BECOME AS LITTLE CHILDREN

When I was a child I learned a song that forever changed my life.

Mary with boy Jesus by Simon Dewey

Jesus Once Was a Little Child

"Jesus once was a little child,

A little child like me;

And he was pure, and meek and mild,

As a little child should be.

"So, little children, let's you and I

Try to be like him,

Try, try, try."

The pleasant melody of that song from childhood surfaces every so often and runs through my mind, calling for me to remember that I am God's child. 

It blesses me with great hope. 

Jesus taught, "Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Mathew 18:3).

I consider being a child, being as unlearned and simple as a little child, and growing.

Me, right now!

How do I, an adult, grow like a child?

I often pondered that Jesus was a baby and child. 

I had baby brothers. They grew.

I was a child. I grew.

Doctrine and Covenants 78:17-19 teaches, “Ye are little children, and ye have not as yet understood how great blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared for you; And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours. And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more.”

There is so much promised.

Do I hope for these promised blessings?

In the parable of the lost sheep Jesus tries to help us understand that he is always searching for us when we are lost, and that as our shepherd he will find us and help us return to the safety and happiness of being in the presence of our "Father" and knowing Him (Matthew 18:11-14).

Rescue of the Lost Lamb, by Minerva K. Teichert

I learn much about having hope like a child from Neil A Maxwell, of The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He discusses how we might accomplish the task of changing our 'natures' to become more childlike - more like the Savior. He teaches, "Personal righteousness, worship, prayer, and scripture study are so crucial in order to '[put] off the natural man' ” (Oct 2000 General Conference, Book of Mormon Student Manual (page 139-141), see also Mosiah 3-5).

In an earlier 1994 address 'Brightness of Hope' Elder Maxwell suggested another tool, along with a caution for putting off the natural man: "Hope helps us to walk by faith, not by sight. This can actually be safer. When unaided spiritually, natural sight often shrinks from the odds (see 2 Cor. 5:7). It is immobilized by improbabilities. Mauled by his moods and intimidated by his fears, the natural man overreacts to, while hope overrides, the disappointments of the day.

“Hope is particularly needed in the hand-to-hand combat required to put off the natural man (Mosiah 3:19). Giving up on God and on oneself constitutes simultaneous surrender to the natural man. Daily hope is vital, since the 'Winter Quarters' of our lives are not immediately adjacent to our promised land either. An arduous trek still awaits, but hope spurs weary disciples on."

I experience such growing.
Sometimes it is difficult.

Henry B. Eyring, of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints taught," . . . to become like a child is . . . to be like the Savior, who prayed to his Father for strength to be able to do His will . . . when we have yielded in faith to Him, have responded to the Holy Spirit's direction to keep the commandments long enough and faithfully enough that the power of the Atonement has changed our hearts .... We will become as a little child, obedient to God and more loving” (April 2006 General Conference).

President Eyring further taught, "... the things we do are the means not the end we seek. What we do allows the Atonement of Jesus Christ to change us into what we must be. Our faith in Jesus Christ brings us to repentance and to keeping His commandments ... In time our natures will change. We will become as a little child."

I want to change.
I want to become His child.

ANTI-ENEMY OR PRO-KINGDOM OF GOD

 In October 2007, Elder Quentin L. Cook taught “We live in a precarious time . . . [when] we need to have faith and not be fearful.” Sometimes Mormons feel, and even are, attacked in various ways by those who accuse them of being un-Christian. Ironically these accusers often act in direct opposition to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In October 2008, Elder Robert D. Hales taught, "The Savior has said, 'He that hath the spirit of contention is not of me' (3 Nephi 11:29). More regrettable than the Church being accused of not being Christian is when Church members react to such accusations in an un-Christlike way! May our conversations with others always be marked by the fruits of the Spirit—'love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, [and] temperance' (Galatians 5:22–23). To be meek, as defined in Webster’s dictionary, is 'manifesting patience and longsuffering: enduring injury without resentment.' Meekness is not weakness. It is a badge of Christian courage.

Elder Hales continued, "As we respond to others, each circumstance will be different. Fortunately, the Lord knows the hearts of our accusers and how we can most effectively respond to them. As true disciples seek guidance from the Spirit, they receive inspiration tailored to each encounter. And in every encounter, true disciples respond in ways that invite the Spirit of the Lord."

