Here are the quotes requested from our study of 3 Nephi 28-30. Thanks for asking!
Translation is the process by which a mortal body of the telestial order is changed to a mortal body of the terrestrial order. The word “mortal” in this sense, means a being whose body and spirit have not been permanently united by the resurrection. Richard Cowan succinctly stated, “We are telestial mortals, translated beings are terrestrial mortals, while exalted resurrected beings are celestial immortals.” (Alma, The Testimony of the Word, pp. 201-2 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 464)
Joseph Smith:
“Now the doctrine of translation is a power which belongs to this Priesthood. There are many things which belong to the
powers of the Priesthood and the keys thereof, that have been kept hid from before the foundation of the world; they are hid from the wise and prudent to be revealed in the last times. Many have supposed that the doctrine of translation was a doctrine whereby men were taken immediately into the presence of God, and into an eternal fullness, but this is a mistaken idea. Their place of habitation is that of the terrestrial order, and a place prepared for such characters He held in reserve to be ministering angels unto many planets, and who as yet have not entered into so great a fullness as those who are resurrected from the dead. ‘Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection.’ (See Hebrews 11:35.) Now it was evident that there was a better resurrection, or else God would not have revealed it unto Paul. Wherein then, can it be said a better resurrection. This distinction is made between the doctrine of the actual resurrection and translation: translation obtains deliverance from the tortures and sufferings of the body, but their existence will prolong as to the labors and toils of the ministry, before they can enter into so great a rest and glory.” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 170-1))
Elder John W. Taylor:
“...in a little while you will find another prophecy will be fulfilled, and that is the prophecy that Jesus made to the three Nephites who, having power over death, are still living upon this continent. He spoke to them of a time when they would perform a great and mighty work among the Gentiles; and that has not yet been fulfilled, but it will be. You will find that many districts where the Elders of Israel cannot reach will be penetrated by these men who have power over death...My testimony is that these men are going abroad in the nations of the earth before the face of your sons, and they are preparing the hearts of
the children of men to receive the Gospel. They are administering to those who are heirs of salvation, and preparing their hearts to receive the truth, just as the farmer prepares the soil to receive the seed. The Lord has promised that He would send his angels before the face of His servants, and His does so.” (Conference Report, Oct. 1902, p. 75 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 463))
“We often teach the gospel without mentioning the covenant of Abraham or the house of Israel, as though these covenants did not even exist. In the Book of Mormon, Jesus teaches us that the ancient covenants are as valid today as they were 4,000 years ago. I believe that they have something to do with the political events occurring in the world and also with our children and grandchildren traveling to various places of the earth, among war and revolution, to tell of the restoration of the gospel and of the Book of Mormon. These events are occurring before our very eyes. According to Jesus' own words, the covenants of Abraham Isaac, Jacob and Joseph are still important to the Father and to Jesus and should also be important to us.” (Robert J. Matthews, Book of Mormon Symposium Series, 3 Nephi 9-30, edited by PR Cheesman, MS Nyman, and CD Tate, Jr., 1988, p.38))
BOOK OF MORMON STUDY GUIDES
Monday, January 26, 2009
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
4 Nephi
4 Nephi Study Guide – to be discussed February 5
Day 1: Read 4 Nephi 1:1-6; Moses 7:18; D&C 82:15-19; D&C 97:21; D&C 46:10-26
1. In what year were all people converted to the Lord? Read Moses 7:18, D&C 82:15-19 and 97:21. Use details from these verses to explain how the people in 4 Nephi had “all things common among them.”
2. What does it mean to be a partaker of the heavenly gift (v.3)? See also D&C 46:10-26.
3. Why do you think so many miracles were performed among these people?
Day 2: Read 4 Nephi 1:7-15; D&C 88:76-77
4. How did the righteous prosperity of the people improve their economy?
5. List from 4 Nephi 1:12 what the people continued doing. From D&C 88:76-77, what similar injunctions have been given in this dispensation?
6. How many times in the first fifteen verses of 4 Nephi did Mormon note that there was no contention? Why was there no contention in the land?
Day 3: Read 4 Nephi 1:16-23
7. List challenges the people described in the first part of 4 Nephi did NOT have to deal with.
8. Who kept the record on Nephi’s death? How long did he keep it?
9. In all, about how many years of perfect peace did the people enjoy? What changed this condition?
BONUS: Read 1 Nephi 12:8-12. About six hundred years earlier, Nephi had seen in vision this period in the history of his descendants. How many generations did he envision passing away in righteousness?
Day 4: Read 4 Nephi 1:24-34; D&C 98:22-27
10. What attitudes and actions caused the end of the living of the law of consecration among the people? To what did this lead? How many years did it take?
