(Book of Mormon – 2 Nephi – Chapters 9, 10, 11) 4
There is a revelatory process which seldom gets its proper amount of honor in the list of the constant ways in which the flow of information is given to Heavenly Father’s children through the Holy Spirit. This process requires that we are constantly searching, studying and pondering the Holy Scriptures. Sincere prayer before, during and after our searching the scripture increases the probability of our being taught by the Holy Spirit as we study and ponder the verses of Holy Writ. There is also little doubt that being able to accept the possibility that you have not yet come to a complete understanding of the Word is undoubtedly one of the keys to being susceptible to the Whisperings.
We continually hear people expressing how as they reread passages of scripture they become aware of concepts and principles of which they had not been aware during previous perusals. This revelatory process doesn’t just happen during a second reading, but continues to take place regardless of how many times we continue to search.
One of the reasons this familiar process is so seldom talked about as a revelatory gift might be that it has no name. Two I have thought might fit are: Opening Scriptural Understanding and Broadening Understanding Through Searching the Scriptures.
What ever title might have been assigned to this process there is little doubt in my mind that in the chapters we have been studying the last few weeks, the process of inspiration coming to one as they search the scriptures, I have attempted to clarify, was happening to Nephi. There is so much additional revealed truth in these chapters from the writings of Isaiah, that Nephi had to be being taught by the whisperings of the Holy Spirit as he searched them, because they do not become immediately apparent during the first and maybe even the tenth repetition of reading Isaiah’s words.
Nephi may have been hinting about our need to value and make use of this revelatory gift when he wrote the words in 2 Nephi 9: 42, 43.
And whoso knocketh, to him will he open; and the wise, and the learned, and they that are rich, who are puffed up because of their learning, and their wisdom, and their riches—yea, they are they whom he despiseth; and save they shall cast these things away, and consider themselves fools before God, and come down in the depths of humility, he will not open unto them. But the things of the wise and the prudent shall be hid from them forever—yea, that happiness which is prepared for the saints.
PROPHESIES ABOUT THE ATONING SACRIFICE OF THE SAVIOR, HIS MISSION IN THE AMERICAS AND THE PRESERVING OF THE AMERICAS AS A LAND OF FREEDOM.
The Son of God would come among the Jews and be crucified.
The stiff necked who were practicing priestcrafts and iniquities would be the perpetrators of the crucifixion.
He sees the dispersion and gathering of the House of Israel.
The hearts of the gentiles will be softened and their Kings and Queens will become nursing fathers and mothers unto the remnant of the House of Israel.
The King of Heaven will be a light unto the covenant people in the last days.
The Lord will destroy the works of darkness.
The land of Nephi will be consecrated by the Lord as a choice land for the seed of Nephi.
The promises of the Lord to all nations are revealed to Nephi.
Through the power of God all will be resurrected and salvation comes only through the grace of God.
Nephi bears his testimony that our very existence is only possible because of the existence of God and His Son Jesus the Christ.
THE LAW OF MOSES IS A TYPE FOR JESUS THE CHRIST
Although Nephi does not elaborate on this statement, the principle of the revelatory process of Opening Scriptural Understanding through the whisperings of the Holy Spirit have given rise to a multitude of writings about how the Old Testament Scriptures which speak of the ordinances and practices of the Law of Moses abundantly are a type to teach us of Jesus the Christ.
The next time you read the book of Matthew in the New Testament take note of the numerous times he refers to scriptural references from the Old Testament writers who foretold of the coming of the Messiah and that Jesus the Christ was a fulfillment of those references.
Upon finishing his revelatory pronouncements Nephi then reads the words which we find in the second though the fourteenth chapters of Isaiah and the twelfth through the twenty fourth chapters of 2 Nephi.
I am not going to write a Thought on any of these chapters because I feel that reading, studying, searching and pondering on them will be a tremendous exercise and springboard for the reader of this Thought to have an experience with Broadening Understanding Through Searching the Scriptures.
I pray that never again will any of us look with distain upon the great gift of revelation which can attend our scripture study.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Sunday, September 30, 2018
Saturday, September 29, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
If stubbornness – keeps us from allowing – our expectations to lower – as we age – we will probably spend – the latter stages of our lives – in a state of continual frustration!! ----- The list we currently – have of our blessings – will undoubtedly be modified – when we are no longer restricted – by the mortal mind!!
Friday, September 28, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Repentance – which does not include – faith in the Lord Jesus the Christ – can be called character improvement – but – not repentance!! ----- If there were no hope – of the change wrought by repentance – there would be no good news – in the gospel message!!
Thursday, September 27, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Our journey of change – will not end – until we receive – the Glory of God – our Father knows we have merited – and – we receive His assurance – our probation is complete!!
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
It would be wise – to be careful not to mistake – the change we undergo – as we move slowly – toward becoming good – and – honorable – as being the end goal of our quest!!
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Gaining the character changes we seek – comes about slowly – as we are able to control our bodies – from indulging in the natural lusts of the world – and – we inch toward becoming good – and – honorable beings!!
Monday, September 24, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Life often keeps hidden – most of those moments – when we may have made a positive difference – in another’s life – lest our humility be sacrificed!! ----- We must be careful – when we view our neighbor’s – as having been blessed with perfect lives – full of endless happiness – lest jealousy – and – coveting – cause us to become blind to the blessings – we have been given!!
Sunday, September 23, 2018
THE DEVICES OF SATAN AS HE ACTS AGAINST THE CHILDREN OF GOD DURING THEIR MORTAL SOJOURN
(Book of Mormon – 2 Nephi – Chapters 9, 10, 11) 3
Sunday, September 23. 2018
A thought as a preamble
You don’t have to be with me very long before you understand that the ability to recall the how, when, where, what or why of events in my life has become a very tentative ability. This becomes especially apparent when it applies to who said what and when they said the words which come into my mind. Anyway, somewhere, sometime in my past, I heard someone say, Satan doesn’t really care how he gets you to leave the comforts of the Plan of Happiness, as long, as Nephi teaches, he can beguile you with his lies and bind you in the chains of misery.
