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Apr 227 min read

“Filled with Love towards God and All Men”

CFM: April 22–28





Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material



Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson





The Book of Mormon: A Cultural and Religious Dialogue


In this Week's Lesson


I have reformatted the tables for the lesson materials because Wix, the platform that I am using for this website keeps bugging out, and I can't get the table function to work consistently. For the computer it works okay, but for tablets and phones it is virtually unreadable and has been very frustrating. Hopefully switching over to just two columns will help remedy that.


Hag Pesach Sameach! This week, our Jewish friends are celebrating Passover. For those wanting more information about this significant and sacred Feast Day, check out some of our earlier lessons for resources about Passover and the tradition of the Haggadah and Seder. There are many correlations between these observances and our Temple traditions, and this can be a wonderful opportunity to extend one's appreciation for our Easter season.



  • Video/ Book: Feasts and Festivals of the Messiah by Lynda Cherry

  • Symbols of the Messiah by Daniel Smith

  • Days of Awe by Gayle Boyd  

  • Bird's Head Haggada: The oldest Haggadot in existence, dating back to the 13th Century. This was introduced to us by Daniel Rona, and it has been a family favorite for many years.

  • Chabad Passover Recipes 

  • Charoset Recipe 

  • 3 medium apples, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, peeled and finely diced

  • 1/8 c. lemon juice

  • 1 c. toasted pecan, roughly chopped (I personally like putting in candied nuts)

  • 1/4 c. craisins

  • 1/4 c. grape juice

  • 1 c. Medjool Dates (pitted)

  • 1/2 tbsp. honey

  • 1 tsp. lemon zest

  • 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

  • Pinch kosher salt

  • Chop pecans. Dice apples to desired cube size, place in a large mixing bowl, and add lemon juice to preserve color. Set to side. (I will frequently just run the apples through the food processor because I am lazy, but some like to cut into cubes because it looks prettier.) In a food processor, blend pitted dates, lemon zest, honey, cinnamon, salt, and grape juice. Pour mixture in with diced apples, and add in chopped pecans and craisins. Mix together thoroughly and refrigerate until ready to serve. (I personally think this is plenty sweet, but some like it sweeter, so if you are one of those people, feel free to add a bit of brown sugar.)


This week, the Deseret Post Published an article about a sacred experience shared by some of our Latter-Day Saint and Jewish friends in the Taylorsville Temple; it is worth checking out: Jewish, Latter-day Saint friends found themselves singing together in the Taylorsville Utah Temple


In addition, here is the link to the interview that I mentioned in class with the Jewish Rabbi who shared his powerful insights about Jacob 5.



For more information about how our Jewish brothers and sisters interpret scripture, check out the lesson materials provided in "The Lord Labors with Us."


Powerpoint from last week's Sunday School Lesson:


The background information that we discussed from the Powerpoint this past Sunday can help to prepare us for this week's material, particularly as we try to navigate the historical context and chronology:




 

Overview

Mosiah 1


Mosiah 1 provides a comprehensive introduction to King Benjamin’s spiritual and practical teachings to his sons, setting a doctrinal and ethical framework for their leadership. It underscores the importance of scriptural literacy, prophetic understanding, and the ethical imperatives of leadership. Through his detailed instructions on the importance of maintaining and understanding sacred records, King Benjamin prepares his sons for their future roles as leaders, linking their personal righteousness and the prosperity of their people directly to their faith in Christ and adherence to divine commandments. This chapter not only sets the stage for the subsequent narratives in the Book of Mosiah but also offers timeless insights into the role of education, prophecy, and ethical leadership in nurturing a faithful community.


References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:



Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Verses 1-8: Education and Instruction of King Benjamin’s Sons

  • 1-3: King Benjamin informs his sons about the plates of brass and other records, emphasizing the importance of learning their language to understand God’s commandments and the prophecies contained therein.

  • Educational Context: King Benjamin stresses the need for his sons to be educated in the language and prophecies of their people to ensure wise and God-fearing leadership.

  • Spiritual Legacy: The passing of knowledge from one generation to the next as a means to preserve faith and ensure continuity of worship and obedience.

