Mosiah 15-18 Study Guide – to be discussed October 18
Day 1: Read Mosiah 15:1-19
1.. In what way(s) is Jesus Christ the “Son”? In what way(s) is He the “Father”? In what way(s) are the Father (Elohim) and the Son (Jesus Christ) one God?
2. In Mosiah 15:5-9, Abinadi explains the verses just quoted in Mosiah 14:2-7 (Isaiah 53:2-7). How might this description of Christ’s life and ministry have been a test of faith for the wicked priests?
3. In Mosiah 15:14-18, having given sufficient background, Abinadi returns to the subject of the question Noah’s priests posed in Mosiah 12:20-24. According to Abinadi, who has published peace? Who is still publishing peace? Who shall hereafter publish peace, from this time henceforth and forever?
Day 2: Read Mosiah 15:20-31; D&C 137:7-9; Psalm 67:1-4; Alma 6:1
4. Who will be included in the first resurrection? (be sure to use D&C 137:7-9 for clarification) Who will not? Why not?
5. Is it that God will not forgive unrepentant sinners, or that He cannot?
6. Who are the “watchmen” and why are they singing together? (see also Ps. 67:1-4; Alma 6:1)
Day 3: Read Mosiah 16; D&C 88:4-13
7. Why will the wicked gnash their teeth instead of make excuses when “all shall see the salvation of the Lord”?
8. Read D&C 88:4-13 with Mosiah 16:6-9. Using these passages together, describe how Christ is the light of the world.
9.What three verbs does Abinadi use in Mosiah 16:15 to explain what the wicked priests should do?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 17:1-10
10. List three things we know about Alma from Mosiah 17:2.
11. What were Noah’s charges against Abinadi? (see also Mosiah 7:26-27) Under what circumstances would he be acquitted?
12. What were Abinadi’s charges against Noah and his priests?
Day 5: Read Mosiah 17:11-20; Alma 25:1-12; Mosiah 19:20
13. Why didn’t Noah release Abinadi?
14. Using Alma 25:1-12 and Mosiah 19:20, which of Abinadi’s dying prophecies came to pass?
15. Considering all you know about Abinadi, list similarities between Abinadi and Christ.
Day 6: Read Mosiah 18:1-16; Mosiah 23:9
16. Why do you think the people believed Alma when they had rejected Abinadi?
17. Make a list of what Alma taught the people regarding our part of the baptismal covenant. In other words, what do we covenant to do at baptism?
18. Make a list of what the Lord promises as His part of the covenant. What was the reaction of the people to these teachings?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 18:7-35
19. After the saints were baptized at Mormon, how did Alma organize the church?
20. How did Alma’s people become the “children of God”?
21. Of what did King Noah accuse Alma? Use Mosiah 23:1 to further explain how Alma’s people were “apprised of the coming of the king’s army.”
BOOK OF MORMON STUDY GUIDES
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Mosiah 12-14
Mosiah 12-14 Study Guide – to be discussed October 11
Day 1: Read Mosiah 12:1-8; review Mosiah 11:20-25
1. [Note: Although the record states that Abinadi had lived among the people of Noah in disguise, when he began to bear witness in chapter 12 he identified himself by name (v.1).] After reviewing Abinadi’s previous warning in Mosiah 11:20-25, compare his speech in Mosiah 12:1-8, two years later. Are the warnings the same? What detail is added?
2. Abinadi gave a specific warning regarding the worth of King Noah’s life if he didn’t repent. At this point in the narrative, how do the people value King Noah? (see also Mosiah 12:13-14)
3. Why do you think the Lord was willing to give Noah’s people another chance at repentance? What does this teach you about the nature of God? Note also how the Lord refers to the people in verse 4.
Day 2: Read Mosiah 12:9-18; Isaiah 5:20
4. Of what crime was Abinadi accused? Was this a capital offense?
5. Who was Noah’s father? Do you think he had been taught regarding the nature of God and the plan of salvation? How might peer pressure have played a part in Noah’s reaction to Abinadi’s message?
6. Can you find a “pattern” for avoiding repentance in these verses (similar to the pattern in Mosiah 11:26-29)?
Day 3: Read Mosiah 12:19-37; 2 Nephi 28:7-8, 21
7. According to Mosiah 12:19, why did the wicked priests want to question Abinadi? In quoting Isaiah 52:7-10, the priests seem to imply Abinadi cannot be sent from God, as he was certainly not publishing “peace.” Read 2 Nephi 28:7-8 and 21 to identify the kind of peaceful sayings Noah’s priests wanted to hear.
8. In Mosiah 12:27, Abinadi identified the root of the problem, or why the wicked priests were clueless – what had they failed to do?
9. What false doctrine did the priests believe regarding the Law of Moses?
BONUS: As the trial of Abinadi progressed, who was in charge of the questioning?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 13:1-10
10. By what power did Abinadi rebuke the destroyers in his midst? What reason(s) did he give for stopping them?
11. Why do you think the wicked priests were afraid to lay hands on Abinadi? Were they ready to listen?
12. In Mosiah 3:10, Abinadi prophesied concerning his own earthly fate and the eternal fate of King Noah – and ultimately, all who do not repent. Why didn’t Abinadi care what they did to him physically?
Day 5: Read Mosiah 13:11-24
13. Abinadi began reviewing the Ten Commandments in Mosiah 12:33-36. In Mosiah 13:11-24 he continued that discussion. Why do you think Abinadi taught the Ten Commandments to the wicked priests?
14. For whom does keeping the first four commandments show respect?
15. For whom does keeping the last six commandments show respect?
Day 6: Read Mosiah 13:25-35
16. Why was the Law of Moses necessary?
17. Why didn’t the children of Israel understand that the outward performances of the law were merely types of greater things? Do we sometimes have the same problem?
18. Did Moses teach his people regarding the coming of Christ and his atonement? Did Noah’s priests have the words of Isaiah?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 14
19. Read Mosiah 14:1-5. What do you learn about the Savior from these verses?
20. Read Mosiah 14:6-8 with Mosiah 15:10-13. In what way(s) are we like sheep? (see also Romans 3:23) According to Abinadi’s explanation in Mosiah 15:10-13, who shall declare Christ’s “generation” or posterity?
21. Read Mosiah 14:9-12 and Romans 8:16-17. Substitute the word “although” for “because” in verse 9 (cf: Isaiah 53:9c). What is Christ willing to share with his “seed”?
Day 1: Read Mosiah 12:1-8; review Mosiah 11:20-25
1. [Note: Although the record states that Abinadi had lived among the people of Noah in disguise, when he began to bear witness in chapter 12 he identified himself by name (v.1).] After reviewing Abinadi’s previous warning in Mosiah 11:20-25, compare his speech in Mosiah 12:1-8, two years later. Are the warnings the same? What detail is added?
