Lehi's Dream a simple thing I missed before

As I was reading Lehi's Dram in 1 Nephi Chapter 8 I had a simple point jump out at me that I had not thought of before:

Two groups of people that came to the tree an partook of the fruit. The first:

24 And it came to pass that I beheld others pressing forward, and they came forth and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press forward through the mist of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partake of the fruit of the tree.

25 And after they had partaken of the fruit of the tree they did cast their eyes about as if they were ashamed.

Then the second:

30 But, to be short in writing, behold, he saw other multitudes pressing forward; and they came and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press their way forward, continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree.

These simple words that is what is different about these two groups hit me very strongly.

The difference from those that left and those that stayed was falling down. I brought this up to my wife and she said; Of course, they were humble, they knew the truth.

I agree with that but also think it is that they understood the Atonement. They knew the tree and fruit were much more than a tree and fruit.

These are members who are truly converted and living the gospel as opposed to the first group who are those that are social members. They are active in Church and meetings but not active in the gospel.

Just some thoughts.

NT Come Follow Me -Individual-2019-January 7–13

Come Follow Me Individual lesson 2

Matthew 1, Luke 1

Who were Matthew and Luke?

New Testament: Student Study guide, (2003), 9–38

Who Was Matthew?

Matthew was a publican, or tax collector, for the Roman government (see Matthew 9:9). He left his profession to follow the Savior and became one of the original Twelve Apostles. He was also known as Levi (see Mark 2:14). For more information about Matthew, see “Matthew” in the Bible Dictionary (p. 729).

Why Did Matthew Write This Book?

If the prophecies of the Old Testament and the events in the life of Jesus Christ were compared to links in two separate chains, Matthew’s testimony could be considered a link that joins the two together. Matthew quoted the Old Testament more than any other New Testament writer. The first verses of Matthew show the coming of Jesus as a continuation of the Old Testament story. As you read, you will find that Matthew continually emphasized that Jesus fulfilled the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament 

 In addition to showing how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, Matthew taught how Jesus Christ gave a law that was greater than the law of Moses practiced by the Jews in the Old Testament (see Matthew 5–7; especially note Matthew 5:21–22, 27–28, 31–32, 38–42). Matthew also told more stories than Mark, Luke, or John about how the leaders of the Jews rejected Jesus in spite of the many testimonies that He was their Messiah. This emphasis on Jesus being the fulfillment of Old Testament law and prophecy seems to indicate that Matthew had a Jewish audience in mind when he wrote and that he wanted them to know that Jesus was their Messiah.

Only in Matthew

Although many of the teachings and stories of Jesus appear in more than one of the Gospels, the following are found only in Matthew:

••

Some of the details surrounding Jesus’ birth, such as the story of Joseph’s dream and decision to marry Mary (see Matthew 1:18–20), the visit of the wise men (see Matthew 2:1–13), and going to Egypt to avoid Herod and the killing of the children (see Matthew 2:14–18)

••

The complete Sermon on the Mount (see Matthew 5–7)

••

Ten parables not in the other Gospels

••

 The resurrection and appearance of Saints after the Resurrection of the Savior (see Matthew 27:52–53)

••

Some often quoted and important sayings of Jesus, such as, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28)

Who Was Luke?

Luke was a Greek physician, a doctor who wrote this gospel and the book of Acts. Luke was not a Jew, but was well educated in his Greek culture. He was probably not an eyewitness to the Savior’s earthly ministry but learned about Jesus from the Apostle Paul and other missionaries. He went on many missionary journeys with Paul (see Acts 16:10; 2 Timothy 4:11) and witnessed the growth of the Church among the Gentiles

Why Was This Book Written?

Luke wrote this testimony so his friend Theophilus, probably also a Greek convert, would know the truth about Jesus Christ. Evidently there were numerous other accounts of what Jesus said and did, some true and some not true. It seems Luke had a non-Jewish audience in mind, since he gives the meaning of mny Hebrew words and tells several stories of Jesus’ dealings with non-Jews.

How Is This Book Different from Matthew and Mark?

Matthew’s gospel was written to show the Jews that Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies of the promised Messiah (see the introduction to the book of Matthew on p. 9). Mark showed Jesus as the powerful Son of God who performed many miracles, the greatest being the Atonement (see the introduction to the book of Mark on p. 39). As a Gentile, Luke had a unique perspective on the gospel of Jesus Christ. Luke’s testimony is the longest of the Gospels. It contains much information not mentioned by the other gospel writers. He understood that the gospel was for all people, not just the Jews, and he emphasized that Jesus suffered and died for all of Heavenly Father’s children.

Only in Luke

The following are some of the teachings found only in Luke:

••

Gabriel’s visits to Zacharias and Mary (see Luke 1:5–20, 26–38)

••

Details of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem (see Luke 2:1–20)

••

The testimonies of Simeon and Anna (see Luke 2:21–38)

••

The twelve-year-old Jesus at the temple (see Luke 2:40–52)

••

The parables found in Luke 10–19 

••

The calling of the seventy (see Luke 10:1–16)

••

Christ bleeding from every pore in Gethsemane (see Luke 22:44)

••

Jesus telling the thief on the cross that he would be with Him in paradise (see Luke 23:39–43)

 

Who Are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John?

By Janet Thomas

Church Magazines

A doctor, a fisherman, a tax collector, and another who was just a teenager when he heard the Savior speak, they wrote some of the most famous books in existence. 

We recognize their names immediately. Their names are attached to the first four books of the New Testament. And most important of all, their writings are almost all we have describing the mortal life of Jesus Christ and the things He said.

The first four books of the New Testament are called the Gospels. It’s easy to imagine why these books were written and why they have always been so important. Can you imagine how exciting it would have been for people who were just learning about the Savior to have someone read to them the things He said and did? These books have always been precious.

Matthew and John were two of the original Twelve Apostles. They were with the Savior often as He taught. But who were Mark and Luke, and how did they come to write about the Savior’s life and ministry?

Here are a few things scholars know about the four men who wrote their testimonies of the Savior.1

Matthew

Matthew was a publican, or tax collector, before he was called as one of the Lord’s Apostles. Because of that profession, we can guess that he was well educated and knew how to read and write, probably in several languages, including Greek. He also knew arithmetic. He saw and heard many wonderful things while with the Savior, and it is likely he wrote down some of the sayings of the Savior as notes or in a journal. Later, these notes would have helped him when he wrote what he remembered about the teachings of Jesus.

In his book, Matthew often stresses that Jesus Christ is the Messiah and came to fulfill the Old Testament prophecies. Matthew wrote specifically to the Jews, who were familiar with those prophecies.

Matthew was a man who could have moved comfortably in political circles, and his book mentions things that someone in his position would know. For example, his account of the Resurrection tells that those assigned to guard the Savior’s tomb saw two angels roll back the stone that covered the door of the tomb. They told their superiors what had happened, so the soldiers were offered large sums of money to say that the Lord’s followers had crept in and carried His body away. This lie was then spread among the Jews. (See Matthew 28:2–15.) Matthew must have been informed about the bribery. The book of Matthew is the only place this interesting bit of information is told.

Luke

Luke is an interesting writer because he did not know Jesus Christ personally. He became a follower after the Lord’s death, when Paul taught him the gospel. Luke had been a physician, but he left that profession to travel with Paul. He had the opportunity to talk with many of the Apostles as well as others who were eyewitnesses to special events or moments in the Lord’s life. In the first few verses of his book, Luke says that he is going to write the things that eyewitnesses and other teachers of the gospel had to say about the Savior. Apparently he had the opportunity to talk to many who were present when the Savior taught or performed miracles.

One of the most amazing stories Luke wrote about was the birth of the Savior. Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–85) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles says that Luke probably got his information about Jesus’s birth from Mary herself.

Who were the other people Luke interviewed about Jesus Christ? The list would have been long. Many of the people who knew the Savior would still have been alive and would have remembered such important times in their lives. Paul mentions that about 500 people saw the Savior after His Resurrection and that most of them were still alive when he was writing to the Corinthians (see 1 Corinthians 15:6).

