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?
BOOK OF MORMON STUDY GUIDES
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
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?
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
2 Nephi 29-33
2 Nephi – Lesson 13: 2 Nephi 29-33 (to be discussed April 26)
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 29:1-2; Ezekiel 37:15-17
1. From 2 Nephi 29:1-2, list five reasons the Lord proceeds with his “marvelous work,” the restoration of the gospel in the latter days.
2. Why will many Gentiles reject the Book of Mormon? How have we thanked the Jews for giving us the Bible?
3. Give three or more reasons listed in this chapter regarding why we should study the Book of Mormon.
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 30:1-8; Review 2 Nephi 19:2-3, 2 Nephi 3:5
4. From 2 Nephi 30:2, with whom does the Lord covenant?
5. Why does the coming forth of the Book of Mormon give Nephi hope for his posterity?
6. Use 2 Nephi 29:14 with 2 Nephi 30:7 to explain how the promises made to Abraham are fulfilled through the Book of Mormon.
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 30:9-18; Isaiah 11:4-9 with footnotes
NOTE: Nephi, who quoted Isaiah 11 in its entirety in 2 Nephi 21, quotes key verses again here. Isaiah 11 was also quoted by Moroni to Joseph Smith, telling him it was about to be fulfilled. Nephi’s commentary precedes and follows this quote from Isaiah.
7. For who’s sake will the wicked be destroyed?
8. How do all of God’s creations bear witness of his sovereignty?
9. What added detail does Nephi give to explain how the earth will be “full of the knowledge of the Lord”?
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 31:1-12; Article of Faith 4
10. According to Nephi, what does he want to leave us as his final topic, given as plainly as he can?
11. What four reasons does Nephi give for why Christ needed to be baptized?
12. Stated simply, what is the doctrine of Christ? (see also 3 Nephi 11:31-39)
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 31:13-21 (Bonus reading: Moses 6:31-62)
13. Circle the word “if” in 2 Nephi 31:13. What are the promises to those who sincerely follow Christ into the waters of baptism (the “then” statements that follow)? Why do you think the first principles and ordinances of the gospel are referred to as the “gate” rather than the “destination”?
14. Why do you think it would be better for those who have received a witness of Christ to have never known him rather than to deny him?
15. Verses 14-21 in 2 Nephi 31 discuss the principle of enduring to the end. List ways we can “press forward” or endure to the end.
BONUS: What two things does Nephi record in chapter 31 that he heard directly from the voice of the Father? List also two things from the voice of the Son.
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 32; Review 2 Nephi 30:13-14
16. What is the unspoken question of Nephi’s audience, pondered in their hearts, that Nephi answers in this chapter?
17. In answer to this question, Nephi tells us two ways we can be directed, or shown “all things what ye should do.” What divine help is outlined in 2 Nephi 32:3-5?
18. What does Nephi encourage us to do in 2 Nephi 32:8-9, as an antidote to unbelief, wickedness and ignorance? How often should we do this? Who teaches us not to?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 33
19. From 2 Nephi 33:3, what does Nephi do for his people? How does this make you feel about him? about his words?
20. In what three things does Nephi say he glories? For what three groups does he have charity?
21. Having completed this study of Nephi’s writing, what would you like to do or say when you stand face to face with him before the bar of God?
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 29:1-2; Ezekiel 37:15-17
1. From 2 Nephi 29:1-2, list five reasons the Lord proceeds with his “marvelous work,” the restoration of the gospel in the latter days.
2. Why will many Gentiles reject the Book of Mormon? How have we thanked the Jews for giving us the Bible?
3. Give three or more reasons listed in this chapter regarding why we should study the Book of Mormon.
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 30:1-8; Review 2 Nephi 19:2-3, 2 Nephi 3:5
4. From 2 Nephi 30:2, with whom does the Lord covenant?
5. Why does the coming forth of the Book of Mormon give Nephi hope for his posterity?
6. Use 2 Nephi 29:14 with 2 Nephi 30:7 to explain how the promises made to Abraham are fulfilled through the Book of Mormon.
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 30:9-18; Isaiah 11:4-9 with footnotes
NOTE: Nephi, who quoted Isaiah 11 in its entirety in 2 Nephi 21, quotes key verses again here. Isaiah 11 was also quoted by Moroni to Joseph Smith, telling him it was about to be fulfilled. Nephi’s commentary precedes and follows this quote from Isaiah.
7. For who’s sake will the wicked be destroyed?
8. How do all of God’s creations bear witness of his sovereignty?
9. What added detail does Nephi give to explain how the earth will be “full of the knowledge of the Lord”?
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 31:1-12; Article of Faith 4
10. According to Nephi, what does he want to leave us as his final topic, given as plainly as he can?
11. What four reasons does Nephi give for why Christ needed to be baptized?
12. Stated simply, what is the doctrine of Christ? (see also 3 Nephi 11:31-39)
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 31:13-21 (Bonus reading: Moses 6:31-62)
13. Circle the word “if” in 2 Nephi 31:13. What are the promises to those who sincerely follow Christ into the waters of baptism (the “then” statements that follow)? Why do you think the first principles and ordinances of the gospel are referred to as the “gate” rather than the “destination”?
