Nephi didn't have Ezekiel's words, but he did model how to engage with symbolic visions. He taught us to (1) be curious, (2) believe that God can help us, (3) ponder, (4) build on what we already know, and (5) apply the scriptures to our lives.
The Fountain of Living Waters
Jeremiah twice used the phrase "fountain of living waters" to describe the blessings Israel lost when they turned away from God. Nephi equated this fountain with the tree of life and said that they represent the love of God. Jesus testified that He offers living water to those who are willing to receive it.
The Waters of Judah
Isaiah 48 is addressed to people who "are come forth out of the waters of Judah." The Book of Mormon adds the clarifying phrase "or out of the waters of baptism." That added phrase places the rest of the chapter, which condemns hypocrisy, within the context of a chosen covenant.
“Things Too Wonderful for Me”: Job’s Response to God
Nephi responded to a difficult question by declaring what he knew and acknowledging what he didn't. Job got to the same place in the end. When God reproved him for some of his words, he recognized that he had overreached and repented. We become teachable when we acknowledge the limitations of our knowledge.
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.
Fire, Snow, Sun, and Great Waters
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery described the Savior using biblical imagery: eyes like fire, hair like the snow, a countenance like the sun, and a voice like great waters. These metaphors remind us that the Savior knows us perfectly, that He is pure and holy, that He radiates light, and that He speaks with power.
Ascending and Descending as a Disciple of Jesus Christ
Jesus, who created the universe, lived a humble mortal life and endured unfathomable suffering. Why? So that He could be "in all and through all things, the light of truth." As His disciples, we are able to empathize and uplift because we spend time with others and we willingly endure the trials of life.
Being Bound
No one likes to have their agency curtailed, but some forms of "binding" actually increase our freedom, confidence, and joy. God sets the example, promising that He is bound when we follow His commandments. He invites us to bind ourselves in a similar way, by making and keeping covenants with Him.
Biblical References in Doctrine and Covenants 76
The revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 76 was prompted by meditation about a single Bible verse, but it contains an enormous number of biblical paraphrases and allusions. The revelation demonstrates the unity of God's word as revealed to many prophets and apostles throughout history.
Springing Up
The tree of life in Lehi's dream also functions as a fountain of living water. Alma said that the tree of life can grow in our hearts. Jesus promised a well of living water in the hearts of those who follow Him. Both the tree and the fountain "spring up," lifting us closer to God.