Four Separate Books

Right after the Lord’s death and Resurrection and for many years afterward, each of the books written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John was a separate item, written on a separate scroll and copied over and over. The individual books weren’t put together into the New Testament until several hundred years after they were written. This explains John’s warning in Revelation 22:18: “If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book.” Some people have interpreted this to mean that no other scriptures could be revealed after the book of Revelation, which in modern times is the last book of the Bible. But John was most likely warning people not to add anything to his writing only in the book of Revelation.

Eventually the four Gospels were joined with other valuable writings such as the letters that Paul and others wrote. Other original Apostles also wrote things that were copied repeatedly. Remnants of these writings survive, but it is difficult to determine which are authentic. When the New Testament was gathered into a single book, these writings were not included.

Why did the Savior need to be born of a mortal mother and an immortal Father?

My Thoughts: Christ had to be part mortal she would truly understand what we would go through. He had to know physical pain, hurt , emotion so the atonement could be truly universal. He also needed to be part God to have the ability to endure the atonement. I also think it is partly due so that he could truly say He suffered for us willingly even though He had the power and ability to change it all with just a thought.

Matt 1:18-25 Luke 1:28-35

Bruce R. McConkie

"The commentaries of the world talk about the virgin birth as being 'pious fiction.' No one, they say, could have been born in that way; it was something which Matthew assumed, and so it became a tradition in the early Church. This matter of the genealogy, this matter of the birth of our Lord, is at the heart and core of Christendom. Thanks be to God that by the opening of the heavens and by revelation in our day we have gained an understanding of what is involved. As a result we can put the atoning sacrifice in its proper position and relationship to all things...Whose son is he? He is the firstborn spirit child of God, our Heavenly Father." ("Who Shall Declare His Generation?" BYU Studies, vol. 16 (1975-1976), Number 4 - Summer 1976, p. 555.)

Bruce R. McConkie

"Just as Jesus is literally the son of Mary, so he is the personal and literal offspring of God the Eternal Father, who himself is an exalted personage having a tangible body of flesh and bones...Matthew's statement, 'she was found with child of the Holy Ghost,' properly translated should say, 'she was found with child by the power of the Holy Ghost.'" (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 1:82.)

Ezra Taft Benson

"The most fundamental doctrine of true Christianity is the divine birth of the child Jesus. This doctrine is not generally comprehended by the world. The paternity of Jesus Christ is one of the 'mysteries of godliness' comprehended only by the spiritually-minded.

"The apostle Matthew recorded: 'Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.' (Matthew 1:18.)

"Luke rendered a plainer meaning to the divine conception. He quoted the angel Gabriel's words to Mary: 'The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy [being] which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.' (Luke 1:35; italics added.)

"Some six hundred years before Jesus was born, an ancient prophet had a vision. He saw Mary and described her as 'a virgin, most beautiful and fair above all other virgins.' He then saw her 'carried away in the Spirit . . . for the space of a time.' When she returned, she was 'bearing a child in her arms . . . even the Son of the Eternal Father.' (Book of Mormon, 1 Ne. 11:15; 1 Ne. 11:19-21.)

"Thus the testimonies of appointed witnesses leave no question as to the paternity of Jesus Christ. God was the Father of Jesus' mortal tabernacle, and Mary, a mortal woman, was His mother. He is therefore the only person born who rightfully deserves the title 'the Only Begotten Son of God.'

"From the time of Christ's heaven-heralded birth, heresies have crept into Christianity intended to dilute or undermine the pure doctrines of the gospel. These heresies, by and large, are sponsored by the philosophies of men and, in many instances, advocated by so-called Christian scholars. Their intent is to make Christianity more palatable, more reasonable, and so they attempt to humanize Jesus and give natural explanations to those things which are divine.

"An example is Jesus' birth. The so-called scholars seek to convince us that the divine birth of Christ as proclaimed in the New Testament was not divine at all and that Mary was not a virgin at the time of Jesus' conception. They would have us believe that Joseph, the foster-father of Jesus, was His physical father, and that therefore Jesus was human in all attributes and characteristics. They appear generous in their praise of Him when they say that He was a great moral philosopher, perhaps even the greatest. But the import of their effort is to repudiate the divine Sonship of Jesus, for on that doctrine rest all other claims of Christianity.

"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints proclaims that Jesus Christ is the Son of God in the most literal sense. The body in which He performed His mission in the flesh was sired by that same Holy Being we worship as God, our Eternal Father. Jesus was not the son of Joseph, nor was He begotten by the Holy Ghost. He is the Son of the Eternal Father!" (Come unto Christ [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1983], 2-4.)

Elder Eldred G. Smith

"Jesus Christ was the literal Son of God the Father by his spirit body and also by his physical body. The difference between Christ and us is that he had the same Father for his spirit body that he had for his physical body. But He had a mortal mother on earth. The scriptures say that she was overshadowed by the Holy Ghost. (See Luke 1:35.) Of course there had to be some means of making this possible while she was still in mortality. Further details are not necessary, but Christ himself declared all his life that he was the Son of God, and he meant it. That is the reason He had power to break the bonds of death and bring about the resurrection. It was not because He was crucified on the cross. Many people have been crucified on a cross. There were two crucified on crosses at the sides of him, but they did not have the power to be resurrected. But Christ had the power to be resurrected." (March 10, 1964, BYU Speeches of the Year, 1964, p. 8)

Luke 1:5-25, 57-80

Bruce R. McConkie

"Twice each year, in April and October, the priests of the course of Abia, named for Abijah, traveled from their village homes to the House of the Lord in Jerusalem, there to take their week-long turns at performing those sacred rites and ordinances which for fifteen hundred years had been the center of Israel's worship. One of these priests, Zacharias, whose wife, Elisabeth, was both barren and past the childbearing age, dwelt in a village in the hill country of Judea, believed to be Hebron. It was the very locale where Abraham had lived with Sarah, who also was both barren and past the childbearing age when the Lord himself saw fit to tell the Father of the Faithful that his beloved Sarah would conceive and bear Isaac, through whom the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant would continue.

"It was October, the autumn of the year, when Zacharias left his beloved Elisabeth-both of them being in the autumn of their lives-to travel the some twenty lonely miles to Jerusalem. At least it was the custom to leave family members at home, for the priests dwelt in the temple itself during their week-long ministry. But perhaps he went with other priests of his course, and if so, as was common among them in that era of great expectation, they would have discussed the Consolation of Israel who was to come and deliver his people...With his fellow priests, he then drew lots, as was the custom, so that each of the sons of Aaron serving that week might be assigned his duties. There was one service, favored above all others, that a priest to whose lot it fell might perform but once in a lifetime. It was the burning of incense on the altar of incense in the Holy Place, near the Holy of Holies where the very presence of Jehovah came on occasion. And, lo, this time the lot fell to Zacharias; he was chosen of the Lord to perform the great mediatorial service in which the smoke of the incense, ascending to heaven, would symbolize the prayers of all Israel ascending to the divine throne. That Zacharias was to be the central figure in the temple, through this service, all the assembled worshippers knew; and that heaven itself was to respond with divine approval shining forth, they would soon learn." (The Mortal Messiah: From Bethlehem to Calvary, 4 vols. [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1979-1981], 1: 306-307.)

Neal A. Maxwell

"Faith in God includes faith in His timing. Frankly, some of us have some difficulty with this significant dimension of faith. We clearly prefer our own time to His 'own due time.'

"...Patience stretches our capacity to bide our time while both wondering and sustaining. This vital elasticity will be especially needed as part of maintaining faith in God's timing in the last days, during which 'all things must come to pass in their time' (D&C 64:32)." (That Ye May Believe [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1992], 51-53.)

How did Zacharias and Elisabeth remain faithful?

My Thoughts: Even though they did not have the prayers answered nor were they blessed with what they thought would make them a model family in the Church, they were denied, yet they were still active and faithful. How many of us stop being active in the gospel simply because our prayers don’t seem to be answered.

What other messages might the Lord have for you in this story?

Have faith in His timing in all things. Life often doesn’t turn out like you plan but if you trust the Lord it turns out how it should and you are better for it.

