Noah, Lehi, and the Jaredite prophets all delivered messages which their people rejected. We sometimes say, "Don't shoot the messenger." We should probably add, "Don't ignore the messenger." Human nature leads us to resist change, but God mercifully sends prophets to prompt action that invites His saving power into our lives.
Ether’s Courage
Ether was unpopular because of the truths he shared. He had to hide in the cavity of a rock, and even after that, he went back to call the king to repentance. Integrity can be lonely, but we need to stand up for what's right, even when it's not popular.
Ether and the Books of Kings
Ether has a lot in common with the books of 1 & 2 Kings in the Old Testament: In both accounts, we see the effects of a leader's character on their nation. Prophets deliver warnings boldly. They are not afraid to share the truth, even when it's unpopular.
“There Came Prophets”
A recurring theme in the Book of Ether is the arrival of unnamed prophets, warning the people of difficult days ahead and urging them to repent. These prophets were consistently rejected by the people but were sometimes protected by righteous kings. Here are some examples: During the reign of Shule, the fourth king, "there came... Continue Reading →
The Jaredite Generations
Thirty generations in fifteen chapters: in the Book of Ether, Moroni provides a sweeping history of the rise and fall of a civilization. At first glance, the book appears to be the story of the Jaredite people from the perspective of their kings. But upon closer consideration, it becomes clear that the narrative follows a... Continue Reading →
Com – Ether 11:1-3
1 And there came also in the days of Com many prophets, and prophesied of the destruction of that great people except they should repent, and turn unto the Lord, and forsake their murders and wickedness. 2 And it came to pass that the prophets were rejected by the people, and they fled unto Com... Continue Reading →
The Prophets Mourned and Withdrew – Ether 11:13
13 And it came to pass that the people hardened their hearts, and would not hearken unto their words; and the prophets mourned and withdrew from among the people. (Ether 11:13) There are times when we have to "mourn and withdraw." As much as we might want to help another person avoid the consequences of... Continue Reading →
The Prophets Fled unto Com for Protection – Ether 11:2-3
2 And it came to pass that the prophets were rejected by the people, and they fled unto Com for protection, for the people sought to destroy them.3 And they prophesied unto Com many things; and he was blessed in all the remainder of his days.(Ether 11:2-3)Com had the ability as king to provide protection... Continue Reading →