Pearl of Great Price Study Guides

Articles of Faith 10-13

2010-04-25T18:10:00.000-07:00

Articles of Faith 1:10-13 – to be discussed May 6
NOTE: All suggestions to memorize the Articles of Faith are of course optional
Day 1: Read Articles of Faith 1:10; D&C 29:7-8; 1 Nephi 22:11-12; 3 Nephi 17:4; D&C 110:11
1. List five events prophesied in Articles of Faith 1:10. Which of these has already seen partial fulfillment?

2. Read D&C 29:7-8 and 1 Nephi 22:11-12. From these passages, how and why will Israel be gathered?

3. Read 3 Nephi 17:4; D&C 110:11. What is the difference between the gathering of Israel and the restoration of the lost Ten Tribes?

Day 2: Read D&C 43:23-35; D&C 45:64-71; Moses 7:18
4. In D&C 43:28, the Lord called on latter-day saints to labor in his vineyard “for the last time.” Why and how are we asked to labor?

5. Read D&C 45:64-71 and Moses 7:18. How is Zion described in these two passages?

6. From D&C 45:71, how will the righteous be gathered?

Day 3: Reread and memorize Articles of Faith 1:10; read Ether 13:1-6; Micah 4:5-7; Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 11:15 Bible Dictionary entry, “Paradise”
7. Read Ether 13:1-6. How and why will the New Jerusalem be built on the American continent?

8. Read Micah 4:5-7 and Zechariah 14:9. What kind of a King is Jesus? Over whom will He reign? Over whom does He now reign? (See also Revelation 11:15.)

9. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Paradise.” What does the word mean? What is a Paradisiacal glory? (See also Articles of Faith 1:10a.)

Day 4: Read and memorize Articles of Faith 11:1; read D&C 134:7; Alma 21:12-23
10. Is it a privilege or a right to exercise our agency in choosing how or if we worship Almighty God?

11. Read D&C 134:7. What did the Lord say government is obligated to provide its citizenry? In what way(s) should government be limited in regard to religious activity?

12. Read Alma 21:12-23. What “crime” had Aaron and his brethren committed? What political changes did King Lamoni make? What was the result?

Day 5: Read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:12; read D&C 58:20-22; D&C 98:4-12
13. Why should we be subject to secular leaders when we have covenanted to recognize Christ as our Head?

14. How might showing tolerance and respect toward government officials impact the church as a whole?

15. Read D&C 58:20-22 and D&C 98:4-12. What is our responsibility in obeying, honoring and sustaining the law? (See also Mosiah 29:17, 25-27.)

Day 6: Read Articles of Faith 1:13; Philippians 4:4-9
16. List the five things we should strive to BE and the one thing we are counseled to DO from the first part of Article of Faith 13.

17. How has your own or someone else’s benevolence or “doing good” affected your life?

18. Read Philippians 4:4-9. What is Paul’s promise to the Philippian saints if they heed this counsel?

Day 7: Read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:13; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
19. List the three verbs in Paul’s admonition, as outlined in Article of Faith 13. How are these three attitudes linked?

20. Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. What specific gift or quality will help us endure all things?

21. How can we fill our lives with virtuous, lovely and praiseworthy thoughts and activities?

Articles of Faith 5-9

2010-04-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

Articles of Faith 1:5-9 Study Guide – to be discussed May 6
NOTE: All suggestions to memorize the Articles of Faith are of course optional.
Day 1: Read Article of Faith 1:5; Hebrews 5:4; Alma 13:1-9; D&C 121:34-40
1. List ways in which the pattern for ordaining clergy in our church as outlined in Article of Faith 1:5 differs from procedures in other denominations. Can you think of any Biblical support for men calling themselves to the ministry?

2. Read Hebrews 5:4 and Alma 13:1-9. What qualifies a man to be called and ordained to the holy priesthood? From whom does authority come? (See also D&C 84:6-12.)

3. Read D&C 121:34-40. Once a man is called and ordained to preach the gospel, how might he lose that calling? What does the phrase mean to you “many are called but few are chosen”?

Day 2: Reread and memorize Article of Faith 5; read 1 Samuel 13:5-14; Acts 8:18-24; Moroni 3:1-4
4. Read the account of King Saul in 1 Samuel 13:5-14. Saul was from the tribe of Benjamin in a day when only Levites were ordained to offer ritual sacrifice. Who called Saul to be king of Israel? Who called him to administer the ordinances of the priesthood? What did he lose?

5. Read Acts 8:18-24. Why did Simon seek the power of the priesthood? How did he think it might be obtained?

6. Read Moroni 3:1-4. How were priests and teachers ordained during Moroni’s day? By what power?

BONUS: Give an example of how you have recognized the Lord’s involvement in a church calling.

Day 3: Read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:6; read Ephesians 4:11-14
7. What is the Primitive church? Why might Joseph Smith include this distinction?

8. Read Ephesians 4:11-14. Why did the early church establish the offices listed in Article of Faith 1:6?

9. Read footnotes 6c and 6e for Articles of Faith 1:6. What is another name for a pastor? For an evangelist?

Day 4: Read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:7; read Mark 16:17-18; Acts 2:1-18
10. According to footnote 7a, from whom do the gifts listed originate?

11. Read Mark 16:17-18. In whose name are these gifts performed? Why is this important?

12. Read Acts 2:1-18. List gifts of the Spirit that were manifested on the day of Pentacost.

Day 5: Read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:8; read D&C 42:12; Moses 7:59-62; 1 Nephi 13:40; 1 Nephi 13:25-29; Ezekiel 37:15-20
13. Read D&C 42:12. Why do we need another witness of Christ in the Book of Mormon? (See also Moses 7:59-62 and 1 Nephi 13:40.)

14. Read 1 Nephi 13:25-29. Why were plain and precious truths taken away from the holy writ of the Bible?

15. Read Ezekiel 37:15-20. If the “stick of Ephraim” (or Joseph) indicates the Book of Mormon and the Bible represents Judah’s “stick” or book, who commanded the two should be read together?

Day 6: Read Articles of Faith 1:9; Moses 5:4-5; 1 Corinthians 2:10-12, Alma 5:44-47
16. Review Articles of Faith 1:5-8. How does Article of Faith 9 naturally follow the previous doctrines?

17. What has God revealed?

18. Read Moses 5:4-5, 1 Corinthians 2:10-12, and Alma 5:44-47. How can we receive revelation for ourselves? How do we receive it for the Church?

Day 7: Reread and memorize Articles of Faith 1:9; read Proverbs 29:18
19. How does the information in Articles of Faith 1:5 and 9 make us different from all other churches?

20. List “great and important things pertaining to the kingdom of God” that were revealed at our most recent General Conference.

21. Read Proverbs 29:18. Why is continuing revelation necessary in a living church?

Articles of Faith 1:1-4

2010-04-17T23:23:00.001-07:00

Articles of Faith 1:1-4 Study Guide, to be discussed April 22
[Note: Suggestions on memorizing the Articles of Faith are of course optional!]
Day 1: Read Articles of Faith 1:1; Topical Guide entry, “God the Father – Elohim/Eloheim; Bible Dictionary entries, “Holiness” and “Holy Ghost”
1. Using the Topical Guide entry, “God the Father – Elohim/Eloheim,” give three examples from the New Testament that suggest the Father, Son and Holy Ghost are separate and distinct beings.

2. Timing yourself, write all the names of Jesus you can think of in 30 seconds.

3. Read the Bible Dictionary entries, “Holiness” and “Holy Ghost” (pp. 703-704 in your Bible Appendix). According to the entry on Holiness, what is the meaning of the adjective “holy”? From the entry on the Holy Ghost, list three sacred purposes of this third member of the Godhead.

Day 2: Re-read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:1; read D&C 130:22-23; Acts 17:28; Moses 2:26-29; Luke 24:36-40; JS-H 1:16-17; John 14:25-27
4. Read D&C 130:22-23. When and where was this revelation received? Read also Acts 17:28. Does the fact that the Father has a tangible body limit His power? How does this fact give you hope? peace?

5. Read Moses 2:26-27, Luke 24:36-40 and JS-H 1:16-17. How do we know Jesus has a tangible body?

6. Read John 14:25-27. As a personage of spirit, what advantage does the Holy Ghost have in fulfilling His specific mission on earth?

Day 3: Read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:2; read Romans 3:23-24; D&C 93:38-39; 2 Nephi 2:25-26; Moses 6:53-54
7. Why should we NOT be punished for Adam’s transgression?

8. Read Romans 3:23-24. Is anyone, other than Christ, free of sin? From D&C 93:38-39, what three things listed here cause us to sin?

9. Read 2 Nephi 2:25-26 and Moses 6:53-54. Why is punishment appropriate when we sin?

Day 4: Read Articles of Faith 1:3; Bible Dictionary entry, “Atonement”; Romans 5:8-11; Alma 7:10-14; Moses 5:6-8
10. How can we be saved from the effects of Adam’s fall and from our own personal sin?

11. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Atonement.” According to paragraph 2, what part of Christ’s atonement in unconditional? What part is conditional?

12. Read Romans 5:8-11 (with footnote 11a), Alma 7:10-14, Moses 5:6-8. Why was a sacrifice necessary to reconcile us to God?

Day 5: Re-read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:3; read 2 Nephi 9:19-23; Matthew 7:21-25
13. Read 2 Nephi 9:19-23. Upon what condition(s) do the effects of the atonement hinge?

14. Why is our obedience necessary? (See also Matthew 7:21-25.)

15. To what must we be obedient?

Day 6: Read Articles of Faith 1:4; 2 Peter 1:2-9; Hebrews 11:1; D&C 84:19-22; Moroni 7:40-43
16. What is the difference between a principle and an ordinance? (See also Hebrews 11:1 and D&C 84:19-22.)

17. Read 2 Peter 1:2-9. Why is faith in Christ the principal principle?

18. Read Moroni 7:40-43. How can we increase our faith and hope in Christ?

Day 7: Re-read and memorize Articles of Faith 1:4; read Helaman 15:7-8; 2 Nephi 31:5-12; 3 Nephi 27:12-21
19. Read Helaman 15:7-8. List steps to becoming firm and steadfast in the faith.

20. Read 2 Nephi 31:11-12 (extra credit: verses 5-12). What did the Father ask of us (v.11)? What promise and command did the Savior issue in v. 12?

21. Read 3 Nephi 27:12-21. List elements of the first four Articles of Faith as they appear in Christ’s teachings on His gospel in this passage of scripture.

The Wentworth Letter

2010-03-26T05:52:00.001-07:00

The Wentworth Letter Study Guide – to be discussed April 15
NOTE: Although the letter Joseph Smith wrote to John Wentworth in 1842 is easily found (online, in the Joseph Smith manual, even free on the Kindle!), I have decided to include the text with each day’s questions simply because I want us all to be looking at and discussing the same sections together as we go through this document.
Day 1: Read paragraphs below and review JS-H 1:15-17
INTRO: March 1, 1842.—At the request of Mr. John Wentworth, Editor and Proprietor of the Chicago Democrat. I have written the following sketch of the rise, progress, persecution, and faith of the Latter-day Saints, of which I have the honor, under God, of being the founder. Mr. Wentworth says that he wishes to furnish Mr. Bastow, a friend of his, who is writing the history of New Hampshire, with this document. As Mr. Bastow has taken the proper steps to obtain correct information, all that I shall ask at his hands, is, that he publish the account entire, ungarnished, and without misrepresentation.
1. I was born in the town of Sharon, Windsor County, Vermont, on the 23rd of December, A.D. 1805. When ten years old, my parents removed to Palmyra, New York, where we resided about four years, and from thence we removed to the town of Manchester. My father was a farmer and taught me the art of husbandry. When about fourteen years of age, I began to reflect upon the importance of being prepared for a future state, and upon inquiring [about] the plan of salvation, I found that there was a great clash in religious sentiment; if I went to one society they referred me to one plan, and another to another; each one pointing to his own particular creed as the summum bonum of perfection. Considering that all could not be right, and that God could not be the author of so much confusion, I determined to investigate the subject more fully, believing that if God had a Church it would not be split up into factions, and that if He taught one society to worship one way, and administer in one set of ordinances, He would not teach another, principles which were diametrically opposed.
2. Believing the word of God, I had confidence in the declaration of James—"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." I retired to a secret place in a grove, and began to call upon the Lord; while fervently engaged in supplication, my mind was taken away from the objects with which I was surrounded, and I was enwrapped in a heavenly vision, and saw two glorious personages, who exactly resembled each other in features and likeness, surrounded with a brilliant light which eclipsed the sun at noon day. They told me that all religious denominations were believing in incorrect doctrines, and that none of them was acknowledged of God as His Church and kingdom: and I was expressly commanded "to go not after them," at the same time receiving a promise that the fullness of the Gospel should at some future time be made known unto me.
1. Why did Joseph Smith write this letter to John Wentworth? How might the reason for writing impact content?

