Mosiah Ch20

The priests of Noah cause problems for Limhi and his people by kidnapping Lamanite daughters. Luckily there's a happy ending...

The Lamanite daughters had a place where they would party away from prying eyes, except the priests of Noah happened to find them and watched them...(v1-4). Keep in mind they still have families with Limhi's people. On this instance, there were 24 daughters the priests kidnapped into the wilderness (v5). When their fathers found out they were missing, they blamed the people of Limhi and went to attack them in anger, and luckily Limhi was prepared because he saw them coming from the watch towers (v5-8).

The people of Limhi fought to protect themselves and did well but there more Lamanites so the battle was mostly even until the king of the Lamanites was found wounded (v9-12). He was questioned why he would attack after having made an oath of peace and found out about the whole missing daughters thing (v13-15). Honestly I think the daughters that were missing must have been at least one princess and from other high society families to cause this war. 

So Limhi wants to search his kingdom for who did this but Gideon makes the connection with the priests (v16-18). He councils that the Lamanite king be sent to stop the armies coming because they are about to attack again (v19-20). Gideon remembers the prophecies and warnings of Abinadi and sees the possible outcome and prefers bondage over death (v21-22).

Limhi made the new path with the king who accepts the cause of contention was the priests of Noah (v23-24). The king goes in front of his army and convinces them of the peoples innocence, and the fact that they came without weapons to defend themselves pacified the Lamanites to peace (v25-26). 

Mosiah Ch19

After the righteous flee from the kingdom, the Lamanites invade and Gideon seeks and slays Noah by fire. In his place, Limhi the son of Noah, rules the kingdom and establishes peace with the Lamanites by offering tribute to them.

Noah's army couldn't find the righteous followers of Christ because they were being protected by The Lord (v1). After this whole fiasco, there was a division among the people and some rebellious threatening a towards the king led my Gideon (v2-4). When they fought face to face, Noah ran when he was loosing and ran to one of those tall towers he had built and saw the Lamanite armies coming (v5-6). He pleads to be spared using the attack as the excuse when really he only cared about himself, so he was the one that led the people in fleeing to the wilderness (v7-9).

The Lamanites caught up and began to slay them, so Noah tells the men to leave their families who slow them down (v10-11)!! Of course love is powerful and many stayed and stopped the Lamanites by having their pretty daughters plead with the Lamanites for mercy (v12-13). Of course, the charms of women convinced the Lamanites to stop killing and just take them captive on the conditions of paying tribute and delivering king Noah when he showed up (v14-15).

Naturally when a kingdom is taken over, the enemy captures the royal. King Noah's family (or at least one son) was left behind and taken captive. Limhi, who was a just man, knew his father was wicked but did not desire for his demise (v16-17). Gideon sent his minions to look for the group that had fled and. Or been captured. They found those that had escaped except King Noah and his priests (v18). This group that had been convinced to leave their family's regretted thei decision and desired to return to their home but of course Noah didn't want that (v19-20).

When the majority sought to change commanders, they burned the king and sought the priests who fled, which brings us back to when they met the men of Gideon (v21-22). After learning the people were captive by the Lamanites, they reported the happenings to Noah and the priests (v23-24). The Lamanites decided that was good enough and promised not to slay them if they pay them half of what they own (v25-26). Limhi was made king and established peace even with the Lamanites having guards surrounding their lands (v27-28). The people supported their own prison wardens basically but they did have peace for two years (v29).

Mosiah Ch18

Alma has been forced into hiding for believing Abinadi's words and defying the king. He teaches in private and becomes a prophet who sets forth covenants and baptizes people into an organized Church of Christ. They grow in number and begin to support themselves but are discovered and flee from King Noah into the wilderness.

Alma learned from Abinadi and repented of his sins, then went and taught the people about what was to come that he had learned from Abinadi (v1-2). His teachings were actually accepted by some because he used to be in an authority position and he was well known by the people (v3). All that believed his words went and gathered at Mormon where Alma hid himself when the king searched for him (v4-6).

Despite a wicked king leading the people there were a good number that were converted by the teachings of Alma and they desired to be called God's people (v7-8). They yearned to be baptized and stand as a witness of God in the service of Him (v9-11). Alma first baptizes a man named Helam to help him in his work; this first baptism was for both of them together so they both were buried under water (v12-13).

After the first, there were a total of 204 people who were baptized and organized the Church of Christ with priests ordained to teach the people the words of the prophet (v14-19). Repentance and faith were the main teachings but also baptism, unity with no contentions, keeping the Sabbath day holy, and unpaid ministers (v20-24). Just like these days, one day a week was set apart to be for worshipping The Lord (v25).

The priests were not paid or supported by the people, those who were weathy were asked to give to the poor (v26-28). Everyone was to impart to each other temporally and spiritually in service me love (v29). All this was done in secret away from the eyes of King Noah in Mormon, but it wasn't meant to last because they were discovered (v30-32). He assumed that this gathering (it was the day they were all together for church service) was a rebellion (v33)! He sent his army after then and the people fled into the wilderness with a total now of 450 converted (v34-35).

Mosiah Ch17

When Abinadi finishes his prophecying, there is one priest among the royal court who believes him. This man, Alma, writes his words because Abinadi is put to death and prophecies how his murderers will suffer and die.

King Noah did not like all the things Abinadi has said so he told his priests to put him to death and only Alma who believed him tried to stop it (v1-2). Unfortunately, Noah hated that more and wanted him dead (v3). Alma his and took that time to write Abinadi's words while Abinadi was cast into prison while Noah and the priests tried to find a reason to accuse him (v4-7). The only accusation worthy of death they found was his words that God would come among the children of men (v8).

The court wanted Abinadi to take back all he had said but Abinadi refused and warned them of the judgment of God that would fall upon them if they shed innocent blood (v9-10). Noah knew somewhat of God and must have believed because he feared God's judgement (v11). The priests that he has appointed and surrounded himself with are not God fearing and pressure Noah to anger and putting Abinadi to death by fire (v12-14). 

