67 Ether 12-15

Introduction

  • This discussion pertains to the Book of Mormon, a standard work of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

  • The presenter is Andrew Skinner, a member of the faculty of ancient scripture at Brigham Young University, joined by Professors Terry Ball, Jared Ludlow, and Terry Zink.

Discussion Focus: The Jaredites in the Book of Ether

  • The conversation explores themes related to the Jaredites, particularly emphasizing the consequences of secret combinations as described in the Book of Ether.

Moroni's Warning about Secret Combinations

  • Reference Verse: Ether 8:25

    • "For it cometh to pass that whoso buildeth it up, seeketh to overthrow the freedom of all lands, nations, and countries, and it bringeth to pass destruction of all people for it is built up by the devil who is the father of all lies."

    • These secret combinations are seen as an ongoing issue affecting not just the Jaredites, but also relevant to modern-day society.

  • Key Concept: Secret combinations lead to destruction and are associated with the devil.

    • Moroni warns against the destructive nature of such combinations, which historically include murder for gain concealed with oaths.

Application to Modern Day

  • Modern equivalents of secret combinations include:

    • Producers of alcohol and tobacco

    • The pornography industry

  • Personal Anecdote:

    • Skinner encourages students to reflect on the impact of these industries versus more obvious criminal organizations like the mafia, highlighting personal tragedies related to substance abuse.

    • Statistical Insight: Nearly all students report knowing someone affected by alcohol or tobacco, contrasting with one or fewer students affected by organized crime.

Concept of Secret Combinations

  • A secret combination can be defined not only as an organization but also as an attitude of seeking personal gain at the expense of others.

  • The manner of business practices illustrates this mindset, reflecting the principle of destruction for gain.

Scriptural Warnings and Insights

  • Doctrine and Covenants Section 89:

    • Highlights the existence of evils in the hearts of conspiring men, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution.

Moroni's Purpose for Writing

  • Quote from Ether 8:26:

    • Moroni emphasizes his mission to remove evil influences and encourage righteous behavior in humanity, ensuring the power of Satan has no hold on the hearts of men.

Contrast between Characters in Ether

  • Achish vs. Emer

    • Achish (Ether 9:5-12):

    • Represents the wickedness and consequences of secret combinations and reliance on Satan.

    • His actions lead to misery and destruction, including cannibalism.

    • Emer (Ether 9:21-22):

    • Epitomizes righteous leadership, trust in Christ, and the blessings that follow.

    • Emphasized as a character deserving more focus in discussions due to his positive traits.

The Cycle of Apostasy and Repentance

  • Summary of Ether Chapters:

    • Chapter 9:

    • Contrasts the acceptance of prophets from earlier chapters to their rejection and persecution in the current context.

    • Highlights the increasing wickedness in society and God's attempts to call them to repentance, resulting in calamities (famine, serpents).

    • Chapter 10:

    • Indicates a cycle of some righteous kings followed by wicked kings, illustrating the fluctuating moral compass of the Jaredites.

    • Chapter 11:

    • Reflects the complete apostasy wherein the government transforms from protecting prophets to executing them, marking a point of no return for the Jaredite nation.

Role of the Prophet Ether

  • Ether's Character:

    • Ether serves as a key prophetic figure, chronicling the destruction of his people while prioritizing his spiritual mission.

    • Moroni might have resonated deeply with Ether's struggles, drawing parallels with his own experiences in turmoil.

Significance of Faith in Ether Chapter 12

  • Concept of Faith:

    • Faith is defined as the ability to act based on belief and is more important and powerful than mere knowledge.

    • Trial of Faith:

    • Ether 12:6 underscores that witnesses and manifestations often come after one has shown faith, contrary to the expectation of knowing first.

  • Hope and Faith Connection:

    • Faith leads to hope, which is described as an anchor to the soul (Ether 12:4), emphasizing the bond between these two biblical principles.

    • Moroni reiterates the necessity of both faith and hope in providing assurance and purpose in life.

Personal Experiences of Faith

  • Ether's Examples of Faith:

    • Many individuals exhibited strong faith even before Christ and received divine experiences, which highlights the significance of faith throughout history.

Concluding Messages from Moroni

  • Final Words (Ether 12:41):

    • Moroni implores readers to seek Jesus Christ, encapsulating the essence of the Book of Mormon's teachings and the path to righteousness and grace.

  • The discussion closes on a reflective note about the power of scripture and its relevance in the lives of individuals today.