CFM: February 19-25
Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material
Media | Lesson Extension | Additional Materials |
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Scripture Central | ||
Follow Him | ||
Line Upon Line | ||
Teaching with Power | ||
Don't Miss This | | |
Book of Mormon Matters with John W Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson | ||
Unshaken | | |
The Interpreter Foundation | Commentary by John Claybaugh | |
Teaching Helps with John Hilton | 2 Nephi 6-10 | |
Scripture Gems | | |
Come Follow Up | ||
Latter Day Kids | 2 Nephi 6-10 (not yet posted) | |
Scripture Explorers | ||
Scripture Gems | ||
Ponderfun | 2 Nephi 6-10 (not yet posted) | |
Talking Scripture | ||
Saving Talents: Devotionals & FHE for Children | ||
Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson
The Book of Mormon and the Old Testament: A Cultural and Religious Dialogue
As we delve into the Isaiah Chapters It is helpful to understand the basic context and outline of Isaiah's writings. The Bible project does an excellent job at providing a general overview of these chapters, and I would highly suggest beginning one's Isaiah study with this introduction as it will help to put the verses Jacob references in a better perspective:
The writings of Isaiah are extensively quoted throughout 2 Nephi, and they hold profound significance for Nephi and his descendant, including us. One must remember that it was primarily for our day that these records were recorded, in part to help us reconnect with the voices of the dust, to better appreciate our place in God's eternal plan.
The writings of Isaiah, embedded within the broader narrative of the Book of Mormon, offer both historical context and spiritual insight, resonating deeply with the experiences and challenges faced by Nephi's family after their departure from Jerusalem.
Historical Context of Isaiah's Writings
Isaiah prophesied during a tumultuous period in the history of Judah, marked by the threat of invasion from Assyrian forces under the reign of Sennacherib. One of the most notable miracles during Isaiah's time was the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian siege, where the angel of the Lord struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, saving Jerusalem from imminent destruction (2 Kings 19:35). This event underscored a central theme in Isaiah's prophecies: the power of God to save and the inviolability of His promises to Israel.
Resonance with Nephi's Family
For Nephi and his family, who had left Jerusalem shortly before its destruction by the Babylonians, the writings of Isaiah held particular resonance. They had departed with the conviction that Jerusalem would face divine judgment due to its inhabitants' wickedness, a message similar to the warnings issued by Isaiah to the people of Judah. The miraculous preservation of Jerusalem during Isaiah's time might have initially bolstered the belief among many, including possibly members of Nephi's family, that the city could not be destroyed due to God's promises and interventions.
However, the eventual fall of Jerusalem challenged this belief, highlighting the conditional nature of divine protection based on the people's faithfulness. For Nephi's family, learning of Jerusalem's destruction after their departure would have been both a vindication of their prophetic warnings and a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.
Significance of Isaiah's Writings to the Nephites
Isaiah's writings offered the Nephites multiple layers of significance:
1. Comfort and Perspective: Amid their own trials and the profound loss of their homeland, Isaiah's assurances of God's sovereignty and His ultimate purposes for Israel would have provided comfort and a divine perspective. The themes of judgment, deliverance, and restoration prevalent in Isaiah's prophecies paralleled the Nephites' experiences and hopes for their own redemption and the eventual gathering of Israel.
2. Covenant and Identity: Isaiah's emphasis on the covenant between God and Israel helped the Nephites understand their place in God's plan. Despite their physical separation from the land of their ancestors, Isaiah's words reinforced their identity as covenant people with a role in the larger narrative of God's dealings with Israel.
3. Prophecies of Christ: Isaiah's messianic prophecies were of particular importance to the Nephites. Predictions of a coming Messiah who would redeem Israel and fulfill God's promises offered hope and a forward-looking faith in God's plan of salvation, which was central to Nephite religious belief and practice.
