Ben and Shiloh talk about the Word of Wisdom and in how we create our modes of worship. The Word of Wisdom is a fascinating conversation, but it is often criticized because of its seeming inconsistencies. The Word of Wisdom has evolved and has been through various revisions, interpretations, and levels of enforcement, and this has sometimes caused a lack of belief in its importance or its power. However, when we understand the Word of Wisdom by means of creating religious modality, we can also create space for historical changes and nuance while also strengthening our choice to adhere to the Word of Wisdom. Any seeming incongruity or inconsistency in our modes of worship need not necessarily derail or detract us from finding deep meaning and purpose in those modes that we experience God through.
Ben and Christopher continue with a discussion of the first book of Samuel. The various sources that make up the book portray multiple perspectives on monarchy and the kingship. Saul is anointed as the first king of Israel. His military success initially endears him to the people, but his disobedience causes him to lose favor with Samuel and God. David is anointed to succeed Saul and the narrative recounts stories of his bravery, piety, and military prowess. The story of David and Goliath is the unmistakable source of literary allusion in Nephi’s account of slaying Laban in the Book of Mormon. What might this say about Nephi’s intent, message, inspiration, and actual experience? ...
Ben and Shiloh finish with the sad discussion of Ammonihah. What were Alma and Amulek trying to open up a space for with the people? Could it be that they were offering the people of Ammonihah nothing less than a Zion-type community? The angel of the Lord had sent Alma back because the people of Ammonihah were studying to destroy the liberty that God had given, as Alma and Amulek take this charge and bring a message of true liberty, justice, and mercy to the people. The response to this Christ-centered message reflects the injustice of Calvary, as we discuss the relationship between witness, testimony, and martyrdom that is seen in Alma 14 and as practiced by the earliest Saints after Christ’s ascension. ...
Ben and Shiloh open up a discussion on Section 63. The early Saints “in these infant days of the Church” sought for the word and direction of God for every particular thing. They sought for temporal answers for how to build Zion and the Lord responds with spiritual direction. ...
