CFM: February 3–9
Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material
Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson
We’ve had many new friends join us this past week, so I’d like to take a moment to condense and reiterate a few things shared in previous lessons and add a few additional insights.
The purpose of this website is not to dictate what people should think or how they should study. Instead, it aims to provide tools and resources that help readers access the scriptures more effectively. The goal is for each person to receive their own revelation and arrive at their own conclusions with the aid of the Spirit. As such, this site offers a "choose your own adventure" approach to scripture study.
We all learn differently, coming from various backgrounds, levels of education, learning preferences, and goals for personal scripture study. This site is designed to meet the needs of everyone—whether you’re seeking a quick overview of the lesson materials, easy access to podcasts, or tools for a deep dive into language, history, and etymology.
This week, we are exploring the process of receiving revelation. These were topics that Oliver Cowdery was seeking when he was divinely called to serve as a scribe for Joseph Smith during the translation of the Book of Mormon. In the sections we’ll study this week, the Lord gives Oliver profound insights into how to translate scripture and how to recognize and receive revelation.
The counsel the Lord gave to Oliver can also apply to us. If we desire to receive revelation, learn how to better interpret scripture, or understand the mysteries of the kingdom, the Lord offers these gifts to us as well—if we are willing to dedicate the necessary time and effort to acquire them in righteousness. These spiritual gifts can be learned, cultivated, and exercised. The Lord is both eager and willing to teach us how to better "Hear Him."
The Lord speaks to all of us in languages and methods that we understand. As such, there are many ways that one can receive revelation. Listed are a few examples:
Through the Holy Ghost
Impressions and Feelings: Revelation often comes as a still, small voice or a feeling of peace, warmth, or conviction. (See 1 Kings 19:12, Galatians 5:22–23.
Thoughts and Ideas: Inspired thoughts can come to the mind, often in response to prayer or pondering. (See Doctrine and Covenants 6:15–16.)
Promptings: A sense of urgency or a gentle nudge to act or make a particular decision. (See Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3.)
Through Prayer
Answers in the Heart and Mind: Answers to prayer often come as clarity of thought, a feeling of peace, or a confirmation. (See James 1:5, Doctrine and Covenants 9:8–9.)
Communication with God: Prayer opens a channel to converse with the Lord and receive guidance.
Through Scripture
Direct Answers: Specific scripture passages can stand out or resonate during study, providing answers or direction. (See 2 Timothy 3:16–17.)
Illumination: The Spirit helps readers understand and apply scriptures to their lives. (See Luke 24:32, Doctrine and Covenants 18:34–36.)
Through Dreams and Visions
Dreams: Revelation may come in dreams, often symbolic or instructive. Examples include Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 37) and Lehi's dream (1 Nephi 8).
Visions: Some receive open visions or spiritual experiences that provide direct revelation, such as John’s vision of the Apocalypse (Revelation 1).
Through Living Prophets
Prophetic Counsel: God reveals His will through prophets to guide His people collectively. (See Amos 3:7, Doctrine and Covenants 1:38.)
Through Nature and Creation
Observation and Inspiration: God's creations can inspire feelings of reverence and teach spiritual truths. (See Alma 30:44, Psalm 19:1.)
Through Inspired Leaders or Others
Counsel from Church Leaders: Revelation often comes through priesthood blessings, talks, or inspired counsel from leaders. (See Doctrine and Covenants 84:36.)
Inspired Words of Others: Insights shared by friends, family, or teachers can resonate as personal revelation.
Through Music and Art
Sacred Music: Uplifting music can invite the Spirit and open the heart to inspiration. (See Doctrine and Covenants 25:12.)
Inspired Creativity: Art, poetry, and other creative expressions can carry profound spiritual messages, teaching us about significant patterns and principles.
Through Personal Reflection and Pondering
Meditation and Quiet Contemplation: Revelation often comes in moments of stillness, during focused reflection or pondering God’s word. (See Psalm 46:10.)
Journaling: Writing thoughts and impressions can help clarify and recognize revelation.
Through Action and Obedience
Line Upon Line: Revelation often unfolds gradually as individuals act in faith and obedience. (See Isaiah 28:10, Doctrine and Covenants 98:12.)