14. Why do you think it would be better for those who have received a witness of Christ to have never known him rather than to deny him?
15. Verses 14-21 in 2 Nephi 31 discuss the principle of enduring to the end. List ways we can “press forward” or endure to the end.
BONUS: What two things does Nephi record in chapter 31 that he heard directly from the voice of the Father? List also two things from the voice of the Son.
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 32; Review 2 Nephi 30:13-14
16. What is the unspoken question of Nephi’s audience, pondered in their hearts, that Nephi answers in this chapter?
17. In answer to this question, Nephi tells us two ways we can be directed, or shown “all things what ye should do.” What divine help is outlined in 2 Nephi 32:3-5?
18. What does Nephi encourage us to do in 2 Nephi 32:8-9, as an antidote to unbelief, wickedness and ignorance? How often should we do this? Who teaches us not to?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 33
19. From 2 Nephi 33:3, what does Nephi do for his people? How does this make you feel about him? about his words?
20. In what three things does Nephi say he glories? For what three groups does he have charity?
21. Having completed this study of Nephi’s writing, what would you like to do or say when you stand face to face with him before the bar of God?
2 Nephi 27-28
2 Nephi Lesson 12: 2 Nephi 27-28
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 27:1-5; Isaiah 29:6-10 with footnotes
1. Nephi quotes again extensively from Isaiah in 2 Nephi 27, inserting his commentary and related prophecies. Read the chapter heading for Isaiah 29. According to this note, who will speak as a voice from the dust? From 2 Nephi 27:1, when will these prophecies of Isaiah have their fulfillment?
2. Isaiah 29:9 is quoted in 2 Nephi 27:4. The prophecy states that men will be “drunken but not with wine.” According to 2 Nephi 27:1, with what will they be drunken? How will this cause them to “stagger”? (Hint: use 2 Nephi 27:5)
3. What will happen to all the nations that fight against Zion?
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 27:6-14; D&C 5:5-15; Luke 12:3; “The Testimony of Three Witnesses” found after the Introduction to the Book of Mormon in the front of the book.
4. What is contained in the sealed portion of the Nephite records?
5. How can we read the Book of Mormon “upon the housetops” today? What will happen when we do?
6. How did Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris receive their witness of the plates?
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 27:15-23; JS-H 1:64-65; Ether 4:6-7
7. According to 2 Nephi 27:16, why did “the learned” want to read the book? Use the footnote for 16a to give a name to this kind of motivation.
8. In what way(s) does the passage in JS-H 1:64-65 fulfill this prophecy from Isaiah and Nephi?
9. From 2 Nephi 27:23, what is Jehovah a God of? Use Ether 4:6-7 to help list the steps Gentiles will need to take in order to receive the sealed portion of scripture.
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 27:23-35; Isaiah 29:13-24; JS-H 1:19
10. How do people today draw near to the Lord with their lips but remove their hearts far from Him?
11. What is the marvelous (astonishing!) work of the Lord today? List specific things you consider astonishing.
12. What role does pride play in trying to hide our works of darkness from the Lord? How does considering ourselves as “potter’s clay” keep us humble?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 28:1-6; Mormon 8:23, 26-32
Note: One way of looking at 2 Nephi 28 is as a playbook for Satan’s “game plan.” As such, it is also a commentary on 2 Nephi 27.
13. Without giving specific names of denominations, list ways in which churches today “contend with each other.”
14. Why would a church “deny the power of God” or teach that God is “not a God of miracles”?
15. Moroni, writing in Mormon 8:26-32, describes the day when the Book of Mormon will come forth. What does Moroni identify as a motivator for the contentions and false doctrine of the latter days?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 28:7-15; 3 Nephi 29:4-7
16. Of the two “false and foolish” doctrines outlined in 2 Nephi 28:7-8, which do you think is potentially most harmful? Why?
17. How many times is the word “pride” used in verses 11-15?
18. Read 3 Nephi 29:4-7. What is the fate of those who deny Christ for gain, or “pervert the way of the Lord”?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 28:16-32
19. According to 2 Nephi 28:19-20, what does Satan want to “stir up” in us?
20. From 2 Nephi 28:21-23, give two main categories of deceit Satan uses against us.
21. Use the last three verses of 2 Nephi 28 to list the main points of the Lord’s plan for us.
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 27:1-5; Isaiah 29:6-10 with footnotes
1. Nephi quotes again extensively from Isaiah in 2 Nephi 27, inserting his commentary and related prophecies. Read the chapter heading for Isaiah 29. According to this note, who will speak as a voice from the dust? From 2 Nephi 27:1, when will these prophecies of Isaiah have their fulfillment?
