What I love about Lehi is that he NEVER leaves the Tree/Christ as he beckons, exhorts/pleads with his sons. He stands firm beside the Tree, even as his children wander...as a beacon to them. It is hard NOT to run after your wayward children...4 out of my 6 are...but safety for my entire family depends on where I stand, which is firmly by the Tree and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I will continually pray for my children all the while wrapping my arms around the trunk of the Tree of Life. They all know where I stand, even if they roll their eyes as I bear my testimony. They also know I love them with all my heart, BUT I STAND CONTINUALLY BT THE TREE, like Lehi.
Thank you for this Kimberly, this struck my heart, I am in the same position with my children and my husband, but like you I hold firm and and have a strong belief that the Lord will find a way ❤
I think everyone has some children that run away from the Gospel of Jesus Christ and that's nothing new . In the church outside of the church they're all running away to the great and spacious building we can try to bring them along but that's it ,the rest is up to the Lord and his merciful Loving Hands. Pray always for them, we are to do all we can do, that's it . The Lord will help if you ask, no need to worry, Let It Be. We can't save them all because we don't have the power, only the Savior does. It would be nice if we had just a little more power in prayer.
One of the reasons why Lehi never leaves the tree is because he has a lifetime of experience and he knows there's nothing better than the tree - he doesn't need to experiment with anything else.
Elder Maxwell once gave a talk that said we will need to hold on to the iron rod, and hold on with white knuckles in these latter days. I have never forgotten that.
That's awesome thanks for sharing. I love his sermons. Very compelling and spirit led, and just a wonderful servant. He's one of my heroes I kinda lend ear to. But also our living Prophet as much, I am so very happy that the Lord led me to His restored church!
@user-xp5lk4lv4g the one in comments that mentions that he says that we need to hold on to the iron rod until our knuckles are white. Then I can search the BYU for it 😊
I have a wayward son. Your understanding and sharing Nephi’s response to his brothers, Lamen and Lemuel and your shared experience with a past student instilled all kinds of thoughts and ideas into my heart and mind. I am very grateful. We are at a critical junction and I will pray for more insight. But you have led me to a good point to ask for more from my loving Heavenly Father. Thanks
Thank you Brother Halverson for encouraging "exhorting" us to dive deeper. When you asked us to look at the Book of Mormon through a different lens this year ( logical vs feeling) I decided to try to dive deeper into my studies and be open to trying new things. I have two subjects that I want to understand more fully this year through my study: the atonement of Jesus Christ and how to help all of my adult children come closer to Him. Your example has helped direct me on how to facilitate that deeper study. This morning I learned that the 1829 definition of diligence (1 Nephi 10:2) can mean to love earnestly. I looked it up because the phrase jumped off the page at me. That description touched my heart and I know the Spirit is offering me little nuggets to ponder and digest. I know the Lord is answering my prayers through the scriptures. Thank you for being a part of that process.
Teach as long as you can. I am listening and learning so much. If people are unhappy with the length, they can stop listening anytime they want to. I am a grateful, dedicated follower. I was unsure of myself with the different study program. I am catching on and truly feel blessed in my efforts to study on my own and write down my feelings and thoughts. However, I am so grateful for your classes that help me learn how to “search” the scriptures. Never in my life have I studied with so much enthusiasm and that enthusiasm has spilled over into other areas of my life. I LOVE Your lessons! Thank you for teaching me. 1:04:27
I appreciate your depth of knowledge…as someone who has read the Book of Mormon many times…without really studying and truly understanding. I look forward to this year’s deep study. Lehi’s dream was a favorite before but I love my new understanding of all this amazing ‘story’ has to teach us. Lehi’s dream portrays a parent’s yearning for their children to hold fast to the iron rod and their sorrow when they don’t. Lehi understood! Thank you for every lesson. I look forward to them!
I appreciate this lesson to help me deal with one of our sons who has wandered off the straight and narrow path. Lehi's example of how he dealt with Laman and Lemuel stands out to me as powerful and loving. WE have 7 children and one of them is struggling. Prayers and loving him have worked to keep him closer to us. Visiting and serving him and his children have helped build relationships. Sharing personal experiences and testimonies I hope is helping. God Bless our children who find their missions differing but know the way back.
Brother Halverson thank you for the wonderful insights you bring to light and thank you for going as long as necessary to share with us. So grateful you are still forgetting the click and allowing the Spirit to teach through your words
Thank you so much for what you said at the very end of this one, Brother Halverson, especially about who Jesus is. I grew up with an extremely abusive father, and it’s difficult for me to see the Savior as loving. So, thanks for calling out those things. 🌟
The Samuel Principle: I've been recently pricked in my heart to approach someone in my life about how sad I am that they've wandered. The Samuel Principle is really going to guide my approach. Thank you!
Thank you for bringing out the principles of Christ centered leadership demonstrated by Lehi..who exhorted and encouraged and preached, honoring his children's agency, as Christ like leadership operates. I think Laman and Lemuel's humor/mocking and murmuring stand in stark contrast as earthly examples of power plays and Natural man leadership. This book gives us some beautiful examples and contrasts about Heavenly vs earthly use of power and the consequences.
I feel like Sam, Nephi’s brother was not a sheep. He was a follower of truth, Sheep follow blindly and Sam had his eyes wide-open. I love the last conference talk by Elder Bednar “In the Path of Their Duty.” Not everybody can be a Nephi but we can all be followers of Christ.
I love that the “Tree” has a maternal significance in ancient Israel. If Heavenly Father loves us, how much more does our Heavenly Mother. The story then goes straight to Mary and Christ’s condescension.
Thank you thank you thank you for continuing your teaching online. Every week Im actually hoping the lesson goes longer than 60 min or even 120 because this content brings the spirit and knowledge and testimony of Jesus Christ into my every single day. So don't ever apologize for going "long" 😁 of course we want you to balance all the important things in your life. I am grateful for all the time you give. I've been a member my whole life with some years of inactivity in my 20s. This podcast has changed my life and brought me closer to the Savior than any other study I've done. Thank you
Thanks Jared for this lesson, it's really not very long of a lesson. I wouldn't care if it was two more hours long but I know you have other things to do in your life, like family . You did a great job explaining the dream. I'm going to have to go back and reread things and I will probably listen to you again if technology permits.
