With one word we can unlock volumes of information from the Standard Works. It is not difficult and it will more than level the playing field with academics.
Recently my son returned from an institute class and shared some insights we both found troubling. The instructor expressed the opinion that a person could not understand the scriptures without understanding the symbolism expressed therein. The instructor proceeded to hand out a list of symbols on a sheet of paper as if it represented the “silver bullet” for unlocking meaning in the scriptures. The sheet may be instructive and even helpful but the premise is false. The Spirit of God can teach us all we need to know if we but focus on one word and explore what the scriptures and the Spirit have to say on the subject.
This post will begin demonstrate how studying one word, “Gentiles” can teach us volumes about who we are and how the ancient Prophets viewed us. The references we examine will be limited to the Book of Mormon.
The substance of the study is a chapter researched and written to provide the reader with a foundation for future studies.
The Topical Study of the Word "Gentiles"
Applying the Tools of Topical Study
Our study of the latter-day Gentiles begins with opening the concordance and turning to the word “Gentiles”. With a quick glance I see there are five books in the Book of Mormon that use the term. The first two, 1 & 2 Nephi were both written by Nephi. The next references are found in 3 Nephi where the Savior provides significant commentary about the Gentiles. The next Prophet who speaks of the Gentiles is Mormon and then his son, Moroni concludes in the Book of Ether. It appears for the size of the volume, very little relative space talks about the Gentiles. That does not mean there isn’t more for the Gentiles to glean from the record. In the course of our study we will use other tools that help identify and apply much more of the content to the latter-day Gentiles.
Turning to methodology, let’s talk about process generally and then turn to the process I follow specifically. There is no “one way” to do topical research. There are many ways and one method does not necessarily invalidate another. The methodology I have developed tends to be slow and methodical. That is by design. It has been my experience the more I involve myself in a gradual, reflective process the more susceptible to the Spirit I become. To help us walk through the process I developed a series of six steps I follow to delve into the subject. They are as follows:
1. Step 1: Turn to the concordance and identify each reference that uses the word “Gentiles” in the Book of Mormon.
2. Step 2: Read the verse that uses Gentiles and then read the verses before and after until the beginning and end of the discussion as it relates to the Gentiles can be identified.
3. Step 3: Examine each verse in the chapter that relates to the Gentiles and write down what you think it means. Include any thoughts that may come to mind in your personal commentary. The Holy Ghost will bring thoughts to mind and teach you as you engage in the process. The thoughts are generally attended by feelings and the feelings are what feed the desire to know more. This is far more than an intellectual pursuit. The Spirit edifies and inspires and feeds your spirit, as your thoughts increase in depth. It feels good and you begin to desire more interaction with the Spirit. Those feelings appear with greater frequency while engaging in topical study of the scriptures. It may take some time to realize you are being tutored by the Spirit of God. Thinking as a little child open to instruction will expedite the process.
4. Step 4: As you read each verse look for repetitive words and phrases. Some may be key words and phrases and others may provide scripture definitions. Often they stand out because the word choice seems unique or odd. The Lord will draw attention to those passages and they may become the next topic of study.
5. Step 5: Look for common themes or subjects reflected in the passages. Over time key words or phrases will begin to stand out as you read the verses from the unique perspective of the topic you are researching. Often the passages talk about the same prophetic events repetitively but emphasize different details. When they are brought together the passages frequently paint a more complete picture than one assembles through traditional reading.
6. Step 6: Assemble the facts and see what picture emerges. At this point you may find yourself attempting to reconcile what you think you know with what the scriptures are actually saying. We have to pray to have our hearts softened and strive to keep an open mind. The Book of Mormon was written by Prophets and translated by a Prophet. It is the most correct book of scripture on earth at this time. It was intended to be easily understood with “plain and precious” revelations to those who resist hardening their hearts. Learn to accept the records simplicity. It only becomes complicated when we attempt reconciling the concept with preconceived beliefs. Trust the Book of Mormon. It provides the correct perspective that is consistent with the Lord’s point of view. Anciently Jewish scholars were unable to reconcile what Christ taught with what the scribes and Pharisee’s “knew”. Consequently they crucified the Son of God because He failed to conform to their interpretation of the scriptures. If you find difficulty in accepting or understanding something, pray about it and set it aside until the Lord gives you an answer. The promise will come if you pray consistently and wait patiently. When it does it will be at the right time for you to receive what the Lord has to offer. The answer will come through the scriptures, direct revelation (like the whisperings of the Spirit or the testimony of living Disciples of Christ.) If you take your time and prayerfully consider what you are reading the Spirit of God will expand your thoughts and illuminate your mind to think thoughts you never dreamed possible.
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