While he was burning, Abinadi prophecies that the same fate will come to them after diseases smite them and they are scattered (v15-17). The Lord will execute vengeance upon them by having their enemies hunt them down because they have fought against His people (v18-19). Abinadi seals his testimony with his death because he wouldn't deny the truth of the Savior (v20).

There are a few important lessons to learn from this story:

1. Share your testimony when commanded because chances are you will touch at least one person and God knows it.

2. Be careful who you surround yourself by, they influence your decisions because they are louder than the still small voice.

3. The Lord will watch over those who follow Him, so never deny him; the trials of the mortal life will never be as bad as never ending damnation.

Mosiah Ch16

Continues the words of Abinadi speaking of the redeeming of men and Christ bringing to pass the resurrection to endless life or endless damnation. It's one or the other really, no middle ground here.

Abinadi speaks of the time when every person will confess before God and be judged (v1). The ones found wicked will be cast out because they didn't harken unto the word of The Lord and therefore the devil has power over them (v2-3). If it weren't for our Savior, we would have all been under the power of the devil because we are all fallen in transgression (v4-6). If Christ had not come to break those bands, we would not be able to be resurrection, but I know that He did come and he was resurrected (v7-8).

In Abinadi's words, he is "a light that is endless, that can never be darkened" (v9). We all will put on immortality and be judged according to our works which will lead us to endless happiness if good and endless damnation if bad (v10-11). It's heartbreaking to me to think of the people described in v12 because they never called on The Lord when he was there with his arms extended waiting for them. We are all constantly told to repent because only through Christ can we be saved (v13). Even the law of Moses taught that redemption is through Christ The Lord (v14-15).

Mosiah Ch15

This past week in institute we were actually learning about the topic mentioned in this chapter, so I hope I can do it justice remember what is important to share. The topic is of Christ and how He is the son of God but also referred to as the Father. It speaks of the bearing of transgression of His people, and His bringing to pass the resurrection.

Abinadi is stressing the importance to know that God will come to earth to redeem His people and will have a physical body and be called the Son of God (v1-2). Christ is the Father of our physical body because He created the earth and the inhabitants. He is also our Father because he redeems our souls and has a divine investiture of authority to judge us. He is the Son because He is a spirit child of the Eternal Father. They are one in purpose which makes the wording of scriptures that address this topic confusing (v3-4).

Christ came to earth to yield to the suffering, to work mighty miracles, lead His people, be crucified according to the will of the Father, and gain victory over death (v5-8). Doing all this gave him power to be our judge and show mercy towards us by redeeming us from the demands of justice (v8-9). Abinadi asks who is listening this, but I ask you the same question, who will accept the offering Christ has given to be redeemed and called His (v10)?

Any who have already accepted The Lord by accepting the words of His prophets, look forward to the day they will be redeemed because they are His people (v11-12). The prophets, who testify of Christ and praised His creations and published peace for Him, have exclaimed and followed His teachings (v13-17). Many prophets have said the news of Christ is good except because He has redeemed us and broken the bands of death (v18-20).

There will be a first resurrection for the prophets, all who believed them, the people who died in ignorance without the chance to learn of Christ, and little children (v21-25). The only ones who will not be redeemed are those who knowingly rebelled against God and dies in sin (v26). They are the ones who should fear the resurrection because justice will claim them because they willfully chose not to accept Christ's gift (v27).

There will soon be a time when everyone will have a chance to accept the salvation of The Lord (v28). Many servants will declare the word and many will sing in joy because they are comforted by the message of the redemption (v29-30). The Lord wants everyone to have that chance to accept the gospel because He loves us. He will show the world His love by reaching out to everyone with salvation (v31). 

Mosiah Ch14

Here is another prophet you likes Isaiah! Abinadi quotes from ch53 of Isaiah when he is prophecying of the Messiah and his life and purpose.

In this part of Isaiah, he starts by asking who believes in The Lord and who will recognize him for his plainness (v1-2). In Christ's life, he will know grief and have experienced sorrows for the sins of the world to be healed (v3-5). He is our shepherd and we his sheep who have gone astray, and yet he still looks after us (v6-7). These words are so powerful and still don't fully describe the true agony the Savior when through for us.

Through all of His agony and trials, He was happy to offer his life to save His people (v8-10). The righteous will receive his blessings but the price was paid for all transgressors (v11-12).

Mosiah Ch13

Abinadi is protected to give the message of The Lord to the people. He teaches the commandments and of salvation from God.

After Abinadi shows up the priests, they try to kill him but he uses the authority given by God to stay their hand so he can deliver God's message (v1-4). The people saw the power in him as he spoke and he continued teaching them knowing they know the truth of his words (v5-8). Abinadi warns them about what will happen after he finishes his messages as a foreshadowing of their future (v9-10).

His message starts with the reciting of the Ten Commandments everyone should have already known (v11-24). He reminds them of these commandments to see if they have been taught and observed, but he knew they had not because he wouldn't be needed if they had been faithful (v25-26). It is true that salvation comes from the law of Moses but it will not always be that way because of the atonement of Christ that will save all (v27-28).

The reason the law of Moses was given to help guide the people of Israel and remember The Lord in all His goodness (v29-30). We know of this as things to come but the law is understood not because of their stubborn ways (v31-32). Moses had prophesied to the people about Christ before law just like all the other prophets (v33). All the prophets tell of The Lord who will come among men and bring to pass the resurrection of the dead (v34-35). 

Mosiah Ch12

Abinadi preaches more and is taken prisoner, probably because he mentions the destruction of the people and death of King Noah. He is questioned by the priests that Noah appointed who try to trip him up and he teaches the Ten Commandments.

After the first time prophesying, Abinadi comes back 2 years later in disguise to prophesy again (v1). This is the second warning for the people to repent or be smitten and be considered useless, worthless, and valued as a garment in a hot furnace (v2-3). They will have heavy burdens, bondage, pestilence and even be utter destroyed (v4-8). The people were angry because of the harsh words of Abinadi and took him bound before the king to tell of all he has said against the people and king (v9-12).

