Elder Christofferson’s discourse gives us two lists that can be used to ponder and move our lives in the direction of Eternal Life. The first list is the one that the world tells us to use and believe, while the second list is the one that Christ presented for our happiness and progress in this life and the next. I paraphrase this first list, Korihor’s list as follows:
- There can be no atonement made for the sins of men.
- Every man fares in this life according to the management of the creature.
- Every man prospers according to his genius.
- Every man conquers according to his strength.
- Whatsoever a man does is no crime.
- No need for repentance of our sins.
As the world and most churches preach versions of this list, it is our blessing to understand this second list and adhere to it:
- The invitation to repent is an expression of love.
- Repentance means striving to change.
- Repentance means not only abandoning sin but also committing to obedience.
- Repentance requires a seriousness of purpose and a willingness to persevere, even through pain.
- Whatever the cost of repentance, it is swallowed up in the joy of forgiveness.
I am thankful for this summary which was so well presented in the Book of Mormon in the Stories of Nehor and Korihor for our benefit. I for one, struggle with the fact that those people we get to know and love, often have bought in to the philosophies that lead to the “easy life” without the need for our own participation in the quest for divine acceptance.
Thank You Elder Christofferson.
Can you find ways to teach this principle to the youth of our families?
1 comment:
I thought his comments were very insightful about how.."we live in a time where values, standards, truth are all irrrelevant - giving us license to do anything." But that, ..."repentance throws cold water on the party." Also he said that, "Smiles show repentance is a cause for true celebration."
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