Types, Shadows, and Symbols of Jesus the Christ

Modern prophets have declared that Jesus Christ“instituted the sacrament as a reminder of His great atoning sacrifice” (Ensign or Liahona, Apr. 2000, 2). In addition to the ordinance of the sacrament, the scriptures tell us of many events, circumstances, objects, and people that were intended to remind us of and instruct us regarding the mission and ministry of Jesus Christ. This lesson will help students consider some of these scriptural types, shadows, and symbols that point us to the Savior.

Scriptural symbols of Christ

Consider the following:

IDENTIFY the meaning of each sign, think of examples of other easily recognized signs or symbols.

Study and compare 2 Nephi 11:4 and Moses 6:63. LOOK for what these passages have in common and what they teach you about Jesus Christ and the purpose of God’s creations. 

• How would you state a central truth recorded in these scripture passages? 

All things were created to testify of Jesus Christ.

• What are some examples of things that have been “given of God” that are “the typifying of” (2 Nephi 11:4), or symbolic of, Jesus Christ?

All scriptures contain types, shadows, symbols, and similitudes of Jesus Christ. Types, shadows, symbols, and similitudes are representations of greater realities. For example, the Liahona described in the Book of Mormon is a representation of the words of Christ. 

Let's focus on types and imagery found in the Old Testament. Much of this imagery is in the form of people, objects, events, and circumstances. Review the following list of scripture:

Types, Shadows, and Symbols of Jesus the Christ

OLD TESTAMENT TYPES, SHADOWS, AND SYMBOLS OF CHRIST	FULFILLMENT IN THE LIFE OF CHRIST
Genesis 22:1–14	John 3:16; 19:16–18;Jacob 4:4–5
Exodus 3:7–8, 10–12	Matthew 1:21;2 Nephi 6:17
Exodus 12:3, 5–7, 13–14, 46	John 1:29; 19:14, 31–36; 1 Peter 1:18–19
Exodus 16:14–15, 18	John 6:5–10, 48–51
Leviticus 8:15, 30; 17:11	Hebrews 9:22; 13:12
Leviticus 16:2–6, 17	Hebrews 9:6–12;10:11–12
Leviticus 22:19–22	Hebrews 9:14;Doctrine and Covenants 20:22
Numbers 21:4–9	John 3:14–15;Helaman 8:13–15
Jonah 1:17; 2:10	Matthew 12:38–40

As you study each set of scripture passages consider the Old Testament symbolism and how it points to Jesus Christ. Record what you discovered in your scripture journal.

• Why do you think all things have been created to represent or to symbolize the Savior?

• What is the value of continually seeking to discover how all things testify of Jesus Christ? 

 We can learn more about Jesus Christ as we come to recognize the imagery, types, and symbols that testify of Him.

• How has something that symbolizes the Savior strengthened your faith in Him?

• What could you do to recognize Christ in the symbols we have been given?

2 Nephi 11:2–6

Symbols and images of Christ in gospel covenants and ordinances

Read 2 Nephi 11:2–6 look for those things that Nephi took delight in. MARK what you find.

• What did Nephi delight in?

“the covenants of the Lord” (v. 5): covenants and ordinances are an important part of Jesus Christ’s everlasting gospel. There are many elements of covenants and ordinances that are symbolic and teach about and lead us to Jesus Christ. 

Elder Bruce R. McConkie:

“Every divine ordinance or performance ordained of God, every sacrifice, symbolism, and similitude; all that God ever gave to his people—all was ordained and established in such a way as to testify of his Son and center the faith of believing people in him and in the redemption he was foreordained to make” (The Promised Messiah: The First Coming of Christ [1978], 28).

• What is a doctrine or principle taught in this statement? 

We will see symbols of Christ in gospel ordinances if we look for them.

• How can this knowledge be helpful as we participate in gospel ordinances?

Read Romans 6:3–6 and 3 Nephi 18:7, 11 LOOK for symbols that refer to the Savior. 

• What are some ways that gospel covenants or ordinances teach about the Savior and help you to remember Him?

