Moses 5-8Moses 5-8Moses 5:5Moses 5:5 ““The Firstlings of Their The Firstlings of Their

FlocksFlocks””

““The word ‘firstlings’ puts certain qualifications and restrictions The word ‘firstlings’ puts certain qualifications and restrictions and even determines the quality of faith that is used in offering and even determines the quality of faith that is used in offering the sacrifice. ‘the sacrifice. ‘Firstling’ does not necessarily denote the oldest Firstling’ does not necessarily denote the oldest of the flock, but the firstborn of its particular motherof the flock, but the firstborn of its particular mother. . A ‘firstling’ A ‘firstling’ is a maleis a male, the ‘first to open the matrix’ of its mother (Ex. 13:2; , the ‘first to open the matrix’ of its mother (Ex. 13:2; 34:19). Each mother in her lifetime could produce only one 34:19). Each mother in her lifetime could produce only one firstling, but a flock of sheep could have several firstlings born firstling, but a flock of sheep could have several firstlings born each year. each year. The owner would have to know his flockThe owner would have to know his flock. There . There would have to be records kept and identification of mothers and would have to be records kept and identification of mothers and their offspring (Robert J. Matthews, “The Doctrine of the their offspring (Robert J. Matthews, “The Doctrine of the Atonement,” in studies in Scripture, Volume 2: The Pearl of Atonement,” in studies in Scripture, Volume 2: The Pearl of Great Price, ed. Robert L. Millet and Kent P. Jackson (1985), Great Price, ed. Robert L. Millet and Kent P. Jackson (1985), 118-19).118-19).

Because spiritual events can be discerned only Because spiritual events can be discerned only by spiritual senses.by spiritual senses.

Fortunately, there were some who understood the Fortunately, there were some who understood the spiritual significance of sacrifices. For four spiritual significance of sacrifices. For four thousand years every believer who raised a knife thousand years every believer who raised a knife to slay the firstborn of his flock might momentarily to slay the firstborn of his flock might momentarily identify with the Father of us all. Which of these identify with the Father of us all. Which of these pastors could thrust his blade with glacial emotion pastors could thrust his blade with glacial emotion into the warm flesh of a lamb he had lovingly into the warm flesh of a lamb he had lovingly nurtured --- and perhaps on occasion defended nurtured --- and perhaps on occasion defended from both element and enemy --- and not wince from both element and enemy --- and not wince when the pulsating blood stained his cold steel?when the pulsating blood stained his cold steel?

On such occasion the hearts of both sheep and On such occasion the hearts of both sheep and shepherd were pierced. As significant as was the shepherd were pierced. As significant as was the symbolism of this moment, however, the lasting symbolism of this moment, however, the lasting lesson was not of the mind, but of the heart. We lesson was not of the mind, but of the heart. We can never understand the passionate symbolism can never understand the passionate symbolism of this event by cold logic alone; it must be felt. of this event by cold logic alone; it must be felt. Every herdsman who looked forward to a Every herdsman who looked forward to a Redeemer would undergo his own spiritual Redeemer would undergo his own spiritual catharsis, his own broken heart. Bu such catharsis, his own broken heart. Bu such experience, he would begin to feel, however experience, he would begin to feel, however small those swellings might be, the depth of small those swellings might be, the depth of sacrifice yet to be made in the meridian of time sacrifice yet to be made in the meridian of time (Tad R. Callister, (Tad R. Callister, The Infinite AtonementThe Infinite Atonement, 281)., 281).

Fortunately, there were some who understood the spiritual Fortunately, there were some who understood the spiritual significance of sacrifices. For four thousand years every believer significance of sacrifices. For four thousand years every believer who raised his knife to slay the firstborn of his flock might who raised his knife to slay the firstborn of his flock might momentarily identify with the Father of us all. Which of these momentarily identify with the Father of us all. Which of these pastors could thrust his blade with glacial emotion into the warm pastors could thrust his blade with glacial emotion into the warm flesh of a lamb he had lovingly nurtured --- and perhaps on flesh of a lamb he had lovingly nurtured --- and perhaps on occasion defended from both element and enemy --- and not occasion defended from both element and enemy --- and not wince when the pulsating blood stained his cold steel? On such wince when the pulsating blood stained his cold steel? On such an occasion the hearts of both sheep and shepherd were pierced. an occasion the hearts of both sheep and shepherd were pierced. As significant as was the symbolism of this moment, however, the As significant as was the symbolism of this moment, however, the lasting lesson was not of the mind, but of the heart. We can never lasting lesson was not of the mind, but of the heart. We can never understand the passionate symbolism of this event by cold logic understand the passionate symbolism of this event by cold logic alone; it must be felt. Every herdsman who looked forward to a alone; it must be felt. Every herdsman who looked forward to a Redeemer would undergo his own spiritual catharsis, his own Redeemer would undergo his own spiritual catharsis, his own broken heart. By such experience, he would begin to feel, broken heart. By such experience, he would begin to feel, however small those swellings might be, the depth of sacrifice yet however small those swellings might be, the depth of sacrifice yet to be made in the meridian of time (Tad R. Callister, to be made in the meridian of time (Tad R. Callister, The Infinite The Infinite AtonementAtonement, 281)., 281).

Moses 5:5-6Moses 5:5-6

Adam and Eve were ObedientAdam and Eve were Obedient!!

Obedience is heaven’s first law (Obedience is heaven’s first law (Gospel Ideals Gospel Ideals (1953), 484).(1953), 484).