2. Abinadi gave a specific warning regarding the worth of King Noah’s life if he didn’t repent. At this point in the narrative, how do the people value King Noah? (see also Mosiah 12:13-14)
3. Why do you think the Lord was willing to give Noah’s people another chance at repentance? What does this teach you about the nature of God? Note also how the Lord refers to the people in verse 4.
Day 2: Read Mosiah 12:9-18; Isaiah 5:20
4. Of what crime was Abinadi accused? Was this a capital offense?
5. Who was Noah’s father? Do you think he had been taught regarding the nature of God and the plan of salvation? How might peer pressure have played a part in Noah’s reaction to Abinadi’s message?
6. Can you find a “pattern” for avoiding repentance in these verses (similar to the pattern in Mosiah 11:26-29)?
Day 3: Read Mosiah 12:19-37; 2 Nephi 28:7-8, 21
7. According to Mosiah 12:19, why did the wicked priests want to question Abinadi? In quoting Isaiah 52:7-10, the priests seem to imply Abinadi cannot be sent from God, as he was certainly not publishing “peace.” Read 2 Nephi 28:7-8 and 21 to identify the kind of peaceful sayings Noah’s priests wanted to hear.
8. In Mosiah 12:27, Abinadi identified the root of the problem, or why the wicked priests were clueless – what had they failed to do?
9. What false doctrine did the priests believe regarding the Law of Moses?
BONUS: As the trial of Abinadi progressed, who was in charge of the questioning?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 13:1-10
10. By what power did Abinadi rebuke the destroyers in his midst? What reason(s) did he give for stopping them?
11. Why do you think the wicked priests were afraid to lay hands on Abinadi? Were they ready to listen?
12. In Mosiah 3:10, Abinadi prophesied concerning his own earthly fate and the eternal fate of King Noah – and ultimately, all who do not repent. Why didn’t Abinadi care what they did to him physically?
Day 5: Read Mosiah 13:11-24
13. Abinadi began reviewing the Ten Commandments in Mosiah 12:33-36. In Mosiah 13:11-24 he continued that discussion. Why do you think Abinadi taught the Ten Commandments to the wicked priests?
14. For whom does keeping the first four commandments show respect?
15. For whom does keeping the last six commandments show respect?
Day 6: Read Mosiah 13:25-35
16. Why was the Law of Moses necessary?
17. Why didn’t the children of Israel understand that the outward performances of the law were merely types of greater things? Do we sometimes have the same problem?
18. Did Moses teach his people regarding the coming of Christ and his atonement? Did Noah’s priests have the words of Isaiah?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 14
19. Read Mosiah 14:1-5. What do you learn about the Savior from these verses?
20. Read Mosiah 14:6-8 with Mosiah 15:10-13. In what way(s) are we like sheep? (see also Romans 3:23) According to Abinadi’s explanation in Mosiah 15:10-13, who shall declare Christ’s “generation” or posterity?
21. Read Mosiah 14:9-12 and Romans 8:16-17. Substitute the word “although” for “because” in verse 9 (cf: Isaiah 53:9c). What is Christ willing to share with his “seed”?
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Mosiah 9-11
Mosiah 9-11 Study Guide: To be discussed October 4
Day 1: Mosiah 9:1-9 (with chapter heading); see also Omni 1:27-28
[Note: This chapter begins an extended flashback. Chapters 9-11 cover approx. 200-150BC.]
1. Why did Zeniff want to protect the Lamanites from Nephite armies? What was his motivation for leading a group of Nephites into Lamanite territory?
2. Why were Zeniff’s people “smitten with famine and sore afflictions” on their journey?
3. Which two lands did the Lamanites give Zeniff for his people to inhabit? Why do you think Zeniff did not see any red flags as he worked out the treaty?
Day 2: Read Mosiah 9:10-19; Jacob 1:11
4. Read Jacob 1:11. What was the tradition among the Nephites regarding their kings? What does the title of the Lamanite king imply about the tradition of the Lamanites in this regard?
5. Why do you think King Laman allowed Zeniff to rule in Lamanite territory for 12 years before attacking?
6. How did remembering the power of the Lord to save increase the faith of Zeniff’s people? How can we apply this principle today?
Day 3: Read Mosiah 10:1-10
7. What precautions did Zeniff take to keep the Lamanites at bay for 22 years? What can we learn from this?
8. Was it a righteous battle for which Zeniff prepared his people?
9. According to Mosiah 10:10, how did Zeniff’s people go up to battle?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 10:11-22; Alma 37:31-34; D&C 93:39
10. How did Zeniff describe the Lamanites?
11. What false traditions did the Lamanites believe?
12. How do you cure eternal hatred? (see also Alma 37:31-34, D&C 93:39)
Day 5: Read Mosiah 11:1-7
13. What do you think it means to walk after the desires of one’s own heart? Is there another name for this?
14. Make a list of five things from Mosiah 11:2-7 that contributed to the downfall of Zeniff’s people under Noah.
15. What did King Noah and his wicked priests do to sway the people to wickedness? Why did this work?
Day 6: Read Mosiah 11:8-19
16. During King Noah’s reign, how was the temple used?
17. What was Noah’s first priority or chief motivation?
18. List five more things from Mosiah 11:8-19 that contributed to the decline of the Nephite settlers under Noah.
Day 7: Read Mosiah 11:20-29
19. Search Mosiah 11:20–25 and find the phrases “except they repent” and “except this people repent.” List the four punishments Abinadi said would come upon the people if they did not repent.
20. How did the people react to Abinadi’s warning? How did Noah react?
Day 1: Mosiah 9:1-9 (with chapter heading); see also Omni 1:27-28
[Note: This chapter begins an extended flashback. Chapters 9-11 cover approx. 200-150BC.]
1. Why did Zeniff want to protect the Lamanites from Nephite armies? What was his motivation for leading a group of Nephites into Lamanite territory?
2. Why were Zeniff’s people “smitten with famine and sore afflictions” on their journey?
3. Which two lands did the Lamanites give Zeniff for his people to inhabit? Why do you think Zeniff did not see any red flags as he worked out the treaty?
Day 2: Read Mosiah 9:10-19; Jacob 1:11
4. Read Jacob 1:11. What was the tradition among the Nephites regarding their kings? What does the title of the Lamanite king imply about the tradition of the Lamanites in this regard?
