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Isaiah saw the great work of the Book of Mormon and prophesied concerning Martin Harris’s visit with Professor Anthon (Isaiah 29:11-12). The article contains Martin Harris’s account of this visit. Edward Stevenson wrote that Martin Harris saw his visit as a fullillment to Isaiah’s prophecy. Metallic sheets discovered in Iran buried in the palace of Darius verify the statements made by Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon about metal records.
Written at least lifteen years after the death of Joseph Smith, but in the lirst person to express Joseph Smith’s views as understood by the author. Quotes Jacob 2 to condemn polygamy and repudiates the idea of celestial marriage.
Published first in the Salt Lake Tribune, July 26, 1908, written as if Joseph Smith had authored this pamphlet. The Book of Mormon condemns polygamy as an abomination. Charges that none of Joseph’s words can be used to vindicate this practice. The Lord does not allow polygamy in his church.
Additional Authors: Paul R. Cheesman, Charles Randall Paul, Rex C. Reeve, Morgan W. Tanner, and S. Michael Wilcox.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 2 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Jacob
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Enos
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Jarom
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Omni
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Words of Mormon
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Helaman
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 3 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 4 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
Summarizes the book of 1 Nephi and provides a map of the Arabian Peninsula that traces the possible route of Lehi.
Judgment and redemption
Judgment and redemption
Offering a simple analogy to motivate individuals to read the Book of Mormon, the author compares piano practice to scripture study. “Just as I have to learn new piano techniques, I must review the Book of Mormon and learn eternal techniques”
Offering a simple analogy to motivate individuals to read the Book of Mormon, the author compares piano practice to scripture study. “Just as I have to learn new piano techniques, I must review the Book of Mormon and learn eternal techniques.”
Estimates that the weight of the gold plates from which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon was sixty pounds.
In a world where we are trained to expect the worst, Gregg Easterbrook shares research concerning the potential for a positive future global economy.
What do we have that we can offer in return for all the good gifts of our Father in Heaven and His Son Jesus Christ? We can offer our hearts and our free will—our obedience. We can sacrifice a broken heart and a contrite spirit.
Old Testament Topics > Justification
RSC Topics > D — F > Doctrine
This chapter compares masculinity in the Book of Mormon with the masculine ideals of the 19th century. “The Book of Mormon’s prescription for ideal manhood critiques the American culture that it enters, engages with some of the most pressing religious and gender questions of the nineteenth century (such as continuing revelation, sola scriptura, increasing materialism, and changing gender dynamics and responsibilities), and provides the precedent for the religion Joseph Smith founded— a religion that, in its nineteenth-century context, called for its followers to gather to communal societies, to labor spiritually to convert others to their faith, to place fathers as the moral heads of the home, and to seek direct communication with the Lord. To learn how to succeed at such aspirations, nineteenth-century Church members needed only to look to the examples of their spiritual forefathers in The Book of Mormon.” [Author]
The vibrant fields of narratology and biblical narrative criticism provide common ground from which scholars who either accept or reject the historical reality of the Book of Mormon may speak to one another. To encourage research that may speak across divisions, this article provides a theoretical overview of some of the major areas within the narrative-critical approach (i.e., the intricacies and subtleties of setting, plot, narrative time, characters, point of view, narrators, and implied readers). The applied analysis of select Book of Mormon passages that accompany these overviews illustrates how borrowing from more established fields may expose new considerations, explain different aspects of the text, make familiar narratives fresh, and stimulate greater appreciation for its literary design.
Where does one go to learn more about Book of Mormon studies? For those who do not regularly engage with scholarship, it’s hard to know how to begin. Currently there’s no general guide to Book of Mormon scholarship available to the public. Even with all that’s happened in the last few decades, and especially all that’s happening right now in Book of Mormon studies, this situation needs to be remedied. There has been no general guide to Book of Mormon scholarship available to the public—until now. This introduction breaks down Book of Mormon studies, from its history to the obstacles that will need to be overcome as it moves forward. Additionally, this introduction provides readers with resources that they can turn to for further information on Book of Mormon studies. ISBN 978-1-9503-0426-4
RSC Topics > A — C > Baptism
RSC Topics > A — C > Book of Mormon
RSC Topics > D — F > Doctrine
RSC Topics > G — K > Grace
RSC Topics > Q — S > Salvation
RSC Topics > Q — S > Sin
“A well-known idea in Book of Mormon studies is that the Bible, rather than the Book of Mormon, was the primary religious text for most members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the nineteenth century. Scholarship focused on the early years of the Church in the 1830s and 1840s and on the last twenty years of the nineteenth century reveals that references to the Book of Mormon account for only about 5 percent of the scripture references found in Church-printed periodicals. These findings are tempered, however, by a recognition that they capture public rather than personal use of the scripture and that no definite distinction can be made (when studying personal and public writings) between why and how Church members used and incorporated different works of scripture. Nineteenth-century Church members looked to all their canonical scriptures—the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price—to find timeless and universal truths, to praise God, to acquire instruction for daily living, to find comfort and solace, to encourage desired behaviors, and to establish an understanding of various faith tenets. Further, the Book of Mormon appears to have been a primer for some of Joseph Smith’s early efforts at Church organization and theology. So while it currently seems clear that the majority of nineteenth-century Church members—lay and leader alike—devoted more of their religious practice to studying and learning from the Bible than the Book of Mormon, there were significant exceptions. This article explores the work of three of the most notable: Orson Pratt, George Reynolds, and Janne M. Sjödahl. Each of these individuals devoted substantial portions of their lives to the study of the Book of Mormon, and their work laid the foundation for future Book of Mormon studies.” [Author]
RSC Topics > A — C > Church History 1820–1844
RSC Topics > G — K > Gold Plates
RSC Topics > T — Z > Women
RSC Topics > Q — S > Relief Society
RSC Topics > T — Z > Women
RSC Topics > Q — S > Revelation
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
A booklet containing a photographic essay on the life and paintings of Minerva Teichert. Created to accompany an exhibition at the Museum of Church History and Art, the work contains representations of several of Teichert’s Book of Mormon paintings.
Minerva Teichert was an avid letter writer. She carried on a vigorous correspondence, especially with her daughter, Laurie, who kept the letters her mother sent to her. Laurie Teichert Eastwood has edited and introduced these letters, published in an attractive 244-page hard bound volume produced by BYU Studies. The letters contain the artist’s thoughts on her mural projects, dealings with agents, family activities, ranch chores, personal concerns, church work, political feelings, rural town life, and many other fascinating subjects. Anyone interested in an artistic woman’s view of rural existence will not want to miss the rare opportunity to obtain a copy of this important publication.
An alleged exposé of Mormonism and its beliefs wherein the Book of Mormon is considered to be “heavy” and “verbose” in style. The author asserts that most of the proper names of the Book of Mormon could have been formed from biblical, Latin, or modern names. Various anachronisms are noted, such as the assertion in the Book of Mormon regarding the presence of pre-Columbian domesticated animals, passages from Shakespeare, modern phraseology, and ungrammatical expressions. Numerous Book of Mormon phrases are listed that the author views as being peculiar to nineteenth-century revival language.
Opponents of the Book of Mormon claim that the book stands or falls on the character of Joseph Smith, but Ebeling argues that the book stands upon its own strength. Had the book been written by Solomon Spaulding, it may have taught the prevalent doctrines of his day, i.e., a sprinkling baptism rather than immersion, a denial of miracles and revelation, and that the remission of sins comes through faith and prayer.
RSC Topics > L — P > Prayer
The Pawnee people endured many hardships through the years, but EchoHawk explains that out of that pain was born promise. During his childhood, EchoHawk and his family had no expectation of achieving a higher education, but he, along with all of his siblings, was able to attend college. Through a football accident in high school, he gained the personal testimony he hadn’t possessed when he was baptized at 14. His testimony and his football took him to Brigham Young University, where President Spencer W. Kimball influenced him to become a lawyer, and later the attorney general of Idaho, to help his people and to be an instrument in God’s hands.
RSC Topics > L — P > Prayer
This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2005, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Praise for Hugh Nibley and some details about his life.
Elder Eddy invites us to “try the virtue of the word of God” and “drink deeply” from the scriptures. There is virtue in the words of ancient and modern prophets precisely because their words are the Lord’s words.
A true man is strong enough to withstand the wiles of Satan and humble enough to submit himself to the redemptive powers of the Savior.
The real issue is not how others define us but how the Savior defines us.
The strength of the Church is in the millions of humble members striving every day to do the will of the Savior.
The ward is organized to minister to the needs of those who face even the most difficult and heartbreaking trials.
Hope is a most powerful influence in our lives. Yes indeed, we do live in a troubled and challenging world. But we live in one of the greatest periods of time in all the history of the entire world.
Choose faith over doubt, choose faith over fear, choose faith over the unknown and the unseen, and choose faith over pessimism.
Out of our adversity we might seek our greatest triumphs, and the day may well come that from our challenges we will understand the familiar words “for thy good.”
Joseph Smith lived the life of a prophet. He suffered the life of a prophet. He died the death of a prophet.
Saving souls is the work the Savior has called all of us to do.
Will we listen to Satan, the author of all lies … ? Or are we going to believe a loving Heavenly Father, who is the source of all truth and happiness?
It is a still, small voice and a throbbing heart that testifies of the miracle of the Restoration.
We now call upon you to mobilize our priesthood quorums in response to the employment and financial challenges facing our members.
When we are true to the sacred principles of honesty and integrity, we are true to our faith, and we are true to ourselves.
A pamphlet comparing 1 Corinthians 15:25-32 with 2 Nephi 9:24, and Mosiah 15:8, 16:8 and 1 Nephi 11:26-27. Those who believe in genealogical temple work for the dead do not understand the scriptures.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 2 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
Monthly Book of Mormon lessons for adult women (Relief Society). Each month a verse of Book of Mormon scripture is presented with accompanying quotes from General Authorities and writers of the Church.
I’m suggesting that we seek to experience contentment while we work toward godliness—that we remember and appreciate all that God and Christ have done for us.
