Sunday, February 22, 2009

A Recounting of Jewish History (2 Nephi 6)


Listen now!Jacob, the younger brother of Nephi, was given the role of teacher and priest to the people.  In this chapter, he tells the people how concerned he is for their salvation and education in their history and their future.  He turns to Isaiah for this instruction.

The words he quotes are about all the house of Israel (all 12 tribes).  He first emphasizes Isaiah's teaching that the Gentiles would become a support to Israel in the last days.

  7 And akings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers; they shall bow down to thee with their faces towards the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know thatbI am the Lord; for they shall not be ashamed that cwait for me.

Next, Jacob reminds them that Israel was under condemnation when they left Jerusalem over 50 years before and tells them that it has been revealed to him by an angel that Jerusalem was conquered as prophesied by Lehi.  The good news is that those who were carried away captive would return in the future.  Jesus Christ would come to them, but unfortunately they would crucify him.  This treatment of their King would result in many more years of affliction and scattering for the Jews.  But, when they turn back to the Lord, they will be gathered again and saved from their enemies.

Jacob then pronounces a blessing on the Gentiles for their repentance and support of Israel, and for not becoming part of the organizations and churches set up to tear down the Church of God.

Christ, unlike with his first advent when he was born as an infant and later scourged, mocked, and crucified, will then come to show Himself in all His glory.  He will destroy all of Israel's enemies by fire, tempest, earthquakes, bloodshed, pestilence, and famine, and preserve all of those who believe on Him.  At that time, everyone will know that Jesus Christ is the Savior, the Redeemer, and the Mighty One of Jacob (father Israel).