Topical Study of the "Gentiles" Part 3

Results from Topical Study of the word “Gentiles”

Before we delve into the “Gentiles” in these passages I thought it might be helpful to provide a bit of information about topical study. There is a total of 33 chapters that contain information about the latter-day Gentiles in the Book of Mormon. Nephi, Jesus, Mormon and Moroni provide the commentary on the Gentiles to be examined. My personal analysis of these verses produced a total of 32 pages of commentary on the Gentiles. The personal summary was not originally intended for publication. It should be considered a “rough” draft. You should be aware my personal commentary was dynamic, evolving as I proceeded with this process. Topical research is a work in progress and views have to be adapted as new information is received.

A workable metaphor for what we are about to do is panning for gold. I have read the Book of Mormon cover to cover over 50 times. That is when I stopped counting. Never, in those 50 readings was I able to develop the kind of depth of understanding I gained through studying these scriptures topically. As I write my own commentary I am meticulously scrutinizing every word, searching for meaning that is often hidden in plain sight. I am constantly questioning why the Lord decided to use a particular word or phrase. Engaging in this process may be likened to panning for gold because it incorporates and stimulates pondering and our ability to recall what you are reading will be greatly enhanced because the function of the Holy Spirit is to “bring all things to your remembrance.” (John 14:26)

As my commentary is added to this chapter, a passage came to mind that was inserted at the beginning. It reminds of Nephi’s counsel early on in his record that is particularly relevant to what we are doing:

17 And it came to pass after I, Nephi, having heard all the words of my father, concerning the things which he saw in a vision, and also the things which he spake by the power of the Holy Ghost, which power he received by faith on the Son of God—and the Son of God was the Messiah who should come—I, Nephi, was desirous also that I might see, and hear, and know of these things, by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him, as well in times of old as in the time that he should manifest himself unto the children of men.

18 For he is the same yesterday, to-day, and forever; and the way is prepared for all men from the foundation of the world, if it so be that they repent and come unto him.

19 For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in times of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round. (1 Nephi 10:17-19, emphasis mine)

We have an immutable promise from God that He will open the mysteries of God to all men who diligently seek. It was so anciently and will be so forever. Engaging in topical study is perhaps the most visible way of demonstrating diligence to the Lord. Let’s be diligent and press onward to the “mysteries of God.”

Personal Commentary

What we are about to read should be done so comparatively, with the Book of Mormon opened before you. If you are diligent and search these things we will learn more on the subject of the latter-day Gentiles than we ever dreamed of knowing. My commentary is “first impression” in nature and so no one should assume the content is final in its conclusion. It reflects what I have learned thus far in my journey but when we are talking about comprehending the mysteries of God, my musings do not begin to even scratch the surface of what God has to share. At the end is a brief, broad summary of the chapters that follow to show what “nuggets” were found at the bottom of the pan when the sifting was process is complete.

The Latter-day Gentiles

1 Nephi 10:14- The Gentiles receive the fulness of the Gospel.

1 Nephi 13:2-9- Formation of a great church.

1 Nephi 13:32-42

Remnant of Israel will be met with great judgments.

Gentiles stumble exceedingly because of the plain and precious parts of the Bible that have been “kept back”.

The Lord is merciful to the Gentiles when he manifests to them “much of my gospel.”

Nephite records will be “hid up” to come forth by the gift and power of Christ to the Gentiles. They contain the gospel, the “rock of Christ” and the “salvation of Christ”.

Those who seek to bring forth Zion in that day achieve the title of “blessed.” They receive the “power” of the Holy Ghost and will be lifted up at the last day and saved in the everlasting kingdom of the Lamb.

They will “publish peace and tidings of great joy” and their feet will be “beautiful upon the mountains.”

The Bible comes to the remnant of the Lamanites from the Gentiles.

After the remnant of the seed of Laman and Lemuel receive these records “other books” are brought forth from the Gentiles to them, unto convincing of the Gentiles, the remnant of Laman and Lemuel and also the “Jews” (a synonym for Israel in the Book of Mormon). The “other books” will validate and support the records of the “prophets” and “Apostles” and prove they are true. The “other books” restore the “plain and precious things that have been taken away from the Bible. The restored knowledge will be given to “to all kindreds, tongues and people.” They will all know that the Lamb of God is the Son of the Eternal Father and the Savior of the world; and that all men must come unto him, or they cannot be saved.