5. Why do you think King Laman allowed Zeniff to rule in Lamanite territory for 12 years before attacking?
6. How did remembering the power of the Lord to save increase the faith of Zeniff’s people? How can we apply this principle today?
Day 3: Read Mosiah 10:1-10
7. What precautions did Zeniff take to keep the Lamanites at bay for 22 years? What can we learn from this?
8. Was it a righteous battle for which Zeniff prepared his people?
9. According to Mosiah 10:10, how did Zeniff’s people go up to battle?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 10:11-22; Alma 37:31-34; D&C 93:39
10. How did Zeniff describe the Lamanites?
11. What false traditions did the Lamanites believe?
12. How do you cure eternal hatred? (see also Alma 37:31-34, D&C 93:39)
Day 5: Read Mosiah 11:1-7
13. What do you think it means to walk after the desires of one’s own heart? Is there another name for this?
14. Make a list of five things from Mosiah 11:2-7 that contributed to the downfall of Zeniff’s people under Noah.
15. What did King Noah and his wicked priests do to sway the people to wickedness? Why did this work?
Day 6: Read Mosiah 11:8-19
16. During King Noah’s reign, how was the temple used?
17. What was Noah’s first priority or chief motivation?
18. List five more things from Mosiah 11:8-19 that contributed to the decline of the Nephite settlers under Noah.
Day 7: Read Mosiah 11:20-29
19. Search Mosiah 11:20–25 and find the phrases “except they repent” and “except this people repent.” List the four punishments Abinadi said would come upon the people if they did not repent.
20. How did the people react to Abinadi’s warning? How did Noah react?
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Mosiah 5-8
Mosiah 5-8 Study Guide – to be discussed September 27
Day 1: Read Mosiah 5:1-6
1. How did the people know that King Benjamin had told them the truth?
2. Why did Benjamin’s people rejoice?
3. What did the people of Zarahemla offer to do as their part of their covenant with God? What was God’s part?
Day 2: Read Mosiah 5:7-15; D&C 76:24; Romans 6:16-18; Mosiah 26:24
4. In Mosiah 1:11, Benjamin said he wanted to give his people a new name, because they had been diligent in keeping the Lord’s commandments. Can you think of people in the Bible who received new names? Why were their names changed?
5. In Mosiah 5:5, the people made a covenant to obey God’s commandments. Find two other covenants Benjamin asked his people to keep in Mosiah 5:7-15.
6. Read Romans 6:16-18 and John 10:1-5. How can we “hear and know the voice” of God? From Mosiah 26:24, what is the promise when we do this?
Day 3: Read Mosiah 6
7. Why do you think Benjamin recorded the names of all those who entered into the covenant?
8. How old was Mosiah when he began to reign? About what year was that?
9. Why did Mosiah pursue farming during his kingship?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 7:1-16 (with the chapter heading); Mosiah 9:1
10. Who was Ammon? What was his quest?
11. About what year did Ammon’s party leave Zarahemla? Use the date at the bottom of page 164 (associated with Zeniff’s departure into Nephi, Mosiah 9:1) to calculate approximately how many years had passed between Zeniff’s departure and Ammon’s journey to the land of Lehi-Nephi (Nephi).
12. What was Limhi’s first reaction to Ammon and his brethren? How did he react when he learned who Ammon was? Why?
Day 5: Read Mosiah 7:17-33; Mosiah 17:20
13. In what way(s) were Limhi’s people in bondage? How did they get into this situation?
14. Use Mosiah 17:20 to tell the name of the prophet who was called to preach repentance to the inhabitants of Nephi.
15. What does it mean to “sow filthiness"? Did Limhi depend on Ammon to rescue his people without any effort on their part? From verse 33, list what Limhi asked his people to do.
BONUS: Review Mosiah 7 and list parallels between Ammon and Christ – that is, how was Ammon a type of Christ?
Day 6: Read Mosiah 8:1-12
16. What two subjects of Ammon’s speech are identified in verses 2-3?
17. List the items found by the party Limhi sent forth to find Zarahemla.
18. Why was Limhi looking for someone who was able to translate unknown languages?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 8:13-21
19. Use the footnote to Mosiah 8:13b to give another name for the interpreters. Find these words in the Bible Dictionary and give the Hebrew meanings of the words.
20. What is a seer?
21. By what power was Mosiah able to translate?
22. What was Limhi’s reaction when he learned the Lord had provided a way to translate the 24 gold plates?
BONUS: What record did these plates contain?
Day 1: Read Mosiah 5:1-6
1. How did the people know that King Benjamin had told them the truth?
2. Why did Benjamin’s people rejoice?
3. What did the people of Zarahemla offer to do as their part of their covenant with God? What was God’s part?
Day 2: Read Mosiah 5:7-15; D&C 76:24; Romans 6:16-18; Mosiah 26:24
4. In Mosiah 1:11, Benjamin said he wanted to give his people a new name, because they had been diligent in keeping the Lord’s commandments. Can you think of people in the Bible who received new names? Why were their names changed?
5. In Mosiah 5:5, the people made a covenant to obey God’s commandments. Find two other covenants Benjamin asked his people to keep in Mosiah 5:7-15.
6. Read Romans 6:16-18 and John 10:1-5. How can we “hear and know the voice” of God? From Mosiah 26:24, what is the promise when we do this?
Day 3: Read Mosiah 6
7. Why do you think Benjamin recorded the names of all those who entered into the covenant?
8. How old was Mosiah when he began to reign? About what year was that?
9. Why did Mosiah pursue farming during his kingship?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 7:1-16 (with the chapter heading); Mosiah 9:1
10. Who was Ammon? What was his quest?
11. About what year did Ammon’s party leave Zarahemla? Use the date at the bottom of page 164 (associated with Zeniff’s departure into Nephi, Mosiah 9:1) to calculate approximately how many years had passed between Zeniff’s departure and Ammon’s journey to the land of Lehi-Nephi (Nephi).
12. What was Limhi’s first reaction to Ammon and his brethren? How did he react when he learned who Ammon was? Why?
Day 5: Read Mosiah 7:17-33; Mosiah 17:20
13. In what way(s) were Limhi’s people in bondage? How did they get into this situation?
14. Use Mosiah 17:20 to tell the name of the prophet who was called to preach repentance to the inhabitants of Nephi.
15. What does it mean to “sow filthiness"? Did Limhi depend on Ammon to rescue his people without any effort on their part? From verse 33, list what Limhi asked his people to do.
BONUS: Review Mosiah 7 and list parallels between Ammon and Christ – that is, how was Ammon a type of Christ?
