Seanette

Government health care: the efficiency of the Postal Service and the compassion of the IRS.

Current at last! Feels SO good to not have that backlog, and I really do enjoy the reading when I’m feeling human. Mosiah 18 – Alma teaches the words of Abinadi in private, while hiding from the king (who apparently still wants to kill him). He sets forth the baptismal covenant, and baptizes those who wish to enter that covenant at the waters of Mormon. He ordains one priest for every fifty people, commanding them to preach only repentance and faith. There is to be no contention among them. He commands that they keep the Sabbath. The priests are to labor for their own support. Members are to impart of their substance to the needy. The members take care of each others’ needs, both temporal and spiritual. The group flees from King Noah into the wilderness. Mosiah 19 – Gideon tries to slay King Noah. The Lamanites invade. When his people are fleeing, King Noah tells the men to leave the women and children behind so the men can get away. Noah’s righteous son, Limhi, is made king, but the Lamanites are firmly in control of their captives and take half of all they possess each year. Noah is killed by fire, the priests flee deeper into the wilderness. Mosiah 20 – Noah’s priests abduct twenty-four daughters of the Lamanites, who blame the people of Limhi. King Limhi investigates the matter, and Gideon reminds him of his father’s priests. King Limhi agrees with Gideon, and gives this information to the Lamanite king, who promises that the Lamanites will not kill Limhi’s people. Mosiah 21 – The Lamanites abide by their king’s oath, but torment their captives in various ways. An attempted rebellion fails. After this, Limhi’s people finally humble themselves and cry out to God. Because of their iniquities, God is slow to respond, but does. Ammon finds the people of Limhi, and is told of the discovery of a desolate area covered with bones and of the records that were found (the previously discussed twenty-four plates). Limhi and his people desire baptism, but there is no one there with authority. Mosiah 22 – Limhi’s people cause their Lamanite guards to become too drunk to do their job and escape to Zarahemla, where they unite with the people of Mosiah. Mosiah 23 – Alma’s group finds a place to settle and industriously build and farm. Alma is high priest. His people want him to be king, but he refuses and tells them there should not be a king, reminding them of Noah’s reign. They prosper, and call their land Helam. Amulon, leader of the priests of Noah, forms an alliance with the Lamanites. The Lamanites take the land of Helam captive. Section 57 – The City of Zion and the Temple are to be built at Independence, Missouri. The Saints are to purchase lands and receive inheritances there. Sidney Gilbert is to establish a store there. W. W. Phelps is to be the printer for the Church, with Oliver Cowdery selecting and editing materials to be published. Section 58 – After tribulation come blessings. Bishops are judges in Israel. The Saints are to obey the laws of the land. We should not need to be commanded in all things, but should be anxiously engaged in doing good by our own free will. The truly repentant will confess and forsake their sins. The Saints are to gather in Missouri and purchase inheritances. The Gospel must be preached to all. Section 59 – The faithful are blessed. We are to love God, serve Him, and keep His commandments. We are to honor the Sabbath, and will receive spiritual and temporal rewards for doing so. The righteous are promised peace and eternal life. Section 60 – The Gospel is to be preached. We are told not to idle away our time or bury our talents. Abraham 5 – Creation is carried out. JS-Matthew – Again, JST of Matthew 24. Christ tells the disciples about the pending destruction of Jerusalem and about the Second Coming (see D&C 45 for more on this).

I did like his line about "Can I buy Europe on pump 4?"

I’m in the home stretch on catching up, since I’m up to material that’s only one day behind schedule! It’s still 7/15, and I’m chugging along. Mosiah 12 – Abinadi is imprisoned for continuing to prophesy. He is now warning that failing to repent will lead to the destruction of the people and the death of King Noah. The priests claim to be teaching the Law of Moses, but do not keep it themselves, being materially greedy and sexually immoral. Abinadi teaches the first two of the Ten Commandments and states that the priests do not do or teach these things. Mosiah 13 – God’s power protects Abinadi from attack. He teaches the entirety of the Ten Commandments and says the priests are not teaching the people. The priests claim that salvation comes by the Law of Moses. Abinadi tells them the law is a type of what is to come and speaks of the Messiah. Mosiah 14 – Compare Isaiah 53. The Messiah’s sufferings are described. He is the offering for our sins and intercedes for transgressors. Mosiah 15 – Abinadi explains how Christ is both Father and Son. He will bear the transgressions of His people. Prophets are His seed. Abinadi teaches of the resurrection and the innocence of children. He warns against rebellion against God. Mosiah 16 – Abinadi teaches of judgment and redemption. He preaches repentance and resurrection. Mosiah 17 – King Noah sentences Abinadi to death. Alma, one of the priests, believes Abinadi’s words and records them. Alma tries to plead for Abinadi’s release, and is cast out for doing so. King Noah sends servants to kill Alma, who escapes. Abinadi is offered his life if he recalls his words, but he refuses. King Noah almost releases Abinadi, but the priests talk him into carrying out the death sentence. Abinadi is burned to death, prophesying disease and death by fire to his killers. Section 53 – Sidney Gilbert is to be ordained an elder and serve as bishop’s agent. Section 54 – The Saints must keep their covenants to obtain God’s mercy and be patient in tribulation. Section 55 – W. W. Phelps is to be ordained an elder and preach the Gospel. He is to print, select, and write books for children in the church schools. He is also to travel to Missouri. Section 56 – The Saints must follow God and keep His commandments to be saved. The disobedient will be cast off. The rich are to help the poor. The poor are to be humble and contrite, and work for their support. The poor who are pure in heart are blessed. Abraham 3-4 – Abraham learns about Kolob and about God’s time. He learns that spirits are eternal and is shown the pre-mortal Council in Heaven and Lucifer’s rebellion. The Gods plan the Creation.