They must come according to the words that will be established by the mouth of the Lamb; and the words of the Lamb will be made known in the records of thy seed, “as well as in the records of the twelve Apostles of the Lamb: wherefore they both will be established as one.”

The time will come when the Lord will manifest himself to unto all nations, both Jew and Gentile.

1 Nephi 14: 1-17 If the Gentiles hearken unto the Lamb of God “in that day” he manifests himself unto them in word, power and deed unto removing their stumbling blocks. And if they don’t harden their hearts against Christ, they will be numbered amongst the descendants of Lehi and the house of Israel. They will be a blessed people on the Promised Land forever. They, (or the house of Israel) will never be captive again.

The “great pit” dug for them by the “Great and Abominable Church” shall be filled by those who dug it to their “utter destruction.” (Not the destruction of the soul, save it be casting it into the hell that hath no end.) This is according to the captivity of the devil and the justice of God upon all those who work wickedness and abomination before him.

If the Gentiles repent it will be well with them. The Lord will honor the covenants made to Israel and all who will not repent must perish.

The time comes when the Lord will work a great and marvelous work among the children of men. A work that will be “everlasting” unto convincing of them to peace and life eternal or unto the deliverance of them to the hardness of their hearts and the blindness of their minds unto their being brought down into captivity, and also into destruction, both temporally and spiritually, according to the captivity of the devil.

The Spirit calls to Nephi’s mind the covenants of “the Father” with the house of Israel. This begins the description of the division spoken of in verse 7 and the gathering of Israel which fulfills the Father’s covenant with Israel.

Vs. 10- There are two churches: The Church of the Lamb of God and the Church of the devil. If you are not with the Church of the Lamb of God you are with the Church of the devil. The Church of the devil is the “whore of all the earth.” (She sells herself for money.) She has dominion over the whole earth, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people.

The Church of the Lamb of God was few in number and they were scattered throughout the earth. Their numbers are small because of the wickedness of the “whore.”

The “whore” gathered many from the Gentile nations of the earth to war against the Church of the Lamb of God.

The power of the Lamb of God descended upon the “Saints” and upon the covenant people of the Lord (two different categories) who were scattered upon all the face of the face of the earth.

The “Saints” and the “covenant people” were “armed with righteousness” (D&C 113:7-10, D&C 121:35-36) and with power of God in “great glory.” Interesting the Lord narrows it down to two groups, the “Saints” and the “covenant people” or Israel. They are distinguished together as the Church of the Lamb but separate. (Vs. 14)

The wrath of God is poured out on the “Great and abominable Church” and there were “wars and rumors of wars among all nations and kindreds.

Vs. 16-17- The wars and rumors were among the nations that belong to the mother of abominations. When the wrath of God is poured out upon the “mother of harlots”, the “work of the Father will commence” (simultaneously) in preparing the way for the “fulfilling of His covenants with the house of Israel.”

Nephi has written “but a small part of the things which I saw.” (vs. 28)

1 Nephi 15:13- -The grafting in of the natural branches through the “fulness of the Gentiles” is that in the “latter days”, when the descendants of Lehi have dwindled in unbelief, many generations after The Messiah will be manifest to them “in body”, then the “fulness of the gospel of the Messiah will come to the Gentiles and from the Gentiles to the “remnant of our seed.” (Lehi)

“At that day” shall the remnant of our seed know that they are of the house of Israel and that they are the covenant people of the Lord. Then shall they know and come to a knowledge of their forefathers and also to the “knowledge of the gospel of their Redeemer (which was ministered unto their fathers by Him). “…, they shall come to the knowledge of their Redeemer and the very points of his doctrine that they may know how to come unto him and be saved.” (3 Nephi 26:6-10)

At that day they will rejoice and praise unto God, “their rock and salvation.” At that day they will receive strength and nourishment from the “true vine”. (John 15:1)

The descendants of Lehi will be remembered and “grafted in” (to Christ the true vine.)

It comes to the descendants of Lehi by way of the “Gentiles” that the Lord may show his power unto the Gentiles, for the very cause that He will be rejected by the Jews or of the house of Israel.

Lehi spoke not only of his own seed (Joseph) but also the other scattered tribes of Israel, pointing to the covenant (between Israel and the Lord) that would be fulfilled in the latter days, “In thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.”

