Lesson 42: "This is My Gospel"

Reading:
3 Nephi 27 & 28
4 Nephi 1

Additional reading: 
Doctrine and Covenants 39:1–6
The Gospel of Jesus Christ - April 2008 General Conference - L. Tom Perry
Handbook 2 - 1.2.1  The Gospel of Jesus Christ
Articles of Faith - Particularly 1-4 and 13

Overview:
a. 3 Nephi 27. The Savior commands His twelve Nephite disciples to call the Church after His name. He expounds His gospel.
b. 3 Nephi 28. One by one, the Savior grants His twelve Nephite disciples the desires of their hearts. Three of the disciples desire and are given power to remain on earth to preach the gospel until the Savior returns in His glory.
c. 4 Nephi 1. All the people are converted, and they establish a society of perfect peace. Many years later, the majority of the people dwindle in unbelief and reject the gospel.

Questions to Ponder:
a. The Savior commands His Nephite disciples to call the Church after His name. He expounds His gospel. 3 Nephi 27.

• Jesus’ Nephite disciples were “united in mighty prayer and fasting” when Jesus came to them and asked, “What will ye that I shall give unto you?” (3 Nephi 27:1–2). 
  • What did the disciples ask of Him? (See 3 Nephi 27:3.) 
  • What was His answer to their question? (See 3 Nephi 27:4–9.)
• The Lord has commanded that His restored Church, like His Church among the Nephites, be called after His name (D&C 115:4). 
  • Why is it important for us to remember that the Church is called after the name of Jesus Christ?
• Jesus said, “Whatsoever ye shall do, ye shall do it in my name” (3 Nephi 27:7). 
  • What are some things we do in the name of Christ? 
    • President Boyd K. Packer said:
    • “Every prayer we offer is in His name. Every ordinance performed is in His name. Every baptism, confirmation, blessing, ordination, every sermon, every testimony is concluded with the invocation of His sacred name. It is in His name that we heal the sick and perform other miracles of which we do not, cannot, speak.
    • “In the sacrament we take upon ourselves the name of Christ. We covenant to remember Him and keep His commandments. He is present in all that we believe” (“The Peaceable Followers of Christ,” Ensign, Apr. 1998, 64).
• Jesus taught that in addition to being called after His name, His Church must be “built upon [His] gospel.” He said, “If it so be that the church is built upon my gospel then will the Father show forth his own works in it” (3 Nephi 27:10). 
  • What are the works of the Father? (See 3 Nephi 21:1–9, 24–29; Moses 1:39.) 
  • How have you seen these works in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
  • When we as Latter-day Saints bear testimony, we often say that they know the gospel is true. 
    • How they would respond if, after saying “I know the gospel is true,” you were asked, “What is the gospel?”
  • After Jesus said that His Church must be built on His gospel, He gave His disciples a concise, complete definition of His gospel. (See 3 Nephi 27:13–22).
• What did the Savior promise to those who live according to His gospel? (See 3 Nephi 27:21–22.)
• Jesus asked His disciples, “What manner of men ought ye to be?” 
  • What was the answer to this question? (See 3 Nephi 27:27).
  • What can you do to be more like the Savior.

b. The Savior grants the desires of His twelve disciples. 3 Nephi 28

• Nine asked that their ministries might end when they reached a certain age and that they might then go speedily to Him in His kingdom. 
• The last three Nephite disciples wanted to remain on earth and bring souls to Christ until the end of the world. 
  • Jesus said that these disciples were “more blessed” because of their desire (3 Nephi 28:7). 
  • What can we learn from this statement? (See D&C 15:6; 16:6; 18:10–16.)
• In response to their request, the three disciples were transfigured, meaning that their bodies were changed so they “could behold the things of God” (3 Nephi 28:13–15). Then they were translated. 
  • What does the account in 3 Nephi 28 teach about translated beings? (See 3 Nephi 28:7–40). 

   a. Translated beings never taste of death or endure the pains of death (3 Nephi 28:7–8, 38).
b. When the Savior comes in His glory, they will be “changed in the twinkling of an eye from mortality to immortality” (3 Nephi 28:8).
c. Except for the sorrow they feel for the sins of the world, they do not experience pain or sorrow (3 Nephi 28:9, 38).
d. They help people become converted to the Lord (3 Nephi 28:9, 18, 23, 29–30).
e. They cannot be killed or harmed in any way (3 Nephi 28:19–22).
f. Satan cannot tempt them or have any power over them (3 Nephi 28:39).
g. They remain in a translated state until the Judgment Day, when they will be resurrected and received into the kingdom of God (3 Nephi 28:40).
c. After many years of peace, the majority of the people dwindle in unbelief and reject the gospel.  4 Nephi 1

