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Appeal to Heaven

Appeal to Heaven

Dutch Sheets shares a remarkable talk that calls America back to God’s original purpose, an “Appeal to Heaven.” I highly encourage all to listen to it at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dUC93AFvrE  Let us appeal to heaven for redemption, that America again is proclaimed as a Christian nation. Let us pray that the five giants are taken out, that God’s covenants for America are accomplished. Let us display an Appeal to Heaven flag, you can buy one at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JU24K22/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

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OT Types & Shadows

IV Genesis 27 we find the story of Jacob obtaining the birthright blessing—by putting a goat kid skin on his arms and neck to trick his father Isaac into thinking that he was Esau. This represents Ephraim receiving the blessing of bringing forth the Kingdom, instead of Judah. Although, Jacob tricked Isaac to give him the blessing, Esau had already sold his right to Jacob for a bowl of pottage when he hungered (Genesis 25:31-34).

Later, Jacob gave Judah the leadership blessing for Israel, but Judah preferred his own ruler-ship over that of Yeshua, the Messiah, and killed Jesus on the cross. Therefore, as did Esau, Judah forsook their birthright to lead in bringing forth the Kingdom of God. Instead, it was given to his brother Ephraim, leader of the Northern Kingdom Israel. Although Ephraim stumbles in sin at times, as did Jacob, he will yet, through much travail, bring forth the literal Kingdom of God and gather God’s covenant people Israel. God knew what Judah’s choice would be. Thus, in IV Gen 48:11 in Joseph’s blessing it says, “For thou shalt be a light unto my people, to deliver them in the days of their captivity, from bondage; and to bring salvation unto them, when they are altogether bowed down under sin.” This will be fulfilled when Ephraim and Manasseh bring Israel out of Babylon, or the world, building up of Zion, on Joseph’s land in America.

IV Genesis 38 we read the story of Judah’s three sons and Tamar his daughter-in-law. This is a type of the tribe of Judah and their relationship with Messiah, Christ the Lord. According to Hebrew way, a wife must bring forth fruit. This is a type of Jesus’ bride must bring forth fruit meet for the Father’s Kingdom (Mt 3:35, Mk 4:17, Lk 8:15, Jn 15:16, Rm 7:4-5). So when a Hebrew husband died, his barren wife had the right of seed from his brother that she might, yet, bring forth a child.

Er, the first born of Judah, is slain because of his wickedness. This represents Judah being sent into Babylonian captivity for seventy years, because of their wickedness. Then Onan refuses to lie with Tamar when he is given her to wife, because he does not want to bring forth seed to his brother and then have to divide his inheritance with her son. Therefore, the Lord slew him. This represents Judah not accepting Jesus as the Messiah, wanting instead their own ruler-ship. In 70 AD, the Romans slew many of the Jews and destroyed their temple, where YHWH dwelt with them. Finally, Tamar obeyed and waited for Shelah to grow up to give her seed, as requested by Judah, but then she was not given to him as a wife. This represents the Jews not coming to the Church to give her seed.

Finally, Tamar takes things into her own hands and plays the harlot to raise-up fruit unto her salvation, by lying with Judah, albeit, by trickery. This represents the Church bringing forth the Kingdom with the authority granted her from  the Spiritual Father Jesus Christ, going around the lineage of Judah, who lost their opportunity for eternity to bring forth the physical Kingdom of God to earth.

Another type is seen in Jacob’s fruit from Rachel, his preferred wife. She bore him two sons–Joseph and Benjamin.  On Saturday, March 10, 2007 around 12:00 pm, I asked the Lord exactly when was His second visitation and why the tribe of Benjamin was left handed.  Here is His response:

“My daughter I will visit my people when I redeem Zion, those who know me will see me in the flesh, just as my children in Zarahemla did.  I will then endow my servants to go forth in my name, that my children Israel may be gathered.  It will be sometime after that my temple is built, and I come to dwell there in Spirit, until my final coming in judgment and glory.

 You have also asked about Benjamin and why they are left handed.  This is a type and shadow of the final two outcomes of my children.  For Jacob and Rachel are a type and shadow of me and my bride.  My children will eventually be judged to go to the right, eternal life with me and my Father, or to the left, eternal damnation with him who they chose to serve.  This is not to say that the house of Benjamin will be judged to go to the left.  It is simply a type and shadow of the outcome of the union with my bride.

  Know that I will always answer your questions, if you seek me diligently.  Thus saith your Lord God and King, even Jesus Christ, the beginning and the end.  Amen.”

