2 Corinthians 4

The new Mutual theme for 2012 as in was in 2006 -

"...Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations..." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 115:5)

For -

"The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:36)

"And every man whose spirit receiveth not the light is under condemnation." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:32)

Of this light, the Savior declared -

"Behold, I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I am the same that came unto mine own, and mine own received me not. I am the light which shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 6:21)

"...that he might be in all and through all things, the light of truth;
7 Which truth shineth. This is the light of Christ. As also he is in the sun, and the light of the sun, and the power thereof by which it was made.
8 As also he is in the moon, and is the light of the moon, and the power thereof by which it was made;
9 As also the light of the stars, and the power thereof by which they were made;
10 And the earth also, and the power thereof, even the earth upon which you stand.
11 And the light which shineth, which giveth you light, is through him who enlighteneth your eyes, which is the same light that quickeneth your understandings..." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:6 - 11)

Therefore -

"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." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:67)

"...and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 50:24)

Just as Paul taught as I referenced yesterday comparing glory to light -

"...we all, with open face beholding as in a glass [mirror] the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 3:18)

Paul taught the Corinthians much of the same doctrine refering to those that will not hear -

"In whom the god of this world [Satan]hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 4:4)

"For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 4:6)

2 Corinthians 2

In my reading this morning, two of Paul's teaching seemed to touch me. The first being the principle of forgiveness wherein Paul pleads to the Corinthians -

"Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many.
7 So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.
8 Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 2:6 - 8)

Paul understands that forgiving others a commandment as well as a test, writing -

"For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 2:9)

For Paul also understands the consequence of not forgiving others -

"Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 2:11)

Paul knows that if we hold a grudge, it can destroy us.

The second thought came as Paul spoke of the countenance, light or glory of Moses as he came down from the mount. Like Moses, as we are faithful and are filled with the Spirit, we too begin to take upon us this same glory - even the glory of God. We become more like God. Paul explained -

"Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.
17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 3:16 - 18)

"Beholding as in a glass" would be looking in the mirror or speaking of ourselves.

2 Corinthians 1

As Alma was teaching the people of Gideon, he taught a profound doctrine of Christ, saying that -

"...he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.
12 And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh..." (Book of Mormon | Alma 7:11 - 12)

Many believe that His atonement was only to take upon Hims our sins, but it is apparent that the Savior took on a great deal more. But then Alma teaches an important reason, "why" -

"...that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities." (Book of Mormon | Alma 7:12)

It is very difficult for man to understand and know how to succor another in his infirmities, unless you've walked in his same shoes. In Christ's situation, there is no suffering, pain, tribulation, or imfirmaties that he has not experienced Himself.

Paul suggest the same type of logic to the Corinthians where -

"Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation..." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 1:3 - 4)

Paul then teaches us that we are to do the same having experienced tribulation -

"...that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God." (New Testament | 2 Corinthians 1:4)

In other words, by the same logic taught by Alma having ourselved experienced tribulation -

"...of which in the smallest, yea, even in the least degree you have tasted..." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 19:20)

...we are to "succor his people according to their infirmities"

1 Corinthians 16

The Lord commanded both the ancient Jews and Nephites -

"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in my house..." (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 24:10)

In modern day, the Lord again commanded -

"VERILY, thus saith the Lord, I require all their surplus property to be put into the hands of the bishop of my church in Zion,
2 For the building of mine house, and for the laying of the foundation of Zion and for the priesthood, and for the debts of the Presidency of my Church.
3 And this shall be the beginning of the tithing of my people.
4 And after that, those who have thus been tithed shall pay one-tenth of all their interest annually; and this shall be a standing law unto them forever, for my holy priesthood, saith the Lord." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 119:1 - 4)

This same principle was taught in the days of Paul and he wrote the saints in Corinth -

"NOW concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.
2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
3 And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 16:1 - 3)

It appears that it has always been given for the priesthood leadership to administer these donations.

