When Jesus taught "love your enemies" in the Sermon on the Mount, He was reclaiming the original meaning of the law He gave to Moses, not superseding it. He reminded the Nephites that He gave that law. The imperative to love people who are difficult to love has been taught by prophets in all ages.
The Lord Was With Joseph
Joseph’s name reflects two opposite Hebrew words: “to take away” and “to add.” His story demonstrates how God often brings addition through subtraction. Joseph was taken from his father so he could later save his family. Sometimes God removes blessings so He can give us greater ones.
Not to Destroy, but to Build Up
The Savior told Joseph Smith that the Book of Mormon and the church are intended to build up what people already have, not to destroy it. As we interact with others, we must be careful not to disparage or minimize the good things they bring to the table, but to build upon them.
Round About Again
As Jesus taught the people in Bountiful, He repeatedly "looked round about" to see how they were doing, and He adjusted His delivery to meet their needs. As we communicate with others, we need to watch for nonverbal cues and respond appropriately.
Not Lost
Jesus said he was going to visit the "lost tribes," but He quickly added, "They are not lost unto the Father, for he knoweth whither he hath taken them." When we feel misplaced, neglected, or disoriented, we can remember that we are not lost to God.
Fulfill vs. Destroy
Jesus didn't come to destroy the law; He came to fulfill it. He said that the law, His covenants, and all prophecies will be completely fulfilled. As His disciples, we need to emulate that conscientiousness as we strive to fulfill His law with His help.
Endure
Nephi warned us that we have to keep moving along the path if we want to reach our destination. In Agile software methodology, there's an aphorism, "Stop starting, start finishing." We need to maintain our focus on the goal and avoid distractions.
The Remnant Shall Return
Isaiah's prophecy about the remnant of Israel returning to God assures that no matter how far they are from home, they are not out of God's sight. Book of Mormon authors echo this sentiment: God is mindful of you, wherever you are, and you can come home.
Patient Continuance
Enduring to the end is an active process: continuing to do good with an ongoing commitment to eternal goals. It involves learning and growing. It is an uplifting process that can also be called "enjoying to the end."
The New Testament and the Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon can enrich your study of the New Testament. Here is a list of connections between the books to help you incorporate the Book of Mormon into your New Testament study.