Day 6: Read Mosiah 8:1-12
16. What two subjects of Ammon’s speech are identified in verses 2-3?
17. List the items found by the party Limhi sent forth to find Zarahemla.
18. Why was Limhi looking for someone who was able to translate unknown languages?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 8:13-21
19. Use the footnote to Mosiah 8:13b to give another name for the interpreters. Find these words in the Bible Dictionary and give the Hebrew meanings of the words.
20. What is a seer?
21. By what power was Mosiah able to translate?
22. What was Limhi’s reaction when he learned the Lord had provided a way to translate the 24 gold plates?
BONUS: What record did these plates contain?
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Mosiah 3-4
Mosiah 3-4 Study Guide: to be discussed September 20
Day 1: Read Mosiah 3:1-8; Isaiah 52:7; Luke 2:10; D&C 128:23
1. In Mosiah 3, King Benjamin delivers a message from an angelic visitor to his people. What was the first thing the angel commanded Benjamin to do? Do you think the angel meant it physically or spiritually?
2. Use Isaiah 52:7, Luke 2:10 and D&C 128:23 to explain what good tidings angels are often charged to declare.
3. According to the angel, why would Jesus bleed from every pore?
BONUS: List names and titles of Christ from Mosiah 3:8.
Day 2: Read Mosiah 3:9-17
4. The angel wanted Benjamin and his people to understand the plan of salvation. From Mosiah 3:9-10, what was the purpose of Jesus’ life and mission?
5. How were Benjamin’s people able to repent and receive salvation before Christ had atoned for their sins?
EXTRA CREDIT: Benjamin taught his people that living the law of Moses could help them understand Christ’s atonement (see Mosiah 3:14-15). Read Leviticus 14:1-9 and list how the symbolism in these rituals specifically pointed toward an understanding of the plan of salvation. (eg: Leprosy can be symbolic of serious sin.)
Day 3: Read Mosiah 3:18-27; Alma 41:11; Moses 6:49
6. Why do you think it’s so important for us to become like little children?
7. Use Alma 41:11 and Moses 6:49 to explain who the natural man is. How does Benjamin say we can avoid becoming “natural” men and women?
8. How did King Benjamin’s teachings as received from the angel make his people accountable? Does it make us accountable too?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 4:1-7
9. Why did King Benjamin’s people feel they were “less than the dust of the earth”? For what did they cry out?
10. How was their humble prayer in Mosiah 4:2 answered? What did the people receive?
11. List three things from Mosiah 4:6 we must do to receive salvation.
Day 5: Read Mosiah 4:8-15
12. Underline or mark everywhere you find the word “believe” in Mosiah 4:9-10. What does it mean to believe? Is this word passive or active?
13. How can we reconcile Mosiah 4:11 and Moses 1:10 with D&C 18:10-16?
14. According to Mosiah 4:14-15, what do children need to learn? Why do you think this counsel came directly after Benjamin’s counsel on how to retain a remission of sins?
Day 6: Read Mosiah 4:16-25
15. In what way(s) are we all beggars?
16. What is our responsibility if we are wealthy? if we are not wealthy?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 4:26-30; D&C 104:18
17. According to D&C 104:18, what is the “law of the gospel”? How is this part of “believing”?
18. What do you think King Benjamin meant when he said, “it is not requisite [required] that a man should run faster than he has strength”? (see also D&C 10:4)
19. According to Mosiah 4:30, what do we need to watch? Why?
Day 1: Read Mosiah 3:1-8; Isaiah 52:7; Luke 2:10; D&C 128:23
1. In Mosiah 3, King Benjamin delivers a message from an angelic visitor to his people. What was the first thing the angel commanded Benjamin to do? Do you think the angel meant it physically or spiritually?
2. Use Isaiah 52:7, Luke 2:10 and D&C 128:23 to explain what good tidings angels are often charged to declare.
3. According to the angel, why would Jesus bleed from every pore?
BONUS: List names and titles of Christ from Mosiah 3:8.
Day 2: Read Mosiah 3:9-17
4. The angel wanted Benjamin and his people to understand the plan of salvation. From Mosiah 3:9-10, what was the purpose of Jesus’ life and mission?
5. How were Benjamin’s people able to repent and receive salvation before Christ had atoned for their sins?
EXTRA CREDIT: Benjamin taught his people that living the law of Moses could help them understand Christ’s atonement (see Mosiah 3:14-15). Read Leviticus 14:1-9 and list how the symbolism in these rituals specifically pointed toward an understanding of the plan of salvation. (eg: Leprosy can be symbolic of serious sin.)
Day 3: Read Mosiah 3:18-27; Alma 41:11; Moses 6:49
6. Why do you think it’s so important for us to become like little children?
7. Use Alma 41:11 and Moses 6:49 to explain who the natural man is. How does Benjamin say we can avoid becoming “natural” men and women?
8. How did King Benjamin’s teachings as received from the angel make his people accountable? Does it make us accountable too?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 4:1-7
9. Why did King Benjamin’s people feel they were “less than the dust of the earth”? For what did they cry out?
10. How was their humble prayer in Mosiah 4:2 answered? What did the people receive?
11. List three things from Mosiah 4:6 we must do to receive salvation.
Day 5: Read Mosiah 4:8-15
12. Underline or mark everywhere you find the word “believe” in Mosiah 4:9-10. What does it mean to believe? Is this word passive or active?
13. How can we reconcile Mosiah 4:11 and Moses 1:10 with D&C 18:10-16?
14. According to Mosiah 4:14-15, what do children need to learn? Why do you think this counsel came directly after Benjamin’s counsel on how to retain a remission of sins?
Day 6: Read Mosiah 4:16-25
15. In what way(s) are we all beggars?
16. What is our responsibility if we are wealthy? if we are not wealthy?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 4:26-30; D&C 104:18
17. According to D&C 104:18, what is the “law of the gospel”? How is this part of “believing”?
18. What do you think King Benjamin meant when he said, “it is not requisite [required] that a man should run faster than he has strength”? (see also D&C 10:4)
19. According to Mosiah 4:30, what do we need to watch? Why?
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Mosiah 1-2
Study Guide 1: Mosiah 1-2
To be discussed September 13
Day 1: Review Omni 1:12-19; read 1 Nephi 1:4; Jeremiah 39:1-10
1. What kind of leader was the first King Mosiah? Why do you think the people of Zarahemla appointed him to be their king?
2. Who was Zedekiah? (see Jer. 39:1-10, 1 Nephi 1:4) Approximately when did the people of Mulek leave Jerusalem?
BONUS: What do you think would have happened had the Lamanites found the Mulekites first?
