Welcome to October!
Links for other months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, November, December
October, Week 1
Day 1
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 12.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in this chapter, 3 Nephi 12:48.
48 Therefore I would that ye should be perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect.
3. Read 3 Nephi 12:14–16. What does it mean to be a light? By following Jesus Christ and being an example, we can encourage others to follow him, too.
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 12.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in this chapter, 3 Nephi 12:48.
48 Therefore I would that ye should be perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect.
3. Jesus Christ wants us to become perfect like Him and our Father in Heaven. Becoming perfect is becoming like Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. The higher law that Jesus taught in this chapter can help us understand the character and attributes of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. As we better understand who They are, we can strive to become like Them and gain hope that They will patiently help us as we try to progress.
4. Read the following statement by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, looking for what it teaches about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ’s love.
I am grateful to know that in spite of my imperfections, at least God is perfect—that at least He is, for example, able to love His enemies, because too often, due to the “natural man” and woman in us, you and I are sometimes that enemy. How grateful I am that at least God can bless those who despitefully use Him because, without wanting or intending to do so, we all despitefully use Him sometimes. (Jeffrey R. Holland, “Be Ye Therefore Perfect—Eventually,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 41)
5. Why is it important to understand that even Jesus Christ’s perfection was a process? President Russell M. Nelson taught the following about the definition and process of perfection:
Please note that the word [perfect] does not imply “freedom from error.” …
We need not be dismayed if our earnest efforts toward perfection now seem so arduous [difficult] and endless. Perfection is pending. It can come in full only after the Resurrection and only through the Lord. It awaits all who love him and keep his commandments. (Russell M. Nelson, “Perfection Pending,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 86, 88)
6. What is perfectionism and how can I respond to it? Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
The word perfection … is sometimes misunderstood to mean never making a mistake. Perhaps you or someone you know is trying hard to be perfect in this way. Because such perfection always seems out of reach, even our best efforts can leave us anxious, discouraged, or exhausted. We unsuccessfully try to control our circumstances and the people around us. We fret over weaknesses and mistakes. In fact, the harder we try, the further we may feel from the perfection we seek. …
A misunderstanding of what it means to be perfect can result in perfectionism—an attitude or behavior that takes an admirable desire to be good and turns it into an unrealistic expectation to be perfect now. Perfectionism sometimes arises from the feeling that only those who are perfect deserve to be loved or that we do not deserve to be happy unless we are perfect. (Gerrit W. Gong, “Becoming Perfect in Christ,” Ensign, July 2014, 14–15, 17)
Day 2
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 13.
2. As part of his visit to the Nephites, Jesus Christ taught them some of the same commandments He had taught the people in Jerusalem. He also called 12 disciples to lead his church.
3. Watch the video “Jesus Chooses 12 Disciples.”
4. Listen to the song “I Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 13.
2. Imagine what it must have been like for the people in the land of Bountiful to listen to the resurrected Savior teach. We are blessed to have part of His message recorded in 3 Nephi. These chapters are filled with principles that are as meaningful today as they were to the people who were there when He declared them.
3. Watch the videos “Jesus Christ Teaches and Gives Power to Baptize” and “Jesus Christ Teaches How to Live the Higher Law.”
Day 3
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 15.
2. Jesus Christ taught the people in the land of Bountiful. Each was invited to come and experience His love for themselves. He then helped them understand that He feels this same love for all of God’s children. He desires every person everywhere to be numbered among His sheep.
3. We are often compared to sheep who frequently wander away from Jesus and become lost and scattered.
Shepherds in the Savior’s day often created enclosed “folds,” like the one in this picture, to keep their sheep safe from predators and other dangers. The Savior’s Church is an example of a fold where He protects us from dangers in the world. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ desire to gather everyone into the Savior’s ‘fold.’
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 15.
2. Jesus Christ taught the people in the land of Bountiful. Each was invited to come and experience His love for themselves. He then helped them understand that He feels this same love for all of God’s children. He desires every person everywhere to be numbered among His sheep.
3. We are often compared to sheep who frequently wander away from Jesus and become lost and scattered.
Shepherds in the Savior’s day often created enclosed “folds,” like the one in this picture, to keep their sheep safe from predators and other dangers. The Savior’s Church is an example of a fold where He protects us from dangers in the world. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ desire to gather everyone into the Savior’s ‘fold.’
