The Interrelationship of Temporal (National) and Spiritual (Individual) Parallels

Spiritual parallels are one more means by which the Lord points individuals toward salvation and illuminates the path that leads there. The spiritual progression of His children is a most basic element of the Father's eternal plan. Should we be surprised, then, to see God's loving arm manifest in shaping the events of nations so that they model that progression? Isaiah wrote, "O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand." (Isa. 64:8.) If God can influence the life of an individual without infringing his agency, couldn't He also mold the events of nations without encroaching on agency even one iota? In the past, our unchanging God has utilized "many signs, and wonders, and types, and shadows...," all of which were designed to "show unto" the people "concerning his coming." (Mosiah 3:15.) The patterns established by the Lehite and Israelite nations, as they point to Christ's coming are indeed valuable models for the individual as he too seeks the face of God. Civilizations guided by the hand of God don't parallel one another because history haphazardly repeats itself; they parallel one another because they follow a pattern of progression that is eternal -- a pattern which is equally pertinent to individuals. "Wherefore," the Lord said, "all things unto me are spiritual...." (D&C 29:34.) The temporal parallels, therefore, take on added significance because of the spiritual patterns they portray.

Preview Conclusion

Therefore, hidden -- like unto parables -- in Book of Mormon history are significant parallels for individuals as well as nations. On the temporal (national) level, the Book of Mormon reflects important elements of the progression of the house of Israel from beginning to end. On a spiritual (individual) level, Book of Mormon history personifies the principles of individual progression from beginning to end. The temporal parallels focus on the formation of a Zion society, which will become a glorious reality during the Millennium. Spiritual applications direct us toward being sealed unto eternal life. Book of Mormon history not only points nations and individuals to Christ in the ultimate sense but charts the course that leads to that transcendent goal.

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