3 Nephi 30

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

The Lord exhorts the Gentiles to repent and come unto him. If we come unto Christ, we can be numbered among his people.

1. Why do we need to take time to hear the words of Jesus Christ? What can you do too and sure that you are giving the right amount of time to his words?

2. What is the difference between lying's and deceiving's?  What are some modern examples of the sins mentioned in this verse? What blessing does the Lord promised those who turn away from these evil doings?

3 Nephi 29

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Mormon testifies that the Lord will fulfill his covenant with the house of Israel in the last days. The coming forth of the book of Mormon is a sign that the Lord is fulfilling his covenant with the house of Israel.

1. What signs have you seen that have been prophetically fulfilled? How does the recognition of prophecy fulfilled strengthen and fortify you? How does it help you more deeply and completely trust in the Lord?

2. How does the Lord communicate with his people? How diligent are you in listening to the profit and following his counsel?

3. The Lord promises us that he will never forget the covenants he has made with his people. How committed are you to keeping the covenants that you have made with the Lord? What prophecies have you seen fulfilled in your lifetime?

"The book of Mormon is a tangible sign that the Lord has commenced to gather his children of covenant Israel… In deed, the Lord has not forgotten! He has blessed us and others throughout the world with the book of Mormon… It helps us to make covenants with God. It invites us to remember him and to know his beloved son. It is another Testament of Jesus Christ. ". -Russell M Nelson, Ensign, November 2011

4. What is the law of justice? What role does Justice play in the plan of our heavenly father? If justice requires that you pay for your mistakes, are there mistakes you have made that justice will require a penalty for? How can you avoid paying the utmost penalty for your sins?

5. What does spurn mean? To spurn means to reject or treat with extreme dislike or contempt. It also means to kick or driving back with the foot. Have you ever spurned the doings of the Lord? What are some reasons people might spurn the Lord?

6-7. What do most people today think of revelation or miracles? What are the consequences of spurning these things?

8. When the Lord says he will do something he does it. Are you familiar enough with the prophecies the Lord has given through his holy prophets to recognize his promises? How can you improve in this area?

9. Do any of the prophecies that have been given of our day cause you concern? What is the basis of your concern? Does it have to do with a sin or imperfection in your life? A fear or concern you have? Will coming to the Savior more fully alleviate your concerns? What can you do to persevere in complete faith and trust in the Lord?

3 Nephi 28

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Jesus Christ grants the desires of his righteous disciples. The Lord blesses us according to our righteous desires. If we inquire of the Lord for understanding, we will receive revelation.

1. What would it be like to be given the opportunity to make a personal request of the Savior? What is the first thing that you think of when you consider the Savior granting a wish from your heart? Do righteous desires fill your heart? What would you ask of Him? What do you think it would be like to be interviewed by the Savior?

2. What did the nine disciples desire?

3. How did Jesus feel about that desire?

4. Why did Jesus repose the question to the remaining three Nephites?

5. Why did they sorrow in their hearts? Was their request selfish? We're they afraid that they might offend their Creator?

6. How was the desire of their hearts communicated to Jesus? Who else had a similar desire?

7. What was the desire of the hearts of the three Nephites? How was their desire even greater than the nine? What blessings would they be granted as a result of this desire? Examine the desires of your heart. Will they result in blessings not just for yourself but also for your fellow men?

8. What does it mean to be translated? How was what the disciples asked for different from what many people would ask for if they had a chance to ask God for whatever they wanted? Why do you think all the disciples, asked for a chance to continue serving, either on earth or with Jesus, instead of wealth or long life or other earthly things? Would you rather serve The Lord than have earthly wealth?

9. If the only source of pain you suffered was from the sins of the world, how high would your pain threshold go? Why do the sins of others cause so much pain?

10. How does unity with and submission to Gods will in our lives bring us a fullness of joy? Can it be obtained any other way? Consider what you find the most joy in. When have you felt blesses by The Lord as you acted on righteous desires? What can you start doing today to nurture righteous desires in your own life so you can qualify for the Lords blessings?

"What we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity... Righteous desires need to be relentless, therefore, because, said President Brigham Young, the men and women, who desire to obtain seats in the celestial kingdom, will find that they must battle every day." --Neal A Maxwell, GC, Oct 1996

11. Have you had the Holy Ghost bear witness of the Father and his Son to you?

"The mission if the Holy Ghost is to testify of the Father and the Son, to guide us into truth, and to show us all things we should do. This personal line of communication with our Heavenly Father through his Holy Spirit is the source of our testimony of truth, of our knowledge, and of our personal guidance from a loving Heavenly Father. It is an essential feature of His marvelous gospel plan, which allows each on of His children to receive a personal witness of its truth." --Dallin H Oaks, GC, Oct 2010

13. Is it possible to a mortal man to be caught up into the heavens and live? What change must take place in order for this to occur?

"Some mortals have been translated. In this state they are not subject to sorrow or to disease or to death. No longer does blood (the life giving element of our present mortality) flow in their veins... They have power to move and live in both a mortal and an unseen spree. All translated beings undergo another change in their bodies when they gain full immortality. This change I'd the equivalent of a resurrection." --Bruce R McConkie

14. Have you ever had a spiritual experience you simply could not find the words to communicate? How might this be similar to being forbidden to utter or in other words not have the power to utter what you experienced? Why should sacred things be treasured in your heart?

15. What was one reason the disciples needed to go through this change?

16. How would such a spiritual experience help the disciples be more motivated and dedicated to fulfill their calling as apostles?

17. What was the reason the disciples needed to go through this change?

18-22. How did The Lord bless the disciples so that they could carry out their righteous desires? What does this teach you about the Lords willingness to bless you as you live according to your righteous desires?

23. What is conversion? How important is it to be truly and fully converted to The Lord? How converted are you? Could you be more converted?

