I want to add my third great grandfather’s testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith. William Holmes Walker was taking in by Joseph and EMMA in his youth because his mother died and his father was sent on a mission. He worked alongside the Prophet in the fields and ate dinner at his table. This is what he had to say about the Prophet Joseph Smith: “In regard to his private life, as to purity, honesty, virtue, charity, benevolence, liberality, refined and sensitive feelings and nobility of character, his superior did not exist on the earth.”
I know beyond any doubt that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, called by God, who did something no one else could do. I look forward to meeting him again some day. Thank you brother Halverson
Thank you, thank you, and thank you. People need to pray and ask for themselves who Joseph Smith is, I am a convert, and when I attended a session in the Temple, a feeling in my heart bore testimony of Joseph Smith, pray if you feel the Adversary is trying to shake you up. Go to the Temple, find your own quiet Grove, and pray you will be amazed what the spirit will witness to you and them hold to that truth, get you a fly swatter and swat the Adversary away like a fly lols.
Nephi Ch 4 makes Nephi relatable to me. Previously, while reading this chapter, I had an experience that changed my life, my trajectory and my testimony forever. Nephi became real to me, and through him, God became personal. I am so grateful.
To me Nephi's struggle with the feel inadequate, gives me reason to know that I have hope. Nephi truly knows how to teach his readers the importance of relying on the Lord's arm. Thank you for this video. As someone who has have had to deal with life's challenges, this video really strikes an accord with me. I know that through the Savior Jesus Christ I can accomplish what I need to in life.
The timing of this lesson couldn't be more perfect for me to receive right now, particularly your discussion about mental health. My mother is going through debilitating anxiety and depression. We've been trying to take care of her at home and get her to eat/drink, which has been extremely difficult due to her anxiety and fear. She's quickly lost weight despite our efforts. This week, she was rushed to the hospital. Her kidneys were on the verge of shutting down, and her weight was dangerously low. They said if she were released to go home that she would die, no question. She is now in a specialized psychiatric center that is also equipped to handle her physical health needs. Thank you for speaking so beautifully and personally about this tender topic. Please thank your wife and mother-in-law for allowing you to share their compelling stories in such a public way. I now feel and understand these chapters and the prophets behind them on a whole new level. What a tender mercy this is!
I am teaching two little Sunbeams with my husband this year. In studying The Book of Mormon, Father Lehi has become a big part of what I have shared with the children. I am awed by all that he sacrificed and touched by his blessings to his posterity. I am writing this with tears of mourning at his passing. This is my first time feeling this so profoundly.💖
Thank you, brother Halverson + your family, for all that you've done for each each of us l know not one of us are perfect. But l know that Our Lord is well pleased with you + will say well done thou good + faithful son. He works inside each + everyone of us 🙏🏼🙏🏾♥️
(About 20 minutes in) This is exactly what happened to me. I grew up a Catholic. On paper anyway. I was not taught much about it. By the time I was in my mid-teens I saw the Bible as a book of stories/fairy tales. Then the missionaries got me to read the Book of Mormon. It showed me that Jesus truly was the son of God. God was real. Which ment the Bible was not a book of story but a book of History. An account of things that really happened. The Book of Mormon convinced me of the Bible as the word of God.
Love your sharing of your mother-in-law's experience. My mother was the sweetest, kindest, most fun and creative person I know, but shev was stricken with bipolar/manic depression her entire adult life. And to see this vibrant, active person driven to her bed of sorrow and demons every cycle was so painful for her loved ones... to see, to feel helpless. It seems the best among us are often the ones going through the most trials.
1 Nephi 17:48 Nephi speaks of being filled with the power of God, even to the consuming of his flesh. Thank you so very much for all the beautiful scripture insights. God bless you!!!
Brother Halverson, I haven't had opportunity to listen to your videos for a while now but today I felt to listen to this one, even though it is a few weeks old. Without going into detail, the way you taught about Lehi's son Joseph was pure revelation to me; you helped me realise SO much about things that occurred in my life, how my children were affected by many things that happened to us as a family and how the Lord has always been there through it. Even though I totally, without doubt, saw His hand in every moment and totally appreciate His full attention to every detail, hearing your lesson today specifically on these issues, has lifted my spirits beyond the trials we went through and helped me pull all the spiritual, temperal and emotional issues together tying them in with my Patriarchal blessing. Thank you for being a mouthpiece for the Lord, He's been trying to get through to me for some time but my pain has been great - I see things far clearer now which helps me to rise above those trials (understatement) that my family and I face/d.
I don’t need to write it because Nephi said it perfectly. He hadn’t heard the be attitudes yet, but I have and I know that God wants me to love everyone as he loves them, and yet we face enemies from within our family and from without, and you are trying desperately to find that love, and yet have the boundaries required to protect yourself. I find it very easy as Nephi said, to slip into anger and frustration. Fighting to have the spirit with every conversation and every exchange. I totally get his concern and his rejoicing. I get how hard it is to have someone revile against your God and his prophet right to your face. One part of me trying to love and understand and the other wishing lightning would strick. I don’t think I have ever been depressed as we speak of it today, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t cried unto the Lord and begged for understanding with all my heart.