The faithful willingly submit to God’s will.

Luke 1:26-38

"As we begin reading their story, we learn immediately that Joseph and Mary are 'espoused' (Matt. 1:18). Espousal among the Hebrews was significantly more binding than are our engagements today. The couple entered into it by written agreement and considered it the formal beginning of the marriage itself. While the couple might not actually live together for as much as a year after the betrothal-a time designed to allow the bride to prepare her dowry-the espousal was as legally binding as the formal marriage." (Gerald N. Lund, Selected Writings of Gerald N. Lund: Gospel Scholars Series [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1999], 136)

On Mary:

Bruce R. McConkie

"As there is only one Christ, so there is only one Mary. And as the Father chose the most noble and righteous of all his spirit sons to come into mortality as his Only Begotten in the flesh, so we may confidently conclude that he selected the most worthy and spiritually talented of all his spirit daughters to be the mortal mother of his Eternal Son." (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary. 3 vols. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1965-73, 1:85.)

Russell M. Nelson

"I applaud the efforts of Latter-day Saints throughout the world who willingly serve in building the kingdom of God. Likewise, I respect those who quietly do their duty though deepening trials come their way. And I admire those who strive to be more worthy by overcoming a personal fault or who work to achieve a difficult goal.

"I feel impressed to counsel those engaged in personal challenges to do right. In particular, my heart reaches out to those who feel discouraged by the magnitude of their struggle. Many shoulder heavy burdens of righteous responsibility which, on occasion, seem so difficult to bear. I have heard those challenges termed impossible.

"As a medical doctor, I have known the face of adversity. I have seen much of death and dying, suffering and sorrow. I also remember the plight of students overwhelmed by their studies and of those striving to learn a foreign language. And I recall the fatigue and frustration felt by young parents with children in need. Amidst circumstances seemingly impossible, I have also experienced the joyous relief that comes when one's understanding is deepened by scriptural insight.

"...Isaiah had made this prophetic utterance: 'The Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.' (Isa 7:14)

"When Mary was notified of her sacred responsibility, the announcing angel reassured, 'For with God nothing shall be impossible.'

"...We are children of the noble birthright, who must carry on in spite of our foredetermined status to be broadly outnumbered and widely opposed. Challenges lie ahead for the Church and for each member divinely charged toward self-improvement and service.

"How is it possible to achieve the 'impossible'? Learn and obey the teachings of God. From the holy scriptures, heaven-sent lift will be found for heaven-sent duties." (Perfection Pending, and Other Favorite Discourses [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1998], 105-108.)

Neal A. Maxwell

"The marvelous, spiritually submissive Mary likewise expressed it (true submissiveness) in few words. Though filled with wonderment about the miraculous impending birth of Jesus, she said, 'Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word' ("luke 1:38Luke 1:38).

"Her words can guide us when we too are puzzled by what is impending or unfolding in our lives. When we cannot explain all that is happening to us or around us, we can adopt Nephi's position: 'I know that [God] loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things' (1 Nephi 11:17)." (Sermons Not Spoken [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1985], 8-9.)

Thomas S. Monson

"In our selection of heroes, let us nominate also heroines...I speak of Mary of Nazareth, espoused to Joseph, destined to become the mother of the only truly perfect man to walk the earth. Her acceptance of this sacred and historic role is a hallmark of humility. 'And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.' (Luke 1:38.) Surely Mary qualifies.

"Could we ask, What makes of these men heroes and these women heroines? I answer: Unwavering trust in an all-wise Heavenly Father and an abiding testimony concerning the mission of a divine Savior. This knowledge is like a golden thread woven through the tapestry of their lives." (Be Your Best Self [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1979], 40.)

Chieko N. Okazaki

"Mary's example teaches us much about giving the answer of faith when things happen that we don't understand, about trusting in the Lord when things happen that try us and challenge our faith, about having confidence in his goodness at seasons of loss and sorrow.

"We are so used to thinking of the annunciation as the beginning of the joyous celebration of Christmas that we focus on Mary's joy, which I'm sure she felt, and on the great gladness of the Savior's birth. We are not used to thinking of this season as a time of loss for Mary. But it was a loss. She was a righteous young woman, but she was bound to lose her reputation among her family and friends and those who knew her in Nazareth. What else could they think, when they saw her pregnant, but that she had been unchaste? The last line in the annunciation is, 'And the angel departed from her' (v. 38). In other words, the angel didn't take the rabbi aside for a quiet chat about this very special young woman he had in town. He didn't whisper to the chief merchants that Mary was going to be remembered till the end of time, while their names would barely survive their own generation. The angel was not there at the well when Mary went for water, after she came back from visiting Elisabeth, her body already rounded with a sixth-month pregnancy. He didn't explain to the other women, shocked and scandalized and whispering to each other behind their hands, that Mary was the chosen vessel of the Lord. Nobody explained to the girls younger than Mary that she was the living embodiment of faith.

"Furthermore, Mary didn't explain it either. She obviously didn't explain it even to Joseph, because Joseph was the one person to whom the angel did come, to tell him that his faith in Mary was not misplaced. So, yes, I think we have to admit that despite the joy this was also a season of loss and mourning." (Disciples [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1998], 165 - 166.)

The angel’s words to Mary	Message for me
“The Lord is with thee” (verse 28).	The Lord is aware of my situation and struggles.
	His timing is always right. What He requires is always right

Mary’s reactions	Message for me
“How shall this be?” (verse 34).	It’s OK to ask questions when I don’t understand.
	As you ask questions you need to be ready to follow the answer no matter what.

As you read about Joseph’s righteous example in Matthew 1:18–25, what do you learn about accepting God’s will? What could you learn from Zacharias’s and Elisabeth’s experiences?

They were active and fulfilled their duty with faith even when their prayers and desires were not answered

What do you learn about Jesus Christ from Mary’s statements? What additional insights do you gain about the blessings that the Savior offers by comparing these verses with Hannah’s words in 1 Samuel 2:1–10 and with Jesus’s Beatitudes in Matthew 5:4–12? What does the Spirit teach you as you ponder these insights?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and Family Home Evening

Matthew 1:1–17

James E. Talmage

"Two genealogical records purporting to give the lineage of Jesus are found in the New Testament, one in the first chapter of Matthew, the other in the third chapter of Luke. These records present several apparent discrepancies, but such have been satisfactorily reconciled by the research of specialists in Jewish genealogy. No detailed analysis of the matter will be attempted here; but it should be borne in mind that the consensus of judgment on the part of investigators is that Matthew's account is that of the royal lineage, establishing the order of sequence among the legal successors to the throne of David, while the account given by Luke is a personal pedigree, demonstrating descent from David without adherence to the line of legal succession to the throne through primogeniture or nearness of kin. Luke's record is regarded by many, however, as the pedigree of Mary, while Matthew's is accepted as that of Joseph. The all important fact to be remembered is that the Child...would be born in the royal line. A personal genealogy of Joseph was essentially that of Mary also, for they were cousins." (Jesus the Christ, p. 81)

Bruce R. McConkie

"...Matthew proceeds to outline what appears to be the ancestry of the Lord, but we can't quite figure out how it fits in with other scriptural passages, at least in the form it has come to us. Luke gives another account that does not agree with that in the book of Matthew. We suppose it may be that one of them is a kingly, royal genealogy, intended to indicate his position and place as the one to sit upon the throne of his father David; the other is possibly a genealogy either of Mary or Joseph-we can't be sure." ("Who Shall Declare His Generation?" BYU Studies, vol. 16 (1975-1976), Number 4 - Summer 1976, p. 555.)

Neal A. Maxwell

"We can wait, as we must, to learn later whether ... Matthew's or Luke's account of Jesus' Davidic descent is correct. (See Matt. 1; Luke 3.) Meanwhile, the Father has, on several occasions, given us Jesus' crucial genealogy: 'This is My Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!'" (Ensign, November 1984, p. 11.)

