Holding on to Christ

How are we to lay hold upon every good thing?

According to Mormon, all of the good available in this fallen world, comes from Jesus Christ.  Therefore, In order to lay hold upon every good thing, we must put our faith in Jesus Christ.  Mormon explains that our faith in Jesus, allows us to become His sons and daughters.  We must lay hold upon every good thing, by holding on to Christ.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/moroni/7

According to Mormon's son, Moroni, Faith, together with Hope, and Charity, become the fountain of all righteousness.  "And I will shew unto them (the Gentiles) that faith, hope, and charity bringeth unto me, the fountain of all righteousness."

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/ether/5

Moroni also shares an epistle from his father, Mormon and reviews the importance of the fountain of all righteousness in the Book of Moroni:

Our Faith is to be centered in Jesus Christ.  We are to Hope in the Eternal Life, offered by Him.  We must have Charity, if we desire to be purified by Him.  In other words, we must become like Him.  Charity is the pure love of Christ and the greatest of all:

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/moroni/7

And if a man be meek and lowly in heart, and confesses by the power of the holy ghost that Jesus is the Christ, he must needs have charity. For if he have not charity, he is nothing; wherefore, he must needs have charity. 

And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all. For all things must fail, but charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth for ever. And whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with them. 

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified, even as he is pure.  Amen.

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Right here in River City

There is a popular false tradition among us Gentiles that goes like this: 

"Soon we will be responsible for building the New Jerusalem, right here in our very own America".

The truth as received in the scriptures, explains the following: Once the people of this land are humble, ready and find themselves worshiping Jesus Christ (the God of this land), then, and only then, will Zion come down from heaven and be established among the New Jerusalem in America and Jesus will dwell there.  

By the time Zion actually arrives in America, the world, including America, will feel dramatically different.  Our relatively prosperous and peaceful circumstances will no longer exist.  At that time, the king of Assyria (from Isaiah) will be sweeping the nations of the Earth before him.  The world will be completely at war, and the only place survivors may flee for protection will be Zion.

Who are the people responsible for this land of America and for building the New Jerusalem on this land?  

According to the Book of Mormon, the people who received this honor and mandate directly from Jesus Christ, are a remnant from the tribe of Joseph/Jacob.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/10

"But if they (the Gentiles) will repent, and hearken unto my words, and harden not their hearts, they shall come in unto the covenant and be numbered among this the remnant of Jacob, unto whom I have given this land for their inheritance

(Who was given the land?  The remnant of Jacob/Joseph, the people of the land).

And they (the Gentiles) shall assist my people, the remnant of Jacob, and also as many of the house of Israel as shall come, that they (the remnant of Jacob) may build a city which shall be called the New Jerusalem. And then shall they (the Gentiles) assist my people, that they may be gathered in, who are scattered upon all the face of the land, in unto the New Jerusalem. And then shall the Powers of Heaven come down among them, and I also will be in the midst".

Notice, the responsibility for establishing the New Jerusalem was not given to the Gentiles, as our instruction involves assisting.  The most noted Gentile assist mentioned in the scriptures is the sharing the scriptures (Book of Mormon and Bible) with the remnant of Joseph/Jacob.  

Who are the people in the Book of Mormon that fit this description of the remnant of the house of Joseph/Jacob? 

Correct, the Native Americans of North and South America are the people being described throughout the Book of Mormon as the remnant of Joseph/Jacob.  

How many Native Americans are currently living in North and South America?

Fifty three million!

Recent estimates for North America are close to eleven million, with approximately two million Native Americans located in Canada and seven million living within the U.S.  South America is estimated to contain forty two million indigenous peoples living there.

In the record of Ether, in the Book of Mormon, Moroni explains which people will be building a holy city unto the Lord, and the Gentiles are not even mentioned:    

"Ether taught that after the waters had receded from off the face of this land, it became a choice land above all other lands, a chosen land of the Lord — wherefore, the Lord would have that all men should serve him who dwelt upon the face thereof — and that it was the place of the New Jerusalem, which should come down out of Heaven, and the holy sanctuary of the Lord.

Behold, Ether saw the days of Christ, and he spake concerning a New Jerusalem upon this land. And he spake also concerning the house of Israel, and the Jerusalem from whence Lehi should come — after it should be destroyed, it should be built up again, an holy city unto the Lord (wherefore, it could not be a New Jerusalem, for it had been in a time of old, but it should be built up again and become a holy city of the Lord, and it should be built up unto the house of Israel) and that a New Jerusalem should be built up upon this land unto the remnant of the seed of Joseph, for which things there has been a type. For as Joseph brought his father down into the land of Egypt, even so he died there. Wherefore, the Lord brought a remnant of the seed of Joseph out of the land of Jerusalem, that he might be merciful unto the seed of Joseph, that they should perish not, even as he was merciful unto the father of Joseph, that he should perish not.

Wherefore, the remnant of the house of Joseph shall be built up upon this land, and it shall be a land of their inheritance. And they shall build up a holy city unto the Lord like unto the Jerusalem of old. And they shall no more be confounded until the end come, when the earth shall pass away. And there shall be a new heaven and a new earth. And they shall be like unto the old, save the old have passed away and all things have become new. And then cometh the New Jerusalem; and blessed are they who dwell therein, for it is they whose garments are white through the blood of the Lamb; and they are they who are numbered among the remnant of the seed of Joseph, who were of the house of Israel. And then also cometh the Jerusalem of old and the inhabitants thereof; blessed are they, for they have been washed in the blood of the Lamb. And they are they who were scattered, and gathered in from the four quarters of the earth and from the north countries, and are partakers of the fulfilling of the covenant which God made with their father, Abraham. And when these things come, bringeth to pass the scripture which saith, There are they who were first who shall be last, and there are they who were last who shall be first".

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/ether/6

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How do we glorify God?

A true messenger from God, named Ether, taught the people that all things are brought about by faith.  Ether said that we should be hoping for a better world, as this place is fallen.  We should hope with faith, for a place at the right hand of God.  Hope together with our faith, creates an anchor for our souls.  

This faith and hope makes us sure and steadfast, like an anchor of righteousness, always abounding in good works, which is how we glorify God!