Service: Revelation can come while serving others, as the Spirit works through those efforts. (See Doctrine and Covenants 4:2–4.)
Key Principles for Receiving Revelation
Faith: Believing that God will answer is essential. (See Ether 12:6.)
Worthiness: Keeping commandments and living righteously helps maintain spiritual sensitivity. (See Doctrine and Covenants 76:116.)
Seeking and Asking: Revelation often follows sincere seeking and asking. (See Matthew 7:7.)
In this week’s lesson, I wanted to share and demonstrate one of the ways I receive and can consistently receive revelation—by studying the scriptures through their Hebrew and Greek roots and literary devices.
Each chapter outline in our lesson materials usually includes links to online concordances, dictionaries, lexicons, and interlinear resources. These outlines are placeholders; they are not meant to replace scripture but serve as a structured way to organize the materials each week, including links, videos, commentaries, and such. They help readers become familiar with some of the resources available to them for deeper scriptural understanding.
While the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants was recorded in English, the Lord often uses biblical language, quoting directly from earlier scriptures. In addition, the literary techniques that are used in this section are especially interesting because they mirror ancient literary patterns observed in Hebraic and early Christian literature, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Book of Revelation. Many members are familiar with Chiasmus, which we have discussed previously; the techniques we observe in D&C 6 serve a similar purpose: to help the reader identify hidden and deeper meaning within the organization of the text.
There are three Hebraic devices that are prominent in D&C 6, these are called Pesher, Transpoolation, and Charaz.
Pesher
The word Pesher means "interpretation" or "solution." It is a Jewish exegetical (interpretive) method that is primarily found in Qumran literature, although it can be seen in the Biblical apocalyptic texts as well. This is a method of interpreting ancient scripture as present Fulfillment. In other words, ancient prophecies and texts are reinterpreted to directly pertain to contemporary events. For example, in the Habakkuk Pesher, references to the Chaldeans are reinterpreted to refer to the Romans, who were the oppressive rulers at the time when the Habakkuk Pesher was written. Likewise, in D&C 6:1, Isaiah's prophecy, "I will proceed to do a marvelous work and wonder," is likewise applied to the Restoration. "A great and marvelous work is about to come forth unto the children of men."
Transpolation
Transpolation is where Scripture is reconfigured to apply to a new context. For Example, John frequently reuses Old Testament imagery, such as the two witnesses in Revelation 11, which are drawn from Zechariah 4:11-14 to symbolize Christian martyrs or prophets in the last days. In D&C 6:5, the Savior reconfigures the promises he made to His Apostles during his mortal ministry to Joseph and Oliver, "If you will ask of me, you shall receive; if you will knock, it shall be opened unto you" (D&C 6:5) – This is a direct reference to Matthew 7:7, where Christ teaches the principle of seeking revelation.
Charaz
In Jewish tradition, Charaz (חרוז, meaning “stringing pearls”) is a rabbinic method of linking scriptures together in a woven pattern, helping the reader see the bigger picture.
The Lord applies this collage-like pattern in D&C 6, where He takes phrases from multiple biblical sources, connecting them to new revelation so that Joseph and Oliver (and future readers) can see history repeating itself and recognize the broader divine pattern.
Example of Charaz in D&C 6:
Key Phrase: “Fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you.”
Linked Passages (Pearls in the Chain):
Luke 12:32 – “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
Matthew 16:18 – “Upon this rock, I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
Helaman 5:12 – “It is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation.”
How They Connect:
These scriptures are not just parallels; they weave a deeper message together—that Christ’s disciples are a small but chosen flock, standing on His rock, and will not be overcome by adversity.
The Lord uses Charaz here to paint a broader picture, connecting biblical assurance to restoration-era revelation.
Therefore, understanding these linguistic tools and the origins of key phrases within the text can be very helpful and insightful, providing us with a valuable foundation from which we can better interpret and understand the Lord's intended message to Oliver, and by extension to ourselves. By examining key words and phrases in Hebrew and Greek, we can uncover additional layers of valuable insight. In many ways, we can see the Lord providing His own commentary through past prophets, helping us interpret and apply both modern and ancient scripture more effectively and accurately.
