Abinadi rebuked King Noah's priests for not applying their hearts to understanding. As we study the law of Moses, we can apply our hearts by extracting the key principles. Specific rules about stray livestock, borrowed tools, and farm fields turn out to teach restitution, empathy, care for the vulnerable, and even love for our enemies.
Abinadi and the Ten Commandments
Like Moses, Abinadi understood that the Ten Commandments are a means to an end. Obedience to them brings us closer to God, but it's important to see the law as a reflection of the Lawgiver, who has the power to sanctify and redeem us.
Abinadi, Authority, and the Image of God
King Noah maintained authority by cultivating inequality through displays of power. Abinadi threatened that order by proclaiming that God himself would come to earth and live among humanity. Noah's son Limhi later explained Abinadi's death by connecting this claim with the doctrine that humanity was created in God’s image.
Contents of the Brass Plates
Eight of the 39 books in the Old Testament were definitely in the brass plates, and another 16 may have been included. For Book of Mormon prophets, the brass plates were an essential part of their identity: connecting them to intergenerational covenants, testifying of the Savior, and bringing them closer to God.
A Proclamation
Anyone can declare something, but only a person with authority can proclaim it. Ancient prophets proclaimed truths to kings by divine authority. Modern prophets have also issued six declarations with specific messages and warnings for church members, world leaders, and all people.
Noah, Babylon, and the Slipperiness of Political Power
King Noah trusted too much in his political power and failed to recognize the real dangers he and his people faced. When his power failed, it was sudden and dramatic. The king of Babylon suffered a similar fate. Worldly power and influence is temporary.
Good Tidings of Great Joy
Isaiah urged the people of God to enthusiastically share the "good tidings" of the gospel. The angel who appeared to the shepherds also referred to his message as "good tidings of great joy." We can strengthen others' faith by sharing truths joyfully.
Types and Shadows
A type is a copy of something. A shadow is a representation of something. It's important not to confuse the type or the shadow with the thing itself. Abinadi taught that the law cannot save us, but it can point us to Christ, who can save us.
Hearing Hard Truths
Noah and his priests were angry with Abinadi and labeled him as "mad." We use a variety of strategies to avoid accepting difficult messages. We attack the messenger, we respond emotionally, or we look for allies. In the end, it's better to actually listen
Despised
To despise someone is to "look down on" them. So despisers may have an inaccurate view of their own status and position. Abinadi and Jesus were both despised, so when you are despised, you are in good company.