Lesson 13: The Allegory of the Olive Trees, Jacob 5-7
Jacob presents Zenos’ allegory of the olive trees specifically to answer a question he posed:
“And now, my beloved, how is it possible that these, after having rejected the sure foundation, can ever build upon it, that it may become the head of their corner?” (Jacob 4:17).
The allegory of the olive tree is about us and how we can participate in the glorious unfolding of the Lord’s plan for the redemption of Israel and all those of the Gentiles who, through faith and obedience, confess His hand and are adopted into the fold. The allegory is a symbolic history of the Lord’s dealings with His sons and daughters of the Second Estate—this mortal probationary phase of existence that gives us the opportunity to magnify our place in the covenant circle.
Brother Ralph E. Swiss wrote an excellent commentary on Zenos’ allegory in the August 1988 Ensign. Here is the link if you are interested: “The Tame and Wild Olive Trees—An Allegory of Our Savior’s Love” .
- Here is this week’s handout: Book of Mormon Lesson 13 .
pax vobiscum