The people have not been taught that they have done all these sins and ask why they should be judged so harshly by God (v13-16). The king gathers his priests to council while Abinadi sits in prison until they are ready to question him (v17-18). As they questioned and accused him, he was bold, withstood, and confounded them (v19). The rest of the chapter is some of their questions and Abinadi's answered.

The priests quote what they have been taught and ask what's the words mean (v20-24). Abinadi knows they are only pretending to teach such things and they are misunderstanding and perverting the way of The Lord because they lack faith (v25-26). When asked what they teach, the priests say they teach the laws of Moses, but then Abinadi asks why they do not practice what they preach (v27-29). He has spoken truth and astounded them, and then asks if salvation comes by the law of Moses, which the priests affirm (v30-32). 

This last part is the one that gets them. He starts to list off the first two commandments which they have already said they teach and believe is the way to salvation (v33-36). Then he calls them out on their hypocrisy of not living the law which therefore does not teach the people to obey them (v37). As a teacher, it is so very important to know the content of what I teach well enough that I can teach it many ways. If I've never followed the rules or procedures of solving an equation how can I teach it to anyone? 

This applies even more with teaching the gospel. Think about learning from someone who does not 100% believe in what they are teaching. Then think about if they taught you to follow the commandments and then you saw that they did not do it themselves. How important would you think the commandments are if the ones who are encouraging you to follow them in order to gain salvation aren't following them?

Mosiah Ch11

In this chapter begins a reign of a wicked king who revels in riotous living. He influences the entire kingdom negatively and when a prophet comes to cry repentance, the king desires to kill him for his words.

Noah, who is the son of Zeniff, takes over the kingdom but does not walk in his fathers ways and keep the commandments (v1-2). Instead he sins, causes his people to sin, and starts taxing his people to support him and his concubines and priests (v3-4). He also changed the priests that had been consecrated by his father to ones that supported his pride and laziness which was supported by the people who became idolatrous (v5-7). This kinda makes me question why the people weren't upset at the sudden change in everything about the kingdom except they accepted those ways!

Noah builds all sorts of unnecessarily spacious buildings with overly decorated walls, including the temple for his priests (v8-11). In v11, it shows how lazy they became, "he caused a breastwork to be built...that they might rest their bodies and their arms upon while they should speak lying and vain words to his people." That just blows my mind. Noah builds a huge tower near the temple to look over the land of Shilom and Shemlon, and also a tower north of Shilom all with the taxes (v12-13). He only thought of riches and wine from his vineyards to support his riotous living with his wives (v14-15).

The Lamanites begin to come and attack them in the fields and Noah sends an inefficient amount of guards to help (v16-17). When the Lamanites begin destroying them, Noah sends an army that temporarily drives them away so the people become prideful (v18). They thought they were all that and a bag of chips because they defeated the Lamanites and then they began to delight in the killing of them (v19).

At this point I feel they are almost too far gone....but The Lord sends a prophet, Abinadi, to warn the people to repent or be smitten by The Lord and put in bondage by the Lamanites (v20-21). These people still know of God and unless they repent now, The Lord will be slow to hear their cries of help later (v22-25). When people heard Abinadi saying these harsh words they wanted to kill him but he was protected (v26). Noah is also mad and has a terrible attitude towards The Lord and his power, so he commands Abinadi be brought before him (v27-28).

The people didn't listen to the words of Abinadi because they were spiritually blind and so used to committing sin (v29). I don't know if you saw the time that passed but 10 years passed being under a wicked king who encouraged and promoted wickedness. What chance did the people have with a ruler who is basically leading them straight to the gates of hell? We are lucky in this day to have freedom of religion and can worship The Lord despite wicked leaders.

Mosiah Ch10

Continuing the story of what is happening to that break off branch, the king of the Lamanites dies. The new rule causes the people to become a wild people and attack Zeniff. They prevail though and then their king changes.

After the first battle was won, the people of Zeniff were in peace but they made weapons and set guards just in case (v1-2). After 10 years of continued peace, there was many industrious means of prosperity through the people (v3-5). Over in the Lamanites kingdom though, King Laman dies and his son reigns in his stead and starts to prepare for war (v6). Zeniff sent spies to discover the preparations and saw the army coming upon them from the north and was ready with his men to protect their women and children (v7-9).

Every able man, even Zeniff, went to battle with the strength of The Lord that the Lamanites didn't possess (v10-11). They believed the traditions of their fathers which you can tell were Laman and Lemual complaining about leaving Jerusalem and their brother Nephi (v12). They didn't turn to The Lord so they believed they had been wronged by Nephi because he was blessed (v13-15). They were mad at him for everything he did so they taught their children to hate him and his family (v16-17). 

Zeniff figured all this out and clues in his people to their hatred so they knew to trust in The Lord (v18-19). The people of Zeniff prevail and keep the Lamanites out of their land then continue to live in peace (v20-21). Zeniff confers his kingdom upon his son Noah because he was becoming old (v22).

Mosiah Ch9

If you notice the intro before the intro to the chapter, you will notice that the record of Zeniff is starting. From ch9-22, we hear exactly what happened to that branch of people from Omni v27-29. So imagine we are jumping back in time to see the people coming to the land of Lehi-Nephi and meeting the Lamanites that posses the land but there are contentions.

Zeniff was a spy! He was sent to scout out how to destroy the Lamanites, but found that they shouldn't be destroyed (v1). The first group that left and came back with only fifty left had contended because Zeniff came back and said they shouldn't attack the Lamanites. They fought amongst each other and Zeniff prevailed and went back to Zarahemla to invite people to go back to the land of Nephi (v2-3). They wandered and were smitten by The Lord because they were slow to remember him (v4). 

Zeniff went to inquire of the king of the Lamanites, Laman, if his people could stay in peace (v5-6). The king cleared his people out and Zeniff's people began to build the city of Shilom and prosper (v7-9). The reason they were let in so easily was because the Lamanites wanted to have them as workers in bondage (v10). After 12 years of growing strong, the Lamanites who were lazy to begin with, grew uneasy and wanted Shilom's profits (v11-12). King Laman took his people in to the over Shilom causing a battle with the Lamanites prepared but the people of Zeniff using whatever they could find (v13-16). 

