Seanette

Please do keep us posted. Want us to throw a cyber-party for you like we did for EternalPromise?

Not according to most evangelicals I've heard comment. You see, if you do the extra stuff, that somehow constitutes "rejecting" or "negating" Christ's Atonement and trying to save yourself by yourself, which of course can't be done.And of course, a Jesus the Christ who actually expects to be obeyed as a demonstration of the faith needed for His grace to kick in is supposedly not the Jesus the Christ of the Bible. Didn't you know all this?

Uh, sorry about the typo in the spreadsheet. I meant to have today set for Matthew 1-6, with 7-12 being tomorrow ( I did try to spread the reading out relatively evenly!). Oh well, by tomorrow all will be OK. I’m mostly sticking to the actual Scriptures (both King James Version and the Joseph Smith Translation), but am reading the relevant parts of the New Testament Seminary manual for background info. According to the Seminary manual, Matthew was apparently writing with a Jewish audience in mind, citing the Old Testament more than in any other Gospel and referring back to fulfilled prophecies. Matthew 1 – Joseph’s genealogy is given. Joseph finds that his fiancée, Mary, is pregnant and since he knows he’s not the father, is inclined to quietly break off with her (under Jewish law at that time, infidelity during the espousal (engagement) period was considered equivalent to adultery and he could have had her stoned as an adulteress, but did not wish her to come to harm). An angel visits him and explains the miraculous circumstances under which she became pregnant. Reassured, he goes through with the marriage, and her son, Jesus is born. Matthew 2 – Wise men arrive from the east seeking Jesus, whom they refer to as the King of the Jews. After a meeting with Herod (Roman-appointed governor), in which Herod asks them to report back to him when they find Jesus, they follow a new star and find Him. They give gifts and worship Him, then depart by a different route to go home and avoid Herod. Joseph is warned in a dream that he needs to take his family to Egypt, and obeys. Herod orders the slaughter of all children ages two and under. John the Baptist, according to the Prophet Joseph Smith, was hidden by his mother, and his father was killed for not revealing his whereabouts. After Herod’s death, Joseph follows instructions given by an angel via dream and brings his family back to Nazareth, where Jesus grows up with His siblings and waits for it to be time for His ministry to begin. (When I first saw Prince of Egypt near Christmas, it occurred to me that the arrivals of both Moses and Jesus were marked by the wholesale slaughter of children. Considering how prevalent abortion and other causes of widespread child death are in our current world, how far can we be from Christ’s return?) Matthew 3 – John the Baptist preaches repentance, baptizes, and prophesies of one greater than him who will come after him and baptize with the Holy Ghost. Jesus persuades John to baptize Him to fulfill all righteousness (if the Perfect One required baptism, surely everyone else does as well!). At His baptism, the Holy Ghost manifests in the sign of a dove, and the Father’s voice is heard from heaven, identifying Jesus as His Beloved Son and expressing pleasure with Him. Matthew 4 – Here, the JST is very helpful in making sense of the events of that 40 days in the desert. A perfect individual would not deliberately seek out temptation as the KJV portrays. The JST has Jesus preparing for His ministry by communing with His Father (talk about an intense MTC!). After this preparation, Satan tries to tempt Jesus with material goods, Divine protection, and worldly riches and power (all of which are His to begin with! Satan wasn’t offering anything that Jesus did not already have). Jesus rebuffs him with Scripture. Jesus begins His ministry by starting to preach. He begins calling disciples and continues to preach, plus healing the sick and afflicted. Matthew 5 – Compare 3 Nephi 12. The JST indicates this sermon was directed to the disciples (rather MTC-ish, it seems to me), rather than to all the followers. Still, a lot of the advice is good for all. This is the first part of the Sermon on the Mount. The Beatitudes are given, and it is clarified that Jesus is giving a higher law than the Law of Moses. He preaches against divorce or taking oaths (we should simply communicate honestly, rather than by swearing by various things). We are to love our enemies, and are commanded to be perfect as our Father in heaven is. Matthew 6 – Compare 3 Nephi 13. The Sermon on the Mount continues. We should do our charitable acts and have our personal prayers in private, rather than making a show of these things for the praise of men. The Lord’s Prayer is taught. We should lay up secure incorruptible treasures in heaven rather than on earth (earthly treasures decay or are stolen). We are to seek the kingdom of God and trust Him to provide for our temporal needs.

This one really needed a "laugh" button.

Hey, gang, the 40-day New Testament reading challenge awaits! It's only about 6.5 chapters/day (on average), which is about half as much as we were reading for the Triple. I'll e-mail the schedule to anyone who wants it, and Pam's busily setting up forums for discussion as she did for the Triple Combination challenge. Would be interesting to see input from some of our non-LDS brothers and sisters, too.

The challenge is completed! We’ve spent 40 days feasting on the Scriptures that were given to us as a result of the Restoration. Praise to the man, indeed! How can we not praise and love the Prophet for bringing us so much more depth and richness of the Word of God? Moroni 5 – The manner in which the Sacrament wine is to be administered is set forth. Please note that changing times and circumstances resulted in the update in D&C 27, approving the change to water. Moroni 6 – The repentant non-members are baptized into the Church and fellowshipped, while repentant Church members are forgiven. Meetings are conducted by the power of the Holy Ghost. Moroni 7 – Moroni records in this chapter his father’s teaching. Mormon invites his hearers to enter into the rest of the Lord. For prayer or good deeds to be counted for righteousness, they must be done with real intent. The Spirit of Christ enables us to distinguish good from evil. Anything that persuades men to do evil, deny Christ, and/or not serve God is of the devil. The prophets declare the coming of Christ. Miracles occur and angels minister by faith. We need to have faith, hope, and charity, and pray for these things. Moroni 8 – An epistle from Mormon to Moroni. He declares that infant baptism is an abomination, since children under the age of accountability are innocent through Christ’s Atonement. He speaks of the things that lead to salvation: faith, repentance, meekness and lowliness of heart, receiving the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. Moroni 9 – Another epistle from Mormon to Moroni. Both the Nephites and the Lamanites are depraved and degenerate. He speaks of the tortures and murders each group commits against the other. He prays for Moroni’s well-being, that grace and goodness may rest upon him forever. Moroni 10 – Moroni exhorts his readers to pray to the Father in the name of Christ, asking to know the truth of the Book of Mormon, and that knowledge will be given by the power of the Holy Ghost. The gifts of the Spirit are given to the faithful, and always accompany faith. Moroni says his words will speak from the dust. He exhorts his readers to come unto Christ, be perfected in Him, and sanctify our souls.

Nearing the end of the challenge. Ether 14 – The land is cursed because of the iniquity of the people, who cannot keep tools or weapons unless they are physically holding them. If they set something down, it is lost. There is near-constant warfare, with Coriantumr fighting in turn Gilead (brother of Shared), Lib, and Shiz (brother of Lib). The land is covered with the bodies of the dead, the carnage so great that there is no one available to bury them. Ether 15 – This is to me about the most horrifying chapter of Scripture. Coriantumr begins to repent and remember the words of the prophets. However, Satan has full power over the hearts of the people, and they spend four years gathering everyone to the final battle (did no one in those four years start to think this war was a bad idea?). Men, women, and even children all take up arms. The Spirit of the Lord has ceased to strive with the Jaredites. In a battle spanning several days, the entire Jaredite nation is wiped out, with only Coriantumr and Ether surviving. We know Coriantumr later meets and for a time lives with the Mulekites, and the Jaredite record passes into the hands of the Nephites. Ether’s final fate is unknown (Moroni apparently didn’t know and thus could not record it). Moroni 1 – The Lamanites are hunting and killing every Nephite who will not deny Christ. Moroni is wandering in order to escape them and survive. He says that he writes now for the benefit of the Lamanites of future days. Moroni 2 – Christ gave the Nephite disciples the power to confer the gift of the Holy Ghost. Moroni 3 – The manner in which the elders are to carry out ordinations of priests and teachers is set forth. Moroni 4 – The manner in which the Sacrament bread is to be administered is set forth.

