Teaching

2 Peter 2:1-19 teaches us to be aware of false teachers and how we can identify them.

Characteristics of False Teachers:

Teach Heresies Deny the Lord Speak feigned words Make their teaching a business Walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness

Despise the government Presumptuous Selfwilled Not afraid to speak evil of dignities Find rioting as a pleasure

Adulterous Sinful Unstable Speak alluring words of vanity Promise liberty when bondage results Covetousness

How this list helps me recognize false teachers today:

If I hear people with these characteristics or teaching things with these characteristics, I can know to be weary and that these people are most likely false teachers.  Because the scriptures share this information, I will know what to be aware of and what false teachers are like.

Dangers of returning to the “pollutions of the world:”

2 Peter 2:20-22 teaches us that it’s worse to know righteousness and to turn back to the “pollutions of the world.”  Doctrine & Covenants 82:3 teaches us that “to much is given, much is required.”  When we are given light and truth, we are accountable for the knowledge we have and how we choose to use it.  Verse 7 of the same chapter teaches us that when a person repents, but goes back to their old ways, their old sins will return to them.  If we want to be forgiven of our sins, we must always strive to live the gospel and keep the commandments.

Works of Righteousness

Paul concludes his epistle to the Hebrews in chapter 13 with some great teachings and counsel.  Some of the things he shares include answers to these questions:

How should we treat strangers and those “in bonds?”

We must love those around us, including strangers and those in bonds.  “Let brotherly love continue” and “be not forgetful to entertain strangers” because we may not be aware of who these strangers are.  (Verses 1-2)

How is marriage looked upon?

Marriage is honorable in all.  God will judge adulterers and whoremongers.  (Verse 4)

What warnings are given about covetousness?

We should avoid coveting others, but be content with what we have.  We must recognize that God will never leave or forsake us.  (Verse 5)

What is “the same yesterday, and to day, and forever?”

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and to day, and forever.  We can always rely on him and his unchanging gospel. (Verse 8)

How are we sanctified?

We are sanctified through the blood and Atonement of Jesus Christ.  (Verse 12)

How do we respond to those who rule over us?

We must obey those that rule over us.  We should trust that they have our best interests at heart. (Verse 17)

Who did Paul ask the people to pray for?

We should pray for the leaders of the church. (Verse 18)

There are many more great principles and teachings found in this chapter.  I’m so grateful for the scriptures and the guidance and strength they give me.

Jesus Christ is Greater than Angels

Paul taught of Christ’s greatness in the Epistle to the Hebrews.  He taught:

• Jesus is the Creator, God’s son, and is in the exact image of God.
• Jesus Christ is greater than the angels.  His name is more excellent, as well as his inheritance and calling.  The angels serve Christ.
• The words of angels are important,  but the words of Christ are even greater.
• Jesus is greater than Moses.  Moses was a faithful prophet and servant of God, but Christ was a faithful son of God.

Paul taught many truths of Jesus Christ.  In Hebrews 1 he states:

• Jesus Christ is the appointed heir of all things.
• Jesus Christ created all things.
• It’s through Christ that our sins can be purged.

Furthermore, the scriptures teach us why Christ, the Son of God, came to earth to experience mortality.  We needed a way to repent of our sins, and he made that possible through the Atonement.  He suffered every temptation, pain, and sickness we will ever experience.  Every emotion we will ever feel, he has felt it too.  Through this, we can rely on him for strength during difficult times, knowing we are never alone.  Because Christ was perfect, yet paid for our mistakes and sins, we can become perfect through him as we repent and strive to follow him.  I’m grateful for Jesus Christ and his love for each of us.

Live as Saints Should Live

Paul gives wonderful counsel for us on how we can live Christ’s gospel and receive salvation.  In Romans 13:11, he stated that our salvation is nearer than we believed.  Ezekiel 3:20 and Doctrine & Covenants 14:7 both bring up that to receive salvation, we must continue in righteousness, follow God’s commandments, and endure to the end.

In Romans 12-13, Paul lists multiple things that we can do that leads us to salvation.  Here are a few of them:

Romans 12:1 – Sacrifice ourselves to the service of God.

Romans 12:2 – Not follow the ways of the world, but follow the ways of God.  Be transformed and renewed.

Romans 12:9 – Love without dissimulation.  Cleave to what is good and abhor that which is evil.

Romans 12:13 – Serve others, give to those in need, be hospitable.

