4 Nephi 1

(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.)

When a group of people is converted to the Lord, it brings unity and happiness. The sin of pride creates division and leads to greater wickedness.

1. What does it mean to TRULY repent? What blessings do those who truly repentant receive?

2. How many of the Nephites were converted? Why were there no contentions or arguments among all the people? How did they treat each other?

3. Why were there no poor among them? Why did they have all things in common?  How do you think you would have liked to live among them? What can you learn from their experience?

4. Imagine what it would be like to live in a land filled with peace. What can you do to fill your life with peace? Your community with peace? Your family with peace? Your country with peace?

5. What blessings that did these people enjoy because they were all converted to the Lord? What blessings do you enjoy through your conversion to the Lord?

7. In this verse the Lord prospers the people in the land. In what ways have you seen the hand of the Lord bless you exceedingly in the things you do?

10. What does this verse teach about the value of children and families?

11. Make a list of all the promises you can think of which the Lord has made unto you. Review your list. How does it feel to recognize all his promises? How many have you received? How many are you willing to yet work to receive?

12. How do fasting and prayer, and attending church often help you to obey the higher law that Christ gave? In the world around you, how many celestial laws do you observe society living by? Do you seek to live celestial standard? What it can you do to better attain this goal?

13. How does the absence of contention allow for mighty miracles to be performed among the Lords people?

14. Imagine living 100 years in the absence of contention, living in peace and love. What will the millennium be like? What can we learn about the millennium from the Nephite people in this timeframe?

15. What was it that prevented contention from entering the hearts of men? How did the people feel about their material possessions?

16. What do you think is the difference between things that bring you temporary happiness and things that can lead to lasting happiness?

17. How does you need to draw us together as children of Christ? In what area of your life can you improve your feelings of unity?

18. Imagine living in Zion. How grateful would you feel for the knowledge of the Lord that you have? What benefits do you think would come to your family if everyone in your family live like a Zion people? What can you do in your life to become a Zion individual?

"Your happiness now and forever is conditioned on your degree of conversion and the trans formation that it brings to your life. How then can you become truly converted? Pres. Marion G Romney describes the steps you must follow: 'Membership in the church and conversion are not necessarily synonymous. Being converted and having a testimony are not necessarily the same thing either. Testimony comes when the Holy Ghost gives the earnest seeker witness of the truth. Moving testimony vitalizes face. That is, it induces repentance and obedience to the commandments. Conversion is the fruit or the reward for repentance and obedience.' (1977) "Stated simply, true conversion is the fruit of faith, repentance, and consistent obedience… True conversion yields the fruit of an enduring happiness that can be enjoyed even when the world is in turmoil and most are anything but happy." --Richard G Scott, GC, April 2002

20. What happened to the unity the Nephites once enjoyed? What do you think could destroy a happy society like the people in this chapter had?

23. How were these people blessed for their righteousness? Do you consider your self prosperous? What is true prosperity?

24-25. What was one of the first signs of wickedness among the people? In what ways do you think pride is that in any of unity?

"Pride is the great enemy of unity. "-Henry B Eyring, GC, October 2008 "Pride is sinful… because it breeds hatred or hostility and places us in opposition to God and our fellow man. At its core, pride is a sin of comparison, for though it usually begins with 'look how wonderful I am and what great things I have done,' it always seems to and with 'therefore, I am better than you.' When our hearts are filled with pride, we commit grave sin, for we violate the two great commandments. Instead of worshiping God and loving our neighbor, we reveal the real object of our worship and love-that image we see in the near. " -Dieter F Uchtdorf, GC, Oct 2010

26-27. What happened to the church? How can the pride of one or two people affect the happiness of an entire group? Are there elements of pride in your own life? What can you do to resist pride and to seek help in increasing unity and righteousness in your life? In your family?  In your class or group of friends? Record your goals and work toward achieving them.

