I have been watching from almost the beginning. I am over joyed that these are still all over an hour. We need to find a deeper understanding and Jared opens our eyes that there is so much more to understand and study.
I’m only halfway through the lesson so I’m not sure if you go back to this - but I STRONGLY disagree with that reading of Nephi as somehow wrong or lacking because he didn’t ask to taste. I especially disagree with creating some hierarchy of heavenly messengers. It was an angel that came to Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane to strengthen Him, not the Holy Spirit. Of course because I love your lessons, I took your advice to ponder and think about my own assumptions in these verses that made me react so vehemently, and received more light and knowledge as a result. But I still disagree! ❤
I really disagree with your criticism of Nephi. You are reading far too much into the change of hosts, for which there are many other possible explanations. Nephi was a mighty prophet and there is absolutely no indication in the text that Nephi did anything wrong by wanting to understand the dream! Nephi went on to experience a detailed vision that showed him EXACTLY what "the love of God that sheddeth itself abroad" means, saw the actual Savior perform the atonement, which is the meaning behind the fruit. He went on to perform miracles and lead a new civilization-- all of those are clear and unambiguous evidence that Nephi did the RIGHT thing by wanting to understand the vision. Why, if the Spirit was so disappointed with Nephi, why didn't he just correct him? I mean, isn't that what the Spirit DOES, is give us correction? Why wouldn't he say, hey Nephi, go taste the fruit? He certainly would have if Nephi were in fact doing anything wrong or disappointing. More likely, the Spirit is aware, as we are, that the fruit is a mere symbol of accepting and partaking of the love of God. Nephi knows it's a symbol. It's fiction. Tasting the fruit will gain him nothing but a great flavor, a great taste. He already knows the fruit will taste good. Lehi already told him that. Nephi isn't there for a good snack, he wants to know what it MEANS to partake of the fruit in real life. He's not rejecting the experience, as you suggest. He's rejecting the idea of staying at the shallow symbolic level where fruit tastes yummy. He wants to move to the level of understanding what the yummy fruit means to him, his family, and the civilization he will lead.
I think the interpretation of why the Spirit of the Lord is substituted with the angel is an interesting exegesis but not supported by the text. Far more likely is that the Spirit of the Lord is the premortal Christ, not the Holy Ghost. This interpretation has been given by several modern prophets and apostles. So when the Spirit of the Lord leaves it's because Nephi is now seeing Jesus in history, demonstrating rather than lecturing.
I’ve thought that the Spirit delegated the visionary responsibility to an angel that might have a special stewardship concerning Jesus’s birth and ministry. Maybe I’ve taken my own experiences for granted, but I’ve never considered it a step down for Nephi to be taught by an angel instead of the Spirit?
I can’t tell you how much your lessons have meant to me. One year ago, my very faithful husband told me that he no longer believed that the church was true. He no longer believed in the priesthood, the Book of Mormon, eternal marriage, the temple, modern prophets, etc. We have been married for 22 years and this has been the biggest heartbreak of my life. He now wants to share the things that made him loose his faith with me and our children. As he has started sharing, it has been more important for me than ever to counterbalance that with faithful messages. Your messages have been so inspiring to me as I try to navigate this new place. My siblings all left years ago and I thought I knew how to handle having loved ones leave. Having it be my eternal companion is another story. I’m grateful to be studying the Book of Mormon with you this year and have felt many whisperings of the spirit, since I have been in this space, urging me to do so. Thank you Brother Halverson!!!!
When we keep our covenants we have promises from Heavenly Father and one of those is that our families are eternal. His promises are sure! Stay strong hope on pray on until you see the salvation of God!
Tell your husband he can only share with you and the children why he left if every time he shares something, he has to listen to you share something as to why you stay and what you've learned about the gospel. It would only be fair.
I'm so sorry, my husband left a few years ago and it's hard. Keep listening to the Spirit and let Him guide you. I have found peace in listening to the podcasts and studying on my own. My testimony has been strengthened and even though my husband wants to share why he left, it's ok. He shares and I share, we are still a partnership and are each others' safe place to talk. His journey will be different now, but as I saw in this lesson thousands of years before the events of our day God knew what we would need. He was preparing for us long before it was needed. He loves us as well and has been planning and preparing how to help us as well.
As I have been preparing for my mission in Germany, I have been trying to read with Das Buch Mormon, side by side with my English copy. I noticed the word for interpretation is "Bedeutung" meaning importance. "To know the importance thereof." I also noticed the word for iron, is "eiserne" meaning, iron, but also unshakeable, which is kind of fitting. So the unshakeable shepherd's staff is very fitting for the iron rod!
Bedeutung means meaning elder. The german people are difficult to let you in, but once in always there. Address the love of the family, of the ancestors, of God wanting to speak to us and of Jesus love for all people, and they will listen.
Jared this lesson was way too short but good . Thank you for taking the time out of your life to teach us more crucial things in the scriptures. You have a masterpiece of many lessons worth listening to several times even in the future. Isn't technology wonderful. Take care of that wonderful little family you have because it is worth it. I always enjoy the lessons of the dream of Lehigh and Nephi watch watching it unfold even today.
Thank you for all of your fabulous lessons! I was 21 when I joined the church 43 years ago. I missed the wonderful experience of attending Seminary...Your lessons are amazing....thank you for all your effort and hard work!!!
The Holy Spirit may have testified, done his job and left like Christ did. I'm not sure a Prophet was just relegated to any old angel either. That angel may have been Adam.
My view point is the Holy Ghost left because Nephi leveled up by wanting to have a full understanding and not just the experience. Lehi experienced the podcast. Nephi took the entire college course
I MISS the verse by verse sooooo bad and the long lessons! So much great wisdom from Bro. Halverson! So much to think about and ponder, and yet, I know that he has so much more that he can share. I "desirest" the lesson to never come to an end! I LOVE my scripture study with you Bro. Halverson, thank you!
You always manage to help me see scriptures I've read countless times in a new way. It's a testament to the incredible depth of the word of God. Thanks so much, Bro Hal!
Thank you Bro Hal! To any and all, I testify in the holy name of Jesus Christ that the Book of Mormon is true, and is the word of God, and is another testament of our Savior. I also know the Bible is the word of God, amen and God bless 😊
I have always felt like the "Spirit of the Lord" was literally Jehovah, the Lord in his premortal spirit body. I think it is interesting that the moment the Spirit of the Lord leaves is the same moment the vision changes to Nephi seeing Mary and Christ. Either way. I think the reason the Spirit is replaced by an angel is because the Spirit is now no longer a guide but a character in the vision. He is either descending upon Mary or is Jesus.
Can’t wait to dive into the scriptures with you today! I have a long drive in canyon snow today and needing some beautiful material to think about🩷 Thanks Brother Halverson!!
Thank you for your lessons! I see Lehi and Nephi (and Mormon and Moroni) as simply having different roles. How could we know the truth of these things (Moroni), if we don't HAVE these things (Mormon)? How can we pursue the joyous fruit (Lehi) if we don't know how that fruit represents Christ (Nephi)? Could their roles even be contraries :) ? Both sides of the same coin; both necessary.
First time commenting after 4 years of viewing. To be brief D&C 14: 7. … you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God. 1 Nephi 15: 36. … tree of life, whose fruit is most precious and most desirable above all other fruits; yea, and it is the greatest of all the gifts of God. Can it be that the fruit represents Eternal Life?
Thanks again for your excellent lessons. With respect to Nephi, I humbly submit that I would have preferred your interpretation based on your plain reading of the scriptures rather than deferring to Grant Hardy. His pejorative treatment of Nephi (both generally and specifically with respect to Nephi's vision, the tree and angel) has been rebutted. The Interpreter Foundation published an article entitled "A Lengthening Shadow: Is Quality of Thought Deteriorating in LDS Scholarly Discourse Regarding Prophets and Revelation? Part Two." See the heading "Nephi’s Failure to Eat of the Fruit of the Tree". (I tried just linking it, but youtube didn't like that.) Although I do not know nearly as much as you and can't imagine doing what you do with this wonderful podcast, I thought I would mention that. Otherwise, as usual, great stuff. Your lessons are a great help to me in my life and when I prepare lessons. Keep up the good work!