Somewhere there may be a more complete list of his wily ways, but Nephi’s list, found in chapter 9 of Second Nephi, of the ways he uses our weaknesses to entrap us and lead us carefully away from our covenants is complete enough to keep us vigilantly cautious during our days.
Although I cling to the premise that our probationary and growth experiences extend far into our past before we were born and will extend far into our future once we leave our present state, Nephi warns us that becoming subject to the temptations of the Devil not only binds us with chains, but the characteristics these temptations put upon us are extremely sticky and could even follow us into our future state of existence.
Nephi proclaims a warning which especially applies to those who have received the commandments of the Lord and then transgress them because of falling prey to the temptations of the Adversary. He woefully proclaims that they who thus fall will waste the days of their probation and their state will be one of awfulness.
One of the major problems we all face is as long as we do not put off the telestial nature of being carnal, sensuous and devilish we were born into, we will remain frail creatures prone to vanity and foolishness. We continue to have a propensity to think we are wise because we have a sophomoric level of learning causing us to think our foolish notions are wise.
He who was known in our pre mortal state by the name of Lucifer has sufficient understanding to know that if he can keep us from following the counsels of the Lord which will lift us from our telestial frail state to a terrestrial state of being good and honorable people, he can make of us his angels.
In the following paragraphs I will present those temptations which are appealing to the telestial neophyte which Nephi felt important to warn us about, which he had observed his people becoming subject to and being used by Satan to bring misery to them.
Wo unto the rich!
It becomes immediately apparent that Nephi was not against every one having sufficient for their needs. He was worried that when some begin to enjoy the things which can be theirs because they set their hearts on them, the gaining of wealth and the gaining of things become their god.
Because having treasure fills their beings and dominates their thoughts, words and actions, they begin to hate the poor and persecute the meek. The sole purpose of their existence becomes set on building their mountain of minutia higher and higher.
Those of this ilk are never able to realize the foolishness of laboring for that which has no eternal worth which will never bring satisfaction.
Wo unto the poor!
Although Nephi does not put this characteristic into his list, and the poor are usually possessed of the qualities of humility, meekness and spirituality. However, I have observed that there are those among the impoverished who find their want of goods as a license to covet the possessions of their neighbors leading them to steal and even murder.
There are some who chose to labor not, but feel it to be the obligation of those who have enough and to spare, to provide for their needs and nurture and care for them to the fulfilling of their wants.
It must be noted there are those who labor diligently and yet lack the needs of life and have never fallen into the trap of being beguiled by the whisperings of devils which would cause them to abandon their qualities of humility, meekness and spiritual-ness.
Wo unto the deaf and blind!
It is almost too obvious, but bears commenting about, that those who deliberately choose to shut their ears to hearing and close their eyes to seeing the words of the Lord, given to the children of Heavenly Father to help them keep safely upon the path and holding firmly to the rod of iron, are usually more easily deceived by the words which are pleasing to the telestial being.
The morning when I was about to write this thought, I read some statistics that those who have chosen to have zero affiliation with any religious organization has gone from 7% in the late 1800 to 23% today. I totally realize that affiliation with a religious organization does not automatically make a person good and that not being affiliated with a religious organization does not automatically make a person bad. However, assembling and affiliating with those who are at least attempting to know how their Heavenly Father would have them act, as they say, can’t be all that bad.
Wo unto the uncircumcised of heart!
This temptation cannot be addressed without a review of the connection between covenant and circumcised. In Hebrew they are the same word and therefore circumcision is the mark of a covenant male and a male demonstrated his covenant making and keeping by being circumcised.
As it was noted in the problem of being deaf and blind to the doctrines of the gospel, being circumcised does not automatically make a person a covenant keeper nor does being uncircumcised make a person a covenant breaker.
When the term is used as Nephi used it in connection with the heart it signifies our covenants have become a sustaining part of our existence, signifying that we have covenanted to keep the commandments of the Lord as part of our life.
Those who take their covenants as chafe in the wind are especially vulnerable to the devices and lies of Satan.
Wo unto the liar, murderer and committer of whoredoms!
When a person allows the telestial nature of their being to become so dominant that they can justify even a little of being captivated by these temptations, they have really become stuck in the sticky stuff Satan spews.
The problem for most of us is that we do fall into justifying little white lies, slaying the reputation of a brother or sister or allowing our bodies to become fashionably alluring.
As with all of the cunningly presented temptations of Satan, the most dangerous step is the first one we take towards the his bog of goo.
Wo unto they who worship idols!
Although these words probably had a much different significance to the people of Nephi than they do to us who dwell in the days of excess or minimalism, the percentage of participation of the population in worshiping idols may have magnified with the march of time.
We don’t often see our mantles lined with statues to which we bow down and worship as our gods, but we are nevertheless consumed with the worshiping of idols.
Soloons are filled with worshipers of fermented grains, stadiums are filled with people hailing their heroes, people don skimpy scanty attire and sun and nature worship in open air cathedrals on sand and grass as we are consumed with seventh and first day reverence for our chosen idols.
We are so dedicated to some idols that they fill our souls with passionate worship 24/7 as we dedicatedly pay homage to the gods of honor, prestige, status and position.
A thought as an epilogue
There are times when watching, reading or listening to the news that I sink into the trap of feeling all is lost. Then I quickly am struck with the thought regarding the improbability of an Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent, Omni-merciful, Omni -loving Being losing in the battle for the immortality and eternal lives of his children is ludicrous and beyond reality.
I am also comforted with the constant reminder from living apostles and prophets that as long as we are inhaling and exhaling the atmosphere of this planet there is the reality of being cleansed from the sticky stuff Satan has smeared us with and because our Father is so merciful, he will continue to work His glory upon us line upon line, helping us change our natures from telestial to terrestrial and from terrestrial to celestial.
Satan cannot win the universal battle against God and if we follow the counsels of the Lord he will not win the personal battle against us.
(to be continued)
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Sunday, September 23. 2018
A thought as a preamble
You don’t have to be with me very long before you understand that the ability to recall the how, when, where, what or why of events in my life has become a very tentative ability. This becomes especially apparent when it applies to who said what and when they said the words which come into my mind. Anyway, somewhere, sometime in my past, I heard someone say, Satan doesn’t really care how he gets you to leave the comforts of the Plan of Happiness, as long, as Nephi teaches, he can beguile you with his lies and bind you in the chains of misery.
