Scripture Blog

This weblog is my personal online scripture journal. I try to read the scriptures each morning as I exercise on my cross-trainer. It has a great impact on my life and my testimony of the Savior and his restored church. The journal is really for my own benefit but I have set it up as a web log in hopes to benefit anyone else that may be interested. "For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost..." 1 Nephi 10:19

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

1 Corinthians 14

As Paul refers back to the gifs of the Spirit, he obviously  downplays the speaking of tongues while elevating the gift of prophecy.  In my mind, "prophecy" is that which a prophet does.  Most people immediately consider prophecy to be that of foretelling the future.  But even so, the prophets in scripture tend to testify of Jesus Christ and His doctrine.  Scriptural prophets taught truth, refuted falsehoods, reproved as necessary, admonished the people, and provided comfort to them.  This seems more in line with that which Paul counsels the Corinthians writing -

"...he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:3 - 4)

Even reasoning -

"...what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?"  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:6)

And in speaking of Church worship services -

"...Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:29)

"For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:31)

It is given to all saints that they may prophecy, that is -

"...when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 14:26)

I am reminded of the desire of Moses -

"...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)

In other words, teach, admonish, comfort and edify.

 

Monday, March 30, 2015

1 Corinthians 13

Mormon summarized charity  as -

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

It is an attribute we are all striving for.  Paul provided a more detail definition as -

"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 13:4 - 7)

Thus -

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

David J. Ridges provided several interpretations of "faileth" -

"...For instance, it can mean that exercising charity never fails to make us a better person. It never fails to make the world a better place. Another lesson for us could be found in Strong’s Concordance # 1601 , which defines “faileth” as being ineffective, in other words, “charity” is never ineffective. Even in the case where Christ like love and patience is rejected by others, charity still brings the one who has it back to God. Yet another use of the word “fail” is found in the phrase “Men’s hearts failing them for fear,” as used in Luke 21: 26. Here, the word “failing” means “to run out of,” as in running out of hope, courage, optimism, etc . Thus, “Charity never faileth” could mean that a truly Christ like person never runs out of charity toward others. Still another help for understanding the word “faileth” is found in the Institute of Religion New Testament student manual, p. 296, where “faileth” is used in conjunction with a leaf falling off a tree or a flower. The message is that “charity” will never be removed from its place as a central focus of celestial, Christ like behavior." (Ridges, David J. (2010-10-01). The New Testament Made Easier, Part 2)

All for consideration.  I could improve in all of these.

Friday, March 27, 2015

1 Corinthian 12

As Paul teaches the Corinthians concerning the many gifts of the Spirit, he instructs -

"Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:4)

And of these many gifts of the Spirit -

"...all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:11)

Which suggests to me that everyone has a least one gift of the Spirit.  Elder

“Whenever the Holy Ghost takes up its residence in a person , it not only cleanses, sanctifies, and purifies him, in proportion as he himself to its influence, but also imparts to him some gift, intended for the benefit of himself and others… all Saints who constitute the Church of Christ, are baptized into the same Spirit; and each one, without any exception, is made a partaker of some spiritual gift… Each member does not receive all these gifts; [they] are distributed among the members of the Church , according to their faithfulness, circumstances, natural abilities, duties, and callings; that the whole may be properly instructed, confirmed, perfected, and saved.” (Masterful Discourses, pp. 539– 41.)

Thus each individual that receives the Holy Ghost contributes to the organization of the Church for -

"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)

Thus every calling and individual is of great value in the Church for -

"...ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 12:27 - 31)

For the more excellent way is how all members work together to bring to past the eternal life of man.

Thursday, March 26, 2015

1 Corinthians 11

In answer to their questions, Paul reminds the Corinthians of the purpose and meaning of the sacrament asking -

"When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 11:20)

I believe Paul is asking "is it not to eath the Lord's supper". 

