:20 Minute Scriptorian: Recent Episodes
Lori L. Denning
LDS Scripture Podcast, Come, Follow Me and more topics. A happy medium between the academic and inspirational, this podcast is for the Disciple of Christ.
Jumping into more of the book of Genesis. We have left Eden and what now?
1. Structure
2. Toledot and Names - what to do with those geneologies
3. Cain and Abel
4. Lamech
5. Babylon
We hit some of the themes we are going to hear later on!
We continue on with Genesis 2-3
The creation of Adam and Eve, The Fall, and the Knowledge of Good and Evil.
What do you see this story about? Why do we zoom in here after the big picture creation?
In the beginning!
We are here, the start of the Book of Genesis.
- We will start with a review of the Structure. (my favorite part)
- Themes. We'll suggest a few themes you watch for as you study. There are many, what themes are you watching for as you study?
- Genesis1, Creation. Days
We'll look at days, the symmetry, and order
Culminating with the creation of humanity, the Image Bearers
I could NOT wait! It is time to get ready for the Old Testament.
Let's begin our preparation for the Old Testament
Keep studying Doctrine and Covenants, of course. But if you are starting to prepare and need a little more preparation and background for this MASSIVE amount of scripture, join me.
In this lesson we'll talk about
Structure
Flash Back
TNK, Torah, Nevi'im, Ketuvim,
Styles, like Narrative, Poetry, and more
I am SO EXCITED to start our preparation for the Hebrew Bible.
God wants to deliver and save His people. How will He do it? By choosing a single man, and then a family.
Let's meet Abraham.
1. Quick review of the structure of Genesis
2. Then we jump into Characterization in scripture
3. Abraham and God's covenant
4. Abraham's faith
Noah is on the scene.
- Themes
- Parallels with Adam
- Parallels with Moses
- Covenant, God's salvation
5. How to be more like Noah
God saves and invites us to enter His rest.
We continue our preparation of the Old Testament.
Keep on studying for Come, Follow Me and
1. Style and Genre
2. Language
3. Time Travel
Time to get ready for one of our largest "books" of scripture.
Jumping into the Gathering. This is the first time we see the Kirtland Era referenced.
I am most excited to talk about the time that prophets have foretold: THE GATHERING.
The Saints are asked to do tough things. Like us we are asked to follow the Lord. I love how Jesus introduces himself here and we can rest assured, He is with us.
We often think of the last words of Christ on the Cross as sad, despairing, and signs of abandonment. I think there may be more here. Jesus quotes from Psalm 22. I think this is a response to the laments given by thousands over the years. The Lord responds that He is with us, we are never forsaken or alone. He suffers with us and for us. He has risen and we can, too.
I often forget how amazing it is that God speaks to us today! These sections remind us of them many, many ways God seeks to communicate to His prophet and to us!
The Spirit of Revelation is an amazing gift and one I love to learn more about - These sections give us a wonderful opportunity to do so. From seer stones to dreams, peace in our hearts, to using our intellect, God seeks to communicate.
This is a short but VERY powerful scripture retelling an amazing event. The prophecy of the Restoration of the Covenant, as Malachi, Isaiah, Joel, Amos, and Act (and Matt 17) in the visitation of Moroni in September 1823.
Join me as we jump into what happened and why Moroni repeats THESE verses to the Young Prophet Joseph.
We jump into D&C 1, the Lord speaking to us and all people.
This is bold, this is powerful.
It really reminded me of the Old Testament, Shema, (Deut 6:4–9, 11:13–21).
This is the Lord God speaking directly to us today.
Welcome back to a new year!
We're jumping into the background and intro to our new course: Doctrine and Covenants.
Let's learn about it -together.
Mormon gives his final testimony.
We learn about the Atoning Messiah, the Covenant, and being a Remnant.
And those principles of the gospel are here?
Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
Repentance of sins
Baptism by water
Baptism by the Spirit
I love Mormon's final testimony, to his people and to us.
We reach Mormon, the author, warrior, prophet's last writings. He speaks to his people, he speaks to us.
Let's find out what his main points are
oh, and THIS IS my very favorite LDS art by Walter Rane
I Even Remain Alone
We turn to the book we've been waiting for: 3 NEPHI where Christ visits the Americas.
In today's episode we look at the ALL ABOUT:
The What
The History
Pattern of Duality, Compare/Contrast, Light/Dark, God/Satan, Saints/Gaddianton Robbers
The Structure of the book, in 3 parts
including Temple theme and structure.
Join me as we jump into this exciting time when Christ comes!
Finishing up today on Samuel and Nephi, both prophets, paralleled in the Book of Helaman.
We will explore God's use of prophets, to warn and remind us of our covenants, but also ancient prophets, too.
1. Parallels
2. Tower/Wall
3. Repent and Remember. God is compassionate
4. Signs and wonders
Why does God allow for signs and wonders to be shown? Is this something we should pay attention to today?
Now things pick up in pace as we reach the appearance of Christ in the Americas.
Today, we learn of the prophet Samuel. He is a Lamanite, teaching in the capital city of Zarahemla.
