Thank you for all your time in sharing with us these amazing lessons. I absolutely love listening to unshaken. And I always tell my husband about the lessons. Thank you
Wow I absolutely LOVE this lesson!!! Brother Halverson, thank you so much for all of your preparation and dedication to teaching us. You made so many incredible points in this video, and I’m grateful for the chance to learn from you.
While serving in Puerto Rico during Hurricane Maria, we watched our missionaries mature emotionally and spiritually before our eyes as my husband and I left them with the responsibility of figuring out what needed to be done after the hurricane destroyed the island. As they came back to us after being evacuated for months, returning to their beloved island with fear and questioning as to what they should do because their area books had been lost or destroyed in the hurricane, they lost most of their personally belongings, the people of the island were tired, distraught and had lost hope; they often would hear us say: “Elders, Hermanas, what do you think should be done?” Or, “you’ll figure it out”. Years later our missionaries have told us that one of the best lessons learned on the mission was having to figuring things out on their own and taking it to the Lord. Many said that they had been told by their parents most of their lives what they should do. It was beautiful to see our own stripling warriors step up with courage as they developed both emotionally and spiritually to become leaders. Oh what joy filled our hearts serving with our sons and daughters.
I can't even imagine anyone would ever take offense at anything you say. Let alone criticize you in any way. I am so indebted to you for sharing your knowledge of the scriptures with me, and the world. I listen over and over to try and understand and recall as you do. I am so far from where you are. Please keep doing this. Thank you.
I rarely comment, but you have become my number one go to for enlightenment and better understanding of the scriptures! I am appalled to even think there have been derogatory comments!! I think you're a wonderful teacher, and I always pray that you will continue. I'm 'embarrassed' as a fellow saint, of those whom I assume are brothers/sisters in the gospel who show such ingratitude. Each week (and several times a week), I laugh (EVERY session), sometimes cry, and am motivated to do better , ALWAYS....then act on those promptings the best I can....and last but certainly not least , I ALWAYS feel the Spirit.❤ I look forward to and am excited for the next podcast! So thank you, Brother Halverson !! I am from the South, and someone always brings up a learning moment that you have made in Sunday class. Please continue to teach/ inspire us. And I wouldn't change a thing!
You add so much depth to my scripture study. Thank you. Upon reading these "war chapters" I have come to realize something. It used to be when my children were young that I would have to wade into battle with them. I confronted angry parents, principals with an agenda, bad situations whose outcome was dubious, I didn't stay on the sidelines not being involved, I was in the "trenches" with them. This is what I see our Lord Jesus Christ doing in these chapters. He is in the trenches with us, saving those who believe in Him, lifting the heavy arms when they are weak, fighting alongside us. His love, His saving grace is in every chapter. Let us stand with Him in these battles we all face. He will not forsake us.
We are in our 70’s. We read the Book of Mormon several times over the past 50 years. Your instruction bringing details to life in this amazing book, has energized us, has opened our hearts and our minds so the Holy Spirit can witness to us so we retain these teachings. We inform everyone we know that your instruction is riveting. We are humbled and extremely grateful that you have chosen to enlighten your fellow saints. No matter our age.
Thank you for your lessons each week. They help me feel peace even when life feels so shaken. I didn’t realize everything you mentioned about the stripling warriors and I love your analogy that we need to be our wounded self and still work and serve. My sweet daughter is going through a nasty divorce and she prays he will repent and see things differently. it’s so sad he chooses to stay focus on himself. So much pain and so much hurt. Time spent in the temple, at church, on our knees and trusting and believing and having Him on our side in this battle. As you were commenting towards the end of your lesson gives us peace.
I feel a connection to Alma 56:47, that if we do not doubt, God will deliver us as I’ve listened to your podcast today. Also Alma 58:11 has helped me throughout my life so that I can have that assurance that He is with me and will help me through all trials and worries and He has! Thank you, these chapters are my favorite!
A few years ago I read Elie Wiesel's "Night"...in which the young people wanted to resist the rounding up of the Jews. The older generation asked the younger to "go along to get along." This glimpse of reality has changed the way I speak to my children and grand children. Thank you for your wonderful lessons.
I so appreciate your insights and perceptions as you have shared your understanding of these scriptures with us. I'm so grateful for the way you teach!!!! I'm so grateful for you, Brother Halverson!!! God bless you through infinity and beyond!!!!!
So many lessons to take from these stripling warriors. One that I like to teach is the progression of personal testimony. They begin with faith in their mothers' faith that God would deliver them (56:47-48). That faith caused them to "obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness…and even according to their faith it was done unto them" (57:21). Faith + exact obedience gave them their own experiences where they saw that their mothers were right. God miraculously preserved every one of them. Finally, through this combination of faith and obedience, "their faith [was] strong in the prophecies concerning that which is to come", which I take to mean the coming of Christ (58:40). It's no longer simply faith in their mothers' faith; it's their own convictions based on their own experiences. Of course, this didn't happen overnight. Moroni didn't receive the epistle until the beginning of the 30th year, and Helaman starts his account sometime in the 26th year, so maybe about 3-1/2 years. It's important that we give our youth a chance to have their own experiences so they can go from leaning on their parents' convictions to having their own.
