Matthew 27

We know that in the middle of the night, as the Sanhedrin looked for false witnesses in order to justify and condemn the Savior, we read -

"Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death;
60 But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,
61 And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days." (New Testament | Matthew 26:59 - 61)

Initially it appears that these men did not necessarily understand what the Savior meant in building the Temple of God in three days.  But later we know they did understand for after the cruxificion and death of the Savior that -

"...the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate,
63 Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.
64 Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first.
65 Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can.
66 So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch."  (New Testament | Matthew 27:62 - 66)

These men knew exactly what they were doing.  When the Savior said -

"...Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do."  (New Testament | Luke 23:34)

I believe He was referring to the Romans only.

Matthew 26

I find it ironic that after every attempt to find any witness that would bring evidence sufficient to be executed whereby two finally bore false witness, Caiaphas arose and asked the Savior -

"...Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?
63 But Jesus held his peace."  (New Testament | Matthew 26:62 - 63)

And then he asked what I find so ironic -

"...I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God."  (New Testament | Matthew 26:63)

The Savior responds -

"...Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven."  (New Testament | Matthew 26:64)

Caiaphas said it exactly right.  The Savior could swear by himself that He was the Christ...He was the living God.

The Savior also provided an interesting prophecy.  That these men hereafter would see the Son of Man in His second coming,  John the Revelator also prophesied -

"Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him..."  (New Testament | Revelation 1:7)

This would suggest to me that the spirits of those that pass on remain here on earth in some manner.  Obviously, in such a manner that all would witness the second coming.

Matthew 26

As I read Matthew's record of the last supper, as the Savior introduced the sacrament -

"...he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins."  (New Testament | Matthew 26:27 - 28)

I noted that He instructed His disciples to "Drink ye all of it".  To me, that would suggest that when we partake of the sacrament, we drink all of it, symbolizing that we are willing to fully accept His teachings, doctrine, gospel, and His atonement.  We enter into a new testament or covenant to do so.

The Savior specifically teaches that it is through His blood that was shed for the remission of sins.  In my mind,  making this covenant and partaking of the sacrament is the means of receiving a remission of sins.

Some think his blood was only shed on Calvary.  But in Gethsemane -

"...being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground."  (New Testament | Luke 22:44)

Obviously, He shed His blood in Gethsemane as He suffered in agony.  David J. Ridges explained -

“Gethsemane” means “oil press.” There is significant symbolism here. The Jews put olives into bags made of mesh fabric and placed them in a press to squeeze olive oil out of them. The first pressings yielded pure olive oil which was prized for many uses, including healing and giving light in lanterns. In fact, we consecrate it and use it to administer to the sick. The last pressing of the olives, under the tremendous pressure of additional weights added to the press, yielded a bitter, red liquid which can remind us of blood and the “bitter cup” which the Savior partook of. Symbolically, the Savior is going into the “oil press” (Gethsemane) to submit to the “pressure” of all our sins which will “squeeze” His blood out in order that we might have the healing “oil” of the Atonement to heal us from our sins." (Ridges, David J. (2010-10-01). The New Testament Made Easier, Part 1 (The Gospel Studies Series)

Matthew 25

In two parables, just before his death, the Savior made it clear that -

"...that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do."  (Book of Mormon | 2 Nephi 25:23)

It is apparent that in the parable of the talents, the Savior made it clear that all things are not necessarily fair as a man -

"...called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.
15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability..."  (New Testament | Matthew 25:14 - 15)

As these servants used these talents according to the desire and will of their master, they each received the same blessing no matter what their ability was as the Savior taught -

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord."  (New Testament | Matthew 25:21)

But to one that did nothing with that which the master gave, not even trying to accumate interest, the master said -

"...Thou wicked and slothful servant..."  (New Testament | Matthew 25:26)
"And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."  (New Testament | Matthew 25:30)

We see this same logic in the parable of the sheep and goats where the sheep were on His right hand (salvation) and the goats on His left (damnation) where the Savior explained of the sheep -

"...Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." (New Testament | Matthew 25:34 - 40)

In both parables, those that reap salvation are clearly -

"Ye shall know them by their fruits..."  (New Testament | Matthew 7:16)

Matthew 24

As I compared the 24th Chapter of Matthew with the Joseph Smith translation of the same, the Savior said something that was not included in Matthews record repeating -

"And again, because iniquity shall abound, the love of men shall wax cold; but he that shall not be overcome, the same shall be saved."  (Pearl of Great Price | JS-Matthew 1:30)

As I pondered our day, entertainment, media, and much of society seems to promote personal gratification in lieu of fidelity, love and commitment.  Thus, love seems to become colder and colder in personal relationships.  In its place...selfishness.

