The Lord Labors with Us

CFM: April 8-14

Jacob 5–7

Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material

Media	​Lesson Extension	​Additional Materials
Scripture Central	Jacob 5-7 The Allegory of the Olive Tree | A Marvelous Work | Episode 2 Scripture Study Insights Insights and Evidences for the Allegory of the Olive Tree Book of Mormon Insights with Taylor and Tyler: Revisited Scripture Insights	Study Guide
Follow Him	Jacob 5-7 with Dr. Matthew L Bowen Part 1 Part 2	Transcripts
Line Upon Line	Jacob 5-7 Not yet posted
Teaching with Power	Jacob 5-7	​Teaching Bundle for Book of Mormon, available on Etsy.
Don't Miss This	Jacob 5-7
Book of Mormon Matters with John W Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson	Jacob 5-7	John W. Welch Notes
​Unshaken	Jacob 5-7 Part 1: The Allegory of the Olive Tree Part 2: "I Could Not Be Shaken
​The Interpreter Foundation	Jacob 5-7	​Commentary by John Claybaugh
​Teaching Helps with John Hilton	Jacob 5-7 The Book of Mormon, A Master Class A Perfect Knowledge of Christ
​Scripture Gems	Jacob 5-7
Come Follow Up	Jacob 5-7
Latter Day Kids	Jacob 5-7 The Allegory of the Olive Tree
Scripture Explorers	Jacob 5-7 Jacob and Sherem
​Talking Scripture	Jacob 5-7 Ep 262 Jacob 5-7 How to Combat the Influence of Those Who Seek to Destroy the Faith	Show Notes Hugh Nibley on Zenos the Prophet Jacob 5 The Allegory of the Olive Tree Chart Anti-Christs in the Book of Mormon
Book of Mormon Minute, Brant A. Gardner Vol. 2	Jacob 5 Jacob 6 Jacob 7
Saving Talents: Devotionals & FHE for Children	Jacob 5-7
​Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class, Book of Mormon	The Allegory of the Olive Tree: Jacob Contended with Sherem Video: Lesson	Lesson 6: Notes, Slides, Handout arbm11_presentation .ppsx Download PPSX • 3.74MB

Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson

The Book of Mormon and the Old Testament: A Cultural and Religious Dialogue

Overview and Introduction to Jacob 5-7

Symbolic Nature of the Parable of the Lord and His Vineyard

To preface this lesson, let's review some of our previous discussions regarding the Language of Symbolism. It's crucial to remember this when delving into the symbolic nature and language of the scriptures to ensure we don't miss the intended mark and meaning.

Gerald N. Lund, a CES director for the church, provided insights and guidance on interpreting scriptural symbolism in an Ensign article titled “Understanding Scriptural Symbolism.” Lund offers six points to aid our study:

1. Do the Scriptures provide an interpretation?

2. Can the writings of the Prophets aid in interpreting the symbolic imagery?

3. Utilize study aids available, such as the Topical Guide, Dictionary, Maps, etc. (Concordances, Lexicons, Almanacs, Encyclopedias, Timelines, etc.), to place things into linguistic, historic, and cultural context.

4. Learn from the nature of the symbol itself.

5. Listen to the promptings of the Spirit.

6. Ensure the interpretation of symbolism aligns with other revelation and gospel knowledge. The final guideline emphasizes that any interpretation of a symbol must fit within the broader scope of gospel knowledge. Regardless of how logical or ingenious our interpretation might seem, if it contradicts other revealed truths, it is likely incorrect.

*7. Consider that opposition exists in all things; symbols can have both positive and negative interpretations. Educating oneself on the appropriate context is key to understanding the intended meaning. (Note: Point 7 was added by me and is not part of Elder Lund’s address.)

These principles are vital as we dive into this lesson, especially points 6 and 7, because it's easy for people to misinterpret or misrepresent some of these concepts, whether unintentionally or intentionally. Misunderstandings, doctrinal disputes, conspiracy theories, and more have been concocted, twisted, and manipulated by misusing and abusing some of the concepts discussed in this lesson. Throughout history, this has led to significant conflicts, confusion, and divisions. Therefore, understanding how these principles work can help one to better discern between proper and improper uses, to detect counterfeits, and to identify things we should be paying closer attention to. As one keeps these key principles in mind when exploring scriptural symbolism, they can avoid unnecessary confusion to stay safe and properly aligned with the Word of the Lord.

