Jacob 7: Standing Strong When Others Challenge My Faith

In Jacob Chapter 7, we meet the first of three anti-Christs in the Book of Mormon. The other two are Nehor (Alma 1) and Korihor (Alma 30). Sherem is typical of many who oppose the Church today. He is well educated as far as the world is concerned, full of pride, and very skilled in speaking. He speaks with much flattery, saying what the people want to hear. He speaks intentionally and diligently to try to destroy their faith in Christ.

Jacob 5-7: The Lord Labors with Us

Jacob’s allegory of the olive tree comes from the writings of Zenos, a prophet not found in the Bible. As modern readers, we may not understand the background of olive trees. For centuries, the olive tree has been a symbol of peace. For example, a dove returned to Noah’s ark with an olive leaf in its mouth, signifying that God is at peace with the earth. Greece and Rome used an olive branch as a symbol of peace and victory. Today, the seal of the United States depicts an American Eagle grasping an olive branch in its talons. Jesus Christ, the one true source of peace, is the Prince of Peace. His peace comes through obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.

The Power of Records to Bless Others

Reading the books of Jarom and Omni has given me a greater understanding that the Book of Mormon is a record of a family and their spiritual journey throughout the centuries. Writing down our spiritual journeys may have the same effect on future generations that Alma’s conversion or Enos’s experience with prayer had on us when we read them in the Book of Mormon for the first time.

Prayers Change Us and Our Families

When my family sees me pray, I know they are influenced for good. Although the effects may not be immediately apparent, I have faith that my example impacts them. I pray for my children morning and night, even though they are grown and most live far away. I think of Jacob, Enos's father, who likely set an example of prayer for his son. I imagine Jacob might have been praying for Enos even as Enos prayed for his own soul. Through Enos’s example, we learn that our prayers profoundly affect our lives and the lives of others.

2 Nephi 31-33 – “This is the Way”

Nephi teaches, “this is the way, and there is no other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God” (2 Nephi 31:21). The way is clear; following Jesus Christ’s doctrine is the only way to eternal life.