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"Not... More Than a Mortal Man," Mosiah 2:1-14

Mosiah 2:1-14

A historic occasion is recorded in these opening chapters of the book of Mosiah.In the first few verses of chapter 2, we get a glimpse in the heritage of the Mosaic law that had been preserved and honored by this people. Verse 3 explains that they offered sacrifices to comply with the law of Moses. Verse 4 is where the Spirit brings the law to life. It explains that they also saw this as a means of expressing their gratitude to God for the blessings that they enjoyed, namely:
  • Having been brought out of the land of Jerusalem
  • Having been delivered from their enemies
  • Having just men appointed as their teachers
  • Having a just man appointed as their king
  • Having peace established by their king throughout their land
  • Having been taught by their king to "keep the commandments of God, that they might rejoice and be filled with love towards God and all men".

In light of all these blessings, it strikes me as very important the perspective that King Benjamin sees himself in:
I have not commanded you to come up hither that ye should fear me, or that ye should think that I of myself am more than a mortal man. (verse 10)
What is so compelling about this is that the mortal man can be effective as an instrument for God, and do God's work, and be "kept and preserved by his matchless power, to serve... with all the might, mind and strength which the Lord hath granted unto [him]."


Verses 12 to 14 demonstrates a government model which is quite different from our own at present. One of the things that impresses me is that the king did not tax his people. A successful government for the people is not based on the government's ability to amass wealth.

What strikes me as so important in these verses is that Benjamin was able to obtain peace in the land by adhering to the tenants of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Perhaps I am just naive enough to believe that the same could happen in our day.
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