Do we imagine being heroic when confronted by strangers but fail to remember or imagine being heroic in daily frustrations of our own family.

The Book of Mormon teaches, “In the strength of the Lord, [we can] do all things” (Alma 20:4). The Lord's strength is never found in quarrelsome contentions. 

Can we respond to accusers without accusing - in all situations? 

Can we follow the teachings of Jesus Christ in public AND at home?

Elder Hales instructs, “As true disciples, our primary concern must be others’ welfare, not personal vindication. Questions and criticisms give us an opportunity to reach out to others and demonstrate that they matter to our Heavenly Father and to us. . . . Without guile, true disciples avoid being unduly judgmental of others’ views. . . .We need them, and they need us. As President Thomas S. Monson has taught, ‘Let us learn respect for others. … None of us lives alone—in our city, our nation, or our world.’”

Elder Hales taught that Christ-like characteristics “are first learned in the home and family and can be practiced in all our relationships. To be guileless [like Nathaniel in the New Testament] is to look for our own fault first. When accused, we should ask as the Savior’s Apostles did, ‘Lord, is it I?’ (Matthew 26:22). If we listen to the answer given by the Spirit, we can, if needed, make corrections, apologize, seek forgiveness, and do better.” Doing things that bring the spirit and light into our homes and lives, and excluding things that bring darkness are deliberate choices."

If a child refuses obedience, do we patiently teach true principles and examine our own life to perfect our example for their benefit and ours. Do our spouse and children feel us respond to their concerns in respect and compassion? Do they see us following the example of Jesus Christ, especially when someone is disrespectful, yelling loudly, acting unkindly or refusing to forgive? Or do we become “warlike” and begin to treat them as “enemies?” 

We have had many reminders this semester that this life is God’s plan - His gospel and His plan - a plan of happiness for all, and that He is aware and mindful of all we do. 

In both American Foundations and Family Foundations, the same quote from President Spencer W. Kimball reminded us to trust in God more to be at peace with ourselves and others. American Foundations was debating the scope of American involvement in foreign affairs and other economic and political considerations of neutrality and peaceful non-intervention. Family Foundations was discussing how to successfully have happiness within marriages and families.

President Kimball advised we are too “warlike” and “easily distracted from our assignment of preparing for the coming of the Lord” (The False Gods We Worship, June 1976). He taught, “When enemies rise up . . . [we] depend on [things such as armaments] for protection and deliverance . . . [and] become anti-enemy instead of pro-kingdom of God. . . . We forget that if we are righteous the Lord will either not suffer our enemies to come upon us . . . (see 2 Ne. 1:7), or he will fight our battles for us (Ex. 14:14; D&C 98:37, to name only two references of many). This he is able to do.” 

Remembering God’s power and grace is vital to being a disciple of Christ. President Kimball and other prophets, as well as many scripture stories they recount—such as Christ’s betrayal (Matt. 26:53), Jehoshaphat’s people, and the fear of Elisha’s servant—all remind us to trust in Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ, their omnipotent power, and tell us of the “legions of angels” at their disposal who are “fearsome soldiers." 

President Kimball recounted, "Jehoshaphat and his people were delivered by such a troop (see 2 Chr. 20), and when Elisha’s life was threatened, he comforted his servant by saying, 'Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them' (2 Kgs. 6:16). The Lord then opened the eyes of the servant, 'And he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.' (2 Kgs. 6:17.)” 

In recent General Conferences, many prophets and apostles have reminded us God, and the angels that attend our lives to guard and help us keep us from being overwhelmed in this battle against Satan for the souls of God's children are near and watchful (Eyring, Scott, Monson, October 2012; Nelson, Cook, May 2011; Holland, October 2008). 

Who is our enemy? Can we remember at all times the example of Jesus Christ and realize that members of our family, and most other people are not enemies? Elder Hales taught, “Silence, meekness, forgiveness, and bearing humble testimony are [not] passive or weak. But to ‘love [our] enemies, bless them that curse [us], do good to them that hate [us], and pray for them which despitefully use [us], and persecute [us]’ (Matthew 5:44) takes faith, strength, and, most of all, Christian courage” [sic]. 

Can I have this kind of courage and remember to be Christ-like in my own home? Neighborhood? And ward? Can I proclaim principles boldly by my actions and choices, and avoid contention, accusations, and overbearance?