Study Tips
One method I find particularly helpful when I dive into deeper studies like this is to use the split screen feature on my iPad or to open multiple windows on my computer. For example, one can place their CFMCorner lesson alongside the LDS Tools scripture app; this allows us to study the scriptures while referencing the various tools and resources associated with them as we analyze each section. This approach can help us to engage more deeply with the text so we can make more meaningful connections and observations.
As we study, we can copy and paste key resources directly into our scriptures using the notes function in LDS Tools. This allows us to save insights, references, and personal reflections in one place for easy and convenient access. This method helps us to organize and retain the revelations and insights we receive during our study, ensuring that they are readily available whenever we need them.
When copying and pasting from the chapter overviews listed on the cfmcorner website, the source links remain intact. I love this feature; it makes it simple to easily access supporting materials, videos, podcasts, and such directly from the scripture app, which is so helpful.
Several people have asked why I do this website each week and how I learned to study the scriptures in Hebrew and Greek. Managing this website on my own is a lot of work; I don't get a paycheck, and I am not what one would consider a traditional scholar. I don't have a history or linguistics degree (yet), —my background is in music. And while I learned to sing in many different languages, studying foreign languages never came naturally to me. It was always challenging and far from intuitive.
About 10 years ago, I received a very strong admonition to learn Greek and Hebrew to help me complete an assignment. At the time, this was an overwhelming prospect. I knew nothing about these languages (except for a few Greek swear words I picked up as a little girl from my Greek grandfather, who wasn’t a member of the Church at the time. I adored the man, and he would sometimes use them when he sneezed. I thought he was hilarious.)
Even though the idea of learning these languages felt daunting, I knew that whenever the Lord tells you to do something, he always provides a way for you to accomplish that task. I was assured that there would be "those prepared to teach me what I needed to know and that I would know them when I found them." Over the next several years, the Lord fulfilled his promise—sometimes in miraculous ways. Opportunities to study with reputable scholars, Greek clergy, Hebrew rabbis, and native speakers unfolded, allowing me to learn how to read, write, and interpret both languages.
One of the things I learned very quickly is that you don't have to be a scholar or a linguist to study the Bible in Hebrew and Greek. There are so many amazing tools and resources available to help people learn how to navigate the Biblical texts. There are also a lot of resources that have some issues with reliability. This is also one of the reasons I decided to put this website together, as a way to share some skills and techniques that can help us access source information. That way, we can better discern truth from error for ourselves. This is a way for me to "pay it forward" to help others access the tools and insights the Lord so graciously provided to me.
The Gospel is not reserved only for those with PhD's or religious titles—although these individuals provide great wisdom and insight, and we should pay attention to their experience and expertise. It isn’t exclusive to vloggers, podcasters, or social media influencers, who often share amazing perspectives and insights but can sometimes get things confused. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is for everyone. It is meant to be deeply personal—a one-on-one covenant relationship with the Lord, nurtured through the gift of the Holy Ghost.
While learning to interpret the Bible accurately, we have to rely on trusted resources to help us—conference addresses, scriptural cross-references, dictionaries, indexes, lexicons, concordances, etc. But ultimately, the real teacher must be the Spirit. Without the Spirit, we’re simply collecting data, memorizing facts, or reiterating other people’s interpretations. While these are valuable and represent important stages in our development, the real goal is to learn Spiritual Reliance and how to Hear Him. The goal is to walk with Christ and to have His Spirit with us always.
For me, I am an infant on this path, yet the journey has been transformative and exciting. Learning to access scripture from its earliest sources continues to guide my spiritual growth every day. I learn so much from every lesson that I have the privilege to prepare. As I dive into the scriptures, I often feel like I am learning at the feet of my Savior, and I feel His excitement and enthusiasm as he guides me from topic to topic and insight to insight through the aid of the Spirit. Scripture study is no longer a chore, something that I have to make time for. It is a sacred communion that I crave, a perpetual treasure hunt because I never know what I will find next and there is always more to discover. I can easily lose myself for hours studying a single word, or even a single letter. If a stay-at-home mom with no formal biblical or linguistic training can learn these skills and techniques, anyone who feels the call to engage in this work can do the same. That is one of the most beautiful and powerful lessons of the Restoration, and it is a lesson that we can observe through Oliver's experience.