Somewhere there may be a more complete list of his wily ways, but Nephi’s list, found in chapter 9 of Second Nephi, of the ways he uses our weaknesses to entrap us and lead us carefully away from our covenants is complete enough to keep us vigilantly cautious during our days.
Although I cling to the premise that our probationary and growth experiences extend far into our past before we were born and will extend far into our future once we leave our present state, Nephi warns us that becoming subject to the temptations of the Devil not only binds us with chains, but the characteristics these temptations put upon us are extremely sticky and could even follow us into our future state of existence.
Nephi proclaims a warning which especially applies to those who have received the commandments of the Lord and then transgress them because of falling prey to the temptations of the Adversary. He woefully proclaims that they who thus fall will waste the days of their probation and their state will be one of awfulness.
One of the major problems we all face is as long as we do not put off the telestial nature of being carnal, sensuous and devilish we were born into, we will remain frail creatures prone to vanity and foolishness. We continue to have a propensity to think we are wise because we have a sophomoric level of learning causing us to think our foolish notions are wise.
He who was known in our pre mortal state by the name of Lucifer has sufficient understanding to know that if he can keep us from following the counsels of the Lord which will lift us from our telestial frail state to a terrestrial state of being good and honorable people, he can make of us his angels.
In the following paragraphs I will present those temptations which are appealing to the telestial neophyte which Nephi felt important to warn us about, which he had observed his people becoming subject to and being used by Satan to bring misery to them.
Wo unto the rich!
It becomes immediately apparent that Nephi was not against every one having sufficient for their needs. He was worried that when some begin to enjoy the things which can be theirs because they set their hearts on them, the gaining of wealth and the gaining of things become their god.
Because having treasure fills their beings and dominates their thoughts, words and actions, they begin to hate the poor and persecute the meek. The sole purpose of their existence becomes set on building their mountain of minutia higher and higher.
Those of this ilk are never able to realize the foolishness of laboring for that which has no eternal worth which will never bring satisfaction.
Wo unto the poor!
Although Nephi does not put this characteristic into his list, and the poor are usually possessed of the qualities of humility, meekness and spirituality. However, I have observed that there are those among the impoverished who find their want of goods as a license to covet the possessions of their neighbors leading them to steal and even murder.
There are some who chose to labor not, but feel it to be the obligation of those who have enough and to spare, to provide for their needs and nurture and care for them to the fulfilling of their wants.
It must be noted there are those who labor diligently and yet lack the needs of life and have never fallen into the trap of being beguiled by the whisperings of devils which would cause them to abandon their qualities of humility, meekness and spiritual-ness.
Wo unto the deaf and blind!
It is almost too obvious, but bears commenting about, that those who deliberately choose to shut their ears to hearing and close their eyes to seeing the words of the Lord, given to the children of Heavenly Father to help them keep safely upon the path and holding firmly to the rod of iron, are usually more easily deceived by the words which are pleasing to the telestial being.
The morning when I was about to write this thought, I read some statistics that those who have chosen to have zero affiliation with any religious organization has gone from 7% in the late 1800 to 23% today. I totally realize that affiliation with a religious organization does not automatically make a person good and that not being affiliated with a religious organization does not automatically make a person bad. However, assembling and affiliating with those who are at least attempting to know how their Heavenly Father would have them act, as they say, can’t be all that bad.
Wo unto the uncircumcised of heart!
This temptation cannot be addressed without a review of the connection between covenant and circumcised. In Hebrew they are the same word and therefore circumcision is the mark of a covenant male and a male demonstrated his covenant making and keeping by being circumcised.
As it was noted in the problem of being deaf and blind to the doctrines of the gospel, being circumcised does not automatically make a person a covenant keeper nor does being uncircumcised make a person a covenant breaker.
When the term is used as Nephi used it in connection with the heart it signifies our covenants have become a sustaining part of our existence, signifying that we have covenanted to keep the commandments of the Lord as part of our life.
Those who take their covenants as chafe in the wind are especially vulnerable to the devices and lies of Satan.
Wo unto the liar, murderer and committer of whoredoms!
When a person allows the telestial nature of their being to become so dominant that they can justify even a little of being captivated by these temptations, they have really become stuck in the sticky stuff Satan spews.
The problem for most of us is that we do fall into justifying little white lies, slaying the reputation of a brother or sister or allowing our bodies to become fashionably alluring.
As with all of the cunningly presented temptations of Satan, the most dangerous step is the first one we take towards the his bog of goo.
Wo unto they who worship idols!
Although these words probably had a much different significance to the people of Nephi than they do to us who dwell in the days of excess or minimalism, the percentage of participation of the population in worshiping idols may have magnified with the march of time.
We don’t often see our mantles lined with statues to which we bow down and worship as our gods, but we are nevertheless consumed with the worshiping of idols.
Soloons are filled with worshipers of fermented grains, stadiums are filled with people hailing their heroes, people don skimpy scanty attire and sun and nature worship in open air cathedrals on sand and grass as we are consumed with seventh and first day reverence for our chosen idols.
We are so dedicated to some idols that they fill our souls with passionate worship 24/7 as we dedicatedly pay homage to the gods of honor, prestige, status and position.
A thought as an epilogue
There are times when watching, reading or listening to the news that I sink into the trap of feeling all is lost. Then I quickly am struck with the thought regarding the improbability of an Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent, Omni-merciful, Omni -loving Being losing in the battle for the immortality and eternal lives of his children is ludicrous and beyond reality.
I am also comforted with the constant reminder from living apostles and prophets that as long as we are inhaling and exhaling the atmosphere of this planet there is the reality of being cleansed from the sticky stuff Satan has smeared us with and because our Father is so merciful, he will continue to work His glory upon us line upon line, helping us change our natures from telestial to terrestrial and from terrestrial to celestial.
Satan cannot win the universal battle against God and if we follow the counsels of the Lord he will not win the personal battle against us.
(to be continued)
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Saturday, September 22, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Because of the differences – of the challenges we all face – it would be unwise – to label one greater than another!! ----- When we ponder – whether extreme wealth – of – extreme poverty – would be the greater challenge – it is probable our current status – will skew our thoughts!!
