“How Much More Just Will Be Your Condemnation”

Brant Gardner

Social: The conclusion of Benjamin’s argument deals not with the withholding of substance only, but with the judgement that creates the social division. While Benjamin does not suggest that the economic disparity is in and of itself a problem, he is concerned with the judgements that flow from that disparity. It is the social division into “betters” and “lessers” on the basis of substance against which he preaches.

Thus here he focuses on the equation of treatment for similar actions. If Benjamin’s people judge someone to be of lower status, and therefore unworthy of assistance, so will God, who is of much higher status, judge them to be unworthy. This is precisely the sentiment expressed in Matthew: “Matt. 7:2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.”

Multidimensional Commentary on the Book of Mormon

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