D&C 6
Chapter Outline
Overview:
D&C 6 is a revelation given to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery during the early stages of the Book of Mormon translation. This section emphasizes themes of divine guidance, personal revelation, and the call to labor diligently in the Lord’s vineyard. It offers reassurance to Oliver regarding his spiritual gifts and role in assisting the Prophet, while also providing principles on seeking truth and recognizing the Spirit’s influence.
Timeframe and Setting:
Date: April 1829.
Location: Harmony, Pennsylvania.
Occasion: Oliver Cowdery had recently arrived to assist as a scribe for the translation of the Book of Mormon. This revelation was given to confirm Oliver’s role and provide counsel on how to recognize and follow divine revelation.
Key Circumstances:
Oliver’s Arrival: Oliver Cowdery was inspired by divine manifestations and chose to join Joseph Smith in the translation work.
Translation Progress: The translation process was ongoing, and Oliver’s role as a scribe was critical to the work.
Spiritual Fervor: The Second Great Awakening influenced Oliver’s religious zeal and his desire to understand spiritual truths.
Purpose of the Revelation:
Encouragement: To confirm Oliver Cowdery’s calling and reassure him of his gifts.
Instruction: To teach Oliver how to recognize the Spirit and seek wisdom.
Motivation: To emphasize the importance of laboring diligently in the Lord’s vineyard.
Significance:
Divine Revelation: This section highlights the process of receiving personal revelation and confirms the role of the Holy Ghost in guiding individuals in their spiritual pursuits.
Labor in the Vineyard: The imagery of the white field ready to harvest emphasizes the urgency and importance of missionary work.
Reassurance and Accountability: The Lord reassures Oliver of his divine calling while emphasizing the responsibility to remain faithful and diligent.
Spiritual Gifts: Oliver is reminded of the sacred nature of his gift and instructed to use it to bring others to the knowledge of the truth.
Note: I've gone overboard on word study links for this chapter, and it's probably too much. However, I wanted to demonstrate the value of this kind of study, and show some of the ways to access these tools and materials. Linguistic links are usually provided in Chapter Overviews, but not to this extent. While I would love to do this with every chapter, there is just not enough time.
Click on the links include in the summary, and they will take you to various locations within outside platforms that you can explore and play with. It take some practice and work, but when you get the hang of using these kinds of tools, its not only rewarding but a lot of fun!
I personally like Blue Letter Bible because, out of the available free resources, it stands out as being among the most reliable and user-friendly. Therefore, it is a great option for people who are just getting started with word studies. I don't get paid for endorsing them, I just think they provide a great srvice. Here are some tutorials that can help you learn how to navigate BLB if you want to explore that a bit deeper.
