The Kingdom of Heaven is Within: Part III

I. The Why --- The Imago Dei

In Genesis, we learn about our identity. There are two components that are worth focusing on. The first is that we are created in God's image. To be created in God's image is a designation of status. This status sets us apart from all the other works of God's creation. No other work was designated as being created in God's image. To be in the image of God means that we have divine potential. And we access our divine potential by putting on the character of God. 

God is who He is because of the character He has. If He were to regress in His character, He would cease to be God. Likewise, our ability to become like God is commensurate to how much of His character we've developed.

In addition to having divine potential, we are in God's image according to our stewardship. As the Genesis account explains, God gave dominion to man and the power to procreate. 

28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

Thus before the beginning of earth's existence, man was placed with responsibility. And this is because in order to be like God on a macro level, he had to be like God on a micro level. The reason why responsibility is essential to human existence is because it is the way we become like God. God's acts as an agent, not an object. God is not acted upon, but He acts. God acted to create the world. And His act is so powerful that the world was formed -- order was brought out of chaos -- by His world alone. 

If God were to be acted upon, then we wouldn't have much respect for Him. He also wouldn't be reliable because His action would derive from the influence of others. This would make Him a fickle God. This means that a component of who God is due to the control He has over Himself. He issues decrees and governs the world. And although humans, like Moses, can influence God, they influence Him by appealing to his character. They don't strong-arm Him. God responds to the petitions, but He isn't controlled by them. 

Because God is not controlled by the outside influences, He is completely free. Despite all the carnage and wickedness He's seen throughout the course of history, God does not let that control who He is. He is able to remain happy in spite of all the evil. And given that He knows all, this would include both the good and the evil. 

Acting Is Necessary To Existence 

But besides helping us to put on the character of God, taking ownership over one's self is also necessary for existence. As the Lord revealed to Joseph Smith, 

29 Man was also in the beginning with God. Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.

30 All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself, as all intelligence also; otherwise there is no existence.

31 Behold, here is the agency of man, and here is the condemnation of man; because that which was from the beginning is plainly manifest unto them, and they receive not the light (Doctrine and Covenants 93) 

Man is light and truth. And because he is truth, he is placed in a sphere/realm to act for himself, just like all intelligence does. To act is to exercise agency. It is to be in control of one's action and take responsibility for them. This is mainly shown by seeking out and assimilating light truth into his life. By learning true principles and letting that knowledge inform his acting, the acting for himself is what gives him existence. If man were to cease to act from himself then he ceases to exist. What I think this means is that man failing to act means that he becomes subject to the devil. 

Alma made this clear when he explained to the people of Ammonihah that men are ordained to the Melchizedek priesthood "on account of their exceeding faith and good works; in the first place being left to choose good or evil" and having chosen the good. Each of us was placed into a sphere to act for ourselves. This action occurred long before we came to earth. Each of us chose to either exercise faith and perform good works or to not do these things. Some, because of their choice to exercise faith, were foreordained to the Melchizedek priesthood. 

These choices determined the amount of light we brought into the world. Although passing through the veil removed our memory, our spirits did not change. They still carry the same desire they had in the pre-existence. 

Nevertheless, the choices we made in the pre-existence only influence who we'll become; they are not determinative. This means that choice spirits in the pre-existence could and do spiritually regress based on the choices they make in the mortal world. 

This seems to have been the case with the people of Ammonihah, who were chosen but through pride they fell from their position. Alma's statement about the pre-existence seems to have been taught to remind the people who they were and their choice position. Sadly, the people chose to reject both the light on earth and the truth taught by Alma.

Moreover, this principle is expressed in the Savior's statement about the Jews and Gentiles: the first shall be last and the last shall be first. The lineage of Israel were given the opportunity to advance in greater light by being born into the covenant. Some, like the prophets, used this position to advance themselves to receiving greater light; but most did not. 

As a consequence, the gospel went to the Gentiles who were initially not part of the covenant. The New Testament details the missionary efforts of the apostles in teaching the gospel to the Gentiles. Many chose to convert. 

II. Choosing to Blame Others 

What stands in our way of progress, or, more correctly, what we must overcome, is the condition of the natural man. Because of the fall all of us are born into a fallen world, a world ruled by Satan. His influence permeates every sphere of this world. He can detract us from fully repenting by getting us to blame others for our condition. Or in other words, to shift responsibility away from ourselves and our actions. 

This concept is presented to us in the beginning pages of Genesis, after Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit. Instead of being agents, they allowed themself to be tempted by the devil. Eve partook and then Adam. But notice what Adam said when God confronted him about his succumbing to temptation.

9 And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?

10 And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.

11 And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?

12 And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. (Genesis 3) 

Upon being confronted, Adam's instinct was to shift the blame onto Eve. Eve, unfortunately, is no better. 

13 And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.

Although Satan is punished for his action, so too are Adam and Eve. Both chose to be acted upon and as a result must face the consequences. This meant expulsion and suffering. 

Likewise, Cain, who grew envious over his brother's success and favor with the Lord was not excused in his attitude. He warned Cain that "sin was crouching at the door." Thus the concern for the Lord was Cain's attitude and this was determined by the choice he made. Cain chose to become envious and as a result, sin crouched at his door. Sadly Cain thought that he could be free by killing his brother. But alas, this proved incorrect. 

Throughout Genesis we are introduced to people who chose to act or who chose to be acted upon. Joseph of Egypt chose to act. Despite being sold into Egypt as a slave, he continually acted according to his character. Never once did he shift the blame for his condition onto his brothers or Potiphar's wife. Conversely, his brothers did the opposite. They allowed their envy of Joseph to control them to the result of selling their brother into Egypt. Judah faired no better, as he continually made bad decision after bad decision, which ultimately resulted in him having sex with his daughter in-law and fathering two sons. 

Although we can't save ourselves and must rely upon the grace of God, we are responsible for taking the first step. Both Paul and Moroni exhort us to work out of salvation with fear and trembling. This means that we are responsible for our salvation. We show our responsibility by following the gospel. This means that we exercise faith and repent. None of these things can be done for us. 

In simple terms, to exercise faith means to trust in God. It starts within the heart and mind of the individual. The individual has to make the conscious choice of whether he/she will trust. As James taught, "Faith without works is dead." 

Those who recognize they lack faith have the responsibility to seek out more. For instance, the father of the demon possessed boy recognized that he lacked sufficient faith for his son to be healed. In response, he cried to the Lord and asked, with tears "help thou my unbelief." The Lord acceded to his plea. 

Although the Lord made up the difference, the man had to take the first step. He recognized that his faith was insufficient and asked for more. He took the ownership upon himself. This same principle is illustrated in the group who sought for Jesus to heal the palsied man. 

1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house.

2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them.

3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four.

4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.

5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. (Mark 2) 

Despite the obstacles that laid in their way, the group was undeterred and proceeded forward. They acted and took on the responsibility for getting the palsied man healed. The Lord rewarded their faith by healing the man.  

Likewise with faith, we take it upon ourselves to repent. To repent requires that one recognize that they are at fault and then to correct it. The light of Christ will serve to tell us our standing, but we decide whether to heed its communication. We decide whether we want to change. 

King David recognized this. Although he was guilty and could not be forgiven for the killing of Uriah, David recognized his error and took upon the responsibility of seeking forgiveness and guidance from the Lord. David did not give up. When the Lord took his son and his kingdom as a consequence for his sin, David continued to plead for mercy. His pleas were eventually answered, resulting in him having his kingdom restored and Bathsheba giving birth to Solomon. David also received the promise that his spirit would not be left in hell. What happened to David was a result of grace, but David had to initiate the process ("We are saved by grace after all that we can do").   

In fact, the scriptures suggest that the power of the Lord is proportional to our faith in him. The gospel records that Christ was unable to perform any mighty works in his hometown due to their unbelief (see Mark 6: 1-5). Moroni also teaches this truth: 

20 And the reason why he ceaseth to do miracles among the children of men is because that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the right way, and know not the God in whom they should trust.

21 Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth.

Sometimes the reasons why our prayer, despite how noble it was, was not answered, is because we didn't have the faith to receive the answer. 

Again, this is why the Lord is after the heart. Because it is the seat of all action. And it's also the nexus of how God can work among us. We decide what kind of heart we'll have. And by deciding, we determine the kind of relationship we'll have with God. 

The Exodus account shows what happens to a people who are delivered without first changing their hearts. The Israelites plead for deliverance, yet they failed to change their hearts. As a result, their sins and weak character did not remain in Egypt after the Israelites departed from the land, but instead were carried with them into the wilderness. This resulted in them being shut out of God's presence and being left to wander the wilderness for 40 years. The Israelites were only able to enter the promised land once the wicked generation died off. For those that didn't enter, it was because they chose to act contrary to God's commands. 