And then he recounts the implementation of this sacred ordinance as  -

"...the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:
24 And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.
25 After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 11:23 - 25)

The main purpose of the ordinance was to remember Him, His life and His atonement.

And then Paul also warns that -

"... whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.
28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.
29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.
30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 11:27 - 30)

"Unworthily" in my mind would be those that do not come forward with a broken heart and contrite spirit with a willingness to repent and strive to keep the commandments.  In other words, unworthily would be those that have committed grevious sin and do so in rebellion. 

Even though in verse thirty, weak, sickly, and death may be physical, it most definetly would be spiritual.

 

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

1 Corinthians 9

Paul teaches a great principle as he associates with different types or groups of members writing -

"...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)

This suggests to me that as we serve members, at times it is best to become one of them without lowering your values or standards.

A good example to me is where some wards have very few young men.  Instead of reducing the number of leaders, it may be wise to increase leaders where they become as one of or friends with the youth increasing in numbers, fun, and activities.

I am reminded when several high priest older than I invited me to go fishing with them.  In a sense, they put their arms around me and we all enjoyed the activity.  Even though they were older, I felt part of them and their friendship.  This could be the same with our youth.

Paul taught another profound principle that all men should be aware of in all their challenges and tribulations.  That is -

"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)

I note that the temptation is not taken away but the individual can bear it.  In my mind, as the Lord did to the people of Alma...He made their burden light that they could bear it.

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

1 Corinthians 8

As Paul counseled the saints concerning eating that which was sacrificed to false gods, he teaches -

"...we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.
5 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)
6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 8:4 - 6)

Paul understood that eternal nature and possibilities of man.  That we as His offspring have the potential to become like Him through the atonement of Jesus Christ, he acknowledges that because of that (there be gods many).  But then he explains that "to us" there is but one God, the Father of us all.

Some would suggest that Paul is referring to false gods, but I strongly believe he was referring to the potential of us all.

Monday, March 23, 2015

1 Corinthians 6

Amulek was asked concerning the Savior -

"Shall he save his people in their sins? And Amulek answered and said unto him: I say unto you he shall not, for it is impossible for him to deny his word."  (Book of Mormon | Alma 11:34)

Helaman would later teach his sons -

"...remember also the words which Amulek spake unto Zeezrom, in the city of Ammonihah; for he said unto him that the Lord surely should come to redeem his people, but that he should not come to redeem them in their sins, but to redeem them from their sins."  (Book of Mormon | Helaman 5:10)

Obviously, the Savior will not save us in our sins.  But He will redeem us from our sins as we repent and keep His commandments.  Paul taught much the same doctrine to the Corinthians -

"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)

But only those that repent, receive saving ordinances and keep His commandments and receive His cleansing grace 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)

Friday, March 20, 2015

1 Corinthians 5

Paul wrote the Corinthians -

"LET a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.
2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 4:1 - 2)

What great counsel!  As I defined recently, the mysteries of God is knowledge that comes by revelation.  The scriptures are full of knowledge that comes by revelation.  Those called to minister have a responsibility, guided by the Spirit, to share appropriate "mysteries" with saints for the Savior warned -

"For it is not meet that the things which belong to the children of the kingdom should be given to them that are not worthy, or to dogs, or the pearls to be cast before swine."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 41:6)

Again, stewards are commanded to faithful and keep the commandments to be guided by the Spirit.

Paul also counsels the saints -

"Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 4:5)

I have a tendency to do just that thinking I already know the thoughts and intent of the heart (especially politicians).

But even though we as saints have to be careful in judgment, the ministers of Christ or His stewards are also commanded 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.
6 Your glorying is not good. 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. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us..."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 5:4 - 7)

This suggests to me that accompanied by His Spirit and power, there are times to deliver unto Satan or in other words, discipline, including excommunication that the individual might repent and be saved.  We don't glory in this but we also do so to keep such wickedness from corrupting the saints.

And to all saints -

"...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 5:11)

It doesn't mean we don't befriend such, but be very careful becoming part of them.