Main Topic & Theme | Additional Resources |
Verse 1-6 - Laboring in the Lord’s Work | |
Theme: Calling to the Work | |
Description: The Lord declares that a great and marvelous work is about to unfold and invites all to participate. The phrase “thrust in his sickle” parallels themes found in Matthew 9:37-38 and Jacob 5 (the allegory of the vineyard). In Hebrew, qatsar (קָצַר) means to harvest, symbolizing a gathering of God's people. Key Words & Phrases: A Great and Marvelous Work
“Hear/ Give Heed to My Words” Hebrew Insights: שְׁמַע דְּבָרִי (Shema D'vari)
Greek Insights: Ἄκουε τὸν λόγον μου (Akoue ton logon mou)
Scripture Parallels:
“Word of God as a Two-Edged Sword” Hebrew Insights: חֶרֶב פִּיפִיּוֹת (Cherev Piphiyot)
Greek Insights: μάχαιρα τοῦ Πνεύματος (Machaira tou Pneumatos)
Symbolism Across Scriptures
The Word of God as a sword signifies its power to discern, refine, and nourish, pointing to its role in leading believers to salvation and eternal love. In Biblical tradition, it is a tool of justice, authority, and covenantal power. The dual nature and function represent the concept of opposition in all things; while God’s Word brings truth and life, our words—when misused—can harm, mislead, and even bring spiritual death. Christ’s warning invites self-reflection on how we wield the "sword" of our tongue and calls for alignment with God's truth and love. (Matthew 15:10–20) The field is white already to harvest,” “Thrust in His Sickle and Reap” Hebrew Insights:
Greek Insights:
Scriptural Parallels: Matthew 9:37–38 emphasizes the readiness of the harvest and the need for laborers. - Jacob 5’s allegory of the olive tree depicts the Lord’s vineyard and His efforts to preserve and gather His people. - Alma 26:5 speaks of "gathering sheaves into the garners," symbolizing the work of eternal salvation. These are all harvest themes reminiscent of the Israelite Fall Festivals (Yom Teruach, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot). This represents God Gathering his people to the Temple, providing them with opportunities for repentance, refinement, and sorting, ie. judgment. The First Vision and Moroni’s encounters with Joseph opened the 7th dispensation, and this is significant because, in Israelite tradition, the 7th year marks the year of Jubilee. The Year of Jubilee was a significant event in the Israelite feast cycle, observed every 50th year, following seven cycles of seven years (49 years). This most significant event is described as a time of liberation and restoration, as recorded in Leviticus 25:8–55. The Year of Jubilee begins on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), symbolizing spiritual renewal and forgiveness. Key features of the Jubilee include:
In many ways, Yom Teruch represents the Call and Gathering of Israel. Yom Kippur is indicative of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, and Sukkot marks the beginning of the Millennial reign. Ask, and It Shall Be Given" "If you will ask of me you shall receive; if you will knock it shall be opened unto you." Hebrew Insight: Greek Insight:
Scriptural Parallels:
Emphasizes the accessibility of revelation through sincere, faithful seeking. |
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Verse 7-9 - Seek Wisdom Over Riches | |
Theme: Prioritizing Spiritual Knowledge | |
Description: The Lord instructs Oliver to seek wisdom over worldly riches. This principle is echoed in Proverbs 3:13-15, where wisdom is more valuable than gold. The Greek word sophia (σοφία) means wisdom, reinforcing the eternal value of spiritual understanding. Key Words & Phrases: Seek Wisdom” Key phrase: Seek not for riches but for wisdom," “The mysteries of God shall be unfolded/unrolled unto you. Wisdom and spiritual understanding are of greater value than material wealth. - The mysteries of God are revealed to those who earnestly seek with a humble heart. Hebrew Insights:
Greek Insights:
Symbolism Across Scriptures:
“As/ If You Desire” "Even as you desire of me, so it shall be unto you; and if you desire, you shall be the means of doing much good in this generation." Hebrew Insight:
Greek Insight:
Scriptural Parallels:
This verse teaches that righteous desires in accordance with God's will will be granted, leading to action and fulfillment in His work. “Repentance” "Say nothing but repentance unto this generation." Hebrew Insights:
Greek Insights:
Scriptural Parallels:
The call to repentance is a fundamental aspect of Christ’s gospel and central to the Restoration. It emphasizes the urgency of returning to God and aligning our will with His in addition to showing compassion and mercy to others and ourselves. | |
Verse 10-11 - Exercising Spiritual Gifts | |
Theme: Using Spiritual Gifts for Good | |
