Isaiah foresaw new heavens and a new earth, coupled with a joyful Jerusalem. John the Revelator and Ether saw the same. Ether emphasized the similarities between the old and the new. When God sanctifies something, it is still recognizable but is a holier version of its former self.
The Redeemer Shall Come to Zion
Jesus promised to establish a New Jerusalem and to dwell there. Ether made a similar prophecy. Isaiah concludes his book by prophesying of the same events. The Redeemer will come to Zion, His glory will rest upon its inhabitants, and they will recognize Him as their Savior.
Hearing Isaiah 54 with the Nephites and Lamanites
Isaiah 54 carries a message of reassurance and joy, delivered to people who have endured trauma. When Jesus quoted this chapter, it must have resonated with his audience, who had just survived terrible tempests and floods. But He indicated to them that its complete fulfillment would come in the last days.
Built By the Gathering of the Saints
At the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, a New Jerusalem will come down from heaven, representing Enoch's ancient city of Zion. It will unite with a New Jerusalem on the earth, representing His united disciples. We build this New Jerusalem as we gather with other believers and prepare to be with Him.
“He Began to Remember”
Coriantumr refused to respond to prophetic warnings from Ether for a long time. When he finally saw the wisdom in those warnings, it was too late to avoid the consequences of his unwise decisions. It is so much better to heed warnings and repent early!
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.
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.
Letters to the Seven Churches
John wrote letters to seven congregations of the church. In those letters, he described the Savior, gave feedback, and listed some blessings of exaltation. Taken together, the letters can motivate us to repent and receive the blessings God offers us.
“Build Up Cities”
When the Lord warned Nephi to flee from his brothers, he did not go alone. He took with him everyone who "believed in the warnings and the revelations of God" (1 Nephi 5:5-6). They traveled many days in the wilderness and chose a place to settle, where they constructed buildings, planted crops, and established a new community.... Continue Reading →