The tree isn’t just the love of God which He has for all living beings. It’s the REDEEMING love of God for those who believe in His finished work FOR US.
Jared I cherish the Book of Mormon. This year, I will be studying it ...not just reading it. Your inspiring insights help me to want to look and search deeper into what Jesus Christ wants us to know so we can act and do His will. Thank you for another golden presentation of learning and loving the word of God.
Brother Halverson, I recently found your podcast. Can i say, A M A Z I N G!!!! I really like the verse by verse discussion! It reminds me so much of seminary and institute. I loved that time of my life! (A hundred years ago, LOL!!!😂 ) We have 6 of 9 of our children who have chosen an alternate path for their lives. I have appreciated your words . Thank you for your podcast and the other talks i have listened to. 😊
I love the study of the Book of Mormon. Thank you for your insights - as we liken the scriptures unto us it is so important to dig in and SEARCH the scriptures as Nephi did. It is critical for us to SEEK the Spirit. I know I want to be like Nephi and his example in the scriptures helps me to follow his example.
Thank you for your preparation and your lessons. I have been with you since you started posting BoM videos 4 years ago. It is such a treat! My husband mentioned something during our Sunday school last Sunday that I have never thought about before. He said that people from the spacious building never pointed fingers and made fun of those who were traveling in the mist of darkness, or at those who were going to the tree, or who were wandering around, or swimming in the river. They only pointed fingers and laughed at those who made it to the tree, partook of the fruit and were hanging out at the tree area. Satan cares about those who learned about Christ's love and are in the tree area... Something to think about...
Clearly, the internet and social media has amplified the mocking, twisting, taunting. What I find sad is that there are some with serious questions who are seeking to reconcile discrepancies, concerns or questions too often get grouped into those in the great and spacious building - I am grateful that your teaching helps clarify that there are many not in the great and spacious building who may not be with us now - but, if we respond with, can hopefully be with us in the future
Whenever I have read 1 Nephi 8:1, I have always wondered why the chapter started with talk of the seeds they had brought with them. It seemed like an odd beginning to Lehi’s vision. It wasn’t until you brought up the parable of the sower that it clicked. “Seeds of every kind”. I still have a lot to ponder there, but now I have something to work with.
Brother Halverson, as I listened to your comments on the hymn "The Iron Rod" verse 4, "hand o'er hand, the rod along" my thoughts were as we study The Word of God (our scriptures) we should be going hand over hand turning pages as we look up the footnotes and all references. Brother Halverson, I wish I had your teaching years ago when I taught gospel doctrine for almost 8 years. Thank you and your family
Comment about "clinging" to the rod...when you have felt like you were drowning in the raging waters of the "world" and you find the lifesaver (faith in God) that will keep your head above water, you cling to it. But if that life saver has a rope attached (baptism and covenants) that will bring you safely to shore, you cling! Maybe it depends on the dangers you have faced before that causes you to cling. Not just grip tightly but with all your soul and strength. Not with fear, but with gratitude.
Bro Halverson, thank you for your work, though I wish you could provide longer lessons at least until the point in Jacob where you began 4 years ago. We’d then have a complete set of verse by verse recordings to reference into the future 😊
In my long ago younger days, someone referred to Laman and Lemuel as LEMON and LIMEUEL because of their sour attitudes!!! I've never forgotten that!😅😅 I also used to wonder why Lemuel never seemed to think for himself. Now as a mature adult with mature adult children I can see some of them who tend to be leaders, some who are followers, some who are peacemakers, and some who tend to be loners.
Hey Jared, will you do a video on the hiring of Aaron Sherinian? I would love to hear your thoughts on it. Im sure there are many more who would like to hear from you as well.
Always enjoy your lessons, length included. You may not reach quantity, but quality is a higher mark. Throughout the years I've heard many pit "cling" against "hold fast", as you did. But have you checked Webster's 1828? To me, they pretty much mean the same thing, even listing "cling" under "hold." If clinging is so bad, what does that say about marriage and that a spouse is to "cling." Thank you so much for your time and devotion to God and these, your online students.
I love everything you produce (I'm a new committed weekly listener) and am inspired by your journey. It gives me courage to commence mine with more courage. I will be starting a TH-cam channel soon designed as a program to help people overcome depression. I plan to teach using both secular (food, etc.) and spiritual warfare to help people find hope and heal from mental illness. So thank you for your example! On another note, I wanted to offer a suggestion/new perspective on 1 Nephi 8 with regards to the man in a white robe.... I have been taught my whole life that it was an angel who led Lehi to the tree of life. In fact, I even have a Book of Mormon picture book showing this personage in white beckoning Lehi to the tree. This year, however, I read something that brought my attention to the fact that this is NOT what the scriptures say. The man in white led Lehi into a "dark and dreary waste" and left him there. Only when Lehi prayed to God for deliverance was he shown the way out (his vision cleared/the scene cleared and he was able to see a "great and spacious field") and then Lehi "beheld the tree" and then walked himself to it and "[partook] of the fruit...." There is no mention of the man in white leading Lehi to the tree. The scriptures do not refer to this man in white as an angel either, nor does it say anything about his appearance being glorious or powerful in any way (compare Moses 1). Contrast that to Lehi's description of the fruit of the tree, which "was white, to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen." Is it possible that this man in white was not an angel of God at all? Could this man in white have been--contrastingly--an angel of darkness POSING as an angel of light? A "wolf in sheep's clothing," if you will? And is it possible that this man in white--or similar like him--led others in Lehi's dream into the dark and dreary waste? How often do we pray to the Lord, and ASK Him--when we see something that looks or even feels like a sign from Heaven--if it is a sign or direction that was actually sent by Him? As far as I can tell, even Lehi--a good man--was deceived by this man in white, and was ONLY DELIVERED from this dreary waste after "many hours" once he chose to PRAY for help. Only AFTER his supplication to God was Lehi delivered..... I think any of us could fall prey to following any "helpful" person or plausible solution when we are feeling lost and/or afraid. To my point, fear is exactly what gets most of us into trouble. We might jump at 'whatever is beckoning us' without bothering to stop and consider the source first...because we panic, and are 'desperate' for help. For reference, here is the scriptural backup :) 4 But behold, Laman and Lemuel, I fear exceedingly because of you; for behold, methought I saw in my dream, a dark and dreary wilderness. 5 And it came to pass that I saw a man, and he was dressed in a white robe; and he came and stood before me. 6 And it came to pass that he spake unto me, and bade me follow him. 7 And it came to pass that as I followed him I beheld myself that I was in a dark and dreary waste. 8 And after I had traveled for the space of many hours in darkness, I began to pray unto the Lord that he would have mercy on me, according to the multitude of his tender mercies. 9 And it came to pass after I had prayed unto the Lord I beheld a large and spacious field. 10 And it came to pass that I beheld a tree, whose fruit was desirable to make one happy. 11 And it came to pass that I did go forth and partake of the fruit thereof; and I beheld that it was most sweet, above all that I ever before tasted. Yea, and I beheld that the fruit thereof was white, to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen.