Several weeks ago, I posted a link to an interview between Scripture Central and a Jewish Rabbi named Joe Charmes, who has taken a special interest into the Book of Mormon. One of the subjects he covers specifically in his interview is Jacob 5. Rabbi Charmes talks about reading this chapter from a Jewish perspective. He uses the term Midrash, which is a method of Jewish interpretation and commentary for Hebraic Scripture. He notes that the Book of Mormon is Hebraic scripture, therefore, he explains that these interpretive techniques are especially relevant, appropriate, and insightful, particularly as one studies chapters like Jacob 5.

How Jews Apply Midrash to Scripture

• Expanding the Narrative: Midrashic interpretation frequently adds details to the biblical narratives, providing background stories, motivations of characters, and moral lessons that are not explicitly stated in the text. These expansions aim to fill in gaps or resolve ambiguities within the scriptures.

• Legal Interpretation: In addition to narrative expansion, Midrash is used to derive halachic (Jewish law) principles from the scriptural text. This can involve deducing laws from stories or commandments, interpreting the implications of specific words or phrases, and applying the Torah's teachings to new or unaddressed situations.

• Homiletical or Aggadic Midrash: This form of Midrash focuses on moral and theological lessons, using the scripture as a springboard for ethical discussions, instruction, spiritual insights, and reflections on the nature of God, humanity, and the universe. It often employs parables, allegories, and metaphors to convey deeper meanings. The term Aggadic comes from the term Haggadah הַגָּדָה, which is the traditional Jewish retelling of the Passover story from the Exodus, (from the root נ־ג־ד ngd, meaning "legend, speaking, narrating, to tell, present, or say" Related to נֶגֶד).

• Linking Texts: Midrashically, texts from different parts of the scriptures may be connected based on shared words, themes, or characters. This method highlights the perceived unity and intertextuality of the Hebrew Bible, suggesting that disparate passages can shed light on each other.

• Addressing Contemporary Issues: Midrash allows for the application of ancient texts to contemporary issues, ensuring that the teachings of the Torah remain relevant and accessible to each generation. Through Midrashic interpretation, ancient wisdom is applied to modern dilemmas, social issues, and personal spiritual growth.

• Examine Word plays and Numeric Symbolism: Midrashic practices frequently include analyzing words and numerical concepts to delve into the intricate layers of the Hebrew Scriptures, offering a richer understanding of the text beyond its literal meaning. These practices reflect the belief that every word, letter, and number in the scriptures holds divine significance and can reveal deeper spiritual insights.
  

Analyzing Words: Notarikon, Gematria, and Wordplay

• Notarikon: This technique involves taking each letter of a word and interpreting it as an abbreviation for another word, this concept is sometimes extended to examine the various words within a given word, thereby revealing deeper meaning and insight. For example, the first word of the Torah, "בראשית" demonstrates this concept. In Hebrew, Bereishit, means "in a beginning", Gen 1:1 INT, (Note: it is not "the" beginning as it is mistranslated in the KJV. If it were "the beginning" it would be pronounced Bareshit, with a patach vowel indication denoting the direct article "the," and not a schwah, which indicated the indirect article "a". In other words, Bereshit is not describing the Big Bang Theory or the Creation of the Universe. It is describing the beginning of this world specifically, this could be interpreted as the beginning of the Earth or even the beginning of the generations of Adam.) The word "בראשית" has historically been broken down by some Jewish scholars to demonstrate various cosmological insights about the creation: (תהןם ברא רקיע ארץ שמים ׳ם = "(from) the abyss, He created the firmament, the earth, the heavens, and the sea." Additionally, one can observe similar insights in the words within the word Bereshit. ברא Bara means he created. ראש Resh or Rosh means head or beginning. ראשית, Reshit with the ית suffix indicates a diminutive suffix, or a smaller something that is taken out of a larger whole. For example, one interpretation of Kaph is "cup or handful" and the kaphit, with the diminutive ית suffix, means "little cup," and would be equivalent to the English concept of a teaspoon. Therefore, one can see that the word Bereshit describes a beginning of a smaller beginning. This concept could therefore midrashically suggest that our world was created from something larger, patterned after something greater or a pre-existing entity that came before it. Rosh can can also indicate a chief or leader, and in early Christian traditions this symbolic concept was used to describe Jesus Christ, the Chi-Rho or "living head" of the family/ kingdom of God.