4. Read the following statement by Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
As the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ views disease in His sheep as a condition that needs treatment, care, and compassion. This shepherd, our Good Shepherd, finds joy in seeing His diseased sheep progress toward healing. …
The Savior’s mortal ministry was indeed characterized by love, compassion, and empathy. He did not disdainfully walk the dusty roads of Galilee and Judea, flinching at the sight of sinners. He did not dodge them in abject horror. No, He ate with them. He helped and blessed, lifted and edified, and replaced fear and despair with hope and joy. Like the true shepherd He is, He seeks us and finds us to offer relief and hope. (Dale G. Renlund, “Our Good Shepherd,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 30)
5. Watch the videos “Jesus Christ Declares the Law is Fulfilled in Him” and “Jesus Christ Declares the Nephites are Among His Sheep.”
Day 4
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 16.
2. Jesus Christ prophesied that in the last days, the Gentiles would believe in Him and the house of Israel would not believe in Him. There will also be unbelieving Gentiles who will scatter and mistreat members of the house of Israel. The Lord promised to keep His covenant with the house of Israel by bringing the gospel to them. If we repent and return to Jesus Christ, then we will be numbered among His people.
3. Listen to the song “Families Can Be Together Forever.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 16.
2. Read 3 Nephi 16:6–7. What did the Lord say would happen in the last days because the Gentiles would believe in Him and the house of Israel would not believe in Him? Jesus Christ prophesied that there will also be unbelieving Gentiles in the last days who will scatter and mistreat members of the house of Israel.
3. The Lord promised to keep His covenant with the house of Israel by bringing the gospel to them. If we repent and return to Jesus Christ, then we will be numbered among His people.
4. Watch the video “Jesus Christ Will Bring Forth His Gospel in the Latter Days.”
Week 2
Day 1
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 17.
2. After teaching the multitude, the Savior announced it was time for Him to go. Nevertheless, their tears and yearning that He would stay a little longer touched His heart. In a marvelous display of compassion, He healed them, prayed with them, and blessed their children one by one.
3. Watch the video “Jesus Christ Blesses the Children.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 17.
2. It had already been a long day for the Nephite multitude when the Savior announced it was time for Him to leave. Nevertheless, the multitude’s tears and yearning that He would stay a little longer touched His heart. In a marvelous display of compassion, He healed them, prayed with them, and blessed their children one by one.
3. Jesus Christ is filled with compassion toward you. Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
It is meaningful to observe that Jesus’s compassionate acts were not occasional or mandated manifestations based on a list of tasks to be completed but everyday expressions of the reality of His pure love for God and His children and His abiding desire to help them. (Ulisses Soares, “The Savior’s Abiding Compassion,” Liahona, Nov. 2021, 14)
4. What kinds of afflictions did the Savior heal the people from? President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency taught:
When the Savior appeared to the righteous in the New World, He called for persons to come forward who were lame or blind or had other physical ailments. He extended the same invitation to those “that are afflicted in any manner” (3 Nephi 17:7). “Bring them hither,” He said, “and I will heal them” (v. 7). The Book of Mormon tells how the multitude brought forward “all them that were afflicted in any manner” (v. 9). This must have included persons with every kind of physical or emotional or mental affliction, and the scripture testifies that Jesus “did heal them every one” (v. 9). (Dallin H. Oaks, “He Heals the Heavy Laden,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2006, 6)
5. Watch the video “Jesus Christ and Angels Minister With Compassion.”
Day 2
Primary
1. Today read 3 Nephi 18:1-14.
2. We have the chance to take the Sacrament almost every Sunday. In this chapter, Jesus taught the people how they could take the Sacrament. As we partake of the sacrament and always remember the Savior, we will have His Spirit to be with us.
3. Watch the video “Jesus Shares the Sacrament.”
4. Listen to the song “I Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Today read 3 Nephi 18:1-14.
2. We have the chance to take the Sacrament almost every Sunday. In this chapter, Jesus taught the people how they could take the Sacrament. As we partake of the sacrament and always remember the Savior, we will have His Spirit to be with us.
3. What can make my sacrament experience more meaningful? Elder Peter F. Meurs of the Seventy taught:
I invite all of us to consider five ways to increase the impact and power of our regular participation in the sacred ordinance of the sacrament, an ordinance that can help us become holy.