Romans 12:16 – Don’t think you are better or wiser than others.  See others as your equals.

Romans 12:21 – Overcome evil with good.

Romans 13:1 – Rely on the power of God.

Romans 13:3 – Do what is good.

Romans 13:8 – Love one another.

Romans 13:9 – Keep the commandments.

He further cautions us about judging others in Romans 14:1-13 and 15:1-3.  We don’t need to judge others – everyone will eventually be judged at the judgment seat of Christ.  People may have different opinions and practices than ourselves, but it’s important to remember that everyone is a child of God.  It’s the intent of their hearts, their faith in God, and the spirit in which they act that is more important than their different opinions or beliefs.

Doctrine & Covenants 38:25-27 gives further insight by saying we must esteem each other as ourselves.  We must be united.

Paul frequently used the term “saints” to refer to the members of the church in his day.  By following his counsel and striving to live Christ’s gospel, we truly can live a saint-like life.

Being Influential for Good in the Lives of Others

Paul was an apostle and knew of his important role to preach the gospel.  1 Corinthians 9 tells of how dedicated he was to sharing the gospel.  He said in verse 16, “For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!”

He writes of how he would connect with people of various backgrounds and lifestyles.  He was a Jew among the Jews, weak among the weak, showing that he would adjust to these different people in order to most effectively teach them.  

That is what we must do as well.  We must adjust to different people and their needs to best share the gospel with them.  If we strive to be on their level, they won’t feel that the gospel is foreign or strange, but will feel more comfortable and accepting.  We can do this with people of different cultures, regions, and lifestyles.  If we can effectively connect with them, we will be much more successful in sharing Christ’s gospel with them.

Missionaries Teaching the Gospel in Seattle, WA
(L-R: Elder Dymock & Michael)

Paul's Counsel for Members

Paul shares wonderful counsel and advice for believers of Christ in 1 Thessalonians. 3:12-13, 4:1-12, 5:1-22, and 2 Thessalonians 3:1-6, 11

There is a very lengthy list of things that he counseled the members to work on, which are all things that we can improve and work on today!  I chose 3 attributes that he shared that I want to improve on.  They are:

Love One Another

This is one of Christ’s great commandments – to love God and to love your neighbor.  I want to work on loving those around me by seeing them as children of God – my brothers and sisters.  I can do this at work, church, and at home by looking for ways to serve those around me and express my love for them in simple, meaningful ways.  I know that even a smile, or a friendly “hello” can make a difference and life someone’s day.

Comfort & Edify One Another

This one goes along with love one another, but I want to work on this as well.  I want to look for ways to edify others and one thing I want to do is to just share simple, conversational testimony.  Sharing my blessings with others, acknowledging God’s hand in my life.  I can also be attentive and give comfort or encouragement to others.  I can do this by sharing my testimony and telling of all the blessings I receive from God each day, which will help them think of their own many blessings and feel better.

Pray Without Ceasing

It’s easy for me to get into a prayer routine, but the Bible encourages us to pray always.  To pray without ceasing.  I can and should pray about anything and everything.  So this is something I will work on – I want to pray about my daily situations, give thanks for daily blessings, and just have my mind and heart centered on Jesus Christ.

I know that I can improve on these things as I turn to the Lord for help.  I know that I will be blessed for my efforts as I strive to follow the counsels of His servants.

Paul’s Visit to Athens

Acts 17 in the New Testament tells of when Paul went to preach the gospel of Christ to various people.  Initially arriving to Thessalonica, some people listened to what he said, reasoning with the scriptures, and believed him.  However, the Jews did not believe him and “moved with envy” and created an uproar in the city.  So Paul and Silas went to a synagogue in Berea.  There they found humble, prepared people who searched the scriptures every day.  They readily received the words of Paul and believed. 

This is a huge contrast to the people in Thessalonica – it really demonstrates the power and knowledge that comes from consistent scripture study.  The people in Berea truly “feasted” on the words of Christ, and by so doing, recognized truth and knew what to do. (2 Nephi 32:3).  The words of Christ leads people to act justly and to do good (2 Nephi 33:10,  Alma 31:5).  This shows what a powerful tool scripture study is.  The people of Berea were prepared to receive truth and knowledge as a result of their studies, while the people of Thessalonica were left to their pride and ignorance due to their lack of understanding.  We invite the Spirit into our lives as we study the scriptures daily, which allows us to recognize and receive greater knowledge and come closer to God.