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The Name “Israel”

Saturday, March 10, 2007 around 2:00 pm, as I worked on a paper, I felt the Lord urge me to look into the meaning of the word ‘Israel’.  In my reading, I came to understand that Israel was a people who had the testimony of the one, true God, and a heritage and record of their experience with Him.  I asked if there was more, and the Lord gave me the following words:

“I gave my bride the name Israel, for this is the spiritual similitude of my relationship that I have with my Father.  For we are of one heart and mind, and my bride will be of one heart and mind with me, when I present her to my Father. 

The name is important for it is a promise of this relationship that I am calling my people into. For as they respond to the leadings of my Spirit and take upon themselves my name in word, thought, and deed, they will come to be fully my bride, Israel.  This name is held sacred in the mansions of my Father, for the spiritual meaning it entails; and, all, who come unto me through the waters of baptism, must be adopted into the house of Israel. 

Know that this vision of a walk with me has been kept alive throughout the generations, since it was first given to my son, Jacob, because of the holy seed of promise that it instills in my children.  I ask that you make this understanding known to my sons, that they might teach my children of the sacredness of this hope that is encompassed in the name Israel. 

Thus saith your Lord God and King, even Jesus Christ, the Bridegroom of my people Israel.  Amen.”

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To America

My daughter, I asked that you receive my words that you might better understand the things that will soon be in your nation [America]. For I am not well pleased with many, who are seeking to tear down the things that many have given their life to obtain. For this reason, I must destroy their bastions of power and give this country back to my people.

Know that all that comes is unto this purpose. For I have heard my people’s prayers and there are many who are crying out that I return America unto her Christian roots. So know, my daughter, that destruction will come upon your cities and your nation that I might turn a people’s hearts back to me and might remove those who seek to serve the enemy and not the people.

I tell you that many will have great anger towards their leaders, as they seek to take over this government. For my people will not give up the freedom and will turn against these leaders. As all these things happen, the comforts you know will cease, but I will bring a remnant through, and I will turn the government back to them.

So let not your heart doubt these things and know that it is my hand that is bringing a people back to me.

(Received May 15, 2019)

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Jim Crawford’s Message from the Lord

Elder Jim Crawford shared the following message recently at several small mid-west branches, where he was invited to speak. Jim told me about receiving this late March or early April 2019. His sermon was recorded at Keosauqua, Iowa and the words below were transcribed from this. After Jim sat down Elder Dave Drummond confirmed that this message was from the Lord.

7 April 2019 ~ Keosauqua, Iowa

Thus saith the Lord God Almighty, the Holy One of Israel, the Great I Am, the Only Begotten. I sent my servant Samuel the Lamanite to the Nephites, to share what would happen upon this land when I was born, and when I died upon the cross. And, when I died upon the cross, this land was [a] torrent, the ruff places were made smooth, smooth places were made ruff, there were mountains where there were valleys, and valleys where there were mountains, and cities were sunken into the water.

I sent my servant James this morning to tell you what will happen within the next two years. Because, as when I died upon the cross there was great destruction, there will be great destruction upon this land within the next two years. There will be a volcano rise up in Nevada. The San Andreas fault and the New Madrid fault will cause a great destruction. There will be many mountains where there are valleys. There will be valleys where there are mountains. When our enemies across the seas see what has happen to this land, they will come across, and they will attack, and they will kill men, women and children with no remorse.

I share this with you this morning that my people might know what to do to prepare for this. And what you have just done this morning is part of that preparation (sacrament). For not only do you remember that which I have done, and that which I have said, the covenants that you make, that you repent of the things that are happening in your life; that you can take upon you the name of Jesus Christ; that you serve him and him only, and not Babylon, and not the things that pull you away from doing my will; that you serve me with all your heart, might, mind, and strength. You need to learn to do that now, you need to learn to depend on me. For when the destruction comes there will be less time to do it. I would gather my people in, but only those who are willing to serve. Follow after me. Do my will. Repent of your sins and glorify me in everything you do.

Amen

I want to share this also with you, because I know all of you are not members of the church. I feel led by the spirit to say, if you haven’t come to someone in authority and made a covenant in baptism in the communion of laying on of hands to receive the Holy Ghost, you need to search that out and do so. Time is short and the problems will be great. I will protect my people, who are willing to serve me. I will be here.

I know many of you have testimonies of God leading you in directions, and you need to grab hold of those testimonies and you need to remember that God does lead you, and not depend on any man, or any person to direct your ways, but depend only on your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For he loves each one here, but he will respond in accordance with how you respond and depend on him. Lift up your hearts to him, be guided and directed in all things. Be willing to do whatever the Lord would have you do. Don’t even question, but trust in faith, doubting nothing. If you want to know any question, remember what is written in James 1.5-7, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God who giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering, for he that wavereth is as a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think he shall receive anything of the Lord.”

