The Name Can Be Blotted Out Through Transgression

Mosiah 5:11 And I would that ye should remember also, that this is the ^aname that I said I should give unto you that never should be blotted out, except it be through transgression; therefore, take heed that ye do not transgress, that the name be not blotted out of your hearts.

Benjamin wanted to teach his people to be born again in Christ, and he used a lot of symbolism that we find in the temple.  The name that he gave them is an example of that.  He promises that it would never be blotted out, except through transgression.

We've all seen it.  Someone whose light shines brightly, who radiates the Gospel in their lives.  And then something happens.  Benjamin says it's sin.  Perhaps they take offense at something someone says.  Perhaps they start missing church.  I don't know what causes it.  Maybe they start criticizing their leaders.  But the light goes out and they find fault with the church and lose their way.

In Sri Lanka we were introduced to a man who used to be a Catholic priest.  He told us the story of how he found the Gospel and was converted.  Then, of course, he had to leave the Catholic church and find a new job.  It was a very difficult time, but he did it because he knew the Gospel was true.  But somehow, he lost his grip on that truth.  At the time we met him, he was almost totally inactive.  He still seemed to hold on to his testimony, because as he related his story, he was still very moved, but it was not enough to keep him attending church.  

It was so sad to think that he had given up everything in his life for the Church because he found that pearl of great price.  But then he let go of the pearl.

I guess the parable of the sower is a good description of what happens.  Some seeds fall onto stony places and bloom for a while, and then cares of the world come and choke them out and the plants wither and die.

It grieves my heart to think of these people!  I guess we just need to keep loving them and praying for them and hope that they will come back in the Lord's time.