Current on posting notes. Need to work on New Testament footnote markings this weekend to prepare for that challenge. Ether 8 – Strife and contention for the throne continue through generations. The daughter of Jared II seduces Akish into assassinating the king so that her father can rule. Akish forms an oath-bound secret combination to carry out the assassination, using oaths handed down from Cain. Moroni warns that secret combinations are of the devil and lead to the destruction of nations. Ether 9 – The kingdom passes from one ruler to another by intrigue, murder, and occasionally by descent and legitimate succession. Emer rules in righteousness, and sees the Son of Righteousness. His son Corianton succeeds him and emulates him. Wickedness begins to spread again. Prophets come crying repentance, and are cast out and killed. Drought, famine, and poisonous serpents cause the people to humble themselves and repent. The famine and drought end (it takes a bit longer to get rid of the serpents, but it does happen). Ether 10 – Some kings are righteous, some are wicked. When righteousness prevails, the Lord blesses and prospers the people. A group of robbers that appear similar to the Gadianton band arise during the reign of Com. Ether 11 – Prophets predict the destruction of the people unless they repent. The people seek to destroy the prophets, who flee to Com for protection. During the reign of Com’s son Shiblon, his brother causes the prophets to be put to death, and a great calamity comes to the land. The people begin to repent and, as they do, obtain God’s mercy. More rulers come and go, with prophets arising at least twice to cry repentance. Each time, they are rejected and the people harden their hearts against them. Ether 12 – Coriantumr is now king. Ether comes forth to prophesy and urge the people to believe in God and repent. Moroni speaks of wonders and marvels done by faith, such as the brother of Jared both seeing Christ and moving a mountain. The Lord gives us weaknesses that we may be humble and turn to Him for strength. Faith, hope, and charity are necessary to salvation. Moroni declares that he has seen Christ face-to-face. Ether 13 – Ether prophesies of the New Jerusalem to be built in their land by the seed of Joseph. He is cast out and hides in a cave. He writes the Jaredite history and foretells the destruction of his people. War rages throughout the land.

Ether 2 – The Jaredites gather needed animals and supplies for their journey to the promised land. The Lord comes in a cloud and talks to the brother of Jared, telling him the group must go into the wilderness. The promised land is choice above all other. Its inhabitants shall serve God or be swept off. The group spend several years in the wilderness. The brother of Jared is chastened for neglecting to call upon the Lord and repents. He is granted forgiveness, but is cautioned that the Lord’s Spirit will not always strive with man. They build barges. The brother of Jared inquires about how to solve the problems of air and light in the barges. The Lord provides the solution for the air problem, but requires the brother of Jared to propose a solution for the light problem. Ether 3 – The brother of Jared makes sixteen small stones from ore and takes them to a high mountain. He prays for forgiveness for himself and his group, then asks the Lord to touch them and cause them to give light. He sees the finger of the Lord doing this. Because of his exceeding faith, he is shown Christ’s spirit body. He has perfect knowledge and cannot be kept from within the veil. Interpreters are provided so that the Jaredite record can be brought forth in due time. Ether 4 – Moroni is commanded to seal up the writings of the brother of Jared until such time as men have faith equal to his. Christ commands men to believe His words and those of His disciples. We are commanded to repent, believe the Gospel, and be saved. Ether 5 – The testimony of three witnesses, and the work that will show God’s power, will testify against the world at the last day. Ether 6 – The Jaredites make their journey to the promised land, with the barges being driven by wind. When they arrive, they praise God for His mercies. They multiply and spread out in the land. Jared and his brother grow old, and gather their descendants. They are asked to select one to be king. The brother of Jared considers this a mistake, saying the people will be led into captivity. Jared persuades his brother to comply. All the sons of the brother of Jared decline to be king, and the only son of Jared willing to become king is Orihah. Orihah rules in righteousness and the people prosper. Jared and his brother die. Ether 7 – Orihah’s son Kib succeeds him as king. Kib’s son Corihor rebels and goes to the land at Nehor, drawing many away after him. He raises an army and goes to the land of Moron (where Kib rules), and takes Kib captive. This occurs near the area that will later be called Desolation by the Nephites. Kib begets Shule while in captivity. When Shule is grown, he overthrows his brother and restores the kingdom to Kib. Shule becomes king after Kib. Corihor repents of his acts. He fathers a son named Noah. Noah rebels and draws away many, including all his brothers. Noah overthrows and captures his uncle, whose sons kill Noah, free their father, and restore him to the throne. The country divides, with Shule ruling one part and Noah’s son Cohor ruling the other. Cohor starts a war with Shule, and is defeated and killed. Cohor’s son Nimrod surrenders his kingdom to Shule. Prophets call for repentance, with Shule’s support, and the people repent.

Mormon 5 – Mormon agrees to again lead the Nephites, who still will not repent. The Lamanites drive and defeat the Nephites in blood and carnage. The Book of Mormon will come forth to persuade Israel of Jesus the Christ. The Lamanites will be dark, filthy, and loathsome. They will receive the Gospel from the Gentiles in the last days. Mormon 6 – Among the saddest chapters to be found anywhere in Scripture, I think. This chapter tells of the final battle at Cumorah and the destruction of the Nephite nation, with only 24 Nephites surviving, including Mormon and his son Moroni. Mormon hides the records, except for a few plates he gives to Moroni. Mormon 7 – Mormon urges the latter-day Lamanites to believe in Christ, repent, accept the Gospel, and be baptized. Those who really believe the Bible will believe the Book of Mormon. Mormon 8 – Another very sad chapter. The Lamanites hunt and kill the remaining Nephites, with only Moroni (now the narrator) escaping. “I even remain alone”. The Book of Mormon will come forth by the power of God, in a time of iniquity and apostasy. Woe will come to those who fight against the work of the Lord. Mormon 9 – Moroni calls for unbelievers to repent. He proclaims a God of miracles, who gives revelations, gifts, and signs to the faithful. Miracles cease because of unbelief, while signs follow those who believe. Moroni exhorts men to be wise and keep the commandments. Ether 1 – Abridgement by Moroni of Jaredite records. Ether’s genealogy is set forth. The confounding of languages at the Tower of Babel is described. The Lord grants the pleas of Jared and his brother that their family and friends not have their language confounded. The Lord promises to lead them to a choice land and make of them a great nation.