• What is a symbol of the Savior that has great meaning to you?

• How do you ensure that you notice this symbol?

• How has seeing this as a symbol of Christ blessed your life?

WRITE down how you can better recognize types, shadows, and symbols of the Savior in the scriptures, in the ordinances of the gospel, and in your daily life. SELECT a day in the near future on which you will consciously look for images, objects, or events that remind you of the Savior. Try keeping a list of what you find and share your list with a family member or friend.

The Parable of the Gems

The following story is taken off the LDS Seminary and Institute website:

There was a young woman who dreamed she was walking along a quiet and secluded beach. She was searching for gems in the sand.

As the young women knelt down the tiny grains of sand glittered invitingly in the sunlight.

She began raking her finger slowly through the warm surface of the sand.

Before long she noticed a colorful Gem sparkling in the sand and picked it up.

Not wanting to lose it she carefully stuck it in her pocket for safekeeping.

Eagerly returning to her search she quickly discovered more gems resting just beneath the surface of the sand.

But the young woman wondered if they were gems hidden deeper in the sand.

Determined she began to dig.

With effort time and patience...

She was rewarded again and again with breathtaking jewels.

Each time she found a new gem, the young women held it under the sunlight and studied it carefully.

She turned each one over in her fingers exploring it's many shapes and facets

She thoughtfully and patiently examined the gems she had found

The young woman began to appreciate the unique qualities and characteristics of each one.

Feelings of attachment to her new found treasures began to grow within her.

 After searching for a while the young women gathered her gems together and held them up to the sunlight.

She was filled with awe as the light dance off the gems in a rainbow of colors.

As the young woman sat appreciating the beauty of the gems

She looked up and saw her father approaching

Smiling warmly he said, "I've been watching you dig in the sand. What did you find?"

The young woman eagerly displayed the handful of gems.

Her father then asked, "Now what will you do with your treasures?"

Scripture Mastery: Moses 7:18

To master this scripture:

1. Ensure that you have this verse marked in your scriptures.
2. Using your journal:

     LOCATE AND ANNOTATE

·                     Define any words you may not understand or may need to reveiw.

• ZION – The pure in heart. The Lord’s people, a specific place or both.

·                     Apply sticker icon and art image. Ponder the meaning behind these symbols and how they relate to this verse.

     UNDERSTAND

·                     Research and record supporting scriptures.

• 4 Nephi 1:15-16
• Doctrine and Covenants 97:21
• Doctrine and Covenants 115:5-6

·                     Read and ponder the post-it note quotes. (below)

·                     Check the Basic Doctrines that this scripture teaches.

·                     Ponder this verse. Ask yourself questions like:

• What does it mean to be of one heart and one mind?
• Why is caring for the poor and the needy a necessary part of building Zion?
• What blessings are promised to Zion? (See D&C 97:18-25)

·                     Answer the following question: 'After studying the context and the content of this passage, what do you feel the Lord intended you to learn from this scripture?' Record you answer on page 14 in your journal under Understand.

     APPLICATION

·                     Ask yourself how you can personalize this verse.

·                     Ponder and record questions that will help you apply the principles taught in this verse more fully into your life.

• What are some specific things I can do to build Zion?

·                     Answer the following question: 'How can you assist God in His work? How can you help others seek eternal life?' Record your answer on page 12 in your journal under Application.

3. Memorize the verse and reference

Post it Note Quotes:

Zion is established and flourishes BECAUSE of the God-inspired lives and labors of its citizens. Zion comes not as a gift but BECAUSE virtuous covenant people are drawn together and build it. (Keith B McMullin, Oct. 2002)

ZION IS

“Zion is people; Zion is the saints of God; Zion is those who have been baptized; Zion is those who have received the Holy Ghost; Zion is those who keep the commandments; Zion is the righteous”

 – Bruce R McConkie, April 1977

THOSE BORN AGAIN

Who will dwell in Zion?

“These Are They Who Have Overcome the World—“Who Have Truly Been Born Again!”

