In the scriptures, the word "bowels" is often associated with compassion or empathy. For example: The Apostle Paul encouraged the members of the church in Colossae to "put on...bowels of mercies" (Colossians 3:12). He pleaded with the saints at Phillipi, "if there be any...bowels and mercies," then they should be unified and kind to one... Continue Reading →
Lessons from Sermons to Hostile Audiences
During July, I studied sermons which were delivered under less favorable circumstances. In all of these cases, some people in the audience did respond favorably to the message, but the majority of people were not willing to listen. And in every case, the prophets knew that they were in danger because of the hostility to... Continue Reading →
Because of the Traditions of Their Fathers – Alma 9:14-17
14 Now I would that ye should remember, that inasmuch as the Lamanites have not kept the commandments of God, they have been cut off from the presence of the Lord. Now we see that the word of the Lord has been verified in this thing, and the Lamanites have been cut off from his... Continue Reading →
According to His Justice and Mercy – Mormon 6:21-22
21 And the day soon cometh that your mortal must put on immortality, and these bodies which are now moldering in corruption must soon become incorruptible bodies; and then ye must stand before the judgment-seat of Christ, to be judged according to your works; and if it so be that ye are righteous, then are... Continue Reading →
Blessed Are the Merciful – 3 Nephi 12:7
7 And blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. (3 Nephi 12:7, Matthew 5:7) The Savior taught this principle a number of times in different ways: we ought to treat other people the way we want to be treated: "If ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not... Continue Reading →
A Perfect, Just God, and a Merciful God Also – Alma 42:15
15 And now, the plan of mercy could not be brought about except an atonement should be made; therefore God himself atoneth for the sins of the world, to bring about the plan of mercy, to appease the demands of justice, that God might be a perfect, just God, and a merciful God also. 16... Continue Reading →
Standing Betwixt Them and Justice – Mosiah 15:8-9
8 And thus God breaketh the bands of death, having gained the victory over death; giving the Son power to make intercession for the children of men— 9 Having ascended into heaven, having the bowels of mercy; being filled with compassion towards the children of men; standing betwixt them and justice; having broken the bands... Continue Reading →
How Merciful and Just Are All the Dealings of the Lord – Alma 50:19-23
19 And thus we see how merciful and just are all the dealings of the Lord, to the fulfilling of all his words unto the children of men; yea, we can behold that his words are verified, even at this time, which he spake unto Lehi, saying:20 Blessed art thou and thy children; and they... Continue Reading →
“A Perfect, Just God, and a Merciful God Also” – Alma 42:15
15 And now, the plan of mercy could not be brought about except an atonement should be made; therefore God himself atoneth for the sins of the world, to bring about the plan of mercy, to appease the demands of justice, that God might be a perfect, just God, and a merciful God also. (Alma... Continue Reading →