Day 2: Read Mosiah 1:1-8
3. What kind of men did King Benjamin want his sons to be? List what King Benjamin taught his sons.
4. Why were the records written and preserved?
Day 3: Read Mosiah 1:9-18
5. Which of Benjamin’s sons was to succeed him? Where would the ceremony take place?
6. What did King Benjamin want to give his people before he died? Why?
7. What physical artifacts were passed on to the new king?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 2:1-8
8. For what did Benjamin’s people give thanks?
9. In what direction did the families in Benjamin’s kingdom pitch their tents? Why?
Day 5: Read Mosiah 2:9-17 (This is the beginning of King Benjamin’s speech, which continues through Mosiah 5.)
10. What three things did King Benjamin ask his people to open?
11. Use verses 13-14 to list the kinds of rules or laws under which Benjamin’s people were governed.
Day 6: Mosiah 2:18-30
12. Why should we have gratitude toward God?
13. What are the promises to those who keep God’s commandments?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 2:31-41, 3 Nephi 11:29
14. What is the warning to those who harbor or encourage contention?
15. What do you think it means to be an “enemy to God” (v. 38)? List all the counsel King Benjamin gives in this chapter as ways to avoid becoming an enemy to God.
To be discussed September 13
Day 1: Review Omni 1:12-19; read 1 Nephi 1:4; Jeremiah 39:1-10
1. What kind of leader was the first King Mosiah? Why do you think the people of Zarahemla appointed him to be their king?
2. Who was Zedekiah? (see Jer. 39:1-10, 1 Nephi 1:4) Approximately when did the people of Mulek leave Jerusalem?
BONUS: What do you think would have happened had the Lamanites found the Mulekites first?
Day 2: Read Mosiah 1:1-8
3. What kind of men did King Benjamin want his sons to be? List what King Benjamin taught his sons.
4. Why were the records written and preserved?
Day 3: Read Mosiah 1:9-18
5. Which of Benjamin’s sons was to succeed him? Where would the ceremony take place?
6. What did King Benjamin want to give his people before he died? Why?
7. What physical artifacts were passed on to the new king?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 2:1-8
8. For what did Benjamin’s people give thanks?
9. In what direction did the families in Benjamin’s kingdom pitch their tents? Why?
Day 5: Read Mosiah 2:9-17 (This is the beginning of King Benjamin’s speech, which continues through Mosiah 5.)
10. What three things did King Benjamin ask his people to open?
11. Use verses 13-14 to list the kinds of rules or laws under which Benjamin’s people were governed.
Day 6: Mosiah 2:18-30
12. Why should we have gratitude toward God?
13. What are the promises to those who keep God’s commandments?
Day 7: Read Mosiah 2:31-41, 3 Nephi 11:29
14. What is the warning to those who harbor or encourage contention?
15. What do you think it means to be an “enemy to God” (v. 38)? List all the counsel King Benjamin gives in this chapter as ways to avoid becoming an enemy to God.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Enos and Jarom
Enos and Jarom Study Guide
Day 1: Read Enos 1:1-8; Genesis 32:24-28; D&C 10:5
1. Who was Enos’ father? Grandfather? How did Enos feel about his father?
2. Read Genesis 32:24-28 with footnotes 28 b and c. Who else “wrestled” before God? What does his name mean?
3. List the steps Enos took in order to receive revelation and forgiveness.
Day 2: Read Enos 1:9-14; 1 John 4:20
4. What was Enos’ first desire after he received spiritual healing? What did he do about it?
5. After Enos received peace concerning his first two petitions, what was the next desire of his heart?
6. Compare Enos’ mighty prayer with Lehi’s vision in 1 Nephi 8:10-18. What do these records teach us about true conversion? (use also 1 John 4:20)
Day 3: Read Enos 1:15-20; Mosiah 10:12-17
7. How had Enos’ faith grown from the time he first went into the forest to hunt beasts? How did his increased faith lead to his soul’s rest?
8. After Enos’ extended “wrestle” before God, what did he DO?
9. Use Mosiah 10:12-17 to explain why the Lamanites were filled with hatred. How did this affect their ability to feel the Spirit?
Day 4: Read Enos 1:21-27
10. How were the Nephites different from the Lamanites at this point in their history? How were they the same?
11. In what did Enos find cause to rejoice?
12. What principle of the gospel is most manifested in Enos’ last testimony?
Note from the Institute Teacher’s Manual:
There is no universal kind of spiritual experience, but some elements which appear to be basic are revealed in the book of Enos.
1. A consciousness of the reality and power of God.
2. A recognition of one’s human weaknesses.
3. A feeling of guilt and remorse for yielding to temptation.
4. A desire for reconciliation with God.
5. A knowledge of the joy of redemption through the merits of Jesus Christ.
6. A vibrant testimony that God lives and a desire to share this.
Day 5: Read Jarom 1:1-5
13. Who was Jarom? Why was his record brief?
14. What was the state of the Nephites during Jarom’s tenure?
15. What do you think it means to be “stiffnecked”? What was the reward for those who were not stiffnecked?
Day 6: Read Jarom 1:6-9
16. What part did the Nephites’ leaders play in strengthening them?
17. List the ways in which the Nephites prepared.
18. How was the word of the Lord verified?
Day 7: Read Jarom 1:10-15
19. What did the Nephite prophets, priests and teachers do to fortify the people?
20. What blessings resulted from the Nephites’ repentance?
21. To whom did Jarom give the small plates?
Day 1: Read Enos 1:1-8; Genesis 32:24-28; D&C 10:5
1. Who was Enos’ father? Grandfather? How did Enos feel about his father?
2. Read Genesis 32:24-28 with footnotes 28 b and c. Who else “wrestled” before God? What does his name mean?
3. List the steps Enos took in order to receive revelation and forgiveness.
Day 2: Read Enos 1:9-14; 1 John 4:20
4. What was Enos’ first desire after he received spiritual healing? What did he do about it?
5. After Enos received peace concerning his first two petitions, what was the next desire of his heart?
6. Compare Enos’ mighty prayer with Lehi’s vision in 1 Nephi 8:10-18. What do these records teach us about true conversion? (use also 1 John 4:20)
Day 3: Read Enos 1:15-20; Mosiah 10:12-17
7. How had Enos’ faith grown from the time he first went into the forest to hunt beasts? How did his increased faith lead to his soul’s rest?
8. After Enos’ extended “wrestle” before God, what did he DO?
9. Use Mosiah 10:12-17 to explain why the Lamanites were filled with hatred. How did this affect their ability to feel the Spirit?