• According to verses from 4 Nephi 1:1–18 what are some of the characteristics of the people described in these verses?
• For many years after Jesus’ visit, there was no contention among the people (4 Nephi 1:2, 4, 13, 15–18). 
  • Why was there no contention? (See 4 Nephi 1:15.) 
  • How can we become like the righteous people described in 4 Nephi? 
  • What can we do so that the love of God will dwell in our hearts?
    • President Gordon B. Hinckley said: “If the world is to be improved, the process of love must make a change in [our] hearts. … It can do so when we look beyond self to give our love to God and others, and do so with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all our mind” (“And the Greatest of These Is Love,” Ensign, Mar. 1984, 5).
• During this period of peace, there was not “any manner of -ites” (4 Nephi 1:17). 
  • What does this mean? (See 4 Nephi 1:2–3, 15–17.) 
  • What problems exist today because of distinctions between groups of people? 
  • In what ways can the gospel help us become united, despite our differences?
• What contributed to the end of this long era of peace? (See 4 Nephi 1:20–46.)

a. Division and the creation of classes (4 Nephi 1:20, 26, 35)
b. Pride and greed because of riches (4 Nephi 1:23–25, 41, 43; see also 3 Nephi 27:32)
c. Churches that professed to know Christ but denied most of His gospel (4 Nephi 1:26–29, 34)
d. Churches built up to help people get gain (4 Nephi 1:26–29, 41)
e. Hard-heartedness (4 Nephi 1:31)
f. Persecution of Christ’s followers (4 Nephi 1:29–34)
g. Parents teaching children not to believe in Christ (4 Nephi 1:38)
h. Parents teaching children to hate (4 Nephi 1:39)
i. Secret combinations (4 Nephi 1:42, 46)

• The attitudes and actions described in 4 Nephi 1:40–46 led to the Nephites’ destruction. 
  • Why is it important for us to examine this account?

Lesson 41: "He Did Expound All Things unto Them"

Reading:
3 Nephi 22-26

The Marriage Metaphor - Richard K. Hart

Coming unto Christ by Searching the Scriptures - Elder Merrill J. Bateman

A Reservoir of Living Water - Elder David A. Bednar (This has been on our reading assignment before but I'm putting it on here again because it is so good and worth a second read)

Questions to Ponder

1. The Savior quotes some of Isaiah’s prophecies about the house of Israel.

• Isaiah exhorted the house of Israel, “Enlarge the place of thy tent … [and] lengthen thy cords and strengthen thy stakes” (3 Nephi 22:2). What do the tent and the stakes symbolize? (See the quotation below.) What do you think it means to “enlarge the place of thy tent” and “strengthen thy stakes?”
  President Ezra Taft Benson said:
  “The prophets likened latter-day Zion to a great tent encompassing the earth. That tent was supported by cords fastened to stakes. Those stakes, of course, are various geographical organizations spread out over the earth. Presently, Israel is being gathered to the various stakes of Zion. …
  “… Stakes are a defense for the Saints from enemies both seen and unseen. The defense is direction provided through priesthood channels that strengthens testimony and promotes family solidarity and individual righteousness” (“Strengthen Thy Stakes,” Ensign, Jan. 1991, 2, 4).
  
• What can we do individually and as families to ensure that our stakes are a refuge and a defense against evil?
• How did Isaiah describe the relationship between the Lord and the house of Israel? (See 3 Nephi 22:4–10) What can this description teach us about the Lord’s devotion to His people?
  Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught:
  “The imagery of Jehovah as bridegroom and Israel as bride is among the most commonly used metaphors in scripture, being used by the Lord and his prophets to describe the relationship between Deity and the children of the covenant. … Christ has, on occasion, been rightfully angry with backsliding Israel, but that has always been brief and temporary—‘a small moment.’ Compassion and mercy always return and prevail in a most reassuring way. The mountains and the hills may disappear. The water of the great seas may dry up. … But the Lord’s kindness and peace will never be taken from his covenant people. He has sworn with a heavenly oath that he will not be wroth with them forever” (Christ and the New Covenant [1997], 290).
  
• How did the Lord describe the place to which the house of Israel would be gathered in the last days? (See 3 Nephi 22:11–12; see also Revelation 21:18–21.) What are the promises made to those who will live in this place? (See 3 Nephi 22:13–17.) How can these promises give strength to those who are afflicted?


• After Jesus had quoted these prophecies, He said to the people, “Ye ought to search these things” (3 Nephi 23:1). What does it mean to search the scriptures instead of merely read them?Elder Henry B. Eyring said: “We treasure the word of God not only by reading the words of the scriptures but by studying them. We may be nourished more by pondering a few words, allowing the Holy Ghost to make them treasures to us, than by passing quickly and superficially over whole chapters of scripture” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1997, 115; or Ensign, Nov. 1997, 84).
  