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/ether/5

And it came to pass that the days of Ether was in the days of Coriantumr, and Coriantumr was king over all the land.  And Ether was a prophet of the Lord; wherefore, Ether came forth in the days of Coriantumr and began to prophesy unto the people, for he could not be constrained because of the spirit of the Lord which was in him (a sign of a true messenger from God).  For he did cry from the morning even until the going down of the sun, exhorting the people to believe in God unto repentance lest they should be destroyed, saying unto them that by faith all things are fulfilled.  Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.  And it came to pass that Ether did prophesy great and marvelous things unto the people, which they did not believe because they saw them not.

Moroni explains that faith is hope and belief in things which are unseen.  

And now I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things. I would shew unto the world that faith is things which are hoped for and not seen. Wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness — not until after the trial of your faith. For it was by faith that Christ shewed himself unto our fathers after he had risen from the dead, and he shewed not himself unto them until after they had faith in him; wherefore, it must needs be that some had faith in him, for he shewed himself not unto the world but because of the faith of men.

Faith is required to see Him, along with purity of heart.

In the same chapter: https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/ether/5 

Moroni prays for us (the Gentiles) that we may have charity, and receive grace from God.  Jesus explains to Moroni, very few Gentiles will succeed in this process as they will need to humble themselves, asking Him to show them their weaknesses and the Gentiles will also need to be charitable.  We (the proud Gentiles) will find both of these requirements very hard to accomplish.

During his farewell, Moroni repeats the message of the Book of Mormon, which is this:  "I have seen Jesus and you may also see Him.  I commend you to turn your life towards him (seek after Jesus), that you may receive of His grace".

And now I, Moroni, bid farewell unto the gentiles, yea, and also unto my brethren, whom I love, until we shall meet before the judgment seat of Christ, where all men shall know that my garments are not spotted with your blood. And then shall ye know that I have seen Jesus, and that he hath talked with me face to face, and that he told me in plain humility, even as a man telleth another, in mine own language, concerning these things. And only a few have I written because of my weakness in writing. And now I would commend you to seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written, that the grace of God the Father, and also the Lord Jesus Christ, and the holy ghost, which beareth record of them, may be and abide in you for ever. Amen.

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The Book of Mormon, Isaiah and the End Times

Many people take these words (Feast upon the words of Christ) from Nephi to support their search and study of the scriptures, which is a good interpretation. Surely the words of Christ may be found within the scriptures. The Holy Spirit will also attend to and teach those who are engaged in scripture study.

Please also keep in mind, the righteous voice that you hear in your head, the same voice that provides protection for you and also prompts you "to do what is right", that voice, is the voice of Jesus. "Feasting upon the words of Christ" also means to follow the individual direction that He is constantly providing you! This personal guidance and interaction with Jesus is available all day long, each and every day.

Seek His instruction, and be sure to follow His counsel, because He is trying to lead you directly to Him. Directly to that moment (while living in the flesh) when He will visit with you.

A sacred record is available, full of helpful information from Jesus, concerning how each of us may come unto Him. The record is known as the Book of Mormon. To accurately determine if this book of scripture is "from God", one must try the fruit and spend time reading the Book of Mormon:  

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/nc

Over the years, different groups have attempted to organize churches and preach repentance based upon revelations received by Joseph Smith and others. These churches have experienced varying levels of success as organized religion suffers from inherent corruption, leading to eventual loss of the Spirit. The Book of Mormon is a record full of light and truth, while the religions that were organized in connection with Mormon theology are losing their way.

There is much discussion within the Book of Mormon regarding the tribes of Jacob, including the Jews, accepting Jesus Christ, while the Gentiles reject Christ, lose their chance and fall into apostacy.  Our dire situation is covered in the Book of Mormon and also in Isaiah.  The period of wickedness and destruction, known as "the end times", will soon be upon us.  If we survive the coming tribulations, we will find ourselves living during a time of complete chaos, while searching for Zion, because it will be the only place of refuge and protection.  Jesus quotes Isaiah in Third Nephi and commands us to search and study the words of Isaiah:  

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/10:

"And now behold, I say unto you that ye had ought to search these things. Yea, a commandment I give unto you that ye search these things diligently, for great are the words of Isaiah. For surely he spake as touching all things concerning my people which are of the house of Israel. Therefore, it must needs be that he must speak also to the gentiles. And all things that he spake hath been and shall be, even according to the words which he spake".

Up until now, very few have been able to understand the words of Isaiah and honor the commandment above, received from Jesus.  Glory to God!  Avraham Gileadi, has devoted his life to studying and explaining Isaiah.  I have really enjoyed spending time studying and learning from Avraham's website: 

http://www.isaiahexplained.com/

All 66 chapters of Isaiah are listed, each containing extensive explanations and detailed historical background. There is so much information here! Be sure to check this out! There are four tabs in the menu, located above the 66 chapters of Isaiah. By clicking on the "Apocalyptic Commentary" tab, a wealth of information is available in analytical commentary format (each verse is broken down and explained in written text).  A voice recording is also available with insightful additional cultural and period background information, by clicking on the play button.

Recently a devoted group (attempting to follow Jesus) put together a wonderful set of scriptures and all three volumes are easily accessible online.  The information contained within these scriptures has remained true to the original revelations, available here:  https://scriptures.info/

Within these scriptures, the original revelations from Joseph Smith are available, including the doctrine of faith (written lessons of theology) known as the Lectures on Faith. The original text of the Book of Mormon is also included.  These scriptures are full of light and instruction from God, while being free from the uneasy yoke created by organized religion.

“Then spoke Jesus, saying, Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavily loaded, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart. And you shall find rest unto your souls, for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

from Matthew:  https://scriptures.info/scriptures/nt/matthew/6


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He is Risen!

He Is Risen
Text: Cecil Frances Alexander, 1818 -1895
Music: Joachim Neander, 1650 -1680

"But behold, the angels said unto them, Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen."    https://scriptures.info/scriptures/nt/luke/14

1. He is risen! He is risen!
Tell it out with joyful voice.
He has burst his three days’ prison;
Let the whole wide earth rejoice.
Death is conquered; man is free.
Christ has won the victory.

2. Come with high and holy hymning;
Chant our Lord’s triumphant lay.
Not one darksome cloud is dimming
Yonder glorious morning ray,
Breaking o’er the purple east,
Symbol of our Easter feast.

3. He is risen! He is risen!
He hath opened heaven’s gate.
We are free from sin’s dark prison,
Risen to a holier state.
And a brighter Easter beam
On our longing eyes shall stream.