The people who are in the great and spacious building are laughing , scoffing and mocking the people who are partaking of the fruit. So the building must not be really very interesting, if all they do in that building, is to mock . The Tree that has the white, bright light fruit that is sweeter than anything else ever tasted, as long as we are partaking the fruit and disregarding the mocking people in that strange building, the fruit itself, is amazing.
The Rhetoric of Ridicule?!🔥Whoa😢 that breaks my heart and in the same breath I want to read your dissertation and encourage you to please write a book to give us clarity and tools to overcome. Do you see how much of social media is doing the same to break down society’s mental, emotional and spiritual health? Contemptuous and dismissive noise from all sides, a “time honored” tangible technique that has captured and tortured so many!💔 My brain is blown by how absolutely spot on Lehi’s vision is for us here and now … exactly, again … and again
You are so funny, Brother Halverson. Thank you for your dedication and love for us. We love you too. 😢 let me add I am not shamed when someone insults me, I stand Tall as President Hinkley encourages us to be yet humble, and pray for them as Jesus taught, if you are solid in this, you cannot be shaken.
The best teacher of scripture my whole life. Thank you for sharing your gift. Question- it’s not clear, but why didn’t Lehi have his own brass plates? I know it’s speculation, but you might have a cultural insight that’s not clear to me.
Lehi and others didn't have brass plates because they used scrolls from what I understand. The scrolls would have been stored at their local synagogue. With Lehi being rich he might have been rich enough to have a copy made but unsure. It would have been very cumbersome too carry. I think the brass plates were such a treat to him because it must have also had additional scripture that he may have never read before. These are my thoughts.
So if the river of water which was full of man made pollution/filthy water which ran near to the tree of Life, then it should be seen that the tree takes up that filthy water through the roots and later processes it for nourishment, only to then produce such a fruit that is sweet and desirable. I think it can be similar as the Savior when he takes upon himself our sins that then produces in him an understanding and this understanding increases His Godly love for each of us and he shares this Love with us as we come to Him.
The righteous always delivered from their enemies? Yes in many cases BUT, what about the saints in amonihah? What about the early saints in this dispensation who were overcome by persecution and oppression? It bothers me that they weren’t protected. Does anyone have an explanation?
I think the term "delivered" can mean many things. Sometimes it might in fact be a deliverance from danger/oppressors, but it could also refer to deliverance from doubt, sin, confusion, contention, etc. The first meaning listed in the 1828 Webster dictionary of DELIVERANCE is "Release from captivity, slavery, oppression, or any restraint."
A question please. In the opening paragraph on the first book of Nephi above the chapter 1 heading, it says that “He taketh three days journey into the wilderness with his family.” Brother Halverson had guessed that perhaps the brothers journey was a month long to retrieve the plates and get back to their parents. Does this three days reference suggest that they weren’t too far from Jerusalem? Just trying to understand. Thank you for your time investment into these lessons.
In 1 Ne 2:5, you will read that Lehi took his family to the shores of the Red Sea. This is about a two week journey from Jerusalem. And then he travels in the wilderness. That is where the three days comes in - heard this explanation from several podcasters last week.
i'm still back in your New Testament Lessons. But i wanted to come here and point out that the dark and dreary wilderness Lehi experienced in his vision was BEFORE he met the man in a white robe (who was presumably God). I believe that Lehi's dream began with a vision of pre-existence pre-dating the presence of God. And as such, his description of it could inform us regarding the nature of that "nowhere" that it is a "wilderness" that is "dark and dreary", as opposed to the "waste" of the Telestial world, wherein things WERE better, but now are fallen. in the wilderness, there was no shelter, no certainty, only the next day. Before God, we did not have laws, and as such our choices did not really matter. Even a small animal without tools has more power to choose than we had in that wilderness. Before God, we had so much chaos that we didn't even have a measure of how chaotic it was, because attempts at stability were still chaotic. we must be grateful to God and the Atonement for giving us the law that scribes of Christ's day revered so much (not the pharisaical law, but the very laws of God, both Mosaic and otherwise), for that law was a mercy, it granted us the freedom AND knowledge to choose within it. Anyways, that is a piece of my testimony which is precious to me.
Lehigh knows his dreams to be true. Have you ever written down a dream in your Journal. It's really hard to describe every little bit of the dream. I'm sure he could add written another 10 pages. We all know what muddy water looks like. Nephi will explain more of it. It's up to each of us to basically paint a picture of the whole dream in our own mind before we can explain it to others. The pitcher grows bigger when there is more information. Maybe now you have a 10 by 10 picture in your own mind but later that picture will grow bigger and bigger. The Lord will reveal more to each of us as time goes on .I know that is true on my side of the world.
Lehi saw people in the great and spacious building and could only describe the manner of their dress and couldn't identify who the people were. Today we know who these people are, they are the prominent and the so-called famous people of our day. They are actors, politicians, athletes, and the very wealthy. Do we put these people above our church leaders or do we pay more attention to them on the Sabbath Day than we do the Lord? I think Lot's wife did.
Speaking of those in the great and spacious building Elder Packer said... "All of the mocking does not come from outside of the Church. Let me say that again: All of the mocking does not come from outside of the Church. Be careful that you do not fall into the category of mocking."
