God Will Prevail: Ancient Covenants, Modern Blessings, and the Gathering of Israel

by Kerry Muhlestein

By entering into covenants with His people, God forges vital connections that allow Him to guide and bless His children in incredible ways. Latter-day Saints have long been encouraged to stay on the covenant path—but what is that path, and how do we stay the course? In God Will Prevail: Ancient Covenants, Modern Blessings, and the Gathering of Israel, BYU Professor of Religion Dr. Kerry Muhlestein encourages readers to take hold of God’s promise to gather His covenant people by recognizing the connection between covenant making and the eternal and transformative love of the Savior.

Discover the obligations and blessings of making and keeping sacred covenants, as outlined in the standard works, with insights on topics ranging from temple work and family history to covenant language, the gathering of Israel, and the equalizing power of Christ’s Atonement. With clarity and hope, this groundbreaking book speaks to this powerful truth: promised blessings and gatherings are available to all who truly seek to be covenant keepers.

Genres: Religion, Lds, Nonfiction, History, Spirituality, Inspirational, Faith

Hardcover

First published February 1, 2021

Reviews

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read that helped me better understand what it means to be a part of covenant Israel.

[Jamie Huston · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book does for the Abrahamic covenant what Tad R. Callister's The Infinite Atonement did for that subject: provides an orderly, comprehensive deep dive into every relevant facet of one important topic.

This is actually one of the more boring topics in scripture, right?--I remember reading the Book of Mormon when I was younger and being disappointed that so much of the ministry of Jesus in 3 Nephi was lectures on what seemed like an arcane, obscure doctrine.

But the final section of the book provides an illuminating, fascinating look at exactly that!

"God Will Prevail" strikes just the right balance between scholarly acumen (Muhlestein provides plenty of well rounded sources from academia in and out of the church) and LDS devotion (he also cites freely from recent apostles and other leaders). He goes into detail as he examines each aspect of the topic, but the work never gets abstruse. The book was serious, but rarely dry.

I believe Muhlestein that he was working on this before President Nelson's October 2020 address about studying the covenant in scripture (there's far too much detail and quality in here to have been started, finished, and produced in less than 5 months--more insights and resources went into this than a non specialist like me could have done in a lifetime of study), but there are some rough edges that make me wonder if the project may have been rushed to get it out ASAP after that talk: some sections aren't quite as well written as others, and while the footnotes are great, a source list at the end would have been helpful, plus subject and scripture indices.

Still, those are minor quibbles for an extremely excellent work, a useful addition to any disciple's study. The book is always aware of the need for practical application, and Muhlestein's thoughts about the nature of his topic are organic and welcomely inspiring. I was genuinely moved at points, and made many notes to go back and review in re-reading.

Muhlestein clearly wants his book to create a "covenant conscious" mindset in the reader, as it apparently did for him as he prepared it. Mission accomplished!

[Tasha (the_clean_read_book_club) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a thing for non-fiction Christian books. I have previously read a literary work from this author prior and was excited to get my hands on this one! As always I am astounded by the depth of content that Dr. Kerry Muhlstein packs into his books. His books are ones I prepare to fully “study” not just read. This one is also one you’ll want a highlighter and pen handy for note taking as well as thoughts and impressions. This book was able to help me better understand covenants and what following the covenant path looks like. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the Abrahamic Covenant/The New and Everlasting Covenant, Temple/Family History work, understanding the Covenant Path and the task to gather Israel.

I received a gifted copy from the publishing company. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

A better understanding of the Abrahamic covenant and what it means to me personally has caused me to see the entire gospel of Jesus Christ through a new lens.

I see this earthly experience and my place in it completely differently. I see the covenant everywhere now, in the scriptures, in the temple, in General Conference.

"What God wants most in the relationship: a relationship that increases our unity with Him and thus increases our godliness."

A personal relationship with God is the focus and end of the covenant.

"We all have an innate need to belong to something. The divine part of us acutely feels the need to belong to God."

Loving Him and others is the means.

"Feelings of inadequacy, worry, and guilt over not doing enough are typically the result of focusing on whether we are doing enough outward things rather than focusing on loving."