4. Come with high and holy hymning;
God, our Father lives today.
If we hope to dwell in glory,
Just one path, He is the way.
Honoring His holy will,
Tis, truly how we bear His seal.

5. He is risen! He is risen!
He hath shown us how to live.
Turning to Him and believing,
Are the steps that we must give.
Holy, Holy, Holy Son,
Jesus the anointed One.

4th and 5th verses by a very close friend

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How do I become numbered with His people?

In order for a Gentile to be numbered among His people (His sheep), that Gentile must be righteous, be Baptized, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

from Third Nephi, https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/14

.. turn all ye Gentiles from your wicked ways and repent...

.. come unto me, and be baptized in my name, that ye may receive a remission of your sins, and be filled with the Holy Ghost, that ye may be numbered with my people who are of the House of Israel.

1.  stop being wicked

2.  repent

3.  be Baptized in His name

4.  be filled with the Holy Ghost

On the third of February, in a post titled "Baptism of Fire, I explored what "being filled with the Holy Ghost" really means.  

In order for someone to be "filled with the Holy Ghost" effort is required, in addition to following guidance received from Jesus.

To be filled with the Holy Ghost, also known as receiving the "Baptism of Fire", means to have your spirit cleansed and sanctified by God.  The process for cleansing your spirit is similar to the process of washing your body clean in the waters of Baptism.

Mormon repeats the same instruction, during his farewell address, in Mormon chapter three, end of verse five:  

"... and if it so be that ye believe in Christ, and are baptized, first with water, then with fire and with the Holy Ghost, following the example of our Savior, according to that which he hath commanded us, it shall be well with you in the day of judgement.  Amen".

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/mormon/3

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The Third Book of Nephi in the Book of Mormon

I have been enjoying the study of Third Nephi.  These chapters provide great insight into the kindness, patience and wonders available to all followers of Jesus Christ.  In these special chapters, Jesus expands upon the truths He taught while living in Galilee, during his mortal ministry.  

Within days of His triumph over death, in Jerusalem, Jesus is found teaching a humbled group of survivors in America.  Jesus also mentions going to visit other sheep, in other locations.  One of those visits could have been to Peru, as there are local Peruvian legends describing a white, bearded God, who visited the ancestors of the Andean Indians.  He taught the people, healed their sick and walked on water.  In the legend, the white God arrived and healed the people after a period of great darkness and suffering.

In Third Nephi, when speaking about His other sheep, chapter seven, verse four, Jesus teaches us how to receive answers to our questions.  Jesus said to ask the Father in the name of Jesus, in order to receive knowledge from the Holy Ghost.  Specifically, Jesus said to ask for information concerning the lost tribes.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/7

In chapter nine, verse four, Jesus prays for His disciples, who had received the Baptism of Fire (right after their Baptism in water).  These disciples were also recently purified in Jesus, which purification, engulfed their bodies and their clothes in glory.  

In the same verse, Jesus is praying for His disciples, as Jesus wants to become one with His disciples.  He wants to be in them, as the Father is within Jesus.  

Jesus teaches that becoming one with his disciples, will allow Jesus to be glorified in them.  This is the same process Jesus experienced during his moral life, where Jesus was able to become one with His Father, and receive the Father within Himself, which glorified the Father.

In verse five, Jesus explains the people were blessed to participate in so many miracles because of their great faith.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/9

In chapter twelve, Mormon explains the information given in Third Nephi, describing Jesus visiting the people, is only a small part of what was recorded.  The remaining truths which are much greater, will be given to the descendants of this people, if they accept the truths Jesus provided in the Book of Mormon.  I find these verses interesting as the greater truths are not given to the Gentiles!  

A state of Zion is described, in verse three of the same chapter, which lasted for two generations.  Zion existed from the time Jesus visited the people, after his resurrection, for about two hundred years.  During this period of time, the people shared all things in common and enjoyed miracles from heaven.  About 200 years after the Birth of Christ, the people began to separate into classes and discontinued the practice of sharing with each other, and keeping all things in common.  Hardly anything is recorded in Third Nephi regarding this amazing period of time.  The bulk of this Zion material is waiting to be revealed.  Waiting for members from the House of Israel, to believe in Jesus.   https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/12

Next, Moroni is writing the words he received directly from Jesus. Found in the first chapter of Ether, verse nineteen: He that will not believe my words will not believe me, that I am. And he that will not believe me will not believe the Father who sent me. For behold, I am the Father. I am the light, and the life, and the truth of the world. Come unto me, O ye gentiles, and I will shew unto you the greater things, the knowledge which is hid up because of unbelief. Come unto me, O ye house of Israel, and it shall be made manifest unto you how great things the Father hath laid up for you from the foundation of the world; and it hath not come unto you because of unbelief. Behold, when ye shall rend that veil of unbelief which doth cause you to remain in your awful state of wickedness, and hardness of heart, and blindness of mind, then shall the great and marvelous things which have been hid up from the foundation of the world from you. https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/ether/1

From Moroni Ether chapter five, verse eight:  And now I, Moroni, bid farewell unto the gentiles, yea, and also unto my brethren, whom I love, until we shall meet before the judgment seat of Christ, where all men shall know that my garments are not spotted with your blood. And then shall ye know that I have seen Jesus, and that he hath talked with me face to face, and that he told me in plain humility, even as a man telleth another, in mine own language, concerning these things. And only a few have I written because of my weakness in writing. And now I would commend you to seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written, that the grace of God the Father, and also the Lord Jesus Christ, and the holy ghost, which beareth record of them, may be and abide in you for ever. Amen.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/ether/5

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Our Humble Hero

All of the ancient prophets looked forward to His day.  The promised time finally arrived, with little fanfare taking place upon this fallen world.  The stars above and the Heavenly Hosts celebrated the special arrival with the shepherds near by, giving Glory to God.  Each year, during the wintertime, we celebrate a special scripture known as the nativity.  You may remember some of these details, a new star appeared in the sky.  Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem and their baby was born in a very humble way.  Jesus was born in a stable, where the animals live, because there was no room for their family in the Inn. 

Why was the birth of Jesus so special?  Because Jesus was sent from the high heavens.  He was sent down to Earth with an important mission.  He was coming to Earth to be the Messiah.

What does Messiah mean?  It means the Savior of the world.   

What was Jesus sent to do?  To save each one of us and our fallen Earth. 

