Two members of the Sanhedrin, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, prepared Jesus's body for burial and buried Him in Joseph's tomb. Their courageous service literally fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy that the Messiah would be "with the rich in his death."
Four Foundational Strategies
Book of Mormon authors modeled four strategies which can enhance our study of the Old Testament: (1) search for precious things in plain sight, (2) prioritize holistic over selective reading, (3) synthesize themes across the books, and (4) find Christ in the writings of all the prophets.
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.
Every Knee, Every Tongue
In his epistle to the Philippians, Paul writes poetically about the Savior's humility as evidenced by His willingness to descend from heaven and dwell with us. We honor Him not only because He created this world but also because He loved us.
Numbered with the Transgressors
Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would be "numbered among the transgressors." He did this in at least 4 ways: 1. He became mortal. 2. He spent time with sinners. 3. He was condemned and punished like a sinner. 4. He absorbed the consequences of our sins.
“He Opened Not His Mouth”
Isaiah prophesied that, like a lamb, the Savior would stand silently as He was afflicted. On the night of His crucifixion, Jesus was questioned several times. In some cases, He answered with extraordinary poise. In others, He said nothing at all.
Not Without Honour
Jesus said, "A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house." Why do we routinely underappreciate the people closest to us? We can approach our relationships with more humility, honoring the ones we know best.
“I Shall Be Turned”
Last week I wrote about Jeremiah's striking appeal: "Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed" (Jeremiah 17:14). I noted that God is willing to heal us, but that we must be willing to receive the gift. I also wrote that we must open our eyes to recognize the many ways God is healing... Continue Reading →
The Passover
The tenth and final plague which afflicted the Egyptians and which resulted in the liberation of the Israelites was the death of the oldest child in each family. Israelite families were spared, but only if they followed Moses' instruction to kill a lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood. The lamb had to be... Continue Reading →
Finding Favor
Luke tells us that as a young man, "Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man" (Luke 2:52). He was following in the footsteps of his mother. The angel Gabriel had assured her, "Thou hast found favour with God" (Luke 1:28-30). What is God's favor, and how can we find... Continue Reading →