Our happiness lies in following the gospel of Jesus Christ—in having faith in Him, believing Him, coming unto Him, and becoming more like Him.
Sees a “vast lield for exploration” in writing about the Book of Mormon, saying that the main task is to present the Book of Mormon to the world while keeping in touch with the book itself. Sets literary standards and outlines areas of urgent need, including foreign language translations, study aids, apologetics, and creative studies.
Contains thirteen lessons for adults on instructions and teachings within the Book of Mormon on missionary work.
Review of How to Get the Most from the Book of Mormon (audio cassettes, 1987), by Daniel H. Ludlow.
We can learn spiritual lessons if we can approach suffering, sorrow, or grief with a focus on Christ.
Mickey Edwards shares insights on the importance of the Constitution.
As members of the Church, we must seek truth in all areas, be it spiritual, educational, scientific, or in the social and moral settings of society.
Letters praising the Journal of the Book of Mormon and Other Restoration Scripture and responses to articles published therein.
As we move into a new season of life, may we always remember the lessons that we have learned during this “intellectually enlarging” and “spiritually strengthening” season of growth.
As wonderful as modern technology is, it still pales in comparison to God’s power and ability. We get to view the wonders of the universe; He gets to create them.
A polemic written against the Book of Mormon and the idea that Jesus visited ancient America.
Abstract: In 2013 we published a study examining names from Solomon Spalding’s fictional manuscript, J. R. R. Tolkien’s fictional works, and nineteenth-century US census records. Results showed names created by authors of fiction followed phonemic patterns that differed from those of authentic names from a variety of cultural origins found in the US census. The current study used the same methodology to compare Book of Mormon names to the three name sources in the original study and found that Book of Mormon names seem to have more in common with the patterns found in authentic names than they do with those from fictional works. This is not to say that Book of Mormon names are similar to nineteenth- century names, but rather that they both showed similar patterns when phonotactic probabilities were the common measure. Of course, many more invented names and words from a variety of authors and time periods will need to be analyzed along with many more authentic names across multiple time periods before any reliable conclusions can be drawn. This study was exploratory in nature and conducted to determine if this new line of research merits further study. We concluded it does.
In this essay William Eggington suggests that Lehi and his descendants functioned in a society that exhibited strong characteristics of an oral society, one that had access to print but retained many features of a nonprint culture. He concludes that readers of the Book of Momon today need more effective study strategies. Readers who understand the different discourse structures, cohesive devices, rhetorical patterns, and world views used by the authors better understand the authors’ intent.
Investigates aspects of the socio-cultural structure of the Nephite, Lamanite, and Mulekite people of the Book of Mormon from the point of view of those who study the nature of oral and literate societies.” Lehi and his descendants functioned in an “Oral residual culture,” a culture that writes to accomplish some very narrow functions, but acts, to a large extent, like an oral culture. “If we somehow can begin to understand the discourse and socio-cultural structures of the Book of Mormon authors, and the natures of their text production constraints and our text perception constraints, we may more clearly comprehend the text and its vital messages.
Our challenge then is to overcome our natural-man reluctance to interact with those who come from different languages, dialects, and cultural backgrounds and to treat them as no more strangers but actual, or potential, fellow citizens with the Saints in the household of God.
RSC Topics > G — K > Heaven
RSC Topics > G — K > Holy Ghost
RSC Topics > Q — S > Repentance
RSC Topics > L — P > Ordinances
RSC Topics > L — P > Priesthood
RSC Topics > Q — S > Sacrifice
RSC Topics > D — F > Eternal Life
RSC Topics > G — K > Holy Ghost
RSC Topics > Q — S > Sin
This book was in many ways a first: first to provide a full collection of Joseph Smith’s Nauvoo discourses in the mature and climatic years of his life; first to reproduce them in exact fidelity to their original written sources in diaries and journals; first to cross-reference them to earlier sayings and discourses of Joseph Smith; first to index all the biblical and other scriptural verses discussed or alluded to; first to provide contextual settings for each discourse in proper chronological sequence; first to footnote the discourses in terms of their historical and doctrinal kinships; and first to interlace all these discourses with other fundamental teachings of this rich and formative period of Church history. ISBN 0-8849-4419-0
Abstract: Some students of the Book of Mormon have claimed that chapter 36 of the book of Alma is structured as a chiasm. Some of the proposals depart from perfect symmetry, presenting elements of the suggested chiasm seemingly out of sequence. This has often been pointed to as a weakness in the proposed chiasm or as a problem arising from translation or editorial work, or even as evidence that no real chiasm exists over the text of the chapter. Perhaps, however, asymmetry may be a deliberate feature of ancient chiasmus. Understanding the presence and role of occasional asymmetry or skews, as they are called, may help us better appreciate the rhetorical tools employed in crafting chiastic texts anciently. In particular, we can see that the structure of Alma 36 may well be a beautifully crafted chiasmus featuring what may be an intentional skew similar to those that scholars have identified elsewhere in scripture. One such other chiastic text with a skew in it appears to be Deuteronomy 8. Indeed, one skew proposed in Alma 36, together with conceptual and other structural characteristics of the text, including the proposed chiasm of the text, perhaps suggests that some of the message and structure of Deuteronomy 8 may have served as a model for part of the message and structure of Alma 36.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
Abstract: The book of Enos is considered to be a short, one-chapter treatise on prayer, yet it is more. Close examination of its text reveals it to be a text structurally centered on Christ and the divine covenant. Enos seeks and obtains from Him a covenant to preserve the records of the Nephites for the salvation of the Lamanites. Enos prays not only for his own remission of sins but also for the salvation both of his own people, the Nephites, and also of the Lamanites. He yearns in faith that the Lord will preserve the records of his people for the benefit of the Lamanites. This article outlines a possible overall chiastic structure of vv. 3–27 as well as a centrally situated smaller chiasm of vv. 15–16a, which focus on Christ and His covenant with Enos. The voice of the Lord speaks to the mind of Enos seven times, and the proposed chiastic structure of the text is meaningfully related to those seven divine communications. We have the Book of Mormon in our day because of the faithful prayers and faithful labors of prophets like Enos and because of the promises they received from Christ, whose covenant to preserve the records is made the focal point at the center of the Enos text.
A sketch of Lehi’s life that draws heavily on Jewish sources and terminology.
Abstract: The Book of Mormon claims to be an ancient record containing a summary of a now-disappeared civilization that once lived in the American continent but originated in the Middle East. DNA studies focusing on the ancient migration of world populations support a North-East Asian origin of modern Native American populations arriving through the now-submerged land-bridge that once connected Siberia to Alaska during the last Ice Age, approximately 15,000 years ago. The apparent discrepancy between the Book of Mormon narrative and the published genetic data must be addressed in lieu of generally accepted population genetic principles that are efficient in large-scale population studies, but are somewhat weak and limitative in detecting genetic signals from the introgression of DNA by small groups of outsiders into a large, and well-established population. Therefore, while DNA can definitely provide clues about the ancient history of a people or civilization, it fails to provide conclusive proofs to support or dismiss the Book of Mormon as a true historical narrative.
Abstract: Some critics of the Book of Mormon suppose that the DNA characteristics of modern Native Americans should be compatible with “Israelite” rather than with Asian genetics. The authors point out that while DNA is a valid tool to study ancient and modern populations, we must be careful about drawing absolute conclusions. They show that many of the conclusions of critics are based on unwarranted assumptions. There are specific limitations that cannot be ignored when using the available genetic data to infer conclusions regarding the DNA of Book of Mormon peoples. Such conclusions are not founded on solid science but are the interpretation of a few, as genetic data fails to produce conclusive proof weighing credibly in favor of or against the historicity of the Book of Mormon.
[Editor’s Note: Part of our book chapter reprint series, this article is reprinted here as a service to the LDS community. Original pagination and page numbers have necessarily changed, otherwise the reprint has the same content as the original.
See Ugo A. Perego and Jayne E. Ekins, “Is Decrypting the Genetic Legacy of America’s Indigenous Populations Key to the Historicity of the Book of Mormon?,” in Ancient Temple Worship: Proceedings of The Expound Symposium 14 May 2011, ed. Matthew B. Brown, Jeffrey M. Bradshaw, Stephen D. Ricks, and John S. Thompson (Orem, UT: The Interpreter Foundation; Salt Lake City: Eborn Books, 2014), 259–94. Further information at https://interpreterfoundation.org/books/ancient-temple-worship/.]
A non-member read and studied the Book of Mormon for six months and was very impressed by it.
14. Scriptural passages in the Book of Mormon refer to “other records” that have been lost or withheld that will be given at a later time. It is pointed out that the Book of Mormon must be received, embraced, and cherished before the promised records will be given.
The author claims that “the Book of Mormon record is in agreement with population theory” Selected passages from the Book of Mormon are used to show its relationship to a population growth model. Charts and graphs are included.
Review of Forgotten Kingdom: The Mormon Theocracy in the American West, 1875-1896 (1998), by David L. Bigler
More than a century after Latter-day Saints trekked across the Mormon Trail, Church members continue to celebrate this pioneer experience as an identity-defining touchstone of their American-born religion. Latter-day Saints commemorate their pioneer past in folklore, art, museums, and monuments, as well as with annual plays, pageants, and parades throughout the West.
The 2015 publication of an Ensign article on, and especially photos of, one of Joseph Smith’s seer stones still owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints caused quite a sensation in the blogosphere. Mormon studies as a discipline has struggled to make sense of seer stones too. These responses are understandable, considering how often communities tend to presume little change in ritual practice over time and how identity groups tend to see others’ actually quite similar practices—separated by time or culture—as superstitious and our own as pious and commonsensical. This essay, by folklorist Eric Eliason, seeks to bring to bear the insights of both folklore scholarship and folklore-informed ancient Near Eastern scholarship on the issue of early Mormon seer stones in particular and American frontier folk magic in general.