2. List concerns that led the boy Joseph to investigate more fully the subject of religion.

3. Compare Joseph’s description of his First Vision with JS-H 1:15-17. What details are included only in the Wentworth letter? What details are exclusive to JS-H?

Day 2: Read the paragraphs below:
3. On the evening on the 21st of September, A.D. 1823, while I was praying unto God, and endeavoring to exercise faith in the precious promises of Scripture, on a sudden a light like that of day, only of a far purer and more glorious appearance and brightness, burst into the room, indeed the first sight was as though the house was filled with consuming fire; the appearance produced a shock that affected the whole body; in a moment a personage stood before me surrounded with a glory yet greater than that with which I was already surrounded. This messenger proclaimed himself to be an angel of God, sent to bring the joyful tidings that the covenant which God made with ancient Israel was at hand to be fulfilled, that the preparatory work for the second coming of the Messiah was speedily to commence; that the time was at hand for the Gospel in all its fullness to be preached in power, unto all nations that a people might be prepared for the Millennial reign. I was informed that I was chosen to be an instrument in the hands of God to bring about some of His purposes in this glorious dispensation.
4. I was also informed concerning the aboriginal inhabitants of this country and shown who they were, and from whence they came; a brief sketch of their origin, progress, civilization, laws, governments, of their righteousness and iniquity, and the blessings of God being finally withdrawn from them as a people, was made known unto me; I was also told where were deposited some plates on which were engraven an abridgment of the records of the ancient Prophets that had existed on this continent. The angel appeared to me three times the same night and unfolded the same things. After having received many visits from the angels of God unfolding the majesty and glory of the events that should transpire in the last days, on the morning of the 22nd of September, A.D. 1827, the angel of the Lord delivered the records into my hands.
4. According to the Wentworth letter, for what reasons did the heavenly messenger say he had come to visit Joseph Smith on September 21, 1823?

5. What was Joseph told about the aboriginal inhabitants of America?

6. What did Joseph learn from the many visits of angels between Moroni’s first visit and his delivery of the sacred records?

Day 3: Read the paragraphs below:
5. These records were engraven on plates which had the appearance of gold, each plate was six inches wide and eight inches long, and not quite so thick as common tin. They were filled with engravings, in Egyptian characters, and bound together in a volume as the leaves of a book, with three rings running through the whole. The volume was something near six inches in thickness, a part of which was sealed. The characters on the unsealed part were small, and beautifully engraved. The whole book exhibited many marks of antiquity in its construction, and much skill in the art of engraving. With the records was found a curious instrument, which the ancients called "Urim and Thummim," which consisted of two transparent stones set in the rims of a bow fastened to a breast plate. Through the medium of the Urim and Thummim I translated the record by the gift and power of God.
6. In this important and interesting book the history of ancient America is unfolded, from its first settlement by a colony that came from the Tower of Babel, at the confusion of languages to the beginning of the fifth century of the Christian Era. We are informed by these records that America in ancient times has been inhabited by two distinct races of people. The first were called Jaredites, and came directly from the Tower of Babel. The second race came directly from the city of Jerusalem, about six hundred years before Christ. They were principally Israelites, of the descendants of Joseph. The Jaredites were destroyed about the time that the Israelites came from Jerusalem, who succeeded them in the inheritance of the country. The principal nation of the second race fell in battle towards the close of the fourth century. The remnant are the Indians that now inhabit this country. This book also tells us that our Savior made His appearance unto this continent after His resurrection; that He planted the Gospel here in all its fulness, and richness, and power, and blessing; that they had Apostles, Prophets, Pastors, Teachers, and Evangelists; the same order, the same priesthood, the same ordinances, gifts, powers, and blessings, as were enjoyed on the eastern continent, that the people were cut off in consequence of their transgressions, that the last of their prophets who existed among them was commanded to write an abridgment of their prophecies, history, &c, and to hide it up in the earth, and that it should come forth and be united with the Bible for the accomplishment of the purposes of God in the last days. For a more particular account I would refer to the Book of Mormon, which can be purchased at Nauvoo, or from any of our Traveling Elders.
7. Describe the plates on which the records were engraved.

8. By what power was Joseph able to translate the records?

9. Name the two distinct races of people inhabiting ancient America who are mentioned in the Book of Mormon. What links these peoples to the Children of Israel, the Church as established by Jesus Christ in the meridian of time, and the Church today? (See also the Title Page and Introduction to the Book of Mormon.)

Day 4: Read the paragraphs below:
7. As soon as the news of this discovery was made known, false reports, misrepresentation and slander flew, as on the wings of the wind, in every direction; the house was frequently beset by mobs and evil designing people. Several times I was shot at, and very narrowly escaped, and every device was made use of to get the plates away from me; but the power and blessing of God attended me, and several began to believe my testimony.
8. On the 6th of April, 1830, the "Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" was first organized in the town of Fayette, Seneca county, state of New York. Some few were called and ordained by the Spirit of revelation and prophecy, and began to preach as the Spirit gave them utterance, and though weak, yet were they strengthened by the power of God, and many were brought to repentance, were immersed in the water, and were filled with the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. They saw visions and prophesied, devils were cast out, and the sick healed by the laying on of hands. From that time the work rolled forth with astonishing rapidity, and churches were formed in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri; in the last named state a considerable settlement was formed in Jackson county: numbers joined the Church and we were increasing rapidly; we made large purchases of land, our farms teemed with plenty, and peace and happiness were enjoyed in our domestic circle, and throughout our neighborhood; but as we could not associate with our neighbors (who were, many of them, of the basest of men, and had fled from the face of civilized society, to the frontier country to escape the hand of justice,) in their midnight revels, their Sabbath breaking, horse racing and gambling; they commenced at first to ridicule, then to persecute, and finally an organized mob assembled and burned our houses, tarred and feathered and whipped many of our brethren, and finally, contrary to law, justice and humanity, drove them from their habitations; who, houseless and homeless, had to wander on the bleak prairies till the children left the tracks of their blood on the prairie. This took place in the month of November, and they had no other covering but the canopy of heaven, in this inclement season of the year; this proceeding was winked at by the government, and although we had warrantee deeds for our land, and had violated no law, we could obtain no redress.
10. How was Joseph Smith’s life affected by news of his work with the ancient records?

11. List miracles that attended the infant church.

12. What did the saints’ lawless neighbors in Missouri do first when members of the Church refused to join them in revelry? Then what? Finally what?

Day 5: Read paragraphs below:
9. There were many sick, who were thus inhumanly driven from their houses, and had to endure all this abuse and to seek homes where they could be found. The result was, that a great many of them being deprived of the comforts of life, and the necessary attendances, died; many children were left orphans, wives, widows and husbands, widowers; our farms were taken possession of by the mob, many thousands of cattle, sheep, horses and hogs were taken, and our household goods, store goods, and printing press and type were broken, taken, or otherwise destroyed.
10. Many of our brethren removed to Clay county, where they continued until 1836, three years; there was no violence offered, but there were threatenings of violence. But in the summer of 1836 these threatenings began to assume a more serious form, from threats, public meetings were called, resolutions were passed, vengeance and destruction were threatened, and affairs again assumed a fearful attitude, Jackson county was a sufficient precedent, and as the authorities in that county did not interfere they boasted that they would not in this; which on application to the authorities we found to be too true, and after much privation and loss of property, we were again driven from our homes.
13. List results of the heartless persecution.

14. How did the saints react in the face of persecution?

15. How much legal protection was offered by the authorities in Jackson and Clay Counties?

Day 6: Read paragraphs below:
11. We next settled in Caldwell and Daviess counties, where we made large and extensive settlements, thinking to free ourselves from the power of oppression, by settling in new counties, with very few inhabitants in them; but here we were not allowed to live in peace, but in 1838 we were again attacked by mobs, an exterminating order was issued by Governor Boggs, and under the sanction of law, an organized banditti ranged through the country, robbed us of our cattle, sheep, hogs, &c., many of our people were murdered in cold blood, the chastity of our women was violated, and we were forced to sign away our property at the point of the sword; and after enduring every indignity that could be heaped upon us by an inhuman, ungodly band of marauders, from twelve to fifteen thousand souls, men, women, and children were driven from their own firesides, and from lands to which they had warrantee deeds, houseless, friendless, and homeless (in the depths of winter) to wander as exiles on the earth, or to seek an asylum in a more genial clime, and among a less barbarous people. Many sickened and died in consequence of the cold and hardships they had to endure; many wives were left widows, and children, orphans, and destitute. It would take more time than is allotted me here to describe the injustice, the wrongs, the murders the bloodshed, the theft, misery and woe that have been caused by the barbarous, inhuman, and lawless proceedings of the state of Missouri.
12. In the situation before alluded to, we arrived in the state of Illinois in 1839, where we found a hospitable people and a friendly home: a people who were willing to be governed by the principles of law and humanity. We have commenced to build a city called "Nauvoo," in Hancock county. We number from six to eight thousand here, besides vast numbers in the county around, and in almost every county of the state. We have a city charter granted us, and charter for a Legion, the troops of which now number 1,500. We have also a charter for a University, for an Agricultural and Manufacturing Society, have our own laws and administrators, and possess all the privileges that other free and enlightened citizens enjoy.
16. Why did the saints settle in Caldwell and Daviess Counties? How long were they allowed peace?

17. Who signed the extermination order, legalizing murder and mayhem?

18. By the time Joseph Smith wrote his letter to John Wentworth in 1842 (about 3 years after arriving in Nauvoo), what charters had been issued for the benefit of the citizenry?

Day 7: Read paragraphs below and Daniel 2:44-45; D&C 65:1-2
13. Persecution has not stopped the progress of truth, but has only added fuel to the flame, it has spread with increasing rapidity. Proud of the cause which they have espoused, and conscious of our innocence, and of the truth of their system, 'midst calumny and reproach, have the Elders of this Church gone forth, and planted the Gospel in almost every state in the Union; it has penetrated our cities, it has spread over our villages, and has caused thousands of our intelligent, noble, and patriotic citizens to obey its divine mandates, and be governed by its sacred truths. It has also spread into England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, where, in the year 1840, a few of our missionaries were sent, and over five thousand joined the Standard of Truth; there are numbers now joining in every land.
14. Our missionaries are going forth to different nations, and in Germany, Palestine, New Holland, Australia, the East Indies, and other places, the Standard of Truth has been erected; no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished, and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done.
19. Look up the word, “calumny” in a dictionary. What does it mean? Why didn’t it stop the progress of truth?

20. How many people had joined the Church in Great Britain between 1840 and 1842?

21. Read Daniel 2:44-45 and D&C 65:1-2. How is the truth of God like a “stone which is cut out of the mountain without hands”?

From Ensign, July 2002: “Of this classic, Elder B. H. Roberts of the First Council of the Seventy wrote: ‘The letter is one of the choicest documents in our church literature; as also it is the earliest published document by the Prophet personally, making any pretension to consecutive narrative of those events in which great Latter-day work had its origin. … For combining conciseness of statement with comprehensiveness of treatment of the subject with which it deals, it has few equals among historical documents, and certainly none that excel it in our church literature.’”