The Psalmist provides a helpful summary of the mistakes made by the Israelites (see Psalm 106). The Psalmist is clear to note that the judgments they experienced by God were the result of their actions and conduct. 

Like King Josiah, who, in order to re-establish righteousness purged Judah of pagan practices, we too, must be willing to make that purge. Existence requires us to do so. 

III. Choosing What We'll See and Believe 

In addition to the spiritual truths, the natural world also testifies to the truth that humans control their lives. Every action we take corresponds to a thought we make. Moreover, the thoughts we have determine what we'll see. The human eye, as remarkable as it is, is selective in what it sees. Most of our vision is low resolution. The parts of our vision that are high resolution are what we choose to focus on. 

Humans deal with the complexity of the world by selectively choosing what they will focus their eyes on. And our eyes focus on that which is of the most immediate concern, which is dictated by our desires. 

And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things. (Doctrine and Covenants 88:67)  

This is what the Lord means for our eyes to be single to his glory. Our aim determines what we'll see. And our aim is shaped by our desires. Thus our eye becomes single to God's glory when we desire it. And only we can do this.  

Additionally, our thoughts affect our neurochemistry. Those who believe themselves to be superior have increased levels of serotonin. These people generally live longer and get sick less often. More serotonin renders these individuals confident and calm. 

Conversely, those who believe themselves to be inferior (by taking upon the victim mentality), are those who have increased levels of octopamine, which restricts serotonin availability. This makes a person more physically and psychologically reactive to any circumstance or events that might produce emotion, particularly if it is negative. The secretion of octopamine can be a benefit in emergency situations, but over time, it burns up a lot of precious energy and physical resources overtime. For these people, their immune system will shut down and they become impulsive. They will get sicker easier and be more easily subject to disease. 

This idea is further supported in studies related to kinesiology (the study of the effects of feelings and emotions on the well-being of your body). David R. Hawkins conducted a 29-year long study demonstrating that the human body becomes stronger or weaker based on the person's mental state. These results are further supported by other studies. One study discovered that patients who feel grateful and positive about life post-heart attacks have a reduced risk for further attacks. Furthermore,  Duke University Medical Center encourages its patients dealing with arterial blockage to practice more intentional gratitude of way of handling their situation. 

Additional empirical evidence shows the power of our brains and the mind-body connection.  For instance, a University of Wisconsin study published in 2004 shows that the mind can alter its physical circuitry based on new stimuli. The study involved eight Buddhist monks and ten volunteers. Both the monks and volunteers were asked to meditate on the subject of compassion. The results show that for both participants there was an increased level of gamma brain waves, which are linked to awareness, perception, intelligence, focus, and memory. Thus the greater the increase of gamma waves, leads to greater increase of the said skills. 

Although our external environment may cause us to believe certain things about ourselves and thus either take on the position of the victor or loser, the important fact is that we can change the neurochemistry of our brain by changing how we present ourselves to others and ourselves. This means we have the power to decide what kind of hormones our brain releases. Furthermore, neuroscientists have reached a general consensus that the brain remains plastic, able to grow and change given the proper stimulus. 

In addition to altering the neurochemistry and circuity of our brain. We gain control over our lives by monitoring how we think, as seen in Cognitive Behavior Therapy ("CBT"). The core focus of CBT is teaching people to recognize gross distortions in their thinking that led to depression and anxiety, making it a widely accepted psychological approach for helping people combat depression and anxiety. Interestingly enough, a lot (if not all) depression and anxiety comes from how one interprets a situation. People who suffer from depression tend to draw irrational conclusions from events. For instance, a person prone to depression may conclude that he will never find a girlfriend because his current one broke up with him. Moreover, this person might also reach other (unfounded) conclusions as well, such as "I'm ugly"; "dating never works out for me"; "girls just don't like me and never will." 

You can see how thoughts, like this, told over and over again, can really bring down the esteem of the person. And because they have a low opinion about themselves, their actions reflect it. They will limit what they are capable of because of what they wrongly believe about themselves. But they're limiting themselves. They are in control of how to respond. And if they started by monitoring their distorted thinking, they could adjust their behavior. 

IV. We Are Master's Of Our Ship

What all of this means is quite simple:  the responsibility -- fortunately or unfortunately -- is up to us. And this is because existence is based upon action. Our progression into different (spiritual) estates only occurs when we've acted. This is what it means to be free. Freedom is a burden and responsibility. Freedom means that we accept the choices we made while also seeking to learn and improve. 

We are all the virgins seeking to attend the wedding feast of the groom. The wedding feast represents the union of Christ with his church. The invitation is extended to all. To be accepted, however, requires that one obtain enough oil for his lamp. The oil represents knowledge. We choose how much we accumulate and we also choose whether we'll accept the invitation. On the day of judgment, we'll have to account for whether we choose to accept it or not. 

Mind is the Master power that moulds and makes,

And Man is Mind, and evermore he takes

The tool of Thought, and, shaping what he wills,

Brings forth a thousand joys, a thousand ills: —

He thinks in secret, and it comes to pass:

Environment is but his looking-glass.

-- James Allen, As A Man Thinketh

The Kingdom of Heaven Is Within: Part II

 

Recap

In part I, I asked and answered what Christ means for the kingdom of God to be within us. We learned that Christ's statement was about personal responsibility. When Christ says that the kingdom of God is within us, he is teaching that God's kingdom comes to us when we transform ourselves. We found the answer to the question by looking at three pieces of evidences: 1) What Christ taught during his ministry; 2) the theme of the Bible; and 3) the message to Ezekiel about God's regathering of Israel. 

Having learned that the kingdom of God requires an inner transformation, I then looked at what this means for LDS saints in respect to the establishing of Zion. The purpose of the discussion about Zion was to show that Zion will only be established when people are ready to establish it. And people will be ready to establish it when they have changed who they are to become Zion people. I then concluded by pointing to Christ's Sermon on the Mount for what it means and looks like to be a Zion people. 

In this part, my purpose is to explore this idea of need for inner transformation by comparing it to current events and movement. I've broken down these movements into two categories

1. The Leftist Movement Against Systemic Racism 

2. The Right-Wing Movement For Trump [1]

For this post I want to explore the underlying ideology and worldview of each of these movements and then ask how does what they espouse relate to what Christ taught and what this means in general. 

I. The Leftist Movement Against Systemic Racism 

Today we have heard more statements about the United States being a racist country. These assertions are not necessarily new. The only difference is that they are now getting widespread attention and acceptance. The core assertion is that the United States is racist because its system has produced disproportionate outcomes for different races. And because the United System as a whole as done this, it is labeled systemically racist. This is how a person or country can be racist, despite not having any individual prejudice against a person of color. 

II. Critical Theory 

However, before we evaluate this belief of systemic racism, it's important to explore where this idea came from. This is because by understanding the theoretical framework that undergirds systemic racism, we are better able to evaluate it. That theoretical framework is called critical theory. 

Critical theory first became popular in the early 19th century and was developed in order to provide an explanation for why Marxism failed. Although Marxism spread throughout eastern Europe and Asia, many Marxist were surprised that it did not become widely accepted and adopted around the world. The Marxist were particularly shocked because they reasoned that if the worker was oppressed, as Marx argued, he would surely want to fight for his freedom. 

In seeking to solve the problem, a group of Marxist (particularly German scholars) argued that the reason why Marxism never took hold was because the workers were ignorant of their true position. And this was because the system was designed to keep the workers ignorant. These scholars argued that the system, with it advertising, sports, film, and distractions, served to hypnotize the masses, rendering them ineffective for the cause of Marxism. After all, why seek for a different system if the people enjoy their current one. Thus in order to create Marxist revolution, the people needs to know they're held captive. 

Thus the Marxists argued that the reason for the failure for Marxism to take hold around the world was due to the control of the dominant class -- the elites, capitalists, and politicians -- who strove to keep the masses ignorant. This theory was called critical theory, because those who espoused this belief were critical of the existing structures, and they showed their critique by questioning every aspect of the system. 

Under this theory there were two sets of groups: the dominant and subordinate class. Those in the later had control over the institutions of society. And because they had control were able to indoctrinate the masses. Thus under critical theory, the legitimacy of western institutions (government system, economic system, social norms, science, etc) were called into question because those institutions were controlled by the rich and wealthy. 

In fact, critical theorists went so far to argue that science is merely the furthering of dominant class values. Science, in others words, was a system used by the dominant class to further cement its power and control. And logic and reason were also considered attributes of the dominant class and therefore were challenged. Thus, the ultimate point of Critical Theory is that there is no such thing as objective truth. Instead, what we consider truth is merely the result of the dominant class telling us so -- i.e., socially constructed. 