"Matthew placed great stress upon the King and his kingdom. Messiah is a royal title, and Jesus' royal/messianic status was critically important to Matthew. The genealogy of Jesus given in Matthew (1:1-17) is the Lord's royal line. Matthew laid out the genealogy in such a manner as to divide the forty-two generations into three sections of fourteen (from Abraham to David, from David to Babylonian captivity, and from exile to Jesus). For Matthew, the very number fourteen has royal significance. How so? The name David in Hebrew consists of three Hebrew consonants, each having numerical equivalents. Thus: Dahlet (d =4) + Vav (v =6) + Dahlet (d =4) =14." (Robert L. Millet, Studies in Scripture, Vol. 5: The Gospels, edited by Kent P. Jackson and Robert L. Millet, p. 33)

JST Matt 2:1 Now, as it is written, the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise

"In the preparation of his Gospel, Matthew would no doubt have drawn upon his own reminiscences and notes, as well as other extant oral or written sources. After providing the genealogy of Jesus Christ, Matthew records (1:18): 'Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise . . .' The Matthean infancy narrative follows. Joseph Smith's translation of the same verse (JST, Matt. 2:1) reads: 'Now, as it is written, the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise . . .' This prophetic alteration of the King James text seems to point toward the possibility of a written source available to the apostle that predates his own Gospel." (Robert L. Millet, Studies in Scripture, Vol. 5: The Gospels, edited by Kent P. Jackson and Robert L. Millet, p. 33)

Matthew 1:20; Luke 1:13,30

"All righteous prayers are answered, but in the due time of the Lord. There may be some delay until his time is due, as a man well-stricken in years learned when Gabriel appeared to him and said: 'Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard.' (Luke 1:13.) Though the answer was much-delayed, the prayer was answered in God's time. This experience says much about God's need and his timing." (Keith H. Meservy, Studies in Scripture, Vol. 5: The Gospels, ed. by Kent P. Jackson and Robert L. Millet, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1986], 349.)

Neal A. Maxwell

"Faith in God includes faith in His timing. Frankly, some of us have some difficulty with this significant dimension of faith. We clearly prefer our own time to His 'own due time.'

"...Patience stretches our capacity to bide our time while both wondering and sustaining. This vital elasticity will be especially needed as part of maintaining faith in God's timing in the last days, during which 'all things must come to pass in their time' (D&C 64:32)." (That Ye May Believe [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1992], 51-53.)

Quick thoughts on Angel Gabriel

Joseph Smith taught that the angel Gabriel who came to Mary and Joseph was the prophet Noah in life. I have often wondered why him? Why was he chosen to deliver the message of history?
My Thoughts:
It was his assignment to do so.
Also who better? This shows a loving Father in Heaven and His Son caring for his prophets.
Noah more than any other prophet could have been thought a failure. He was first tasked to cry repentance to the people but they would not listen.
He was then tasked with watching the entire population of the earth be wiped out, "save 8 souls"

Who better to bring the message that the time had come for He who would defeat death and sin was about to be born. Who better than he who saw everyone be destroy because of their narrow minded ness.
Just a thought.

 

NT Come Follow Me- Individual-2019-December 31–January 6

Come Follow Me Individual 2019

Lesson 1-We Are Responsible for Our Own Learning

 “What seek ye?” Jesus asked His disciples (John 1:38). You might ask yourself the same question—for what you find in the New Testament this year will greatly depend on what you seek. “Seek, and ye shall find” is the Savior’s promise (Matthew 7:7).

My Thoughts: For me this year is going to be about me learning how Personal Revelation works for me. I seek for the ability to learn spiritually how to be a better son, father, grandfather and husband. 

I seek for tools to help me as the presiding priesthood holder in my family.

More than anything else I seek to strengthen my personal knowledge that Jesus is the Christ and firm up my testimony that I have of Him and His Church.

To start it is as simple as asking with a sincere desire to know and then have the determination to follow through on what I learn. If we do not do the action the learning will not continue.

Matt 7:7.

My Thoughts: Contained in this scripture is the simple ASK.

Ask and it shall be given you

Seek and ye shall find

Knock ant it shall be opened.

These are all action words that require more than simply reading them.

What others have said:

Spencer W. Kimball

"The promise is made to everyone. There is no discrimination, no favored few, but the Lord has not promised to crash the door. He stands and knocks. If we do not listen, he will not sup with us nor give answer to our prayers. We must learn how to listen, grasp, interpret, understand. The Lord stands knocking. He never retreats. But he will never force himself upon us. If our distance from him increases, it is we who have moved and not the Lord. And should we ever fail to get an answer to our prayers, we must look into our lives for a reason. We have failed to do what we should do, or we have done something we should not have done. We have dulled our hearing or impaired our eyesight." (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 208)

Howard W. Hunter

"Every seeker receives; every seeker finds. Yet not every asker receives what he asks; not every seeker finds what he seeks. As an earthly father gives good gifts to his children, so God gives good things to those that ask him, ­not always what they ask, for they often ask amiss, but something far better than that which they ask for or seek. Those who would obtain exactly what they ask must confine their will to God's and ask for things which they know he is willing to give." (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, p. 37-38)

Boyd K. Packer

"It is clear that the Lord wants us to come unto Him and ask Him for whatever we need. The simple invitation to 'ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you' was repeated by the Lord on many occasions. He gave this message to the people He taught while He lived on earth. He repeated it twice to the people of the New World at the time of His visit to them following His resurrection, including His last words He gave them before returning to His Father in heaven. Interestingly, the Lord repeated the same invitation seven times in the Doctrine and Covenants. In varying ways throughout the scriptures, He has invited us to ask Him for whatever we need in righteousness, that He might give it unto us.

"The initiative, then, is ours. We must ask and pray and seek, and then we will find.

"There are several paintings depicting Christ at the door, illustrating a New Testament scripture: 'Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: If any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.' (Revelation 3:20.) In the more famous paintings He is shown holding a lantern as he knocks at the door.

"The story is told that a little girl once remarked to one painter that his painting of Jesus at the door was not finished. 'You have left something out,' she said. 'You have left out the door latch.' The artist replied, 'The painting is complete. That door represents the door of the human heart. It opens only from within.'" (Teach Ye Diligently, p. 18 - 19)

Luke 18:22

My thoughts:I find it interesting that the command to “Come Follow me” is only given once in the scriptures. Given to a rich man that did not heed it, yet it has been repeated countless times since then and countless have heeded the command.

What others have said:

Jeffrey R. Holland

"There is not a single loophole or curveball or open trench to fall into for the man or woman who walks the path that Christ walks. When he says, 'Come, follow me' (Luke 18:22), he means that he knows where the quicksand is and where the thorns are and the best way to handle the slippery slope near the summit of our personal mountains. He knows it all, and he knows the way. He is the way." ("Come unto Me," Ensign, Apr. 1998, 19)

 Carlos E. Asay

"Jesus' invitations to his disciples were simply stated and free of any carrot dangling on the end of a stick. His entreaty was, 'Come, follow me' (Luke 18:22) or 'Come and see' (John 1:39). He did not offer his followers a salary, an expense account, or other worldly incentives. All that he offered his fellow servants were the things that money cannot buy-things referred to as the riches of eternity." (The Seven M's of Missionary Service: Proclaiming the Gospel as a Member or Full-time Missionary, chap. 7)

 Thomas S. Monson

"Our Lord and Savior said, 'Come, follow me.' (Luke 18:22.) When we accept His invitation and walk in His footsteps, He will direct our paths. His gentle voice guides us in life's journey and reminds us of our duty:

"May we hear His voice. May we follow His example. May we live His teachings." ("A Royal Priesthood," Ensign, May 1991, 51)

How does your understanding of forgiveness deepen as you explore the following?

 The Savior’s teachings (see Matthew 6:14–15; 18:21–35)

My Thoughts: The Savior has told us to forgive so we do but this does not mean we will be spared the hurt and the pain that comes with it. We will become better followers of him by doing so and allowing the Atonement to help us deal with the hurt and anger that can accompany the act we need to forgive.

