What Can We Learn from the Allegory of the Olive Tree?

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What Can We Learn from the Allegory of the Olive Tree?

COME, FOLLOW ME: THE BOOK OF MORMON What Can We Learn from the Jacob 5–7 Allegory of the Olive Tree? (MARCH 16–22) n the allegory of the olive PRUNING removes DIGGING includes clear- NOURISHING keeps a tree, the master of the dead branches and bad ing away obstacles, such tree healthy by providing I fruit from a tree. The as weeds, from around minerals and other nutri- vineyard finds his olive master cut off the dead a tree. Digging ensures ents. Like trees, our spir- tree in a state of decay and branches and cast them nothing will hinder the its need nourishment. says, “I will prune [the into the fire (see Jacob tree’s ability to grow. How can we nourish our tree], and dig about it, and 5:9). How does God help What obstacles keep us spirits? nourish it” ( Jacob 5:4). us “prune” our lives of from growing spiritually? Throughout the alle- sins and weaknesses? gory, the master and his servant visit the vineyard several times (see Jacob 5:15–18, 29–32, 37–42). Each time, the process of pruning, digging, and nourishing is repeated. The master of the vineyard represents Jesus Christ. The tree and its branches represent His people. This allegory is much more than a story about trees and fruit. It is a powerful witness of God’s involvement in His children’s lives and the Savior’s mission and His love for all mankind. DISCUSSION The allegory of the olive tree was orig- inally written on the brass plates by the prophet Zenos. Why do you think Jacob dedicated such a large part of his own record to the words of another prophet? ILLUSTRATIONS FROM GETTY IMAGES ILLUSTRATIONS WEEK March 2020 37 4.

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