Still feeling a major motivation surge, still writing this on 7/15. Must remember to take breathers for things like snacks. (smile) Mosiah 6 – King Benjamin records the names of those entering into the covenant (all who are old enough to be accountable!) and appoints priests to teach them. He consecrates Mosiah as king, retires from ruling, and dies three years later. King Mosiah follows his father’s example of righteousness and laboring for his own support (if only current government would do that!). There are three years of peace. Mosiah 7 – King Mosiah is persuaded to send a group to search for past exploration parties, with Ammon as their leader. They arrive after forty days of wandering at the land of Lehi-Nephi, where Ammon is captured and imprisoned by the king’s soldiers. When he is brought before King Limhi, he identifies himself as being from Zarahemla, to the king’s happiness. The rest of Ammon’s group are brought into the city. Limhi tells Ammon his people are in bondage to the Lamanites, and says this is a result of transgression. He tells Ammon that a prophet was killed by his people. Mosiah 8 – Ammon teaches the people of Limhi. He is brought the twenty-four Jaredite plates and asked if he can translate them. He explains that Mosiah is the seer, and authorized to use the interpreters (probably the Urim and Thummim) to translate. Limhi asks if a seer is greater than a prophet, and Ammon explains that a seer is a prophet and revelator, and holds the greatest gift of God a mortal man can have. Mosiah 9 – The record of Zeniff and his people begins here, and continues through Chapter 22. Zeniff recounts his group’s journey and afflictions, and says his group was slow to remember God. They arrive at what will be the land of Lehi-Nephi and reach an agreement with the Lamanite king to be allowed to settle. They begin farming. The Lamanites are lazy and idolatrous, and seek to obtain the fruits of Zeniff’s group’s labors. King Laman stirs up his people against Zeniff’s. Mosiah 10 – King Laman dies. Zeniff’s group continue to be industrious. Zeniff has at some point become king among his people. The false traditions handed down among the Lamanites lead to wickedness. The Lamanites are wild and ferocious. Zeniff passes the crown to his son Noah. Mosiah 11 – King Noah is wicked and immoral, leading his people into immorality. He taxes the people 20% of all they have to support himself, his wives and concubines, his priests, and their wives and concubines. King Noah has set aside the priests his father consecrated and appointed priests who share his iniquity. King Noah has lavish buildings constructed, and is a drunkard, leading his people into this as well. The Lamanites, acting as a scourge to remind Noah of God, begin attacking. Abinadi begins prophesying and crying repentance. King Noah seeks to kill Abinadi to shut him up. The people refuse to listen to Abinadi, and King Noah hardens his heart against his words. Section 49 – This section is in response to the teachings of the Shakers, who are near the settlement of the Saints, and there are Saints who were previously Shakers. The day and time of Christ’s return is not known until it happens, at which time there will be unmistakable events seen by all. Repentance, obedience, and receiving ordinances are necessary to salvation. Marriage is ordained of God. Eating meat is permitted. Zion will flourish and the Lamanites blossom before Christ’s return. Section 50 – There are various spiritual phenomena that need to be clarified. Blessings will come to the faithful who endure. Hypocrites and those cut off will be condemned. The Lord invites us to reason together with Him (personal note: I’ve experienced churches that discourage thinking over doctrines and Scripture for oneself). The Gospel is to be preached by the Spirit of truth. What is of God is light. What does not edify is not of God, but of darkness. The faithful will possess all things in due time. The prayers of the purified are answered. Section 51 – Edward Partridge, as bishop, is to regulate stewardships and properties in the United Order. The Saints are to deal honestly and equally. There is to be a bishop’s storehouse to store surplus for the care of the needy. Ohio is a temporary gathering place. Section 52 – The next conference is to be in Missouri. Missionaries are assigned companions and instructed to go two-by-two. They are to teach the words of the apostles and prophets, along with what is given by the Holy Spirit through prayer. The prayerful and contrite are accepted of God. The poor, needy, sick, and afflicted are to be cared for. Abraham 1-2 – Abraham seeks the priesthood. Idolatrous priests try to sacrifice him, but Jehovah rescues him. Abraham leaves Ur for Canaan. He sees Jehovah at Haran. Gospel blessings are promised to his seed, and through them to all people. Abraham continues on to Canaan and from there to Egypt.