Let's discuss:
Prophets
Names
Angels
Use of poetry
I really loved reading this OUT LOUD and hope you'll see some of the poetry and power of the Lord in Samuels prophecies. Ultimately, we can repent and return to Him, who loves and wants to welcome us back into His arms.
Join Scholar Jon Nelson as we jump into Helman 8-12, in Come, Follow Me.
Ever wondered why some scriptures seem familiar? How one prophet uses scripture to help us understand our present times? Jon explores some of the rich intertextual references in the Book of Helaman.
Today we reach a point where the wickedness of the people cause Nephi to lament. On his garden tower he mourns the wickedness of the people.
How are we like him?
What can we do to repent and turn to the Lord?
Join me in welcoming a guest host, Jon Nelson. Scholar, saint, and faithful soul, Jon introduces us to Helaman 1-6 in Come, Follow Me 2020.
1. Who is the main character? Mormon carefully introduces us to many characters: Gadianton, Nephites, Lamanites, apostates, and more. Is there a message here for us?
2. What exegesis and eisegesis do we see in the text?
3. What reflections can we see in ourselves?
Please join me in welcoming Jon as we explore this exciting time in the Book of Mormon.
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We have moved into the book of Helaman. As the visitation of Christ grows near, like in our day, we learn what personal righteousness is important. Let's look at the context, themes, and structure of the Book of Helaman to see how editor Mormon shows us this, and how we can turn to Christ.
For more reading check out James Falconer's Commentary series and Gerald Hansen Jr.'s "The Terrifying Book of Helaman."
Let's apply what we have been working on. Of course, we review some steps to how to read this kind of scripture, then we read Revelation 11 (at least, the start).
Jump on it! You can do it!
Onward, we study how to read texts like Revelation, Daniel, Ezekiel, Ether, 1 Nephi.
Some steps
1. Big Picture
2. Trace the ideas
3. Symbols, figurative and in context
4. Applied Meaning
5. Application, past & present
This is just a framework. Try it, but don't get "stuck" on it. When I am reading a challenging style of scripture it helps me to try something like this. Find what works for you, use the Spirit, do some research, teach it.
For more information, here are some of my resources:
TheBibleProject.com
The Theology of the Book of Revelation (New Testament Theology)
Bauckham, Richard
Dr. Christine Hayes, YaleCourses https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5J6q1J09oNw
We're going to take a diversion from Come, Follow Me and examine:
How to read Apocalyptic Literature.
Is it the end of the world? Do you see the signs? Or maybe, that's not how these revelations work?
Let's explore it today.
Part 1: What is Apocalyptic Literature
Part 2. How to read it
Part 3. We'll practice together
We start Alma's commandments to his son, Corianton. Corianton has had some struggles, let's take a look at the first group.
In one of the most powerful conversion stories, we learn of the power of covenants and the redeeming love of the Atoning Messiah.
Mormon, the editor, takes a "breath" and a pause to teach us about what we can do to change. Before the world is plunged into war (the war chapters), he pauses to teach us about the keys to staying True to Christ. We will first reflect on the context of the Book of Mormon, how did we get here? Then, we'll look to the keys of avoiding this kind of conflict in our lives and in our day.
Alma, and the entire Book of Mormon is a roadmap for our day. So let's jump into the tools needed to change inside, gain discernment, and have real humility, real faith.
Alma gives us the key.
Speeches! Yep, let's look at the use of speeches in the Book of Mormon. The speeches in this week's study are almost a song, a psalm, a passionate appeal to God's Redemption of His people.
There is so much to talk about in this portion of Alma, and here we find WHY people do what they do.
Let's dive into the story of Ammon.
Who is he like?
What set him apart?
I think he is very much like King David (the good parts)
Who were these Sons of Mosiah?
We're headed into the "middle part" of the book of Alma. What is Mormon telling us of this part? We started with lots of Nephite stories, now sons, then the war chapters. This center section is going to tell us critical info about the people, their faith. How to change the world.
The next few chapters are some of the most theology on the plan of salvation, the role of the Savior, and redemption in any scripture.
But before we get there, Mormon takes time to explain a story of debate and priestcraft with Zeezrom. Let's take a step back to learn about these techniques: narrative, themes, and names. This will help us recognize the significance of other scripture stories as be become better scriptorians.
Alma continues his missionary journey to the evil city of Ammonihah where we meet Amulek.
He seems great! Welcomes a prophet, visited by an angel....
Maybe this is a guy we can relate to.
Join me as we learn we may be a lot like Amulek.
Alma teaches us the model for how to come to God.
remember our captivity
Awaken unto God
Sing the Song of Redeeming Love
Mighty Change of Heart
Let's take a step back and do an episode of ALL ABOUT.
I want to look at the book of Alma and how Alma the Younger and Mormon the editor put this book together. Are there clues in the message in what is here, the themes, structure, and common stories? Why all the war stories?
I owe a lot to the article in this post:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/mi/17/
Join me as we look at the cosmic battle for Good v. Evil, the word v. the sword
We now move to the Book of Alma.
I want to take a few minutes to explain characterization in scripture. We have a perfect example of the use of descriptions, names, morality of characters, to help us understand scripture better. In this tragic story we learn of the death of a hero and the introduction of priestcrafts.
Let's learn more about how to read scripture.
