During Lehi's lifetime, the city of Jerusalem experienced a profound spiritual reawakening when their king read the words of scripture and urged his people to follow God's instructions. This experience formed an important part of Lehi's spiritual heritage. Like Josiah, he viewed scripture as a tool to lead him and his family closer to God.
Lehi and the Brass Plates
The Hebrew Bible appears early in the Book of Mormon. Lehi's sons return to Jerusalem to obtain the Brass Plates. These writings connected Lehi to both ancestors and descendants and taught him profound truths about the Messiah, the gathering of Israel, agency, and redemption. Like Lehi, we can find spiritual treasures in the Old Testament.
The Book of Mormon Teaches Us to Study the Old Testament
The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, just like the Old Testament. Book of Mormon authors appreciated the power of the biblical message to bring us closer to God. They also understood the sense of belonging that comes from connecting with ancient believers and participating in intergenerational covenants with God.
To My Readers: 2026 Plan
For several years, I've wanted to write a book about how the Book of Mormon helps us read the Old Testament better. This year, as we study the Old Testament in Come, Follow Me, seems like the perfect time for that project. I've decided to use this blog to write the book in serial fashion,... Continue Reading →
What I Learned from the Doctrine and Covenants in 2025
1. Act intentionally to receive revelation from God. 2. Become more holy by spending time in holy places. 3. Find joy, even in adversity, by using your time wisely. 4. Invest in your continuing education. 5. Build family relationships on both sides of the veil. 6. Prepare for the Savior's Second Coming by building unity.
Wise Men: We Have Seen His Star
The Magi responded faithfully to the light they were given. With limited understanding, they recognized a sign from God, undertook a costly journey, and honored the Christ child without understanding all the implications of their journey. Their example teaches that we can accomplish much by acting decisively in faith on revelation from God.
Shepherds: Keeping Watch
Why did an angel announce the Savior's birth to shepherds? They were alert and vigilant. They were willing to follow instructions immediately. And they enthusiastically shared the good news. We can follow their example of receptiveness, responsiveness, and joyful testimony.
Jesus: The Holy Child
Mormon called Jesus God's "Holy Child." When we visualize the Savior as an infant, as we do at Christmas, we remember that even though He created the earth, He was willing to live as we live and to suffer as we suffer because of His deep love for us.
Joseph: He Arose
Joseph received multiple messages from God in dreams. Each time, “he arose” and followed the instructions he received without hesitation or delay. Lehi followed the same pattern, receiving divine messages in dreams and acting promptly. We can also lead our families through uncertainty by seeking and acting upon instructions from God.
Mary: A Precious and Chosen Vessel
Mary responded to Gabriel's startling message with dignified humility. She was thoughtful in her calling. The Savior's first recorded miracle was in response to a request from her. Some of His last words were to secure her well-being. Jesus loved His mother, and we honor her for her important role in God's plan.