1 Corinthians 15

As Paul taught that -

"...as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:22)

...the question seemed to arise -

"...How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come?" (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:35)

Paul first seemed to want to make it clear the nature or difference between the conditions of our bodies and that of a "raised" body teaching -
"...There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:44)

The first, a natural body, being our present state where -

"The first man is of the earth, earthy..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:47)

And this "earthy" or "natural body", or -

"...flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:50)

Suggesting that only a spiritual body can inherit the kingdom of God. A body of "flesh and blood" would suggest an earthy body whose life is supplied by "blood". When there is no life sustaining blood, the natural body dies. The "spiritual body" then would be where life is sustained by the spirit. The resurrected Savior stated -

"Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have." (New Testament | Luke 24:39)

A spiritual body would then be a body of "flesh and bones". President Howard W. Hunter taught -

"There is a separation of the spirit and the body at the time of death. The resurrection will again unite the spirit with the body, and the body becomes a spiritual body, one of flesh and bones but quickened by the spirit instead of blood. Thus, our bodies after the resurrection, quickened by the spirit, shall become immortal and never die. This is the meaning of the statements of Paul that "there is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body" and "that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God." The natural body is flesh and blood, but quickened by the spirit instead of blood, it can and will enter the kingdom." (Teachings of Howard W. Hunter)

In answer to the question -

"...with what body do they come?" (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:35)

Paul explained -

"All flesh is not the same flesh..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:39)

"There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.
41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.
42 So also is the resurrection of the dead..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:40 - 42)

Of this, Joseph Fielding Smith taught -

"In the resurrection there will be different kinds of bodies; they will not all be alike. The body a man receives will determine his place hereafter. There will be celestial bodies, terrestrial bodies, and telestial bodies, and these bodies will differ as distinctly as do bodies here,...Bodies will be quickened according to the kingdom which they are judged worthy to enter. Elder Orson Pratt many years ago in writing of the resurrection and the kind of bodies which would be raised in these kingdoms said:

"...There will be several classes of resurrected bodies; some celestial, some terrestrial, some telestial, and some sons of perdition. Each of these classes will differ from the others by prominent and marked distinctions..."" (Doctrines of Salvation)

But what is of greatest distinction, President Smith continued -

Some will gain celestial bodies with all the powers of exaltation and eternal increase. These bodies will shine like the sun as our Savior's does, as described by John. Those who enter the terrestrial kingdom will have terrestrial bodies, and they will not shine like the sun, but they will be more glorious than the bodies of those who receive the telestial glory.

In both of these kingdoms there will be changes in the bodies and limitations. They will not have the power of increase, neither the power or nature to live as husbands and wives, for this will be denied them and they cannot increase.

Those who receive the exaltation in the celestial kingdom will have the "continuation of the seeds forever." They will live in the family relationship. In the terrestrial and in the telestial kingdoms there will be no marriage. Those who enter there will remain "separately and singly" forever.

Some of the functions in the celestial body will not appear in the terrestrial body, neither in the telestial body, and the power of procreation will be removed. I take it that men and women will, in these kingdoms, be just what the so-called Christian world expects us all to be-neither man nor woman, merely immortal beings having received the resurrection." (Doctrines of Salvation)

1 Corinthians 15

As Paul was teaching the doctrine of the Resurrection, I was touched with his remarks concerning himself -

"For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:9)

I sense that Paul, remembering that at one time he was somewhat rebellious felt that that maybe he was not as qualified or worthy as the other Apostles that may have been more faithful during the Savior's ministry. For some reason, I could relate to that. But knowing this, Paul then explains -

"But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:10)

Paul is then saying, but nonetheless, he was chosen and been called to this sacred Holy calling. And remembering his days of rebelliousness and the mercy of the Savior, he felt an even stronger desire and need to labour more abundantly to prove himself worthy. Again, I seem to understand this deep desire.

