Written for our day

This is one of those types of posts that could easily be over on the Lib.

First, let me say that as I have been studying the Book of Mormon, this chapter really struck me this time around.  For those not of my faith, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, I encourage you to read the post, if not the link at the bottom as well.  The Book of Mormon was truly written for our day.

Before going into the specifics, though many of my Latter Day Saints friends probably will pick right up on it, Let me describe, in generalities what was going on.

The Book of Mormon follows a remnant of God's children as they escape Judea about 600 BC, and are led to the Americas.  It follows their ups and downs, their divisions and wars, and most importantly, the visit of Jesus Christ to the Americas after his resurrection.  The selection is from around 74 BC.

They were a nation built on Judeo Christian principles

 While these principles were followed, there was peace and prosperity in the land

The people could believe as they wished, or not

They were held to account by the law for their crimes against each other

This certainly sounds like the ideal that we in this nation have tried to live up to.  Yes, we are not perfect, we are human after all, but communities working together, as we are seeing in Texas should be the norm, even when there is no natural catastrophe.  But then...

 Ministers teaching that there is no Christ

And that we should not believe in the traditions of our fathers

That we CAN'T know what awaits us after this life

That each of us fares according to our strengths

 And that whatever we do, there is no crime

Does that sound familiar?  How many are caught up in the progressive mind set?  How many times are we to be "enlightened" by some new way?  We see it everywhere.  

 "You are old fashioned" they say.

"Society has evolved, why can't you?"

"Or the church?"

Look, I get as well as anyone that we can't begin to fathom the depth of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.  I am  relieved to know that I will be judged based on what I am trying to do in this life, and where my heart truly lies.  I also know that Jesus Christ is merciful, and while mercy cannot fully supplant justice, we are not equipped to be the judge here on earth, and we MUST NOT judge others! (the emphasis, FYI, was mostly to me)

What I do know, is that while I seek forgiveness from my Lord and those whom I have offended, it is imperative that I forgive others.  In fact, my forgiveness is based on it. (Matthew 18:23-35 KJV)

Do God's laws change?  If they did, He would cease to be God. So, why would we think that his law has "evolved" because of the times?

So what was it that inspired this?  It is the story of Korihor the Anti-Christ, and the damage his teachings did to the people.  The link is below, and while the internet tracks everything, there is no registration or log in required.  No salesman will call.  Unless you ask.

https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/30?lang=eng

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