Scripture Study - Simple/Simplicity

 1/5/24 – Simple/Simplicity:

And for this cause, that men might be made partakers of the glories which were to be revealed, the Lord sent forth the fulness of his gospel, his everlasting covenant, reasoning in plainness and simplicity – To prepare the weak for those things which are coming on the earth, and for the Lord’s errand in the day when the weak shall confound the wise, and the little one become a strong nation, … (D&C 133:57-58) The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. (Ps. 19:7) The Lord preserveth the simple: … (Ps. 116:6) To give subtilty (refinement) to the simple, … (Prov. 1:4) But I fear, lest by any means, … your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. (2 Cor. 11:3) For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward. (2 Cor. 1:12) … that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise. (Alma 37:6)

Insights: We naturally tend to look at complicated things as being better with the mistaken idea that only the wisest of individuals would be able to comprehend it, but that is not the Lord’s way. His is one of simplicity and plainness. He isn’t trying to catch us with trick questions, but to provide a straightforward path back to Him. He wants us to learn and grow through this life experience, to prove to ourselves what we are capable of doing; but ultimately, He wants us to return to Him, better and wiser. So His path is simple – love Him enough to follow Christ’s example and return home. That’s it – be obedient and don’t get distracted by the complexities of man.