Day 4: Read Enos 1:21-27
10. How were the Nephites different from the Lamanites at this point in their history? How were they the same?
11. In what did Enos find cause to rejoice?
12. What principle of the gospel is most manifested in Enos’ last testimony?
Note from the Institute Teacher’s Manual:
There is no universal kind of spiritual experience, but some elements which appear to be basic are revealed in the book of Enos.
1. A consciousness of the reality and power of God.
2. A recognition of one’s human weaknesses.
3. A feeling of guilt and remorse for yielding to temptation.
4. A desire for reconciliation with God.
5. A knowledge of the joy of redemption through the merits of Jesus Christ.
6. A vibrant testimony that God lives and a desire to share this.
Day 5: Read Jarom 1:1-5
13. Who was Jarom? Why was his record brief?
14. What was the state of the Nephites during Jarom’s tenure?
15. What do you think it means to be “stiffnecked”? What was the reward for those who were not stiffnecked?
Day 6: Read Jarom 1:6-9
16. What part did the Nephites’ leaders play in strengthening them?
17. List the ways in which the Nephites prepared.
18. How was the word of the Lord verified?
Day 7: Read Jarom 1:10-15
19. What did the Nephite prophets, priests and teachers do to fortify the people?
20. What blessings resulted from the Nephites’ repentance?
21. To whom did Jarom give the small plates?
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Jacob 6-7
Jacob – Lesson 3: Jacob 6-7
Day 1: Read Jacob 6:1-5
1. What was Jacob’s witness concerning the allegory of the olive tree?
2. How has the Lord “set his hand again the second time”? What is being done to nourish and prune today?
3. Jacob wrote that the Lord is merciful because he remembers both Israel’s roots and branches. What might the roots and branches represent in Israel as a nation? as individuals?
Day 2: Read Jacob 6:6-13; Ezekiel 18:25-32
4. What is the “good word of God” with which we can be nourished?
5. How do people “make a mock of the great plan of salvation”? What will happen to those who do?
6. Why do you think Jacob left us the allegory of the olive trees? What is our responsibility now that we understand it?
Day 3: Read Jacob 7:1-5
7. Jacob seemed to close his record at the end of chapter 6. After some years, he added chapter 7. Considering his message in the first six chapters, why do you think Jacob wanted us to know about Sherem?
8. How did Sherem indoctrinate so many Nephites? Look up “Antichrist” in the Bible Dictionary. What qualities of an antichrist did Sherem possess?
9. Why couldn’t Jacob’s faith be shaken?
Day 4: Read Jacob 7:6-9
10. What law did Sherem advocate? Use Galatians 3:24-26 to tell what the purpose of this law was. Why do you think Sherem was willing to listen to dead prophets but not the living prophet?
11. By what power did Jacob confound Sherem?
12. How do Sherem’s statements at the end of verses 7 and 9 contradict each other?
Day 5: Read Jacob 7:10-16
13. From Jacob 7:10-12, what three witnesses did Jacob give for the reality of the Savior who was to come?
14. What did Sherem ask for? Why didn’t he ask for the scriptures or the Holy Ghost?
15. If Sherem knew the truth, as Jacob said, why do you think he asked for a sign? In what ways was Sherem “nourished” by the Lord?
Day 6: Read Jacob 7:17-22
16. Of what did Sherem bare witness in his post-sign address?
17. What happened to the Nephites who heard his witness?
18. Why was Jacob pleased?
Day 7: Read Jacob 7:23-27
19. After their branch had been “pruned” of its bitter fruit, what marvelous fruits did the Nephites produce?
20. To whom did Jacob pass the responsibility for the small plates? What was his hope?
21. Do you have a favorite verse from the writings of Jacob?
Day 1: Read Jacob 6:1-5
1. What was Jacob’s witness concerning the allegory of the olive tree?
2. How has the Lord “set his hand again the second time”? What is being done to nourish and prune today?
3. Jacob wrote that the Lord is merciful because he remembers both Israel’s roots and branches. What might the roots and branches represent in Israel as a nation? as individuals?
Day 2: Read Jacob 6:6-13; Ezekiel 18:25-32
4. What is the “good word of God” with which we can be nourished?
5. How do people “make a mock of the great plan of salvation”? What will happen to those who do?
6. Why do you think Jacob left us the allegory of the olive trees? What is our responsibility now that we understand it?
Day 3: Read Jacob 7:1-5
7. Jacob seemed to close his record at the end of chapter 6. After some years, he added chapter 7. Considering his message in the first six chapters, why do you think Jacob wanted us to know about Sherem?
8. How did Sherem indoctrinate so many Nephites? Look up “Antichrist” in the Bible Dictionary. What qualities of an antichrist did Sherem possess?
9. Why couldn’t Jacob’s faith be shaken?
Day 4: Read Jacob 7:6-9
10. What law did Sherem advocate? Use Galatians 3:24-26 to tell what the purpose of this law was. Why do you think Sherem was willing to listen to dead prophets but not the living prophet?
11. By what power did Jacob confound Sherem?
12. How do Sherem’s statements at the end of verses 7 and 9 contradict each other?
Day 5: Read Jacob 7:10-16
13. From Jacob 7:10-12, what three witnesses did Jacob give for the reality of the Savior who was to come?
14. What did Sherem ask for? Why didn’t he ask for the scriptures or the Holy Ghost?
15. If Sherem knew the truth, as Jacob said, why do you think he asked for a sign? In what ways was Sherem “nourished” by the Lord?
Day 6: Read Jacob 7:17-22
16. Of what did Sherem bare witness in his post-sign address?
17. What happened to the Nephites who heard his witness?
18. Why was Jacob pleased?
Day 7: Read Jacob 7:23-27
19. After their branch had been “pruned” of its bitter fruit, what marvelous fruits did the Nephites produce?
20. To whom did Jacob pass the responsibility for the small plates? What was his hope?
21. Do you have a favorite verse from the writings of Jacob?
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Jacob 5
Jacob – Lesson 2: Jacob 5: The Allegory of the Tame and Wild Olive Trees (see additional study links in column to the right)
Day 1: Read Jacob 5 chapter heading, verses 1-3, 1 Nephi 19:10-16, Alma 33:3-15, Helaman 8:19
1. From 1 Nephi 19:10-16 and Helaman 8:19, what do we know about the prophet Zenos? Where might Nephi and Jacob have read Zenos’ prophecies? Why do you think these prophecies are not in our current Bible?
2. Alma quotes Zenos in Alma 33:4-11. In this quote, when does Zenos say he has felt the mercies of God?
3. From Jacob 5:3, to what is the house of Israel likened? Use footnote 3d to explain how the House of Israel could “decay.”