Can I be saved too?  Yes, the scriptures show us the way (be Baptized and believe in Jesus).  

How did Jesus know that he was the Messiah?  Jesus studied the scriptures and was familiar with the messages contained within.  He often prayed and thought about heavenly things.  Jesus was taught by the Holy Spirit and learned important truths from his parents.

Jesus taught the people to be kind and to serve each other.  He performed many miracles, proving that he was the Messiah.  Jesus taught the people and served them, always leading by example.  He elevated not himself but remained humble.  He was full of kindness and compassion.  He truly lived each moment of his life as our teacher and guide for humanity.  The wicked priests did not like Jesus.  They did not like the simple truths that Jesus was teaching the people.  Jesus offered himself as a sacrifice to save our fallen world. 

What does sacrifice mean?  Jesus allowed the wicked priests to kill him, even though Jesus had done nothing wrong.  Jesus suffered for all the wickedness of the world and became a righteous and pure offering for sin.  Jesus fulfilled his mission.  He is the Messiah, the Savior of our world.

You may remember the details from another famous scripture.  On the third day after his death, Jesus arose from the dead.  He came back to life with power over death and saved our fallen earth.  This glorious event is why we celebrate Easter.  After his resurrection, Jesus taught the believers and visited with them until he ascended back into the high heavens.

What is Jesus doing now?  He is helping his Father in Heaven with our salvation.  They work together, offering their help and guidance to us, as we attempt to journey back into their presence.    

Jesus continues to teach us and help us from heaven.  We can learn of him by studying the scriptures.  Each time we pray, we are speaking to Heavenly Father and Jesus.  They respond to our thoughts, prayers and actions with a still, small voice.   

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/nc

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Jesus at Walker Lake, Nevada in 1890

In a book written by Val Brinkerhoff, there is a beautiful description of Jesus visiting a group of Native Americans at Walker Lake, Nevada in the year 1890.  In his book, titled "The Remnant Awakens", Val explains some of what Jesus taught the people:  

"Few know that our Savior has visited our Native American brothers and sisters, doing so a number of times. One of His most widely reported visits was in 1890 in western Nevada. Few are aware of it today, yet it was reported in magazines and newspapers across the country that year. It led to “the Messiah Craze.” The Federal Government sent U.S. Army General Nelson Miles to investigate this “Messiah” and why Native Americans were reacting so strongly to His supposed visit. Reports suggest Christ taught representatives of some sixteen tribes a message centered on spreading brotherhood and love among the Indian people, and with the white man".

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Jesus is the Way, what are the steps along the Path?

Jesus is the Way.  What are the steps along the path?

To come unto the Father, all believers must walk with Jesus.  In the Gospel of Miryam, Jesus teaches, "My words are the Way, the Truth, and the Life.  For My words are given of the Spirit, and no one comes to the Kingdom except through Her teachings".

Jesus also instructs, "Learn of Me, and listen to My words; walk in the meekness of My Spirit, and you shall have peace in Me".  From verse six of part seventeen.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/tc/jshistory/17.6#6

Step one: Learn of Him.  We need to study His words and His works.

Step two: Listen to Him.  This listening to Jesus, should be happening all of the time.  He is always there and available.  We must remember to include Him in our thoughts and actions.  How do I hear Him?  That voice in your head, the voice that keeps you safe, and helps you to know what is right, that voice, is Jesus.  What does He sound like?  He sounds like you!  Direction from Heaven is usually clear and direct.  His counsel and instruction will always be full of light and truth.    

Jesus lived His mortal life as the perfect example for each of us to follow.  Jesus is truly the prototype of the saved man*.  To walk with Jesus we must be like Him, patient, kind and long suffering.  Keep in mind charity, and meekness, Jesus never elevated Himself, instead, always praising the Father that sent Him.  Jesus served others and shared of His abundance.  *Joseph Smith teaches about how to be saved, and looks to Jesus as the prototype, in the book, Lectures on Faith.

According to the words of Jesus Christ, the way back to Him includes, turning towards Him (repentance), being baptized in His name, and becoming like a little child.  From chapter five, verse nine.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/5

When you are a child, your "will" is wrapped up in following instructions from your parents.  As adults, It takes a great deal of humility, (like a child) for us to follow the will of someone else.  We must be willing to ask Jesus for specific guidance on what we are lacking.  Jesus will respond with areas that must be corrected, if we desire to truly follow Him to where He dwells.  

From the first chapter of Mosiah, verse sixteen, "the natural man is an enemy to God and will be until he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father." 

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/1

During the process of becoming like a little child, we will receive instructions from Jesus, concerning how to proceed.  If His instructions are followed, He will lead us to being born of the Spirit, also known as the Baptism of Fire.  

Jesus explains, " I will Baptize you with Fire and with the Holy Ghost".  This is His work and His desire for each of us.  Found In the Book of Mormon, chapter five of Third Nephi, verse ten.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/5

If we continue following His will and guidance, He will lead us to receive the Second Comforter, which is a personal visit, with Jesus.  An earlier post dated July 26, 2020, discusses this personal visit in greater detail.  

The promises of hearing His voice, receiving guidance from Him, receiving the Baptism of Fire, and Second Comforter are available to each person on this Earth, as Jesus is no respecter of persons.  

Whomever follows the path (walks with Jesus) will arrive at the destination (where He dwells).

"And again I say unto you, ye must repent, be baptized in my name, and become as a little child, or ye can in nowise receive these things".  

Examples from the Book of Mormon of people who "received these things":

Joseph Smith, Nephi, Jacob, Ammon, Moroni, The Brother of Jared, all the survivors who met Jesus in the land Bountiful and many more.

People in the scriptures who "received of these things": Miryam the Migdalah, Saul, Moses, Abraham, Adam, Seth, Enoch, Noah, Melchizedek, all of the followers who witnessed of Jesus after His death and resurrection, and many others.

From chapter one of First Corinthians, verse sixty one, "After that He was seen by over five hundred people at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep".

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/nt/1corinthians/1

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Baptism of Fire

In the previous post concerning Baptism, Jesus teaches an important truth, that is often overlooked.  This is the truth:

Jesus answered, Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/nt/john/2

We are all born of the flesh (natural men and women) and hence the Baptism of water, is for our flesh.  The Kingdom of God, however, is Spiritual.  A Baptism of the Spirit is required, if one desires an inheritance where Jesus dwells.  Please keep in mind, being born of the Spirit, or being Baptized by the Spirit requires effort.