Hi Jared. I listened to the song of the BYU man choir and I got very emotional and cryed but I loved to listen and I learned a lot. I love the savior and I feel often as Nephi because I'm not so strong as I should be. 😢 you help me a lot to see my weaknesses and try to make me stronger. Thanks so much for sharing with us what you know is true. Best wishesfor you and your family.❤
I am grateful for how you addressed the pendulum swing on the prophet Joseph. I grew up in the church in the 70's and 80's - we could say the "whitewashed" phase. Some of the things that I was taught were "anti-Mormon lies" are now in gospel topics essays. I think the pendulum swung in how Joseph was positioned at general conference - from "greatest man save Jesus" to "give the kid a break"- and I think that many members wrestled with the change and struggled with determining what sources they could trust. I had childhood friends leave the church. I am concerned that both sides are painting the other perspective as "half-truths" as we struggle to see the real/accurate/complicated life of the prophet. The entire history of recorded scripture is God patiently working through imperfect leaders.
Brother Halverson, Having grown up in the south, I know the hearts of these magnificent Brothers and Sister inside and outside of the church. They love our Savior and I am grateful to live in such a place. Thank you for your insight into the scriptures. I have used it many times in talking with my non-member and member friends.
I think you could look at Lehi‘s situation as a parent in yet again, a different way. I have known many a very, very good child, who is raised in a family with not very good parents, and they have clung to the gospel with all their heart, so sometimes it is just a matter of choice.
Brother I just wrote my own personal psalm. The pain and wasting away of the flesh is all worth it little brother. I testify by proving Him here with, all that the Lord promises is true.
Please excuse this out of order question. When I watched unshaken first video of 2024 you had mentioned a friend reading the BOM once a month for a year. I took that to heart and am now on my 4th journey through the BOM as well as studying Come Follow Me with you and you Unshaken followers. I would like to request that when we get to Abinidi that you take the necessary time to explain his take on God and Christ as one. I believe that the God head are 3 separate beings, then Abunidi comes in and essentially muddieds my waters. For years I have just passed this by as something I will never understand. But the more I've gone through the BOM this year the more I want to understand. Please help.
Scroll through the Unshaken videos back to the last time we studied the BOM in 2000. Jared explained this confusing chapter so well. In a nutshell Abinidi is explaining the two sides of Christ. His divine side (Father side) and his mortal, flesh ( Son) side side. Kind of like we would say the adult in me needs order and stability but the kid in me wants to be spontaneous.
I to love nephi’s prayer. It has helped me pull out of discouragement many times . And every time I hear the phrase ‘stumbling stones’ I think of Joseph Smiths stone. He had seen God and Jesus Christ. Saw and Been taught by Moroni and the Holy Ghost for 4 years. And withstood enormous persecution. Then he Had the plates in front of him and was translating them when he read that Jerusalem had a wall around it. He stopped and asked Emma if there was a wall around Jerusalem when she said yes he was relieved because his first reaction was that he had been deceived. It helped me understand that we are never immune to doubts and that they can come in our weakest and strongest times and just how impactful they can be. And if Joseph hadn’t ask Emma one simple question what a different outcome it would have made
When you spoke about the branches running over the wall of water i immediately had a flashback to Moses splitting the red sea where we saw water behave like a wall. I saw latter day Joseph symbolically opening up the red sea in our day escaping spiritual Babylon. Without those water walls there would be no Exodus and without Nephis boat he could not have been able to get his branches over the wall. Good lesson Jared!
It would be a blessing in my life to know two or three healing mantras that you spoke about for your mother-in-law. I have a voice, a constant voice in my head. Even when I’m praying that voice is telling me the opposite of everything I need to hear and know.
I have received a personal witness that Joseph Smith is a prophet and the Prophet of the Restoration. “Oh How Lovely Was the Morning” is one of my favorite hymns. I love the Primary songs “On A Golden Springtime” “This Is My Beloved Son” and “Follow the Prophet.” It’s great to sing about Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Daniel. I’m grateful for all of them and believe they’re all men of God. But I’ve never sung praises to them. I believe that singing hymns of praise is for Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost. I’ve never been comfortable singing “Praise to the Man” so I don’t.
Jared I learn something from you every week, this week you explained an alternative description for 2 Nephi 3:18 that makes sense and helped me resolve several things. Joseph Smith was noted for his ability to speak, he did not need a spokesman. Joseph Smith didn’t write the Book of Mormon, he translated it. Mormon abridged it, and wrote the Book of Mormon as we know it. Joseph Smith was the spokesman! Why didn’t I see that? Thank you.
Thanks so much Bro Halverson for sharing information about your mother-in-law. Could you share with us the name of the book that she wrote about her experiences? I have a family member who is suffering from the same depression and anxiety and it just might help her. Thanks so much.
I think Nephi's depression was induced by his lifelong bullying and abuse of his brothers. While he loved them he knew, for the sake of his family wherein his first stewardship lies, he had to walk away. To not just preserve his life, but to protect his family. It's so hard to leave abusive situations. The only way it can be accomplished is with the Savior. Bullying is abuse.
