For the first time, we meet Moroni, the son of the prophet Mormon and one of the last remaining Nephites in the land. After sharing the final words of his father, Moroni testifies of Christ and teaches of the purpose of the Book of Mormon. Like his father, Moroni was committed to following the instruction of the Lord to complete the record of his people.
I Speak unto You as If Ye Were Present Read More »
Though the Nephites had endured countless pride cycles of wickedness and repentance, this would be the last time. Mormon himself shares his people’s final fall into darkness and depravity. For “there were no gifts from the Lord, and the Holy Ghost did not come upon any, because of their wickedness and unbelief” (Mormon 1:14).
I Would That I Could Persuade All … to Repent Read More »
Following Jesus’ ministry among the Nephites, the people lived in harmony, free from wars and strife. They had an abundance of resources and shared their possessions equally. The majority of the people were righteous and lived according to Jesus’ teachings. The “love of God” was in the hearts of all people (4 Nephi 1:15).
There Could Not Be a Happier People Read More »
Before concluding His ministry with the Nephites, Jesus Christ taught of the covenant that will bring peace to all who follow Him. He taught the Nephites His commandments that, if they kept, would help them stay close to Him. It is in making and keeping these covenants that unite the House of Israel across the world. Jesus promises that if we keep our covenants, “My kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed” (3 Nephi 22:10).
Ye Are the Children of the Covenant Read More »
There are always things to be stressed about in our lives. Wouldn’t it be nice to just enjoy the moment with our loved ones instead of crossing off another item on our to-do list? The Savior Jesus Christ was Himself presented with this choice. He chose to “tarry a little longer” with the Nephites and heal their sick (3 Nephi 17:5). Then, continuing to be moved by compassion, Jesus blessed and played with the children who were present. His love for them overcame the need to move on to His next task.
Behold, My Joy is Full Read More »
It is no coincidence that the temple was the place of Jesus Christ’s first appearance to the Nephites after His resurrection. In fact, nearly every moment the Savior spent with His “other sheep” was at this holy location. There, the law was given and the gospel was proclaimed by the Savior of the World. He also shared His most important desire with the Nephites: “I would that ye should be perfect” (3 Nephi 12:48).
I Am the Law, and the Light Read More »
He has come! As the introduction to the Book of Mormon says, “The crowning event recorded in the Book of Mormon is the personal ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ among the Nephites soon after His resurrection.” This moment was the fulfillment of the words of Christ Himself when He told His apostles he must visit the sheep “that are not of this fold” (John 10:16).
Arise and Come Forth Unto Me Read More »
No one should ever be persecuted or bullied for their personal beliefs, yet that is exactly what the wicked Nephites did to those who believed in Christ. Many signs and wonders were given to support the faithful in their trials, who were rewarded for their faith when the sign of the Savior’s birth was seen by everyone throughout the land (3 Nephi 1:15-21).
Lift Up Your Head and Be of Good Cheer Read More »
Prophets are often called to warn of the dangers of leaving the covenant path. However, like Samuel the Lamanite, they are also called to proclaim “glad tidings of great joy” (Helaman 16:14). Reflecting on recent General Conference addresses by President Russell M. Nelson, there have been many warnings and tidings of great joy that the prophet has proclaimed. Each one is a personal message from the Lord sent through His servant.
Glad Tidings of Great Joy Read More »
Every day, we have the opportunity to learn something new. We learn best when we are able to review it several times so it sticks with us. The gospel of Jesus Christ is taught in the same way: we learn new things through revelation, and we remember them by living the principles of the gospel every day of our entire lives.