Zeniff and the people called upon The Lord and his goodness to deliver them out of the hands of the Lamanites (v17). Their prayers were answered as they fought for their homes because only 279 of them died while 3,043 of the Lamanites fell (v18-19) with the limited gone, they buried their dead and sorrowed for the loss.

Mosiah Ch8

In this chapter, Ammon is teaching the people and they tell him of the records they found when the broke off. The records are those of a people who lived on this land long before Nephites and Lamanites. The records can be translated  by seers.

We finished last chapter with words by King Limhi to his people which is only a portion of all he spoke (v1). The story of the people they left is told to them by Ammon who also explained the last words of King Benjamin (v2-3). The multitude was dismissed and the record of Limhi's people since they broke off is read by Ammon (v4-6). Limhi mentions another record they discovered while trying to find their way back to Zarahemla (v7-9). These 24 records of gold, along with brass plates and swords, were proof of a deserted land (v10-11). 

Limhi wants to know what happened to those people and asked Ammon is anyone can translate the plates (v12). Ammon speaks of a gift from God that allows seers who are commanded of God to use and interpret other languages (v13). They are called Urim and Thummim, and prophets and revelators are the ones who have used them with permission from The Lord (v14-16). Joesph Smith was a prophet who used them to translate records for us.

A seer can know all things The Lord allows him to know including past, future, secret, and hidden things (v17). God provides these things through faith to warn His people (v18). Limhi rejoices to know that it is possible to know the mysteries on the plates and glories that God has preserved them for his lost sheep (v19-21).

Mosiah Ch7

In this chapter, we have some explores go looking for the group of people that separated years ago. They find the people in bondage to the Lamanites and we hear some of what happened. The people are told of their wickedness and to repent to be saved.

Remember those people who split away from the people back in Omni? After 3 years of peace, Mosiah is curious about what happened to them and granted that those who desired could go to look for them (v1-2). Ammon is the leader of the group of 16 men and ended up wandering around for 40 days until they forth a hill to pitch their tents (v3-5). A smaller group of 4 went down from there to the land of Nephi and were put in prison for two days before being brought to the king (v6-8).

The king is Limhi who is royal by blood and made king by voice of the people (v9). He inquires of the strangers why they came to the city and as answered by Ammon who gave his explaination of where he came from (v10-13). Learning the news about the survival of his brotheren, Limhi explained his situation to Ammon of being enslaved by the Lamanites (v14-15). He desires to be delivered out of bondage and would even rather be enslaved to Nephites. Ammon is set free and retrieves his other companions who did not come into the city (v16).

Limhi assembles his people to the temple to tell them of the good news and trust in God to deliver them from their bondage (v17-19). He explains that their wickedness has brought this hard affliction upon themselves and they need to remember God and trust Him (v20-25). They had been prideful and greedy and not listened to and killed the prophet that was sent to remind them (v26-28). The Lord only punishes the wicked and will not help them if they are transgressing (v29-30). Limhi ends by exhorting the people to be diligent in mind to change their heart to trusting God (v31-33).

Mosiah Ch6

In this chapter, King Benjamin is finishing is work as king by recording all the people's names and appointing priests to teach them. He passes the rule of the kingdom to his son, Mosiah, and dies three years later.
Just like in our church today, King Benjamin recorded the names of the people who entered into a covenant with God (v1). Everyone who had gathered at the big speech entered into the covenant except the little children because they didn't need to (v2). Ben went about consecrating Mosiah to be a ruler and appointing priests to keep the people informed and remembering the oaths they had just taken (v3).
Mosiah reigned in his father's stead and still was able to have his father around to learn and council with for three years, which I find to be very noble King Benjamin (v4-5). He was a righteous king who knew when to step down and give the kingdom over to his son, I think of him as being very selfless in that way. Mosiah was raised right and walked in the ways of the Lord and led his people to do the same, as well as served them like his father did (v6-7). Of course it only lasted three years...

Mosiah Ch5

This chapter has the people's response to the words King Benjamin has spoken as well as Ben encouraging his people to be righteous. 

After Ben finishes his speech, he wants to hear what people think and they all believed and gained a testimony of the goodness of God (v1-3). They loved and trusted their king so much that they had faith in what he has told them and they fear the torment sin brings (v4-5). Ben wants to bring the people under a covenant with Christ to be his children and follow him (v6-7). They need to be obedient their whole lives and return to Him with honor by only worshiping Christ (v8-10).

Write the name of Christ on your heart to keep him close and remember him always, but transgression can blot it out (v11-12). If you know Christ, you have served Him. How can you know Him if you haven't (v13)? Sin no and be steadfast and immovable in faith so Christ will seal you has His and build your mansions in heaven (v14-15). 

Mosiah Ch4

Installment 3 of King Benjamin's address to his people. He speaks of salvation, retaining the remission of sins through faith, and Christ like attributes. The focus of retaining a remission of sin is very important because many people forget the enduring to the end part of salvation and following Christ.

After the last part of his address in which he quoted the words of an angel of The Lord, the multitude had a rude awakening in which they saw themselves as they were in sin (v1-2). They pleaded for forgiveness and being filled with the Spirit, experienced peace and joy at recieving a remission for their sins (v3). Now that they are converted and repented of their previous sins, Ben starts to speak to remind them of their lowliness before God (v4-5). They realize the goodness of God for giving the atonement and salvation through our Savior (v6-8). 

Having a belief in God brings a belief in His wisdom and the ability for us to repent and be motivated unto action (v9-10). If you come to the knowledge that these people have come to, which is of the love and power of God, remember it always (v11). Humble yourselves daily in prayer and faith to always be filled with the love of God and grow in knowledge of His goodness (v12). When we come to know the nature of God and how to follow him and receive salvation, the act of becoming like Him is the solution to following Him.

Be peacemakers, raise children in righteousness, administer to the needy, and serve others (v13-16). Some people may think to themselves that the poor has brought misery upon themselves and deserves his punishment (v17). How vain, evil, and uncaring those who think that are! Change your thoughts before they become action and habit (v18). We are all beggars and depend on God for everything we have, and He would not let us beg in vain (v19-20).

