Pride and class division

Alma chapter 31 introduces us to the Zoramites. The Zoramites were divided into 2 societies. There was a strict class division based upon wealth. In particular, Alma notes that the upper class had strict dress standards. And the poor people were not allowed into the synagogues that they had built. Latter-day Saints all know the … Read more

Flattering words

The accounts in Alma 30–31 clearly demonstrate the power of words—for evil and for good. The “flattering” and “great swelling words” of a false teacher named Korihor threatened to bring “many souls down to destruction” (Alma 30:31, 47). – “The Virtue of the Word of God,” Come, Follow Me, Book of Mormon 2024, July 15-21. The … Read more

Give us a King!

When he grew old, the Old Testament prophet Samuel appointed his sons to be judges over Israel. Unfortunately, they “turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgement” (1 Samuel 8:3). Weary of corrupt government, the elders of Israel came to Samuel and asked him to appoint a king to rule over them. (1 … Read more

The Golden Rule

The “Golden Rule” is often considered to be a one sentence summary of what Christianity is all about. Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12 Jesus said this in the context of promising that … Read more

The “very elect” HAVE been deceived

For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. Matthew 24:24 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a serious problem among its members – at least in Utah. Approximately half of them have … Read more

Are the LDS of “one heart and one mind?”

To members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Kingdom of Heaven and the Kingdom of God are two different things. The Kingdom of Heaven is where God lives. The Kingdom of God is God’s kingdom on Earth. In other words, the Kingdom of God is the Church. We Latter-day Saints have … Read more