Come, Follow Me
Mosiah 25 through 28 part 2
Choosing the Atoning Messiah
Mosiah writes a story for our day.
Covenants bring the people together.
Alma the Elder begins the Church - a UNIQUE idea and way to bring covenants and community together.
WOW, I love this time in Nephite History.
Alma the Elder continues to teach us about covenants and becoming One with Christ.
As He becomes man and like us, we can become One, Redeemed, with him.
Mormon crafts this book as a master. We see parallels with Moses.
Here are a few we cover today.
1. Cultural outsider
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Ruler
-
People oppressed by greater civilization
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Lead by God
-
Leader of his people
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God's desire to be with His people
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God creates Covenant
Maybe through this, Mormon the editor, is showing us of God's desire to be near us, through Covenants. The covenant on Mount Sinai and our Covenant of Baptism.
Both covenants of becoming His Holy People, changing our hearts, becoming His Children.
We move now to the story of Alma the Elder. Once evil priest of King Noah, now great Priest of the Most High. His repentance and change is a story that has struck me, this week. Normally, we focus on Alma the Younger's conversion story...today we learn of the Elder.
What changed Alma? What was the key? The power of the Atoning Messiah.
Also, check out Luke 24 and the Road to Emmaus.
powerful stuff
As always.
Abinadi continues!
This is great and important doctrines of Christ.
I love the focus on Christ. His atonement and earthly mission. He becomes like us, so we can become like Him. His love, his humility, his compassion.
As we become his offspring, we are redeemed. Like Alma, the priests, Noah, we each have a chance to reach his outstreached hand.
Love, love Abinadi.
Let's find out what the Isaiah scripture was all about in the trial of Abinadi and the wicked priests of Noah.
- Review of Characters
- The trap the priests were trying to set
- Why this scripture?
- How Abinadi is going to reteach the priests
Great stuff here. And the last time we'll see Isaiah until the Savior's visit.
As we jump into the story of King Noah, there are a LOT of characters. Using Characters in scripture is different than how we use characters in novels or stories today. In ancient times you don't get a lot of "backstory." So, every word, every description is important to the point of the story. Let's meet:
Noah
The Priests
The People
And Abinadi
We continue on Come Follow Me, Mosiah 7-8
In a parallel to Moses, Nephi, and others, we see the Lord's mercy in deliverance (even when we do it to ourselves).
love, mercy, deliverance
King Limhi is a wonderful example of a righteous leader. I love this story of him.
Perhpas there are some clues for us?
Christ will suffer WITH us and deliver us from bondage.
We're at it again! Let's do another ALL ABOUT
There is a LOT going on with these chapters.
In two parts we'll discuss:
the flashbacks, map, and main players.
Then
we'll talk about the scriptural motifs of Deliverance and Wilderness.
I love this motif. I have learned so much by the prophetic writings about redemption, deliverance, sin, and the Lord's love for us. I think you'll like it, too.
King Benjamin's speach turns to: US!
What do we do to be saved? Attain salvation, take part in the atonement?
How do we feel joy in Christ?
King Benjamin tells us the keys
We enter a new phase, MORMON's editorial writings, starting with the Book of Mosiah
let's find out about the WHO, WHAT, WHEN and WHY
We learn some of the contextual settings and themes
Join me as we begin the biggest week of the year! HOLY WEEK!
Today, a quick review of
1. Triumphal Entry
2. Hosanna Shout
3. Riding on a donkey
Deliver us!
Psalm 118
Book of Leviticus
This very personal story of Enos' wrestle with God is our story.
God wants us to find Him and draw near to Him.
Enos, a man, and representative of all mankind, he tells a story of personal redemption, personal conversion, personal testimony.
Powerful Stuff
I pray we can each draw close to God and wrestle to know Him.
Moving onto a new set of books. First, the prophet ENOS.
- who, what, where
- A story of personal conversion, testimony, and redemption
- some themes
Love each other during the trials
Wrestle for your own testimony and redemption
LOVE YOU, sisters and brothers
The prophet Jacob continues with his sermons.
First, we hear of two issues that cause serious concern in the Nephite civilization: pride from wealth, and "whoredoms."
Not the most cheerful sermon, but I love that God looks out for his children. He cares for each of us, no matter our political nor economic status. From all of the society, women and the "poor" He is aware of us and has strong words for those who afflict His gentle ones.
We are introduced to the WONDERFUL, EMOTIVE Prophet Jacob.
Let's jump into the context, before we read the short 7 chapters.
Let's cover:
Timing
Setting
Culture
Who was Jacob?
Themes
Structure
https://rsc.byu.edu/book-mormon-jacob-through-words-mormon-learn-joy/jacob-prophet-theologian-historian
Nephi's great sermon to is people.
Why Did Christ Get Baptized? The answer is different than you might think.
1. Holiness
2. Tapping into the Atonement
3. Witness to the Father
4. Witness to us
Nephi uses Isaiah to teach us about
- The remnant (Shearjashub)
- God with Us (Emmanuel)
- The opposite, destruction and terror when we don't turn to the Lord (Mahershalahashbaz)
- The Child who will be Victorious and usher in a rule of hope and salvation (Jesus)
While the politics and story is a little hard, the analogies used of the children help us see the vision of the Lord and His saving grace.