• Gematria: Gematria is a numerological technique where each Hebrew letter is assigned a numerical value. Anciently, letters and numbers used the same symbols, there was no written distinction between the two and one had to look at the context to determine if the symbol was referring to a phonetic or numeric concept. Thus, Aleph could refer to the consonant or to the number 1, Beth -2, Gimel - 3, and so on. The formal distinction between letters and numbers, as we understand them today, did not develop until the 7th Century AD. Therefore, ancient and Biblical writers would sometimes use clever interplays between letters and numbers to highlight symbolic themes and principles. Words or phrases with the same numerical value were sometimes considered to be related and could shed light on one other. This practice was intended to reveal connections between different parts of the text or to uncover deeper or hidden messages within the scripture. For example, the number 666 used in the Book of Revelation was used to identify the Anti-Christ. This was most likely a gamatrial reference to the Roman Emperor Nero. Gematria is a complicated subject that has historically been misunderstood and abused. In many ways, the account of Sherem indicates the idea of seeking for, misusing, and abusing signs and symbols. This story presents the exact opposite of what Jacob teaches in chapter 5, so be aware of this, and be especially cautious if you come across things of this nature. Be sure that the sources you explore are credible and reliable, the Bible itself is the most credible written source, so use it. There is a lot of misinformation circulating regarding this topic, especially on social media and online. One should be aware and vigilant to use and understand the scriptures properly, these sacred texts serve as an invaluable tools to help us identify error and deception.

• Wordplay: Midrash often employs puns, wordplays, homonyms, poetic alliterations, structure, form, etc. to explore the deeper layers and meanings of words. This can involve playing with the sounds and meanings of different Hebrew words to draw out ethical lessons, prophetic insights, or various theological principles.

These topic are briefly explored by Rabbi Charmes during his interview, where he notes how masterfully these concepts relate to Jacob 5. He specifically points out that Jacob 5 is the longest chapter of the Book of Mormon and that it has 77 chapters. He explains that this simple piece of information can uncover deeper layers of interpretation and connection within the text and broader scriptural themes. Let's briefly explore some of these concepts.

The Numerical Symbolism of 77 in Jacob 5

• Symbolism of 7 and 77: The number 7 in biblical tradition often symbolizes completeness, perfection, or divine ordinance. By extension, 77 could amplify this symbolism, representing an even greater completeness or a perfect completion of a divine cycle or process. In the context of Jacob 5, which deals with the Lord's vineyard (symbolizing His people and the world), the 77 verses could suggest the fullness of the Lord's work with His people, from the initial covenant to the final gathering and salvation.
  

• Correlation with Atonement and Forgiveness: Christ's teaching to forgive "seventy times seven" times (Matthew 18:21-22) resonates with the notion of boundless forgiveness and patience. This concept can be midrashically connected to Jacob 5, where the Lord of the vineyard exhibits immense patience, care, and repeated efforts to save the vineyard. The 77 verses could symbolically underscore the theme of divine forgiveness, long-suffering, and the exhaustive efforts of the Atonement to reclaim and save every soul willing to come unto Christ.

Applying Word Analysis and the Concept of 7 Times 70

• Word Analysis: One can Explore key terms within Jacob 5, such as "graft," "prune," "dig," and "nourish," through methods like consulting with a dictionary or concordance, to see how these words are used in other locations of scripture. Principles associated with gematria or notarikon could reveal additional insights into the processes of spiritual growth, repentance, and renewal. For instance, examining the Hebrew equivalents of these words and their numerical values could uncover connections to other scriptural instances of transformation and redemption.
  

• The Parable of 7 Times 70: The parable of forgiving seventy times seven, taught by Jesus, can be midrashically linked to Jacob 5's theme of the Lord's persistent efforts to nurture and save His vineyard. This connection highlights the limitless nature of God's mercy and the extensive work of the Atonement, which encompasses not just a single act of forgiveness but an ongoing process of renewal and return to God.
  

Midrashic Interpretation and Application

Through midrashic interpretation, Jacob 5 becomes a rich tapestry illustrating the themes of divine patience, the Atonement's encompassing reach, and the invitation to continuous repentance and return to God. The chapter's structure, with 77 verses, serves as a numerical testament to the completeness of God's plan for His children and His boundless capacity for forgiveness. Such an interpretation invites readers to see themselves within the allegory of the vineyard—as branches that are tenderly cared for, pruned, and nourished by the Lord, with the ultimate goal of producing good fruit through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

In this light, Jacob 5 not only recounts the history and destiny of the House of Israel but also offers a profound reflection on individual and collective redemption, emphasizing the need for and the possibility of forgiveness, healing, and unity through Christ.