2. Isaiah 29:9 is quoted in 2 Nephi 27:4. The prophecy states that men will be “drunken but not with wine.” According to 2 Nephi 27:1, with what will they be drunken? How will this cause them to “stagger”? (Hint: use 2 Nephi 27:5)
3. What will happen to all the nations that fight against Zion?
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 27:6-14; D&C 5:5-15; Luke 12:3; “The Testimony of Three Witnesses” found after the Introduction to the Book of Mormon in the front of the book.
4. What is contained in the sealed portion of the Nephite records?
5. How can we read the Book of Mormon “upon the housetops” today? What will happen when we do?
6. How did Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris receive their witness of the plates?
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 27:15-23; JS-H 1:64-65; Ether 4:6-7
7. According to 2 Nephi 27:16, why did “the learned” want to read the book? Use the footnote for 16a to give a name to this kind of motivation.
8. In what way(s) does the passage in JS-H 1:64-65 fulfill this prophecy from Isaiah and Nephi?
9. From 2 Nephi 27:23, what is Jehovah a God of? Use Ether 4:6-7 to help list the steps Gentiles will need to take in order to receive the sealed portion of scripture.
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 27:23-35; Isaiah 29:13-24; JS-H 1:19
10. How do people today draw near to the Lord with their lips but remove their hearts far from Him?
11. What is the marvelous (astonishing!) work of the Lord today? List specific things you consider astonishing.
12. What role does pride play in trying to hide our works of darkness from the Lord? How does considering ourselves as “potter’s clay” keep us humble?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 28:1-6; Mormon 8:23, 26-32
Note: One way of looking at 2 Nephi 28 is as a playbook for Satan’s “game plan.” As such, it is also a commentary on 2 Nephi 27.
13. Without giving specific names of denominations, list ways in which churches today “contend with each other.”
14. Why would a church “deny the power of God” or teach that God is “not a God of miracles”?
15. Moroni, writing in Mormon 8:26-32, describes the day when the Book of Mormon will come forth. What does Moroni identify as a motivator for the contentions and false doctrine of the latter days?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 28:7-15; 3 Nephi 29:4-7
16. Of the two “false and foolish” doctrines outlined in 2 Nephi 28:7-8, which do you think is potentially most harmful? Why?
17. How many times is the word “pride” used in verses 11-15?
18. Read 3 Nephi 29:4-7. What is the fate of those who deny Christ for gain, or “pervert the way of the Lord”?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 28:16-32
19. According to 2 Nephi 28:19-20, what does Satan want to “stir up” in us?
20. From 2 Nephi 28:21-23, give two main categories of deceit Satan uses against us.
21. Use the last three verses of 2 Nephi 28 to list the main points of the Lord’s plan for us.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
2 Nephi 25-26
2 Nephi Lesson 11: 2 Nephi 25-26
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 25:1-8; Revelation 19:10
1. According to Nephi, why are the words of Isaiah hard for us to understand? Why had Nephi not taught his own people much about Jewish traditions and culture?
2. To whom does Nephi say the words of Isaiah will be plain? According to Revelation 19:10, what is one definition of “the spirit of prophecy”?
3. From 2 Nephi 25:3, 7-8, to whom is Nephi writing? When will we better understand Isaiah’s writings?
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 25:9-17; Malachi 4:2
4. By what evidence(s) does Nephi bear witness of the verity of Isaiah’s (“The Lord is Salvation”) and his two sons (“Destruction is Imminent” and “The Remnant Shall Return”) as signs regarding the fate of Judah?
5. Read Malachi 4:2 with 2 Nephi 25:13. What do you think the term “healing in his wings” means?
6. What does Nephi say must happen before the Jews will be restored from their “lost and fallen state”? Liken this principle to us today, how will we finally be restored as individuals?
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 25:18-22
7. By what will we be judged at the last day?
8. What two miraculous powers listed in verse 20 were given to Moses for the sake of Israel? How do these gifts typify the work of the Savior?
9. Nephi was promised his words would be kept and preserved for what purpose?
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 25:23-30; Bible Dictionary entry “Grace”
10. Use any of the footnote references or the Bible Dictionary entry “Grace” to explain in your own words how it is that by grace we are saved, after all we can do.
11. List the first five verbs in 2 Nephi 25:26. How does Nephi’s witness progress in these verbs? How can we use these same action words to strengthen our own testimonies?
12. Nephi says he will teach us the “right way” in verse 28, then repeats his counsel in verse 29. What two things does Nephi identify as “the right way”?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 26:1-11; 3 Nephi 8:5-13, 20-24; 11:8-14; 17:7-10
13. Nearly 600 years after Nephi wrote these prophecies they were fulfilled in spectacular detail among his own people. List some of the specific detail described by Nephi that was later recorded in Third Nephi.
14. Why do you think the Lord gave Nephi this vision of destruction? How did it affect Nephi?
15. When does the Spirit of the Lord cease to strive with man?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 26:12-22; Isaiah 29:1-6
16. Read 2 Nephi 26:12-16 with Isaiah 29:1-6. Isaiah’s prophecy speaks of destruction at Jerusalem (“the city where David dwelt”) – which was fulfilled at least twice. Nephi uses Isaiah’s words to foretell destruction among his descendants – at least twice. In what ways do these prophecies speak to us “out of the dust”?