Friday, September 21, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Those who have been constantly blessed – with sufficient for their needs – may one day realize – that their most challenging trial – was making sure their thankfulness level – was as deep as the blessings the Lord – had showered down upon them!!
Thursday, September 20, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
There has never been a poet – capable of expressing – all that is felt – when someone truly – has love for another!! ----- There never has been a song – with lyrics powerful enough – to capture – all the sweetness – of true love!! ----- In all the dictionaries of the world – there will never be sufficient words – needed to express – the depth – of true love!!
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
What I do today – will also be counted on my ledger – of enduring to the end!! ----- There are times – when the pain – and – suffering around the world – are being talked about – one has tinges of shame – for being so blessed!!
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
It is important – that although – aging may slow our progress – we do not allow it – to cause us to come to a complete stop!! ----- Since the love Heavenly Father has for His children – is universal – and – consummate – it will be impossible to ever do anything – which will move us outside the range – of His outstretched – and – extended arms – inviting us to be enfolded therein!!
Monday, September 17, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Our part – may be but a small one – but we commit a grave error – if we feel it is unimportant!! ----- The reason a responsibility – is placed on our shoulders – is much less important – than the effort – and – diligence – we expend in fulfilling those assignments!!
Sunday, September 16, 2018
THE ETERNAL AND ATONING MISSION OF JESUS THE CHRIST
(Book of Mormon – 2 Nephi – Chapters 9, 10, 11) 2
Although it isn’t required, a quick review of last week’s introduction to these chapters would be helpful.
Speaking with the urgency of a living prophet desiring to be a good shepherd over his flock Nephi gives a beautiful and enlightening discourse about the importance of Jesus the Christ and His Atoning sacrifice to the fulfilling and completing Heavenly Father’s Plan of Salvation and Exaltation.
Essential principles which Nephi teaches his people and proclaims them to be necessary for all in order to grow toward inheriting all that the Father has:
Death which comes upon all of Heavenly Father’s children is an essential part of The Plan.
Because of the Fall which brought death upon all mortals and removed them from God’s presence, it became necessary for a means be provided whereby all could be resurrected.
The fall also put all into a condition of being spiritually dead, wherein they were separated from the presence of Heavenly Father and His influence.
The Lord came into the world to save all who would hearken unto His voice.
Faith in Jesus the Christ and ordinances including baptism are essential to be saved in the kingdom of God.
A person must have and understand a law before they become accountable to that law.
That which would be accounted as sin if a person had a law will be Atoned for by the Sacrifice of Jesus the Christ for those without the law.
The resurrection of all could only be done through an atoning sacrifice of a sinless being.
The alternative to the Atoning Sacrifice of a Savior would be that all would become subject to a devil and remain eternally miserable.
The Lord took upon Himself the suffering for all sins repented of and the pains suffered by all, both men, women and children.
A caution is given that this devil can even appear as an angel of light, stirring men’s hearts unto entering into secret combinations. (This is a topic which will be written about in much greater detail at a later date.)
The Atonement of Jesus the Christ will cause the graves to deliver up their dead and physical and spirit bodies shall be restored one to another.
The resurrected shall have a perfect knowledge restored unto them both of their guilt and righteousness.
The greatness of the mercy of God is unto all men.
Great is the Holiness of God.
God knoweth all things and there is not anything save he knows it.
As a reminder of the reality that those who went through their mortal estate in ignorance (without law) or innocence (not capable of comprehending law) along with those whose progression was limited because of being blinded by deception during mortality it would be well to review the following scriptures.
For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. (1 Peter 3:18-22)
A revelation by Joseph F. Smith received on October 3, 1918 which is found in section 138 of the Doctrine and Covenants expands on Peter’s revelation of the missionary work which is done among the dead. I include only versus 28-37. This section also gives an expanded view of the resurrection we will all undergo and further testimony of the truthfulness of Nephi’s teachings about the Savior to his people.
And I wondered at the words of Peter—wherein he said that the Son of God preached unto the spirits in prison, who sometime were disobedient, when once the long-suffering of God waited in the days of Noah—and how it was possible for him to preach to those spirits and perform the necessary labor among them in so short a time. And as I wondered, my eyes were opened, and my understanding quickened, and I perceived that the Lord went not in person among the wicked and the disobedient who had rejected the truth, to teach them; But behold, from among the righteous, he organized his forces and appointed messengers, clothed with power and authority, and commissioned them to go forth and carry the light of the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to all the spirits of men; and thus was the gospel preached to the dead.
And the chosen messengers went forth to declare the acceptable day of the Lord and proclaim liberty to the captives who were bound, even unto all who would repent of their sins and receive the gospel. Thus was the gospel preached to those who had died in their sins, without a knowledge of the truth, or in transgression, having rejected the prophets.
These were taught faith in God, repentance from sin, vicarious baptism for the remission of sins, the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, And all other principles of the gospel that were necessary for them to know in order to qualify themselves that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
And so it was made known among the dead, both small and great, the unrighteous as well as the faithful, that redemption had been wrought through the sacrifice of the Son of God upon the cross.
Thus was it made known that our Redeemer spent his time during his sojourn in the world of spirits, instructing and preparing the faithful spirits of the prophets who had testified of him in the flesh; That they might carry the message of redemption unto all the dead, unto whom he could not go personally, because of their rebellion and transgression, that they through the ministration of his servants might also hear his words.
Even a casual searching of these verses will help you to understand why I believe our eventual eternal state will be based on our acceptance of the Plan of Salvation and Exaltation through the mercy of the Lord after all we have done throughout all the stages of our existence.
(to be continued)
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Although it isn’t required, a quick review of last week’s introduction to these chapters would be helpful.
Speaking with the urgency of a living prophet desiring to be a good shepherd over his flock Nephi gives a beautiful and enlightening discourse about the importance of Jesus the Christ and His Atoning sacrifice to the fulfilling and completing Heavenly Father’s Plan of Salvation and Exaltation.
Essential principles which Nephi teaches his people and proclaims them to be necessary for all in order to grow toward inheriting all that the Father has:
Death which comes upon all of Heavenly Father’s children is an essential part of The Plan.