President Ezra Taft Benson taught, “President Ezra Taft Benson taught, “The great The great test of life is obedience to Godtest of life is obedience to God” (C.R., Apr. ” (C.R., Apr. 1988, 3; or Ensign, May 1988, 6).1988, 3; or Ensign, May 1988, 6).

Obey small things, obey all things!Obey small things, obey all things!

Even though Adam and Eve taught their Even though Adam and Eve taught their children the gospel (Moses 5:12), Cain children the gospel (Moses 5:12), Cain and others chose to live unrighteous. and others chose to live unrighteous.

What can we do to help ourselves bear What can we do to help ourselves bear the pain when loved ones go astray? the pain when loved ones go astray?

What can we do to help these loved ones?What can we do to help these loved ones?

Elder Richard G. Scott counseledElder Richard G. Scott counseled::

““Many of you have heavy hearts because a son or daughter, Many of you have heavy hearts because a son or daughter, husband or wife, has turned from righteousness to pursue evil. husband or wife, has turned from righteousness to pursue evil. My message is for you.My message is for you.

““Your life is filled with anguish, pain, and, at times, despair. I Your life is filled with anguish, pain, and, at times, despair. I will tell you how you can be comforted by the Lord.will tell you how you can be comforted by the Lord.

““First, you must recognize two foundation principlesFirst, you must recognize two foundation principles::

““1. While there are many things you can do to help a loved one 1. While there are many things you can do to help a loved one in need, there are some things that must be done by the in need, there are some things that must be done by the Lord.Lord.

““2. Also, no enduring improvement can occur without righteous 2. Also, no enduring improvement can occur without righteous exercise of agency. Do not attempt to override agency. exercise of agency. Do not attempt to override agency. The Lord himself would not do that. Forced obedience The Lord himself would not do that. Forced obedience yields no blessings (D&C 58:26-33).yields no blessings (D&C 58:26-33).

““I will suggest seven ways you can helpI will suggest seven ways you can help.”.”

““FirstFirst, love without limitations…., love without limitations….SecondSecond, do not condone the , do not condone the transgressions, but extend every hope and support to the transgressions, but extend every hope and support to the transgressor…transgressor…ThirdThird, teach truth…., teach truth….FourthFourth, honestly forgive as , honestly forgive as often as is required….often as is required….FifthFifth, pray trustingly. ‘The fervent prayer , pray trustingly. ‘The fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much’ (James 5:16)….of a righteous man availeth much’ (James 5:16)….SixthSixth, keep , keep perspective….When the things you realistically can do to help perspective….When the things you realistically can do to help are done, leave the matter in the hands of the Lord and worry are done, leave the matter in the hands of the Lord and worry no more. Do not feel guilty because you cannot do more. Do no more. Do not feel guilty because you cannot do more. Do not waste your energy on useless worry….In time, you will feel not waste your energy on useless worry….In time, you will feel impressions and know how to give further help. You will find impressions and know how to give further help. You will find more peace and happiness, will not neglect others that need more peace and happiness, will not neglect others that need you, and will be able to give greater help because of that you, and will be able to give greater help because of that eternal perspective….eternal perspective….

““One last suggestionOne last suggestion --- --- Never give up on a loved one, neverNever give up on a loved one, never!” !” (C.R., Apr. 1988, 69-71).(C.R., Apr. 1988, 69-71).

““Hope for Parents of Wayward Children, Hope for Parents of Wayward Children, Also Called “A Precious PromiseAlso Called “A Precious Promise””

““The Prophet Joseph Smith declared --- and he never taught a The Prophet Joseph Smith declared --- and he never taught a more comforting doctrine --- that the eternal sealing of faithful more comforting doctrine --- that the eternal sealing of faithful parents and the divine promises made to them for valiant parents and the divine promises made to them for valiant service in the Cause of Truth, would save not only themselves, service in the Cause of Truth, would save not only themselves, but likewise their posterity. Though some of the sheep may but likewise their posterity. Though some of the sheep may wander, they eye of the Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or wander, they eye of the Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or later they will feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching later they will feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching out after them and drawing them back to the fold. out after them and drawing them back to the fold. Either in Either in this life or the life to come, they will returnthis life or the life to come, they will return. They will have . They will have to pay their debt to justice; they will suffer for their sins; and to pay their debt to justice; they will suffer for their sins; and may tread a thorny path; but may tread a thorny path; but ifif it leads them at last, like the it leads them at last, like the penitent Prodigal, to a loving and forgiving father’s heart and penitent Prodigal, to a loving and forgiving father’s heart and home, the painful experience will not have been in vain. Pray home, the painful experience will not have been in vain. Pray for your careless and disobedient children; hold on to them with for your careless and disobedient children; hold on to them with your faith. Hope on, trust on, till you see the salvation of God” your faith. Hope on, trust on, till you see the salvation of God” (Orson F. Whitney, in C.R., Apr. 1929, 110).(Orson F. Whitney, in C.R., Apr. 1929, 110).