• How have you been blessed as you have studied the scriptures?
• Why was it important that the people record the Savior’s words? (See 3 Nephi 23:3–5.)
• The Savior commanded the people, “Search the prophets, for many there be that testify of these things” (3 Nephi 23:5). Of what do the prophets testify? How have you been strengthened by the testimonies of ancient and modern prophets?

2. The Savior commands the people to add to their records.

• Jesus commanded the Nephites to add to their records a prophecy made by Samuel the Lamanite. In this prophecy, Samuel said that “many saints [would] arise from the dead, and [would] appear to many, and [would] minister unto them” (3 Nephi 23:6–13). Why do you think this particular record was important?
• After Jesus told the people to write Samuel’s prophecy, what did He command them to do? (See 3 Nephi 23:14.) In what specific ways can we more effectively teach the words of the Savior?
• Jesus also commanded the people to write some of the words of the prophet Malachi (3 Nephi 24:1). Why were the words of Malachi absent from the Nephites’ records?
• What teachings of Malachi are of special importance to us? (See 3 Nephi 24:1, 8–18 and 25:1–6
  • 3 Nephi 24:1; compare Malachi 3:1. What is the messenger sent to prepare the way for the Lord’s Second Coming? (See D&C 45:9.) In what manner might Joseph Smith be considered a messenger for the last dispensation?
  • 3 Nephi 24:8–12; compare Malachi 3:8–12. What blessings are promised in these verses to those who pay tithes and offerings? How have you been blessed as you have paid tithes and offerings?
  • 3 Nephi 24:13–18; compare Malachi 3:13–18. Why might some people believe that “it is vain to serve God”? (See 3 Nephi 24:14–15.) How can we remain steadfast in our faith even when evil seems to be prospering?
  • 3 Nephi 25:1–6; compare Malachi 4:1–6. What does it mean to be left without root or branch? Whom did the Lord say He would send before the Second Coming? When and where did Elijah return? (See D&C 110:13–16.) What keys did he restore?

3. The Savior expounds all things from the beginning.

• In his record, Mormon included only “the lesser part” of what Jesus taught the people (3 Nephi 26:8). How does having only this small part try our faith? How can we receive “the greater things”? (See 3 Nephi 26:9.)
  President Spencer W. Kimball said:
  “I have had many people ask me through the years, ‘When do you think we will get the balance of the Book of Mormon records?’ And I have said, ‘How many in the congregation would like to read the sealed portion of the plates?’ And almost always there is a 100-percent response. And then I ask the same congregation, ‘How many of you have read the part that has been opened to us?’ And there are many who have not read the Book of Mormon, the unsealed portion. We are quite often looking for the spectacular, the unobtainable. I have found many people who want to live the higher laws when they do not live the lower laws” (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 531–32).
  
• (See 3 Nephi 26:14, 16) What do these verses indicate about how the Savior regards children?
• How did the Nephites who had witnessed these events treat each other? (See 3 Nephi 26:19–21.) How can we follow their example in our marriages, families, wards, and stakes?

Lesson 40: “Then Will I Gather Them In”

Purpose:

To help class members understand the latter-day work of gathering Israel and establishing Zion.

Reading:

3 Nephi 16, 20, and 21

Additional reading: 

3 Nephi 29–30; 

Mormon 5:9–24; 

Articles of Faith 1:10; 

Bible Dictionary, “Gentile,” 679–80; “Israel,” 708.

The Gathering of Scattered Israel - Russell M. Nelson

Come to Zion - Elder D. Todd Christofferson

Overview:

These chapters contain part of the resurrected Savior’s teachings to the Nephites. 

In these chapters, the Lord teaches and prophesies of the Restoration of the gospel and the gathering of the house of Israel in the last days.

Questions to Ponder:

1. The Savior prophesies of the scattering of the house of Israel.

• What is the house of Israel?
• Why was Israel scattered? (See 3 Nephi 16:4).

