Sunday, January 31, 2010
Per our Challenge...
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Sermon on the Mount
Matthew 5-7
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16
Sitting on a mountainside, Jesus gave His disciples teachings called the Sermon on the Mount (see Matthew 5:12). In part of the sermon, Jesus promised special blessings, known as the Beatitudes, to people who live in certain ways. He taught:
"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:36).
Jesus also described blessings that come to the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and those persecuted for righteousness' sake (see Matthew 5:710).
Jesus went on to teach His disciples:
"Ye are the light of the world. ...
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:14, Matthew 5:16).
Jesus reminded the people of many teachings in the law of Moses, one of which had told the Israelites to love their neighbors and hate their enemies. But now Jesus taught His disciples a higher law, telling them to love their enemies and do good to them. (See Matthew 5:17, Matthew 5:4344.)
After telling His disciples to pray without letting others know about it (see Matthew 6:56), Jesus gave a pattern for prayer (see Matthew 6:913).
Jesus also said that His people should not judge others and that if His people first repent of their sins, they are better able to help others (see Matthew 7:15).
Telling His disciples how to obtain blessings from heaven, Jesus said, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find" (Matthew 7:7).
He also taught that few people find the narrow gate and path to heaven. Instead, many people choose the way to destruction. (See Matthew 7:1314.)
Jesus compared those who obey Him to a wise man who built his house on a rock. When the rains, floods, and winds came, the house did not fall, because it was built on a solid foundation. (See Matthew 7:2425.) He compared those who do not obey Him to a foolish man who built his house on sand. When the rains, floods, and winds came, the house fell. (See Matthew 7:2627.)
After Jesus ended teaching, the people were astonished because He taught them with the authority and power of God (see Matthew 7:2829).
Summary
Sitting on a mountainside, Jesus gave what is known as the Sermon on the Mount. Included in this sermon were the Beatitudes, special blessings that Jesus promised for righteous living. He also asked His followers to be good examples and to love their enemies. Jesus taught them how to pray and encouraged them to repent of their sins and not judge others. He taught that those who obey His words have a strong foundation for their lives. Those who heard Jesus were astonished, for He taught with the power of God.
Artist, Harry Anderson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA
My Word: The Sermon on the Mount is a few chapters long and you probably live by many of His teaching although, perhaps, unaware of the source. In 3 Nephi 12 Jesus gives the Nephites the Beatitudes also. In verse 3 Nephi 12:3 we get a better understanding of how the beatitudes work. The key words are "who come unto me". Go back and read the "Blessed are.......and add "who come unto me" and see if you feel differently about what you are reading. Christ is able to make anything and everything OK for lack of a better term at this moment. Perhaps the word should be GOOD. "Good" because that is a "Godly Characteristic"... remember the Old Testament post about Joseph fleeing from Potiphar's Wife...go back and read it....Oct 27...I think.
If we live by these "Be-attitudes"...as President Hinckley use to say....we will find lasting happiness. Where pleasure is short-lived, happiness takes effort to acquire but is also much longer lasting.
The Primary Children learn "The Wise Man and The Foolish Man" song (#281). (If the above link doesn't work go to www.lds.org click on Gospel Library, go to Music, click on Interactive music player. You should be able to put in the song by title or page #. Good luck.) It's always a favorite...and it teaches us about strong foundations. What foundation are your beliefs, thoughts, desires based on? Do they bring you pleasure or happiness? Check out this scripture Heleman 5:12.
