Episode 20 - Alma 13-16, Esperanza Dotto and Barbara Morgan Gardner
Jun 20, 2024
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Esperanza Dotto is a passionate contributor to discussions on gospel principles, while Barbara Morgan Gardner explores faith from the perspective of covenant women. They delve into profound themes like being foreordained to lead and the importance of entering into divine rest. The conversation highlights personal identity tied to priesthood roles and the strength found in community support during trials. They also examine the courage required for women to embrace leadership and how covenant relationships deepen faith and resilience.
The concept of foreordination establishes that individuals are divinely chosen for specific roles, emphasizing their unique contributions to God's work.
Entering into the Lord's rest involves obtaining divine knowledge and glory through sacred covenants, highlighting the equal roles of men and women in spiritual journeys.
Deep dives
Understanding Foreordination and Leadership
The concept of foreordination is central to understanding individual leadership within the divine plan. It emphasizes that each person is chosen for specific roles and purposes in God’s work, as highlighted in the narratives of Alma and Amulek. For example, the discussion reflects on how leaders like Alma embody attributes such as bravery and integrity developed in the pre-mortal existence. This understanding helps individuals recognize their divine potential and the importance of their contributions to the community and church.
The Significance of Entering Into His Rest
Entering into the Lord’s rest entails more than merely achieving a state of peace; it involves obtaining divine knowledge and the fullness of God’s glory through sacred covenants. The teachings in Alma correlate with scriptural references from the Doctrine and Covenants about the ordinances driven from the temple gathered at God’s ultimate design for both men and women. Close examination reveals the aspiration to achieve exaltation with God through participation in priesthood ordinances. This underscores the importance of both men and women embarking on this spiritual journey together, recognizing their equal roles in seeking divine companionship.
The Role of Covenant Leadership Amidst Suffering
Covenant leadership requires enduring suffering and being aligned with God's will, as illustrated through the stark experiences of Alma and Amulek. They do not intervene in the suffering of the women and children being harmed but instead trust in God's overarching plan. This point reveals a profound aspect of faith—acknowledging that sometimes the will of the Lord involves hardship for a greater purpose, leading to eventual justice and glory. By holding steadfast in their faith during troubling times, these leaders exemplify the strength required to represent Christ and guide others even through the worst of circumstances.
Finding Strength Through Personal Faith and Community Support
The narrative acknowledges the essential need for mutual support among believers, particularly during trials, as seen in the bond between Alma and Amulek. Their partnership serves as a model of how leaders can uplift one another while navigating challenges. The discussions recognize that individual experiences of pain and sacrifice contribute to a stronger collective faith. Ultimately, the call is for all members to hold fast to their faith, encouraging one another in their spiritual paths despite external adversities or doubts.
Welcome to Grounded, where women of various backgrounds, cultures, and ages gather together to study the doctrines and principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, through the lens of covenant women. Join us as we discuss: Being Foreordained to Lead, Entering into His Rest, & Staying the Lord's Hand.
SHOW NOTES/TRANSCRIPTS: Coming soon...
Grounded Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundedpodcast_/ Grounded Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGroundedPodcast?mibextid=LQQJ4d Barbara Morgan Gardner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbarbaramorgangardner/?hl=en Barbara Morgan Gardner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barbara.morgan.37051/
(00:00) Introduction (02:10) Being Foreordained to Lead (19:07) Entering into His Rest (31:48) Staying the Lord's Hand (41:28) How has the Book of Mormon Changed your Life?