The reasoning herein is those that are true and faithful, first loving God more than self, and then second "loving" our fellowman more than personal gratification would be those that overcome the world and its temptation with the promise that they "shall" be saved.

Great promise.

Matthew 24

After having learned that there would not be on stone upon another in the buildings of the temple, the disciple inquired -

"...Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?"  (New Testament | Matthew 24:3)

Even though some of the prophesied events would take place with in the century, I believe the Savior focused more on His second coming answering -

"...Take heed that no man deceive you.
5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
8 All these are the beginning of sorrows."  (New Testament | Matthew 24:4 - 8)

Many of these signs are apparent in our day.  Speaking of "false prophets" which in my mind is not necessarily religous leaders, but would include politicians, celebrities, secular leaders, and so forth, the Savior warned -

"Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.
10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold."  (New Testament | Matthew 24:9 - 12)

For -

"...if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.
24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."   New Testament | Matthew 24:23 - 24)

So the Lord prophecies and counsel His elect  -

"...he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)"  (New Testament | Matthew 24:13 - 15)

His people then are to endure to the end keeping His commandments, particpate in the preaching of the gospel to the world, and stand in holy places.  By doing so, the promise is that "the same shall be saved".

Matthew 22

Seeing that the Sadducees had failed in their attempt in condemning the Savior, a tempting Pharisee asked -

"Master, which is the great commandment in the law?"  (New Testament | Matthew 22:36)

To which the Savior answered -

"...Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."  (New Testament | Matthew 22:37 - 40)

The law would be the law of Moses, and the prophets are all those that taught the Lord's will and doctrine.

I think this is where many in the world miss the boat.  Many suggest that any kind of love toward others pre-empts all.  But the first law or great commandment is to love the God which suggests keeping His commandments.  That comes first before we exercise or justify love or tolerance toward our fellow man.

You can tell the Savior abhorred hypocrisy.  Especially of the scribes and Pharisees, where they established such strict law for the general population but did not adhere such of themselves.  Obviously, not adhering the first and great commandment.  Everything they did was priestcraft for their own personal gain.

As the Savior chastised these arrogant religious leaders in front of the general multitude, he said -

"Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.
11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted."  (New Testament | Matthew 23:10 - 12)

Again teaching that service or ministering to others is His way, not power or position.

 

Matthew 21

As the Savior used parables to chastise the Jewish elite, I personally liked the parable of the two sons as the Savior taught -

"But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.
29 He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.
30 And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
31 Whether of them twain did the will of his father?..."  (New Testament | Matthew 21:28 - 31)

To which the religious leaders obviously responded -

"...The first."  (New Testament | Matthew 21:31)

The Savior then made the point -

"Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you."  (New Testament | Matthew 21:31)

Why?  Because they were willing to listen, repent, and keep the commandments. 

I know many members of the Church that somewhat "murmur" when asked to do something, but even so, if accepted proceed to the best work.  While there are others that accept overwhelming when asked to do something, but when it comes down to doing the work, they do not show up or do as little as possible.  I will always pefer the first.

Matthew 20

Matthew, being on of the twelve apostles records the event where -

"...came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him.
21 And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom.
22 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.
23 And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father."  (New Testament | Matthew 20:20 - 23)

It appears to me, and understandably, the mother of James and John wanted her sons to be the favorites.  As I pondered this, trying to relate it to our day, I also picture that she wanted her sons to preside with the Savior.  It is interesting that such callings only come by revelations, being prepared, and in accordance with the will of God.  In other words, what the Father considers to be in the best interest of the two.

It is no wonder that -

"...when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren.
25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.
26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;
27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."  (New Testament | Matthew 20:24 - 28)

In my mind, the Savior is teaching that it doesn't matter where your serve or what position you are called to, but how you minister or serve Him.  Obviously, in the eternities, all men will preside over families, where the Savior will be the Father or King.

