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.
Biblical References in Doctrine and Covenants 76
The revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 76 was prompted by meditation about a single Bible verse, but it contains an enormous number of biblical paraphrases and allusions. The revelation demonstrates the unity of God's word as revealed to many prophets and apostles throughout history.
“Let Us Reason”
Through Isaiah, God invited the children of Israel to "reason" with Him. He extended the same invitation to church members in Kirtland, Ohio. How can an omniscient God "reason" with His imperfect children? If we are willing to humble ourselves and listen, He will teach us at our level, providing explanations which we can understand.
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?
Avoiding Deception
We can avoid being deceived by (1) obtaining and remembering accurate information, (2) being vigilant but not paranoid, and (3) drawing closer to God, who can enlighten our minds and help us see more clearly.
Prepare to Be Judged
Nobody likes to be judged, but Book of Mormon prophets clearly emphasize the Final Judgment. Mormon pleads with us to "repent and prepare to stand before the judgment-seat of Christ." We prepare by changing for the better, with God's help, every day.
What Is the Second Death?
Jesus overcame death for us in three ways: Because of Him, our bodies and spirits will be reunited after we die. We will also be reunited with God, at least temporarily. Finally, He can help us be prepared at that time to stay in God's presence forever.
Psalm 95 and Alma 12-13
Alma doesn't tell us that he's quoting from Psalm 95, but during his sermon in Ammonihah, he elaborates on phrases and concepts from that psalm. The central message: repent now, be receptive to God, and He will give you peace and stability.
Virtuous Cycles
President Russell M. Nelson taught that the gospel of Jesus Christ produces a virtuous cycle in our lives. Alma gave one example: as we open our hearts, God reveals truth to us a little at a time. Repeated actions can bring incremental growth over time.
Arraigned
There were many lawyers in Ammonihah, so it's not surprising that Amulek used legal terminology to describe our future state. When we can visualize ourselves as a defendant in court, we are motivated to seek and receive all the help we need.