17. List some modern “stumbling blocks” similar to the ones listed by Nephi in verses 20-22.
18. With what kind of cord does the devil begin to lead us? With what kind of cords does he finish?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 26:23-33; D&C 6:7
19. In contrast to Satan’s tactics, with what does the Lord draw all me unto him?
20. Nephi lists a number of things from which we are not forbidden, available to us without cost, and several evils we are commanded against. List two things from these verses we are commanded to do.
21. List the three elements of priestcraft.
BONUS: List the evils from verse 32 which are not included in the Ten Commandments (see Exodus 20:1-17).
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 25:1-8; Revelation 19:10
1. According to Nephi, why are the words of Isaiah hard for us to understand? Why had Nephi not taught his own people much about Jewish traditions and culture?
2. To whom does Nephi say the words of Isaiah will be plain? According to Revelation 19:10, what is one definition of “the spirit of prophecy”?
3. From 2 Nephi 25:3, 7-8, to whom is Nephi writing? When will we better understand Isaiah’s writings?
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 25:9-17; Malachi 4:2
4. By what evidence(s) does Nephi bear witness of the verity of Isaiah’s (“The Lord is Salvation”) and his two sons (“Destruction is Imminent” and “The Remnant Shall Return”) as signs regarding the fate of Judah?
5. Read Malachi 4:2 with 2 Nephi 25:13. What do you think the term “healing in his wings” means?
6. What does Nephi say must happen before the Jews will be restored from their “lost and fallen state”? Liken this principle to us today, how will we finally be restored as individuals?
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 25:18-22
7. By what will we be judged at the last day?
8. What two miraculous powers listed in verse 20 were given to Moses for the sake of Israel? How do these gifts typify the work of the Savior?
9. Nephi was promised his words would be kept and preserved for what purpose?
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 25:23-30; Bible Dictionary entry “Grace”
10. Use any of the footnote references or the Bible Dictionary entry “Grace” to explain in your own words how it is that by grace we are saved, after all we can do.
11. List the first five verbs in 2 Nephi 25:26. How does Nephi’s witness progress in these verbs? How can we use these same action words to strengthen our own testimonies?
12. Nephi says he will teach us the “right way” in verse 28, then repeats his counsel in verse 29. What two things does Nephi identify as “the right way”?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 26:1-11; 3 Nephi 8:5-13, 20-24; 11:8-14; 17:7-10
13. Nearly 600 years after Nephi wrote these prophecies they were fulfilled in spectacular detail among his own people. List some of the specific detail described by Nephi that was later recorded in Third Nephi.
14. Why do you think the Lord gave Nephi this vision of destruction? How did it affect Nephi?
15. When does the Spirit of the Lord cease to strive with man?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 26:12-22; Isaiah 29:1-6
16. Read 2 Nephi 26:12-16 with Isaiah 29:1-6. Isaiah’s prophecy speaks of destruction at Jerusalem (“the city where David dwelt”) – which was fulfilled at least twice. Nephi uses Isaiah’s words to foretell destruction among his descendants – at least twice. In what ways do these prophecies speak to us “out of the dust”?
17. List some modern “stumbling blocks” similar to the ones listed by Nephi in verses 20-22.
18. With what kind of cord does the devil begin to lead us? With what kind of cords does he finish?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 26:23-33; D&C 6:7
19. In contrast to Satan’s tactics, with what does the Lord draw all me unto him?
20. Nephi lists a number of things from which we are not forbidden, available to us without cost, and several evils we are commanded against. List two things from these verses we are commanded to do.
21. List the three elements of priestcraft.
BONUS: List the evils from verse 32 which are not included in the Ten Commandments (see Exodus 20:1-17).
Monday, March 12, 2007
2 Nephi 23-24
2 Nephi Lesson 10: 2 Nephi 23-24
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 23:1-5; Isaiah 13:1-5 with footnotes; D&C 1:16, 133:14
1. Read the footnotes for Isaiah 13:1. What is a “burden” as given by a prophet? According to these footnotes and the chapter headings, of what is the destruction of Babylon a type?
2. In verses 2-5, the Lord gathers his forces. Read D&C 1:16 and 133:14 to help explain what Babylon represents. How can we respond to the Lord’s call?
3. From what two locations does the Lord muster his ranks?
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 23:6-18; Matthew 24:29-30
4. 2 Nephi 23:6-9 speak of the condition of (a) the Babylonians when the Medes and Persians invaded and (b) the wicked when Christ will cleanse the earth at his coming. According to these verses, what will happen to the hands of the wicked? their hearts? their faces?
5. Read Matthew 24:29-30 with 2 Nephi 13:10. According to Matthew, when will the sun and moon be darkened - after what and before what?
6. Which two verses in this scripture block specifically discuss the fate of the proud? What word is used in both verses as another name for the proud?
