Rare Possessions: From The Archives of Book of Mormon Central
Book of Mormon Central
The Rare Possessions Podcast digs into the Scripture Central Library to find valuable works that focus on the Book of Mormon and other Restoration scripture.
To read the article, go here: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/the-sermonatthetemple
This article presents a fresh perspective on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount by exploring its parallels in the Book of Mormon, specifically in 3 Nephi 11-18, which it calls the "Sermon at the Temple." It suggests that the Sermon is best understood within the context of covenant-making at the temple, addressing an issue that has long challenged biblical scholars—how to interpret the Sermon’s purpose and audience. The Nephite setting offers a new lens, where Jesus' teachings are framed as covenantal instructions, with commandments, promises, and rituals leading to exaltation. The article highlights how this covenantal view enriches the understanding of specific passages and shows that the Sermon lays out conditions for entering God's presence. Furthermore, it notes that some New Testament scholars are beginning to see ritual significance in the Sermon, reinforcing the idea that its core message could relate to sacred covenants. This analysis demonstrates how the Book of Mormon contributes to restoring plain and precious covenants lost over time.
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4:55
Thieves and Robbers
To read this chapter, go here: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/thieves-androbbers
In ancient Near Eastern law, there was a big difference between a thief and a robber: thieves were locals dealt with by the courts, while robbers were dangerous outsiders handled militarily, often executed on the spot. This distinction is key in the Book of Mormon, explaining why Lehi's sons were called "robbers" by Laban and why the later Gadianton society was such a threat. Interestingly, Joseph Smith’s use of these terms aligns with ancient legal traditions, not the inconsistent usage in the King James Bible, showing a deeper understanding beyond his time.
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2:55
"Thus Saith the Lord": Prophetic Language in Samuel’s Speech
To read this chapter, go here: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/thus-saiththelordpropheticlanguageinsamuelsspeech
Samuel the Lamanite's speeches are packed with powerful prophetic language, giving us a glimpse into how ancient prophets communicated divine warnings. In Helaman 13–15, he uses six key speech forms to declare God’s will: phrases like "Thus saith the Lord" mark direct revelation, while "As the Lord liveth" stresses the certainty of his prophecies. He warns the wicked with "woe oracles" and uses "I say unto you" to announce God’s message with authority. These expressions, found throughout the Book of Mormon, reinforce the weight of his divine mission and the urgency of repentance.
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3:56
The Case of an Unobserved Murder
To read the chapter, go here: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/the-case-of-an-unobserved-murder
In The Case of an Unobserved Murder, John W. Welch uncovers a fascinating legal drama from Helaman 7-9. When Nephi prophesied that Seantum had killed his brother, he not only revealed the crime but predicted the very evidence that would convict him. Despite ancient laws requiring two witnesses, Seantum's spontaneous confession and the physical proof—a bloodstained cloak—were enough to secure his conviction. This case highlights how ancient justice systems navigated unwitnessed crimes and self-incrimination, revealing an intriguing blend of prophecy and law.
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3:44
Purpose of the War Chapters in the Book of Mormon
To read the chapter, go here: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/purpose-war-chapters-book-mormon
The "war chapters" in the Book of Mormon, particularly in the book of Alma, are less about military conflict and more about spiritual warfare and deliverance. They highlight how faith in God and righteousness lead to divine protection, even against overwhelming odds. These accounts serve as a guide for modern readers, illustrating that in times of spiritual or physical conflict, God's strength and guidance are available to those who remain faithful. The emphasis is on the eternal struggle between good and evil and the assurance that righteousness will ultimately prevail.
About Rare Possessions: From The Archives of Book of Mormon Central
The Rare Possessions Podcast digs into the Scripture Central Library to find valuable works that focus on the Book of Mormon and other Restoration scripture.
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