- David O. McKay, Cherished Experiences from the Writings of President David O. McKay, [1976], 60

A REFUGE

 “Zion is intended to be a place of refuge, a defense from the storm that is to come, from the wrath which shall be poured out upon the entire earth. God help us to be true and to live the gospel and do all in our power to promote righteousness in this great land.”

– President Ezra Taft Benson, Gen. Conf. April 1948

THE LORD CALLED HIS PEOPLE ZION

”Zion is Zion because of the character, attributes, and faithfulness of her citizens… If we would establish Zion … we must rise to this standard. It will be necessary to become unified in one heart and one mind; to become … a holy people; and to care for the poor and needy with such effectiveness that we eliminate poverty among us.“ – D Todd Christofferson, Ensign, Nov 2008

PEACE IN  ZION

 “We ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object. … The time is soon coming, when no man will have any peace but in Zion and her stakes” - Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976]

BUILDING ZION

To build Zion—whether in a city, in our stakes, or in our homes—we must develop the qualities of a Zion people: pure hearts, unity, and unselfishness.

–Church History & Gospel Doctrine Teachers Manual, Lesson 46

Scripture Mastery: Moses 1:39

To master this scripture:
1. Ensure that you have this verse marked in your scriptures.
2. Using your journal

     LOCATE AND ANNOTATE

• Define any words you may not understand or may need to reveiw.
• Apply sticker icon and art image. Ponder the meaning behind these symbols and how they relate to this verse.

     UNDERSTAND

• Research and record supporting scriptures.
• Read and ponder the post-it note quotes.
• Check the Basic Doctrines that this scripture teaches.
• Answer the following question: 'After studying the context and the content of this passage, what do you feel the Lord intended you to learn from this scripture?' Record you answer on page 12 in your journal under Understand.

     APPLICATION

• Ask yourself how you can personalize this verse.
• Ponder and record questions that will help you apply the principles taught in this verse more fully into your life. 
• Answer the following question: 'How can you assist God in His work? How can you help others seek eternal life?' Record your answer on page 12 in your journal under Application.

3. Memorize the verse and reference.

Quotes that support this verse:

ALL HONEST WORK IS OF GOD

 “God Himself is glorified by His work of bringing to pass the immortality and eternal life of His children. We naturally desire to participate with Him in His work, and in so doing, we ought to recognize that all honest work is the work of God.”

– D Todd Christoffersen, General Conference, October 2010

“We are living for eternity and not merely for the moment.”
– President Joseph F Smith,Gospel Doctrine, p. 277

THE UNSELFISHNESS OF GOD”Hence, we see the complete unselfishness of our Father in Heaven. His whole work and glory is to bring eternal life and happiness to his children. Should not our whole purpose in this life, therefore, be made up of righteous service one to another? If not, how  can we ever hope to be as he is?” – Marion G Romney, Ensign, Nov 1981

UNDERSTANDING THE PLAN“… the Father’s desire is to give everyone the opportunity to receive a fullness of joy. Latter-day revelations show that our Heavenly Father created a great plan of happiness for all His children, a very special plan so that we can return to live with Him… Understanding the plan will help people keep the commandments, make better decisions, and have the right motivation.” -Rafael E Pino, Ensign, May 2015

Seminary - An Opportunity to Discover Gospel Truths

Two months ago, almost to the day I was called to be an early-morning seminary teacher. I LOVE the scriptures and am excited for this opportunity to explore the scriptures with the youth every morning!!! Much of the content of this blog up to this point has been from my own personal study, however, I have decided to broaden it to include our seminary lessons and activities.

I have spent countless hours researching and looking for different  things I can use in my class. The following are some of the things I have used:

• A great outline for doing the morning insight or devotional. I found this among the classroom visuals on the NW Seminary Share blog. Click here to see the original post. There is a bookmark also included among the visuals offered which I printed onto card stock for each of my students and then on the back printed out the 10 Scripture Study Tools found in the September 2010 Ensign.