Isaiah's amazing call.
Vision of the Lord
And what can we learn of His vision, the call of a prophet, and the HOPE he gives for a remnant and a seed.
The plot thickens!
Isaiah turns to poetry to help us understand the Lord's love for His Covenant people and lament over their folly.
First, a few pointers about poetry, specifically Hebrew Poetry
1. Short lines
2. Doesn't rhyme, but is concise
3. Parallelism. It might deepen, enhance, or even contrast
Then, 2 Ne 15....
Feel the emotion, the lament, the Lord's love and care....
Let's dive back into Isaiah
We have done some prep work, so let's talk about
THE DAY. When God will come and bring salvation to ALL NATIONS!
2 Ne 12 starts with a vision of what it will be like!
2 New 14 ends with the vision of...the same thing
And in the middle we get a poem about the pride that brings all people, and nations, down. Power, pride, social power, is all eclipsed by the LORD when He comes.
A great and beautiful vision into the Salvation of All by God.
Nephi and Jacob use Isaiah for specific purposes. They BOTH use the term: Liken. They want us to know about the Savior, the covenant, and the being the Remnant of the House of Israel.
a. Framing. They tell us why/what they are going to tell us. Then they use Isaiah, then they summarize.
b. Isaiah's structure of Judgment/Hope and linked with the remnant.
Continuing on our PREP for Isaiah in the Book of Mormon, and specifically Nephi, we're going to go over:
Foundational ideals, building blocks, themes, motifs
A lot of these you'll know. Some may not be so familiar. But Isaiah assumes you know these so let's refresh.
This is it! We are here!!!!
Isaiah. I can't wait!
We're going to start with:
Part 1: Nephi's use of Isaiah and his main themes (that's THIS episode).
Part 2: foundations. The LEGO blocks and fundamentals that Isaiah is going to use to tell us about: The Atoning Messiah, The Plan of Redemption, The Covenant, and the Tribes of Israel (Remnant/Branch)
Part 3: structure of Isaiah
Part 4: Jumping into the actual chapters
Whew! Can we do it? It will take a few episodes but I CANNOT WAIT. HIP HIP HOORAY. ISAIAH IS HERE!!!
Choose the Way of Christ
Lehi blesses Jacob and explains the path of the Redeemer.
See also, Deuteronomy 29-30
https://byustudies.byu.edu/content/ancient-doctrine-two-ways-and-book-mormon
We jump back into 2 Nephi 3 as Lehi blesses his youngest son, Joseph.
- The covenant and blessing of Joseph of Egypt
Manasseh and Ephraim (Gen 49) - Joseph of Egypt's special covenant
- Young Joseph's part of that family
- AMAZING blessings for the family of Joseph
- Blessings of a seer in the latter days
We move into 2 Nephi and return to Lehi and his blessing of his family.
- The Covenant
- Blessings, Patriarchal
Come, Follow Me
Let's take a step back and look at the context and structure of 2 Nephi.
1. The only scripture that has 2 separate books by the same prophet.
2. Some history and overview
3. 5 parts of 2 Nephi
a. Lehi Blesses His Son
b. Historical review of the Division of the groups
c. Jacob's Sermon on Salvation of Israel by the Gentiles
d. Isaiah (Don't turn it off, this is great stuff!)
e. Nephi's concluding vision
Nephi tells us why he created 2 sets of plates.
Themes of the Atoning Messiah
The Covenant
The Gathering of Israel
While we finish some of the most powerful scriptures of Christ, we also see Nephi's masterful structure of 1 Nephi drawing our attention to the role of the Messiah.
We begin the ending of 1 Nephi
- Why does Nephi use Isaiah?
- What are the main themes?
Atoning Messiah, Covenants, and Gathering/Scattering of Israel (which can be images of the olive tree/branch/root/seed/tree)
Why is Nephi in 2 books?
What were the brothers focused on vs. Nephi? Is that like us/??
Come, Follow Me
We continue on Nephi's vision of the Lamb of God and the condesension of God.
The Atoning Messiah
The Mission of the Lamb of God
The Love of God to share with us, the children of men.
Now we turn from Lehi to Nephi
ALL ABOUT
We learn some of the structure and setting that will ultimately give us an overview of the message: The Lamb of God, the Atoning Messiah. The Savior of the World.
- Watch for the last verse of Chapter 10, THEN read chapter 11
- inclusio: a kind of book ends, using a repeat of a phrase or verse, to highlight the themes or ideas inclosed.
- Nephi will use these themes we're going to see in chapters 11-14 for the rest of 1 and 2 Nephi, use Isaiah to highlight it, and even the rest of the Book of Mormon underlines them!
So much to talk about in the vision on Lehi.
Big Picture
Story starts with seeds..ends with a branch. A remnant
Then the vision
and a second vision of the Lamb of God, who will Redeem His people
The Tree of Life, The Redemption of the Branch of Israel
This is the story of a redemption, a gathering, a bringing back the seeds/branch/family
1 Nephi 8
Looking at our method of studying scripture (1. what/where/who 2. allegory 3. application 4. mysticism)
We will jump into
the tree
the fruit
https://archive.bookofmormoncentral.org/content/1-nephi-8-10
https://knowhy.bookofmormoncentral.org/knowhy/what-fruit-is-white
ALL ABOUT
Let's take a step back and look at dreams and visions in scripture.