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 23:19-22; Isaiah 13: 19-22 with footnotes; Jeremiah 50:1-3
7. What happened to Sodom and Gomorrah? Why? (see Genesis 19:24-25)
8. Read Jeremiah 50:1-3. Note: Bel and Merodach were false gods or idols of Babylon. What was the Lord trying to say to Babylon? Is spiritual Babylon any different?
9. Use the footnotes for Isaiah 13:22 to find an explanation for “houses” and “dragons” in 2 Nephi 23:22.
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 24:1-5; Isaiah 14:1-5 with footnotes
10. Again, there are multiple meanings in chapter 24. The return of a remnant of Israel after the Babylonian captivity foreshadows the gathering of Israel today and the righteous remnant who will remain at the Second Coming. Substitute the word “Israel” for the pronouns “they” in the last part of 2 Nephi 24:2. Who holds the righteous captive today?
11. From what will the righteous be given rest in the last days?
12. If Babylon is a metaphor for wickedness, who is her king?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 24:6-15; Isaiah 14:6-15 with footnotes; D&C 76:25-27
13. According to the chapter heading, when will the whole earth finally be at rest?
14. Look up “Lucifer” in the Bible Dictionary. What does this name mean? Who was Lucifer before his fall? Who is he now?
15. What will the wicked rulers say to Satan when he is finally cast out of the earth? What will he receive, instead of a red carpet and a robe?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 24:16-22; Isaiah 14:16-22 with footnotes; Revelation 18:1-4, 19:17-21, 20:1-2
16. What will we think of Satan when we see him for what he really is?
17. Read Revelation 18:1-4. How can we escape the rise and fall of Babylon?
18. Use the footnote to Isaiah 14:21a to help explain the seeming injustice of 2 Nephi 24:20-22.
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 24:23-32; Isaiah 14:23-32 with footnotes; D&C 97:21-25
Note: “Bittern” (v.23) means “owls” and bessom” means “broom.” The end of chapter 24 (Isaiah 14) shifts the message of burden from Babylon to Assyria and the Philistines (“Palestina”). The Philistines rejoiced at the death of Assyria’s king Shalmaneser (727-722) because Sargon II, his successor, was not as bad. What they didn’t see coming was Sargon’s son (“fruit”) Sennacherib – who was even worse than Shalmaneser.
19. According to D&C 97:21-25, who should rejoice and who should mourn?
20. 2 Nephi 23-24 mark the end of Nephi’s lengthy quote of whole chapters from Isaiah’s writing. Why do you think Nephi closed his quote with this burden of doom for the wicked? What message of hope is found in the last verse of 2 Nephi 24?
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 23:1-5; Isaiah 13:1-5 with footnotes; D&C 1:16, 133:14
1. Read the footnotes for Isaiah 13:1. What is a “burden” as given by a prophet? According to these footnotes and the chapter headings, of what is the destruction of Babylon a type?
2. In verses 2-5, the Lord gathers his forces. Read D&C 1:16 and 133:14 to help explain what Babylon represents. How can we respond to the Lord’s call?
3. From what two locations does the Lord muster his ranks?
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 23:6-18; Matthew 24:29-30
4. 2 Nephi 23:6-9 speak of the condition of (a) the Babylonians when the Medes and Persians invaded and (b) the wicked when Christ will cleanse the earth at his coming. According to these verses, what will happen to the hands of the wicked? their hearts? their faces?
5. Read Matthew 24:29-30 with 2 Nephi 13:10. According to Matthew, when will the sun and moon be darkened - after what and before what?
6. Which two verses in this scripture block specifically discuss the fate of the proud? What word is used in both verses as another name for the proud?
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 23:19-22; Isaiah 13: 19-22 with footnotes; Jeremiah 50:1-3
7. What happened to Sodom and Gomorrah? Why? (see Genesis 19:24-25)
8. Read Jeremiah 50:1-3. Note: Bel and Merodach were false gods or idols of Babylon. What was the Lord trying to say to Babylon? Is spiritual Babylon any different?
9. Use the footnotes for Isaiah 13:22 to find an explanation for “houses” and “dragons” in 2 Nephi 23:22.
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 24:1-5; Isaiah 14:1-5 with footnotes
10. Again, there are multiple meanings in chapter 24. The return of a remnant of Israel after the Babylonian captivity foreshadows the gathering of Israel today and the righteous remnant who will remain at the Second Coming. Substitute the word “Israel” for the pronouns “they” in the last part of 2 Nephi 24:2. Who holds the righteous captive today?