May we please know the name of your mother-in-law and the name of her book? I'm always looking for help with my life-long struggle with depression. I see professionals and use prescribed medications. But, I also use food for comfort, which is like "trust[ing] in the arm of flesh." (2 Nephi 4:34). I feel this weakness is similar to a drug addiction, so I'm studying the Church's addiction recovery program. In the meantime, I'm trying more and more often to ask for comfort and peace from Heavenly Father. I've been on and off diets since was about ten years old and am now 71. I hope to overcome this terrible weakness before I pass over.
Its interesting that Lehi's sons seem to come in pairs and oneof each pair is a leader (L&L, Nephi and Sam, J&J). I love the way Brother H has highlighted the parallels between the first books of the Bible and the first books of Nephi in the Book of Mormon. Perhaps the pairs of Lehi's sons can parallel with the twin theme at the beginning of the Bible?
I would love to know the name of the book your Mother-in-law wrote! I have family members struggling in much the same way. Thank you and thank you for teaching me!
I love the fact that in the Movie, don't know if true Father Joseph Smith asked Is this book supposed to take the place of The Bible? His son ,Jr. Said, No Father its supposed to be a second testimony of The Holy Bible 25:10
Bro. Halverson, Nephi in 2 Ne. 4 ask God to wipe away his stumbling blocks. This my be a bad idea the reason we all have stumbling is to see if we will turn them to stepping stones that will give us more spiritual strength.
Growing up in the Church, this interpretation of this verse is what you just explained. I have a question. As I was looking at other translations of this verse, many of them say that the word in the Greek that is translated as 'branches' in the last phrase of this scripture should be 'daughters'. Your comments?
My loving mantras are simple. You are loved. You are not invisible. I see you. You matter to me. You can use your "pure imagination" to hear Him saying these reassuring words of comfort to you but create your own that speak to your own situations and vulnerabilities. They may be different than mine but you'll know what you need to hear.
There is a story behind how usually the first born son is named after their father. But Joseph sr did not name him first or second son after him. Wasn’t until The one who was foreordained, his 4th child ( I think) was named Joseph.
Is it also possible that Nephi excluded the mention of his own blessing from Lehi because it was full of praise for Nephi, and he didn't want to seem boastful by sharing those things?
Dear Brother........ I know Joseph Smith Jr. was a true prophet. He revealed so many wonderful truths of what we have today. Joseph was a good speaker but in these scriptures, it says the future prophet from the line of Lehi would not be. Is Joseph Smith Jr. from the direct line of Lehi like it says he will be? Could it be the one yet to come has not arrived yet to save and lead the Lamanites from bondage? I know the intro to 2 Nephi 3 refers to Joseph Smith but was that added later and was not part of what Joseph translated. Could these scriptures mean a Jospeh will come from the blood of Lehi's Joseph and work many miracles with the full sealing power? Did Joseph Smith Jr. realize that these scriptures were not referring to him?
Just this week, I read a post by an LDS scholar that disputed these very passages which left me with much confusion. The premise was that Joseph was pure Ephraim and that these covenant blessings were given to Little Joseph the son of Lehi, who was of the tribe of Manassah. Therefore this prophecy was foretelling of a man who would be a choice seer and a Moses of the Lamanite Native American nations whose name would be Joseph like his father's and would come forth in the last days to lead his people to the true God of Israel. I wrestled with this. I couldn't see how there could possibly be two choice seers. I have a testimony that Joseph Smith is THE prophet of this dispensation. But it is not a problem of doctrine for me, just how prophecy will be fulfilled and so, someday all prophecy will be fulfilled, of that I am sure!
We have a couple in our ward who went on a mission. They could not say anything good about Joseph Smith. I was so confused that they were willing to give 18 months of their lives but vocally discounted the prophet. 🤷♀️
Can you imagine a little bit of the anxiety when he hast to separate himself from his older brothers and then imagine trying to outsmart them after they also had outsmarted running away in Jerusalem…! Lammon and Lemule already know all of Nephi’s tricks except for putting God first! It makes a lot of sense when Nephi is putting so much trust in the Lord because he really has nothing.
Just thinking about Lehigh‘s anxiety and how so quickly after his death Lamont and Leo seek to destroy Nephi. I don’t think that this would be shocking to Lehigh to know when this was happening probably that’s why he had so much anxiety at least part of that reason.
Brother Halverson, you keep saying that “Joseph restored,” but as pointed out in the same 2Nephi, it was Christ who restored. Christ used Joseph; this is Christ’s marvelous work and wonder. Having spent time in the Bible Belt I would think that you are aware that other faiths claim we give credit to the prophets and ignore that it is God’s work and they (we) are mere tools in his hand in performing that work.
It would be so nice if you were to write a book that debunked, with evidence, all of the anti church commentaries. As you mentioned there is so much out there, and it would be nice to have a literary reference to turn to for those of us that do not know or understand the history of Joseph and the church as you do. Please consider…
You missed the part in the Book of Mormon that stated polygamy is forbidden except when commanded of The Lord to build up His people! It was not an abomination!! It was only oracticed by a small percentage of saints and those who did had to be called by prophets
Those who oppose polygamy and claim it was an abomination seem to avoid the biblical accounts of the great prophets and fathers of the covenant--- Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and Moses as well!! The Lord never condemns the practice.