An important part of discipleship is knowing what questions to ask—and which ones have not yet been adequately answered. From the beginning to recent times, prophets have reminded the Saints that the Restoration is ongoing, not an event. Our purpose in assembling this collection of essays is simple: we wish to celebrate the miracle of continuing revelation, and the promise of more to come, that God will “yet reveal many great and important things.” This means that the essays selected for inclusion represent only a few of the hundreds of possible subjects. Ours is an effort to clarify some of the hazy borders of orthodoxy and to honor the dynamism, the richness, and the possibilities of a Restoration still very much in process of unfolding. Joseph Smith taught, “By proving contraries truth is manifest.” A fuller understanding of truth can come by keeping multiple perspectives in mind and letting them work themselves out in patience and God’s own time, like fruitful leaven. Topics include: What is the nature of God’s progress? Where did Book of Mormon events take place? What is women’s relationship to priesthood? Is God subject to or the creator of eternal law? Will things get better or worse before the Second Coming? Was Jesus married? Is the Song of Solomon scripture? How was the Book of Mormon translated? “We as Latter-day Saints have too often felt sure about things the prophets haven’t actually decided, and about things God seems to have left open for us to reflect on humbly. This breathtakingly honest collection of essays does excellent work to make clear just how much we in fact don’t know. That there’s so much to learn is wonderful news, however. We’ll have to bring all of our minds, and not just all of our hearts, to the task of being earnest disciples.” —Joseph Spencer, author of 1st Nephi: A Brief Theological Introduction “This much-needed engagement with . . . interesting theological questions is long overdue.” —Blake T. Ostler, Esq., author of the four-volume Exploring Mormon Thought book series on Latter-day Saint theology
An essay published posthumously in which England wrestles with what he believed to be a disturbing trend in Mormonism away from what he saw as Joseph Smith’s and Brigham Young’s doctrine of God as a personal being engaged with us in a tragic universe not of his own making and toward a more absolutistic God similar to the teachings about deity held by Evangelical Christianity.
A lictional story about a young Nephite who followed the star that led to the Christ child.
Simplilied Book of Mormon stories are given for children, with illustrations.
Since the advent of the Dead Sea Scrolls, four biblical textual scholars have emerged at the forefront of the dialogue concerning textual evolution. They are: Frank Moore Cross, Emanuel Tov, Shemaryahu Talmon and Eugene Ulrich. Though there is some overlap in their hypotheses, each scholar has put forth a framework of biblical textural development in light of these new discoveries. If a new biblical text were discovered today, how would each scholar approach it? This thesis evaluates each scholars’ views and concludes that Emanuel Tov’s criteria for judging a newly discovered text is the most thorough and explanatory. Tov’s views provide for texts that appear to have evolved away from other known biblical texts. His descriptive categories for discovered texts recognize the possibility that a discovered text could be unaligned with any text known thus far to the scholarly world. He terms this category “non-aligned.” The other scholars do not provide for such a category. They assume that all texts are closely related in “families,” or “literary editions” and that all texts evolved in relative close proximity to one other with either occasional or frequent contact. Book of Mormon Isaiah was removed from the biblical textual evolutionary process that was taking place in Palestine ca. 600 B.C. Where does it fit into this process as put forth by scholars? Is it a text closely related to any of the families described by these four scholars? This thesis evaluates the textual variants between Book of Mormon Isaiah and Isaiah in the Septuagint, the Masoretic Text, and Qumran’s Isaiah scrolls. Of the 433 verses of Isaiah in the Book of Mormon. 216 (50%) contain 370 variants. 119 of these are related to italicized words in the King James Version. 76 variants appear to agree with the Septuagint, 28 agree with Isaiah at Qumran, 52 are supported by the Masoretic text, and 150 variants are non-aligned. These facts are accurately predicted and explained by Emanuel Tov’s theories. Of the four, he is the only scholar that conceives of the idea of a text non closely aligned with any other extant text. Book of Mormon Isaiah contains approximately 1/3 of the chapters in the Masoretic text. Using Tov’s theories, when 433 verses contain 370 variants, this fits the criteria of an “independent” or “non-aligned text.” Book of Mormon Isaiah is a proof text for his theories.
RSC Topics > L — P > Ordinances
RSC Topics > T — Z > Temples
RSC Topics > T — Z > Worship
Through Bible and Book of Mormon references, Elliott claims that “the history of America and the history of the Israelite peoples have been inseparably entwined together” Both the land of Israel and the land of America are lands of promise, both have a city called Jerusalem, and both are gathering places for the House of Israel. America will play a major role in the redemption of the world.
A refiection on the relationship between cultural dogmas and timeless truths, and their relevance to a study of the Book of Mormon, with emphasis on the problems of racism and sexism. The curse of the Lamanites is brought out as a case in point.
LDS missionaries taught the Book of Mormon story to a Navajo spiritual leader and his family. The spiritual leader acknowledged that their story is true and already known in Navajo tradition. 3 Nephi 30:5-6 is applied to this event.
Cites reasons why one should not accept Mormonism; reprints the Smithsonian statement regarding the Book of Mormon, compares Quetzalcoatl or Viracocha and Jesus Christ, and concludes that they are different characters; sees Ethan Smith’s View of the Hebrews as the source of the Book of Mormon.
Review of The Lives and Travels of Mormon and Moroni (2000), by Jerry L. Ainsworth
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
Review of As One Crying from the Dust: Book of Mormon Messages for Today (1999), by Brent L. Top
Lists many prophecies given in the Book of Mormon and gives historical and statistical facts to show how these prophecies have been realized.
Walk alongside the Mormon girls, young women, mothers, and grandmothers who traveled to Arizona by covered wagons and by train. This book is filled with numerous stories of remarkable women who traversed the harsh terrain, drove teams, and cared for their husbands and children while their men trailed the cattle, and were vital in settling the Arizona Strip and along the Little Colorado, San Pedro, Gila, and Salt Rivers. With references to recent publications, footnotes to explain long-forgotten phrases and events, and over three hundred photographs, this second edition will not only keep these stories alive for descendants and general readers but also provide a wealth of information for specialists in women’s studies, Arizona history, Mormon history, and Western Americana. ISBN 978-1-9443-9409-7
Abstract: A favorite scripture of many faithful saints is Alma 7 where it describes how the Savior came to Earth to understand, in the flesh, not only human sin, but human suffering. He did this in order to succor and heal us. Despite its obvious appeal, two points may seem curious to some readers. First, the doctrinal power of verses 11–13, which form a chiasm, has as its apex not the “mercy in succoring us,” as might be expected, but the “in the flesh” detail. Why? Upon closer examination, it appears that, in addition to performing the Atonement, Christ needed a mortal experience in order to add a complete experiential knowledge to his omniscient cognitive knowledge. That could only be obtained, in its fulness, “according to the flesh,” hence the emphasis in the chiasm. A second possible curiosity is that Alma ends his beautiful teaching with his brief testimony, which lends an air of closure. Then, the topic appears to change completely and seemingly inexplicably to a discussion of repentance and baptism. Again, why? Closer examination reveals that the next two verses (14–15) form a second chiasm. If the first chiasm can be viewed as a statement of what Christ offers us, the second may be viewed as what we offer Christ. He runs to us in 7:11–13; we run to him in 7:14–15. When viewed together, the two chiasms form a two-way covenantal relationship, which Alma promises will result in our eternal salvation.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
Abstract: A traditional reading of Nephi’s chronicle of the trek through Arabia relies heavily on two verses in 1 Nephi 17. In verse 4, Nephi states that they “did sojourn for the space of many years, yea, even eight years in the wilderness.” In verse 5, he reports that “we did come to the land which we called Bountiful.” The almost universal interpretation of these verses is that of sequential events: eight years traversing the arid desert of Western Arabia following which the Lehites entered the lush Bountiful for an unspecified time to build the ship. A question with the traditional reading is why a trip that could have taken eight months ostensibly took eight years. It may be that Nephi gave us that information. His “eight years” could be read as a general statement about one large context: the “wilderness” of all of Arabia. In other words, the “eight years in the wilderness” may have included both the time in the desert and the time in Bountiful. In this paper I examine the basis for such an alternative reading.
Review of Brent J. Schmidt, Relational Faith: The Transformation and Restoration of Pistis as Knowledge, Trust, Confidence, and Covenantal Faithfulness (Provo, UT: BYU Studies, 2022). 356 pages, $21.95 (softcover). Abstract: Brent Schmidt builds on his earlier book on relational grace by tackling the topic of relational faith. For those interested in historical trends in religious thought, this book provides intimate details of Greek and Latin terms and the gradual corruption of the original Pauline concept of faith by Augustine and other early and influential thinkers and theologians. Leading the reader through the conceptual reworking of the idea of faith by examining both well-known and lesser-known reformers, but somewhat skirting the faith-works debate, Schmidt ends up nevertheless convincingly demonstrating two facts. First, that faith as concrete action, not just as abstract belief, is a distinguishing doctrinal foundation that is consistently preached by leaders of the Church today. Second, Joseph Smith’s concept of faith as a covenantal relationship built on mutual trust was not a latter-day invention. Instead, it is a restoration of the concept of faith as originally understood by members of the church at the time of Paul.