Serve God.
Jim Crawford

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Counsel to Restoration Saints (Received 9/15/2018)

To My People Who Call Themselves by My Name:

I speak that you might know that I am pleased with your renewed desire and effort to draw close to me. For I hear even the smallest desire of the heart, and I know your longing, for the things that I have promised, concerning my Restoration. Yet, for these things to be, more is required.

Have I not said that you are not mine, if you are not one? Have I not told you to let your heart prefer your brother as yourself? Yet many among you cling to your own views and seek not sufficiently me that I might make my will known to you.

I tell you that the day soon cometh when I will move forward my work, but it will be with those, who do heed these things, who are willing to set aside their own desires, such, that they will know my will in fullness, nothing doubting. And, in that day, my children will go forth in great power of my Spirit, unto the convincing of many of the truths that you bring them.

Oh, my children of the Restoration, how I would gather you, as a hen gathers her chickens, but you will not. I say this through one, who is known to me, who is willing to speak, even though others with priesthood authority, who I desire to use, are unwilling to speak this truth.

So know that I am able to accomplish my own work, and, soon, you will see me move forward, but it will not be in ways you expect. And, for this reason and the other reasons I state herein, many will miss their opportunity for greater service.

Know that my heart longs to use you, but I will only use those, who humble themselves and allow me sufficient place that those, to whom they minister, see me more than themself. So consider carefully my words, for I do not give them lightly, and, all I give will be held to my children’s accountability.

Thus saith the One you seek, and many are seeking me in greater measure. Yet, I cannot give you what you desire, because I only do what my Father is doing, and I require those, who call themselves by my name, to do likewise.

Hear me; let not this pass from you. For great is this opportunity before you and great will be the remorse of those who miss it.

Even So, Amen.

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Knowing the Father ~ Fulfillment of the Marriage Covenant

Why did Jesus come to earth? After Adam fell, men were separated from God. Great is the love of God for his children and great is his desire to again dwell with them. The only way to recover mankind from death was for Jesus to bring them into holy marriage covenant and offer himself for their transgressions. As the groom, he alone knows what is required for his bride to dwell in the presence of a perfect God. He, therefore, modeled the way for his children to mature, such, that they could again abide the Father’s presence. The purpose of this work is to consider what it means to come to know the Father.

The Covenant
The words New Testament in Hebrew are B’rit Hadashah, where b’rit means covenant and hadashah means a cycle of restoration or renewal of the relationship. This was first spoken of by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 31:31-34) where b’rit hadashah is translated as new covenant. It would be more accurate to say renewed covenant or, even better, renewed relationship.

Renewing a relationship requires a commitment, an understanding of the commitment, and a consistent adherence to the tenants of the agreement, or in other words a covenant. This is key in how the Lord is accomplishing his work. Thus, Yehoshua—the Hebrew equivalent for the Greek Jesus which is often shortened to Yeshua—is still seeking a bride, a body of people with whom he can live in full agreement.

Why is a Renewed Relationship Needed?
The Lord made with Israel, as a collective people (corporate body), a covenant at the base of Mt Sinai (Exodus 24:8). This is referred to as the old covenant. Israel broke this covenant (Jeremiah 11:10), which brought about their destruction, and the broken relationship led to the death of Jesus, because they did not know him. At his death, the covenant was no more (Zechariah 11:10). Therefore, Yehoshua is renewing the relationship via the new covenant.

At first, this is an individual covenant, established via authoritative priesthood, witnessed in the waters of baptism (Mosiah 9:49-50, 11:96; Acts 2:47, 16:5). However, God’s original intent to have a corporate covenant has not changed. Israel’s covenant began to break down when they broke into two kingdoms (Israel and Judah). Ultimately, Jesus will again have a corporate covenant (Galatians 3:20; Hebrews 8:8; D&C 104:9b) with both Israel and Judah (3 Nephi 9:5785), as well as all others who are adopted into the covenant (Romans 8:15, 9:4; Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:5) in order to have one family relationship.

The ancient Hebrew espousal process, where four cups of wine are drunk to signify full agreement to the marriage covenant, provides insight. Since we are to be the bride of Christ, does it not follow that Jesus and his Father are bringing us into full agreement with the marriage and all it entails? These four cups represent four levels of covenant relationship—servant-hood, friendship, son-ship, and bride. When we first accept Christ as our Savior, we enter into a blood covenant relationship as his servant. For most people it takes a while to achieve consistent obedience to his laws, but once this happens, we enter into a friendship relationship, where Yehoshua shares more. As time passes, if we lay down self and continue to grow spiritually – meaning we achieve greater intimacy and understanding – we enter a son-ship relationship. In this we are trusted with Jesus’ authority to do the things that he himself would do in the earth. Eventually, there will be a body of people, well prepared through great sacrifice, who are equally yoked with Christ as his bride.