As an exmormon who recently left the church and had her mormon mother send this to me, I watched the "raising children right" section of this video, and it is just downright offensive, degrading, condescending, and holier than thou. I don't plan on having children, but I would be outraged if my parents tried to brainwash my children into thinking their parents are unworthy because they don't believe the same as their grandparents. Seriously, mormons need to learn boundaries and getting out of their bubble to find others can in fact be loving with good morals.
We must admit that the plurality of marriage didn’t come from God either, since it was injected here. But rather from carnal man. The quick mentioning and moving quickly away does not justify the abomination, just as the Book of Mormon points out! Neither does it stop an all powerful and gloriously forgiving God from turning back to a repentant people who call out to him and seek his face. But repentance is a prerequisite! As we see from the beginning! Great class!
th-cam.com/video/pZ1DPOV4iNE/w-d-xo.htmlsi=NutfWFXqzGwH7kfz This is a link to the BYU Men’s Chorus adaptation of Nephi’s psalm. Obviously it isn’t word-for-word, but it borrows plenty of phrases and the general idea is conveyed. Brings chills to me every time!
I think your class is worthy of study but I must admit that you do seem to project your understanding as well, when you point at others as being a negative like that of a photograph. I have never heard of Joseph Jr. who I do not “believe in” as being a child molester. I think that’s a terrible accusation! But I have never worshipped or believed in Joseph anymore than I believe or worship Moses! I believe that they are who they said they were and or were called to do what they did by the power of God! I BELIEVE IN God The FATHER, and his Only Begotten Lamb. That is who and what I believe! And I believe that the testimony of Christ Jesus drips from the pages of The Book of Mormon and will leap forth from the sealed portion that is yet to come forth! I believe that the book of The Jews is a powerful testimony recorded by the ancients and is given for our benefit. That said, I do not believe that Brigham Young was ever called to be a prophet of the restoration! He may have been at one time blessed with the gift of prophecy, at some level. But his administration over the passing of false doctrine in the church over a decade after Joseph’s death is all the evidence one really needs to realize his leadership as a prophet was non existent. The Book of Mormon itself speaks boldly and clearly to this fact! So it’s not Joseph Jr that one can blame but rather one who connives and manipulates to place a blame on another! What’s worse! To even attempt to glorify the one that is being demonized is an even stranger secret combination? One must wonder why Emma moved with such diligence to keep the new translation of The Bible away from Brigham Young after her husbands martyrdom. God knows and sees all, and is a faithful forgiver of all that repent! Create in us a clean heart O God and renew a right spirit within us. For you alone are worthy to be praised! The alpha & Omega of life itself! Prepare us for the return of your lamb our redeemer Jesus Christ Our Lord! Amen. Blessings
You seem to forget about the miracle in which Brigham Young appeared to the congregation as Joseph Smith even down to the lisp he spoke with Where do you characters come from?? Good grief get a life will you!!!!
@@lynneakartchner405 That’s interesting. I’m not nor have I ever been an LDS! I have read The Book of Mormon a few times now and know by the power of the spirit of God that emits from its pages when one reads, that it is reliable testimony for, of, by, and to Jesus Christ! It drips with the Spirit of The God of This Land, & that God is Jesus Christ. Just as he said when he spoke to the brother of Jared.
I love your testimony of our Savior!!! Interesting thoughts about Brigham Young @pjones1403 you should listen to “Presidents of the Church” by Truman G Madsen. You will learn things about all who have taken over the mantle of leadership since Joseph Smith, by someone who read all the histories of these men, rather than listening to those who are against these men. From Joseph Smith until Gordon B. Hinkley. Look up “Deseret Bookshelf”. You will find it there. You will also find many other books that you may be interested in.
I want to add my third great grandfather’s testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith. William Holmes Walker was taking in by Joseph and EMMA in his youth because his mother died and his father was sent on a mission. He worked alongside the Prophet in the fields and ate dinner at his table. This is what he had to say about the Prophet Joseph Smith:
“In regard to his private life, as to purity, honesty, virtue, charity, benevolence, liberality, refined and sensitive feelings and nobility of character, his superior did not exist on the earth.”
💙💙💙
I know beyond any doubt that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, called by God, who did something no one else could do. I look forward to meeting him again some day. Thank you brother Halverson
Thank you, thank you, and thank you.
People need to pray and ask for themselves who Joseph Smith is, I am a convert, and when I attended a session in the Temple, a feeling in my heart bore testimony of Joseph Smith, pray if you feel the Adversary is trying to shake you up. Go to the Temple, find your own quiet Grove, and pray you will be amazed what the spirit will witness to you and them hold to that truth, get you a fly swatter and swat the Adversary away like a fly lols.
Get thee behind me fly!!🙏🏼🙏🏼
❤
Nephi Ch 4 makes Nephi relatable to me. Previously, while reading this chapter, I had an experience that changed my life, my trajectory and my testimony forever. Nephi became real to me, and through him, God became personal. I am so grateful.
To me Nephi's struggle with the feel inadequate, gives me reason to know that I have hope. Nephi truly knows how to teach his readers the importance of relying on the Lord's arm. Thank you for this video. As someone who has have had to deal with life's challenges, this video really strikes an accord with me. I know that through the Savior Jesus Christ I can accomplish what I need to in life.
