Enoch knew Adam because Adam was still alive during much of his ministry. But Enoch also recognized the value of the spiritual record Adam had kept, which he called "a book of remembrance." This written record was one way Adam fulfilled God's commandment: "Teach these things freely unto your children."
Contents of the Brass Plates
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.
Recorded on Earth and in Heaven
The records we keep may be longer-lasting than we realize. Joseph Smith taught that some of "the books" by which we will be judged are the records we keep on the earth. Wilford Woodruff urged us to write our important experiences, promising that what we record on earth will be recorded in heaven.
A Proclamation
Anyone can declare something, but only a person with authority can proclaim it. Ancient prophets proclaimed truths to kings by divine authority. Modern prophets have also issued six declarations with specific messages and warnings for church members, world leaders, and all people.
My Education Plan
Solomon urged us, "With all thy getting, get understanding." Nephi praised his parents for teaching him "in all [their] learning." And in modern revelation, the Lord instructed us to "seek learning, even by study and also by faith." This counsel applies to us at every stage of life. We need to organize our ongoing education.
Tradition!
Traditions—repeated activities which carry a deeper meaning—can help us instill values in the next generation. However, the Book of Mormon points out that incorrect traditions can inhibit growth, and modern prophets emphasize that traditions alone are insufficient. We should cultivate faith-building traditions which encourage people to open their hearts and receive God's grace.
What and How to Teach Your Children
Moses and King Benjamin emphasized the importance of parents teaching our children spiritual truths. In modern revelation, the Lord specifically emphasized repentance, faith, baptism, the gift of the Holy Ghost, and prayer. President Nelson also explained the importance of teaching by persuasion, not by compulsion. How we teach is as important as what we teach.
Devoted to Study
Scripture study requires time and effort but leads to personal revelation and spiritual growth. Prophets like Nephi, Jacob, and Benjamin emphasized diligent searching of the scriptures. Jesus commanded us to study Isaiah and the other prophets. By dedicating time daily to the scriptures, we gain insights, improve decision-making, and prepare ourselves to share true principles.
Searching
We normally "search" for something in particular. But the Savior's instruction to "search the prophets," may have a more general meaning. We may benefit from simply asking what the prophets were trying to say and what their messages mean for us.
Retain the Name
Benjamin invited his people to take upon themselves the name of Christ after they had been spiritually reborn and had made a covenant with God. What more did they need to do? They needed to engage in the relationship. Relationships require effort. They are not static.