Scriptures that reflect this pattern of four are the explanation of the glories (D&C 76), the parable of the sower (Matthew 13; Mark 4; Luke 8) and the parable of the marriage supper (Matthew 22). In these, we see people in four groups, where some end up with greater reward (or glory) than others. Thus, to be part of the bride we must continue to come unto Jesus, submitting ourselves fully, if we want to receive his fullness, which is a place with him and his Father for eternity. Only the bride, those in celestial glory, will dwell with the Father.

Enacting the Covenant
The key to the bridal relationship—meaning a fully prepared body that consists of fully prepared individuals—is a relationship not only with Yehoshua, but also with the Father. Adequate preparation requires that each individual must progress through the four levels of espousal relationship. The corporate body must also progress through the four levels of relationship. It is much more challenging to live as one with many people, as compared to living as one with one person, yet, this is what will be, once Zion is fully established. Additionally, in order for Zion to be redeemed, there must be individuals who are functioning in the Spirit of the Father – well prepared for the Lord to use them to accomplish this great work of redemption.

Zion requires a people to live according to the celestial law. These are they who can abide the presence of the Father (D&C 76:7i, 85:2a, 4c). Only those who can abide the celestial law can abide his presence. We know that the work of the Father began when the Book of Mormon came forth (3 Nephi 9:88-93) and the church authority was restored, enabling the corporate new covenant. But, the establishment of Zion is what enacts the corporate new covenant, and it will only be accomplished by the intervention of God, according to Elder Alfred White’s experience: “The time was when my people might have redeemed Zion, if they had kept my counsel, but now it has passed out of their power. I will redeem Zion in its time.” See also D&C 100:3de, Psalms 87:5 and 24:3-10.

A key tenant of the restored gospel vision is the coming to corporate new covenant through Zion beyond an individual new covenant through baptism. Thus, more is required than an individual relationship with Jesus. In order to be part of Zion, we must first ask if we know the difference between the presence of Jesus and the presence of the Father? If we do not, how can we be a part of the redemption of Zion, Jesus’ bride? Where does the Spirit fit into this? Is the Spirit a separate thing from the presence of Jesus or the presence of the Father?

Let us look at scripture to help with these questions. We know that all things are accomplished by the Spirit (Zechariah 4:6) and we gain the Spirit through prayer (D&C 63:16a). The Spirit bears witness of all truth (John 16:13, D&C 50:4c). We are sanctified by the Spirit (Alma 3:95; D&C 83:6c), the washing of water by the word (Ephesians 5:26) or the blood of Christ (Genesis 6:63; Hebrews 10:29). Since there must be two witnesses of a thing (Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:15), the Spirit and Jesus bear witness of the Father (Genesis 4:9, D&C 36:1l, John 8:42, John 14:9) and the Father and the Spirit bear witness of Jesus (John 8:18; Genesis 4:9; D&C 1:8c, 36:1l). Therefore, the Spirit must be a separate being (D&C 131:4a). Other passages that verify this say that Jesus is unto all men (1 Timothy 2:4) and the Spirit is sent to bring men to receive him (1 John 5:6). Yet, the only way to know the Father is through the individual new covenant, with Jesus Christ as the mediator (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:4-5; Hebrews 12:24; D&C 104:9b). The reason the new covenant is better than the old covenant is because the individual relationship enables each one to know the Father, to become one with him, and become one with all others under covenant, because of the abiding presence of love from the Father.

In other words, it is the Spirit that brings men to receive Jesus and enter into the blood covenant of servanthood. It is obedience to Jesus that brings men into a covenant of friendship with him. It is coming to know the Father that enables a sonship covenant of greater service. Moreover, it is full sacrifice (yielding) of self that brings about the bridal covenant. The Lord will provide an opportunity for each individual to lay down that which is most important to them, and by this, is the full sacrifice confirmed and a testimony of love offered.

To Know the Father
Still, is there a difference between having a personal relationship with Jesus versus the Father? The answer is yes. When Yehoshua died the veil to the holy of holies rent and any man individually could then come into the presence of the Father. Before then, only the sanctified high priest could seek his presence on behalf of Israel as a corporate body. This was primarily done yearly, on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement). Thus, it is Jesus, the mediator of the new covenant, which enables access to the Heavenly Father.