The timing of this lesson couldn't be more perfect for me to receive right now, particularly your discussion about mental health. My mother is going through debilitating anxiety and depression. We've been trying to take care of her at home and get her to eat/drink, which has been extremely difficult due to her anxiety and fear. She's quickly lost weight despite our efforts. This week, she was rushed to the hospital. Her kidneys were on the verge of shutting down, and her weight was dangerously low. They said if she were released to go home that she would die, no question. She is now in a specialized psychiatric center that is also equipped to handle her physical health needs. Thank you for speaking so beautifully and personally about this tender topic. Please thank your wife and mother-in-law for allowing you to share their compelling stories in such a public way. I now feel and understand these chapters and the prophets behind them on a whole new level. What a tender mercy this is!
I am teaching two little Sunbeams with my husband this year. In studying The Book of Mormon, Father Lehi has become a big part of what I have shared with the children. I am awed by all that he sacrificed and touched by his blessings to his posterity. I am writing this with tears of mourning at his passing. This is my first time feeling this so profoundly.💖
Thank you, brother Halverson + your family, for all that you've done for each each of us l know not one of us are perfect. But l know that Our Lord is well pleased with you + will say well done thou good + faithful son. He works inside each + everyone of us 🙏🏼🙏🏾♥️
Thank you for sharing your strong testimony of Joseph Smith and your enthusiasm as you explain 2 Nephi 3.
(About 20 minutes in) This is exactly what happened to me.
I grew up a Catholic. On paper anyway. I was not taught much about it. By the time I was in my mid-teens I saw the Bible as a book of stories/fairy tales.
Then the missionaries got me to read the Book of Mormon. It showed me that Jesus truly was the son of God. God was real. Which ment the Bible was not a book of story but a book of History. An account of things that really happened. The Book of Mormon convinced me of the Bible as the word of God.
You are an amazing teacher
Thank you for sharing your personal stories! We learn so much from you. I really enjoy your lessons!
THANK YOU for these always-memorable lessons. God bless you and yours, dear brother ❤️❤️❤️
Love your sharing of your mother-in-law's experience. My mother was the sweetest, kindest, most fun and creative person I know, but shev was stricken with bipolar/manic depression her entire adult life. And to see this vibrant, active person driven to her bed of sorrow and demons every cycle was so painful for her loved ones... to see, to feel helpless. It seems the best among us are often the ones going through the most trials.
1 Nephi 17:48 Nephi speaks of being filled with the power of God, even to the consuming of his flesh. Thank you so very much for all the beautiful scripture insights. God bless you!!!
Brother Halverson, I haven't had opportunity to listen to your videos for a while now but today I felt to listen to this one, even though it is a few weeks old. Without going into detail, the way you taught about Lehi's son Joseph was pure revelation to me; you helped me realise SO much about things that occurred in my life, how my children were affected by many things that happened to us as a family and how the Lord has always been there through it. Even though I totally, without doubt, saw His hand in every moment and totally appreciate His full attention to every detail, hearing your lesson today specifically on these issues, has lifted my spirits beyond the trials we went through and helped me pull all the spiritual, temperal and emotional issues together tying them in with my Patriarchal blessing. Thank you for being a mouthpiece for the Lord, He's been trying to get through to me for some time but my pain has been great - I see things far clearer now which helps me to rise above those trials (understatement) that my family and I face/d.
I love and appreciate you Brother🙏🏻💯❤️
I don’t need to write it because Nephi said it perfectly. He hadn’t heard the be attitudes yet, but I have and I know that God wants me to love everyone as he loves them, and yet we face enemies from within our family and from without, and you are trying desperately to find that love, and yet have the boundaries required to protect yourself. I find it very easy as Nephi said, to slip into anger and frustration. Fighting to have the spirit with every conversation and every exchange. I totally get his concern and his rejoicing. I get how hard it is to have someone revile against your God and his prophet right to your face. One part of me trying to love and understand and the other wishing lightning would strick. I don’t think I have ever been depressed as we speak of it today, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t cried unto the Lord and begged for understanding with all my heart.
I am there and wonder What can we do when we’re in this situation? It seems that no matter what I do I am wrong, according to others!?
I can’t wait for millions to know Brother Joseph again.
Thank you as always!!!
I know that God lives and loves us. I have a testimony of his marvelous works and wonders. Thanks for this wonderful message and detailed insights.
I love the study of the Josephs. Percieved pomp; Persecution; Pleading; but in the end Percerverance. Stick with it us all!
Hi Jared. I listened to the song of the BYU man choir and I got very emotional and cryed but I loved to listen and I learned a lot. I love the savior and I feel often as Nephi because I'm not so strong as I should be. 😢 you help me a lot to see my weaknesses and try to make me stronger. Thanks so much for sharing with us what you know is true. Best wishesfor you and your family.❤
This is such a good study time and I love The Book Of Mormon ❤
Great study with you as always, glad for part1 and 2❤ 13:15
Thank you for the testimony of Joseph
I connect with Nephi’s lamentation. Thank you for the lesson! ❤
Thank you good brother.
