Though the importance of the need generally for all of us to “look to God and live” is easily apparent to modern readers, the specific choice of a brazen serpent on a pole as a symbol of Christ is difficult to understand. How does the brazen serpent symbolize Christ? (Supplement to Gospel Doctrine Lesson 15).
Old Testament
More Old Testament Features
What Were Israel’s Most Serious Provocations of the Lord in the Wilderness?
The making of the golden calf is often presented as the height of Israel’s rejection of God and His law. But it was only one of several incidents of rebellion that occurred in the wilderness. Among all these provocations, which ones were the most serious? (Supplement to Gospel Doctrine Lesson 14).
What Similarities Are There Between Egyptian and Israelite Temples?
Hugh W. Nibley and other LDS scholars have written at length about Egyptian temple rites. What similarities are there between Egyptian and Israelite temples? (Supplement to Gospel Doctrine Lesson 14).
Lesson 17: “Beware Lest Thou Forget”
Deuteronomy is the record of Moses' last words to Israel before they entered the Promised Land. Israel would be leaving the wilderness, where they had been in humble dependence on the Lord, for the literally green pastures of Canaan. Knowing that he would not be joining them, Moses warned Israel against spiritual amnesia.
Is There Any Evidence in Egyptian Sources for the Exodus?
Most of the evidence for the historical Exodus comes indirectly from general archaeological findings and analysis of biblical texts. Is there any specific evidence for the reality and timing of the Exodus that can be corroborated from Egyptian sources? (Supplement to Gospel Doctrine Lesson 13).
Lesson 16: “I Cannot Go Beyond the Word of the Lord”
The story of Balaam is given considerable attention in the Book of Numbers (three full chapters!). Because of his actions, Balaam is universally condemned in the scriptures for two reasons. First, his greed for wealth. Second, because he led Israel into apostasy through the enticement of Ba'al worship.
What Can We Learn About the Historical Exodus from Outside the Scriptures?
Many people nowadays believe that the Exodus never happened. Are there traces of the historical Exodus from sources outside the scriptures? And do they help us to identify the Pharaoh of the Exodus?