"Again, stop worrying about yourself. Don’t ask whether you have enough love of God or if you love others enough. Don’t worry about whether or not you are keeping all of your obligations. Those thoughts, while based in good desires, are still self-centered."

"With the help of Christ, our love for God can be an ever-growing, ever-consuming element in our lives that eventually eclipses all our shortcomings."

"If you do love them, however much you are capable of doing so, Christ will enable all things to properly flow from there. He will do so in such a way that we will be empowered to serve within the capacities of our own limits and strengths while He simultaneously enlarges them."

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend God Will Prevail. This book illuminated my understanding of the Abrahamic Covenant in ways I have never viewed it before. Dr. Muhlestein guides readers to a deeper understanding of the importance of the Abrahamic Covenant from ancient times to modern-day covenantal obligations. I learned to identify language that is woven throughout all books of scripture that teaches us more about the Abrahamic Covenant. I am now studying the scriptures with new eyes and learning new things from scriptural passages that I have read many times before. This is a book to be studied and savored. I just finished the book and plan to start over on page one!

[Marta Cleverly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh

[Tyler Critchfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic overview of the Abrahamic covenant from a Latter-day Saint perspective. I took a class from Dr. Muhlestein on the writings of Isaiah a few years ago and learned much from his knowledge and perspective on the topic, both of which permeate this book. He cites many academic scholars (inside and outside the church) as well as an abundance of scriptural references and quotes from modern-day leaders of the church. 

There was a lot of repetition throughout the book; however, I think it was appropriate and helpful with this topic. I want to keep studying this and will be looking for more in-depth resources going forward. Unless you already consider yourself an expert on ancient Israel, I highly recommend starting with this book, especially with study of the Old Testament coming up in just a few weeks for the 2022 year.

Some pertinent takeaways and other thoughts:
- Any covenant we make with the Lord traces back to the Abrahamic covenant. Thus when we speak of covenants at baptism or in the temple, we are really talking about the Abrahamic covenant. They are all part of the same covenant path that has been emphasized so much recently by President Nelson and other leaders.
- On that note, while we often speak of making and keeping covenants in the plural form, it may be helpful to think of it instead in the singular form: making and keeping covenant, namely the Abrahamic covenant or New and Everlasting covenant. Each successive covenant we make is a step or element of the same all-encompassing covenant.
- This covenant is more than just obligations and promises. It ties us to God in a special relationship that leads us to Him. Whether we like it or not, this tie ensures God will never give up on us.
- As I've studied Nephi's record extensively over the past year (thanks in large part to Joe Spencer - go read his book, The Vision of All!), I've come to learn that things that concern the Abrahamic covenant are precisely the "plain and precious truths" Nephi speaks of so often. In fact, Nephi specifically names a section of his record "plain and precious" and literally tells us where that section starts and finishes, though it's easy to overlook without a close reading. What section is this referring to? It's all about Isaiah. Nephi preaches with Isaiah, then has his brother preach about Isaiah, then he quotes several chapters of Isaiah verbatim, and then preaches more about how to read and understand Isaiah. Why is Nephi obsessed with Isaiah? Isaiah's prophecies and teachings are primarily themed around the Abrahamic covenant. Sadly, the very part of the Nephi's record we so often overlook or skim through is the very part Nephi wants us to focus on, and it concerns the Abrahamic covenant. 

Before this becomes more of a church sermon than a book review, I'll finish here. With such an emphasis made on the Abrahamic covenant by Nephi, Jacob, Isaiah, Christ Himself, and many other prophets, both ancient and modern, I think it behooves us to do what we can to learn more about it and how it applies to our worship and day-to-day living. It's worth wrestling and struggling with. Fortunately, this book is a great high-level resource that makes that journey much less intimidating and has prepared me well to continue studying this important topic.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

July 15, 2021: Yes, I listened to the audiobook *again* and quite soon. This time I also marked passages in my printed copy for reference.

I loved the emphasis on being in a covenant with God and being chosen doesn't make one elite, it means one has chosen to do whatever work God has for them. I also loved the explanations of the expanse of God's love.