Matthew 19

On one occasion -

"...one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"  (New Testament | Matthew 19:16)

In response, the Savior said -

"Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,
19 Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."  (New Testament | Matthew 19:18 - 19)

And then added -

"If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me."  (New Testament | Matthew 19:21)

In summary -

"...if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."  "New Testament | Matthew 19:17)

Obviously, all these conditions are necessary.  But in response to the disciples follow up question -

"...Who then can be saved?"  (New Testament | Matthew 19:25)

The Savior then answers that even with all these conditions -

"...With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."  (New Testament | Matthew 19:26)

Which suggests that even if we repent and do all that we can, in the plan of redemption, the atonement of Jesus Christ is still required.  I think Nephi explains it the best writing -

"For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do."  (Book of Mormon | 2 Nephi 25:23)

Matthew 18

To those that hold the priesthood and in many cases, in priesthood leadership, the Savior teaches some important doctrine .  First, after the Savior rebuked the devil in the lunatik child, His disciples asked -

"...Why could not we cast him out?"  (New Testament | Matthew 17:19)

Having been given authority to do so, the Savior teaches these priesthood holder additional requirements, answering -

"Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
21 Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting."  (New Testament | Matthew 17:20 - 21)

The exercise of priesthood requires then faith, and in many cases, fasting and prayer.

Second, the disciples asked the Savior -

"...Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"  (New Testament | Matthew 18:1)

Which seems a natural thought in this world of a desire for power and authority.  To which the Savior responded as He -

"...called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."  (New Testament | Matthew 18:2 - 4)

In my mind, the Savior is teaching that we must become as a little child is submissive and obedient.  It doesn't matter where we served but how we serve.

Matthew 16

The Savior warned His disciples -

"Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees."  (New Testament | Matthew 16:6)

When they did not seem to understand, the Savior followed up  -

"How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?
12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees."  (New Testament | Matthew 16:11 - 12)

In symbolism, the Savior taught that we must beware of false doctrine.  Much like leaven, as it is mixed through out the true doctrine, it grows and expands.  We see this in many cases of religion.  The Savior taught the true doctrine of -

"If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works."  (New Testament | Matthew 16:24 - 27)

Works being receiving the ordinances and covenants and do God' will or keep His commandments.

 

Matthew 15

Being that "scribes" were considered the most wise, intelligent, knowledgeable, religious law makers and interpreters amongst the Jews, it is as they challenged the Savior's disciples -

"Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread."  (New Testament | Matthew 15:2)

Obviously, an intepretation and establishment of religious law given by the scribes.  The Savior in turned asked them -

"...Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?
4 For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
6 And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.
7 Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,
8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.
9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men."  (New Testament | Matthew 15:3 - 9)

This must have really offended the elite scribes in their pride.  It appears that in the wisdom of man, the scribes established a man-made law that suggested that if they designated their possessions as a donation to God, that they were free from caring for the parents.  This seems to be much like the wisdom of man and our lawmakers today, many times not in accordance with the commandments and will of God.  It is with that the the Savior teaches an important doctrine -

"Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man."  (New Testament | Matthew 15:11)

To His disciple the Lord explained what He meant -

"Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.
15 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.
16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding?
17 Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?
18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.
19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:
20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man."  (New Testament | Matthew 15:14 - 20)

As we liken the scriptures unto ourselves, we see deceitfulness, unaccountibility, and falsehoods that come from the so called elites of our day.  Thus He said to His followers -

"...Hear, and understand:"  (New Testament | Matthew 15:10)

Matthew 13

The Savior continued to teach parable in what I see would be the growth of the Church, especially in the latter days -

"...The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:
32 Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof."  (New Testament | Matthew 13:31 - 32)

The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that the "birds" were angels or God's messengers.  And then -

"Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened."  (New Testament | Matthew 13:33)

I am not necessarily sure why He used the "three measures of meal".  But my thoughts are that the meal was in the beginning of the growth of the Church.  It three testimonies of three witnesses were given upon the which the Church grew.

In fullfillment of prophecy -

"All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them:
35 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world."  (New Testament | Matthew 13:34 - 35)

Of greatest importance, as the Savior explained these parable to His disciples -

"Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things?..."  (New Testament | Matthew 13:51)

Elder Boyd K. Packer has taught that -

"...true doctrine understood changes attitudes and behaviors..."

