W. Cleon Skousen Insights

3 Nephi 20 - 26 The Second Day: Christ’s Ministry and the Gathering of Israel

As the second day of Christ’s ministry among the Nephites begins, the scene opens with a multitude engaged in solemn prayer. Jesus, with tender feelings for the survivors of the great destruction, commands them to cease their active prayers but continue praying in their hearts. He then miraculously provides bread and wine for a sacramental service, explaining the significance of these elements to the people.

Jesus speaks of the gathering of Israel in the latter days, reminding the people of Isaiah's prophecies. He outlines two scenarios for the Gentiles: one of destruction if they abandon the Lord, and another of blessings if they repent. Jesus emphasizes the importance of repentance, declaring that the Gentiles can be numbered among the house of Israel and receive blessings if they turn to Him.

Jesus quotes Isaiah and Malachi, prophesying the eventual triumph and gathering of Israel. He describes the establishment of a new Jerusalem and the blessings awaiting the righteous. The Nephites are commanded to write down His teachings, and Jesus expounds all scriptures to them, ensuring they understand the gospel and the future events leading to His second coming.

3 Nephi 17 - 19 A Divine Encounter: Jesus Ministers to the Nephites

Jesus acknowledges the multitude's lingering questions and instructs them to ponder and pray until his return. Despite his urgency to minister to the lost tribes, Jesus lengthens his stay to heal the sick and bless the children, displaying profound compassion. The Nephites witness miraculous healings and angelic visitations. Jesus introduces the sacrament, emphasizing its significance. He concludes by empowering his disciples with the Holy Ghost and ascends into heaven, leaving the Nephites in awe of the divine manifestations they witnessed.

The Constitutional Crisis: Wake Up America!

Today we are faced with the phenomenon of political schizophrenia plaguing the nation, as demonstrated by the contradictory choices of electing a president for national interests and a Congress based on local interests.

We'll explore the critical warnings from the Founding Fathers and the historical analysis by Alexis de Tocqueville, highlighting the risks of prosperity leading to constitutional ignorance. The episode meticulously examines the violations of constitutional authority by various federal agencies, executive orders, and legislative actions, calling for a re-evaluation and possible amendments to restore constitutional integrity.

Join us in this comprehensive overview that emphasizes the importance of education, involvement, and remedial actions to safeguard America's legacy of freedom and prosperity. This episode is a clarion call for unity, awareness, and proactive measures to address the constitutional challenges facing the nation today.

3 Nephi 12 - 16 The Sermon on the Mount Given to the Nephites

We begin this episode with a popular speech by W. Cleon Skousen on the Mount of Beatitudes overlooking the Sea of Galilee, as he discusses to the group the deep, beautiful insights of the Sermon on the Mount given by Jesus on or near that very location.

Following Dr. Skousen's remarks, we continue with 3 Nephi chapter 12 as Jesus Christ delivers the Sermon on the Mount to the Nephites. This sermon, a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, holds unique significance and clarity in the Book of Mormon as Jesus addresses both his disciples and the great multitude gathered at the temple in Bountiful.

3 Nephi 8 - 11 The Great Destruction and Divine Encounter

Catastrophic events cause terrible destruction in the Western Hemisphere, attesting to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem. Chapter 8 details the overwhelming natural disasters that swept across the land, transforming the landscape and causing widespread devastation.

As the people of Nephi grapple with the aftermath, they hear the voice of Christ proclaiming the destruction of their cities because of their wickedness. After some time, the remaining righteous of the people gather together at the temple and witness a profound event: the appearance of Jesus Christ. Amidst their astonishment and sorrow, the Savior speaks to them, offering a message of repentance and redemption. This divine encounter marks a pivotal moment, transforming mourning into joy and leading to the establishment of an increased spiritual foundation for the survivors.

3 Nephi 1 - 7 The Night Without Darkness: Signs and Miracles Fulfilled

The prophecies of Christ's birth from Samuel the Lamanite begin to unfold. Nephi, son of Helaman, disappears, leaving his son, also named Nephi, in charge of the sacred records. The non-believers, in their fervor to discredit the prophecies, set a deadly ultimatum for the believers.