From scripture we know there is a difference between the spirit of the Father and spirit of Jesus. Recall that Jesus, soon after his resurrection, breathed on his disciples and told them to receive the Holy Ghost (John 20:22), which had been promised (John 7:39; Acts 2:33). He also told them to tarry fifty days to receive the promise of the Father (Acts 1:4). The number fifty is the first number after seven sevens are completed. The number seven according to biblical numerology represents spiritual completeness. Thus, seven sevens equals complete completeness. It puts a stamp of importance on how complete it must be. Thus, Israel had to press forward for fifty days from when they exited Egypt until they at last met the Father on Mt. Sinai. This timeframe of fifty was likewise required of Jesus’ disciples when they had to wait fifty days to receive the promise of the Father at Penetcost. The lesson is that complete spiritual preparation must be accomplished to receive the presence of the Father.

The reason for seven periods of seven is because we must come to know God in his fullness, even the seven Spirits of God (KJV Revelation 3:1, 4:5, 5:6). Yehoshua had the seven spirits: “And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord” (Isaiah 11:2). If we are to be part of the bride and able to abide the full presence of the Father, we, too, must acquire the seven Spirits of God both individually and corporately.

The Father is a burning fire (Ezekiel 28:14, Hebrews 12:29). There are several verses that say those who will receive Jesus, and be baptized, will receive fire and the Holy Ghost (Matthew 3:38, 3:40, 5:4; Mark 1:6; Luke 3:23; John 1:28). In these we see a distinction—Holy Ghost being Jesus’ presence and the Comforter being the promise of the Father. When Jesus visited Zarahemla and prayed to the Father for the children, they were surrounded by a ring of fire (3 Nephi 9:15). Ezekiel’s heavenly vision came out of the midst of fire (Ezekiel 1:4).

The key difference between those who have an authoritative baptism and other Christians is access to the Father, for Jesus is unto all men and the Spirit was sent to all men to bring men to receive him (Genesis 4:9). Those with an authoritative baptism have the Spirit dwelling within them, not just working outside of them. This baptism requires an intercessory priesthood, who stand in the stead of Christ, since he is the mediator of the new covenant.

Words like Holy Ghost, Spirit, Spirit of truth, Spirit of Jesus Christ and Comforter are all used in scripture, and this makes it difficult to distinguish between the Spirit as a separate being versus Jesus or the Father’s presence. Yet, this is a key understanding if we are to grow to experience and know the fullness of God. The Book of Mormon says that Jesus is the Father (Mosiah 1:102, 8:30; Ether 1:77). However, most scripture passages distinguish the Father from the Son; and, the basic point remains the same, even if ultimately there is only one being, we must still grow to know the distinctions if we are to grow to know the fullness of God.

If we do not know the Father, how can we bring his presence into the earth realm? This is how he manifests through us. How can we do what the Father is doing, just as Jesus did (John 5:19), if we do not know him? How do we bear witness of the fullness of the gospel, such that other Christians can see a difference in us, if we do not know the Father? In the Father’s presence can no unclean thing dwell (Genesis 6:60; Deuteronomy 23:14; Isaiah 52:11), therefore the bride must be spotless to abide the Father.

The Role of the Father
All power comes from the Father (3 Nephi 9:90). God intends his gospel to go forth in miraculous power. This is why he gave it to Jesus (Helaman 2:73; 3 Nephi 9:98); and, for the sake of the Kingdom it is given to us (D&C 50:7e). We need this power today, therefore, we must learn to know and dwell with the Father.

Again, the Father’s presence is different from the Spirit or from Jesus’ presence. It is a burning ember that grows as one grows in their relationship with him. It is like touching infinity. When communing with the Father, we can experience union with all that we can perceive. In the Father’s presence we can experience the heavenly realm, even though we now dwell in the flesh. We can become a burning flame with him.

When a group of individuals learn to walk continually in the Father’s presence, a ring of fire will extend between them. Eventually a fiery ring of protection forms around the whole body, as individuals manifest the power of God unto the blessing of all (Obadiah 1:17-18). Once Zion is established, then will the gospel go forth in power, because we are one with the Father (3 Nephi 10:4).

Elder White saw in his experience a ring of protecting fire around Zion. Only those who could abide the judgment of the Holy Ghost could abide therein: “I saw a narrow and very bright red ring, which enclosed Independence and a portion of the surrounding country, the center of which seemed to be a little southwest of where I was standing, on a high spot of ground … ‘I have sanctified all of the ground inside of this ring, and I will not suffer any person to live inside of this ring except those who keep the celestial law. Now mine elders shall receive an endowment, and it shall be the same endowment that Peter had when he judged Ananias and Sapphira.’ I was given to understand that only such elders received this endowment as were chosen by the Holy Ghost at this time. ‘Now all written law ceases on the inside of this ring, but on the outside it shall continue as it is. Now my judgment commences inside of this ring which is the judgment of the Holy Ghost, that no sin may escape. By the written law and the judgments of men, many guilty ones go unpunished and many of the innocent suffer. You read in my word that Zion shall be redeemed by judgment. Many of my elders misrepresent me in regard to my judgment. They say it is storms, pestilence, earthquakes, etc., but this is not what I mean. I mean the judgment of the Holy Ghost, and as you see Peter yonder judging Ananias and Sapphira by the Holy Ghost, so shall the judgment be here. Death is laid at the feet of every person.’”