Brigham Young taught,Brigham Young taught,

““Let the Father and mother, who are members of this Let the Father and mother, who are members of this Church and Kingdom, take a righteous course, and Church and Kingdom, take a righteous course, and strive with all of their might never to do a wrong, but to strive with all of their might never to do a wrong, but to do good all their lives; if they have one child or one do good all their lives; if they have one child or one hundred children, if they conduct themselves towards hundred children, if they conduct themselves towards them as they should, binding them to the Lord by their them as they should, binding them to the Lord by their faith and prayers, faith and prayers, I care not where those children I care not where those children go, they are bound up to their parents by an go, they are bound up to their parents by an everlasting tie, and no power of earth or hell can everlasting tie, and no power of earth or hell can separate them from their parents in eternity; they separate them from their parents in eternity; they will return again to the fountain from whence they will return again to the fountain from whence they sprangsprang” (quoted by Joseph Fielding Smith, ” (quoted by Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines Doctrines of Salvationof Salvation, Bruce R. McConkie, 3 volumes, 2:90-91)., Bruce R. McConkie, 3 volumes, 2:90-91).

Lorenzo Snow said,Lorenzo Snow said,

““If you succeed in passing through these trials and If you succeed in passing through these trials and afflictions and receive a resurrection, you will, by the afflictions and receive a resurrection, you will, by the power of the Priesthood, work and labor, as the Son of power of the Priesthood, work and labor, as the Son of God has, until you get all your sons and daughters in God has, until you get all your sons and daughters in the path of exaltation and glory. This is just as sure as the path of exaltation and glory. This is just as sure as that the sun rose this morning over yonder mountains. that the sun rose this morning over yonder mountains. Therefore, mourn not because all your sons and Therefore, mourn not because all your sons and daughters do not follow in the path that you have daughters do not follow in the path that you have marked out to them, or give heed to your counselsmarked out to them, or give heed to your counsels. . Inasmuch as we succeed in securing eternal glory, Inasmuch as we succeed in securing eternal glory, and stand as saviors, and as kings and priests to our and stand as saviors, and as kings and priests to our God, we will save our posterity” (God, we will save our posterity” ( in Collected in Collected DiscoursesDiscourses, comp. Brian H. Stuy, 5 volumes, 3:364)., comp. Brian H. Stuy, 5 volumes, 3:364).

Elder Packer taught,Elder Packer taught,

““The measure of our success as parents…will not rest solely on how our The measure of our success as parents…will not rest solely on how our children turn out. That judgment would be just only if we could raise our children turn out. That judgment would be just only if we could raise our families in a perfectly moral environment, and that now is not possible.families in a perfectly moral environment, and that now is not possible.

““It is not uncommon for responsible parents to lose one of their children, for It is not uncommon for responsible parents to lose one of their children, for a time, to influences over which they have no control. They agonize over a time, to influences over which they have no control. They agonize over rebellious sons or daughters. They are puzzled over why they are so rebellious sons or daughters. They are puzzled over why they are so helpless when they have tried so hard to do what they should.helpless when they have tried so hard to do what they should.

““It is my conviction that those wicked influences one day will be It is my conviction that those wicked influences one day will be overruledoverruled….….

““We cannot overemphasize the value of temple marriage, the binding ties of We cannot overemphasize the value of temple marriage, the binding ties of the sealing ordinance, and the standards of worthiness required of them. the sealing ordinance, and the standards of worthiness required of them. When parents keep the covenants they have made at the altar of the When parents keep the covenants they have made at the altar of the temple, their children will be forever bound to themtemple, their children will be forever bound to them” (“Our Moral ” (“Our Moral Environment,” Environment,” EnsignEnsign, May 1992, 68)., May 1992, 68).

Moses 5:23Moses 5:23 ““Rule over himRule over him””

““All beings who have bodies,” taught Joseph Smith All beings who have bodies,” taught Joseph Smith have power over those who have not (have power over those who have not (TeachingsTeachings, , 169).169).

Cain, as well as all others that become perdition will Cain, as well as all others that become perdition will have power over Lucifer.have power over Lucifer.

Cain abused both the priesthood and the knowledge Cain abused both the priesthood and the knowledge that was his.that was his.

Moses 5:24Moses 5:24 ““Called PerditionCalled Perdition””

Referring to Cain’s choice to keep his first estate, Elder Referring to Cain’s choice to keep his first estate, Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained: Bruce R. McConkie explained:

““That son of Adam, though a friend of Lucifer in pre-That son of Adam, though a friend of Lucifer in pre-existence, did manage to gain mortal birth. He could existence, did manage to gain mortal birth. He could have hearkened to his Father Adam and walked in the have hearkened to his Father Adam and walked in the strait and narrow path. strait and narrow path. But instead he chose to follow a But instead he chose to follow a course which he had already charted, in a very real course which he had already charted, in a very real sense, in his first estate, an estate where he had been sense, in his first estate, an estate where he had been known as perditionknown as perdition. Coming from this background, . Coming from this background, Cain Cain elected to use his agency to fight the truth in this life, and elected to use his agency to fight the truth in this life, and in his case he became a son of perditionin his case he became a son of perdition” (” (DNTCDNTC, 1:715)., 1:715).

There were, of course, no neutral spirits in the war in There were, of course, no neutral spirits in the war in heaven, any more than there are or can be neutrals in heaven, any more than there are or can be neutrals in this life where choices between righteousness and this life where choices between righteousness and unrighteousness are involved. “He that is not with me is unrighteousness are involved. “He that is not with me is against me,” saith the Lord, “and he that gathereth not against me,” saith the Lord, “and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad” (Bruce R. McConkie, with me scattereth abroad” (Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon DoctrineMormon Doctrine, 828)., 828).