Thanks for sharing this article. It was very interesting. I am new to listening to this podcast and have been frustrated and confused at several points this month. I think much of it stems from Bro. H's love of Grant Hardy. Good to know going forward.
Thanks for this comment. I've followed Bro Halverson since early days of Unshaken, and enjoyed his depth and insights. From time to time I think that perhaps he is reaching when it comes to minor conclusions, yet I also realize that because of his profession, as well as his general scholarship, he has had the opportunity to study these things much more than I have. However, this "Nephi issue" is the first time that he said something that simply didn't ring true for me. I decided to study it out a bit, and came upon your comments, and the article you referenced. Thanks!
@@DrPeppering Thanks. You may be right. I'll be interested to see how Nephi is treated going forward (and Captain Moroni, whom Grant Hardy also greatly maligns).
Interesting take on the angel and the Spirit. I’ve always thought the “The Spirit of the Lord” was Jehovah. It makes the most sense to me because as soon as he leaves, Nephi sees Mary and the angel asks about condescension….why? Because Jehovah has left to do His condescending work of being born and becoming Jesus. Always good discussion though! I love it!
Which is why the scriptures saying feast upon the words of God.true we need to feast upon the words not nibble at them ..in order to taste we need to be wanting to get ourselves to the table.
Brother Halverson I love calling you brother because I feel the love of a fellow family member as we travel this covenant path together! And it is that perspective of traveling together with the Savior that comes into focus as I see our future together, you, the Savior our brother and dear friend, and I in the future during the Millennium working together reuniting families, helping to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of our family members, working with the Savior and in doing so feeling His love and becoming sanctified as we do the work! HELLO! It going to be Fantastic! it's going to be so thrilling, not because I say so but because this is God's Plan and it is His glory to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of His spirit children. You and I my sweet teacher and it is going to be sweet and precious and it is our future as we partake of the fruit and feel the love! I am excited about our future together and hope to see you soon, you're just a click away HELLO!
Hold the phone!! 1Nephi 11 is a true conversion point for many of us converts. This verse explains that the Holy Ghost has a body like ours! Don't gloss over this important matter... this reveals so much. I believe there is a law or order of hierarchy where the Holy Ghost is a messenger and then sends the angel or "teacher" (priesthood holder from the beginning of times translated or transfigured... choose your belief), then they walk through the prophecy... there is SO MUCH MORE to what WE are to understand... as we continue on in Nephi's vision, "The Spirit of The Lord" continues to be part of the reveal, for example in the rest of chapter 11, 12 and chapter 13 and so forth... everything else, I agree with you on, here. ***I personally would LOVE to see the Holy Ghost in person... that must have been such a powerful moment and amazing feeling!!
Oh! I also love the insight about the intellectual vs. experiential epistemological models, and the comparisons of Lehi/Nephi vs. Mormon/Moroni. Could it be that we are to benefit from both? Could the use of both models be a powerful complement to each other? I think we use both models in our sacrament meetings. We begin with a highly experiential renewal of our covenants, then, we HEAR words that can be inspirational and instructive (if like Pres. Kimball, don't attend boring Sacrament meetings!).
Br Halverson, thank you for your thoughts on Chp 11:2-16 and grateful for Rosalind Welch's thoughts too. I always wondered about these verses. My thoughts were that the Spirit was the Lord's; in verse-12 when the Spirit left Nephi I concluded that he had to leave because he has to reappear as a baby in verses 14-16. Hence, the angel entered the vision in verse-13 to continue teaching Nephi. Boy! was I out in left field!
Could the condescension of God, also mean the condescension of Mary if she was God the Mother-the eternal wife of God the Father? Heavenly Mother is the mother of Jesus’ spirit, why not his mortal body. Then the Holy parents would be parents of the Savior’s spirit and body. Verse 16 about Condescension is flanked before and after by verses about Mary. The baby Jesus is not mentioned until verse 20. I am not saying this is true, because of course I don’t know, but I can leave a space in my brain for a slim possibility. And I don’t know if it really matters to us at this time.
Thank you very much for so many great insights! As I've been pondering the change of visions's presenter from the Holy Ghost to the angel, I've come to doubt that Nephi's desire to know the interpretation surprised the Holy Ghost. While we may not be able to know all of the reasons for this change, could one of the reasons be that the Holy Ghost knew that He (Himself) was going to be IN the vision Nephi would see? Perhaps it was more instructive for Nephi with the Angel as the presenter - after the Holy Ghost had established the purpose and the focus on Jesus.
When you say the Nephits got wiped out......your forgetting all the ones who left long before the final conflict with the Lamanites.....They and their posterity are also on the earth and dwell among us....They are also from the House of Lehi.......They are from the House of Israel and God has made covenants with then as well......The Book of Mormon are for these people as well .....
You are WAY off in your analysis of the substitute teacher. This wrong. How about each angel has callings and they are obeying and honoring the call of each? There is nothing devious or self-centered in the angelic world and for your assessment to be accurate requires that element, and it doesn't exist. Don't be confused by projecting this world on to the next. Dangerous.
I have always seen it as if Nefi was shown greater things, than Lehi, but then again what is greater than God the Father??? I saw Nephi's as being better, but the thought of "Eat the fruit!" is powerful. I am left pondering my own prayers. Am I really asking for the best gift? Because I want to see what Nephi saw, and what Lehi saw, but you are so right, I don't just want to see it, I want to eat it, savor it, become one with it. I want whatever is the best, because that is where God the Father will be, and that is where I want to go.
I love your lessons brother Halverson. I have a little different take on Nephi's interaction over the description of the fruit. I live in KC and am a royals fan. In 2015 they won the world series. When Hosmer stole home and scored he winning run the entire city erupted in rejoicing. To this day if you talk to another fan and recount that moment about how exhilarating that was they will say words to the effect of yea and the most joyous to the soul. Nephi and the angel were like 2 kindred spirits basking in shared experiences.
My sons are reading The Chronicles of Narnia right now. They were a favorite of mine growing up. I think it dawned on me about halfway through The Magician's Nephew my first time reading the series? When Aslan sings life into Narnia and brings a couple into the world to be king and queen. It just all seemed too deep and beautiful to be just made up for nothing. Also: my son got near the Stone Table part in the movie and is scared to watch the rest because he doesn't like to see people turned to stone. ❤😢❤😊
First time commenting after 4 years of viewing. To be brief D&C 14: 7. … you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God. 1 Nephi 15: 36. … tree of life, whose fruit is most precious and most desirable above all other fruits; yea, and it is the greatest of all the gifts of God. Can it be that the fruit represents Eternal Life?
Baraka Baraka Baraka Blessings upon blessings upon blessings!!! What's getting to me is the language in the book of Mormon! I started crying around the part where the book of Mormon has my oldest sons name in it!!! How did Joseph Smith know all this??? Wow!!! ❤️ I have so many questions!
Your lesson is brilliant and articulates all the difficult concepts that weren't quite landing in a way I could make sense until your wonderful elucidation. Thank You.
I love that of all the titles the angel could have given of Jesus he chose “The Lamb of God.” A sacrificial lamb would speak volumes to Nephi. How many lambs had Nephi already slaughtered in his lifetime?
For those who love Narnia and other titles with scriptural symbolism I STRONGLY suggest reading Andrew Peterson’s Wingfeather saga! It is so lovely and has some amazing characters and symbolism. I have cried multiple times reading it and finding beautiful parallels😂 (it also has a cartoon adaptation on Angel studios!)