Learned helplessness is what comes from under preparing and over protecting. That also causes. Underestimating. The outcome is low self esteem. Especially the last child syndrome. I have found that even though my youngest child has left home, that my change in listening to his struggles and asking questions like: “What do you think your options are?” “Tell me more about that” “That is hard.” And I listen a lot and offer resources that he can take or leave. I’m so happy to see that he is strong and can figure out what to do and learn from his experiences.
First of all i have noticed the transition in the come follow me and scripture videos that they called theses young men soldiers not warriors. And in the Book of Mormon they are called soldiers not warriors. I’m grateful to call them soldiers how the Book of Mormon calls them. You asked us to share something about preparing our children. I love this quote that I heard from “the world’s worst mom” don’t prepare the path for your children prepare your children for the path
I noticed "soldiers" this time through as well. Never stood out to me before. Warrior seems like someone seasoned and fighting as a career maybe, where Soldier seems like a person in battle for a particular conflict. Just a thought.
First time commenting. Love the Casualty List and Walking Wounded analogy. Will share that in our next class. Thanks for doing these lessons. I learn a lot.
When the missionaries were teaching the story of the Stripling Warriors to my family, the elder called them "Mamma's Boys", and the way he explained it, it was a badge of honor and respect. The added insight I now have that these were probably single mothers, gives added hope and comfort to all of us trying to raise righteous warriors today. It is, to me, one of the most powerful stories in the Book of Mormon.
Brother Jared Halverson, Thank you for the lesson. Wonderful and I read some of the comments, so very good points brought out. I think best thing what children are listening to and ourselves listening to. I taught my children good things, but each one turned out so very different and none go to church today, don't understand what happened. All trying to be good and love me ❤ 10:29
I'm in this boat with you we'll keep on huh. The endowment session being shorter I'm going to go there and spend time in the scriptures in the celestial room.
Trust..❤ You have planted the seeds.... There will be an eventually harvest of your faithful parenting... As a dear and good & faithful friend from Mauritius used to say to me.... "I think God wants me TO HAVE 'PATIENCE"..... Stay Blessed with Love, Hope & Faith... SMILE Spiritually Minded Is Life Eternal ❤❤❤
Brother Halverson another good resource was Elder Bednar talk when he spoke about pahorn’s response that we should respond in Kindness and not in kind…..This was a great lesson
The favourite principle, from looking at these chapters. that really gives me hope, is perfectly worded by Mandy Alj-Bjady, in her study of the wars in The Book of Mormon - "We don't have to be perfect to diminish Satan's power". The same hand that that penned the Title of Liberty also penned a letter to Pahoran, that was just a little...unkind! All The Lord asks of us is that we try our genuine best. Such a relief for those of us who can topple very easily into toxic perfectionism.
My renewed thought was that many of the stripling warriors probably grew up in single parent families because their fathers had been killed. The reason they may have referred to the teachings of their mothers was because they had no earthly fathers. And after seeing or being told if the bravery of their fathers they chose to fight
Yes I thought the same thing. The were just boys following the prophet and doing the best they could. Some prob haven’t even touched a sword. But they were willing to step up and fight. I feel like we are all soldiers just doing the best we can and doing things we’ve never done before. Thanks for your comment
Regarding Moroni’s heated censure of Pahoran and others- May I add a little insight from many decades of life experience? There is a little-understood principle that is coined “God’s Law of Divine Illusion.” Most adults who have sought spiritual inspiration in making important decisions have received guidance. When they take action in the inspired direction things usually work out well for a time. Then it appears that the decision is not working out well. However, the Lord has purpose in all and one can then receive additional guidance. I believe this Law of Divine Illusion applies to Moroni’s scathing rebuke of Pahoran specifically because Pahoran’s indecisiveness is thus instantly quelled and he is able to receive divine confirmation to accept Moroni’s assistance to resolve a most critical situation!
I appreciate your reference to the fact that many of the stripping warriors probably grew up in homes without fathers being raised by widowed mothers. Remember the day when 1005 of the Anti-Nephi Lehies were killed (Alma 24:22)? The record doesn't say it, but I really doubt that these converted Lamanites would have put any of their women or children out in front to be slain. I suspect these were all or nearly all men who were killed that day. I believe many of these young men were being raised by single-parent mothers. Perhaps, that's one reason why they called Helaman "father." This is an example to the courageous women (and a few men) in our church who are doing their best to raise their families in a household of faith without the benefit of a spouse at their side. Either by death or divorce, there are many righteous single parents who alone are raising young people in their homes trying to make the best of a difficult situation. This story should give them courage and hope. Richard Boyer, Holladay, UT
You mentioned that the Stripling Warriors might not have had Fathers, perhaps perished from when they wouldn’t fight the Lamanites. If so, what a great sacrifice from the Mothers! Giving up the males in their family! Esp when viewed from the stand point of the law of Moses, they wouldn’t have anyone to provide for them!