3 Nephi 30 – Gentiles are commanded to repent, come to Christ, and be numbered with the house of Israel. 4 Nephi 1 – For almost 200 years, the descendants of Lehi experience a golden era. All are converted to the Gospel and there is no longer a division between Nephites and Lamanites. All is had in common. Miracles occur, the people prosper, and there is no contention or sin. Nephi dies, and his son Amos keeps the records until he dies, and his son, Amos Jr. takes over as record-keeper. In about 200, a small group revolts, and they become known as Lamanites. Pride and class divisions resurface, and false doctrines are spread. A church arises that denies Christ. People begin to harden their hearts and persecutions against the true Church begin. A variety of –ites arise and the Gadiantons resurface. Both Nephites and Lamanites become wicked. Amos Jr. dies, and his brother Ammaron keeps the records. He obeys the command of the Holy Ghost to hide the records. Mormon 1 – Ammaron tells Mormon, about age 10, about the records and gives him instructions to retrieve them when he is about 24. There is war between the Nephites and the Lamanites. The Three Nephites are taken away by the Lord and the gifts of the Spirit cease because of unbelief and iniquity. The Lord visits the 15-year-old Mormon, who desires to preach but is forbidden to do so. Treasures become slippery. The power of Satan is upon the land, with magic, sorcery, and witchcraft prevalent. Mormon 2 – Mormon, although young, is chosen to lead the Nephite armies. Blood and carnage spread across the land. Nephites sorrow, but it is the sorrow of the damned, and they refuse to repent. The day of grace is passed. At the appropriate time, Mormon follows Ammaron’s instructions and obtains the plates of Nephi, on which he records the wickedness of his people. Wars continue. Mormon 3 – The Lord tells Mormon to cry repentance, which he does, but in vain. The Nephites gain a great military victory and boast in their own strength. Mormon refuses to continue to lead the army. His prayers for his people are without faith because of the hardness of their hearts. Mormon urges his readers to repent and come to Christ. Mormon 4 – The judgments of God will overtake the wicked. War and bloodshed continue. The Nephites have become more wicked than any other people of the house of Israel. Women and children are sacrificed to idols. The Lamanites begin to advance into Nephite territory and push the Nephites ahead of them. Mormon retrieves the remainder of the records from the area the Lamanites are about to take over. Section 137 – The doctrine of salvation for the dead is revealed. Small children are saved in the celestial kingdom. Section 138 – Joseph F. Smith’s vision of the spirit world, resulting from pondering Scripture. The organization of preaching the Gospel in the spirit world is described. The righteous dead minister in the spirit world. Official Declaration 1 – The Manifesto ending authorized plural marriage. Official Declaration 2 – The priesthood is to be given to all worthy men regardless of race.

3 Nephi 24 – Compare Malachi 3. The Father will send a messenger to prepare the way for Christ, who will be the refiner and the Judge. Tithing and offerings are commanded. The Lord keeps a book of remembrance. 3 Nephi 25 – Compare Malachi 4. The proud and wicked will be burned as stubble at the Second Coming. Elijah will return before the Second Coming (he did appear at the Kirtland Temple, but will apparently return again before Christ’s return). 3 Nephi 26 – Jesus expounds all things from the beginning of the world to the end. Mormon was prohibited from including all that Nephi recorded. Christ ministered to the Nephites for three days, giving the Sacrament, ministering to children, healing, and teaching. Small children declare things that cannot be written. The disciples teach and baptize. The Church members have all in common. 3 Nephi 27 – Jesus commands that the Church be called by His name. The Gospel is His earthly mission and His Atonement. Those who repent, are baptized in the name of Christ, and endure to the end will be held guiltless at Judgment. Those who do not endure are to be cast down. We are to be as Christ. 3 Nephi 28 – Nine of the Twelve desire and are promised an inheritance in Christ’s kingdom when they reach “the age of man” (72). The remaining three desire to remain on earth until the Second Coming. They are transfigured and see things that are not lawful to write. Those Three have ministered to Mormon. They cannot be imprisoned or physically harmed. 3 Nephi 29 – The coming forth of the Book of Mormon signals the beginning of the gathering of Israel and the fulfillment of the Lord’s covenants. Those who reject latter-day revelation and gifts will be cursed. Section 133 – This was originally an appendix to the D&C. The Saints are to prepare for the Second Coming by fleeing from Babylon and gathering to Zion. Christ shall stand on Mt. Zion. The continents will become one land and the lost tribes will return. The Gospel that was restored via Joseph Smith will be preached to the whole world. The Lord will come down in vengeance upon the wicked. Section 134 – This describes relations between the government and the Church. The government should preserve freedom of conscience and worship. Citizens should uphold government and respect and defer to law. Religious groups should not have authority to impose civil penalties. Defense of self and property is justified. Section 135 – John Taylor’s account of the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith at Carthage Jail. Section 136 – This revelation was received by Brigham Young at Winter Quarters. He is told how to arrange the Camp of Israel for the journey west. Gospel standards for living are set forth. The Saints should sing, dance, pray, and learn wisdom. Prophets are allowed to be killed so they may be honored and the wicked condemned.

3 Nephi 18 – Jesus institutes the Sacrament. We are to watch and pray always to be safe from temptation and from being led astray by Satan. Prayers are to be in Jesus’ name. We are to hold up our light to shine to the world. Taking the Sacrament unworthily brings damnation. He gives the disciples the power to give the gift of the Holy Ghost. 3 Nephi 19 – The disciples divide the people into twelve groups, each with a disciple teaching and ministering to them. The disciples are baptized and receive the Holy Ghost. They are ministered to by angels. 3 Nephi 20 – Jesus administers the Sacrament, using bread and wine He provides by a miracle. A remnant of the house of Jacob shall be gathered and brought to knowledge of the Lord. If the Gentiles do not repent, the Nephites will inherit the land. Jesus fulfills Moses’ prophecy of a prophet like unto him. The Nephites are the children of prophets. Jerusalem will again be inhabited by the Lord’s people. 3 Nephi 21 – Israel shall be gathered when the Book of Mormon comes forth. The Gentiles will be established as free people in America. Those who believe, repent, and obey shall be saved, those who don’t will be cut off and destroyed. Israel will build the New Jerusalem and the lost tribes will return. 3 Nephi 22 – Compare Isaiah 54. Zion and stakes will be established and Israel will be gathered in mercy and tenderness in the last days. 3 Nephi 23 – Jesus commands searching the Scriptures and says “great are the words of Isaiah”. He confirms that Isaiah’s words are true. He commands Nephi to bring forth the records and instructs him to add Samuel’s prophecies. Section 129 – There are both resurrected and spirit bodies in heaven. We are told how we may distinguish the types of supernatural visitors we might encounter. Section 130 – Both the Father and the Son may appear to man. Angels reside in the presence of God in the celestial realm, which is a great Urim and Thummim as the earth will become. All who enter the celestial kingdom are given a white stone with a new name inscribed. Joseph Smith was not told when the Second Coming would occur, but was told to stop asking for that information. Intelligence gained in this life will be to our advantage in the next. All blessings come from obedience to law. The Father and the Son have bodies of flesh and bone. Section 131 – Celestial marriage is essential to exaltation. The “more sure word of prophecy” is the knowledge that one is sealed up to eternal life. One cannot be saved in ignorance. All spirit is matter, but can only be seen by purified eyes. Section 132 – This is an explanation of the new and everlasting covenant, celestial marriage, and exaltation. Laws governing plural marriage are given.