Day 2: Read Jacob 5:4-14 (First visit of the Master to His vineyard)
4. What did the master of the vineyard do first to save his vineyard?
5. When the “main top… began to perish” what did the Master and his servants do with the branches of the tame and wild olive trees?
6. Use footnotes 8a, 10a and 14a to help explain what the grafting of branches of the tame olive tree into the nethermost parts of the vineyard represents. What do the wild olive trees represent? Why was it necessary to scatter Israel?
Day 3: Read Jacob 5:15-28 (Second visit of the Master to His vineyard)
7. Why did the Lord and his servant revisit the vineyard? What was the state of the tame olive tree (Israel)? What brought strength to the wild branches?
8. What was the state of the tame branches grafted into trees in poor ground?
9. What part of the world have we been taught is “choice above all lands” (see 2 Nephi 1:5, Ether 2:7-10)? What was the problem with the branches grafted into good soil, and how was it addressed?
Day 4: Read Jacob 5:29-40 (Third visit of the Master to His vineyard)
10. What kind of fruit did the Lord find on the tame olive tree during his third visit? Use footnote 30a to explain what happened spiritually.
11. How were the roots kept vital? Why was the tree (the House of Israel) beginning to perish?
12. What had happened to the natural branches of Israel that had been scattered, or planted in the nethermost parts of the vineyard?
Day 5: Read Jacob 5:41-50 (Third visit continued)
13. Why did the Lord weep?
14. What does verse 47 tell you about how the Lord cares for the inhabitants of the earth?
15. From v. 48, what was the cause of the apostasy? How does the bad fruit of apostasy corrupt individuals and nations?
Day 6: Read Jacob 5:51-60 (Fourth visit of the Master to His vineyard)
16. According to footnote 52a, of what is the re-grafting of the natural branches back into the original tree symbolic?
17. What is the fate of any branch that continues to bear bad fruit after all the pruning, grafting and nourishing it needs to survive?
18. What are some things the Lord has done in your life to “prune” and “nourish” you?
Day 7: Read Jacob 5:61-77
19. Why do you think the Lord instructs his servants in the last days to prune the trees so that roots and tops are equal in strength?
20. Who do the servants in the vineyard represent? From vv. 71-72, who works with them? What is their reward?
21. What might the fruit of the tree represent?
BONUS: What were olives used for in ancient Israel? How are they used today?
Olive Culture
"Jacob's (or rather Zenos's) treatise on ancient olive culture (Jacob 5�6) is accurate in every detail: Olive trees do have to be pruned and cultivated diligently; the top branches are indeed the first to wither, and the new shoots do come right out of the trunk; . . . the ancient way of strengthening the old trees (especially in Greece) was to graft in the shoots of the oleaster or wild olive; also, shoots from valuable old trees were transplanted to keep the stock alive after the parent tree should perish; to a surprising degree the olive prefers poor and rocky ground, whereas rich soil produces inferior fruit; too much grafting produces a nondescript and cluttered yield of fruit; the top branches if allowed to grow as in Spain or France, while producing a good shade tree, will indeed sap the strength of the tree and give a poor crop; fertilizing with dung is very important, in spite of the preference for rocky ground, and has been practiced since ancient times; the thing to be most guarded against is bitterness in the fruit. All these points, taken from a treatise on ancient olive culture, are duly, though quite casually, noted in Zenos's Parable of the Olive Tree."39
39. Nibley, Since Cumorah, 238�39. See Nibley, Temple and Cosmos, 244�52.
Day 1: Read Jacob 5 chapter heading, verses 1-3, 1 Nephi 19:10-16, Alma 33:3-15, Helaman 8:19
1. From 1 Nephi 19:10-16 and Helaman 8:19, what do we know about the prophet Zenos? Where might Nephi and Jacob have read Zenos’ prophecies? Why do you think these prophecies are not in our current Bible?
2. Alma quotes Zenos in Alma 33:4-11. In this quote, when does Zenos say he has felt the mercies of God?
3. From Jacob 5:3, to what is the house of Israel likened? Use footnote 3d to explain how the House of Israel could “decay.”
Day 2: Read Jacob 5:4-14 (First visit of the Master to His vineyard)
4. What did the master of the vineyard do first to save his vineyard?
5. When the “main top… began to perish” what did the Master and his servants do with the branches of the tame and wild olive trees?
6. Use footnotes 8a, 10a and 14a to help explain what the grafting of branches of the tame olive tree into the nethermost parts of the vineyard represents. What do the wild olive trees represent? Why was it necessary to scatter Israel?
Day 3: Read Jacob 5:15-28 (Second visit of the Master to His vineyard)
7. Why did the Lord and his servant revisit the vineyard? What was the state of the tame olive tree (Israel)? What brought strength to the wild branches?
8. What was the state of the tame branches grafted into trees in poor ground?
9. What part of the world have we been taught is “choice above all lands” (see 2 Nephi 1:5, Ether 2:7-10)? What was the problem with the branches grafted into good soil, and how was it addressed?
Day 4: Read Jacob 5:29-40 (Third visit of the Master to His vineyard)
10. What kind of fruit did the Lord find on the tame olive tree during his third visit? Use footnote 30a to explain what happened spiritually.
11. How were the roots kept vital? Why was the tree (the House of Israel) beginning to perish?
12. What had happened to the natural branches of Israel that had been scattered, or planted in the nethermost parts of the vineyard?
Day 5: Read Jacob 5:41-50 (Third visit continued)
13. Why did the Lord weep?
14. What does verse 47 tell you about how the Lord cares for the inhabitants of the earth?
15. From v. 48, what was the cause of the apostasy? How does the bad fruit of apostasy corrupt individuals and nations?
Day 6: Read Jacob 5:51-60 (Fourth visit of the Master to His vineyard)
16. According to footnote 52a, of what is the re-grafting of the natural branches back into the original tree symbolic?
17. What is the fate of any branch that continues to bear bad fruit after all the pruning, grafting and nourishing it needs to survive?
18. What are some things the Lord has done in your life to “prune” and “nourish” you?
Day 7: Read Jacob 5:61-77
19. Why do you think the Lord instructs his servants in the last days to prune the trees so that roots and tops are equal in strength?
20. Who do the servants in the vineyard represent? From vv. 71-72, who works with them? What is their reward?
21. What might the fruit of the tree represent?
BONUS: What were olives used for in ancient Israel? How are they used today?