1. Prepare in Advance.
2. Arrive Early.
3. Sing and Learn from the Words of the Sacrament Hymn.
4. Spiritually Participate in the Sacrament Prayers.
5. Ponder and Remember Him as the Sacrament Emblems Are Passed.
I testify of the multitude of blessings available to us as we increase our preparation for and spiritual participation in the ordinance of the sacrament. (Peter F. Meurs, “The Sacrament Can Help Us Become Holy,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2016, 85–87)
4. Watch the videos “Jesus Christ Blesses Bread in Remembrance of Him” and “Jesus Christ Blesses Wine in Remembrance of Him.”
Day 3
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 18:15-39.
2. Many people pray every day. Some prayers can be more meaningful than others. Jesus Christ not only taught His followers to “always pray unto the Father”, but He also showed them how to pray.
3. Watch the video “Jesus Christ Teaches About the Sacrament and Prayer.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 18:15-39.
2. Many people pray every day. Some prayers can be more meaningful than others. Jesus Christ not only taught His followers to “always pray unto the Father”, but He also showed them how to pray.
3. How does prayer bless families? President Henry B. Eyring of the First Presidency shared:
When you pray with and for family members, you will feel your and the Savior’s love for them. That will become more and more your spiritual gift as you seek it. Your family members will feel it as you pray with greater faith. (Henry B. Eyring, “Women and Gospel Learning in the Home,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 60)
4. What can I pray for? President M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
I invite you to pray always. Pray for your family. Pray for the leaders of nations. Pray for the courageous people who are on the front lines in the current battles against social, environmental, political, and biological plagues that impact all people throughout the world: the rich and the poor, the young and the old.
The Savior taught us to not limit who we pray for. He said, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” [Matthew 5:44]. (M. Russell Ballard, “Watch Ye Therefore, and Pray Always,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 78)
Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles declared:
Petitioning Heavenly Father for the blessings we desire in our personal lives is good and proper. However, praying earnestly for others, both those whom we love and those who despitefully use us, is also an important element of meaningful prayer. Just as expressing gratitude more often in our prayers enlarges the conduit for revelation, so praying for others with all of the energy of our souls increases our capacity to hear and to heed the voice of the Lord. (David A. Bednar, “Pray Always,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 43)
5. Watch the following videos:
Day 4
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 19.
2. There was nothing the twelve Nephite disciples wanted more than to have the Holy Ghost with them. This was what they prayed for after the Savior finished the first day of His ministry among them. What do we need to do to have the Holy Ghost to be with us?
3. Watch the video “Jesus Christ Teaches and Prays with the Nephites.”
4. Listen to the song “Families Can Be Together Forever.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 19.
2. There was nothing the twelve Nephite disciples desired more than to have the companionship of the Holy Ghost. This was the subject of their prayers to Heavenly Father after the Savior concluded the first day of His ministry among them. What do we need to do to have the Holy Ghost to be with us?
3. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained how desire and prayer can help us have the Spirit with us.
Do we … remember to pray earnestly and consistently for that which we should most desire, even the Holy Ghost? Or do we become distracted by the cares of the world and the routine of daily living and take for granted or even neglect this most valuable of all gifts? Receiving the Holy Ghost starts with our sincere and constant desire for His companionship in our lives. (David A. Bednar, “Receive the Holy Ghost,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 96)
4. How can the Holy Ghost be our constant companion? Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
If we are striving to be and become good—not perfect right now, but gradually getting better—if we are honoring our covenants, seeking for the companionship of the Holy Ghost, worthily partaking of the sacrament and retaining a remission of our sins, and pressing forward, then indeed we can have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. We are not “preparing to receive revelation”; we are “living in revelation.” (David A. Bednar, The Spirit of Revelation [2021], 7)
5. Watch the video “The Disciples Minister and Jesus Christ Prays for the People.”
Week 3
Day 1
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 20:11–13, 18, and 22, 3 Nephi 21:1–2, and 7, and 3 Nephi 21:9–11.
2. Why do you think the Lord has repeatedly instructed His people to gather physically and spiritually? During the Savior’s ministry among the Nephites, He declared that Heavenly Father would remember His covenant to gather scattered Israel. He revealed signs to help us recognize when the latter-day gathering had begun.