Speaking of the people of Ammon being a covenant people, and remembering their promises back in Alma 27:24 when they were given the lands of Jershon they covented with the Nephitis that "we will guard them from their enemies with our armies, on condition that they will give us a portion of their substance" I find it amazing that all these years later this promise between these two groups has not been forgotten. Alma 56:27 "there was brought unto us many provisions from the fathers of those my two thousand sons." This agreement is still taking place. This is a people that did not take covenants lightly and is an amazing example.
I see chapter 53 as a warning. The parents let their lives be cut short, and they refused to defend themselves because of the covenant. But they almost broke it because they loved the Nephites. Helaman understood that there are some sins so severe that even after you repent, you must stay as far away from it as possible. The scar may have healed, but breaking their covenant, even for a good reason, would had left them worse than before.
In my mind I see a young boy running front of his mom with a short wooden sword. “Don’t worry mom, I’ll defend you! Those mean Lamanites won’t get you!” I don’t think those mothers told their kids not to fight. I think they would have known their sons would have to fight someday. 30:31
There is a contrary to be proven here on couseling with the youth and letting them make their own decisions as well as being the adult in the room and not letting them make a choice that would lead to their harm. I wonder if Helaman knew if he was doing the right thing with letting them turn around and fight. Also it's hard to imagine what is going on internally with Helaman who was not a warrior but a priesthood leader who's strengths were in preaching but now is called to this new calling to help the youth which he must have felt very unprepared for and unqualified for. He may have never been in a battle himself. Now he is asking these young men, maybe 13 or 14 year old scrawny, untrained soldiers what they thought they should do. The youth had the courage and the faith. Helaman though was their leader in charge of their well-being, how does he imagine going to their mothers and fathers with the news that they had died in battle, how does he imagine bringing the body of a 13 year old boy to his parents and being asked how he could have allowed them to be in a battle when they were meant as decoys. How could Helaman answer that they were there because they decided and wanted to go. How could he as their adult leader allow the children to make that choice that led to their potential deaths, when he could have been the adult in the room and said no and not allowed such a thing to happen . Children should not be the ones making this kind of decision when there is an adult in charge and called to lead them to safety. I just cant imagine the anxiety that must have been in Helaman's heart thinking of facing the parents of the dead boys and explaining how he allowed this to happen because he allowed them to make the choice to go to battle and death. There is an great amount of faith I cant imagine having on the part of both Helaman the non warrior leader and the boys the non warrior children.
A few weeks ago brother Halverson mentioned a word for those that always put pressure on themselves to reach Christ-like perfection... Do any of you recall what that word was? TIA 💜
I am retired from the Army. When I ask how action is different from what is normal the principles become clearer. The Nephites feel different about killing enemies. When the terms of surrender are given things are said that normally are never said. Nephites do not attack first. Nephites defend. They are not taught contention that leads to hate and anger
I love how the leaders who listen to the Spirit are always one step of the bad guys. Whether it was the breastplates to start with or the mounds of earth around the Nephite cities or the works of timber on top of the mounds of earth.
Judges 18 comes to mind when the tribe of Dan found a place called Laish where Zidonians lived without protection from war. Dan's men of Valor were wrong for talking a Levite into going with them and the Levite had been priest for Micha, who had a little God made out of silver, so one bad thought and act lead to another one for individuals proving they were against God. Judges 18 Here 2 generations are proving they are cooperating with God.
Before I say this I need to say that I and my family have benefitted greatly from this podcast over the past 3.5 years that I have been listening to you. Your knowledge of and insights are wonderful. I and my family are better because you didn't let covid restrictions keep you from teaching scripture. Now for the exchange between Moroni and Pahoran; this is between the military and political head. Not the prophet and another leader in the church. Moroni's assumptions were founded. "Nice is different than good" (into the woods). I think what you're doing to Moroni is taking what he said out of its historical, technological, and political context and accusing him of wrongdoing. When you combine the title of liberty and the principles (i.e. that when the government is destroying liberty) found in Moroni's epistle to Pahoran you have the Nephite version of the declaration of independence. Just because it's accusatory without perfect knowledge doesn't mean it's wrong.
