Many Book of Mormon prophets received knowledge by asking questions in prayer. The Restoration of the gospel began when Joseph Smith asked questions in prayer. Well-formed questions asked in faith can open our hearts and minds to receive revelation.
A Book of Mormon Nativity
To celebrate Christmas Day, I created a nativity scene using Book of Mormon scriptures.
For Our Welfare and Happiness
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught that the first great truth of the gospel is that God loves us. Mormon testified that God does "all things for the welfare and happiness of his people." It's reassuring to know that God is actively working for our happiness.
“My Mind Caught Hold”
In Lehi's dream, people "caught hold of...the rod of iron," which led them to the tree. After an angel rebuked Alma, his mind "caught hold upon" the thought that Jesus could save him. We can figuratively catch hold of this truth in our moments of darkness
Christmas, Easter, and the Book of Mormon
The birth of Jesus Christ and His death and resurrection are prominently featured in the Book of Mormon. Christmas is important because of Easter. President Nelson taught that Easter is the most important religious observance for followers of Christ.
Nephi’s Vision and Nephi’s Prophecy
Many themes from Nephi's vision (1 Nephi 11-14) also appear in Nephi's prophecy (2 Nephi 25-30): 1. Jesus Christ would be crucified. 2. Nephi's descendants would write scripture. 3. God will do a work which will bless the whole world.
Sacred Spaces
After Nephi arrived in the promised land, he and his people built a temple. I imagine him being inspired by King David's deep desire to build a house of the Lord as expressed in some of his psalms. Sacred spaces can help us grow closer to God.
Innovation vs. “Vain Imaginations”
An angel told Nephi that the great and spacious building represents "vain imaginations." Innovation and imagination in the service of worthy goals are good. Innovation and imagination as distractions from our core goals are bad.
“Which Sheddeth Itself Abroad”
Nephi and Paul both testified that God's love is "shed abroad in our hearts." Like light from the sun, God's love shines on all of His children. We can open our hearts to receive that love, and we can in turn share that love with others.
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