11. From what will the righteous be given rest in the last days?
12. If Babylon is a metaphor for wickedness, who is her king?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 24:6-15; Isaiah 14:6-15 with footnotes; D&C 76:25-27
13. According to the chapter heading, when will the whole earth finally be at rest?
14. Look up “Lucifer” in the Bible Dictionary. What does this name mean? Who was Lucifer before his fall? Who is he now?
15. What will the wicked rulers say to Satan when he is finally cast out of the earth? What will he receive, instead of a red carpet and a robe?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 24:16-22; Isaiah 14:16-22 with footnotes; Revelation 18:1-4, 19:17-21, 20:1-2
16. What will we think of Satan when we see him for what he really is?
17. Read Revelation 18:1-4. How can we escape the rise and fall of Babylon?
18. Use the footnote to Isaiah 14:21a to help explain the seeming injustice of 2 Nephi 24:20-22.
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 24:23-32; Isaiah 14:23-32 with footnotes; D&C 97:21-25
Note: “Bittern” (v.23) means “owls” and bessom” means “broom.” The end of chapter 24 (Isaiah 14) shifts the message of burden from Babylon to Assyria and the Philistines (“Palestina”). The Philistines rejoiced at the death of Assyria’s king Shalmaneser (727-722) because Sargon II, his successor, was not as bad. What they didn’t see coming was Sargon’s son (“fruit”) Sennacherib – who was even worse than Shalmaneser.
19. According to D&C 97:21-25, who should rejoice and who should mourn?
20. 2 Nephi 23-24 mark the end of Nephi’s lengthy quote of whole chapters from Isaiah’s writing. Why do you think Nephi closed his quote with this burden of doom for the wicked? What message of hope is found in the last verse of 2 Nephi 24?
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
2 Nephi 20-22
2 Nephi Lesson 9: 2 Nephi 20-22
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 20:1-4; Isaiah 10:1-4 with footnotes
Optional background reading: 2 Kings 16-19
1. Isaiah pronounced three evils on Ephraim at the end of chapter 19. The first four verses of chapter 20 explain the fourth and final evil of this pronouncement. What is the last evil of Ephraim?
2. How much mercy can the merciless expect from God?
3. 2 Nephi 20:3 asks three rhetorical questions. From D&C 104:17-18, what might be the Lord’s answer to these questions? In other words, where will Ephraim leave her glory?
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 20:5-11; Isaiah 10:5-11 with footnotes; Mormon 4:5
4. The previous four evils explain why the Lord is angry. Use Mormon 4:5 to explain why the Lord used the Assyrians to punish Israel.
5. Does the Assyrian king know he is a tool of the Lord God of Israel? What proof can you find in this passage to support your answer?
6. NOTE: Calno, Carchemish, Hamath, Arpad, Samaria and Damascus were cities already conquered by the Assyrians. Why do you think the king of Assyria listed his conquests? Who are the Assyrians in your life?
7. Assyria boasted that Samaria’s idols couldn’t stop her and neither will Jerusalem’s idols. Who or what were Jerusalem’s idols?
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 20:12-19; Isaiah 10:12-19 with footnotes; Moses 4:1; 2 Kings 19:35-37
8. Compare 2 Nephi 20:13-14 with Moses 4:1. Of whom do the Assyrians remind you?
9. In 2 Nephi 20:15, Isaiah again compared Assyria’s king to a series of tools, which brag that they are more powerful or important than He who wields them. According to 2 Kings 19:35-37, how were the Assyrians devoured “in one day” (see 2 Nephi 20:17).
10. Does D&C 59:21 apply to the Assyrians? Why or why not?
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 20:20-34; Isaiah 10:20-34; 2 Kings 19:32-34
12. Read the chapter heading for 2 Nephi 20. Why do you think Nephi wanted his posterity and latter-day Israel to have this prophecy from Isaiah?
13. Use the footnotes from Isaiah 10:22-23 to explain how there is hope even in prophecies regarding the destruction at the end of the world (“consumption decreed”).
14. NOTE: Nob was just outside Jerusalem. What does the Lord promise Jerusalem in 2 Kings 19:32-34?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 21:1-9; Isaiah 11:1-9, D&C 113:1-4
15. According to D&C 113:1-4, who is the stem of Jesse? What is meant by the image of a “rod” or branch that is to come from the stem of Jesse?
16. Give the leadership qualities of the “rod” as listed by Isaiah in 2 Nephi 21:2-5.
17. During what time period, according to the chapter heading, will “the knowledge of God cover the earth”?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 21:10-16; Isaiah 10:10-16 with footnotes; D&C 90:2-4; D&C 113:5-6
18. What keys were given to Joseph Smith in D&C 90:2-4? What does this indicate regarding the “root of Jesse” in 2 Nephi 21:10?
19. Use the footnote for Isaiah 11:13a to help explain one interpretation of 2 Nephi 21:12-13.
20. The pronoun “they” in the first sentence of 2 Nephi 21:14 may refer to the Jews in the latter days. With this in mind, what fulfillment(s) of this prophecy have we seen in our lifetimes?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 22:1-6; Isaiah 12:1-6 with footnotes
21. According to the chapter heading, when will all men praise the Lord?
22. How can we “draw water out of the wells of salvation” today?
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 20:1-4; Isaiah 10:1-4 with footnotes
Optional background reading: 2 Kings 16-19
1. Isaiah pronounced three evils on Ephraim at the end of chapter 19. The first four verses of chapter 20 explain the fourth and final evil of this pronouncement. What is the last evil of Ephraim?