Nephi refers to the words of Isaiah and Jacob (Nephi’s younger brother/High Priest) clarifies that when Nephi refers to the restoration of the “Jews” it is not intended to limit his comments to the tribe of Judah but refers to all the tribes of Israel. After their restoration, Israel will never be scattered or confounded again.

Seeing yourself through the eyes of a Prophet

Before we begin our study of the Gentiles we must address one of the great challenges we face when we seek after added light. Through out this process we will always be challenged to reconcile what we “know” or think we know with passages we read. If we engage in this process with preconceived notions it closes our minds and constricts the flow of truth the Lord is trying to give. For example, when I first began to study prophecy topically I approached the subject from a modern, post restoration perspective. From the modern perspective I considered my self a member of the house of Israel through Joseph. I am an Ephraimite according to the declaration of lineage in my patriarchal blessing. One of the more stunning realizations I came to through this study is the pre-restoration view of our ancient brethren. They did not share the idea Ephraim were Israelites at all. The Nephite Prophets, (as well as the Savior) grouped us with the Gentiles. There are Gentiles who remain un-repentant and there are those who repent. The repentant share the inheritance of land granted to the Nephites. Note the prophecy of Nephi when he describes these events:

10 But behold, this land, said God, shall be a land of thine inheritance, and the Gentiles shall be blessed upon the land.

(2 Nephi 10:10, emphasis mine)

18 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, thus saith our God: I will afflict thy seed by the hand of the Gentiles; nevertheless, I will soften the hearts of the Gentiles, that they shall be like unto a father to them; wherefore, the Gentiles shall be blessed and numbered among the house of Israel.

19 Wherefore, I will consecrate this land unto thy seed, and them who shall be numbered among thy seed, forever, for the land of their inheritance; for it is a choice land, saith God unto me, above all other lands, wherefore I will have all men that dwell thereon that they shall worship me, saith God.(2 Nephi 10:18-19, emphasis mine)

In Nephi’s writing he speaks of the Gentiles separately from the house of Israel. The Gentiles who repent will be “numbered” among the house of Israel but he doesn’t refer to us as “Ephraim” or anything that links us to the house of Israel other than we are “numbered” with Israel. This is not an isolated example. All of the Prophets and the Lord link us (and our fate) to the Gentiles.

Another example that specifically pertains to the members of the Church of Jesus Christ is found in 1 Nephi 14 where the prophetic distinction between the latter-day members of the Church and the house of Israel are even more pronounced:

10 And he said unto me: Behold there are save two churches only; the one is the church of the Lamb of God, and the other is the church of the devil; wherefore, whoso belongeth not to the church of the Lamb of God belongeth to that great church, which is the mother of abominations; and she is the whore of all the earth.(1 Nephi 14:10, emphasis mine)

In the last days there are only two churches on the earth. One is the church of the devil; the second is the church of the Lamb of God. Everything about this passage seems straight forward. As we continue to read Nephi’s prophecy we learn that within the Church of the Lamb of God are two categories of people. Let’s look at verse 14 of 1 Nephi 14:

14 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld the power of the Lamb of God, that it descended upon the saints of the church of the Lamb, and upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth; and they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory.(1 Nephi 14:14, emphasis mine)

The “power of the Lamb” descends on the “saints of the church of he Lamb” and upon “the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth.” Members of the “church of the Lamb” are covenant people with God. Why then are the scattered of Israel only referred to as “the covenant people?” My purpose in raising this question is not to trigger a debate about who are the covenant people of the Lord. My purpose is simply to point out that Nephi’s perspective is different from the modern, post restoration view of members of the Church.

The chronology of Nephi’s prophecy addresses sometime after Joseph Smith’s mission and sometime in our future. The “church of the Lamb” is segregated from the “covenant people” because they represent two separate but related efforts that eventually are joined together.

