Sherem appeared among the Nephite people during the time of Jacob, the brother of the prophet Nephi. A man of eloquence and learning, he wielded his influence using flattery and persuasive speech to challenge the doctrines taught by Jacob, specifically denying the coming of Christ (Jacob 7:1-2). Sherem’s arguments were rooted in a literal interpretation of the law of Moses, which he insisted did not testify of a coming Messiah, labeling such beliefs as blasphemy (Jacob 7:7). His teachings and disputations led many away from the gospel.
Despite Sherem’s efforts to undermine his faith, Jacob remained steadfast, and when the two men publicly confronted each other, Jacob, filled with the Spirit, powerfully confounded Sherem’s rhetoric and logic (Jacob 7:8). The exchange culminated with Sherem demanding a sign to validate Jacob’s testimony of Jesus Christ. In response to this demand, Sherem was struck down by the power of God and lay comatose for several days (Jacob 7:13-15).
During his incapacitation, Sherem experienced a change of heart. Upon his recovery, he requested an assembly of the people. In this final gathering, he confessed his sins, denied his previous teachings, and acknowledged the Christ. He admitted to being deceived by the devil and voiced his fear of having committed the unpardonable sin (Jacob 7:17-19). Shortly after his confession, he passed away. Following his death, Jacob noted a return of peace and the love of God among the people, who then recommitted themselves to gospel principles and no longer heeded Sherem’s teachings (Jacob 7:23). Sherem’s life serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of intellectual pride and the consequences of seeking signs rather than faith.