I recently had a heart attach. During the night was in pain and unable to sleep. I turned on your wonderful voice and the Lord’s message. I was able to calm and sleep. Your gift does not usually get used to fall asleep. 😊
Hello-This is Kris Dover Blake (orig from Newhall) I cannot thank you enough for your insights and gifted teaching ability. Your podcast has renewed my dedication to scripture study and inspired my life in so many ways. My mom is a big fan as well. Keep up the great work and thank you for sharing your story of the sacrifices this labor of love has taken on you and your family. I can relate more than you know. Glad you have found help from others ❤
Nephi was writing this record while in the promised land. “Driven snow” is extremely common in the promised land. Driven snow congers up snow drifts and blowing wind. You don’t get that in Jerusalem or Central America.
I have been watching so many sites . Especially for these chapters . I appreciate all these insights . This is the first year that I realized he was talking to the Holy Ghost face to face . When the angel came I thought it was still the Holy Ghost . I would want to see what Nephi saw too . He sees Mary giving birth to baby Jesus then he sees all the things Jesus does . And all the people he heals and his mission and his sufferings and his atonement . Great way to learn . I do not think Mary is the tree of life . Just Jesus . I really enjoyed this insight . Jared I have so many questions that I go back and forth on . I can’t wait for part two . Every time I think I know or understand what the great and abominable church is I keep changing my mind . I want to know what the great and abdominal church is . I need a lot of insight on that . I have heard so many . Even that our church can be it . But I am not seeing that or convinced of that . And also I want someone to explain what a gentile is . My sister thinks members of our church are seen as gentiles . I do not see that . I know that everyone is a gentle at one time until they are baptized into the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints . Then we have gentile nations with Israel blood . We have some thinking anyone not Jewish is a gentile and we have gentiles being converted . I do not see our church being gentile but being Israel . The one I just want clarify is what is the great and abominable church . Is it the world who mocks ? Is it every church who is not the true and living church ? I came back to seeing it that way ? Yes thank you there are church members who fight against the leaders so does that mean it could include our own church ?
I have seen Star Wars, and have watched the movies for the Lord of the Rings and Chronicles of Narnia. I think that is a great analogy for what you are talking about. This should be a fun video that you are presenting. You are great at what you do. I thank you for your help in teaching the scriptures.
So what about verse 7 of chapter 11 when the spirit tells Nephi that after the tree, that he shall also behold a man descending out of heaven and him shall ye witness? May that have been what the spirit was anticipating Nephi would desire after he saw the tree?
The Tree of Life DOES NOT REPRESENT MARY OR HEAVENLY MOTHER. I wish Scripture Central and other scholars would stop promoting this false idea. The archeological evidence of apostate Israelite worship of Asherah does not prove any doctrinal truth. It proves that our Old Testament is true as it is replete warnings against grove (Asherah) worship and worship of false gods. If you want to know who the Tree of Life is just read 1 Nephi 11:2-9. See also Elder Bednar's April 2023 talk "Abide in Me, and I in You; Therefore Walk with Me”. Also look up all other references to the Tree of Life throughout the scriptures. Spoiler, it never represents Mary or Heavenly Mother.
First of all - thank you for the lesson. I was thinking about what you said "why did the Spirit leave?" Because Nephi didn't ask the "right question"? I personally think it is not because of the "wrong question" or that Nephi didn't want to "taste the fruit" necessarily. It seems to me that the Spirit's role and His part was over, He finished what He was supposed to present to Nephi and then just passed the bouton to the next teacher. Like a delivery doctor or a dentist - they come for a moment, just to do the most important job but the rest of the job a nurse or a dental assistant can prepare and finish. I also don't think that Nephi's lack of desire to "taste" the fruit of the Tree" was something bad. Some people need to see a miracle to believe and some will just believe the words. Some saw Jesus and didn't believe but some will just read about Him and have great faith. Nephi didn't need to "taste" the fruit, he already knew that it was good. His taste buds were satisfied in this department. He didn't want to go for just eating it, he wanted to know "how it was prepared" and for a "recipe" Hopefully it makes sense. I appreciate your thoughts and ideas, it helps me dig deeper and "apply" the scriptures to myself. Many blessings to you and your family. With much love and respect - from a convert of 25 years.
Bro Halverson. This question is driving me crazy….cant stop thinking about WHY?……why did the spirit leave and WHY did an angel replace or substitute?? Can we not “experience” 100% through the spirit?? Please explain more!!! Help me!!! 😊
I'm slightly frustrated... the nature of Mary and the obsession with immaculate conception goes round and round in circles between Bible and Book of Mormon. Compared with Rabbi Tovia Singer's comments on Isaiah 7, Brigham Young's "make no mistake it was in the usual way," and some of the absurdities published in LDS living backing into a defense of Polyandry with Mary being married to God the father, I'm amazed there hasn't been a new Apologetic Essay published about Mary. Ya know Joseph and Mary can be the physical parents of a body God puts a Messianic spirit into... it's not that hard for a God that creates a world, or a woman from Adams rib, while the inhabitants of Gobelki Tepe from 10,000 BC watch with fascination. I know I'm being a bit of a troll but not without purpose. Can you? Will you? Tie up the many loose ends that exist in differing statements between the years of study? ruclips.net/video/mJhnwLTNFOc/видео.htmlsi=W5AEnXD6--94mGGc
For years I have considered the visions of Nephi to be among my favorite Book of Mormon chapters. They are a gold mine overflowing with insights on the Book of Mormon itself, the plan of salvation, the Scattering and Gathering, the Last Days we live in right now, and -of course- the Atonement and Christ Himself. This is a vision of grandeur, spectacle, and sacred, eternal significance, similar to the mind-blowing spiritual experiences beheld by Enoch, Moses, the Brother of Jared, and Joseph Smith. For years, I have always been saddened when people mention the very powerful and very literal stories of the Tree of Life, Nephi’s bow, and the ship, but do not know about the chapters that tell of this sacred vision in between those other more popular stories. Thank you for what you do Brother Halverson, and thank you for helping paint the picture and sharing the significance of these chapters by giving them the attention and care that they deserve!
The tree - the Mother of God, The tree - the cross, The tree - that the nails were driven into, piercing even the Mother of God, The tree - the love of God. If God the Father turned away and could not bear to see His Son suffer, imagine the Mother of the Son of God.
Thank you for these wonderful lessons! I would love to know your authority regarding "the Spirit of the Lord" as appearing to Nephi in 1st Nephi chapter 11 being the Holy Ghost as opposed to it being the pre mortal Christ. After intense study, I find the evidence for both somewhat inconclusive.
Jared we need another our teaching these lessons. It can't just close up the book after an hour or so and leave us hanging. That's just like taking the candy away from the kids and tell them you got to wait till next week before you get to eat the rest 😫
I could be wrong, because I am not a scholar by any means in interpreting scriptures but I have always understood that the spirit of the Lord was Jesus Christ. Probably, just because that is what it sounds like to me. And the reason the spirit of the Lord (Jesus Christ) disappeared, and an Angel shows up in His place, was because Jesus Christ is now in the womb of His mortal mother Mary, and soon will be baptized, then healing many people and then crucified, etc. So Jesus is really still there But he actually now is showing those things literally to Nephi and an angel is now there instead to help Nephi understand and interpret the vision of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is basically on the stage acting it out.
Is it possible that he Spirit of the Lord that was talking with Nephi was actually the spirit of Jehovah? Because if so, I think it would be a more helpful explanation as to why He disappeared and an angel appeared in His place to guide Nephi through the birth of the Savior. I know it’s conjecture on my part, but I don’t believe that God gives up on us if we don’t consider something that goes beyond our capacity to understand as it may have been in Nephi’s case. I would like to think He will stay with us and teach us in spite of our weaknesses and limits.
Thank you thank you thank you....for all the time you put into these lessons just for us! You make them come alive and give new meaning to them.. I am struggling with a son that has stepped away from the church.....following in his children's footsteps. It is heartbreaking. I struggle to understand if this is the "chosen generation"...why they are falling way. How I wish I could get him to listen to your videos. I love your analogy of water skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving into the scriptures. I have shared that with so many people and seems to resonate with all who will listen. Blessings to you and your family!