One person telling another person to "receive the Holy Ghost", is not quite the same thing as being cleansed by the Spirit, and being made holy.  The Baptism of the Spirit that Jesus is speaking about, is a sanctification process, burning out the spiritual impurities of the recipient.  Being born of the Spirit, has been likened to a "Baptism of Fire".  

In chapter five of Third Nephi, verse nine, Jesus explains what is necessary for us to receive a Baptism of the Spirit, and also to inherit the Kingdom of God.  Three specific things are mentioned, "Repentance", "Baptism in His name", and "Becoming like a little child".  

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/5

Jesus explains if we want to receive "these things" (our Baptism of Fire, to be born again, born of the Spirit), we must follow His instructions:    

1. Repent of our sins, or "turn to Him".

2. Get Baptized in water, in His name.

3. Become as a little child. 

"... ye can in nowise receive these things, unless you become as a little child".

What does Jesus mean when he says "become as a little child"?

I believe what he is saying is this: If we really want to come unto Him, we will need Jesus to tell us exactly how to proceed.  We must listen to our Father, as a little child, and ask Him to lead us back into His presence.  If we will ask Jesus, He will tell us exactly what we need to do, exactly what we need to correct, so that we are no longer missing the mark, and may receive the Baptism of Fire.  The direction that I receive from Him, will be specific for me, and my issues.  The direction that you receive from Him, will be specific for you.  

This really works!  I have asked and I've been given some items to work on.

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Baptism is the Way

Baptism is important, and there are two of them!

In the Book of Mormon, Jesus declares the importance of Baptism.  After surviving three days of darkness, including natural disasters of biblical proportions, the righteous believers hear a voice from Heaven, announcing the arrival of Jesus, Beloved Son, of the Father.  

Jesus descends from Heaven, and introduces Himself to the group of believers, as "the God of the whole Earth".  What is the first order of business?  The first thing Jesus teaches this humble group is the importance of Baptism.  Beginning in verse seven of chapter five, Jesus outlines the importance of Baptism and the correct manner in which to perform the ordinance.  Jesus also warns that contention is not of Him, but is of the adversary.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/5

In this same chapter, verse nine, Jesus explains His very simple doctrine, which is: "The Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in Jesus.  And whoso believeth in Jesus, and is Baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God.  And whoso believeth not in Jesus, and is not Baptized, shall be damned". 

In verse ten, Jesus clarifies the requirement for both Baptisms (one of the Spirit and one of the water), assuming your goal is to inherit the Kingdom of God.  

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/5

In the second chapter of the Gospel of John, Jesus teaches Nicodemus this same truth, there are two Baptisms and it takes both of them to reach the Kingdom of God.  One Baptism is completed in the water.  The other is completed in the Spirit.

There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”

Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/nt/john/2   

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Jesus Christ is the Father of our Heaven and Earth

According to Jesus Christ, "He, is the God of Israel and the God of the whole Earth".  I take His description contained within the Book of Mormon, "of the whole Earth" to include our Solar System and Milky Way Galaxy.

From third Nephi, chapter five, verse five

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/3nephi/5

"Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the nails in my hands and in my feet, that ye may know that I am the God of Israel, and the God of the whole Earth, and have been slain for the sins of the world."

As has been mentioned in earlier posts, Jesus is the Father of our Heaven and Earth and Miryam, the wife of Jesus, is the Mother of our Heaven and Earth.  In the King Follett Discourse, Joseph Smith teaches this hidden truth, "when Jesus was living His mortal life, on Earth, Jesus was following the will of His spiritual Father, known as Ahman, the Great God".

It is worth noting that during His mortal life, Jesus never elevated himself, but instead elevated and praised the Father, that sent Him.  Jesus consistently sought for and followed His Father's will.  We too, should be seeking to learn our Father's will.  

Also from Moroni,  this is Jesus speaking:

"I am the same that leadeth men to all good..   He that will not believe my words will not believe me, that I am. And he that will not believe me will not believe the Father who sent me. For behold, I am the Father. I am the light, and the life, and the truth of the world. Come unto me, O ye gentiles, and I will shew unto you the greater things, the knowledge which is hid up because of unbelief. Come unto me, O ye house of Israel, and it shall be made manifest unto you how great things the Father hath laid up for you from the foundation of the world; and it hath not come unto you because of unbelief. Behold, when ye shall rend that veil of unbelief which doth cause you to remain in your awful state of wickedness, and hardness of heart, and blindness of mind, then shall the great and marvelous things which have been hid up from the foundation of the world from you.."

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/ether/1  found in verse nineteen

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The Wise and the Foolish

We are finally approaching the "end times", for this fallen creation.

Jesus, while teaching about these end times, shared a simple parable concerning a wedding feast and ten virgins (verse fifteen of Matthew chapter eleven).

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/nt/matthew/11

Five of the participants were wise and five were foolish. What was the difference between the wise and foolish, that prevented the foolish from from joining the feast?
Keep in mind, the wedding feast mentioned, represents eternal life and the wise and foolish participants, represent each one of us.

The wise were able to learn of Him and follow His instruction. They learned to trust in Him. They worked to become like Him as they recognized that His life and teachings were examples of humanity.  Examples that were meant to be learned and followed.

Getting to the point where we know the nature of our Lord, and are able to trust in Him, is a good place to be. This personal relationship (knowing our Lord) is something that is not easily shared. The five wise virgins were unable to share their spiritual understanding (oil) as their relationships with the Lord had been developed over time. They had learned to trust the Lord and sacrifice their will, in order to learn His will. This understanding is not something that can be purchased at the market. Here is an important truth: To walk with Jesus, we must be like Him (patient, kind and longsuffering).

King Benjamin describes knowing the Lord in this way (Mosiah chapter three, verse three) "For how knoweth a man the master whom he has not served, and who is a stranger unto him, and is far from the thoughts and intents of his heart?"

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/3


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Miryam The Migdalah

Recently I learned there is a group in the south of France that honors Mary (Miryam called The Migdalah). Also, there is a special Gospel, written by Mary, that has been preserved in that area of France from the time Mary arrived there after the ascension of Jesus.

A record that old would have been safe from Josiah and the Deuteronomists, responsible for purging the Queen of Heaven from worship and the temple in their day.