2. The Savior prophesies of the spiritual gathering of the house of Israel.

• Who are the Gentiles? (See Bible Dictionary, “Gentile,” 679).
• What do the Gentiles have to do with the scattering and gathering of Israel?  (See 3 Nephi 16:7–9 and 21:1–5).
• What is the gathering of Israel?  (See 3 Nephi 16:4, 12; 20:10–13). 
• President Spencer W. Kimball explained: “The ‘gathering of Israel’ is effected when the people of the faraway countries accept the gospel and remain in their native lands. The gathering of Israel for Mexicans is in Mexico; in Scandinavia, for those of the northern countries; the gathering place for the Germans is in Germany; and the Polynesians, in the islands; for the Brazilians, in Brazil; for the Argentines, in Argentina” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1975, 4; or Ensign, May 1975, 4).
• What sign has been given to show that the latter-day gathering of Israel has begun?  (See 3 Nephi 21:2–7 and 29:1–2).
• How have the “sayings” and “works” of the Nephites come forth to the Gentiles? 
• What are some roles that the Book of Mormon plays in the gathering of Israel? (Compare 3 Nephi 16:4, 12 and 20:10–13 with 1 Nephi 6:3–4 and the title page of the Book of Mormon.)
• The Lord spoke of a servant who would help in the “great and … marvelous work” of bringing forth the Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:9–10). Who was this servant? (See 2 Nephi 3:3–8, 11–12 and 3 Nephi 16:7).
• What did the Lord promise to do after the fulness of the gospel was restored through the Gentiles?  (See 3 Nephi 16:11–12).
• The covenant that the Lord promised to remember was the Abrahamic covenant (See 3 Nephi 20:25, 27, 29; 21:4; Mormon 5:20). 
• What are the blessings and responsibilities of the Abrahamic covenant? (See Genesis 17:1–8; Abraham 2:6, 9–11.)
• What will happen to Gentiles who repent and turn to God? (See 2 Nephi 30:2; 3 Nephi 16:13; 21:6, 22. 
• President Joseph Fielding Smith said: “Every person who embraces the gospel becomes of the house of Israel. In other words, they become members of the chosen lineage, or Abraham’s children through Isaac and Jacob unto whom the promises were made. The great majority of those who become members of the Church are literal descendants of Abraham through Ephraim, son of Joseph. Those who are not literal descendants of Abraham and Israel must become such, and when they are baptized and confirmed they are grafted into the tree and are entitled to all the rights and privileges as heirs” (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 3:246).
• As members of the Church, what are our responsibilities in the gathering of Israel?
• What is the mission of the Church? 
• How does the mission of the Church contribute to the gathering of Israel?

3. The Savior prophesies of the temporal gathering of the house of Israel.

• What specific promise did the Lord extend to the Nephites? (See 3 Nephi 16:16 and 20:14 and 2 Nephi 1:5–7.) 
• What responsibilities accompany this promise? (See Enos 1:10; Ether 2:8–9.)
• What will happen in this land of inheritance in the last days?  (See 3 Nephi 21:22–29).
• The Savior said that He would gather His people and establish Zion again among them (3 Nephi 21:1). 
• How has Zion been described in the scriptures? (See D&C 97:21 and Moses 7:18–19). 
• How can we begin to establish Zion in our homes, wards, and stakes today?

Lesson 38 & 39: Old Things Are Done Away, All Things Have Become New Behold, My Joy Is Full

Purpose

To help class members feel the love of the Lord Jesus Christ and develop a greater desire to exercise faith in Him, to bear testimony of Him and to be true disciples of Jesus Christ by following His example and by living the higher law that He taught to the Nephites.

Reading / Watching:

• 3 Nephi 12-15
• 3 Nephi 17-19
• Joy and Spiritual Survival - Elder Russell M. Nelson
• "If Ye Had Known Me" - Elder David A. Bednar
• The Doctrine of Christ - Elder Brian K. Ashton
  
  

Questions to Ponder:

1. Jesus teaches the Beatitudes to the Nephites.

• 3 Nephi 12:3. What does it mean to come unto Christ? (See 3 Nephi 9:13–14, 20–22 and Ether 12:27.) How does being "poor in spirit," or humble, help us come unto Christ?
   
• 3 Nephi 12:4. What are some ways the Lord provides for us to be comforted? (See John 14:26–27; Mosiah 18:8–9.)
   
• 3 Nephi 12:5. What does it mean to be meek?

  President Gordon B. Hinckley said, "Meekness implies a spirit of gratitude as opposed to an attitude of self-sufficiency, an acknowledgment of a greater power beyond oneself, a recognition of God, and an acceptance of his commandments" ("With All Thy Getting Get Understanding," Ensign, Aug. 1988, 3–4).

• 3 Nephi 12:6. What do you think it means to "hunger and thirst after righteousness"? What will we be filled with as we "hunger and thirst after righteousness"?
   
• 3 Nephi 12:7. Why is it important that we be merciful? Why do we need the Lord's mercy? (See 2 Nephi 2:8–9.)
   
• 3 Nephi 12:8. Why must we be pure in heart to be able to see God? (See 1 Nephi 10:21.) In what ways can we purify our hearts? (See D&C 93:1)
   
• 3 Nephi 12:9. How can we be peacemakers in our homes and communities?
   
• 3 Nephi 12:10–12. Why are the righteous sometimes persecuted? How should we respond to persecution? (See 3 Nephi 12:44; Luke 6:35.)