Thursday, March 19, 2015

1 Corinthians 2

Paul told the Corinthians -

"...my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power..."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 2:4)

For -

"...we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory..."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 2:7)

I find it interesting that Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines mystery as -

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

This is what Paul is teaching as he writes -

"God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
14 But 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 2:10 - 14)

That is why the world can debate religious faith and the nature of God all they want, but it will remain a mystery to them.  It is all about individual faith and worthiness that the mysteries and knowledge of God are received.

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

1 Corinthians 1


As Paul called all faithful members "saints", he teaches something that I believe is significant in the Savior's Church -

"Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;
5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;
6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you..."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 1:3 - 6)

"Grace" defined in the Bible Dictionary as -

"The main idea of the word is divine means of help or strength, given through the bounteous mercy and love of Jesus Christ....It is likewise through the grace of the Lord that individuals, through faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ and repentance of their sins, receive strength and assistance to do good works that they otherwise would not be able to maintain if left to their own means. This grace is an enabling power that allows men and women to lay hold on eternal life and exaltation after they have expended their own best efforts. (Bible Dictionary | G Grace:Entry)

I have found Paul's teaching to be true that through the grace of Jesus Christ, I have been enriched or enabled in "utterance", "knowledge", and "testimony".

Paul also describes two types of saints in his day which had great application to ours -

"For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 1:22 - 25)

In my mind, the gospel of Jesus Christ for the Jews who had been raised under the strict law of Moses, the gospel with its higher law was a stumbling block.  But to the gentiles (Greeks) and the wisdom of the world it was foolishness.  We see this much today.

Because of His grace and the gospel, Paul taught the manner in how the Savior chooses those that lead His people -

"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)

That is why the Savior called the Prophet Joseph Smith to restore His Church.

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Romans 15

Paul instructs us on the manner we should be with our fellow saints writing -

"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)

Not only are we to strive to lift and edify, Paul suggests that in doing so, we are to show great patience just as the Savior did -

"For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope."  (New Testament | Romans 15:4)

"Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:
6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."  (New Testament | Romans 15:5 - 6)

In summary and in all patience -

"Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God."  (New Testament | Romans 15:7)


Monday, March 16, 2015

Romans 14

One of the purposes of conferences in the Church is to give the members an opportunity to sustain their leaders.  Paul provided the saints in his day counsel on sustaining and following their leaders writing -

"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.
2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
4 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 to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake."  (New Testament | Romans 13:1 - 5)

At the same time, Paul counsels the Romans to be very careful of disputations or offending others over minor, insignificant things (especially those saints that are opinionated) for -

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

In other words, be very careful about demeaning eating habits, drinking habits, lifestyles, etc. where one may feel it important for them (thereby their own personal commandment) and another that does not that is not directly in violation of the commandments.  For example, a Jew may still feel it of great importance to live the eating habits of the Mosaic law (done away with in Christ) where new Roman converts may not.  Paul wisely counseled -

"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)

Which would suggest at the same time, we must be careful when amongst individuals that feel strongly about a personal law that we don't offend for -

"It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak."  (New Testament | Romans 14:21)



 





Friday, March 13, 2015

Romans 12

Yesterday, I blogged on the verse -

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."  (New Testament | Romans 10:9)

I hope this doesn't sound too sarcastic, but if that is all that is required, then we why in the world do we have the four gospels, and all of Paul's writings.  Again, you have to combine all scripture to understand what is required for eternal life.  Paul continues -

"I BESEECH you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."  (New Testament | Romans 12:1 - 2)

Obviously, there is some performance that is required or Paul would not have written that.  Paul continues -

"For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
5 So 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 12:4 - 6)

Paul continues to mention gifts of the Spirit upon gifts of the Spirit.  Many have a few, I doubt someone has all.  I am not going to mention each.  I will say that I believe that of few of these gifts I possess a small degree of.  I believe everyone possess a few also.