I am grateful for how you addressed the pendulum swing on the prophet Joseph. I grew up in the church in the 70's and 80's - we could say the "whitewashed" phase. Some of the things that I was taught were "anti-Mormon lies" are now in gospel topics essays. I think the pendulum swung in how Joseph was positioned at general conference - from "greatest man save Jesus" to "give the kid a break"- and I think that many members wrestled with the change and struggled with determining what sources they could trust. I had childhood friends leave the church. I am concerned that both sides are painting the other perspective as "half-truths" as we struggle to see the real/accurate/complicated life of the prophet.
The entire history of recorded scripture is God patiently working through imperfect leaders.
So good. Thank you so much😍👏
Brother Halverson, Having grown up in the south, I know the hearts of these magnificent Brothers and Sister inside and outside of the church. They love our Savior and I am grateful to live in such a place. Thank you for your insight into the scriptures. I have used it many times in talking with my non-member and member friends.
I think you could look at Lehi‘s situation as a parent in yet again, a different way. I have known many a very, very good child, who is raised in a family with not very good parents, and they have clung to the gospel with all their heart, so sometimes it is just a matter of choice.
My husband and I are going through this same situation as Sarah and Lehi did. Children going out of the truth.
I'm sorry. It's so hard!
Stay faithful. God will remember you.
Brother I just wrote my own personal psalm. The pain and wasting away of the flesh is all worth it little brother. I testify by proving Him here with, all that the Lord promises is true.
Please excuse this out of order question. When I watched unshaken first video of 2024 you had mentioned a friend reading the BOM once a month for a year. I took that to heart and am now on my 4th journey through the BOM as well as studying Come Follow Me with you and you Unshaken followers. I would like to request that when we get to Abinidi that you take the necessary time to explain his take on God and Christ as one. I believe that the God head are 3 separate beings, then Abunidi comes in and essentially muddieds my waters. For years I have just passed this by as something I will never understand. But the more I've gone through the BOM this year the more I want to understand. Please help.
Scroll through the Unshaken videos back to the last time we studied the BOM in 2000. Jared explained this confusing chapter so well. In a nutshell Abinidi is explaining the two sides of Christ. His divine side (Father side) and his mortal, flesh ( Son) side side. Kind of like we would say the adult in me needs order and stability but the kid in me wants to be spontaneous.
This is my first time to watch your lesson I really enjoyed it thank you for teaching this.
I to love nephi’s prayer. It has helped me pull out of discouragement many times .
And every time I hear the phrase ‘stumbling stones’ I think of Joseph Smiths stone.
He had seen God and Jesus Christ. Saw and Been taught by Moroni and the Holy Ghost for 4 years. And withstood enormous persecution.
Then he Had the plates in front of him and was translating them when he read that Jerusalem had a wall around it. He stopped and asked Emma if there was a wall around Jerusalem when she said yes he was relieved because his first reaction was that he had been deceived.
It helped me understand that we are never immune to doubts and that they can come in our weakest and strongest times and just how impactful they can be.
And if Joseph hadn’t ask Emma one simple question what a different outcome it would have made
When you spoke about the branches running over the wall of water i immediately had a flashback to Moses splitting the red sea where we saw water behave like a wall. I saw latter day Joseph symbolically opening up the red sea in our day escaping spiritual Babylon. Without those water walls there would be no Exodus and without Nephis boat he could not have been able to get his branches over the wall. Good lesson Jared!
I LOVE Joseph Smith. I have received such a witness as to WHO he was and is. ❤
It would be a blessing in my life to know two or three healing mantras that you spoke about for your mother-in-law. I have a voice, a constant voice in my head. Even when I’m praying that voice is telling me the opposite of everything I need to hear and know.
That must be so very difficult. Have you had a blessing? ...and may I suggest to place your own name on the Temple prayer roll.
Wishing you the best!
Thanks brother.
I have received a personal witness that Joseph Smith is a prophet and the Prophet of the Restoration. “Oh How Lovely Was the Morning” is one of my favorite hymns. I love the Primary songs “On A Golden Springtime” “This Is My Beloved Son” and “Follow the Prophet.” It’s great to sing about Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Daniel. I’m grateful for all of them and believe they’re all men of God. But I’ve never sung praises to them. I believe that singing hymns of praise is for Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost. I’ve never been comfortable singing “Praise to the Man” so I don’t.
Jared I learn something from you every week, this week you explained an alternative description for 2 Nephi 3:18 that makes sense and helped me resolve several things. Joseph Smith was noted for his ability to speak, he did not need a spokesman. Joseph Smith didn’t write the Book of Mormon, he translated it. Mormon abridged it, and wrote the Book of Mormon as we know it. Joseph Smith was the spokesman!
Why didn’t I see that? Thank you.
Thanks so much Bro Halverson for sharing information about your mother-in-law. Could you share with us the name of the book that she wrote about her experiences? I have a family member who is suffering from the same depression and anxiety and it just might help her. Thanks so much.
Grazie mille Fratello sei bravissimo Ti amo
Loved your insights as always. Thank you.❤
I think Nephi's depression was induced by his lifelong bullying and abuse of his brothers. While he loved them he knew, for the sake of his family wherein his first stewardship lies, he had to walk away. To not just preserve his life, but to protect his family. It's so hard to leave abusive situations. The only way it can be accomplished is with the Savior. Bullying is abuse.