There were people known as Epicureans and Stoics.  Epicureans were named after a philosopher named Epicurus.  The beliefs of the Epicureans included that the world only exists by chance with no design or purpose, with the goal of living in a way that would result in most happiness and the least sorrow and pain

The Stoics believed in a supreme governing power among the universe.  They believed that everything was designed and set on its way.  Paul quoted their poetry to establish a connection and common ground with them when he said “we are also His offspring.”

Paul went to these people in Athens and found them to be very superstitious.  They had an alter inscribed with “To the Unknown God.”  However, they were always interested in hearing something new, so they willingly hear Paul and his message.  But being as philosophical as they were, they were a bit too vain to actually listen.

Paul taught them of their preexistence, being children of God.  President Harold B. Lee shares a quote, “‘Who are you?’ You are all the sons and daughters of God. Your spirits were created and lived as organized intelligences before the world was. You have been blessed to have a physical body because of your obedience to certain commandments in that premortal state. You are now born into a family to which you have come, into the nations through which you have come, as a reward for the kind of lives you lived before you came here and at a time in the world’s history, as the Apostle Paul taught the men of Athens and as the Lord revealed to Moses, determined by the faithfulness of each of those who lived before this world was created.”  Many Christians don’t know of or believe in our premortal existence.  However, as Acts 17 states, we have been “appointed” things before we were born.  President Lee also makes this clear.  We are very blessed to be given what we have. 

Romans 8:16 states that the Spirit testifies that we are sons and daughters of God.  We aren’t merely creations of God, but are His literal children.  As His children, we are blessed to have a loving God as our Father to lead and direct us.  We receive blessings every day, from the breaths we take, to the miracles we receive.  He loves us just as any parent loves their child.  He wants the best for us and has great plans for us.  As we search after Him, this will be very clear to us and we’ll see the hand of God in our lives.

Paul also taught them of the Resurrection.  The doctrine of the Resurrection is backed up in several scriptures.  The Old Testament says the Lord “will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves.” (Ezekiel 37:12)  John 5:21 says “the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them.”  The Book of Mormon states “the grave must deliver up its captive bodies, and the bodies and the spirits of men will be restored one to the other; and it is by the power of the resurrection of the Holy One of Israel.”  The Resurrection is a gift to all who have lived and will ever live.  It’s possible because of Christ’s Atonement, sacrificing Himself, and overcoming death.

Unfortunately, some people mocked Paul after hearing what he had taught.  But others believed and said “we will hear thee again of this matter.”

The Day of Pentecost

The Pentecost was a Jewish celebration that occurred 50 days after the Passover feast.  The name itself comes from the Greek work “pentekoste,” meaning “fiftieth.”  Other names it was referred to as include “Dayof the First Fruits,” “Feast of Harvest,” and “the Feast of Weeks.”

The day of Pentecost, found in Acts 2, was an incredible event.  Peter taught the multitude that this pouring out of the Spirit was a fulfillment of prophecy, that God said He would pour out His Spirit in the last days.  He taught them of prophecy, miracles, and gifts of the Spirit.

Peter testified of Jesus Christ and His power.  He invited the multitude to repent and be baptized in Christ’s name and to receive the Holy Ghost.  His testimony strengthened many and 3,000 people were baptized!

Many spiritual gifts were made apparent that day.  They spoke in tongues and prophecies.  They understood each other, even if they spoke different languages.  They were filled with the Spirit of God.  They were filled with a desire to follow God and be baptized.  They were filled with love for each other, served one another, and took care of each other.

I am grateful for the gift of the Holy Ghost and that it continues to be on earth today.  It’s been a blessing throughout my life and has been a source of strength and comfort.  I know that God works great miracles through the Holy Ghost and that gift truly shows of the deep love He has for each of us.

The Savior's Instructions About The Holy Ghost

John 14-16 has some wonderful teachings of Jesus Christ about the Holy Ghost.  He was teaching his disciples about what the Holy Ghost does and what they must do to receive it.

The Holy Ghost:

Comforts

Teaches

Brings things to remembrance

Brings Peace

Guides to Truth

Testifies of Christ

Reproves sin

Inspires us to live up to our full potential

Serves as a messenger of God & does His will

To Receive the Holy Ghost:

Keep the commandments

Be not troubled or afraid

Share testimonies and be a witness of Christ

The Holy Ghost was vital in the continuance of the gospel after Christ’s resurrection.  The Holy Ghost was able to direct, strengthen, and comfort the Apostles as they continued their ministries.  The Holy Ghost was able to bear witness to their words as they shared their testimonies and Christ’s teachings.  They were able to feel of God’s presence with them through the Holy Ghost.