Others:

Robert E.  Wells

"The quality of mercy tempers the strict, severe sentence with compassion and an understanding of extenuating circumstances. The infinite mercy of God cancels any punishment if the sinner repents, asks for forgiveness, and promises to follow Christ. God's mercy comes from his unlimited and unconditional love for us. Likewise, we should show mercy to others through unlimited and unconditional love for them.

"Our parents love us-not necessarily because we deserve it, but because they are our parents and we are their children. And because of their love, they sacrifice to provide for our welfare and security and happiness. Our Savior, Jesus Christ, loves us-not because we deserve it necessarily, but because we are his brothers and sisters. And because of his love, which is unconditional, the Savior willingly sacrificed his life for us. Sacrifice and service beget love." (The Mount and the Master, 65.)

 Jeffery R. Holland

“Forgive, and ye shall be forgiven,” Christ taught in New Testament times. And in our day: “I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.” It is, however, important for some of you living in real anguish to note what He did not say. He did not say, “You are not allowed to feel true pain or real sorrow from the shattering experiences you have had at the hand of another.” Nor did He say, “In order to forgive fully, you have to reenter a toxic relationship or return to an abusive, destructive circumstance.” But notwithstanding even the most terrible offenses that might come to us, we can rise above our pain only when we put our feet onto the path of true healing. That path is the forgiving one walked by Jesus of Nazareth, who calls out to each of us, “Come, follow me.” Jeffrey R. Holland The Ministry of Reconciliation Oct 2018

 Luke 23:33-34

My Thoughts: He had the grace and ability to forgive those that had been so cruel to Him. In fact he had just bled from every pore for these same soldiers so they could be forgiven for what they were doing. The JST tells us that he was directing his Father to forgive the soldiers, not the priests and other leaders that knowingly condemned Him to die, but I think he meant them as well. Even they can have the Atonement be applied.

The most important piece of LOVE is the ability to forgive. Matthew Cowley said: Let God judge between me and thee, but as for me I will forgive.

Another part of forgiveness is allowing others to forgive us of what they think we might have done.

And hardest of all, is to forgive ourselves.

Others:

Spencer J. Condie

"Perhaps there is no greater example of meekness than that exemplified by the Savior on the cross. The Savior had the power to call down legions of angels in retribution for the humiliation He had suffered at the hands of unjust judgmental councils and the pain inflicted upon Him by the Roman soldiers who had carried out the mandate of a frenzied crowd and a timid magistrate. But instead of calling down revenge from heaven, He prayed for the Roman soldiers: 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do' (Luke 23:34)." (In Perfect Balance [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1993], 158.)

Jeffrey R. Holland

"Surely the most majestic moment of that fateful Friday, when nature convulsed and the veil of the temple was rent, was that unspeakably merciful moment when Christ said, 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.' As our advocate with the Father, He is still making that same plea today-in your behalf and in mine.

"Here, as in all things, Jesus set the standard for us to follow. Life is too short to be spent nursing animosities or keeping a box score of offenses against us-you know, no runs, no hits, all errors. We don't want God to remember our sins, so there is something fundamentally wrong in our relentlessly trying to remember those of others." ("The Peaceable Things of the Kingdom," Ensign, Nov. 1996, 83)

 Gordon B. Hinckley

"A spirit of forgiveness and an attitude of love and compassion toward those who may have wronged us is of the very essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Each of us has need of this spirit. The whole world has need of it. The Lord taught it. He exemplified it as none other has exemplified it.

"In the time of his agony on the cross of Calvary, with vile and hateful accusers before him, those who had brought him to this terrible crucifixion, he cried out, 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.' (Luke 23:34.)

"None of us is called on to forgive so generously, but each of us is under a divinely spoken obligation to reach out with pardon and mercy.

"How much we need application of this God-given principle and its companion principle, repentance! We see the need for it in the homes of the people, where tiny molehills of misunderstanding are fanned into mountains of argument. We see it among neighbors, where insignificant differences lead to undying bitterness. We see it in business associates who quarrel and refuse to compromise and forgive when, in most instances, if there were a willingness to sit down together and speak quietly one to another, the matter could be resolved to the blessing of all. Rather, they spend their days nurturing grudges and planning retribution." ("Of You It Is Required to Forgive," Ensign, June 1991, 2)

 Eldred G. Smith

"Often we think of forgiveness as a form of charity. We forget that the benefits extend both ways. It is as beneficial to forgive as to be forgiven. This is not a formula but a spirit which can bring out the best in people and illuminate every moment of living. It is one of the happy paradoxes of human behavior that the readier we are to forgive the less we are called on to forgive. Forgiveness does not undo what has already been done. It enables us to accept what has been done and go on from there." (Conference Report, April 1961, Afternoon Meeting 69.)

JST Luke 23:35 they know not what they do (Meaning the soldiers who crucified him,)

 Spencer W. Kimball

"When the Lord, in his dying moments, turned to the Father and requested, 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do' (Luke 23:34), he was referring to the soldiers who crucified him. They acted under the mandate of a sovereign nation. It was the Jews who were guilty of the Lord's death. Again how could he forgive them, or how could his Father forgive them, when they were not repentant. These vicious people who cried, '. . . His blood be on us, and on our children' (Matt. 27:25) had not repented. Those who 'reviled him' on Calvary (Matt. 27:39) had not repented." (The Miracle of Forgiveness, chap. 12)

However, learning is not complete until we follow the Savior by living what He taught. How can you be more forgiving?

My Thoughts:For me this is quite simple. I need to work on it every day! I need to not only forgive where needed but take it a step further and stop being judgmental or quick to find fault and point out others weakness’s, even if it is just to myself or in talking with my wife. This type of negativity needs to be replaced with forgiving and meek spirit if I hope to be a true disciple of Him.

 What does it mean to take responsibility for your own learning?

My Thoughts: As we obey the commandments our knowledge and our testimony will grow and be strengthened. Believing is not enough any more. Just talking about it is not enough in this day and what we know lies ahead of us.

We need to use what we learn to become new creatures in Christ and create a new heart in each of us.

We need to share what we learn and be willing to learn from others. I have learned amazing things this past year as my wife has studied the Book of Mormon and we talk about what she has studied.

Others:

President Russell M Nelson

But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost. ( Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives April Conference 2018)

The knowledge of who you really are will help you conquer your challenges.

 Pres Uchtdorf fireside 11-1-09

An old cliché states that modern education leads a man to know more and more about less and less. I want to plead with you to keep balance in your lives. Do not become obsessed with what may be called “a gospel hobby”. A good meal always includes more than one course. You ought to have great strength in your chosen and assigned field expertise. But I warn you against making that your only interest.

Gordon B Hinckley Religious Educator 5, no 3 (2004) 1-7

Lifelong learning is essential to the vitality of the human mind, body, and soul. It enhances self-worth and self-actuation. Lifelong learning is invigorating mentally and is a great defense against aging, depression, and self doubt. When we stand still in seeking new knowledge, our forward learning progress ceases and mental stagnation begins.

Robert D Hales Address BYU Education Week 8-19-08

None of us brothers and sisters knows enough. The learning process is an endless process. We must read, we must observe, we must assimilate, and we must ponder that to which we expose our minds. Gordon B Hinckley Religious Educator 5, no 3 (2004) 1-7

For most worldly and temporal possessions, the old adage is true: You can’t take it with you. However, the intellectual treasures of knowledge and spiritual values hold a promise of eternal significance.

Robert D Hales Address BYU Education Week 8-19-08

One of the giant steps in maturing and acquiring knowledge and experience is when we learn for the joy of being edified rather than for the pleasure of being entertained.

Robert D Hales Address BYU Education Week 8-19-08

Some may wonder whether it is possible to teach lifelong learning or if it is simply a genetic gift. Just as some are born with a greater speed, some of us may naturally have a greater desire for learning. Yet just as wise coaches can improve anyone willing to pay the price, in like manner Heavenly Father is eager to bless us with the drive and determination to become lifelong learners if we are willing to pay the price.

Robert D Hales Address BYU Education Week 8-19-08

Learning by faith requires spiritual, mental, and physical exertion and not just passive reception. It is in the sincerity and consistency of our faith-inspired action that we indicate to our Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ our willingness to learn and receive instruction from the Holy Ghost.

