The Lord's instructions to missionaries in Doctrine and Covenants 84 mirror His instructions to His ancient apostles: Avoid distractions. Trust me to provide the things you need. Those who receive you will be rewarded. If someone rejects you, move on and keep working.
Easter: Peace, Becoming, and Belonging
Elder Gerrit W. Gong identified three gifts we remember at Easter— Atonement, Resurrection, and Restoration. 1. The Atonement of Jesus Christ brings us peace. 2. The Resurrection represents becoming: realizing our full potential. 3. The Restoration of the gospel strengthens relationships, enabling us to have a sense of eternal connection and belonging.
Soul: Spirit and Body
Five important Easter truths: 1. We are embodied spirits. 2. We need a body to be truly happy. 3. Physical death is the separation of our spirit from our body. 4. Jesus Christ was resurrected. 5. Because of Him, we will all be resurrected.
Book of Mormon Elements in Doctrine and Covenants 20
The Articles and Covenants of the Church (D&C 20) outline core doctrines and priesthood duties, drawing heavily from the Book of Mormon. Some passages are quoted directly, while others synthesize multiple passages to affirm core doctrines. By relying on the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery grounded the restored Church on Christ’s gospel.
Moroni’s Collaborative Conclusion
Moroni draws heavily on the writings of his precessors in his concluding remarks. This collaboration with prior prophets enhances the power of his message and helps us to see "how merciful the Lord hath been." in all ages of the world.
“Repentance…Bringeth Unto the Power of the Redeemer”
Only Jesus can save us. He doesn't save us as we are; He saves us by changing us, making us holy. We indicate our willingness to be transformed by repenting. As we follow His "conditions of repentance," we open the door to be transformed by His grace.
Anti-Christ, Anti-Repentance
Korihor was "Anti-Christ" because he denied the existence of Christ. He also denied the reality of sin, but he actually knew better. He later said, "I always knew that there was a God." Deception is contrary to our nature. Our Father is a God of truth.
Arraigned
There were many lawyers in Ammonihah, so it's not surprising that Amulek used legal terminology to describe our future state. When we can visualize ourselves as a defendant in court, we are motivated to seek and receive all the help we need.
Obeying, Honoring, and Sustaining the Law
After King Mosiah's death, the people were obligated to obey the law which they had accepted. In a democracy, we are governed by law, not by individuals. Disciples of Christ have a responsibility to not only obey but also honor and sustain the law.
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.