  • 4-8: King Benjamin teaches his sons that the prophecies concerning Jesus Christ are essential, and their fulfillment ensures salvation for those who believe. He also recounts the history of their people since leaving Jerusalem, highlighting God’s hand in their deliverance and the importance of keeping God’s commandments.

  • Theological Foundation: The foretelling of Christ’s advent and His atoning sacrifice are central to Nephite theology, as presented by King Benjamin.

  • Divine Guidance and Deliverance: Emphasizes the narrative of divine guidance and miraculous deliverance as foundational aspects of their community’s identity and faith.


Verses 9-18: The Sacredness of the Records and the Prophecies


  • 9-13: King Benjamin continues to emphasize the significance of the records, detailing their sacred nature and the importance of maintaining and understanding them. He instructs his sons to avoid contention and to remember that these records are preserved by the power of God.

  • Preservation of Sacred Records: The custodianship of the records as a divine mandate, crucial for the moral and spiritual guidance of the people.

  • Call to Righteous Leadership: Instruction in leadership ethics, focusing on peace, unity, and adherence to God’s laws.

  • 14-18: Concludes with an exhortation to his sons to search the prophecies diligently and to live righteously, so that they might prosper in the land. King Benjamin reaffirms the reality of the coming Messiah and the redemption He offers.

  • Diligence in Study and Faith: Encourages a life dedicated to studying the scriptures and living by the principles taught therein.

  • Prophetic Affirmation and Hope: Reiterates the hope embedded in the prophecies regarding Christ, linking it directly to their personal and collective well-being.

Overview

Mosiah 2

Mosiah 2 provides a comprehensive introduction to King Benjamin’s spiritual and practical teachings, setting a doctrinal and ethical framework for his people and offering timeless insights into leadership, service, and spirituality. These lessons remain profoundly relevant, guiding modern readers in cultivating lives of service, humility, and deep spiritual commitment.


References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:


  • Servant Leadership: King Benjamin’s emphasis on serving rather than being served sets a powerful example of leadership that is deeply relevant in all spheres of life.

  • The Interconnection of Service and Spirituality: His teachings elaborate on how service to others is inherently a service to God, a principle that fosters community building and personal spiritual growth.

  • Doctrine of Christ: The centrality of the Atonement and the necessity of personal repentance are critical theological points that resonate with Christian doctrine broadly.

  • Accountability and Moral Integrity: The call for personal accountability and continuous moral integrity offers foundational ethical guidance.

  • The importance of Self Assessment and Mental Health:

  • Leadership and Service: Modern readers are encouraged to embrace servant leadership in their communities, workplaces, and families, emphasizing the importance of humility and service.

  • Community Involvement: The collective gathering and unified focus on spiritual teachings serve as a model for community involvement and the importance of communal worship.

  • Personal Spiritual Practices: Encourages individuals to engage in regular self-assessment of their spiritual and ethical lives, emphasizing ongoing repentance and active participation in spiritual practices.

  • Living a Christ-Centered Life: The teachings about the Atonement and continuous obedience challenge individuals to center their lives around Christ-like principles, fostering a life of service, humility, and faith.

Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Mosiah 2


Verses 1-8: Preparation for King Benjamin's Address


  • 1-5: The people of Zarahemla gather at the temple to hear King Benjamin speak. They set up tents around the temple, positioning them to face the temple where King Benjamin would deliver his address from a tower.

  • Community Gathering: Illustrates the unity and orderliness of the people in preparation for receiving important spiritual teachings.

  • Importance of the Setting: The temple setting emphasizes the sacredness of the occasion, linking the gathering to religious devotion and communal worship.

  • 6-8: King Benjamin begins his address by emphasizing his service to the people and his desire not to burden them but to serve them righteously. He expresses his humility and sets an example of selfless leadership.

  • Model of Leadership: King Benjamin presents himself as a servant leader, highlighting the principles of service and humility in governance.

  • Spiritual and Civic Responsibility: His approach underscores the connection between spiritual values and civic duties, emphasizing accountability and service without seeking personal gain.

