The Parable of the Nobleman: A Lesson in Obedience

Doctrine and Covenants 101:43–62 presents a parable that was given to explain why the Saints had been driven out of Missouri.

In the parable, the servants start building a tower but then decide that “there is no need” for one (Doctrine and Covenants 101:49). But because they do not build the tower, they have no warning when an enemy breaks in and destroys the vineyard.

illustrations from parable of the nobleman — A **nobleman** instructs his servants to plant a vineyard and build a hedge around the trees and a tower so that a watchman can look over the land.

**Servants** plant the vineyard and build the hedge but decide not to build the tower.

An **unforeseen enemy** destroys the vineyard.

Do I ever question the commandments of God?

Have you, like the servants, ever wondered if a commandment was really necessary? This parable teaches us that the Lord’s commandments protect us and help us live happy lives (see also Mosiah 2:41; Doctrine and Covenants 82:8–10).

What can we do if we don’t see the need for a commandment?

Study the topic and pray for the Lord to help us “feel that it is right” (Doctrine and Covenants 9:8).
Remember times in the past when obedience brought blessings.¹
Act in faith, trusting that we will understand “after the trial of [our] faith” (Ether 12:6).