III. Critical Race Theory 

Critical Race Theory spawned out of the Critical Theory dominant vs. subordinate class dynamic, but with an added variation. Under Critical Theory the issue is between classes. The dominant class is the rich class, the subordinate is the poor class. What Critical Race Theory does is argue that the real power dynamic is between "whiteness" and "blackness" [as a note: there is also queer critical theory and feminist critical theory, which make a similar argument but along the lines of sexual orientation and gender, respectively]. 

Under a Critical Race Theory, whiteness represents the dominant power structure. Thus critical race theorists aren't concerned with the rich. Instead, they are concerned with white people, who use their position as whites to further their interest in society. This furthering of interest can be both active and passive. Critical race theorist argue that because whiteness dominates all aspects of society to the disadvantage of people of color, everything in society is racist. Racism is the norm, not the exception. Thus whatever a white person does is racist. White people operate in that system to advantage themselves. 

Black Lives Matter ("BLM") is one group that has used Critical Race Theory. Thus when they argue that the United States is suffering from white supremacy, they are arguing that the systems and institutions are the problem. This is why they call for the abolishing of the police. They believe that the police need to be abolished because they operate in a white supremacist system. In other words, the police force is inherently racist. And because it's inherently racist, it needs to go. 

Moreover, BLM and other social justice activists also see the need for reparations. Reparations serves to remedy the past injustices committed against African Americans for slavery. By making amends in the form of financial remuneration, these activists argue that American can repair the past injustices. 

In addition to these efforts, there will likely be efforts for more inclusion of African Americans in the institutions. We're starting to see this form many business leaders, such as J.P Morgan Chase, who have committed themselves to focusing on racial equity within their business. We've also seen this push for inclusion from the Oscars, who put for a list of criteria which future films are be judged by. The idea being that the criteria will include people of color and marginalized people in general. And in California, the state is voted to strike anti-discrimination language from their Constitution, thereby allowing businesses and government entities to discriminate ON the basis of race. This would likely look like businesses and entities being able to hire someone because they're black, despite having poor qualifications. 

IV. The Pro-Trump Movement

Before we look at one major problem with the leftist movement against systemic racism, let's now turn to another movement on the other end of the spectrum -- the movement the Pro-Trump Movement. 

When I talk about the movement for Trump, I am not referring to any Trump voter. Instead, I am referring to the staunch and devoted Trump voter. Those who vote for Trump because they believe that he will save them from all their problems. 

Although this movement is not ideologically backed as the leftist movement, there are a few features that are worth exploring. 

One of these features is that many in the Trump Movement are also followers of QAnon (often referred to as "Q"). Q is a conspiracy movement that has been promulgated on the internet -- on YouTube and chat rooms -- that first started on 8chan, an online chat-board. 

Central to the Q movement is the belief that elites (business owners and politicians) have been exploiting the people for their own gain and such exploitation has been the source of the world's ills and problems. Are you poor? The elites are to blame. Are you struggling with an addiction? The elites are to blame for that as well. Thus one way to sum up this Q movement is that the corrupt elites are to blame for the individual's circumstances. 

The QAnon movement is one aspect of the Pro-Trump movement. There are also other features that don't fit neatly into on category. 

Another feature of the Trump Movement is their belief about what Trump can do for them. I alluded to this earlier. Here, I'd like to discuss more. There is a subset of Trump voters who are voter for Trump because they believe that he can solve their problems for them. Many in this group are tired and frustrated with the growing rise of left-ideology in academics and in the broader American culture. In response to this, they want a leader who will fight for them and "own the Libs." Thus this subset's main reason for voting for Trump is the fact that he can "dominate" and "own" the other side. 

They also vote for Trump because they want to return back to a more prosperous time for America. Many of Trump voters are white middle-aged men who have seen their jobs and livelihood shipped overseas by corporations seeking greater profits and cheap labor. These men vote for Trump because they believe he can make everything right again. He can restore their jobs and return life to how it was before. All they have to do is vote. No demand is placed on their life to make changes to themselves to make them more attractive to employers. Rather, change will happen by relying on a "strong-man" to bring it about. 

V. Removing Individual Responsibility 

Although these two movements (the fight against systemic racism and the pro-Trump movement) are at different ends of the spectrum, they both share one thing in common: the belief that one's circumstances have been caused by external factors. Thus, they argue, by correcting those external factors, they can change the person's life. 

The left believes that the problem is racist system. They believe that if you change the system, then you will change the people within the system. Therefore, if you want to eliminate poverty, then change the system. Conversely, the pro-Trump right believe that the problem lies with the elites, whose greed has been the cause of our problems and afflictions. Therefore, if you stop the elites, then you will solve society's problems. 

But as you can see, both of these movements place little to no demands on the individual to produce the change within him or herself. Instead, the finger of blame is pointed at everyone except the individual. The problem, they assert, is due to racism, or the problem is due to the elites. The notion that our problems are caused by the wealthy elite is central to Q's message and it's no wonder why this conspiracy theory has attracted many followers. When one can shift the blame and responsibility for his or her ills and problems onto someone else, then one doesn't have to own up to the burden of being an individual living in a challenging world. After all, freedom comes with its costs. And one of those costs is taking ownership for their lives. 

Moreover, the belief that the system is inherently racist is also attractive to many people of color. Under this theory, there is no incentive for the individual to change himself. There is no push to cause the individual to examine his/her life and the choices he/she has made. The responsibility is removed from the individual and placed on the state. The government is responsible for the conditions of its citizens. 

This is not to say that external factors don't play a role in shaping our character, but is to point out that no matter one's circumstance, the individual has the freedom and liberty to choose how he'll respond. In the end, people are in the circumstances they are in because of the choices they've made. 

For instance, our government can carry out reparations, paying out a large sum to African Americans for the past horrors of slavery, but if the individual, himself, has not changed his character, then no amount of financial remuneration will change that. If an individual doesn't know how to save. Or if the individual spends his paycheck on frivolous things, then giving up a bigger paycheck merely enables him to spend more money on more frivolous things. 

In other words, reparations won't change the person's condition, because the person has to do that within himself. He needs to learn the habits of success before he can become successful. This is the principle that has been ignored by those pushing for racial equity. 

VI. Christ, the Heart Surgeon

Now that we've identified the common thread among both the left and pro Trump movements, it's time to compare this to what the Savior taught. 

Although we've already discussed some of the Savior's teachings in the previous post, I would like to further delve into his teachings. In Matthew 15, Christ explains that the real concern for him is our heart. 

10 ¶ And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand:

11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.

12 Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?

13 But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.

14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

Christ's teaching address the Pharisaical practice of washing one's hands before eating. The purpose for this practice, as indicated in verse 11, was to remain pure. Washing one's hands before eating allowed the person to remain pure. For the Pharisee, the concern was with the external -- i.e., eating with unclean hands. 

But Christ rejects this practice. Instead, for Christ, the main concern is the external (eating with unclean/unwashed hands) but the internal (the heart of the person). Christ later explains the full meaning: 

15 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.

16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding?

17 Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?

18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.

19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:

20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.

Christ seeks to correct the heart (the inner person) because it is the heart that produces evil or good. If Christ can replace an evil heart with a good one, then he can change the actions of the individual to producing "good fruit." "For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies"

This is the purpose of the gospel -- to change our heart from evil to good. The gospel is focused on changing the inner self. And this change occurs from the individual taking responsibility. Christ had many chances to address Roman oppression. Instead, he focused on transforming the individual by teaching light and truth. For Christ, the onus was on the individual to transform himself. It was on the individual to seek for righteousness. 

This idea of individual responsibility is further found in Christ's parable of the Sower of the Seed. There, we learn that the seed sower planted seeds on various parts of the field. There were four different areas that the seeds were planted in: 

1. The pathway/way side 

2. The stony places

3. Among the thorns

4. Those on good soil 

Although the places that the seeds fell onto were physical location, the locations serve as metaphors for the inner person. Christ explains what they mean to his disciples: 

1. The pathway/wayside: those who hear the message of the gospel, but don't understand it. 

2. The stony places: Those who hear the word, receive it with joy, but later are "offended" by the word due to persecution and tribulation. 

3. The seed among the thorns: Those who hear the word, but disregard it because they are more concerned with the world than the kingdom of God. 

4. The seed in the good ground: Those who hear the word and understand it and are fruitful in it.

Each of the instances, it was the people who decided what the word did for them. Some chose to accept it into their lives, while others, for various reasons, did not. 

Understanding this point of individual responsibility is important. We can use this knowledge to measure the beliefs within the world. Thus whenever we hear a belief dealing with the human condition and improving that condition, we need to compare it to the Scriptures --- and in this case, to what Christ taught. 