Elder Hales counsels that each of us has “a great work to do, which will not be accomplished if we allow ourselves to stop and argue and be distracted. Instead we should muster Christian courage and move on. As we read in Psalms, ‘Fret not thyself because of evildoers’(Psalm 37:1).” Elder Hales reminds us that “even as the Savior warned of persecution, He promised peace: ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. … Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid’ (John 14:27).” As Elder Cook taught, “we need to have faith and not be fearful” (October 2007).

WHY SINK OR SWIM? WALK ON WATER!

Student Choice 3: Matthew 14:22–33. Walking on the Sea 

miscellaneous resources / coloring page

Walking on Water by Brian Jekel

Review Matthew 14:22–33. Identify in writing what the reaction of the Apostles was when they first saw the Savior walking on the water toward them. 

What did Peter’s response indicate about him? 

According to Matthew 14:30, why did Peter begin to sink? 

What did Peter do when he began to sink? What word in the verses describes the expediency or the timing when Jesus responded to Peter’s request? 

Read Doctrine and Covenants 88:67. Write a paragraph describing what principle from this verse relates to what Peter did to successfully walk on the water. How can this same principle be applied to your life to assist you in walking over the storms of life?

Jesus Walks on Water  William Hole

This story fascinates me because it is so multifaceted, on many levels of understanding and symbolism. When we look at these circumstances in context, we observe there are many instances of emotional and physical turmoil and significant change.

Jesus had called his 12 apostles, given them [priesthood] power over devils and to cure diseases (Luke 9:1), taught them carefully regarding these things, and sent them 2x2 on missions. The disciples return to Him at the time of the Passover exhausted, having just buried the headless body of John the Baptist. John’s terrible experiences and death would have caused many questions and concerns for each of them.

Mark 6: 31 tells us Jesus said, "Come . . . rest," since they had "no leisure so much as to eat,” and they go, (by ship) with him to a "desert place apart" (Matthew 14:13) - presumably to mourn.  They are, however, crowded and beset by the multitudes running to be where they are going. Instead of resting, eating, and having privacy to mourn John's awful death, they all continue their ministry. In this context, we read in all 4 gospels about the miraculous feeding of the 5000 men, plus women and children (Matthew 14, Mark 6, Luke 9, and John 6), and about Jesus walking on the water 
(Matthew 14, Mark 6, and John 6).  

The story begins just after the 5000 are fed. Matthew 14:22 tells us, “And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.”

In John 6:15 we read the people were so excited by the miracles of Jesus that they were trying to take him by force to be the long promised Messiah they thought would be a King giving them liberty. How little they understood. I wonder, am I like them? What do I look to Jesus for? Do I seek only “bread,” relief from physical maladies, and political freedoms? Significantly, he sends the multitudes seeking these things away!

As that long, hectic day ends, the story in John 6:17 tells us “it was now dark, and Jesus was not come to them.” Matthew 14:23 explains, “he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.”

Jesus Walks On Water,
by Ivan Aivazovsky (1888) 

The disciples, on the sea, have an experience that is extremely frightening to them. I find great sympathy for them. They are experiencing so many new and astonishing things. They see the power of Jesus, yet they hear his teachings that he will subject himself to be slain. In the tumult of that time he again demonstrates clearly his glory and power, as well as his love and concern for them.

Mark 6:47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land.

48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night [between 3 and 6 a.m.] he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.

49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out:

50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.

51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered.

Lorenzo_Veneziano,_Christ_Rescuing_Peter_from_Drowning._
1370_Staatliche_Museen,_Berlin.

When Peter realizes it is Jesus, with absolute respect for the Master’s evidenced desire to be alone, he answered the command to “be not afraid” with the good cheer requested: “Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water” (Matthew 14: 28). Peter is completely obedient, AND then desires further to be with the Savior also. Am I content to only see the Savior or do I desire to personally be with Jesus Christ?

Christ Walking on the Water by Robert T. Barrett

And Jesus answered Peter, as he does to each of us, “Come.” The gospels then bear record of the great faith of Peter; he does what no mortal before or since has done. Matthew 14:29 records, “And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.”  

When the Lord commands, and we believe, all things become possible.

In this extremity, in the midst of the stormy darkness, Peter becomes afraid and has a wavering doubt. Matthew 14: 28-31 records, “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt."  