2. How much mercy can the merciless expect from God?
3. 2 Nephi 20:3 asks three rhetorical questions. From D&C 104:17-18, what might be the Lord’s answer to these questions? In other words, where will Ephraim leave her glory?
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 20:5-11; Isaiah 10:5-11 with footnotes; Mormon 4:5
4. The previous four evils explain why the Lord is angry. Use Mormon 4:5 to explain why the Lord used the Assyrians to punish Israel.
5. Does the Assyrian king know he is a tool of the Lord God of Israel? What proof can you find in this passage to support your answer?
6. NOTE: Calno, Carchemish, Hamath, Arpad, Samaria and Damascus were cities already conquered by the Assyrians. Why do you think the king of Assyria listed his conquests? Who are the Assyrians in your life?
7. Assyria boasted that Samaria’s idols couldn’t stop her and neither will Jerusalem’s idols. Who or what were Jerusalem’s idols?
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 20:12-19; Isaiah 10:12-19 with footnotes; Moses 4:1; 2 Kings 19:35-37
8. Compare 2 Nephi 20:13-14 with Moses 4:1. Of whom do the Assyrians remind you?
9. In 2 Nephi 20:15, Isaiah again compared Assyria’s king to a series of tools, which brag that they are more powerful or important than He who wields them. According to 2 Kings 19:35-37, how were the Assyrians devoured “in one day” (see 2 Nephi 20:17).
10. Does D&C 59:21 apply to the Assyrians? Why or why not?
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 20:20-34; Isaiah 10:20-34; 2 Kings 19:32-34
12. Read the chapter heading for 2 Nephi 20. Why do you think Nephi wanted his posterity and latter-day Israel to have this prophecy from Isaiah?
13. Use the footnotes from Isaiah 10:22-23 to explain how there is hope even in prophecies regarding the destruction at the end of the world (“consumption decreed”).
14. NOTE: Nob was just outside Jerusalem. What does the Lord promise Jerusalem in 2 Kings 19:32-34?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 21:1-9; Isaiah 11:1-9, D&C 113:1-4
15. According to D&C 113:1-4, who is the stem of Jesse? What is meant by the image of a “rod” or branch that is to come from the stem of Jesse?
16. Give the leadership qualities of the “rod” as listed by Isaiah in 2 Nephi 21:2-5.
17. During what time period, according to the chapter heading, will “the knowledge of God cover the earth”?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 21:10-16; Isaiah 10:10-16 with footnotes; D&C 90:2-4; D&C 113:5-6
18. What keys were given to Joseph Smith in D&C 90:2-4? What does this indicate regarding the “root of Jesse” in 2 Nephi 21:10?
19. Use the footnote for Isaiah 11:13a to help explain one interpretation of 2 Nephi 21:12-13.
20. The pronoun “they” in the first sentence of 2 Nephi 21:14 may refer to the Jews in the latter days. With this in mind, what fulfillment(s) of this prophecy have we seen in our lifetimes?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 22:1-6; Isaiah 12:1-6 with footnotes
21. According to the chapter heading, when will all men praise the Lord?
22. How can we “draw water out of the wells of salvation” today?
Monday, March 5, 2007
2 Nephi 17-19
2 Nephi Lesson 8: 2 Nephi 17-19
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 17:1-9 and Isaiah 7:1-9 with all footnotes; John 9:1-7
1. According to the footnote for Isaiah 7:3, what does the name of Isaiah’s son mean?
2. Find the pool of Siloam on the map of Jerusalem at the back of your Bible (map 12, C-7 in newer editions, map 17, C-4 in slightly older editions). The footnote for Isaiah 7:3c indicates this Pool of Siloam was where Isaiah and his son were to meet with Ahaz, king of Judah. Ahaz was probably worried about Jerusalem’s water supply being cut off by her enemies. Now go to John 9:1-7 where we read about an incident involving the same pool of water. Who did Jesus send to the Pool of Siloam seven centuries later? Why?
3. Use the footnote for Isaiah 7:4a to explain the term “fear not… the two tails of these smoking firebrands….” The last sentence of 2 Nephi 17:9 is explained in the footnote for Isaiah 7:9b. Use it to sum up the message of these verses.
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 17:10-17 and Isaiah 7:10-17 with all footnotes; Matthew 1:20-23
4. Should Ahaz have asked for a sign? What might Ahaz have been trying to avoid?
5. What is the ultimate sign God gave the world?
6. Use the footnote for Isaiah 7:17a to clarify the message of these verses.
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 17:18-25 and Isaiah 7:18-25 with all footnotes
7. How do the footnotes for Isaiah 7:18-25 explain the term “a razor that is hired”? Who hired the Assyrians? How are they like bees?
8. After the “razor” does its work, what will be left?
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 18:1-10 and Isaiah 8:10 with all footnotes;
9. What is the meaning of Isaiah’s second son’s name? Compare this name to the meaning of the name Immanuel, which is “With us is God.”
10. In 2 Nephi 18:6, when the people reject the waters of Shiloah, this is another reference to the Pool of Shiloam (see footnote). What do you think this verse means? How do we refuse the waters of Shiloah today?