25. Why are the names of the three Nephites retained by The Lord from the world?

27-32. Are the three Nephites among you? Have you known for a surety that they ministered unto you? Why would The Lord in His wisdom keep that knowledge from the world?

29. How is the desire of these three men being realized in our day?

30. What special privileges do the three Nephites have? Is it possible to see them? How are they like angels?

31. How will the three Nephites help prepare the earth for the coming of the Savior?

33. Consider the scriptures you have. How well do you use them? Will The Lord reveal more scripture if we do not use the scripture that has already been revealed to us?

"Concerning the three that were to tarry, that great works shall be wrought by them before the great day of The Lord shall come. Then he says, that if you had all the Scriptures, you would know that these things would be fulfilled. We would know a great many things if we only had these Scriptures and revelations. They are to be revealed to fill our earth with the knowledge of God, as the waters cover the great deep. Not only the records of the ancient inhabitants of this land are to come forth, but the records of those who slept on the eastern hemisphere. The [fullness of the] records of John... we are informed in the Doctrine and Covenants... is to be revealed to the Latter Day Saints." --Orson Pratt, Journal of Discourses 16:47

34. What will happen 'at the last day' to those who refuse to believe Christ or His servants?

35. What two things do people do that is like trampling God under their feet? What did Jesus say would have been a better fate for them than to be rejected by God? How are Gods reasons for being angry at those who reject him similar to or different from your reasons for being angry at those who mistreat you? How might the wrath of Gods justice be a demonstration of his loving concern?

"Jesus and His servants are one; to believe in those whom He hath sent is to believe in Him, and to reject His messengers is to reject Him." --Bruce R McConkie

 "We should think of God in terms of His divine attributes, for He is perfect in His love, mercy, and compassion - as well as in His justice. Only then can we begin to understand why His anger is kindled and to appreciate the loving concern which underlies his wrath. Gods love for us is perfect, and His desire for our happiness is so deep that when his anger is kindled this signals much more than we realize. Our God is not preoccupied with other concerns, nor is His ego offended, as are ours. Such narrow views of Him do an injustice to God who is perfect in His justice." --Neal A Maxwell

"Gods anger is kindled not because we have harmed him but because we have harmed ourselves. We are his children and he is perfect father. He does not want us, four instance, to take his name in vain, but this is because of what happens to us when we do. Our profanity cannot diminish from his godhood, his love, his omnipotence, or his omniscience. But our profanity does damage us and can damage us profoundly. " --Neal A Maxwell

36. Who do you normally turn to when you have a question about the gospel? What did Mormon due to find the answer to his question?

37-38. What was the answer to Mormons question? How did receiving this answer satisfy his desire to understand?

"Understanding requires desire and patience. One's faith can be strengthened by… Reading the Scriptures with a happy frame of mind and desire to absorb additional truth… As one reads something which does not for the moment seem to have meaning he can put that item on the shelf and move forward with the reading. In most instances the additional information gained and faith developed seem to provide the background so that the un-understandable item falls naturally into place. If anything seems to counter previous concepts, one can read and study and ponder and pray and wait and usually a clarification comes. " -- Spencer W Kimball

39. How did being translated allow the three Nephites to perform the mission that was the desire of their hearts? What changes did they experience? What blessings were they given? What can we learn about the millennial state of the earth from the things that we are taught about these men?

40. What change do they yet I'll wait after the judgment day of Christ? What is the desire of your heart?

3 Nephi 27

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

The Lord teaches the 12 disciples that his church should bear his name. Jesus Christ defines his gospel and teaches what we must do to stand guiltless before him. The foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that He did the will of His Father in accomplishing the Atonement. The Lord expects his disciples to emulate His works and become as He is.

1. Why did the disciples gathered together often being united and mighty prayer and fasting? In your own callings how often are you using mighty prayer and fasting to do the Lords work?

2. How does the Lord respond to sincere and mighty prayer and fasting? How did he respond in this verse? In your own case what is a more likely response for you to receive?

3. Why were the disciples so concerned about the need to give the church? What does the name often signify about the purpose of an organization and those who belong to? What was happening in the church that caused the disciples to be concerned about the name of the church?

"The name of the church was not obtained through study or research, but by revelation direct from the board. Does it not seem incredible that of all the churches in the world, there was not one that bore his name when The Lord restored his church in this dispensation? " --Legrand L Richards, A marvelous work and a wonder, P. 136

4. Why does it seem like the people just need something to fight about? Why would they choose to fight over the name of the Lord's true church? Why do people in our day fight and content over who has the truth and who doesn't?

5. If we understand the Scriptures then we know the name whereby the church should be called. How can this help nonmembers find for themselves the true church of Jesus Christ?

6. Everything we do should be done in the name of the Lord. How diligent and aware are you of the things that you do? Are your actions done in the name of the Lord?

"Every prayer we offer in his name. Every ordinance performed in his name. Every baptism, confirmation, blessing, ordination, every sermon, every testimony is concluded with the invocation of his sacred name. It is in his name that we heal the sick and perform other miracles of which we do, cannot, speak. In the sacrament we take upon ourselves the name of Christ. We covenanted to remember him and keep his commandments. He is present and all that we believe. " --Boyd K Packer

7. With blessings are we promised when we do everything in the saviors name?

8. Why is it important that the true church of Jesus Christ not only bears His name, but is also built upon His gospel?

9. How can we be sure that the things we pray for will be heard by the Father? What can you do in your life to unsure that you are doing things in the name of Christ, rather than seeking to fulfill your own agenda?

10. Ponder how you have personally seen Heavenly Father show His works in the church? Why is being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ important to you?