Are there other examples?
Is there a pattern?
and
WHY does the LORD use them?
https://rsc.byu.edu/archived/things-which-my-father-saw/6-lehi-dreamed-dream-report-lehis-dream-its-biblical-context
We continue on looking at how to read the Book of Mormon, including 1 Nephi 1-5
1. What type/genre?
2. Plot
3. Setting
4. Characters
5. Theme
https://loridenning.podomatic.net/blog
Moving onto part 3 of our 1 Nephi 1 review.
Does Nephi's text tell us how to read the text?
I think so
We compare the quotation method of looking at a story and the rabbinical approach.
Also, a few steps on how to read narrative
For more on these techniques check out:
Beholding the Tree of Life
https://www.amazon.com/Beholding-Tree-Life-Rabbinic-Approach-ebook/dp/B00P8FQ286
part 2 of 1 Nephi, Chapter 1
Lehi's Visions
Lehi sees a number of visions or theophanies.
What did he see?
What does it remind us of?
Are there any symbols or examples that help us understand these visions?
1 Nephi continues with POWERFUL visions and starts to reveal some of the Lord's themes we will see in the Book of Mormon.
Part 1 of 1 Nephi 1
As we enter the MOST exciting Book of Mormon study year, I am doing a 4 or 5 part entry into chapter 1 of 1 Nephi.
Part 1: Lehi's record
setting the stage
history Lehi finds himself in
Josiah's reform
Part 2: Lehi's Visions
Part 3: Nephi: Theme of Nephi, Tender Mercies
Part 4: Text
Additional resources:
A Dream, A Rock, a Pillar of Fire
https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Rock-Pillar-Fire-Reading/dp/0842530126
Reader's Edition of Book of Mormon
https://www.amazon.com/Book-Mormon-Another-Testament-Institute/dp/1944394656/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35MXQLAKJ0ZY2&keywords=grant+hardy+book+of+mormon&qid=1578160554&s=books&sprefix=grant+hardy%2Cstripbooks%2C208&sr=1-1
https://byustudies.byu.edu/charts/13-book-mormon-plates-and-records
I loved the focus the title page gives us!
We answer the question:
WHAT is the Book of Mormon?
It is for whom?
Why is it?
How did we get it?
We are off to a new year and new text: the Book of Mormon.
This is exciting and together we start with an often over-looked text, the title page.
Starting with the
a. History of the title page, who wrote it: Moroni
b. the various versions of the Book of Mormon: 1830, 1837, 1840, 1852, 1879, 1920, and 1981 and printer's manuscript
2. A few tips for studying
Also, if you want some more info check out
https://rsc.byu.edu/archived/book-mormon-first-nephi-doctrinal-foundation/2-title-page
image: copywrite application 1829 for Book of Mormon, including Title Page
And now, we get to the best part!
The vision of the scroll and "who is worthy to open it?"
The little lamb, the Lion of Judah
So much to say!The Revelation of Jesus
- Review Intro
- Steeped in scripture
- Chap 1-3 the 7 churches OVERVIEW
This is quick as we continue you on to the BEST PART Chap 4-5
Join me as we begin to study the book of Revelation. Sometimes called the Revelation of John or the Revelation of Jesus.
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What is Apocalyptic Literature
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Examples of apocalyptic literature, Daniel 7, Lehi's Dream, Section 76, Ezekiel 1 & 36, Isaiah 6, etc.
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Tone, style, symbols, common themes
Let's dive back into the early Christian letters. These are short, often overlooked, but some great material.
Today we talk about the letters, context, who they were written by, why, main themes and ideas. Including some of the challenges that were unique to their day...or were they?
John the Elder
Jude/Judah the brother of Jesus
Come, Follow Me
2 Peter
- What God wants for His people
- Share in his Divine Nature
- Make our calling and election sure
- what we must do. Obedience, discipline
- False Teachers
- Day of The Lord
- Patience - wait for the Day
Come, Follow Me
1 Peter
We really jump into 1 Peter 1:1-9 where Peter lays out his themes.
Strangers and travellers
Chosen people
Through Christ and His Mercy
Then we bounce over to 1 Peter 2, Christ as the stone. The cornerstone, the Son, ben and eben
The Covenant
We jump into one of my favorite Apostles: PETER
1. Who, What, When, Where
2. Reminders about the character of Peter
James give us is masterful first chapter with the themes of:
1. How to live a whole & complete life
2. God gives us trials
a. to learn patience
b. Wisdom
c. Faith
God gives us all good things and wants to bless us.
Come, Follow Me
Epistle of James
Context and History
Who, What, Why
A life of wisdom, through faith in Christ
A review of the wisdom literature through James/Jacob. Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Job
Thanks to Dr. David Chapman (Epistle to James history and commentary) and The Bible Project (Wisdom Literature)
We finish the Book of Hebrews.
Excuse me while I share a personal story about faith and learning how the Savior is our friend, the Way, the Author and Finisher of our Faith.
Welcome back!