 

Matthew 13

Before explaining His parable of the sower, the Savior taught His disciples why He taught in parables -

"Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
12 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.
13 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.
14 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:
15 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.
16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.
17 For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them."  (New Testament | Matthew 13:11 - 17)

And then teaching -

"But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty."  (New Testament | Matthew 13:23)

I note his comment of "he that received seed".  I gave a talk in a recent stake conference on this idea of receive and knowledge.  The following was my talk:

There is an age-old adage that it is better to give than to receive.  This evening I would like to take a contrary position.  That it is far better to receive.  In fact, we are commanded to receive. Tonight, I would like to take the liberty to call this commandment…the “doctrine of receive”.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, receive means –

“To come in possession of, acquire, assimilate, experience, be a recipient of, and accept as authoritative and true”.

Scriptural words that I see would be synonymous to “receive” would be words such as; hearken, heed, lay hold of, partake, eat, and drink…

Isaiah saw our day and prophesied that a –

“…highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness…”  (Old Testament | Isaiah 35:8)

This highway, pathway, or the way of holiness, is in my mind is this doctrine of receive.

Moroni invited all his readers to –

“…come unto Christ…”  (Book of Mormon | Moroni 10:32)

This same invitation is had throughout all of Christendom.  Many Christians claim they have come unto Christ or have accepted Him as their Savior.  But of this invitation to come unto Christ, Nephi asked –

“I would ask if all is done?  Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.”  (Book of Mormon | 2 Nephi 31:19)

Thus Moroni’s invitation does not end with “come unto Christ”, but continues to –

“…be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness… [concluding] that ye become holy, without spot.”  (Book of Mormon | Moroni 10:32 - 33)

How is it that we may become holy, without spot?  As I have studied the scriptures, I have come to the conclusion that the way of holiness or process whereby we become holy is this doctrine of receive.  In my mind, upon accepting the invitation to come unto Christ, the way of holiness or the strait and narrow path, has three essential components. 

First, we must receive all necessary saving ordinances. Isaiah pleaded with Israel –

“Go through, go through the gates…” (Old Testament | Isaiah 62:10)

Those gates are the saving ordinances of the gospel that we must go through or receive in order to qualify for exaltation and eternal life.

Jeremiah prophesied concerning ordinances revealed is this last dispensation –

“If those ordinances depart from before me…then the seed of Israel also shall cease…before me for ever.”  (Old Testament | Jeremiah 31:36)

Second, as we enter the gates, we receive or take upon us sacred covenants associated with those ordinances which obviously of necessity require repentance, denying ourselves of all ungodliness, and obeying His commandments for Jeremiah also prophecies –

“…this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel… [for] I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people." (Old Testament | Jeremiah 31:31 - 33)

In speaking of the covenants made with the seed of Israel, the Lord symbolically referred to such covenants as the cords that lengthens and strengthens Zion, and binds us to the Savior.  Thus Isaiah counseled us –

“Enlarge the place of thy tent… spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes…”  (Old Testament | Isaiah 54:2)

Lengthening thy cords would then symbolically suggest that we are to strengthen ourselves in making and keeping sacred covenants.

And the third component, which may not necessarily consider being essential by some, we must receive knowledge.  Not any type of knowledge, but that which is sometimes referred to as the mysteries of God.  The Merriam-Webster dictionary describes the mysteries of God as –

“…religious truth that one can know only by revelation…”  (Merriam-Webster Dictionary}

Alma taught of receiving knowledge –

“…he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full.”  (Book of Mormon | Alma 12:10)

In my mind, religious truth that is received by revelation is generally known as “true doctrine”.  True doctrine has been revealed as –  

“…holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”  (New Testament | 2 Peter 1:21)

This would include that which was spoken by holy men anciently as well as in modern day…scripture as well as the spoken word.  To the world, such doctrine or truth is nothing more than a mystery, thus –

“…to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction.  Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell.”  (Book of Mormon | Alma 12:11)

For as President Boyd K. Packer has taught –

“True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior.” (Little Children, Ensign, No. 1986,17)

 It is knowledge or true doctrine “understood” then, as Alma taught, that breaks the links and frees us from the chains of hell.