May we please know the name of your mother-in-law and the name of her book? I'm always looking for help with my life-long struggle with depression. I see professionals and use prescribed medications. But, I also use food for comfort, which is like "trust[ing] in the arm of flesh." (2 Nephi 4:34). I feel this weakness is similar to a drug addiction, so I'm studying the Church's addiction recovery program. In the meantime, I'm trying more and more often to ask for comfort and peace from Heavenly Father. I've been on and off diets since was about ten years old and am now 71. I hope to overcome this terrible weakness before I pass over.
Its interesting that Lehi's sons seem to come in pairs and oneof each pair is a leader (L&L, Nephi and Sam, J&J). I love the way Brother H has highlighted the parallels between the first books of the Bible and the first books of Nephi in the Book of Mormon. Perhaps the pairs of Lehi's sons can parallel with the twin theme at the beginning of the Bible?
Was this the episode where Bro Hal mentioned a book of anecdotes about Joseph Smith by his friends/contemporaries?
I would love to know the name of the book your Mother-in-law wrote! I have family members struggling in much the same way. Thank you and thank you for teaching me!
Me too
Yes, please....
I try to learn all I can about depression and anxiety.
I love the fact that in the Movie, don't know if true
Father Joseph Smith asked
Is this book supposed to take the place of The Bible?
His son ,Jr. Said, No Father its supposed to be a second testimony of The Holy Bible 25:10
Brother Halverson, werw can i improve more knowledge about Inspiration and revelation, and what do you know to this topic?..
Great lesson 👍
Can u imagine how our reunion will be?
What is the name of your Mother in laws book?
Bro. Halverson, Nephi in 2 Ne. 4 ask God to wipe away his stumbling blocks. This my be a bad idea the reason we all have stumbling is to see if we will turn them to stepping stones that will give us more spiritual strength.
Hi. I’m interested in the book your mother in law wrote. Can you send me the information please.
Growing up in the Church, this interpretation of this verse is what you just explained. I have a question. As I was looking at other translations of this verse, many of them say that the word in the Greek that is translated as 'branches' in the last phrase of this scripture should be 'daughters'. Your comments?
Does anyone know the name of the book his Mother-in-law wrote?
My loving mantras are simple. You are loved. You are not invisible. I see you. You matter to me. You can use your "pure imagination" to hear Him saying these reassuring words of comfort to you but create your own that speak to your own situations and vulnerabilities. They may be different than mine but you'll know what you need to hear.
There is a story behind how usually the first born son is named after their father. But Joseph sr did not name him first or second son after him. Wasn’t until The one who was foreordained, his 4th child ( I think) was named Joseph.
Is it also possible that Nephi excluded the mention of his own blessing from Lehi because it was full of praise for Nephi, and he didn't want to seem boastful by sharing those things?
Dear Brother........ I know Joseph Smith Jr. was a true prophet. He revealed so many wonderful truths of what we have today. Joseph was a good speaker but in these scriptures, it says the future prophet from the line of Lehi would not be. Is Joseph Smith Jr. from the direct line of Lehi like it says he will be? Could it be the one yet to come has not arrived yet to save and lead the Lamanites from bondage? I know the intro to 2 Nephi 3 refers to Joseph Smith but was that added later and was not part of what Joseph translated. Could these scriptures mean a Jospeh will come from the blood of Lehi's Joseph and work many miracles with the full sealing power? Did Joseph Smith Jr. realize that these scriptures were not referring to him?
One thing, for sure, whatever the Bible 📖 notes the Bk o Mrmn 📖 says it better !
Just this week, I read a post by an LDS scholar that disputed these very passages which left me with much confusion. The premise was that Joseph was pure Ephraim and that these covenant blessings were given to Little Joseph the son of Lehi, who was of the tribe of Manassah. Therefore this prophecy was foretelling of a man who would be a choice seer and a Moses of the Lamanite Native American nations whose name would be Joseph like his father's and would come forth in the last days to lead his people to the true God of Israel. I wrestled with this. I couldn't see how there could possibly be two choice seers. I have a testimony that Joseph Smith is THE prophet of this dispensation. But it is not a problem of doctrine for me, just how prophecy will be fulfilled and so, someday all prophecy will be fulfilled, of that I am sure!
As in all relationships it takes two to stay together, only one to leave💔
We have a couple in our ward who went on a mission. They could not say anything good about Joseph Smith. I was so confused that they were willing to give 18 months of their lives but vocally discounted the prophet. 🤷♀️
Can you imagine a little bit of the anxiety when he hast to separate himself from his older brothers and then imagine trying to outsmart them after they also had outsmarted running away in Jerusalem…!
Lammon and Lemule already know all of Nephi’s tricks except for putting God first! It makes a lot of sense when Nephi is putting so much trust in the Lord because he really has nothing.
Just thinking about Lehigh‘s anxiety and how so quickly after his death Lamont and Leo seek to destroy Nephi. I don’t think that this would be shocking to Lehigh to know when this was happening probably that’s why he had so much anxiety at least part of that reason.
These are not getting shorter. If anything they’re getting longer;)
I wrote a song based on the psalm of Nephi entitled "In Whom I Have Trusted"
Is it on air? I would like to hear it
Me, also.