Another super-hot day in Sacramento, on 7/15. I’m holed up in the bedroom (coolest room in the place) with books, beverage, computer, and cat, intending to devote the majority of the day to working on catching up on the challenge. I’m even turning off Tweetdeck and Thunderbird between checks. With the goal in sight, I’m having a major motivation surge. Words of Mormon – Mormon inserts explanation here of his abridgement of the plates of Nephi, this explanation bridging between two sets of records. He is about to hand the records he’s responsible for over to his son Moroni. He gives an overview of King Benjamin’s reign and the establishment of peace in the land. Mosiah 1 – King Benjamin teaches his sons the language and the prophecies of their ancestors. Their religion and civilization have been preserved because they have the records of their ancestors. King Benjamin recognizes that he is too old and possibly infirm to continue ruling, so Mosiah (presumably the eldest qualified son) is chosen to be the next king. Mosiah is given custody of the records and other sacred objects. King Benjamin testifies of the truth of the records and commands his sons to seek through them diligently (in other words, study the Scriptures) and keep the commandments of God. King Benjamin calls for the people to be gathered for him to proclaim Mosiah the new king and give the people a name to be known by. Mosiah 2 – King Benjamin’s address covers several chapters. The people gather, organizing by families, all facing the Temple. They offer sacrifices and burnt offerings in gratitude to God. King Benjamin reports to his people on how he has handled his stewardship over them, and is satisfied that he can stand before God with a clear conscience (how many modern government leaders could say that?). He urges the people to serve one another and keep the commandments. He proclaims Mosiah the new king. He warns the people against contentions and transgression, describing the state of transgressors vs. that of the obedient in the world to come. Mosiah 3 – King Benjamin tells the people of Christ’s future coming and ministry. He describes the Atonement, from Gethsemane to the cross. The natural (or fallen) man is an enemy to God and will be until he yields to the enticing of the Holy Spirit and follows Christ. He describes the torments the wicked will suffer. Mosiah 4 – The people believe, are repentant, and cry out for God’s mercy and forgiveness of their sins, which is granted. Faith and the Atonement are the means of salvation. We are to remain humble and faithful and teach our children righteousness. We are to provide for the needy, and do all things in wisdom and order, not running faster than we have strength. Mosiah 5 – The people proclaim their belief in the teachings of King Benjamin. They covenant to obey God and become children of Christ. Christ is the only way to salvation. The people are to remain steadfast. Section 45 – Christ is our advocate with the Father, and the Gospel is the messenger to prepare His way. Enoch and his people were taken by the Lord to Himself. Christ described the signs of His coming on the Mount of Olives (see JS-M, which covers a lot of this section). There will be signs and wonders preceding the Second Coming, including the Restoration and desolating sickness over the land, and resurrection of the dead. Christ will stand on the Mount of Olives and the Jews will see the wounds of His Crucifixion. The Lord will reign during the Millennium. The Prophet Joseph Smith is commanded to begin his translation of the New Testament, and told there are important things for him to learn by doing that work. The Saints are to gather and build the New Jerusalem, to which people from all nations will come. Section 46 – Church meetings are to be conducted as the Holy Spirit guides. Seekers of truth are not to be excluded from meetings. We are told to ask of God and seek the gifts of the Spirit. Church leaders are given power to discern those gifts. Section 47 – John Whitmer is called as a scribe for the Prophet and as Church historian. Section 48 – The Saints in Ohio are to share their lands with other members arriving. The Saints are to purchase lands, build a city, and follow the counsel of presiding officers. Moses 7-8 – Enoch’s ministry. Both the Lord and Enoch weep for the wicked who refuse to heed God. Enoch is shown the future of the world, from his time to the Second Coming. Methuselah (son of Enoch) prophesies, as does his grandson Noah. The wicked reject Noah’s efforts to convince them to repent.

Maybe set a cutoff of "X months since last post" and lock anything older than X?