Olive Culture
"Jacob's (or rather Zenos's) treatise on ancient olive culture (Jacob 5�6) is accurate in every detail: Olive trees do have to be pruned and cultivated diligently; the top branches are indeed the first to wither, and the new shoots do come right out of the trunk; . . . the ancient way of strengthening the old trees (especially in Greece) was to graft in the shoots of the oleaster or wild olive; also, shoots from valuable old trees were transplanted to keep the stock alive after the parent tree should perish; to a surprising degree the olive prefers poor and rocky ground, whereas rich soil produces inferior fruit; too much grafting produces a nondescript and cluttered yield of fruit; the top branches if allowed to grow as in Spain or France, while producing a good shade tree, will indeed sap the strength of the tree and give a poor crop; fertilizing with dung is very important, in spite of the preference for rocky ground, and has been practiced since ancient times; the thing to be most guarded against is bitterness in the fruit. All these points, taken from a treatise on ancient olive culture, are duly, though quite casually, noted in Zenos's Parable of the Olive Tree."39
39. Nibley, Since Cumorah, 238�39. See Nibley, Temple and Cosmos, 244�52.
Jacob 1-4
Jacob – Lesson 1: Jacob 1-4
Note: Jacob 1 is a preview of what Jacob would address further in chapters 2 and 3, which comprise the text of a sermon he gave at the Nephite temple.
Day 1: Read Jacob 1:1-8; 1 Nephi 18:7; 2 Nephi 2:1-4
1. Review 1 Nephi 18:7 and 2 Nephi 2:1-4 to explain who Jacob was and why he was qualified to preach and to continue Nephi’s record.
2. When did Jacob begin his record? What did Nephi tell Jacob to write on the small plates?
3. What do you think it means to “view [Christ’s] death” (see D&C 6:36-37), “suffer his cross” (see Luke 9:23-25), and “bear the shame of the world (see Matt. 5:11-12). How can the sacrament help us remember these things?
Day 2: Read Jacob 1:9-19
4. How did Nephi’s people feel about him at his death? Choose one verse of scripture from Nephi’s writing that you would have liked to quote at his funeral.
5. What are the two grievous sins Jacob tells us his people began to practice after Nephi’s death?
6. How did Jacob and Joseph magnify their callings and ordinations in their service to God and their people?
Day 3: Read Jacob 2:1-19
7. How did Jacob know that his people, although outwardly obedient, were “beginning to labor in sin”?
8. Why was Jacob’s soul burdened by the subject of his discourse?
9. According to Jacob, what should we seek before we seek riches? How would this change our motivations?
BONUS: Jacob refers to the “eye” of God in 2 Nephi 9:44, Jacob 2:10 and 15. What three qualities does Jacob attribute to God’s eye?
Day 4: Read Jacob 2:20-35; D&C 132:34-39
10. According to Jacob, what is a “grosser crime” than pridefully seeking riches?
11. Why did the Lord constrain Jacob to address this particular sin?
12. Why do you think the Lord (through Jacob) said that the Nephites had “done greater iniquities than the Lamanites”? (see also Jacob 3:5-8.)
Day 5: Read Jacob 3
13. What are the promises to the pure in heart who look to God for comfort in affliction?
14. What was the cause of the Nephites’ filthiness? What was the cause of the Lamanites’ filthiness?
15. What does Jacob say will happen to those who do not repent of their lasciviousness?
Day 6: Read Jacob 4:1-9
16. Why did Jacob “labor diligently” to engrave his words on the plates? What is his hope regarding the effect of the plates on his posterity?
17. In Jacob 4:6-7, underline the words “search,” “revelations,” “prophecy,” “witness,” “hope,” and “grace.” How can we attain unshakable faith?
18. By what power was the earth and all in it created? (see also Moses 1:30-32.)
Day 7: Read Jacob 4:10-18
19. In what ways do we sometimes seek to counsel the Lord?
20. What are the promises to those who are “reconciled” unto Christ through his atonement?
21. What “mystery” will Jacob explain by quoting Zenos’ allegory of the wild and tame olive trees in chapter 5?
Note: Jacob 1 is a preview of what Jacob would address further in chapters 2 and 3, which comprise the text of a sermon he gave at the Nephite temple.
Day 1: Read Jacob 1:1-8; 1 Nephi 18:7; 2 Nephi 2:1-4
1. Review 1 Nephi 18:7 and 2 Nephi 2:1-4 to explain who Jacob was and why he was qualified to preach and to continue Nephi’s record.
2. When did Jacob begin his record? What did Nephi tell Jacob to write on the small plates?
3. What do you think it means to “view [Christ’s] death” (see D&C 6:36-37), “suffer his cross” (see Luke 9:23-25), and “bear the shame of the world (see Matt. 5:11-12). How can the sacrament help us remember these things?
Day 2: Read Jacob 1:9-19
4. How did Nephi’s people feel about him at his death? Choose one verse of scripture from Nephi’s writing that you would have liked to quote at his funeral.
5. What are the two grievous sins Jacob tells us his people began to practice after Nephi’s death?
6. How did Jacob and Joseph magnify their callings and ordinations in their service to God and their people?
Day 3: Read Jacob 2:1-19
7. How did Jacob know that his people, although outwardly obedient, were “beginning to labor in sin”?
8. Why was Jacob’s soul burdened by the subject of his discourse?
9. According to Jacob, what should we seek before we seek riches? How would this change our motivations?
BONUS: Jacob refers to the “eye” of God in 2 Nephi 9:44, Jacob 2:10 and 15. What three qualities does Jacob attribute to God’s eye?
Day 4: Read Jacob 2:20-35; D&C 132:34-39
10. According to Jacob, what is a “grosser crime” than pridefully seeking riches?
11. Why did the Lord constrain Jacob to address this particular sin?
12. Why do you think the Lord (through Jacob) said that the Nephites had “done greater iniquities than the Lamanites”? (see also Jacob 3:5-8.)
Day 5: Read Jacob 3
13. What are the promises to the pure in heart who look to God for comfort in affliction?
14. What was the cause of the Nephites’ filthiness? What was the cause of the Lamanites’ filthiness?
15. What does Jacob say will happen to those who do not repent of their lasciviousness?
Day 6: Read Jacob 4:1-9
16. Why did Jacob “labor diligently” to engrave his words on the plates? What is his hope regarding the effect of the plates on his posterity?
17. In Jacob 4:6-7, underline the words “search,” “revelations,” “prophecy,” “witness,” “hope,” and “grace.” How can we attain unshakable faith?
18. By what power was the earth and all in it created? (see also Moses 1:30-32.)
Day 7: Read Jacob 4:10-18
19. In what ways do we sometimes seek to counsel the Lord?
20. What are the promises to those who are “reconciled” unto Christ through his atonement?
21. What “mystery” will Jacob explain by quoting Zenos’ allegory of the wild and tame olive trees in chapter 5?
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