“after this
manner of language did I persuage my brethren”
-what was
so persuasive –from Laman and Lemuel’s perspective- about these reasons Nephi
offered? The reasons seem to appeal to
their spiritually minded side: why would
they care about preserving the language of their ancestors? Why would they care about securing the
teachings of the holy prophts?
Presumably these things seem like foolishness to them any yet Nephi convinces
them to try one more time. What was the
sway that these spiritual-logical pleadings have on Laman and Lemuel? It may be that the power of persuasion rests
soley on virtue of truth. Truth carries
its own power even to the wicked. Truth
is accompanied by the influence of the Holy Ghost which generates feelings of
faith. It was not the logic or reason of
Nephi’s argument but the intangible influence of the spirit of truth that
generated confidence and a will to action in Laman and Lemuel. Speaking truth is our best, and often our
only, recourse.
"did I persuade my brethren..."
-do we
have to be constantly persuaded to follow the directions of the Lord?
-Why did
Nephi even attempt to persuade his brothers –who obviously did not want to be
part of this –to help him? I think it
boils down to the love that he had for them,… see footnote for 21a. His concern was beyond the physical task at
hand but included the eternal well-being of his brothers. At times we would do well to recognize that
an earthly project is the vehicle by which we are attaining/striving towards
eternal characteristics. This should
lead us to be more patient and committed to helping others achieve success. We would be wise to realize that it is people
and not things, positions or accomplishments that have meaning in this life.
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