Dear Brother Jared Halverson, or (en) I'm am very interested if you have published a book or words to those souls who have turned way, way against the COJCOLDS. I've been a convert since 1981, had some ups and downs. But I do not think I could ever deny the Latter day prophets or the Restoration that is happening now. There is people who believe they know more than the gospels and the LDS beliefs. I think you live on the presapise(sp). Counseling faith doughting souls who have fallen down or are having trouble. I've been there, but my testimony is stronger than my faith, if that means anything. I would like to read your words about what trouble others about the LDS church. Sincerely Eric
I have followed along since D&C 89!!! I love it all!!! Here's my take on how I'm experiencing the attempts at adjustment for the beginning of the Book of Mormon study.... I feel like we're getting just as much commentary if not a touch more by not going verse by verse.... I really really really miss verse by verse with commentary added in to help explain concepts, principles, apply it to real life. It's ALL GOOD STUFF, BUT MY FOMO on your verse by verse approach has me slightly bummed out. Either way and whatever you do, I'll keep following along! I'll adjust. It's really all good stuff. So edifying. So needed. So appreciated. I'll be forever thankful how you and the Spirit have mentored me over the years. From another "Hal", you're a friend of mine Bro Hal! My 3.5 year old has recently started saying in random moments and in a rather dramatic way, albeit little kid voice, "I could not be shaken" and it's MY FAVORITE THING EVER! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😂😂😂😂😂😂😂❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Pausing to think about: Path vs river Tree vs building Path: you control where you step for the most part. It’s marked by trodden down footsteps of other people who have come before you. Well marked as the ground can no long sustain plant life on the path, due to its compacted state & use of the ground River: you are swept away. No sure footing possibly. You have less control of where you are in the river depending on how strong the current is. Getting out of the river might take time & be quite the struggle Tree: God made. Provides shade, rest, peaceful surrounding. Provides food to quench your hunger & possibly thirst needs. Building3. Possibly made with trees. Man built. Does not provide food. Doubtful it is peaceful & restful with so many people around. Might have jolts, unstabling motions without a foundation. Can be more disturbing if people are screaming
The man in the white robe leads him into darkness. He was a counterfeit. A decoy. That is what Lehi eventually lead him to dispare and pray. THEN he sees the field and the tree. The scene changed but the white robe man was not there then. The Lord showed Lehi light and the tree. Angels of darkness can mask themselves as angels of light to those who are inexperienced at detecting true messengers of Heaven.
I wish chapters 8 & 11 were taught in conjuction with Mark 9, John 17, & with the story of the Good Samaritan. The Church and it's members need a much more rounded/balanced understanding: No one leaves the Church for any different reason than others come to it. Treat those who leave the very same way you think the families of New converts should treat the new convert... they ultimately apostasized from the faith of their family. Maybe in that people can become terrestrial and have a better understanding of thinking Celestial.
Religious gatherings: “How can we strengthen our community, our faith, and serve mankind?” Atheist gatherings: “We need to eradicate religious groups through scorn and mockery”
Nephi made a second set of plates not knowing the “why”. He did all the work but it wasn’t for his benefit at all. How often are we inspired for the benefit of someone else, we do all the work and never know why because it wasn’t for us.
So hearing the part where the people in the great and spacious building point and mock at those partaking of the fruit; it's worth noting that propaganda often times works the same way. You mock the thing you want to destroy and bring shame to it.
I cringed a bit at your derogatory description of academia. Head in the clouds and no foundation, not grounded, no roots, I believe is what you said? That has not been my experience at all. I am in the field of family systems, and the work is deeply rooted in everyday usefulness and practical experience. This vilification of academia also reeks of identity politics.
Hello Jared, I love your content. I can tell you are a true believer; that anchors us; however, your mannerisms make me crazy. Sorry, maybe I’m the problem, not you- very likely. Hey, there’s no perfect Saint, nor Sinner. I love the Book of Mormon! You are an excellent teacher my brother - you’re just a little sappy. I’m choosing to love you.
What I love about Lehi is that he NEVER leaves the Tree/Christ as he beckons, exhorts/pleads with his sons. He stands firm beside the Tree, even as his children wander...as a beacon to them. It is hard NOT to run after your wayward children...4 out of my 6 are...but safety for my entire family depends on where I stand, which is firmly by the Tree and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I will continually pray for my children all the while wrapping my arms around the trunk of the Tree of Life. They all know where I stand, even if they roll their eyes as I bear my testimony. They also know I love them with all my heart, BUT I STAND CONTINUALLY BT THE TREE, like Lehi.
Thank you for this Kimberly, this struck my heart, I am in the same position with my children and my husband, but like you I hold firm and and have a strong belief that the Lord will find a way ❤
Wise woman!
@@gills2561 ♥️🙏♥️
I think everyone has some children that run away from the Gospel of Jesus Christ and that's nothing new . In the church outside of the church they're all running away to the great and spacious building we can try to bring them along but that's it ,the rest is up to the Lord and his merciful Loving Hands. Pray always for them, we are to do all we can do, that's it . The Lord will help if you ask, no need to worry, Let It Be. We can't save them all because we don't have the power, only the Savior does. It would be nice if we had just a little more power in prayer.
One of the reasons why Lehi never leaves the tree is because he has a lifetime of experience and he knows there's nothing better than the tree - he doesn't need to experiment with anything else.
Elder Maxwell once gave a talk that said we will need to hold on to the iron rod, and hold on with white knuckles in these latter days. I have never forgotten that.
That's awesome thanks for sharing. I love his sermons. Very compelling and spirit led, and just a wonderful servant. He's one of my heroes I kinda lend ear to. But also our living Prophet as much, I am so very happy that the Lord led me to His restored church!
My Knuckles have been waiting for a long time hanging tight to the rod. I'm not going to let go of the ride either.🙏👍
What was the title of Elder Maxwells talk?