Because of the Fall which brought death upon all mortals and removed them from God’s presence, it became necessary for a means be provided whereby all could be resurrected.
The fall also put all into a condition of being spiritually dead, wherein they were separated from the presence of Heavenly Father and His influence.
The Lord came into the world to save all who would hearken unto His voice.
Faith in Jesus the Christ and ordinances including baptism are essential to be saved in the kingdom of God.
A person must have and understand a law before they become accountable to that law.
That which would be accounted as sin if a person had a law will be Atoned for by the Sacrifice of Jesus the Christ for those without the law.
The resurrection of all could only be done through an atoning sacrifice of a sinless being.
The alternative to the Atoning Sacrifice of a Savior would be that all would become subject to a devil and remain eternally miserable.
The Lord took upon Himself the suffering for all sins repented of and the pains suffered by all, both men, women and children.
A caution is given that this devil can even appear as an angel of light, stirring men’s hearts unto entering into secret combinations. (This is a topic which will be written about in much greater detail at a later date.)
The Atonement of Jesus the Christ will cause the graves to deliver up their dead and physical and spirit bodies shall be restored one to another.
The resurrected shall have a perfect knowledge restored unto them both of their guilt and righteousness.
The greatness of the mercy of God is unto all men.
Great is the Holiness of God.
God knoweth all things and there is not anything save he knows it.
As a reminder of the reality that those who went through their mortal estate in ignorance (without law) or innocence (not capable of comprehending law) along with those whose progression was limited because of being blinded by deception during mortality it would be well to review the following scriptures.
For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. (1 Peter 3:18-22)
A revelation by Joseph F. Smith received on October 3, 1918 which is found in section 138 of the Doctrine and Covenants expands on Peter’s revelation of the missionary work which is done among the dead. I include only versus 28-37. This section also gives an expanded view of the resurrection we will all undergo and further testimony of the truthfulness of Nephi’s teachings about the Savior to his people.
And I wondered at the words of Peter—wherein he said that the Son of God preached unto the spirits in prison, who sometime were disobedient, when once the long-suffering of God waited in the days of Noah—and how it was possible for him to preach to those spirits and perform the necessary labor among them in so short a time. And as I wondered, my eyes were opened, and my understanding quickened, and I perceived that the Lord went not in person among the wicked and the disobedient who had rejected the truth, to teach them; But behold, from among the righteous, he organized his forces and appointed messengers, clothed with power and authority, and commissioned them to go forth and carry the light of the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to all the spirits of men; and thus was the gospel preached to the dead.
And the chosen messengers went forth to declare the acceptable day of the Lord and proclaim liberty to the captives who were bound, even unto all who would repent of their sins and receive the gospel. Thus was the gospel preached to those who had died in their sins, without a knowledge of the truth, or in transgression, having rejected the prophets.
These were taught faith in God, repentance from sin, vicarious baptism for the remission of sins, the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, And all other principles of the gospel that were necessary for them to know in order to qualify themselves that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
And so it was made known among the dead, both small and great, the unrighteous as well as the faithful, that redemption had been wrought through the sacrifice of the Son of God upon the cross.
Thus was it made known that our Redeemer spent his time during his sojourn in the world of spirits, instructing and preparing the faithful spirits of the prophets who had testified of him in the flesh; That they might carry the message of redemption unto all the dead, unto whom he could not go personally, because of their rebellion and transgression, that they through the ministration of his servants might also hear his words.
Even a casual searching of these verses will help you to understand why I believe our eventual eternal state will be based on our acceptance of the Plan of Salvation and Exaltation through the mercy of the Lord after all we have done throughout all the stages of our existence.
(to be continued)
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Saturday, September 15, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
If we were to become stuck – on one principle of the gospel – coming to know Jesus the Christ – and through Him – our Father in Heaven – wouldn’t be a poor choice!! ----- Steadfastness – may be one of the most – illusive goals!!
Friday, September 14, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
No matter how hard we try – our degree of thankfulness to Heavenly Father – will never exceed – the blessings which have been bestowed upon us!! ----- We should never forget – that some of the reasons – this world came into existence – was to teach us to appreciate beauty – to be grateful for our abundance – and – find happiness in our experiences – while we dwell upon it!!
Thursday, September 13, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
I believe we would all – treat each other - more Christlike – if we were allowed even a brief glimpse – of one another’s Everlasting Estate!! ----- We would probably – be more willing to share the blessings – which living the gospel brings – if we concentrated more – on the goodness of those around us!!
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
We should strive to extend our feelings of gratitude – beyond the bounds of prayers – leading us to eventually – recognizing the blessings we are receiving – with every breath we take!!
Tuesday, September 11, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Worshiping in reverential solitude – has the potential – to speed our progress – more rapidly than any other experience – during mortality!! ----- The whole of humanity – would be greatly blessed – if the time we spend – judging unrighteously – and – condemning – were instead used – building – edifying – and – strengthening one another!!
Monday, September 10, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Martha was admonished by the Lord – to be careful not to get so busy serving – that she was neglectful in her worship of the Lord – during those precious moments – when He was with her!! ----- None of life’s experiences – challenges – and – callings – are more important – than spending time – in the reverential solitude – of true worship!!
Sunday, September 9, 2018
SAVORING THE WORDS OF ISAIAH
(Book of Mormon – 2 Nephi – Chapters 9, 10, 11) 1
Although Nephi had spoken briefly, in an introduction of what he felt was important in the chapters of Isaiah we wrote about last week, he followed the reading of chapters 50, 51 and 52 of Isaiah to his people with an amplified discourse on four main subjects which he wanted to stress from his reading.
The Eternal and Atoning Mission of Jesus the Christ.
The purposes of Satan as He acts against the children of God during their mortal span.
Prophesies about the last sacrifice of the Savior during mortality, His mission to the Americas and the preserving of the Americas as a land of freedom.
The Law of Moses as a type for Jesus the Christ.
It only took a few minutes of scanning the contents of chapters 9, 10 and 11 of Second Nephi for me to realize that it would take more than one Thought for me to do justice to Nephi’s words.