But understanding the call as a apostle or especial witness came from the Lord, Paul understood that -

"...whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 15:11)

God's called representatives are entitled to the Holy Ghost if they remain worthy, faithfuland, and magnify their callings. Therefore, as Paul states, it does not matter what happend in the past. What does matter is -
"What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 1:38)

1 Corinthians 14

The meaning of "prophet" and "prophecy" has several meanings. A common meaning is the ability to foretell future events. Another is one having a testimony of Jesus Christ received of the Holy Ghost for -

"...for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." (New Testament | Revelation 19:10)

A third is one that teaches true or God's doctrine and truth by the power of the Holy Ghost to comfort and edify for Moses responded -

"...would God that all the LORD's people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!" (Old Testament | Numbers 11:29)

As Paul write the Corinthians on the subject of two gifts of the Spirit, speaking in tongues, and prophecy, I believe the third is what he is referring to for -

"...he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:3)

The Corinthians were seemingly fixed on this idea of the gift of speaking in tongues, but Paul explained -

"He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:4 - 5)

Paul understood the greatness of the gift to teach and edify by the Spirit for -

"Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:19)

In all our meetings that -

"...if all prophesy [or teach and testify], and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:
25 And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:24 - 25)

Therefore -

"...Let all things be done unto edifying." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:26)

In modern day, the Lord explained of His prophets or teachers -

"...unto what were ye ordained?
14 To preach my gospel by the Spirit, even the Comforter which was sent forth to teach the truth." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 50:13 - 14)

And if it so by by the Holy Ghost? -

"Wherefore, he that preacheth and he that receiveth, understand one another, and both are edified and rejoice together." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 50:22)

There is no question that the gift of prophecy and testimony is the "best" or greater gift where in my mind, the gift of tongues -

"...are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:22)

Suggesting to me that the gift of tongues is generally given to preach the gospel (missionary work - them that believe not) in foreign lands in their own tongues.

1 Corinthians 13

Paul declared -

Charity never faileth..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 13:8

and -

"...now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 13:13)

What is Charity? Mormon defined it as -

"...the pure love of Christ..." (Book of Mormon | Moroni 7:47)

I believe it to be to be more like brotherly love, benevolence, good will, and unconditional care and concern. I believe that "charity never faileth" suggests that in exercising this gospel principles it will always be effective. In other words, as we exercise Christ-like love, no one will ever be offended, but more so will be affected.

I think it is interesting that within this gospel lesson on charity, hope, and faith, Paul teaches -

"When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 13:11)

In my mind, childish things are self-centered or loving oneself. Putting away childish or self-centered things, we become "a man" or more like Christ.

1 Corinthians 12

After having taught the Corinthians that the Gifts of the Spirit are given to every member -

"...dividing to every man severally as he will." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:11)

...he teaches that each member is essential in the Lord's Church comparing each saint to the member of the body -

"For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:12)

"For the body is not one member, but many.
15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:14 - 18)

His logic continues -

"...the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:21 - 23)

When we are missing a body part, it is highly noticable for -

"...having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:24)

But to each of the members, whether considered weak or strong, comely or not -

"...covet earnestly the best gifts..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:31)

Or in other words, covet gifts of the Spirit over wordly gifts, and strive to develop those gifts within you.

1 Corinthians 10

As Paul taught the Corinthians, it seemed to me that he used much the same analogy as Lehi and Nephi saw in the vision of the Tree of Life. In the vision of the Tree of Life, Nephi wrote of the gate which represented baptism and receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost. In the vision he saw a rod of iron that represented the word of God. They also saw a mist of darkness or temptations of the world that seem to darken the way to the Tree of Life.