Joseph Smith - History 1:66-75

2010-03-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

Joseph Smith – History 1:66-75 Study Guide – to be discussed March 25
Day 1: Read JS-H 1:66-67; D&C 8:1-12
1. Why did Oliver Cowdery seek out Joseph Smith in April, 1829?

2. Look at map 3 in the Church History maps at the back of your scriptures. Approximately how far is it (as the crow flies) from Palmyra, NY to Harmony, PA? (Note: If you don’t have the Church History maps in your scriptures, you can find this map online at http://scriptures.lds.org/en/chmaps/3)

3. Read D&C 8:1-12, given to Oliver Cowdery in April, 1829. What gifts did the Lord tell Oliver he had been given? List also specific warnings to Oliver.

Day 2: Read JS-H 1:68-71
4. What questions regarding baptism might Joseph and Oliver have gone to the woods to ask in prayer?

5. List the keys of the Priesthood of Aaron.

6. How did John the Baptist (the heavenly messenger) answer any questions Joseph and Oliver may have had about baptism?

Day 3: Read paragraphs 1-3 in Oliver Cowdery’s endnote to JS-H at the bottom of page 58; 3 Nephi 11:18-41
7. How did Oliver feel about being Joseph’s scribe?

8. Read 3 Nephi 11:18-41.This is where Joseph and Oliver were in the translation of the Book of Mormon in May 1829. List three phrases from this passage in 3 Nephi that might have motivated the men pray fervently.

9. What is the “liquid grave” and who is buried there? (See also Romans 6:4, Colossians 2:12, Mosiah 18:14-16.)

Day 4: Read paragraphs 4-5 in Oliver Cowdery’s endnote to JS-H on page 59; 3 Nephi 8:20-22; Revelation 19:10
10. Read 3 Nephi 8:20-22. How was this description of the conditions among Nephites before the appearance of the Savior like the state of religion prior to the restoration of the gospel?

11. Read Revelation 19:10. How did Oliver know the true church of Christ would be built on continuing revelation?

12. List what Oliver KNEW through direct revelation.

Day 5: Read paragraphs 6-7 in Oliver Cowdery’s endnote to JS-H on page 59
13. Why did John the Baptist address Joseph and Oliver as his “fellow-servants”?

14. What feelings did Oliver list specifically as coming to him by the power of the Holy Spirit?

15. What did “one touch with the finger of his love” cause for Oliver?

Day 6: Read JS-H 1:72-73
16. Under whose direction did John the Baptist act?

17. What did Joseph and Oliver experience directly after their baptisms?

18. Upon what subjects did Joseph prophesy?

Day 7: Read JS-H 1:74-75; Luke 24:30-32
19. Review JS-H 1:73, along with verse 74. What were Joseph and Oliver able to do because of the Holy Ghost? Were Joseph and Oliver members of the church yet? Had they received the gift of the Holy Ghost?

20. Read Luke 24:30-32. List similarities between the experience described in JS-H 1:74 and Luke’s description of the disciples on the road to Emmaus.

21. What blessings were received as part of the Lord’s answer to a simple but fervent prayer about the principle of baptism?

Joseph Smith - History 1:55-65

2010-03-11T15:20:00.001-08:00

Joseph Smith – History 1:55-65 Study Guide – to be discussed March 18
Day 1: Read JS-H 1:55-56;D&C 137:1-10
1. How did Joseph Smith and his brothers assist in providing for their father’s family?

2. What “great affliction” transpired in the Smith family in 1823? Read D&C 137:1-10. When and where was D&C 137 received? What peaceful doctrine did Joseph receive in this revelation, relative to his brother Alvin.

3. Where and why did Joseph go to work for Josiah Stoal (or “Stowell”)?

Day 2: Read JS-H 1:57-58; D&C 25:1-5
4. How might the experience of courting and marrying Emma have helped Joseph in his preparation to receive the Book of Mormon plates?

5. Read D&C 25:1-5. When and where was this revelation received? What was Emma counseled to do in D&C 25:1-5?

6. Why was Joseph continually persecuted, even seven years after his first vision?

Day 3: Read JS-H 1:59-60
7. List the two IF-THEN promises Moroni gave Joseph, as recorded in JS-H 1:59.

8. Why did Joseph need to be alert and diligent in safeguarding the plates?

9. What happened to the plates after Joseph had finished translating all that was required of him? Do you think he was sorry to let them go?

Day 4: Read JS-H 1:61
10. Why might rumor and falsehoods have been employed against Joseph and his family? Are they still?

11. Where did Joseph and Emma go to escape further persecution?

12. What role did Martin Harris play in Joseph’s move? Who was he to Joseph?

BONUS: Read D&C 17:1-9. When and where was this revelation received? List promises to Martin Harris.

Day 5: Read JS-H 1:62-63
13. When did Joseph and Emma arrive in Pennsylvania? What did Joseph do immediately after their arrival?

14. By what means was Joseph able to translate the ancient characters?

15. Why did Martin Harris visit the Smiths in February 1828? Why do you think Joseph deferred to Harris’ own account instead of writing about the circumstances in his own words?

Day 6: Read JS-H 1:64
16. Why did Martin Harris take copied characters and Joseph’s translation to New York?

17. Who was Professor Charles Anthon? What was his opinion of the characters and translation?

18. What questions did Professor Anthon call Martin Harris back to answer?

Day 7: Read JS-H 1:65; Isaiah 29:11-12; 2 Nephi 27:15-20
19. Why did Anthon destroy his witness?

20. Read Isaiah 29:11-12 and 2 Nephi 27:15-20. How do Charles Anthon and Joseph Smith fit the descriptions in Isaiah’s prophecies?

21. How did Martin Harris’ journey to New York strengthen his testimony of the sacred work of translation?

Joseph Smith - History 1:21-54

2010-03-10T07:03:00.000-08:00

Joseph Smith – History 1:21-54 Study Guide – to be discussed March 11
Day 1: Read JS-H 1:21-23; James 5:10-11; Amos 7:14-15
1. When the young Joseph Smith shared his experience with a local preacher, what was the reaction? What logic did the preacher use?

2. Why might local clergy have been quick to denounce Joseph? Did Joseph pose a threat?

3. Read James 5:10-11 and Amos 7:14-15. How did the reactions of preachers and religious professors to Joseph’s vision confirm the Lord’s counsel in the First Vision (see JS-H 1:19)?

Day 2: Read JS-H 1:24-26; Acts 26:13-28
4. Read the account of Paul’s witness before Festus and Agrippa in Acts 26:13-28. List similarities between Joseph’s and Paul’s experiences.

5. What did Joseph fear more, offending God or offending men? How do you know?

6. Underline or count every instance in these verses where Joseph wrote, “I had [or have] seen [or beheld] a vision [or light]…” List elements of Joseph’s testimony, or in other words, truths he had learned.

Day 3: Read JS-H 1:27-32; D&C 110:1-4; Revelation 1:13-17
7. Review JS-H 1:14. How many years had Joseph affirmed his vision by autumn 1823?

8. In Joseph’s prayer on September 21, 1823, for what did he petition the Lord, specifically? What gave him confidence that his prayer would be answered? (See also D&C 63:8-12.)

9. Compare the description of the angel Moroni with the two descriptions of the resurrected Christ in Revelation 1:13-17 and D&C 110:1-4. List similarities.

Day 4: Read JS-H 1:33-39; Revelation 14:6-7; Malachi 4:1, 5-6
10. List five things Moroni wanted Joseph Smith to know.

BONUS: Read Revelation 14:6-7. How was this prophecy fulfilled in part on September 21, 1823?

11. What is the connection between the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and Malachi’s prophecy (JS-H 1:37-39) regarding the last days?

12. Compare Malachi 4:1 and 5-6 with the revised versions as quoted by Moroni. What phrases were added or revised?

BONUS: What does it mean to be without root or branch?

Day 5: Read JS-H 1:40-42; Isaiah 11; D&C 113:1-6; Joel 2:28-32; D&C 88:84-85; Isaiah 42:6-7
13. Read Isaiah 11, D&C 113:1-6 and Joel 2:28-32. In what way(s) would the study of Isaiah 11 and Joel 2 help prepare Joseph for the “work” he was called to do? How has scripture study helped you fulfill a calling?

14. Read D&C 88:84-85 with Isaiah 42:6-7. What is the “fullness of the Gentiles” (JS-H 1:41)?

15. What warning did Moroni issue before he opened a vision of the location of the plates?

Day 6: Read JS-H 1:43-48
16. How did Moroni exit Joseph’s room? How did he return?

17. What did Moroni add to his recitation on his second visit? on his third visit?

18. Review the three nighttime visits of Moroni. List words Joseph used to describe his own reactions to the miraculous communication in verses 44, 46 and 47 (eg: “musing” in v. 44).

Day 7: Read JS-H 1:49-54
19. What counsel did Moroni give after another repetition of the same scriptural message during his fourth visit? What was the result of Joseph’s obedience?

20. What physical evidence did Joseph have to confirm the validity of the messenger and his message?

21. How often and for how long did Joseph meet with Moroni after his initial visits?

EXTRA CREDIT: Read 1 Corinthians 1:27-28, Isaiah 28:21, 29:11-14, John 10:16. These verses of scripture were identified (along with others) by Oliver Cowdery as quoted by Moroni - part of the “many passages of scripture” indicated in JS-H 1:41. How did these add to Joseph’s understanding of his “work”?

Joseph Smith - History 1:1-20

2010-02-27T08:55:00.000-08:00

Joseph Smith – History 1:1-20 Study Guide – to be discussed March 4
Day 1: Read the paragraph on JS-H in the Introductory Note at the beginning of the Pearl of Great Price,
JS-H 1:1-2; Helaman 16:22; 3 Nephi 1:22
1. In the paragraph on JS-H in the Introductory Note at the beginning of the Pearl of Great Price, when does it say Joseph Smith wrote the history excerpted here? When and where was it first published?

2. Give reasons from JS-H 1:1-2 why Joseph Smith recorded the history of his early life.

3. Read Helaman 16:22 and 3 Nephi 1:22. What force is usually at work when truth is disparaged? How can we help “put all inquirers after truth in possession of the facts”?

BONUS: Look up the word, “militate” in a dictionary. What does it mean?

Day 2: Read JS-H 1:3-5
4. Look at church history map 1, located in the back of your triple combination after the index. Note the locations of Sharon, Vermont; Palmyra and Manchester, New York. According to the map notes, what happened at Lebanon and Norwich, Vermont? [Note: if you don’t have this map in your scriptures, find it online at http://scriptures.lds.org/en/chmaps/1]

5. How many times did the Smith family move in Joseph Smith Jr.’s first ten years? Where was he in the family birth order?

6. What was the religious climate in Manchester during Joseph’s youth?

Day 3: Read JS-H 1:6-8; 1 Peter 1:22-23; 1 Nephi 13:24-29
7. What caused the love and good feelings of converts and clergy to disintegrate during Joseph’s youth? What did Peter suggest we do to avoid the same fate?

8. Read 1 Nephi 13:24-29. How did the events prophesied by Nephi contribute to the religious climate described by Joseph Smith?

9. List phrases from JS-H 1:8 that suggest a pattern we might follow as we seek to receive revelation.

Day 4: Read JS-H 1:9-12; Alma 32:27-28
10. What was the question young Joseph pondered? What caused him to reflect on this question?

11. What feelings did the reading of James 1:5 engender in Joseph?

12. Read Alma 32:27-28. What is the relationship between faith and experimenting upon the word? How did Joseph experiment on the word of God?

Day 5: Read JS-H 1:13-15
13. What did Joseph conclude? Why was it important for him to form a conclusion or determination in his quest for truth?

14. Joseph had been taught to pray as a child. What was different about the prayer described in JS-H 1:14?

15. Make two lists from JS-H 1:11-15:
1. Ways the Lord helped Joseph receive answers to his questions.

2. Things Satan did to try to hinder Joseph.

Day 6: Read JS-H 1:16-18; Matthew 3:17; 3 Nephi 11:7
16. Why do you think the Lord waited until a “moment of great alarm” before sending a pillar of light to dispel the darkness?

