Eight of the 39 books in the Old Testament were definitely in the brass plates, and another 16 may have been included. For Book of Mormon prophets, the brass plates were an essential part of their identity: connecting them to intergenerational covenants, testifying of the Savior, and bringing them closer to God.
Shoots from Stumps
Isaiah foresaw a shoot growing from the fallen stump of King David's descendants—new life emerging from what seemed dead. Jesus, a descendant of David, fulfilled that prophecy once, and Joseph Smith fulfilled it again in a time of spiritual confusion and turmoil. God continues to bring shoots from the dead stumps in our lives.
What Does It Mean to “Gird Up Your Loins”?
Throughout the Old Testament, beginning with Passover instructions, "girding one's loins" indicated readiness to act. In modern revelation, the Lord has instructed us nine times to gird up our loins. We do so by taking courage and being mentally prepared to act in righteousness as God's work continues to unfold.
“The Rod of My Mouth”
In the scriptures, a rod represents correction, protection, and guidance. Nephi taught that the iron rod represents the word of God. Isaiah prophesied that God would smite the wicked with "the rod of his mouth." He always speaks the truth, and His words can prompt us to change and return to the path that leads to Him.
Old Testament Prophecies of the Second Coming
Four Old Testament prophecies quoted by Moroni to Joseph Smith teach us how to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ: 1. Strengthen families with priesthood power 2. Gather Israel and preach the gospel 3. Hear Him 4. Receive personal revelation
“A Little Child Shall Lead Them”
In the middle of a prophecy about the Millenium, Isaiah inserted a fascinating phrase: "and a little child shall lead them." Elder Boyd K. Packer said that this phrase has meaning for us today. We can learn much from children, if we are willing to listen.
The Remnant Shall Return
Isaiah's prophecy about the remnant of Israel returning to God assures that no matter how far they are from home, they are not out of God's sight. Book of Mormon authors echo this sentiment: God is mindful of you, wherever you are, and you can come home.
The Branch of the Lord
The "branch of the Lord" in 2 Nephi 14 could mean at least three things: 1. The blessings we receive as we turn our hearts to God. 2. Jesus Christ, who came from the Father 3. We become the branch of the Lord as we bind ourselves to Him
The Root and the Offspring
Jesus was a descendant of King David, but was also his progenitor, the source of his life and spiritual strength. Jesus highlighted these contrasting roles of Creator who lived among us by calling Himself "the root and the offspring of David."
“Reprove the World”
The Holy Ghost is a teacher, a reminder, and a comforter. He is also a reprover. Part of teaching us "all things" is teaching us things that are difficult to hear. The Lord is gathering those who are willing to receive and act upon that feedback.