Lorenzo Young said that Joseph Smith told him that Lorenzo Young said that Joseph Smith told him that there were no neutral spirits in heaven at the time of the there were no neutral spirits in heaven at the time of the rebellion. All took sides. All spirits that came to this rebellion. All took sides. All spirits that came to this earth were pure and from the presence of God (earth were pure and from the presence of God (Wilford Wilford Woodruff, Wilford Woodruff’s JournalWoodruff, Wilford Woodruff’s Journal, 6:511, journal , 6:511, journal entry dated 25 December 1869).entry dated 25 December 1869).

It is not to be thought that every word spoken by the General It is not to be thought that every word spoken by the General Authorities is inspired, or that they are moved upon by the Holy Authorities is inspired, or that they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost in everything they speak and write. Now you keep that in Ghost in everything they speak and write. Now you keep that in mind. I don’t care what his position is, if he writes something or mind. I don’t care what his position is, if he writes something or speaks something that goes beyond anything that you can find in speaks something that goes beyond anything that you can find in the standard church works, unless that one be the prophet, seer the standard church works, unless that one be the prophet, seer and revelator --- please note that one exception (when he is and revelator --- please note that one exception (when he is speaking as the prophet, taught from earlier in the paragraph) --- speaking as the prophet, taught from earlier in the paragraph) --- you may immediately say, “Well, that is his own idea.” And if he you may immediately say, “Well, that is his own idea.” And if he says something that contradicts what is found in the standard says something that contradicts what is found in the standard works (I think that is why we call them “standard” --- it is the works (I think that is why we call them “standard” --- it is the standard measure of all that men teach), you may know by that standard measure of all that men teach), you may know by that same token that it is false, regardless of the position of the man same token that it is false, regardless of the position of the man who says it (President Harold B. Lee, “who says it (President Harold B. Lee, “The Place of the Living The Place of the Living Prophet, Seer, and Revelator,” The Charge to Religious Prophet, Seer, and Revelator,” The Charge to Religious EducatorsEducators, 141; BYU, 8 July 1964)., 141; BYU, 8 July 1964).

Moses 5:25Moses 5:25

He rejected the greater counsel which was had from He rejected the greater counsel which was had from God. Cain’s status was such that he enjoyed personal God. Cain’s status was such that he enjoyed personal conversation with the Lord. No one in earth’s history conversation with the Lord. No one in earth’s history has received a more direct call to repentance than that has received a more direct call to repentance than that which was given to Cain, for it had been his privilege which was given to Cain, for it had been his privilege to walk and talk with God. The Lord revealed that “he to walk and talk with God. The Lord revealed that “he who sins against the greater light shall receive the who sins against the greater light shall receive the greater condemnation” (D&C 82:3).greater condemnation” (D&C 82:3).

Thus, in consequence of Cain’s love for Satan and Thus, in consequence of Cain’s love for Satan and rejection of the counsel give him by God, his rejection of the counsel give him by God, his punishment was meted out of equal nature.punishment was meted out of equal nature.

Moses 5:31Moses 5:31 ““Master MahanMaster Mahan””

Mahan means mind. Mahan means mind.

How long did Cain hate his brother?How long did Cain hate his brother?

Moses 5:49Moses 5:49

Lamech also had the title of “Master Mahan.”Lamech also had the title of “Master Mahan.”

Moses 5:33Moses 5:33 “I am free”“I am free”

Cain, who had know no bondage, will now never be without it.Cain, who had know no bondage, will now never be without it.

Moses 5:34Moses 5:34 “Am I my Brother’s Keeper?”“Am I my Brother’s Keeper?”

Bishop Robert L. Simpson said:Bishop Robert L. Simpson said:

““The world today tells you to leave your friend alone. He has The world today tells you to leave your friend alone. He has the right to come and go as he pleases. The world tells you the right to come and go as he pleases. The world tells you that persuasion to attend church or priesthood meetings or to that persuasion to attend church or priesthood meetings or to discard a bad habit might lead to frustration and undue discard a bad habit might lead to frustration and undue pressures: but again I repeat the word of the Lord: You are pressures: but again I repeat the word of the Lord: You are your brother’s keeper, and when you are converted, you have your brother’s keeper, and when you are converted, you have an obligation to strengthen your brother” (C.R., Oct. 1971, 114).an obligation to strengthen your brother” (C.R., Oct. 1971, 114).

Moses 5:59Moses 5:59 ““All Things Were Confirmed unto All Things Were Confirmed unto Adam, by an Holy OrdinanceAdam, by an Holy Ordinance””

In Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English In Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language (which reflects usage in the Prophet Joseph Smith’s Language (which reflects usage in the Prophet Joseph Smith’s day) the word day) the word confirmedconfirmed is defined as “ is defined as “made more firmmade more firm; ; strengthened; or established.” strengthened; or established.”

Elder Boyd K. Packer said: Elder Boyd K. Packer said:

““Ordinances and covenants become our credentials for Ordinances and covenants become our credentials for admission into (God’s) presence. admission into (God’s) presence. To worthily receive them is To worthily receive them is the quest of a lifetime; to keep them thereafter is the challenge the quest of a lifetime; to keep them thereafter is the challenge of mortalityof mortality” (C.R., Apr. 1987, 27; or ” (C.R., Apr. 1987, 27; or EnsignEnsign, May 1987, 24). , May 1987, 24).

Moses 6Moses 6Moses 6:2Moses 6:2 Who was SethWho was Seth??