I'd say if you don't see yourself being happily married to this woman, DO NOT marry her just to please other people who aren't going to be living with the results of that decision.

Personally, my stomach makes it very clear it doesn't like solid input too soon after I get up. Give me half an hour to an hour, and we're good. I've been known to get absorbed enough in something I'm doing that I suddenly realize I've been up for anywhere up to eight hours without having eaten. OTOH, I'm not exactly underweight (sigh).

I doubt I’ll get to day 12 today, but I still have enough steam for this reading (on 7/14). The cat seems to think I’ve done enough, too. He was good about letting me focus on the first two chunks I did today, but has been pretty pesky for this one. Jacob 5 – Zenos’ allegory of the olive trees and the Lord of the vineyard. What really struck me most was that the Lord was ready to give up at several points, but the pleas of His servants persuaded Him to grant additional chances. Jacob 6 – Jacob explains the allegory and urges repentance. Jacob 7 – Sherem preaches against Christ, draws many away with flattering preaching, and seeks a confrontation with Jacob. Sherem has a great deal of worldly learning and talent for speaking. Jacob tells of Divine manifestations he has experienced. Sherem demands a sign and is smitten. The next day, dying, he repudiates his prior teaching and confesses to having been deceived by Satan. He dies, and the people he led astray repent. Brief mention of wars between Nephites and Lamanites (pretty much an ongoing condition in this time period). Jacob, knowing he is near death, passes the records to his son, Enos. Enos – He spends a whole day and into the night praying for remission of his sins, and obtains it by his faith in Christ. He pleads with the Lord on behalf of the Lamanites. The Lord covenants with Enos that the records will be preserved to benefit the Lamanites in the future. The Lamanites at this time are savage and indolent, while the Nephites are industrious farmers. There are many prophets at this time, who must preach and prophesy of harsh things to reach a stiff-necked people. Jarom – He receives the records from his father, Enos. The Nephites keep the Law of Moses while looking forward to Christ. More Lamanite wars. The Nephites prosper. Prophets labor to keep the people on the right path. Jarom passes the plates to his son, Omni. Omni – The records pass from him to his son, Amaron, who tells of the destruction of the more wicked part of the Nephites. Amaron passes the plates to his brother, Chemish, who passes them to his son, Abinadom (who mentions more wars). Abinadom passes the records along to his son, Amaleki, who has more to say than any other contributor in this book. Amaleki tells of Mosiah, who fled the land of Nephi. He and his group found the land of Zarahemla. Mosiah has the brass plates of Laban. The people of Zarahemla had left Jerusalem during the reign of King Zedekiah, and having no Scriptural records, did not know of God. Mosiah taught them his language and the Gospel, and was made king when his group merged with the people of Zarahemla. Mosiah translates an engraved stone that tells of Coriantumr, the last of the Jaredites. Amaleki speaks of King Benjamin succeeding King Mosiah, and says that the new king is righteous, so since Amaleki has no heir, he plans to pass the records to Benjamin. Amaleki exhorts all to come to Christ. He mentions two expeditions to the land of Nephi, one failed, the fate of the other (including Amaleki’s brother) unknown. The plates are now full. Section 41 – Elders are to govern the Church by the spirit of revelation. True disciples receive and keep the law, others will be cast out. Edward Partridge is called as the first bishop in the Church. Section 42 – Another major section of the law of the Church. Elders are to preach, baptize, build the Church, and preach from the Scriptures. They must be called and ordained, to teach and prophesy by the power of the Spirit. The Saints are to abide by the Ten Commandments. The Law of Consecration is set forth. The sick are to be healed by priesthood administrations and by faith. The Scriptures govern the Church and are to be proclaimed to the world. The site of the New Jerusalem and the mysteries of the kingdom to be revealed at the appropriate time. Consecrated properties are to be used to provide for the full-time officers of the Church. Laws regarding major sins and confession are given. Section 43 – Another time when the Lord had to explain to the early Church the line of authority for revelation and doctrine (seems that the Hiram Page affair would have gotten that point across). The Saints are sanctified by acting in holiness before God. The elders are sent forth to cry repentance and prepare the people for Christ’s return. The Lord calls on men not only by voice, but by the forces of nature as well. The Millennium and binding of Satan will come. Section 44 – The elders are to assemble in conference, organize according to the laws of the land, and care for the poor. Moses 5-6 – Adam and Eve begin having and raising children. Adam serves God (presumably Eve does as well). Cain rebels, and is angered when an improper sacrifice is rejected. He covenants with Satan, becomes Perdition, and kills Abel. Wickedness spreads. The Gospel was preached from the beginning of humanity. Adam and his posterity are literate and keep a book of remembrance in a pure and undefiled language. The righteous among Adam’s posterity preach repentance. God speaks to Enoch and calls him as prophet. Enoch preaches. Adam knew the Plan of Salvation, was baptized, and held the priesthood.