For Nephi and his descendants, the writings of Isaiah served as a spiritual anchor, providing guidance, consolation, and a sense of continuity with their spiritual heritage. In the face of displacement, cultural shifts, and the challenges of establishing a new society, Isaiah's prophecies offered a vision of divine faithfulness and the assurance that despite the vicissitudes of history, God's purposes would ultimately prevail.
How to approach and better understand the writings of Isaiah
Approaching the writings of Isaiah can be a rewarding yet complex endeavor, given the depth and richness of his prophecies. Here are some tips and resources to help deepen your understanding of Isaiah's texts:
Tips for Studying Isaiah:
1. Start with Prayer: Seek divine guidance as you study Isaiah's writings. The Holy Spirit can provide insights and understanding beyond what scholarly resources alone can offer.
2. Understand the Historical Context: Familiarize yourself with the historical backdrop of Isaiah's time, including the geography, political, social, and religious circumstances of ancient Judah. This context is crucial for understanding the nature and implications of his prophecies.
3. Consult a Concordance: A concordance can help you locate where specific themes or words are mentioned throughout Isaiah and the rest of the scriptures. This can reveal patterns and connections that are not immediately obvious.
4. Use an Interlinear Bible: An interlinear edition of the Bible, which presents the original Hebrew text alongside a direct English translation, can be invaluable. It allows you to see the original words used by Isaiah, providing insights into the nuances that may be lost in translation.
5. Explore Commentaries and Scholarly Works: Scholarly commentaries on Isaiah offer various interpretations and insights into his prophecies. While these should not replace personal study and revelation, they can provide valuable perspectives.
6. Reflect on the Application: Consider how the themes and teachings in Isaiah's writings apply to your life and to the world today. Isaiah's prophecies are not only historical but also contain principles and warnings relevant to modern readers.
Helpful Websites and Resources:
- Blue Letter Bible (blueletterbible.org): Offers a range of study tools, including an interlinear Bible, concordances, commentaries, and dictionaries to enhance your study of Isaiah.
- Scripture Notes (Scripturenotes.com): Provides a platform for organizing your personal study notes and insights, facilitating deeper exploration of themes and connections within Isaiah's writings.
- LDS Scripture Study Tools: The official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers various resources, including conference talks that reference Isaiah, guides, and manuals that can provide doctrinal insights. A good list of some of the Tools available can be found here.
- Academic Bible (academic-bible.com): Hosted by the German Bible Society, this site offers access to scholarly editions of biblical texts, including the Hebrew Bible, which can be helpful for those looking to study Isaiah in its original language.
- The Isaiah Institute (isaiahexplained.com): Offers extensive resources on the book of Isaiah, including translations, interpretations, and thematic studies designed to make Isaiah's prophecies more accessible.
- Video and Podcasts on Isaiah: Look for podcasts that focus on biblical studies or Latter-day Saint scriptures. Episodes that feature discussions with scholars on Isaiah can offer fresh insights and make complex themes more understandable. I compiled a shortlist of some excellent options for this type of material that is available on Youtube.
Conclusion
Studying Isaiah's writings can be a profound spiritual journey, offering insights into the nature of God, His plans for His children, and the fulfillment of prophecy. By leveraging these tips and resources, you can gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of one of the most pivotal prophets in all of scriptures.
Overview
2 Nephi 6
Jacob, Nephi's brother, delivers a sermon to the Nephites, drawing extensively from the prophecies of Isaiah. He emphasizes the covenant God made with Abraham and its relevance to their lives, the future redemption of Israel, and the Gentiles' role in this divine plan.
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Understanding Isaiah in the Book of Mormon: Delving into why Isaiah’s writings are so frequently cited and their importance to Nephite prophets.
The Abrahamic Covenant in Latter-day Saint Theology: Exploring the depth of the covenant and its implications for all of God’s children.
The Messiah’s Role Across Scriptural Texts: Analyzing the consistent promise of a Savior and Redeemer throughout ancient and modern scriptures.
Literary Observations:
Summary of Key Themes: Jacob's sermon in 2 Nephi 6 reiterates the enduring nature of God’s covenant with Abraham, the destined gathering of Israel, the integral role of the Gentiles, and the central figure of the Messiah in this divine narrative.