Abel had been chosen to carry the responsibilities of the Abel had been chosen to carry the responsibilities of the priesthood to succeeding generations. But after he was priesthood to succeeding generations. But after he was murdered, Seth, who was born 130 years after the Fall of Adam murdered, Seth, who was born 130 years after the Fall of Adam and Eve, was selected as the chosen son to carry this sacred and Eve, was selected as the chosen son to carry this sacred priesthood responsibility (D&C 107:40-42). He was ordained priesthood responsibility (D&C 107:40-42). He was ordained when he was 69 years old and lived a total of 912 years. The when he was 69 years old and lived a total of 912 years. The scriptures refer to him as a “perfect man, and his likeness was scriptures refer to him as a “perfect man, and his likeness was the express likeness of his father” (D&C 107:43).the express likeness of his father” (D&C 107:43).

Joseph Smith said that Alvin was the most handsome man he Joseph Smith said that Alvin was the most handsome man he had ever seen, save Father Adam and his son Seth.had ever seen, save Father Adam and his son Seth.

Moses 6:5-6Moses 6:5-6

The Origin of Language and WritingThe Origin of Language and Writing::

““This first language spoken by mortals was This first language spoken by mortals was either the celestial tongue of the Gods or such either the celestial tongue of the Gods or such adaptation of it as was necessary to meet the adaptation of it as was necessary to meet the limitations of mortality; and Adam and his limitations of mortality; and Adam and his posterity had power to speak, read, and write it” posterity had power to speak, read, and write it” ((Mormon DoctrineMormon Doctrine, 19)., 19).

Moses 6:8-25Moses 6:8-25

The Patriarchal Organization of the PriesthoodThe Patriarchal Organization of the Priesthood

There were twenty generations of the priesthood from There were twenty generations of the priesthood from Adam to Abraham, being passed from father to son. Adam to Abraham, being passed from father to son. Eight generations are listed in Moses 6:8-25 (from Eight generations are listed in Moses 6:8-25 (from Adam to Methuselah): in Moses 8:5-12, three more Adam to Methuselah): in Moses 8:5-12, three more generations (Lamech, Noah, and Shem) are given, generations (Lamech, Noah, and Shem) are given, and Genesis 11:10-26 records the nine generations and Genesis 11:10-26 records the nine generations from Shem to Abram (Abraham). (See also D&C from Shem to Abram (Abraham). (See also D&C 107:40-52.)107:40-52.)

Moses 6:31-32Moses 6:31-32 Feelings of InadequacyFeelings of Inadequacy

Enoch was not the only prophet who felt inadequate Enoch was not the only prophet who felt inadequate when the Lord called him. when the Lord called him.

Moses Moses --- --- Exodus 4:10-12Exodus 4:10-12Jeremiah Jeremiah --- --- Jeremiah 1:4-9Jeremiah 1:4-9

James E. Faust, then a member of the Quorum of the James E. Faust, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught: Twelve Apostles, taught:

““Most of us who are called to leadership in the Church Most of us who are called to leadership in the Church feel that we are inadequate because of inexperience, feel that we are inadequate because of inexperience, lack of ability, or meager learning and education” lack of ability, or meager learning and education” (C.R., Oct. 1980, 52).(C.R., Oct. 1980, 52).

““I feel extremely humble,” I feel extremely humble,”

““I did have a brief premonition that this call was I did have a brief premonition that this call was coming,… but I quickly brushed it from my mind coming,… but I quickly brushed it from my mind because it seemed so unworthy, so presumptuous.” “I because it seemed so unworthy, so presumptuous.” “I saw immediately my inabilities and limitations,” “I saw immediately my inabilities and limitations,” “I cried back, ‘Not me, Brother Clark, you can’t mean cried back, ‘Not me, Brother Clark, you can’t mean this.’” “In those long days and weeks I’ve done a great this.’” “In those long days and weeks I’ve done a great deal of thinking and praying and fasting and deal of thinking and praying and fasting and praying….I’ve gone through that experience, wrestling praying….I’ve gone through that experience, wrestling for a blessing…Eighty- five dawns have come and for a blessing…Eighty- five dawns have come and found me on my knees praying to the Lord to found me on my knees praying to the Lord to strengthen me and make me equal to the great call” strengthen me and make me equal to the great call” (Call to the Twelve by J. Reuben Clark to Spencer W. (Call to the Twelve by J. Reuben Clark to Spencer W. Kimball). Kimball).

Moses 6:59Moses 6:59 ““Water, Blood, SpiritWater, Blood, Spirit””

Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained:Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained:

““Two births are essential to salvation. Man cannot be saved Two births are essential to salvation. Man cannot be saved without birth into mortality, nor can he return to his heavenly without birth into mortality, nor can he return to his heavenly home without a birth into the realm of the Spirit…. The home without a birth into the realm of the Spirit…. The elements present in a mortal birth and in a spiritual birth are the elements present in a mortal birth and in a spiritual birth are the same. They are water, blood, and spirit. Thus every mortal same. They are water, blood, and spirit. Thus every mortal birth is a heaven-given reminder to prepare for the second birth is a heaven-given reminder to prepare for the second birth…birth…

““In every mortal birth the child is immersed in water in the In every mortal birth the child is immersed in water in the mother’s womb. At the appointed time the spirit enters the mother’s womb. At the appointed time the spirit enters the body, and blood always flows in the veins of the new person. body, and blood always flows in the veins of the new person. Otherwise, without each of these, there is no life, no birth, no Otherwise, without each of these, there is no life, no birth, no mortality.mortality.