I have really enjoyed learning from this translation of the Gospel. Mary even teaches about the path of progression/ascension. The best part though, this translation of the Gospel is from a woman's perspective. This translation also seems to enlighten the other four Gospels. In Mary's Gospel, Jesus describes His wife Miryam, as "a Tower of Strength" and "the only one who would not desert Him".

There are records, which mention Mary and suggest that She is the wife of Jesus. Mary is mentioned in the following records: the Pistis Sophia, the Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Philip, and the Gospel of Mary.

From the Gospel of Philip: "And the companion of the Savior was Mary Magdalene. Christ loved Mary more than all the disciples, and used to kiss her often on the mouth. The rest of the disciples were offended by it and expressed disapproval. They said to him, "Why do you love her more than all of us?" The Savior answered and said to them, "Why do I not love you like her? When a blind man and one who sees are both together in darkness, they are no different from one another. When the light comes, then he who sees will see the light, and he who is blind will remain in darkness."

There is a wonderful book titled "The Gospel of the Beloved Companion", the literal translation of "the Beloved Companion" from Alexandrian Greek, means: "the Companion beloved of Yeshua".

The Gospel of the Beloved Companion: The Complete Gospel of Mary Magdalene
Translated by Jehanne de Quillan Author

Available via Amazon

www.earnestmormon.com

Words of Christ

Many people take these words (feast upon the words of Christ) from Nephi to support their search and study of the scriptures, which is a good interpretation.  Surely the words of Christ may be found within the scriptures.  The Spirit may also attend to and teach those who are engaged in scripture study.

Please also keep in mind...  

The righteous voice that you hear in your head, the same voice that provides protection for you and also prompts you "to do what is right", that voice, is the voice of Jesus.  "Feasting upon the words of Christ" also means to follow the individual direction that He is constantly providing you!  

Seek His instruction, and be sure to follow His counsel, because He is trying to lead you directly to Him.  Directly to that moment (while living in the flesh) when He will visit with you.  Nephi is explaining this process because he is familiar with how it works.  Nephi was able to stand in the presence of Jesus.  Nephi's brother Jacob, also received his own Second Comforter (Jacob chapter one, verse four: having firstly obtained mine errand from the Lord.)

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/jacob/1

"Behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and there will be no more doctrine given until after he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh.  And when he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh, the things which he shall say unto you shall ye observe to do."

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/2nephi/14

Nephi was speaking about his personal visit with Jesus, and providing a road map for anyone who receives his words (readers of the Book of Mormon), instructions on how to have your own Second Comforter experience with Jesus.  Joseph Smith was teaching the same doctrine, "that each one of us should be working towards obtaining our own Second Comforter, which is a personal visit with Jesus Christ".

This instruction (regarding a personal visit with Jesus) was given from Nephi to his family, as he was getting upward in years and about to retire from the flesh.  This message was given to his children and grandchildren!  

Approximately 580 years after Nephi shared these words with his children, Jesus visited some of Nephi's very distant relatives in the Land Bountiful.  The personal ministry of Jesus in Bountiful, takes a humbled group of believers, who recently survived the "wrath of god" and creates among them a city of Zion.

When Nephi mentions "after ye have entered in by the way" he means after you have been Baptized in water.  When Nephi mentions "receiving the Holy Ghost", he means receiving your Baptism of Fire.  This process is a spiritual Baptism and usually occurs separate from the Baptism of water.

https://scriptures.info/scriptures/bofm/2nephi/14

And now behold, my beloved brethren, I suppose that ye ponder somewhat in your hearts concerning that which ye should do after ye have entered in by the way. But behold, why do ye ponder these things in your hearts? Do ye not remember that I said unto you that after ye had received the holy ghost, ye could speak with the tongue of angels? And now, how could ye speak with the tongue of angels save it were by the holy ghost? Angels speak by the power of the holy ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, Feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do. Wherefore, now after I have spoken these words, if ye cannot understand them, it will be because ye ask not, neither do ye knock. Wherefore, ye are not brought into the light, but must perish in the dark. For behold, again I say unto you that if ye will enter in by the way and receive the holy ghost, it will shew unto you all things what ye should do. Behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and there will be no more doctrine given until after he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh. And when he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh, the things which he shall say unto you shall ye observe to do.

"The Book of Mormon has been correctly termed "A Second Comforter Guidebook".  There is much light available within these pages.  

A devoted group (attempting to follow Jesus) have put together a wonderful set of scriptures.  All three volumes are available online for free.  Paperback copies are available via Amazon.

The information contained within these scriptures has remained true to the original revelations.  available online:    https://scriptures.info/

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His Parables

Walking on Water - Matthew chapter 14

Raising the daughter of Jairus from the dead - Mark chapter 5

The Good Samaritan - Luke chapter 10

Lazarus and the Rich man - Luke chapter 16

The Ten Lepers  - Luke chapter 17

The lady caught in Adultery - John chapter 8

Healing a man born with Blindness - John chapter 9

What are we to do with these wonderful parables and teachings?  During His mortal ministry, Jesus was constantly providing "hands-on" examples of how to live in this fallen world, while walking with God.  Only those few with "ears to hear" and "eyes to see", were able to learn from the Son of Humanity.  

Jesus explained His use of parables, in Matthew chapter Thirteen:

He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.

For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.

Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:

For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

A wise friend recently explained the parables and teachings of Jesus in this way: Jesus is always the healer in each parable.  Each of us may also be found within each teaching.  We are (one of the ten lepers, begging to be healed), (the blind man, receiving his sight), (the man beaten on the side of the road, left for dead), (Peter, attempting to walk on water), (Lazarus, arising from his death of several days), (the women taken in adultery, about to be stoned to death), (the sinful prodigal son, wallowing with pigs in the mud), (the rich young ruler, who was unable to sell all that he had, give to the poor, and follow the Messiah).

For me, this way of studying His teachings is correct as we all need His healing.  We all must come to Him and seek His help, because He is the only way out of this fallen world of death and decay.  In the fourteenth chapter of John, Jesus explains:  "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man or woman cometh unto the Father, but by me."

Glory to God!  I desire to have "ears to hear" and "eyes to see".  

Here is an interesting parable from Jesus as told by Miryam, from Her Gospel, titled "The Gospel of the Beloved Companion".  Finally, a Gospel taught from a feminine perspective!  This Gospel comes from a protected source, one that survived the purge of King Josiah and the Deuteronomists, mentioned in an earlier post.

