1 Nephi 20

1 Nephi 20

1 Nephi 20: 1-6

Isaiah Chapter 48

waters of Judah...............................................early reference to baptism in Old Testament?
swear not in truth...........................................People are members of the religion in name only, break promises
of the Holy City...............................................claim to belong to the Kingdom of God
Lord of Hosts....................................................In a kingdom, the people follow the king
thou art obstinate.............................................a difficult people to motivate and to lead
I showed them thee.....................................a teacher of the gospel
Mine idol...........................................................mocks the belief systems that are not based on divine leadership
Heard and declare...................................................those who hear the gospel should teach it to others

Isaiah addresses the people, explaining how he attempting to motivate the people and how he would have them follow the Lord instead of other ways that distract from righteousness

1Nephi 20: 7-11

idols do not create...............................................an idol of any kind is inadequate for leadership and guidance
knew of treachery...............................................the prophet even understands the nature of the luke-warm follower
cut thee not off....................................................patiently works with the people, even when in violation
furnace of affliction..............................................removal of the spirit leaves the person in trouble
 .......................................................the affliction could be a trial and test.
name not polluted............................................the Lord will teach.  The message is sacred.

There is a grave danger of replacing God with some distraction.  These other ways provide not guidance or help in the troubles of life.

1 Nephi 20: 12-18

Israel my called...............................................the Lord begins his message to those who have listened
Mine hand.......................................................the Lord is the Creator of the earth, complete authority
he sends the message.....................................the Lord decrees sovereignty over all nations.
called him to declare..........................................pertains to all who speak in his name.  Especially Christ
not in secret.................................................nothing new in this message
I sent him..................................................the servant of God is on a mission from God.  Listen.
peace as a river...........................................the promise of internal peace.  God strengthens the man

The authority of Christ and the prophets is to act as direct messengers from God.  He sends and he teaches. If we listen, he will give us peace.

1 Nephi 20: 19-22

seed as the sand...........................................we have another challenge.  Raising children in the way.
go forth of.....................................................a message to keep a distance from the religions of others
Lord has redeemed his servant...............................the favor of God goes to the servants who listen to him
waters.............................................................the live of the gospel goes out to the true children
no peace for the wicked....................................those who do not receive the Spirit do not have internal peace

The Lord promises help in raising children.  He also warns about distractions.

1 Nephi 20

This resubmission of Isaiah lets us today know that we operate under the same principles.  We are to follow the Lord in life, receive his guidance, and enjoy his peace.