Nephi prays fervently for his people, and the sign is miraculously fulfilled, astonishing everyone as the night remains bright as day. The non-believers are struck with fear, leading to widespread conversion and peace. However, the peace is short-lived as pride, greed, and the influence of the Gadianton robbers cause turmoil once again. This episode highlights the cyclical nature of faith and wickedness among the Nephites and sets the stage for the upcoming arrival of the resurrected Christ.

Helaman 13 - 16 Samuel the Lamanite Calls for Repentance

A Lamanite prophet named Samuel appears among the Nephites around 6 BC. His mission is to call the Nephites to repentance amidst their deepening wickedness. Despite being thrown out of the city of Zarahemla, Samuel returns, climbing the city wall and delivers God's warnings and predictions.

Samuel boldly prophesies of the coming of Jesus Christ and the devastating consequences for the Nephites if they do not repent. His bold declarations included the appearance of a new star, other miraculous signs in the heavens, and a period of three days of darkness at the time of Christ's death. Samuel's words were met with a mix of belief and violent rejection, leading to a miraculous escape from Zarahemla.

The episode concludes with Samuel's powerful message of repentance and the eventual fulfillment of his prophecies, setting the stage for the coming of Christ and the subsequent transformation of the Nephite and Lamanite societies.

The Legacy of George Washington: A Reflection on America's Founding Principles

Join us in this compelling episode featuring Dr. Skousen, the renowned author of "The Naked Communist" and "The Naked Capitalist," and the founder of the Freeman Institute. Dr. Skousen shares his profound insights on the origins of the United States, the founding fathers, and the enduring principles that have shaped the nation.

Dr. Skousen takes us on a journey through the life of George Washington, illuminating his unwavering faith, leadership, and the divine interventions that marked the American Revolution. He delves into Washington's character, recounts the struggles at Valley Forge, and highlights the miraculous events that led to the nation's independence.

As he reflects on the challenges faced by the early republic and the crafting of the U.S. Constitution, Dr. Skousen underscores the importance of returning to the foundational values that made America great. This episode is a tribute to the heroism and vision of the founding fathers and a call to preserve their legacy for future generations.

Helaman 7 - 12 Nephi's Tower: A Cry for Repentance

In this episode, we recount the poignant journey of Nephi, the son of Helaman, as he returns to Zarahemla after six years of missionary work in the north. Shocked by the rampant wickedness and corruption of the Nephites, Nephi laments the state of his people.

Witness Nephi's heartfelt prayer from his garden tower, which draws a curious crowd. Seizing the moment, Nephi passionately calls for repentance, condemning the influence of the Gadianton robbers who have seized power. His plea is a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

The episode captures Nephi's sorrow and determination as he confronts the corrupt judges and delivers a powerful sermon, urging the Nephites to return to righteousness. Join us for an intense exploration of faith, prophecy, and the relentless pursuit of truth in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Helaman 1 - 6: Turmoil and Transformation in Nephite and Lamanite Societies

The Nephite society faces political instability following the death of Chief Judge Pahoran, leading to contentious elections and the rise of rebellion. As political factions vie for power, Kishkumen's secretive band of murderers emerges, culminating in the assassination of Pahoran and his successor. Meanwhile, Coriantumr, an apostate Nephite, leads a massive Lamanite army to a surprising victory over Zarahemla, only to be outmaneuvered by Moronihah's strategic brilliance.

Amidst the chaos, Helaman's sons, Nephi and Lehi, embark on a mission to preach the gospel. Their efforts lead to astonishing conversions among the Lamanites, who surpass the Nephites in righteousness. However, the Gadianton robbers infiltrate Nephite society, driving it into deeper corruption while the Lamanites strive to eradicate the band from their midst.

Despite brief periods of peace and prosperity, the Nephites' increasing wickedness and the rise of secret combinations spell impending doom. This episode highlights the stark contrast between the declining Nephite nation and the spiritually ascending Lamanites, emphasizing themes of repentance, righteousness, and the power of faith amidst adversity.