Captain Moroni Reproved the Governing Leaders with Sharpness Mormon would be disappointed with the prevalent misinterpretation of the written exchange between Chief Captain Moroni and Chief Governor Pahoran (Alma 59-61). Some have mistakenly characterized Captain Moroni as a false (or unjust) accuser. Since false accusation or bearing false witness was a serious offense under the Law of Moses (Exodus 20:16; Deuteronomy 19:17-19), Mormon undoubtedly did not intend to besmirch Captain Moroni. In fact, Mormon said all men should aspire to be like Captain Moroni (Alma 48:17), who he described as “a man of perfect understanding … who was firm in the faith of Christ” (Alma 48:11-13). Moreover, Captain Moroni’s “heart did glory … in doing good, in preserving his people, yea, in keeping the commandments of God, yea, and resisting iniquity” (Alma 48:16). Mormon clearly characterized Captain Moroni as an advocate (like Jehovah) rather an accuser (like Lucifer). Captain Moroni was “a man whose soul did joy in the liberty and the freedom of his country…; a man who did labor exceedingly for the welfare and safety of his people…. [A]nd he had sworn with an oath to defend his people, his rights, and his country, and his religion, even to the loss of his blood” (Alma 48:11-13). With this view of Captain Moroni as a righteous advocate, we need to review the scriptural record to consider whether he was “moved upon by the Holy Ghost” to reprove the Nephite government with sharpness (Doctrine & Covenants 121:43). In his “epistle to Pahoran … and also to all those who have been chosen by this people to govern and manage the affairs of this war” (Alma 60:1), Captain Moroni wrote: “Behold, the Lord saith unto me: If those whom ye have appointed your governors do not repent of their sins and iniquities, ye shall go up to battle against them” (Alma 60:33). Notice that the Lord revealed unto Captain Moroni that collectively the governors needed to “repent of their sins and iniquities” (Alma 60:33). What were their sins and iniquities? Which laws were they transgressing? About five years earlier-shortly after Pahoran became the chief judge and governor-the Nephite people granted Captain Moroni the power to compel dissenters to defend their country or be put to death (Alma 51:15-16). “And thus it became expedient that this law should be strictly observed for the safety of their country” (Alma 62:10). So, Captain Moroni used his army to slay 4,000 dissenters (king-men) who refused to yield to the standard of liberty (Alma 51:17-19). When king-men once again rebelled against the government, Pahoran nevertheless “was somewhat worried concerning what we should do, whether it should be just in us to go against our brethren” (Alma 61:19). Pahoran questioned the justness of the law and apparently Captain Moroni’s earlier enforcement of the law. Not only was Pahoran indecisive, but he also prevented enforcement of the law by withholding from military leaders (including Captain Moroni) information about the ongoing rebellion (Alma58:9, 34). Moreover, he apparently did not seek revelation and relied upon his own wisdom. Captain Moroni’s sharp rebuke apparently jarred Pahoran into recognizing his shortcomings. Pahoran’s meek reply demonstrates a repentant attitude. Pahoran said though he felt censured (not accused) by Captain Moroni, he rejoiced in the greatness of Captain Moroni’s heart (Alma 61:9). Pahoran also acknowledged the ineffectiveness of resisting rebellions and dissensions with words (Alma 61:4,10-14), which was apparently his initial inclination. The idleness of Pahoran and the other governors in enforcing the law resulted in great neglect of the Nephite armies (Alma 60:14,22). Though the king-men rebelled and initially caused disruption, the slothfulness of the governing leaders in executing the rebels exacerbated the situation. Delaying the slaying of the rebels resulted in thousands of famished Nephite warriors being slaughtered instead (Alma 60:8-10). Thus, Captain Moroni did not overstate the government’s complicity in the great neglect of the Nephite armies. He is a great example of challenging government incompetence and of championing justice and freedom. He was undoubtedly divinely inspired to reprove the Nephite government with sharpness.
What’s cool also is that the Stripling warriors chose to enter into their covenant. They chose to step up and help their families and their communities. It wasn’t the adults asking them to accept that fate/direction, it was them seeing a need and ACTING in faith and making good decisions themselves. 🫶🏻 courage and kudos to them 🫶🏻
Thank you for all your time in sharing with us these amazing lessons. I absolutely love listening to unshaken. And I always tell my husband about the lessons. Thank you
Wow I absolutely LOVE this lesson!!! Brother Halverson, thank you so much for all of your preparation and dedication to teaching us. You made so many incredible points in this video, and I’m grateful for the chance to learn from you.
While serving in Puerto Rico during Hurricane Maria, we watched our missionaries mature emotionally and spiritually before our eyes as my husband and I left them with the responsibility of figuring out what needed to be done after the hurricane destroyed the island. As they came back to us after being evacuated for months, returning to their beloved island with fear and questioning as to what they should do because their area books had been lost or destroyed in the hurricane, they lost most of their personally belongings, the people of the island were tired, distraught and had lost hope; they often would hear us say: “Elders, Hermanas, what do you think should be done?” Or, “you’ll figure it out”. Years later our missionaries have told us that one of the best lessons learned on the mission was having to figuring things out on their own and taking it to the Lord. Many said that they had been told by their parents most of their lives what they should do. It was beautiful to see our own stripling warriors step up with courage as they developed both emotionally and spiritually to become leaders. Oh what joy filled our hearts serving with our sons and daughters.
lol
Incredible! Thank you so much for sharing! And serving! ❤
Thanks for sharing such a beautiful story.