I am thankful for this Gospel of Miryam.  These words enlighten our existing scriptures! 

In the parable, Jesus is explaining that the Kingdom of Heaven, can be found within each of us and is near, when we are following His teachings.  Was Jesus speaking of our spirits, which are eternal and inside our bodies?  

30:1  Yeshua (Jesus) therefore walked no more openly among the people, but departed from there into the country near the wilderness, to a city called Ephraim.  He stayed there with His disciples and taught them many things.

30:2  As they sat at supper, Phillipos said to Yeshua, "tell us what the Kingdom is like".

30:3  And Yeshua said to him, "the Kingdom is like a man who had a treasure hidden in his field, but did not know it.  And when he died, he left the field to his son.  The son did not find the treasure, nor did he use the field, but sold it to a neighbor.  The new owner of the field, desiring to make the best use of the field, set to plowing the soil, in preparation for planting a good crop, and struck the treasure.  Have I not told you that the Kingdom lies hidden within you?"

May each of us be found "making the best use" of our time here, "plowing the soil, in preparation for planting a good crop", that we may find our treasure in the Heavens. 

Believe in Him.  Failing to recognize that He is the way to salvation, is literally giving away the eternal treasure, that has been reserved for each one of us.

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Joseph Smith

Praise to the man, (Joseph) who communed with Jehovah!

Born: December 23, 1805
Died: June 27, 1844

  "I am going to inquire after God because I want you all to know God and to be familiar with Him.  If I can get you to know Him, I can bring you to Him" -  Joseph Smith  -  King Follett Discourse, page 4.

I have enjoyed reading these two sermons: "The King Follett Discourse" and "The Sermon in the Grove".  This book is a compilation of witness accounts of two powerful sermons given by Joseph Smith, shortly before his death.  These two sermons are full of doctrine and provide a good understanding of Joseph's message to the world.  I like what Joseph has to say in these sermons, especially his teaching that each one of us should be working towards our personal visit with Jesus.  A visit that takes place while we are still alive, in the flesh.  

"It is knowledge which will save us, and that is the knowledge of God, gained by coming to Him, conversing with Him face-to-face, and receiving the seal upon our heads.  

What is the seal?  We may receive the blessing on our heads of being sealed up to eternal life, meaning the everlasting covenant, thereby making our calling and election sure.  We may commune with the general assembly and church of the Firstborn, (His organization in Heaven) and mingle with righteous spirits and angels.  It is our privilege to pray for and obtain these blessings.  We all have the same privilege, as God desires for each of His children to receive these blessings. 

Joseph Smith  -  King Follett Discourse, pages 65, 70, 80 and 81

I bought the book (King Follett Discourse) from lulu.com and believe the book is also available from amazon.    Compiler: Frederick M. Huchel  

http://www.lulu.com/shop/joseph-smith/the-king-follett-discourse/hardcover/product-23265157.html

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Consideration for Adam and Eve, Miryam and Jesus

Jesus Christ (Jehovah) is the Father of our Heaven and Earth.  He is the "Fountain of Living Waters", the Great, I Am.  All flesh is in His hands and our Father is not supporting all of creation by Himself.  We have a Mother in Heaven!  She is the "Tree of Life" and has also been referred to as Wisdom.  Learning about our loving Mother in Heaven, may seem like a new idea, however, the opposite is actually true.  The original religion of our Fathers, contained this important truth, (that we have a Mother in Heaven, and She reigns along with Her Husband).  Adam and Eve shared this important truth with their children.  Adam and Eve were created before the fall of this Heaven and Earth!  Surely, they shared much light and knowledge with their children.  Much from our first parents was eventually corrupted and forgotten, however remnants of these teachings are woven throughout surviving records and religions.  

Our historical lack of celebration for Adam and Eve is the result of misinformation from the dark side, which successfully clouded our judgement concerning these amazing individuals.  Even though we should be singing songs about them and remembering our first parents with joy and rejoicing, the majority of discussions surrounding Eve and her husband Adam, are too low.  Adam and Eve have incorrectly received responsibility for all the sin, death and chaos that is currently available in our fallen Earth.  

In Romans 5:14-19, Paul confirms this widespread false tradition, also taught in Genesis, that Adam and Eve had something to do with the Fall of this Heaven and Earth.  Our traditional Garden story is lacking a good explanation of what caused our Earth to become a fallen Earth and Heaven.  Our world is an anomaly!  It's hard to visualize creations more glorious than ours, because this beautiful place is all that we have known since our coming here via mortal birth.  In an earlier post from July of 2020, titled "The Fall", the wicked  watchers are discussed.  They were once Angels, (Sons of God) who chose to fall, and their decision to fall, and sin against the greater light they had received, caused our Earth to become the fallen, dark planet that we call home.  

Adam and Eve deserve better!  Which high heaven did they condescend from, in order to become our first parents down here on this Earth?  I've heard they were chosen from the 5th heaven.  I've also heard that Adam and Eve were not considered mortal, as their bodies were created by God.  Adam and Eve were not born to mortal parents, like the rest of us.   

Mary (Miryam, the Migdalah), also known as Mary, the wife of Jesus of Nazareth.

I enjoy learning from the four canonized Gospels, but I have a hard time with folks dismissing Mary, as anything less than Awesome.  There is so much more going on with Jesus and His wife Mary, than has survived in our scriptures.  There is room for prayerful consideration regarding Mary and the role She played while supporting Jesus of Nazareth.  

I have enjoyed learning that Miryam is an active partner with Her Husband, Jehovah.  Mother in Heaven surely has many wonderful names and She is known by faithful believers as Mary.  Regarding Mary, not much is known, and most of what has been written about Mary is not true.  We should be mindful and considerate when speaking of Mary, the beloved spouse of our Savior.  If consideration is given to the original Greek, the idea that Mary was possessed by seven devils, is replaced with the more correct understanding that Mary descended from the seventh Heaven, as did Jesus, to save this fallen Earth.  There are also other "sent ones" from the High Heavens, who chose to support their Heavenly King, by leaving their place of Glory, in order to minister to our fallen Earth.

There are some who believe Mary and Jesus shared children together.  This makes sense, given the teachings of Joseph Smith in the Lectures on Faith, Lecture Seventh, Verse 9, (confirming that Jesus is the prototype of the saved man), in other words, our roadmap towards becoming saved men and women.  It is believed that Mary along with their children, escaped to France shorty after the ascension of Her Husband into heaven.  Mary's name should be spoken with reverence and adoration.