In my latter years I have become a firm believer that the preparation for our eternal existence is a compilation of the growth we had as spirit children of our Heavenly Parents before our mortal birth, the growth we gain during our mortal journey and the growth we will gain in the next phase of our existence after passing from mortal death unto eternal life. I have also gained the conviction that the more I advance during each phase of my existence will give me an advantage during the next.
Maybe just a couple of scriptures to remind us of why I have these convictions:
Pearl of Great Price – Abraham 3:18-26
If there be two spirits, and one shall be more intelligent than the other, yet these two spirits, notwithstanding one is more intelligent than the other, have no beginning; they existed before, they shall have no end, they shall exist after, for they are gnolaum, or eternal.
And the Lord said unto me: These two facts do exist, that there are two spirits, one being more intelligent than the other; there shall be another more intelligent than they; I am the Lord thy God, I am more intelligent than they all. I dwell in the midst of them all; I now, therefore, have come down unto thee to declare unto thee the works which my hands have made, wherein my wisdom excelleth them all, for I rule in the heavens above, and in the earth beneath, in all wisdom and prudence, over all the intelligences thine eyes have seen from the beginning; I came down in the beginning in the midst of all the intelligences thou hast seen.
Now the Lord had shown unto me, Abraham, the intelligences that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the
noble and great ones; And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the midst of them, and he said: These I will make my rulers; for he stood among those that were spirits, and he saw that they were good; and he said unto me: Abraham, thou art one of them; thou wast chosen before thou wast born. And there stood one among them that was like unto God, and he said unto those who were with him: We will go down, for there is space there, and we will take of these materials, and we will make an earth whereon these may dwell. And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them; And they who keep their first estate shall be added upon; and they who keep not their first estate shall not have glory in the same kingdom with those who keep their first estate; and they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever.
Doctrine and Covenants – 130: 18-21
Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection. And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come.
There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated — And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.
We are also reminded through the scriptures that after passing through all the tests of all the phases of our existence, we have become glorified children of our Heavenly Parents, nothing shall be withheld from us.
Book of Mormon – Alma 5:58-60
For the names of the righteous shall be written in the book of life, and unto them will I grant an inheritance at my right hand. And now, my brethren, what have ye to say against this? I say unto you, if ye speak against it, it matters not, for the word of God must be fulfilled.
For what shepherd is there among you having many sheep doth not watch over them, that the wolves enter not and devour his flock? And behold, if a wolf enter his flock doth he not drive him out? Yea, and at the last, if he can, he will destroy him. And now I say unto you that the good shepherd doth call after you; and if you will hearken unto his voice he will bring you into his fold, and ye are his sheep; and he commandeth you that ye suffer no ravenous wolf to enter among you, that ye may not be destroyed.
One last thing is important to contemplate before writing about Nephi’s words. I have pondered upon why, just as Nephi does in these chapters, the living prophets who bless different generations of mortals speak with such anxiousness about doing all things right now, if we have eternities to grow into our eternal reward.
I think part of the reason is that they are good shepherds and are being diligent in their stewardships. Another reason I feel they speak with such anxiousness is that they know as Nephi knew, that we could not fulfill the purpose of our existence, which is to have joy, if we were not adhering to the doctrines and principles of the gospel.
Although, I have no doubt the Lord could bring to pass the salvation of others without my meager offering, another reason that the living prophets admonish with such urgency is that they know the magnitude of growth which can come from striving to bring others unto Jesus the Christ.
Doctrine and Covenants 18:14-17
Wherefore, you are called to cry repentance unto this people. And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father! And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!
Behold, you have my gospel before you, and my rock, and my salvation.
(to be continued)
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Although Nephi had spoken briefly, in an introduction of what he felt was important in the chapters of Isaiah we wrote about last week, he followed the reading of chapters 50, 51 and 52 of Isaiah to his people with an amplified discourse on four main subjects which he wanted to stress from his reading.
The Eternal and Atoning Mission of Jesus the Christ.
The purposes of Satan as He acts against the children of God during their mortal span.
Prophesies about the last sacrifice of the Savior during mortality, His mission to the Americas and the preserving of the Americas as a land of freedom.
The Law of Moses as a type for Jesus the Christ.
It only took a few minutes of scanning the contents of chapters 9, 10 and 11 of Second Nephi for me to realize that it would take more than one Thought for me to do justice to Nephi’s words.
In my latter years I have become a firm believer that the preparation for our eternal existence is a compilation of the growth we had as spirit children of our Heavenly Parents before our mortal birth, the growth we gain during our mortal journey and the growth we will gain in the next phase of our existence after passing from mortal death unto eternal life. I have also gained the conviction that the more I advance during each phase of my existence will give me an advantage during the next.
Maybe just a couple of scriptures to remind us of why I have these convictions:
Pearl of Great Price – Abraham 3:18-26
If there be two spirits, and one shall be more intelligent than the other, yet these two spirits, notwithstanding one is more intelligent than the other, have no beginning; they existed before, they shall have no end, they shall exist after, for they are gnolaum, or eternal.
And the Lord said unto me: These two facts do exist, that there are two spirits, one being more intelligent than the other; there shall be another more intelligent than they; I am the Lord thy God, I am more intelligent than they all. I dwell in the midst of them all; I now, therefore, have come down unto thee to declare unto thee the works which my hands have made, wherein my wisdom excelleth them all, for I rule in the heavens above, and in the earth beneath, in all wisdom and prudence, over all the intelligences thine eyes have seen from the beginning; I came down in the beginning in the midst of all the intelligences thou hast seen.
Now the Lord had shown unto me, Abraham, the intelligences that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the
noble and great ones; And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the midst of them, and he said: These I will make my rulers; for he stood among those that were spirits, and he saw that they were good; and he said unto me: Abraham, thou art one of them; thou wast chosen before thou wast born. And there stood one among them that was like unto God, and he said unto those who were with him: We will go down, for there is space there, and we will take of these materials, and we will make an earth whereon these may dwell. And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them; And they who keep their first estate shall be added upon; and they who keep not their first estate shall not have glory in the same kingdom with those who keep their first estate; and they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever.
Doctrine and Covenants – 130: 18-21
Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection. And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come.
There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated — And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.
We are also reminded through the scriptures that after passing through all the tests of all the phases of our existence, we have become glorified children of our Heavenly Parents, nothing shall be withheld from us.