In the narration of Jesus during His mortal ministry to the Nephites the Savior explains why the Father has chosen to separate the “church of the Lamb from Israel:

5 Therefore, when these works and the works which shall be wrought among you hereafter shall come forth from the Gentiles, unto your seed which shall dwindle in unbelief because of iniquity;

6 For thus it behooveth the Father that it should come forth from the Gentiles, that he may show forth his power unto the Gentiles, for this cause that the Gentiles, if they will not harden their hearts, that they may repent and come unto me and be baptized in my name and know of the true points of my doctrine, that they may be numbered among my people, O house of Israel; (3 Nephi 21:5-6, emphasis mine)

The “Father” wants to save all of His children. His love and mercy are not limited to Israel. So the Father devised a plan that would give the opportunity for Eternal Life to be offered to the Gentiles even as He uses the Gentiles as a tool for restoring Israel. The Father’s plan is to “show” His power to the Gentiles in the hope that when they see His power they would not harden their hearts towards the revelation they receive, repent and come to Christ. The Father will manifest His power in a two stage process. First, the Father will manifest to the Gentiles “these works” (which are made up of the Book of Mormon record we now possess). Then “the works which shall be wrought among you hereafter”, (which are the sealed records that can only be obtained through obedience and faithfulness) will in “due time” be given to the Gentiles. In turn, the Gentiles will deliver the complete record to the remnant of the Nephites, (if the Gentiles become sanctified). If the Gentiles fail to live up to the privilege, the remnant of Nephi will bring them forward to the condemnation of the Gentiles.

When I originally read this passage I thought “these works” and the works which shall be wrought among you hereafter” were all contained in the current editions of the Book of Mormon. Since embarking on this study I have come to believe another interpretation may be in order. I believe the “these things” refer to writings we currently have in the Book of Mormon. The “works which shall be wrought among you hereafter” refers to additional revelation. It may refer to the sealed portions of the Book of Mormon (containing the complete ministry of Jesus) or possibly additional writings or both.

The blessings to the Gentiles have always been linked to a contingency that they repent and come to Christ. This contingency is frequently repeated throughout these prophecies. The Savior referred to the Father’s plan to test the Gentiles who joined the church of the Lamb:

6 And now there cannot be written in this book even a hundredth part of the things which Jesus did truly teach unto the people;

7 But behold the plates of Nephi do contain the more part of the things which he taught the people.

8 And these things have I written, which are a lesser part of the things which he taught the people; and I have written them to the intent that they may be brought again unto this people, from the Gentiles, according to the words which Jesus hath spoken.

9 And when they shall have received this, which is expedient that they should have first, to try their faith, and if it shall so be that they shall believe these things then shall the greater things be made manifest unto them.

10 And if it so be that they will not believe these things, then shall the greater things be withheld from them, unto their condemnation.

11 Behold, I was about to write them, all which were engraven upon the plates of Nephi, but the Lord forbade it, saying: I will try the faith of my people. (3 Nephi 26:6-11, emphasis mine)

We, (the modern Gentiles who belong to the Church of Christ) have been given the lesser portion to test our faith. If we are faithful we will be privileged to receive the greater portion and act as a conduit for truth, to be given to the scattered of Israel, (including the Nephite descendants.) If we are not faithful the sealed portions will be with held from us to our condemnation.

The modern Gentiles of the Church are currently under condemnation because we have yet to sanctify ourselves sufficient to receive the sealed portions of the record and because the Lord warned such was the case in the Doctrine & Covenants:

54 And your minds in times past have been darkened because of unbelief, and because you have treated lightly the things you have received—

55 Which vanity and unbelief have brought the whole church under condemnation.

56 And this condemnation resteth upon the children of Zion, even all.

57 And they shall remain under this condemnation until they repent and remember the new covenant, even the Book of Mormon and the former commandments which I have given them, not only to say, but to do according to that which I have written—

58 That they may bring forth fruit meet for their Father’s kingdom; otherwise there remaineth a scourge and judgment to be poured out upon the children of Zion.

59 For shall the children of the kingdom pollute my holy land? Verily, I say unto you, Nay. (D&C 84:54-59, emphasis mine)

It seems we remain perilously close to facing the “scourge” which encourages us to repent and come to Christ. When judgment follows hopefully many will repent and be justified while those who do not will face bitter consequences.

When we read of the Lord’s condemnation of the Church we tend toward one of two extremes. Either we believe the church collectively will suffer and be condemned or some remain in denial thinking “all is well in Zion.” The reality of this warning is found somewhere in the middle ground. There are those in church who are guilty of vanity and unbelief. On the other hand there are those who walk faithfully through life with a sure knowledge of their Savior. The answer is found when we contemplate the purpose of a “scourge”. At first it does not destroy, it only serves as a prod to persuade the wicked to repent. The Lord intends to gently persuade us to repent and come to Christ. Rather than trouble ourselves with questions of the church’s faithfulness, we would do much better engaging in self examination and questioning if we truly understand what it means to come unto Christ. Are we actively preparing to sanctify ourselves to become worthy by the grace of Christ to receive the greater things? Are we waiting for the Lord to magically transform us into a people who are pure of heart? Zion will be established one by one, as individuals independently decide to repent and form a collective society that shares repentance and coming to Christ as common values. The judgment following after the scourge will be individual and we stand responsible for our own state of righteousness or wickedness before the Lord.

