Who Shall Be His Seed?

This week's New Testament lesson asks the question, "What does it mean to 'become the sons of God'?" (John 1:12).  To help us think about this principle, we'll be pondering Mosiah 15:10-11 which answers the question, "who shall be his seed?"

Notice the chiastic patterns in both John and Mosiah.

Mosiah 15:10-11

And who shall be his seed?  Behold I say unto you, that whosoever has…
 - heard the words of the prophets…
 - hearkened unto their words, and
 - believed that the Lord would redeem his people, and…
 - looked forward to that day for a remission of their sins….
I say unto you, that these are his seed, or they are the heirs of the kingdom of God.

John 1:12

But as many as received him,
 - to them gave he power to become the sons of God,
even to them that believe on his name….

No Contention Because of the Love of God

In preparation for next week's lesson, I reviewed Luke 2 today and was reminded that the Savior is the true source of peace, so this week I'll be pondering this verse from 4 Nephi.  Given all the contention in the world, I think we need more of the love of God.

And it came to pass that there was no contention in the land, because of the love of God which did dwell in the hearts of the people.  (4 Nephi 1:15)

His Promises Are Sure

For our weekly ponderize scriptures this year, I plan to identify a concept from the upcoming New Testament (Come, Follow Me) lesson and find a related Book of Mormon scripture to ponder.

Our scripture this week is Mosiah 7:33 which teaches me to trust the Lord and his timing. The promised blessing will come when it's right for us. Elisabeth and Zacharias, both faithful people, were unable to bear children until much later in life when Elisabeth finally gave birth to John the Baptist. He came to the earth in time to prepare the way for the Savior.

But if ye will a turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart, and put your trust in him, and serve him with all diligence of mind, if ye do this, he will, according to his own will and pleasure, deliver you out of bondage.  (Mosiah 7:33)

Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don’t come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come.  (Elder Jeffrey R. Holland)