17. Read Matthew 3:17 and 3 Nephi 11:7. List similarities in the words of the Father from JS-H and these two other instances when His voice was heard by man.

18. Was Joseph’s innocent question to deity specific in nature?

Day 7: Read JS-H 1:19-20; Isaiah 29:13-14; Ezekiel 33:30-33; Moses 1:9
19. Read Isaiah 29:13-14 and Ezekiel 33:30-33. How can we avoid having “a form of godliness” while denying “the power thereof”?

20. Compare Joseph’s experience after his miraculous vision with Moses’ experience as recorded in Moses 1:9. How were they similar?

21. Joseph told his mother, “I have learned for myself….” Why is it important for each of us to learn for ourselves the restored gospel is true and Joseph actually saw the Father and the Son?

Joseph Smith - Matthew 1:38-55

2010-02-13T07:32:00.000-08:00

Joseph Smith – Matthew 1:38-55 Study Guide – to be discussed February 25
Day 1: Read JS-M 1:38-40; D&C 35:15-18; D&C 45:36-40; Mark 13:32; Bible Dictionary entry, “Fig Tree”
1. What does the parable of the fig tree mean? (Use JS-M 1:38-39, D&C 35:15-18, D&C 45:36-40 and the Bible Dictionary entry, “Fig Tree.”)

2. Who will know and how will they know when the Second Coming is at hand? How does this give you hope?

3. Read Mark 13:32 with JS-M 1:40. What does Mark’s account add to your understanding of prior knowledge regarding the timing of the Second Coming?

Day 2: Read JS-M 1:41-43; D&C 39:20-24
4. Were the people in Noah’s day warned of the coming flood? What did they do with that information?

5. What does the Savior mean when he says the people in Noah’s day were “eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage”? Does this mean we should stop doing these things?

6. Read D&C 39:20-24. List promises to the faithful from these verses.

Day 3: Read JS-M 1:44-46; Zechariah 13:6-9
7. How do missionaries today partially fulfill the prophecies related in JS-M 1:44-45?

8. Read Zechariah 13:6-9. What is the promise to the remnant of Israel who will be gathered at the last day?

9. List ways in which we can be watchful today.

Day 4: Read JS-M 1:47-48; 1 Thessalonians 5:4-9; BD entry, “Watches”
10. How will watching for the signs of the last days help us be ready for Christ’s coming?

11. Read 1 Thessalonians 5:4-9. Why won’t righteous individuals be surprised by the Second Coming?

12. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Watches.” List times for the three Hebrew watches of the night. Since we don’t know in which watch the Savior will come, what do we need to do to be prepared?

Day 5: Read JS-M 1:49-50; Psalm 24:3; Malachi 3:2
13. What question did the Lord pose in JS-M 1:49? How is this question similar to the questions in Psalm 24:3 and Malachi 3:2?

14. The phrase “meat in due season” means “food at the proper time” – and can relate to both physical and spiritual nourishment. How can we be this kind of servant?

15. What is the promise to good servants in JS-M 1:50?

Day 6: Read JS-M 1:51-54; D&C 84:36-38; D&C 121:29
16. How do you think a master might feel about a servant who is not diligent or trustworthy? How long would you employ such a servant?

17. What is the obvious difference between a “good” servant who feeds the household at the proper time (v.49) and the servant described in JS-M 1:52?

18. Read D&C 84:36-38. What does the Lord mean when He states that the good servant will be made “ruler over his household.” See also D&C 121:29.

Day 7: Read JS-M 1:55; Deuteronomy 18:16-19; Acts 3:22-23; Joseph Smith - History 1:40; D&C 29:7-11; Matthew 25 chapter heading
19. The “prophecy of Moses” referred to in JS-M 1:55 comes from Deuteronomy 18:16-19. Read the chapter heading for Deut. 18 plus verses 16-19, Acts 3:22-23 and JS-H 1:40. What is the warning to all who reject Christ’s words?

20. What is the difference between the end of the wicked (the world) and the end of the earth?

21. From the chapter heading to Matthew 25, list parables Christ taught his disciples directly after the discourse in JS-M (Matt. 24). How does each parable in Matthew 25 support the doctrine the Savior had just taught?

Joseph Smith - Matthew 1:21-37

2010-02-06T19:52:00.000-08:00

Joseph Smith – Matthew 1:21-37 Study Guide – to be discussed February 11
Day 1: Review JS-M 1:4; Read JS-M 1:21-37; Words of Mormon 1:16-18; D&C 45:26; 1 Nephi 22:14
1. Review JS-M 1:4. JS-M 1:3 answers the disciples’ question from
JS-M 1:2. JS-M 1:5-21 answer their second question from the first part of JS-M 1:4. What is the disciples’ third question to the Savior as recorded in the second half of JS-M 1:4?

2. Read Words of Mormon 1:16-18, which describes how the Nephites established peace under King Benjamin. From Words of Mormon 1:16, what did the false Christ’s and false prophets cause among the people? How can we recognize true and false prophets today?

3. Read D&C 45:26. What does this verse add to JS-M 1:23 regarding wars and rumors of wars? Read 1 Nephi 22:14. Why will wars and rumors of wars precede the Second Coming?

Day 2: Read JS-M 1:24-26; D&C 45:44; D&C 101:22-23; Ezekiel 43:2
4. When the Savior comes again in His glory, how will we know who He is?

5. Read D&C 101:22-23. Give three things from these verses we can do to prepare to recognize the Lord.

6. Read Ezekiel 43:2 and D&C 45:44. What do the scriptures mean when they say the Lord will come with great power and glory?

BONUS: Compare JS-M 1:26 with Matthew 24:27. What did Joseph Smith change to clarify this verse?

Day 3: Read JS-M 1:27-29; Luke 17:37; 1 Nephi 19:15-16; Revelation 7:1-3, 9-17
7. Read Luke 17:37 with JS-M 1:27. What might be meant by the term “the carcass” in JS-M 1:27?

8. Use 1 Nephi 19:15-16 and Revelation 7:1-3, 9-17 to explain the gathering of the ”eagles.” Who are the eagles?

9. List signs of Christ’s coming from JS-M 1:28-29. For whose sake will the signs be given?

Day 4: Read JS-M 1:30-31; Mosiah 9:2; 3 Nephi 9:10-14; 10:12-14
10. List signs of the last days from JS-M 1:30-31. Which of the signs fromhttp://scriptures.lds.org/en/js_m/1
are we seeing today?

11. Read Mosiah 9:2. How did the Nephites in Zeniff’s search party exhibit qualities described in JS-M 1:30?

12. Read 3 Nephi 9:10-14, 10:12-14. What will make the difference when it is decided who will be saved with the righteous and who will be destroyed at the Second Coming?

Day 5: Read JS-M 1:32-33; D&C 88:86-91; Ezekiel 32:7-10; Review the Bible Dictionary entry, “Abomination of Desolation”
13. Review the Bible Dictionary entry, “Abomination of Desolation.” What does this term mean? Have we seen anything like this recently on the earth?

14. Read D&C 88:86-91. When was this revelation given to Joseph Smith? When will the earth and heavens bear witness of the Savior?

15. Read Ezekiel 32:7-10. Why will the Lord send darkness as part of the signs of His coming?

Day 6: Read JS-M 1:34-35; D&C 45:28-32
16. How many of the signs given in Joseph Smith - Matthew will come to pass before the Second Coming?

17. Read D&C 45:28-32. What is the light that will shine forth in the latter days? How will it keep us safe?

18. What constant do we have when all the world is in peril and chaos?

Day 7: Read JS-M 1:36-37; D&C 45:44-45
19. List signs of the last days from JS-M 1:36-37. What do you think is meant by the mourning of all the tribes of the earth?

20. Read D&C 45:44-45. Who will be cut off? What group will be gathered at the sound of the trump?

21. From JS-M 1:37, how can we avoid being deceived?

Joseph Smith - Matthew 1:1-21

2010-02-02T23:00:00.000-08:00

Joseph Smith – Matthew 1:1-21 Study Guide – to be discussed February 4
Day 1: Read D&C 45:15, 60-61; Matthew 23:34-39; JS-M 1:1
1. Read the headnote explaining what Joseph Smith - Matthew is, plus D&C 45:15, 60-61. When was the revelation in Section 45 received? When did Joseph Smith restore the writings of Matthew?

2. Read Matt. 23:34-39 (with footnote 36a). To whom was Jesus speaking at the end of Matt. 23? Whose house did he say would be left desolate? Why?

3. Read JS-M 1:1 with Matt. 23:39. When would Jesus’ disciples recognize him? What did he reveal about himself?

Day 2: Read JS-M 1:2-3; D&C 45:15-21; Bible Dictionary entry, “Temple of Herod”
4. What question did Jesus’ disciples ask him as they left the temple mount in Jerusalem? How did the Savior answer this question?

5. What did the disciples need to DO in order to HEAR the Lord?

6. Read D&C 45:15-21. How did Jesus say desolation would come?

Day 3: Read JS-M 1:4-6
7. Where did Jesus take his disciples for this discourse? Look at map 12 in your Bible appendix. Does it appear Jesus and his disciples had a clear view of the temple from where they were?

8. List the two main questions posed by the disciples as recorded in JS-M 1:4.

9. What was Jesus’ first point of counsel to his disciples? How did this answer their questions?

Day 4: Read JS-M 1:7-11; D&C 45:22-27
10. List signs given in JS-M 1:7-11. Do these signs answer the disciples’ first or second question or both?

11. Who will be saved (or safe)?

12. Read D&C 45:22-27. List signs from these verses. Which sign is the same from D&C 45 and JS-M?

Day 5: Read JS-M 1:12-17; Daniel 11:30-33; D&C 101:22
13. Read Daniel 11:30-33. In describing the “abomination that maketh desolate,” what did Daniel say will happen to those who “do wickedly against the covenant”?

14. Use the last part of Daniel 11:32 with D&C 101:22 to tell how we can stand in holy places.

15. Why were the people of Judea warned to flee and not turn back during the time of desolation?

Day 6: Read JS-M 1:18-19; Bible Dictionary entries, “Abomination of Desolation” & “Assyria and Babylonia”
16. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Abomination of Desolation.” When are the two fulfillments of this prophecy? Do you think we need to understand the details of the first in order to prepare for the second?

17. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Assyria and Babylonia” – especially paragraphs 1,4 and 7. When had Jerusalem been under siege before Christ’s time? According to JS-M 1:18, how would the coming desolation compare?

18. Read JS-M 1:18-19 with Matthew 24:7-8. How do you think the disciples felt when they learned about “the beginning of sorrows”?

Day 7: Read JS-M 1:20-21; 3 Nephi 29:8-9
19. For whose sake will the days of tribulation be shortened?

20. Read 3 Nephi 29:8-9. How will the Lord fulfill his covenant with Israel?

21. Compare JS-M 1:21 with JS-M 1:5-6. Why do you think false Christ’s appear after calamities?

Abraham Facsimiles 2 and 3; Genesis 13 and 22

2010-01-26T19:43:00.000-08:00

Abraham Facsimiles 2 and 3; Genesis 13 and 22 Study Guide – to be discussed January 28
Note on Facsimile 2: “The type of drawing depicted in facsimile 2 is known among scholars as a ‘hypocephalus,’ which means ‘under or beneath the head.’ A hypocephalus is a small disk-shaped object made of papyrus, stuccoed linen, bronze, gold, wood, or clay, which the Egyptians placed under the head of their dead. They believed it would magically cause the head and body to be enveloped in flames or radiance, thus making the deceased divine. The hypocephalus itself symbolized the eye or Re or Horus, i.e., the sun, and the scenes portrayed on it relate to the Egyptian concept of the resurrection and life after death” (Michael D. Rhodes, The Joseph Smith Hypocephalus… Seventeen Years Later [F.A.R.M.S. paper, RHO-94], 1 - as quoted in the Pearl of Great Price Student Manual, Religion 327).
Day 1: Study Facsimile 2, Figures 1-3; Abraham 3:2-4; D&C 88:7-13
1. Find Figure 1 at the center of the hypocephalus. According to the explanation for Figure 1, what does it represent? Why do you think it is at the center of the drawing? What feature indicates that God sees all?