I've seen some very awesome videos shared on social media of people helping those in need. Those who spread evidence of their acts of kindness are more Christlike than many who are all talk. God has granted us what we have asked for and asks us to share with those in need without judgement or condemnation (v21-22). After all, it's only worldly items that we cannot take with us when we die, what's the price of saving your soul (v23)?

Don't get ahead of yourself though, if you aren't able to give to the poor because you lack means yourself, you're not a terrible person! Your heart holds your true desires and like in v24-25, if your desire is to give but you cannot, you remain guiltless. There are still other ways to serve that don't pertain to money, for example giving of your time, feeding someone spiritually, being a friend or a nice stranger (v26).

Do these all in wisdom and order mainly because if you run yourself to the point past your limits, you can't help anyone else (v27). There are so many ways to commit sin, so many, but keeping your thoughts in check and having pure intentions is the main way to avoid sin (v28-29). If you know Christ's character it is easy to watch your thoughts because they become your words, then your actions and turn into habits which define your character and soon, it is your destiny (v30). 

*that last part I have thanks to one of my favorite institute teachers sharing the words of Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher*

Mosiah Ch3

This continuation of King Benjamin's address to the people contains prophecies about Christ being the Messiah. He will minister, shed blood for out sins, and bring to pass the atonement. All those who repent will have salvation and those who are wicked will burn.

There must have been a short break because Ben recalls the people's attention to speak of the future (v1). He has had visions telling him to be joyful and to tell others so they can be joyful also that The Lord Omnipotent will come down from heaven (v2-5). He will work miracles, suffer temptations, and have anguish for the wickedness of the people (v5-7). His name will be Jesus Christ and be born of Mary among his people who will crucify him (v8-9). He will rise on the third day and stand to judge the world in righteous judgment (v10). This he does to atone for the sins of all because they are fallen and most sin ignorantly and for those who knowingly rebel agains God, they must repent (v11-12). 

Prophets have been sent to declare these things, the law of Moses given to guide the people, and miracles have been shown to convince of the truth (v13-15). Little children cannot sin, they are blessed (v16). Christ is the only one who has made the way to salvation for everyone who came to earth therefore he is the judge (v17-18). The natural man who is not spiritual but worldly is an enemy to God. To not be an enemy, we must give way to the Holy Spirit and let it guide our lives to help us become child like (v19).

There will be a time when the Savior will be known by everyone, then none shall be found blameless before God, except little children, just like anyone who hears the word of God (v20-22). King Ben has followed The Lord instructions and spoken these words to be a testimony against those who hear them (v23-24). Since they have heard these words, they are held accountable if they do contrary to what they have been taught (v25). If they sin, they will drink from the cup of the wrath of God and be judged; and if found guilty, their torment will be a lake of fire and brimstone (v26-27). 

Mosiah Ch2

This chapter contains installment 1 of King Benjamin's discourse. The theme: we are indebted to God and should serve Him and our fellow man. Ben uses this address to spread the idea of equality and fairness that has been established while he has reigned. He also warns of the anguish that will come to those who rebel against God.

We are first told of the multitude of people who gather to hear King Benjamin speak (v1-2). A great many have come bringing offerings to give thanks to God for their blessings (v3-4). The gathering was around the temple, and the people gathered in tents according to families with doors pointing to the temple (v5-6). There were so many people that king Benjamin's had a tower erected but when people still couldn't hear him he had his words written a spread to the people (v7-8). I am grateful that now a days we have technology broadcasting our gatherings during general conference seasons!

Ben (I use this nickname because I am lazy) greets the people and emphasizes the importance of the words he will speak because he does not mean to cause the people to fear him (v9-10). It may be that because some kings are wicked, the people fear them, but Ben knows his place is to serve the people and not take their riches by unholy dominion (v11-12). He has not reigned with fear or punishment, but taught the commandments of God and labored with the people (v13-14). 

Telling these things to the people humbly, Ben wishes to teach the people the importance of serving others because it is an act of serving God (v15-17). He has tried to set an example and give credit to our Heavenly Father because he has brought peace by being the center of the people (v18-20). This lesson still applies to us today: if we serve God with our whole souls and keep his commandments we will be blessed and prosper (v21-22). We are already indebted to Him and always will be because of the countless blessings he gives to those who follow his commandments (v23-24).

Ben teaches the importance of humbling ourselves by telling us how insignificant we are compared to Him who created is (v25-26). As the king, Ben has the responsibility to teach the people (so he is not found guilty for their sins) which is a  reason he gathered them to teach them this last time, and rid himself of the responsibility by passing it along (v27-30). He wants the people to respect and follow his son, Mosiah, as they have himself but beware contentions and sin (v31-32).

Those who do not obey the spirit and die in sin shall have everlasting punishment (v33). So far, Ben has made sure everyone, except the children who missed out, the teachings he has mentioned and ones from the records (v34-35). Because everyone knows them, if they sin with that knowledge they will be purposefully withdrawing from The Lord in open rebellion and becomes an enemy to God (v36-38). Dying in sin after knowing truth is a terrible fate! Think of the guilt described in v38, and how there will be no opportunity for mercy resulting in their final doom of never ending torment (v39). 

On the other hand, those who keep the commandments are happy and blessed in all things. Ben has stated the difference plainly because he wants his people to have never ending happiness dwelling with God (v40-41). With all my being I urge you to take the measures needed to not die in sin because of the terrible fate that awaits for those who do. Do not rebel against the goodness of our Savior, he has given us a way to never ending happiness and it will make us happy in our mortal life as well.

Mosiah Ch1

In this first chapter of the second plates of Nephi, the story begins with King Benjamin teachings his sons traditions, religion, language, and prophecies. Mosiah, the eldest son, is chosen to be the next king and given the records and other sacred things handed down through the generations.

King Benjamin reigned in peace for the rest of his life and had three sons who he taught to be men of learning (v1-2). He used the records in his possession to emphasis the importance of not living in ignorance and live according to the word of God (v3-4). The records are kept to be read and studied to know the commandments so we don't dwindle in unbelief (v5).