Abstract: The accounts of the Anti-Christ, Korihor, and of Alma’s mission to the Zoramites raise a variety of apparently unanswered questions. These involve Korihor’s origins, the reason for the similarity of his beliefs to those of the Zoramites, and why he switched so quickly from an atheistic attack to an agnostic plea. Another intriguing question is whether it was actually the devil himself who taught him what to say and sent him on a mission to the land of Zarahemla — or was it a surrogate of the devil or a human “devil” such as, perhaps, Zoram? Final questions are how Korihor ended up in Antionum, why the Zoramites would kill a disabled beggar, and why nobody seemed to have mourned his violent death or possibly unrighteous execution. There are several hints from the text that suggest possible answers to these intriguing questions. Some are supported by viewing the text from a parallelistic or chiastic perspective.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
Abstract: The phrase “Brethren, adieu” (Jacob 7:27) has been criticized over the years as an obvious anachronism in the Book of Mormon. That criticism holds no validity whatsoever, as others have pointed out, since many English words have French origins. It’s worth considering, though, a deeper meaning of the word. In French, it carries a nuance of finality — that the separation will last until a reunion following death (à Dieu, or until God). This deeper meaning of adieu appears to have been known by Shakespeare and frontier Americans although the second meaning is not generally recognized by English speakers today. However, Jacob 7:27 appears to reflect this deeper meaning as do certain uses of another valediction in the Book of Mormon — that of farewell. With the deeper meaning of adieu in mind, the parallel structure in Jacob 7:27 — “down to the grave,” reflecting the finality of adieu — becomes more apparent. The question of whether Joseph Smith was aware of the deeper meaning of adieu is taken up by looking at how the word was used in the Joseph Smith Papers. The take-away is that rather than reflecting an error on the part of Joseph Smith, the word adieu, with its deeper nuance of finality until God, is not only an appropriate term, it appears to strengthen rather than undermine the case for the authenticity of the Book of Mormon.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
Choosing wisely is a critical part of His plan of happiness and an integral part of the test of our earth life. God’s direction to Enoch was to say to the people, “Choose ye this day, to serve the Lord God who made you” (Moses 6:33). He really does know best.
Regardless of the issue, hard can be good for those who will move forward with faith and trust the Lord and His plan.
Each of us will one day stand before God and give an accounting of our priesthood service.
The Lord’s way is that we hearken to our leaders’ teachings, understand correct principles, and govern ourselves.
RSC Topics > L — P > Love
RSC Topics > Q — S > Service
RSC Topics > T — Z > Women
RSC Topics > A — C > Atonement of Jesus Christ
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
RSC Topics > D — F > Death
RSC Topics > G — K > Justice
RSC Topics > L — P > Mercy
RSC Topics > Q — S > Salvation
RSC Topics > Q — S > Sin
RSC Topics > L — P > Marriage
RSC Topics > L — P > Parenting
The 51st Annual Brigham Young University Sidney B. Sperry Symposium The related themes of households and families figure prominently in the New Testament. On various occasions Jesus taught about marriage, divorce, and more general familial relations. Jesus, Peter, and Paul also taught about the important contributions single members and widows make in the kingdom and such household complexities as mixed-faith marriages or relationships between slaves and masters. Thus, the New Testament contains much counsel on household conduct, familial relationships, and belonging to “the household of God” (Ephesians 2:19). The Sperry Symposium, named in honor of pioneering Latter-day Saint scripture scholar Sidney B. Sperry and held on the campus of Brigham Young University, seeks each year to examine and illuminate an aspect of the religious and cultural heritage of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ISBN 978-1-9503-0434-9
RSC Topics > G — K > Grace
RSC Topics > L — P > New Testament
RSC Topics > Q — S > Scriptures
RSC Topics > T — Z > Worship
A dialogue between one who believes and one who does not believe in the Book of Mormon. The author quotes biblical prophecies dealing with the Book of Mormon, and discusses the Kinderhook plates and the Anthon transcript.
A rebuttal to an earlier article written by E. H. Gurley, Josiah Ells defends the claims that Ezekiel 39 and Hosea 8:12 refer to the Book of Mormon. He mentions the gathering of the lost ten tribes and the grammatical structure of those prophesies.
Review of David B. Ostler, Bridges: Ministering to Those Who Question (Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2019), 206 pp. $32.95 (hardback), $20.95 (paperback).
Abstract: David Ostler’s book Bridges: Ministering to Those Who Question addresses the daunting task of ministering to people who have grown disillusioned with the core doctrines and the community of believers they encounter in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is perhaps the most challenging ministering effort a leader or member of the Church can undertake, and Bridges provides valuable insight into the process of disaffection as well as specific things that Church leaders and members can do to create a healthy environment for members to work through challenges to their faith. This review discusses those strengths of Bridges as a resource and also explores areas where the well-intentioned approaches discussed in the book can backfire, causing more harm than healing in a community of believing Latter-day Saints.
Abstract: For Latter-day Saints, the critical scholarly consensus that most of the book of Isaiah was not authored by Isaiah often presents a problem, particularly since many Isaiah passages in the Book of Mormon are assigned post-exilic dating by critical scholars. The critical position is based on an entirely different set of assumptions than most believers are accustomed to bring to scripture. This article surveys some of the reasons for the critical scholarly position, also providing an alternative set of assumptions that Latter-day Saints can use to understand the features of the text.
I have a tradition from my grandfather’s house that the same communication is revealed to many prophets, but no two prophesy in the identical phraseology.
This article claims that certain geographical references in the Book of Mormon describe the land and lakes in central and northern New York.
A testimonial by an individual in the navy who studied the Book of Mormon and felt a great spiritual power accompany the book. The promise in Moroni 10 had a long lasting effect upon him.
A testimonial by an individual in the navy who studied the Book of Mormon and felt a great spiritual power accompany the book. The promise in Moroni 10 had a long lasting effect upon him.
RSC Topics > L — P > Melchizedek Priesthood
RSC Topics > L — P > Priesthood
The story of Saul as a literary work of tragedy
Evil is shocking and much easier to perceive than good. Good is often overlooked. Ultimately good testilies of Christ. Ellsworth tells of his lirst experience with reading the Book of Mormon—his prayer of faith in response to Moroni’s promise, and the quiet power that permeated his soul in answer.
Book of Moses Topics > Selection of Ancient Sources > Noah
RSC Topics > Q — S > Relief Society
RSC Topics > Q — S > Service
RSC Topics > T — Z > Welfare
This book tells an amazing story about millions of people. Since 1894 the Genealogical Society of Utah (now known as the Family History Department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) has sought to collect genealogical information about people from every nation. Latter-day Saints see this work as a fulfillment of Malachi’s prophecy that the hearts of the children would be turned to their fathers to unify all members of the human family and to prepare the world to meet God. In November 1994, the Church celebrated the Genealogical Society’s centennial. At one level, the Society’s story is the history of an organization. At another level, it is the intersection of numerous individual stories, such as the dedication of Susa Young Gates, the tireless determination of Joseph Fielding Smith, the enthusiasm of Archibald F. Bennett, and the daring of Paul Langheinrich. LDS genealogical research is known all over the world. Parts of its story are familiar to many people, but only a fraction of the whole history is widely known. This book tells that story. It is a history of astounding and sustained efforts that have changed the hearts of millions.
RSC Topics > L — P > Missionary Work
Faith that is “tested, wounded, but . . . here” is a powerful, transformative kind of faith. That kind of faith recognizes that because we look through a glass, darkly, we will still have questions. It is a faith that coexists with questions and paradoxes. It is a faith that has battle scars but also enduring resonance.
A polemical work on various religions. Pages 96- 102 contain a discussion of Mormonism and the Book of Mormon. The author considers the Book of Mormon “a bungling attempt to imitate the style of the sacred scriptures” He accepts the Spaulding theory regarding the Book of Mormon’s origin.
Review of Gordon L. Weight. Miracle on Palmyra's Main Street: An “Old-Time” Printer's Perspective on Printing the Original Copies of the Book of Mormon.
RSC Topics > D — F > First Vision
Joseph and Hyrum Smith exemplified leadership as they worked together in organizing and operating the Church, teaching, speaking, and building temples and towns. As leaders, they held firm to their convictions, roused the hearts and minds of men and women in varied walks of life, and left legacies sufficient to stamp them as two of the most remarkable and influential men of the nineteenth century. The stories and examples of their shared leadership illustrate how they honored agency, exerted righteous influence, grew through adversity, forged bonds of obligation and love, governed conflict, and organized through councils. Their examples in this book can help us transform our personal perspective of leadership, lead with an eternal focus, heal and bless others through our leadership, learn and grow by asking authentic questions, share leadership in the home, and lead in the governmental arena. By incorporating these principles in our lives, we can foster more satisfying relationships in our homes, our Church service, and our professional lives. The book concludes with a call for each of us to carry on their legacy, which transcends time and place. Their lives and teachings are filled with lessons and skills we can easily apply today. ISBN 978-0-8425-2754-5
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
A compilation of various individuals’ experiences with the Book of Mormon. The work is divided into three main sections: (1) the Book of Mormon family-to-family program in which families provide gift copies of the Book of Mormon to others; (2) stories of persons being converted to the Book of Mormon; and (3) reconversion stories of lifetime members of the Church.
Nephi set the racist attitude of the Book of Mormon, one similar to biblical record keepers. The mark placed on those who sinned was propagated by themselves by either marking their own bodies or by intermarriage with those who had been genetically marked with a dark skin. Latter-day Saint people need to put away racial attitudes and see that God recognizes all men as equal.
A review of two books and one chapter, all written by Hugh Nibley.
A review that expresses the author’s feeling that Hugh Nibley predicts the future accurately but no one believes him, much as Cassandra does in Greek mythology.
Many Christians and their churches have seen the fall of Adam as a great mistake that ruined God’s plan and offended him. They have assumed that God was unhappy with humanity for what Adam did in Eden. This led to the idea that we must win back his love and favor. If we could not do that by our own actions, then it had to be by Christ’s suffering, as a kind of gift that would please God. But the scriptures are clear that God did not reject us; rather, mankind rejected him. We do not need to win back God’s love; he is always ready. Instead, we need to be reconciled to God.
Review of The Folk of the Fringe (1989); Seventh Son (1987); The Red Prophet (1988); and Prentice Alvin (1989), by Orson Scott Card.
Review of Homecoming (5 vols., 1992-95); A Storyteller in Zion: Essays and Speeches (1993); and “An Open Letter to those who are concerned about 'plagiarism' in The Memory of Earth” (1993), by Orson Scott Card.
Several pages of this work are devoted to showing how the Book of Mormon teaches the principle of mercy in relationship to the Atonement and the condition of the Lamanites.
