An Impossible Task I began a serious study of the Harmony of the Gospels in February 2003, and performed more work in 2007. I have again picked it up in 2019. Harmonizing, or essentially producing a chronological outline of the events in the four Gospels is impossible. McConkie says it well, when he says: And … Continue reading Harmony of the Gospels: Introduction
Mary's beautiful psalm, initially spoken to perhaps a party of one, her cousin Elizabeth, in a quiet house, unnoticed by any media or leaders, teaches us more than we likely appreciate about God's love of and plan for the poor, obscure, humble of his children, particularly women. 46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify … Continue reading Mary the Forgotten
Elder Bruce R. McConkie notes that the symbolism of the sacrifices performed under the Law of Moses were in many ways superior--perhaps meaning more impactful--than the Sacrament we partake of today. In this our day—which we, in our self-conceived conceit, are pleased to designate as an age of enlightenment and intellectual achievement—we look with some … Continue reading Sacrifices and the Sacrament
I have loved this quote from Neal A. Maxwell for years: "In the geometry of restored theology, hope has a greater circumference than faith. If faith increases, the perimeter of hope stretches correspondingly." In considering this recently in the temple in Sao Paulo, Brazil, I had a set of images come to mind that perhaps … Continue reading Faith, Hope and Charity and God’s Will
Nephi built a temple in the promised land. And I, Nephi, did build a temple; and I did construct it after the manner of the temple of Solomon save it were not built of so many precious things; for they were not to be found upon the land, wherefore, it could not be built like … Continue reading Nephite Temples, Latter-day Temples
Gabriel's answer to Zachariah's question is very powerful. His statement gives a sense that who he is should be evidence enough that what he says is true. Those are powerful words, when one lives in such a way to be able to respond with great personal integrity. What a goal. 18 And Zacharias said unto … Continue reading Gabriel and Angels
In reading the first couple of verses of Luke, I considered when it might have been written. That caused me to think about what order the Gospels were likely written in, perhaps giving a some sense for each of their purpose. I believe it was likely: MarkMatthewLukeJohn Here's why: Mark Mark is the shortest of … Continue reading Chronological Order of Writing of the Gospels and Their Audiences
In the following table, I highlight differences between the two lineages given for the Savior. Underlined individuals might be the same person in each line. Matt. 1:2 - 17 Luke 3:23 - 38 (modified to be in reverse order for comparison with Matt.) … Continue reading Savior’s Lineage
The NIV Study Bible entry on the Intertestimental Period helped me formulate the table below. Party Name Sadducees Pharisees Essenes Centered In Temple Synagogue Wilderness Writing Focus Torah Only “Law” Dead Sea Scrolls Power Base Greek Gov’t. Common People Outcasts Mindset Nation/State Diaspora Separate Description Ruling Class, including the High Priest, corruptly dependent on Greek … Continue reading Important Parties and the Intertestamental Period
Based upon the below, I believe the Savior was likely born on December 23, 5 BC. There is certainly not enough evidence to prove this scientifically, but if one is going to go out on a limb, consider going all the way out. December 25th or January 6th Andrew McGowan's article “How December 25 Became … Continue reading Day of the Savior’s Birth: December 23, 5 BC
Kip on Character 