosiah 18:28). The people served one another regardless of their place in the society, “having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need” (Alma 1:30).
At yet another time, all the people of the land, both Nephites and Lamanites were “converted unto the Lord” (4 Ne 1). “And they had all things common among them; therefore there were not rich and poor, bond and free, but they were all made free, and partakers of the heavenly gift” (4 Ne 3). There is nothing in the book that steps away from these principles, nor does it teach anything but to love and serve the poor with all our hearts.
Members of the Church of Jesus Christs of Latter-day Saints are asked to fast at least once per month, foregoing food for two meals (or 24 hours) and donating the money saved to assist the poor. Thus people of all income levels are able to contribute and participate. These donations are called fast offerings. Those who have been blessed with a greater portion of wealth are encouraged to give generously beyond the cost of two meals as their circumstances allow.
As a financial auditor in the local congregations of the church I see first hand how these offerings benefit those who, for whatever reason, are unable to provide the necessities of life to themselves and to their families. Without the assistance of these fast offerings (distributed freely without stipulation by the bishops of the congregations) these, our brothers and sisters, would need to choose between food, warmth, and shelter.
As I walk the streets of Manhattan each week when I travel to work, I observe great need and suffering. I know that those begging on the street corners represent the tip of the iceburg, so to speak, of individuals and families with food and shelter insecurity. Among the (too small) number of wonderful organizations that assist the poor in New York, City Harvest is one that salvages a portion of the vast excess food that would otherwise go to waste. By donating to this organization, I believe each dollar goes a long way in helping New Yorkers who may be struggling to make ends meet. These are our brothers and sisters who need help.
One of my greatest joys is to assist the poor by making a generous fast offering to the church, as our families circumstances allow. It is a way to show gratitude to our Heavenly Father who has blessed us so richly. As I read the Book of Mormon, I experience great joy knowing that we are following the will of the Lord in this matter. In this way I strive to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
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