Brother Halverson, you keep saying that “Joseph restored,” but as pointed out in the same 2Nephi, it was Christ who restored. Christ used Joseph; this is Christ’s marvelous work and wonder. Having spent time in the Bible Belt I would think that you are aware that other faiths claim we give credit to the prophets and ignore that it is God’s work and they (we) are mere tools in his hand in performing that work.
I think what Laman and Lemuel were upset about was that Lehi had given birthright to Nephi
It would be so nice if you were to write a book that debunked, with evidence, all of the anti church commentaries. As you mentioned there is so much out there, and it would be nice to have a literary reference to turn to for those of us that do not know or understand the history of Joseph and the church as you do. Please consider…
You missed the part in the Book of Mormon that stated polygamy is forbidden except when commanded of The Lord to build up His people! It was not an abomination!! It was only oracticed by a small percentage of saints and those who did had to be called by prophets
Agree with you👍
Exactly
Because of laman and Lemuel, ? Do I ask forgiveness, and having course because I'm a native american
The curse, ??
Alot of people, even in the church, misunderstand what the curse is
You are not guilty of any transgression, sin or what ever but what you alone commit!
Those who oppose polygamy and claim it was an abomination seem to avoid the biblical accounts of the great prophets and fathers of the covenant--- Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and Moses as well!! The Lord never condemns the practice.
I think they had a base of murmuring that they allowed to be inflamed even more
Where do you charscters cime from. Good grief
@49:48 💔💔💔
As an exmormon who recently left the church and had her mormon mother send this to me, I watched the "raising children right" section of this video, and it is just downright offensive, degrading, condescending, and holier than thou. I don't plan on having children, but I would be outraged if my parents tried to brainwash my children into thinking their parents are unworthy because they don't believe the same as their grandparents. Seriously, mormons need to learn boundaries and getting out of their bubble to find others can in fact be loving with good morals.
We must admit that the plurality of marriage didn’t come from God either, since it was injected here. But rather from carnal man. The quick mentioning and moving quickly away does not justify the abomination, just as the Book of Mormon points out! Neither does it stop an all powerful and gloriously forgiving God from turning back to a repentant people who call out to him and seek his face. But repentance is a prerequisite! As we see from the beginning! Great class!
th-cam.com/video/pZ1DPOV4iNE/w-d-xo.htmlsi=NutfWFXqzGwH7kfz
This is a link to the BYU Men’s Chorus adaptation of Nephi’s psalm. Obviously it isn’t word-for-word, but it borrows plenty of phrases and the general idea is conveyed. Brings chills to me every time!
I think your class is worthy of study but I must admit that you do seem to project your understanding as well, when you point at others as being a negative like that of a photograph. I have never heard of Joseph Jr. who I do not “believe in” as being a child molester. I think that’s a terrible accusation! But I have never worshipped or believed in Joseph anymore than I believe or worship Moses! I believe that they are who they said they were and or were called to do what they did by the power of God! I BELIEVE IN God The FATHER, and his Only Begotten Lamb. That is who and what I believe! And I believe that the testimony of Christ Jesus drips from the pages of The Book of Mormon and will leap forth from the sealed portion that is yet to come forth! I believe that the book of The Jews is a powerful testimony recorded by the ancients and is given for our benefit. That said, I do not believe that Brigham Young was ever called to be a prophet of the restoration! He may have been at one time blessed with the gift of prophecy, at some level. But his administration over the passing of false doctrine in the church over a decade after Joseph’s death is all the evidence one really needs to realize his leadership as a prophet was non existent. The Book of Mormon itself speaks boldly and clearly to this fact! So it’s not Joseph Jr that one can blame but rather one who connives and manipulates to place a blame on another! What’s worse! To even attempt to glorify the one that is being demonized is an even stranger secret combination? One must wonder why Emma moved with such diligence to keep the new translation of The Bible away from Brigham Young after her husbands martyrdom. God knows and sees all, and is a faithful forgiver of all that repent! Create in us a clean heart O God and renew a right spirit within us. For you alone are worthy to be praised! The alpha & Omega of life itself! Prepare us for the return of your lamb our redeemer Jesus Christ Our Lord! Amen. Blessings
You seem to forget about the miracle in which Brigham Young appeared to the congregation as Joseph Smith even down to the lisp he spoke with Where do you characters come from?? Good grief get a life will you!!!!
@@lynneakartchner405 That’s interesting. I’m not nor have I ever been an LDS! I have read The Book of Mormon a few times now and know by the power of the spirit of God that emits from its pages when one reads, that it is reliable testimony for, of, by, and to Jesus Christ! It drips with the Spirit of The God of This Land, & that God is Jesus Christ. Just as he said when he spoke to the brother of Jared.
I love your testimony of our Savior!!!
Interesting thoughts about Brigham Young @pjones1403 you should listen to “Presidents of the Church” by Truman G Madsen.
You will learn things about all who have taken over the mantle of leadership since Joseph Smith, by someone who read all the histories of these men, rather than listening to those who are against these men. From Joseph Smith until Gordon B. Hinkley.
Look up “Deseret Bookshelf”. You will find it there. You will also find many other books that you may be interested in.
11:19 🤣
OMG REALLY