Wow, I'm so disappointed in this. I couldn't even finish this part 1. I didn't feel the spirit at all in your take of Nephi. His whole life was proof that he "tasted the fruit", that was simply symbolic. And Lehi already mentioned that Nephi ate the fruit in his dream. Whoever this Hardy person is, I'm not impressed.
Thank you for all of your lessons. I took a movie appreciation class in college and learned about a lot of movies with spiritual connotations. Pirates of the Caribbean is another one. I am grateful that you work to understand and help people with faith crisis 🙏
Brother Halverson, thank you for sharing your hard work with us! However, the theory you shared with us about why the spirit left Nephi doesn’t quite sit right with me. I believe Nephi’s experience was precisely the way it was supposed to be down to every detail. My theory is the spirt “left” as narrator because He was taking a storing role on stage. The next time we read about the spirit is when Mary is carried away in the spirit and brings forth the Son of God! Then a few verses down the Spirit enters the stage again when Christ is baptized. This is significant because we all have experiences with the spirit, especially with his role as witness of Jesus Christ but it isn’t until we too are baptized by fire that we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost to be our constant companion.
I don’t know why one hour is so important. You are squeezing information in by talking faster. I feel it is not coming to my heart as easily. I’m not getting the spirit like before. I can hardly follow you. Could we put all of your past lessons on a flash drive. Your speed got better when talking about the fruit of the tree. Thank you for that.
Can you share specifically your Pictionary lesson for primary kids illustrating the condescension of God? I’ve been so hungry for more to teach at a baptism!
I think you are lessening Nephi here. He has already partaken of the fruit, he knows that his father is a man of God and believes. He now wants to know what is the meaning of this, knowing full well that the Lord will provide an answer. There is no shame in wanting to know more about the meaning of something and getting a better understanding and stronger conviction of The Lord and who He is
Great lessons but I am sad that you would use that apparently made up Mormon word - scriptoran. Even my spell check rejects it and it is not in the dictionary. Can you shed light on this word?
Movies are absolutely full of symbolism. Some films are good and some are bad. Then there are seemingly kid friendly movies... and if you have eyes to see and ears to hear, you discover a lot... some of which isn't so pleasant.
Please don't relate it to Christmas! Even an apostle of the Lord has told us it is Pagan, Jerimiah, well I guess it was the Lord through him warned against it. I love the message you are trying to deliver, but let's let the paganism die and not adopt it!
12:43 is this the only place in scripture where the 3 member of the godhead is physically described? I know how he descended upon Christ, or other rolls he has played, but I think this is the only place that his form is described.
It’s even a deeper understanding that the “tree” aka Gods love is the mortal experience of Jesus Christ knew what we would experience in order to offer grace and redemption through the Atonement.
Another insight about the river of filthy water being right by the rod is that we all can fall in that river at many times and we have the rod right there to pull us out and hang onto . Pride seems to go before any fall. Prideful people can not be taught .
I feel that Nephi was addressed by the Spirit of the Lord as Jesus Christ in Spirit himself which is why before the vision continued he left and and angel appears because in the vision Jesus is IN the vision as unborn baby, then born of Mary then his ministry. I don't believe Nephi didn't measure up to expectations of inquiry so an angel came instead.
Another observation is that Lehi was IN his dream experiential 1st hand.. and in it Nephi partook. But Nephi is in a high mountain observing being shown what happened but not in it as Lehi to partake.
"It's not something we EARN or something we DESERVE...but God can give us that gift of understanding, and he does it to all those who diligently seek Him" Been a member my whole life (almost 50 years) and this is the first time I've heard it put that way and wow... WOW! wow. This really helps me and I believe it's given me a missing link to what God has been trying to show me the last few months. Also.. Thank you for including the info on epistemology. This all makes so much sense.. what do I want to know? How do I believe I can gain knowledge? How do my behaviors support my beliefs? And vice versa. In seeking knowledge (Him)..my behaviors will come into line with my beliefs. I think I've had it a bit twisted: ....change my behaviors and THEN I'll be worthy to seek, worth to ask, worthy to receive. BUT no.. it's Seek Him first. Thank you!
In the beginning of thus vision he is conversing with the Holy Spirit. He shows him the vision Lehi had. He describes the tree, how precious and pure it was. The Spirit asks what he wants now and instead of wanting to taste the fruit for himself as his father did, he asks to understand the interpretation of what he is seeing and for some reason the Holy Ghost leaves and an angel appears to show Nephi more of the vision? Is it because the Spirit is meant to reside in your heart and he wanted more understanding through His mind? But Doctrine and Covenants 8 says: Verse 2 Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart. But the Holy Ghost leaves. At first it just appears he is moving out of the way so Nephi can see the vision but He never comes back. An angel takes His place. The experience of tasting the fruit and internalizing its goodness seems to have changed Lehi’s life. But Nephi received an expanded view by asking for greater understanding, equally life Changing. One example doesn't seem to be better than the other. But we covenant to remember Jesus Christ always in order to have His spirit with us. Our prophet warns: In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting and constant influence of the Holy Ghost. So we equate the loss of the Spirit with bad. I'm confused.
I like that you have these videos a bit shorter, but in 2 parts per CFM lesson. Still a dive now and then, with some "waterskiing" to keep the story connected. Learning a lot, and I'm keeping up with the reading and some person study, too. Progress for me at least. Thanks for your videos!
Dear brother Halverson, I have been following you shortly after the earthquake. Believe me it was a very shaken time I my world. You have truly been a huge blessing in my life. Words won’t do justice. Thank you. Thank you. You may not answer this, but I have a question. Is that a picture of your wife’s office or are you really still recording at your home? I was actually excited for your family to not have to tiptoe around the house living an actor’s life in the movie - The Quiet Place. 😃 I am happy to know you are getting some help with the production side of things and that you can spend more time with your awesome wife/family. Yes I used the word awesome. Ha I like the suit coat. Switching it up a bit. Have a beautiful day, Lisa Schneiter 😇
Ah, brother Halverson. I haven't even started listening and I can feel the pain. Only 58.27 minutes . . . at least there is a part two! I love the new look though, sleeves not rolled up, colored shirt, no tie, and a jacket. Ok I am sure I am going to love the lesson with more wonderful insights. Thank you for all you do! God bless you always, Your friend, Lidia
Question: how do we know that the “Spirit of the Lord” in 1 Nephi 11:11 is the Holy Ghost, rather than Jehovah? It makes sense to me that it could be Jehovah since Nephi talked to him face to face and he was in the form of a man.
I have been watching from almost the beginning. I am over joyed that these are still all over an hour. We need to find a deeper understanding and Jared opens our eyes that there is so much more to understand and study.
I’m only halfway through the lesson so I’m not sure if you go back to this - but I STRONGLY disagree with that reading of Nephi as somehow wrong or lacking because he didn’t ask to taste. I especially disagree with creating some hierarchy of heavenly messengers. It was an angel that came to Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane to strengthen Him, not the Holy Spirit. Of course because I love your lessons, I took your advice to ponder and think about my own assumptions in these verses that made me react so vehemently, and received more light and knowledge as a result. But I still disagree! ❤
I really disagree with your criticism of Nephi. You are reading far too much into the change of hosts, for which there are many other possible explanations. Nephi was a mighty prophet and there is absolutely no indication in the text that Nephi did anything wrong by wanting to understand the dream! Nephi went on to experience a detailed vision that showed him EXACTLY what "the love of God that sheddeth itself abroad" means, saw the actual Savior perform the atonement, which is the meaning behind the fruit. He went on to perform miracles and lead a new civilization-- all of those are clear and unambiguous evidence that Nephi did the RIGHT thing by wanting to understand the vision.