@@gills2561 which one are you talking about, there are so many great talks. Even BYU talks
@user-xp5lk4lv4g the one in comments that mentions that he says that we need to hold on to the iron rod until our knuckles are white. Then I can search the BYU for it 😊
I have a wayward son. Your understanding and sharing Nephi’s response to his brothers, Lamen and Lemuel and your shared experience with a past student instilled all kinds of thoughts and ideas into my heart and mind. I am very grateful. We are at a critical junction and I will pray for more insight. But you have led me to a good point to ask for more from my loving Heavenly Father. Thanks
Thank you Brother Halverson for encouraging "exhorting" us to dive deeper. When you asked us to look at the Book of Mormon through a different lens this year ( logical vs feeling) I decided to try to dive deeper into my studies and be open to trying new things. I have two subjects that I want to understand more fully this year through my study: the atonement of Jesus Christ and how to help all of my adult children come closer to Him. Your example has helped direct me on how to facilitate that deeper study. This morning I learned that the 1829 definition of diligence (1 Nephi 10:2) can mean to love earnestly. I looked it up because the phrase jumped off the page at me. That description touched my heart and I know the Spirit is offering me little nuggets to ponder and digest. I know the Lord is answering my prayers through the scriptures. Thank you for being a part of that process.
Teach as long as you can. I am listening and learning so much.
If people are unhappy with the length, they can stop listening anytime they want to. I am a grateful, dedicated follower. I was unsure of myself with the different study program. I am catching on and truly feel blessed in my efforts to study on my own and write down my feelings and thoughts. However, I am so grateful for your classes that help me learn how to “search” the scriptures. Never in my life have I studied with so much enthusiasm and that enthusiasm has spilled over into other areas of my life. I LOVE Your lessons! Thank you for teaching me. 1:04:27
50:35..."We're way over time...sorry, not sorry. I'll keep trying." Don't try too hard, Brother Halverson, 'cause we're not sorry! Thank you!!!!
I second that!
😂😂😍😍 amen to this
Nope, not sorry at all!!! 😂
Remembering my Father in Heaven loves my children more than I do and I need to trust in Him.
You have changed my life for the better. Thank you for all you do.
I appreciate your depth of knowledge…as someone who has read the Book of Mormon many times…without really studying and truly understanding. I look forward to this year’s deep study. Lehi’s dream was a favorite before but I love my new understanding of all this amazing ‘story’ has to teach us. Lehi’s dream portrays a parent’s yearning for their children to hold fast to the iron rod and their sorrow when they don’t. Lehi understood! Thank you for every lesson. I look forward to them!
I appreciate this lesson to help me deal with one of our sons who has wandered off the straight and narrow path. Lehi's example of how he dealt with Laman and Lemuel stands out to me as powerful and loving. WE have 7 children and one of them is struggling. Prayers and loving him have worked to keep him closer to us. Visiting and serving him and his children have helped build relationships. Sharing personal experiences and testimonies I hope is helping. God Bless our children who find their missions differing but know the way back.
Brother Halverson thank you for the wonderful insights you bring to light and thank you for going as long as necessary to share with us. So grateful you are still forgetting the click and allowing the Spirit to teach through your words
Thank you so much for what you said at the very end of this one, Brother Halverson, especially about who Jesus is.
I grew up with an extremely abusive father, and it’s difficult for me to see the Savior as loving.
So, thanks for calling out those things. 🌟
And thank you too bro Jared for being such an awesome teacher🥰🙏🙏
I really like the idea of rereading chapter 8 like a new adventure. I amazes me how much the Lord has blessed us. Thank you for the work that you do.
The Samuel Principle:
I've been recently pricked in my heart to approach someone in my life about how sad I am that they've wandered. The Samuel Principle is really going to guide my approach. Thank you!
Thank you for bringing out the principles of Christ centered leadership demonstrated by Lehi..who exhorted and encouraged and preached, honoring his children's agency, as Christ like leadership operates. I think Laman and Lemuel's humor/mocking and murmuring stand in stark contrast as earthly examples of power plays and Natural man leadership. This book gives us some beautiful examples and contrasts about Heavenly vs earthly use of power and the consequences.
Another fantastic lesson! Thanks brother Halverson!
I feel like Sam, Nephi’s brother was not a sheep. He was a follower of truth, Sheep follow blindly and Sam had his eyes wide-open. I love the last conference talk by Elder Bednar “In the Path of Their Duty.” Not everybody can be a Nephi but we can all be followers of Christ.
Thank you for being such a wonderful teacher ❤
I feel so very blessed to be taught by you every week. Learning so much. Love and appreciate you so much!
Great lesson and thank you for sharing your time.
I love that the “Tree” has a maternal significance in ancient Israel. If Heavenly Father loves us, how much more does our Heavenly Mother. The story then goes straight to Mary and Christ’s condescension.
Thank you thank you thank you for continuing your teaching online. Every week Im actually hoping the lesson goes longer than 60 min or even 120 because this content brings the spirit and knowledge and testimony of Jesus Christ into my every single day. So don't ever apologize for going "long" 😁 of course we want you to balance all the important things in your life. I am grateful for all the time you give. I've been a member my whole life with some years of inactivity in my 20s. This podcast has changed my life and brought me closer to the Savior than any other study I've done. Thank you
Thanks Jared for this lesson, it's really not very long of a lesson. I wouldn't care if it was two more hours long but I know you have other things to do in your life, like family . You did a great job explaining the dream. I'm going to have to go back and reread things and I will probably listen to you again if technology permits.
The tree isn’t just the love of God which He has for all living beings. It’s the REDEEMING love of God for those who believe in His finished work FOR US.
So great. Read chapter 8 again. Thank you very much😍👏
Jared I cherish the Book of Mormon. This year, I will be studying it ...not just reading it. Your inspiring insights help me to want to look and search deeper into what Jesus Christ wants us to know so we can act and do His will. Thank you for another golden presentation of learning and loving the word of God.
Brother Halverson, I recently found your podcast. Can i say, A M A Z I N G!!!! I really like the verse by verse discussion! It reminds me so much of seminary and institute. I loved that time of my life! (A hundred years ago, LOL!!!😂 )
We have 6 of 9 of our children who have chosen an alternate path for their lives. I have appreciated your words .
Thank you for your podcast and the other talks i have listened to. 😊
I think the length is perfect as is and I always learn something important from you! I hope you're getting some family time in the new year?