This second of two volumes of essays honoring Hugh Nibley includes scholarly papers based on what the authors have learned from Nibley. Nearly every major subject that Dr. Nibley has encompassed in his vast learning and scholarly production is represented here by at least one article. Topics include the sacrament covenant in Third Nephi, the Lamanite view of Book of Mormon history, external evidences of the Book of Mormon, proper names in the Book of Mormon, the brass plates version of Genesis, the composition of Lehi’s family, ancient burials of metal documents in stone boxes, repentance as rethinking, Mormon history’s encounter with secular modernity, and Judaism in the 20th century.
Until recently, attempts to vindicate the central claim of the Book of Mormon about itself—that it is a divinely inspired book based on the history of an ancient culture—have focused mainly on external evidences. Such attempts examine parallels in the geographies, cultures, and literatures of the Middle East and ancient America (especially parallels to knowledge that have become available only since Joseph Smith’s time). These parallels are used to prove that the Book of Mormon is consistent with ancient knowledge and forms which Joseph Smith could have known only through an ancient manuscript and revelation. This essay takes a different approach, based essentially on internal evidence provided by the book itself. My reflections, stimulated by the work of Mormon scholars such as John Welch, Noel Reynolds, and Bruce Jorgensen, examine techniques developed by non-Mormon literary critics Northrop Frye and Rene Girard in their work on the Bible.
An essay published posthumously in which England wrestles with what he believed to be a disturbing trend in Mormonism away from what he saw as Joseph Smith’s and Brigham Young’s doctrine of God as a personal being engaged withus in a tragic universe not of his own making and toward a more absolutistic God similar to the teachings about deity held by Evangelical Christianity.
Violence and non-violence in the Book of Mormon is examined including the killing of Laban (1 Nephi 4), the story of the Anti-Nephi-Lehies (Alma 24) and King Benjamin’s address (Mosiah 4).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Each of us has been asked to address some important questions about the intersection of our own faith traditions and higher criticism — an apt metaphor, since “intersections” are where collisions often happen. This brings me to my topic, Protestantism and higher criticism, a messy subject to be sure.
Book of Mormon Topics > Doctrines and Teachings > Come, Follow Me
Book of Mormon Topics > Doctrines and Teachings > Come, Follow Me
Book of Mormon Topics > Doctrines and Teachings > Come, Follow Me
Book of Mormon Topics > Doctrines and Teachings > Come, Follow Me
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 4 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
The gospel offers single members great opportunities, says Marion D. Hanks of the Presidency of the First Quorum of the Seventy
From the Church production of Savior of the World: His Birth and Resurrection
A conversation with Boyd K. Packer and Russell M. Nelson about the new Computerized Scriptures
From an interview with David L. Beck, Young Men General President, and Elaine S. Dalton, Young Women General President
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Words of Mormon
The Ensign recently interviewed Elder Monte J. Brough of the presidency of the Seventy, executive director of the Family History Department, and discussed temple and family history work.
A Conversation with the Young Women General Presidency
Old Testament Topics > Bible: King James Version
Recently a member of the Church magazines staff met with Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to discuss hope and faith. Following is a portion of their conversation.
Written with input from Church Disability Services
Old Testament Scriptures > 1 & 2 Kings/1 & 2 Chronicles
A conversation with Elders James E. Faust, Marion D. Hanks, and L. Tom Perry; Presiding Victor L. Brown, H. Burke Peterson, and Vaughn J. Featherstone
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Old Testament Topics > History
Old Testament Topics > Old Testament: Overviews and Manuals
Old Testament Topics > Teaching the Old Testament
Book of Mormon Topics > Persons and Peoples > Nephi (Son of Lehi)
Book of Mormon Topics > Places > Ancient Near East > Jerusalem
Editor’s Note: Our special thanks to Jacque Felshaw of Pima, Arizona, for the interviews with Arizona neighbors of the Kimballs.
Old Testament Topics > History
A conversation with Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve and Gene R. Cook of the First Quorum of the Seventy about a renewed emphasis for Gospel Doctrine classes.
A conversation with two members of the Missionary Executive Council—Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Charles Didier of the Presidency of the Seventy. This interview was conducted by Larry Hiller and Adam C. Olson of the Church magazines staff.
From an interview with Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, and M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
An interview with Harold C. Brown, managing director of Welfare Services.
Old Testament Topics > Jesus Christ, the God of the Old and the New Testament
A missionary experience by Hugh B. Brown of the Council of the Twelve
A young woman was touched by Alma 34:28 as she read it to a group of deaf visitors to Temple Square who had requested that she read it. It speaks of those who turn away the needy and warns that their prayers are in vain.
The need for examination of the Bible
Early Mormon attitudes towards Jews differed from those of other Christians
Old Testament Topics > Judah and the Jews
Former members of the “Mormon” Church give reasons for denouncing the LDS church and joining the RLDS church. The Book of Mormon is a second witness for Christ, it states that all are the children of God regardless of race or color. The authors condemn the practice of discrimination against people of color as well as the practice of polygamy, which is also condemned by the Book of Mormon.
Evaluates forty reports of Greco-Roman and Hebrew coins found on the American Continent, and then concludes that no single report of a classical-period coin in America can be used as evidence of pre- Columbian transatlantic contact.
Given the remarkable story of the discovery and divine translation of gold plates hidden in a hill by an ancient Amerindian prophet, nineteenth- century readers could be forgiven for expecting an exotic new set of doctrines in The Book of Mormon. Instead, what many readers found (when they bothered to read the book at all) was an often dull, frequently complicated narrative with the veneer of biblical language and themes. Where they expected to find a heretical “Gold Bible’’ designed to supplant and erase biblical authority, they instead found chapters lifted directly from the Bible itself. The Book of Mormon was a strange document indeed, having at once a “foundational role’’ in but also a “theological irrelevance’’ to a newly created religion, so that it was actually “the miracle the work embodied, not the doctrine it presented, that gave offense.”
RSC Topics > T — Z > War
Technology provides the means for communicating the good news of the gospel and its theology to the inhabitants of the world and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the operation of the Church.
Old Testament Topics > History
This is the love God is calling us all into. We are deeply relational beings, designed for love and connection with God and with one another.
RSC Topics > T — Z > Women
Regardless of the conditions, our task is to participate in the race, safely cross the finish line, and receive the grand prize. Our motivation is the priceless prize designated for finishers of the race—that of eternal life.
Presents a triptych painting (a three-panel composition) depicting (1) Christ with the Nephites feeling his wounds; (2) Christ blessing Nephite children; (3) a harvest scene symbolizing that prosperity is the result of following Christ’s teachings.
Robert Espinosa was approached by Royal Skousen in 1991 with a request for him to join Skousen on the critical text project of the Book of Mormon. Espinosa shares his experience working with Skousen and the developments that they were able to make. After meeting with the owners of some fragments of the original manuscript of the Book of Mormon, Espinosa and Skousen were able to conserve, examine, and photograph the fragments. They also carefully analyzed the physical characteristics of the printer’s manuscript.
RSC Topics > D — F > Education
RSC Topics > T — Z > Teaching the Gospel
RSC Topics > T — Z > Teaching the Gospel
Everything the Savior did and said was for the benefit of humankind. His Atonement, His example, and His teachings—everything was to help us not only to have a more abundant life on earth but also to attain the most abundant of all life—even eternal life.
Cheryl A. Esplin teaches the importance of filling our lives with the light and truth of the gospel.
True Christlike service is selfless and focuses on others.
The Spirit heals and renews our souls. The promised blessing of the sacrament is that we will “always have his Spirit to be with [us].”
Teaching our children to understand is more than just imparting information. It’s helping our children get the doctrine into their hearts.
Through temple blessings, the Savior heals individuals, families, and nations.
Joseph Smith well understood that Nauvoo provided his final opportunity to finish the foundation of the Restoration and complete the mission he had been given. He also knew that his time would be short for “according to his prayers God had appointed him elsewhere”— and others would finish the work he had begun.
It is not surprising then, in retrospect, that he wasted no time once a majority of the Twelve had returned to Nauvoo from Britain, now proven as a successful administrative and leadership quorum, to put them in the harness in new ways. Unwilling to wait until October conference, Joseph called a “special conference” in August 1841, the month following their return, to announce to the saints that the Quorum of the Twelve apostles would have enlarged responsibilities, overseeing with the First Presidency the entire church, rather than being restricted to carrying the gospel abroad, outside the stakes, as before. “Business of the Church given to the 12,” noted Willard Richard in his diary about this event that portended important future developments. From that point forward, Young and his fellow apostles were involved in all aspects of church governance and development. They were at Joseph’s side both publicly and in private, from the first temple-related ordinances in May 1842 through administration of additional ordinances and organization of the Council of Fifty in 1844.
This presentation offers an overview of how these new assignments, responsibilities and opportunities prepared Brigham Young and the Quorum of the Twelve to “carry the burden in the heat of the day,” even in Joseph’s absence. It will show that Joseph saw to them receiving “every key and every power that he ever held himself before God,“ preparing them and fully empowering them to, as they proclaimed, “carry out all the measures of Joseph”—to complete on the foundation he laid the edifice he had envisioned and begun.
RSC Topics > T — Z > Testimony
This study investigates Brigham Young and his fellow apostles in the 1830s as they gradually became an effective quorum and moved toward eventual ascendancy. It examines the all-encompassing religious framework from which Brigham Young acted and uses it to shed light on both the complex issues confronting early Mormons and on his emergence as a leader. Young, as president of the Quorum of the Twelve, succeeded in unifying the group and molding it into the effective leadership cadre that received increasing responsibility for general church business. Brigham Young believed his abilities were a gift from God and that his leadership was successful because God was with him and his people. He saw himself as a rough and unpolished instrument with the grit to do his best and the faith to leave the rest to God. Young was certain that in the long run the kingdom would triumph and, as he liked to say, no power from earth or hell could prevent it.