It is important to first know that the records are true, then we can search them diligently and profit from them (v6-7). We see that King Benjamin was a good father and taught his sons, but we also know he was a good leader for his people by teaching the future leaders (v8-9). He had Mosiah send out for everyone to gather together to hear the last words which consist of conferring the kingdom, naming the people as a whole and preaching of God (v10-12). He tells his son that this people is highly favored but if they are wicked they will be humbled like has happened before (v13-14).

He then officially gives Mosiah charge over the kingdom affairs and the records and precious history items in the royals possession (v15-16). With the Liahona, Benjamin gives a warning/council to Mosiah. The ball was a director that worked according to faith, so when the people were unfaithful they did not prosper (v17). I find it admirable that Mosiah is taught this lesson because he will be the leader and must help his people be righteous. The last verse is just Mosiah following his fathers wishes and gathering the people to hear him speak (v18). 

Words of Mormon

This section is like an introduction to the larger plates of Nephi. Mormon who abridged all of the plates is writing this to tell us what is changing. There is a short history gap that Mormon fills in concerning king Benjamin.

Interestingly enough, Mormon wrote this part right before he gave the records to his son way in 385AD (v1-2). He was searching through all the records he had in his possession and found stuff he liked because of the prophecies of Christ (v3-4). There is a lot that has happened, but he 'finishes' his record with the stuff from the plates of Nephi and his other knowledge (v5-6). He does this because he feels through the Spirit that it is the right thing to do for future generations to persuade them of Christ (v7-9). 

There are many records by the kings that the spiritual small plates of Nephi were added to that have been preserved through the will of God (v10-11). King Benjamin was righteous and worked with holy prophets to protect his people against the Lamanite attacks (v12-16). There were false Christ's and stiffneckedness among the people that the prophets spoke harsh words to in order to establish peace in the land (v15-18).

It is so nice to read about a ruler who is just and righteous and who leads the people into peace through his labor. I'm not going to get all political on here or anything but I'm just saying it would be nice to see in today's world. Looking at how it is now, makes me have a strong testimony that righteous leadership is important. Not only nation wide, but locally and within organizations as well. That is all.

Omni

This is the book of Omni, Amaron, Chemish, Abinadom, but mostly Amaleki. The record is passed from father to son or between brothers and records are kept simply until Amaleki. He writes most of this chapter.

In v1-3 Omni writes about the people and how there has been seasons of war and peace until 282AJ (after Jerusalem as in when Lehi left also known as 317BC). Omni says straight but that he is wicked and hedoesn't hide that he hasn't done what he's supposed to except writing a short record and passing it to his son.

Amaron's section in v4-8 speaks of how the more wicked part of the Nephites are destroyed...unfortunately we don't find out how. But Amaron had a small testimony of the power of God to punish those who didn't follow the commandments. In 320AJ (aka 279BC) Amaron records his small portion and passes the record to his brother.

Chemish has one verse!!! He sells out his brother's procrastination by only baring record of the fact that what he read was his handwriting and he saw him do it the day it was given to him. This also makes it seem like he didn't read anything else in the record besides the last before himself (v9). At least he passed it to his son successfully. 

Abinadom might have had a testimony with the way he speaks in v10-11. He kind of mentions the previous prophecies and that he didn't receive any new ones. He also might even agree with the teachings. In his days there were wars and contentions between the Nephites and Lamanites.

Now for Amaleki who is the son of Abinadom and writes the rest of the chapter. This is a pretty good introduction to the good history stories in the rest of the Book of Mormon. Mosiah was made the king over the land of Zarahemla (which is the capital city of the Nephites). Now Mosiah is righteous and was warned by The Lord to flee the land of Nephi and brought anyone righteous who would follow (v12-13). They came to Zarahemla who had people who were happy to see them because they had scriptures (v14).

This group turns out to be another group who had left Jerusalem just like Lehi did and they had a similar story of troubles like the people of Nephi (v15-17). Unfortunately they didn't keep a record like Nephi and their language was corrupt and they easily fell into wickedness until Mosiah and his people came to teach them (v18-19). And that is the story of how and why Mosiah was king of Zarahemla. 

The next story is of records that the people in Zarahemla found when they came here and had Mosiah interpret. The full abridged story is the book of Enos near the end of the Book of Mormon by Moroni. But here there is a brief mention of Coriantumr and the confounding of the languages by The Lord (v20-22).

Amaleki was born when Mosiah was king and sees his son Benjamin rule and win against the Lamanite attacks (v23-24). Amaleki is close to death but has no one to pass the records to, and having a testimony of The Lord and knowing king Benjamin to be righteous, he gives it to him (v25). He closes his records with a testimony of the Savior and the power of his redemption (v25-26). 

Then he leaves a cliffhanger!! Apparently there's this group who left the city of Zarahemla to return again to the land of Nephi (v27-28). Well, only fifty returned out of we have no idea how many originally and they come back to gather more people (v29). Amaleki's brother left with them which I assume is why he has no one to pass the records to besides King Benjamin (v30). And just incase not knowing the full story of this is bothering you, it is spoken of later. We will hear from this group again!

Jarom

Jarom is the son of Enos and only has one chapter. He talks about the law of Moses, coming of Christ, and the prophets that keep the truth. 

Jarom writes in these small plates a genealogy to benefit of the Lamanites as he has been commanded to but adds no new prophesies because what he has read he is happy with (v1-2). He does tell us about how the people have become hard and stubborn but the ones who are faithful still have the Holy Ghost (v3-4). 200 years passed away since Lehi left Jerusalem and the Nephites and Lamanites were numerous and spread far with Nephites mostly good and Lamanites really gross (v5-6). 

The Lamanites would come to battle but the Nephite leaders had faith and prevailed against them which helped their industriousness (v7-8). Because the Nephites were mostly righteous they prospered and were continuously reminded by the prophets that the need to keep the commandments and look forward to the Messiah (v9-11). The prophets' messages worked and preserved the people until 238 years of wars, contentions, and dissensions had passed away (v12-13). Jarom closes his writing by suggesting we read from the larger plates for the history and giving the plates to his son Omni (v14-15).