The Holy Ghost has been a wonderful blessing throughout my life.  I remember having a difficult time at the very beginning of my mission.  I felt like my trainer hated me and that I shouldn’t be there.  But as I prayed and asked God for help, I felt the peace and comfort of the Holy Ghost.  I knew that God was with me during this hard time, and that strengthened me.  I’m grateful for this experience because it continued to help me throughout my mission.

The Institution Of The Sacrament

All too often we forget that the last supper is really two events rather than just one.  On that night the Savior preformed a traditional Passover feast in the tradition of Moses, but then at the end added a new element, the bread and wine which were specifically given to the apostles as an ordinance to “do in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19).

It is important to remember that Passover was instituted not only as a commemoration for the temporal salvation of Israel in the time of Moses,  but also as a sign pointing forward to the future total salvation of all humanity from Spiritual and Temporal death through the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thus, as the Passover pointed forward, the Sacrament of the Lords Supper points backwards to the fundamental event of existence. Both the Passover and the Sacrament place stress on the obligation and covenant to remember, something that is fundamental to accepting and applying the atonement of the Savior in our lives.

I think that the covenant of Remembrance makes the Sacrament a unique ordinance in the church. All of the other Ordinances of the Priesthood are divided into two categories – Temporal ordinances (such as naming and blessing children, blessing the sick, setting apart to a calling, etc.) and Ordinances of Salvation (Baptism, Confirmation, Temple Ordinances, etc.). The easiest way to differentiate between the two is that the first category does not involve covenants and many can be received several times in a lifetime, while the second category all involve covenants and almost always are only received once for ones self. However, only the Sacrament blurs the line between the two, it is the only ordinance involving a covenant that we receive multiple times in our life. Perhaps the reason for this is that we are covenanting to remember, something that we must do frequently as we live here on earth.

But the sacrament is more than just a replacement for or reiteration of the Passover, it is a reminder that the Lord no longer requires a physical sacrifice of an animal, but rather a sacrifice of “a broken heart and a contrite spirit” (3 Ne 9:19-20). While the breaking of bread may be more palatable to our modern sensibilities than torn animal flesh, we should always remember that it represents the broken body of our Lord, and that we should be grateful for the suffering he endured for our sake.

The Widow's Mites

Mark 12:41-44 tells the account of a widow who donated all that she had – two mites.  This account contains a powerful example for all of us.  Earlier in the same chapter, Christ says that the first commandment is to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Mark 12:28-30)  This widow’s love was apparent in her sacrifice of two mites.

While others gave much more than two mites, her offering had more value because it was all she had.  When it comes to giving of ourselves to the Lord, it’s quality that counts.  If we give a lot, but hold back even more, that means even less than the two mites that the lady gave.  2 Nephi 25:23 states the importance of doing all we can throughout our life for God, and after that are we saved by His grace.  This widow did just that – she did everything she could, gave everything she had, and for that she was certainly blessed.

Giving to the Lord is more than just donating money.  It includes giving of our time, talents, friendship and love.  We can magnify our church assignments and callings.  We can be kind to others.  We can strive to obey God’s commandments and follow Christ’s teachings.  As we dedicate ourselves to the Lord and fully give of ourselves, we will be richly blessed throughout our lives.

Parables & Accounts That Teach Eternal Truths

Parable of the Unjust Steward

Luke 16:1-12

This unjust steward knew he would soon lose his position as steward, and went about making preparations for his future life.  The message here is that we, knowing that we’ll return to God one day, must do all we can to prepare for our future of eternal life.

Parable of the Rich Man & Lazarus

Luke 16:19-31

There are two different states or conditions of our postmortal lives – paradise and prison.  Jesus Christ bridged the gap of these two states and the gospel is preached within all parts of the spirit world.

The Ten Lepers

Luke 17:11-19

The faith of these lepers was tested when Christ asked them to show themselves to the priest, and they were healed along the way.  Only one, a Samaritan, of the ten returned to give thanks to Jesus.  Not only is our faith important in receiving blessings and miracles, but giving thanks is important as well.