Discussions on the ancient meanings of words that have shifted meanings in our present day, such as judgment, covenant, long-suffering, and birthright (seriously did not know it was NOT about power, but about trust in someone to care for those on the fringes who are often forgotten, and more) were explained logically and in depth using historical context where appropriate, or current application as necessary.

Again, a phenomenal book. I'm sure I will re-read this at least once more very soon.

********
June 3, 2021: I have never understood the beauty and excitement of the Abrahamic covenant before. My understanding of my religion has increased in unexpected and joyful ways. This book is filled with research and examples of the covenant and walks the reader (or listener) step by step through it. From the establishment of the covenant--and it's purpose--to blessings, obligations, what to do mow you understand it, the long-suffering kindness of God for and toward those who turn away from the covenant (through ancient and modern times), and so much more, I feel like a scratchy radio signal was just fine tuned and now I can hear the lyrics more clearly. And they are beautiful!

A great book, a deep subject, a well-planned explanation. It's all here. Once you've listened to it, you will never hear the word covenant or think of God's mercy without a great increase of joy.

Yes, I absolutely loved it.

**Update: do NOT skip reading the appendices.**

[Marj · Rating 4 out of 5]

As President Russell M. Nelson said, "The Lord is gathering those who are willing to let God prevail in their lives. The Lord is gathering those who will choose to let God be the most important influence in their lives."

As I read this book, I felt deeply the need to clarify my own covenant commitment. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I strive daily to stay on the covenant path.

As part of this read, I am taking hold of God's promise to gather His covenant people--be of service, work on temple and family history work--just a few of the traits of a covenant keeper.

The story of the Abrahamic covenant--part of what my scripture study will be in 2022--is a crucial story in MY family history. This book prepped me well for the Come Follow Me course of study in
2022.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll have to review this book a little differently. The book was not easy to get through, because it was so informational and contextual. The book was a little bit heavy with concepts, ideas, doctrine and so forth. I can tell the information is really important. I feel like a kid who realized I've seen something important but I don't quite fully understand what it is. This is definitely a book I want to reread and sit down and fully study . I need to reread it in a few years after getting more understanding of covenants and the historical history of covenants with God's people. All I know is I feel like the spirit has really spoken to me about this is truly what all the gospel is about. I feel like all of us have kind of overlooked the importance of these covenants and truly understanding and tapping into them. The book has really stuck with me, but I couldn't really tell you anything about the book because there are so much information and a lot of it didn't go over my head, but I didn't fully grasp the importance and idea of what he was saying. Always. I think this book is a must read from members but I couldn't really give a good argument why... It's more I can just tell this book is speaking truth

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. So many great insights on what it means to be part of covenant Israel. Great explanation of our responsibilities and promised blessings. I loved all that he shared on patriarchal blessings and the roles given to each of the 12 tribes. Such an insightful book.

[Natalie Steed · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Some good information. Narrator was a little dry so felt a little textbook like

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really interesting book. I liked this author’s insights into the Abrahamic Covenant and how we can apply the covenant today. I liked how he showed us how people kept it anciently and how we can do so modernly. I liked how he explained things in a way that I could understand and that he used a lot of good sources. If you have ever wanted to learn more about the Abrahamic Covenant then this is a good book to read.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Gable Roth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good message about being more committed to God and to the covenants we have made with Him. I probably should have read this book a little slower. It was tough to digest at the speed I listened to and so I had trouble following some of the points being made. But all in all it is good to come closer to Christ! Let's do it!

[Daniel Nelson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some interesting insights and content. The first three to four chapters are solid and pull out some thought provoking items. As the book goes on it gets a little too repetitive - particularly the last three chapters or so. Worth looking through this one and focusing on your areas of interest.

[LauraLee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think it would have been better to read this. I listened to it and I became distracted. Interesting, just did not keep my attention.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this book during the summer and then as I was preparing to write a review I ended up reading it again. It's just that good! As with Patrick Mason's book RESTORATION, I found some good stuff in the Appendix as well. Muhlestein, in the Appendix goes through the Old Testament, the New Testament and the Book of Mormon and talks about his discovery of the Covenant in the scriptures. Not surprisingly The Old Testament addresses the covenant over 1,300 times--it is one of the central themes of the Old Testament.