Word Meanings & Symbolism for Contemplation and Exploration

Additional Supplemental materials have been provided in the link above for the reader to explore some of the Hebraic correlations discussed in Jacob 5.

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Overview

Jacob 5

As discussed previously, this chapter is the longest chapter in the Book of Mormon and it stands as one of the most compelling and intricate chapters within the text, offering a profound allegory of the olive tree, attributed to the prophet Zenos from the brass plates. This chapter is significant not only for its doctrinal depth but also for its intricate symbolism concerning the history and destiny of the house of Israel and the Lord's labor in His vineyard. It serves as a masterful representation of God's patience, care, and relentless efforts in bringing His children to the covenant and salvation through Jesus Christ.

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

• The Symbolic Significance of the Olive Tree:

  • Garden of Gethsemane: the surprising significance of the olive trees

  • The Olive Tree Allegory (1993)

  • The Allegory of the Olive Tree

  • The Allegory of the Olive Tree: The Olive, the Bible, and Jacob 5

  • The Allegory of the Olive Tree: An Instructional Model for Leaders

  • "Ye Shall Have Joy with Me": The Olive Tree, the Lord, and His Servants

  • ‘I Have Done According to My Will’: Reading Jacob 5 as a Temple Text

  • The Allegory of the Olive Tree in Jacob

  • Explicating the Mystery of the Rejected Foundation Stone: The Allegory of the Olive Tree

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• The Lord’s Vineyard: The allegory centers around a vineyard that the Lord cultivates, symbolizing the world and God’s efforts to nurture His children. The olive tree represents the house of Israel, with its complexities, including periods of productivity and decay.

  • The Olive Tree and the Work of God: Jacob 5 and Romans 11

  • Romans 11:17–24: A Bibliography of Commentaries

• Scattering and Gathering of Israel: Zenos describes the process of grafting branches from a wild olive tree into the tame one and vice versa. This represents the scattering and gathering of Israel, a central theme in Latter-day Saint theology, indicating God's hand in the dispersion and eventual restoration of His people.

  • Allegory of Zenos

  • Zenos

  • Nephite Uses and Interpretations of Zenos

  • Zenos and the Texts of the Old Testament

  • Borrowings from the Parable of Zenos

• The Role of Gentiles: The allegory acknowledges the role of Gentiles in the salvation history, represented by the wild olive branches grafted into the tame tree. It highlights the inclusion of Gentiles in God's covenant and their part in the gathering of Israel.

  • The Olive in Greco-Roman Religion

  • Graft and Corruption: On Olives and Olive Culture in the Pre-Modern Mediterranean

• Divine Care, Patience, and Diligence: The Lord's meticulous care for the olive trees, through nourishing, pruning, and grafting, underscores themes of divine love, patience, and the Lord's diligent desire for the salvation of all His children.

  • Three Trees in the Book of Mormon

  • Botanical Aspects of Olive Culture Relevant to Jacob 5

  • Botantical Comparisons in the Allegory of the Olive Tree

  • Recent Notes About Olives in Antiquity

• The Final Gathering and Judgment: The chapter culminates in the burning of the fruitless branches and the preservation of the fruitful ones, symbolizing the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom.

  • Autumn, Olives, and the Atonement

  • A Mormon Theodicy: Jacob and the Problem of Evil

• Understanding of God’s Dealings with Israel: Jacob 5 offers insight into the historical and spiritual dynamics of God’s relationship with the house of Israel, providing a broader understanding of biblical prophecy and history.

  • The Olive Press: A Symbol of Christ

  • Ritual Anointing with Olive Oil in Ancient Israelite Religion

  • Olive Culture in the Second Temple Era and Early Rabbinic Period

  • “The Messiah Will Set Himself Again”: Jacob’s Use of Isaiah 11:11 in 2 Nephi 6:14 and Jacob 6:2

• Appreciation for Divine Patience and Care: Modern readers can find solace and encouragement in the portrayal of God’s unwavering care and patience with His children, reflecting on His willingness to nurture and save.