VII. Christ's Teaching Compared to Current Movement

Given what we know about the left and right-wing movements, which put responsibility on the external, we can see that Christ's teachings run counter to these beliefs. A follower of Christ is a person who takes responsibility for himself. It is a person who does not blame others for his life circumstances, but instead places the onus on himself to change his circumstances -- as much as he is able. This kind of use his experience in life as teaching opportunity.  This kind of follower uses experiences to further refine his character, making him more Christ like. He/she does not blame others or shift responsibility for his actions. He analyzes, evaluates, and seeks for greater truth to understand his circumstances and how to get through them. He waits upon the Lord. 

This is not to say, however, that external factors don't affect us. Nor is it to suggest that a follower of Christ can do all things on his own. Instead, it is to show that change must first come within. This is why we are commanded to be humble. A humble person is one who takes inventory of his inner life. Who examines what he does right or what he does wrong, and then works to fix what is wrong. 

Example of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn is one example of this kind of person. Solzhenitsyn was a communist who lived in the Soviet union and was arrested for writing derogatory comments about the Stalinist regime to his friend. As a consequence he was sentenced to the gulags (forced labor camps) for eight years and was later exiled.

During his experience he learned that he had a choice about how to respond to his circumstance. He noticed that some prisoners responded to their circumstances, no matter how brutal, with full integrity, not surrendering to their animal instincts. Noticing this, Solzhenitsyn realized he had two ways he could respond to his circumstances: One option was to blame Stalin and others for him ending up in the gulags. Or, he could examine his life and the choices he made that led him to the gulags.

He chose the latter. And doing so, took the time to re-evaluate his life and to think about every time he ignored his conscience. To identify those moments where he was not true to himself. He chronicled these experiences and later published them. His writings were influential in showing the horrors of communism. He later became a public intellectual who gave a commencement speech at Harvard and published subsequent books critiquing communism.

By choosing to point the finger at himself, Solzhenitsyn transformed himself. And by doing so become an agent of his destiny. Although not all of us will have the same influence as Solzhenitsyn, we can overcome our circumstances by controlling what we can -- namely who we are.

Scream Phoenix

But this gospel truth can also be found in other areas. Christian don't have a monopoly over truth. Truth can be possessed by anyone, hence the reason why we should be wary of restricting speech. Otherwise we may censor truth. 

One place I've found this true principle of individual transformation is in a hip-hop album called the Cold Vein by Cannibal Ox. The album is a concept album detailing in quite graphic imagery life in the inner-city ghettos. The metaphor that underlines the album is that the ghetto is an iron galaxy. A "galaxy" because of the unbounded potential that each individual has. But it is "iron" because that potential is bound up in poverty, drugs, and gangs. 

The album concludes with the speaker describing two ways of life. One way of life is that of the pigeons. The other way of life is to ascend above the pigeons and become a phoenix. [2]

Most people choose the first way (being a pigeon). Anyone who has seen a pigeon knows that pigeon's are not very impressive birds and they're everywhere. Moreover, pigeons don't contribute much. They are more of a nuisance than anything else. When it comes to other birds, pigeons are at the bottom. They might get by, but they don't excel.  

Metallic wing pigeon

Birds of the same feather flock together

Congested on a majestic street corner

That's a short time goal for most of 'em

Cuz most of 'em

Would rather expand their wings and hover over greater things

That's what we call inspired flight

By the pigeons that gotta eat pizza crust every night

The other option is to become a phoenix -- to ascend. The speaker remarks, See to the common fowl the phoenix is sire/Most high of all things to ever have wings. The phoenix is a the supreme bird. It transcends the life of a pigeon. The end of the album concludes with the speaker choosing to become a phoenix. And this change of being a phoenix comes from within. The speaker becomes a phoenix by transforming his inner life. Despite the challenges that the speaker will still face, he can approach them with a different attitude. Having decided to become a different person, he now faces the challenges of life in a different way. 

Existence is struggle, resistance is futile

Meanwhile we now possess the power of ten suns

To transcend and elevate into one

Famine, the disease and senseless dying is done

Pigeon bird got a breath left

Heart beat no more

Phoenix bird morph and we live off the G-force

VIII. Inner Transformation Is No Walk In The Park

The album Cold Vein is not perfect and not everything in it is true, but there are some truths worth holding on to. This concept of transforming oneself is one truth worth holding. 

But it's also true that art may sometimes idealize the truth. The idea of "screaming phoenix" is beautiful, but becoming an empowered individual is hard work and is harder than just saying it. It requires humility and patience. It requires taking a deep hard look at oneself, like Solzhenitsyn, and admit where we've made a mistake.

The sad truth is that for many of us we've made our trials and challenges worse by our actions. Taking ownership is not easy. It's hard to admit that we were the mistake. This is because humans don't like to be wrong. Being wrong signals that we are inferior and inadequate. This is intolerable for us who live in a world that rewards the go-getter and those with "knowledge". Being wrong means that we don't fit in. That we are different. Most people don't like feeling different.

But we must do it, otherwise we'll continue to unnecessarily suffer because we've failed to learn and acquire great understanding about principles that could alleviate our suffering. Lehi said it best to his son Jacob,

27 Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself. (2 Nephi 2)

Ultimately we have the choice. Seeing that some of the popular movements ignore this fundamental truth helps us to avoid accepting those false-traditions, which acceptance will lead to a loss of light. The remaining parts of the series will delve into the why and how.

Up to this point, I've shown what the scriptures say about the individual. But I haven't explained why they say so. That will be the focus of the next part. Part IV will then look at how we can transform our lives by looking at practical actions we can make to become agents of ourselves.

Footnotes

[1] The Pro- Trump refers to those who believe that Trump will solve all their problems. I do not use this to mean that any one who votes for Trump believes that he will solve their problems. 

[2] Here are the link to the two songs, for those interested. 

Pigeons; https://youtu.be/02w8N-sdYRY

Scream Phoenix: https://youtu.be/m6ara80eZvs 

The Kingdom of Heaven Is Within: Part I

 

I. Where Can the Kingdom of God Be Found? 

During his ministry, the Savior was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God should come. 

20 ¶ And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:

21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. (Luke 17)

This question was likely asked because Christ's ministry was about proclaiming the coming of the kingdom of God. Although the Jews were living in the ancestral land, they were not free. And they knew this. The Roman government exerted strong control over their lives. This was especially true when it came to taxes, which became a burden for many. And although Rome was tolerant of the Jewish religion, they weren't exclusive to it. For a Jew living around the time of Christ, it would not be uncommon for him to see pagan temples and worship dotted around Palestine. For many practicing Jews, this would have been an offense and desecration of their holy land. The Jews, then, were not free and they sought for deliverance (salvation). 

Christ's response, therefore, is responding to this larger context. In other words, the Jews, had recommitted themselves to God (at least they believed they had) and were eagerly awaiting the coming salvation brought by the future messiah. Christ had claimed to be this messiah. The Pharisees, in asking this question, wanted to know when the kingdom of God. This is because the establishment of the kingdom of God meant deliverance for the Jews. This would have been of central importance. 

Given the oppression and occupation by Rome, the Pharisees were likely anticipating an event -- something visible -- that would bring about the kingdom of God. However, the answer they received from Christ was more subtle. Instead, Christ told them that the kingdom of God "comes not with observation", but the "kingdom of God is within you."

The question then is what does Christ mean that the kingdom of God is within us? Some translators render this statement as the kingdom of heaven is in the midst of you. The problem with this, however, is that Christ in verse 20 tells the Pharisees that the kingdom of God does not come from observation. Thus if the kingdom of God is in the midst of us, then it would be observed. Yet Christ says that it can't be observed. This suggests that in the midst may be an incorrect translation.

II. The Sermon on the Mount 

But while there are varying interpretations, one way to answer this question is to observe what Christ focused on during his ministry. And the essence of his ministry is encapsulated in the Sermon on the Mount. And thanks to the Book of Mormon, we have even greater evidence of this, as Christ taught it to the Nephites also. 

In that sermon, the Lord directs his teachings to the individual. One of these teachings that highlights this contrast is found in verse 41 of Matthew 5. There Christ teaches: 

And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.

To understand the significance of this verse, we have to understand the context. Earlier in this post I explained that while the Jews were able to inhabit their ancestral land, they were not free. I also explained that the Romans made life difficult for them. According to scholars, it was common for Romans soldiers to select Jewish men (from off the street) to carry their gear and armor for them. Jews would carry the gear to the next town sometimes. This meant that a Jew could be minding his own business in town and a Roman soldier selects him to carry his armor. The Jewish man had no choice -- he was compelled to comply. 