I can't even imagine anyone would ever take offense at anything you say. Let alone criticize you in any way. I am so indebted to you for sharing your knowledge of the scriptures with me, and the world. I listen over and over to try and understand and recall as you do. I am so far from where you are. Please keep doing this. Thank you.
I rarely comment, but you have become my number one go to for enlightenment and better understanding of the scriptures!
I am appalled to even think there have been derogatory comments!!
I think you're a wonderful teacher, and I always pray that you will continue. I'm 'embarrassed' as a fellow saint, of those whom I assume are brothers/sisters in the gospel who show such ingratitude. Each week (and several times a week), I laugh (EVERY session), sometimes cry, and am motivated to do better , ALWAYS....then act on those promptings the best I can....and last but certainly not least , I ALWAYS feel the Spirit.❤ I look forward to and am excited for the next podcast! So thank you, Brother Halverson !! I am from the South, and someone always brings up a learning moment that you have made in Sunday class. Please continue to teach/ inspire us. And I wouldn't change a thing!
AMEN!!!!
You add so much depth to my scripture study. Thank you. Upon reading these "war chapters" I have come to realize something. It used to be when my children were young that I would have to wade into battle with them. I confronted angry parents, principals with an agenda, bad situations whose outcome was dubious, I didn't stay on the sidelines not being involved, I was in the "trenches" with them. This is what I see our Lord Jesus Christ doing in these chapters. He is in the trenches with us, saving those who believe in Him, lifting the heavy arms when they are weak, fighting alongside us. His love, His saving grace is in every chapter. Let us stand with Him in these battles we all face. He will not forsake us.
We are in our 70’s. We read the Book of Mormon several times over the past 50 years. Your instruction bringing details to life in this amazing book, has energized us, has opened our hearts and our minds so the Holy Spirit can witness to us so we retain these teachings. We inform everyone we know that your instruction is riveting. We are humbled and extremely grateful that you have chosen to enlighten your fellow saints. No matter our age.
All of your lessons and insights are my favorite. Thank you for this wonderful dive into the scriptures, Brother Jared❤
Thank you, Brother Halverson!
Thank you for your lessons each week. They help me feel peace even when life feels so shaken. I didn’t realize everything you mentioned about the stripling warriors and I love your analogy that we need to be our wounded self and still work and serve. My sweet daughter is going through a nasty divorce and she prays he will repent and see things differently. it’s so sad he chooses to stay focus on himself. So much pain and so much hurt. Time spent in the temple, at church, on our knees and trusting and believing and having Him on our side in this battle. As you were commenting towards the end of your lesson gives us peace.
Love that we can all as "the walking wounded" help bring each other to Christ, who heals us all ❤
I feel a connection to Alma 56:47, that if we do not doubt, God will deliver us as I’ve listened to your podcast today. Also Alma 58:11 has helped me throughout my life so that I can have that assurance that He is with me and will help me through all trials and worries and He has! Thank you, these chapters are my favorite!
"walking wounded" Thank you for this consept
A few years ago I read Elie Wiesel's "Night"...in which the young people wanted to resist the rounding up of the Jews. The older generation asked the younger to "go along to get along." This glimpse of reality has changed the way I speak to my children and grand children. Thank you for your wonderful lessons.
I so appreciate your insights and perceptions as you have shared your understanding of these scriptures with us. I'm so grateful for the way you teach!!!! I'm so grateful for you, Brother Halverson!!! God bless you through infinity and beyond!!!!!
So many lessons to take from these stripling warriors. One that I like to teach is the progression of personal testimony. They begin with faith in their mothers' faith that God would deliver them (56:47-48). That faith caused them to "obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness…and even according to their faith it was done unto them" (57:21). Faith + exact obedience gave them their own experiences where they saw that their mothers were right. God miraculously preserved every one of them. Finally, through this combination of faith and obedience, "their faith [was] strong in the prophecies concerning that which is to come", which I take to mean the coming of Christ (58:40). It's no longer simply faith in their mothers' faith; it's their own convictions based on their own experiences. Of course, this didn't happen overnight. Moroni didn't receive the epistle until the beginning of the 30th year, and Helaman starts his account sometime in the 26th year, so maybe about 3-1/2 years. It's important that we give our youth a chance to have their own experiences so they can go from leaning on their parents' convictions to having their own.
1:09:38 I found this bit about the walking wounded very inspiring
Learned helplessness is what comes from under preparing and over protecting. That also causes. Underestimating. The outcome is low self esteem. Especially the last child syndrome. I have found that even though my youngest child has left home, that my change in listening to his struggles and asking questions like:
“What do you think your options are?”