What seems to me to be one of Isaiah’s greatest concerns for Israel was that they lacked understanding of true doctrine, thus declaring that Israel –

“… is a people of no understanding…”  (Old Testament | Isaiah 27:11)

Because these people failed to receive the Lord, he asked -

“Whom shall he teach knowledge?  and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? “   (Old Testament | Isaiah 28:9)

Thus Isaiah prophesied of how important the restoration of the gospel would be in this last dispensation, in that –

“They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine.”  (Old Testament | Isaiah 29:24)

For Isaiah understood that receiving -

“…wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation…”  (Old Testament | Isaiah 33:6)

Thus our spiritual stability and that which leads to salvation then is dependent upon us receiving knowledge…which would be doctrine “understood”.  Such knowledge of necessity includes the knowledge and testimony of Jesus Christ for as the angel said to John the Revelator –

“I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus…”  (New Testament | Revelation 19:10)

For we learn in modern revelation –

“It is impossible for a man to be saved in ignorance.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 131:6)

Ordinances, covenants, and knowledge all seem to go hand in hand, integrated and interrelated.   As we receive these, (ordinances, covenants, and knowledge), the Lord promises, by His grace, we will be endowed with power…power such as the power to overcome the world, the power of godliness, and the power to become holy without spot.

With limited time, I would like to touch on three examples where this doctrine of receive is very apparent.

After we are baptized, authorized hands are laid upon our heads in a sacred ordinance, and we are commanded to “receive the Holy Ghost”! 

How do we receive the Holy Ghost?

We do this each week as we receive the sacred “ordinance” of the sacrament whereby we covenant –

“…that [we] are willing to take upon [us] the name of thy Son, and always remember him, and keep his commandments which he hath given [us]…”  (Book of Mormon | Moroni 4:3)

The promise is –

“…that [we] may always have his Spirit to be with [us]…”  (Book of Mormon | Moroni 4:3)

Alma instructed his people to -

“…contend no more against the Holy Ghost, but that ye receive it, and take upon you the name of Christ....”  (Book of Mormon | Alma 34:38)

And thus, we receive knowledge as we receive the Holy Ghost for Nephi taught that as we –

“…receive the Holy Ghost, it will show unto you all things what ye should do.”  (Book of Mormon | 2 Nephi 32:5)

Moroni taught the process of receiving knowledge by the Holy Ghost.  This knowledge comes as we read His words and as we ponder them in our hearts.  If we then ask God concerning its truths with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, He will manifest its truth by the power of the Holy Ghost and it is –

“…by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.”  (Book of Mormon | Moroni 10:5)

And as we receive the ordinances of the Gift of the Holy Ghost and the sacrament, making and keeping sacred covenants, and coming to understand true doctrine, the promise is, as was to His apostles of old –

“…ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…”  (New Testament | Acts 1:8)

Another great blessing we may receive is that of the great endowment that may be had in the temple –

“For behold, I have prepared a great endowment and blessing to be poured out upon them, inasmuch as they are faithful and continue in humility before me.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 105:12)

I often hear members of the Church say, regarding those that are attending the temple for the first time that they are “taking out their endowments”. 

Now my intention this evening is not to offend anyone.  Sometimes we just get in the habit of repeating phrases that are common among the members of the Church.   To me, “taking out ones endowment”, almost sounds like is a checklist…kind of like, been there, done that.  When we attend the temple for our own endowment, do we really “take out” all the knowledge that may be had in His holy temple?

Now please do not be offended by this…again, It’s me!  But every time I hear that phrase, “taking out their endowments”, I can’t help but picture in my mind, on the temple, a neon sign with the words, “Endowments-R-Us” and with a line below “endowments to go!”  As if there is a drive thru, take out window…maybe even an endowment menu board.

I hope to not make light of such a sacred event, but President Stringham is constantly reminding us that we don’t take out our endowments, but that we receive our endowments.  With an attentive ear, you may be surprised how often you hear the word “receive” in the endowment.

Receiving this great endowment requires that we receive sacred ordinances, and receive and take upon us sacred covenants, in conjunction with, the Lord said –

“…ye are to be taught from on high…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 43:16)

…which suggest to me that it is within the sacred walls of the temple we may receive further light and knowledge.   For the Lord said His temple was established for the very purpose of being –

 “…a house of learning…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:119)

That is why we are counseled to return to the temple often. 

Have a conversation with any temple worker from our stake and I can promise you that as you do, they will testify of the great knowledge that may be had in the temple and how much they have learned as they have served there.