Now that we understand the context, Jesus' statement should be startling. Jesus is telling the people that when a Roman soldier compels any one of them to carry his gear and armor, the Jews should not only comply, but go above and beyond. Thus despite the unjust oppression by Rome against the Jews, Jesus places a high demand and expectation on how the Jews (as individuals) are to respond. 

But this is only one of the many teachings that place responsibility on the individual. The beginning of the Sermon on the Mount directs blessings to the individuals who have changed their character to become more like God's. 

3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

It's worthwhile to read the Sermon on the Mount (chapter 5-7) and pay attention to who Christ places the responsibility on. In each case dealing with other people, Christ places the responsibility on the individual. Moreover, he never allows the individual an excuse to fight against his enemy. Moreover, he never speaks about the occupying power. The focus in on what the is expected of the individual. 

III. Themes of the Bible 

But in addition to Christ's teachings on the Sermon on the Mount, we can get a better understanding of his Luke 17 statement by turning to one of the themes of the Bible.  And this is found in Genesis. One of the central messages of Genesis is that humans are created in God's image. At its core, this means that humans have divinity with them. This separates us from the animals and other aspects of creation. But it also means that humans are held to a greater expectation. As holding dominion over the earth, humans are to hold that dominion after the manner of God. In other words, humans bear responsibility for how they hold the dominion God has given them. 

Finally, the last scripture which is relevant for us comes from Ezekiel 36. There, Ezekiel explains what the Lord plans to do for Israel to regather them. He explains: 

26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. 

Here, the Lord, before fighting Israel's enemies, will first transform the inner life of the individual by giving him a new heart and his spirit (the Holy Ghost) Once he does that, then Israel will 

28 ... dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.

29 I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you.

30 And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen.

31 Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations 

Given these statements, we can now answer the questions I posed earlier. When Christ says that the kingdom of God is within you (or us), he is saying that the kingdom of God is first actualized through the individual. The kingdom of God will only be realized when people transform themselves to be part of the kingdom of God. This is why Christ says that the kingdom of God is not seen through observation. It's because the kingdom is brought by the subtle changes in the individual not discernable to the naked eye.  

Christ directs this statement to the Pharisees for a few reasons. First, they asked about when the kingdom of God would come. But more importantly, the Pharisees (as well as most Jews) believed that they would be part of God's kingdom by simply doing the commands and being God's people. Christ's statement, then, is pointing out that people must transform their inner lives to become part of God's kingdom -- simply doing the commands (outward performances) is not sufficient. Nevertheless, the fact that Christ says that the kingdom of God comes within you to the Pharisees shows that the Pharisees, if they chose, can be part of that kingdom. And because God is no respecter of persons, this applies to us. All of us can be part of God's kingdom. We just have to, as the Lord to Ezekiel, change our selves. We do this by acquiring God's character. 

IV. Acquiring God's Character

One message and purpose of Christ's ministry was to help correct the people's misunderstanding about what God cares about. The Jews, during Christ's day, recognized and acknowledged that their ancestors messed up big time. They acknowledged that Israel was not faithful to God and thus were justly destroyed by God (through the Babylonian and Assyrian forces). 

But the Jews (particularly the Pharisees) made the mistake in what they thought God valued. They believed that by remaining true to the Torah (Law of Moses), which was understood as doing (there is a difference between doing the commandments and obeying them) the commandments they would merit God's favor. However, they failed to realize that God demands a transformation of the person. They failed to realize that the commandments given in the Law of Moses were designed to change the individual. They were not to be obeyed legalistically. 

Joseph Smith taught that salvation was predicated upon acquiring God's character. And as you can likely infer, we obtain God's character through keeping His commandments. 

"If men do not comprehend the character of God, they do not comprehend themselves. What kind of being is God? Eternal life (is) to know God - if man does not know God, (he) has not eternal life...Every man has a right to be a true prophet...Soon as we begin to understand the character of God He begins to unfold the heavens to us." (Words of Joseph Smith, p.340-341.) 

Knowledge of self is then the knowledge of God's character. God's commands teach us about his character. As we obey (not merely do) the commands, our character will change. Our fallen self will be changed into one that is redeemable by God. Over time our thoughts and actions will mirror that of God. Over time, we will carry God's character with us into situations, acting as if God were present. This is what it means to take upon the name of Christ. 

This was the meaning of my post "The Parable of the High School Student." Although the high school student attended all the classes and participated in the extracurriculars, he never improved himself. When faced with signs that his knowledge was insufficient to get him into college, he ignored them and instead continued doing the same thing he had done, with little to no changes within him. 

This parable also applies to a spiritual level. As we read the parable, we should ask if our treatment of God's commands are like the high school student's. Have we allowed His commandments to change us? Are we a different person from the day before, the week before, or year before? When trials (exams) arise, how do we handle them? Do we excel? Do we seek to learn from them? Or do we just grin and bear it, failing to learn what God wanted to teach us? 

We may have a stellar church attendance record. We may have an important church calling. We may be very popular in our ward (or branch). But if we think that's the measure of our what God wants, we'll unfortunately be like the high school student, who failed to take advantage to improve his understanding. As a result, we'll be kept from entering into the rest of the Lord (see Alma 13). 

V. Becoming a Zion People 

From the days of Enoch, the righteous have sought for Zion to return to earth. One of the commands given by the Lord to the early Saints was to "seek to bring forth and establish my Zion." The Doctrine and Covenants largely contains revelations given by the Lord to the early Saints about how to prepare Zion. Yet despite the instruction and patience by the Lord, the early saints, due to their division and strife within them, failed to establish Zion. 

3 But behold, they have not learned to be obedient to the things which I required at their hands, but are full of all manner of evil, and do not impart of their substance, as becometh saints, to the poor and afflicted among them;

4 And are not united according to the union required by the law of the celestial kingdom;

5 And Zion cannot be built up unless it is by the principles of the law of the celestial kingdom; otherwise I cannot receive her unto myself. (D&C 105)

The burden, then, is upon us to achieve what our forebears failed to do. This is not to condemn and make light of the sacrifices of our ancestors and the early saints. They suffered much. And some of that suffering was due to wicked members within their society. But even though this is true, we still need to bring about Zion. 

The events of the end times are nearer than I realized. This is not to say, however, that all that has been prophesied by the ancients will happen in the next year, but it does mean that many living today may have the opportunity to see it many of the events unfold. This means that trials and tribulations lay ahead. But it also means that the Lord will again establish Zion on the earth. This is a blessing that has only be achieved by a few. The establishment of Zion will bring about the millennial reign of Christ. Christ will dwell in Zion and peace, love, and prosperity will abound. But those who live in Zion will consists of a certain type of people: 

18 And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them. (Moses 6)

To be Zion people, then, requires that the people act a certain way and have put on a certain character -- one of love and unity. If we want to be part of Zion, we need to put on this character. And we do so by making the changes in our personal life. 

Modern science has shown that each and every day we are choosing who we will be. This is because science has revealed that our new genes in our central nervous system are activated when an organism (such as humans) places itself in a new situation. When we are placed in a new situation, the genes that are activated code for new proteins. Like legos, that serve as a building block for a structure, proteins serve as building blocks for new structures in the brain. Each protein accumulated by the genes contribute to shaping our brains circuitry. What this means is that the decisions we make today, shapes who we are and who we become. 

Ultimately then, if we choose and seek out opportunities to adapt Christ's character into our lives, our brains will develop around that behavior. If we choose to be merciful when wronged by someone, instead of seeking revenge, our brains will adapt and adjust, causing us to BE merciful people.  Conversely, if we choose to find fault and judge others, we will become judgmental people. When it comes to establishing Zion, this is important to consider. 

Those who will inhabit Zion will be those who are united with each other. And this will only happen by people seeking that change within themselves -- a change to be a loving people. There is no magically pixie dust that will automatically turn us into Zion people. If God could change our character by merely snapping his fingers, then he would violate our liberty, as he would be changing us into people that we don't want to be. We can say that we want to be in Zion, but if we don't become a Zion people, then it's just window dressing. What we desire is manifested by who we become. If we say we desire something, but don't live up to it, then we are merely wishing. God does not grant one's wishes. 

But why does the Lord demand such a high standard from Zion? It's because Zion is a model of heavenly archetype. In order for the Lord to dwell in Zion, Zion must be modeled from a heavenly society. 

The idea that Zion can be established on earth rests on the premise that there is a celestial prototype—a heavenly society composed of exalted beings who live in unity in God’s literal presence. Zion on earth is to be patterned after that celestial society. Thus, God’s desire for the ultimate destiny of a Zion community is that it be taken into His presence, for “Zion cannot be built up unless it is by the principles of the law of the celestial kingdom; otherwise I cannot receive her unto myself” (D&C 105:5; emphasis added). 