11. Why were the true saints persecuted?
12. What kinds of miracles did the people witness and reject? Why did they reject the truth?
BONUS: Why do you think the followers of Christ did not defend themselves? See also D&C 98:22-27.
Day 5: Read 4 Nephi 1:35-41; Mosiah 29:27
13. In what year was there a great division among the people? List the titles of the true believers.
14. What is the difference between those who “dwindle in unbelief” and those who “willfully rebel”? Which usually comes first?
15. Why do you think wickedness multiplied so rapidly and gained such strength? See also Mosiah 29:27.
Day 6: Read 4 Nephi 1:42-49; Helaman 2:4; Helaman 6:26-29
16. What happened to cause the three disciples who tarried to begin to sorrow for the sins of the world?
17. In what year did Ammaron hide up the sacred records? Why?
18. Read Helaman 2:4, 6:26-29. Who were the Gadianton robbers? Who was behind their secret oaths?
Day 7: Re-read 4 Nephi
19. From 4 Nephi 1-23, list steps you think are significant in a nation becoming a Zion people.
20. From 4 Nephi 24-49, list steps that led to the downfall of these people.
21. Name one thing you can do to make your own home more like Zion.
Day 1: Read 4 Nephi 1:1-6; Moses 7:18; D&C 82:15-19; D&C 97:21; D&C 46:10-26
1. In what year were all people converted to the Lord? Read Moses 7:18, D&C 82:15-19 and 97:21. Use details from these verses to explain how the people in 4 Nephi had “all things common among them.”
2. What does it mean to be a partaker of the heavenly gift (v.3)? See also D&C 46:10-26.
3. Why do you think so many miracles were performed among these people?
Day 2: Read 4 Nephi 1:7-15; D&C 88:76-77
4. How did the righteous prosperity of the people improve their economy?
5. List from 4 Nephi 1:12 what the people continued doing. From D&C 88:76-77, what similar injunctions have been given in this dispensation?
6. How many times in the first fifteen verses of 4 Nephi did Mormon note that there was no contention? Why was there no contention in the land?
Day 3: Read 4 Nephi 1:16-23
7. List challenges the people described in the first part of 4 Nephi did NOT have to deal with.
8. Who kept the record on Nephi’s death? How long did he keep it?
9. In all, about how many years of perfect peace did the people enjoy? What changed this condition?
BONUS: Read 1 Nephi 12:8-12. About six hundred years earlier, Nephi had seen in vision this period in the history of his descendants. How many generations did he envision passing away in righteousness?
Day 4: Read 4 Nephi 1:24-34; D&C 98:22-27
10. What attitudes and actions caused the end of the living of the law of consecration among the people? To what did this lead? How many years did it take?
11. Why were the true saints persecuted?
12. What kinds of miracles did the people witness and reject? Why did they reject the truth?
BONUS: Why do you think the followers of Christ did not defend themselves? See also D&C 98:22-27.
Day 5: Read 4 Nephi 1:35-41; Mosiah 29:27
13. In what year was there a great division among the people? List the titles of the true believers.
14. What is the difference between those who “dwindle in unbelief” and those who “willfully rebel”? Which usually comes first?
15. Why do you think wickedness multiplied so rapidly and gained such strength? See also Mosiah 29:27.
Day 6: Read 4 Nephi 1:42-49; Helaman 2:4; Helaman 6:26-29
16. What happened to cause the three disciples who tarried to begin to sorrow for the sins of the world?
17. In what year did Ammaron hide up the sacred records? Why?
18. Read Helaman 2:4, 6:26-29. Who were the Gadianton robbers? Who was behind their secret oaths?
Day 7: Re-read 4 Nephi
19. From 4 Nephi 1-23, list steps you think are significant in a nation becoming a Zion people.
20. From 4 Nephi 24-49, list steps that led to the downfall of these people.
21. Name one thing you can do to make your own home more like Zion.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Requested Quote: Cynthia L. Hallen: Among orthodox Jews, a husband is not allowed to watch his wife going through the labor of childbirth. He sits in the corner of the deliver room with his back turned so that she will not feel embarrassed or immodest in herunavoidable hour of agony. He does not abandon her, although she may feel very much alone. The woman recites or sings psalms as she endures contractions. When the pain becomes too great for her to continue singing, the husband takes over, reciting psalms for her. Although Zion cannot see the Lord in the time of her probation, when she weeps, he weeps with her; when she sings, he rejoices with her. Redeeming the Desolate Woman, Journal of Book of Mormon Studies, 1:46)
3 Nephi 28-30
3 Nephi 28-30 Study Guide – to be discussed January 22
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 28:1-11
1. What did nine of the disciples desire of Christ?
2. What did the other three disciples desire? How was their mission different?
3. Name the one kind of sorrow to which the Savior said the three would be subject. List promises to the three disciples, from 3 Nephi 28:8-10.