In Paul's teaching, he used much the same ideas but compared to Jewish history saying -

"...brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 10:1 - 2)

...suggesting this beginning event was synoymous coming forth from baptism of the water and Spirit to a new life. Much like the spiritual food of rod of iron, Paul taught afterwards, the Israelites -

"...did all eat the same spiritual meat;
4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 10:3 - 4)

And like the mist of darkness that arose the resulted in many losing their way, Paul wrote -

"But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 10:5 - 6)

And as a result of their wickedness -

"...some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 10:8)

After using this same analogy, Paul warned just as Lehi did -

"Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 10:11 - 12)

For it is essential to understand -

"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 10:13)

That is if we hold fast to the iron rod, if we regulary partake of spiritual meat and spiritual drink that comes from the Rock of Christ which is the Tree of life, we will be able to bear all things

1 Corinthians 8

As Paul wrote the Romans, he warned priesthood leaders to be careful such that they do not become a stumblingblock to the weak. As he answered the Corinthians regarding eating meat that was offered to their "nothing" Gods, he again counseled the leaders in Corinth -

"...for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse.
9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 8:8 - 9)

Again, we have to be sensitive to not offend or become a stumblingblock to those we minister to. Paul even suggests that -

"...though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.
20 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;
21 To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.
22 To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 9:19 - 22)

Paul teaches that while he maintains his standards of Christ, he is willing to empathize with both the strong and the weak.

1 Corinthians 7

In this portion of Paul's epistle to the Corinthians, it becomes apparent that he is answering doctrinal questions from a previous letter. Herein Paul teaches doctrines and in some cases, his opinion about marraige, missionary work, and how they relate to each other in varying circumstances. Thank goodness for Joseph Smith's inspired translation to clarify some of the mis-translated writings. But with all that, what seemed to again touch me was -

"But as God hath distributed [or varying circumstances] to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 7:17)

He then asks -

"Is any man called being circumcised? let him not become uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 7:18)

Of all these varying circumstances the saints come from such as circumcision -

"Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 7:19)

What is clear each that it is required of each member to keep the commandments or those commandments and ordinances that are essential to salvation.

1 Corinthians 6

What does it mean to "inherit the kingdom of God"? What is required for one to "inherit the kingdom of God".

I previously commented that -

"For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device." (New Testament | Acts 17:28 - 29)

For -

"The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ..." (New Testament | Romans 8:16 - 17)

As children of God, would we not assume that we have potential to be like Him? Paul suggests this as he teaches this potential and authority as one inherits the kingdom of God for -

"Know ye not that we shall judge angels?..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 6:3)

And in order to inherit His kingdom -

"Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 6:9 - 10)

These are those that seem to justify, "if it feels good, do it" or as Paul teaches the philosophy of the Greeks -

"Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 6:13)

In other words, the Corinthians or wisdom of man was that just as it is permissable to satisfy hunger with food so also is it okay to satisfy personal desires and passions with immorality. But -

"Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 6:15)

Joseph Smith provides a more appropriate translation to verse 12 making more sense -

"(JST 1 Cor. 6:12) All these things are not lawful unto me, and all these things are not expedient. All things are not lawful for me, therefore I will not be brought under the power of any." (New Testament:1 Corinthians 6:12)

It is clear that as we repent and strive to for righteousness is not all that is required to inherit the kingdom of God for -

"...such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 6:11)

For it is through grace and atonement of Jesus Christ that we are both sanctified and justified to inherit the kingdom.

1 Corinthians 5

As Alma, the presiding High Priest, struggled with what to do with those that had committed grevious sins, that would not repent, the Lord instructed -

"...Go; and whosoever transgresseth against me, him shall ye judge according to the sins which he has committed; and if he confess his sins before thee and me, and repenteth in the sincerity of his heart, him shall ye forgive, and I will forgive him also." (Book of Mormon | Mosiah 26:29)

But -

"...whosoever will not repent of his sins the same shall not be numbered among my people..." (Book of Mormon | Mosiah 26:32)

In that -

"...those that would not confess their sins and repent of their iniquity, the same were not numbered among the people of the church, and their names were blotted out." (Book of Mormon | Mosiah 26:36)

As Paul writes to the Corinthians, he also preaches this same doctrine as he learns of serious transgressions are taking place where -

"IT is reported commonly that there is fornication among you..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 5:1)

Knowing that immorality was very common place in Greek philosopy, the saints seemed to take this lightly where -

"...ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 5:2)

Paul teaches this is a serious matter in that -

"In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,
5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 5:4 - 5)

Herein we recognize that when sins of such a serious nature where the transgressors have not yet demonstrated "Godly sorrow", these individuals must be disciplined or even excommunicated in such a manner that through sincere repentance, they may still be saved. In other words -

"...Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?
7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 5:6 - 7)

With that Paul suggests that we avoid influential friendships with those that promote wickedness wherefore -

"I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:
10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.
11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 5:9 - 11)

I don't believe he is not teaching that we do not reach out to help the wicked to repent and be an example for them, but he warns not to affiliate or agree with such -

"Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 5:13)

Even though Paul's warnings are to all saints, I can't help but think of the challenges that face our highly influential youth.