Application to Contemporary Life: Understanding the continuity of God’s covenants across dispensations highlights the inclusive nature of His plan and the universal need for the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos & Resources |
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2 Nephi 6 | ||
I. Jacob's Introduction and Use of Isaiah's Prophecies | 1-5: Jacob begins his discourse by explaining his appointment by Nephi to speak and his intention to teach from the words of Isaiah.
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II. The Covenant with Abraham and Its Implications for Israel and the Gentiles | 6-15: Jacob elaborates on the Abrahamic covenant, highlighting the scattering and eventual gathering of Israel, and how the Gentiles will play a pivotal role in this process.
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III. The Redemption of Israel and the Role of the Savior | 16-18: Jacob prophesies about the coming of the Messiah and His role in the redemption of Israel and the salvation of humankind.
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Overview
2 Nephi 7
This chapter is a direct quotation from Isaiah 50:1-11, where Isaiah speaks about the Lord’s power to save, the obedience of the Lord’s servant, and the consequences of disobedience to those who do not follow the Lord. It underscores themes of divine justice, redemption, and the fidelity of God’s servant.
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Isaiah’s Servant Songs in Christian Interpretation: Explore the Christian interpretation of the servant songs as prophecies about Christ.
Divine Justice and Mercy in Scripture: Analyze how divine justice and mercy are portrayed across the Old and New Testaments.
The Role of Suffering in Spiritual Growth: Examine instances where suffering leads to spiritual refinement and closer alignment with God’s will.
Summary of Key Themes: 2 Nephi 7 delves into the themes of God’s unwavering ability to redeem, the model of perfect obedience exemplified by the Lord’s servant, and the dichotomy between divine reliance and self-reliance.
Application to Contemporary Life: Reflect on our relationship with God, the importance of obedience and humility, and the dangers of self-dependence away from divine guidance.
Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos & Resources |
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2 Nephi 7 | ||
I. The Lord’s Power and Questioning of Israel’s Faithfulness | 1-3: The Lord questions why there is distance between Him and His people, emphasizing His power to save and the consequences of Israel’s sins.
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II. The Obedience of the Lord’s Servant | 4-6: Isaiah describes the Lord’s servant, who listens and obeys God’s commandments, enduring suffering and persecution without rebellion.
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III. Trust in the Lord and Warning to the Wicked | 7-11: The servant expresses trust in the Lord and a confidence in vindication, contrasting with a warning to those who walk in disobedience and kindle their own fire.
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Overview
2 Nephi 8
This chapter continues Nephi's quotation of Isaiah, specifically Isaiah 51-52:2, focusing on themes of comfort for Zion, the Lord's power to deliver, a call for the Lord's people to awake and put on strength, and the redemption and restoration of Jerusalem. It serves as a poignant reminder of God's promise to gather and restore His covenant people.
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Isaiah’s Prophecies and Latter-day Saint Theology: Explore the relevance of Isaiah's messages of comfort and restoration in the context of Latter-day Saint beliefs about the gathering of Israel.
Themes of Liberation in Biblical Prophets: Analyze biblical narratives of liberation and restoration, and their significance in understanding God’s dealings with His people.
Spiritual Preparation for Redemption: Discuss the scriptural motif of preparation and purification in anticipation of divine intervention and blessings.
Summary of Key Themes: 2 Nephi 8 offers a message of hope and comfort to the downtrodden, emphasizing God's sovereignty, the surety of His promises for redemption and restoration, and the call for His people to prepare for their promised deliverance.
Application to Contemporary Life: How can these chapters Inspire faith in God’s promises, the importance of spiritual vigilance, and the role of remembering God’s past deliverances as a basis for current and future hope.
Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos & Resources |
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2 Nephi 8 | ||
I. Comfort and Redemption for Zion | 1-8: The Lord addresses those who seek Him, offering comfort to Zion and promising redemption. He recalls His power in creation and His ability to deliver His people, just as He did in the past.