2. Find Figure 2 (above Figure 1). Read the explanation for this figure. Is Oliblish greater or lesser than Kolob in governing? greater or lesser than earth?

3. Find Figure 3 (to the right of Figure 2). Read the explanation for this figure with D&C 88:7-13. The “crown of eternal light” over the central figure’s head symbolizes the sun. What is the source of the sun’s light?

Day 2: Study Facsimile 2, Figures 4-11; D&C 88:42-50
4. Find Figure 4 (in the bottom of the section to the left of figure 2). Figures 3 and 4 both have features that resemble a boat. How might these imply eternal progression?

5. Find Figure 5 (upside down, below Figure 1). This picture of a cow is common to almost all hypocephali, representing the sky and/or the “rebirth” of the sun each day. Read D&C 88:42 – 50. What holds the planets and stars in their proper orbits?

6. Find Figure 6 (just left of Figure 5). What do the four figures represent, according to the explanation?

Day 3: Study Facsimile 3, Figures 1-3; Revelation 3:21, D&C 132:29
7. According to the explanation for Figure 1, who was sitting on Pharaoh’s throne? Why? What’s on his head?

BONUS: Read Revelation 3:21 and D&C 132:29. What is the promise to us if we overcome the world?

8. What is on Pharaoh’s head in Figure 2? What might it represent?

9. Figure 3 is repeated in Facsimile 1, Figure 10 and Facsimile 2, Figure 5. The lotus blossom represents “rebirth.” How is this theme reflected in the explanation for Facsimile 2, Figure 3?
Day 4: Study Facsimile 3, Figures 4-6
10. Who is represented in Figure 4? What is on his head? What is he doing with his hands?

11. Who is represented in Figure 5? What is he doing with his hands? Why do you think the Egyptians had so much respect for Abraham?

12. What do the characters in a horizontal line above the main scene look like to you?

Day 5: Read Genesis 13
13. What did Abram and Lot do when they left Egypt?

14. Why did Abram and Lot need to separate? How did they divide the land?

15. List the promises the Lord made to Abram as given in this chapter.

Day 6. Read Genesis 22:1-8
16. Read Genesis 22:1 with footnote 1a. Had Abraham been tested before this time? What was his answer when the Lord called him?

17. What details bear witness of Abraham’s obedience and faith?

18. List details of Abraham’s experience that serve as “types” or remind you of Christ’s atoning sacrifice.

Day 7. Read Genesis 22:9-19
19. If Isaac was a willing sacrifice, why do you think he was bound on the altar?

20. Read footnotes to Genesis 22:14 “a” and “b.” What did Abraham name the mount? Why?

21. List promises given to Abraham because of his faithfulness. Were these promises new to him?

Abraham 3

2010-01-16T14:28:00.001-08:00

Abraham 3 Study Guide – to be discussed January 21
Day 1: Read Abraham 3:1-4; D&C 130:6-11; Abraham 1:31
1. For what purpose(s) have the Urim and Thummim been used by prophets in the past? Where did Abraham live when he received the Urim and Thummim? What did he see by their use?

2. Which “star” is nearest the throne of God? Over what does this star govern? How long in earth years is its “day.”

3. Read D&C 130:6-11. What further information about the earth and heavenly bodies is included in this revelation?

BONUS: Review Abraham 1:31. What other source material on astronomy was available to Abraham?

Day 2: Read Abraham 3:5-10; D&C 88:41-50
4. Use the footnote for Abraham 3:5a with verse 7 to restate Abraham 3:5 and 7 in your own words.

5. How did the Lord use the lights in the heavens as object lessons for Abraham?

6. Read D&C 88:41-50. In what way(s) do the heavenly bodies testify of Christ? What is the irony described in D&C 88:48-50?

Day 3: Read Abraham 3:11-14; review Moses 1:4-8; D&C 132:30-32
7. What did the Lord call Abraham in Abraham 3:12?

8. Review Moses 1:4-8. List similarities and differences between Abraham’s and Moses’ experiences.

9. What new object lesson came from Abraham’s night vision in Abraham 3:14?

BONUS: Read D&C 132:30-32. How does the promise made to Abraham apply to us today?

Day 4: Read Abraham 3:15-17; D&C 88:11-13
10. Why did Abraham have this vision before he went into Egypt?

11. Read D&C 88:11-13. How does the order of the universe bear witness of God?
12. How do we know the Lord will finish everything he begins?

Day 5: Read Abraham 3:18-20; Isaiah 40:18-23, 55:8-9
13. Are there magnitudes or orders of brightness among heavenly bodies? How might agency play a part in the degrees of intelligence among God’s children?

14. Is the Lord bragging in Abraham 3:19? Use Isaiah 40:18-23 and 55:8-9 to explain why or why not.

15. List what you learned about the characteristics and attributes of God from these passages in Abraham and Isaiah.

Day 6: Read Abraham 3:21-23; D&C 138:53-56
16. Why did the Lord want Abraham to understand – at least on some level – the extent of His wisdom and power?

17. Read Joseph F. Smith’s vision as recorded in D&C 138:53-56. According to President Smith, who were among the noble and great ones in the pre-mortal world?

18. Who stood in the midst of the noble and great souls in the pre-mortal realms? Why do you think Abraham needed to know he was among that group?

Day 7: Read Abraham 3:24-28; review Moses 4:1-4
19. Why are we here in mortality? (See also 2 Nephi 2:11-27.)

20. What is the “first estate” of man? How and why have we been “added upon”? What is our “second estate” (see footnote 26c)? How can we “keep” this estate?

21. Who asked the question in Abraham 3:27? Who responded? Use Moses 4:1-4 to tell why the first was chosen over the second.

BONUS: Review Abraham 3. How many times is the phrase “these two facts [or things] exist” used?

Abraham 2

2010-01-07T15:10:00.000-08:00

Abraham 2 Study Guide – to be discussed January 14
Day 1: Read Abraham 2:1-4; Bible Dictionary entry, “Sarah”
1. Who from Abraham’s family died in Ur? What was his relationship to Abraham? How did he die?

2. Look up “Sarah” in the Bible Dictionary. What does the name “Sarah” mean? What was her name before it was Sarah?

3. Who went with Abraham when he left the land of Ur? Where did they go? Why?

Day 2: Read Abraham 2:5-7
4. Review Abraham 1:30. What event encouraged Terah’s repentance? Why do you think he returned to idolatry in Haran?

5. What happened when Abraham and Lot prayed for direction? List two commandments, one promise and one warning from Abraham 2:6.

6. How was Abraham instructed regarding the nature of deity?

BONUS: Look at the notes to map 9 in your Bible appendix (if you do not have a newer edition of the LDS scriptures, go to http://scriptures.lds.org/en/biblemaps/9 online). Read note #8: Haran. Who stayed behind in Haran? See also Gen. 11:32.

Day 3: Read Abraham 2:8-11
7. What did the Lord promise in Abraham 2:8? How did a better understanding of the attributes of deity add to Abraham’s confidence in this promise?

8. List promises to Abraham in Abraham 2:9-11.

9. List responsibilities of Abraham and his seed from Abraham 2:9-11.

BONUS: How do the promises made to Abraham continue to be fulfilled today? See D&C 84:34-43, 99; 110:12; 124:58.

Day 4: Read Abraham 2:12-16 with footnote 16c
10. How did Abraham recognize the Lord’s hand in his life? What did he covenant to do in Abraham 2:13? How do we know Abraham “earnestly” sought the Lord?

11. Who went with Abraham on his journey from Haran to Canaan? How old was Abraham when he departed Haran?

12. How can we make eternity our covering, our rock and our salvation as we journey through this life?

Day 5: Read Abraham 2:17-19; Bible Dictionary entry, “Shechem”
13. What did Abraham do in the land of Jershon? What was his petition?

14. What did Abraham do at Shechem? What was his implied petition? How did the Lord answer?

15. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Shechem.” List three things that are associated with this town, other than Abram’s visit.

Day 6: Read Abraham 2:20-21; Bible Dictionary entry, “Bethel”
16. What did Abraham do on the mountain east of Bethel?

17. Look up “Bethel” in the Bible Dictionary. What does “Bethel” mean?

18. Why did Abraham continue south to Egypt? Was Egypt Abraham’s land of promise?

Day 7: Read Abraham 2:22-25; Genesis 12:14-20; Genesis 20:11-13
19. Why did Abraham deceive the Egyptians regarding his wife/sister?

20. Read Genesis 12:14-20. How did Abram benefit from his stay in Egypt?

21. Read Genesis 20:11-13. Was Sarah Abraham’s sister?

BONUS: Review Abraham 2. Find each commandment the Lord gave Abraham and Sarah and how they responded to each.

Abraham 1b, Facsimile 1

2009-12-29T11:12:00.000-08:00

Abraham 1; Facsimile 1 – to be discussed January 7
Day 1: Read (review) Abraham 1:1-4; D&C 132:28-32
1. How did Abraham find greater happiness, peace and rest?

2. What made Abraham a “rightful heir”?

3. Read D&C 132:28-32. How did Abraham receive all things?

Day 2: Read Abraham 1:5-11
4. Using Abraham 1:5, from what two things did Abraham say his fathers had turned?

5. List what Abraham’s fathers’ hearts had turned to.

6. For what reason were the three daughters of Onitah sacrificed on the altar?

BONUS: Review Moses 5:5-7. What was the human sacrifice made by the false priests a corruption or counterfeit of?

Day 3: Read Abraham 1:12-15, 30
7. According to Abraham 1:30, who might one of the idolatrous priests have been, who sought to kill Abraham?

8. Why do you think the false priests wanted Abraham dead? (See again Abraham 1:4-6.)

9. What did Abraham do as he lay on the altar expecting he would die? With what was he filled? Who stood by him?

Day 4: Study Facsimile 1; read Bible Dictionary entry, “Angels”
10. Look at figures 5, 6, 7, and 8, representing various idolatrous gods. If you had to guess, what might each head resemble?

11. How is “The Angel of the Lord” depicted in Facsimile 1? Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Angels,” paragraphs one and two. What kind of a being might Abraham’s angel have been?

12. What does the representation of the idolatrous god of Pharaoh (figure 9) look like? In what is he “swimming”?

Day 5: Read Abraham 1:16-19
13. Read Abraham 1:16 with footnote a. Whether the angel addressed Abraham as “Abram” or
“Abraham,” he clearly spoke for (or actually was) Jehovah, and came in answer to Abraham’s prayer. Why was Abraham delivered from death?

14. Why did the Lord promise to “visit” the idolatrous nation? Was this a good visit?

15. List promises the Lord made to Abraham.

Day 6: Read Abraham 1:20-25
16. Why did the Lord destroy the altar on Potiphar’s Hill?

17. From whom were the Pharaohs of Egypt descended? Did they have legitimate claim to the priesthood of God? Why or why not?

18. Who first settled the land of Egypt? What kind of government did the Egyptians practice?

Day 7: Read Abraham 1:26-31
19. What did the pharaohs embrace instead of the true priesthood?

20. How did the famine in Chaldea affect Abraham’s family?

21. What kinds of records did Abraham possess?

Introduction to The Book of Abraham

2009-12-04T07:17:00.001-08:00

Introduction to The Book of Abraham – to be discussed December 10
Day 1: Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Abraham”
1. What does “Abraham” mean? What does “Abram” mean? What do these names tell you about the man?

2. Where was Abraham born? Who was his father?

3. List three things we learn about Abraham from latter-day revelation.

Day 2: Read Genesis 11:10-32; Bible Dictionary entry, “Eber”
4. From which of Noah’s sons was Abraham descended?

5. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Eber.” What group of people derives their identity from this patriarch?

6. Draw a simple diagram to illustrate the family of Terah as explained in Genesis 11:26-29. Where did Abram’s extended family go after leaving Ur?