I love the study of the Book of Mormon. Thank you for your insights - as we liken the scriptures unto us it is so important to dig in and SEARCH the scriptures as Nephi did. It is critical for us to SEEK the Spirit. I know I want to be like Nephi and his example in the scriptures helps me to follow his example.
Webster 1828:
- clinging: adhering closely
- fast: Firm; immovable
Hold fast. Hold firm. Be immovable!
Thank you for your preparation and your lessons. I have been with you since you started posting BoM videos 4 years ago. It is such a treat!
My husband mentioned something during our Sunday school last Sunday that I have never thought about before. He said that people from the spacious building never pointed fingers and made fun of those who were traveling in the mist of darkness, or at those who were going to the tree, or who were wandering around, or swimming in the river. They only pointed fingers and laughed at those who made it to the tree, partook of the fruit and were hanging out at the tree area.
Satan cares about those who learned about Christ's love and are in the tree area... Something to think about...
Thank you again Bro. Hal for another great lesson, I saw Lehi's dream anew.❤
I would love to get a graphic on the parrellel you drew between teh 4 Soils and the 4 Souls. Would love that graphic.
Thank once again, Brother Halverson!❤
Clearly, the internet and social media has amplified the mocking, twisting, taunting. What I find sad is that there are some with serious questions who are seeking to reconcile discrepancies, concerns or questions too often get grouped into those in the great and spacious building - I am grateful that your teaching helps clarify that there are many not in the great and spacious building who may not be with us now - but, if we respond with, can hopefully be with us in the future
Whenever I have read 1 Nephi 8:1, I have always wondered why the chapter started with talk of the seeds they had brought with them. It seemed like an odd beginning to Lehi’s vision. It wasn’t until you brought up the parable of the sower that it clicked. “Seeds of every kind”. I still have a lot to ponder there, but now I have something to work with.
Thank you so much these videos help me to better understand seminary lessons it is a blessing thank you so much
Brother Halverson, as I listened to your comments on the hymn "The Iron Rod" verse 4, "hand o'er hand, the rod along" my thoughts were as we study The Word of God (our scriptures) we should be going hand over hand turning pages as we look up the footnotes and all references.
Brother Halverson, I wish I had your teaching years ago when I taught gospel doctrine for almost 8 years. Thank you and your family
Excellent
Comment about "clinging" to the rod...when you have felt like you were drowning in the raging waters of the "world" and you find the lifesaver (faith in God) that will keep your head above water, you cling to it. But if that life saver has a rope attached (baptism and covenants) that will bring you safely to shore, you cling! Maybe it depends on the dangers you have faced before that causes you to cling. Not just grip tightly but with all your soul and strength. Not with fear, but with gratitude.
I have at times puzzled over people catching hold of the END of the rod. A single point. Could it be the discovery of the Book of Mormon.
Bro Halverson, thank you for your work, though I wish you could provide longer lessons at least until the point in Jacob where you began 4 years ago. We’d then have a complete set of verse by verse recordings to reference into the future 😊
In my long ago younger days, someone referred to Laman and Lemuel as LEMON and LIMEUEL because of their sour attitudes!!! I've never forgotten that!😅😅 I also used to wonder why Lemuel never seemed to think for himself. Now as a mature adult with mature adult children I can see some of them who tend to be leaders, some who are followers, some who are peacemakers, and some who tend to be loners.
October 1999, Elder Maxwell's conference talk was on Laman and Lemuel.
Hey Jared, will you do a video on the hiring of Aaron Sherinian? I would love to hear your thoughts on it. Im sure there are many more who would like to hear from you as well.
We look forward to your video every week!
Always enjoy your lessons, length included. You may not reach quantity, but quality is a higher mark. Throughout the years I've heard many pit "cling" against "hold fast", as you did. But have you checked Webster's 1828? To me, they pretty much mean the same thing, even listing "cling" under "hold." If clinging is so bad, what does that say about marriage and that a spouse is to "cling." Thank you so much for your time and devotion to God and these, your online students.
I love everything you produce (I'm a new committed weekly listener) and am inspired by your journey. It gives me courage to commence mine with more courage. I will be starting a TH-cam channel soon designed as a program to help people overcome depression. I plan to teach using both secular (food, etc.) and spiritual warfare to help people find hope and heal from mental illness. So thank you for your example!
On another note, I wanted to offer a suggestion/new perspective on 1 Nephi 8 with regards to the man in a white robe.... I have been taught my whole life that it was an angel who led Lehi to the tree of life. In fact, I even have a Book of Mormon picture book showing this personage in white beckoning Lehi to the tree. This year, however, I read something that brought my attention to the fact that this is NOT what the scriptures say. The man in white led Lehi into a "dark and dreary waste" and left him there. Only when Lehi prayed to God for deliverance was he shown the way out (his vision cleared/the scene cleared and he was able to see a "great and spacious field") and then Lehi "beheld the tree" and then walked himself to it and "[partook] of the fruit...." There is no mention of the man in white leading Lehi to the tree. The scriptures do not refer to this man in white as an angel either, nor does it say anything about his appearance being glorious or powerful in any way (compare Moses 1). Contrast that to Lehi's description of the fruit of the tree, which "was white, to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen." Is it possible that this man in white was not an angel of God at all? Could this man in white have been--contrastingly--an angel of darkness POSING as an angel of light? A "wolf in sheep's clothing," if you will? And is it possible that this man in white--or similar like him--led others in Lehi's dream into the dark and dreary waste?
How often do we pray to the Lord, and ASK Him--when we see something that looks or even feels like a sign from Heaven--if it is a sign or direction that was actually sent by Him? As far as I can tell, even Lehi--a good man--was deceived by this man in white, and was ONLY DELIVERED from this dreary waste after "many hours" once he chose to PRAY for help. Only AFTER his supplication to God was Lehi delivered.....
I think any of us could fall prey to following any "helpful" person or plausible solution when we are feeling lost and/or afraid. To my point, fear is exactly what gets most of us into trouble. We might jump at 'whatever is beckoning us' without bothering to stop and consider the source first...because we panic, and are 'desperate' for help.