Verses 9-19: King Benjamin’s Teachings on Service and Obedience


  • 9-15: King Benjamin warns against the dangers of sin and the importance of obedience to God’s commandments. He teaches that service to one’s fellow beings is service to God, expanding on the theme of how serving others enriches one's own spiritual life.

  • Ethical Instructions: Emphasizes the moral imperatives of serving others and living according to God’s laws.

  • Unity and Cooperation: Encourages a societal ethos of mutual support and collective responsibility.

  • 16-19: He continues by instructing them on the nature of God’s greatness and goodness, reminding them of their reliance on God for everything they have and are, which should foster humility and diligence in keeping His commandments.

  • Divine Providence and Gratitude: Highlights human dependence on divine grace and the need for gratitude and humility.

  • The Nature of God: Discusses God's attributes of omnipotence and mercy, reinforcing the reasons for worship and obedience.

Verses 20-41: The Doctrine of Christ and Human Condition


  • 20-27: King Benjamin deepens his teachings on the Atonement of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that salvation comes through faith in the Lord. He outlines the fundamental doctrines of redemption and repentance.

  • Salvation and Redemption: Clarifies the doctrine of the Atonement and the essential role of repentance in achieving spiritual salvation.

  • Personal Accountability: Stresses personal responsibility in seeking forgiveness and living a Christ-centered life.

  • 28-41: Concludes his sermon by stressing the importance of retaining a remission of sins through continual faithfulness and service. He warns against spiritual complacency and the dangers of falling into sinful behaviors.

  • Perseverance in Faith: Encourages ongoing diligence in faith and good works.

  • Social and Spiritual Warnings: Offers cautions about the social and spiritual pitfalls that can lead to decay and apostasy.


Overview

Mosiah 3

Mosiah 3 enriches the understanding of the coming of Christ and His redemptive mission as shared by King Benjamin following his angelic visitation. This chapter deepens the doctrinal exposition regarding the nature of atonement, the condition of humanity, and the necessary responses of faith and repentance. It challenges modern readers to reflect on their spiritual state, enhance their commitment to gospel principles, and actively participate in compassionate acts as true followers of Christ. King Benjamin’s teachings provide a deep doctrinal exploration of Christ’s redemptive power, the requirement for personal sanctification, and the eternal principles of judgment and accountability. This chapter not only details the conditions necessary for salvation but also warns of the dangers inherent in rejecting or falling away from the gospel. It calls modern readers to evaluate their lives, make necessary spiritual changes, and commit wholeheartedly to the path of discipleship outlined by Jesus Christ.


References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:


  • Prophetic Announcement of Christ’s Mission: Emphasizes the central role of Jesus Christ’s mission as foretold by ancient prophets.

  • Redemptive Nature of the Atonement: Focuses on the transformative and redemptive power of Christ’s atonement for all who repent.

  • Moral Accountability and Spiritual Preparation: Stresses the need for personal righteousness and preparation for the Second Coming.

  • Link Between Charity and Spiritual Purity: Advocates for charity as a reflection of Christlike living and a purifying spiritual practice.

  • Transformation from the Natural Man: The call to put off the natural man is a pivotal theme, advocating for a significant transformation from base human tendencies to the elevated characteristics of a saint.

  • Perseverance in Righteousness: Encapsulates the need for continual effort in living the gospel, especially highlighting the consequences of failing to do so after having received the light of Christ.

  • Eternal Judgment and Accountability: Reinforces the teachings about the final judgment, stressing that every soul will be judged according to their works and the desires of their hearts.

  • Understanding Christ’s Role: Modern readers are encouraged to deepen their understanding of Jesus Christ’s life and atonement, recognizing its centrality in Christian faith.

  • Emphasis on Personal Repentance: Highlights the importance of continual repentance and personal holiness in the life of a believer.

  • Charity and Community Service: Inspires readers to engage in acts of service and charity, viewing them as integral to spiritual life and expressions of one’s faith in Christ.

  • Preparation for Spiritual Commitments: Calls readers to prepare spiritually for the responsibilities of discipleship, including readiness for Christ’s Second Coming.