Honestly it doesn't seem like Jarom has much of his own testimony like the previous prophets. Unfortunately, it goes down hill from there in the next book. Wait and see!  

Enos

Enos, son of Jacob, tells of his conversion when he prays and prophecies from The Lord. There is a short history of what's going on with the Lamanites and Nephites. 

Enos was taught righteously by Jacob but still gained his own testimony when hunting and pondering on his fathers words finally sunk in and he decided to pray (v1-4). He hears God saying he is forgiven (wish repentance was that easy!) and wonders how he is forgiven so easily (v5-7). The Lord tells him it is because of his faith and Enos becomes worried about the Nephites and prays for them (v8-9). The Lord answers his prays by explaining how He will watch over them as long as they are righteous (v10).

Through this experience, Enos's faith becomes unshaken and prays for the Lamanites and is told that his faith will save them in the future (v11-13). Although they tried to convert the Lamanites now, it won't work because of their traditions (v14). Enos knows that what he asks will be answered because The Lord hath said so and so he prays for the records he possesses, as others have (v15-18). 

The Nephites wanted the wicked Lamanites to have the gospel but it was in vain. For while the Nephites became industrious, the Lamanites were ferocious and filthy (v19-21). The Nephites had a problem with stiffneckedness and the prophets among them had to use harsh, plain words to keep them from destruction (v22-23). It's been 179 years since Lehi left Jerusalem and there have been some wars between the Lamanites and Nephites (v24-26). Enos is close to death and finishes his record so he can continue preaching until the very least when he can return to his Redeemer (v27). 

Enos bares a sort testimony there in v26-27 about the happiness we can receive from the knowledge of the gospel. I can only imagine what is would be like to hear my Redeemer saying, "Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father." I know that The Lord loves us and wants to be able to say that to everyone.

Jacob 7

The last chapter of Jacob in which he tells us of a short history of the happenings among the people.

This Sherem guy, an outsider who has learned the ways of the Nephites, shows up and preaches against the church to lead people away with his smooth talking (v1-4). He hoped to cut down Jacobs faith by saying the whole idea of Christ coming is unknowable (v5-7). The Lord inspires Jacob to speak and confound this false prophet by questioning him and making him trip on his own words (v8-12). Then Sherem asks for a sign as proof but Jacob does not tempt God but allows God's will to happen and smite Sherem down for days (v13-15). 

This sign made him believe, and he gathers the people together to try to take back the false teachings and admit he was deceived by the devil (v16-18). He fears for his own soul because of his sins and feels sorrow, then he dies and the people were overcome and fell to the earth (v19-21). Jacob was happy of this because he had asked for the people to be given the chance to be righteous again and The Lord made this possible (v22-23). Once everyone was converted they wanted the Lamanites to be converted too but unfortunately they were not interested in anything but war with the Nephites (v24-25). 

Jacob knows he is soon to die but has fulfilled the commandment of keeping this record to the best of his knowledge (v26). The records are handed down to his son Enos giving him the same instructions and bids adieu (v27). 

Jacob 6

This chapter is a short explaination or testimony from Jacob about the words of Zenos. 

He straight out says he knows what Zenos has ptophesied will come to pass and The Lord will come to the world ends to bless the righteous and pass judgement on the wicked (v1-3). The Lord has worked to help the house of Israel all along and remembers them if they will repent and leave unto Him (v4-5). If we were to hear His voice today, would you harden your heart and not believe them? Would you reject His words? Then why reject the prophets?? (v6-8).

If we deny Him and His works, we will be shamed and have awful guilt when we stand before God because of the justice needing to be brought to pass (v9-10). Be smart and do not deny His teachings, but enter into the strait gate to eternal life because it is that simple (v11-12). Jacob ends this chapter with a farewell and ends his words of prophecy (v13). There is one more chapter of history though.

Jacob 5

In this chapter, Jacob quotes the teachings of the prophet Zenos of the allegory of the tame and wild olive trees. I'm gonna try to make this as painless as possible. First let's start with a picture illustrating visits.

Now the symbolism through the chapter

Hope you can read that! Jacob introduces Zenos words that start with Zenos telling who he is speaking to, to listen to his likening of the house of Israel to a olive tree, because he is a prophet (v1-3).

Let's take this chapter in sections by each visit. The first we will call "The scattering of Israel" which is before Christ and in v4-14. I'm going to speak without the analogy if you don't mind. So the first time he observes or 'visits' the house of Israel, Christ sees the beginning of wickedness and works to persuade the people to be good (v4-5). New groups begin to show promise but some old stubborn ones are burned with the judgement of God (v6-7). Christ will be happy if he has saved some people so his commands are followed by the 'servant' *who I suppose to be the Holy Ghosts, prophets, and in general the laws of nature that make it happen* (v8-11). Christ continues to watch the world as it goes along it's path and brings non-Israelites into the mix to try to help them while separating others (v12-14). 

Second visit is called the "The Time of Christ" because he actually is born and comes to Earth in the analogy (v15-28). Christ comes and sees good lives being led by the people who were added to the house of Israel (v15-18). Some people he lead to poor ground are also living righteously because they have been humbled from before (v19-22). Other groups were sent to be humbled even more, but in each situation Christ nourishes and protects them despite their situation to produce good men (v23-24). A group that didn't have it so bad only has some good men, even being nourished, and the wicked will be judged and burned, but as a whole they will not be destroyed (v25-28).

Third visit is called "The Great Apostasy" and is quite sad (v29-49). The end is coming soon so and as Christ is watching over certain groups of people to see how they are doing (v29). The house of Israel has many different fruit but none are good because those people he brought in has overrun the strong beginnings and covenants (v30-37). The other groups have also become corrupt and corrupted the good people (the last is the one I think of as the decendents of Lehi because it is choice ground) which makes Christ sorrowful (v38-43). Despite all the care and guidance The Lord has given the people they have become evil and he is planning on giving up but is convinced to spare a little longer (v44-51).