Paul concludes that with these gifts of the Spirit -

"Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."  (New Testament | Romans 12:21)

Again, another condition of salvation.

Thursday, March 12, 2015

Romans 10

I have recently blogged on teachings that the apostle Paul said concerning faith, hope, grace, covenants, ordinances, and righteousness.  The the other day I noted where Paul taught -

"For we are saved by hope..."  (New Testament | Romans 8:24)

Though this is true, without including all scriptural teachings or words, one might assume that all you have to do is hope and you will be rewarded eternal.  Obviously, one has to combine all prophetic teachings including that of Jesus Christ.

Paul also taught another truth in my reading this morning -

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."  (New Testament | Romans 10:9)

But if one was to just rely on those words that all you had to do is confess by thy mouth and believe that would fall short of all the conditions and teachings of the Savior for Paul continued -

"For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness..."  (New Testament | Romans 10:10)

Or in other words -

"For I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 137:9)

When Paul speaks of works and the law, the reader must take his words in context for in most cases as writes to the Jews, he is referring the the works and law of Moses where many Jews error in thinking the salvation comes by the law of Moses, thus as Paul speaks of Israel -

"Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
6 And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work."  (New Testament | Romans 11:5 - 6)

I belief Paul is trying to teach the Jews that they need to add to their faith, the works of Christ's law.


 

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Romans 9

I was touched by Paul's teaching -

"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."  (New Testament | Romans 8:26)

...which suggests to me that our sincere prayers of the heart are heard.

Paul also teaches -

"For we are saved by hope..."  (New Testament | Romans 8:24)

Faith and hope are intertwined.  Paul also taught -

"NOW faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."  (New Testament | Hebrews 11:1)

"Hope" in my mind then is also a principle of action as faith is where "wish" is not.

With true faith and hope in Jesus Christ, then -

"...neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."  (New Testament | Romans 8:38 - 39)

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Romans 8

As Paul writes to the Roman converts, especially the Jewish converts, to me it seem he is trying to emphasize that at one time, he too, strived to live the law of Moses, but recognized that much of its works were outward and not spiritual.  In my mind, he even suggests that in living this law he committed sin that was not necessarily contrary to the law of Moses but offensive to God.

And example that came to me was the Mosaic law or developed law that one must not eat unless they wash their hands first.  This is a valid health law that benefitted the Jews, but it had no bearing on eternal life.  Remember the Pharisees came asking the Savior -

"Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?"  (New Testament | Matthew 15:2 - 3)

In other words, why do you transgress spiritual laws that impact eternity.  It is to this reasoning, Paul wrote the Romans -

"For I delight in the law of God after the inward man..."  (New Testament | Romans 7:22)

This is the doctrine and laws of Christ.  The spiritual taught by the Holy Ghost.

"For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."  (New Testament | Romans 8:5 - 6)

Obviously, Paul is teaching inward (of the heart) righteousness and obedience.

Paul then teaches the very reason or plan or purpose of this earth life in striving for righteousness -

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."  (New Testament | Romans 8:14)

In my mind, "sons of God" in this case are those that Christ gives eternal life through His grace.  But also

"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; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together."  (New Testament | Romans 8:16 - 17)

These words literally suggest that God is our Father in Heaven and that we can become heirs.

Monday, March 09, 2015

Romans 6

As Paul taught the necessity of faith and grace, he asked the Romans -

"WHAT shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?"  (New Testament | Romans 6:1 - 2)

In my mind, Paul is teaching that not only are we to repent (become "dead to sin"), but we must continue to strive to keep the Savior's commandments and repenting as necessary throughout our lives.  Nephi called this "enduring to the end" as he taught the "doctrine of Christ" where  he -