2. Jesus declares that His followers are to be the salt of the earth and a light to other people.

Jesus said, "I give unto you to be the salt of the earth" (3 Nephi 12:13).

Elder Bruce R. McConkie:

"Among the ancient Hebrews salt … was used as a preservative, in seasoning food, and in all animal sacrifices. (Lev. 2:13; Ezek. 43:24; Mark 9:49–50. [Leviticus 2:13; Ezekiel 43:24]) So essential was it to the sacrificial ordinance that it was the symbol of the covenant made between God and His people in connection with that sacred performance. (Lev. 2:13;Num. 18:19; 2 Chron. 13:5.)

"Accordingly, our Lord's statement, made first to the Jews and then to that other great body of Hebrews, the Nephites, that they had power 'to be the salt of the earth,' takes on great significance. … They had power, in other words, to be the seasoning, savoring, preserving influence in the world, the influence which would bring peace and blessings to all others" (Mormon Doctrine, 2nd ed. [1966], 667–68).

• How can our influence help others receive peace and other blessings?

Elder Carlos E. Asay: "A world-renowned chemist told me that salt will not lose its savor with age. Savor is lost through mixture and contamination" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1980, 60; or Ensign, May 1980, 42).

• How can we avoid being "contaminated" by the things of the world?
   
• (See D&C 101:39–40 and D&C 103:9–10) What do these passages teach about being "the salt of the earth" and "the light of [the] people"? How can Latter-day Saints be "saviors of men"?
   
• How can we let our light "shine before [the] people"? (See 3 Nephi 12:16; 18:24.) What should be the result of our letting our light shine? (See 3 Nephi 12:16.)

3. Jesus declares that He has fulfilled the law of Moses. He teaches the people a higher law.

• Who gave the law of Moses to the Israelites? (See 3 Nephi 15:4–5.)
   
• Jesus declared to the Nephites that He had fulfilled the law of Moses (3 Nephi 12:17–19; 15:2–5). How did Jesus fulfill this law?
   
• What replaced the Law of Moses?
   
• How should the new law change our perspective on living the Gospel?
   
• How did the process of repentance change when the Law of Moses was fulfilled?

Lesson 37: “Whosoever Will Come, Him Will I Receive”

Purpose:

To help class members understand the fulfillment of Samuel’s prophecies and the blessings available to those who come unto the Savior.

Reading:

3 Nephi 8-11

Overview:

a. 3 Nephi 8. Great destruction occurs in the Americas at the time of Christ’s death. Many cities are destroyed.

b. 3 Nephi 9–10. Survivors hear the voice of the Lord inviting them to return to Him, repent, and be converted.

c. 3 Nephi 11. The resurrected Savior descends from heaven and teaches the people.

Questions to Ponder:

a. 3 Nephi 8. Great destruction occurs in the Americas at the time of Christ’s death. Many cities are destroyed.

Samuel the Lamanite had prophesied of terrible destructions that would take place when Jesus was crucified (Helaman 14:20–27). About 33 years after the sign of Jesus’ birth, the people “began to look with great earnestness” for the fulfillment of Samuel’s words (3 Nephi 8:3).

Samuel’s Prophecies Fulfillment

Helaman 14:21, 23 3 Nephi 8:5–7, 17–18; 9:8

Helaman 14:24 3 Nephi 8:8–10, 14

Helaman 14:20, 27 3 Nephi 8:20–21

Read each passage listed under “Samuel’s Prophecies” and then read the corresponding passage listed under “Fulfillment.”

• When the destruction ceased, the earth was covered with thick darkness (3 Nephi 8:19–23). 
• Why is total darkness an appropriate sign for the death of the Savior? (See 3 Nephi 9:18; see also John 8:12; D&C 11:28.) 
• In what ways has the Savior brought light to your life?
• What was the reaction of those who survived the destruction? (See 3 Nephi 8:23–25.) 
• How can reading about their experience help us prepare for the Second Coming?

b. 3 Nephi 9–10. Survivors hear the voice of the Lord inviting them to return to Him, repent, and be converted.