11. What promise is given to religious organizations that are not built upon the gospel of Christ?

12. How can you tell the difference between the two?

13. What is the gospel? Why is it so important to understand this definition of the gospel? Using verses 13-22, list some different aspects of the gospel. When someone invites us to live the gospel how are they inviting us to receive the ordinances and the power of the Atonement into our lives?

"Viewed from our mortal position, the gospel is all that is required to take us back to the Eternal Presence, there to be crowned with glory and honor, immortality and eternal life. To gain these greatest of all rewards, two things are required. The first is the atonement by which all men are raised in immortality, with those who believe and obey ascending also unto eternal life. This atoning sacrifice, was the work of our Blessed Lord, and he is done his work. The second requisite is obedience on our part to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. Thus, the gospel is, in effect, the atonement. But the gospel is also all of the laws, principles, doctrines, rites, ordinances, acts, powers, authorities, and keys needed to save and exalt fallen man in the highest heaven hereafter." --Bruce R McConkie 

"The good news was that death and hell could be escaped, that mistakes and sins could be overcome, that there was hope, that there was help, that the insoluble was solved, that the enemy had been conquered. That good news was that everyone's tomb could one day be empty, that everyone's soul could again be pure, that every child of God could again return to the Father who gave them life." --Jeffrey R Holland, Ensign, Mar 2001

14. The Savior testified to His disciples that he came into the world to do the will of His Father. According to this verse, what was Heavenly Fathers will for His Holy Son?

15. How would you feel standing before The Lord to be judged if there were still wrong deeds you had not repented of? How grateful are you personal for the gift of the Atonement?

16. How would you feel standing before The Lord to be judged if there was no way to repent of any of the sins you had committed during your life? What does The Lord promise to those who repent?

17. How do you endure to that end? How do you endure through trials?

18. If the Lord says something we can be assured it will come to pass. What can we learn about our need to keep our promises and the things we say true?

19. What does the image of soaking a garment in blood bring to your mind? Can you imagine the clothing coming out as white as snow? How does this image teach us about the power of the Atonement, and the need for it in our lives? What does the soiled clothing represent? What sort of stain remover does the blood represent?

20. What does it mean to be sanctified? How does receiving the Holy Ghost bring us closer to being sanctified? Can sanctification happen without the Holy Ghost? What is the role of the Holy Ghost in sanctification?

21. The Savior was perfect. Why are we, who are imperfect beings, counseled to be like him and do the things we have seen Him do? What must you do to receive all the blessings of the Atonement and to prepare for judgment?

22. What gospel principle can you live better to ensure that you stand spotless before The Lord on the day of judgment? Ponder what it will be like to one day stand before Jesus Christ knowing that you have been made clean through His Atonement by obedience to the principles, commandments and ordinances of the gospel. Record how you think that would feel.

23. Why is it important to have a spiritual record of the dealings of The Lord with you in your life?

24. Why is it important to record how you respond to the word of The Lord in your personal journal? How can doing this strengthen you?

25. How does it make you feel to know that you will be judged based on what is contained in the scriptures and records of the words of the prophets?

26. How does it make you feel to know that all your thoughts, words and actions are recorded by the Father, and that you will be judged out of that record? Is there room in your life for more sincere repentance?

27. What kind of people are we supposed to be? Why would it be important for those who judge others to be like the Savior? What is the relationship between doing the works of the Savior and becoming like Him? What opportunities did I have yesterday to be like the Savior? How can I be more like the Savior today?

"That man is greatest and most blessed and joyful whose life most closely approaches the pattern of the Christ. This had nothing to do with earthly wealth, power, or prestige. The only true test of greatness, blessedness, joyfulness is how close a life can come to being like the Master, Jesus Christ. He is the right way, the full truth, and the abundant life." --Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, December 1988 

"Christ... Has set us the example of what we should be like and what we should do. While many men have admirable qualities, there is only one man who was without sin... Christ is God the Son and possesses every virtue in its perfection. Therefore, the only measure of true greatness is how close a man can become like Jesus. That man is greatest who is most like Christ, and those who love him most will be most like him." --Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, January 1973

28. Why are we commanded to pray to the Father in the name of Christ?

29. What promise and assurance do we have that our prayers will be answered? Do you have the faith you need to go to the Father in all your decisions and challenges?

30. What would it be like to live in a generation where none of them are lost? How great would be your joy under such circumstances? What can you do to bring this blessing to pass?

31. How does The Lord feel about His righteous, obedient and faithful children? How deserving do you feel you are of such a great love?.

32. What does Satan seek to have concerning us? How much power and influence does he have in your life?

33. Look up the word 'strait'. What are some qualities of the strait and narrow path you may have missed before? What do all the bends and turns signify? How easy is it to follow the strait and narrow path?

3 Nephi 26

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

What must be done to receive the greater things that Jesus Christ revealed?  As we believe what God has revealed, we prepare ourselves to receive greater revelation.

1. What would it feel like to sit at the feet of the Savior and have him explain and teach all things both great and small to you and your family?

2. Why do you think believing the truth we have already received is a sensual before we receive additional truth? How can we show that we believe what The Lord has revealed?

3. How might this information about the future have affected the people of the American continent? How would this information about the future affect you in their day? In your day?

4. What are you doing in your life to demonstrate your belief in the book of Mormon? How will those actions help you feel confident in the presence of God as you stand before the judgment bar?

5. What kind of judgment can you be assured of in that day?

6. How much of the Saviors teachings given at that time are included in the book of Mormon?

7. Where do we find and more complete record of his teachings to the Nephites?

8. Why was Mormon not allowed to write more of the things Jesus taught? What did Mormon want to have happened to the things he has written?