As we receive the temple endowment, that is as we receive temple ordinances, covenants, and knowledge, the Lord promises, through His grace –

“…ye shall be endowed with power…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 43:16)

Even stating –

“…power to overcome all things…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 50:35)

The last covenant that I would like to touch on is in regards to and in –

“…according to the oath and covenant which belongeth to the priesthood.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:39)

This is not an oath and covenant that belongs to the men.  Men are not the priesthood.   It is an oath and covenant that belongs to the priesthood which priesthood -

“…is without beginning of days or end of years.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:17)

It appears to me that in order to receive this oath and covenant and its associated promises and blessing, there are three conditions that must be satisfied by the brethren, and one condition by the sisters.  For the brethren, the first two conditions that must be satisfied are being –

“…faithful unto the [1] obtaining these two priesthoods of which I have spoken, and [2] the magnifying their calling…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:33)

The word “obtain”, in my mind, means having these two priesthoods conferred upon them and being ordained, which such ordinances the men must receive.

The third condition, which in my mind, now includes the sisters, talks about “receiving” the priesthood where it states –

“…And also all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:35)

Those words “also all they” would suggest to me that these are they that are in addition to those that obtain the priesthood or have had the priesthood conferred upon them.  What does it mean to “receive this priesthood”?  The Lord explains that those that receive the priesthood receive Him –

“For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:36)

Receiving the Lord’s servants then is the same as receiving the Savior and receiving His priesthood.  Therefore, in order to receive the priesthood means we must receive His servants.  I see receiving His servants again follows much the same pattern of the doctrine of receive. 

First, receiving His servants would suggest, receiving saving ordinances and sacred covenants administered by priesthood authority, for –

“….in the ordinances thereof [and its associated covenants], the power of godliness is manifest.

21  And without the ordinances thereof, and the authority of the priesthood, the power of godliness is not manifest unto men in the flesh…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:20 - 21)

In order to be granted power, the “power of godliness”, such power is also conditional upon receiving knowledge, for this same revelation concerning the ordinances, priesthood authority, and the “power of godliness” are prefaced with –

“…this greater priesthood administereth the gospel and holdeth the key of the mysteries of the kingdom, even the key of the knowledge of God.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:19)

 Thus, we also receive His servants as we receive or hearken and heed the teachings, counsel, and instruction of His servants…holy prophets, again, both ancient and current, both in scripture and modern writ, whereby we receive an understanding of true doctrine.

We also receive His servants as we follow the counsel and instruction of presidents, bishops, leaders and teachers.  His servants are His messengers for –

“…whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 1:38)

These presidents, leaders, and teachers include the women of the Church.  As taught in the handbook of instruction, women receive priesthood authority or authority by the priesthood that is delegated to them by those that hold priesthood keys.  I consider women in the Church that have been called and set apart just as much as the Lord’s servants as those that have had the priesthood conferred upon them. 

As we receive His servants, the promise is that we will receive knowledge, even God’s knowledge or the knowledge He possesses.

The great promise associated with the oath and covenant that belongeth to the priesthood is that of those that receive His servants are they that receive the Savior, and thus –

“…receiveth my Father's kingdom; therefore all that my Father hath shall be given unto him.

39  And this is according to the oath and covenant which belongeth to the priesthood.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:38 - 39)

It is my personal opinion that “all that my Father hath” would be in reference to all His knowledge which obviously would lead to great power, for this priesthood, as it states, is “the key to the knowledge of God”. 

Such knowledge of the mysteries of God or knowledge of God does not come overnight for it has been revealed, that as we receive His servants and heed their counsel and teachings –

 “…the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:45)

That is –

“…precept upon precept; line upon line…here a little, and there a little…”  (Old Testament | Isaiah 28:13)

It is by receiving saving priesthood ordinances, covenants, and knowledge, administered by His authorized servants; we receive the power of godliness and thus become holy without spot, for the Lord teaches –

“For without this power, no man can see the face of God, even the Father, and live.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:22)

That is an important and critical statement.  The scriptures are clear that because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, all men and women will be resurrected to immortality and live forever –

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

 Alma also made it clear that –

“…all men shall stand before him, to be judged …according to their works.”  (Book of Mormon | Alma 33:22)

…which would obviously suggest to me that the day will come that every man will see His face where every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus is the Christ.  So the words –

“For without this [power of Godliness] no man can see the face of God, even the Father, and live.”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:22)

…would suggest to me that the word “live” must then be in reference to something greater, even live as the Father lives, or in other words, eternal life or exaltation.

In the preface revelation to Book of Commandments which is now the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord stated that this Church is –

“…the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth…”  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 1:30)

As a living Church, it would then suggest to me that this Church possesses all necessary priesthood authority, ordinances, covenants, and knowledge that one must receive in order to “see the face of God and live” or in other words, receive exaltation and eternal life.  

