John 1 teaches important principles about Jesus Christ using poetic language. Many phrases from this chapter are repeated in an 1833 revelation to Joseph Smith (Doctrine and Covenants 93) and in the Savior's words to the Nephites and Lamanites in 3 Nephi 9. Here is a side-by-side comparison of those passages.
Why Is Jesus Called “the Word?”
Jesus is the Word because He (1) fulfilled the instructions of His father, (2) taught us how to return to God, (3) fulfilled the words of ancient prophets, and (4) gives us instructions which we can put into action.
A Balm in Gilead
When Jacob and his family fled from the home of his father-in-law, Laban pursued him. They met in a mountainous region, and after a difficult conversation, they were reconciled. Together, they built a stone pillar to memorialize their healed relationship. Laban suggested they call the pillar Jegar-sahadutha (יְגַר שׂהֲדוּתָא), "the heap of the testimony," but... Continue Reading →
A Tree of Life
Multiple scriptures discuss "the tree of life," referring either to the second named tree in the Garden of Eden, representing immortality (Genesis 2:9, 2 Nephi 2:15, Alma 12:22-26, Alma 42:2-5) or to the focal point of Lehi's dream, representing the love of God as manifest through Jesus Christ (1 Nephi 8:10, 1 Nephi 11:25, 1... Continue Reading →
The Rock of Our Salvation
Based on: Psalm 89 Core message: When we focus more fully on Jesus Christ, we build on a secure foundation. Related Book of Mormon passages: 2 Nephi 4:30, 2 Nephi 9:45
All the Ends of the Earth
Based on: Psalm 98 Core message: The entire world benefits from the Savior's light, even non-believers. We all have reason to rejoice. Related Book of Mormon passages: Mosiah 12:24, Mosiah 15:18-31
Cast Thy Burden Upon the Lord
Based on: Psalm 55 Core message: God will ease our burdens as we draw nearer to Him. Even if He doesn't take them away, He can make them seem light. Related Book of Mormon passages: Mosiah 24:14-15, Alma 33:23
My Shepherd
Based on: Psalm 23 Core message: Jesus is the good shepherd (John 10:11). He provides gentle leadership. It is up to us whether we will follow Him. Related Book of Mormon passages: Alma 5:60, Helaman 7:18, Mormon 5:18
The Lord Is My Light
Based on: Psalm 27 Core message: Some hymns represent a personal testimony, even though we sing them as a group. "The Lord is my light," not "The Lord is the light." Related Book of Mormon passage: 2 Nephi 22:2
“I Will Heal Thee”
Hezekiah was very ill. The prophet, Isaiah, visited him and told him that he would not recover. He was going to die. But Hezekiah wasn't willing to accept that answer. Laying on his bed, he turned toward the wall and offered the following heartfelt prayer: "I beseech thee, O Lord, remember now how I have walked... Continue Reading →
Book of Mormon Study Notes 