9. When will we get the "greater things" Mormon was not allowed to right?

"Until we as latter-day saints live up to what is here in the book of Mormon the Lord will give us no more. When we are willing to keep the Commandments here in as the Nephites did for this short period of time, then the Lord is willing to bring forth the other records and give it to us. " --Joseph Fielding Smith, CR, October 1961

10. With the promise of further enlightenment in the form of additional scripture, what is the consequence of refusing to believe in the words and scriptures we have in our day? How believing are you?

11. What is the reason the Lord forbade Mormon from recording the deeper teachings of the Savior to the people in the book of Mormon?

12. How obedient of a man is Mormon? How valuable do you think the guidance of the Spirit is to him? How important is the guidance of the spirit in your own life? What are you willing to sacrifice to have it?

13. Why do you think that the Lord took the time to administer the sacrament often to the people? How spiritual of an experience do you have each week as you have an opportunity to partake of the sacrament?

14. If you made a journal entry about this moment in time, what might you be inspired to include from this verse? How might it have felt to have been there?

15. How does this verse teach of the saviors role in purifying the people?

16. Why do you think that things that were said in this verse could not be written? What have we been taught regarding the sacred nature of our spiritual experiences? How might this have been influential in the fact that these things are not recorded?

17. What is the work of the Disciples of Christ?

18. What blessings came to those who believe and were baptized through the teaching of the disciples?

19. What effect did the teachings of Jesus have on all the people? How do you think you would like to live in a place where everyone keeps the commandments, loves one another, and chairs with one another? What do you think would be the best things about living with people like that?

20. How did the people regard the teachings of the Savior? Look up Moses 7:18. What do we call of people who live like that? What can we do as a family and individually to be worthy to live in Zion?

3 Nephi 25

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Jesus Christ quotes Malachi's prophecy that Elijah would return prior to the second coming. As our hearts are turned to our fathers, we are helping to prepare the earth for the second coming of Jesus Christ.

1. The word route refers to ancestors, and branch refers to posterity. If you consider the composition of a family to be made of roots and branches what does the sealing power do to complete and bind?

"In order to understand this passage of scripture, four root read progenitors or ancestors and for branch read posterity or children. Unless, then, through obedience to the laws of God you can qualify yourself to go to the temple and have your family sealed to you, you will live forever separately and singly in an unmarried state. It seems to me that would be a very lonesome type of existence-to live without the warming influence of family life among those you love, who in turn love you. " -- Theodore M Burton, Ensign, July 1972 

2. Calves that grow up in the stall is a symbol for children who are protected, cared for, and have all things necessary for them as they grow up. How do you feel about this promise for the millennial reign of the Savior?

3. When you consider the refining process, particularly that done by fire, you wouldn't ever consider the ashes to be part of the finished product. Why does this verse compare the wicked to ashes that are walked upon by the righteous?

4. How much of Israel was required to live by the statutes and judgments of the Lord? How many exceptions were there? In our day do we expect to have exceptions to the rule for ourselves? Why is it risky to expect to have an exception made for our behavior? How does what you know about the nature of God help you understand this principle?

5. What did Elijah do to help prepare the earth for the Lord's second coming?

6. What do you think the statement that he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers means? How does knowing that the word turn means to bind or seal, change what you interpret from this verse? Why do you think that the promise of Elijah's return is found in every book of scripture?

"Precisely on that day in 1836 when Elijah's appearance took place, Jews throughout the world were engaged in the celebration of the Passover. Since the time of Malachi, four centuries before Christ's mortal birth, Jews worldwide have awaited Elijah's coming at Passover with anxious anticipation. Elijah came, but not to Jewish homes; he came rather to a temple of the Saints and to his legal administrator on earth, a descendant of Joseph and Ephraim. There is Elijah bestowed keys of inestimable worth. " --Robert L Millet, Ensign, March 1998 "Elijah brought the keys of sealing powers-that power which seals a man to a woman and seals their posterity to them endlessly, that which seals their forefathers two and them all the way back to Adam. This is the power and order that Elijah revealed-that same order of priesthood which God gave to Adam and to all the ancient patriarchs which followed after him. " --Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, August 1985

3 Nephi 24

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Jesus Christ quotes the words given to Malachi regarding the second coming. At his second coming, Jesus Christ will purify his people.  If we return unto the Lord, he will return unto us.

1. What is prophesied in this verse?

2. What do the refiners fire in the fullers soap have in common?

3. What offering will we offer to the Lord in righteousness? How does the Lord refine us?

"Jesus Christ is compared to refiners fire and fullers soap because of what he will do at his second coming. He is compared to Silversmith, who purifies silver. To understand these verses, it is helpful to know that the process for refining silver requires the silversmith to hold a piece of silver over the hottest part of the fire to burn away the impurities. The refiner has to watch the silver closely, for if the silver is left even a moment too long in the flames, it will be destroyed. A Fuller is a person who cleans garments or whitens them using soap." --Book of Mormon study guide for homestudy seminary students page 271

"In the pain, the agony, and the heroic endeavors of life, we passed through refiners fire, and the insignificant and that I'm important in our lives can melt away like dross and make our faith bright, intact, and strong. In this way the divine image can be mirrored from the soul. It is part of the purging toll exacted of some to become acquainted with God. In the agonies of life, we seem to listen better to the feet, godly whisperings of the divine shepherd. Into every life there come the painful, despairing days of adversity and buffeting. There seems to be a full measure of anguish, sorrow, and often heartbreak for everyone, including those who earnestly seek to do right and be faithful. The thorns that prick, that stick in the flesh, that hurt, often change lives which seem robbed of significance and hope. This change comes about through refining process which often seems cruel and hard. In this way the soul can't become like soft clay in the hands of the master in building lives of faith, usefulness, beauty, and strength. For some, the refiners fire causes all loss of belief and faith in God, but those with eternal perspective understand that such refining is part of the perfection process. " --Elder James E Faust, GC, Apr 1979

4. What does it mean to be refined? How does our being refined make the offering of Judah pleasing unto the Lord?

5. What image does swift witness bring to mind? Wickedness condemns the wicked. How does this fact cause the judgment of the Lord to be swift?

