Your Temple Covenants Found in the Book of Mormon | Doug Chamberlain

Key Concepts

• Temple Covenants: Five covenants made in the temple (obedience, sacrifice, the Gospel, chastity, consecration).
• Quantification in Cinematography: The idea that everything has a number associated with it, allowing for control and replication.
• Symbolism in the Temple: The importance of understanding symbolism in the temple for deeper learning and revelation.
• T-Shaped Knowledge: Knowing a little about a lot of things, but knowing something deep about at least one thing.
• The Ox as a Symbol: The ox as a symbol for God, service, and being yolked to Christ.
• Coror's Arguments: Coror's arguments against faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost.
• Doctrine of Christ: Faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Quantification and Control in Cinematography

Doug, a cinematographer, emphasizes the importance of quantification in his field. His instructor taught him that "if you can't quantify it, you can't control it." This means that every aspect of filmmaking, from light output to color temperature, can be measured and controlled using numbers and equations. This allows cinematographers to replicate desired effects and avoid "happy accidents" by understanding the underlying principles.

The Temple and Symbolism

The speakers discuss the unique learning environment of the temple, where repetition and symbolism are key. Unlike traditional learning, the temple focuses on repeated exposure to the same material to allow for deeper understanding of its symbolic meaning. This contrasts with the modern tendency to constantly seek new information without achieving depth. The concept of being "T-shaped" is introduced, where one has broad knowledge but also deep expertise in a specific area. The temple provides an opportunity to develop this deep understanding through its rich symbolism.

The Ox as a Symbol of God and Service

The conversation delves into the symbolism of the ox, particularly in relation to the Hebrew alphabet and the concept of being "yolked" to Christ. The Hebrew letter "aleph," which represents the number one and God, is also associated with an ox. This connection highlights the idea of Christ wanting us to learn how to be a good ox, meaning a willing and obedient servant. The font in the temple, supported by twelve oxen representing the tribes of Israel, further reinforces this symbolism. Christ is seen as the master of the vineyard, teaching us how to be good oxen and giving us tasks that are within our capacity to handle.

Coror's Arguments Against the Doctrine of Christ

Doug shares his analysis of Coror's arguments in the Book of Mormon (Alma 30). He breaks down Coror's teachings into four main categories that directly oppose the principles of the doctrine of Christ: faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Against Faith

Coror attacks faith by undermining the prophets and dismissing their teachings as "foolish traditions." He accuses them of using "old outdated fuddy duddy like silly tradition traditions." This approach aims to discredit the source of faith and encourage people to reject established beliefs.

Against Repentance

Coror argues that there is no need for atonement or repentance. He claims that success in life depends solely on "the management of the creature," meaning one's own intelligence, strength, and abilities. This denies the need for Christ and the concept of a fallen nature.

Against Baptism

Coror portrays priesthood leaders as malicious figures who deliberately use "foolish ordinances and performances" to control and exploit the people. He suggests that these leaders are aware of the falsity of their teachings but continue to enforce them for their own gain.

Against the Holy Ghost

Coror insists that one cannot know things that cannot be seen and demands a sign as proof of God's existence. This places the burden of proof on God and sets an arbitrary standard for what constitutes sufficient evidence.

The Doctrine of Christ and Building Relationships

The speakers discuss how Coror's arguments, when inverted, can help us understand the doctrine of Christ more deeply. Faith is linked to the prophets, repentance to building a relationship with Jesus Christ, baptism to making covenants with God, and the gift of the Holy Ghost to becoming a steward unto ourselves. This progression highlights the importance of each principle in developing a closer relationship with God.

Signs and Hardening Hearts

The conversation touches on the dangers of becoming desensitized to spiritual experiences. A scripture from Third Nephi 2:1-2 is cited, which describes how the people began to forget the signs and wonders they had witnessed, leading to hardened hearts and disbelief. This serves as a warning against taking spiritual experiences for granted and emphasizes the need to remain open to the influence of the Holy Ghost.

Conclusion

The discussion explores the temple covenants, the importance of symbolism, and the dangers of rejecting faith and spiritual experiences. By understanding these concepts, individuals can deepen their understanding of the gospel and strengthen their relationship with God.