The Ten Lepers

Parable of the Unjust Judge

Luke 18:1-8

This parable shows that even an unjust judge who doesn’t care about God or others will eventually respond to the pleas of others.  This assures us that God, who is merciful and just, will definitely hear our pleas and readily answer.

Parable of the Pharisee & the Publican

Luke 18:9-14

This parable demonstrates the importance of humility.  Self-righteousness, pride, and self-exaltation will only lead to a decline.  Humility will lead to true exaltation.

Being A Disciple Of Jesus Christ

What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ?

• Listening to the Lord, even when you’re busy
• Praying to God, thanking Him for blessings and asking for help
• Recognizing that God knows what’s best for you and being patient when asking for His help
• Not seeking worldly treasure, but building up spiritual treasure
• Not being so concerned with yourself, but having faith in the Lord to direct your life
• Striving to follow the Lord
• Being committed to the Lord and following Him is your priority
• Not being selfish, but helping others
• Trusting God to answer your prayers in the best way possible

One of these things I want to work on in my own life is helping others.  Christ served all who were around Him.  By following that example, I can become more like a disciple of Christ.  It’s important to take opportunities to serve those around us.  I know from my own experiences that as I take the time to help others, I am so full of peace and joy because I know I did the right thing.  I am happier when I serve others.  I tend to feel busy and trying to look for ways to help others is definitely something I can work on.  But I know that if I do this, I will see blessings in my life and will feel good about taking the time to serve.

Ultimately, what is required to be a disciple of Jesus Christ is entirely dedicating oneself to God and realizing all we have are blessings from Him.  As we strive to align our will with God’s, we can all become disciples of Christ and enjoy the peace and happiness that comes from doing so.

Faith To Be Healed

There is an account of a boy who was in need of healing (Matthew 17:14-21).  He was brought to Christ’s disciples first, but they could not heal him.  The boy was then brought to Christ, who healed him, leaving the disciples to ask why they were unable to heal him themselves.  Christ answered and told them of three important things they must have and do:

1. Faith
2. Prayer
3. Fasting

Here are some additional scriptures about blessings from God:

• 3 Nephi 18:20 – If what we ask for is right, God will give it. 
• Doctrine & Covenants 50:29 – If we are clean from sin, we can ask God for blessings and we will receive them. 
• Doctrine & Covenants 42:48 – We must have faith to be healed in order to be healed. 

Blessings are a special gift from God.  I’ve received blessings when I’ve been sick and have recovered quickly because of them.  It’s always important to remember that we are healed according to our faith, just as the scriptures indicate.  I’m grateful to have these blessings available to us.

Walking On The Sea

I love the account of Jesus walking on water. (Matthew 14:22-33)  When the Apostles initially saw Christ walking towards them on the water, they were troubled and feared that it was a spirit.  But Jesus called out to them and told them it was Him and to be not afraid.  Peter responded by asking if he could walk out to Him on the water, and he did so for a little bit.  But there was boisterous wind and the sea was tossed with waves, and Peter became afraid, causing him to start sinking.  He cried out saying, “Lord, save me,” and Christ immediately reached out to him.

Doctrine & Covenants 88:67 says:  “And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things.”

This scripture relates well with Peter walking on the sea.  President Howard W Hunter that said:

Peter sprang over the vessel’s side and into the troubled waves, and while his eyes were fixed upon the Lord, the wind might toss his hair and the spray might drench his robes, but all was well. Only when with wavering faith he removed his glance from the Master to look at the furious waves and the black gulf beneath him, only then did he begin to sink. Again, like most of us, he cried, “Lord, save me.” Nor did Jesus fail him. He stretched out his hand and grasped the drowning disciple with the gentle rebuke, “O thou of little faith, why didst thou doubt?

“It is my firm belief that if as individual people, as families, communities, and nations, we could, like Peter, fix our eyes on Jesus, we too might walk triumphantly over the swelling waves of disbelief and remain unterrified amid the rising winds of doubt. But if we turn away our eyes from him in whom we must believe, as it is so easy to do and the world is so much tempted to do, if we look to the power and fury of those terrible and destructive elements around us rather than to him who can help and save us, then we shall inevitably sink in a sea of conflict and sorrow and despair.

“At such times when we feel the floods are threatening to drown us and the deep is going to swallow up the tossed vessel of our faith, I pray we may always hear amid the storm and the darkness that sweet utterance of the Savior of the world: ‘Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid’(Matt. 14:27)” (Ensign, Nov. 1992).