David A Bednar CES Educators Talk Jordan Institute 2-3-06

Learning by faith cannot be transferred from instructor to a student through lecture, a demonstration, or an experimental exercise; rather, a student must exercise faith and act in order to obtain the knowledge for himself or herself.

David A Bednar CES Educators Talk Jordan Institute 2-3-06

Knowledge without labor is pointless. Knowledge with labor is genius.

Gordon B Hinckley “Stand a Little Taller”

The Holy Ghost is the teacher who kindles within us an abiding love of and for learning

David A Bednar Increase in Learning, 2

Although Brigham Young had only eleven days of formal schooling, he understood the need for learning both the wisdom of God and the things of the world.

David A Bednar Increase in Learning, 8

The religion embraced by the Latter Day Saints, if only slightly understood, prompts them to search diligently after knowledge. There is no other people in existence more eager to see, hear, learn and understand truth.

Brigham Young, Teachings Brigham Young, 194

Put forth your ability to learn as fast as you can, and gather all the strength of mind and principle of faith you possibly can, and then distribute your knowledge to the people.

Brigham Young, Teachings Brigham Young, 194

None of us knows enough. The learning process is an endless process. We must read, we must observe, we must assimilate, and we must ponder that to which we expose our minds…

…You cannot afford to stop. You must to rest in your development…There is so much to learn and so little time in which to learn it.

Gordon B Hinckley, Teachings of Gordon B Hinckley, 298-299

None of us can assume that he has learned enough. As the door closes on one phase of life, it opens on another, where we must continue to pursue knowledge. Ours ought to be a ceaseless quest for truth.

Gordon B Hinckley, Teachings of Gordon B Hinckley, 301

When all is said and done, we are all students. If the day ever comes when we quit learning, look out. We will just atrophy and die. We all can learn and learn well.

Gordon B Hinckley, Teachings of Gordon B Hinckley, 302

We must go on growing. We must continuously learn. It is a divinely given mandate that we go on adding to our knowledge.

Gordon B Hinckley, Teachings of Gordon B Hinckley, 303

With all our learning, let us also learn of Him. With all our study, we need to seek knowledge of the Master. That knowledge will complement in a wonderful way our secular training and will give us character and a fullness to life that can come in no other way.

With All Thy Getting Get Understanding, 5

John 7:17

My Thoughts: This is the most simple test given to us. All we have to do is try to do what He teaches and live it and we will know whether or not it is true.

Others

David O. McKay

"That test is most sound. It is most philosophical. It is the most simple test to give knowledge to an individual of which the human mind can conceive. Doing a thing, introducing it into your very being, will convince you whether it is good or whether it is bad. You may not be able to convince me of that which you know, but you know it because you have lived it. That is the test that the Savior gave to those men when they asked him how they should know whether the doctrine was of God or whether it was of man." (Conference Report, October 1966, Afternoon Meeting 136.)

"Merely saying, accepting, and believing are not enough. They are incomplete until that which they imply is translated into the dynamic action of daily living. This, then, is the finest source of personal testimony. We know because we have experienced. We do not have to say, 'Brother Jones says it is true, and I believe him.' We can say, 'I have lived this principle in my own life, and I know through personal experience that it works. I have felt its influence, tested its practical usefulness, and know that it is good. I can testify of my own knowledge that it is a true principle.'" (That We Might Have Joy [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1994], 133.)

1 Thes 5:21

My Thoughts: This is the simple, basic form of a testimony 

Others

Bruce R. McConkie

"...it seems evident to me that the Apostle Paul was directing the members of the Church to hold fast to the faith. He was saying: 'Cleave unto that which is good. Hold fast to the iron rod. Be valiant in testimony. Work out your salvation.' That is, 'Now that you are members of the Church, that you have come in at the gate of repentance and baptism, press forward to the end and do the things that will enable you to be saved in the everlasting kingdom of the Father.'" (Sermons and Writings of Bruce R. McConkie [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1998], 347.)

 James 1:5-6, 22

My Thoughts: Church wide we know this scripture, or at least we think we know it. The key piece that most of us miss is verse 6 where we are to have solid faith in our asking. Nothing wavering, this ties in with verse 22 where we are to act on what we are told..

Others

James E. Faust

"Joseph Smith has given us not only the message of the divine Restoration but also the practical how-to steps to obtain personal and divine communication... The answer and the instruction were complete and full. Is not this the instruction, the how-to we need to obtain divine answers to the confusion and to the vexatious problems in our lives?

"May I suggest four steps:

"First, when possible, study the scriptures daily, with an emphasis upon the Book of Mormon and the modern scriptures.

"Second, pray daily.

"Third, listen for the divine answer.

"Fourth, be obedient to it." ("He Restoreth My Soul," Ensign, Oct. 1997, 4)

Bruce R. McConkie

"We must be doers of the word and not hearers only. It is more than lip service; it is not simply confessing with the mouth the divine Sonship of the Savior. It is obedience and conformity and personal righteousness. 'Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.' (Matt. 7:21.)" (Roy W. Doxey, comp., Latter-day Prophets and the Doctrine and Covenants [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1978], 4: 213.)

Robert E. Wells

"Some tend to think that just because a few ordinances have been performed, or just because they have repented, they can relax and think they 'have it made.' This life is not one of arrival; rather it is a journey, where we are continually being given the opportunity to prove ourselves worthy of the rewards promised to those whose efforts have been characterized with steadfastness, hope, faith, and love throughout life to the very last moment of this existence." (The Mount and the Master [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1991], 204.)

James 2:17

My Thoughts: Faith is really an action word. Just believing is not enough.

Others

Boyd K. Packer

"Our critics' belief, based on the Bible, holds that man is saved by grace alone. Theirs is by far the easier way.

"Our position, also based on the Bible but strengthened by other scriptures, holds that we are saved by grace 'after all we can do,' and we are responsible by conduct and by covenants to live the standards of the gospel.

 "We agree with the Apostle James that 'faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone,' and we say to all those who make such an accusation, 'Shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.' ("The Peaceable Followers of Christ," Ensign, Apr. 1998, 65)

  LeGrand Richards

"James makes it clear that to believe in God is not sufficient, for the devils do as much, and that 'faith without works is dead.' A farmer might just as well believe that he can harvest a crop without planting. Such faith is dead; it will not produce a harvest without works." (A Marvelous Work and a Wonder [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1950], 268.)

  Heber C. Kimball

"Can you tell me about anything that has been accomplished without works? It matters not how much faith you have got, except you have works with it. We read in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants that men can accomplish much by faith; but of course that faith must be accompanied by works. Whenever a man of God undertakes to do anything, he does it by the power of faith and works. Upon this principle the Lord brings about his purposes, and there never was anything of any moment accomplished upon any other principle." (Journal of Discourses, 26 vols. [London: Latter-day Saints' Book Depot, 1854-1886], 9: 76.)

1 Ne 10:19

Bruce R. McConkie

"The Holy Ghost, as Nephi expresses it in a passage of superlative meaning and beauty, '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. For he is the same yesterday, today, 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. 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.) In harmony with these words of transcendent beauty are those of latter-day revelation that say simply to every member of the Church: 'God shall give unto you knowledge by his Holy Spirit, yea, by the unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost.' (D&C 121:26.) Such is the promise, and the promise is sure. The sole need on the part of any individual is to comply with the law that entitles him to receive the promised revelation." (A New Witness for the Articles of Faith, p. 489)

.Alma 32:27

Gordon B. Hinckley

"Far more of us need to awake and arouse our faculties to an awareness of the great everlasting truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Each of us can do a little better than we have been doing. We can be a little more kind. We can be a little more merciful. We can be a little more forgiving. We can put behind us our weaknesses of the past, and go forth with new energy and increased resolution to improve the world about us, in our homes, in our places of employment, in our social activities.