3 Nephi 12 – Compare Matthew 5. Jesus commissions the Twelve. He gives the Sermon on the Mount and the Beatitudes. His teachings transcend and take precedence over the Law of Moses. Men are commanded to be perfect even as Christ and His Father. 3 Nephi 13 – Compare Matthew 6. Christ teaches the Nephites the Lord’s Prayer, and tells them to lay up their treasures in heaven. He tells the Twelve in ministry to not concern themselves with temporal things. 3 Nephi 14 – Compare Matthew 7. Christ tells us not to judge one another (note that the JST qualifies this by discussing righteous and unrighteous judgment), and teaches the Golden Rule. The gate is strait (i.e. narrow), and the way is narrow to eternal life. We are warned to beware of false prophets and told “by their fruits ye shall know them”. Not all who claim to believe will enter into the kingdom, but those who do the will of the Father will. A wise man builds on rock, a foolish man on sand. 3 Nephi 15 – The Law of Moses is fulfilled in Christ, Who gave that law. The Nephites are the “other sheep” he spoke of in His mortal ministry. Christ is the law and the light. Those in Jerusalem do not know of the other sheep (tribes) because of their iniquity. 3 Nephi 16 – Jesus will visit other lost sheep of Israel. In the latter days, the Gospel will go forth first to the Gentiles, then to the house of Israel. The Lord’s people will see eye-to-eye when He brings Zion again. 3 Nephi 17 – Jesus instructs the people to return to their homes and ponder His words and pray. He will return and address them again the next day. His compassion causes Him to call for the sick and afflicted to be brought to Him, and He heals them. He commands that little children be brought to Him. He offers a prayer that cannot be written and blesses the children. They are encircled with fire and angels minister to them. Section 125 – The Saints are to build cities and gather to the stakes of Zion. Section 126 – Brigham Young is commended for his labors and relieved of future travel abroad. Section 127 – An epistle from the Prophet Joseph Smith to the Saints. He glories in persecution and tribulation as Paul. He gives instructions concerning baptism for the dead. Section 128 – Another epistle from the Prophet Joseph Smith to the Saints. Recorders must certify baptisms for the dead, which must have two or more witnesses. These records are made and binding on earth and in heaven. The baptismal font is a similitude of the grave. Elijah restored the power relative to baptism for the dead. All keys, powers, and authorities of past dispensations have been restored. The great day of the Lord is at hand.

Here’s where I got current (smile). I had decided that until I got caught up, reading and note-taking got priority over typing and posting. 3 Nephi 6 – The Nephites prosper. Pride leads to class distinctions. The Church is torn by dissension. Satan leads people to rebellion. Lachoneus Jr. is now chief judge. Prophets cry repentance and are killed. Those who kill prophets conspire to take over the government and establish a king. 3 Nephi 7 – The chief judge is murdered. The people fragment into tribes, and the government is destroyed. Jacob, an anti-Christ, becomes king of a league of tribes that departs northward. Prophets are stoned and cast out. Nephi preaches repentance, angels minster to him daily, and he raises his brother from the dead. Some repent and are baptized. 3 Nephi 8 – Samuel’s prophecy of events marking the death of Christ is fulfilled. Many die, and the surviving people lament their failure to repent. 3 Nephi 9 – The voice of Christ announces that many cities have been destroyed for wickedness. He proclaims His divinity and declares that the Law of Moses is fulfilled. He invites all to come to Him and be saved. 3 Nephi 10 – There is silence in the land for many hours. The voice of Christ laments the past unwillingness of His people to be gathered, and promises a gathering will occur. The more righteous part of the people were preserved. 3 Nephi 11 – The Father’s voice testifies of His Beloved Son. Christ appears and proclaims the Atonement. The people feel His wounds and cry Hosanna. He calls twelve disciples and sets forth how baptism is to be done. Contention is of the devil. Christ’s doctrine is that men should believe, be baptized, and receive the Holy Ghost. Section 121 – The Prophet Joseph Smith is in Liberty Jail. He pleads on behalf of the Saints, and the Lord speaks peace to him. Those who falsely accuse the Lord’s people of transgression will be cursed – they will have no right to the priesthood and will be damned. Those who endure valiantly are promised glorious revelations. It is explained that many are called, but few are chosen due to worldliness. The priesthood is to be used only in righteousness. Section 122 – Joseph Smith will be both mocked and heeded. All afflictions shall give him experience and be for his good. The Son of Man has descended below all. Section 123 – Joseph Smith instructs the Church to collect and publish an account of their sufferings and persecutions. The same spirit that established false creeds leads to persecutions. Many among all sects will receive the truth. Section 124 – Joseph Smith is commanded to make a solemn proclamation of the Gospel to the President, to governors, and to rulers of all nations. Various individuals are blessed for integrity and virtue. The Saints are to build a hotel and a Temple in Nauvoo. Baptisms for the dead are to be done in Temples, which the Lord’s people always build for holy ordinances. The Saints are excused from building the Temple in Jackson County because of persecutions. Instructions for the Nauvoo House are given. Hyrum Smith is called as patriarch. Various individuals are counseled in their labors and various officers are named.

Read this on 7/31. Helaman 17 – Those who believe Samuel seek out Nephi to confess their sins and ask for baptism. Efforts made to kill Samuel fail – he can’t be hit by stones or arrows. Samuel flees to his own land. The people begin to grow hardened in iniquity. There are signs and wonders, prophecies are fulfilled, and angels appear. Unbelievers claim faith in Christ is not “reasonable”. 3 Nephi 1 – Lachoneus is now chief judge. Nephi departs the land, passing the records and sacred things to his son, Nephi Jr. There are signs and miracles among the people. Unbelievers set a date for the believers in Christ to be killed if Samuel’s prophecy is not fulfilled. Nephi Jr. cries to God for his people and is told that the sign will come that night, since Christ is about to be born. The sign prophesied by Samuel (the night without darkness and the new star) takes place. The majority believe and repent. The Gadiantons increase in strength as more Nephite dissenters join them along with some younger Lamanites. 3 Nephi 2 – The people begin to forget the signs and wonders they witnessed or consider them imagined. Wickedness and abominations spread, and wars and contentions arise. The Nephites and converted Lamanites unite against the Gadiantons. Converted Lamanites become Nephites and their curse is removed. The Gadiantons gain an advantage because of the iniquity of the Nephites. 3 Nephi 3 – Giddianhi, the leader of the Gadiantons, demands that the Nephites surrender. Lachoneus appoints Gidgiddoni chief captain of the army and calls for repentance. The Nephites gather in Bountiful and Zarahemla for defense. 3 Nephi 4 – The Gadiantons find the land desolate and cannot obtain food without fighting the Nephites, who are more numerous and better supplied. Giddianhi is killed in a major battle. The Gadiantons, now led by Zemnarihah, try to besiege the Nephites. The siege utterly fails because of the Nephites’ stored supplies and the Gadiantons’ inability to find or raise food. Zemnarihah is hanged, and the Gadiantons are captured. The Nephites praise God for their victory. 3 Nephi 5 – The Nephites repent and forsake their sins. The Gadianton prisoners who repent are freed, while those who don’t are executed. Mormon includes an editorial note about his role as historian. Israel will be gathered. Section 117 – The Lord’s servants should not covet temporal things and are to forsake “littleness of soul”. Sacrifices shall be sacred to the Lord. Section 118 – The Lord will provide for the families of the Twelve. Vacancies in the Twelve are filled. Section 119 – The law of tithing is set forth: surplus is to be paid, then 10% of annual increase. Tithing will sanctify Zion. Section 120 – A council is established for the disposition of tithed properties.