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 28:12-23; Bible Dictionary entry, “Transfiguration, Mount of”
4. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Transfiguration, Mount of.” How does the experience recorded in 3 Nephi 28:12-15 compare to the events on the Mount of Transfiguration? Why do you think this kind of experience might help apostles in their stewardship?
5. Why do you think the disciples were forbidden to speak of the details of this experience?
6. List physical manifestations of the blessing Jesus left on his disciples.
BONUS: How does 3 Nephi 28:23 fulfill the prophecy in 3 Nephi 27:31?
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 28:24-33
7. When did Mormon write? (See notes at the bottoms of pp. 469-480.)
8. Among whom will the three who did not taste death minister?
9. List elements of the missions of the three disciples today.
Day 4: 3 Nephi 28:34-40
10. What strict warning is given in 3 Nephi 28:34-35?
11. How did Mormon learn of the nature of the three disciples who tarried?
12. List qualities of translated beings as described in 3 Nephi 28:39-40.
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 29; 2 Nephi 28:2-6
13. Read the chapter heading to 3 Nephi 29. What are “these sayings” (v.1)? Of what is its coming forth a sign?
14. Are there people today who “deny the revelations of the Lord” (v.6) and spread doubt in order to get gain (v.7)? According to 2 Nephi 28:2-6, how can the Book of Mormon be used to combat these evils?
15. Rewrite 3 Nephi 29:9 in your own words.
Day 6: Read 3 Nephi 30
16. To whom is 3 Nephi 30 addressed? What is the first word of instruction? Who commanded Mormon to write?
17. List the verbs in Mormon’s warning and promise to us in 3 Nephi 30:2.
18. Why should we want to be numbered with the house of Israel?
Day 7: Review 3 Nephi 10:3-7; 11:9-11, 29-41
19. After reviewing some of the first statements issued by the Savior in his instruction to the Book of Mormon peoples, list major themes of his visitation.
20. Using the themes identified in question 20, list how these ideas were embraced by the people.
21. What themes might the Savior employ today?
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 28:1-11
1. What did nine of the disciples desire of Christ?
2. What did the other three disciples desire? How was their mission different?
3. Name the one kind of sorrow to which the Savior said the three would be subject. List promises to the three disciples, from 3 Nephi 28:8-10.
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 28:12-23; Bible Dictionary entry, “Transfiguration, Mount of”
4. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Transfiguration, Mount of.” How does the experience recorded in 3 Nephi 28:12-15 compare to the events on the Mount of Transfiguration? Why do you think this kind of experience might help apostles in their stewardship?
5. Why do you think the disciples were forbidden to speak of the details of this experience?
6. List physical manifestations of the blessing Jesus left on his disciples.
BONUS: How does 3 Nephi 28:23 fulfill the prophecy in 3 Nephi 27:31?
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 28:24-33
7. When did Mormon write? (See notes at the bottoms of pp. 469-480.)
8. Among whom will the three who did not taste death minister?
9. List elements of the missions of the three disciples today.
Day 4: 3 Nephi 28:34-40
10. What strict warning is given in 3 Nephi 28:34-35?
11. How did Mormon learn of the nature of the three disciples who tarried?
12. List qualities of translated beings as described in 3 Nephi 28:39-40.
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 29; 2 Nephi 28:2-6
13. Read the chapter heading to 3 Nephi 29. What are “these sayings” (v.1)? Of what is its coming forth a sign?
14. Are there people today who “deny the revelations of the Lord” (v.6) and spread doubt in order to get gain (v.7)? According to 2 Nephi 28:2-6, how can the Book of Mormon be used to combat these evils?
15. Rewrite 3 Nephi 29:9 in your own words.
Day 6: Read 3 Nephi 30
16. To whom is 3 Nephi 30 addressed? What is the first word of instruction? Who commanded Mormon to write?
17. List the verbs in Mormon’s warning and promise to us in 3 Nephi 30:2.
18. Why should we want to be numbered with the house of Israel?
Day 7: Review 3 Nephi 10:3-7; 11:9-11, 29-41
19. After reviewing some of the first statements issued by the Savior in his instruction to the Book of Mormon peoples, list major themes of his visitation.
20. Using the themes identified in question 20, list how these ideas were embraced by the people.
21. What themes might the Savior employ today?
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
3 Nephi 24-27
3 Nephi 24-27 Study Guide – to be discussed January 15
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 24:1-6; Bible Dictionary entry “Malachi,” D&C 128:24, D&C 84:31-34
1. From the Bible Dictionary, what does the name “Malachi” mean? When was the prophecy recorded by Malachi received? List some themes from the second part of Malachi’s prophecy, as identified in the Bible Dictionary. Why didn’t the Nephites have these scriptures?