Figures I'd have a system no one else has yet described. :) I do my marking with Col-Erase erasable pencil, since they come in a wide range of colors and do erase well if I make a mistake. I have the Seminary Scripture mastery verses boxed in in red pencil (I do plan to learn them, even though I converted too late in life to go to Seminary). I've marked the footnote references by color code (purple for JST references, blue for HEB notes, green for GR notes, yellow for IE notes, orange for OR notes, rose pink for editorial comments, a darker red for BD notes, brown for TG). For me, this works. I've made some marginal notes on cross-references in whatever color makes sense to me at that time.

More headway being made (only four days behind now, since it’s still 7/14). 2 Nephi 32 – The words of Christ tell us all we must do. Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost, thus speak the words of Christ. Nephi is prevented by the Spirit from giving more of God’s word, and mourns the unbelief, wickedness, ignorance, and stiff-neckedness (pride) of men who refuse the knowledge God wants them to have. It is an evil spirit that tells man not to pray, the Lord says all things done unto Him must be done with prayer. 2 Nephi 33 – Many harden their hearts against the Spirit. Nephi states that what he writes is what Christ tells him to write. Jacob 1 – The plates have now been passed to Jacob, who is now narrating. There have been many revelations among his people. Jacob and his brothers labor to bring people to Christ. Nephi anoints king (somewhat confusing in light of 2 Nephi 5, in which Nephi expresses his desire to not have kings among his people and 2 Nephi 10, in which Jacob is told there are to be no kings in the land), and the kings from then forward take the name Nephi when they take the throne. Nephi dies. Jacob discusses the split between Nephites and Lamanites. The Nephites start to grow hard-hearted, and engage in sexual immorality. Jacob 2 – Jacob testifies to the people of their wickedness: seeking for riches for their own pride rather than to do the work of God, and unchastity. Jacob 3 – The pure in heart receive the word of God. At this time in history, the Lamanites are more righteous than the Nephites. Jacob warns against all sin. Jacob 4 – Records are kept so that future generations will know their ancestors and the prophets in the past believed in Christ and worshiped Heavenly Father in Christ’s name. God shows us our weakness to teach us that all that we accomplish is by His grace. Do not seek to counsel the Lord (this concept’s repeated several times through Scripture). The Gospel is the only sure foundation. We should not “look beyond the mark”, past the plainness of God’s Word, to create complexities and loopholes to get out of doing what God says. Section 37 – The Saints are to gather at the Ohio. Section 38 – Christ is the Creator of all. Enoch’s Zion was taken to Him. There will come a time when the wicked will be chained. Christ commands love and charity. We are to treasure up wisdom. Christ instructs that men be called to administer temporal welfare to the needy. We should seek first the riches of eternity and beware of pride. We are to preach the Gospel and warn others . Section 39 – James Covill (who has been a Baptist minister for 40 years) covenants to obey revelation given to him by the Prophet Joseph Smith. He (and all of us) must receive the restored Gospel to receive Christ. Covill is commanded to be baptized into the Church, receive the Holy Spirit, and do God’s work in spreading the Gospel. Section 40 – Covill breaks his covenant due to fear of persecution and the cares of the world, including his position in his church and community. Moses 3-4 – All things were created spiritually before they were created physically. Adam and Eve are created, married, and placed in the Garden of Eden with instructions about which trees to eat from. The animals are named. The fall of Satan is explained (yet more information about him lost to editing and now restored). The Fall of Adam and Eve and their expulsion from the Garden are described. The Fall brings death into the world.

My usual response to this is to cite Deuteronomy 4:2, which says basically the same thing. By the logic most who cite those verses in Revelation use, we'd have to throw out everything after Deuteronomy, including the entire New Testament.