Book of Mormon – Alma 5:58-60
For the names of the righteous shall be written in the book of life, and unto them will I grant an inheritance at my right hand. And now, my brethren, what have ye to say against this? I say unto you, if ye speak against it, it matters not, for the word of God must be fulfilled.
For what shepherd is there among you having many sheep doth not watch over them, that the wolves enter not and devour his flock? And behold, if a wolf enter his flock doth he not drive him out? Yea, and at the last, if he can, he will destroy him. And now I say unto you that the good shepherd doth call after you; and if you will hearken unto his voice he will bring you into his fold, and ye are his sheep; and he commandeth you that ye suffer no ravenous wolf to enter among you, that ye may not be destroyed.
One last thing is important to contemplate before writing about Nephi’s words. I have pondered upon why, just as Nephi does in these chapters, the living prophets who bless different generations of mortals speak with such anxiousness about doing all things right now, if we have eternities to grow into our eternal reward.
I think part of the reason is that they are good shepherds and are being diligent in their stewardships. Another reason I feel they speak with such anxiousness is that they know as Nephi knew, that we could not fulfill the purpose of our existence, which is to have joy, if we were not adhering to the doctrines and principles of the gospel.
Although, I have no doubt the Lord could bring to pass the salvation of others without my meager offering, another reason that the living prophets admonish with such urgency is that they know the magnitude of growth which can come from striving to bring others unto Jesus the Christ.
Doctrine and Covenants 18:14-17
Wherefore, you are called to cry repentance unto this people. And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father! And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!
Behold, you have my gospel before you, and my rock, and my salvation.
(to be continued)
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Saturday, September 8, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
It would be sad – if we allowed – the traditional experiences of our Church meetings – to rob us of – worshiping the Lord – and – Heavenly Father!! ----- the Savior demonstrated by His example – there are times when we need to be away – from the distractions of the world – which might also include teaching – serving – and – healing – so that we can concentrate – on worshiping the Lord – and – Heavenly Father!!
Friday, September 7, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Even though the Lord – has indicated a path we should take – everyone of us – walk in our own way – during our lives!! ----- There is no doubt – each of us – has had such a diverse accumulation of influences – helping us during our mortal journey – that it would be impossible – to identify – a one and only path – leading to Eternal Life!!
Thursday, September 6, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
It would be foolish – to presume that because – I have walked – the path I have been directed to take – and – has helped me progress – that everyone else – should walk exactly the same path – in exactly the same way!!
Wednesday, September 5, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
The belief which allows all men to worship God – according to the dictates of their own conscience – also applies to others of your own faith – as well as those of other religions!! ----- Since we each are on a different portion – of the Gospel path leading to Eternal Life – we need to be considerate of what – the whisperings of the Holy Spirit – might be suggesting – as to what – their next step should be!!
Tuesday, September 4, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
The most important step – in changing our lives through the process of repentance – may be – and – may always have been – faith in the Atonement of the Lord Jesus the Christ!! ----- The attributes – and – characteristics – which each of us are developing – will to a large degree – determine the diligence – we place on practicing the principle of the gospel!!
Monday, September 3, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Since ultimate forgiveness – is a prerogative reserved for Deity – perhaps it would be better in most cases – for us to learn to forget!! ----- If we do it correctly – forgetting should so cleanly wipe – unpleasant experiences – that our relationships – will not be stifled – and – we can move positively forward – without being held back – because we bear the burdensome weight – of remembering negative experiences!!
Sunday, September 2, 2018
GREAT ARE THE WORDS OF ISAIAH 2
Chapters 6, 7, and 8 of Second Nephi are based on the verses found in the book of Isaiah chapters 50, 51 and 52. As I mentioned in a previous Thought when covering these chapters in the Book of Mormon which correspond with the words found in the writings of Isaiah I will use the following guidelines; first, that I might succeed in my efforts to demonstrate what Nephi was trying to have his people understand from the passages of Isaiah he was quoting; second, I will be able to faithfully include Elder Bruce R. McConkie’s chapter preface statements in the English LDS edition of the Bible with some additional brief personal comments which will not distract from his interpretation of Isaiah’s words; third, that I might succeed in my efforts to communicate a very personal meaning I am receiving at the moment; and fourth, that perhaps I might succeed in my efforts to provide a stimulus for whoever might be reading my Thoughts that week to seek their own individual instructions from the words of Isaiah.
For a more extensive declaration of how I am treating the passages of Isaiah recorded in the Book of Mormon you might want to review the Thought I published on Sunday, June 24, 2018 which can be found on my blog pages by searching Thoughts for a Sabbath Day on the internet.
Nephi’s purpose for using these passages of Isaiah
In this instance Nephi proclaims his purpose as a preamble to reading the words of Isaiah from the Brass Plates of Laban, which was a departure from his usual method of reading and then explaining.
After stating his right by ordained authority to teach and assuring his people that his desire when speaking is solely for their welfare and to glorify God, in chapter 6 of Second Nephi, Nephi, pinpoints the following as principles and teachings his people should look for as he reads the words from the writing of Isaiah.
He reminds them that they are of the House of Israel and that the words of Isaiah have special meaning for those of the House of Israel.
He teaches that Isaiah sees the gentile nations in the latter days becoming a standard to Lehi’s descendants and their kings and queens nursemaids.
He mentions that they will find in the writings of Isaiah that the Lord God of Israel would manifest Himself unto them in the flesh and mentions
the trial and suffering He would undergo for them.
He tells them to look for Isaiah words prophesying that the House of Israel would be scattered upon the earth, but in connection with the Gentiles coming unto the God of Israel, they would be gathered once again.
He introduces the word Zion to them as a place and a people who repent and wait upon the coming of the Messiah.
He talks of the Messiah coming a second time in great glory and power. A time when those who do not believe in Him shall be destroyed by Fire while the covenant people shall be delivered.
Bruce R. McConkie’s chapter preface statements
Chapter 50
The Messiah shall have the tongue of the learned.
The Messiah shall give His back to the smiters.
The Messiah shall not be confounded.
Chapter 51
In the last days the Lord shall comfort Israel.
In the last days the redeemed shall come to Zion amid great joy.
