Moroni asked why we have "polluted to the holy church of God." The church is a hospital for sinners, but as we participate, we are also doctors and nurses. We ought to approach that responsibility with care, recognizing our shortcomings as we help others.
“They That Feared the Lord Spake Often”
Malachi indicated that talking with other believers frequently can strengthen our faith and help us maintain our perspective. One of the purposes of regular church attendance is to build that kind of relationship with fellow believers.
“If Ye Will Repent…”
Samuel the Lamanite came to Zarahemla with a stern warning, coupled with a hopeful promise. He repeatedly promised his listeners that God would rescue them from their bad decisions if they would choose to repent. God always forgives those who repent.
Songs, Sermons, Lessons, and Prayers
Moroni and Paul both explained that church services ought to include a variety of content provided by a variety of people. As we share what we have to contribute and learn from others, under the guidance of the Spirit, we are all edified.
“Feed My Sheep”
Three times, Jesus invited Peter to feed His sheep. We can be good shepherds by getting to know the people we serve, looking for ways to help them, and pointing them to the Savior.
How Did Jesus Observe the Sabbath Day?
On six occasions, the Pharisees accused Jesus of sabbath-breaking. In response, He taught them what it really means to keep the Sabbath day holy: Be joyful, do God's work, and serve others. We also benefit from gathering with other believers on that day.
Bread
We all respond regularly to physical hunger, but we may not be as aware of our spiritual hunger. Moses taught that we don't live by bread alone, and Jesus quoted that teaching when Satan tempted Him. We need to nourish our spirits as we do our bodies.
Letting Go of My Burdens
The Sabbath Day is a good time to set aside things that are weighing us down. Here's how Jeremiah taught that principle to the ancient inhabitants of Jerusalem: Thus said the Lord unto me; Go and stand in the gate of the children of the people, whereby the kings of Judah come in, and by the which... Continue Reading →
The Fast That I Have Chosen
"What's the point of fasting?" ask the children of Israel in Isaiah 58. "Why are we torturing ourselves when God doesn't even notice?" In response, Isaiah contrasts the way they are currently fasting with the way God wants them to fast: Current "Ye find pleasure." You do whatever you want during the fast. "And exact all... Continue Reading →
The Book of Psalms and the Book of Mormon
The brass plates which Lehi and his family carried from Jerusalem contained a lot of content which overlaps with the Old Testament. Nephi describes three categories of writings, which correspond with three of the four groupings of books in the Old Testament: "The five books of Moses" - The Law (Genesis through Deuteronomy)"A record of... Continue Reading →