Day 3: Read D&C 84:6-17; Bible Dictionary entry, “Midian”
7. From whom did Moses receive the Melchizedek priesthood? Read Exodus 3:1 and Bible Dictionary entry, “Midian.” Who was Midian?

8. From whom did Abraham receive the priesthood?

9. In what way(s) is the priesthood eternal?

Day 4: Read the paragraph titled “The Book of Abraham” from the Introductory Note at the beginning of the Pearl of Great Price (after the Title Page); read also the head note to the Book of Abraham (p.29)
10. In what year did Joseph Smith obtain the papyri from which he translated The Book of Abraham?

11. Where and when were the prophet’s translations from the papyri originally published?

12. Where was Abraham when he recorded these writings?

Day 5: Read Abraham 1:1; Bible Dictionary entries, “Ur” and “Chaldea,” Acts 7:1-4
13. Abram originally lived in Ur of the Chaldees. Look up “Ur” in the Bible Dictionary. What does “Ur” mean? Using your vast knowledge of Hebrew, what is the plural of Ur? (Hint: look at the entry in the BD following Ur.)

14. Where was the land of the Chaldeans? Find the two possible locations of Ur on map 9 in your Bible Appendix (map 2 in the 1979 edition).

15. Read Acts 7:1-4. Why did Abram want to move?

Day 6: Read Abraham 1:2; Helaman 8:16-19
16. Read the footnote for Abraham 1:2a; also read Helaman 8:16-19. How did Abram know there was greater happiness available?

17. From Abraham 1:2, list what Abram sought.

18. What did Abram receive because of his righteous desires?

Day 7: Read Abraham 1:3-4; Alma 13:13-19; Bible Dictionary entry, "Firstborn"
19. Read Alma 13:13-19. List three things you learned about Melchizedek from this passage.

20. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Firstborn.” Who did Abraham reference as the first to receive the priesthood on this earth? What is the birthright of the firstborn? Does one have to be born first to receive it?

21. Why did Abraham seek priesthood ordination so fervently?

Moses 8

2009-11-19T15:25:00.001-08:00

Moses 8 Study Guide – to be discussed December 3
Day 1: Read Moses 8:1-4; Helaman 11:4
1. How many years did Enoch live before he was translated and taken up with Zion? Do you think Enoch’s mission ended at that time?

2. Give one definite reason and one possible reason Methuselah was not taken up with Zion.

3. Read Helaman 11:4. Why does the Lord allow famines?

Day 2: Read Moses 8:5-11; Bible Dictionary entry, “Noah”; D&C 27:6-7
4. In spite of the famine, how many years did Methuselah live?

5. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Noah.” What does the name Noah mean? How old was Noah when he was ordained to the priesthood? By what other name do we know him?

6. Read D&C 27:6-7. Under what title did Noah also function as a messenger?

Day 3: Read Moses 8:12-17
7. How old was Noah when he begat Japheth? Shem? Ham? Using Genesis 9:28-29, how many years did Noah live?

8. What were Noah’s righteous sons called?

9. Who did Noah’s granddaughters marry? Why did this anger the Lord?

Day 4: Read Moses 8:18-21; Matthew 24:36-39
10. What priesthood did Noah hold? (See also D&C 107:52.) What was his stewardship?

11. How did the children of men react to Noah’s teachings?

12. Who did the children of men claim to be?

BONUS: Read Matthew 24:36-39. How will the time preceding the Second Coming of Christ be similar to Noah’s day?

Day 5: Read Moses 8:22-25
13. What do you think the phrase “every man was lifted up in the imagination of the thoughts of his heart” means? (See also Alma 12:14 and D&C 124:99.)

14. Compare Moses 8:24 with Moses 6:52. What truths did Noah teach? What was the warning to those who refused to hearken?

15. Compare Moses 8:25 with Genesis 6:6. What caused Noah such intense sorrow?

Day 6: Read Moses 8:26-30
16. Why did God decide to destroy the wicked?

17. How did Noah find grace in the eyes of the Lord? How was the flood an act of grace?

18. With what was the earth filled? How does this affect the hearts of men?

Day 7: Read Genesis 6:14-22; Genesis 7:6; Bible Dictionary entry, “Ark"
19. How old was Noah when he entered the ark? Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Ark.” Approximately how long was the ark? How wide? How high?

20. Read the footnote to Genesis 6:16a. What might the windows in the ark have been?

21. Read the footnote for Genesis 6:18a. What covenant did God make with Noah?

Moses 7:42-69

2009-11-13T08:58:00.000-08:00

Moses 7:42-69 Study Guide – to be discussed November 19
Day 1: Review Moses 7:41; read Moses 7:42-46
1. What was the good news in Enoch’s vision of Noah’s day? What was the bad news?

2. Why was Enoch so bitter? How did the Lord comfort him?

3. Why did Enoch look forward to the coming of the day of the Lord?

Day 2: Read Moses 7:47-50
4. What makes Moses 7:47 a good Christmas scripture? Where did Enoch see himself and his people?

5. In what way(s) is the earth “the mother of men”? Why is she weary? List her questions from Moses 7:48.

6. What specifically did Enoch pray for regarding the earth and his posterity through Noah?

Day 3: Read Moses 7:51-53; Bible Dictionary entry “Messiah;” Alma 5:50; Helaman 5:12
7. Why do you think the Lord could not withhold answering Enoch’s petition? (See also Moses 6:34.)

8. What were the terms of the covenant the Lord made with Enoch? Would the earth rest during Noah’s day?

9. List names of the Lord from Moses 7:53. From the Bible Dictionary entry, what does “Messiah” mean? What is the promise to his followers?

BONUS: Read Alma 5:50 and Helaman 5:12. How do these scriptures add insights to the names for Christ listed in Moses 7:53?

Day 4: Read Moses 7:54-57; Matthew 27:50-53
10. What was Enoch’s question in Moses 7:54?

11. Could Enoch’s question have been answered yes or no? How did the Lord answer?

12. Read Matthew 27:50-53. What did Enoch see in vision? Would the earth rest during Christ’s mortal ministry?

Day 5: Read Moses 7:58-62
13. What question did Enoch pose to the Lord in Moses 7:59?

14. How did the Lord answer Enoch’s question this time? What did the Lord say must happen before the earth can rest?

15.President Ezra Taft Benson taught regarding Moses 7:62 that “righteousness” from heaven includes or refers to latter-day revelations, especially the Doctrine and Covenants. He also noted the Book of Mormon represents “truth” from the earth (see “The Gift of Modern Revelation,” Ensign, November 1986). How will these latter-day blessings bring the earth rest?

Day 6: Read Moses 7:63-66; D&C 101:26-34
16. What will eventually happen to the two Zion’s – Enoch’s Zion and the New Jerusalem?

17. How long will the earth rest?

18. List details of this happy state from D&C 101:26-34. (Extra credit: see also 1 Nephi 22:26; 2 Nephi 30:12-18; D&C 43:29-33; D&C 45:58-59; Revelation 21:1-4; Article of Faith #10.)

Day 7: Read Moses 7:67-69
19. How did Enoch receive a “fullness of joy”?

20. How long did Enoch preach to the people in the City of Zion before it was taken up?

21. Review all of Moses 7. Which verse or passage motivates you to improve some area of your life?

Moses 7:1-41

2009-11-06T08:02:00.000-08:00

Moses 7:1-41 Study Guide – to be discussed November 12
Day 1: Read Moses 7:1-4; Alma 40:11-14
1. Read Alma 40:11-14 with Moses 7:1. Where do the spirits of the wicked reside after mortality? How long must they wait for release?

2. Read the footnote to Moses 7:2a. What does “Simeon” mean?

3. What happened to Enoch on Mount Simeon? What did he see? What did he hear?

BONUS: Count the number of times the Lord instructed Enoch to “Look” or “Behold.”

Day 2: Read Moses 7:5-13
4. In what kind of dwelling did the peoples of Shum and Canaan live? What does this suggest? What did Enoch prophesy to these peoples?

5. List the lands in which Enoch was called to cry repentance. Where was he told NOT to preach? Why?

6. Review Moses 6:31-32. How was Enoch blessed so that his weaknesses became strengths?

Day 3: Read Moses 7:14-18; Bible Dictionary entry, “Zion”
7. How did the Lord protect his people? What caused fear among their enemies?

8. According to the Bible Dictionary entry, “Zion,” how is Zion defined in latter-day revelation?

9. List qualities of a Zion people from Moses 7:18.

BONUS: List what you learn about Zion from each of these verses:
a. D&C 76:66-68

b. D&C 84:99-100

c. D&C 105:5-6

Day 4: Read Moses 7:19-24; Zechariah 14:20-21; D&C 38:4
10. According to Moses 7:19, what is another name for Zion? Read Zechariah 14:20-21 and review Moses 6:57. Why is this name appropriate?

11. Why do you think the Lord showed Enoch the future of Zion in vision before he showed him the “residue” of the people? Where would you prefer to live?

12. According to D&C 38:4, what happened to the Zion of Enoch?

Day 5: Read Moses 7:25-31; Proverbs 5:22; Alma 12:11; JST Genesis 14:25-36
13. Read Proverbs 5:22 and Alma 12:11. What is the chain in Satan’s hand (Moses 7:26)? How can we break it?

14. Why do you think Enoch was shown Satan laughing and God weeping? What did Enoch ask as a result of this vision?

15. Read JST Genesis 14:25-36 with Moses 7:27. What evidence do we have that worthy people were translated and taken up after Enoch’s day?

Day 6: Read Moses 7:32-35
16. What two things did the Lord tell Enoch he gave man in the Garden?

17. Why did God weep?

18. List names of God from Moses 7:35. In what way does each identify a quality of godliness?

Day 7: Read Moses 7:36-41, D&C 138:18-23
19. Why was the flood an appropriate means of cleansing the earth?

20. Read D&C 138:18-23. Did Christ visit the wicked in the spirit world? What did He do for them?

21. Why did Enoch’s heart swell “wide as eternity”?

Moses 6:35-68

2009-10-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

Moses 6:35-68 Study Guide – to be discussed November 5
Day 1: Read Moses 6:35-36; John 9:1-15; Bible Dictionary entry, “Seer”
1. Read John 9:1-15 with Moses 6:35. Why do you think Enoch was instructed to anoint his eyes with clay? Was he blind?

2. List what Enoch was able to see after he had cleansed his eyes.

3. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Seer.” What is a seer? How does having a seer among a people help them live more righteously?

Day 2: Read Moses 6:37-39; Review Moses 5:45
4. Why do you think “all men were offended” because of Enoch’s declarations? Why did they keep coming to hear him?

5. Review Moses 5:45. From whom were the tent-keepers descended?

6. How was Enoch protected from harm?

Day 3: Read Moses 6:40-47
7. Why was Enoch compelled to speak plainly with the people? What questions did he ask in Moses 6:43?

8. List what Enoch bore witness of.

9. Why do you think the people trembled at hearing Enoch’s testimony?

Day 4: Read Moses 6:48-52; Articles of Faith #2 and #4
10. In preparing his listeners to understand the principle of repentance, Enoch described two distinct “Falls.” What are the two “Falls”? (See also Article of Faith #2.)

11. Compare Moses 6:52 with Article of Faith #4. List similarities.

12. What additional principle did Enoch include at the end of Moses 6:52?

Day 5: Read Moses 6:53-58; D&C 93:38; Mosiah 3:16-17; Moroni 8:8
13. What question did Adam ask of the Lord?

14. Read D&C 93:38, Mosiah 3:16-17, Moroni 8:8. How can little children be “whole from the foundation of the world” (Moses 6:54) and also “conceived in sin” (Moses 6:55)? What do you think the phrase, “when they begin to grow up” means?

15. Why did the Lord command all men to teach their children the principle of repentance?

Day 6: Read Moses 6:59-62
16. List the three elements by which we are born physically, or born into mortality. Now list their spiritual counterparts.