For reference, here is the scriptural backup :)
4 But behold, Laman and Lemuel, I fear exceedingly because of you; for behold, methought I saw in my dream, a dark and dreary wilderness.
5 And it came to pass that I saw a man, and he was dressed in a white robe; and he came and stood before me.
6 And it came to pass that he spake unto me, and bade me follow him.
7 And it came to pass that as I followed him I beheld myself that I was in a dark and dreary waste.
8 And after I had traveled for the space of many hours in darkness, I began to pray unto the Lord that he would have mercy on me, according to the multitude of his tender mercies.
9 And it came to pass after I had prayed unto the Lord I beheld a large and spacious field.
10 And it came to pass that I beheld a tree, whose fruit was desirable to make one happy.
11 And it came to pass that I did go forth and partake of the fruit thereof; and I beheld that it was most sweet, above all that I ever before tasted. Yea, and I beheld that the fruit thereof was white, to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen.
I love this!
The people who are in the great and spacious building are laughing , scoffing and mocking the people who are partaking of the fruit. So the building must not be really very interesting, if all they do in that building, is to mock . The Tree that has the white, bright light fruit that is sweeter than anything else ever tasted, as long as we are partaking the fruit and disregarding the mocking people in that strange building, the fruit itself, is amazing.
My parents didn’t know how to cease speaking. Many times I thought, Oh just spank me and stop lecturing me! 😁❤️
The Rhetoric of Ridicule?!🔥Whoa😢 that breaks my heart and in the same breath I want to read your dissertation and encourage you to please write a book to give us clarity and tools to overcome. Do you see how much of social media is doing the same to break down society’s mental, emotional and spiritual health? Contemptuous and dismissive noise from all sides, a “time honored” tangible technique that has captured and tortured so many!💔 My brain is blown by how absolutely spot on Lehi’s vision is for us here and now … exactly, again … and again
You are so funny, Brother Halverson. Thank you for your dedication and love for us. We love you too. 😢 let me add I am not shamed when someone insults me, I stand Tall as President Hinkley encourages us to be yet humble, and pray for them as Jesus taught, if you are solid in this, you cannot be shaken.
The best teacher of scripture my whole life. Thank you for sharing your gift. Question- it’s not clear, but why didn’t Lehi have his own brass plates? I know it’s speculation, but you might have a cultural insight that’s not clear to me.
I was curious about this too. Did he only have a set of parchments, more recent writings? Did he not have the Torah?
Lehi and others didn't have brass plates because they used scrolls from what I understand. The scrolls would have been stored at their local synagogue. With Lehi being rich he might have been rich enough to have a copy made but unsure. It would have been very cumbersome too carry. I think the brass plates were such a treat to him because it must have also had additional scripture that he may have never read before. These are my thoughts.
Could NOT find this episode in apple podcasts or any other podcast channel today, is it gonna be youtube only from now on?
So if the river of water which was full of man made pollution/filthy water which ran near to the tree of Life, then it should be seen that the tree takes up that filthy water through the roots and later processes it for nourishment, only to then produce such a fruit that is sweet and desirable. I think it can be similar as the Savior when he takes upon himself our sins that then produces in him an understanding and this understanding increases His Godly love for each of us and he shares this Love with us as we come to Him.
Thanks great job like always
You are bringing many to Christ. Yes, you are a Prophet because that is their calling. Thank you 😇😇😇
Beautifully written. I definitely agree.
Are these discussions not being released as podcasts anymore?
❤
The righteous always delivered from their enemies? Yes in many cases BUT, what about the saints in amonihah? What about the early saints in this dispensation who were overcome by persecution and oppression? It bothers me that they weren’t protected. Does anyone have an explanation?
I think the term "delivered" can mean many things. Sometimes it might in fact be a deliverance from danger/oppressors, but it could also refer to deliverance from doubt, sin, confusion, contention, etc. The first meaning listed in the 1828 Webster dictionary of DELIVERANCE is "Release from captivity, slavery, oppression, or any restraint."
A question please. In the opening paragraph on the first book of Nephi above the chapter 1 heading, it says that “He taketh three days journey into the wilderness with his family.”
Brother Halverson had guessed that perhaps the brothers journey was a month long to retrieve the plates and get back to their parents. Does this three days reference suggest that they weren’t too far from Jerusalem? Just trying to understand. Thank you for your time investment into these lessons.
In 1 Ne 2:5, you will read that Lehi took his family to the shores of the Red Sea. This is about a two week journey from Jerusalem. And then he travels in the wilderness. That is where the three days comes in - heard this explanation from several podcasters last week.
Please do not cease to speak. It's ok if you go long.
I love your lessons.
i also want you to know that I liked your previous logo better, just thought I would let you know.
i'm still back in your New Testament Lessons. But i wanted to come here and point out that the dark and dreary wilderness Lehi experienced in his vision was BEFORE he met the man in a white robe (who was presumably God). I believe that Lehi's dream began with a vision of pre-existence pre-dating the presence of God. And as such, his description of it could inform us regarding the nature of that "nowhere" that it is a "wilderness" that is "dark and dreary", as opposed to the "waste" of the Telestial world, wherein things WERE better, but now are fallen.
in the wilderness, there was no shelter, no certainty, only the next day. Before God, we did not have laws, and as such our choices did not really matter. Even a small animal without tools has more power to choose than we had in that wilderness. Before God, we had so much chaos that we didn't even have a measure of how chaotic it was, because attempts at stability were still chaotic. we must be grateful to God and the Atonement for giving us the law that scribes of Christ's day revered so much (not the pharisaical law, but the very laws of God, both Mosaic and otherwise), for that law was a mercy, it granted us the freedom AND knowledge to choose within it.
Anyways, that is a piece of my testimony which is precious to me.
Go over every time!!
Since Lehi didn't notice that the river was filthy, could it be that he didn't know the meaning of his vision?
Lehigh knows his dreams to be true. Have you ever written down a dream in your Journal. It's really hard to describe every little bit of the dream. I'm sure he could add written another 10 pages. We all know what muddy water looks like. Nephi will explain more of it. It's up to each of us to basically paint a picture of the whole dream in our own mind before we can explain it to others. The pitcher grows bigger when there is more information. Maybe now you have a 10 by 10 picture in your own mind but later that picture will grow bigger and bigger. The Lord will reveal more to each of us as time goes on .I know that is true on my side of the world.