Topically Studying Key Words- Part 1

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.

A Brief Departure

Early morning is sacred time for me. When I first awake the quiet time when the transition begins from sleep to consciousness is the time the voice of the Lord comes with greatest clarity. In those quiet moments I receive instruction and enlightenment. From time to time when I receive guidance I may write about it in this blog if it is relevant to others.

The impressions received this morning have to do with two separate issues but relate to understanding the scriptures. The first part will address the 12^th Chapter of Revelation.

As Nephi’s vision of the last days was closing, he was shown John the Beloved and was told it was John’s mission to write the balance of events Nephi was about to see. The Spirit called to my attention what I later found was the 12^th Chapter of Revelation and related some of the content to Lehi’s dream of the Tree of Life. (1 Nephi 8)

Joseph Smith’s translation of Revelation 12 adds significant information that expands and enlightens our understanding of John’s vision and further demonstrates how John’s record has been altered.

Revelation 12 begins with a great sign in the heavens in the likeness of things on earth. A woman is introduced that is clothed in the sun, and the moon is under her feet. Upon her head sits a crown with 12 stars. Verse 7 tells us the woman is the Church of God.

A second key character is a great red dragon. The dragon is identified as Satan/the devil in verse 8. Chapter 12 covers the war in heaven and the battle between Satan, Michael and their followers. In the interest of time I will focus on the later verses of the chapter where John describes the woman (the Church) flees into the wilderness to be nourished.

As the woman/Church flees the serpent/dragon casts out water from his mouth described as a “flood.” The water/flood metaphor coming out of the mouth of the serpent was John’s way of describing the “mists of darkness” Nephi saw. The power of the devil is his ability to tempt and deceive mankind. The flood pouring out of his mouth is a flood of lies and deception. Satan is the “father of lies.” (John 8:44) The devil’s hope was to sweep away the Church in a flood of lies. The Church has always been embattled in an effort to defend itself against lies and distortions. Instead of talking about the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith we find ourselves explaining polygamy and the Church’s views on gay marriage.

Eventually the earth will swallow the lies perpetuated by Satan when water/revelation/truth floods the world from underneath the Temple stairs. (Ezekiel 47)

The dragon/devil becomes extremely agitated because he knows his time is short. (JST Revelation 12:12) His anger toward the Church causes the devil to declare war on a “remnant” of the Church’s seed. The remnant is described as the portion of her (the Church) seed which “keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus, (which is the spirit of prophecy [Revelation 19:10]). The rest of the seed of the Church the devil has already overcome and the Satan has no need to make war against them.

The point of focus is the lies that “flood” out of the serpent’s mouth. This is John’s way of describing the “mists of darkness” mentioned in the vision seen by Lehi and Nephi. The mists/lies are not only those things said to distract and divert attention from the Church and the Gospel of Jesus Christ but they include false traditions that are embraced by the body of the Church.

Second Impression

From time to time events that appear coincidental turn out to be providential. For example, one of my daughter’s was pleased to announce she had completed reading the Doctrine & Covenants for the first time. As she spoke of her experience she expressed reservations about reading the Old Testament because she felt she could not understand its meaning or relevance.

This morning I read a chapter from Hosea and saw great relevance to us. While reading I had the following impression that I should use the chapter to illustrate how to “liken the scriptures unto yourselves.”

Hosea 4 begins with a plea for the children of Israel to hear the Lord’s voice. The Lord is taking issue with Israel because the “Chosen People” have no truth, mercy or knowledge of God. Israel (or if you are likening the scripture unto yourself, the Church) is guilty of numerous offenses including adultery. Israel/the Church is about to suffer the consequences of covenant disobedience.