Saint Peter Attempting to Walk on Water

François Boucher Cathédrale Saint-Louis (1766) Versailles

I look in my own heart. There are many fears and doubts condemning my faith. When I am sinking in darkness and fear, can I learn to be like Peter and cry out “Lord, save me”? Matthew witnesses that the Lord will take me by the hand immediately if I will call out to Him, and will lift me by also teaching me to trust Him with good cheer.

Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Twelve teaches, “Come to an honest, open self-examination, an awareness within as to who and what [you] want to be. . . . Keep foremost in mind the sacred covenants [you] have made … [Your] main goal should be to seek ‘immortality and eternal life’. . . Eliminate from [your life] the things that clamor for and consume [your] thoughts, feelings, and energies without contributing to . . .‘immortality and eternal life’ (Moses 1:39). . . Just do the very best you can each day. Do the basic things and, [soon you will know] that your Heavenly Father loves you. . . Then life will be full of purpose and meaning, making balance easier to maintain.”  Elder Ballard reminds us that we can conquer difficult experiences. He counsels, “Failure is only when you quit trying...if you keep working at a task and try to do what's right and honest, ultimately it works out." (Elder M. Russell Ballard “True to the Faith,” by Kathleen Lubeck, March 1986 Ensign)

Henry B Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, teaches, “The Savior’s only motivation was to help people. . . .If you [serve] for the Lord to bless others, He will see and reward it. If you do this often enough and long enough, you will feel a change in your very nature through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. . . .” “Where Is The Pavilion?” October 2012. 

President Eyring also teaches, “Sometimes we will receive counsel that we cannot understand or that seems not to apply to us, even after careful prayer and thought. Don’t discard the counsel, but hold it close. If someone you trusted handed you what appeared to be nothing more than sand with the promise that it contained gold, you might wisely hold it in your hand awhile, shaking it gently. Every time I have done that with counsel from a prophet, after a time the gold flakes have begun to appear and I have been grateful. The Lord said, ‘Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers’" (D&C 112:10, emphasis mine, Elder Henry B Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, “Finding Safety in Counsel” April 1997).

Doctrine and Covenants 88: 67 promises that “if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you.” When we are filled with trust in the power and glory of Christ, when we believe His teachings and genuinely trust his power, and recognize his glory doubt and fear will be replaced with “light [that] comprehendeth all things.” We will be able to live in “good cheer” and cease to be afraid.

Walking on Faith by Benjamin McPherson

Jesus, with Peter, returned to the ship and “when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased” (Matthew 14:32), and the disciples “willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went” (John 6:21). When we “willingly” receive Jesus Christ, instead of being afraid, then we are at the destination ‘wither [we] go.’

Doctrine and Covenants 88: 68 details this process, “Therefore, sanctify yourselves that your minds become single to God, and the days will come that you shall see him; for he will unveil his face unto you, and it shall be in his own time, and in his own way, and according to his own will.”

PARALLELS IN PARABLES

Student Choice Assignment 

Choice 2: Matthew 13: 24-48. The Lord Often Taught with Parable

1. In the Bible Dictionary read the first three paragraphs under the entry “Parables” (pgs. 740-41). In your own words, write a definition of a parable. 

A parable is a story with symbolic meanings on many levels. “Divine truth (Bible Dictionary p. 741) is presented by comparison with material things. Activities, relationships, and tangible objects that are familiar to many people are the means of explaining more intangible concepts and ideas.

From the Bible Dictionary we learn the purpose “was to veil the meaning. The parable conveys to the hearer religious truth exactly in proportion to his faith and intelligence; to the dull and uninspired it is a mere story, . . . while to the instructed and spiritual it reveals the mysteries or secrets of the kingdom of heaven. Thus . . . the parable exhibits the condition of all true knowledge. Only he who seeks finds” (Matt. 13:13–15; Mark 4:12; Luke 8:10).

President Howard W. Hunter (1907–95) said: “They are so simple a child can understand, yet profound enough for the sage and philosopher”(The Pharisee and the Publican, Ensign, May 1984).

This aspect of parables is a blessing that shields the young or spiritually immature from being held accountable for principles they are not prepared to understand and apply. It is also a blessing (or condemnation) to those that are more experienced with deeper knowledge.  This causes parables to be very personal, each individual can receive inspiration uniquely according to their own needs and circumstances.

Elder Neil A Maxwell taught, “As the Master Teacher, Christ tailored His tutoring, depending upon the spiritual readiness of His pupils.”  (Irony: The Crust on the Bread of Adversity, Ensign, May 1989).