Why, if the Spirit was so disappointed with Nephi, why didn't he just correct him? I mean, isn't that what the Spirit DOES, is give us correction? Why wouldn't he say, hey Nephi, go taste the fruit? He certainly would have if Nephi were in fact doing anything wrong or disappointing.
More likely, the Spirit is aware, as we are, that the fruit is a mere symbol of accepting and partaking of the love of God. Nephi knows it's a symbol. It's fiction. Tasting the fruit will gain him nothing but a great flavor, a great taste. He already knows the fruit will taste good. Lehi already told him that. Nephi isn't there for a good snack, he wants to know what it MEANS to partake of the fruit in real life. He's not rejecting the experience, as you suggest. He's rejecting the idea of staying at the shallow symbolic level where fruit tastes yummy. He wants to move to the level of understanding what the yummy fruit means to him, his family, and the civilization he will lead.
Great points. Thank you!
I think the interpretation of why the Spirit of the Lord is substituted with the angel is an interesting exegesis but not supported by the text. Far more likely is that the Spirit of the Lord is the premortal Christ, not the Holy Ghost. This interpretation has been given by several modern prophets and apostles.
So when the Spirit of the Lord leaves it's because Nephi is now seeing Jesus in history, demonstrating rather than lecturing.
I’ve thought that the Spirit delegated the visionary responsibility to an angel that might have a special stewardship concerning Jesus’s birth and ministry. Maybe I’ve taken my own experiences for granted, but I’ve never considered it a step down for Nephi to be taught by an angel instead of the Spirit?
My thoughts exactly!
I can’t tell you how much your lessons have meant to me. One year ago, my very faithful husband told me that he no longer believed that the church was true. He no longer believed in the priesthood, the Book of Mormon, eternal marriage, the temple, modern prophets, etc. We have been married for 22 years and this has been the biggest heartbreak of my life. He now wants to share the things that made him loose his faith with me and our children. As he has started sharing, it has been more important for me than ever to counterbalance that with faithful messages. Your messages have been so inspiring to me as I try to navigate this new place. My siblings all left years ago and I thought I knew how to handle having loved ones leave. Having it be my eternal companion is another story.
I’m grateful to be studying the Book of Mormon with you this year and have felt many whisperings of the spirit, since I have been in this space, urging me to do so. Thank you Brother Halverson!!!!
Stay close to the spirit, my friend. My husband was inactive for 15 years and came back. 🙏
When we keep our covenants we have promises from Heavenly Father and one of those is that our families are eternal. His promises are sure! Stay strong hope on pray on until you see the salvation of God!
Tell your husband he can only share with you and the children why he left if every time he shares something, he has to listen to you share something as to why you stay and what you've learned about the gospel. It would only be fair.
I'm so sorry, my husband left a few years ago and it's hard. Keep listening to the Spirit and let Him guide you. I have found peace in listening to the podcasts and studying on my own. My testimony has been strengthened and even though my husband wants to share why he left, it's ok. He shares and I share, we are still a partnership and are each others' safe place to talk. His journey will be different now, but as I saw in this lesson thousands of years before the events of our day God knew what we would need. He was preparing for us long before it was needed. He loves us as well and has been planning and preparing how to help us as well.
As I have been preparing for my mission in Germany, I have been trying to read with Das Buch Mormon, side by side with my English copy. I noticed the word for interpretation is "Bedeutung" meaning importance. "To know the importance thereof." I also noticed the word for iron, is "eiserne" meaning, iron, but also unshakeable, which is kind of fitting. So the unshakeable shepherd's staff is very fitting for the iron rod!
Bedeutung means meaning elder. The german people are difficult to let you in, but once in always there. Address the love of the family, of the ancestors, of God wanting to speak to us and of Jesus love for all people, and they will listen.
Jared this lesson was way too short but good . Thank you for taking the time out of your life to teach us more crucial things in the scriptures. You have a masterpiece of many lessons worth listening to several times even in the future. Isn't technology wonderful. Take care of that wonderful little family you have because it is worth it. I always enjoy the lessons of the dream of Lehigh and Nephi watch watching it unfold even today.
Thank you for all of your fabulous lessons! I was 21 when I joined the church 43 years ago. I missed the wonderful experience of attending Seminary...Your lessons are amazing....thank you for all your effort and hard work!!!
The Holy Spirit may have testified, done his job and left like Christ did. I'm not sure a Prophet was just relegated to any old angel either. That angel may have been Adam.
My view point is the Holy Ghost left because Nephi leveled up by wanting to have a full understanding and not just the experience.
Lehi experienced the podcast. Nephi took the entire college course
I MISS the verse by verse sooooo bad and the long lessons! So much great wisdom from Bro. Halverson! So much to think about and ponder, and yet, I know that he has so much more that he can share. I "desirest" the lesson to never come to an end! I LOVE my scripture study with you Bro. Halverson, thank you!
You always manage to help me see scriptures I've read countless times in a new way. It's a testament to the incredible depth of the word of God. Thanks so much, Bro Hal!
Thank you Bro Hal! To any and all, I testify in the holy name of Jesus Christ that the Book of Mormon is true, and is the word of God, and is another testament of our Savior. I also know the Bible is the word of God, amen and God bless 😊
I have always felt like the "Spirit of the Lord" was literally Jehovah, the Lord in his premortal spirit body. I think it is interesting that the moment the Spirit of the Lord leaves is the same moment the vision changes to Nephi seeing Mary and Christ. Either way. I think the reason the Spirit is replaced by an angel is because the Spirit is now no longer a guide but a character in the vision. He is either descending upon Mary or is Jesus.
This was one of the interpretations I learned in my BoM class at BYU. I strongly disagree with the interpretation of bro. Hal on this.
@@DrPepperingplease explain more of what you learned. This question is driving me crazy!! WHY!!??!!
Wow!! No tie. You look more relaxed. Also wearing your coat. Definitely a new era for unshaken saints.
Can’t wait to dive into the scriptures with you today! I have a long drive in canyon snow today and needing some beautiful material to think about🩷 Thanks Brother Halverson!!
No problem. Enjoy!
Thank you for your lessons! I see Lehi and Nephi (and Mormon and Moroni) as simply having different roles. How could we know the truth of these things (Moroni), if we don't HAVE these things (Mormon)? How can we pursue the joyous fruit (Lehi) if we don't know how that fruit represents Christ (Nephi)? Could their roles even be contraries :) ? Both sides of the same coin; both necessary.
First time commenting after 4 years of viewing.
To be brief
D&C 14: 7. … you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God.
1 Nephi 15: 36. … tree of life, whose fruit is most precious and most desirable above all other fruits; yea, and it is the greatest of all the gifts of God.
Can it be that the fruit represents Eternal Life?
One hour is not enough
Thanks again for your excellent lessons. With respect to Nephi, I humbly submit that I would have preferred your interpretation based on your plain reading of the scriptures rather than deferring to Grant Hardy. His pejorative treatment of Nephi (both generally and specifically with respect to Nephi's vision, the tree and angel) has been rebutted. The Interpreter Foundation published an article entitled "A Lengthening Shadow: Is Quality of Thought Deteriorating in LDS Scholarly Discourse Regarding Prophets and Revelation? Part Two." See the heading "Nephi’s Failure to Eat of the Fruit of the Tree". (I tried just linking it, but youtube didn't like that.) Although I do not know nearly as much as you and can't imagine doing what you do with this wonderful podcast, I thought I would mention that. Otherwise, as usual, great stuff. Your lessons are a great help to me in my life and when I prepare lessons. Keep up the good work!
Totally agree.
Thanks for sharing this article. It was very interesting. I am new to listening to this podcast and have been frustrated and confused at several points this month. I think much of it stems from Bro. H's love of Grant Hardy. Good to know going forward.