Read this on 7/31. Helaman 10 – Nephi is given sealing power. The Lord commands him to preach repentance and he does. The people try unsuccessfully to imprison him. The Spirit carries Nephi from place to place until he has preached to all. Contentions among the people lead to internal wars. Helaman 11 – Nephi asks God to replace war with famine, and He does by way of drought. The people begin to remember God after many die. When Nephi sees that the people have repented, he prays for rain and an end to the famine, which is granted. There is a time of peace, the Church spreads, and the people prosper. Nephi and Lehi have many revelations and keep the Church in order. Many Nephite dissenters and Lamanites join the Gadiantons. The people begin again to forget God, and pride and wickedness spread. Helaman 12 – This is a sermon on pride and the Lord’s chastening of His people. We are reminded of man’s nothingness when compared to God. Those who hearken to God are blessed. There is a brief discussion of judgment. Helaman 13 – Samuel the Lamanite prophesies. The Nephites will be destroyed unless they repent. The city of Zarahemla would be destroyed if not for the righteous there. The Nephites’ treasures shall be cursed. The Nephites do not remember God, and mock, stone, exile, and kill prophets. They seek flattering preachers who will excuse sin. Their riches will become slippery and impossible to hold. The people are surrounded by demons. Helaman 14 – Samuel predicts a new star and a night without darkness at Christ’s birth five years from the time of the prophecy, with many other signs and wonders. He explains redemption by Christ’s death and our repentance. He describes the signs of Christ’s death: three days of darkness, thunder and lightning for many hours, earthquakes, tempests, geographical changes, and graves opening to yield up the dead. Helaman 15 – The Lord chastens the Nephites because He loves them. Believing Lamanites are solid in the faith, and the Lord will be merciful to them because of this. Section 113 – Answers to questions about Isaiah’s writings. The stem of Jesse is Christ. The rod coming from the stem of Jesse is a servant of Christ, descended from Jesse and from Ephraim. The root of Jesse is a descendant of Jesse and of Joseph, entitled to the priesthood and the keys of the kingdom. Scattered remnants of Zion have a right to the priesthood and are called to return to the Lord. Section 114 – Positions held by those who are not faithful shall be given to others. Section 115 – The Lord names the Church by its present name, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Zion and its stakes are places of defense and refuge for the Saints. The Saints are to build a Temple at Far West. Joseph Smith holds the keys of the kingdom of God on the earth. Section 116 – Adam-Ondi-Ahman is Spring Hill, Missouri.

Read this on 7/31. Helaman 4 – Nephite dissenters join forces with the Lamanites and stir up war. They succeed in taking Zarahemla and all the Nephite territory in the land southward. The Nephites were defeated because of their wickedness, mostly pride and lack of charity. Moronihah, Nephi, and Lehi preach. The repentant prosper. The Nephites regain half of their territory. The Church dwindles and the Nephites are weakened. Helaman 5 – Nephi passes the judgment seat to Cezoram and devotes himself to preaching along with Lehi. Nephi and Lehi were told by their father that their names were chosen to invite them to emulate their namesakes, and he urged them to remember Christ as the foundation and bedrock. The brothers remember the words of their father, and bring many to repentance. They are captured by Lamanites and placed in the same prison Ammon and his brothers were put in by the servants of Limhi. They are starved. Their captors come to slay them, but they are encircled by fire and protected. The prison walls shake and there is a cloud of darkness. A still voice of perfect mildness from above commands repentance. The walls shake again, and the voice repeats its message. The walls shake for the third time and the voice again repeats its message. The walls shake yet again. Aminadab, a Nephite dissenter, sees the faces of Nephi and Lehi shining through the darkness and calls everyone’s attention to this (about 300 people are involved in this event). Aminadab tells the Lamanites they must repent and pray. The darkness disperses and all are encircled by fire. The Holy Ghost enters their hearts, and they go forth and minister. Helaman 6 – The Lamanites are more righteous than the Nephites and minister to them. The Nephites repent. There is an era of peace and plenty for both groups. The land south is called Lehi, the land north is called Mulek. Cezoram is murdered while on the judgment seat, and his son who succeeds him is also murdered. The people grow wicked again (yet again, the problem stems from pride and material greed), and begin to murder, rob, and plunder to get gain. The Lamanites seek to destroy the Gadiantons, while many Nephites have joined with the Gadiantons, have taken their secret oath, and have made the covenants that Alma prohibited his son from revealing. These oaths and covenants were put into Gadianton’s heart by Satan (I wonder if these are the same that Cain and later Lamech were involved in?). The Spirit of the Lord begins to withdraw from the Nephites and pour out on the Lamanites. The Gadiantons take over the Nephite government. Helaman 7 – Nephi is rejected in the land northward and returns home. He grieves over the evil that has taken over his people. He prays on his garden tower, and a crowd gathers. He calls on the people to repent or perish. Helaman 8 – Corrupt judges, who are Gadiantons, are angered by Nephi’s preaching and stir up anger against him. Some people speak in his favor, while those opposed to him fear to attack him. He reviews the history of prophets testifying of Christ. By inspiration, he declares that chief judge Seezoram has been murdered by his brother and that both are Gadiantons. Helaman 9 – Messengers find Seezoram dead. They are initially blamed for the killing, but are exonerated. Nephi is accused of conspiracy to commit the murder. By inspiration, he identifies Seantum as the killer, and Seantum confesses. Nephi is freed, and some accept him as a prophet. Section 109 – The dedicatory prayer for the Kirtland Temple. Section 110 – Jehovah appears in glory and accepts the Kirtland Temple as His house. Moses, Elias, and Elijah appear in turn and commit the keys of their dispensations. Section 111 – The Lord looks to the temporal needs of His servants. He will deal mercifully with Zion and arrange all things for the good of His servants. Section 112 – The Twelve are to send the Gospel and raise a warning voice to all nations and people. The Twelve are to take up their cross, follow Jesus, and feed His sheep. Those who receive the First Presidency receive the Lord. Darkness (apparently speaking of the spiritual) covers the earth, and only believers who are baptized shall be saved. The First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve hold the keys of the dispensation of the fulness of times.