• After the destruction, the surviving Nephites heard the voice of Christ describing how different cities were destroyed (3 Nephi 9:1–12). 
• What reason did the Lord give for the destruction? (See 3 Nephi 9:12. Pay particular attention to how often He repeated this reason in verses 2–12.) 
• What invitation did He extend to those who had survived? (See 3 Nephi 9:13–14. Note that the word come appears three times in verse 14. 
• What do we need to do today to accept this invitation?
• Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said: “‘Come,’ [Christ] says lovingly. ‘Come, follow me.’ Wherever you are going, first come and see what I do, see where and how I spend my time. Learn of me, walk with me, talk with me, believe. Listen to me pray. In turn you will find answers to your own prayers. God will bring rest to your souls. Come, follow me” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1997, 88; or Ensign, Nov. 1997, 65).
• Jesus declared that the law of Moses was fulfilled in Him and that He would no longer accept burnt offerings and sacrifices (3 Nephi 9:17, 19). 
• What sacrifice did He say we must offer? (See 3 Nephi 9:20.) 
• What does it mean to offer a “broken heart and a contrite spirit”?
• President J. Reuben Clark Jr., who was a member of the First Presidency, said: “Under the new covenant that came in with Christ, the sinner must offer the sacrifice out of his own life, not by offering the blood of some other creature; he must give up his sins, he must repent, he himself must make the sacrifice” (Behold the Lamb of God [1962], 107).
• What did the Savior promise to those who make this offering? (See 3 Nephi 9:20.)
• For whom did Jesus say He had given His life? (See 3 Nephi 9:22.) 
• What childlike qualities do we need in order to come unto the Savior? (See Mosiah 3:19.)
• After Jesus announced the extent of the destruction and promised redemption to those who would believe, many hours of silence passed. When Jesus spoke again, what analogy did He use to describe His yearning to gather His people? (See 3 Nephi 10:4–6. Note that Jesus used this analogy three times but changed it slightly in each verse.) 
• Why does He want to gather us?
• The Prophet Joseph Smith taught: “What was the object of gathering … the people of God in any age of the world? … The main object was to build unto the Lord a house whereby He could reveal unto His people the ordinances of His house and the glories of His kingdom, and teach the people the way of salvation. … It is for the same purpose that God gathers together His people in the last days” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 307–8).
• How can we assist in this gathering? (See D&C 4:1–7.)
• After calling the people to repent and come unto Him, Christ ceased speaking to the people. Three days of mourning passed. Then the darkness dispersed, the noise and destruction stopped, and the people’s sadness turned into joy (3 Nephi 10:9–10). 
• Why had the people been spared? (See 3 Nephi 10:12–13.) 
• What blessings did they receive? (See 3 Nephi 10:18–19.)
• What is Mormon’s counsel to us, the readers of this account? (See 3 Nephi 10:14.)

c. 3 Nephi 11. The resurrected Savior descends from heaven and teaches the people.

• While the people were conversing about what had happened, they heard the voice of God the Father. 
• What was the voice like? (See 3 Nephi 11:3.) 
• How many times did the people hear the voice before they understood it? (See 3 Nephi 11:4–6.)
• How were the people finally able to understand the voice? (See 3 Nephi 11:5.) 
• What do you think it means that they “did open their ears to hear it”? (3 Nephi 11:5). 
• What can we do to better hear and understand God’s words to us?
• How did God the Father introduce the Savior? (3 Nephi 11:7).
• How did the Savior introduce Himself? (3 Nephi 11:8–11).
• What invitation did Jesus extend to all the people in the multitude? (See 3 Nephi 11:13–15; see also 3 Nephi 17:25, which says that there were 2,500 people in the multitude).
• What can we learn from this example of the Savior’s love?
• What did the Savior teach the Nephites about baptism? (See 3 Nephi 11:21–27.) 
• Why is it important to be baptized in the correct manner and by someone who has the authority to baptize?
• Jesus taught that there should be “no disputations” among the people concerning baptism or any other points of His doctrine (3 Nephi 11:22, 28). 
• Why is contention about gospel doctrines dangerous? (See 3 Nephi 11:29; D&C 10:62–63.) 
• How can we be unified in true doctrine?
• What did the Savior teach as His doctrine? (See 3 Nephi 11:30–38).
• What promise did He give to those who build their lives on His doctrine? (See 3 Nephi 11:39.)
• How can we more fully obey the Savior’s instructions to declare these words “unto the ends of the earth”? (3 Nephi 11:41).

Lesson 36: On the Morrow Come I into the World

Purpose:

To help class members understand the need to endurefaithfully in times of trial and temptation.

Reading:

3 Nephi 1-7

Additional Reading:

To the Saints in the Utah South Area - Elder M. Russell Ballard (This is a near identical talk to the one given in our recent stake/area conference telecast.)

Flags, Faith and Finishing the Race - Lynnette B. Erickson

 

Questions to Ponder:

1. The signs of the Savior's birth vindicate those who have endured in faith.

• While waiting for Samuel's prophecies to be fulfilled, "the people who believed began to be very sorrowful" (3 Nephi 1:7). What were some of the reasons for their sorrow? (See 3 Nephi 1:5–9.)
   
• In spite of these challenges to their faith, what did the believers do? (See 3 Nephi 1:8.) What can we do to remain steadfast when our faith is challenged?
   