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II. The Awakening of the Lord's People | 9-16: A call to the arm of the Lord to awake as in the ancient days, reflecting on past deliverances and looking forward to future salvation.
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III. The Liberation and Beautification of Jerusalem - Call to Israel to awaken in the covenant | 17-25: The passage foretells the liberation of Jerusalem from captivity and the beautification of the city upon the return of its exiled inhabitants. It calls for Jerusalem to awaken and shake off the dust of oppression.
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Overview
2 Nephi 9
In this chapter, Jacob delivers a powerful sermon on the Plan of Salvation, emphasizing the resurrection, the judgment, and the essential role of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He outlines the consequences of sin and the choices between following Christ or facing eternal damnation.
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
The Resurrection in Latter-day Saint Doctrine: Analyze Latter-day Saint teachings on the resurrection and its universal application.
The Atonement and Christian Thought: Compare Latter-day Saint perspectives on the Atonement with broader Christian theology.
Moral Agency and Accountability: Discuss the scriptural emphasis on agency, choice, and the moral responsibility of individuals before God.
Summary of Key Themes: 2 Nephi 9 eloquently outlines the Plan of Salvation, underscoring the resurrection, judgment, and the Atonement's pivotal role. It presents a stark choice between eternal life through Christ or eternal separation from God due to sin.
Application to Contemporary Life: This sermon invites reflection on one's life choices, emphasizing the importance of repentance, humility, and embracing Christ's Atonement for redemption and eternal happiness.
Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos, and Resources |
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2 Nephi 9 | ||
I. The Resurrection and the Judgment | 1-16: Jacob speaks about the universal resurrection, made possible through Christ's Atonement, ensuring that all will be resurrected, both the just and the unjust.
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II. The Atonement of Jesus Christ | 17-26: The sermon highlights the Atonement's power to save from death and hell, offering redemption and the opportunity to return to God's presence, contingent on repentance and obedience.
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III. The Choices of Obedience or Damnation | 27-54: Jacob warns against sin, pride, and the temptations of the devil, urging his listeners to choose the path of righteousness that leads back to God, contrasting it with the path of eternal damnation.
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Overview
2 Nephi 10
Jacob concludes his sermon by focusing on the promises to the house of Israel, the role of the Gentiles in God's plan, and the ultimate triumph of Zion. He emphasizes the importance of reconciliation to God through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and introduces the concept of liberty tied to obedience to God's commandments.
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Gathering of Israel in Latter-day Saint Theology: Examine modern interpretations and teachings regarding the gathering of Israel and its significance.
Liberty and Obedience in Scriptural Teachings: Discuss the scriptural balance between liberty and law, freedom and obedience.
Christ’s Atonement and Reconciliation: Analyze the multifaceted aspects of the Atonement in bringing individuals and communities into reconciliation with God.
Summary of Key Themes: 2 Nephi 10 encapsulates the promises of the restoration of Israel, the Gentiles' instrumental role in God’s plan, the centrality of Christ’s Atonement for reconciliation, and the profound link between liberty and obedience to divine laws.
Application to Contemporary Life: This chapter invites reflection on the blessings of liberty, the responsibility of living righteously, and the importance of embracing the Atonement of Jesus Christ for personal and collective redemption.
Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos, and Resources |
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2 Nephi 10 | ||
I. The Restoration of Israel and the Role of the Gentiles | 1-10: Jacob prophesies about the scattering and gathering of Israel and how the Gentiles will play a pivotal role in the latter. He speaks of the New World as a land of liberty for those who serve Christ.
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II. Christ’s Atonement as the Path to Reconciliation | 11-18: Jacob teaches about the central importance of Christ's Atonement, making possible the reconciliation between God and humankind. He urges his people to follow Christ's example of humility and obedience.
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III. The Covenant of Liberty | 19-25: The concept of liberty is introduced, tied to the covenant people's obedience to God's commandments. Jacob warns against dissent and pride, highlighting the consequences of turning away from God.
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