Read this on 7/31. Alma 61 – Pahoran deals with General Moroni’s letter in an impressively patient and loving fashion, sympathizing with his anger, then explaining to him about the problem with the king-men (of which General Moroni was unaware). The king-men have taken over and formed an alliance with the Lamanites. Pahoran requests military aid to handle the rebellion. Alma 62 – General Moroni promptly takes part of the army and recruits more while en route to aid Pahoran. In the land of Gideon, the men of King Pachus are captured, and Pachus is killed. Pahoran is restored to the judgment seat. Those king-men who will not defend their country are executed. Pahoran and General Moroni send men and supplies to the rest of the army, headed by Lehi and Teancum. Nephihah is retaken without bloodshed. More Lamanites join the people of Ammon. Teancum kills Ammoron, and is himself killed. The Lamanites are driven from Nephite territory and peace comes. General Moroni gives command of the army to his son Moronihah and retires. Helaman returns to the ministry and the Church is again organized. Helaman dies. Alma 63 – Helaman’s brother Shiblon takes custody of the records and other sacred things. A large number of Nephites go to the land northward. Hagoth builds ships that go northward from the west coast. Shiblon dies, and his nephew, Helaman Jr., takes custody of the sacred things. Dissenters stir up the Lamanites, who attack the army of Moronihah and are defeated. Helaman 1 – Pahoran dies. There is contention among his sons for the judgment seat, and the people choose Pahoran Jr. His brother Pacumeni accepts the decision of the people, but their brother Paanchi does not, and winds up sentenced to death for attempting to incite a revolt. Kishkumen kills Pahoran Jr. The people choose Pacumeni to succeed his brother. Coriantumr (a Nephite dissenter) leads the Lamanites against the Nephites. His army takes Zarahemla, and Pacumeni is killed. Moronihah’s army defeats the Lamanites and retakes Zarahemla. Coriantumr is killed. Helaman 2 – Helaman is chosen chief judge by the voice of the people. The Gadianton robbers are introduced as Gadianton takes control of Kishkumen’s band of followers. A servant of Helaman learns by espionage of a plot to kill Helaman, and kills Kishkumen. Gadianton’s band flees to the wilderness. Helaman 3 – Contention and dissensions grow among the Nephites. Many migrate to the land northward. Since there is little timber, they build houses of concrete, and they keep many records. Helaman fathers sons, whom he names Nephi and Lehi. Peace comes to the land, except for the activities of the Gadianton band. Thousands join the Church. The people prosper. Pride grows in the Church. Helaman dies and his son Nephi becomes chief judge. Section 105 – Zion will be built by conformity to celestial law. The redemption of Zion will be delayed for a short time due to transgression. The Lord will fight Zion’s battles. The Saints are to be wise and not boast of mighty works. Lands in Jackson and neighboring counties are to be purchased. The elders are to receive endowment in the Kirtland Temple (note that this is not the full endowment as we now know it, which was not given until 1842 in Nauvoo). Saints who are both called and chosen will be sanctified. The Saints are to lift the ensign of peace to the world. Section 106 – Warren Cowdery is called as a local presiding officer. The Second Coming shall not catch the children of light unaware as would a thief in the night. Faithful service brings great blessings. Section 107 – An explanation is given of the powers and keys of the Melchizedek and Aaronic priesthoods. The First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve, and the Seventy are presiding quorums and must make decisions in unity and righteousness. There is discussion of the patriarchal order from Adam down to Noah and of the council at Adam-Ondi-Ahman. The Twelve are to set the officers of the Church in order. Bishops are common judges in Israel. The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve make up the highest court in the Church. Priesthood presidents govern their respective quorums. Section 108 – Lyman Sherman is forgiven of his sins and is to be numbered with the leading elders of the Church. He is called to preach the Gospel and strengthen his brethren.

Read this on 7/31. Alma 55 – General Moroni refuses Ammoron’s demands and will not allow him to gain more power. The Lamanite guards are enticed to become drunk. General Moroni arms the prisoners being held in the city of Gid, which enables the Nephites to take that city without bloodshed (General Moroni wishes to avoid bloodshed if he can). The Lamanite guards are captured and the Nephite prisoners freed. Many of the Nephites join the army. Gid is fortified, again using prisoners, followed by Bountiful. Alma 56 – Helaman writes to General Moroni reporting on his activities. He praises his 2000 young soldiers, calling them his sons. Helaman’s army joins that of Antipus. More men and supplies arrive. The Lamanites hold their ground. Antipus and Helaman succeed in luring the Lamanites into a position between the two armies. Helaman’s young soldiers, calling him Father, bear their testimonies to him and say they do not doubt their mothers’ knowledge of these things. Antipus is killed. Helaman’s 2000 all survive the battle. Lamanite prisoners are sent to Zarahemla. Alma 57 – Ammoron demands that Lamanite prisoners be returned, and rejects Helaman’s proposal of a prisoner exchange. Helaman’s forces capture the city of Antiparah, then besiege and take the city of Cumeni. More prisoners are sent to Zarahemla, and another 60 sons of the people of Ammon arrive to join Helaman’s army. The Nephite army defends the city Cumeni, with 200 of Helaman’s young soldiers wounded, but none killed. Helaman attributes their preservation and their fighting ability to their faith. Gid reports an uprising among the Lamanite prisoners that resulted in many of them being killed, while the rest escape. Alma 58 – Helaman, Gid, and Teomner devise a successful stratagem to take the city of Manti. The Lamanites withdraw. The sons of the people of Ammon are preserved. The army is having problems obtaining needed supplies. Alma 59 – General Moroni seeks aid for Helaman’s army from Pahoran. The Lamanites take the city of Nephihah. General Moroni is angered by the apparent indifference of the government to the needs of the army. Alma 60 – General Moroni sends an angry letter to Pahoran complaining about the army being neglected. The Lord suffers the righteous to be slain that his judgment and justice may come upon the wicked. Moroni expresses concern that traitors have taken over the government, then says that if help is not forthcoming, he will consider it necessary to “cleanse the inward vessel” by leading an insurrection of those seeking freedom. Section 101 – The Saints are chastened and afflicted because of transgression. The Lord’s indignation will fall on the nations, while His people will be gathered and comforted. Zion and stakes will be established. Life in the Millennium is described. The Saints will be blessed and rewarded then. The parable of the nobleman and the twelve olive trees is given. The Saints are to continue gathering. The Constitution of the United States was established by the Lord. The Saints are to petition for the redress of grievances as did the woman in the parable of the unjust judge. Section 102 – A high council is appointed to settle difficulties. The president gives the decision of the council. Procedures for the hearing and appealing of cases are set forth. Section 103 – The Lord explains why He permitted the persecutions in Jackson County (as chastening for transgression). The Saints will prevail if they keep the commandments. Zion is to be redeemed by power, and the Lord will go before His people. The Saints are to gather to Zion. Those who lay down their lives will find them again. Zion’s Camp is organized and promised they will be victorious if they are faithful. Section 104 – Saints transgressing against the United Order will be cursed. The Lord provides for His Saints in His way. Gospel law governs the care of the poor. Stewardships and blessings of various individuals are given. Kirtland and Jackson County are to operate separate United Orders. A sacred treasury of the Lord is set up for the printing of the Scriptures. The general treasury of the United Order is to be operated by common consent. All in the United Order are to pay their debts. The Lord will deliver them from financial bondage.

