Trusting in Magic v. Majesty of God

August 5 – Trusting in Magic v. Majesty of God. Matthew 8:23-27 “And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. 24 And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. 25 And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. 26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. 27 But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!”

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Did Jesus calm the seas, or was this a magic trick?

The cast of characters in the BoM would have one believe Nephi simply said some prayers and used his magic ball to circumnavigate the world in 600 BC. Why are stories in the BoM similar to the Bible, but more grandiose? Why are they relying on a magic compass (aka their Liahona) instead of the Lord?

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1 Nephi 18:21 “And it came to pass after they had loosed me, behold, I took the compass, and it did work whither I desired it. And it came to pass that I prayed unto the Lord; and after I had prayed the winds did cease, and the storm did cease, and there was a great calm.”