- Jesus is the better way
- Review of 1-4
- Don't forget what you've learned/the changes when you were converted
- There is MORE TO COME
- Christ is the High Priest, a better way
We return to Come, Follow Me and the Book of Hebrews with Chapter 3 and 4
- Building on the testimony of Moses
- The story of the Wilderness and wandering
- When our faith lags
- Entering God's Rest
- The grace of Christ
- Jesus as Prophet, King and High Priest
- Builds on the new covenant
- The Salvation and New Covenant is the Way. It is superior
- Christ suffered for us, so he can understand us as brothers and sisters
We get to my FAVORITE book in the NT - Hebrews.
In this podcast we talk about
1. Who wrote it
2. Who was the audience
3. Genre: letter? book? sermon?
4. What was the purpose -Encourage & teach, Christ is Superior
Reminding us of:
Abraham, Moses, Sinai, Priests, Wilderness and Promised Land
We talk Angels and Melchizedek
I got carried away! THIS IS SUCH GREAT STUFF
This pastoral epistle to Titus is written by Paul to one of his spiritual sons, Titus. The bishop of the greek island of Crete, Titus is really applicable to us, today.
1. The Faithfulness of God. The God who does not lie!
2. The ability for Christ to change us, and we can affect a community
3. God's Mercy saves us
Wow, I loved diving back into this letter. It teaches me of Christ and how I want to be better and a good disciple.
Paul writes 3 letters to to the Bishops of the congregations in the area.
Timothy is the Bishop of Ephesus. He is young and while Ephesus is a great congregation, there are challenges. Paul gives Timothy advice (Tim is Paul's protege) about doctrine and practical application.
Titus is the Bishop in Crete. The Cretan church has its own challenges.
Paul writes to advise on both
1. Doctrine of Christ
2. Practical Application
These are awesome letters. How to shepherd your ward, help in your calling. I love these letters and you will, too.
Come, Follow Me continues
Paul teaches Timothy, the Bishop of Ephesus about
1. Hope
2. The role of women in the Church
3. False Doctrine being taught then...what does that mean for us today?
3. Persecutions will come, but it is worth it
I still love these letters. So easy to read, so heartfelt, so focused on the Savior and practical applications.
- Love, Faith, and Hope in Christ
- Service like Christ and Paul
- Loving those we serve
- The 2nd coming - God will make it right
Come, Follow Me
Today we get a two for one, with 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians ALL ABOUT
1. The 2 epistles
2. Arrangement of the NT
3. Who are the Thessalonians?
4. Structure and overview of each epistle
These are brief but pack a punch.
Join Paul, Silas, and Timothy as we journey to Thessaloniki
Colossians continues
1. The great poem/hymn the exalted Christ
2. Paul's suffering
3. Worldly pressures to turn away from the covenant path
4. How to live, following Christ
Some great highlights! This short letter is one of the most Christ-centric of any of Paul's writings.
Short but packs a punch!
Come, Follow Me Philippians continues
We do a deeper dive into Chapters 1 -2
Part 1: 1:12-25 Paul's situation in Rome
Part 2: 1:27- 2:18, Christ brings us to unity
Part 3: 3:2-21 Paul warns against legalism vs. changing form the inside
Check out the him
2:6 -11
BEAUTIFUL
A great poem about the Humilty of Christ
Come, Follow Me
Paul's Epistle to the Philippians
ALL ABOUT
1. The city
2. It's people
3. Review of Lydia, the slave girl, the jailer, Silvanus, Epaphroditus the missionary, Luke AND MORE
I LOVE this city. I feel like I know and love these people. I think Paul writes to them differently and you can feel his love and shares his honest worries about his life to his dear friends.
The photo is one of the traditional places on the river where we meet Lydia. It is the traditional place of prayer where Paul met them.
Come, Follow Me
We start the Epistle to the Ephesians.
Context, history, and background
Review Acts 19!
Then Ephesus
-Worship to the Goddess Diana/Artemis
-Paul founding the Church there
- Having Great success
Come, Follow Me Continues
Epistle to the Ephesians
An overview
History, structure and a reminder about Paul and the city of Ephesus
Also, we review a poem and a prayer
Chap 1-3 is part 1
Chap 2-6 is part 2
Come Follow Me 2019 New Testament
Week of 23 September - 29 September
We learn about The Church is Galatia
Paul himself
The problems facing the congregation
AND
a little on the structure and them
1. The gospel of the Messiah
2. That creates a new, multi-national family
3. and how the Spirit will transform us
We also talk about how disappointed Paul is with the church - already leaving the teachings of Christ behind.
Strong stuff. Can you take it?
Come Follow Me New Testament Continues
Paul continues to gently chastise the Corinthians.
Chapters 8-9 Generosity & Christ's example
9-13 Super Apostles, Paul Credentials
And a long story about my time at the Evangelical University
Picking up Paul's letter to the Corinthians we talk about some powerful changes in the saints.
1. Letter of recommendation
2. The New Covenant of Christ
3. Unveiling our Heart
4. Mighty Change of Heart
Come, Follow Me continues with 2 Corinthians.
We talk about
1. Being a saint
2. Sharing each others' burdens
3. The God of Comfort
Paul writes to his dear friends, although a bit estranged from him, in Corinth. A study in tone, we learn of Jesus' model of suffering and comfort.