2. Read the following parables: parable of the tares (Matthew 13:24-30); parables of the mustard seed and the leaven (Matthew 13:31-34); parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price (Matthew 13:44-46); parable of the gospel net (Matthew 13:47-50). Next to each of the following questions write the name of the parable that best answers that question.

• What describes the future growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

The parables of the wheat and tares, mustard seed and the leaven can help me understand more about the future of the church.

In the parable of the wheat and tares I learn there is ‘an enemy’ and opposition to the growth of the church, and to my personal growth. In verse 30 I see that both the ‘wheat and the tares’ will “grow together until the harvest,” but that ‘wheat’ will then be gathered and preserved, and the ‘tares’ burned.

Matthew 13:24-30

“24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:

 25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.

 26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.

 27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?

 28 He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?

 29 But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.

30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.

He later explained more to his disciples:

37 He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;

 38 The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;

 39 The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.

 40 As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.

 41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;

 42 And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

 43 Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Matthew 13: 31-34

     “¶Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.

Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them.

• Why does the Church send out so many missionaries?The parables of the leaven can help me understand more why the Church sends out so many missionaries. (Matthew 13:33)

If I view the missionaries as “leaven” among the people, and compare that to what happens to dough that has yeast in it, I consider that missionaries can bless everyone around them. As they teach of Christ and encourage people to follow Him, they help them to increase and grow in good things, and “rise” to be more like the Savior.

• How do you explain the remarkable growth of the Church, considering that it is fairly new compared to most world religions and started small in the American frontier?

The parables of the mustard seed help me understand the exponential growth of the church. It began very small, but it is a good “seed” that has been planted, and is growing. As it grows and increases (because it is the ‘greatest among herbs’ – aside: herbs heal us just as coming to Christ heals us), people can find shelter and safety, a place to ‘lodge.’

I also notice that it “becometh a tree.” Jesus died on the cross so that I can ‘grow.’ It is through that ‘tree’ that all people can “come and lodge” in His ‘branches.’

Matthew 13:31-32
     “The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.

• Why are some members of the Church willing to sacrifice so much worldly wealth and recognition in order to maintain membership in the Church?

In the parable of the treasure and pearl of great price, I see that when we find what is really most important and valuable, we do whatever is necessary to preserve and ‘treasure” those things.

Matthew 13:44-46

44 ¶Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

 45 ¶Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:

 46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.

• Why do some Church members choose to leave the Church?

There are many reasons members choose to leave the Church, but a key underlying principle is that every person has agency and no one is compelled to be a member, or to follow Jesus. The parable of the wheat and the tares clearly teaches that there is ‘an enemy’ and opposition to all good things. 

President Packer teaches, “The adversary is about. His objective is to cause injury” (April 2013, General Conference). The parable of the tares describes such an enemy.

President Uchtdorf addressed the question of why some Church members choose to leave the Church in October 2013 General Conference:

“There are some who leave the Church they once loved.

One might ask, “If the gospel is so wonderful, why would anyone leave?”

Sometimes we assume it is because they have been offended or lazy or sinful. Actually, it is not that simple. In fact, there is not just one reason that applies to the variety of situations.

Some of our dear members struggle for years with the question whether they should separate themselves from the Church.

In this Church that honors personal agency so strongly, that was restored by a young man who asked questions and sought answers, we respect those who honestly search for truth. It may break our hearts when their journey takes them away from the Church we love and the truth we have found, but we honor their right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their own conscience, just as we claim that privilege for ourselves (Articles of Faith 1:11)

Some struggle with unanswered questions about things that have been done or said in the past. . . . Sometimes questions arise because we simply don’t have all the information and we just need a bit more patience. When the entire truth is eventually known, things that didn't make sense to us before will be resolved to our satisfaction.

Sometimes there is a difference of opinion as to what the “facts” really mean. A question that creates doubt in some can, after careful investigation, build faith in others.

And, to be perfectly frank, there have been times when members or leaders in the Church have simply made mistakes. There may have been things said or done that were not in harmony with our values, principles, or doctrine.

. . . God is perfect, and His doctrine is pure. But He works through us—His imperfect children—and imperfect people make mistakes. . . . This is the way it has always been and will be until the perfect day when Christ Himself reigns personally upon the earth.