Thanks for this comment. I've followed Bro Halverson since early days of Unshaken, and enjoyed his depth and insights. From time to time I think that perhaps he is reaching when it comes to minor conclusions, yet I also realize that because of his profession, as well as his general scholarship, he has had the opportunity to study these things much more than I have. However, this "Nephi issue" is the first time that he said something that simply didn't ring true for me. I decided to study it out a bit, and came upon your comments, and the article you referenced. Thanks!
@@JohnClifford-v1x Thanks for that note. I hope that the article is helpful to you as you study.
@@DrPeppering Thanks. You may be right. I'll be interested to see how Nephi is treated going forward (and Captain Moroni, whom Grant Hardy also greatly maligns).
I just watched The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe with my 7 year old. We definitely talked about Aslan being an archetype for Christ.
Interesting take on the angel and the Spirit. I’ve always thought the “The Spirit of the Lord” was Jehovah. It makes the most sense to me because as soon as he leaves, Nephi sees Mary and the angel asks about condescension….why? Because Jehovah has left to do His condescending work of being born and becoming Jesus.
Always good discussion though! I love it!
Which is why the scriptures saying feast upon the words of God.true we need to feast upon the words not nibble at them ..in order to taste we need to be wanting to get ourselves to the table.
Brother Halverson I love calling you brother because I feel the love of a fellow family member as we travel this covenant path together! And it is that perspective of traveling together with the Savior that comes into focus as I see our future together, you, the Savior our brother and dear friend, and I in the future during the Millennium working together reuniting families, helping to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of our family members, working with the Savior and in doing so feeling His love and becoming sanctified as we do the work! HELLO! It going to be Fantastic! it's going to be so thrilling, not because I say so but because this is God's Plan and it is His glory to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of His spirit children. You and I my sweet teacher and it is going to be sweet and precious and it is our future as we partake of the fruit and feel the love! I am excited about our future together and hope to see you soon, you're just a click away HELLO!
What is the best way to refold a map? Differently.
Hold the phone!! 1Nephi 11 is a true conversion point for many of us converts. This verse explains that the Holy Ghost has a body like ours! Don't gloss over this important matter... this reveals so much. I believe there is a law or order of hierarchy where the Holy Ghost is a messenger and then sends the angel or "teacher" (priesthood holder from the beginning of times translated or transfigured... choose your belief), then they walk through the prophecy... there is SO MUCH MORE to what WE are to understand... as we continue on in Nephi's vision, "The Spirit of The Lord" continues to be part of the reveal, for example in the rest of chapter 11, 12 and chapter 13 and so forth... everything else, I agree with you on, here.
***I personally would LOVE to see the Holy Ghost in person... that must have been such a powerful moment and amazing feeling!!
Oh! I also love the insight about the intellectual vs. experiential epistemological models, and the comparisons of Lehi/Nephi vs. Mormon/Moroni. Could it be that we are to benefit from both? Could the use of both models be a powerful complement to each other? I think we use both models in our sacrament meetings. We begin with a highly experiential renewal of our covenants, then, we HEAR words that can be inspirational and instructive (if like Pres. Kimball, don't attend boring Sacrament meetings!).
Br Halverson, thank you for your thoughts on Chp 11:2-16 and grateful for Rosalind Welch's thoughts too. I always wondered about these verses. My thoughts were that the Spirit was the Lord's; in verse-12 when the Spirit left Nephi I concluded that he had to leave because he has to reappear as a baby in verses 14-16. Hence, the angel entered the vision in verse-13 to continue teaching Nephi. Boy! was I out in left field!
Could the condescension of God, also mean the condescension of Mary if she was God the Mother-the eternal wife of God the Father? Heavenly Mother is the mother of Jesus’ spirit, why not his mortal body. Then the Holy parents would be parents of the Savior’s spirit and body. Verse 16 about Condescension is flanked before and after by verses about Mary. The baby Jesus is not mentioned until verse 20. I am not saying this is true, because of course I don’t know, but I can leave a space in my brain for a slim possibility. And I don’t know if it really matters to us at this time.
Thank you very much for so many great insights! As I've been pondering the change of visions's presenter from the Holy Ghost to the angel, I've come to doubt that Nephi's desire to know the interpretation surprised the Holy Ghost. While we may not be able to know all of the reasons for this change, could one of the reasons be that the Holy Ghost knew that He (Himself) was going to be IN the vision Nephi would see? Perhaps it was more instructive for Nephi with the Angel as the presenter - after the Holy Ghost had established the purpose and the focus on Jesus.
When you say the Nephits got wiped out......your forgetting all the ones who left long before the final conflict with the Lamanites.....They and their posterity are also on the earth and dwell among us....They are also from the House of Lehi.......They are from the House of Israel and God has made covenants with then as well......The Book of Mormon are for these people as well .....
William Shakespeare in the back a book by Edgar Allen Poe and the Count of Monte Cristo…Legendary!
When you mentioned other ways to interpret a "rod" i thought of stick...and then my mind immediately jumped to Stick of Judah and Stick of Joseph.
You are WAY off in your analysis of the substitute teacher. This wrong. How about each angel has callings and they are obeying and honoring the call of each? There is nothing devious or self-centered in the angelic world and for your assessment to be accurate requires that element, and it doesn't exist. Don't be confused by projecting this world on to the next. Dangerous.
I have always seen it as if Nefi was shown greater things, than Lehi, but then again what is greater than God the Father??? I saw Nephi's as being better, but the thought of "Eat the fruit!" is powerful. I am left pondering my own prayers. Am I really asking for the best gift? Because I want to see what Nephi saw, and what Lehi saw, but you are so right, I don't just want to see it, I want to eat it, savor it, become one with it. I want whatever is the best, because that is where God the Father will be, and that is where I want to go.
I love your lessons brother Halverson. I have a little different take on Nephi's interaction over the description of the fruit. I live in KC and am a royals fan. In 2015 they won the world series. When Hosmer stole home and scored he winning run the entire city erupted in rejoicing. To this day if you talk to another fan and recount that moment about how exhilarating that was they will say words to the effect of yea and the most joyous to the soul. Nephi and the angel were like 2 kindred spirits basking in shared experiences.
My sons are reading The Chronicles of Narnia right now. They were a favorite of mine growing up. I think it dawned on me about halfway through The Magician's Nephew my first time reading the series? When Aslan sings life into Narnia and brings a couple into the world to be king and queen. It just all seemed too deep and beautiful to be just made up for nothing. Also: my son got near the Stone Table part in the movie and is scared to watch the rest because he doesn't like to see people turned to stone. ❤😢❤😊
First time commenting after 4 years of viewing.
To be brief
D&C 14: 7. … you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God.
1 Nephi 15: 36. … tree of life, whose fruit is most precious and most desirable above all other fruits; yea, and it is the greatest of all the gifts of God.
Can it be that the fruit represents Eternal Life?
Baraka
Baraka
Baraka
Blessings upon blessings upon blessings!!!
What's getting to me is the language in the book of Mormon! I started crying around the part where the book of Mormon has my oldest sons name in it!!! How did Joseph Smith know all this???
Wow!!! ❤️
I have so many questions!
Your lesson is brilliant and articulates all the difficult concepts that weren't quite landing in a way I could make sense until your wonderful elucidation. Thank You.
Do you think Nephi wrote with an iron pen? (National Treasure)
I learned so so much that I’ve never considered before at all! Thank you, Brother Halverson!
Hi thank you for sharing your lessons!
I love that of all the titles the angel could have given of Jesus he chose “The Lamb of God.” A sacrificial lamb would speak volumes to Nephi. How many lambs had Nephi already slaughtered in his lifetime?
I would admit that I listen to you like my lullaby.
I'm excited to hear you talk about 1 Nephi 14:14!
For those who love Narnia and other titles with scriptural symbolism I STRONGLY suggest reading Andrew Peterson’s Wingfeather saga! It is so lovely and has some amazing characters and symbolism. I have cried multiple times reading it and finding beautiful parallels😂 (it also has a cartoon adaptation on Angel studios!)
So glad I'm catching these this morning! Thanks for your hard work and insight. I am learning so much from your classes!