“Tell me more about that”
“That is hard.”
And I listen a lot and offer resources that he can take or leave.
I’m so happy to see that he is strong and can figure out what to do and learn from his experiences.
First of all i have noticed the transition in the come follow me and scripture videos that they called theses young men soldiers not warriors. And in the Book of Mormon they are called soldiers not warriors. I’m grateful to call them soldiers how the Book of Mormon calls them. You asked us to share something about preparing our children. I love this quote that I heard from “the world’s worst mom” don’t prepare the path for your children prepare your children for the path
I noticed "soldiers" this time through as well. Never stood out to me before. Warrior seems like someone seasoned and fighting as a career maybe, where Soldier seems like a person in battle for a particular conflict. Just a thought.
Thank you, Brother Halverson. The Holy Spirit always whispers to my soul thru your teaching. God bless you and your family. ❤
First time commenting. Love the Casualty List and Walking Wounded analogy. Will share that in our next class. Thanks for doing these lessons. I learn a lot.
Amazing Lesson❤ I can't thank you enough for all the things that I am learning.
When the missionaries were teaching the story of the Stripling Warriors to my family, the elder called them "Mamma's Boys", and the way he explained it, it was a badge of honor and respect. The added insight I now have that these were probably single mothers, gives added hope and comfort to all of us trying to raise righteous warriors today. It is, to me, one of the most powerful stories in the Book of Mormon.
Brother Jared Halverson, Thank you for the lesson. Wonderful and I read some of the comments, so very good points brought out.
I think best thing what children are listening to and ourselves listening to.
I taught my children good things, but each one turned out so very different and none go to church today, don't understand what happened.
All trying to be good and love me ❤ 10:29
I'm in this boat with you we'll keep on huh. The endowment session being shorter I'm going to go there and spend time in the scriptures in the celestial room.
Trust..❤
You have planted the seeds....
There will be an eventually harvest of your faithful parenting...
As a dear and good & faithful friend from Mauritius used to say to me.... "I think God wants me TO HAVE 'PATIENCE".....
Stay Blessed with Love, Hope & Faith...
SMILE
Spiritually
Minded
Is
Life
Eternal
❤❤❤
This painting has my friend with her sons.
Her ex brother-in-law painted it.
Pray for her. She has cancer.
Thank you 🙏
I’m sorry to hear that about your friend, yes I will pray for her.
Thank you so much for the shortened versions and thank you for your hard work and your testimony!
Brother Halverson another good resource was Elder Bednar talk when he spoke about pahorn’s response that we should respond in Kindness and not in kind…..This was a great lesson
The favourite principle, from looking at these chapters. that really gives me hope, is perfectly worded by Mandy Alj-Bjady, in her study of the wars in The Book of Mormon - "We don't have to be perfect to diminish Satan's power". The same hand that that penned the Title of Liberty also penned a letter to Pahoran, that was just a little...unkind! All The Lord asks of us is that we try our genuine best. Such a relief for those of us who can topple very easily into toxic perfectionism.
My favorite part is a lesson I once taught and was later talked about by President Nelson "never stop preparing".
Awesome insights .. thank you!!!👏💞
My renewed thought was that many of the stripling warriors probably grew up in single parent families because their fathers had been killed. The reason they may have referred to the teachings of their mothers was because they had no earthly fathers. And after seeing or being told if the bravery of their fathers they chose to fight
Yes I thought the same thing. The were just boys following the prophet and doing the best they could. Some prob haven’t even touched a sword. But they were willing to step up and fight.
I feel like we are all soldiers just doing the best we can and doing things we’ve never done before. Thanks for your comment
Thanks for this.
I am glad we got through war chapters. Thank you very much.😍👏
Thank you Bro Hal!
Regarding Moroni’s heated censure of Pahoran and others- May I add a little insight from many decades of life experience? There is a little-understood principle that is coined “God’s Law of Divine Illusion.” Most adults who have sought spiritual inspiration in making important decisions have received guidance. When they take action in the inspired direction things usually work out well for a time. Then it appears that the decision is not working out well. However, the Lord has purpose in all and one can then receive additional guidance. I believe this Law of Divine Illusion applies to Moroni’s scathing rebuke of Pahoran specifically because Pahoran’s indecisiveness is thus instantly quelled and he is able to receive divine confirmation to accept Moroni’s assistance to resolve a most critical situation!