It seems the negative portrayal of Mary Magdalene began after a series of Easter sermons delivered in 591, when Pope Gregory I, conflated Mary Magdalene, who is introduced in Luke 8:2, with Mary of Bethany (Luke 10:39) and the unnamed "sinful woman" who anoints Jesus's feet in Luke 7:36-50.  These scripture passages may have been changed prior to Pope Gregory's time by the Deuteronomists as they sought to elevate the "Law" at the expense of Wisdom.  King Josiah and the Deuteronomists are credited for removing the Asherah from the Temple.  The Asherah is a Tree and is symbolic of the Queen of Heaven, the Tree of Life and Wisdom.  This wicked behavior, (removing Heavenly Mother from temple worship) is being described in our present day bible: Deuteronomy 32:5 KJV: "They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children: they are a perverse and crooked generation".   

Prior to the birth of Christ, and also in our day there are religions that worship multiple Gods.  At the time of Christ, Pagans worshipped the old pre-Christian Gods and Goddesses through seasonal festivals and other ceremonies.  Even though some of the original truths had been corrupted, (they worshipped a Mother God and a Father God).  

There is a very insightful article by Margaret Barker in which Margaret explains the time period and actions resulting in the removal of (Mother in Heaven) from Christian worship:

 

From Margaret Barker:  What Did King Josiah Reform?  

{King Josiah changed the religion of Israel in 623 BC. According to the Old Testament account in 2 Kings 23, he removed all manner of idolatrous items from the temple and purified his kingdom of Canaanite practices. Temple vessels made for Baal, Asherah, and the host of heaven were removed, idolatrous priests were deposed, the Asherah itself was taken from the temple and burned, and much more besides. An old law book had been discovered in the temple, and this had prompted the king to bring the religion of his kingdom into line with the requirements of that book (2 Kings 22:8–13; 2 Chronicles 34:14–20). 

There could be only one temple, it stated, and so all other places of sacrificial worship had to be destroyed (Deuteronomy 12:1–5). The law book is easily recognizable as Deuteronomy, and so King Josiah’s purge is usually known as the Deuteronomic reform of the temple. In 598 BC, twenty-five years after the work of Josiah, Jerusalem was attacked by the Babylonians under King Nebuchadnezzar (2 Kings 24:10– 16; 25:1–9); eleven years after the first attack, they returned to destroy the city and the temple (586 BC). Refugees fled south to Egypt, and we read in the book of Jeremiah how they would not accept the prophet’s interpretation of the disaster (Jeremiah 44:16–19). Jeremiah insisted that Jerusalem had fallen because of the sins of her people, but the refugees said it had fallen because of Josiah. The king is not mentioned by name, but there can be no doubt what the refugees had in mind. 

Until very recently, they said, they and their ancestors in Judah and Jerusalem had worshipped differently and had prospered, but when they changed their manner of worship, disaster had followed. They had worshipped the Queen of Heaven by offering incense, libations, and special loaves to represent her. Now the Queen of Heaven is not mentioned in the account of Josiah’s purge, but the major item removed from the temple was the Asherah, which was dragged out and burned. Later Jewish texts  described the Asherah as a stylized tree, and Deuteronomy had forbidden any such tree of any pillar to be placed beside an altar for the Lord (Deuteronomy 16:21)... Margaret Barker } 

There are records, which mention Mary and suggest that She is the wife of Jesus.  Mary is mentioned in the following records: the Pistis Sophia, the Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Philip, and the Gospel of Mary.

From the Gospel of Philip: "And the companion of the Savior was Mary Magdalene. Christ loved Mary more than all the disciples, and used to kiss her often on the mouth. The rest of the disciples were offended by it and expressed disapproval. They said to him, "Why do you love her more than all of us?" The Savior answered and said to them, "Why do I not love you like her? When a blind man and one who sees are both together in darkness, they are no different from one another. When the light comes, then he who sees will see the light, and he who is blind will remain in darkness."

There is a wonderful book titled "The Gospel of the Beloved Companion", the literal translation of "the Beloved Companion" from Alexandrian Greek, means: "the Companion beloved of Yeshua".  I'll write more about this very important Gospel witness in a future post.  Glory to God!  I'm thankful to be learning these important truths.

Available via Amazon:

The Gospel of the Beloved Companion: The Complete Gospel of Mary Magdalene
by Author Jehanne de Quillan 

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Giving Thanks

This Autumn season brings with it cooler air and beautiful Fall colors for us to enjoy.  The sun is setting earlier each night and up in the Heavens, Sirius, Orion and the Pleiades have returned.  Early each morning Venus is brightly rising in the East, while Jupiter, Saturn and Mars are blessing the evening skies.  We were surprised this morning to find our yard covered in snow.

This harvest season is waning and soon the Christmas music will begin playing on the radio.  Over the next few months, we will be celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas.  It's that time of year when people find it easier to share their kindness with fellow travelers to the grave.    

Am I charitable?  What's in it for me?  Why do people share of their abundance, with strangers?  What is the driving force that motivates people to serve the less fortunate at soup kitchens, food banks, and missions?  

The motivation comes from within and is commonly known as charity.  Whatever you call this action of providing loving service, we need more of it!  Jesus is a big proponent of charity.  He is big on the doing more, and saying less (not only to say, but to do according to that which I have written).

I think most of us are stuck in the "saying more and doing less" category.  We say our prayers and are very good at reciting our usual list of the many, many things that we are thankful for.  

What are we doing to show our thanks?  Are we truly "giving" thanks?  Who are we serving?  Where are the widows and the fatherless, the sick and afflicted, the prisoners and the homeless?  Let us prayerfully search them out.  They are here among us in abundance.  Who will we be serving this holiday season or any season?   

  And they shall remain under this condemnation until they repent and remember the new covenant, even the Book of Mormon and the former commandments which I have given them, not only to say, but to do according to that which I have written.   from verse twenty:   https://scriptures.info/scriptures/tc/section/82   

Luke 17:  11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off.  And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.  And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.  And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.  There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.

John 6:  11 Then Jesus took the loaves and the fish, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted

James 1:  27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

How do we keep ourselves unspotted from the world?  by serving the less fortunate, by being charitable, kind, loving, and patient.

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