• Inclusivity of God’s Love: The allegory underscores the inclusivity of God’s covenant, inviting all, including Gentiles, to partake of the blessings of the gospel, which can foster a sense of unity and purpose in the work of gathering Israel today.

  • Jacob's Allegory: The Mystery of Christ

• Reflection on Personal and Collective Spiritual Growth: The detailed care given to the olive trees serves as a metaphor for personal and communal spiritual cultivation, encouraging individuals and communities to reflect on their contribution to the Lord’s vineyard.

  • Personal Applications of Olive Symbolism

• Linguistic Correlations and Patterns:

  • Dative Impersonals

  • Language Themes in Jacob 5: "The Vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel" (Isaiah 5:7)

  • Olive Culture in the Second Temple Era and Early Rabbinic Period

  • Jacob 4–6: Substantive Textual Variants between Manuscripts and Editions

  • Types of Literature in the Book of Mormon: Allegories, Prayers, Songs, Genealogies

  • Vineyard or Olive Orchard?

  • Jacob 5 in the Nineteenth Century

  • Words and Phrases in Jacob 5

  • Contents of the Plates of Brass

  • The Last Words of Cenez and the Book of Mormon

Jacob 5 is a rich, doctrinal tapestry woven with themes of love, patience, judgment, and redemption. Its allegorical exploration of the scattering and gathering of Israel, combined with the symbolism of God's vineyard, provides a deep well of insight for personal study and reflection. This chapter not only enhances understanding of God’s eternal plan but also invites readers to contemplate their role within that divine framework, emphasizing the ongoing nature of God’s work and the opportunity for each to contribute to the flourishing of the Lord’s vineyard.

Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
Jacob 5
The Lord's Vineyard and Initial Decay	Verses 1-3: Introduction to the vineyard and the initial olive tree, symbolizing the house of Israel in a state of decay. Verses 4-14: Efforts to save the tree through grafting and pruning, representing God's interventions to preserve and renew His covenant people.	Jacob Teaches the Allegory of the Olive Tree (4K) References to the Lord and His Vineyard in Bible: Lev 25 (INT) Isaiah 5:7 (INT) Matthew 20-21(INT) Mark 12:9 (INT) Luke 20 (INT) Is Anything Known of the Prophet Zenos Outside of the Book of Mormon? What are the Roots of Zenos's Allegory in the Ancient World? Why New Testament Words and Phrases Are in the Book of Mormon Part 5: How Often Were Scriptures on the Plates of Brass the Common Source? Why Did Zenos Give So Many Details about Raising Good Olives? Was Lehi Familiar with Zenos’s Allegory of the Olive Tree? Did Prophets Such as Ezekiel Know the Writings of Zenos? Why Did Book of Mormon Prophets Quote Long Passages of Scripture?
Scattering of Israel and Grafting of Wild Branches	Verses 15-28: Description of grafting wild olive branches into the decaying tame tree and the scattering of tame branches among other trees, illustrating the intermingling of Israel among the nations and the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's plan.	Botany and Jacob 5 (Nourishing) Botany and Jacob 5 (Pruning) Botany and Jacob 5 (Grafting) Botany and Jacob 5 (Harvesting) Botany and Jacob 5 (Overview)
Mixed Results and Further Efforts	29-49: Mixed results from the grafting efforts lead to further actions to save the vineyard, including more grafting and pruning, reflecting the ongoing efforts of God to nurture His people and bring them to salvation.
Degradation and Renewed Efforts	50-77: A period of degradation where the vineyard becomes corrupt, symbolizing apostasy. The Lord of the vineyard weeps for His vineyard but decides on renewed efforts to save it, including grafting in natural branches that were previously taken out, pointing to the gathering and restoration of Israel.
The Final State of the Vineyard	78-77: The final efforts to save the vineyard, with specific attention to the natural fruit, symbolize the Lord's ultimate plan for the salvation of His people, emphasizing the gathering of Israel and the establishment of Zion.

Overview

Jacob 6

Jacob 6 serves as Jacob's earnest conclusion and application of the allegory of the olive tree presented in Jacob 5. This chapter offers a direct and poignant appeal to the reader to consider the message of the allegory and to apply its lessons about God's love, judgment, and the importance of repentance in their lives. Jacob emphasizes the eternal stakes involved and calls his audience to action based on the teachings of the allegory.