Read through these references...what do you learn about "building"? Built, building, foundation, cost... about that last reference...read the whole scripture. What kind of "house" are you building? Is it worth the cost? Are our "houses" built with quality knowledge, actions and re-enforced materials that will withstand the storms of life? Do you think the cost of building such a "house" or testimony worth the effort?....Remember: "Suck it up buttercup; pain is your friend!" You have a few days yet to complete the challenge of reading the Book of John...the cost is small the benefits terrific!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Christ Ordaining the Apostles
Matthew 10:14; Mark 3:1319; Luke 6:1216; John 15:16
And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach. Mark 3:14
Early in His ministry, Jesus spent an entire night in the mountains praying to Heavenly Father. When daylight came, He called His faithful followers to Him and chose twelve whom He ordained to be Apostles. They were Simon Peter and his brother Andrew; James and John the sons of Zebedee; Philip; Bartholomew; Matthew; Thomas; James the son of Alpheus; Thaddeus; Simon the Canaanite; and Judas Iscariot. (See Matthew 10:24; Mark 3:13, Mark 3:1619; Luke 6:1216.)
Jesus gave the Twelve the power of the priesthood, which they were to use to help Him in His work—preaching the gospel, healing the sick, raising the dead, and casting out unclean spirits (see Matthew 10:1; Mark 3:1415).
As Jesus neared the end of His earthly ministry, He reminded the Apostles at the Last Supper that He had called them and ordained them to preach the gospel. Jesus told the Apostles that as they did this work, "whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you" (John 15:16).
Summary
By revelation Jesus Christ chose twelve of His followers and ordained them to be His Apostles. He gave them the priesthood, which is the power to act in His name, so that they could preach the gospel and minister to the people.
Artist, Harry Anderson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA
MY Word: The older I get (sometimes I say I'm older than dirt) and the more experience I have with the whole "calling" process, the more amazed I am how revelation works. This past month new callings have come to many in our ward. This was my experience: the Bishop told me that I was going to be released from my current calling (shocked I was) then he told me I was being considered for a new position but it would be a while before he would make that change. I had a few weeks to ponder what the Lord wanted me to do. I started listing all of the positions held by women beginning with Young Women's and immediately dismissed the thought for several reasons but mostly because I spent many years there and just didn't want to go back into that organization....it's a busy one! But as I continued to ponder absolutely nothing came to my mind and no feelings to my heart. The morning that the Bishop issued the new call I was getting ready for church when a line from my Patriarchal Blessing went through my mind...."you will teach the youth" and I thought "no, no, they will not change who is in there now." Well guess what .... the Lord changed everyone! I will now be serving in the YW's Presidency as a Counselor! I have to chuckle and am very glad the Heavenly Father is patient....He did give me a couple of hints!
Now for the calling of the 12: Jesus also prayed about his Apostles. Did he make a mistake with Judas Iscariot? (If you don't already know, Judas betrays Jesus and makes His arrest by the Sanhedrin possible. More later.) One time in Sunday School class someone made the comment about the character of Judas, it was harsh....although I don't remember what exactly was said...I just remember the controversy. I also remembered that Someone called Judas a devil. (v. 66-71) I think that pretty much ends the debate! Heavenly Father and Jesus knows each of us personally!
If you have doubts about the leaders of the Church just try this: take the best 15 men you know, think about their life experiences, and characters then make a comparison to the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles. Learn of their lives, experiences and character... I hope to be worthy to call them my friends! They are not "perfect" but their integrity/virtue is wide and deep!
Calling of the Fishermen
Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11
And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19
While Jesus was by the Sea of Galilee, many people crowded around to hear Him teach the word of God. Jesus saw two ships by the shore where the fishermen were washing their nets. He stepped onto Simon Peter's ship, asking the fishermen to move it from the shore; then He sat down and taught the people from the ship. (See Luke 5:13.)
When Jesus finished speaking, He told Peter to take the boat out where the water was deep and let down the nets for a large catch of fish (see Luke 5:4). Peter told Jesus that he and the other fishermen had worked all night without catching any fish. "Nevertheless," he continued, "at thy word I will let down the net" (Luke 5:5). Peter and Andrew lowered their net into the water, and it was filled with so many fish that it started to break. They called their partners, James and John, who were in another ship, to help them, and they filled both ships with so many fish that the ships began to sink. (See Luke 5:6-7.)