(see: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2000/11/from-zion-to-destruction-lessons-of-4-nephi?lang=eng)

But as we learned from Jesus' statement in Luke 17, the kingdom of God is within. In order to be part of the kingdom of God (Zion), we must have adopted the kind of character to be PART OF the kingdom of God. 

VI. Desiring Zion 

The first step we can take in desiring Zion is to look at what it means to be a Zion people. Once we've identified what that looks like, we then have a conception of what we are aiming for. 

Earlier, we read Moses 7 description of Zion -- a people of one heart and one mind. But this, too, seems a bit abstract. Given that it's not clear what it means to be of one heart and one, where else can we turn? Our answer: the Sermon on the Mount. 

There is a reason why the Lord repeated the Sermon on the Mount to the Nephites and Lamanites. It's because it contains the building block of a Zion people. In remarking about the purpose of Christ's ministry, Joseph Smith taught: 

This covenant [The New and Everlasting Covenant] has never been established with the house of Israel, nor with the house of Judah, for it requires two parties to make a covenant, and those two parties must be agreed, or no covenant can be made. Christ, in the days of His flesh, proposed to make a covenant with them, but they rejected Him and His proposals, and in consequence thereof, they were broken off, and no covenant was made with them at that time. (TPSJ, 14)

According to Joseph Smith, Christ's ministry was designed to bring about the kingdom of God (Zion). Given that it was, then it would follow that Christ's teachings would be focused on building God's kingdom. The central teaching Christ gave the Sermon on the Mount. There, Christ outlines what is required of those who seek for God's kingdom. We should read the Sermon on the Mount to identify what commands we are obeying and which ones we are not, and start obeying them. 

It is only then can we expect to be part of Zion. 

Book Completed in PDF Format

 

NOTE: I've completed making revisions for the final copy, which include fixing grammar and mechanics, correcting typos, and reformatting to make it easier to read.  Because some may have relied on the older version, I will leave it there.  But just note that there are lots of mistakes in that one.  The copy of the newest version can be found below.  The newest copy is not perfect and I'm sure that there are still errors, but as a one man show, it'll be too much time for me to correct all the mistakes.  My hope is that if there are any mistakes it will not affect the meaning. 

I'm happy to announce that I've completed my book Feasting Upon the Words of Christ: A Guide to Reading, Interpreting, and Understanding the Scriptures -- Vol. 1

I've provided the link below to access the PDF version. You can also find the link to the PDF on the side of my blog. If you are accessing the blog from a phone, the link is under the Essay/Books tab (at the top of blog). If you are accessing via computer, then it's on the side of the blog also under the Essay/Books tab. 

Because this is the first time that I've done something like this, I am not sure when the hard copy will be available on Amazon. The biggest challenge I'm having is formatting the document so that it's print ready. I also need to design the book cover. Both of these things are way outside of my skill-set, so I don't see the hard copy being published any time soon. 

In any case, I encourage all to take the time to read. This is particularly true for those who feel that they aren't getting the most they want from the scriptures. My sense is that in the upcoming years, we are going have to rely upon ourselves and the Spirit to acquire knowledge. This will involve using the scriptures to gain understanding. This book is my best effort to help us to do that by giving us greater confidence and skills to use the scriptures to gain light and truth. 

My plan is two create two volumes. The first volume (the current book) is focused on orienting ourselves and teaching general principles for scripture reading and interpretation. The second volume will focus on grammar, the historical context of each book of scripture (Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price) and teaching specific tools for reading certain genres of scripture (e.g., Parables, Narrative, Prophetic Books). 

Link to PDF: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1M4rm3L_J0ZtEq-i3B1m1dOyXL4IK7WXm/view?usp=sharing

Link to NEWEST PDF (Most Revised Version): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q50jAztrphYHEHv1cuLudY16Yhz8mM2B/view?usp=sharing

Ripe In Iniquity

 

I. Ripe In Iniquity Leads to Destruction 

In 1 Nephi 16 we learn that God doesn't destroy a nation until its "ripe in iniquity". Nephi explains why God destroyed the Canaanites. 

35 Behold, the Lord esteemeth all flesh in one; he that is righteous is favored of God. But behold, this (Canaanites) people had rejected every word of God, and they were ripe in iniquity; and the fulness of the wrath of God was upon them; and the Lord did curse the land against them, and bless it unto our fathers; yea, he did curse it against them unto their destruction, and he did bless it unto our fathers unto their obtaining power over it. 

This idea is repeated often throughout the Book of Mormon

Understanding this idea allows us to understand when and why God will fully intervene to destroy a nation. It also shows that God has a system and that he does not judge and destroy a nation capriciously. 

Meaning of Ripe in Iniquity 

Given that God's standard for destroying a nation is when that nation is "ripe in iniquity" we should then ask what does it mean for a nation to be "ripe in iniquity." Understanding this definition requires us to look at the meaning of ripeness and iniquity. Because iniquity is more complex, let's start defining it. 

For many of us, we don't distinguish the different types of sin. Instead, we tend to group sin, transgression, and iniquity into one big category. However, these words refer to specific types of sin. 

Iniquity comes from the Hebrew word "avon". Avon refers to the act of bending or twisting something. In the context of how it's used in the Old Testament, iniquity (avon) refers to a bending and twisting of God's will. Because Nephi and the Book of Mormon writers come from a Hebrew tradition and wrote in Hebrew (see Moroni), it's fair to assume that Nephi, Mormon, and Moroni, would've understood that meaning (albeit with some nuances that we don't get into). 

In addition to the Hebrew definition, Webster's 1828 dictionary, which represents the meaning of words used in Joseph Smith's day, defines iniquity as "particular deviation from rectitude (moral uprightness)". Although this definition doesn't conceptualize iniquity as a bending or twisting, it does conceptualize iniquity to refer to a "deviation" (departure) from moral uprightness. Thus both of these definitions, although using different concepts to express the meaning, get at the same idea -- the idea of missing truth. Hebrew conveys this idea by distortion. The 1828 conveys this by the concept of deviation. In short, iniquity occurs when one acquires and adopts falsehood instead of truth. 

The next component to this definition is "ripeness." Because the Book of Mormon used 19th century English, we'll turn back to the 1828 dictionary's definition. The 1828 dictionary provides many definitions. Given that we are referring to ripeness as negative, the best definition. is that when something is ripe it means that something as "maturated"

A nation that is ripe in iniquity hasn't just accepted some falsehood. Instead, it means that the falsehood has permeated every strata of society. The adoption of falsehood has become continuous and overwhelming. 

The Iniquity of the United States

Given that ripe in iniquity refers to a society that has adopted falsehood and this falsehood has spread to permeate society, we should look at how the United States has become ripe in iniquity.

The main iniquity of the United States that has ripened is our society's rejection of truth and are unwillingness to accept truth. Our society has reached a point where good things have become offensive and evil things accepted. Moreover, our society has rewarded thinking emotionally over thinking rationally. This result has led many people to act in certain ways because of how they feel. It also means that people will cling on to their beliefs out of comfort instead of truth. 

The scriptures teach us that the truths of God may not be pleasant at first. As the saying goes, the "truth hurts." If we use emotions to gauge the veracity of truth, then we'll discern incorrectly. Those who exist in this state, which are growing in number, can't be taught truth. You can point to the scriptures to explain a truth, but if the principle being taught is uncomfortable for the hearer, the hearer will be inclined to reject it. As a side note, this is why we are commanded to be humble. If we are not humble, then we'll fail to learn what God desires to teach us. 

This is the ultimate ripeness because God can't do anything else except bring judgment to awaken people to the consequences of their actions. 

The iniquity of the United States includes, but is not limited to: 

• Widespread acceptance and practice of abortion which has led to more deaths than Hitler, Stalin, and Mao, and Khmer Rogue. 
• The allowance of hook-up culture, which has perverted and twisted the role of men and women into one of transaction for pleasure, instead of the binding of two souls out of love
• The propagation of violence and sex in the media, causing our spirits to be dulled and desensitized. And unlike before where such images were kept at a distance from the home, thanks to technology the boundary is removed, meaning that we invite darkness into the very homes that are supposed to me made temples. 
• The removal of accountability. 
• The removal of gender differences.
• The welcoming and acceptance of people as role models who are themselves morally bankrupt.

As Isaiah depicts, iniquity starts out small and almost imperceptible. But like the cracks on the wall, as the cracks accumulate, the integrity of the wall lessens. If nothing is done, then the wall crumbles. 

Why God Destroys a Nation Ripe In Iniquity

Although it's true that God is a God of love, we err when we think that His love extends to allowing the wicked to corrupt the righteous, or when God does not permit justice to have its say. 