11. The footnote for Isaiah 8:9a indicates “associate yourselves,” means “form alliances.” In whom should Judah (and we) trust?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 18:11-22 and Isaiah 8:11-22 with all footnotes; D&C 109:45-46
12. How can the Lord be both a sanctuary and a “stone of stumbling”?
13. Read 2 Nephi 18:16 with D&C 109:45-46, which is the dedicatory prayer of the Kirtland Temple. What do you think it means to “bind up the testimony”?
14. What will happen to those who seek wisdom from sources that contradict the prophets and the scriptures?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 19:1-12 and Isaiah 9:1-12 with all footnotes; review 2 Nephi 3:5; D&C 84:53-57
15. Use the footnote for Isaiah 9:2a to explain one thing the “darkness” of 2 Nephi 18:20-22 and 19:1-2 represents. What is the “great light”? Use D&C 84:53-57 to make a modern application.
16. In what way or ways does the government rest upon Christ’s shoulder? Is there a future fulfillment?
17. 2 Nephi 19:8-21 is given by way of warning to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The first evil of Ephraim is outlined in verses 9-12. What is it?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 19:13-21 and Isaiah 9:13-21 with all footnotes
18. The second evil of Ephraim, wicked leaders, is explained in verses 13-17. What two kinds of corrupt leaders are described as the “head” and “tail” of Israel? What will happen to them?
19. Why will there be no mercy extended even to the widows and the fatherless of Israel?
20. The third evil of Ephraim is the fire of wickedness, shown in verses 18-21. What happens to the land when the people are wicked?
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 17:1-9 and Isaiah 7:1-9 with all footnotes; John 9:1-7
1. According to the footnote for Isaiah 7:3, what does the name of Isaiah’s son mean?
2. Find the pool of Siloam on the map of Jerusalem at the back of your Bible (map 12, C-7 in newer editions, map 17, C-4 in slightly older editions). The footnote for Isaiah 7:3c indicates this Pool of Siloam was where Isaiah and his son were to meet with Ahaz, king of Judah. Ahaz was probably worried about Jerusalem’s water supply being cut off by her enemies. Now go to John 9:1-7 where we read about an incident involving the same pool of water. Who did Jesus send to the Pool of Siloam seven centuries later? Why?
3. Use the footnote for Isaiah 7:4a to explain the term “fear not… the two tails of these smoking firebrands….” The last sentence of 2 Nephi 17:9 is explained in the footnote for Isaiah 7:9b. Use it to sum up the message of these verses.
Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 17:10-17 and Isaiah 7:10-17 with all footnotes; Matthew 1:20-23
4. Should Ahaz have asked for a sign? What might Ahaz have been trying to avoid?
5. What is the ultimate sign God gave the world?
6. Use the footnote for Isaiah 7:17a to clarify the message of these verses.
Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 17:18-25 and Isaiah 7:18-25 with all footnotes
7. How do the footnotes for Isaiah 7:18-25 explain the term “a razor that is hired”? Who hired the Assyrians? How are they like bees?
8. After the “razor” does its work, what will be left?
Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 18:1-10 and Isaiah 8:10 with all footnotes;
9. What is the meaning of Isaiah’s second son’s name? Compare this name to the meaning of the name Immanuel, which is “With us is God.”
10. In 2 Nephi 18:6, when the people reject the waters of Shiloah, this is another reference to the Pool of Shiloam (see footnote). What do you think this verse means? How do we refuse the waters of Shiloah today?
11. The footnote for Isaiah 8:9a indicates “associate yourselves,” means “form alliances.” In whom should Judah (and we) trust?
Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 18:11-22 and Isaiah 8:11-22 with all footnotes; D&C 109:45-46
12. How can the Lord be both a sanctuary and a “stone of stumbling”?
13. Read 2 Nephi 18:16 with D&C 109:45-46, which is the dedicatory prayer of the Kirtland Temple. What do you think it means to “bind up the testimony”?
14. What will happen to those who seek wisdom from sources that contradict the prophets and the scriptures?
Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 19:1-12 and Isaiah 9:1-12 with all footnotes; review 2 Nephi 3:5; D&C 84:53-57
15. Use the footnote for Isaiah 9:2a to explain one thing the “darkness” of 2 Nephi 18:20-22 and 19:1-2 represents. What is the “great light”? Use D&C 84:53-57 to make a modern application.
16. In what way or ways does the government rest upon Christ’s shoulder? Is there a future fulfillment?
17. 2 Nephi 19:8-21 is given by way of warning to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The first evil of Ephraim is outlined in verses 9-12. What is it?
Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 19:13-21 and Isaiah 9:13-21 with all footnotes
18. The second evil of Ephraim, wicked leaders, is explained in verses 13-17. What two kinds of corrupt leaders are described as the “head” and “tail” of Israel? What will happen to them?
19. Why will there be no mercy extended even to the widows and the fatherless of Israel?
20. The third evil of Ephraim is the fire of wickedness, shown in verses 18-21. What happens to the land when the people are wicked?
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