2. What was the significance to the people gathered at Bountiful regarding Malachi’s prophecy that the Lord – the “messenger of the covenant” (v.1) – would suddenly come to his temple? What is the significance to us today?
3. Using D&C 128:24 and D&C 84:31-34, and remembering both Moses and Aaron were descended from Levi (the tribe from which all priests came anciently), who are the “sons of Levi” and what might their “offering in righteousness” be?
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 24:7-18; D&C 64:23; D&C 85:9-11
4. How has Israel robbed God? List promised blessings to all who pay tithes and offerings. (See also D&C 64:23.)
5. Rephrase the complaint of the wicked in 3 Nephi 24:14-15. How did the Lord answer?
6. Whose names will be written in the “book of remembrance” mentioned in 3 Nephi 24:16? (See also D&C 85:9-11.)
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 25; D&C 110:13-16
7. What do you think it means to be left with neither root nor branch?
8. In what way(s) might the Savior be thought of as having “healing in his wings”? Who will benefit from this healing?
9. Read D&C 110:13-16. How has Malachi’s prophecy been fulfilled in this dispensation?
Day 4: Read 3 Nephi 26:1-11; Daniel 12:1-3
10. Why was Jesus instructed to give Malachi’s prophecies to the Nephites? How much of the earth’s history did he expound (or explain)?
11. Using Daniel 12:2, what is another term for the “resurrection of damnation”?
12. Why was this “lesser part” included in Mormon’s abridgement?
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 26:12-21; D&C 128:17-18
13. List what the Lord did for the people, as recorded in 3 Nephi 26:13-14.
14. Why do you think the Savior opened the mouths of babies as part of his mission? Read D&C 128:17-18. In the last part of verse 18, the Lord declared through Joseph Smith that babes and sucklings would again reveal glorious things in this dispensation. How are these miraculous events related to Malachi’s message?
15. List steps the people took to become more perfect, as recorded in 3 Nephi 26:17-21.
BONUS: If you could be present on only one of the three days of Christ’s visit to the people at Bountiful, which day would you choose and why?
Day 6: Read 3 Nephi 27:1-16; Acts 10:34-43
16. List the things the disciples were doing when Jesus “again showed himself unto them.”
17. Why do you think there were “disputations” among the people concerning the name of the church?
18. What elements of the gospel are outlined in 3 Nephi 27:13-16?
BONUS: Read Acts 10:34-43. Compare your answer in question 18 above with the elements of the gospel taught by Peter in the Old World at around the same time.
Day 7: Read 3 Nephi 27:17-33
19. Compare 3 Nephi 27:11 with 3 Nephi 27:17. What common warning was given to those who build on the works of men and those who do not endure to the end?
20. How can we become sanctified?
21. Why did the Lord rejoice over the generation of saints he visited at Bountiful? How would his visit to their descendants in the fourth generation differ from the visit recorded here?
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 24:1-6; Bible Dictionary entry “Malachi,” D&C 128:24, D&C 84:31-34
1. From the Bible Dictionary, what does the name “Malachi” mean? When was the prophecy recorded by Malachi received? List some themes from the second part of Malachi’s prophecy, as identified in the Bible Dictionary. Why didn’t the Nephites have these scriptures?
2. What was the significance to the people gathered at Bountiful regarding Malachi’s prophecy that the Lord – the “messenger of the covenant” (v.1) – would suddenly come to his temple? What is the significance to us today?
3. Using D&C 128:24 and D&C 84:31-34, and remembering both Moses and Aaron were descended from Levi (the tribe from which all priests came anciently), who are the “sons of Levi” and what might their “offering in righteousness” be?
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 24:7-18; D&C 64:23; D&C 85:9-11
4. How has Israel robbed God? List promised blessings to all who pay tithes and offerings. (See also D&C 64:23.)
5. Rephrase the complaint of the wicked in 3 Nephi 24:14-15. How did the Lord answer?
6. Whose names will be written in the “book of remembrance” mentioned in 3 Nephi 24:16? (See also D&C 85:9-11.)
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 25; D&C 110:13-16
7. What do you think it means to be left with neither root nor branch?
8. In what way(s) might the Savior be thought of as having “healing in his wings”? Who will benefit from this healing?
9. Read D&C 110:13-16. How has Malachi’s prophecy been fulfilled in this dispensation?
Day 4: Read 3 Nephi 26:1-11; Daniel 12:1-3
10. Why was Jesus instructed to give Malachi’s prophecies to the Nephites? How much of the earth’s history did he expound (or explain)?