RSC Topics > G — K > Humility
RSC Topics > Q — S > Quorum
RSC Topics > Q — S > Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
RSC Topics > Q — S > Revelation
Additional Authors: Ronald W. Walker, James B. Allen, and Richard O. Cowan
RSC Topics > A — C > Apostasy
RSC Topics > A — C > Church History 1820–1844
RSC Topics > Q — S > Quorum
The Joseph Smith Papers Project seeks to do for Joseph Smith what has been done (and is being done) for George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin and other important early Americans: Make their papers easily accessible and more intelligible by publishing them in a carefully prepared, comprehensive scholarly edition. Historians rely on documents to gain insight into the facts, relationships, and other realities of the past, the raw materials from which they construct their narratives and interpretations. The task of scholars functioning as documentary editors is to help readers and other scholars understand the documents without getting too much in the way themselves, leaving others to construct their own narratives from these (and other) documentary resources.
RSC Topics > G — K > Joseph Smith
RSC Topics > Q — S > Restoration of the Priesthood
RSC Topics > D — F > Education
Faith leads to repentance of our past mistakes. But all of us need to follow up necessary repentance with belief—a belief in God and a belief that, though we all sin, the Atonement of Jesus Christ can and will save us.
RSC Topics > G — K > Joseph Smith
RSC Topics > T — Z > Testimony
RSC Topics > A — C > Church History 1820–1844
RSC Topics > D — F > Doctrine and Covenants
RSC Topics > T — Z > Trials
The story of the Mormon exodus from Nauvoo to a new mountain home “far away in the west” still stirs the imagination of writers, artists, historians, and musicians. Letters, diaries and other manuscript sources continue to be discovered that recount this stirring chapter in Mormon history. An entire believing people came to trust that they would find their place to worship without fear of persecution if they followed their God. This book is divided into three sections: the Mormons’ forced departure from their Nauvoo homes in 1846–47; the Mormons’ experiences along their journey to the Rocky Mountains; and what the Mormon Trail has come to mean in recent times. Even readers who have followed this history will discover new and inspiring facts about this enduring story. ISBN 978-0-8425-2969-3
The Prophet Joseph Smith’s statement, “I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book,” may be one of his most recognizable quotes. Millions of readers of the Book of Mormon find it in the sixth paragraph of the book’s introduction. Hundreds of thousands of general conference participants hear it cited repeatedly from the pulpit. Books, articles, and even entire symposia use it as a theme. However, how many people familiar with the quote understand its context? For example, why did Joseph say what he did regarding the Book of Mormon? Who were “the brethren” to whom he made the statement? What sparked the declaration? How has it been used over time? Answers to these important historical questions help us better appreciate the power and application of Joseph’s prophetic statement in our modern day.
RSC Topics > G — K > Joseph Smith
RSC Topics > Q — S > Revelation
RSC Topics > T — Z > War
RSC Topics > T — Z > Youth
RSC Topics > A — C > Church History 1946–Present
RSC Topics > A — C > Agency
RSC Topics > L — P > Obedience
RSC Topics > T — Z > Zion
RSC Topics > L — P > Learning
RSC Topics > T — Z > Youth
RSC Topics > Q — S > Restoration of the Gospel
RSC Topics > T — Z > Zion
RSC Topics > Q — S > Scriptures
RSC Topics > T — Z > Temples
RSC Topics > A — C > Church History 1946–Present
RSC Topics > L — P > Missionary Work
This volume explores events and teachings of the early years of the restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Featuring scholars from Brigham Young University, the Church History Department, and the Joseph Smith Papers, the collection of prominent materials previously produced by the BYU Religious Studies Center is designed as a companion to personal and family study of the Doctrine and Covenants and Church history. Chapters explore Joseph Smith’s accounts of his First Vision, the translation of the Book of Mormon, and the restoration of priesthood power. Doctrinal teachings about consecration, Zion, the kingdoms of glory, and work for the dead are also investigated, as are harrowing experiences in Liberty and Carthage Jails and the exodus to the West. ISBN 978-1-9503-0401-1
For more than 150 years, “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” the anthem of the pioneer journey, has praised Salt Lake City as “the place, which God for us prepared.” This new book from Brigham Young University’s Religious Studies Center analyzes the fulfillment of that poetic longing. The sixteenth in a series of regional studies on Latter-day Saint church history, it contains a collection of essays by faculty members in the Department of Church History and Doctrine discussing Salt Lake’s place in our sacred story. Topics include histories of significant landmarks, stories from the city’s past, and discussions of Church organizations. The reader will see connections between the revelations of Joseph Smith and Salt Lake City as a modern city of Zion, the place, indeed, where the Saints have been blessed. ISBN 978-0-8425-2799-6
After the Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City’s Temple Square was renovated in 2007, historian Scott C. Esplin released this in-depth review of the Tabernacle’s construction. Featuring beautiful and historic photos, much of the book consists of a newly edited version of Stewart Grow’s thesis on the building of the Tabernacle. Grow was the grandson of Henry Grow, the bridge builder who built the roof of the historic Tabernacle. The editor has provided a new introduction, placing the thesis in historical context. ISBN 978-0-8425-2675-3
RSC Topics > D — F > Education
RSC Topics > T — Z > Teaching the Gospel
RSC Topics > T — Z > Teaching the Gospel
RSC Topics > A — C > Church History 1845–1877
RSC Topics > A — C > Church History 1878–1945
RSC Topics > A — C > Church History 1946–Present
RSC Topics > L — P > Priesthood
RSC Topics > T — Z > Youth
Seasoned by time and coupled with an endowment of spiritual light, the prophets, seers, and revelators of our time offer messages with special meaning for all who seek gospel insight. Fulfilling their divine mandate, the prophets in this dispensation have authored a large collection of essays, articles, and addresses expounding God’s truths to his children. In particular, they have addressed issues related to gospel teaching, learning, and scripture. The Religious Studies Center (RSC) at BYU has regularly published landmark scholarship on Latter-day Saint scripture, doctrine, history, and culture. What is sometimes overlooked is that more than seventy significant essays by General Authorities appear in its collection of publications. This book contains selections from that collection, authored by prophets, seers, and revelators and published by the Religious Studies Center over the past thirty-five years. ISBN 978-0-8425-2773-6
RSC Topics > L — P > New Testament
RSC Topics > Q — S > Salvation
The 41st Annual Brigham Young University Sidney B. Sperry Symposium The Lord declared to the Prophet Joseph Smith, “This generation shall have my word through you.” The Doctrine and Covenants helps fulfill that purpose. Jesus declares of this record, “These words are . . . of me; . . . for it is my voice which speaketh them unto you; for they are given by my Spirit unto you, and by my power.” The Doctrine and Covenants is another witness of Jesus Christ to the children of God in these latter days. It strengthens faith and confidence in the words of the Lord. It explores significant messages, teachings, doctrines, and themes given by the Lord. It contains a Christ-centered message that expands our understanding of the Lord’s purposes for each of us. ISBN 978-0-8425-2819-1
Few passages in the Book of Mormon have inspired more criticism and moral outrage than the account of Nephi slaying the unconscious figure of Laban. Many point to this episode as evidence against the Book of Mormon being an inspired document. In this study we will attempt to examine the legal as well as the extra-legal ramifications of this incident. Since the law of ancient Israel was inexorably tied to the religious and moral code of the Israelites, any attempt to divorce the two would be patently artificial. Therefore, while this study will emphasize what we know about the operation of justice, that, by necessity implies a discussion of Israel’s relationship to her lawgiver, Yahweh. In analyzing this slaying, a determination must be made of which Hebrew law codes would most likely have applied during Nephi’s time. The Book of Mormon places the slaying between 592 and 598 B.C.1 The primary sources for Hebrew law of that time are the law codes of the Old Testament. They are three in number: the Code of the Covenant (Exodus 21-23:33), the Deuteronomic Code (which includes Deuteronomy 19), and the Priestly Code (which includes Numbers 35). Although there is some difference of opinion among scholars about the compilation dates of these various codes, the general consensus is that the Code of the Covenant was compiled before 800 B.C., the Deuteronomic Code around 700 B.C., and the Priestly Code in about 350 B.C.5 Comparing these dates to the date of slaying, it can be seen that the Code of the Covenant and the Deuteronomic Code were in existence before the time of the slaying and date in roughly the same time period as the slaying. The Priestly Code, however, was compiled after the exile in Babylon and almost 250 years after the slaying.
A detailed examination of the legal ramilications of Nephi’s execution of Laban.
Bears a testimony that is not based on archaeological evidences connected to the Book of Mormon, but on the contents of the book.
The Book of Mormon records the history of the early inhabitants of America and God’s dealings with them.
Believes that even though the major events of the Book of Mormon took place in South America, it would have been possible for the gold plates to have been brought to New York. Author argues, therefore, that the Hill Cumorah is in New York.
The Book of Mormon, like the Bible, is necessary for humanity. Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from inscribed plates. Presents archaeological evidence of ancient cities, elephants, and horses.
Cites biblical prophecies and archaeological and other scientilic studies to provide external evidence for many claims of the Book of Mormon concerning ancient American culture: evidence of highly civilized peoples, Hebrew customs, ancient writings, textiles, horses and elephants, metals, Egyptian infiuence, and the fullillment of Psalms 85 and Isaiah 29.
Contains depictions of stone, copper, and clay tablets, boxes and other objects upon which are found ancient engravings.
The book is divided into three parts, two of which contain a discussion of the Book of Mormon. Features a revised and enlarged edition of the author’s Book Unsealed (1892) reviews eleven works written against Mormonism, and examines six United States school histories and four encyclopedias that deal with Mormonism.
If you feel that the beacon of your testimony is sputtering and darkness is closing in, take courage. Keep your promises to God.
Small efforts collectively make a big impact, magnifying the many individual things we do as disciples of Jesus Christ.
The prophets are calling on us, my sisters. Will you be righteous? Will you articulate your faith? Will you turn on your light?
If we change our perspective so that caring for the poor and the needy is less about giving stuff away and more about filling the hunger for human contact, providing meaningful conversation, and creating rich and positive relationships, then the Lord can send us someplace.
RSC Topics > T — Z > Unity
RSC Topics > T — Z > Zion
Missionaries are taught that part of their responsibility is to “invite all to come unto Christ.” Surely if all are worthy of an invitation to come unto Christ, they are worthy of an invitation to join a study group or to come to a dance. Let our campus be an inclusive community, not an exclusive fraternity.
