The builders of the Tower of Babel hoped to make a name for themselves and ascend to heaven through their own efforts. In contrast, King Benjamin taught that salvation comes only through the name of Jesus Christ. As we grow closer to Him, He unites us and lifts us to our Father in Heaven.
“He Redeemed Them, and Bore Them, and Carried Them”
According to Isaiah, when the Savior returns to earth, we will all recognize and acknowledge the many ways the Savior has carried us. Perhaps we have a general awareness of this fact, but according to Isaiah, it will become much more intimate and personal to us at that time.
Fire, Snow, Sun, and Great Waters
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery described the Savior using biblical imagery: eyes like fire, hair like the snow, a countenance like the sun, and a voice like great waters. These metaphors remind us that the Savior knows us perfectly, that He is pure and holy, that He radiates light, and that He speaks with power.
Light, Life, and Law
Jesus is our light, life, and law. He helps us to see clearly, to recognize truth and goodness. He empowers us to flourish, to be vibrant and enthusiastic. He guides us to make wise decisions, avoid destructive behaviors, and channel our energy toward eternal goals. His power enlightens, energizes, and guides us.
That Through Him All Might Be Saved
In Jerusalem and in the Americas, Jesus proclaimed, "I will draw all men unto me." In 1832, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon learned more about the meaning of that promise. Jesus offers salvation to all of God's children, meaning that He makes available to us all of the glory which we are willing to receive.
From Eternity to Eternity
Book of Mormon prophets and Doctrine and Covenants 76 testify of the premortal divinity of Jesus Christ. He was "the Lord Omnipotent" before He was born, He created the heavens and the earth, and "from eternity to eternity He is the same." Our confidence in Him rests upon a recognition of His eternal godhood.
My Advocate, My Accuser
John assures sinners that Jesus is our Advocate. Like a defense attorney, He highlights our strengths, while Satan, the Accuser, magnifies our flaws. Which voice do you listen to? Sister Tamara W. Runia suggests that we imagine Jesus praying for us. What would He say, and how does that help us see ourselves more accurately?
“Behold, I Am Jesus Christ”
On ten occasions in scripture, the Savior introduces Himself with “Behold, I am Jesus Christ.” His self-descriptions emphasize (1) His identity as the Son of God, (2) His role as Creator and source of life, (3) His rejection by His own, (4) His power to save all who receive Him, and (5) His promised return.
Suffering the Will of the Father
Jesus did "always those things that please" His Father. His Atonement is the ultimate manifestation of that decision criterion. While we each walk an individualized path, we should make decisions based on what pleases God, not what "works for us."
“His Own Received Him Not”
Jesus "came unto his own, and his own received him not." It's tragic to think that we would fail to receive the greatest gift ever offered to us because we failed to greet and welcome the Giver. We receive salvation when we receive the Savior.