1 Corinthians 4

Last Tuesday, I blogged on the meaning of the mysteries of God. As Paul continues his epistle to the Corinthians, he writes -

"LET a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 4:1)

Many of the mysteries of God or revelations were given and recorded by prophets. King Benjamin taught his sons -

"...were it not for these things [the scriptures or revelations received by the prophets], which have been kept and preserved by the hand of God, that we might read and understand of his mysteries, and have his commandments always before our eyes, that even our fathers would have dwindled in unbelief..." (Book of Mormon | Mosiah 1:5)

And as stewards of these mysteries, whether personal or of the prophets -

"...it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 4:2)

I believe that when God provides these truths, it is our responsibility to seek them out and be faithful.

1 Corinthians 3

Paul was well acquainted with the philosophy or wisdom of the Greeks in that the Greeks wisdom had infiltrated some of the Jewish culture during their captivity. Paul knew that the Greeks worshiped multiple Gods with multiple temples, many of which being an immoral worship. He knew it was difficult for some to follow but one God, or our Savior Jesus Christ. They tended to have a tendency to choose with whom they worship. We see that were some say they are followers of Paul while others, Apollos. In honesty, we see a similar philosophy today. But as Paul refuted this practice, as if in referering to the greeks building of many temples, Paul asks -

"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 3:16)

This truthful perspective may have been the doctrine the Greeks needed to understand. That it is within us that the Holy Ghost may dwell. As he had previously taught (as I blogged in 1 Corinthians 2), the Holy Ghost is the source of all truth, even the mysteries of God. Paul then made it clear that worthiness or righteousness was essential to receive the Holy Ghost -

"If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 3:17)

I believe the Greeks understood this marvelous analogy.

1 Corinthians 2

Paul teaches a single truth that the world does not understand -

"...we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 2:7)

Merriam Webster dictionary defines mystery as -

"...a religious truth that one can know only by revelation..."

Paul then teaches how one may learn truth that comes only by revelation -

"...God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 2:10)

"...so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 2:11)

"Now we have received...the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 2:12)

The Spirit or the Holy Ghost is only given to those that diligently seek for -

"...the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 2:14)

The promise is for anyone if -

"...ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
5 And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things." (Book of Mormon | Moroni 10:4 - 5)

That is something the world does not understand.

1 Corinthians 1

Alma taught his son Helaman -

"Now ye may suppose that this is foolishness in me; but behold I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise.
7 And the Lord God doth work by means to bring about his great and eternal purposes; and by very small means the Lord doth confound the wise and bringeth about the salvation of many souls." (Book of Mormon | Alma 37:6 - 7)

As Paul writes the Corinthians, he teaches the same doctrine -

"For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 1:19)

He will destroy the wisdom of the wise because it seems as foolishness to them for -

"...hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 1:20 - 21)

Much like many in our day -

"For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 1:22)

Therefore by small and simple means -

"...we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 1:23)

It is not through the popular, rich, celebrities or the learned (wisdom of the world) that God works, but through the humble and meek -

"For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are..." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 1:26 - 28)

He does that so -

"...no flesh should glory in his presence." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 1:29)

Or in other words, that man would glory in his own wisdom.

Romans 16

As Paul closes out his epistle to the Romans, he warns -

"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
(New Testament|Romans 16:17-18)

Paul understood -

"For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contend with anger, one with another." (Book of Mormon|3 Nephi 11:29)

I believe Paul understood that without guidance from the Spirit of the Lord, the people would fall into apostasy.