When Simon Peter saw all the fish, he fell down at Jesus' knees and said, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord" (Luke 5:8). Peter and the others were amazed at the great number of fish they had caught (see Luke 5:9-10).
When Jesus said to Simon Peter and Andrew, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men," they left their nets and followed Him (see Matthew 4:19; see also Matthew 4:20; Mark 1:17-18; Luke 5:10-11). Jesus also called James and John to follow Him; they did as He asked, immediately leaving their ship and their father (see Matthew 4:21-22; Mark 1:19-20).
Summary
One day, Jesus taught from Peter's boat on the Sea of Galilee. Afterward He told Peter to take the boat to deep water and let out the nets to catch fish. Peter explained that he and others had been fishing all night without catching anything, but he said he would do as Jesus commanded. Peter and his brother Andrew caught so many fish that their net began to break. James and John came in another boat to help. The fishermen were all amazed. Jesus called Peter and Andrew to follow Him and become fishers of men. He also called James and John. They all left their boats and nets and followed Jesus.
Artist, Harry Anderson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA
My Word: I was looking through the pictures of Christ and realized that in almost all of them He is dressed in white. Now I know it symbolizes purity, cleanliness, etc.,....but this picture makes me nervous 'cause I just know he's going to get all dirty on that fishing boat! ;) (It's like when I watch "Night At the Museum"....I don't really enjoy the experience because I keep thinking....Who is going to clean all of this up before the doors open?!....I know....it's just a movie!)
Calling of the 12 Apostles. There is a difference between a Disciple and an Apostle. One we may choose for ourselves, the other... we are chosen by Him. In Hebrews 5:4 we learn that a man cannot take upon himself the Priesthood; it must be bestowed by one with Priesthood Authority. One of the things that I find very comforting is that Heavenly Father is a God of order! In the Topical Guide we find scriptures that tell us God is unchangeable. When I was younger I didn't really appreciate or like that concept (I mean after all I was so special I wanted exceptions made for me....heavy on the sarcasm there.) I now understand the idea of an "unchanging God" and it brings me great peace of mind. I can always trust Him! He doesn't change the rules just as you're getting the hang of the game! What does that have to do with being called as an Apostle? We have the evidence that Jesus called his Apostles during his mortal ministry so how would His Apostles be called today? Do old men just get together and decide who they want to promote to a new position in the church? NO, they do not!
Apostles Are Called by Revelation:
An example which illustrates how apostles are called today is taken from the life of President Joseph Fielding Smith:
"For an hour or more the Church Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles, meeting in the Salt Lake Temple in April, 1910, had discussed various men as possibilities to fill the vacancy in the council occasioned by the death of President John R. Winder on March 27, and the subsequent advancement of Apostle John Henry Smith to the presidency. But to every name suggested there was some exception taken. It seemed impossible to reach any unanimity of feeling in the matter. Finally President Joseph F. Smith retired to a room by himself and knelt in prayer for guidance. (President Joseph F. Smith was the Prophet at that time.) When he returned he somewhat hesitantly asked the 13 other brethren whether they would be willing to consider his son Joseph Fielding Smith Jr. for the position. He was reluctant to suggest it, he said, because ....Church members, he feared, would be disgruntled to have another of his sons appointed as a general authority. Nevertheless he felt inspired to offer Joseph's name for their consideration. The other men seemed immediately receptive to the suggestion and sustained President Smith in it...
Years later Heber J. Grant, who by then was president of the Church and who was present in the council meeting in the temple the day Joseph was chosen in 1910, assured a group of the correctness of the decision: It was at a Smith family reunion. President Grant pointed to Joseph Fielding and said, 'That man was called by direct revelation of God. I am a witness to that fact.'" (Smith and Stewart, The Life of Joseph Fielding Smith, pp. 174, 177.)