Thus this Church is a living Church, a Church whereby we may live, for it is in His living Church, as we follow the doctrine of receive, we are promised power, the power of the atonement, the power of godliness, the power of God to overcome the world, and the power of God to become holy, for as His voice declared in the Americas, for –

“…as many as have received me, to them have I given to become the sons [and daughters] of God…”  (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 9:17)

And because of that, Moroni concluded, then –

“…ye can in nowise deny the power of God.”  (Book of Mormon | Moroni 10:32)

As the Lord hastens the work of salvation, not only are we to invite others to come unto Christ, but we must also invite others to become perfected in Him and become holy...which would suggest to me, an invitation to receive all ordinances, covenants, and knowledge that is available in this, His living Church such that one will be endowed with sufficient power to “see the face of God, even the Father, and live.”

I consider this to be the doctrine of receive.  In my mind, as Isaiah taught, this is the highway, or the way of holiness.

Matthew 12

Speaking to the Pharisees, the Savior taught -

"Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."  (New Testament | Matthew 12:31 - 32)

Then adding the explanation -

"When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.
45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation."  (New Testament | Matthew 12:43 - 45)

The Prophet Joseph Smith translated with comments by David J. Ridges -

37 [Note: This verse is entirely missing from the Bible.] Then came some of the scribes [Jewish religious leaders who specialized in interpreting the gospel doctrines and laws] and said unto him, Master, it is written that, Every sin shall be forgiven; but ye say, Whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven. And they asked him, saying, How can these things be? [In other words, what you, Jesus, are teaching contradicts our traditional written doctrines.]
38 And he said unto them, When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he [the evil spirit] walketh through dry places, seeking rest and findeth none; but when a man speaketh against the Holy Ghost [when a man reverts back to his evil ways to the extent of denying the Holy Ghost], then he [the evil spirit] saith, I will return into my house [the man in whom the evil spirit used to reside] from whence I came out; and when he [the evil spirit] is come, he findeth him [the man in whom the evil spirit formerly resided] empty, swept and garnished [was cleansed from sin, with a sure testimony given him by the Holy Ghost, but who is now speaking against that testimony]; for the good spirit [the Holy Ghost] leaveth him unto himself.
39 Then goeth the evil spirit, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in and dwell there [with the man who has denied the Holy Ghost]; and the last end of that man is worse than the first [the man is worse off now than he was before he gained a sure testimony from the Holy Ghost]. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation." (JST 12:37-39)

Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained -

“JST Matthew 12:37–39. Having already taught that every sin shall be forgiven except the sin against the Holy Ghost, Jesus now illustrates why. In effect he says: ‘If you gain a perfect knowledge of me and my mission, it must come by revelation from the Holy Ghost; that Holy Spirit must speak to the spirit within you; and then you shall know, nothing doubting. But to receive this knowledge and revelation, you must cleanse and perfect your own soul; that is, your house must be clean, swept, and garnished. Then if you deny me by speaking against the Holy Ghost who gave you your revelation of the truth, that is if you come out in open rebellion against the perfect light you have received, the Holy Ghost will depart, leaving you to yourself. Your house will now be available for other tenancy, and so the evil spirits and influences you had once conquered will return to plague you. Having completely lost the preserving power of the Spirit, you will then be worse off than if you had never received the truth; and many in this generation shall be so condemned’” (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, Volume 1, p. 276)

Matthew 11

A comment by the Savior brought to my mind much of the politics of today where He said -

"For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil.
19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children."  (New Testament | Matthew 11:18 - 19)

In other words, many mock and ostracize if you do one thing or exactly the opposite.  You just can't win.  But the Savior explained that to the wise, the righteous are justified.

In conjunction, the Savior said -

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."  (New Testament | Matthew 11:28 - 30)

A yoke is a type of bar that allows two to work together in pulling a load.  In my mind, the Lord is trying to teach that it is far easier and less work (rest) if we join with Him in satisfying the purposes of this life.  Obviously, He will greatly lighten our burden.  But this means that we must follow His doctrine...faith, repentance, baptism, receive the Holy Ghost, and keep His commandments and endure to the end.  Any deviation suggests that we are taking upon us His yoke.