In the New Testament, or one could also call it, the New Covenant, the covenant is a prominent theme. "For the people Christ ministered to", says Muhlestien, "..the covenant was crucial...John and Christ both taught that while being born into the house of Israel was important, it was not enough. One had to LIVE the covenant to truly be part of the covenant. Christ Himself taught that He was fulfilling the covenant, and He made that covenant anew on the eve of His great sacrifice by instituting the sacrament. While the covenant remained very important to Jewish Christians, it was NOT ALWAYS EASY for them to understand how the covenant and the law interacted with GENTILES. Getting all covenant holders to see themselves as part of ONE COVENANT COMMUNITY, or a COVENANTAL CORPORATE BODY, was a difficult task for the apostles. Unfortunately, full covenant consciousness did not continue in the church.
My fascination came with the theme of Covenant in the Book of Mormon. There was a lesson in the Book of Mormon that I had never seen before or even thought of with regards to the Covenant. Nephi, Jacob, Enos and Jarom all talk of the covenant, but after Jarom there is a notable decline in how much the covenant is referenced. In Mosiah and Alma, the speakers and authors often use covenant LANGUAGE, but they use it in a different way. By this point, says Muhlestein, the Nephites seem to have moved AWAY FROM THINKING OF A COMMUNAL COVENANT and toward thinking of an INDIVIDUAL COVENANT. Muhlestein notes, "The inverse relationship between focusing on INDIVIDUAL SALVATION and maintaing COVENANT CONSCIOUSNESS found in the Book of Mormon may bear an echo to Christ's teachings that as we LOSE OURSELVES WE REALLY FIND OURSELVES, and if we FOCUS ON FINDING OUR OWN LIVES WE WILL ACTUALLY LOSE OUR LIVES. What the trend in the Book of Mormon seems to teach is that the more WE FOCUS ON THIS ASPECT OF THE COVENANT (INDIVIDUAL SALVATION), THE LESS COVENANT CONSCIOUSNESS WE HAVE. In contrast, the more we focus on the COMMUNAL ASPECTS, THE MORE WE FOCUS ON THE COVENANT. Interestingly when Christ comes to the Americas, the second half of what He taught the Nephites during the first two days of His ministry among them, nearly 60% of everything HE said was about the covenant. But theres more... Jesus clearly speaks OF individual salvation during His Nephite ministry, yet His teaching ABOUT the covenant DO NOT really touch on individual salvation. Rather, He forcefully and emphatically stresses the corporate nature of the Abrahamic covenant. Yes, individual salvation depends on making and keeping this covenant. However, Christ's emphasis is on the need for ALL to recognize that they can and MUST BE PART OF THIS LARGER COVENANT, that HE and the Father will fulfill the covenant with all of Israel, and that we each have an important role to fulfill within the covenant and its gathering.

Back at the beginning of the book I love how Muhlestein introduces the Abrahamic covenant as a crucial story in YOUR family history... not just any family history, but the family story about how we are connected with God. Welcome to YOUR COVENANT STORY.

Reference is made between the difference between A new and everlasting covenant and THE new and everlasting covenant. Said Elder Marcus B. Nash, "Neither baptism nor eternal marriage is 'the' new and everlasting covenant; rather, they are each parts of the whole." The new and everlasting or Abrahamic covenant is God's COMPREHENSIVE PROMISE to redeem and exalt us. We usually refer to our making and keeping covenants (plural), which is appropriate since we enter into this larger covenant in various settings. Yet we do not enter covenant PATHS, we enter A covenant PATH. The scriptures speak of "keeping covenant," not keeping covenants. THus, we may be more correct, or at least we emphasize something very important, when we refer to THE COVENANT.