There will always be critics about the way the Church operates. Just in the past few years several new Apostles have been called and watching the press ask questions helps me know that people who don't believe in revelation will not understand the process of callings.
In May and November of each year you will find a picture of the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Ensign magazine.John the Baptist Baptizing Jesus
Matthew 3:1317; Mark 1:911; Luke 3:2123; Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:4446
And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. Mark 1:9
When Jesus was about 30 years old, He came from Nazareth to the river Jordan and was baptized by John the Baptist (see Matthew 3:13; Mark 1:9; Luke 3:23). John knew that Jesus had not sinned, so he did not think Jesus needed to be baptized. Instead, John felt that Jesus should baptize him. Jesus explained to John that even the Savior of the world must be baptized. (See Matthew 3:1415.)
"And John went down into the water and baptized [Jesus].
"And Jesus when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water; and John saw ... the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting upon Jesus.
"And lo, he heard a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear ye him" (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:4446).
Summary
Jesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized in the Jordan River. John knew that Jesus was without sin, and so he thought Jesus did not need baptism. When Jesus explained that even the Savior must be baptized, John went down into the water and baptized Him. When Jesus came out of the water, John saw the Holy Ghost come to the Savior and heard Heavenly Father's voice bearing witness of His Beloved Son.
Artist, Harry Anderson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA
MY Word: There is much Doctrine to be learned from this event. Ponder these questions: Christ is the Son of God, he is Jehovah, he directs the Prophets...why then would He need to be baptized? Why would he come to John? What sort of baptism was it? (Apparently the music link is not working so here are the words to the song "Baptism" pg. 100 in the Children's Songbook...if you want to go to lds.org and listen to it there.) Jesus came to John the Baptist, In Judea long ago, And was baptized by immersion In the River Jordan's flow. "To fulfill the law," said Jesus, When the Baptist questioned why, "And to enter with my Father In the kingdom up on high." Now we know that we must also Witness faith in Jesus' word Be baptized to show obedience, As was Jesus Christ, or Lord.Who was present at His baptism? Try "When Jesus Christ was Baptized" pg. 102. When Jesus Christ was baptized Down in the River Jordan, Three members of the Godhead Were present there in love. The Father spoke from heaven When Jesus Christ was baptized; The Holy Ghost descended As gently as a dove. And now when I am baptized, I'll follow his example --- Be baptized by immersion Through sacred priesthood pow'r. Then I will be a member Of Heav'nly Father's kingdom And have the Holy Spirit To guide me ev'ry hour. From very simple Primary songs, that we begin learning at 3 years of age, we learn so much. Let's see if we have the answers to the questions. John feels reluctant to baptize the Savior of the world but Jesus reassures John and said He would be baptized "to fulfill the law". What law? (I'll come back to that in a minute.) Jesus was baptized by immersion. Why baptism by immersion? Look for the symbolism here. Why come to John for this ordinance? John was the one holding the proper Priesthood authority to baptize. And finally who was present: We call these Three the Godhead. Article of Faith #1 Latter-day Saint doctrine teaches that these three are individual persons and personage. God the Father and Jesus Christ have resurrected, perfected bodies. The Holy Ghost is a personage of Spirit...meaning there is form but not physical. What evidence do we have that this is true doctrine?....Read about Jesus' baptism. Jesus is standing in the water with John, the Father's voice is heard from heaven and the Holy Ghost is present therefore the sign of the dove is given.
Back to that law question. One of our Sacrament songs has this phrase: "the law was broken; Jesus died That justice might be satisfied"
~That got me to thinking....what law was broken? What law of Heavenly Father's needed to be "fixed" by the death of His Son? This law is considered the "First Law of Heaven" ....it is my opinion that that is what was broken. Who broke it and when was it broken?
What have you learned about baptism (it's in one of the above links). Why do we all need this ordinance. Millions of people have never had an opportunity to receive this ordinance, what about them are they exempt? They have been taken into consideration by a loving Heavenly Father and arrangements for them are made here.