. . .. But in spite of this, the eternal truth of the restored gospel found in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not tarnished, diminished, or destroyed.

3. Write answers to the following questions:

• Considering the parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price (see Matthew 13:44-46), what sacrifices would you be willing to make to obtain the treasure of the gospel? What sacrifices have you or those you know already made for the gospel?

We each are required to sacrifice for the gospel and it is proper for us to ask ourselves these questions. I have many ancestors who suffered extreme persecution and hardship to ‘treasure the gospel.’ I know The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saint is a “Pearl of Great Price.” It is worth every sacrifice we may find necessary.

My sacrifices are not as difficult as being robbed, persecuted, or killed to affirm my beliefs, but I surely must ask what I sacrifice.

Am I willing to spend my time and money to serve in church calling, and serving others? Do I pay a full tithe, and contribute a generous fast offering? Am I willing to give funds to help missionaries, those with physical needs, and those that need to travel to the temples? Am I willing to forgive family and friends for ways they lack understanding or impose on me? Am I willing to avoid contention of all kinds? Am I kind? Am I always honest? The list or possible sacrifices may be endless. Am I willing?

• What does the net represent in the parable of the net cast into the sea? (See Matthew 13:47). What does it mean to be gathered into the net? What is represented by the action of gathering the good into vessels and casting the bad away? (See Matthew 13:48-50).

The net of the gospel is all the ways we have the means to share with others the wonderful news that Jesus Christ is our Redeemer and that through his sacrifices we can be ‘gathered’ to be with Him again.

When fishermen drag their nets through the water, everything that is larger than the holes in the net is captured and hauled in to their boat. They then must select what is desirable and sort out debris and fish that are not suitable to sell or eat. Everything that does not meet the standards they have for what is wanted is ‘cast away.’ The gathering represents missionary work, and the sorting represents the final judgment. When I hear this parable I ask myself if I can live my life so that I can be ‘gathered’ as ‘just’ by the angels.

Matthew 13:47-50

47 ¶Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:

 48 Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away.

 49 So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,

 50 And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

TWELVE APOSTLES

Student Choice 3: Matthew 10; Mark 3:13-35; Luke 5:1-11.

The Calling of the Twelve Apostles

1.     Review Matthew 10:1-4 and Mark 3:13-19 and highlight the names of the original Twelve Apostles. Look up the names of three Apostles in the Bible Dictionary and write one sentence describing something you learned about each one you selected.

BUT – you all know by now I can seldom write only one sentence about things that are intriguing. Oh I can write the sentence, but you will have no idea about how to arrive at the same idea unless I also write many other sentences of research. So rather that speculate too much initially, I will provide you with my resources, and then speculate! It is always fun to seriously ponder possibilities.

Please remember that my ruminations are mere speculations – fun, but with no genuine supporting facts. Many ideas are that way, but may nevertheless be instructive to our understandings.

Tapestry of DaVinci's Last Supper painting

Simon

 (2) Simon the Canaanite, one of the Twelve (Matt. 10:4;Mark 3:18); called Simon Zelotes (Luke 6:15;Acts 1:13); seeZelotes.

Zelotes:The Zealot. A name of Simon, one of the Twelve Apostles (Luke 6:15;Acts 1:13). Matthew and Mark in their lists call him “the Cananean” (not Canaanite as in the KJV), which is formed from an Aramaic word (Kanan), of which Zelotesis the Greek and Zealot the English equivalent. The Zealots were a party among the Jews (so called from their zeal for the law) who were determined to resist Roman or any foreign authority in Palestine.

[This man had some strong opinions, yet knew and followed the Savior as one of his apostles. Whatever our personal political leanings, each of us can learn much if we follow his powerful example to always seek Jesus Christ, and obey his Commandments.]

Matthew

. . .Known before his conversion as Levi, son of Alphaeus (Mark 2:14). He was a tax gatherer at Capernaum, probably in the service of Herod Antipas, in whose tetrarchy Capernaum was. Soon after his call he gave a feast to his old associates (Matt. 9:9–13; Mark 2:14–17; Luke 5:27–32)

Matthew was probably a thorough Jew with a wide knowledge of the Old Testament scriptures and able to see in every detail of the Lord’s life the fulfillment of prophecy. . . .

Levi (4) Matthew (Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27, 29).

[Might Matthew be the brother of James named as the son of Alphaeus?]

