Lesson #8 - “O How Great the Goodness of Our God”, 2 Nephi 6-10
In 2 Nephi 6-10, Nephi provides us with the record of a lengthy and doctrinally significant talk delivered by one of his younger brothers, Jacob. Jacob was probably 35-45 years old when he presented his discourse. The structure of the chapters is as follows:
- 2 Nephi 6 – is an introduction to his speech, outlining the key themes that he wishes to talk about, and establishing a framework for understanding and interpreting Isaiah 50-52:2.
- 2 Nephi 7-8 – Jacob quotes the two Isaiah chapters (Isaiah 50-52:2).
- 2 Nephi 9 – in quoting Isaiah, Jacob uses the words of this great prophet to emphasize that the Atonement of Christ can truly set us free from sin. He pleads with his people to accept the Savior’s gift of the Atonement, which is offered to all. He now further explains the teachings of Isaiah.
- 2 Nephi 10 – Jacob concludes his discourse, first teaching more about the Lamanites, then about the Jews and their scattering and gathering in the last days. He then teaches about the bringing of the gospel to the Lamanites, concluding by teaching about Zion in the last days.
Reading and understanding Isaiah is not always easy. Book of Mormon prophets provide us with interpretations of the teachings of this great prophet that are invaluable. Because the teachings of Isaiah were originally presented and shared orally, for me they are much more understandable when I listen to these chapters.
Study suggestion: If you have Book of Mormon audio tapes or CDs, try reading along with the readers. Listen straight through from 2 Nephi 6 through 2 Nephi 10. The beauty of Jacob’s mighty speech is illuminated for me when I do this. (Compressed Audio Files for the scriptures are available at: LDS Audio . Follow the instructions provided on that site for listening on a computer or MP3 player.)
Here is this week’s handout: Book of Mormon Lesson 8
- Also, here is a helpful and informative article by John Bytheway, who has authored a new book called ‘Isaiah for Airheads’. The article – Don’t Just “Get Through” Isaiah, Get Something from It – is the first of a two-part guide to the inner workings of the book of Isaiah. (Hat Tip to Neldon Oborn!)
Filed under: Gospel Doctrine | Tagged: Book of Mormon, Christianity, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gospel Doctrine, LDS, Mormon, Religion