     

• To encourage class participation I plan on handing out Getting More out of the Scriptures cards. Each card is different and will encourage the students to ponder a scripture differently. I hope that this will be a tool that will help us REALLY learn together in a fun way. I found them here
  

• To help us with our scripture mastery verses I have made stickers similar to those that you can purchase online which identify a scripture mastery verse and keyword or phrase that goes along with this verse. I printed them on return address labels and we will put them in the margins of our scriptures.
  

• I have a class that is used to receiving chocolate bars for memorized scripture mastery verses. However, I have decided to do something a little different this year. This year, memorized verses will earn a pebble magnet which features an icon and the scripture reference. I have decided to do Old Testament in blue stones. Next year I will use a different color. The icons were taken off of scripture mastery bingo cards which I found here. I added the references, cut the icons with a 5/8" punch and then modge podged the papers onto the backs of the stones let them dry and then added a magnet. (Click here for instructions) Voila!! I have scripture mastery magnets!
  

Well, I have a few other things I plan to do to get my classroom set up, but so far this is what is ready to share. I am so excited about seminary. I had a great seminary teacher as a youth and learned to love the scriptures as I studied from them. What a great program!!!

Alma 33

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

You can worship God continually through prayer. You receive Heavenly Father'sq mercy, including forgiveness for your sins, because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The Scriptures testify of Jesus Christ. You exercise faith by choosing to believe in Jesus Christ and His Atonement?

1. How do you exercise faith? 

2. What faults idea about worship did Alma correct in this verse? Why did these Zoramites think they could not worship God? Why is church attendance an important part of your worship? What are some ways you can worship God in addition to attending your weekly church meetings?

4-10. When and where did Zenos pray? What did Alma teach about worship when he quoted Zenos's words? In what ways is prayer and exercise of faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? When have you prayed in a situation like those mentioned by Zenos? How was your prayer answered? What do you learn about mercy from these verses?

"When God has commanded us to pray, he has used words like pray unceasingly and pray always and mighty prayer. Those commands do not require using many words. In fact, the Savior has told us that we need not multiply words when we pray. The diligence in prayer which God requires does not take flowery speech nor long hours of solitude… Our hearts can be drawn out to God only when they are filled with love for him and trust in his goodness." – Henry B Eyring, GC, October 2001

11. What connection do you see between the atonement of Jesus Christ and the mercy of Heavenly Father? What do you think Zenos meant when he said, "Thou hast turned thy judgments away from me, because of thy Son"? Why is Heavenly Father able to have mercy on you and answer your prayers? What did Jesus Christ do that made it possible for God to have mercy on you?

14-15. Why was Alma familiar with the words of Zenos and Zenock? How does studying and believing the Scriptures help you exercise faith?

16. How does Heavenly Father feel when people refuse to understand what His Son has done for them?

19-20. What happened to the people in Moses day who looked at the brass serpent? What happened to those who chose not to look? According to these verses, why did many choose not to look? What did the brass serpent symbolize? [See also Numbers 21:4-9] why do some people today refuse to try the teachings of Christ and see if those teachings will heal them? What experiences have you had that have help to you as you have looked to the Savior? What experiences have you had in a time of trouble where looking to the Savior help to prevent you from doing things that might spiritually destroy?

"He who will open his eyes and look upon the Lord will find it easy to recognize him as the divine source from which relief of sin comes." – Book of Mormon Student Manual, Religion 121-122, [1981], p. 301

21-23. What can the account of the Israelites and the brass serpent teach about what you must do to be healed spiritually? What attitudes or actions do you see in people who believe in the Savior's Atonement? How does your choice to believe in the Savior influence your every day life? How has personal scripture study strengthen your faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? How has daily personal prayer and worship strengthen your faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? What do you feel Heavenly Father would like you to do to exercise greater faith?