Hopefully, gaining ground today (which is 7/14). I decided to skip Enrichment because that would involve spending quite a bit of time in a car without working AC, and it was over 90 degrees by noon here (predicted highs averaged 103). At least that frees up time for me to get more Scripture study done. 2 Nephi 26 – Nephi sees Christ’s ministry to his descendants. At both Christ’s birth and His Crucifixion, those who reject the prophets will be destroyed. Nephi sees the “golden era” of 4 Nephi and the final destruction of his people. The Spirit of the Lord will not always strive with man (which has me worrying just how bad you have to be or for how long before the Spirit throws up His metaphorical hands and decides you’re a lost cause). The records of Nephi’s people (the Book of Mormon) will come from the dust in the last days. There will be many churches in the last days, and secret combinations (discussed in more detail later on) will flourish. God does not work in darkness or secrecy, and invites all to come to Him. Priestcraft is forbidden. No form of iniquity comes from the Lord (examples include lying to supposedly advance His work). 2 Nephi 27 – Compare Isaiah 29. There will be a period of darkness and apostasy, then the Book of Mormon will come forth (partially sealed). Three Witnesses will see it, as will a few others according to the Lord’s will. The incident involving Professor Anthon and the copied characters is prophesied. While the learned man cannot read the sealed book, the unlearned man (Joseph Smith, who at that time had a rudimentary education) will bring the book forth by the power of God. The God of miracles will show His power. 2 Nephi 28 – Many false churches will contend with one another, while denying God’s power or that He continues to communicate with man. They will teach false doctrines that excuse sin. The “wise” and “learned” will puff themselves up in pride. False churches will stir up anger against that which God calls good, while lulling followers into complacency. Satan will convince many that he doesn’t exist (helped in this, I think, by the omissions from the Bible of much description of his personality, attributes, and strategies. This information has, of course, been restored via modern Scriptures and the JST). God will reveal His truths “line upon line, precept upon precept”, thus His church will adapt as times change and more is made known. Those who seek and receive wisdom will gain more, while those who reject wisdom will lose what they have. 2 Nephi 29 – The Gentiles will reject the Book of Mormon (“A Bible, we have got a Bible, and we need no more Bible”). God knows all nations and refers to the law of witnesses by saying all nations will bring forth Scripture to add to the Scriptures we already have. All nations have been commanded to write the things of God as Scripture, and all Scriptures will eventually be brought together. God speaks of His covenant with Abraham to remember his seed forever. 2 Nephi 30 – Repentant Gentiles become covenant people of the Lord. Unrepentant Jews will be cast off (we can’t coast on ancestry, but must seek our own individual faith and righteousness). Many Lamanites and Jews will receive the Gospel and become “delightsome” (must find out more about that word). God’s work goes to all nations. There will be a division of the people, with the wicked being destroyed. Millennial peace is described. All things will be made known. 2 Nephi 31 – Christ’s baptism sets the example for us in obedience to commandments. Christ Himself did not need baptism to cleanse Him from sin, as we do, but still obeyed the commandment to receive the ordinance. One who denies Christ after receiving the Holy Ghost is in a worse position than someone who never knew Christ at all. We must endure to the end to be saved, feasting on God’s Word (happily, my spiritual appetite has picked back up this week (smile)). There is no way to salvation other than through Christ and obedience. Section 33 – We are in the eleventh hour (see parable of the laborers in the vineyard in Matthew 20). Priestcrafts have led people astray. We are to repent and be baptized, and preach the need for this. Scriptures are given for our instruction. We need to be ready for Christ’s return (see parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25). Section 34 – Believers become sons (and daughters) of God through the Atonement. Preaching the Gospel helps prepare the way for the Second Coming. Section 35 – Signs and miracles come as a result of faith (rather than to generate faith). The Gospel is to be preached. Joseph Smith holds the keys of God’s authority unless he fails to abide in Christ, in which case the keys will be given to another (prophets will not be permitted to lead the Church away from the Lord’s will, or they will lose their place). The elect will see God and hear His voice. Section 36 – Everyone receiving the Gospel is called to preach. Moses 1-2 – Again, this is part of the JST of Genesis. We see in the JST much more detail about who Satan is and how he operates, details that were removed from the present Bible. Moses sees numberless other worlds of our God’s creation. Moses shows us that Satan can be defeated and dismissed by faith and calling on God’s power. Moses is told his records will be edited and information removed by the wicked, to be restored by one like him. Creation.

Yet again, by far the majority of self-identifying evangelicals I have had experience with (and please quit ignoring the experience you are being informed of) are of the "anti-everyone who doesn't believe the way I do" variety and are rather nasty about it. Your more civilized approach is nowhere near a significant fraction of self-identifying evangelicals I have encountered, before my conversion or after, whether or not that person knew me to be LDS.

Funny how few of those I see online or in real life. The Deckerites are MUCH more common, and claim to be the TRUE Christians, with anyone who disagrees with their theology or their approach to evangelism actively working on behalf of Satan. I'd suggest that evangelicals really need to find a way to rein in or disassociate from the Deckerites if you want LDS and other "cultists" (in their terms, this includes Catholics and just about everyone who doesn't agree exactly with their theology) to not cringe at dealing with evangelicals. The Deckerite types have really poisoned the evangelical image in inter-denominational discussion, and they ARE the most vocal and seemingly the most numerous. (Probably because more civilized types like you are busy with Christian service and your own spiritual lives instead of defining yourselves by hate.)