6. When the Lord assures us that he does not change, what comfort does this bring to your heart? Why?

7. We are counseled to return to the Lord. What can you do in your life to make sure that you are turning toward The Lord? How do the ordinances and covenants you have made with the Lord help you prepare for the second coming?

8. How faithfully do you pay your tithing? How generous are you in paying fast offerings? What blessings are associated with these commandments?

9. What kind of curse comes upon those who withhold their means from doing the work of the Lord? How is your willingness to give times and offerings to the Lord an indication of your faith in him?

"We can pay our tithing. This is not so much a matter of money as it is a matter of faith. " --Gordon B Hinckley, GC, Oct1985

10. Have you ever felt so blessed that you could not express what it meant to you? How does this feeling compare to the Lords promised blessings of opening the windows of heaven to you? What blessings have you received from obedience to the law of tithing?  How do you think keeping the Commandments to pay your tithes and offerings has helped you to spiritually prepare your self for the second coming?

11. What promise does the Lord give tithing payers in regards to the work of their hands? How do you feel about this promise?

12. Sometimes we looked out into the world and feel like they are being more blessed than we are as we try to keep the Commandments. How can the promises in verse 11 help you know that you will be greatly blessed for your faithfulness?

13. Have you ever been a little motored when you see people who do not serve God prospering and getting wealthy, well people living righteously are suffering and struggle just to get by? Have you ever felt you have not been blessed enough for doing what is right? How might this feeling make the Lord feel like we are speaking against him? Are we acting in faith when we indulge in such practices?

14-15.What would happen if every time someone did something right, he or she were immediately and outwardly blessed? What would happen if every time someone did something wrong, he or she was immediately and outwardly punished? What blessings that are often not seen come from doing what is right?

16-17. What did the Lord say about those who serve him faithfully? what process is required to become a beautiful shining jewel in the Lords hands? How does this process relate to the contents of verse two and three?

18. Why can't we always "discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not"?

"The Lord promises that secret acts of righteousness, seen only by him, will be rewarded openly. This open rewording, however, may not always be obvious in mortality. Period. In the meantime, as it continues to rain on both the just and that I'm just not properly motivated-and truly righteous-disciple is content with the inner peace he enjoys in service to and communion with God." --Daniel W Bachman, Ensign, March 1991

3 Nephi 23

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Jesus Christ commands the people to search the words of the prophets. As I write down sacred prompting a and events, I invite The Lord to give me more revelation.

1. Did you realize that it is a commandment to search the writings of Isaiah? Why do you think it is so important for us to be familiar with the writings and prophecies of Isaiah? Why do you think that this verse uses the word search instead of read? What is the difference between searching the scriptures and reading them? What is the difference between reading a book and treasuring it?

BIBLE DICTIONARY: "Isaiah is the most quoted of all the prophets in the standard works."

"We treasure the word of God not only by reading the words of the scriptures but by studying them. We may be nourished more by pondering a few words, allowing the Holy Ghost to make them treasures to us, than by passing quickly and superficially over whole chapters of scripture." --Henry B Eyring, GC, Oct 1997

"There are certain blessings obtained when one searches the scriptures. As a person studies the words of The Lord and obeys them, he or she draws closer to the Savior and obtains a greater desire to live a righteous life. The power to resist temptation increases, and spiritual weaknesses are overcome. Spiritual wounds are healed." -- Merrill J Bateman, GC, Oct 1992 

What scripture study methods can help you search the words of Isaiah and the prophets effectively and meaningfully?

2. How do Isaiah's word help us today? How would we be different if we came to treasure the word?

3. What assurance do we have in regards to the word of The Lord?

4. What did the Savior ask the people to do? What does it mean to heed and hearten to the Lords words?

5. How do you search the prophets? What can you do to become more familiar with the words of our modern day prophets?

6. What did the Savior tell the people that they were missing?

7. What record have you been commanded to keep? How diligent are you in keeping this record? Why is it important to have a journal? Why might it be important for you to write down the spiritual events and prompting a that occur in your life?

"Knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge available in a time of need. Spiritually sensitive information should be kept in a sacred place that communicates to The Lord how you treasure it. That practice enhances  the likelihood of you receiving further light." -- Richard G Scott, GC, Oct 1993 "Write down in a secure place the important things you learn from the spirit. You will find that as you write down impressions, often more will come. Also, the knowledge you gain will be available through your life." --Richard G Scott, Ensign, Jun 2002

9. What did the Savior say was missing from their scriptures?

10. What prophecy was fulfilled that had not been recorded in Nephite scripture?

11. Why would the account of others being resurrected after Christ be especially important?

12. Why do we need to record things as they happen?  What is the danger in procrastinating recording or writing in your journal about spiritual experiences? Have you ever had an experience that you had not recorded but later wished that you had?

13. What did the Savior ask the Nephites to do about the omitted account of Samuel the Lamanite? What does this teach about the value of keeping accurate records and journals? Why do you think writing down the revelations we have received from The Lord may help us receive more revelation? How can taking time to write the Lords influence in our lives help us feel gratitude for our blessings and express gratitude to Him?

"Some people say I don't have anything to record. Nothing spiritual happens to me. I say, Start recording, and spiritual things will happen. They are there all the time, but we become more sensitive to them as we write." --John H Groberg, GC, Apr 1980

14. After Jesus told the people to write Samuels prophecy, what did he command them to do?

3 Nephi 22

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

The stakes of Zion are a refuge from the storms that threaten us each and every day.

1. Why are there more children of the desolate than the married wife? How does this phrase prophecy of how the Gentiles will flourish in the gospel? What about the Jews?