11. Using Daniel 12:2, what is another term for the “resurrection of damnation”?
12. Why was this “lesser part” included in Mormon’s abridgement?
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 26:12-21; D&C 128:17-18
13. List what the Lord did for the people, as recorded in 3 Nephi 26:13-14.
14. Why do you think the Savior opened the mouths of babies as part of his mission? Read D&C 128:17-18. In the last part of verse 18, the Lord declared through Joseph Smith that babes and sucklings would again reveal glorious things in this dispensation. How are these miraculous events related to Malachi’s message?
15. List steps the people took to become more perfect, as recorded in 3 Nephi 26:17-21.
BONUS: If you could be present on only one of the three days of Christ’s visit to the people at Bountiful, which day would you choose and why?
Day 6: Read 3 Nephi 27:1-16; Acts 10:34-43
16. List the things the disciples were doing when Jesus “again showed himself unto them.”
17. Why do you think there were “disputations” among the people concerning the name of the church?
18. What elements of the gospel are outlined in 3 Nephi 27:13-16?
BONUS: Read Acts 10:34-43. Compare your answer in question 18 above with the elements of the gospel taught by Peter in the Old World at around the same time.
Day 7: Read 3 Nephi 27:17-33
19. Compare 3 Nephi 27:11 with 3 Nephi 27:17. What common warning was given to those who build on the works of men and those who do not endure to the end?
20. How can we become sanctified?
21. Why did the Lord rejoice over the generation of saints he visited at Bountiful? How would his visit to their descendants in the fourth generation differ from the visit recorded here?
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Christmas Break
For a scripture-based Christmas Quiz and some great Book of Mormon research, check out the website linked to the right, Book of Mormon Research. Search for Christmas Quiz or click here.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
3 Nephi 21-23
3 Nephi 21-23 Study Guide: To be discussed January 8
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 21:1-10; Isaiah 66:18-20
1. Read the chapter heading for 3 Nephi 21. Which verses in 3 Nephi 21:1-9 include the theme: “Israel shall be gathered when the Book of Mormon comes forth”? What is the “sign” mentioned in verses 1 and 7?
2. Read Isaiah 66:18-20. What “sign” of the last days is described by Isaiah?
3. According to the Savior, who will work a great and marvelous work in the latter days? What is that work?
BONUS: Read D&C 135:3. Who is the “servant” described in 3 Nephi 21:10? In what sense was he “marred” but not hurt?
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 21:11-21; Bible Dictionary entry, “Grove”
4. List warnings to those who reject the Book of Mormon. Now list ways it is rejected.
5. Horses and chariots symbolize power, or military victory. Cities and strongholds symbolize safety. How do the warnings in 3 Nephi 21:14-19 illustrate the phrase “my wisdom is greater than the cunning of the devil”?
6. Look up “Grove” in the Bible Dictionary. What were “groves” and why would the Lord want to pluck them up?
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 21:22-29; Isaiah 52:11-12
7. What does the Lord promise those who “repent and hearken” to his words?
8. What three groups of people will participate in building the New Jerusalem?
9. 3 Nephi 21 is a commentary on Isaiah 52. What do 3 Nephi 21:22-28 add to your understanding of Isaiah 52:11-12?
Day 4: Read 3 Nephi 22:1-8; Isaiah 54:1-8 with footnotes; Joel 2:26-27; Revelation 19:7-8
10. 3 Nephi 22 is a continuation of the Lord’s sermon, in which he quotes much of Isaiah 54. When is the “then” of 3 Nephi 22:1, when the once-barren Zion will sing and rejoice in her posterity?
11. List promises to Israel at that day. See also Joel 2:26-27, Revelation 19:7-8.
12. What is the great mercy and everlasting kindness of the Lord? (See also Genesis 49:26.)
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 22:9-17; Isaiah 54:9-17 with footnotes; 2 Kings 56:15-16; 1 John 4:4; D&C 109:26
13. What visual context (object lesson?) did the Nephites have for the Lord’s promise in 3 Nephi 22:10? When nothing else is certain, on what may we depend?
BONUS: The phrase, “with fair colors” in 3 Nephi 22:11 is sometimes rendered “in hard mortar.” Read this verse with Revelation 21:19-22. What impresses you about this description of Zion?
14. According to 3 Nephi 22:14, what establishes our safety within Zion’s walls?
15. What is the heritage of the servants of the Lord? See also 2 Kings 6:15-16, 1 John 4:4, D&C 109:26.
Day 6: Read 3 Nephi 23:1-6; review 3 Nephi 20:10-15
16. According to 3 Nephi 23:2, how many subjects relating to the House of Israel did Isaiah teach about? To what other group did he speak?