17. According to Moses 6:60, why is each of these elements important?

18. From Moses 6:61, list three different roles of the Holy Ghost.

Day 7: Read Moses 6:63-68; 2 Nephi 11:4; Alma 30:44; D&C 88:45-46
19. Give one example of how a temporal thing bears record of the Savior (See also 2 Nephi 11:4, D&C 88:45-46.)

20. What did Adam do after he had been taught the first principles of the gospel?

21. According to the footnote for Moses 6:67, what “order” was Adam a part of?

BONUS: What do you think it means to be “quickened in the inner man”? (See also Mosiah 27:25, Alma 5:14.)

Moses 6:1-34

2009-10-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

Moses 6:1-34 Study Guide – to be discussed October 29
Day 1: Read Moses 6:1-4; D&C 107:42-43; D&C 138:40; Bible Dictionary entry, “Seth”
1. Read D&C 107:42-43 and BD “Seth.” How old was Adam (in mortality) when Seth was born? How old was Seth when he was ordained by Adam?

2. Why did Adam glorify the name of God when Seth was born?

3. What was Seth’s legacy to his children?

Day 2: Read Moses 6:4-9; Zephaniah 3:8-9
4. What principle of obedience led to the advent of written language? For what was this skill used?

5. By what spirit was Adam called upon to write? Does that same spirit move us today?

6. Read Zephaniah 3:8-9. When will we again have a pure language and for what will it be used?

Day 3: Read Moses 6:10-14 (with footnote 10b); D&C 107:44,53
7. Fill in the time line below (or make your own on a larger sheet of paper) with dates for Seth’s birth, Adam’s death, and Seth’s death.

0____________________________________________________________
100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200

8. Read D&C 107:44. Add the year of Enos’ ordination to the priesthood to your time line. From D&C 107:53, where did Enos receive a patriarchal blessing?

9. What did Seth teach Enos?

Day 4: Read Moses 6:15-18
10. Add the years of Cainan’s birth and Enos’ death to your time line.
11. What was the name of the promised land occupied by Enos’ people?

12. From Moses 6:15, list what began to happen among men when Satan had great dominion. Do you think he has dominion today?

Day 5: Read Moses 6:19-22; D&C 107:45-48
13. Add the birth years of Mahalaleel, Jared and Enoch to the time line.

14. How old was Adam (from the Fall) when Enoch was ordained?

15.Read D&C 107:45-48. Add the years of priesthood ordination for Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared and Enoch. If Adam had many sons and daughters, why do you think this particular genealogy is the only one recorded in Moses and Genesis?

Day 6: Read Moses 6:23-30
16. Add Methuselah’s birth to the time line.

17. What was Enoch called to do?

18. List the reasons the Lord was angry with the people.

Day 7: Read Moses 6:31-34; Ether 12:27; 1 Corinthians 1:25-29
19. What did Enoch do when he received his mission call? Read Ether 12:27 and 1 Corinthians 1:25-29. Why did the Lord call Enoch?

20. List the promises made to Enoch if he was obedient.

21. What did the Lord command Enoch to do at the end of Moses 6:34? What do you think this means? How does it apply to each of us?

BONUS: Look at your time line. What did you learn about the early patriarchs?

Moses 5

2009-10-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

Moses 5 Study Guide – to be discussed October 22

Day 1: Read Moses 5:1-8; Leviticus 1:1-13; Alma 34:8-10

1. After Adam and Eve were driven from the Garden, what did they do? (List main activities from Moses 5:1-5.) Which of these activities demonstrate obedience?

2. Read Leviticus 1:1-13. Which details in the Mosaic Law regarding sacrificial offerings point toward Christ’s atoning sacrifice?

3. Read Alma 34:8-10. How did obedience and sacrifice teach Adam and Eve about the atonement?

Day 2: Read Moses 5:9-15; Moses 6:64-65

4. Note: Moses 6:52-68 can be inserted chronologically between Moses 5:8 and 9. Read Moses 6:64-65 with Moses 5:9-10. Was Adam baptized? What followed his baptism?

5. In what did Adam and Eve find joy?

6. What attitude of men caused Adam’s posterity to become carnal, sensual and devilish?

Day 3: Read Moses 5:16-25; Alma 22:18

7. Unto whom was Cain obedient in his sacrifice? Why was Cain angry that his sacrifice was rejected?

8. Read Alma 22:18. Contrast Cain’s attitude with the words of the king as found in Alma 22:18.

9. Did Cain understand the principle of repentance? Was it too late for him to repent?

Day 4: Read Moses 5:26-31; 2 Nephi 28:20-22

10. Why did Cain stop listening to the Lord and to his parents?

11. Read 2 Nephi 28:20-22. How does Satan stir people up to “anger against that which is good” today?

12. Upon what was Cain’s covenant with Satan based?

BONUS: Read the footnote to Moses 5:31c. List possible meanings of the roots evident in “Mahan.” What did Cain say he was master of? What did he glory in?

Day 5: Read Moses 5:32-40

13. Why do you think Cain exclaimed, “I am free”?

14. What questions did the Lord ask Cain after his murderous act? Did the Lord already know the answers? List ways in which Cain was cursed.

BONUS: Are you your brothers’ keeper? In what way(s)?

15. On whom did Cain place blame? Was there any evidnce of Godly sorrow in Cain? (See also Mormon 2:12-13.) Why was the mark placed on Cain?

Day 6: Read Moses 5:41-51

16. Read the footnote to Moses 5:42a. Was the Prophet Enoch descended from Cain?

17. What kind of legacy did Cain leave his descendants?

18. Who did Lemech kill and why? Read the footnote to Moses 5:48a. In what way(s) does his explanation remind you of secret combinations in the Book of Mormon? (See also Helaman 2:8.)

Day 7: Read Moses 5:52-59

19. Why did Lamech’s wives rebel against him?

20. Give two reasons why God cursed the earth and was angry with the wicked.

21. From Moses 5:58, list three ways in which the Lord communicates with us and spreads the good word of the Gospel.

Moses 4

2009-10-08T13:02:00.000-07:00

Moses 4 Study Guide – to be discussed October 15
Day 1: Read Moses 4:1-4; D&C 76:25-29; Bible Dictionary entry, “Lucifer”
1. Why did Lucifer want to redeem mankind? Why was he cast down?

BONUS: Count all the “I’s” and “me’s” in Moses 4:1.

2. Read D&C 76:25-29. Why did the heavens weep over Lucifer? According to D&C 76:29, in what is he engaged here? Why is it important for us to know this?

BONUS: Look up “Lucifer” in the Bible Dictionary. What does this name mean?

3. From Moses 4:4, list some of Satan’s objectives here on earth.

Day 2: Read Moses 4:5-11
4. Why did Satan seek to beguile Eve? For what purpose?

5. Upon which tree did Satan want Eve to focus? How did he mix truth and lies in his message?

6. Why do you think Eve was told not to even TOUCH the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil?

Day 3: Read Moses 4:12-13; D&C 29:39-40; 2 Nephi 9:14
7. List action verbs in Moses 4:12. What kind of progression is evident?

8. Who made Adam’s and Eve’s aprons? Out of what were they made and for what purpose? How effective do you think they were?

9. Read D&C 29:39-40. In what way was Adam’s Fall necessary to God’s plan?

BONUS: Read 2 Nephi 9:14. With what are the righteous clothed?

Day 4: Read Moses 4:14-19
10. Why do you think Adam and Eve tried to hide from the presence of God? How do people do this today?

11. List the Lord’s questions from Moses 4:15-19. In his interview with Adam and Eve, why do you think he asked the first and second questions? Did the Lord know the answers?

12. How did Adam answer the Lord’s third question? How did Eve answer the question directed to her? Did they know what they were doing before they ate the fruit?

Day 5: Read Moses 4:20-25; Romans 16:20; Hebrews 2:14-16
13. Who or what are Satan’s “seed”? Which is more serious, a head injury or a foot injury? What does a foot injury cause us to do?

14. Read Romans 16:20, Hebrews 2:14-16. Who specifically among Eve’s seed has bruised Satan’s head, and how was it accomplished?

15. Were Adam and Eve cursed? Did they die?

Day 6: Read Moses 4:26-27
16. Who made the coats of skin for Adam and Eve?

17. What is necessary as part of the process of obtaining animal skins?

18. How does the Lord cover our nakedness?

Day 7: Read Moses 4:28-32; Alma 42:2-7; Bible Dictionary entry, “Cherubim”
19. Why was it important to guard Adam and Eve from partaking of the fruit of the tree of life?

20. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Cherubim.” What are cherubim?

21. Read Alma 42:2-7. According to Alma 42:4, what is one of the great purposes of earth life?

Moses 3, Abraham 5

2009-10-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

Moses 3, Abraham 5 Study Guide – to be discussed October 8
Day 1: Read Moses 3:1-3, Abraham 5:1-3; D&C 77:12
1. List what was done during the seventh creative period.

2. Remembering Abraham’s vision context (see Ab. 4:31), were the Creators simply exhausted after six creative periods and decided to take a break – or was the rest period part of the plan from the beginning?

3. Read D&C 77:12. Of what is the Sabbath a pattern or type?

Day 2: Read Moses 3:4-6; Abraham 5:4-6; D&C 29:31-34; Article of Faith 10
4. What two types of creation are discussed in Moses 3:5, Abraham 5:5 and D&C 29:31-34?

5. According to Article of Faith 10, when will the earth return to its paradisiacal (Eden-like, terrestrial) state?

6. Why do you think it was necessary for all things to be created spiritually before being created physically?

Day 3: Read Moses 3:7-9; Abraham 5:7-9; Mosiah 2:21; D&C 77:2; 1 Nephi 11:24-25
7. What two steps are listed in the process whereby man became a living soul? Read Mosiah 2:20-21. How does each of us continue to be a living soul?

8. Read D&C 77:2. What does the spirit of man look like?

9. From Moses 3:9, what “became also a living soul”? What two trees in Eden are mentioned specifically? Who planted them?

BONUS: Read 1 Nephi 11:24-25. What does the Tree of Life represent?

Day 4: Read Moses 3:10-15; Abraham 5:10-11; Isaiah 55:10-11; D&C 121:33; John 7:37-39; Rev. 22:1-2; D&C 117:8-9
10. From each of the scriptures below, identify an aspect of the importance or symbolism of irrigation / water.

a. Isaiah 55:10-11______________________________

b. D&C 121:33_________________________________

c. John 7:37-39________________________________

d. Revelation 22:1-2___________________________

11. Read the footnote to Moses 3:13a. Read also D&C 117:8-9. Did Eden’s river run through modern Ethiopia? Assyria? Why or why not?

12. Was Eden created for man or man created to tend the garden?

Day 5: Read Moses 3:16-17; Abraham 5:12-13; 2 Nephi 2:14-16; Helaman 14:14-17; 2 Nephi 2:22
13. How many trees in Eden were forbidden?

14. Read 2 Nephi 2:14-16. Why were both the tree of knowledge and the tree of life planted in Eden? What might each represent? Which fruit do you think was bitter and which sweet?

15. Read Helaman 14:14-17, 2 Nephi 2:22. What kinds of death was Adam warned about in the Garden?

Day 6: Read Moses 3:18-20; Abraham 5:14, 20-21
16. Look up the word “meet” in any dictionary. Which definition seems to best fit the description of the “help” God planned for Adam? (See Moses 3:18, 20; Ab. 5:14.)

17. Why do you think Adam was given the stewardship to name all the animals?

18. Why isn’t it good for man (or woman) to be alone?

Day 7: Read Moses 3:21-25; Abraham 5:15-19
19. Why do you think woman is described as being formed from man’s rib instead of being a separate creation?

20. Why should a man cleave to his wife?

21. If you take the word “naked” to mean open, honest, nothing hidden or concealed, how could Moses 3:25 and Abraham 5:19 be applied to marriage relationships in any age?

Moses 2, Abraham 4

2009-10-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

Moses 2, Abraham 4 Study Guide – to be discussed October 1
Day 1: Read Moses 2:1-5; Abraham 4:1-5; Jeremiah 4:23 (with footnote 23a); D&C 88:6-13
1. Review Moses’ three questions as recorded in Moses 1:30 and 36. Does Moses 2 seem to answer any of these questions? Why do you think Moses was commanded to write down this instruction?