• When Nephi saw the wickedness of the unbelievers, he prayed to the Lord for his people (3 Nephi 1:10–11). What message was revealed to Nephi after he had prayed all day for his people? (See 3 Nephi 1:12–14.) How were Samuel's prophecies fulfilled? (See 3 Nephi 1:15–21.) How does this account help strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ?

2. The Gadianton robbers come to battle against the Nephites.

• How did Satan try to turn people away from their belief in the Savior and His birth? (See 3 Nephi 1:22;2:1–3) Which of these tactics have you seen the adversary use today? What can we do to remember and preserve our spiritual experiences?
   
• As the people began to increase in wickedness, what dangers did they face? (See 3 Nephi 2:11–13, 17–19.) What kinds of behavior and attitudes threaten our safety today?
   
• In the 16th year from the time of Christ's birth, Lachoneus, the governor and chief judge of the Nephites, received a letter from Giddianhi, the leader of the Gadianton robbers (3 Nephi 3:1). What did Giddianhi desire of Lachoneus? (See 3 Nephi 3:6–8.)
   
• When the Gadianton robbers announced their intention to destroy the Nephites, the people began at once to prepare to protect themselves, under the direction of Lachoneus and Gidgiddoni. What can we learn from their actions that can help protect us in times of temptation and fear? (See 3 Nephi 3:12–26)
   
  • "Lachoneus, the governor, was a just man, and could not be frightened" (3 Nephi 3:12). How might fear cause someone to give in to temptation? How can personal righteousness help us remain courageous when we face temptation or affliction?
     
  • Lachoneus told the people to "cry unto the Lord for strength" (3 Nephi 3:12). Why is it important to pray for strength to face temptations or challenges?
     
  • Lachoneus caused the people to "gather themselves together" (3 Nephi 3:13, 22). Why was it important for the Nephites to gather into one place to defend themselves? (See 3 Nephi 4:3–4.) How can our association with other members of the Church increase our ability to withstand the forces of evil? (See Moroni 6:4–6.)
     
  • "He caused that fortifications should be built" and placed "guards round about" (3 Nephi 3:14). How can we fortify ourselves and guard against temptation?
     
  • The Nephites did "exert themselves … to do according to the words of Lachoneus" (3 Nephi 3:16). How are we blessed when we follow inspired leaders?
     
  • "They did repent of all their sins" (3 Nephi 3:25). How does repentance help us receive greater strength from the Lord?
     
  • They were "strong with armor" (3 Nephi 3:26). What armor have we been counseled to put on? (See D&C 27:15–18.) Why are we taught to put on the whole armor of God? How can we wear this armor each day?
     
• In what ways did Elder Ballard suggest we should prepare?
   
• What was the result of these preparations when the Gadianton robbers came against the Nephites? (See 3 Nephi 4:11–13, 16–29.) How did the Nephites rejoice after their victory? (See 3 Nephi 4:30–33.) In what ways can we show our gratitude to the Lord for protecting and blessing us?

3. The Nephites live righteously and prosper, but pride and dissensions arise.

• For several years after the defeat of the Gadianton robbers, the Nephites enjoyed great peace and prosperity (3 Nephi 5:1–26; 6:1–9). What happened to disrupt their peace? (See 3 Nephi 6:10–15)
   
• As the people continued in their wickedness, prophets came to call them to repentance, but the people rejected and killed them (3 Nephi 6:17–23). Secret combinations increased, and the people were soon divided into tribes (3 Nephi 6:27–30; 7:1–5). What did Nephi do in response to this wickedness? (See 3 Nephi 7:15–19.) What was the result of his work? (See 3 Nephi 7:21–26.)
   
• What blessings could all the people have enjoyed if they had remained faithful? (See 3 Nephi 10:18–19)

Lesson 35: Repent and Return unto the Lord

Purpose:

To remind class members of the importance of repenting, turning to the Lord, and following the prophets.

Reading:

Helaman 13-16

Additional Reading:

Preserving the Heart’s Mighty Change - Dale G. Renlund - October 2009

Always Retain a Remission of Your Sins - David A. Bednar - April 2016

Overview:

a. Helaman 13. A Lamanite prophet named Samuel prophesies that the Nephites will be destroyed unless they repent.

b. Helaman 14. Samuel prophesies of the signs that will precede the birth and death of the Savior. He continues to call the people to repentance.

c. Helaman 15–16. Samuel tells the Nephites of the conversion of the Lamanites. Some Nephites believe Samuel and are baptized. Others harden their hearts and try to kill Samuel, but he is spared by the power of God.

Questions to Ponder:

a. Samuel warns the Nephites that they will be destroyed unless they repent.  Helaman 13. 