Muhlestein talks a lot about HESED, a Hebrew word that indicates a special kind of love and mercy that is only available to those in a covenant relationship. HESED is covenant love and without a covenant there could be no covenant love. One way to understand HESED says Muhlestein is to compare a covenant relationship with God to a covenant relationship with a spouse. God OFFERS this kind of love (HESED) to all, but it is ACTUALLY EXTENDED only to those who have CHOSEN to create a different kind of relationship with Him.

One connection to the temple I loved was from LDS writer Mark Shields, he notes that when we say we are "going to the temple," we could just as accurately say we are "going to receive the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant." The temple and the covenant are inextricably intertwined.

The list of covenantal blessings that form the CORE of the covenant and our relationship with God are: (SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD and access to SPECIAL MERCY AND LOVE)
1. God will be our God
2. We will be His people
3. We will be a peculiar treasure and a holy people
4. God will extend special love and mercy to us (HESED)
5. God will lead us by the hand
6. God will give us instructions and knowledge
7. God's hand will be over us

Digging deeper, covenental blessings that are formed by our INCREASING CONNECTION AND RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, and that also further that relationship, include:
1. Rights to priesthood ordinances
2. Receiving God's name through priesthood ordinances
3. Sharing priesthood ordinances with others
4. Becoming Abraham and Sarah's seed
5. Calling Abraham and Sarah blessed
6. Experiencing God's presence in His temple
7. Partaking of God's presence through priesthood ordinances of the temple

Other blessings that we hear most about are:
PROSPERITY, LAND, AND BLESSEDNESS the blessings that are part of this aspect of the covenant include:
1. The hight relationship with God yields blessings
2. These blessings include a land on which they can live
3. This land will yield abundantly so that Abraham, Sarah, and their seed can live
4. The abundance will be so great that they will always have what they need and more
5. As a result, they will not need to be leaned to, but will instead be able to loan to those who are in need
6. All of these blessings will be beyond measure
PROTECTION
1. Because of their relationship with God, and as part of their prosperity, Abraham, Sarah, and Israel will dwell in the land safely
2. God will be Israel's shield
3. God will fight Israel's battles
4. Israel will conquer, and not be conquered
5. God will give Israel peace
6. Israelw ill rule themselves, rather than be ruled over by others
7. God will bless those that bless Abraham, Sarah, and their seed
8. God will curse those that curse Abraham, Sarah, and their seed
POSTERITY
1. Once in a relationship with God in a place that prospers and is protected, Abraham, Sarah, and their seed can have innumerable posterity
2. Nations will spring from Abrham and Sarah
3. Abraham and Sarah will have eternal posterity
4. Abraham's and Sarah's names will be great among the nations of the earth
5. Abraham and Sarah's posterity will bless all the earth
6. One of the ways they will bless all the earth is by carrying the gospel and its covenants to all the earth
GATHERING
EXALTATION

Now onto COVENENTAL OBLIGATIONS
1. LOVE GOD
2. WORSHIP NO OTHER GODS
3. LET GOD PREVAIL IN OUR LIVES
4. OBEDIENCE
5. LOVE AND CARE FOR OTHERS
6. ENTER INTO COVENANT ORDINANCES
7. SHARE THE COVENANT, ITS ORDIANCES, AND THE GOSPEL (GATHER ISRAEL)
8. RETURN (REPENT) WHEN WE STRAY

In the temple, there is great emphasis on creating a binding RELATIONSHIP with God, which binding and relationship are designed to result in us REJOINING HIM. This reunion and communion are only possible because the atoning sacrifice of His Son allows for the fulfillment of covenant blessings. EVERYTHING ABOUT THE TEMPLE AIMS AT FULFILLING ALL THE ABRAHAMIC COVENANT, ESPECIALLY THE BLESSINGS OF:
1. A spcial relationship with God
2. Protection
3. A (true) Pomised Land
4. Rulership
5. Posterity
6. Being a blessing to that posterity
7. Access to the gospel and its ordinaces
8. Exaltation

[Audrey McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was a freshman in high school, I attended a competitive orchestra and ensemble music camp in southern California. There, I met people from all over. We practiced and had rehearsal all day long each day. After sitting for 8+ hours, all I wanted to do was something active so I took up playing basketball each evening with a group of older students from Israel (there may have also been a very cute older cellist named Oded that played basketball too). One evening, I sat on the side resting with a much older violist from Israel. He chatted with me for a while and then asked me if I was religious, I said yes and said I was a member of a the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He asked me more questions and the. he turned and very seriously said, “so, do you think YOU the chosen ones?” I remember the heat rising in my face. I remember feeling embarrassed, confused, ashamed, etc. I had no idea how to answer and luckily my memory blanks out here. I’m sure my brain disassociated from my answer to spare my future self the embarrassment… needless to say I had no idea what to say.