Romans 15

James taught -

"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." (New Testament | James 1:27)

And in modern day the Savior taught -

"...ye must visit the poor and the needy and administer to their relief...." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 44:6)

Such that we -

"...succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 81:5)

As Paul closes out his epistle to the Romans, he preaches much the same thing -

"WE then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification." (New Testament | Romans 15:1 - 2)

In a manner -

"...that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope." (New Testament | Romans 15:4)

This is pure religion

Romans 14

As Paul wrote the Roman saints, he recognized that each convert, whether Jew or gentile, was at varying stages of learning and progress. His first counsel seemed to be more to those that had been more religious (maybe such as the Jews) saying -

"HIM that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations." (New Testament | Romans 14:1)

In other words, do not be critical of those that one may consider more weak than themselves. We should receive them with love. Paul seems to use the analogy of food in that the Jews had for years had a strict code considering that which they ate -

"For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him." (New Testament | Romans 14:2 - 3)

Next Paul counsels that we should honor and respect our leaders even though they are fellow citizens with the saints -

"Who art thou that judgest another man's servant [or in my mind - God's preisthood leader] ? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand." (New Testament | Romans 14:4)

And then what I think it the greatest counsel as we associate and in a sense judge of fellow saints -

"Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way." (New Testament | Romans 14:13)

It is apparent that many Jews had set what they thought was a higher standard in the foods or Mosaic laws they lived. It was important, that in their self righteousness, they did not create stumblingblock for new converts on matters that were not necessarily essential to salvation. We see this today in the Church with such things as "diet coke" - if you know what I mean. In other words -

"...there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean." (New Testament | Romans 14:14)

Therefore -

"...the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost." (New Testament | Romans 14:17)

"For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.
19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another." (New Testament | Romans 14:18 - 19)

I found the last verse of the chapter very meaningful -

"...he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin." (New Testament | Romans 14:23)

I believe what Paul is teaching is that we are to obey commandments in faith. This may not be as others may see it, but I believe Paul is suggesting that if we believe something to be right, we should obey in faith and if we don't, then it may be to our own condemnation sin. Yet at the same time, we should not hold others or judge others to the same standard. This would be in regards to matters that would not necessarily be necessary unto salvation (such as drinking Diet Coke).

Romans 13

As Paul teaches principles of leadership,following priesthood leaders, and magnifying our callings, I am reminded that the Lord had previously taught on several occasions -

"...that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise.
7 And the Lord God doth work by means to bring about his great and eternal purposes; and by very small means the Lord doth confound the wise and bringeth about the salvation of many souls." (Book of Mormon | Alma 37:6 - 7)

Alma at one time wished -

"O THAT I were an angel, and could have the wish of mine heart, that I might go forth and speak with the trump of God, with a voice to shake the earth, and cry repentance unto every people!" (Book of Mormon | Alma 29:1)

But then acknowledged -

"But behold, I am a man, and do sin in my wish; for I ought to be content with the things which the Lord hath allotted unto me." (Book of Mormon | Alma 29:3)

At times we may also wish to accomplish great things but should remember the Lord works by "small means". Paul taught the Romans -

"...through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office..." (New Testament | Romans 12:3 - 4)

Thus -

"...we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us..." (New Testament | Romans 12:5 - 6)

Each of us a members of the body of Christ, and should be content and diligent in our service knowing -

"...the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness." (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:21 - 23)

But in the "body of Christ" there will always be those called to be leaders. Of which Paul counsels -

"LET every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God." (New Testament | Romans 13:1)

And -

"Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation." (New Testament | Romans 13:2)

"For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger [I believe a judge] to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil." (New Testament | Romans 13:4)

"Wherefore ye must needs be subject..." (New Testament | Romans 13:5)

One more thought. As Paul teaches our obligations to keep the commandments, he summarizes with the second greatest commandment -

"...it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." (New Testament | Romans 13:9)

Much of the commandments is exactly that, to love your neighbors.