A Lamanite prophet named Samuel went to preach in Zarahemla, but the Nephites cast him out of the land. The Lord commanded Samuel to return to Zarahemla and prophesy. When the Nephites did not allow Samuel to enter the city, he stood on the city wall and prophesied to them (Helaman 13:1–4).

• Samuel warned the people that because of the hardness of their hearts, the Lord would take His word from them and withdraw His Spirit from them (Helaman 13:8). 
• ]Why do these consequences come to people who harden their hearts? (See Mosiah 2:36–37.) 
• What can we do to soften our hearts?
• Through the prophet Samuel, the Lord said, “Blessed are they who will repent and turn unto me” (Helaman 13:11). 
• How might some people attempt to repent without turning to the Lord? 
• Why is turning to the Lord an essential part of repentance?
• President Ezra Taft Benson taught:
• “Repentance means more than simply a reformation of behavior. Many men and women in the world demonstrate great will-power and self-discipline in overcoming bad habits and the weaknesses of the flesh. Yet at the same time they give no thought to the Master, sometimes even openly rejecting Him. Such changes of behavior, even if in a positive direction, do not constitute true repentance. …
• “… True repentance is based on and flows from faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other way. True repentance involves a change of heart and not just a change of behavior (see Alma 5:13)” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [1988], 71).
• The Nephites had “set their hearts upon riches” (Helaman 13:20–21). 
• In addition, they had not hearkened to the words of the Lord, who had given them their riches (Helaman 13:21). 
• Because of this, the Nephites and their riches were cursed (Helaman 13:17–22). 
• In what ways do people give more time and attention to worldly concerns than to spiritual concerns? 
• How can we assess whether we are giving enough attention to our spiritual welfare?
• Samuel said that the Nephites always remembered their riches but did not remember to thank the Lord for them (Helaman 13:22). 
• Why is it difficult for some people to remain grateful when they are blessed with abundance? 
• How does gratitude counteract pride? 
• In what ways can we show gratitude to the Lord?
• The Nephites persecuted and killed the prophets of their day, but they said, “If our days had been in the days of our fathers of old, we would not have slain the prophets” (Helaman 13:24–25; compare with Matthew 23:29–39). 
• Why do people sometimes praise past prophets and reject living prophets? (See Helaman 13:26.) 
• How do some people allow themselves to “be led by foolish and blind guides”? (See Helaman 13:27–29.)
• According to Samuel, the Nephites had “sought for happiness in doing iniquity” (Helaman 13:38). 
• Why is it impossible to find true happiness in sin? (See Helaman 13:38; see also Alma 41:10–11.) 
• How can we find true happiness? 
• How can we help others find true happiness?
• The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 255–56).

b. Samuel prophesies of the signs that will precede the birth and death of the Savior. He continues to call the people to repentance.  Helaman 14.

• Samuel prophesied of the Savior’s birth and death (Helaman 14:2, 15). 
• What signs did Samuel say would attend the Savior’s birth and death? (See Helaman 14:3–7, 20–28.)
• Samuel said that if the people would repent, they would receive a remission of their sins through the merits of Christ (Helaman 14:13). 
• Merits are qualities or actions that entitle a person to claim rewards. 
• Why is it only through the Savior’s merits that we can be forgiven of our sins? (See 2 Nephi 2:7–9; Alma 22:14.)
• President Ezra Taft Benson taught, “Even the most just and upright man cannot save himself solely on his own merits” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, 71).
• According to Samuel, why did Jesus have to die? (See Helaman 14:15–18.) 
• How does knowing of the Savior’s sacrifice affect you?
• Samuel said, “If [people] are condemned they bring upon themselves their own condemnation” (Helaman 14:29). 
• Why is this so? (See Helaman 14:30–31.) 
• Why is it essential that we be “permitted to act for [our]selves”?

3. Some believe Samuel and are baptized. Others harden their hearts and try to kill Samuel.  Helaman 15–16

• Why did the Lord chasten the Nephites? (See Helaman 15:3; see also Hebrews 12:6.) 
• How does the Lord’s chastening show His love for us? 
• What can we learn from the Lord’s chastening?
• The Lamanites who experienced a change of heart remained “firm and steadfast in the faith” (Helaman 15:8). 
• When we experience a change of heart, what must we do to ensure that the change is lasting? (See 2 Nephi 31:19–20.)
• How did the Nephites respond to Samuel’s prophecies and warning? (See Helaman 16:1–7.) 
• Why do you think many of the people did not believe Samuel even when they saw that he was miraculously protected?
• Although they saw that the words of the prophets were being fulfilled, the majority of the Nephites began to harden their hearts and depend on their own strength and wisdom (Helaman 16:13–15). 
• How did these unbelieving Nephites explain away the signs that they had seen? (See Helaman 16:16–23.) 
• What are the dangers of trying to understand the gospel with only our intellect?