James

An English form of the Hebrew name Jacob. There are several persons of this name mentioned in the New Testament.

(1) Son of Zebedee, one of the Twelve, brother of John. His call is given inMatt. 4:21; Mark 1:19–20; and Luke 5:10. He was given the name Boanerges (Mark 3:17) and was one of the inner circle of three chosen to be with our Lord on certain special occasions: at the raising of the daughter of Jairus (Mark 5:37), at the Transfiguration (Matt. 17:1; Mark 9:2; Luke 9:28), and at Gethsemane (Matt. 26:37;Mark 14:33; see also Mark 10:30, 41; 13:3; Luke 8:51;9:54). He was killed by Herod (Acts 12:2).

(2) Son of Alphaeus, also one of the Twelve (Matt. 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13).

(3) Brother of the Lord (Gal. 1:19) and of Joses, Simon, Jude, and some sisters (Matt. 13:55; Mark 6:3; Jude 1:1); known as James the Just. He occupied an important position in the Church of Jerusalem (Acts 12:17; 15:13; 21:18; 1Cor. 15:7; Gal. 2:9–12) and was probably the writer of the Epistle of James. 

[Although not concerned in this assignment with this individual I have included him to increase clarity.]

4) James, called “the Less,” son of Mary [is this Mary the wife of Cleophas] and brother of Joses (Matt. 27:56; Mark 15:40; Luke 24:10). Nothing further is known of him, unless he is, as some think, the same as number 3 (above).

[Might James “the less,” be James in (2), the son of Alphaeus and therefore also a cousin of Jesus and a brother to Matthew (Levi), who would therefore also be a cousin?

So who is Alphaeus?]

        Alphaeus

(1)  Father of Matthew or Levi (Mark 2:14).

(2) Father of James the Apostle (Matt. 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13); by some scholars identified with Cleopas (Luke 24:18) and Cleophas (John 19:25). See also James.

John 19:25 “Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.”

Luke 24:18 This is the story of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus who personally talk with the risen Jesus, and invite him to come into lodge with them. “And then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?”

[Was this Cleopas, the Uncle of Jesus Christ? His mother’s brother-in-law?

Was Cleophas the father of Matthew, and /or James [possibly James the less]? Like Peter and Andrew, and James and John the sons of Zebedee, were Mathew and James brothers?]

2.     Read Acts 4:33; Doctrine and Covenants 107:23; and the entry for “Apostle” in the Bible Dictionary (p. 612).

    Then, write a definition for what an Apostle is.

APOSTLE: an apostle is uniquely called to witness to the world, all people of all times and places, the reality and divinity of Jesus Christ; that He is God’s Only Begotten Son, the Savior of all mankind.

3.     Describe in writing how the Savior's teachings to His Apostles in Matthew10:5-42 prepared them to be sent out to proclaim the gospel.

The Apostles are taught the purpose and mission of the life of Jesus Christ, and then warned that their lives will be in peril, and that they too will suffer many difficult things. They are “not above [their] master. . .” (Matthew 10:24) in that they also will bear persecution and perhaps death because of what they teach.

Sparrows on my front lawn

They are, however, also reminded and promised “the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 10:30-32).

This reminder and promise applies to all disciples of Jesus Christ. The Father of us all does not forget us. We are remembered, always, by Him. 

4. Read Luke 5:1-11. Explain in writing what you learn from the responses made by Peter, James, and John to the Savior’s call. How could you apply their actions and examples in your own life?

I like how Simon Peter and his brother Andrew and their partners (who we know included the brothers James and John), were a tightly knit group of family and friends, brothers working together to benefit each other. It was Andrew that first recognized the Messiah and brought his brother Peter to see Jesus.

When the multitude of fishes were caught (because of simple obedience in faith), Simon and those on his ship “beckoned their partners” (Luke 5:7) and together, with a broken net and sinking ships (Luke 5:6-7), “brought their ships to land,” and then in spite of this harvest and bounty, “they forsook all, and followed [Christ]. . . .” (Luke 5:11). These men unitedly undertook a great work that would affect them, their families, and all people for all eternity.

Reflecting on these verses increases my desire to draw my family closer together in unity, and to work more diligently to be united as these brothers and partners were. Sometimes all we can do is turn to the Savior in prayer with faith, trusting His omniscience. Through his Atonement our families, and all around us, can be whole and happy, always. 