Zenos' allegory of the vineyard illustrates the problem of allowing wickedness to thrive without intervention. Left unattended, the bad fruit will overtake the good fruit. If the Lord of the vineyard doesn't intervene to prune away the bad fruit, then the bad fruit will take over the tree. 

Additionally, the other reason is because being just is in God's character. If God did not exercise justice, then he would not be God. God can withhold justice from us, but He can only do so for so long. If we refuse to repent and persist in wickedness, then God has no other choice. 

Justice refers to receiving the consequences of our actions. Every action we take will either go to improving the world or undermining it. There are big actions and little actions. But they all have an impact. 

When we act wickedly, we put out that action into the universe. That action can have a big ripple or a small one. But it still has a ripple. The big ripples are obvious. A person who kills another impacts the victim and his associates. The murder will be felt by all those who knew the victim. Although time can dilute the pain and hurt, those who knew the victim will still be hurt. Justice demands that the murder receives retribution. 

But besides the big ripples, there are also little one. These little ripples occur in discrete sinful behavior that accumulates overtime. For instance, a person who is promiscuous doesn't realize that his actions are affecting others. This effect can happen in a number of ways.  

Thus when God judges, he actually judges by stepping out of the way. He lets the sum total of our actions return against us. 

II. Judgment

Because the United States is ripe in iniquity, which is primarily manifested by our society's rejection of truth, God must destroy it. And he must do this or else he would cease to be God. And this is because if God did not destroy a wicked nation, then he would not be a God of justice. It would also mean that he is a respecter of person, as those who are wicked are able to enjoy the same privileges (or even more so) that the righteous. 

There will be two phases of judgment: civil war and foreign invasion. 

Civil War

Because this land can only be maintained by covenant, the breaking of the covenant results in destruction of the people on the land. As we recall, both the Nephite and Jaredite nation warred against each other. The same thing will happen in the United States. Thus civil war will break out. 

Using Egypt to represent the United States, Isaiah prophecies the following about the Lord's judgment against Egypt: 

The burden [oracle] of Egypt. Behold, the Lord rideth upon a swift cloud, and shall come into Egypt: and the idols of Egypt shall be moved [tremble] at his presence, and the heart of Egypt shall melt in the midst of it. 2 And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbour; city against city, and kingdom against kingdom. (Isaiah 19) 

In addition to what the Isaiah revealed, Orson Pratt also prophesied: 

But what about the American nation. That war that destroyed the lives of some fifteen or sixteen hundred thousand people was nothing, compared to that which will eventually devastate that country... [Referring to D&C 87] Should I not, then, expect that the balance of them should be fulfilled? That same God who gave the revelations to his servant Joseph Smith in regard to these matters, will fulfil every jot and every tittle that has been spoken, concerning [the United States] What then will be the condition of that people, when this great and terrible war shall come?...It will be a war of neighborhood against neighborhood, city against city, town against town, county against county, state against state, and they will go forth destroying and being destroyed and manufacturing will, in a great measure, cease, for a time, among the American nation. Why? Because in these terrible wars, they will not be privileged to manufacture, there will be too much bloodshed--too much mobocracy--too much going forth in bands and destroying and pillaging the land to suffer people to pursue any local vocation with any degree of safety. What will become of millions of the farmers upon that land? They will leave their farms and they will remain uncultivated, and they will flee before the ravaging armies from place to place; and thus will they go forth burning and pillaging the whole country; and that great and powerful nation, now consisting of some forty millions of people, will be wasted away, unless they repent. 

This day is almost upon us, and you can see its beginnings in the nightly news. All it takes for a war to erupt is the right kind of spark. 

Those who are righteous will not fight but instead take refuge. Those who take up arms will likely be killed. 

Foreign Invasion 

The next major phase will be a foreign invasion. Just as Israel and Judah were destroyed by foreign invaders, the same is in store for the United States. Given that China and Russia pose the biggest threat, it will likely be either one of those (or even both).

Isaiah spends much of his prophecy detailing this foreign invasion. He uses the events that happened to Israel and Judah as a parallel of what will happen to the other covenant land (i.e., the United States). Isaiah uses the Assyrian and Babylonian king to refer to a future Assyrian like empire:

O [Hail the] Assyrian, the rod of mine anger, and the staff in their hand is mine indignation. 6 I will send him [Assyria] against an hypocritical [chaneph -- godless] nation, and against the people of my wrath  will I give him a charge, to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down like the mire of the streets. (Isaiah 10:5, Annotations Added]

III. How Do We Prepare? 

Given that God has initiated judgment against the United States, and this is happening by removing peace from the earth and allowing the devil to create contention, we should ask how we prepare for the coming trials and tribulation. 

Preparing breaks down into two components: the spiritual and the temporal. 

1. Spiritual Preparation

There six things we can do to spiritually prepare for what's to come

1. Repent

The first and foremost thing is to repent. The obvious reason why we need to repent (and make sure that we have fully repented) is so that we can be saved. 

To repent means to turn away from our sin and towards God. We turn to God by forsaking our sin. 

Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. (Isaiah 55:7, ESV) 

To forsake comes from the Hebrew word 'azab, which means to "leave behind" and "abandon." Thus to forsake sin means that we have stopped sinning. To leave an object behind or abandon means that the object is not ours. Thus we need to divest ourselves of our sin -- we can possess it no longer. 

If we repent and retain a remission of our sins through faith in Christ, we are saved. 

However, in addition to being saved, we also receive other blessings for repentance. The first blessing is that we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. This means that the Holy Ghost is our constant companion to guide and direct us. Given that the end times trials and tribulation will be full of uncertainty and challenges, we'll need the Holy Ghost to guide us so we know what to do. 

The second blessing of repenting is that we receive peace. The Lord promised us that if we take upon his yoke, he will give us peace. To take upon his yoke means to take upon his name. We take upon his name by repenting of all our sins. 

To have peace does not mean that life will be easy during the coming trials and tribulation. Instead, it means that no matter what's happening, your inner self will know that what's happening is for your good and that God is not subjecting you to trials to judge you, but to increase your capacity. 

You see, the wicked and righteous will both go through trials. The difference for the righteous, however, is that they'll know each trial they face is to improve them. This means that the Lord will support and strengthen them to endure. It also means that the Lord will send his love. When the righteous cry to the Lord for help, he will, in his compassion, hear and respond to them. The wicked (unless they repent) will not have this assurance. Instead, the Lord will not hear their prayers and thus they'll be left to the power of the devil. 

This concept is best illustrated in 3 Nephi. 

14 And it came to pass in the thirty and first year that they were divided into tribes, every man according to his family, kindred and friends; nevertheless they had come to an agreement that they would not go to war one with another; but they were not united as to their laws, and their manner of government, for they were established according to the minds of those who were their chiefs and their leaders. But they did establish very strict laws that one tribe should not trespass against another, insomuch that in some degree they had peace in the land; nevertheless, their hearts were turned from the Lord their God, and they did stone the prophets and did cast them out from among them.

...

21 And it came to pass that the thirty and first year did pass away, and there were but few who were converted unto the Lord; but as many as were converted did truly signify unto the people that they had been visited by the power and Spirit of God, which was in Jesus Christ, in whom they believed.

22 And as many as had devils cast out from them, and were healed of their sicknesses and their infirmities, did truly manifest unto the people that they had been wrought upon by the Spirit of God, and had been healed; and they did show forth signs also and did do some miracles among the people. (3 Nephi 7)

Here, we see that both groups of Nephites (righteous and wicked) experienced the same trials. However, the righteous were supported and blessed with spiritual manifestation and gifts from God. The wicked were not. These gifts and manifestations served to not only reinforce their faith, but to give them strength to endure. 

But we can only have this blessing if we've repented. And as our nation further collapses, we'll need the Lord's guidance to make it through. 

Another benefit of repenting is the receiving of spiritual gifts. Having spiritual gifts will serve to aid and support to endure the trials. 

The last benefit of repenting is that we qualify ourselves for Zion. Although many righteous will die during the trials and tribulations, the righteous who do survive will be led to Zion. And for those who die but who remain righteous, their reward is glorious: 

14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. 16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. 17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. (Revelation 7) 

But we can only have assurance of this if we've repented.  

2. Feast Upon the Words of Christ

If we are not reading the scriptures, then we are missing out on an opportunity to learn of God's character and also learn and prepare for the end times. Although the end times will come to everyone, those who read and study about the end times will be better prepared. This preparation can be both temporally but also mentally. Knowing what it's going to be like, a person can mental envision various scenarios and then meditate about how they'll respond. By doing this the person is able to mentally prepare for what might actually happen. 