17. What do you think Jesus meant when he commanded the people to “search the prophets”?
18. List similarities between 3 Nephi 23:1-5 and 3 Nephi 20:10-15 (the first and last passages in the Lord’s discourse).
Day 7: Read 3 Nephi 23:7-14
19. What fulfillment of Samuel’s prophecy had not been recorded? Why was it important to do so?
20. It is recorded that Jesus “expounded all the scriptures” to the people (vv. 6, 14). What do you think this means?
21. What was the Savior’s final commandment in 3 Nephi 23?
BONUS: Why should we study the words of Isaiah?
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 21:1-10; Isaiah 66:18-20
1. Read the chapter heading for 3 Nephi 21. Which verses in 3 Nephi 21:1-9 include the theme: “Israel shall be gathered when the Book of Mormon comes forth”? What is the “sign” mentioned in verses 1 and 7?
2. Read Isaiah 66:18-20. What “sign” of the last days is described by Isaiah?
3. According to the Savior, who will work a great and marvelous work in the latter days? What is that work?
BONUS: Read D&C 135:3. Who is the “servant” described in 3 Nephi 21:10? In what sense was he “marred” but not hurt?
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 21:11-21; Bible Dictionary entry, “Grove”
4. List warnings to those who reject the Book of Mormon. Now list ways it is rejected.
5. Horses and chariots symbolize power, or military victory. Cities and strongholds symbolize safety. How do the warnings in 3 Nephi 21:14-19 illustrate the phrase “my wisdom is greater than the cunning of the devil”?
6. Look up “Grove” in the Bible Dictionary. What were “groves” and why would the Lord want to pluck them up?
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 21:22-29; Isaiah 52:11-12
7. What does the Lord promise those who “repent and hearken” to his words?
8. What three groups of people will participate in building the New Jerusalem?
9. 3 Nephi 21 is a commentary on Isaiah 52. What do 3 Nephi 21:22-28 add to your understanding of Isaiah 52:11-12?
Day 4: Read 3 Nephi 22:1-8; Isaiah 54:1-8 with footnotes; Joel 2:26-27; Revelation 19:7-8
10. 3 Nephi 22 is a continuation of the Lord’s sermon, in which he quotes much of Isaiah 54. When is the “then” of 3 Nephi 22:1, when the once-barren Zion will sing and rejoice in her posterity?
11. List promises to Israel at that day. See also Joel 2:26-27, Revelation 19:7-8.
12. What is the great mercy and everlasting kindness of the Lord? (See also Genesis 49:26.)
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 22:9-17; Isaiah 54:9-17 with footnotes; 2 Kings 56:15-16; 1 John 4:4; D&C 109:26
13. What visual context (object lesson?) did the Nephites have for the Lord’s promise in 3 Nephi 22:10? When nothing else is certain, on what may we depend?
BONUS: The phrase, “with fair colors” in 3 Nephi 22:11 is sometimes rendered “in hard mortar.” Read this verse with Revelation 21:19-22. What impresses you about this description of Zion?
14. According to 3 Nephi 22:14, what establishes our safety within Zion’s walls?
15. What is the heritage of the servants of the Lord? See also 2 Kings 6:15-16, 1 John 4:4, D&C 109:26.
Day 6: Read 3 Nephi 23:1-6; review 3 Nephi 20:10-15
16. According to 3 Nephi 23:2, how many subjects relating to the House of Israel did Isaiah teach about? To what other group did he speak?
17. What do you think Jesus meant when he commanded the people to “search the prophets”?
18. List similarities between 3 Nephi 23:1-5 and 3 Nephi 20:10-15 (the first and last passages in the Lord’s discourse).
Day 7: Read 3 Nephi 23:7-14
19. What fulfillment of Samuel’s prophecy had not been recorded? Why was it important to do so?
20. It is recorded that Jesus “expounded all the scriptures” to the people (vv. 6, 14). What do you think this means?
21. What was the Savior’s final commandment in 3 Nephi 23?
BONUS: Why should we study the words of Isaiah?
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Promised Quote
Here is the quote we discussed in class:
Which covenants do you renew when you partake of the Sacrament?
According to our latter-day prophets and leaders, when you partake of the sacrament you renew
whatever covenants you have made with the Lord. For example, if you have been baptized only, that is
the covenant you renew. If you have received the Melchizedek Priesthood, you also renew that part of
the oath and covenant related to your having received that priesthood. If you have received your
endowment, you also renew the covenants associated with it. Further, if you have been sealed, you also
renew that covenant. In other words, when you partake of the sacrament, you renew all the covenants
you have made with the Lord. John E. MacKay, Ensign, Mar 1995, 66
Which covenants do you renew when you partake of the Sacrament?