28. How quickly does evil spread? How can we protect ourselves so that pride and riches do not overtake us?

"When the principles of the Gospel we're practiced among the… [Nephites] they were equal to a very great extent; but when they began to violate the principles of the Gospel; their inequality manifested itself. Some where lifted up in pride, some looked with scorn upon their poor brethren and sisters. Classifications I rose in society which had their origin not in virtue, not in holiness, not in purity, not in any superiority arising from intelligence, but because some were richer than others, some could dress better than others, some could have better surroundings than others, doubtless dwell in finer houses, better furnished, and they were better clad, and had probably finer and nicer food. Distinctions of this kind grew up not out of the gospel, but out of the violation of the principles of the Gospel. Wherever the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ is taught,… It makes the man who may know and understand the things of God feel that he is not better then his fellow man, and the woman Who understands the things of God feel that she is not better than her sister… There is something in the human heart of that character that when humans beings are prospering they are apt to be lifted up in pride and to forget the cause or the source of their prosperity; they are apt to forget God, who is the fountain of all their blessings, and to give glory to themselves… God has sent us here and given unto us a mission on the earth not to accumulate riches, not to become worldly minded, not to pile up the things of this world… The happiness of people does not consist in the abundance of worldly things. ". -George Q Cannon, Journal of Discourses, 22:99-101

29. Why do the proud despise the righteous?

30. Why can't the proud and that evil prevent God from doing his mighty miracles and works among the people? How can we help prepare the way for his mighty works to be received?

31. What is it about pride that causes people to harden their hearts against the miracles and goodness of the Lord's work? How soft is your heart? How can you measure the condition of your heart?

32. In our day we face furnaces of spiritual fire. How do you come forth from them receiving no harm? What is your greatest protection?

33. How can facing and overcoming spiritual dangers become a strength to you? How does looking back on the lessons learned remind you of taming the wild beast and making it your friend?

34. What are some of the characteristics of the prideful Nephites?

35-37. Were the prideful Nephites also divided? Why is it so common for the proud to experience further division among themselves?

38. What is the difference between dwindling in unbelief and willfully rebelling against the gospel of Christ? What did those who read belled teach their families? Who does hatred originate from?

39. Compare love and its fruits in verse 15 with the fruits of hate in this verse. Do you ever struggle with feelings of hate? If so are you prepared to reap its fruits? Would you prefer to enjoy the fruits of love?

40. We are taught in the Scriptures that straight is the gate and narrow is the way to the kingdom of heaven and there are few that find it. Why do you think that the wicked always seem to outnumber the righteous? What is the easier way? How hard do you seek after the straight and narrow way?

41. How does this verse describe gluttony? How is it like an illness? Do the people recognize where it is taking them? How can seeking the spirit in our lives help us to avoid this self-destructive behavior?

42. What new evil began again during these years?

43. What changed about the Nephites, those who were referred to as righteous, during this time? In what ways have you observed Satan seeking to warm his way into the thoughts, actions, and attitudes in your life?

44. How do the righteous feel when they are good people choosing and embracing the sins of the world?

45. If you were to predict the future of the Nephites from these verses, what would you say?

46. Cross reference: Alma 45:13-14 The peaceable followers of Christ were also referred to as disciples of Christ.

46. What does it mean that there were none that were righteous? What happened to the true believers of Christ? How could they let their happiness and joy slip from their lives? Have you ever found yourself clinging to negative feelings rather than turning them over to the Savior so you can be happy? In what ways can you and your family help to build a Zion atmosphere in your home and ward and community?

"May I suggest three fundamental things we must do if we are to' bring again Zion,' three things for which we who labor for Zion must commit ourselves. First, we must eliminate the individual tendency to selfishness that snares The soul, shrinks the heart, and darkens the mind… Second, we must cooperate completely and work in harmony one with the other. There must be unanimity in our decisions and unity in our actions… Third, we must lay on the altar of sacrifice whatever is required by the Lord. We meet again by offering' broken heart and a contrite spirit. But if he we followed this by giving our best effort in our assigned fields of labor and callings. We learn our duty and execute it fully. Finally we consecrate our time, talents and means as called upon by our file leaders and as prompted by the whisperings of the Spirit. ". -Spencer W Kimball, GC, April 1978

 48. Why do you think that the spirit prompted Ammaron to hide up the sacred records? Consider your journal and the sacred nature of it to you. Would you hide it from an individual who you did not want to have reading it so that they could not mock or ridicule you? How much more important is it to preserve the word of the Lord?

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