For the testimony of the restored gospel to go forth in power, for Zion to be, and for Christ to have his bride, we must learn to know the Father and to walk meekly with him, in order to allow His presence to manifest unto the protecting and blessing of all within his Kingdom.

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Salt Covenant

What is a Salt Covenant?
Salt is essential for physical life. In ancient times salt was used as a seasoning, a preservative, a disinfectant, a component of ceremonial offerings, and as a unit of exchange. Thus, it was a precious commodity and was treated with great care. A salt covenant meant that salt was used to seal an agreement. Salt was mixed from each party’s pouch, and then bread was dipped into the salt and consumed. The remaining salt was then split and returned to the pouches. It was impossible to separate the fine grains of salt back to the original owners once it was mixed; therefore, this practice exemplified, because of their agreement, that the parties could also no longer be separated. The salt covenant signified a level of deep, abiding, unbreakable friendship.

Where is the Salt Covenant in scripture?
The first explicit mention of the salt covenant is recorded in Numbers 18:19, which says, “All the heave offerings of the holy things, which the children of Israel offer unto the Lord, have I given thee, and thy sons and thy daughters with thee, by a statute forever; it is a covenant of salt forever before the Lord unto thee and to thy seed with thee.” Here we see that God extended His hand of deep friendship to Aaron and his seed. Since God does not change, we can infer that with the priesthood covenant comes the opportunity of deep friendship with God.

A second reference that confirms this understanding of the salt covenant is found in 2 Chronicles 13:5, “Ought ye not to know that the Lord God of Israel gave the kingdom over Israel to David forever, even to him and to his sons by a covenant of salt?” Nathan conveying this covenant to David is recorded in 2 Samuel 7:16. Clearly an abiding friendship with God has wonderful, eternal ramifications.

How does the Salt Covenant fit with other covenants?
When considering the salt covenant, one must ask how does this fit with the baptismal covenant or everlasting covenant? These are covenants that are more commonly understood among Restorationists. The ancient Hebrew marriage covenant, where four cups of wine were drunk signifying the coming to stronger and stronger agreement on the terms of the marriage between the bride and groom’s families, provides insight. Since we are to be the bride of Christ, does it not follow that Jesus and His Father are bringing us to full agreement with the marriage terms as well?

The four cups represent four levels of covenant relationship—servant-hood, friendship, son-ship, and bride. The bible is replete with examples of, and counsel on, each of these. For the sake of brevity, I will cut to the conclusion of the matter. When we first accept Jesus Christ as our Savior we enter into a blood covenant relationship with Him as His servant. We witness this covenant in the waters of baptism. For most, it takes a while to achieve consistent obedience to His laws, but once this happens, we enter into a friendship covenant relationship with Him. When and how this happens may not be known or recognized, but with hindsight, it becomes more apparent, as our walk and interaction with the Lord has changed. With more time, if we lay down self, we continue to grow spiritually, in greater intimacy and understanding of Jesus and His ways. This brings us into a son-ship relationship, where we can be trusted with His authority, to use to do the things that He would do in the earth. Eventually, there will be a body of people prepared, through great sacrifice, to be equally yoked with Christ as His bride. This will be realized once Zion is redeemed, when a people live continually according to the Celestial law. Then will a people function in full endowment with a power that enables protection and preservation of Zion, just like Enoch of Old manifested for the sake of Zion.

Other scriptural witnesses of this type of progression can be seen in the glories (Doctrine & Covenants 76), or the parable of the sower (Matthew 13, Mark 4, Luke 8), or the parable of the marriage super (Matthew 22). In each of these we see people grouped in four groupings, where some end up with greater reward or glory than others. What the Lord is saying to us through these various passages is that we must continue to come unto Him, submitting fully ourselves, if we want to receive His fullness, even a place with Him and His Father for eternity.

Thus, the salt covenant follows the baptismal covenant, but precedes the everlasting covenant, which is synonymous with the bride covenant in the marriage cup paradigm.