2. Why do the cords need to be lengthened and the stakes strengthened? How can we as families and as members of the church make our stakes a place of refuge and safety from the storms that surround us?

"The prophets likened latter-day Zion to a great tent encompassing the earth. That tent was supported by cords fastened to stakes. Those stakes, of course, are various geographical organizations spread out over the earth. Presently, Israel is being gathered to the various stakes so Zion...  Stakes are a defence for the Saints from enemies both seen and unseen. The defence is direction provided through priesthood channels that strengthens testimony and promotes family solidarity and individual righteousness."  -- Ezra T Benson

3. What does this verse teach us about the adoption process that happens when the Gentiles join the church? What are the blessings associated with this process?

4. How does living in obedience to the laws and principles of the gospel help us to put our past behind us? Through whom do we do this?

5. How do you feel about the Atonement of your Savior, Jesus Christ?

6. How would you feel had you been once rejected and then come to find great acceptance and love? How do these feelings relate to indulging in sin a d repenting from sinful behaviours? What are the blessings that come as we change our ways?

7. How merciful is The Lord? How merciful are you? What can you do to become more merciful... Especially toward those who hate you?

8. Thinking of repenting, how does this verse make you feel in regards to ow The Lord feels when we sin and more importantly, how He feels when we repent?

9. What important promises does the rainbow represent to you? How does it remind you of the principles of repentance taught in these verses?

10. Mountains and hills are pretty stable and yet we know that they do erode away a little at a time in the elements. What does The Lord teach about The constancy of His kindness, peace and mercy toward us? Will those feelings ever erode toward us? What if we sin? Do you ever allow good feelings toward others to erode? What is the outcome of allowing that to happen? How can you guard against erosion in relationships?

11. What word does this verse use to describe those trapped in sin? What do the beautiful stones represent?

12. How does repentance and following the example of the Savior create as it were riches in our lives? Do you perceive obedience and the predicated blessings as jewels and gems  in your spiritual composition?

13. How do we bless our children with peace? How high is this responsibility on your priority list?

14. Why is it that when we live in righteousness that fear and terror are no longer a part of our lives?

15. What will happen to those who gather against the righteous? Why do you think that many will flee to Zion in the last days? What will we have to do to be worthy to live in Zion?

16-17. As we remember that The Lord is the one who created the elements which are used to create weapons, we can know that those things cannot be used against his work. How is this knowledge a comfort and a blessing to you?

"Compassion and mercy always return and prevail in a most reassuring way. The mountains and the hills may disappear. The water of the great seas may dry up... But the Lords kindness and peace will never be taken from his covenant people. He has sworn with a heavenly oath that he will not be wroth with them forever." -- Jeffrey R Holland

3 Nephi 21

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Jesus Christ foretells the sign for the gathering of the house of Israel in the last days.

1. Have you ever seen the book of Mormon lead or gather someone including yourself to Jesus Christ and the covenants of the gospel?

2. What sign are we given that the events of the last days are unfolding?

4. What is the significance of having a free land in order for these signs to begin to unfold? Why was this so important?

5. How does this verse testify of the Father's willingness and desire to save all his children?

6. What does the word behooveth mean? How does the gathering of Israel benefit the Gentiles?

7. How is the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ a sign that the gathering is beginning to take place? How can you assist the Lord and be an instrument in his hands in this great work?

8. How does this work of the Lord confound even those who are great in the eyes of the world? What kinds of things might they see that they never thought possible?

9. Despite the greatness of the work will all men receive it? Why or why not? What do you think is great and marvelous about the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ?

10. How can the servants of the Lord be assured that the will be able to complete their work upon the earth?

11. Why is it essential to believe the words of the Lord that were brought forth through the Prophet Joseph Smith?

12. Why are the Lords people compared to a young lion in a flock of sheep who treadeth down? How does this description define the state of the evil in that day?

13. What effect will the adversary have against the work of righteousness?

14. How will the power of the Gentiles me lost if they do not repent and turn themselves to the Lord?

15. Why are the things that the Gentiles worked so hard to build up meaningless if they do not repent?

16. Why are those that the Gentiles counseled with meaningless in the face of true prophets of the Lord?

17. Why are the materialistic possessions of the Gentiles meaningless as the Lords work roles forth? Have you ever been tempted to give a possession more time, attention, and effort than your spiritual needs?

18. Why does the Lord take off the earth all things that do not lead us to him? Is there anything in your life that the Lord needs to remove? What can you do about this?

19. How do you feel about giving all lying, deceit, envyings, strife, and sin? Can you remove these things from your life without the Lord needing to force his hand? How will you do this?

20. What promise is there to the unrepentant?

21. How would you feel if you knew the Lord was unleashing vengeance and fury upon you? What might you do now to avoid such a time?

22. What role does the church play in helping the unrepentant soften their hearts and turn to the Lord? What blessings are promised to those who do? Why do you think repentance is necessary for a person to be gathered into God's covenant people?

23-24. As the wicked repent and are numbered among the Lords people what work will they assist the Saints in doing?

25. What great blessing is promised as the people work together to prepare for the gathering to be completed? How do you feel about the promise of the power of heaven coming down to dwell among you? Has this already occurred?

26. What is that day? If that day is the millennium what work will begin at that time? How will that work be different than it is now?

27. How will this work help in saving all of God's posterity? Do they still have agency in accepting this work? What is the importance not only of this work but also of the agency of those who will accept it or reject it?

28. What is the land of our inheritance? What is your ultimate goal that you want to achieve as you live this life? Is your goal eternal in nature?

29. As we work to complete and help the Lord with his work with promise do we have to sustain us through it? Have you ever been led by the Lord? How can this become common in your daily life?