Book of Moses Topics > Source Criticism and the Documentary Hypothesis
There is nothing more discouraging than knowing what you should do and then procrastinating performance and missing the opportunity. There is nothing more invigorating than knowing what you should do and then getting about doing it.
Each of us has a personal responsibility to do what is necessary to obtain and keep a strong testimony.
The work of naturally and normally sharing the gospel with those we care about and love will be the work and joy of our lives.
Come and be part of the greatest generation of missionaries the world has ever known.
Argues that some names on the Mayan Calendar are similar enough to Book of Mormon names to clearly confirm the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. God permitted the ecclesiastics in A.D. 1561 to destroy the ancient records of the Indians so that when the Book of Mormon was published there would be no information on the Indians from which Joseph Smith could have been accused of borrowing ideas.
Shows that the Mexican Calendar Stone gives an account and the exact date of the “great cataclysm,” and that it is the same date and account that is given in the Book of Mormon. The “great cataclysm” is the destruction that happened to the land during and after the crucilixion of Jesus Christ.
Relates names from New World inscriptions to names or titles in the Book of Mormon. Names of calendar months and other titles were associated with Book of Mormon words such as Laman, Mulek, Enos, Laban, Benjamin, Nephi, and so forth.
This article shows that Bishop Spalding makes three unwarranted inferences in his pamphlet “Joseph Smith, Jr., As a Translator”—that the Book of Abraham is translated incorrectly, that the Book of Mormon cannot be authentic if the Book of Abraham is poorly translated, and that all Mormon belief should be discarded since the Book of Mormon is the basis of the religion.
Text of an address showing the power that the Book of Mormon exerts on human hearts. Gives conversion stories of early Church leaders, and relates the Book of Mormon teachings to the principles of personal knowledge, righteousness, and service that are the heart of the New Testament.
Women in the Book of Mormon were probably similar to women of all eras, the inspiration behind good men. Book of Mormon women that are referred to by name include Sariah, the wife of Lehi, and Abish, a Lamanite servant to King Lamoni. Women were held in high esteem, possessed great talents, and their work was important.
The Book of Mormon presents a clearer understanding of Jesus Christ than does the Bible. It teaches regarding his pre-earth life, his Godhood, his godly attributes, and his appearance to the Nephites.
On the basis of its involved structure, the author argues that the Book of Mormon is a translation of an ancient document and not a modern composition.
Chapter three deals specilically with the Book of Mormon, its coming forth and contents, and the positive effect it has had upon people.
Written for young people. Details the historical background of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, its translation, and then presents selected messages and characters from the Book of Mormon.
This article claims that Nephite leaders and teachers possessed a distinct philosophy regarding life. For instance, God demonstrates an impartiality towards the human race, the Holy Ghost is available to direct one’s life, the principle of freedom is attached to obedience to divine law, an eternal view of things is advanced as opposed to the limited temporal view that mankind is prone to take.
The purpose of the Book of Mormon is to convince the Jew and the gentile of the divinity of Jesus Christ. Evans cites many biblical passages to show that the Book of Mormon contains the truth and that it fullills its purpose.
An ex- member and apostle in the RLDS church gives his own history. As he matured it became increasingly diflicult to believe in the Book of Mormon, since he found that Joseph Smith was a deceit and a fraud. Favors the Spaulding theory as the origin of the Book of Mormon.
Many bear witness of Joseph Smith’s divine mission and the Book of Mormon’s authenticity. They never denied their testimonies. Many reformers testilied of the apostasy of the Church and looked forward to a restoration. During the lirst vision Joseph was told to join no church. An angel delivered the Book of Mormon plates restoring the primitive gospel of Christ.
This article discusses how the Book of Mormon was key in the restoration of the priesthood and the Church. It has survived a century and a quarter of anti-Mormon criticism.
The Book of Mormon is a witness of Jesus Christ and a valuable tool in teaching the gospel. The article discusses a program of placing copies of the Book of Mormon in hotel rooms.
This article extends an invitation for a Christmas project, for all members of the Church to give a special edition of the Book of Mormon to non-members as Christmas cards.
This article states that members bearing testimony of the Book of Mormon as inspired by the Holy Ghost are able to touch the hearts of those who listen. Furthermore, more witnesses to the Book of Mormon are needed.
This article reports that the printing of the Book of Mormon in Chinese culminates a long and laborious task of translation by two men who were called to the assignment.
This article compiles a number of excerpts from previously published articles by LDS authors that cover such Book of Mormon-related topics as the “fifth gospel,” the stick of Joseph, language, the significance of scientific discoveries, and the manner in which Alma speaks to our day.
A number of excerpts from previously published articles by LDS authors cover such Book of Mormon related topics as the “fifth gospel,” the stick of Joseph, language, the significance of scientific discoveries, and the manner in which Alma speaks to our day.
This article states that the Book of Mormon is not a substitute but a supplement for the Bible, and a sacred record preserved by prophets of ancient America.
The article reprints three earlier published recollections of the profound converting effects of the Book of Mormon in the lives of three prominent early LDS personalities—Wilford Woodruff, Willard Richards, and Parley P. Pratt. Wilford Woodruff received his testimony in a missionary meeting held in a village schoolhouse. Willard Richards was touched by the Lord after reading the entire Book of Mormon twice in just ten days. Parley Pratt read the Book of Mormon straight through, non-stop, day and night, and the Spirit of the Lord came upon him and he knew it was true.
This article is a challenge to readers of the Book of Mormon to memorize scriptural quotes as they read the work.
This article was adapted from Elder Evans’s book A Century of “Mormonism” in Great Britain, published in 1937. The book in turn was based on a series of articles written for the Millennial Star in 1928–29, while Elder Evans served as a missionary in England.
This article tells of the assignment, given to every Melchizedek Priesthood holder, to read the Book of Mormon during the year 1961.
This article compiles the testimonies of the Book of Mormon borne by the Presidents of the Church—from the Prophet Joseph Smith through President David O. McKay.
Richard L. Evans - We all make choices every day. We all have to live with the results of the choices we make.
Old Testament Topics > Ten Commandments
Old Testament Topics > Ten Commandments
This article states that the Book of Mormon teaches “choice lessons of life.” It cites references to illuminate reasons for reading the scriptures, understanding the agency of mankind, listening to the Psalm of Nephi, seeking good counsel, and having faith. It includes commentary on these references.
The LDS church accepts four separate works as the standard works—the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. These works are authoritative and set forth revelations of God.
This article shares the transcriptions of the testimonies of Emma Smith, Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery, and David Whitmer testifying of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.
This article discusses the idea that, “The eternal purposes of the Lord shall roll on, until all his promises shall be fulfilled” (Mormon 8:22). In making choices do not be deceived. Trust in the laws of God upon which you can rely.
Recent archaeological excavations help authenticate the Book of Mormon. Discussion includes such topics as iron, monuments, and temples.
This article is a message to young men comparing the Book of Mormon to binoculars, which allow you to see ahead in order to avoid pitfalls and traps. It uses the story of Nephi and his brothers returning to obtain the brass plates to show that young men should fulfill all of their assignments even if they think they cannot.
Having spent most of his life in Shiprock, New Mexico, the author explains the history of the American Indian through his knowledge of the Book of Mormon. He cites a knowledge of the cross symbol among pre-Columbian Indians.
Evans rejoices in the fact that missionaries are now being sent to preach to the Navaho Indians. The Navahos have many legends that are similar to biblical myths such as the fiood, and Jonah in the great lish. Many have tried to determine the origin of the Native Americans. The Book of Mormon gives the answer that they descend from Lehi, a Jew from Jerusalem.
Studies the habits and customs of the Xlavajo Indians for forty years and concludes that the Book of Mormon represents the true explanation of their origin.
Old Testament Topics > Science and Religion
An essay written about a painted portrait of Hugh Nibley.
A poem that captures the spirit of the Book of Abraham.
A pamphlet containing standards by which the Book of Mormon may be judged if someone were to duplicate the effort.
A pamphlet containing standards by which the Book of Mormon may be judged if someone were to duplicate the effort.
Abstract: Psalms was the favorite Old Testament book at Qumran and in the New Testament; the Book of Mormon contains more than three dozen allusions to Psalms. While Psalms contains both powerful, poetic words of comfort and doctrinal gems, many psalms also seem to careen between praise, warning, comfort, military braggadocio, and humility, sometimes addressing the Lord, sometimes speaking in the voice of the Lord or his prophets. The texts that most strongly exhibit such abrupt shifts may yield greater meaning if they are read as scripts or libretti of a sacred, temple- based drama.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has become a signilicant economic and political factor, rests primarily on the Book of Mormon, an addition to the Bible. Claims that no disciple of Joseph Smith saw the plates.
May we take advantage of the many mentors who surround us this year, and may we be worthy mentors to those whom we serve. May we not just take direction but may we take direction well, without taking offense.
Believes that the formula for understanding spiritual truth is found in Moroni 10:4-5, “by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” Some of the best tools to lind spiritual truth are desire, sincerity, faith, pure living, and communication with God.
The Book of Mormon teaches us that for true freedom to exist, there must be a law (2 Nephi 2:10-16).
A transcript of the author’s radio address on KSL Radio, May 5, 1940, wherein the author testilies that the Book of Mormon contains the word of God and is a true work, and recounts briefiy how the book affected the lives of early Saints like Parley P. Pratt and Brigham Young.
The Book of Mormon could not have been translated from a language unknown by an unlearned young man such as Joseph Smith. Either the book was a miracle or a fraud to be explained away by natural means. Those who believed were permitted to view the plates (Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer), or were convinced of its truthfulness (Phinehas and Brigham Young and Parley P. Pratt). It is a living book that offers a rebirth for all who read it.
We are to learn our duty from the Lord, and then we are to act in all diligence, never being lazy or slothful.
I bear you my testimony that God the Father lives. He set a course for each of us that can polish and perfect us to be with Him.