3. Listen to the song “Families Can Be Together Forever.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 20:11–13, 18, and 22, 3 Nephi 21:1–2, and 7, and 3 Nephi 21:9–11.
2. Why do you think the Lord has repeatedly instructed His people to gather physically and spiritually? During the Savior’s ministry among the Nephites, He declared that Heavenly Father would remember His covenant to gather scattered Israel. He revealed signs to help us recognize when the latter-day gathering had begun.
3. God will fulfill His covenant to gather the house of Israel in the last days. How can I assist the Lord in the gathering of Israel? President Russell M. Nelson taught:
Ours is the responsibility to help fulfill the Abrahamic covenant. Ours is the seed foreordained and prepared to bless all people of the world. That is why priesthood duty includes missionary work. After some 4,000 years of anticipation and preparation, this is the appointed day when the gospel is to be taken to the kindreds of the earth. This is the time of the promised gathering of Israel. And we get to participate! Isn’t that exciting? The Lord is counting on us and [those] who worthily serve as missionaries in this great time of the gathering of Israel. (Russell M. Nelson, “Covenants,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 88)
4. What is the Book of Mormon’s role in the gathering of Israel? President Russell M. Nelson taught:
The Book of Mormon is central to this work. It declares the doctrine of the gathering. It causes people to learn about Jesus Christ, to believe His gospel, and to join His Church. In fact, if there were no Book of Mormon, the promised gathering of Israel would not occur. (Russell M. Nelson, “The Gathering of Scattered Israel,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2006, 80)
5. Watch the video Jesus Christ Explains How He Will Gather Israel.
Day 2
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 23.
2. In 3 Nephi 23, Jesus emphasized the importance of preserving and studying the scriptures and the words of prophets. The Savior commands us to pay attention to His words and search diligently the words of the prophets. Do you study the scriptures? Why, or why not? What difference does it make in your life?
3. Listen to the song “I Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 23.
2. In 3 Nephi 23, Jesus emphasized the importance of preserving and studying the scriptures and the words of prophets. The Savior commands us to pay attention to His words and search diligently the words of the prophets. Do you study the scriptures? Why, or why not? What difference does it make in your life?
3. What are some blessings that can come from studying the scriptures? Elder Richard G. Scott (1928–2015) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
Pondering a passage of scripture can be a key to unlock revelation and the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Ghost. Scriptures can calm an agitated soul, giving peace, hope, and a restoration of confidence in one’s ability to overcome the challenges of life. They have potent power to heal emotional challenges when there is faith in the Savior. They can accelerate physical healing. (Richard G. Scott, “The Power of Scripture,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 6)
4. How can reading the Book of Mormon help my family? President Henry B. Eyring of the First Presidency taught:
Through the Book of Mormon the Lord can also teach us about being with and serving people. This book reveals the will of the Lord for family life in a way that the other scriptures don’t even approach. I believe that is largely because of its interesting structure. It’s about families; it’s about people’s relationships. It starts with families, it ends with families, and we come to love these families. (Henry B. Eyring, “A Discussion on Scripture Study,” Ensign or Liahona, July 2005, 22)
5. How can I improve my own scripture study? Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
One of the best ways to draw near unto Him and to both learn about and become more like the Lord Jesus Christ is to consistently study the holy scriptures—to daily “feast upon the words of Christ” (2 Ne. 32:3).
Please notice that I used the word study and not the word read. Studying and feasting suggest a focus and an intensity that reach far beyond casual reading or quick perusing. Studying and feasting, followed by sincere prayer and steadfast application of the truths and principles we learn, yield personal resolve, spiritual commitment, and the bright light of testimony. Studying, learning, praying, and appropriately applying gospel truths are all key elements in the process of coming unto the Savior. (David A. Bednar, “Because We Have Them before Our Eyes,” New Era, Apr. 2006, 4)
Week 4
Day 1
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 27.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in this chapter, 3 Nephi 27:20.
20 Now this is the commandment: Repent, all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me and be baptized in my name, that ye may be sanctified by the reception of the Holy Ghost, that ye may stand spotless before me at the last day.
3. Jesus Christ taught His Nephite disciples that His Church should be called after His name and built upon His gospel.
4. Watch the video “Jesus Christ Blesses His Disciples.”
5. Listen to the song “I Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 27.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in this chapter, 3 Nephi 27:20.