3 Nephi 20

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

If we worthily partake of the sacrament we can be filled with the Holy Ghost. The Father will fulfill his covenant to gather the house of Israel in the last days. As the seed of Abraham, we have a covenant responsibility to bless all the people of the earth.

1. How can we maintain a prayer in our hearts at all times? How can having a prayer in our hearts during a worship service help us receive personal revelation? How do you think that praying in the heart can affect your weekly sacrament experience?

2. How does the request for the people to stand help us understand the need to be prepared in our lives especially in relation to partaking of the sacrament?

3. What sort of nourishment did the Savior offer the Nephites? What does the sacrament remind us of?

4. How does the sacrament help us to feast upon the word of The Lord? How do you feel when you see worthy young men administer the sacrament?

5. What do you do during the administration of the sacrament to show that you understand it's sacred nature?

6. What does the miracle of the bread an wine being provided do to help you understand the significance of the sacrament? How would this miracle affect how the people viewed the sacrament?

7. How important is it for us to worthily partake often of this ordinance?

The sacrament is an outer expression of an inner commitment and acceptance of the atonement.

8. How does regularly partaking of the bread and water show our willingness to make the Saviors atonement a part of our lives? What does your soul hunger and thirst after?

9. What did Jesus Christ promise to those who partake of the sacrament? How can a hunger for righteousness be filled?

"Let us qualify ourselves for the Saviors promise that by partaking for the sacrament we will be filled, which means that we will be filled with the Spirit. That spirit - the Holy Ghost- is our comforter, our direction finder, our communicator, our interpreter, our witness, and our purifier - our infallible guide and sanctifies for our mortal journey toward eternal life." --Dallin H Oaks, GC Oct 1996

"Any who may have thought it a small thing to partake of the sacrament should remember the Lords declaration that the foundation of a great work is laid by small  things, for out of small things proceedeth that which is great. Out of the seemingly small act of consciously and reverently renewing our baptismal covenants comes a renewal of the blessings of baptism by water and by the Spirit to be with us. In this way all of us will be guided, and in this way all of us can be cleansed." -- Dallin H Oaks, GC, Oct 1996 

10. What does it mean to you to be numbered among the house of Israel?

11. What is the commandment Jesus gave in regards to the words of Isaiah? Why is it so important for us to be familiar with them?

12. How do we know when the words of Isaiah are all fulfilled? What will be the significance of that event? He does this knowledge make you feel?

13. What has God promised to do for scattered Israel? How is our Heavenly Father gathering his children both physically and spiritually today?

14. Why did the Nephites require a land for their inheritance away from the Jews?

15-16. What is our role in gathering scattered Israel? How can our missionaries be compared to the young lion among a flock of sheep?

17. What will happen to the adversaries of righteousness?

18. How does the Lord go about gathering his people together?

19. How have you been blessed through your baptismal covenant made with heavenly father? What is your role in helping to fulfill the covenant God made with Abraham? What is the power in the covenants we make?

20. How is justice like a sword to the unrepentant?

21. As the word of God is preached, what must occur with in the heart in order to become a part of the house of Israel?

22. As the Lord fulfills the Abrahamic covenant what is the great promise given to his people at that time? How would it feel to have the powers of heaven in your midst?

23. As Israel is gathered the second coming will be ushered in. Who is the prophet that will guide us at that time?

24. Who have all the prophets prophesied would come? Why has that testimony been so important?

25. How does knowing that you are of the seed of Abraham make you feel when you hear that through that line all the kindreds of the earth will be blessed?

26. As children of the covenant what is your responsibility to the people of the earth?

27. What is the Abrahamic covenant? How do you feel knowing that you are part of this great work?

"You and I, today and always, are to bless all people in all the nations of the earth. You and I, today and always, are to bear witness of Jesus Christ and declare the message of the restoration. You and I, today and always, are to invite all to receive the ordinances of salvation. Proclaiming the gospel is not a part time priesthood obligation. It is not simply an activity in which we engage for a limited time for an assignment we must complete as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints. Rather, missionary work is a manifestation of our spiritual identity and heritage. We were for Ording in the pre-mortal existence and born into mortality to fulfill the covenant and promise God made to Abraham. We are here upon the earth at this time to magnify the priesthood And to preach the gospel. That is who we are, and that is why we are here-today and always." -- David A Bednar

28. How does this verse describe justice and mercy?

29. How secure do you feel in the Lords promises?

30. What is our responsibility even if we are not full-time missionaries?

31. What is the whole purpose of missionary work?

32. Who are the watchmen? How does listening to and following the prophet bring unity into our lives?

33. What inheritance do we look forward to as Saints in the gospel?

34. How does uplifting music make you feel? Are you more likely to praise God after listening to uplifting music or the common music of the world?

35. How do you feel about the prophecies time when God will show forth His power over all the ends of the earth?

36. With a fuller understanding of Gods power, how do you think lives will change? Why? How will worthy priesthood holders play a part in strengthening Zion?

37. Putting on righteousness looses us from the bands of evil that ensnare us. How is living the gospel liberating?

38. What is the remorse of those who have given in to worldly indulgences? How would you feel if you found out that all the things you spent time, money and effort on we're worthless in the eyes of The Lord?

39. How will the wicked feel when they come to know the name and mission of the Savior? How does this knowledge make you feel 40. How important to you is peace? What do you do to establish peace in your life?

41. How does this verse inspire us to be in the world - keeping ourselves unspotted from its carnal temptations?

42. How can we have God go before us each and every day of our lives? What do we have to do to receive this blessing?

43. Who is the servant mentioned in this verse?

44. Who marred the visage of the servant of God? How can you ensure that you do not add to that treatment of him?

45. How does coming to know and follow the Savior bring out th best in us? How can it enlighten us?

3 Nephi 19

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Imagine how you might feel and what you might do if you knew that tomorrow Jesus Christ would be coming to a temple some distance from you. How hard would you try to get there? Would you want to bring other people with you? What would you do to prepare for this experience? How would it feel to be in the presence of the Savior and hear Him pray to the Father asking a blessing for you that through your faith you may be purified?