The Lord warns that His people will be destroyed “for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee…, seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” (Hosea 4:6) “…, the spirit of whoredoms hath caused the to err and they have gone whoring from under their God.” (Hosea 4:12)

The whoring and whoredoms referred to is both literal and symbolic. Verse 13 refers to false worship before fertility Gods underneath the Oaks, Poplar’s and Elms where temple prostitutes slept with Israelite men seeking to have their land blessed by impregnating the prostitute as a sign pointing to the fertility of their land. This was common among Israelite farmers.

The second form of whoredom is the way Israel/the Church whores after the ways of the world. The New Testament refers to the Church as a “bride.” When the Church adopts the ways of the world/Babylon, (the whore of the earth) they are guilty of committing adultery with someone other than their husband, Christ.

All of Israel is backsliding but the Lord singles out Ephraim in particular. Verse 17 singles out Ephraim as being “joined to idols” in the same manner as a man and woman are “joined” in matrimony. (Matthew 19:6) The sacred union is one God takes seriously and for Ephraim specifically mentioned as being “joined to idols” is to make a mockery of the marriage they are supposed to have through covenant with the Lord.

Ephraim drink the “sour” or perhaps “bitter” cup for having “committed whoredom continually.” (Hosea 4:18) Having the wind “bound her up” means Ephraim loses her mobility and will eventually suffer shame for their sacrifices to idol Gods.

If we liken the prophecies of the Old Testament to ourselves we can find many messages of warning and guidance. That Israel is backsliding suggests they are retreating from higher covenants they have enter with the Lord and under the Elias, Elijah, Messiah Template they are regressing, heading for destruction. If the modern Church follows the same path as ancient Israel followed during their covenant opportunity, the modern Church should expect a similar outcome if they don’t repent.

There is much we can learn from the Old Testament Prophets if we have ears to hear and eyes to see.

Building on the Templates Part 2

The "First shall be last, and the last shall be first" Template

The Elias, Elijah, Messiah Template is a doctrinal/Priesthood template. The second template is a chronological/prophetic template that provides the structure for understanding prophecy. Volumes have been written on doctrine; less is written about or discussed about prophecy. In reality, doctrine and prophecy overlap. The outcome of prophecy is related to how people do or do not apply doctrine. To try and study the two together is perhaps too big a bite. Studying prophecy topically in the scriptures is still easy to do once you grasp a few simple concepts. God makes things easily understood if we exert a bit of effort. He is anxious to have you put Him to the test and rewards the diligent in tangible ways.

Like the Elias, Elijah, Messiah Template, the focus should be on determining how the content of what you are reading fits into the template chronologically. Do the events you are studying belong in Israel's first covenant opportunity, or the Gentile covenant opportunity that followed Israel? Do the events belong in the restoration category that began with Joseph Smith or does it fall into the final category when Israel is gathered again? Each category may seem dramatically different from the other but the reality is, each category represents what happens to each group during a specific time period when they attempt to follow the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template and failed. The only exception will be the last category when Israel will gather again and become a righteous people, establishing Zion. History repeats itself including the last category so Nephi is correct when he counsels us to "liken all scripture unto yourself."(1 Nephi 19:24, 2 Nephi 11:8) We can liken the scriptures unto ourselves when we compare how the people we read about apply the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template. The next step is to evaluate what the ancients did and see what outcome their actions brought. If we follow a similar course we should expect a similar outcome. If we don't like the outcome, we must break out of the old pattern and seek a more favorable outcome. We should reflect on how they and we can more effectively apply the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template?

A second way to understand prophecy is to realize history does repeat itself (3 Nephi 23:1-3) and there is "nothing new under the sun." (Ecclesiastes 1:9) The past foretells our future and if we desire to know the future we can do so by studying the past.

My efforts will primarily focus on understanding prophecy. What follows are different methods of topical research that let the scriptures tell you what you need to know about the future. If doctrinal questions arise as you study prophetic topics I am willing to help but that should always be a last resort. The best answers will always come from God through personal revelation. Water is always purest at the well head. Not only will it lead you to truth but it will teach you to listen and hearken to His voice.