20 Now this is the commandment: Repent, all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me and be baptized in my name, that ye may be sanctified by the reception of the Holy Ghost, that ye may stand spotless before me at the last day.
3. Jesus Christ taught His Nephite disciples that His Church should be called after His name and built upon His gospel. President Russell M. Nelson shared reasons why it is important that we use the correct name of the Church:
The name of the Church is not negotiable. When the Savior clearly states what the name of His Church should be and even precedes His declaration with “Thus shall my church be called,” He is serious. And if we allow nicknames to be used or adopt or even sponsor those nicknames ourselves, He is offended.
What’s in a name or, in this case, a nickname? When it comes to nicknames of the Church, such as the “LDS Church,” the “Mormon Church,” or the “Church of the Latter-day Saints,” the most important thing in those names is the absence of the Savior’s name. To remove the Lord’s name from the Lord’s Church is a major victory for Satan. When we discard the Savior’s name, we are subtly disregarding all that Jesus Christ did for us—even His Atonement. (Russell M. Nelson, “The Correct Name of the Church,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 87–88)
4. The true Church of Jesus Christ must be called by His name and be built upon His gospel. What do you think it means for the Savior’s Church to be built upon His gospel?
5. Watch the video “Jesus Christ Declares the Name of His Church and His Doctrine.”
Day 2
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 28.
2. One of the greatest desires we can have in our lives is to help other people receive the blessings offered by Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Three of the Nephite disciples demonstrated this in a unique way when they desired to remain on the earth and bring souls to Jesus Christ until His Second Coming.
3. Watch the video “Jesus Goes Back to His Father.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 28.
2. One of the greatest desires we can have in our lives is to help other people receive the blessings offered by Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Three of the Nephite disciples demonstrated this in a unique way when they desired to remain on the earth and bring souls to Jesus Christ until His Second Coming.
3. What is the difference between translation, transfiguration, and resurrection? The three Nephite disciples were first transfigured in order to “behold the things of God” (3 Nephi 28:13–15) and then translated so they could remain on the earth until the Second Coming (3 Nephi 28:37–40). The following definitions can help clarify the differences between translation, transfiguration, and resurrection.
- Translated beings. “Persons who are changed so that they do not experience pain or death until their resurrection to immortality” (Guide to the Scriptures, “Translated Beings,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
- Transfiguration. “The condition of persons who are temporarily changed in appearance and nature—that is, lifted to a higher spiritual level—so that they can endure the presence and glory of heavenly beings” (Guide to the Scriptures, “Transfiguration,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
- Resurrection. “The reuniting of the spirit body with the physical body of flesh and bones after death. After resurrection, the spirit and body will never again be separated, and the person will become immortal” (Guide to the Scriptures, “Resurrection,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
3. As we make efforts to bring souls to Jesus Christ, we can experience joy. Why is our desire to help bring others to Christ so important today? President Russell M. Nelson taught:
The gospel of Jesus Christ has never been needed more than it is today. Contention violates everything the Savior stood for and taught. I love the Lord Jesus Christ and testify that His gospel is the only enduring solution for peace.
His gospel is the only answer when many in the world are stunned with fear. … We have the sacred responsibility to share the power and peace of Jesus Christ with all who will listen and who will let God prevail in their lives. …
… The spiritual darkness in the world makes the light of Jesus Christ needed more than ever. Everyone deserves the chance to know about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Every person deserves to know where they can find the hope and peace that “[pass] all understanding” [Philippians 4:7]. (Russell M. Nelson, “Preaching the Gospel of Peace,” Liahona, May 2022, 6, 7)
4. Can others feel joy when I share the gospel? Elder Marcus B. Nash of the Seventy taught:
When a person learns the glorious purpose of life, comes to understand that Christ forgives and succors those who follow Him, and then chooses to follow Christ into the waters of baptism, life changes for the better—even when the external circumstances of life do not.
A radiantly happy sister I met in Onitsha, Nigeria, told me that from the time she learned the gospel and was baptized (and now I use her words), “everything is good for me. I am happy. I am in heaven.” Sharing the gospel kindles joy and hope in the souls of both giver and receiver. Truly, “how great shall be your joy” [Doctrine and Covenants 18:15] as you share the gospel! Sharing the gospel is joy upon joy, hope upon hope. (Marcus B. Nash, “Hold Up Your Light,” Liahona, Nov. 2021, 71)
Day 3
Primary
1. Read 3 Nephi 29 and 3 Nephi 30.
2. As Mormon concluded his account of the Savior’s visit among the Nephites, he explained that the coming forth of the Book of Mormon would be a sign that the Lord was fulfilling His covenant with the house of Israel.