We are continuing on to the overview of 2 Corinthians
1. A quick bit of history, is this 1, 2 or 3rd Corinthians
2. The sorrowful tone
3. A quick outline
2 Corinthians is a bit of a hidden gem. With so many other strong letters of Paul, this one gets missed. Well, don't skip it. It is about Christ's suffering as a lens for our life.
Practical, heart breaking...this letter is one to savor.
Paul finishes up his letter to correct issues in Corinth. This one is the highlight. The Resurrection!
We touch on
-The issue
- Why didn't they believe in it?
- Baptisms for the Dead
- Degrees of Glory
and finally, the Hope of Christ: Resurrection of all
Beautiful and powerful, Paul leaves us on a high note of Hope in the Savior.
Paul really hits us with strong and important material: the Gifts of the Spirit and the Pure Love of Christ.
We first find out what Paul was addressing and how the Spirit was not quite as...clear to the Corinthians. Then, some of the most sublime writing in all the world, Chapter 13.
I absolutely love Paul's master work on Love. Charity. The Pure Love of Christ. This.is.brilliant.
I wish we had enough time to really dig into Moroni 7 and Moroni 10. Read it! Wow, life changing. Christ's love and grace changes us. His Spirit gives us faith and hope.
We continue onward in our study of 1 Corinthians. Paul writes to help solve more causes of division in the young congregation - creating temptations for weaker members. He uses the meat sacrificed to idols, but we can certainly apply to our societies today.
Also, a brilliant metaphor of creating a temperate life, like an athlete, in order to win a crown that will never fade.
We delve into Paul's letter addressing some of the urgent issues causing problems in the Corinthian Church.
Division and Immorality
Paul focus on Jesus Christ as the unifying answer to the problems in their congregation.
We continue our study of the New Testament and 2019 Come, Follow Me with 1st Corinthians.
In ALL ABOUT we study the context, history, and issues that were the cause of this letter from Paul. So before we jump into the issues, let's pause and do some context.
1. Big word study: Exegesis, Eisegesis, Hermaneutics. Lori takes us back to school for some definitions.
2. What, who, why
3. Structure
Let's finish up our discussion of The Epistle to the Romans.
First, I review the relationship between the Law and Grace or grace and works, or what we are supposed to do exactly, as the Saints.
1. The Parable of the Football team (this is my own invention and while not a perfect analogy, I like it to simplify the complex theology of Romans)
2. Review of Romans, chapter by chapter (really, chapter 1-3)
3. More in depth on Chapter 4
4. A wrap up
Sorry for the additional length. Or...depending on if you like it...you're welcome.
Today we dig deeper into Romans Chapters 1 and 3. While there is so much to cover, we'll do
Romans 1: 16 -13 and
Romans 3: 23 - 25
This is a lot to unravel, so first we'll work through the following terms:
Gospel
Grace
Justification
Righteousness/Faithfulness of God
Covenant
Faith
This is the GOOD NEWS and powerful stuff.
Here are some talks I reference. SUPER powerful and worth listening tol
Elder Uchdorft
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/04/the-gift-of-grace?lang=eng
Brad Wilcox
https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/brad-wilcox/his-grace-is-sufficient/
We jump into Paul's Master work = Epistle to the Romans. Before we dive in, let's talk about
Context
How
What
Why
and
the Structure.
I have learned SO much from the letter. It is complex and my opinions are changing as I learn more.
Some additional Resources:
NT Wright: Paul an Introduction (He has a lot on Paul and Romans and you can't go wrong here)
The chart with metaphors of Paul
https://byustudies.byu.edu/system/files/pdfs/Charts/NT/15-12.pdf
Ben Spackman is a rockstar. Here is a great summary of concepts and resources. https://www.patheos.com/blogs/benjaminthescribe/2019/07/covenant-and-law-grace-works-and-faith/
We finish up the Acts of the Apostles
Is this a missionary log? Why so many cities and mentions?
Paul leaves his 3rd mission and heads to Jerusalem.
What can we see about this? Is there something greater Luke wanted to show us?
Come Follow Me, Continued
We leave Paul for a minute and head to Ephesus, where we meet Aquila and Priscilla, a power missionary couple!
Then, our hero, Apollos.
We discuss the importance of authority, The Holy Ghost and the ordinances.
check out Elder Bednar's talk (with better audio)
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media-library/video/2012-08-2790-covenants-and-ordinances?lang=eng
The pace is picking up! Paul heads out on his 2nd Missionary Journey. Acts 15 is pivotal, so don't skip that! This will change everything we do/are as a Church in the next centuries. Then, we meet some rockstars of the Ancient Church: Timothy and Lydia.
Peter has a vision, that CHANGES EVERYTHING!
Acts 10
First we review where we are in the story.
Then we jump off into Acts 10, where the story dives right in and we meet the Roman Centurion Cornelius.
There's an Angel!
A Vision!
Then, revelations abound.
I'm changing it up! Instead of JUST my classes, I thought I'd put in smaller, bit sized lessons (get it? :20 min?) on the Come Follow Me and other scripture topics. Thanks CH for your suggestion.