14 year old Audrey needed this book! This book explains covenants in a way I’ve never heard or read before. I loved learning about the Hebrew word qesed, how covenants are inclusive, and teach us empathy. I’ll definitely need to re-read this book with my scripture near by next time!

Oh, and I did the audiobook which was excellent since Dr. Muhlestein should’ve worked in radio. 😆

[Kris · Rating 3 out of 5]

By entering into covenants with His people, God forges vital connections that allow Him to guide and bless His children in incredible ways. Latter-day Saints have long been encouraged to stay on the covenant path—but what is that path, and how do we stay the course? In God Will Prevail: Ancient Covenants, Modern Blessings, and the Gathering of Israel, BYU Professor of Religion Dr. Kerry Muhlestein encourages readers to take hold of God’s promise to gather His covenant people by recognizing the connection between covenant making and the eternal and transformative love of the Savior.
Discover the obligations and blessings of making and keeping sacred covenants, as outlined in the standard works, with insights on topics ranging from temple work and family history to covenant language, the gathering of Israel, and the equalizing power of Christ’s Atonement. With clarity and hope, this groundbreaking book speaks to this powerful truth: promised blessings and gatherings are available to all who truly seek to be covenant keepers.

I read this book after listening to Kerry Muhlestein on a podcast. He explains the covenant in a way that makes it not only understandable, but relevant to everyday life. Deep, but explained simply. I really enjoyed this read!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviews

God Will Prevail by Kerry Muhlestein is an excellent nonfiction that helps the Christian reader on a quest to learn more about The Covenants, what this work in progress looks like, and what the journey to better understanding, implementing, and adaptation.

The author is very talented in his ability to break things down into a non intimidating narrative. He is able to make things easy to understand, digest, and follow. He also has a way with words. His talent is obvious in his knowledge and research, but also in his ability to draw the reader in and keep their interest and engagement all while enlightening them.

I really learned a lot, and I am pursuing other works by this author now as well.

Excellent

Thank you to the author and Covenant Communications for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Amazon accounts immediately and am also posting to Deseret and Seagull pages as well.

[Josh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Again, the three stars don't mean that this book was bad. Actually, when you hover over the three stars for the book rating, Goodreads says that it means you "liked it." And that's what I did with this book. I liked it. I actually think that I wasn't taking this book as seriously as I would have hoped to have done. The book is really just about the New and Everlasting Covenant. No, not marriage. That's only a part of the New and Everlasting Covenant. The New and Everlasting Covenant, I learned, is really the Abrahamic Covenant and each of the covenants we make in this life build up to this one covenant. That's why we shouldn't say that we're keeping our covenants; rather, we keep our covenant (not plural).

I learned a lot from this book about the scattering and gathering. The coolest part for me was near the end of the book before the appendices. Kerry Muhlestein writes about how we shouldn't focus on ourselves and our shortcomings. We should just focus on Christ and the fact that we are part of the covenant and so we have access to God's power.

[Larry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clear, Instructive, Eye Opening

I could not help but feel truth being shared clearly, precisely, and in greater measure than I’ve heretofore experienced on this topic. The book has entered the rare bookshelf of books I look to for reference.

Why not 5 stars? I had preferred that the author note earlier and emphasize more frequently the relationship between the covenant and the Savior.

Most meaningful: The suggestion that the consequences which follow not keeping the covenant are intended to return Israel to the covenant path and evidence of God’s hesed. For sometime I’ve pondered on mercy and justice, attempting to reconcile what I increasingly view as worldly notions of judgement and justice with God’s love and mercy.