Before I close there is one more pressing matter. Before you engage in topical study of the scriptures there is one very important thing you must do. Each session should begin with prayer. Each prayer should include a plea to God to do several things: Ask God to soften your heart so you will be open to receiving truth. (1 Nephi 2:16) Pray He will enlighten your mind (Alma 32:28, D&C 6:15, 11:12-14, 76:5-10) that your eyes may be open (Mosiah 27:22, 3 Nephi 14:7-8, 27:28-29, D&C 76:12, 19, 107:18-19, 110:1,11) that you may see and your ears open that you may hear.(2 Kings 6:17, D&C 136:32-33)

There is a spiritual veil over the scriptures that can only be removed through humility, prayer and diligence. That is why Paul said people of our day would be "ever learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth." (2 Timothy 3:7) Evidence of this veil is mentioned in the example of the resurrected Savior and His disciples, "And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures." We all need the Lord to “open our understanding.” (Luke 24:44-45)

Immediately following baptism, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery had a similar experience to that of the disciples of Jesus: "Our minds being now enlightened, we began to have the scriptures laid open to our understandings, and the true meaning and intention of their more mysterious passages revealed unto us in a manner which we never could attain to previously, nor ever before had thought of. In the meantime we were forced to keep secret the circumstances of having received the Priesthood and our having been baptized, owing to a spirit of persecution which had already manifested itself in the neighborhood." (Joseph Smith- History 2:74)

Once you engage in the process of topical research in the scriptures you will find the true source of motivation the Lord builds into the process for those who love Him and seek diligently. It is found in one of the references listed above, D&C 11:13: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy.” Experiencing an enlighten mind and the joy that accompanies it is like a drug addict stumbling over a dose of crack cocaine. Receiving an endowment of knowledge from God and feeling the joy that accompanies an enlighten mind feels both incredibly and liberating. You know the information is true because it was accompanied by the feeling of joy that comes with the testimony of the Holy Spirit. This is what John wrote of when he said, “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you; but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.” (1 John 2:27, anointing is a metaphor for receiving the Holy Spirit) This is the “rod of iron” mentioned in Lehi’s dream that leads to the “tree of Life.”

One last point on prayer is a tip we receive from the Prophet Daniel when he recorded the following words from the Lord: “Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.” (Daniel 10:12) What worked for Daniel will work for anyone.

If you have not taken the time to read the references do so now. Get in the habit because they will not always be explained. Each time you read a reference you expose yourself to the possibility of feeling the voice of God speak to you.

Please commit to making this a life long pursuit and I promise and testify it will change your life and your relationship with God. It will reintroduce you to the best friend anyone ever had, our Savior, Jesus Christ.

If you are humble, prayerful and diligent, the Lord will do for you what he did for the Disciples of Christ, Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery and any person who diligently seeks. I close with the words of Alma, "It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God...,". (Alma 12:9) The greatest mystery we will ever unravel is the knowledge of God for herein lies Eternal Life. (John 17:3) Is this not a worthy, lifelong pursuit?

Building on the Templates Part 1

The two templates discussed give us two frameworks from which to build upon. The "Elias, Elijah, Messiah" template is a doctrinal template that we can tie all doctrinal subjects together through determining what part of the Priesthood order or category they belong in. Is a particular principle like humility, Light of Christ or faith part of a preparatory principle under Elias/Aaronic Priesthood or does the principle relate to the Elijah/Melchizedek Priesthood like the Holy Ghost, speaking with the tongue of angels?

Studying doctrine topically in the scriptures is not too difficult. To begin with we can start with the topical guide to the scriptures and look up every reference listed in the guide on a specific topic. Take for example the word, "faith." Look up each reference listed under the topic of faith. Take notes. The Church's new website has tremendous tools that allow you to take digital notes as you study. These tools were not available to me when I began but I believe they are extremely valuable because they digitize your thoughts and keep them accessible. The alternative is to take notes on a legal pad. I have thousands of pages of notes and probably couldn't locate much out of any of them. I would encourage you to explore the new tools and use them.

One caveat about using the topical guide. Their content is not comprehensive and you may come to find only concordances get you the comprehensive access you need for thorough study. Topical guides can provide a foundation but will be insufficient for someone seeking to really "get to the bottom" of issues researched.

Use the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template to establish the specific order of spiritual progression people follow to achieve Eternal Life. This takes time and effort but is not too difficult for anyone. The amount of clarity that comes from topical research in the scriptures is swift and surprising. To get started I suggest you look at a few references that exemplify the entire process of the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template, similar to the example given of the Savior's life. You may want to go back and review it or compare it to the passages I recommend you look at first. They are: The Sermon on the Mount in 3 Nephi 12. The spiritual conversion of King Benjamin's people in Mosiah 4 & 5 and Alma's sermon to the Saints of Zarahemla in Alma 5. Hopefully that will give a general sense of the process the Lord expects each of us to follow.