Read this on 7/31. From here, no further commentary on the Pearl of Great Price, since at least for now, I think I’ve said everything useful there is for me to say about that volume. Alma 49 – Lamanite attacks on the fortified cities of Ammonihah and Noah fail. Amalickiah’s sole interest is getting his way, with the well-being of his people not mattering to him. Amalickiah curses God and vows to drink General Moroni’s blood. Helaman and his brothers continue to strengthen the Church. Alma 50 - General Moroni continues to prepare for war by fortifying cities and borders. Many new cities are built. There are a few years of peace. The lands of Lehi and Morianton contend over borders. Morianton abuses a servant, who flees to General Moroni and tells him of Morianton’s plans to take possession of the land northward. Teancum’s army defeats Morianton’s, and Morianton is killed. Peace is established between combatants. Nephihah dies and his son Pahoran succeeds him as chief judge. Alma 51 – The king-men arise. The people decide that rather than have a king, they will retain the current system of government and the associated freedom. Amalickiah is again stirring up the Lamanites to war. General Moroni compels the king-men to defend their country against attacking Lamanites or be executed. The Lamanites capture many fortified cities. Teancum repels a Lamanite invasion, and kills Amalickiah by sneaking into his tent while the Lamanites are asleep. Alma 52 – The Lamanites retreat. Amalickiah’s brother, Ammoron, succeeds his brother as king. General Moroni, with Teancum and Lehi, leads the Nephites to win the war against the Lamanites. The city of Mulek is retaken and Jacob the Lamanite (the leader of the army holding the city of Mulek) is killed. Alma 53 – Lamanite prisoners are put to work fortifying the city of Bountiful. Dissension among the Nephites leads to victories for the Lamanites. Helaman takes command of 2000 young men from among the sons of the people of Ammon, who have not entered the covenant of non-violence that their parents had made. Alma 54 – Ammoron and General Moroni attempt to negotiate a prisoner exchange. General Moroni demands that the Lamanites withdraw and cease their attacks. Ammoron demands that the Nephites surrender and become his subjects. Section 97 – Many of the Saints in Jackson County are blessed for their faithfulness. Parley Pratt is commended for his labor in the school. Those who observe their covenants are accepted by the Lord. A house is to be built where the pure in heart shall see God. Zion is the pure in heart, and will escape God’s scourge if faithful. Section 98 – The afflictions of the Saints are for their good. The Saints are to befriend the Constitutional law of the land and support candidates for public office who are honest, wise, and good. They are to forsake all evil, cleave to all good, and live by every word from the mouth of God. Those who lay down their lives in the Lord’s cause shall have eternal life. We are to renounce war and proclaim peace. The Saints in Kirtland are reproved and commanded to repent. Laws governing persecutions and afflictions are revealed. War is justified only when the Lord commands it. The Saints are to forgive their enemies, who can escape the Lord’s vengeance by repenting. Section 99 – John Murdock is called as a missionary. Those who receive the missionaries receive the Lord and shall obtain mercy. Section 100 – Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon are to preach the Gospel. What they are to say will be given to them at the time they need it. Sidney Rigdon is to be spokesman, while Joseph Smith is to be revelator and mighty in testimony. The Lord will raise up a pure people. The obedient shall be saved.

Read this on 7/30. Alma 43 – Alma and his sons preach. The Zoramites and other dissenters become Lamanites. The Lamanites go to war against the Nephites. General Moroni equips the Nephites with armor. Alma learns the Lamanites’ planned strategy by revelation. The Nephites defend themselves and surround the Lamanites. Alma 44 – General Moroni offers the Lamanites an opportunity to avoid destruction by covenanting peace. Some Lamanites accept this offer, make the covenant, and are let go. The majority follow their leader, Zerahemnah, who refuses the covenant. The Nephites defeat the Lamanites. Alma 45 – Helaman declares his belief in his father’s teachings and promises to whole-heartedly keep the commandments. Alma prophesies to Helaman of the final end of the Nephites, requiring him to keep this prophecy secret until its fulfillment. Alma blesses his sons. He blesses the land for the sake of the righteous, but curses it for the sake of the wicked. He departs and is never seen again (it is suggested that he was translated as Moses was). Dissension and pride spread in the Church. Alma 46 – Amalickiah conspires to be king. General Moroni raises the Title of Liberty and rallies the people to defend their rights and their religion. Believers are called Christians by those outside the Church. This is meant with contempt, but the believers happily take that name. The people covenant to be destroyed if they fall into transgression. A remnant of the house of Joseph is to be preserved. Amalickiah and his followers depart to the land of Nephi. General Moroni intercepts this group. Amalickiah and a few others manage to escape. The rest are taken back and given the choice of covenanting to support the cause of freedom or be killed (presumably for treason), and nearly all make the covenant. There are a few years of peace. Alma 47 – Amalickiah schemes, betrays, and kills to become king of the Lamanites. Nephite dissenters are more wicked and fierce than those originally Lamanites. Alma 48 – Amalickiah stirs up trouble between the Lamanites and Nephites. General Moroni prepares the people to defend themselves. General Moroni is a mighty man of God, rejoicing in liberty and freedom. Helaman and his brothers are preaching and baptizing. The Nephites are reluctant to fight, but accept the necessity. Section 93 – What the Lord says to one, He says to all. The faithful shall see the Lord and receive the fulness of the glory of the Father, going from grace to grace as Christ did. Those begotten through Christ are the Church of the Firstborn. Men may receive the fulness of all truth through obedience as Christ did. Man was in the beginning with God. The elements are eternal. Men may receive a fulness of joy in the resurrection. The glory of God is intelligence. Children are innocent because of the redemption of Christ. The leaders of the church are commanded to set their families in order. Section 94 – A house for the work of the Presidency and a printing house are to be built. Certain inheritances are assigned. Section 95 – The Saints are chastened for failure to build the Temple. The Lord desires to use His house to endow the people of the Church with power from on high. This house is to be dedicated for worship and the school of the apostles. Section 96 – The Kirtland Stake is to be strengthened. The bishop is to divide inheritances, and John Johnson is to be received into the United Order. JS-History – At each milestone of the Restoration, persecutions grow as Satan fights against the true Gospel. Articles of Faith – Helpful to explain basics of the Gospel to non-members.

Read this on 7/30. Alma 37 – Alma passes custody of the records to his son Helaman. Scriptures are preserved to bring souls to salvation. Keeping the commandments is necessary to gain God’s protection and to have a claim to His promises. The Jaredites were destroyed for wickedness and refusal to repent. Their oaths and covenants are to be kept secret. Prophets were murdered for preaching to the Jaredites. We are to counsel with the Lord in all things. Alma discusses the Liahona, saying it is a type of the words of Christ. Alma 38 – Alma’s commandments to his son Shiblon. Alma praises Shiblon’s faithfulness and his patience in persecution. Christ is the only means of salvation, the light and life of the world, and the word of truth and righteousness. We are to bridle our passions and be diligent and humble. Alma 39 – Alma’s commandments to his son Corianton. Alma reprimands Corianton for pride, sexual sin, and failing to fulfill his duties as a missionary. Sexual sin is abominable to God above all else except shedding innocent blood or denying the Holy Ghost. Alma commands his son to repent. The Zoramites, seeing Corianton’s behavior, would not believe his preaching of the Gospel. Alma tells Corianton to turn to the Lord and do not seek the things of the world (good advice for all). He speaks of Christ and redemption. Alma 40 – Christ brings to pass resurrection for all. Between death and resurrection, the righteous go to paradise while the wicked go to spirit prison (outer darkness). All will be restored to its proper and perfect state at resurrection. Nothing unclean can inherit the kingdom of God. Alma 41 – At Judgment, those who do good will be restored to that which is good, and those who do evil works shall have those works restored to them for evil. Wickedness never was happiness. Those in a carnal state are without God and have gone contrary to His nature. Restoration is according to the nature of the person as developed during mortality. Alma 42 – Mortality is a probationary state, and the time to repent. The Fall brought both temporal and spiritual death. Redemption comes through repentance. God brings about His purposes, salvation and redemption, by the Atonement. Mercy is granted for repentance, while the unrepentant are subject to God’s justice. Section 89 – The Word of Wisdom. We are told what we should not be consumed and given guidance on a healthy diet. Obedience brings health, wisdom, knowledge, and protection from the destroying angel. Section 90 – The keys of the kingdom are committed to the Church through the Prophet Joseph Smith. The First Presidency is called and instructed to set the Church in order. The Gospel is to be preached to all nations and people in their own tongue. Counsel is given to various individuals to walk uprightly and serve in the kingdom. Section 91 – The Apocrypha (I presume this, in this case, to mean those items that appear in the Catholic Bible but not in the Protestant canon) are mostly translated correctly, but there are some interpolations by man. It is not needful for the Apocrypha to be included in the translation of the Bible. This material is beneficial to those enlightened by the Spirit. Section 92 – Frederick G. Williams is to be received into the United Order. Abraham 5 – Creation is brought to pass according to the plans made in the previous chapter. Adam and Eve are created and married, and Adam names the animals. JS-Matthew – Jesus tells the disciples about the destruction of Jerusalem, the Second Coming, and the destruction of the wicked.