I recently had a heart attach. During the night was in pain and unable to sleep. I turned on your wonderful voice and the Lord’s message. I was able to calm and sleep. Your gift does not usually get used to fall asleep. 😊
Hello-This is Kris Dover Blake (orig from Newhall) I cannot thank you enough for your insights and gifted teaching ability. Your podcast has renewed my dedication to scripture study and inspired my life in so many ways. My mom is a big fan as well. Keep up the great work and thank you for sharing your story of the sacrifices this labor of love has taken on you and your family. I can relate more than you know. Glad you have found help from others ❤
Nephi was writing this record while in the promised land. “Driven snow” is extremely common in the promised land. Driven snow congers up snow drifts and blowing wind. You don’t get that in Jerusalem or Central America.
I have been watching so many sites . Especially for these chapters . I appreciate all these insights . This is the first year that I realized he was talking to the Holy Ghost face to face . When the angel came I thought it was still the Holy Ghost . I would want to see what Nephi saw too . He sees Mary giving birth to baby Jesus then he sees all the things Jesus does . And all the people he heals and his mission and his sufferings and his atonement . Great way to learn . I do not think Mary is the tree of life . Just Jesus . I really enjoyed this insight . Jared I have so many questions that I go back and forth on . I can’t wait for part two . Every time I think I know or understand what the great and abominable church is I keep changing my mind . I want to know what the great and abdominal church is . I need a lot of insight on that . I have heard so many . Even that our church can be it . But I am not seeing that or convinced of that . And also I want someone to explain what a gentile is . My sister thinks members of our church are seen as gentiles . I do not see that . I know that everyone is a gentle at one time until they are baptized into the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints . Then we have gentile nations with Israel blood . We have some thinking anyone not Jewish is a gentile and we have gentiles being converted . I do not see our church being gentile but being Israel . The one I just want clarify is what is the great and abominable church . Is it the world who mocks ? Is it every church who is not the true and living church ? I came back to seeing it that way ? Yes thank you there are church members who fight against the leaders so does that mean it could include our own church ?
I have seen Star Wars, and have watched the movies for the Lord of the Rings and Chronicles of Narnia. I think that is a great analogy for what you are talking about. This should be a fun video that you are presenting. You are great at what you do. I thank you for your help in teaching the scriptures.
Thanks Brother
So what about verse 7 of chapter 11 when the spirit tells Nephi that after the tree, that he shall also behold a man descending out of heaven and him shall ye witness? May that have been what the spirit was anticipating Nephi would desire after he saw the tree?
The Tree of Life DOES NOT REPRESENT MARY OR HEAVENLY MOTHER. I wish Scripture Central and other scholars would stop promoting this false idea. The archeological evidence of apostate Israelite worship of Asherah does not prove any doctrinal truth. It proves that our Old Testament is true as it is replete warnings against grove (Asherah) worship and worship of false gods.
If you want to know who the Tree of Life is just read 1 Nephi 11:2-9. See also Elder Bednar's April 2023 talk "Abide in Me, and I in You; Therefore Walk with Me”. Also look up all other references to the Tree of Life throughout the scriptures. Spoiler, it never represents Mary or Heavenly Mother.
First of all - thank you for the lesson. I was thinking about what you said "why did the Spirit leave?" Because Nephi didn't ask the "right question"? I personally think it is not because of the "wrong question" or that Nephi didn't want to "taste the fruit" necessarily. It seems to me that the Spirit's role and His part was over, He finished what He was supposed to present to Nephi and then just passed the bouton to the next teacher. Like a delivery doctor or a dentist - they come for a moment, just to do the most important job but the rest of the job a nurse or a dental assistant can prepare and finish.
I also don't think that Nephi's lack of desire to "taste" the fruit of the Tree" was something bad. Some people need to see a miracle to believe and some will just believe the words. Some saw Jesus and didn't believe but some will just read about Him and have great faith. Nephi didn't need to "taste" the fruit, he already knew that it was good. His taste buds were satisfied in this department. He didn't want to go for just eating it, he wanted to know "how it was prepared" and for a "recipe"
Hopefully it makes sense. I appreciate your thoughts and ideas, it helps me dig deeper and "apply" the scriptures to myself. Many blessings to you and your family.
With much love and respect - from a convert of 25 years.
Bro Halverson. This question is driving me crazy….cant stop thinking about WHY?……why did the spirit leave and WHY did an angel replace or substitute?? Can we not “experience” 100% through the spirit?? Please explain more!!! Help me!!! 😊
I'm slightly frustrated... the nature of Mary and the obsession with immaculate conception goes round and round in circles between Bible and Book of Mormon. Compared with Rabbi Tovia Singer's comments on Isaiah 7, Brigham Young's "make no mistake it was in the usual way," and some of the absurdities published in LDS living backing into a defense of Polyandry with Mary being married to God the father, I'm amazed there hasn't been a new Apologetic Essay published about Mary.
Ya know Joseph and Mary can be the physical parents of a body God puts a Messianic spirit into... it's not that hard for a God that creates a world, or a woman from Adams rib, while the inhabitants of Gobelki Tepe from 10,000 BC watch with fascination.
I know I'm being a bit of a troll but not without purpose. Can you? Will you? Tie up the many loose ends that exist in differing statements between the years of study?
ruclips.net/video/mJhnwLTNFOc/видео.htmlsi=W5AEnXD6--94mGGc
For years I have considered the visions of Nephi to be among my favorite Book of Mormon chapters. They are a gold mine overflowing with insights on the Book of Mormon itself, the plan of salvation, the Scattering and Gathering, the Last Days we live in right now, and -of course- the Atonement and Christ Himself.
This is a vision of grandeur, spectacle, and sacred, eternal significance, similar to the mind-blowing spiritual experiences beheld by Enoch, Moses, the Brother of Jared, and Joseph Smith.
For years, I have always been saddened when people mention the very powerful and very literal stories of the Tree of Life, Nephi’s bow, and the ship, but do not know about the chapters that tell of this sacred vision in between those other more popular stories.
Thank you for what you do Brother Halverson, and thank you for helping paint the picture and sharing the significance of these chapters by giving them the attention and care that they deserve!
The tree - the Mother of God, The tree - the cross, The tree - that the nails were driven into, piercing even the Mother of God, The tree - the love of God. If God the Father turned away and could not bear to see His Son suffer, imagine the Mother of the Son of God.
Thank you for these wonderful lessons! I would love to know your authority regarding "the Spirit of the Lord" as appearing to Nephi in 1st Nephi chapter 11 being the Holy Ghost as opposed to it being the pre mortal Christ. After intense study, I find the evidence for both somewhat inconclusive.
Jared we need another our teaching these lessons. It can't just close up the book after an hour or so and leave us hanging. That's just like taking the candy away from the kids and tell them you got to wait till next week before you get to eat the rest 😫
So excited to see that this is part one of two!
I could be wrong, because I am not a scholar by any means in interpreting scriptures but I have always understood that the spirit of the Lord was Jesus Christ. Probably, just because that is what it sounds like to me. And the reason the spirit of the Lord (Jesus Christ) disappeared, and an Angel shows up in His place, was because Jesus Christ is now in the womb of His mortal mother Mary, and soon will be baptized, then healing many people and then crucified, etc. So Jesus is really still there But he actually now is showing those things literally to Nephi and an angel is now there instead to help Nephi understand and interpret the vision of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is basically on the stage acting it out.
Is it possible that he Spirit of the Lord that was talking with Nephi was actually the spirit of Jehovah? Because if so, I think it would be a more helpful explanation as to why He disappeared and an angel appeared in His place to guide Nephi through the birth of the Savior. I know it’s conjecture on my part, but I don’t believe that God gives up on us if we don’t consider something that goes beyond our capacity to understand as it may have been in Nephi’s case. I would like to think He will stay with us and teach us in spite of our weaknesses and limits.