Volumes have been written on the doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Resisting the urge to look at another persons research is difficult. Every time you turn to others you deny yourself the opportunity of learning that the Lord will reveal the meaning to you as you diligently study. Remember, it is not the destination that matters here, it is what you learn from the journey to get to the destination. The singular focus of your research is to become reacquainted with God. Turning to others only delays that process. Your challenge is to put God to the test. See if He will truly manifest all things to you by the power of the Holy Ghost and by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things. (2 Nephi 32:5, Moroni 10:5) It may be the single determining factor in deciding whether you are living under the Elias law when you have entered Elijah/Melchizedek covenants.

Under the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template you can select any topic you like but I will give one hint: All spiritual growth is contingent on humility. It may be wise to begin with that subject in mind.

Chronological Template Part 2

Act Four: The Gathering of Israel

Knowing there is one more stage left in this four act play, what are the prospects for the Church that is embedded in the Gentile nations? If history is our guide we are facing difficult circumstances at best.

The fourth and final phase is the gathering of Israel. We know from Romans 11:25 that Israel will not be gathered until the Gentile opportunity reaches its apex: “For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.” The fourth phase cannot commence until the Gentile opportunity reaches a “fulness.” For the Jews, a fulness was the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. “What will be the fulness for the Gentiles?” The answer to this question should be of concern to all.[i]

In his letter to Mr. Seaton, Joseph issued the following warning to the Gentiles: “And now I am prepared to say by the authority of Jesus Christ, that not many years shall pass away before the United States shall present such a scene of bloodshed as has not a parallel in the history of our nation; pestilence, hail, famine, and earthquake will sweep the wicked of this generation, from off the face of the land, to open and prepare the way for the return of the lost tribes of Israel from the north country. The people of the Lord, those who have complied with the requirements of the new covenant, have already commenced gathering together to Zion, which is in the state of Missouri: therefore I declare unto you the warning which the Lord has commanded me to declare unto this generation.”[ii]

The people to whom Joseph referred were unsuccessful in establishing Zion and the Church was rejected in their attempt, eventually being driven away from Jackson County, Missouri and scattered to the western United States. They suffered the same fate the children of Israel suffered when they were led to Sinai and rejected personal representation before the Lord.[iii]

The failure of the saints to establish Zion likely deferred some of the judgments Joseph Smith spoke of until the last days.

Joseph Smith and the Gathering of Israel

God promised Israel that one day He would gather them.[iv] Of that day Joseph said, “But their unbelief has not rendered the promise of God of none effect: no, for there was another day limited in David, which was the day of His power; and then His people, Israel, should be a willing people; - and He would write His law in their hearts, and print it in their thoughts; their sins and their iniquities He would remember no more.”[v]

Israel will gather after the Gentiles reject for the second time a covenant relationship with God. The Gentiles who repent will assemble with those who are “willing people” and have the Lord’s laws written in their hearts and minds. Theirs is not rote obedience but obedience by nature, meaning they have become the sons and daughters of Christ and emulate their spiritual Father.[vi] Then they will be Israel because they are truly a people who are “Chosen” by God. Israel is not limited to a lineal title but represents people who share a unity in the faith and a willing heart.[vii] He will be their God and they, without compulsion will be His people. Israel will keep the commandments of God because they love Him.[viii]

We are in the twilight of the Gentile opportunity and those who become a “willing people” now, will stand through the challenges that lie ahead. Some will repent and become that way through the things which they suffer. One thing is certain. We are approaching a “line in the sand” drawn by God and the better we prepare for that day the more likely we are to stand.

I know Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God and his words are true. Joseph concluded his remarks with the following counsel: “Remember these things; call upon the Lord while He is near, and seek Him while He may be found, is the exhortation of your unworthy servant.”[ix]

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[i] D&C 45:28-31

[ii] “Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith”, Joseph Fielding Smith, Deseret Book, 1974, pg. 17

[iii] D&C 84:19-24

[iv] 1 Nephi 10:14

[v] “Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith”, Joseph Fielding Smith, Deseret Book, 1974, pg. 15

[vi] Mosiah 5:2-7

[vii] Romans 9:6-8

[viii] John 14:15

[ix] “Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith”, Joseph Fielding Smith, Deseret Book, 1974, pg. 18