1-2.  If you knew that Jesus was coming tomorrow, what would you do today? What are some specific things yo can do to best prepare for Jesus second coming today? What kind of things would you not bother doing today that you normally think are important? What kinds of things would you do today that you may not normally think are important?

3. What lengths might you go to to ensure that all your family members are in attendance to hear the Savior teach? How could you ensure their presence? What can you do today to help prepare them for that future event?

4. As we wait for the Savior, who should we look to to teach us His gospel?

6. How important is prayer in our ability to learn the gospel?

7. How does prayer help prepare us to minister to others?

8. How important is it to study the exact word of Christ? Do we ever become tempted to read and study other materials with the reasoning that the scriptures are too hard to understand? If so, how can we overcome that tendency?

9. Why is having the Holy Ghost with us so extremely important?

10. How does having the Spirit with us help us to prepare for and keep the baptismal covenant?

12. How can we accept the invitation to baptism over and over again - figuratively speaking? Are there things in our lives that would decline that covenant? If so how can you purge the from your life?

13. How does making and keeping covenants with The Lord invite the Spirit into or lives?

14. How can feeling the Spirit be likened to being encircled about by fire?

"The Holy Ghost gives us the strength and courage to conduct our lives in the ways of the kingdom of God and is the source of our testimony of the Father and the Son... We need the Holy Ghost as our constant companion to help us make better choices in the decisions that confront us daily. Our young men and women are bombarded with ugly things of the world. Companionship with the spirit will give them the strength to resist evil, and when necessary, repent and return to the strait and narrow path. None of us are immune from the temptations of the adversary. We all need the fortification available through the Holy Ghost... Having the gift of the Holy ghost helps, family members make wise choices - choices that will help them return with their families to their Father in Heaven and His Son, Jesus Christ, to live with them eternally."  -- Robert D Hales, GC Oct 2000

15. In order to be in the presence of the Savior we must be prepared. If the Savior was to appear during a church meeting how might you feel? Would you be overcome with guilt and shame or would you joy and revel in His divine presence?

16. Why do you suppose that the first thing that the Savior commanded the people to do was to pray?

17-18. Why were the disciples commanded to pray? Why did they pray unto Jesus?

"Jesus had already taught them to pray in His name unto the Father, which they first did... But this time they did pray unto Jesus, calling him their Lord and their God. Jesus was present before them as the symbol of their Father. Seeing Him it was as though they saw the Father; praying to him, it was as though they prayed to the Father. It was a special and unique situation." --Bruce R McConkie 19. Jesus also prayed while the disciples prayed? How does this action teach us of his role as Mediator in our behalf? Where did Jesus go to pray? What can we learn from the Savior about where to pray?

20. What was the Savior most grateful for in regards to his chosen disciples? What do we need to strive to attain in our own lives?

21. Christ asks a blessing in behalf of all those who believe in the gospel. What is that blessing? Why is it so important? What role does faith play on receiving the Spirit? Why should we pray for the spirit to be with us continually?

23. What does this verse teach about unity? Who do you ultimately want to be unified in purpose with?

24. How did the multitude know what to pray for?

"Perfect prayers are those which are inspired, in which the spirit reveals the words which should be used." --Bruce R McConkie

As we exercise faith in Jesus Christ, we can be purified.

25. How would you like to have the countenance of The Lord smile upon you? What do you need to do to receive this blessing? Why do you think Heavenly Father may smile as he watches us pray? Are there things that you say in your prayers that would make Heavenly Father smile?

26. What are we taught in this short verse about the consistency of our prayers?

27. It seems that with each process the people take toward improvement, Jesus feels inspired to pray a prayer of gratitude to His Father for the blessings the multitude are receiving. How often should we express gratitude to our God?

28. Now do faith in Christ and belief in the word work together to purify us?

29. What would it feel like to be given to the Savior out of the world? Does this give a whole new meaning to the phrase 'live in the world but not of the world'?

What does it mean to be purified? How does the Holy Ghost purify and cleanse us?

"Then comes the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost... That affects great change in the hearts of men... It converts them from carnality to spirituality. It cleanses, heals, and purifies the soul... faith in The Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, and water baptism are all preliminary and prerequisite to it, but it is the consummation [ultimate end]. To receive it is to have one's garments washed in the atoning blood of Jesus Christ." -- Marion G Romney 

30. How does the consistency of our prayers communicate our desire to do the lords will to our Heavenly Father?

31-32. What privilege was the multitude given in hearing Jesus pray?

33. How did the multitude understand the words of the Saviors prayer?

34. Why was this prayer not recorded?

35. What compliment did Jesus pay to the multitude? Because of their faith, what was this group of people allowed to see that others haven't been privileged to see?

36. What blessing came to these people because they prayed in sincerity and faith?

"If we could advance in holiness - increase in favor with God - nothing can take the place, of prayer... Give prayer - daily prayer, secret prayer - a foremost place in your lives. Let no day pass without it. Communion with the almighty has been a source of strength, inspiration and enlightenment through the world’s history to men and women who have shaped the destinies of individuals and nations for good." -- Ezra T Benson

 "Surely we will not be one with God and Christ until we make Their will and interest our greatest desire. Such submissiveness is not reached in a day, but through the Holy Spirit, The Lord will tutor us if we are willing until I process of time, it may accurately be said that He is in us as the Father is in Him. At times I tremble to consider what may be required, but I know that it is only in this perfect union that a fullness of joy can be found." --D Todd Christofferen