3. Listen to the song “Families Can Be Together Forever.”
Youth
1. Read 3 Nephi 29 and 3 Nephi 30.
2. As Mormon concluded his account of the Savior’s visit among the Nephites, he explained that the coming forth of the Book of Mormon would be a sign that the Lord was fulfilling His covenant with the house of Israel. He also recorded the Savior’s invitation for all people to repent and be numbered among the house of Israel.
3. If we repent, come unto Jesus Christ, and be baptized, then we will receive a remission of our sins, be filled with the Holy Ghost, and be numbered with the house of Israel. Read the following statements from True to the Faith:
It does not matter if your lineage in the house of Israel is through bloodlines or by adoption. As a member of the Church, you are counted as a descendant of Abraham and an heir to all the promises and blessings contained in the Abrahamic covenant” (True to the Faith: A Gospel Reference [2004], 112).
As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you are a child of the covenant (see 3 Nephi 20:25–26). You have received the everlasting gospel and inherited the same promises given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. You have the right to the blessings of the priesthood and to eternal life, according to your faithfulness in receiving the ordinances of salvation and keeping the associated covenants. Nations of the earth will be blessed by your efforts and by the labors of your posterity” (True to the Faith, 5–6).
4. President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985) taught the following about the gathering of Israel:
The gathering of Israel consists of joining the true church and their coming to a knowledge of the true God. … Any person, therefore, who has accepted the restored gospel, and who now seeks to worship the Lord in his own tongue and with the Saints in the nations where he lives, has complied with the law of the gathering of Israel and is heir to all of the blessings promised the Saints in these last days” (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 439)
Day 4
Primary
1. Today read 4 Nephi 1. This is the only chapter in 4 Nephi, and tells the story of what happened to the Nephites after Jesus visited them.
2. Listen to the song “Books in the Book of Mormon.” Make sure you can sing it through 4 Nephi.
3. For almost 200 years after Jesus Christ came, the Nephites and the Lamanites lived in peace and happiness. Sadly, after that, the people became wicked again–very wicked. The prophet Ammaron was forced to hide ‘the sacred record’ (the scriptures) so they would not be destroyed.
4. Watch the video “Peace in America.”
Youth
1. Today read 4 Nephi 1. This is the only chapter in 4 Nephi, and tells the story of what happened to the Nephites after Jesus visited them.
2. Listen to the song “Books in the Book of Mormon.” Make sure you can sing it through 4 Nephi.
3. The book of 4 Nephi contains the account of the people who lived after the Savior’s visit to the Americas. As you study their experiences, look for the impact that Jesus Christ and His gospel had on these people. Think about how these teachings could impact the way you choose to live your life.
4. When we are converted unto the Lord, we are blessed with happiness and unity as the children of Christ. Why do you think being converted to Jesus Christ and living His gospel can produce such blessings? Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared the following observation about why these people were able to live in such a state of happiness and unity.
What is the key to this breakthrough in contented, happy living? It is embedded there in the text in one sentence: “The love of God … did dwell in the hearts of the people” [4 Nephi 1:15]. When the love of God sets the tone for our own lives, for our relationships to each other and ultimately our feeling for all humankind, then old distinctions, limiting labels, and artificial divisions begin to pass away, and peace increases. That is precisely what happened in our Book of Mormon example. No longer were there Lamanites, or Jacobites, or Josephites, or Zoramites. There were no “-ites” at all. The people had taken on just one transcendent identity. They were all, it says, to be known as “the children of Christ” [4 Nephi 1:17]. (Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Greatest Possession,” Liahona, Nov. 2021, 9)
5. How can having the love of God in my heart help me experience greater unity with others? Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
Unity requires effort. It develops when we cultivate the love of God in our hearts and we focus on our eternal destiny. We are united by our common, primary identity as children of God and our commitment to the truths of the restored gospel. In turn, our love of God and our discipleship of Jesus Christ generate genuine concern for others. (Dale G. Renlund, “The Peace of Christ Abolishes Enmity,” Liahona, Nov. 2021, 84)