As we keep our eyes fixed on Christ, we will be able to endure waves and storms in our own lives.  I’m grateful for the Savior and the strength He gives me.  I hope that I can keep my eye single to God.  I know that as I strive to do so, I will be blessed.

The Lord Often Taught With Parables

“Without a parable spake he not unto them.” – Mark 4:34

What is a Parable?

A parable is a comparison – usually a principle or doctrine explained in a story.  The elements of the story are symbolic, representing things applicable to the principle or doctrine taught within it.  

The neat thing about parables is the level of understanding it varies person to person.  There are those seeking the word of the Lord and will be taught and edified by parables.  And there are those who do not understand them at all.  And there are people in between who grasp things from parables and benefit from the knowledge gained.

A parable can have different meanings to different people, and those meanings can change for those people at different times in their lives.  While the parable remains the same, the knowledge and learning can expand over time.

Teaching in parables was a way for Christ to teach those who believed and were willing to listen.  It was almost a way of weeding out those who didn’t care.  By teaching this way, His teachings weren’t “cast to swine” or those that wanted to find faults in his teachings.  Yet at the same time, those who wanted to follow Him could understand his teachings and use them in their own lives.

Parables can be applied to current topics and questions:

• What describes the future growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints?  
• Parable of the Leaven (Matthew 13:33) A woman adds a little leaven (yeast) in some dough, and eventually the leaven is incorporated all throughout the dough entirely.  Just like the leaven, the Church will eventually spread throughout the world.

• Why does the Church send out so many missionaries?  

• Parable of the Net (Matthew 13:47-50)  Nets are cast into the sea to gather fish of every kind.  When the nets are full, the fish are separated good from bad.  As we send out missionaries, more good fish can be gathered.  The sea is the world and the net is the missionary efforts.  The gathering the good into vessels is the people who accept the gospel and the bad being cast away are those who reject it at that time.

• How do you explain the remarkable growth of the Church, considering that it is fairly new compared to most world religions and started small in the American frontier? 
• Parable of the Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32) A mustard seed is the least of seeds – very tiny and insignificant in appearance.  But as a mustard seed is planted, it grows into a huge tree.  Like the mustard seed, the Church started out tiny, seemingly insignificant, but as it has grown rapidly and continues to do so, just as the seed grows into a tree.

• Why are some members of the Church willing to sacrifice so much worldly wealth and recognition in order to maintain membership in the Church?
• Parable of the Pearl of Great Price (Matthew 13:45-46)  This is one of my favorite parables – it really shows the eternal significance of the gospel.  The parable tells of a man who found a pearl of great price.  He sold everything that he had in order to by that pearl.  This is what members of the Church do – they have the gospel (pearl of great price) and are willing to give up wealth, recognition, and other worldly things in order to keep this valuable pearl.

• Why do some Church members choose to leave the Church? 
• Parable of the Tares (Matthew 13:24-30) This parable tells of a man who planted good seeds in his field.  But at night another came and placed seeds of tares (weeds) along with the good seeds!  The man knew that if he tried to remove the tares at first, that the good seeds would just come up with it.  So he let them both grow together and when the time of harvest came, he first took the tares and burned them, and afterwards was able to harvest his crop.  Sometimes people get too caught up in things of the world, just like the good seeds get too mixed in with tares and come up with the tares at harvest time.

The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price

The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price is very meaningful.  It teaches us that we must be willing to sacrifice.  Sacrifices are required to keep the gospel in our lives.  The gospel is the greatest treasure available to us.  I’m willing to sacrifice my job, my clothes, my car, my everyday conveniences and luxuries to have the gospel in my life.  I’m also willing to not shop on Sundays, to pay tithing on my income, to give time and energy to my calling, and attend church ever week.  As we make sacrifices to have the gospel in our lives, we will be able to see the blessings of it and better appreciate the gospel in our lives.

The Beatitudes

I love the Beatitudes – they are one of my very favorite parts of the New Testament.  Matthew 5:1-12 contains the beautiful Sermon of the Mount that Jesus Christ delivered.  This Sermon is the greatest sermon ever given.  It contains blessings known as the Beatitudes.

The word Beatitude comes from the Latin word beatus.  The word beatus is defined as “to be fortunate,” “to be happy,” or “to be blessed.”  I think this word is very fitting, due to the truth of each Beatitude and the blessing accompanying each one. 