According to our latter-day prophets and leaders, when you partake of the sacrament you renew
whatever covenants you have made with the Lord. For example, if you have been baptized only, that is
the covenant you renew. If you have received the Melchizedek Priesthood, you also renew that part of
the oath and covenant related to your having received that priesthood. If you have received your
endowment, you also renew the covenants associated with it. Further, if you have been sealed, you also
renew that covenant. In other words, when you partake of the sacrament, you renew all the covenants
you have made with the Lord. John E. MacKay, Ensign, Mar 1995, 66
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
3 Nephi 19-20
3 Nephi 19-20 Study Guide – to be discussed December 11
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 19:1-12
1. Why do you think the multitude that had seen Jesus spent the night inviting others to come?
2. List the commandments given by the Savior the previous day which were specifically carried out by the twelve, as described in 3 Nephi 19:6-12.
3. What did the twelve most desire?
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 19:13-26; Bible Dictionary entry, “Fire”
4. After the twelve were baptized, how was their greatest desire realized?
BONUS: Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Fire.” List what the fire that filled and surrounded the twelve may have symbolized.
5. Why do you think Jesus asked the people to kneel and pray? To whom did they pray?
6. List elements of the Lord’s prayer to the Father.
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 19:27-36
7. How many times did Jesus use the word “purified” in his prayer? How can we become purified?
8. How did the multitude understand the words of Jesus’ prayer?
BONUS: Read John 17:5-10. Compare the Great Intercessory Prayer in John’s gospel with Christ’s prayer for the remnant of Joseph in 3 Nephi. How are they the same? How are they different?
9. What principle of the gospel allowed the people on this continent to witness tremendous miracles?
Day 4: Read 3 Nephi 20:1-9; John 6:30-35, 53-57
10. How can we “cease to pray,” but “not cease to pray” in our hearts in preparation for taking the sacrament?
11. Review 3 Nephi 18:1-4. On the second day of Christ’s visit, he did not ask the people to wait while bread and wine were procured, but produced the sacramental emblems miraculously. How had the people been prepared this time? Were there more people or fewer to provide for?
12. Read John 6:30-35, 53-57. Why will the soul that partakes of Christ’s body and blood never hunger or thirst? With what were the people filled?
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 20:10-22
13. Whose prophecies did Jesus quote in his “sacrament meeting” talk?
14. Why will the Lord gather his people?
15. List promised blessings from 3 Nephi 20:14-22.
Day 6. Read 3 Nephi 20:23-35
16. What part of God’s covenant with Abraham was fulfilled when Christ taught of the Holy Ghost and purified the people?
17. In 3 Nephi 20:32-34, each verse begins with “Then….” From 3 Nephi 20:29-30, when is “then”?
18. Why will waste places sing? Why would the Father “make bare his holy arm”?
Day 7: Read 3 Nephi 20:36-46; D&C 113:8-10; D&C 84:88; D&C 88:74-75 Ezekiel 36:25; Isaiah 52:1-12, using footnotes
19. Read D&C 113:8-10. What is the strength of Zion? What are the bands around her neck and how are they loosed?
20. Whose feet bring good tidings and publish peace? Read D&C 84:88 and 88:74-75. What makes these feet beautiful?
21. Using the JST footnote for Isaiah 52:15a and Ezekiel 36:25, give two possible meanings for the word “sprinkle” in 3 Nephi 20:45.
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 19:1-12
1. Why do you think the multitude that had seen Jesus spent the night inviting others to come?
2. List the commandments given by the Savior the previous day which were specifically carried out by the twelve, as described in 3 Nephi 19:6-12.
3. What did the twelve most desire?
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 19:13-26; Bible Dictionary entry, “Fire”
4. After the twelve were baptized, how was their greatest desire realized?
BONUS: Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Fire.” List what the fire that filled and surrounded the twelve may have symbolized.
5. Why do you think Jesus asked the people to kneel and pray? To whom did they pray?
6. List elements of the Lord’s prayer to the Father.
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 19:27-36
7. How many times did Jesus use the word “purified” in his prayer? How can we become purified?
8. How did the multitude understand the words of Jesus’ prayer?
BONUS: Read John 17:5-10. Compare the Great Intercessory Prayer in John’s gospel with Christ’s prayer for the remnant of Joseph in 3 Nephi. How are they the same? How are they different?