““In every birth into the kingdom of heaven, the newborn babe in In every birth into the kingdom of heaven, the newborn babe in Christ is immersed in water, he receives the Holy Ghost by the Christ is immersed in water, he receives the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, and the blood of Christ cleanses him from laying on of hands, and the blood of Christ cleanses him from all sin. Otherwise, without each of these, there is no Spirit-birth, all sin. Otherwise, without each of these, there is no Spirit-birth, no newness of life, no hope of eternal life….no newness of life, no hope of eternal life….

“…“…These elements were again present in (Christ’s) death. He These elements were again present in (Christ’s) death. He sweat great drops of blood in Gethsemane as he took upon sweat great drops of blood in Gethsemane as he took upon himself the sins of all men on conditions of repentance. This himself the sins of all men on conditions of repentance. This same agony and suffering recurred on the cross. It was then same agony and suffering recurred on the cross. It was then that he permitted his spirit to leave his body, and it was then that he permitted his spirit to leave his body, and it was then that blood and water gushed from his riven side” (that blood and water gushed from his riven side” (A New A New Witness for the Articles of FaithWitness for the Articles of Faith, 288-89). , 288-89).

Moses 7Moses 7Moses 7:3-4Moses 7:3-4 ““Enoch Saw God Face-to-FaceEnoch Saw God Face-to-Face””

President Brigham Young added detail to this point: President Brigham Young added detail to this point:

““Man is made in the image of his Maker,…he is His Man is made in the image of his Maker,…he is His exact image, having eye for eye, forehead for exact image, having eye for eye, forehead for forehead, eyebrows for eyebrows, nose for nose, forehead, eyebrows for eyebrows, nose for nose, cheekbones for cheekbones, mouth for mouth, chin for cheekbones for cheekbones, mouth for mouth, chin for chin, ears for ears, precisely like our Heavenly Father chin, ears for ears, precisely like our Heavenly Father in heaven” (in heaven” (JDJD, 13:146)., 13:146).

Moses 7:13Moses 7:13 ““Great Was the Faith Great Was the Faith of of EnochEnoch””

Elder Bruce R. McConkie said: Elder Bruce R. McConkie said:

““Faith is power, by faith the worlds were made; Faith is power, by faith the worlds were made; nothing is impossible to those who have faith. nothing is impossible to those who have faith. If the earth itself came rolling into existence by If the earth itself came rolling into existence by faith, surely a mere mountain can be removed faith, surely a mere mountain can be removed by that same power” (by that same power” (The Mortal MessiahThe Mortal Messiah: : From Bethlehem to Calvary, 4 vols. (1979-81).From Bethlehem to Calvary, 4 vols. (1979-81).

Moses 7:21Moses 7:21 ““TranslationTranslation””

President Joseph Fielding Smith explained: President Joseph Fielding Smith explained:

““Translated beings are still mortal and will have to pass through the Translated beings are still mortal and will have to pass through the experience of death, or the separation of the spirit and the body, although experience of death, or the separation of the spirit and the body, although this will be instantaneous, for the people of the City of Enoch, Elijah, and this will be instantaneous, for the people of the City of Enoch, Elijah, and others who received this great blessing in ancient times, before the coming others who received this great blessing in ancient times, before the coming of our Lord, of our Lord, could not have received the resurrection, or the change from could not have received the resurrection, or the change from mortality to immortality, because our Lord had not (yet) paid the debt which mortality to immortality, because our Lord had not (yet) paid the debt which frees us from mortality and grants to us the resurrectionfrees us from mortality and grants to us the resurrection” (Answers to ” (Answers to Gospel Questions, 1:165).Gospel Questions, 1:165).

Joseph Smith said: Joseph Smith said:

““Many have supposed that the doctrine of translation was a doctrine Many have supposed that the doctrine of translation was a doctrine whereby men were taken immediately into the presence of God, and into an whereby men were taken immediately into the presence of God, and into an eternal fullness, but this is a mistaken idea. eternal fullness, but this is a mistaken idea. Their place of habitation is that Their place of habitation is that of the terrestrial orderof the terrestrial order, and a place prepared for such characters He held in , and a place prepared for such characters He held in reserve to be reserve to be ministering angels unto many planets,ministering angels unto many planets, and who as yet have and who as yet have not entered into so great a fullness as those who are resurrected from the not entered into so great a fullness as those who are resurrected from the dead” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 170).dead” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 170).

Joseph Smith said: Joseph Smith said:

““Many have supposed that the doctrine of Many have supposed that the doctrine of translation was a doctrine whereby men translation was a doctrine whereby men were taken immediately into the presence were taken immediately into the presence of God, and into an eternal fullness, but of God, and into an eternal fullness, but this is a mistaken idea. this is a mistaken idea. Their place of Their place of habitation is that of the terrestrial orderhabitation is that of the terrestrial order, , and a place prepared for such characters and a place prepared for such characters He held in reserve to be He held in reserve to be ministering ministering angels unto many planetsangels unto many planets, and who as yet , and who as yet have not entered into so great a fullness have not entered into so great a fullness as those who are resurrected from the as those who are resurrected from the dead” (dead” (TeachingsTeachings, 170)., 170).

Moses 7:27Moses 7:27 ““Many were Caught Many were Caught Up to HeavenUp to Heaven””

From the days of Enoch to the flood, new From the days of Enoch to the flood, new converts and true believers, except those converts and true believers, except those needed to carry out the Lord’s purposes needed to carry out the Lord’s purposes among mortals, were translated” (among mortals, were translated” (The The Millennial MessiahMillennial Messiah, 284)., 284).