In the Beatitudes, you will find a lot of “blessed” and “blessedness” going on.  According to the LDS Guide tothe Scriptures, blessed and blessedness is explained “to confer divine favor upon someone. Anything contributing to true happiness, well-being, or prosperity is a blessing.”  This stands true for the Beatitudes.  They definitely are a divine favor to each of us and they definitely contribute to true happiness, well-being, and prosperity.

The Beatitudes

Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit

Blessed Are They That Mourn

Blessed Are the Meek

Blessed Are They That Hunger and Thirst After Righteousness

Blessed Are the Pure in Heart

Blessed Are the Merciful

Blessed Are the Peacemakers

Blessed Are They Which Are Persecuted

That is obviously a very basic list of them.  I want to focus on three of them and share more about them.

1. "Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4

This is a blessing that is present in anyone’s lives.  And we all can receive comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ.  He knows exactly how we feel as we face difficulties or challenges and He knows exactly how to help us.  As we turn to Him and rely on him for strength and help, we will be comforted through the Holy Ghost.  I know that because of Jesus Christ’s Atonement, I will never be alone or helpless.  Jesus Christ will always be there for me and I can receive peace and comfort from the companionship of the Holy Ghost.

 2. "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” – Matthew 5:6 

As we hunger and thirst after righteousness, we will be lead down the path of Christ.  As we seek out to study, pray, take the Sacrament and attend the Temple, our spirits will be filled.  I’ve seen this to be true in my own life – as I make a continued effort to pray daily, study God’s words in the scriptures,  go to church and the Temple, I have an increased desire to follow Christ and to come closer to Him.  I also feel closer to Him and feel the Spirit more strongly in my life.

3. “Blessed are peacemakers: for they shall see God.” – Matthew 5:8

Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace.  It is through following Jesus Christ and His example that we can return to God.  As we strive to be peacemakers in our own lives, we will be blessed with peace and the happiness that comes from following Christ’s example.  When I’ve had the opportunity to be a peacemaker at home, work, ,or school, I have benefitted from the peace of mind and heart that follows.  I know that I can be a good influence and make a difference in the lives of others, as well as my own.

I love the teachings and principles that Christ taught and I know that following them will bring us happiness and peace.

We Must Be Born Again

“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God”  - John 3:3

What is the difference between “seeing” the kingdom of God and “entering” the kingdom of God?

First of all, you can see a place without actually entering it.  For example – Temples.  Many people visit temple grounds and see the beautiful Houses of the Lord.  They even feel His spirit there, but it takes more than just seeing the temple to receive the numberless blessings it provides in our lives.  We must do more – we must be doing all we can to follow Christ’s teachings.  We must obtain temple recommends through proper authority that signifies our person worthiness and efforts in living the gospel.  We must be willing to make promises to follow God.  And as we make these addition steps, not only will we see the temples, but we will enter the temple.  I think the same holds true for the kingdom of God.  It’s one thing to see it, but it takes more to enter.

What did Jesus Christ teach Nicodemus that he must to do enter the kingdom of God?

• Jesus taught that we must be born again.  He said we must be born of water and of the Spirit.  Mosiah 5:7 sheds some addition light concerning being “born again.”  It says that as we make covenants (promises) with God, we become His children, sons and daughters, and our hearts change and we are born of Him.  So as we change and improve our lives and make promises with God to follow Him, we can be “born of God.” 

What does it mean to be “born of water?”

• Being “ born of water” indicates baptism.  Jesus Christ gave us the perfect example of the necessity of all to be baptized.  As we make the promise to follow God as we are baptized, it is a symbolic rebirth, as we are immersed into the water and come up fresh and new.

• Moses 6:59 demonstrates a ways that baptism is a symbol of rebirth by discussing how transgression brings the fall (death).  Being cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ is the way for us to live again.  Just as we come to earth, we must be cleansed and born again through water (baptism) and live again with God.

• Romans 6:4 exemplifies baptism as symbol of death by describing “we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”  I like this illustration of newness that comes from baptism.  We go into the water, symbolizing death, and we are raised out of the water as a new being.

What does it mean to be “born of the Spirit?”

• Being born of the Spirit indicates the gift of the Holy Ghost.  That is the next step after baptism, or being born of water.  We receive this gift by the laying on of hands by those with authority to give the Gift of the Holy Ghost.  As we have the companionship of the Holy Ghost, we will have the blessing of guidance, direction, comfort, and knowledge in our lives.