"Each child in each generation chooses faith or disbelief. Faith is not an inheritance; it is a choice." – Henry B Eyring, CES religious educators, February 2, 2001

Alma 32

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Humility prepares you to receive the word of God. You are more blessed when you choose to be humble them when you are compelled to be humble. If you diligently nourish Gods word in your heart, your faith and your testimony of Jesus Christ and his gospel will grow.

CHAPTER 32: How do you receive and strengthen a testimony?

1-3.  Which group of people showed interest in the missionaries message? In what ways were these people poor? What do you think it means to be poor in heart?

5-6. How does the question in verse 5 show that these Zoramites were poor and heart? How did poverty lead to blessings for this group of Zoramites?

8-12. What do these verses teach about receiving and strengthening a testimony? Why do you think the poor were more willing to listen? Why is humility essential in the process of receiving and strengthening a testimony?

13-16. What two different ways are there that people may become humble? Why do you think it is better to choose to be humble? What do you think it means to humble yourself because of the word? How might this apply to your attitudes in church, community, and family assignments?

"God will have a humble people. Either we can choose to be humble or we can be compelled to be humble... We can choose to humble ourselves by conquering enmity toward our brothers and sisters, esteeming  them as ourselves, and lifting them as high or higher than we are. We can choose to humble ourselves by receiving counsel and chastisement. We can choose to humble ourselves by forgiving those who have offended us. We can choose to humble ourselves by rendering selfless service. We can choose to humble ourselves by going on missions and preaching the word that can humble others. We can choose to humble ourselves by confessing and forsaking our sins and being born of God. We can choose to humble ourselves by loving God, submitting our will to His and putting Him first in our lives. Let us choose to be humble. We can do it. I know we can." – Ezra Taft Benson, GC, April 1989

17-18. What false idea did many of the people have about obtaining a testimony? What is wrong with manning a sign before believing? [Jacob 7:13-16; Alma 30:43-52; Doctrine and Covenants 63:9]

21. What is Alma's definition of faith? What things can you do to increase your faith? What principles of the Gospel can you be more obedient to?

"Faith is a gift of God bestowed as a reward for personal righteousness. It is always given when righteousness is present, and the greater the measure of obedience to God's laws the greater will be  the endowment of faith." - Bruce R McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 264

22. What council do you find in this verse on how to receive and strengthen my testimony? Why are these actions important in the development of your faith?

23. Who does God grant inspiration to? What inspiration have you received in your life?

Symbols used in this chapter

Seed: Word of God (verse 28)

Soil: Your heart (verse 28)

Sprout: and marching of your soul, and lightened understanding, and deliciousness. (Verse 28)

Tree: increased knowledge that the seed was good. (Verse 30-39)

Fruit: everlasting life (verse 41-43)

27-43. What is one principal or doctrine of the gospel that you could experiment on in your life?

27. Why do people conduct scientific experiments? How does conducting an experiment compare to the process of receiving and strengthening a testimony? What do you think that Alma meant when he said to experiment upon his words? What do you think he meant when he said to a week and arouse your faculties? What do you think it means to exercise a particle of faith?

28. What did Alma compare the word of God to? What are some sources of gods word? What did Alma say you must do with this seed? How is the word of God like a seed that can be planted in your heart? What do you think it means to give place for the word to be planted in your heart? What do you think it means to feel that the word of God is swelling within you? If the word of God is swelling within you, then what is happening to your testimony and faith? When has the word of God enlarged your soul and enlightened your understanding? Why would these types of experiences increase your faith?

29-34. Why would your faith not yet be perfect after performing this experiment? What more do you think you need to receive a lasting testimony of the Gospel? How is the process of helping a tree grow similar to the process of strengthening a testimony?

31-33. How can you know that this [The word of God] is a good seed?

37-40. What must you do so your faith in the word of God will continue to grow? What can you do to nourish the word? What happens if you neglect a tree or fail to nourish it? What happens if you neglect the word of God that has been planted in your heart?

41-43. Where else does the book of Mormon include a description of a tree with fruit that is sweet of all that is sweet? In the vision of the tree of life, what do the tree and the fruit represent? How is this like Alma's comparison of the word of God to a seed?