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

• Urgency of Repentance: Jacob 6 reiterates the allegory's call to repentance, emphasizing the immediate need for individuals to turn to God and amend their ways.

• Divine Judgment and Mercy: The chapter balances the themes of God’s mercy with the reality of judgment, portraying God as both a loving father and a just judge.

• Personal Responsibility: Jacob underscores the personal responsibility each individual has in responding to God’s invitations to repent and partake of His salvation.

• Enduring to the End: The encouragement to labor diligently in the Lord’s vineyard underscores the theme of enduring to the end in faith and righteousness.

• Self-Examination: Jacob 6 encourages readers to reflect on their own lives, to assess their spiritual state, and to make necessary changes.

• Appreciation for God as the Messiah, and His Patience: It invites a deeper appreciation for the patience and mercy God extends to His children, encouraging trust in His timing and purposes.

  • “The Messiah Will Set Himself Again”: Jacob’s Use of Isaiah 11:11 in 2 Nephi 6:14 and Jacob 6:2

• Motivation for Spiritual Growth: The chapter serves as a motivation for continued spiritual growth and engagement in the work of the Lord, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment found in serving Christ.

• Hope in Redemption: Despite its warnings, Jacob 6 ultimately offers hope, reassuring readers of the potential for redemption and eternal joy through Jesus Christ.

  • The Pleading Bar of God

• Literary Features and Functions:

  • Why Are Certain Biblical Psalms Used by Book of Mormon Authors?

  • Old Testament Psalms in the Book of Mormon

Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
Jacob 6		Why Did Jacob Include the Case of Sherem?
Call to Repentance and Reflection	1-4: Jacob begins with a call to repentance, urging his readers to heed the Lord’s voice as depicted in the allegory of the olive tree. He highlights the Lord's mercy and the opportunity for salvation that is extended to all, if they will but respond to God’s call. Spiritual Urgency: Emphasizes the urgent need for spiritual introspection and repentance. Divine Mercy: Highlights God's readiness to forgive and gather His children as they turn to Him.	What Do We Learn About Ministering from the Account of Sherem? “The Messiah Will Set Himself Again”: Jacob’s Use of Isaiah 11:11 in 2 Nephi 6:14 and Jacob 6:2
The Consequences of Denial	5-7: Jacob warns of the eternal consequences of rejecting Christ and failing to repent. He underscores the finality of God's judgment at the last day and the sorrow that comes from being cut off from His presence. Eternal Judgment: Focuses on the sobering reality of divine judgment and the eternal loss incurred by those who reject the Savior. Call to Action: Serves as a motivator for individuals to align their lives with God’s will before it is too late.	Why Are Certain Biblical Psalms Used by Book of Mormon Authors?
ise	8-12: The chapter concludes with an encouragement to labor diligently for the cause of Christ, promising that such efforts will not be in vain. Jacob expresses his own hope for redemption and invites his readers to seek the joy of God’s kingdom. Hope in Christ: Reiterates the hope and joy found in Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Final Testimony: Jacob offers his final testimony, emphasizing the reality of Christ’s redemption and the importance of enduring in faith.	Why Did Sherem Die?

Overview

Jacob 7

Jacob 7 presents a significant shift from theological discussions to a historical account detailing the confrontation between Jacob, the Nephite prophet, and Sherem, a skeptic challenging the core beliefs of the Nephite faith. This narrative vividly illustrates the tension between belief and skepticism within the community, emphasizing the triumph of faith and divine witness over doubt and deception. The encounter between Jacob and Sherem highlights the crucial role of steadfast faith and the dangers of demanding signs over developing personal conviction and understanding. This chapter not only concludes Jacob's writings but also imparts lasting insights into the essence of faith, the pursuit of truth, and the transformative power of Jesus Christ, underscoring the necessity of upholding faith amidst life's trials and challenges.

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

• Faith vs. Skepticism: The confrontation between Jacob and Sherem explores the tension between faith and skepticism, emphasizing the power of true faith grounded in personal revelation and divine witness.

  • Sherem’s Accusations Against Jacob

• The Nature of Signs: The narrative addresses the desire for signs as proof of faith and the limitations and dangers associated with seeking signs rather than cultivating personal faith and understanding.

  • To "See and Hear"

• Repentance and Redemption: Sherem’s end highlights the possibility of repentance and the power of God’s grace to bring individuals to a recognition of truth, even after a life of opposition.