Moses 7:30Moses 7:30

Why this earth as the redemptive planetWhy this earth as the redemptive planet??

Three possible reasonsThree possible reasons::

1. Christ may have come to this earth to 1. Christ may have come to this earth to counterbalance its great wickedness. counterbalance its great wickedness.

“ “I can stretch forth mine hands and hold all the I can stretch forth mine hands and hold all the creations which I have made; and mine eye can creations which I have made; and mine eye can pierce the also, and among all the workmanship of pierce the also, and among all the workmanship of mine hands there has not been so great mine hands there has not been so great

wickedness as among thy brethren (Moses 7:36). wickedness as among thy brethren (Moses 7:36).

Evidently this earth knew greater depths of wickedness Evidently this earth knew greater depths of wickedness than could be found on any other of God’s creations. than could be found on any other of God’s creations. What a tragic commentary!What a tragic commentary!

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith testified, “His presence was Elder Joseph Fielding Smith testified, “His presence was needed here because of the extreme wickedness of the needed here because of the extreme wickedness of the inhabitants of this earth” (Smith, inhabitants of this earth” (Smith, Signs of the TimesSigns of the Times, 10)., 10).

It may be that the Savior’s mortal life, and thus his It may be that the Savior’s mortal life, and thus his Atonement, was reserved for this earth as a leveling Atonement, was reserved for this earth as a leveling influence, a counterbalancing measure to offset its great influence, a counterbalancing measure to offset its great wickedness. wickedness.

A second possible reasonA second possible reason Christ came to our world may Christ came to our world may be that no other world was wicked enough to crucify be that no other world was wicked enough to crucify their God.their God.

Nephi commented, “and there is none other nation on Nephi commented, “and there is none other nation on earth that would crucify their God” (2 Nephi 10:3).earth that would crucify their God” (2 Nephi 10:3).

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith contemplated this Elder Joseph Fielding Smith contemplated this proposition: “Perhaps this is the reason Jesus Christ proposition: “Perhaps this is the reason Jesus Christ was sent here instead of to some other world, for in was sent here instead of to some other world, for in some other world they would not have crucified him” some other world they would not have crucified him” (Smith, (Smith, Signs of the TimesSigns of the Times, 10)., 10).

A third possibilityA third possibility could be that he would find a could be that he would find a comprehensive cross-section of is children, from the comprehensive cross-section of is children, from the best to the worst – representatives of whom would be best to the worst – representatives of whom would be witnesses of his Atonement.witnesses of his Atonement.

Peter, James, and John were among the best blood this Peter, James, and John were among the best blood this earth had ever known. They were spiritual giants in a earth had ever known. They were spiritual giants in a nation of spiritual infants. The law of opposites was in nation of spiritual infants. The law of opposites was in full force and effect: good and evil were at their full force and effect: good and evil were at their extremes.extremes.

Perhaps for this reason, it became the chosen testing Perhaps for this reason, it became the chosen testing ground. “All things have been done in the wisdom of ground. “All things have been done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things” (2 Nephi 2:24).him who knoweth all things” (2 Nephi 2:24).

Moses 7:44Moses 7:44 At First Enoch Refused At First Enoch Refused to to Be Be ComfortedComforted

Elder Neal A. Maxwell explained:Elder Neal A. Maxwell explained:

““At first, Enoch refused ‘to be comforted,’ At first, Enoch refused ‘to be comforted,’ finally, he saw God’s plan, the later finally, he saw God’s plan, the later coming of the Messiah in the meridian of coming of the Messiah in the meridian of time, and the eventual triumph of God’s time, and the eventual triumph of God’s purposes” (C.R., Oct. 1987, 36).purposes” (C.R., Oct. 1987, 36).

Moses 7:48Moses 7:48 ““The Earth SpokeThe Earth Spoke””

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith, then a member of the Quorum of Elder Joseph Fielding Smith, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, wrote: the Twelve Apostles, wrote:

““The Lord here (in D&C 88) informs us that the earth on which The Lord here (in D&C 88) informs us that the earth on which we dwell is a living thing, and that the time must come when it we dwell is a living thing, and that the time must come when it will be sanctified from all unrighteousness. In the Pearl of will be sanctified from all unrighteousness. In the Pearl of Great Price, when Enoch is conversing with the Lord, he hears Great Price, when Enoch is conversing with the Lord, he hears the earth crying for deliverance from the iniquity upon her the earth crying for deliverance from the iniquity upon her face… It is not the fault of the earth that wickedness prevails face… It is not the fault of the earth that wickedness prevails upon her face, for she has been true to the law which she upon her face, for she has been true to the law which she received and that law is the celestial law. Therefore the Lord received and that law is the celestial law. Therefore the Lord says that the earth shall be sanctified from all unrighteousness” says that the earth shall be sanctified from all unrighteousness” ((Church History and Modern RevelationChurch History and Modern Revelation, 2 volumes (1953), , 2 volumes (1953), 1:366-67).1:366-67).

Moses 7:55-56Moses 7:55-56

The Earth Groaned at Christ’s DeathThe Earth Groaned at Christ’s Death::

Elder Spencer W. Kimball, the a member Elder Spencer W. Kimball, the a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught:taught:

““These earth spasms (were) a revolt by These earth spasms (were) a revolt by the created earth against the crucifixion of the created earth against the crucifixion of its Creator” (C.R., Apr. 1963, 65).its Creator” (C.R., Apr. 1963, 65).