If you have questions please comment or go to lds.org and do some searching. Gospel Principles is a great place to start. This is actually the manual that will be used this year in Priesthood and Relief Society.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
John Preaching in the Wilderness
Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:16; Luke 3:24, Luke 3:11, Luke 3:14
In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 3:12
John the Baptist lived in the wilderness of Judea (see Matthew 3:1; Luke 3:2). He wore clothes made of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist. He ate locusts and wild honey. (See Matthew 3:4; Mark 1:6.)
John traveled throughout Jordan preaching repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. His mission was to prepare the people for the coming of Jesus Christ. He told them the Lord would soon come and they had to be ready to meet Him. (See Matthew 3:23; Mark 1:24; Luke 3:34.) Many people repented, and John baptized them in the Jordan River (see Matthew 3:56; Mark 1:5). He also taught the people to treat others with kindness and to share what they had with those who were in need (see Luke 3:11, Luke 3:14).
Summary
John the Baptist was a prophet who lived in the wilderness of Judea. His mission was to prepare people for the coming of Jesus Christ. John taught the people repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. Many believed his words and came to be baptized.
Artist, Del Parson
My Word: Almost all pictures we see of John has him wearing very rough clothing. But I was watching TV this past week and saw a picture of a Middle Eastern man (I cannot remember who) that raised specific camels to use their hair for weaving his clothing. The fabric was beautiful. Is it possible that John wore a very nice cloak? He was a Nazarite and therefore forbidden to cut any of his hair while under his oath. But personally I do not believe he looked like a wildman....but a man with reverence and dignity for his mission. You can read more about John in the BD.
Remember that the people are in a state of apostasy. They hadn't had a prophet for almost 400 years. Apparently what John preached to the people was accepted by the Jewish leaders as it doesn't appear that they gave John any trouble. What did he preach? Try here paying particular attention to #4.
How and why did John die? What was Jesus' reaction to learning of John's death? How did Jesus describe John?
John's integrity is something to be admired. He never sought for the honor that the people tried to give him. He continually pointed them to the Messiah and once Jesus started His ministry the people left John and followed Christ; as they should. There is no record of John showing jealousy...what a man.
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA
Friday, January 1, 2010
Childhood of Jesus Christ
Matthew 13:5556; Luke 2:40; Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:2425
And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40
Jesus grew up in Galilee in the small town of Nazareth. There He had a loving family life with Joseph; His mother, Mary; and several brothers and sisters (see Matthew 13:5556). His childhood was probably much like that of other boys of that time. He learned Jewish law, did carpentry work with Joseph, studied the scriptures, and gained wisdom through prayer. (See James E. Talmage, Jesus the Christ, 3rd ed. [1916], 11112.)
As Jesus grew, the Spirit of God was strong in Him. He learned of His mission on earth and waited for the time of His baptism and ministry. (See Luke 2:40; Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:2425.)
Summary
Jesus grew up in the small town of Nazareth, where He studied and learned, worked with Joseph, and worshiped. Jesus increased in wisdom, and the Spirit was with Him. He would be ready when the time came for His ministry to begin.
Artist, Del Parson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA
My Word: What lessons do you think Jesus learned from Joseph? When my kids are asked about who taught them what they say this...."Dad taught us how to work and also how to have fun." (They've yet to be able to put into words what they learned from me!) ;) I was going to look for something and accidentally hit a button that took me here. Click on the tabs to the left and read some of the stories. Are you as amazed as I am that there are so many "helps" at this web site? Look under Home and Family....anything there catch your eye?
Assignment: Think about what you would want your kids to say about you when asked, "What did your mother/father teach you?" What qualities do you need to work on? What qualities (I'm not sure that's the correct word here) do you need to get rid of? Again, make a list and go to work. Here is a great talk to give you some encouragement...."Good, Better, Best".