We Wuz Ephraim N' Coriantumr N' Shiz

6 months ago
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In this video we discuss some of the pros and adopting the Myth of the British Israelite as a potential lens to inspect and interpret the gospel.

With it comes many benefits such as explaining freemasonry, but like all these thought experiments it comes with potential pitfalls.

The Nephites were frequently absorbed with pride due to their prosperity, the Lamanites were frequently violent. These are unique challenges that both peoples through the help of God were able to overcome through different means at different times. The Righteous Lamanites in the land of Jershon, and the Righteous Nephites at Zarahemla after many miracles were finally able to learn to cooperate, though largely separately, for their mutual benefit. This is the pattern of success taught in The Book of Mormon.

Much has been done and taught to make adopting this lens of interpreting the Restoration uncomfortable, or even feel wrong.

Despite Brigham being a staunch advocate against cruelty against others, and strongly against the doctrine of per-earth neutrality, we are eager to disavow him, because many of his teachings are unpopular. He is simply easier to ignore all together.

But to understand the Restoration we must examine it from all angles and perspectives. The idea of the British Israelite may seem a bit hokey, and the idea of "chosen lineage" a bit awkward or even unfair. But it is certainly a useful tool when it comes to understanding the early saints perspective.

But the better we can recognize the reality of our situation, the better we can improve things for everyone.

It is silly to think that the goodness or the badness of our situations in this life is due to chance or an accident. At the same time, Christ taught that it was silly to think that we should assume the worst if someone was born blind.

All these differences are for a reason, so that the works of God may be made manifest. Just as it is not the work of God to subjugate or persecute one another. It is also not the work of God to deny these differences exist.

Like the workers in the vineyard, people are held to different standards and have different expectations, responsibilities, blessings and weaknesses, during their time here on earth laboring.

But provided we are faithful, we shall all be rewarded in the end. Everyone has always had that opportunity, with or without an Official Declaration 2.

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