Question
Gramps,
Why does God choose a covenant people? If he loves all of his children, why pick just one people?
Jeff
Answer
Jeff,
Throughout the scriptures, the theme of covenant is woven into the fabric of God’s relationship with His children. A covenant can be understood as a sacred agreement between God and His people, where promises are made, and responsibilities are outlined. But why does God choose a covenant people? This question invites us to explore the divine purposes behind these sacred agreements, the significance of the Abrahamic covenant, and the implications for believers today.
The Abrahamic covenant stands as a cornerstone in understanding why God chooses a covenant people. This covenant, initiated with Abraham, is not just a historical event but a divine promise that extends to all believers. In Genesis 12:1-3, God promises Abraham that he will be the father of a great nation, that his descendants will be numerous, and that through them, all families of the earth will be blessed. This covenant establishes a lineage of faith, linking believers to a legacy of divine blessing and responsibility.
The significance of the Abrahamic covenant lies in its inclusivity. It reaches beyond Abraham’s physical descendants to encompass all who choose to follow God’s commandments and embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 3:29, affirms this by stating,“And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Thus, being part of a covenant people means inheriting the blessings promised to Abraham, including spiritual guidance, protection, and the promise of eternal life.
In modern times, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that the restoration of the gospel through Joseph Smith is a fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant. The doctrine emphasizes that God continues to gather His covenant people in the latter days, inviting all to partake in the blessings of the gospel. The Doctrine and Covenants provides crucial insights into the nature of this restoration, as seen in D&C 1:17-18, where God states that He is calling His people to repentance and will send forth His word.
The restoration reinforces the idea of collective responsibility among the covenant people. Each member is not only a recipient of God’s blessings but also a participant in His divine plan. This collective aspect is highlighted in the teachings of the Church, which emphasize the importance of eternal families and community within the covenant framework. Families are central to God’s plan, serving as the primary unit through which His work is accomplished.
The Book of Mormon further elaborates on the concept of a covenant people. One of the significant teachings is found in 2 Nephi 29:14, where the Lord expresses His desire to gather His people, stating that He will “bring forth my word unto the children of men.” This gathering is not merely physical; it encompasses a spiritual awakening, where individuals are invited to come unto Christ and embrace His teachings.
Moreover, the Book of Mormon illustrates the consequences of breaking covenants. In Mosiah 2:41, King Benjamin teaches his people about the blessings that come from keeping God’s commandments. This principle underscores the importance of faithfulness among covenant people. When they live in accordance with God’s will, they experience joy, peace, and a closer relationship with Him. Conversely, disobedience leads to spiritual distance and loss of blessings.
King Benjamin addressing a crowd of people.
Modern prophets play a vital role in guiding covenant people today. Their teachings help clarify the significance of living a covenant life and the responsibilities that come with it. For instance, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland has taught that being part of a covenant people means being “connected to the promises of God” and that these promises are fulfilled through obedience and faithfulness.
In addition, General Conference addresses often emphasize the importance of unity and love among covenant members. Prophets encourage individuals to support one another, uplift each other in faith, and work together to fulfill divine purposes. This sense of community fosters an environment where the blessings of the covenant can flourish.
The choice of a covenant people by God serves profound purposes that reach across generations. The Abrahamic covenant lays the foundation for blessings and responsibilities that extend to all who choose to follow Christ. The restoration of the gospel invites individuals to participate in a renewed covenant, emphasizing collective responsibility and the significance of eternal families. Through the teachings found in the Book of Mormon and the guidance of modern prophets, believers are reminded of the importance of faithfulness in their covenant relationship with God. Ultimately, being part of a covenant people is not merely a title; it is an invitation to experience the fullness of God’s blessings and to participate in His divine plan.
Gramps