Description: Oliver is reminded to use his sacred gift to find out mysteries and bring others to the truth. Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 14 describe spiritual gifts as tools for edification. The Hebrew word raz (רָז) means hidden truth or mystery, emphasizing divine revelation. Key Words & Phrases: “Thou Shalt Exercise Thy Gift" Key Phrase: "Thou shalt exercise thy gift, that thou mayest find out mysteries, that thou mayest bring many to the knowledge of the truth." Hebrew Insight:
Greek Insight:
Scriptural Parallels:
These verses emphasizes the responsibility to develop and use spiritual gifts to reveal divine truths to bring ourselves and others closer to Christ. | |
Verse 12-13 - The Greatest Gift is Salvation | |
Theme: Eternal Life Over Earthly Rewards | |
Description: The Lord reminds Oliver that eternal life is the greatest gift. This aligns with Matthew 23:11, where Christ teaches that “the greatest among you shall be your servant.” The Hebrew yasha (יָשַׁע) is the root of Yehoshua (Jesus), meaning “YHVH is salvation.” Key Words & Phrases: “There is No Gift Greater than the Gift of Salvation" Hebrew Insights:
Greek Insights:
Scriptural Parallels:
These verses highlight the preeminence of salvation above all spiritual gifts. While spiritual gifts enrich and empower, salvation is the ultimate gift granted through Jesus Christ. Recognizing that Yehoshuah/Yeshua—the very name of Christ—embodies salvation, this passage reaffirms that through Him, we receive the greatest possible blessing: eternal life in the presence of God. Matthew 1:21 and thou shalt call his name Jesus (Salvation). | |
Verse 14-17 - Enlightened by the Spirit of Truth | |
Theme: The Witness of the Spirit | |
Description: Oliver is reminded that he has been enlightened by the Spirit as a witness of the truth. This parallels John 16:13, which states that the Spirit will guide into all truth. The Greek word aletheia (ἀλήθεια) means truth, signifying divine revelation. Key Words & Phrases: “Received Instruction of My Spirit and Enlightened Thy Mind by the Spirit of Truth" Thou hast inquired of me, and behold, as often as thou hast inquired thou hast received instruction of my Spirit. If it had not been so, thou wouldst not have come to the place where thou art at this time. Behold, thou knowest that thou hast inquired of me and I did enlighten thy mind." Hebrew Insights:
Greek Insights:
Scriptural Parallels: John 14:26: "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things." John 16:13: "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth." 2 Corinthians 4:6: "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts." Moroni 10:5: "By the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things." These verses emphasize the personal nature of revelation. The Lord affirms that Oliver Cowdery has received divine instruction through the Holy Ghost. The Spirit of Truth (Pneuma tēs Alētheias) enlightens the mind, providing divine guidance and confirming the truth. The Hebrew Qabal (קָבַל) suggests not just passive reception but an active acceptance of divine knowledge. Similarly, the Greek Lambanō (λαμβάνω) indicates a deliberate receiving of truth, emphasizing that revelation requires both inquiry and readiness to accept divine instruction. This pattern of receiving revelation through inquiry aligns with scriptural teachings that the Lord will reveal knowledge to those who diligently seek Him. | |
Verse 18-19 - Receiving Admonition | |
Theme: Developing Christlike Attributes | |
Description: Oliver is called to be patient, temperate, and full of faith, hope, and charity. These characteristics are outlined in 1 Corinthians 13. The Greek word makrothymia (μακροθυμία) means long-suffering, emphasizing endurance in faith. Key Words & Phrases: Receive Admonition" Key Phrase: "Admonish him in his faults, and also receive admonition of him. Be patient; be sober; be temperate; have patience, faith, hope and charity." Hebrew Insight:
Greek Insight:
Qualifying Characteristics Described:
Scriptural Parallels:
These verses highlight the importance of humility in correction and personal growth. Receiving admonition is linked with developing patience, faith, hope, and charity, reinforcing the idea that true discipleship involves both correction and refinement. It also ties into the principles outlined in D&C 121, emphasizing that power and influence should be exercised through long-suffering, gentleness, meekness, and love unfeigned rather than force or compulsion. Peace to Your Mind" "Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?” Hebrew Insights:
Greek Insight:
Scriptural Parallels:
This verse emphasizes that true peace comes from God and this is a key way He communicates with us. When we receive divine knowledge and confirmation, it often comes as a quiet assurance in our minds and hearts.3 | |
Verse 20-21 - The Light in Darkness | |
Theme: Christ as the Light | |
Description: The Lord declares, “I am the light which shineth in darkness.” This echoes John 1:5, where Christ is the light that the darkness cannot comprehend. The Greek phos (φῶς) means divine light, symbolizing truth and revelation. The Light That Shineth in Darkness" "I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I am the same that came unto mine own, and mine own received me not. I am the light which shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not." Hebrew Insight:
