The Onion of Faith
Posted by Michelle on September 5th, 2006
I know. That’s a weird title, but I’ve always loved using an onion as an image when talking about the gospel. One of the reasons I love the gospel so much is because there are layers and layers of things to learn - layers of meaning that the Spirit can unfold as we are ready and as we study and ponder.
I was reading about faith the other night in my scriptures and was reminded of an insightful BYU religion teacher (Todd Parker) who pointed out something that I think is significant. You might want to go get your scriptures for this one. (Then again, you may be more astute than I am, and already be aware of what Brother Parker brought to my attention.)
Turn to Ether 12. First of all, I was struck as I read verse 4 this time around. I have always loved that scripture, but look at what faith can lead to: an assurance (”surety”) of being at the right hand of God in the next life! I think I usually limit myself to a faith and hope that are sufficient perhaps to get me through each day, each trial. Is my faith something that produces a hope that equals an assurance of salvation (I would assume exaltation)? (See also Moroni 7:41.)
Now look at the following verses: Ether 12: 7, 8, 12, 19, 20, 21, 31, 39. Do you see the pattern? What was the result of faith as described in these verses? (Note also Moroni’s invitation in verse 41. And, channeling something I heard at Education Week, read Doctrine and Covenants 93:1 as well.) Clearly, Ether 12 is about faith as a general principle, but it also appears to be about something more. Food for thought to be sure, no?
Onions have layers, the gospel has layers and Ogres have layers
Comment # 1 left by Shrek on September 5th, 2006
Thank you Shrek.
Michelle, thanks for pointing that out, you know, after our symposium and your follow-up posts I have been more and more amazed at the profound doctrines of the book of Ether. I don’t know that I would say it is an underrated book because it certainly has it’s time in the limelight. Nevertheless it never fails to surprise me with it’s many facets… or layers
Comment # 2 left by Ryan on September 5th, 2006
Shrek: funny. I actually really liked that line because of what I wrote in the first paragraph.
Ryan,
This connection to your symposium was purely by accident. I had not intended to write on anything more from Ether, but couldn’t resist because I was so struck by it all.
Makes me wonder what else I’m missing in the scriptures, ya know?
Comment # 3 left by Michelle on September 5th, 2006
Great thoughts!
The wording of Moroni’s invitation (in context) is awesome. Thanks for pointing it out.
Comment # 4 left by Wade on September 5th, 2006
Great work here. I agree that it brings focus on Moroni’s invitation, and one word in particular: “…seek this Jesus…”
Comment # 5 left by BrianJ on September 5th, 2006
It seems to me we were eventually all intended to see the Lord when our faith is strong enough.
I also like the phase - Fools mock, but they shall morn - in reference to those who belittle the writing of the prophets.
Comment # 6 left by Eric Nielson on September 6th, 2006
Wade, Brian, Eric…thanks for your comments.
Seek this Jesus…the one so many have already sought and seen!
Eric, I also like that phrase.
Comment # 7 left by Michelle on September 6th, 2006