Most troublesome: The unintended (I imagine) over emphasis on what I / we covenant makers must do … so much so that the truth of my / our inability to do so sufficiently is scarcely noted; the necessity of our complete reliance on the Savior is scarcely noted; and, His presence in the covenant is scarcely acknowledged.

[Jared M · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many reasons to love this book: 1) The author gives the clearest explanation I’ve read of the Abrahamic Covenant or New and Everlasting Covenant, its history and promises, and how all other covenants are part of it 2) Using examples from Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, and modern scripture and prophets, he shows how all Abrahamic Covenant promises are possible only through Christ 3) After explaining covenant promises, he shows how to recognize the covenant in scripture and in the words of prophets and how prevalent covenant themes are when we know how to see them 4) He gives an overview of Israel through time and how covenant consciousness is related directly to righteousness and blessedness on one hand or wandering/scattering on the other 5) And the thread that runs throughout is God’s sure promise to fulfill the covenant by redeeming and gathering Israel in times past and in our day. Insightful from beginning to end.

[Linda]

Jerry Muhlestein is a favorite, regardless of subject. But if it’s anything to do with Abraham, you can’t do better. This is a tour de force, but entirely accessible, volume on the Abrahamic Covenant - both an exposure of what we do not know, and examination of how central to our earthly experience and the gospel of Jesus Christ as it shapes and guides our interactions with God and His promises. This book is what is needed, right now, to focus ourselves on our prophet’s most earnest council: the Gathering is happening, with or without us. The invitation is extended, and this remarkable book is a valuable tool in participating.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a fantastic learning tool for understanding the Gathering of Israel and the New and Everlasting Covenant. I have come away from this book with so much more understanding than I’ve ever had. I’ve been humbled, taught, strengthened, and my grasp of the gospel and scripture has been amplified.

This book is highly scholarly, and for the first 50-60 pages, I felt so slow as I tried to comprehend what was being taught. I think Kerry presents very well; my understanding was simply lacking. This is definitely a book I want to own and review over and over again.

Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really excellent. Clarified and explained a lot of things about the Abrahamic (or new and everlasting) covenant and helped me to see my place in it and how very important it is. The book was very easy to follow and well laid out. The author obviously knows what he's talking about well enough to explain the subject thoroughly, but thankfully was also wise enough to keep the book cohesive and to the point.

Definitely one every church member would benefit from reading, especially given President Nelson's consistent emphasis on gathering Israel and the covenant.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've added this to my Wishlist at Deseret Book because I know I'll need a physical copy of the book for future reference. It's so hard to take notes listening to an audiobook. There is a ridiculous amount of information in this relatively small book that if you don't pay close attention, you'll miss things. I certainly learned new things, and always enjoy hearing about ancient Israelite culture, but it also reawakened the desire to become a more covenant-conscious person and how to go about doing that.

[VeeDawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

As President Russell M. Nelson said, "The Lord is gathering those who are willing to let God prevail in their lives. The Lord is gathering those who will choose to let God be the most important influence in their lives."
Covenants are about relationships, love and mercy. When we enter into and keep a covenant with God, we each become His in a very personal way and experience a deep and close bond with Him. As a covenant group we become His people He expects us to love Him and each other. The covenant is in our heart.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

So very good!! I first heard him speak on the Follow Him podcast and as I was in the middle of this study, I loved everything he said. He’s an expert in ancient Hebrew and Egyptology and such. His book is so thorough and was so insightful and resonant for me. I learned so much. It’ll be a book I need to own so I can read it again and mark it up. If you want a good book on this topic, I definitely recommend this one!

[MykeWeber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This, for me was an important read. Sort of like the unified theory of the universe, The Abrahamic Covenant is God’s purpose for us in Eternity. I loved how Muhlestein helped me see the Covenant in all of scripture! It is indeed everywhere. It permeates and gives meaning to holy writ in it’s entirety. I have seldom read a more motivating, inspiring book! It helped me so much to encapsulate all that I know and feel in one grand sense of purpose and meaning. Bravo!