Where is the Covenant Pattern of progression or grouping found in scripture?
As we are to hold fast to the word of God, we must look to see whether this covenant pattern is further developed in scripture. The Hebrews were given practices that embodied spiritual things, so that they could come to understand. One place where the covenant pattern is concisely, neatly inferred is Ezra 6:9, which says, “…young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the priests…” Here it speaks of things that the priests and workers on the temple are to receive in order to perform their duties. The use of wheat is a reference to the body of Christ, hence the first covenant. Salt is a reference to the second covenant of friendship. Wine is a reference to the third covenant, where fruit is brought to the Father in son-ship. Finally, oil is a reference to the last covenant, where the bride is completely immersed in the Spirit, fully one with Christ her Bridegroom.

Another similar concise scriptural inference to the covenant pattern is found in Ezekiel 16:4, “And as for thy nativity, in the day thou wast born thy navel was not cut, neither wast thou washed in water to supple thee; thou wast not salted at all, nor swaddled at all.” Here we see a pattern of four, and the salt is rather conspicuous. We do not know why they would have salted a newborn baby, but perhaps it was done to disinfect or to toughen the outer skin. Although not quite in order, we see here an inference to the covenant pattern. This is even more interesting in light of the entire chapter, which speaks of Israel’s terrible state before and after her national covenant with YHWH. This was given to help the Jews understand why they were captive in Babylon. The navel cut refers to the circumcision cut, which alludes to the blood covenant. Washed in water refers to the son-ship covenant, when one is more thoroughly washed in the word. Salt refers to the friendship covenant, and swaddled refers to the bridal covenant. These things are not chance, the Lord God continually seeks to help us understand, that we may come fully unto Him.

Now, the place that best exemplifies the progression, not just the grouping, is found in 2 Kings 2, where Elijah was taken to heaven in a chariot of fire. This passage has a wealth of meaning. Let’s take a closer look at it. I will first outline the chapter and then explain it.

Elijah and Elisha depart from Gilgal. Then the Lord told them to go to Bethel. Next they were to go to Jericho, and, finally, they were to cross the Jordan River. They met with prophets at Bethel and Jericho. Fifty came to watch as they went to the Jordan River, for all knew that Elijah was to be taken to heaven that day. At the Jordan River, Elijah smote it with his mantle; it parted, and Elijah and Elisha walked through on dry land. Then Elijah asked Elisha what could he do for him, and Elisha asked for a double portion of his mantle. Elijah said that he asked a hard thing, but if he saw when he was taken, he would receive it. The chariot came from heaven and took Elijah, Elisha saw it, and the mantle was left on the ground. Elisha picked up the mantle and used it to smite the Jordan River, it parted, and he returned, on dry land, to the watching prophets on the other side. These men knew that the spirit of Elijah was given to Elisha, so they asked him to help with their water problem at Jericho. Elisha took a crucible of salt and poured it into the water, and it was repaired. Next he went back to Bethel, where children mocked him.
He cursed them, and two she bears came and 42 children were killed. The chapter closed with Elisha going to Carmel.

This passage is a type of the Lord’s people in the path that they must trod, if they are to come unto Him fully. Elisha was allowed to walk the path, yet, he was asked to return and help his brothers & sisters. They left from Gilgal, because this is where Joshua first brought the people into the Promiseland, the beginning of the covenant relationship. Each one must find their way on this same path. They must first overcome the sins of the flesh, represented by the priests of Baal. They must next come to the Lord and learn to walk as a servant, and then become a friend, once they are able to walk in consistent obedience. This is shown in the progression to Bethel, where Jacob was received as a friend of the Lord. Next they must continue in learning, humility and patience, if they are to become trusted with more authority of the Spirit to walk as a son, even with the authority of the Father at times. This is represented by the going to Jericho, for Jericho was taken by the authority of the Spirit. Finally, once a servant has shown himself to be a friend and son, some will learn to walk in complete submission to the Lord, and these will be brought to His Promiseland, to share in the Celestial Kingdom. Thus, we see that Elijah crossed over the Jordan, a type of entering therein, and was received by a chariot from heaven, as part of the bride of Christ.

If this is not enough, the chapter is organized as a chiasm, with Elijah going to heaven in the center. In Hebrew writing, the center of the chiasm is the most important part. Elisha returns the same way that they came, but, of course, in reverse order, hence the chiasm. Elisha shows forth great power and authority as a son of God in also parting the waters of the Jordan. At Jericho, the prophets received him and acknowledged his authority and place with God. His assistance to them, in healing the water, magnifies the friendship relationship, but when he travels to Bethel it is another story. In chiasms it is sometimes the opposite that shows forth in the inverse, and this is the case at Bethel, when the children are cursed and die horrifically. Here we see what will happen, eventually, to all who reject Jesus Christ’s blood covenant offer. Finally, Elisha goes on to Carmel, the place where other servants reside, even the school of the prophets, that he might assist them.

