Episode 113: Using the Beatitudes to Understand Christ's Atonement and Grace (Brad Wilcox)

In 3 Nephi 12:1—12 the resurrected Savior delivers an address to the Nephites similar to the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5; Luke 6) and presents the Beatitudes. Like the Matthew 5 account, the Book of Mormon record details how we might enter and build a covenantal relationship with God through the "interrelated and progressive" arrangement of the Beatitudes (Bible Dictionary). But what additional insight does the 3 Nephi account offer that isn't preserved in the New Testament? In this episode Dr. Brad Wilcox, professor of ancient scripture, discusses his book Blessed Are Ye: Using the Beatitudes to Understand Christ's Atonement and Grace , co-authored with his brother Roger Wilcox. He details varied interpretations of the Beatitudes, connects them to the first principles and ordinances of the gospel, and examines their relationship to latter-day temple covenants. As we study the Beatitudes, they become more than a code of conduct. Rather, they can be a holy invitation from Christ Himself to enter a covenant relationship with Him, receive His grace, and become like Him. Publications: Blessed Are Ye: Using the Beatitudes to Understand Christ's Atonement and Grace (Covenant Communications, 2023) " His Grace Is Sufficient" (BYU Speeches, 2011) Changed through His Grace ( Deseret Book , 2017) The Continuous Atonement ( Deseret Book , 2009) Your Patriarchal Blessing (Deseret Book, 2021) "Be Not Faithless, but Believing" ( Religious Educator , 25.2, 2024) "Applying the Atonement of Jesus Christ" ( Religious Educator , 12.2, 2011) "Names in the Book of Mormon" ( Y Religion , episode 83, 2023) "Answers About Patriarchal Blessings" ( Y Religion , episode 46, 2021) Click here to learn more about Brad Wilcox