I appreciate your reference to the fact that many of the stripping warriors probably grew up in homes without fathers being raised by widowed mothers. Remember the day when 1005 of the Anti-Nephi Lehies were killed (Alma 24:22)? The record doesn't say it, but I really doubt that these converted Lamanites would have put any of their women or children out in front to be slain. I suspect these were all or nearly all men who were killed that day. I believe many of these young men were being raised by single-parent mothers. Perhaps, that's one reason why they called Helaman "father." This is an example to the courageous women (and a few men) in our church who are doing their best to raise their families in a household of faith without the benefit of a spouse at their side. Either by death or divorce, there are many righteous single parents who alone are raising young people in their homes trying to make the best of a difficult situation. This story should give them courage and hope. Richard Boyer, Holladay, UT
You mentioned that the Stripling Warriors might not have had Fathers, perhaps perished from when they wouldn’t fight the Lamanites. If so, what a great sacrifice from the Mothers! Giving up the males in their family! Esp when viewed from the stand point of the law of Moses, they wouldn’t have anyone to provide for them!
I caught your humor 😂
“I am Ammoron” (A Moron)
Love and appreciate you Doc!
Speaking of the people of Ammon being a covenant people, and remembering their promises back in Alma 27:24 when they were given the lands of Jershon they covented with the Nephitis that "we will guard them from their enemies with our armies, on condition that they will give us a portion of their substance" I find it amazing that all these years later this promise between these two groups has not been forgotten. Alma 56:27 "there was brought unto us many provisions from the fathers of those my two thousand sons." This agreement is still taking place. This is a people that did not take covenants lightly and is an amazing example.
I see chapter 53 as a warning. The parents let their lives be cut short, and they refused to defend themselves because of the covenant. But they almost broke it because they loved the Nephites. Helaman understood that there are some sins so severe that even after you repent, you must stay as far away from it as possible. The scar may have healed, but breaking their covenant, even for a good reason, would had left them worse than before.
In my mind I see a young boy running front of his mom with a short wooden sword. “Don’t worry mom, I’ll defend you! Those mean Lamanites won’t get you!” I don’t think those mothers told their kids not to fight. I think they would have known their sons would have to fight someday. 30:31
I’ve got to teach on this very helpful
There is a contrary to be proven here on couseling with the youth and letting them make their own decisions as well as being the adult in the room and not letting them make a choice that would lead to their harm. I wonder if Helaman knew if he was doing the right thing with letting them turn around and fight.
Also it's hard to imagine what is going on internally with Helaman who was not a warrior but a priesthood leader who's strengths were in preaching but now is called to this new calling to help the youth which he must have felt very unprepared for and unqualified for. He may have never been in a battle himself. Now he is asking these young men, maybe 13 or 14 year old scrawny, untrained soldiers what they thought they should do. The youth had the courage and the faith. Helaman though was their leader in charge of their well-being, how does he imagine going to their mothers and fathers with the news that they had died in battle, how does he imagine bringing the body of a 13 year old boy to his parents and being asked how he could have allowed them to be in a battle when they were meant as decoys. How could Helaman answer that they were there because they decided and wanted to go. How could he as their adult leader allow the children to make that choice that led to their potential deaths, when he could have been the adult in the room and said no and not allowed such a thing to happen . Children should not be the ones making this kind of decision when there is an adult in charge and called to lead them to safety.
I just cant imagine the anxiety that must have been in Helaman's heart thinking of facing the parents of the dead boys and explaining how he allowed this to happen because he allowed them to make the choice to go to battle and death.
There is an great amount of faith I cant imagine having on the part of both Helaman the non warrior leader and the boys the non warrior children.
Thank you! I learn so much from your lessons! 🤍🤍 God bless you.
That Corianton got on one of those ships is interesting to me.
A few weeks ago brother Halverson mentioned a word for those that always put pressure on themselves to reach Christ-like perfection... Do any of you recall what that word was?
TIA 💜
Are you thinking of "scrupulosity"?
@@keystoharmony YES! Thank you! 💜
I am retired from the Army. When I ask how action is different from what is normal the principles become clearer. The Nephites feel different about killing enemies. When the terms of surrender are given things are said that normally are never said. Nephites do not attack first. Nephites defend. They are not taught contention that leads to hate and anger
I love how the leaders who listen to the Spirit are always one step of the bad guys. Whether it was the breastplates to start with or the mounds of earth around the Nephite cities or the works of timber on top of the mounds of earth.
Repentant sinners(the parents in this case) had taught them Christ and to hope in him.
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Judges 18 comes to mind when the tribe of Dan found a place called Laish where Zidonians lived without protection from war. Dan's men of Valor were wrong for talking a Levite into going with them and the Levite had been priest for Micha, who had a little God made out of silver, so one bad thought and act lead to another one for individuals proving they were against God. Judges 18
Here 2 generations are proving they are cooperating with God.
What was the reference for President Ballard's comments on Scattered Revelation? I'd like to read more on that.
Before I say this I need to say that I and my family have benefitted greatly from this podcast over the past 3.5 years that I have been listening to you. Your knowledge of and insights are wonderful. I and my family are better because you didn't let covid restrictions keep you from teaching scripture.