Chapter 52
In the last days Zion shall return and Israel shall be redeemed.
The Messiah shall deal prudently and be exalted.
My efforts to communicate a very personal meaning I am receiving at the moment of writing this Thought
There is no doubt that the words found in Second Nephi chapter 8 verses 24 and 25, as Nephi reads from Isaiah chapter 52 verses 1 and 2, had the
greatest impact on me as I was reviewing these chapters.
Awake, awake, put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city; for henceforth there shall no more come into thee the uncircumcised and the unclean. Shake thyself from the dust; arise, sit down, O Jerusalem; loose thyself from the bands of thy neck, O
captive daughter of Zion.
While reading these verses I was struck with the thought that although His mission was prophesied of, written about and testified of by those who were touched during His earthly mission, sustained by the multiple testimonies which have been given since His atoning sacrifice along with the personal witnesses we have received from the Holy Spirit, yet we continue to slumber in so many ways.
There are definitely moments when I am wide awake, but all too often I find myself in a semi-state of consciousness about the eternal importance of Jesus the Christ as the actuator of the Creation under the guiding hand of His Father, the Lord who led the Children of Israel in ancient days, He who manifested Himself to the descendants of Lehi in the Americas after His resurrection and the author of the Restoration in the Latter Days and,
therefore, I find myself in need of Isaiah’s alarm to awaken.
When fully awake I am more conscious of the covenants I have made, I am more aware of He whose name I have chosen to take upon me, I strive to avoid that which would cause me to become unclean and I feel free from the bonds which might enslave and captivate.
It is in these moments when I can add my feeble testimony to Nephi’s, great are the words of Isaiah.
Efforts to provide a stimulus for whoever might be reading my Thoughts this week to seek their own individual instructions from the words of Isaiah
I have a solemn testimony that the words of Isaiah as well as the words of all scripture are of most benefit when they speak to us individually and sink deeply into those areas of our beings which need to profit from learning about the purposes of our existence and which will inspire us to align our thoughts, words and actions with the gospel of Jesus the Christ.
GREAT ARE THE WORDS OF ISAIAH
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
For a more extensive declaration of how I am treating the passages of Isaiah recorded in the Book of Mormon you might want to review the Thought I published on Sunday, June 24, 2018 which can be found on my blog pages by searching Thoughts for a Sabbath Day on the internet.
Nephi’s purpose for using these passages of Isaiah
In this instance Nephi proclaims his purpose as a preamble to reading the words of Isaiah from the Brass Plates of Laban, which was a departure from his usual method of reading and then explaining.
After stating his right by ordained authority to teach and assuring his people that his desire when speaking is solely for their welfare and to glorify God, in chapter 6 of Second Nephi, Nephi, pinpoints the following as principles and teachings his people should look for as he reads the words from the writing of Isaiah.
He reminds them that they are of the House of Israel and that the words of Isaiah have special meaning for those of the House of Israel.
He teaches that Isaiah sees the gentile nations in the latter days becoming a standard to Lehi’s descendants and their kings and queens nursemaids.
He mentions that they will find in the writings of Isaiah that the Lord God of Israel would manifest Himself unto them in the flesh and mentions
the trial and suffering He would undergo for them.
He tells them to look for Isaiah words prophesying that the House of Israel would be scattered upon the earth, but in connection with the Gentiles coming unto the God of Israel, they would be gathered once again.
He introduces the word Zion to them as a place and a people who repent and wait upon the coming of the Messiah.
He talks of the Messiah coming a second time in great glory and power. A time when those who do not believe in Him shall be destroyed by Fire while the covenant people shall be delivered.
Bruce R. McConkie’s chapter preface statements
Chapter 50
The Messiah shall have the tongue of the learned.
The Messiah shall give His back to the smiters.
The Messiah shall not be confounded.
Chapter 51
In the last days the Lord shall comfort Israel.
In the last days the redeemed shall come to Zion amid great joy.
Chapter 52
In the last days Zion shall return and Israel shall be redeemed.
The Messiah shall deal prudently and be exalted.
My efforts to communicate a very personal meaning I am receiving at the moment of writing this Thought
There is no doubt that the words found in Second Nephi chapter 8 verses 24 and 25, as Nephi reads from Isaiah chapter 52 verses 1 and 2, had the
greatest impact on me as I was reviewing these chapters.
Awake, awake, put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city; for henceforth there shall no more come into thee the uncircumcised and the unclean. Shake thyself from the dust; arise, sit down, O Jerusalem; loose thyself from the bands of thy neck, O
captive daughter of Zion.
While reading these verses I was struck with the thought that although His mission was prophesied of, written about and testified of by those who were touched during His earthly mission, sustained by the multiple testimonies which have been given since His atoning sacrifice along with the personal witnesses we have received from the Holy Spirit, yet we continue to slumber in so many ways.
There are definitely moments when I am wide awake, but all too often I find myself in a semi-state of consciousness about the eternal importance of Jesus the Christ as the actuator of the Creation under the guiding hand of His Father, the Lord who led the Children of Israel in ancient days, He who manifested Himself to the descendants of Lehi in the Americas after His resurrection and the author of the Restoration in the Latter Days and,
therefore, I find myself in need of Isaiah’s alarm to awaken.
When fully awake I am more conscious of the covenants I have made, I am more aware of He whose name I have chosen to take upon me, I strive to avoid that which would cause me to become unclean and I feel free from the bonds which might enslave and captivate.
It is in these moments when I can add my feeble testimony to Nephi’s, great are the words of Isaiah.
Efforts to provide a stimulus for whoever might be reading my Thoughts this week to seek their own individual instructions from the words of Isaiah
I have a solemn testimony that the words of Isaiah as well as the words of all scripture are of most benefit when they speak to us individually and sink deeply into those areas of our beings which need to profit from learning about the purposes of our existence and which will inspire us to align our thoughts, words and actions with the gospel of Jesus the Christ.
GREAT ARE THE WORDS OF ISAIAH
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Saturday, September 1, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
If our thoughts wander – we can be assured – we will fail to maximize – the gains which might have resulted – from any educational experience!! ----- Anticipation – and – expectations – have the power to increase – or – decrease what we gain from life’s experiences!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)