PC, quite frankly, I have never experienced in the fundamentalist end of Protestantism any effort at "reasoned" or "honest" when it comes to discussion of LDS belief. When an Assemblies of God pastor urged me to read "The Godmakers", claiming it to be completely factual, and when I heard similar claims made by Baptist pastors, that didn't exactly impress me with their concern for accuracy. Once I thought over the material I was being presented about Mormons and found out just how distorted and inaccurate it was, I concluded that I couldn't depend on that theological POV to be accurate about anything without verification. That verification, BTW, is how I wound up LDS. Of the various fundamentalists I've interacted with since becoming LDS, maybe 5% or so have any clue about what is really taught in my church. The rest rely on Ed Decker, the Tanners, et. al., and claim the (IMO highly unscriptural) right to decide whether I believe that Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior or not, while accusing me of lying when I state the truth of my faith. Your end of the spectrum really could stand to not be trumpeting that they are the ones who decide who is a Christian. That's up to God, IMO.

And a lot of LDS cringe at dealing with the more fundamentalist end of Protestantism because of similar problems with having preaching rammed down our throats, with a generous dose of "I know better than you do what your church teaches, and it's evil". In my experience the most venomous attacks on other churches do come from the Baptist/Assemblies of God/Pentecostal end of the Protestant spectrum. I've attended various churches fitting that description, BTW, and that's where I was getting anti-Mormon, anti-Catholic, anti-(insert denomination) stuff preached at me from the pulpit and having that literature urged on me.

My husband and I were wondering just how an LDS President would handle Temple attendance around security requirements.

More progress being made, still on 7/13, despite the cat attempting to divert me with excessive cuteness. 2 Nephi 20 – Compare Isaiah 10. According to the chapter summary, the destruction of Assyria is a type of the destruction of the wicked at the Second Coming (I had trouble seeing that linkage). Few will be left after the Second Coming. The remnant of the house of Jacob will return. 2 Nephi 21 – Compare Isaiah 11. The stem of Jesse (Christ) will judge in righteousness. Millennial peace is described – wild animals will be harmless, and animals now predators will cease to hunt others. The Lord will set up an ensign to nations and gather Israel. 2 Nephi 22 – Compare Isaiah 12. All on earth during the Millennium will praise the Lord. 2 Nephi 23 – Compare Isaiah 13. The world will be punished for its evil. The heavens will shake and the earth will move from her place. Babylon (elsewhere equated to the unbelieving world) will be destroyed. 2 Nephi 24 – Compare Isaiah 14. More discussion of the gathering of Israel in the Millennium. Lucifer’s fall is discussed. 2 Nephi 25 – Nephi did not teach his people much about the ways of the Jews, due to their wickedness (he describes their works as being “of darkness”). The words of Isaiah are plain to those with the spirit of prophecy. Nephi speaks more plainly of Israel’s captivity in Babylon and their return from this, their rejection of Christ, His crucifixion and resurrection, another destruction of Jerusalem (probably AD 70) with the Jews being scattered again, and the Restoration. He gives the Messiah’s name as Jesus Christ and states when He will come. Jesus is the only means of salvation. (It may be useful here to remember that “salvation” has two meanings in theological discussions: resurrection, which removes one from Hell, per 2 Nephi 9, or eternal life, meaning to return to live with Heavenly Father, also called exaltation.) We are saved by grace, after all we can do. We cannot save ourselves by our own efforts, the grace of God being required, but salvation does require obedience (not just saying a “sinner’s prayer” and continuing to live the same lifestyle). The Lord promises Nephi that his records will be preserved and passed down according to God’s will. Christ will be the fulfillment of the Law of Moses, and the Nephites will keep that law until He comes. Prophets preach of Christ and strive to bring others to Him. Section 29 – What we ask in faith, God will give (if it’s righteous and in keeping with His plan and purpose). The elect are to be gathered. The Millennium begins at Christ’s return. The 12 Apostles of the Old World (during Christ’s mortal ministry) will judge Israel. Signs of the Second Coming are detailed, including plagues. The great and abominable church will be cast down. After the Millennium, there will be a new heaven and earth. The Final Judgment is discussed. All things are spiritual to Christ, nothing is strictly temporal. We’re told more about the rebellion of Lucifer and the 1/3 who chose to follow him. Temptation is necessary for exercise of agency. We must repent to be redeemed. Small children cannot sin. Section 30 – David Whitmer is chastised for fearing man and caring more about temporal matters than the spiritual. Peter Whitmer and Oliver Cowdery are sent on a mission to the Lamanites. John Whitmer is called to preach. Section 31 – Thomas Marsh is called on a mission and assured of his family’s welfare in his absence. He is counseled to pray always, be patient, and be faithful. Section 32 – Parley Pratt and Ziba Peterson are called to the mission to the Lamanites mentioned in Section 30. They are counseled to pray for greater understanding of Scripture. JS-History – Joseph Smith tells of his early life, the First Vision, the persecutions he faces, his interviews with Moroni, obtaining the plates on which the Book of Mormon is written, and translating that book. Oliver Cowdery tells of ordination to the priesthood. (On a personal note, I do wish the part written by Cowdery were not in such tiny print!) I consider it of interest that had Martin Luther had his way, the Protestant Bible would not have included the Book of James, which would have omitted the crucial verse that led to the First Vision and all that followed. I saw a pattern of persecutions increasing at every step forward in the Restoration. Articles of Faith – Books have been written commenting on these 13 verses, and much better than I could hope to, so I won’t try. I’d suggest this passage as a very good summary of the basics of LDS doctrine. There are important items (such as Temple work) not covered in this passage, but it’s a good introduction.