Scriptures also serve to teach us truth and provide guidance, as well as instruct and correct. The more we align our will to God, the more God becomes a part of our lives. Reading the scriptures allows us to learn about God and by doing, learn about His will. 

Reading scriptures should take high priority. Given that sports are different this year should be a push to turn off the TV and read and study the scriptures. 

I've almost completed my book about teaching how to read the scriptures. I've completed the final draft and now need to do one last edit. Then I need to format the book and get it published. I'm expecting the book to be out before the end of this month. 

3. Seek Out the Gift of Charity 

As society breaks down, we'll begin to see that we've taken a lot of things for granted. For instance, having a warm shower or 3 meals a day will be a luxury. This may cause many to become discouraged and even tempted to steal in order to survive. Although many people will do this, if we want God's blessing with us we can't succumb to this temptation. One way to avoid this is to develop charity. 

44...[a man[ must needs have charity; for if he have not charity he is nothing; wherefore he must needs have charity.

45 And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

46 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must failIn essence, charity means that we abase ourself for the benefit of the other. Those who have charity will be willing to give up a meal so that someone else can be fed. And the great thing about having charity is that giving up the meal will feel like you had the meal because of the love you have for the person. In other words, seeing them happy will make you happy. (Moroni 7)

Moreover, many people in the coming months and years will be suffering. Failure to help those in need out results in the Lord ignoring our prayers. After all, if we don't show mercy to those in need, the Lord will not show mercy to us. And during the trial and tribulation, we'll need all the help from heaven we can get. 

Lacking charity will reduce how much we receive the Spirit to guide us. Although temporal preparations are to be made, those preparations are of little use if we don't have access to God. Having charity will cover many of our sins, thereby reducing our chance of being cut off from the Spirit. (see 1 Peter 4:8) 

In addition to this, we also learn from Revelation that persecution will occur against the righteous. This type of persecution will be in varying degrees. However, if we don't have charity in the face of persecution, we may develop hateful emotions towards those persecuting us. Hate drives the Spirit away. And without the Spirit, we lose guidance from the Lord. Having charity will help us to be humble in light of the persecution we face. 

Last, as learned above, civil war is decreed against this nation. And this civil war will involve all aspects of society. If we don't have charity, we may be tempted to fight against those whom we deem wicked. However, the Lord in Revelation has taught a higher law for the righteous -- those who kill with the sword, shall be killed by the sword. The end times serves as no justification to join in warfare. 

To learn more about the importance of charity I recommend watching this video by David Wilkerson, who explains this principle better than I could. 

4. Seek Out Promises

The coming trials and tribulations will be unlike anything we've experienced. Having been blessed with advances in technology, which has led to a standard of living never before experienced on the earth, means that our descent will be drastic. Having been blessed with so much, means that our trials will be greater than anyone has experienced. After all, there is opposition in all things. This descent into challenges will grow progressively worse and worse. 

Because the challenges will be greater than anyone else has experienced, we'll need a way to maintain hope. One way we can maintain hope is by receiving promises from the Lord. Promises from the Lord allow us to endure the challenges we're facing. For instance, Lehi's promise from the Lord that he and his family would be led to a promised land allowed them to endure the harshness and challenges of wandering the desert for 9 years. 

If we don't have promises from the Lord to give us hope, our endurance will eventually wane. We can obtain promises in a few ways. First, is to read the scriptures and list all the promises the Lord has extended. Another is to look through your patriarchal blessing for promises the Lord has extended. Another way is to go to the Lord directly and seek promises directly from him. If you've repented, you'll have greater likelihood of receiving promises than those who haven't. 

5. Pray

Like scriptures, prayer is the way we connect with God. Christ prayed constantly during his ministry. Prayer serves many functions. One function is it serves as a channel to communicate with God. We'll need a channel of communication during the times of trials and tribulations. 

But prayer is like riding a bike. It's a skill and takes time and practice. Today is the time to start refining your prayer practice so you can be confident in how to pray to the Lord and receive answers from him. 

Moreover, those who have repented and thus have received the Holy Ghost will have an easier time connecting with God. In Romans 5, Paul explains that the Spirit (Holy Ghost) intercedes on our behalf. It intercedes by making up for what we lack. 

To faithfully endure the coming trials and tribulation, we must be like David who "fixed" his eyes upon the Lord, taking "refuge" in him and him alone. If we don't know how the Lord communicates and are unable to communicate with him, trusting in the Lord will be much harder. 

2. Temporal 

There are three main ways you can prepare temporally for what's to come. 

1. Food Supplies

Make sure that you and your family (if applicable) have enough food to survive if you were locked down in your house for a few months. Also make sure you have lots of water -- at least to survive 30 days. You can buy 55 gallon drums and fill them up with water to store them. There are many Youtube videos explaining how to do this. 

When it comes to food, make sure the food is non-perishable. Canned foods and freeze dried foods are great for this. Costco sells freeze dried food that contains enough food for 127 servings. I recommend keeping an inventory to keep track of the food you've stored so you can plan. Make sure you have at least enough food storage for a 30-day supply (at the minimum)  

2. Flee

Unless the Lord's tells you otherwise, consider getting out of major cities. This is especially true for coastal cities, which will likely be overrun by anarchists and gangs. I believe the Lord is making certain cities uninhabitable to encourage the righteous to move out (or at least giving them a chance to). Although no city or place is spared from wickedness (including SLC), the coastal cities are the hotbeds of iniquity. I believe that these will be the first to go. 

Fast and pray, asking the Lord what his will is for you. Giving my circumstances, I am unable to move out of SLC. I've prayed to the Lord about it and have not received any direction to flee immediately. I'm at peace with staying in SLC for the time being. 

3. Emergency Kit

Make sure to have an emergency kit on hand. If there is a natural disaster or war, this will make it harder for EMTs to get to you. Moreover, society may have collapsed so badly that there will be no such thing as a hospital. 

4. Backpack Gear

It's possible that you may be driven from your home. In that case, it's best to have a backpack (preferably a backpacking backpack) with supplies -- such as a sleeping bag, mat, tent, axe, clothes, water purifiers, etc. I have a backpack on stand-by packed with all the essential in case we need to leave our home. I encourage others to do the same. 

IV. Conclusion 

In short, the time to prepare is now. God will soon unleash His wrath on this nation. What he spoke to Jeremiah who lived to see the destruction of Jerusalem: 

11 So now then, speak to the men of Judah and against the inhabitants of Jerusalem saying, ‘Thus says the Lord, “Behold, I am fashioning calamity against you and devising a plan against you. Oh turn back, each of you from his evil way, and reform your ways and your deeds.”’ 12 But they will say, ‘It’s hopeless! For we are going to follow our own plans, and each of us will act according to the stubbornness of his evil heart.’ (Jeremiah 18, NIV)

And the Lord's judgment will not let up until the wicked are wiped off the earth:

19 For a desolating scourge [def: A punishment; vindictive affliction] shall go forth among the inhabitants of the earth, and shall continue to be poured out from time to time, if they repent not, until the earth is empty, and the inhabitants thereof are consumed away and utterly destroyed by the brightness of my coming. (Doctrine and Covenants 5) 

However, despite the outpouring of God's wrath, there will also be the outpouring of His spirit in greater abundance than ever experienced on the earth. As Lehi taught, there must be an opposition in all things. This means that whatever degree of darkness we experience, we'll also commensurate joy. God's spirit will be poured out abundantly upon the righteous. 

39 And it shall come to pass that he that feareth me shall be looking forth for the great day of the Lord to come, even for the signs of the coming of the Son of Man. 40 And they shall see signs and wonders, for they shall be shown forth in the heavens above, and in the earth beneath. 41 And they shall behold blood, and fire, and vapors of smoke. (Doctrine and Covenants 45) 

Moreover, the Lord's intends for everyone to know him.  

97 And plagues shall go forth, and they shall not be taken from the earth until I have completed my work, which shall be cut short in righteousness— 98 Until all shall know me, who remain, even from the least unto the greatest, and shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord.. (Doctrine and Covenants 97)

And this will come from the Lord's purging of his vineyard, sifting the weeds from the wheat -- to find and discover who of us truly love him. 

34 Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of Zion in these last days. 35 And the rebellious shall be cut off out of the land of Zion, and shall be sent away, and shall not inherit the land.

36 For, verily I say that the rebellious are not of the blood of Ephraim, wherefore they shall be plucked out. (Doctrine and Covenants 64) 

Now is the time to prepare our hearts. Take the time that we have to put away Babylon and instead seek for heaven. Today is a day of fasting and much prayer. Pray to the Lord morning and night. Pray to him during your commute; at work. Go into the secret places and pour you hearts to the Lord, asking him to purify your heart.  

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23-24)