9. What principle of the gospel allowed the people on this continent to witness tremendous miracles?
Day 4: Read 3 Nephi 20:1-9; John 6:30-35, 53-57
10. How can we “cease to pray,” but “not cease to pray” in our hearts in preparation for taking the sacrament?
11. Review 3 Nephi 18:1-4. On the second day of Christ’s visit, he did not ask the people to wait while bread and wine were procured, but produced the sacramental emblems miraculously. How had the people been prepared this time? Were there more people or fewer to provide for?
12. Read John 6:30-35, 53-57. Why will the soul that partakes of Christ’s body and blood never hunger or thirst? With what were the people filled?
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 20:10-22
13. Whose prophecies did Jesus quote in his “sacrament meeting” talk?
14. Why will the Lord gather his people?
15. List promised blessings from 3 Nephi 20:14-22.
Day 6. Read 3 Nephi 20:23-35
16. What part of God’s covenant with Abraham was fulfilled when Christ taught of the Holy Ghost and purified the people?
17. In 3 Nephi 20:32-34, each verse begins with “Then….” From 3 Nephi 20:29-30, when is “then”?
18. Why will waste places sing? Why would the Father “make bare his holy arm”?
Day 7: Read 3 Nephi 20:36-46; D&C 113:8-10; D&C 84:88; D&C 88:74-75 Ezekiel 36:25; Isaiah 52:1-12, using footnotes
19. Read D&C 113:8-10. What is the strength of Zion? What are the bands around her neck and how are they loosed?
20. Whose feet bring good tidings and publish peace? Read D&C 84:88 and 88:74-75. What makes these feet beautiful?
21. Using the JST footnote for Isaiah 52:15a and Ezekiel 36:25, give two possible meanings for the word “sprinkle” in 3 Nephi 20:45.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
3 Nephi 17-18
3 Nephi 17-18 Study Guide – to be discussed December 4
Day 1: Read 3 Nephi 17:1-8; D&C 78:17-19
1. After quoting Isaiah, Jesus perceived that the people did not quite understand all he had been commanded to tell them. What instructions did he give to help them understand his teachings?
BONUS: Review 3 Nephi 11:1. Where were the people being taught? How could the instructions in 3 Nephi 17:3 apply to this setting?
EXTRA CREDIT: Read D&C 78:17-19. List promises to those who allow themselves to be led along and who receive all things with thankfulness.
2. Where was the Savior planning to go when he left the people at Bountiful?
3. Why did Christ tarry? What allowed Him to heal the people?
Day 2: Read 3 Nephi 17:9-17; D&C 76:1-10 and 114-118
4. What percentage of the sick and afflicted who were brought to Christ were healed? Who worshipped Him?
5. Why do you think Jesus asked for the children to be brought forward to encircle Him?
6. What was troubling the Savior as he prayed? For whom did He pray?
EXTRA CREDIT: Read D&C 76:1-10 and 114-118. What is the reward to those who respect and serve God in purity? By what power are we enlightened? Why couldn’t the people at Bountiful record the words of Christ’s powerful prayer?
Day 3: Read 3 Nephi 17:18-25
7. Why do you think Jesus wept?
8. What was the multitude commanded to DO in 3 Nephi 17:23? Why?
9. In what way(s) did blessing the children also bless the parents and grandparents? How had the parents already blessed the children?
EXTRA CREDIT: List the steps in 3 Nephi 17 that led to overwhelming joy.
Day 4: Read 3 Nephi 18:1-9
10. Why do you think Jesus asked his disciples to bring bread and wine instead of bringing them himself or causing them to appear miraculously? What did the multitude do as they waited?
11. Why do you think the Lord gave the sacrament to the disciples first, then commanded them to give to the multitude?
12. List the reasons Jesus gave for the commandment to observe His sacrament.
BONUS: According to 3 Nephi 20:9, with what were the people filled when they partook of the sacrament?
Day 5: Read 3 Nephi 18:10-16
13. To whom was Jesus speaking in 3 Nephi 18:10-16?
14. List promised blessings to those who worthily administer and partake of the sacrament.
15. How were the disciples commanded to pray in 3 Nephi 18:16? What example had Christ set in 3 Nephi 17:15-17?
Day 6: Read 3 Nephi 18:17-25
16. How does sincere prayer help us renew the covenant to “always remember Him”?
17. What two places are mentioned specifically as places where we should pray together?
18. How can we “hold up” the teachings of Christ as a light to the world and invite others to “feel and see”?
Day 7: Read 3 Nephi 18:26-39; BD entry: “Cloud”
19. What specific instructions did Jesus give the twelve regarding the administration of the sacrament?
20. What did the Savior say we must do in order for him to heal us? How can we help others receive this healing?
21. Why did the Savior need to go unto the Father? Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Cloud.” Why do you think the Lord often uses a cloud to veil His presence, or in this case, His ascension?
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