You see this in the end as Paul writes -

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

Matthew 10

To His disciples or priesthood leaders, the Savior instructed -

"Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.
17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;
18 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.
19 But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.
20 For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you."  (New Testament | Matthew 10:16 - 20)

I want to comment on my thoughts this morning as I read this instruction.  There are some that never prepare when they are asked to speak or give a talk thinking that according to very the words "take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak".  I am not disputing the the Spirit sometimes provide words to speak "in the same hour", but this instruction must be taken in context.

I believe the condition of this instruction is when we are given no time or limited time to speak that it will be given what to speak.  I believe in most applications that we are to ponder, pray, study, and prepare in speaking because the Spirit can direct just as much in front of a computer as It can at the pulpit.

As we study and ponder the scriptures, I think if we rely on a single scripture with out context and in connection with other of God's words, we nay not necessarily understand the full doctrine or instruction.

Matthew 9

My thoughts this morning are brief.  The Savior taught the saints in the Americas -

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and ye know the things that ye must do in my church; for the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do; for that which ye have seen me do even that shall ye do..."  (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 27:21)

Which suggests to me that when we teach, we should teach in the Savior's way or as He did.  I noted this morning as teh Pharisees asked -

"...Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?
12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.
13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."  (New Testament | Matthew 9:11 - 13)

I notice in his teachings that He used the scriptures or the words of the Prophets.  In this case, Hosea -

"For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings."  (Old Testament | Hosea 6:6)

In in His manner of teaching, He asked "learn what that meaneth" or in my mind, what do these words mean.

It is a great lesson in how we are to teach the gospel.

Matthew 7

When many Christians suggest that all we have to do is believe in Christ and accept Him, they need to seriously ponder His Sermon on the Mount as He taught -

"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."  (New Testament | Matthew 7:13 - 14)

In my mind, a narrow strait suggests to me strict conditions or requirements.  The Savior adds -

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."  (New Testament | Matthew 7:21 - 23)

Joseph Smith translated "I never knew you" to "you never knew Me".  It becomes clear that to enter into the kingdom of heaven, we must do the will of our Father in Heaven.  We will not be able to confess that we did all sorts of good things while not keeping His commandments.  Obviously, this is not His will. 

A thorough review of the scriptures outlines essential ordinances, covenants that must be entered into, and keeping the many commandments He gives us.  The Savior even adds a way of knowing the truth -

"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."  (New Testament | Matthew 7:15 - 20)

And then He provides this warning to those that "do not" His will -

"Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."  (New Testament | Matthew 7:24 - 27)

Is it any more clear.  I also note that in this last analogy, both houses experienced the rain, floods, and wind.

Matthew 6

The Lord taught in His Sermon on the Mount -

"TAKE heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:
4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly."  (New Testament | Matthew 6:1 - 4)

Alms means:  Charity or something (as money or food) given freely to relieve the poor.

I think the same teaching would apply to any type of donation such as labor, services, consecrations, etc.

I believe the Savior is teaching that we should be very careful in calling attention to ourselves whenever we are involved in the Lord's work.  Even though at times, much is seen.  Our hearts should be away from being honored of men.

This seemed to jump off the page this morning.

Matthew 5

In His Sermon on the Mount, the Savior taught -

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."  (New Testament | Matthew 5:14 - 16)

Obviously, the Lord intended for us to have high standards and live in such a manner that would much higher than the world.

In a week and a half, we are holding a stake youth devotional based upon the youth standards established by the Church.  Our stake youth council have voiced that as a portion of this devotional involve a panel of youth and return missionaries that would answer questions by the youth.  As I read most of these questions, the questions seemed to follow why certain standards that vary from the world as well as where the line is for those standards as if they want to see how close they can come to the "world".  I note a portion of the lyrics of a popular hymn -

High on the mountain top,
  A banner is unfurled.
  Ye nations now look up;
It waves to all the world."
In Deseret's sweet, peaceful land-
On Zion's mount behold it stand!

For God remembers still
  His promise made of old
  That He on Zion's hill
  Truth's standard would unfold!
Her light should there attract the gaze
Of all the world in latter days.
I note that the nations will have to "look up" to "truth's standard".  In modern day, the Lord revealed -

"...even so I have sent mine everlasting covenant into the world, to be a light to the world, and to be a standard for my people, and for the Gentiles to seek to it, and to be a messenger before my face to prepare the way before me."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 45:9)

This would be the answer to almost all their questions.