"...heard a voice from the Father, saying: Yea, the words of my Beloved are true and faithful. He that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved.
16 And now, my beloved brethren, I know by this that unless a man shall endure to the end, in following the example of the Son of the living God, he cannot be saved.
17 Wherefore, do the things which I have told you I have seen that your Lord and your Redeemer should do; for, for this cause have they been shown unto me, that ye might know the gate by which ye should enter. For the gate by which ye should enter is repentance and baptism by water; and then cometh a remission of your sins by fire and by the Holy Ghost.
18 And then are ye in this strait and narrow path which leads to eternal life; yea, ye have entered in by the gate; ye have done according to the commandments of the Father and the Son; and ye have received the Holy Ghost, which witnesses of the Father and the Son, unto the fulfilling of the promise which he hath made, that if ye entered in by the way ye should receive.
19 And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, 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.
20 Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.
21 And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end."  (Book of Mormon | 2 Nephi 31:15 - 21)

I believe that is what Paul was teaching the Romans saying -

"Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin."  (New Testament | Romans 6:3 - 6)

Adding -

"What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness."  (New Testament | Romans 6:15 - 18)

It becomes clear that there are conditions to receive "His grace".  Faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, receive the gift of the Holy Ghost and then continue to strive for righteousness or in other words strive to be like Him.

Friday, March 06, 2015

Romans 5

As Paul compares and  teaches the Romans how Adam brought birth and both spiritual and physical death into the world, he also teaches how Christ overcame physical death for all men and through His atonement made possible to over spiritual death or by His grace, eternal life. 

Without quoting the entire chapter, there are a few verses that specifically touched me this morning.  First -

"THEREFORE being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."  (New Testament | Romans 5:1 - 5)

Again, faith being a principle of action, I also read this morning, Alma's great analogy of the being compared with a seed.  (read Alma 32).  but it is the conclusion of that chapter that teaches much the same as Paul did -

"...if ye will nourish the word, yea, nourish the tree as it beginneth to grow, by your faith with great diligence, and with patience, looking forward to the fruit thereof, it shall take root; and behold it shall be a tree springing up unto everlasting life.
42 And because of your diligence and your faith and your patience with the word in nourishing it, that it may take root in you, behold, by and by ye shall pluck the fruit thereof, which is most precious, which is sweet above all that is sweet, and which is white above all that is white, yea, and pure above all that is pure; and ye shall feast upon this fruit even until ye are filled, that ye hunger not, neither shall ye thirst.
43 Then, my brethren, ye shall reap the rewards of your faith, and your diligence, and patience, and long-suffering, waiting for the tree to bring forth fruit unto you."  (Book of Mormon | Alma 32:41 - 43)

Much like Paul, Alma speaks of faith, diligence, patience, and enduring.  Paul used the terms, faith, patience, experience, and hope which seems synonymous to me.

Which leads to my second thought concerning faith, patience, experience and hope. thus  -

"...being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement."  (New Testament | Romans 5:10 - 11)

Throughout the Old Testament (law of Moses_, the Jews seemed to fear God.  Now, with the new commandments and covenants of the New Testament, all this patience and diligence brings happiness and joy through His atonement.  Does this not bring hope?

Thursday, March 05, 2015

Romans 4

Some believe that faith and believing are one of the same being a passive in nature.  But I have always felt that "faith" is as the Prophet Joseph Smith taught, a "principle of action".  In my mind, without active works, faith is non-existent.  In other words, righteousness and obedience are evidence of faith. 

One great example in scripture is the faith of Abraham.  Abraham's faith was not passive!  He demonstrated his faith as he was willing to sacrifice his son, Isaac.  Is there a greater example of faith.  Paul begins this argument with -

"WHAT shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?
2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.
3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness." (New Testament | Romans 4:1 - 3)

In my mind, Paul uses the term circumcision and uncircumcision as references to traditional Jews and the newly converted gentiles respectively.  Where many Jews continued to believe that they will be saved by obedience to the law of Moses, Paul is trying to teach that the law of Moses does not bring salvation.  Only faith in Jesus Christ, righteousness or obedience, and the saving grace of Jesus Christ...not the law or the law or works of the law of Moses for -

"...say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.
10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.
11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also..."  (New Testament | Romans 4:9 - 11)

"Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all..."  (New Testament | Romans 4:16)

Active Faith then as the Savior commanded during his ministry "If ye love me, keep my commandments. (New Testament | John 14:15)" is the condition for grace.