We have work to do, you and I, so very much of it. Let us roll up our sleeves and get at it, with a new commitment, putting our trust in the Lord." (Church News, 04/08/95)

Dean L. Larsen

"...millions of people have tried the experiment proposed by Alma as it pertains to the gospel that Joseph Smith restored. They and others in increasing numbers throughout the world today bear testimony to the good fruit that the experiment has borne. They have applied the Savior's sure test." (Church News, 06/29/96)

 M. Russell Ballard

"...that is all anyone can ask you to do: to 'experiment' upon the words of Christ, to 'give place, that a seed may be planted in your heart' and to not 'resist the Spirit of the Lord.' It is my sincere belief that if you will do those things and ask Heavenly Father in prayer if they are true, He will tell you. That is His promise to you and to all of His children.

 "...Please don't let this opportunity to receive personal revelation from God pass. Consider what I've written here. Weigh it carefully. Measure it against the things you believe-and the things you want to believe. Hold fast to all that you know to be true and add to that the fulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Take into account what you've felt as you've read these words. Then put it all to the ultimate test: Ask God. Listen for His answer with your heart, then respond to what you feel." (Our Search For Happiness, p. 123)

 Neal A. Maxwell

"The Lord can commence His initial work with us while requiring surprisingly little from us. Alma explained: (quotes Alma 32:27). Imagine, only 'a particle of faith' and 'no more than [a] desire to believe' are actually enough to begin!" (Men and Women of Christ, p. 77-8)

What do you feel inspired to do to be more active in learning the gospel?

I will hold fast to what I already know to be true.

I will work, study and pray so that which I believe can become knowing.

I will set the example to others in my family and around me by daily study and prayer.

I will share what I have learned with others, family members, those that I am assigned to minister to but strive to do it humbly and avoid being overbearing or coming off as a know it all.

John 5:39

See Scripture Study thoughts at the end 

Others

Spencer W. Kimball

"Brethren and sisters, my purpose is to encourage you to study the scriptures. As the Lord has said, 'Search the scriptures: for ... they are they which testify of me.' (John 5:39.)

"Perhaps you will have noticed that for many years the General Authorities have urged us all with increasing frequency and in a spirit of love to adopt a program of daily gospel study in our homes, both as individuals and as families. Also, the standard works have replaced all other materials as texts in the adult curriculum of the Church, and scarcely a meeting comes to a close without an inspired admonition from priesthood leaders to read and study the scriptures.

"We believe that there has been marked improvement. Many more Church members are bringing the scriptures to appropriate meetings, and they are coming prepared for learning and discussions. In accord with divine inspiration, many more parents are using the standard works to teach their children the doctrines of the Kingdom. We view these things with pleasure and satisfaction, and know that many blessings will result." ("How Rare a Possession-The Scriptures," Ensign, July 1985, 3)

 Milton R. Hunter

"The holy scriptures have been my closest companion throughout my life. I love them and read them continually. I think I have gone through the Book of Mormon forty-five times. Every time I read it I find new thoughts. I believe with all my heart, as I said in the beginning of my talk, that these three latter-day scriptures, together with the Bible, constitute some of the greatest treasures that we possess. If we will permit them to do so, they will serve as our guides to bring us back unto God. May our Heavenly Father bless us that we may fully utilize effectively in our lives these great treasures, I humbly pray, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen." (Conference Report, October 1955, Afternoon Meeting 68.)

1 Cor 2:9-11

My Thoughts: We have no idea what the Lord has planned for us. So often our life turns out complexity different than we had planned, yet it turns out better than we could of ever hoped for.

When my first marriage ended in Divorce I wondered if I would ever truly be happy, did I deserve to be happy since I had failed. Yet my life now is better than I could ever of hoped or dreamed of. He knows us better than we know ourselves and He knows what is best for us better than we know.

Others

LeGrand Richards

"...when you kneel around the altar in the Holy Temple of God and have sealed upon you kingdoms and thrones and principalities and powers and dominions and exaltation, you can receive blessings that you could not purchase with all the wealth of this world-and these are not idle words. They are the things that God has prepared for them that love him.

"No wonder Paul, who was caught up into the third heaven, and the paradise of God, and saw things he was not permitted to write, said, 'Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.' (1 Cor. 2:9 .)" (October 29, 1963, BYU Speeches of the Year, 1963 11.)

Spencer W. Kimball

"You are heirs to great fortunes, for eternal life is the greatest gift.

"What will you do with it? You are entitled to a kingdom or a queendom. You are princesses and princes. Do you prize your inheritance? Will you abdicate and relinquish your heavenly rights to all that is your due? Do you but realize what the Lord has in store for you? Do you know what you could discard in a moment of carelessness and heedlessness? The Lord told his servants:

'. . . Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.' (1 Cor. 2:9.)

"The king's highway-the royal road to eternal joys and exaltation-is a hard road, full of sacrifices and restrictions and hard work. The way is narrow but it is straight, well-marked, and strongly-beamed. But if you get off course, the dot and dash tapping gets dimmer and fainter till it fades out entirely.

"The permanent kingdom is yours, not for the asking, but for the earning." (February 15, 1966, BYU Speeches of the Year, 1966 17.)

Neal A. Maxwell

"We are not now ready for all things the Lord has prepared in the City of God for them that love Him. (See 1 Cor. 2:9.) Our present eyes are unready for things which they have not yet seen, and our ears are not prepared for the transcending sounds and music of that city.

 "The trek will be proving and trying. Faith, patience, and obedience are essential (see Mosiah 23:21; Abr. 3:25), but he who completes the journey successfully will be immeasurably added upon. (see Abr. 3:26.) And he who does not will have subtracted from the sum of his possibilities.

"When we arrive home, we shall be weary and bruised. But at last our aching homesicknesses will cease. Meanwhile, our mortal homecomings are but faint foreshadowings of that Homecoming!" ("Called and Prepared from the Foundation of the World," Ensign, May 1986, 36)

George Q. Cannon

"In our present condition we cannot conceive of these things because they are beyond our comprehension. But we have a foretaste of that glory given unto us in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit when it rests upon us. You have felt, no doubt, many times in your lives as though you were filled to overflowing and had no room for another drop of happiness. The peace and love of God have filled your hearts. Of course, we are but mortal beings at the present time, and we are not prepared for that glory and immortality that God has in store for us. But we will grow up to it, and we will be prepared for it when it comes." (Gospel Truth: Discourses and Writings of President George Q. Cannon, selected, arranged, and edited by Jerreld L. Newquist [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1987], 84.)

Spencer W. Kimball

"We must remember that neither God nor his gospel can be found and understood through research alone. The skeptic will some day learn to his sorrow that his egotism robbed him of much joy and growth. The things of God-and often the things of his earth-cannot be understood by the spirit of man, but are understood only through the Spirit of God. (See 1 Cor. 2:11.)" ("Seek Learning Even by Study and Also by Faith," Ensign, Sept. 1983, 6)

 Ezra Taft Benson

"There are 'hidden treasures' of knowledge-truths beyond the reach of reason alone. Paul recognized this basic truth when writing to the Corinthians. He said: 'For what man knoweth the things of man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.' (1 Cor. 2:11.)

"Will you value and take advantage of the opportunity to tap these unseen but very real spiritual powers? Will you with Lincoln before Gettysburg and Washington at Valley Forge humble yourselves before Almighty God in fervent prayer? May you say, with a former president of one of our land-grant colleges and an eminent scientist: 'Men who search out truth are prayerful. They stand with uncovered heads before the unknown. They know their insignificance before the eternal fount of knowledge. . . . Manly men who really love truth, are proud to pray to God for help and guidance. They get down on their knees. . . . To win knowledge of the unseen, to obtain a testimony of truth, one must pray without ceasing. It must be the first and the last act of the day.' Will you value this practice and seek throughout your lives the blessings of daily secret prayer?" (So Shall Ye Reap, compiled by Reed A. Benson [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1960], 153 - 154.)

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and Family Home Evening

The parable of the sower: This is so deep and multi layered for me. I can see how it applies in so many different ways, but for this question I am struck with the thought that the type of ground that my home is, is up to me and my wife. It is to us that the task of making sure we have good fertile soils in the home is placed. We also need to make sure we each have the open mind and heart that is reflective of this good soil. By doing this it will allow those in our family to have the same as well as people that enter into our home to feel the spirit and have it help them to also have good and fertile soil.

