Episode 94: Samuel the Lamanite’s Prophecies of Jesus Christ (Frank Judd Jr.)
Dec 15, 2023
auto_awesome
Frank Judd Jr., Professor discusses Samuel the Lamanite's prophecies of Jesus Christ in the Book of Mormon. They delve into the relevance of these prophecies today and the need for faith in uncertain times. The chapter also explores the purpose of writing in the Book of Mormon, the translation process, and the guest speaker's journey from accounting to religion professor.
Samuel the Lamanite prophesied vital signs of Jesus Christ's birth and death, which were crucial for understanding these events.
The omission of resurrection appearances in Mormon's abridgement suggests the possibility of additional inspired stories in the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible.
Deep dives
The Prophecies of Christ's Birth
Hailing from Seattle, the speaker shares a special Christmas memory where the Grinch stole their Christmas, only to have it returned after they served others. They also recall their Christmas memories related to the Nativity story, including the addition of Samuel the Lamanite's testimony in a Nativity performance. The episode reflects on Samuel's prophecy of the birth of Jesus and the importance of exercising faith in the Savior.
The Prophecies of Christ's Death
Samuel prophesied signs of darkness, destruction, and the resurrection of the dead at the death of Christ. Mormon's abridged record highlights the fulfillment of these prophecies, such as earthquakes, storms, and tangible darkness upon the face of the land. Despite the omission of resurrection appearances in the narrative, the Nephite disciples affirmed the fulfillment of this prophecy when the resurrected Christ appeared to them.
Mormon's Omission and the Joseph Smith Translation
Mormon's omission of the fulfillment of resurrection appearances in his abridgement raises the possibility that some content in the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible provides additional inspired stories and teachings from past dispensations. The account demonstrates the importance of being selective in recording and choosing material, while recognizing the supplemented nature of the JST.
Advice on Finding Answers and Maintaining Faith
To strengthen testimony and knowledge, seek out good sources of information that present accurate and balanced perspectives. Avoid content that pollutes with false philosophies and criticism. The value of small and consistent efforts, such as daily prayer, scripture study, attending church meetings, partaking in the sacrament, temple attendance, and treating others with love and compassion, is emphasized. Living a life rooted in faith in the Savior brings happiness and endurance through trials and challenges.
As the only named Lamanite called to prophesy unto the Nephites, Samuel serves as a memorable figure in the Book of Mormon. Not only did he risk his life to preach repentance unto the Nephites from the wall of Zarahemla, but he also detailed vital signs of the birth and death of Jesus Christ. In this episode, Dr. Frank Judd Jr. discusses his chapter “Samuel the Lamanite and Prophecies Fulfilled,” from the Book of Mormon Academy volume Samuel the Lamanite—That Ye Might Believe. Professor Judd discusses Samuel’s prophecies of the Savior and a possible connection with the Joseph Smith Translation. These signs were so crucial to our understanding of these events that the resurrected Lord commanded Nephi to include all of them in the record (see 3 Nephi 23:9—13). In studying these words, we “might have glad tidings” (Helaman 13:7) unto our souls much like Samuel intended.