  • Death, Time, and Redemption: Structural Possibilities and Thematic Potential in Jacob 7:26

• Prophetic Ministry: Jacob’s experiences and reflections offer insights into the challenges and solace of prophetic ministry, revealing the burdens, conflicts, and profound hope encountered by those called to lead God’s people.

• Cultivating Personal Faith: Jacob 7 invites readers to reflect on the sources of their faith and the importance of grounding belief in spiritual experiences and revelations rather than external proofs.

  • References to Nephite Fortifications Recorded in the Book of Mormon

• Dealing with Doubt: The chapter provides a framework for navigating intellectual and spiritual doubts, highlighting the role of sincere questioning, prayer, and reliance on divine guidance.

• Witness of Christ: Through the figure of Jacob, the chapter reinforces the centrality of Jesus Christ in the gospel, encouraging readers to bear witness of Christ in their lives and testimonies.

  • The Gospel as Taught by Nephite Prophets

• Endurance and Hope: Jacob’s enduring hope amidst trials offers a model for faithful perseverance, reminding readers of the long-term perspective and promises of the gospel.

• Linguistic Patterns and Correlations:

  • Why Do the Authors on the Small Plates Follow a Pattern?

  • Toward a Greater Appreciation of the Word Adieu in Jacob 7:27

  • Colophons in the Book of Mormon

  • Who Kept the Records in the Book of Mormon? (By Lineages)

Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
Jacob 7
The Challenge of Sherem	1-8: Sherem, a man fluent in language and skilled in rhetoric, confronts Jacob, challenging the validity of Christ’s coming and demanding a sign to prove Jacob’s faith. This encounter sets the stage for a profound demonstration of faith and divine power. Intellectual Challenge: Sherem’s skepticism and demand for empirical proof highlight the intellectual challenges to faith. Defense of Faith: Jacob’s steadfastness in his testimony of Christ exemplifies the strength of spiritual conviction over rhetorical skill.	Sherem Denies Christ The Case of Sherem Sherem’s Accusations against Jacob
The Sign and Sherem’s Confession	9-15: In response to Sherem’s demands, a sign is given by God, leaving Sherem stricken. After a period of reflection and suffering, Sherem confesses the truth of Christ before dying. This event serves as a divine vindication of Jacob’s faith and a warning to those who would seek to undermine the faith of others through sophistry and doubt. Divine Intervention: The episode demonstrates that divine power can confound human wisdom and assert the truth of divine revelations. Repentance and Confession: Sherem’s final confession underscores the theme of repentance and the recognition of truth, even in the face of prior skepticism.
Jacob’s Reflections and Conclusion	16-23: The chapter concludes with Jacob reflecting on the trials of his ministry, including the confrontation with Sherem and the broader challenges of leading a people in righteousness. Despite his trials, Jacob expresses his firm hope in the promises of God and the eventual triumph of faith. Endurance in Faith: Jacob’s reflections highlight the theme of enduring faith amidst adversity. Hope in Redemption: The chapter closes with a forward-looking hope in the redemptive promises of God, reinforcing the eternal nature of the gospel.

Church Videos & Resources

• Jacob Teaches about Pride and Chastity | Jacob 2–3
  

Scripture Central

• Study Guide

Video Commentary

• Listed above in podcast section

Know Whys

Evidences

Written Commentary

Reading Plan

Maps & Charts

Images

Bibliography & Additional Resource

BYU’s RSC

• Video—Jacob’s Teachings (Jacob 4–6)

• Jacob: Prophet, Theologian, Historian

• Pride and Riches

Additional Videos, Articles, & Insights

• Creative Object Lessons with Maria Eckersley

• Garden of Gethsemane Tour - Jesus' HARDEST moment (how to approach the site)
  

Books

• The Book of Mormon Made Easier Set, With Included Chronological Map (Gospel Study)

• The Annotated Book of Mormon

• Beholding the Tree of Life: A Rabbinic Approach to the Book of Mormon

• Gathered in One: How the Book of Mormon Counters Anti-Semitism in the New Testament

• Feasts and Festivals of the Messiah (Preparing for and Worshipping in the Latter-day Saint Temple: Understanding Symbolism, Promises, Learnings & Covenants)

• Passover Seder Script

• Days of Awe: Jewish Holy Days, Symbols and Prophecies for Latter-day Saints