Read this on 7/30. Alma 31 – Alma goes on a mission to the Zoramites, who are apostate. They worship with set prayers (and only speak of God on the Sabbath, in their church services), deny Christ, do not keep the commandments, and do not pray daily. Alma laments their apostasy. The Lord provides, and all afflictions are swallowed up in the joy of Christ. Alma 32 – The poor have been cast out of the synagogue. Alma praises them for humility and explains that worship should not be confined to one day a week. Faith is not knowledge, but hope for that which is not seen which is true. He gives a beautiful discourse on faith as a seed to be planted and nourished. Alma 33 – Alma cites Zenos’ teaching that we should pray and worship in all places. God’s judgments are turned away because of the Son. He cites Zenock’s teaching that mercy is bestowed because of the Son. He refers to the brass serpent incident (see Deuteronomy 18:15) and explains that the brass serpent was a type of Christ. Alma 34 – Amulek is speaking. He testifies of Christ and the Atonement. The Law of Moses points toward Christ. The plan of redemption depends on faith and repentance. We are to pray over all things, but prayer is only effective if we have charity. This life is the time to repent. We are warned to not procrastinate, but work out our salvation. Alma 35 – The missionaries go to Jershom, with the converts they made following them. The Zoramites try to convince the people of Ammon to expel the converts, but the people of Ammon welcome them. The Zoramites stir up the Lamanites, hoping to start a war. The people of Ammon move to Melek to make room in Jershom for the army. War begins, and the missionaries go home to Zarahemla. Alma 36 – Alma’s commandments to his son Helaman. Alma testifies of his conversion by an angel. He tells of suffering the pains of a damned soul, and testifies he was born of God after calling on Jesus. He speaks of the joy that filled his soul and of the angels he saw praising God. His converts also experienced these things. Those who keep the commandments of God prosper, those who do not will be cut off from God’s presence. Section 85 – Inheritances in Zion are to be received by consecration and given by one mighty and strong (the imagery used in this section suggested Christ to me). Section 86 – The parable of the wheat and tares is interpreted (note that the JST of this parable somewhat revises the sequence of events). Priesthood blessings will come to the lawful heirs. Section 87 – Joseph Smith’s prophecy of the Civil War, with mention of events that seem to fit later wars better. Great calamities are to come upon the inhabitants of the earth. Section 88 – The Comforter and the promise of eternal life are received by faithful Saints. All things are controlled and governed by the light of Christ. What law men obey determines what kingdom they will go to. God gives law unto all things. Men shall comprehend even God. The parable of the servants in the field is given. Those who draw near to the Lord shall see His face. We are to sanctify ourselves and teach each other the doctrines of the kingdom. All who have been warned are to warn their neighbors. Signs, upheavals, and angels prepare for Christ’s coming. Angelic trumps will call the dead forth in order, and proclaim major events: the Restoration, the fall of Babylon, and the final battle at the end of the Millennium. We are to seek learning, establish the House of God, and clothe ourselves with charity. The order of the School of the Prophets is set forth. Abraham 3 – Abraham receives an astronomy lesson via the Urim and Thummim, and learns about the relationship between the Lord’s time and man’s. He is taught of the eternal nature of spirits, the pre-mortal life, the Great Council, Lucifer’s rebellion, and Creation. Abraham 4 – The Gods plan Creation.

Read this on 7/29. Alma 25 – The Lamanites stop attacking the ANLs, instead attacking Zarahemla. The people of Ammonihah are destroyed. Nearly all the seed of Amulon and his fellow priests of Noah are killed. The remaining few take control of the Lamanites and put those who believe in the Gospel to death by fire. The Lamanites are angered and begin hunting and killing the Amulonites. Their deaths and their scattering fulfill Abinadi’s prophecy. Lamanite converts join the ANLs. Alma 26 – Ammon praises God, attributing missionary success and his own strength to God. God strengthens and gives knowledge to the faithful. By faith, one person’s efforts can convert many. God is all-knowing and all-powerful. Alma 27 – Amalekites stir up anger against ANLs again and attack them. The Lord commands Ammon to take the ANLs to Zarahemla. Ammon and his brothers meet Alma, whose joy exceeds his strength. The Nephite people welcome the ANLs, give them the land of Jershon to live in, and arrange their armies to protect them. The ANLs become known as the people of Ammon. Alma 28 – The Nephites win a major battle against the Lamanites, in which tens of thousands die. The wicked face endless woe, while the righteous have never-ending happiness. Alma 29 – Alma wishes he were an angel, with a voice to shake the earth and cry repentance to all, but describes this wish as sin, since he says he should be content with what God has set him to do. All nations will be granted teachers from among their own. Alma is joyful over the successes of the missionaries. Alma 30 – Korihor preaches there will be no Christ, and that there is no God or law. He is brought to Ammon. Korihor is exiled, goes to the land of Gideon, and is taken to their high priest, Giddonah. Korihor claims the priests keep the people in bondage by teaching the Gospel and claims the priests are being supported by taxing the people. He is sent to Alma and the chief judge. Alma refutes Korihor’s allegations of priestcraft and bears his testimony. Korihor demands a sign. At Alma’s request, Korihor is struck dumb. He admits (in writing) to having been deceived by Satan. Remaining mute, he goes from house to house begging. He goes among the Zoramites, and ends up being trampled to death. Section 81 – The keys of the kingdom are held by the First Presidency. The faithful will have eternal life. Section 82 – Much is required of those to whom much has been given. Darkness reigns in the world. The Lord is bound when we obey Him. Zion must grow and become more holy and beautiful. We are to seek the interests of our neighbors. Section 83 – Women and children have claim on their husbands/fathers for support. Widows and orphans have claim on the Church. Section 84 – New Jerusalem and the Temple are to be built in Missouri. The responsibilities of the greater and lesser priesthood are described. Eternal life comes via the oath and covenant of the priesthood. The Spirit of Christ enlightens man. The world lies in sin. The Saints must testify and preach. The elders on missions are to go forth without purse or scrip and the Lord will provide their needs. There will be plagues and cursings on those who reject the Gospel. All are to stand in their own office and labor in their own calling. The Lord’s servants are to proclaim the abomination of desolation in the last days. Abraham 1 – Abraham seeks the priesthood. Idolaters sacrifice their children. The priest of Pharaoh seeks to kill Abraham, who is rescued by God. The Lord smites the priest of Pharaoh and destroys the altar of Elkenah. There is a famine in Chaldea, and Abraham’s father Terah repents. Abraham 2 – Abraham’s brother Haran (father of Lot) dies. Abraham marries Sarah, and his brother Nahor marries Haran’s daughter Milcah. Abraham takes his family out of Chaldea to Canaan. Terah returns to idolatry and chooses to stay in the land of Haran. Jehovah appears to Abraham and Lot. All Gospel blessings are promised to Abraham’s seed. They travel to Canaan. Abraham builds an altar and prays that his father’s house will be spared from the famine. They continue on to Egypt.