The last 'visit' is called "The Gathering of Israel" (v50-77) because it is what The Lord does to prepare for the end of the world. Basically he removes the most wicked of the people and brings everyone back together under the same covenants he gave originally to the house of Israel (v52-60). Being a part of the gospel gives us the chance to be under the covenants made of old. The Lord is calling more servants to come and do his work to persuade everyone to be obedient because this is the last chance anyone will have (v61-65). The Lord speaks of having the roots and branches being equal in strength that they are balanced so the good can over come the bad (v66-69). The servants who are called will have joy in the good fruit produced in the end (v70-76).

The ending is one of warning. The wicked are cast out and burned, there is a time during the millennium that there will be no wicked, but in v77 it says that there will be evil fruit again and in the end everyone will be gathered. Those who are good are kept and those who are evil and cast away. 

I want to bare my testimony about the love God has for us. If He could, He would have all of us return to Him. But those wicked that are cast off are done because He is a just God. He is also a merciful God who made a way for us to repent of our sins and be clean. Christ's atonement applies to everyone! First offenders or life long sinners. The love of God can change you if you let it.

Jacob 4

I consider this chapter a intro to the ominous Jacob 5 (dun dun dun). Jacob hits on the points be wants before the analogy of the vineyard. He talks about the atonement, worshipping the Father through Christ, and the Jews rejection of the foundation stone.

Jacob starts by expressing his inability to write all the words of his teaching but engraving what he can for the benefit of the generations to come (v1-2). It is harder to engrave than to write on the perishable material, but he rejoices in providing this for others because it testifies of Christ before his coming (v3-4). Years before Christ came, he was known of by prophets and had testimonies of the truth (v5-6). The Lord humbled them in order to show his great work but he is still gloriously mysterious (v7-8). 

His power, wisdom, justice, and mercy extend beyond our scope of knowledge, therefore we should take what counsel and guidance He gives (v9-10). Christ is the only one who can give us reconciliation because of the atonement and we will be resurrected. Excuse of Him (v11). We shouldn't be shy about speaking of the atonement because it is the greatest gift we have the opportunity to know about from Christ (v12).

Jacob knows that he prophesies to help men understand the truth of the spirit just as prophets of old who spoke to the Jews (v13). Unfortunately, they rejected the words because they were 'too' simple and sought knowledge they could not understand, and for that they were prevented from understanding any of it (v14). According to his prophesying, Jacob, tells of the Jews rejecting the stone which provides the last chance for building a safe foundation (v15-16). This stone is Jesus Christ who we know the Jews rejected.

After all that they have done though, it is possible that they can come back and have the chance again (v17). Jacob hopes he can unfold the mystery right by quoting Zenos who was a prophet (v18).

Jacob 3

Jacob is continuing his preaching from the previous chapter and speaks to the pure in heart a little. He also tells the people that the Lamanites have become more righteous! The people have committed some bad sins and Jacob points them out which is why they are more wicked.

The positive side to all he has been commanded to preach by The Lord is what he says to the pure in heart in v1-2. They will be consoled when they pray and protected as long as they receive the pleasing word of God and have firm minds forever. Long lived uplifting talk, those who aren't pure in heart are cursing the land and are more wicked than the Lamanites who will eventually be the one left with the inheritance (v3-4). Even though the Lamanites are wicked in some ways, they have kept covenants of having and loving only one wife and will be blessed for it in the end (v5-7). 

The Lamanites and Nephites have hatred for each other because of the traditions of their fathers (v7). Nephi was righteous and The Lord cursed and marked thee decendents of Laman and Lemuel because of their wickedness. The Nephites are white while the Lamanites are what I would imagine dark brown like the Native Americans (they are their decendents). 

I tell you this because v8 speaks of whiter skin marking who is more righteous. Jacob uses this to tell the people to not hate them because of their filthiness but try to not be filthy themselves (v9-10). As they were encouraged by Jacob, I encourage you to focus on your own faults instead of hate others for theirs. Wake up and be aware of the devils ploy to acquire your soul (v11).

There are many more words Jacob uses to warn the people of every kind of sin and the consequences of them (v12). I assume he doesn't write it because it is repetitive and already covered by Nephi...the actual history of the Nephites is recorded on the other larger plates of Nephi. They contain wars and contentions and all the kings (v13-14).

Jacob 2

The preaching a if Jacob that denounce riches, pride, and unchastity are in this chapter. Riches are ok if they are sought to help others, plural marriage must be authorized and The Lord's delight in chase women are also mentioned.

This is a sermon after Nephi's death at the temple because the stewardship of the church is now upon Jacob and he is fulfilling his calling by speaking to the people (v1-2). It is possible that his anxiety has increased because he his now the spiritual head of the people and realizes their wickedness which is in their thoughts (v3-5). They are 'beginning to labor in sin' and he has been shown this as a warning to stop them before it become actions and habits (v6).

He speaks to a large group and some do not need to hear the harsh words; they wanted to hear the healing words of God but Jacob is commanded what to speak (v7-10). The Lord told him to go to the temple and declare unto the people the evil of seeking for riches and being prideful because of it (v11-13). God will not justify anyone who acts like that and condemns them and wants to rid them of the iniquity and abomination (v14-16). It is better to see others as your equals and seek for the kingdom of God before riches and if you gain riches only use them for good (v17-19).

Jacob reemphasizes being humble because everyone is a child of God and although he moves onto a different topic he wishes he didn't have to (v20-22). The grosser crimes being committed amount the people are their whoredoms and refusal to acknowledge their wrong doings (v23). The people know about the unsanctified polygamy by David and Soloman of old but The Lord has forbidden the people of this branch to practice those ways (v24-27). 

The Lord delights in the chastity of women and will curse the land if His commandment is not followed by the people (v28-30).

There has been mourning by the daughter of the people because of the wicked and The Lord refuses to let the women be lead captive because they are tender (v31-33). My hope for myself is to be a tender women who is chaste and can make my Savior proud. These commandments which have been given and known since Lehi and by disobeying the people have broken the tender wives hearts and lost the confidence of the children (v34-35).