WOMAN

New Testament readings Matthew 3-4; Mark 1; Luke 3-4; John 1:19-4:54.

Student Choice Assignment

   Topic Choice 3: John 2. Water to Wine and Cleansing the Temple

Video available   or    Child's coloring activity

Review John 2:1–22, the institute student manual commentary for John 2:4, “What of Jesus’ Addressing His Mother as ‘Woman’?” (pg. 30), and commentary for John 2:6, “How Much Constitutes a ‘Firkin’?” (pg. 30).

Write responses to the following questions: 

What impresses you most about the miracle found in John 2:1–11?

How does the institute student manual help in understanding why Jesus Christ would refer to   His mother as “woman”?

In what ways are Jesus Christ’s actions in John 2:13–16 symbolic of what He desires of each of us? 

In John 2, Jesus and his disciples attended a wedding feast in Cana of Galilee. This story catches my interest because of the respect shown by Jesus to his mother, and because of the profound symbolism it contains about being purified from sin by the miracle of the blood of Jesus Christ.

“And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine. [Note here that her answer is in response to what they were asking for.]

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come. His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece. [Approximately 9-10 gallons each.]

Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it. When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.”

The Jews lived the strict Mosaic Law. It required them to be “clean” for certain rituals (particularly weddings). When they held gatherings such as feasts, water was provided for guests that might need to wash and be “purified.”

1st century Stone water jars from Jerusalem area

Looking up ‘purification’ in the Bible Dictionary we learn, “There were various purifying ceremonies. Bathing the flesh and the clothes in running water was used in all and sufficed in the simplest cases. When the uncleanness was of a deeper character, a purifying water for sprinkling was provided.”

We know from the Old Testament story of Moses that when he led the Children of Israel out of Egypt [symbolizing being led from sin the prophet], that a lamb, symbolic of the saving blood of the Lamb of God, was slain by each family and its blood sprinkled on the door posts so that the destroying angel would pass by them and their home.

These practices were extremely meaningful to these people. When Jesus made the water (in the pots that usually provided water for such purification rituals) into wine – even the ‘best’ wine, the miracle was all the greater for the deeper symbolism that can be readily observed.   

In this story being called ‘woman’ is a compliment honoring the nature unique to women. It is closely associated with the respected title of mother. Prophets often pay tribute to the unique characteristics of women, particularly mothers. Elder John A. Widtsoe said: “Motherhood may be exercised as universally and vicariously as Priesthood” (Priesthood and Church Government, rev. ed., Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Company, 1954, p. 85).

Historically, in some cultures, women have been treated as property or slaves. Husbands ‘owned’ wives, women had no voting rights, and could not own property. Some considered men to be superior to women. Prophets teach us this is not true. Men and women each have specific roles and inherent privileges.

Although I grew up in North America in the middle of the twentieth century, many attitudes about women being inferior remained. Career choices were limited, and many women fought for “liberation” to have all the perceived “privileges” of men under the banners of “Feminism” and “Women’s Lib.”

One of the insults flung at men during the 1960s and 1970s was to be named a “chauvinist pig,” meaning he did not respect women or recognize that they were not inferior. On the other hand one of the terms used to demean feminists was “woman.” Sadly, many women have since begun to perpetuate role reversals as they attempt to be superior to others, even other women. They foolishly have become what they despise.

Women hold an exclusive power unlike any other in magnitude. Mary, a young woman possessing the attributes and characteristics common to women of all time (such as being able to bear children), was also able to bear the Only Begotten Son of the Eternal Father.  I often marvel how I, as a woman, may be similar to Mary. I am privileged to be a woman.

"Woman" portrayed during the Crucifixion.

As Jesus died on the cross, he again addressed his mother using the term woman. In his October 1973, General Conference Address titled “Behold Thy Mother,” Thomas S. Monson describes that moment.

From his tortured position on the cruel cross, he sees his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing by. He speaks: “… woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! …” (John 19:26–27).

Jesus honored his mother and provided for her needs, even during his own agony. His simple words echo through the ages pronouncing the honor it is to be a woman. 

In John 2:13-16 Jesus enters the temple during the yearly ritual Passover and drives out all those that disrespect others—especially those profaning that sacred place. During His life and ministry he repeatedly demonstrated that every son and daughter of our Father in Heaven is precious to the Father. He asks us to drive out all that may be contrary to the intrinsic worth of His children.