Today we jump into the OVERVIEW of the Book of Acts.
Who was Luke? Who wrote the book? Acts of who?
Also, Narrative and Speeches
Some sources:
Interpreting the Book of Acts by Walter L Liefeld
The Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary
The Bible Project: Book of Acts (there are a number of these and super brilliant)
Today we examine a display of contrasts. Stephen and Saul in Acts 6 - 9. We start our discussion on Stephen, the context of Acts and how his story may be applicable to us, today.
Legacy Retirement Home
Come Follow Me
Study Group
JUNE 17–23
Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19
We have a discussion at the beginning, and then discuss the Cross and Jesus' sacrifice. Specifically we discuss the 7 sayings of Jesus and what he meant and how we can apply them.
See also Psalms 22
Signs of the Times
We look at JS Matthew, Matthew 24 and Matthew 25
I love the idea that the signs are for us to prepare and fear not.
We continue our exploration of the Come Follow Me lessons. Today, we start with Matthew 21 -23 (and Mark 11, Luke 19-20, John 12).
-Triumphal Entry
-Hosana Shout
-The unrighteous leadership
-parables
There is some great discussion. We had some technical difficulties for a minute or two, but hang in there, the best is yet to come!
Lori
We explore Come Follow Me, John 7-10, discussing the Feast of Tabernacles.
-Sukkot
-Living Water
-Light of the World
-Man Born Blind
@Legacy Retirement
An Adult Study of
Matthew 18
Luke 10
Come Follow Me, New Testament
- Who is greatest
-Forgiveness
-The Good Samaritan
We take a look at Come Follow Me
Matthew 14
The Death of John the Baptist
Mourning
The Disciples on the other shore
Feeding the 5000
This is one of my favorite Chapters of Matthew.
Enjoy
Today's podcast, Come Follow Me, Matt 10-12, Mark 2, Luke 7, 11
Jesus calls the 12
John the Baptist's message
Woe's to the 3 cities
And a lot of Lori's mission stories
Legacy Retirement Home
Come Follow Me, Matthew 6-7
We talk about Jesus as the new Moses
new law/covenant
Jeremiah 31:31-33
The Lord's Prayer
Last lesson of the OT in 2018
We cover
-What happened to get us here
-Zechariah, Malachi, Haggai, Ezra, Nehemiah (well, a little)
And a little overview of the time between the Old and New Testaments
Review of the Book
Context and History
Ezekiel's Theophany
Create in us a new heart
Themes of Judgment and Hope
-Shepherds
-Valley of Dry Bones
Gospel Doctrine Lesson 45 at Legacy
The book of the prophet Daniel.
Big Shout out to The Bible Project for their guidance on Exile and The Way of the Exile.
This is it! The Big Finale.
Also check out
Joe Spencer's Book The Vision of All (he's the true master of this topic)
Lori Denning's Gospel Doctrine class
River Ridge VI ward
21 October 2018
Where we’ve been before
Book of Isaiah has two halves.
1st Half: Judgement. Chap 1-39
2nd Half: Hope & Redemption Chap 40—66
Linked: prophecies of a Remnant that will help redeem all Nations
________________________________________
Covenants
Abrahamic Covenant: Israel will bless/save all Nations (Abr 2:8-22)
Law of Moses: Israel will be a Kingdom of Priests/Priestess, a Peculiar People (Exodus 19)
Future King from Line of David: 2 Sam 7
________________________________________
Foundation
• Call of A Prophet,
• The Divine Council
• New Jerusalem/New Creation/ Zion
• Exile
Call of Prophet
Invitation into Divine Council
Purified through the Sacrifice of the Lamb (coal on the lips from the Altar)
Seraphim (I misquoted and said Cherubim), but they are Fiery ones
Holy, Holy, Holy = Kadosh in Hebrew
South Jordan VI Ward Gospel Doctrine Class
Lori Denning teaches Isaiah Chapters 1 and 2
Basic Structure
Book of Isaiah has two halves.
1st Half: Judgement. Chap 1-39
2nd Half: Hope & Redemption Chap 40—66
Linked: prophecies of a Remnant that will help Redeem all Nations
________________________________________
Covenants
Abrahamic Covenant: Israel will bless/save all Nations: Abr 2:8-22
Law of Moses: Israel will be a Kingdom of Priests/Priestess, a Peculiar People: Exodus 19
Future King from Line of David: 2 Sam 7
________________________________________
Foundation
• Covenants
• Messiah
• Zion, New Jerusalem, Eden, Temple, Mountain
• Exile
________________________________________
Chapter 1: Good overview of entire Book of Isaiah
1: Introduction: This is the story of Isaiah, who lived during 4 Judean Kings - Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah
Poem that’s like a Trial.Judah is on trial & Judgement is coming. The next verses tell us
How we got into this and how we can get out.
16-17 What we have to do
18-20 The Lord’s Hope for His People
18 “Come now, and let us reason together,”
Says the LORD,
“Though your sins are as scarlet,
They will be as white as snow;
Though they are red like crimson,
They will be like wool.
19 “If you consent and obey,
You will eat the best of the land;
20 “But if you refuse and rebel,
You will be devoured by the sword.”
Hope for the Future
2:2-5