Scripture Study thoughts

Scripture study is a lifelong learning experience. Perhaps nowhere can we see the need for lifelong learning more clearly than with scripture study. No matter how many times we may read the scriptures, through the power and inspiration of the Holy Ghost we learn new truths and gain valuable counsel and insights to meet life’s challenges.

Robert D Hales Address BYU Education Week 8-19-08

The primary purpose of scripture study is to gain gospel understanding and to strengthen us spiritually. One reason we need to continually feast on the words of Christ is that, like all learning, gospel understanding and spiritual insights come one precept at a time.

Robert D Hales Address BYU Education Week 8-19-08

If you and I will study the scriptures and pray and tune our hearts and ears, we will hear the voice of God in the voice of the people that he has sent to teach and guide us abd direct us.

Henry B Eyring “To Draw Closer To God.”

But gaining knowledge through scripture study requires some attributes and actions that most formal educational endeavors do not: sincere desire, unwavering faith, prayer, and the will and obedience to follow the Spirit’s promptings. Virtually all humans upon the earth no matter what their mental capacity, can experience the joy and rewards of lifetime gospel study.

Robert D Hales Address BYU Education Week 8-19-08

The prayer before scripture study is to prepare us spiritually to receive the revelatory moments and a spiritual uplift. The prayer after scripture study is to give thanks and gratitude for that which has been given us.

Robert D Hales Address BYU Education Week 8-19-08

I hope the reading of scriptures will become something far more enjoyable than a duty; that, rather, it will become a love affair with the word of God. I promise you that as you read, your minds will be enlightened and your spirits will be lifted. At first it may seem tedious, but that will change into wondrous experience with thoughts and words of things divine.

Gordon B Hinckley “Stand a Little Taller”

Alma taught that there is great power in the word. But this power won’t come by simply having a Book of Mormon on your nightstand. It won’t come by having others bear testimony of the truthfulness of the scriptures. They cannot hold fast to the iron rod for you; only you can do that.

M Russell Ballard Yesterday, Today, and Forever pg 36

I can understand why scripture study can so easily be neglected. You have many demands pulling at you. But I plead with you to make time for immersing yourselves in the scriptures. Couple scriptures study with your prayers. Half an hour each morning privately studying, pondering, and communicating with your Heavenly Father can make an amazing difference in your life. It will give you increased success in your daily activities. It will bring alertness to your mind. It will give you comfort and rock-steady assurance when the storms of life descend upon you.

M Russell Ballard Yesterday, Today, and Forever pg 36

The counsel to you to study the scriptures each day, especially the Book of Mormon, comes because all too often the winds of life will blow against you. You will continue to be tested. That is the purpose of life. That is the reason we have been sent here to determine just how committed and dedicated we really are.

M Russell Ballard Yesterday, Today, and Forever pg 116

However diligent we may be in other areas, certain blessings are to be found only in the scriptures, only in coming to the word of the Lord and holding fast to it as we make our way through the mists of darkness to the tree of life. Ezra T Benson “The Power of the Word” pg 82

It’s possible to be a member of the Church, going to meetings, participating in class, being on the path and feeling quite safe and secure, but not really holding fast to the word or God, or not regularly studying the scriptures and the words of living prophets.

John Bytheway “Lifestyles of the Great and Spacious” pg 36

Clinging to the rod of iron suggests to me only occasional “bursts” of study or irregular dipping rather than consistent, ongoing immersion in the word of God. In verse 30 we read about a third group of people who pressed forward continually holding fast to the rod of iron until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree. The key phrase in this verse is “Continually holding fast” to the rod of iron…Perhaps this third group of people consistently read and studied and searched the words of Christ…This is the group you and I should strive to join.

David A Bednar “Increase in Learning” pg 142

 Gal 5:22

Parley P. Pratt

"The Holy Spirit...quickens all the intellectual faculties, increases, enlarges, expands and purifies all the natural passions and affections; and adapts them, by the gift of wisdom, to their lawful use. It inspires, develops, cultivates and matures all the fine-toned sympathies, joys, tastes, kindred feelings and affections of our nature. It inspires virtue, kindness, goodness, tenderness, gentleness and charity. It develops beauty of person, form and features. It tends to health, vigor, animation and social feeling. It develops and invigorates all the faculties of the physical and intellectual man. It strengthens, invigorates, and gives tone to the nerves. In short, it is, as it were, marrow to the bone, joy to the heart, light to the eyes, music to the ears, and life to the whole being." (Key to the Science of Theology/A Voice of Warning [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1965], 100-101.)

B. H. Roberts

"Such are the effects of the operations of the Holy Ghost upon the nature of man. These fruits of the Spirit indicate the change that the Spirit of God may effect in human nature; by which that which is corrupted through sin may be conformed to that which is pure and holy, according to the working whereby the Spirit is able to subdue all things unto Himself, in them that give place for His indwelling in their souls. This effectual working of the Spirit in the souls of men, by which they were transformed from vileness to holiness, was the boast of the early saints. And, upon reflection, all will concede that the victories of the Spirit in reforming the lives of men and making them in their very nature conform to the likeness of Christ in righteousness, are more to be desired and more to be celebrated than those victories which are physical or intellectual merely in their nature." (History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, vol. 1, introduction, pp. lxxvii - lxxviii)

 Gordon B. Hinckley

"You recognize the promptings of the Spirit by the fruits of the Spirit-that which enlighteneth, that which buildeth up, that which is positive and affirmative and uplifting and leads us to better thoughts and better words and better deeds is of the Spirit of God. That which tears us down, which leads us into forbidden paths-that is of the adversary. I think it is just that plain, just that simple." (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1997], 261.)

 Ezra Taft Benson

"Jesus...expects us to be like Him. He expects us to demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit in our lives: 'love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.' (Galatians 5:22-23.)

"These Christlike traits should characterize each member of the Church and should permeate every Latter-day Saint home. It can be done and must be done if we are to honorably bear His name." (Come unto Christ [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1983], 54.)

Phil 4:8

My Thoughts: This is where the 13th Article of Faith came from. If it was important enough for Joseph to use in that then it is worth us thinking and acting on.

Others

David B. Haight

On March 1, 1842, Joseph Smith, at the request of Mr. John Wentworth, editor of a Chicago newspaper, composed thirteen brief statements known as the Articles of Faith, which summarize some of the basic doctrines of the Church. As the concluding statement, the Prophet wrote this inspired code of conduct: (quotes A of F 1:13).

What an inspiring description of good people, God-fearing people, people committed to deal justly with mankind! These would be the type of people who could raise up a nation and help it survive, and the kind of people to comprehend the true gospel of Jesus Christ with the needed faith to proclaim it to the inhabitants of the earth. ("Ethics and Honesty," Ensign, Nov. 1987, 13-14)

Gordon B. Hinckley

That article of our faith is one of the basic declarations of our theology... We ought to reflect on it again and again. I wish that every family in the Church would write out that article of faith and put it on a mirror where every member of the family would see it every day. Then, whenever we might be tempted to do anything shoddy or dishonest or immoral, there would come into our minds with some force this great, all encompassing statement of the ethics of our behavior. There would be less rationalizing over some elements of our personal conduct which we try to justify with one excuse or another. ("Fear Not to Do Good," Ensign, May 1983, 80)

James E. Talmage

In this article of their faith, the Latter-day Saints declare their acceptance of a practical religion; a religion that shall consist, not alone of professions in spiritual matters... but also, and more particularly, of present and every-day duties, in which proper respect for self, love for fellow men, and devotion to God are the guiding principles. Religion without morality, professions of godliness without charity, church-membership without adequate responsibility as to individual conduct in daily life, are but as sounding brass and tinkling cymbals-noise without music, the words without the spirit of prayer...

The comprehensiveness of our faith must appeal to every earnest investigator of the principles taught by the Church... Within the pale of the Church there is a place for all truth-for everything that is praiseworthy, virtuous, lovely, or of good report. (Articles of Faith [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1981], 390.)