It just occurred to me. Does lehi mention the dream in his plates do you think? ..and maybe also meanings ? Or was that just genealogy?
Lehi saw people in the great and spacious building and could only describe the manner of their dress and couldn't identify who the people were. Today we know who these people are, they are the prominent and the so-called famous people of our day. They are actors, politicians, athletes, and the very wealthy. Do we put these people above our church leaders or do we pay more attention to them on the Sabbath Day than we do the Lord? I think Lot's wife did.
Speaking of those in the great and spacious building Elder Packer said...
"All of the mocking does not come from outside of the Church. Let me say that again: All of the mocking does not come from outside of the Church. Be careful that you do not fall into the category of mocking."
@@Avoicecyringinthesuburbs I beg to differ
@1pt21jigawatt You need to reread the book of Mormon replacing the word gentile with Latter-day saints.
@@Avoicecyringinthesuburbs Not sure what that has to do with the great and spacious building.
@@1pt21jigawatt It means much of the church today is actually in that building.
The man in the white robe does not lead him to the tree. The white robe man leads him into mists darkness. After prayer he sees the tree.
Read about 7 comments above yours… his explanation matches yours! (Not sure is you saw it) I love this info… thank you!
Dear Brother Jared Halverson, or (en)
I'm am very interested if you have published a book or words to those souls who have turned way, way against the COJCOLDS.
I've been a convert since 1981, had some ups and downs. But I do not think I could ever deny the Latter day prophets or the Restoration that is happening now.
There is people who believe they know more than the gospels and the LDS beliefs.
I think you live on the presapise(sp). Counseling faith doughting souls who have fallen down or are having trouble. I've been there, but my testimony is stronger than my faith, if that means anything.
I would like to read your words about what trouble others about the LDS church.
Sincerely Eric
I have followed along since D&C 89!!! I love it all!!!
Here's my take on how I'm experiencing the attempts at adjustment for the beginning of the Book of Mormon study....
I feel like we're getting just as much commentary if not a touch more by not going verse by verse....
I really really really miss verse by verse with commentary added in to help explain concepts, principles, apply it to real life. It's ALL GOOD STUFF, BUT MY FOMO on your verse by verse approach has me slightly bummed out.
Either way and whatever you do, I'll keep following along! I'll adjust. It's really all good stuff. So edifying. So needed. So appreciated. I'll be forever thankful how you and the Spirit have mentored me over the years. From another "Hal", you're a friend of mine Bro Hal!
My 3.5 year old has recently started saying in random moments and in a rather dramatic way, albeit little kid voice, "I could not be shaken" and it's MY FAVORITE THING EVER! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😂😂😂😂😂😂😂❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Where is the podcast for these 2 parts?
I have not been able to find the podcast of this episode. Is it missing?
Next time a girl says I'm clingy I'm going to drop the "I'm just holding fast" line.
Interesting that Lehi never sees or calls his daughters to join him at the tree.
Pausing to think about:
Path vs river
Tree vs building
Path: you control where you step for the most part. It’s marked by trodden down footsteps of other people who have come before you. Well marked as the ground can no long sustain plant life on the path, due to its compacted state & use of the ground
River: you are swept away. No sure footing possibly. You have less control of where you are in the river depending on how strong the current is. Getting out of the river might take time & be quite the struggle
Tree: God made. Provides shade, rest, peaceful surrounding. Provides food to quench your hunger & possibly thirst needs.
Building3. Possibly made with trees. Man built. Does not provide food. Doubtful it is peaceful & restful with so many people around. Might have jolts, unstabling motions without a foundation. Can be more disturbing if people are screaming
The man in the white robe leads him into darkness. He was a counterfeit. A decoy. That is what Lehi eventually lead him to dispare and pray. THEN he sees the field and the tree. The scene changed but the white robe man was not there then.
The Lord showed Lehi light and the tree.
Angels of darkness can mask themselves as angels of light to those who are inexperienced at detecting true messengers of Heaven.
Sariah, nephi and Sam at at the HEAD of the river. There's symbolism in that.
They all fall away because they’ve lost their faith and courage. I know it because I’m still struggling with it.😊
I wish chapters 8 & 11 were taught in conjuction with Mark 9, John 17, & with the story of the Good Samaritan. The Church and it's members need a much more rounded/balanced understanding: No one leaves the Church for any different reason than others come to it. Treat those who leave the very same way you think the families of New converts should treat the new convert... they ultimately apostasized from the faith of their family. Maybe in that people can become terrestrial and have a better understanding of thinking Celestial.
Religious gatherings: “How can we strengthen our community, our faith, and serve mankind?”
Atheist gatherings: “We need to eradicate religious groups through scorn and mockery”
Well shoot. My patriarchal blessing says my kids will “cling” to the iron rod. I thought that was a good thing until now. 😆
Nephi made a second set of plates not knowing the “why”. He did all the work but it wasn’t for his benefit at all. How often are we inspired for the benefit of someone else, we do all the work and never know why because it wasn’t for us.
Amen!
❤❤❤❤
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So hearing the part where the people in the great and spacious building point and mock at those partaking of the fruit; it's worth noting that propaganda often times works the same way. You mock the thing you want to destroy and bring shame to it.
I cringed a bit at your derogatory description of academia. Head in the clouds and no foundation, not grounded, no roots, I believe is what you said? That has not been my experience at all. I am in the field of family systems, and the work is deeply rooted in everyday usefulness and practical experience. This vilification of academia also reeks of identity politics.
Hello Jared, I love your content. I can tell you are a true believer; that anchors us; however, your mannerisms make me crazy. Sorry, maybe I’m the problem, not you- very likely. Hey, there’s no perfect Saint, nor Sinner. I love the Book of Mormon! You are an excellent teacher my brother - you’re just a little sappy. I’m choosing to love you.
Maybe try listening to his episodes as a podcast instead of watching the video??
I think the longer you listen the more you will get past any of that and then either you wont notice anymore or you will just love it.