Jacob 1

Jacob 1

Jacob 1: 1-7

small plates................................................................indicative of 2 sets of records being kept
most precious..............................................................the smaller set of records for spiritual messages
larger, secular..................................................................a more secular history of the people, lengthier
Christ's sake.............................................................keep in mind the purpose of the spiritual
come unto Christ.......................................................active spiritual ministry.  Works for God

There is a need for both a careful secular history and a primarily religious and spiritual record.  The small plates have as a purpose the welfare of the people in accepting and working in faith.

Jacob 1: 8-19

anointed...................................................................Nephi's people have a duly installed king
his name................................................................a great fondness for Nephi that becomes legacy
leaders name after him................................................1st Nephi, 2nd, etc
tribal .........................................................................7 major groups come after him
Nephi and Laman......................................................the 7 break into 2 political divisions
hard in hearts....................................................a lessening of faith.  Nephites begin to reject
sin of David..................................................................these people have sexual sins
search for gold and silver..............................................became very materialistic.  Ownership
taught in temple.......................................................Jacob teaches from the temple
consecrated..........................................................Jacob sets up the leadership of the Church
magnify office.................................................the servants of God are diligent in service

Jacob is the prophet.  He sets up the Church firmly, insisting that the gospel of Christ is taught, and he reminds men to follow the gospel.

This chapter quickly moves through Nephi's latter years to the illustrate how with time, the level of faith within the community lessens.  Part of this occurs simultaneously with the establishment of a government with a monarch at the head.  He speaks of the sins of David, especially of plural marriage and of the concubines held by the new kings.  He diligently establishes a strong religious organization and teaches the leaders to be teachers and to counteract the growing wickedness.