Just as you can have love in your heart always, your heart can be drawn out in prayer—always.
Our natures must be changed to become as a child to gain the strength we must have to be safe in the times of moral peril.
The preparation that counts will be made by the young men making choices to rise to their great destiny as priesthood servants for God.
I pray that we may prepare ourselves to give whatever priesthood service the Lord may set before us on our mortal journey.
President Eyring teaches priesthood holders that the purpose for their receiving the priesthood is to bless people on the Lord’s behalf and in His name, magnifying their callings with love and diligence.
You may well doubt that you can have much effect on the people around you. But you will have help.
You will be strengthened and yet inspired to know the limits and extent of your ability to serve.
May He give you entrance to the hearts of those you teach and then make you know that as you enter there, you stand in holy places.
The Lord trusts His true disciples. He sends prepared people to His prepared servants.
“A choice to be good—even with the trials that come, or perhaps because of the trials that come—will allow the Atonement to change your heart.”
I bear you my testimony that God lives. He is your Father. You want to go home. You want to be with him. The only way you can be with him in the way you want to be is to become clean and spotless.
By His words and His example, Christ has shown us how to draw closer to Him.
Henry B. Eyring describes how our baptismal covenant inspires us to extend the Savior’s compassion to those who are carrying life’s heavy burdens.
His plan of redemption has always required men and women to consecrate all they have and all they are to the service of God. They covenant to do that.
Human judgment and logical thinking will not be enough to get answers to the questions that matter most in life. We need revelation from God.
Becoming a covenant woman in partnership with God is how great and good daughters of God have always mothered, led, and ministered.
The path … we must take on our journey back to our Heavenly Father … is marked by sacred covenants with God.
However difficult our circumstances, we can repent.
The history of Relief Society is recorded in words and numbers, but the heritage is passed heart to heart.
The Prophet Joseph is an example and a teacher of enduring well in faith. … I thank and love him as the Lord’s prophet of the Restoration.
Our priesthood obligation is to put our families and the families of those around us at the center of our concern.
We have to know by inspiration that the priesthood keys are held by those who lead and serve us. That requires the witness of the Spirit.
Go forward in faith in keeping your covenants with God and so claim the promise He has made to you with an oath.
Faith in Jesus Christ is the key to receiving revelations of truth.
There is nothing that has come or will come into your family as important as the sealing blessings.
The Lord tells us that when we stand with faith upon His rock, doubt and fear are diminished; the desire to do good increases.
The Saints of God have always been under covenant to nourish each other spiritually, especially those tender in the gospel.
I pray that you may find peace, help many others to find it, and pass it along.
God the Father wants His children home again, in families and in glory.
Feeling the influence of the Holy Ghost works both ways: the Holy Ghost only dwells in a clean temple, and the reception of the Holy Ghost cleanses us through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. You can pray with faith to know what to do to be cleansed and thus qualified for the companionship of the Holy Ghost and the service of the Lord.
You may not be asked to face death in the service He requires of you, but you will be asked to love and to sacrifice for a lifetime. And you will be blessed by your faithful and loving Master beyond what you would have asked of Him. And, above all, you will, as the faithful servant, become His friend.
The message may come in words to your mind or in a feeling or both. But it will … give you assurance and guidance in what you must do.
For Latter-day Saints, the Sabbath is a day of gratitude and love.
The Lord is leading the Restoration of His gospel and His Church. He knows the future perfectly. He invites you to the work.
When you were baptized, your ancestors looked down on you with hope. … They rejoiced to see one of their descendants make a covenant to find them.
With your guidance, those you lead will be able to see, want, and believe they can achieve their full potential for service in God’s kingdom.
We help God’s children best by providing ways to build faith in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel when they are young.
I pray with all my heart that you will hear the voice of the Spirit, which is sent to you so generously.
Greater happiness comes from greater personal holiness.
You will find some of your greatest joys in your efforts to make your home a place of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and a place that is permeated with love.
President Eyring testifies of the spiritual blessings that come to those who serve in the temple.
Three themes from the Old Testament: the Atonement, preparation, and wisdom
We need strength beyond ourselves to keep the commandments in whatever circumstance life brings to us.
We receive the Holy Spirit best when we are focused on serving others. That is why we have the priesthood responsibility to serve for the Savior.
Henry B. Eyring teaches about the temporal and spiritual blessings of fasting and fast offerings.
Delayed blessings will build your faith in God to work, and wait, for him. The scriptures aren’t demeaning when they command, “Wait upon the Lord.” That means both service and patience. And that will build your faith.
As President Worthen knows, inspired leaders and teachers here have made it possible for students to begin to serve with what they have learned while they are still here. They don’t wait to graduate to become colleagues in the role of teachers.
If you will be diligent and obedient in the priesthood, treasures of spiritual knowledge will be poured out upon you.
President Eyring shows how his mother and the prophet Mormon encouraged their posterity to qualify for eternal life through all the trials of mortality.
I pray with my whole heart that we may listen together and that we may have the gift of the Holy Ghost, both in our private search for truth and as we sit at the feet of the servants of God wherever we may be.
Testimony requires the nurturing by the prayer of faith, the hungering for the word of God in the scriptures, and the obedience to the truth.
The Lord’s leadership of His Church requires great and steady faith from all who serve Him on earth.
A feeling of responsibility for others is at the heart of faithful priesthood service.
If we have faith in Jesus Christ, the hardest as well as the easiest times in life can be a blessing.
The Lord promised peace to His disciples as He was about to leave them. He has made the same promise to us.
“O remember, remember,” Book of Mormon prophets often implored.1 My point is to urge you to find ways to recognize and remember God’s kindness.
Our power to carry burdens can be increased more than enough to compensate for the increased service we will be asked to give.
The Lord’s way to help those in temporal need requires people who out of love have consecrated themselves and what they have to God and to His work.
You and I have the opportunity to have the Holy Ghost as our constant companion.
The Saints can accomplish any purpose of the Lord when fully united in righteousness.
The message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is that we can and must expect to become better as long as we live.
Your experience in enduring well in the trials of life by drawing on God’s power of deliverance can bring you the assurance you need to find peace in this life and confidence for the next.
By raising your hand to sustain, you make a promise with God, whose servants these are, that you will sustain them.
We can teach even a child to understand the doctrine of Jesus Christ. It is therefore possible, with God’s help, to teach the saving doctrine simply.
With … faith, we will be able to pray for what we want and appreciate whatever we get. Only with that faith will we pray with the diligence God requires.
As we pray in faith, we become a vital part in the Lord’s work as He prepares the world for His Second Coming.
Don’t worry about how inexperienced you are or think you are, but think about what, with the Lord’s help, you can become.
In priesthood preparation, “show me” counts more than “tell me.”
When you choose whether to make or keep a covenant with God, you choose whether you will leave an inheritance of hope to those who might follow your example.
Henry B. Eyring teaches priesthood holders that as they humbly pray and seek the Spirit, God will help them know what to say and do.
You can be a great model, an average one, or a bad model. You may think it doesn’t matter to you, but it does to the Lord.
The strength of a quorum comes in large measure from how completely its members are united in righteousness.
The Lord will guide you by revelation just as He called you. You must ask in faith for revelation to know what you are to do.
Let us do whatever is required to qualify for the Holy Ghost as our companion.
Old Testament Topics > Sabbath
Old Testament Topics > Ten Commandments
The great test of life is to see whether we will hearken to and obey God’s commands in the midst of the storms of life.
President Eyring teaches that we can remain steady in the storms of life by relying on the Savior and becoming as a child.
Old Testament Topics > Teaching the Old Testament
“If you can feel what it is like to be a student and feel their pains and afflictions, you can make a great difference, a moral difference, in how they feel about who they really are and what they can become.”
I pray that we will rise to our call to lift others to prepare them for their glorious service.
The Savior of the world spoke of that unity and how we will have our natures changed to make it possible.
All of us will need His help to avoid the tragedy of procrastinating what we must do here and now to have eternal life.
“You will find that he knew the way and wanted to share it with you. And you will have confirmed to you that he was the perfect example in mentoring, as he is in all service that brings real value.”
There is one overarching commandment that will help us to meet the challenges and lead to the heart of a happy family life.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true, and it lives on.
All of us will be tested. And all of us need true friends to love us, to listen to us, to show us the way, and to testify of truth to us.
You show your trust in Him when you listen with the intent to learn and repent and then you go and do whatever He asks.
We grow closer to the Savior as we, out of pure love, serve others for Him.
The Savior is putting His name in your hearts. And you are feeling the pure love of Christ for others and for yourself.
Our ability to touch others with our warning voice matters to all who are covenant disciples of Jesus Christ.
There will be a day for you and me when, whatever difficulties and limitations we have here, we will have that promise fulfilled for us. We will be lifted up as on eagles’ wings, and it will be those who have waited upon the Lord.
You make choices every day and almost every hour that keep you walking in the light or moving away toward darkness.
Our ordination to the priesthood is an invitation from the Lord to walk with Him, to do what He does, to serve the way He serves.
The Savior will let you feel the love He feels for those you serve. The call is an invitation to become like Him.
As you watch over His sheep, your love for Him will grow. And that will increase your confidence and your courage.
I pray that wherever we are and whatever duties we have in the priesthood of God, we will be united in the cause to bring the gospel to all the world.
RSC Topics > D — F > Doctrine
RSC Topics > T — Z > Teaching the Gospel
RSC Topics > G — K > Holy Ghost
The pavilion that seems to intercept divine aid does not cover God but occasionally covers us. God is never hidden, yet sometimes we are.
If you listen with the Spirit, you will find your heart softened, your faith strengthened, and your capacity to love the Lord increased.
The Book of Mormon is the best guide to learn how well we are doing and how to do better.
The Savior is your perfect example of how you will play a major part in His move to place greater emphasis on gospel learning in the home.
Prayer can provide the shield of protection the parent will want so much for [a child] to have.
As you move from one priesthood service to another, you will see the Lord is in the work with you.