Wednesday, March 04, 2015

Romans 3

Moses taught his people -

"...the LORD thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live."  (Old Testament | Deuteronomy 30:6)

Obviously, circumcision was a token reminder of the law of Moses, but circumcision of the heart was not physical but spiritual.  In my mind, Moses was teaching that a change of heart, keeping His commandments, and loving God with all your soul was the key to eternal life.

Paul taught the same thing to the Roman Jewish converts -

"For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God."  (New Testament | Romans 2:28 - 29)

King Benjamin declared to his people -

"...because of the covenant which ye have made ye shall be called the children of Christ, his sons, and his daughters; for behold, this day he hath spiritually begotten you; for ye say that your hearts are changed through faith on his name; therefore, ye are born of him and have become his sons and his daughters."  (Book of Mormon | Mosiah 5:7)

This is circumcision of heart by faith, entering into essential covenants of eternal life for -

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus..."  (New Testament | Romans 3:23 - 24)

Thus Paul concludes -

"Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law."  (New Testament | Romans 3:31)

I believe Nephi summarized it best -

"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)

 

 

Tuesday, March 03, 2015

Romans 2

As I mentioned yesterday, the reader should focus on the recipient (Jew or gentile converts) and take the writings in context to understand the intent of Paul.

In the first part of chapter 2 of Paul's writings to the Romans, it seems that he is writing more to the gentile converts.  Obviously, the gentile converts were not steep in Jewish law (law of Moses) or traditions.  But probably had lived amongst the false gods and wickedness of other Romans.  I believe that is why Paul focus's on the need to keep commandments for he summarized of man's agency and the natural man beginning with -

"....God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:
32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them."  (New Testament | Romans 1:28 - 32)

Obviously, these gentile converts were to keep the commandments.  To them Paul continues -

"...thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?
4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds..."  (New Testament | Romans 2:3 - 6)

Obviously, repentance and righteous deeds or obedience are conditions to receive His grace for -

"To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life..."  (New Testament | Romans 2:7)

"But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good..."  (New Testament | Romans 2:10)

"(For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified...."  (New Testament | Romans 2:13)

In the words to Roman gentile, it is my opinion that the "law" is the law that was given to them at their conversion, not the law of Moses being fulfilled by the Savior.

Monday, March 02, 2015

Romans 1

As Paul writes to the Romans, I think it is important that people understand that there were Christian Jews and Christian "gentiles".  Each coming from differing religious backgrounds. All Christians being considered "saints" or members as Paul writes -

"To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints..."  (New Testament | Romans 1:7)

I sense Paul's love of God and his fellowman, and his desire for the saints to be exalted as he writes -

"For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established..."  (New Testament | Romans 1:11)

Is this not why we strive to magnify our callings?  We speak often with the desire that the saints my hear something that will help them endure to the end. For as Paul wrote -

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith."  (New Testament | Romans 1:16 - 17)

I note that Paul specifically notes to conditions that we must strive for.  The first being "righteousness" and being "just" which would suggest obedience to the commandments.  And second, "faith".  We must have faith in Jesus Christ in order to repent of our sins and follow Him.  In my mind, without repentance and obedience, there is no increase in faith.

Recently I have spent some significant time hiking and skiing in the mountains.  As I do, I marvel at the beauty of God's creations and ponder there purpose.  Is there anything more glorious that we are able to observe in this life than the all God's creations, earth and living things?  Paul says much the same thing to give us an eternal perspective -

"Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead..."  (New Testament | Romans 1:19 - 20)

This world is glorious and beautiful!