“When He Seeth His Children”

Brant Gardner

Literary: These verses are identical to Isaiah 29:23-24:

23 But when he seeth his children, the work of mine hands, in the midst of him, they shall sanctify my name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel.

24 They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine.

Continuing the redemptive theme, when the children of God see and recognize his works they will return to their God. Notice that in verse 34 Isaiah specifies that the Lord will be “in the midst of them,” another direct reference to the Messianic rule in the last days.

Under the rulership of their Messiah, the children of God (which Nephi has certainly expanded to include the Gentiles, even if that is not implied in Isaiah) will finally “come to understanding.” For Nephi’s use of Isaiah’s scripture, this “coming to understanding,” references the apostate gentiles who will receive the words of the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon figures as an agent in the process whereby the gentiles will “come to an understanding.” It will correct the errors of “they that murmured.” For Nephi, the Book of Mormon is an integral piece in the events that will bring the triumphal reign of the Messiah, and the return of all of his wayward children to him.

Multidimensional Commentary on the Book of Mormon

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