Now for the exchange between Moroni and Pahoran; this is between the military and political head. Not the prophet and another leader in the church. Moroni's assumptions were founded. "Nice is different than good" (into the woods). I think what you're doing to Moroni is taking what he said out of its historical, technological, and political context and accusing him of wrongdoing. When you combine the title of liberty and the principles (i.e. that when the government is destroying liberty) found in Moroni's epistle to Pahoran you have the Nephite version of the declaration of independence. Just because it's accusatory without perfect knowledge doesn't mean it's wrong.
In fact we don't really know the âge of these warriors they could be 14,15 or 16 years old.
Principle: Defense wins championships.
Captain Moroni Reproved the Governing Leaders with Sharpness
Mormon would be disappointed with the prevalent misinterpretation of the written exchange between Chief Captain Moroni and Chief Governor Pahoran (Alma 59-61). Some have mistakenly characterized Captain Moroni as a false (or unjust) accuser. Since false accusation or bearing false witness was a serious offense under the Law of Moses (Exodus 20:16; Deuteronomy 19:17-19), Mormon undoubtedly did not intend to besmirch Captain Moroni.
In fact, Mormon said all men should aspire to be like Captain Moroni (Alma 48:17), who he described as “a man of perfect understanding … who was firm in the faith of Christ” (Alma 48:11-13). Moreover, Captain Moroni’s “heart did glory … in doing good, in preserving his people, yea, in keeping the commandments of God, yea, and resisting iniquity” (Alma 48:16).
Mormon clearly characterized Captain Moroni as an advocate (like Jehovah) rather an accuser (like Lucifer). Captain Moroni was “a man whose soul did joy in the liberty and the freedom of his country…; a man who did labor exceedingly for the welfare and safety of his people…. [A]nd he had sworn with an oath to defend his people, his rights, and his country, and his religion, even to the loss of his blood” (Alma 48:11-13).
With this view of Captain Moroni as a righteous advocate, we need to review the scriptural record to consider whether he was “moved upon by the Holy Ghost” to reprove the Nephite government with sharpness (Doctrine & Covenants 121:43). In his “epistle to Pahoran … and also to all those who have been chosen by this people to govern and manage the affairs of this war” (Alma 60:1), Captain Moroni wrote: “Behold, the Lord saith unto me: If those whom ye have appointed your governors do not repent of their sins and iniquities, ye shall go up to battle against them” (Alma 60:33).
Notice that the Lord revealed unto Captain Moroni that collectively the governors needed to “repent of their sins and iniquities” (Alma 60:33). What were their sins and iniquities? Which laws were they transgressing?
About five years earlier-shortly after Pahoran became the chief judge and governor-the Nephite people granted Captain Moroni the power to compel dissenters to defend their country or be put to death (Alma 51:15-16). “And thus it became expedient that this law should be strictly observed for the safety of their country” (Alma 62:10). So, Captain Moroni used his army to slay 4,000 dissenters (king-men) who refused to yield to the standard of liberty (Alma 51:17-19).
When king-men once again rebelled against the government, Pahoran nevertheless “was somewhat worried concerning what we should do, whether it should be just in us to go against our brethren” (Alma 61:19). Pahoran questioned the justness of the law and apparently Captain Moroni’s earlier enforcement of the law. Not only was Pahoran indecisive, but he also prevented enforcement of the law by withholding from military leaders (including Captain Moroni) information about the ongoing rebellion (Alma58:9, 34). Moreover, he apparently did not seek revelation and relied upon his own wisdom.
Captain Moroni’s sharp rebuke apparently jarred Pahoran into recognizing his shortcomings. Pahoran’s meek reply demonstrates a repentant attitude. Pahoran said though he felt censured (not accused) by Captain Moroni, he rejoiced in the greatness of Captain Moroni’s heart (Alma 61:9). Pahoran also acknowledged the ineffectiveness of resisting rebellions and dissensions with words (Alma 61:4,10-14), which was apparently his initial inclination.
The idleness of Pahoran and the other governors in enforcing the law resulted in great neglect of the Nephite armies (Alma 60:14,22). Though the king-men rebelled and initially caused disruption, the slothfulness of the governing leaders in executing the rebels exacerbated the situation. Delaying the slaying of the rebels resulted in thousands of famished Nephite warriors being slaughtered instead (Alma 60:8-10).
Thus, Captain Moroni did not overstate the government’s complicity in the great neglect of the Nephite armies. He is a great example of challenging government incompetence and of championing justice and freedom. He was undoubtedly divinely inspired to reprove the Nephite government with sharpness.
The anti Nephi- Lehi s were not true pacifist. They supported the wars by providing and supporting the armies and even sending their sons to war.
What’s cool also is that the Stripling warriors chose to enter into their covenant. They chose to step up and help their families and their communities. It wasn’t the adults asking them to accept that fate/direction, it was them seeing a need and ACTING in faith and making good decisions themselves. 🫶🏻 courage and kudos to them 🫶🏻
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