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Sherem
Posted: October 12th, 2015, 8:20 pm
by setyourselffree
So I just finished reading Jacob. The last chapter talks about Sherem and how he was leading the people astray. My question is was it to harsh for Jacob to ask God to smite Sherem? I know he was leading people astray but he did or at least I hope he did repent in the end. Why was it necessary to show Sherem a sign by killing him?
Re: Sherem
Posted: October 12th, 2015, 10:23 pm
by Hopefull
Maybe that was what was required to change the hearts of all those he lead away?
Like Nephi was told "it is better that one man should perish than a whole nation to dwindle in disbelief" or something along those lines. Maybe the people needed to fear God a little? Maybe it would have turned into to a matter of asking for signs instead of having faith?
Re: Sherem
Posted: October 12th, 2015, 11:35 pm
by brianj
Do you remember Korihor (Alma 30)? He seems to be repentant in verses 52 and 53, but his curse is not removed. He is told that if the curse is removed, he would return to his old ways. Maybe the same concern existed with Sherem.
In the end we don't know. With some stories in the scriptures I would love a lot more detail.
Re: Sherem
Posted: October 13th, 2015, 12:00 am
by dewajack
Jacob tells us that,
What am I that I should tempt God to show unto thee a sign in the thing which thou knowest to be true? Yet thou wilt deny it, because thou art of the devil.
Sherem was going to deny any other sign. However, this event allowed the following to happen,
21 And when the multitude had witnessed that he spake these things as he was about to give up the ghost, they were astonished exceedingly; insomuch that the power of God came down upon them, and they were overcome that they fell to the earth.
22 Now, this thing was pleasing unto me, Jacob, for I had requested it of my Father who was in heaven; for he had heard my cry and answered my prayer.
23 And it came to pass that peace and the love of God was restored again among the people; and they searched the scriptures, and hearkened no more to the words of this wicked man.
The event led to the people repenting and that led them back to their scriptures and not just accept what people told them blindly.
Sherem asked and the Lord obliged, knowing it would lead to the repentance of many saints, as well as the restoration of the peace and love of God.