  • Personal Transformation through Christ: Urges readers to seek a personal and profound change through the Atonement of Christ, aiming to embody the virtues of a true Christian.

  • Constant Vigilance in Faith: Emphasizes the need for ongoing diligence in faith and obedience, warning against the spiritual complacency that can lead to apostasy.

  • Preparation for Judgment: Encourages an awareness of the final judgment and promotes living in a manner that aligns with eternal truths and divine expectations.


Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Mosiah 3


Verses 1-10: King Benjamin Relays the Angel's Message


  • 1-4: King Benjamin continues his address by relating a message from an angel concerning the coming of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of this revelation for understanding the nature of salvation.

  • Divine Revelation: Showcases the significance of divine messages delivered through heavenly messengers.

  • Christ’s Mortality: Highlights the prophecy of Christ's coming to earth, experiencing mortality, and His ministry among men.

  • 5-10: The angel describes Christ’s life, ministry, suffering, death, and resurrection. He explains that through Christ’s atonement, all mankind may be saved from their sins if they repent and have faith in Him.

  • Redemptive Power of Christ: Details the atonement of Jesus Christ and its essential role in human redemption.

  • Universal Offer of Salvation: Stresses that salvation is available to all through faith and repentance, underlining the inclusive nature of Christ’s gospel.

Did Jesus Bleed from Every Pore?

Verses 11-18: Nature of Sin and Effects of the Atonement


  • 11-16: King Benjamin expounds on the natural state of fallen man and the inevitable fate without the atonement, which is eternal damnation. He elaborates on the conditions of repentance and the transformative power of the atonement in overcoming sin.

  • Human Fallenness and Divine Grace: Discusses the fallen condition of humanity and the necessity of divine intervention through grace.

  • Conditionality of Redemption: Clarifies that while the atonement is universally available, its efficacy in an individual's life depends on their willingness to repent and obey God’s commandments.


  • 17-18: He concludes this section by urging his people to impart of their substance to the poor, linking the practice of charity to the cleansing power of the atonement.

  • Charity as a Manifestation of Faith: Encourages charity not just as a moral good but as an essential component of spiritual life and a manifestation of one’s faith in Christ.

  • Social Justice in Spiritual Context: Places social justice and care for the poor within the framework of gospel teachings, reinforcing the interconnectedness of faith and works.


Verses 19-27: The Natural Man and the Final Judgment

Chiasmus in Mosiah 3:18–19

  • 19: King Benjamin speaks about the natural man being an enemy to God and the importance of becoming a saint through the Atonement of Christ, shedding the natural man, and becoming submissive, meek, humble, patient, and full of love.

  • Spiritual Transformation: Emphasizes the profound inner change required to align with God’s will, contrasting the natural human inclinations with the attributes of a disciple of Christ.

  • Character Development: Highlights the virtues that are essential for true followers of Christ, marking a path of continual personal improvement and spiritual refinement.


  • 20-23: He calls his people to remember the wisdom of God in providing a Savior, urging them to believe in God and be diligent in keeping His commandments as they look forward to a blessed state.

  • Anticipation of Salvation: Encourages looking forward with steadfast faith towards eternal life, reinforcing the hope that adherence to gospel principles offers.

  • Obedience and Diligence: Stresses the importance of persistent obedience to God’s commandments as the means to secure divine promises.


  • 24-27: King Benjamin warns that those who know the goodness of God and then fall away into sin and deny Him, do so at their peril, risking an even worse state than if they had never known Him. He concludes by asserting the reality of the Day of Judgment, where all individuals will be accountable for their actions.

  • Perils of Apostasy: Discusses the dangers and consequences of turning away from the gospel after receiving a knowledge of it, highlighting the severity of apostasy.

  • Accountability and Judgment: Affirms the universal accountability before God and the inevitability of the final judgment, underscoring the justice and fairness of divine law.



Church Videos & Resources


Scripture Central

Video Commentary

  • Listed above in podcast section

Know Whys

Evidences

Written Commentary

Reading Plan

Maps & Charts

  • Images

Bibliography & Additional Resource




BYU’s RSC



Books





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