• God compares the Spirit to the wind in John 3:8.  The wind blows where it will.  We can hear the wind, but do we know where it comes from or where it’s going?  This is a good comparison because we can hear the promptings of the Spirit and feel its presence in our lives, although it is subtle like the wind.  But also like the wind, it comes from something greater, and is going on to do great things.

To end, there are a couple of meaningful passages in John 3.  Verses 14-17 and 35-36 show of God’s great love for the world and all His children.  He loves us so much that he gave his only begotten Son, Jesus Christ.  He gave His Son that we can be saved and return to Him.  He loves His Son as well, and He trusted Him to do His will.  And if we accept and follow and believe in Him, God promises everlasting life and salvation.  This is a beautiful promise and I’m grateful for this knowledge that I have.  I know that we are children of God, that He loves each of us, and if we follow Him, we can return to Him through the Atonement and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Names and Titles of Jesus Christ

• Christ:  This is a sacred title and was not an everyday name.  It is Greek for “the anointed” and corresponds with the Hebrew names “Messiah” or “Messias,” which also mean “the anointed.”  It shows the Lords divine origin.

•  Messiah:  Messiah is the Aramaic word meaning “The anointed.”  This name is essentially interchangeable with “Christ” in definition.  It exemplifies the fact of Christ’s preordination.

•  Jehovah:   The Bible Dictionary defines this name as “Unchangeable One” and “The eternal I AM.”  The Institute Manual says it means “Self-Existent One” or “The Eternal.”  “I Am” denotes “Self Existent One”, so it’s neat to see how these names all intertwine and help us to understand the significance of this title.

•  Immanuel:  This name means “God with us.”  It’s a name-title given in Isaiah as a sign of God’s deliverance.

•  The Word:  Because Jesus is the Son of God and does the will of God, He essentially becomes a proxy of the Word of God.  Talmage wrote “…the Father operated in the work of creation through the Son, who thus became the executive through whom the will, commandment, or word of the Father was put into effect. It is with incisive appropriateness therefore, that the Son, Jesus Christ, is designated by the apostle John as the Word…” (Jesus the Christ, 33).

General Conference!

I'm watching General Conference right now with Brooke and Taylor.  We're watching it live on www.lds.org - second session of the day with one hour left!
This morning's session had some exciting news!  There will be a SECOND temple built in Provo!  Last year the Provo Tabernacle burned down and it's going to be rebuilt as a temple!  That is incredible! 
The other new temple locations are as follows:
Durban, South Africa
Kinshasa, Congo
Star Valley, WY
Barranquilla, Colombia
Paris, France
There have been some wonderful and inspiring talks given this morning and afternoon!  I've noticed there has been quite a focus toward the youth of the church.  As well as priesthood and temple ordinances, family history work, raising families, the importance of scripture study, spiritual priorities, and wise time management.  Richard G. Scott was the first speaker this morning and I really enjoyed his talk about scriptures and their importance.  He said that we can face difficult challenges using the scriptures and that they are a type of handbook for God's children.  They bring not only peace, hope, and restoration, but also physical healing.  I liked a question he asked: "Do you use ALL of the standard works, including the Old Testament?"  He also emphasized the importance of charity and that without charity, we have nothing.

After this conference I'm going to get a hair cut.  I'm looking forward to that - it's time for a new 'do'!  I'm going to have a fun colorful extension thrown in as well.  I hope it turns out alright!  :)
After my hair cut, Brooke and I are going to my place in Provo to hang out while Taylor is at Priesthood session in Orem with family.  Then once that is over, he'll come pick up Brooke!  And by the time I get home, Michael will most likely be finished with work at the BYU Testing Center.  Bless him, he has to miss both sessions today while he works, poor thing!  He'll catch up with them online though.  We came up with the most perfect Family Home Evening plan the other day!  There are 4 main sessions of conference - 2 Saturday, 2 Sunday, as well as the Relief Society and Priesthood conferences.  And there are 4 weeks a month, and sometimes 5 - so we're correlating those sessions with weeks.  Each Family Home Evening [Monday nights], we will listen to and discuss a conference talk from the most recent conference.  If it's the first Monday of the month, it'll be from the first session [Saturday morning], and if it's the 3rd Monday, than 3rd session [Sunday morning], etc.  And on the occasion of a 5th Monday, we will alternate a talk from Priesthood or Relief Society!  And that way we will be able to utilize these talks and keep them fresh in our minds even after conference.