Thank you thank you thank you....for all the time you put into these lessons just for us! You make them come alive and give new meaning to them.. I am struggling with a son that has stepped away from the church.....following in his children's footsteps. It is heartbreaking. I struggle to understand if this is the "chosen generation"...why they are falling way. How I wish I could get him to listen to your videos. I love your analogy of water skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving into the scriptures. I have shared that with so many people and seems to resonate with all who will listen. Blessings to you and your family!
Wow, I'm so disappointed in this. I couldn't even finish this part 1. I didn't feel the spirit at all in your take of Nephi. His whole life was proof that he "tasted the fruit", that was simply symbolic. And Lehi already mentioned that Nephi ate the fruit in his dream. Whoever this Hardy person is, I'm not impressed.
Thank you for all of your lessons. I took a movie appreciation class in college and learned about a lot of movies with spiritual connotations. Pirates of the Caribbean is another one. I am grateful that you work to understand and help people with faith crisis 🙏
Brother Halverson, thank you for sharing your hard work with us! However, the theory you shared with us about why the spirit left Nephi doesn’t quite sit right with me. I believe Nephi’s experience was precisely the way it was supposed to be down to every detail. My theory is the spirt “left” as narrator because He was taking a storing role on stage. The next time we read about the spirit is when Mary is carried away in the spirit and brings forth the Son of God! Then a few verses down the Spirit enters the stage again when Christ is baptized. This is significant because we all have experiences with the spirit, especially with his role as witness of Jesus Christ but it isn’t until we too are baptized by fire that we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost to be our constant companion.
I've been waiting for this lesson! Yea!
I don’t know why one hour is so important. You are squeezing information in by talking faster. I feel it is not coming to my heart as easily. I’m not getting the spirit like before. I can hardly follow you.
Could we put all of your past lessons on a flash drive.
Your speed got better when talking about the fruit of the tree. Thank you for that.
Lehi was hungry so he had a dream about fruit. Belly laughs. Thank you! 😂 Your work is priceless to me.
At 45 years old I reread the LTWandTW by Lewis for the first time in 30 years!!! Yes!! It was transformative and eye opening!
Can you share specifically your Pictionary lesson for primary kids illustrating the condescension of God? I’ve been so hungry for more to teach at a baptism!
I think you are lessening Nephi here. He has already partaken of the fruit, he knows that his father is a man of God and believes. He now wants to know what is the meaning of this, knowing full well that the Lord will provide an answer. There is no shame in wanting to know more about the meaning of something and getting a better understanding and stronger conviction of The Lord and who He is
Yay, two video's!!!!!❤
Great lessons but I am sad that you would use that apparently made up Mormon word - scriptoran. Even my spell check rejects it and it is not in the dictionary. Can you shed light on this word?
Movies are absolutely full of symbolism. Some films are good and some are bad. Then there are seemingly kid friendly movies... and if you have eyes to see and ears to hear, you discover a lot... some of which isn't so pleasant.
Please don't relate it to Christmas! Even an apostle of the Lord has told us it is Pagan, Jerimiah, well I guess it was the Lord through him warned against it. I love the message you are trying to deliver, but let's let the paganism die and not adopt it!
12:43 is this the only place in scripture where the 3 member of the godhead is physically described? I know how he descended upon Christ, or other rolls he has played, but I think this is the only place that his form is described.
My whole day is not enough listening to these amazing truth not until am able to write it.
(in summary) The real irony is that the core message is to get the tree of life vision for ourselves.
it's make-believe, never happened. just think I have to point out the obvious here.
It’s even a deeper understanding that the “tree” aka Gods love is the mortal experience of Jesus Christ knew what we would experience in order to offer grace and redemption through the Atonement.
I like that
Another insight about the river of filthy water being right by the rod is that we all can fall in that river at many times and we have the rod right there to pull us out and hang onto . Pride seems to go before any fall. Prideful people can not be taught .
Glad you cut back. I was almost always behind. This should keep me on track now. Thanks
When Nephi had this conversation with the angel, isn’t he still young? He’s not yet a prophet
So so good, I am learning so much!
We’re literally reading the chronicles of narnia right now :)
AHHHH! I NEED PART 2!! Love these!!
I feel that Nephi was addressed by the Spirit of the Lord as Jesus Christ in Spirit himself which is why before the vision continued he left and and angel appears because in the vision Jesus is IN the vision as unborn baby, then born of Mary then his ministry.
I don't believe Nephi didn't measure up to expectations of inquiry so an angel came instead.
Another observation is that Lehi was IN his dream experiential 1st hand.. and in it Nephi partook. But Nephi is in a high mountain observing being shown what happened but not in it as Lehi to partake.
Is coming to the Tree receiving the Second Comforter?
ANOTHER FATHER SON EXAMPLE: THE LORD AND SON YOU MAY KNOW ALL READY,
"It's not something we EARN or something we DESERVE...but God can give us that gift of understanding, and he does it to all those who diligently seek Him" Been a member my whole life (almost 50 years) and this is the first time I've heard it put that way and wow... WOW! wow. This really helps me and I believe it's given me a missing link to what God has been trying to show me the last few months. Also.. Thank you for including the info on epistemology. This all makes so much sense.. what do I want to know? How do I believe I can gain knowledge? How do my behaviors support my beliefs? And vice versa. In seeking knowledge (Him)..my behaviors will come into line with my beliefs. I think I've had it a bit twisted: ....change my behaviors and THEN I'll be worthy to seek, worth to ask, worthy to receive. BUT no.. it's Seek Him first. Thank you!
In the beginning of thus vision he is conversing with the Holy Spirit. He shows him the vision Lehi had.
He describes the tree, how precious and pure it was. The Spirit asks what he wants now and instead of wanting to taste the fruit for himself as his father did, he asks to understand the interpretation of what he is seeing and for some reason the Holy Ghost leaves and an angel appears to show Nephi more of the vision?
Is it because the Spirit is meant to reside in your heart and he wanted more understanding through His mind?
But Doctrine and Covenants 8 says:
Verse 2
Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.
But the Holy Ghost leaves. At first it just appears he is moving out of the way so Nephi can see the vision but He never comes back. An angel takes His place.
The experience of tasting the fruit and internalizing its goodness seems to have changed Lehi’s life. But Nephi received an expanded view by asking for greater understanding, equally life Changing. One example doesn't seem to be better than the other.
But we covenant to remember Jesus Christ always in order to have His spirit with us. Our prophet warns: In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.
So we equate the loss of the Spirit with bad. I'm confused.
I like that you have these videos a bit shorter, but in 2 parts per CFM lesson. Still a dive now and then, with some "waterskiing" to keep the story connected. Learning a lot, and I'm keeping up with the reading and some person study, too. Progress for me at least. Thanks for your videos!
Dear brother Halverson,
I have been following you shortly after the earthquake. Believe me it was a very shaken time I my world. You have truly been a huge blessing in my life. Words won’t do justice. Thank you. Thank you.
You may not answer this, but I have a question. Is that a picture of your wife’s office or are you really still recording at your home? I was actually excited for your family to not have to tiptoe around the house living an actor’s life in the movie - The Quiet Place. 😃
I am happy to know you are getting some help with the production side of things and that you can spend more time with your awesome wife/family. Yes I used the word awesome. Ha
I like the suit coat. Switching it up a bit.
Have a beautiful day,
Lisa Schneiter 😇
Ah, brother Halverson. I haven't even started listening and I can feel the pain. Only 58.27 minutes . . . at least there is a part two! I love the new look though, sleeves not rolled up, colored shirt, no tie, and a jacket. Ok I am sure I am going to love the lesson with more wonderful insights. Thank you for all you do! God bless you always, Your friend, Lidia
Question: how do we know that the “Spirit of the Lord” in 1 Nephi 11:11 is the Holy Ghost, rather than Jehovah? It makes sense to me that it could be Jehovah since Nephi talked to him face to face and he was in the form of a man.