Greek Insight:
Scriptural Parallels:
Jesus Christ declares His divine identity and mission as the Son of God. The imagery of light shining in darkness (or ha'meir ba'choshech) conveys Christ’s role as the source of truth and spiritual enlightenment. The darkness (skotia) represents ignorance, rejection, and separation from God. Despite opposition, the light of Christ remains constant and accessible to those who seek Him. This verse serves as a reminder that while many may reject Him, His truth and presence will always shine for those willing to receive it. |
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Verse 22-24 - Peace to Your Mind | |
Theme: The Witness of the Spirit | |
Description: The Lord reminds Oliver of a moment when he received peace in his mind as a spiritual witness. This aligns with Philippians 4:7, which speaks of the peace of God that surpasses understanding. The Hebrew word shalom (שָׁלוֹם) means wholeness, peace, and divine well-being. Key Words & Phrases: Peace to Your Mind" "Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?” Hebrew Insights:
Greek Insights:
Scriptural Parallels:
This verse emphasizes that true peace comes from God and this is a key way He communicates with us. When we receive divine knowledge and confirmation, it often comes as a quiet assurance in our minds and hearts. | |
Verse 25-27 - Hidden Scriptures and Divine Knowledge | |
Theme: Revelation and Lost Records | |
Description: The Lord reveals that more sacred records exist. This connects with 2 Nephi 27:6-7, which speaks of additional scripture to be revealed in the last days. The Hebrew word saphar (סֵפֶר) means scroll or book, indicating preserved divine knowledge. Key Words & Phrases: “Lay up treasures for yourself in heaven… bring to light those parts which have been hidden” | |
Verse 28-37 - The Keys and Faithfulness | |
Theme: Trust in Christ’s Power | |
Description: Oliver is reminded to fear not and continue in the work. This aligns with Matthew 16:19, where Christ gives Peter the keys of the kingdom. The Greek kleis (κλείς) means authority or stewardship. Does this word mean Keys? The Keys of This Gift" Key Phrase: "And now, behold, I give unto you, and also unto my servant Joseph, the keys of this gift, which shall bring to light this ministry; and in the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established." Hebrew Insight:
Greek Insight:
Scriptural Parallels:
This passage underscores the concept of divine authority, linking the idea of "keys" to stewardship, revelation, and priesthood power. The reference to multiple witnesses aligns with the biblical principle of establishing truth through the testimony of multiple witnesses, reinforcing the legitimacy of prophetic authority and revelation. Fear Not, Little Flock" "Fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail.” Hebrew Insight:
Greek Insight:
Scriptural Parallels:
This verse reassures believers that despite opposition from the world and the adversary, they have divine protection if they remain steadfast in Christ. The imagery of a "little flock" emphasizes the idea of a faithful remnant, and the "rock" signifies Christ as the firm foundation upon which disciples should build their faith. The phrase "let earth and hell combine against you" reflects the inevitable trials of discipleship, but the promise remains that nothing can ultimately prevail against those firmly grounded in Christ. Peter's reference to Christ as the "chief cornerstone" further emphasizes the role of Jesus as the foundation of faith. Additionally, Matthew 16:18 reinforces the promise that Christ’s church, built upon divine revelation and faith in Him, will withstand all opposition, just as those who are built upon His rock will not fall. Look to Christ and Doubt Not" "Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not. Behold the wounds which pierced my side, and also the prints of the nails in my hands and feet; be faithful, keep my commandments, and ye shall inherit the kingdom of heaven." Hebrew Insight:
Greek Insight:
Scriptural Parallels:
These verses encapsulate Christ’s invitation to fully trust in Him. "Look unto me in every thought" signifies unwavering faith and focus on Christ as our source of peace and salvation. The command to "doubt not, fear not" is a call to trust in the Lord’s power despite life’s uncertainties. Christ presenting His wounds recalls His invitation to Thomas and the Nephites to witness His sacrifice firsthand. This passage reassures believers of Christ’s love, atonement, and promise that faithfulness leads to eternal inheritance in the kingdom of heaven. |
Due to the amount of info, D&C 7-9 will be continued in Part 2 of this lesson.
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