Moses 8Moses 8

Moses 8:1-11Moses 8:1-11 ““NoahNoah””

Noah was ordained to the higher priesthood when ten Noah was ordained to the higher priesthood when ten years old by his grandfather Methuselah (D&C years old by his grandfather Methuselah (D&C 107:52). He became a preacher of righteousness, 107:52). He became a preacher of righteousness, even as Enoch. He, and his wife, and his sons --- even as Enoch. He, and his wife, and his sons --- Japeth, Shem, and Ham --- and their wives were the Japeth, Shem, and Ham --- and their wives were the only people to survive the Floodonly people to survive the Flood. Noah holds the keys . Noah holds the keys of his dispensation and stands next to Adam in of his dispensation and stands next to Adam in authority (authority (HCHC, 3:386)., 3:386).

Noah is the angel Gabriel (Noah is the angel Gabriel (HCHC, 3:386), , 3:386), who appeared to Zacharias to who appeared to Zacharias to announce that he would be the father of announce that he would be the father of John the Baptist and to Mary to John the Baptist and to Mary to announce that she would be the mother announce that she would be the mother of Jesus Christ. Noah also functions in of Jesus Christ. Noah also functions in the calling of Elias (D&C 27:6-7), the calling of Elias (D&C 27:6-7), meaning one who prepares or restores. meaning one who prepares or restores. Through his various appearances, Through his various appearances, Noah has performed both of these Noah has performed both of these functions.functions.

Moses 8:14-15Moses 8:14-15 ““The Daughters of The Sons of GodThe Daughters of The Sons of God””

President Joseph Fielding Smith said: President Joseph Fielding Smith said:

““Because the daughters of Noah married the sons of Because the daughters of Noah married the sons of men contrary to the teachings of the Lord, his anger men contrary to the teachings of the Lord, his anger was kindled, and this offense was one cause that was kindled, and this offense was one cause that brought to pass the universal flood… The daughters brought to pass the universal flood… The daughters who had been born, evidently under the covenant, and who had been born, evidently under the covenant, and were the daughters of the sons of God, that is to say of were the daughters of the sons of God, that is to say of those who held the priesthood, were transgressing the those who held the priesthood, were transgressing the commandment of the Lord and were marrying out of the commandment of the Lord and were marrying out of the Church.Church.

““Today there are foolish daughters of Today there are foolish daughters of those who hold this same priesthood those who hold this same priesthood who are violating this commandment who are violating this commandment and marrying the sons of men; there and marrying the sons of men; there are also some of the sons of those who are also some of the sons of those who hold the priesthood who are marrying hold the priesthood who are marrying the daughters of men. All of this is the daughters of men. All of this is contrary to the will of God just as much contrary to the will of God just as much as it was in the days of Noah” (as it was in the days of Noah” (Answers Answers to Gospel Questionsto Gospel Questions, 1:136-37)., 1:136-37).

Moses 8:27Moses 8:27

““Noah Was a Just Man, and Perfect in His Generation”Noah Was a Just Man, and Perfect in His Generation”

Elder Mark E. Petersen, who was a member of the Elder Mark E. Petersen, who was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, wrote:Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, wrote:

““Noah, who built the ark, was one of God’s greatest Noah, who built the ark, was one of God’s greatest servants, chosen before he was born as were others servants, chosen before he was born as were others of the prophets. He was no eccentric, as many have of the prophets. He was no eccentric, as many have supposed. Neither was he a mythical figure created supposed. Neither was he a mythical figure created only in legend. Noah was real…only in legend. Noah was real…

““Let no one downgrade the life and Let no one downgrade the life and mission of this great prophet. Noah was mission of this great prophet. Noah was so near perfect in his day that he literally so near perfect in his day that he literally walked and talked with God….walked and talked with God….

““Few men in any age were as great as Few men in any age were as great as Noah. In many respects he was like Noah. In many respects he was like Adam, the first man. Both had served as Adam, the first man. Both had served as ministering angels in the presence of God ministering angels in the presence of God even after their mortal experience” (even after their mortal experience” (Noah Noah and the Flood and the Flood (1982), 1-2).(1982), 1-2).

Moses 8:26-30Moses 8:26-30 ““The FloodThe Flood””

President Joseph Fielding Smith said: President Joseph Fielding Smith said:

““So the Lord commanded Noah to build an ark into which he So the Lord commanded Noah to build an ark into which he was to take his family and the animals of the earth to preserve was to take his family and the animals of the earth to preserve seed after the flood, and all the flesh that was not in the ark seed after the flood, and all the flesh that was not in the ark perished according to the Lord’s decree. perished according to the Lord’s decree. Of course this story is Of course this story is not believed by the wise and the great among the children of not believed by the wise and the great among the children of men, any more than was Noah’s story in his daymen, any more than was Noah’s story in his day” (” (Doctrines of Doctrines of SalvationSalvation, 3:39)., 3:39).

President John Taylor taught: President John Taylor taught:

““God destroyed the wicked of that generation with a flood. Why God destroyed the wicked of that generation with a flood. Why did He destroy them? He destroyed them for their benefit, if did He destroy them? He destroyed them for their benefit, if you can comprehend it” (you can comprehend it” (JDJD, 24:291; 19:158-59 for President , 24:291; 19:158-59 for President Taylor’s view of the Flood as an act of love).Taylor’s view of the Flood as an act of love).