Closing 
We are to be the salt of the earth, meaning the friend to all in the earth; and, as a friend, we should help everyone receive the most important thing we have, our relationship with Jesus Christ. This calling is clearly stated in modern day revelation; for it says in Doctrine & Covenants 98:5k, “When men are called unto mine everlasting gospel, and covenant with an everlasting covenant, they are accounted as the salt of the earth, and the savor of men.” And when we do not magnify our calling, we suffer, the church suffers, and the whole earth suffers. “But inasmuch as they keep not my commandments, and hearken not to observe all my words, the kingdoms of the world shall prevail against them, for they were set to be a light unto the world, and to be the saviors of men; and inasmuch as they are not the saviors of men, they are as salt that has lost its savor, and is thenceforth good for nothing but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men.” (Doctrine & Covenants 100:2cd)

Let us carefully consider these things. I will leave you with one final scripture, found in Doctrine & Covenants 98:5j, “Therefore, care not for the body, neither the life of the body; but care for the soul, and for the life of the soul, and seek the face of the Lord always, that in patience ye may possess your souls, and ye shall have eternal life.”

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Psalm 23

Let us look at Psalm 23rd King James Version of the Bible,

1   The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2   He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3   He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

4   Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5   Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6   Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Within these few verses of the 23rd Psalm is buried the complete plan of redemption.  Many times Christians do not share the entire plan and by doing so, they undermine God’s plan.

The first line sets the requirement to begin the process, acknowledging our complete dependence on the Lord.  We must become as humble as a lamb; the only thing we can offer that is acceptable to the Lord is a broken heart and contrite spirit.  By doing this we are acting out our trust in Him, acknowledging that what we need and ask for that is right in His sight will be granted.

The second line rejoices in His providence and the abundance, which He provides once our heart is right with Him.  Furthermore, the metaphor of waiting on the Lord and not pushing ahead of His timing is brought forth.

In the third line we see that by following His will we our fed spiritually and as we allow Him more place in our heart, righteousness grows in our life.

The fourth line clarifies that we are in a time of probation, a time of testing.  The earth is now the kingdom of the adversary, carnality and temptation prevail.  Yet by accepting the Lord the second death can be overcome; the second death being spiritual death.  Notice also that with the growth of our faith fear is removed.  In order to be sustained in our walk with the Lord and not stumble off the path, we must hold tight to the rod, which is the word of God or scriptures, and seek the power of God (Moses’ staff analogy) to overcome evil.  We cannot overcome evil within our own strength.

The fifth verse is an allegory to Communion.  The Lord knows our need to continually realign our self with Him and He provided an avenue for this through remembrance of our covenant by acting out our need to internalize Him in order to become the sons and daughters of God.  Since the act of Christ’s atonement has occurred we can enjoy God’s kingdom within our self, which is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost (Romans 14:17), even though the earth is currently filled with enemies to God.  In order to be in this walk with the Lord, however, we must be given the Holy Ghost (oil) and enter in at the gate (baptism).  In doing this our joy is full and our cup over flows.

To sustain this relationship with the Lord, however, we must continue to move forward.  Standing still is the same as the man who buried his money and displeased his Lord.  Plus in the parable of the sower only the fourth level of response brought forth fruit.  Jesus is the vine and we are the branches and we are to bring forth fruit.  The unfruitful part of the vineyard will eventually be burnt to stubble.  Jesus’ calling is not only to redeem man but also to redeem and reclaim the earth.  Jesus can do this at any time, but He is waiting until man is ripe in iniquity allowing as much time as possible for us as individuals to choose.  Recall Jesus’ prayer, “… thy kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.”  Clearly, King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream as interpreted by Daniel, Ezekiel, and Isaiah as well as others all prophesy of God’s kingdom on earth.

The battle is won, Jesus Christ has trodden the winepress, and all power is given unto Him.  Yet, He is allowing us time to work out our salvation and choose who we will follow, Jesus Christ or the adversary.  The choice is ours.  Entering in at the gate of baptism is not enough, we must continue on to perfection.  Jesus Christ will eventually present an unblemished bride, His church, to His Father.  He commands us, “… be ye perfect,” no unclean thing can dwell in the presence of God.  Yes, it is through the grace, mercy, and atonement of Jesus Christ that we are saved, but we must not overlook the rest of the plan, which is to continue forward and become perfect eradicating all sin from our life.  For this is what it takes to dwell in the house of the Lord forever.  Praise the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!