The spoken word can be more impactful than the written word. Nephi knew this and lamented that many people would not take his words seriously. We can apply this principle in two ways: (1) talk about the gospel and (2) put effort into being better readers.
The Book of Mormon and the Bible: Growing Together and Establishing Peace
Lehi taught that the Bible and the Book of Mormon would "grow together" and establish peace. By recognizing the unity of God's word to different people in different cultures, we learn to build strong relationships based on universal principles.
“These Last Records”
An angel taught Nephi that the Book of Mormon complements the Bible in at least three ways: 1. It affirms the veracity of the Bible. 2. It teaches interrelated principles. 3. It joins the Bible in testifying of Jesus Christ.
Scripture Searching
When Lehi received the brass plates, "He did search them from the beginning." We don't always have to know what we're looking for. Often, the best question is simply, "What does God want me to learn from the scriptures today?"
The Mysteries of God
Nephi proactively sought knowledge through prayer. His brothers also had a spiritual experience, as their father taught them with spiritual power. But Nephi's experience was more durable. Why? Because it came as a result of his own efforts and desire.
The Title Page and Nephi
Although Moroni wrote the Title Page of the Book of Mormon, he was heavily influenced by Nephi. In this post, I show many parallel phrases between the Title Page and Nephi's words. From start to end, the Book of Mormon has a consistent message and purpose
A Hundredth Part: Mormon’s Editorial Decisions
Book of Mormon authors made it clear how much they were leaving out as they wrote this "abridgment" of their history. Here's a diagram showing how many words are dedicated to each of the 103 decades in the book.
James and the Sermon on the Mount
At least 14 times in his epistle, James teaches principles found in the Sermon on the Mount. He never quotes from the sermon, but its influence is unmistakeable. He internalized the word of God and was therefore able to share it naturally and spontaneously.
All Scripture Is Profitable
Why do you study the scriptures? Paul told Timothy that scriptures are profitable for doctrine, for correction, and to for instruction. We should study with an open mind, eager to learn what God would have us do and what adjustments we need to make.
“Search the Prophets”
The Book of Mormon prophet Jacob declared that all prophets have testified of Jesus Christ. Peter taught the same after the ascension of Jesus Christ. Studying the words of prophets helps us develop faith in Jesus Christ.