So you do not believe that events in the Scriptures are historical?

You can have the heat!

Gaining ground on catching up. Writing this on 7/13, now only six days behind (smile). 2 Nephi 14 – Compare Isaiah 4. A shortage of suitable husbands is foretold (seven women to one man). Zion will be cleansed, beautified, and made a refuge. 2 Nephi 15 – Compare Isaiah 5. The Lord again compares Israel to a vineyard (as in Jacob 5). Woe comes to those who seek their own pleasures above the work of God. An ensign will be lifted to gather scattered Israel. 2 Nephi 16 – Compare Isaiah 6. Isaiah is cleansed of his sins and called to prophesy. He is told that Israel will reject God’s word. 2 Nephi 17 – Compare Isaiah 7. Isaiah is told of the virgin birth of Christ. 2 Nephi 18 – Compare Isaiah 8. The people will stumble over and be offended by Christ’s words and actions. We are to seek the Lord and look to His word for guidance, not turn to sorcerers, divination, and such. 2 Nephi 19 – Compare Isaiah 9. Isaiah speaks of the Messiah. The Lord will continue to offer His hand to us, even when we reject Him. Section 25 – Emma Smith, called an “elect lady”, is told that her work is to aid and comfort her husband. She is told not to complain about things her husband cannot tell her, since he is acting by the Lord’s instructions, in His wisdom. She is called as a scribe for her husband, and to expound Scripture and exhort the Church. She should seek the things of the better world to come, not focus on the things of this world. She is instructed to make a selection of hymns for the Church. The Lord says that the song of the righteous is a prayer to Him (being a horrible singer myself, I can’t help wondering if this still applies to those of us whose singing can be most accurately described as “a joyful noise”). Emma is instructed to beware of pride and to keep her covenants and the commandments of God. This section closes by stating this is a revelation to all, not just Emma (I assume that the major points apply to men as well as to women). Section 26 – The leaders of the Church are told to study and preach. The law of common consent is given. Section 27 – The specifics of what is eaten or drunk in the Sacrament is not important, so long as it is done with an eye single to God’s glory, remembering Christ’s sacrifice. Christ and His servants from all dispensations will take the Sacrament together at Christ’s return. We are to put on the armor of God: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the guidance of the Spirit. Section 28 – Only the President of the Church (at the time of this revelation, Joseph Smith) is authorized to receive revelation for the whole Church, since he holds the necessary keys. Hiram Page thought he was receiving revelation, but had been deceived. The Church operates in order, through lines of authority. Abraham 5 – The Gods finish planning the Creation and carry out Their plan. Adam is placed on the earth. Eve is created and given to him. Adam names the animals. (The Book of Abraham ends at this point. I do wish we had more of that and of the book of Moses. For that matter, I wish we had a lot more Scripture than we do, but per discussion I’ve recently been involved in, the Church as a whole is not really living up to all that we already have, so it’s probably as well we don’t have more that will lead to our condemnation when we fail to abide by it.) JS-Matthew – This is the JST of Matthew 24. Major changes are to organize the chapter better, putting the verses referring to the AD 70 destruction of Jerusalem together, and grouping the verses referring to the Second Coming of Christ. Jesus tells the apostles of the coming destruction of Jerusalem. He tells them about the Second Coming – conditions will be similar to those of the time in which Jerusalem is destroyed, with wars, famines, disasters, and great evil among humanity comparable to the time of Noah. Only God the Father knows the day and hour of Christ’s return, so we should be ready for this event to occur at any time.

I voted for Romney, presuming that he would do better on character than some of the others and for positions on issues that match well with my views. IIRC, Thompson was a good fit for my views too.

I suspect there are parts of this story that Luke wasn't aware of, but that God was.