2. Use the footnote for Jeremiah 4:23a to give an explanation for the phrase, “without form and void” (Moses 2:2). Upon what did the Spirit move (Moses 2:2) or “brood” (Ab. 4:2)?

3. What was the first command after the heavens and earth were formed or organized? Read D&C 88:6-13. Why do you think one of the first acts of creation was to divide the light from the dark?

Day 2: Read Moses 2:6-8; Abraham 4:6-8; Proverbs 3:19-20; Bible Dictionary entry, “Firmament”
4. Where Abraham’s record uses the word “expanse” (Ab. 4:6), Moses’ record uses “firmament” (Moses 2:6). Use the Bible Dictionary entry “Firmament” with the footnote for Moses 2:8a to explain what is meant by these terms.

5. Which waters did the firmament or expanse divide?

6. Read Proverbs 3:19-20. What two attributes of Godliness were necessary in the planning of creation?

BONUS: Look at Facsimile No. 2 on page 36 in the Pearl of Great Price. Figure 4 (upper left quadrant) was identified by Joseph Smith as representing expanse or firmament. What does this figure look like to you? (See also Facsimile No. 1, Figure 12.)

Day 3: Read Moses 2:9-13; Abraham 4:9-13
7. List the events of the third creative period.

8. Find and mark the word “let” in Moses 2:9-13 and Abraham 4:9-13. Why is it important to know that the earth and heaven did not come into existence randomly or by accident?

9. From Abraham 4:9-13, find the phrase “and the Gods…” each time it occurs. List the verb or verb phrase that follows each occurrence.

Day 4: Read Moses 2:14-19; Abraham 4:14-19; D&C 76:70-71, 78, 81
10. What part of the earth’s creation was organized during he fourth creative period? How was this different from the first creative period?
11. From Moses 2:14-15, list reasons for this organization of lights.

BONUS: Read D&C 76:70-71, 78, 81. Give one example of how the celestial bodies are signs. Can you think of others?

12. According to Abraham 4:18, how long did the Gods watch those things which they had ordered?

Day 5: Read Moses 2:20-23; Abraham 4:20-23
13. List what was accomplished during the fifth creative period.

14. What two areas of the earth were filled?

15. For what purpose were these creatures blessed?

Day 6: Read Moses 2:24-27; Abraham 4:24-27; The Family – A Proclamation to the World, paragraph 2
16. What was accomplished during the sixth creative period?

17. What does the phrase “after their own kind” mean (Moses 2:11-12, 21, 24-25; Ab. 4:11-12, 21, 24-25)? Why do you think it is included in these creation accounts?

18. Read The Family – A Proclamation to the World, paragraph 2. What does it mean to be created in the image of God? What does this teach us about God? About man?

Day 7: Read Moses 2:28-31; Abraham 4:28-31
19. What blessing is given to men and women in Moses 2:28, Ab. 4:28?

20: Over what were men given dominion? What does “dominion” mean? What is unrighteous dominion? (See also D&C 121:39.)

21. Compare Moses 2:31 with Ab. 4:31. List differences between these verses.

BONUS: Why were creative periods 1-5 necessary prior to the creations of the sixth day?

Moses 1:12-42

2009-09-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

Moses 1:12-42 Study Guide – to be discussed September 17
Day 1: Read Moses 1:12-15; BD entries “Devil” and “Satan”; 2 Nephi 2:18; D&C 10:20-24
1. How did Satan address Moses in v.12? What did he ask Moses to do?

2. How was Moses able to discern Satan’s true identity? How might Moses’ example be helpful to us? (Note: Read also Bible Dictionary entry, “Devil,” paragraph 2, to find one of Satan’s main strategies.)

3. Read Bible Dictionary entry “Satan.” What does the name “Satan” mean? Read also 2 Nephi 2:18, and D&C 10:20-24. List items on Satan’s agenda.

Day 2: Read Moses 1:16-20
4. What did God command Moses to do when he spoke from the “burning bush”? How would obedience to this commandment prepare Moses to withstand opposition?

5. From Moses 1:19, what two intimidation techniques did Satan use to cause Moses to fear? What might he have feared?

6. Search Moses 1:13-21 for a list or pattern of how Satan can be neutralized, using Moses’ example.

Day 3: Read Moses 1:21-26; Exodus 14:21-22, 17:5-6
7. How was Moses’ command for Satan to depart different in Moses 1:21? What was Satan’s reaction this time?

8. List what happened to Moses when Satan departed.

9. With what was Moses blessed in Moses 1:25? Read E xodus 14:21-22 and 17:5-6 to give two examples of how Moses used this blessing.

BONUS: How can we spiritually prepare to fulfill callings?

Day 4: Read Moses 1:27-30
10. List the elements of Moses’ vision from Moses 1:27-29

11. Why do you think it was important for Moses to have this vision?

12. List two questions Moses asked the Lord in Moses 1:30.

Day 5: Read Moses 1:31-34; 1 Corinthians 15:45-48; Bible Dictionary entry “Eve”; Genesis 5:2
13. Find common phrases in Moses 1:31 and 33; 32 and 33. How do these verses answer Moses’ two questions from verse 30?

14. Read 1 Corinthians 15:45-48. Who are the first and second Adams? Why is the word “many” appropriate to both Adams? (Hint: Read also Romans 5:12-19.)

15. Read Genesis 5:2 with footnote 2a. Also, look up “Eve” in the Bible Dictionary. How does Eve’s name relate to the concept of “many”?

Day 6: Read Moses 1:35-38; Hebrews 1:1-3; Matthew 10:29-30
16. Read Hebrews 1:1-3. What does the Lord mean when he says worlds have been created and have passed away “by the word of my power”?

17. Why does the Lord number all things? (See also Matt. 10:29-30.)

18. What further questions did Moses ask the Lord in Moses 1:36?

Day 7: Read Moses 1:39-42; 2 Nephi 3:6-11
19. What is God’s work? What is His glory? How does Moses 1:39 continue to answer Moses’ first question in v. 30?

20. What was Moses’ first stewardship regarding his vision?

21. Read 2 Nephi 3:6-11 (with footnote 7a). Who might the Lord have had in mind when he told Moses, “I will raise up another like unto thee”?

Moses 1:1-11

2009-08-13T16:09:00.000-07:00

Moses 1:1-11 Study Guide: To be discussed September 10
Day 1: Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Moses,” paragraphs 2-4; D&C 84:6-24
1. What keys did Moses restore on the Mount of Transfiguration? Why was it appropriate for Moses to have this stewardship?

2. What keys did Moses restore at the Kirtland Temple? (See also D&C 110:11.) Why was this appropriate? (See also 1 Nephi 22:10-12.)

3. According to D&C 84:6-24, who gave Moses the priesthood? Why did Moses “seek diligently to sanctify his people”? What prevented this?

Day 2: Read Exodus 3, with chapter heading; Bible Dictionary entry, “Jehovah” [Note: Many believe the events in Moses 1 occurred sometime between the events of Exodus 3 and 4.]
4. What was Moses doing when he beheld the “burning bush”? Why was he afraid?

5. What calling did the Lord give to Moses? Had the Israelites prayed for deliverance?

6. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Jehovah.” What does the name “Jehovah” mean? Why do you think God told Moses to identify him with the name “IAM THAT I AM”?

Day 3: Read Exodus 4:1-17; D&C 33:8-11
7. The king cobra was an ancient symbol of Egypt and Pharaoh. What might Moses’ first sign mean?

8. What power was displayed in the following signs, described in Exodus 4:6-7 and Exodus 4:9?

9. Why was Moses uncomfortable with his stewardship? What was the Lord’s promise to him? Read also D&C 33:8-11. Do we have the same promise?

Day 4: Read Moses 1:1-2 with chapter heading; D&C 67:10-13
10. According to the chapter heading, in what state of being was Moses when he received the vision recorded in Moses 1? (See also Moses 1:11.)

11. Why do you think Moses was “caught up into an exceedingly high mountain at the beginning of this vision?

12. Read D&C 67:10-13. List keys for preparing ourselves to stand before God.

Day 5: Read Moses 1:3-5; D&C 19:10-12
13. By what name did the Lord call himself in Moses 1:3? Why do you think this is His name, not just a description? (See also D&C 19:10-12.)

14. What reason is Moses given in Moses 1:4 for being shown God’s creations? Why was he not shown a vision of ALL of God’s works and words?

15. For each scripture below, write one thing you learn about God’s glory:

a. John 17:20-22__________________________

b. D&C 84:31-32 _____________________________

c. 2 Corinthians 4:5-6______________________

d. D&C 93:36-37 _____________________________

Day 6: Read Moses 1:6-8; Review Exodus 3:1-4, 10-12
16. Remembering the “work” Moses had been called to (see #5 above), how was Moses’ work a “type” of (or similar to) Christ’s work? (See also Hebrews 3:1-6.)

17. List the elements of Moses’ vision, as described in Moses 1:7-8.

18. How did Moses react to this vision?

Day 7: Read Moses 1:9-11; JST Exodus 33:20 ; D&C 67:10-13; Mosiah 4:11-12
19. What happened to Moses when the presence of the Lord was withdrawn?

20. Read Mosiah 4:11-12. Why do you think Moses exclaimed, “man is nothing”? Was Pharaoh a man? Was Moses?

21. Read JST Exodus 33:20 (Bible Appendix, p. 800) and review D&C 67:10-13. How would you define “natural eyes” and “spiritual eyes”? What can we do to improve our spiritual vision?

BONUS: In Moses 1:1-11, count how many times the Lord refers to Moses as "my son."

Introduction to the Pearl of Great Price

2009-08-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

In his preface to the first edition of the Pearl of Great Price in 1851, Elder Franklin D. Richards, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and President of the British Mission, wrote:
"Altogether it is presumed, that true believers in the Divine mission of the Prophet JOSEPH SMITH will appreciate this little collection of precious truths as a Pearl of Great Price that will increase their ability to maintain and to defend the holy faith by becoming possessors of it.... It will commend itself to all careful students of the scriptures, as detailing many important facts which are therein only alluded to, or entirely unmentioned [in other scriptures]...."

A century later, Elder Mark E. Peterson testified that the Pearl of Great Price "contains some of the greatest revelations of God to man." (CR, Apr. 1952, 107) This "Pearl" is by far the shortest of our standard works, and the last to be accepted as canon - but how aptly named it is! Brought to light in the midst of the great persecution surrounding the restoration of the gospel in the latter days, a thing of rare beauty, this treasure can only be discovered by one who seeks it diligently with effort, sacrifice and skill. Once found, the pure in heart will gladly sell all they have to possess it.

In our study this year, we will seek together the treasures of this inspired work of scripture. Your individual prayer and study will open up personal pearls of revelation, their beauty and value beyond measure. Be willing to sacrifice time to cherish each key of wisdom, each jewel of promise and priceless truth. Your life and the lives of all who are close to you will be blessed by the richness and wonder of God's love as you uncover pearls sealed up for your exaltation.

Elder Milton R. Hunter of the Seventy explained the uniqueness of these sacred writings: "The Pearl of Great Price... contains revelations on certain subjects superior to any other scriptures or writings on those subjects found in the world; for example, Abraham’s vision of pre-mortal life in which he learned of the eternal nature of things; of the grand council in heaven; and of the plan of salvation as presented there constitutes one of the greatest of God’s revelations to his holy prophets. And the knowledge obtained by Moses in his vision of Lucifer and the part he played at the grand council, added to Abraham’s vision, gives us the most complete understanding found in any literature regarding man’s pre-mortal life and God’s purposes for the good of man. (CR, Oct. 1955, 67)

This website has been created in an effort to share tools and insights in guiding the gospel student through a study of this marvelous scripture. The text of the Pearl of Great Price can be found here. Other quick links that may be helpful are listed to the right, including a link to the CES Pearl of Great Price Student manual, BYU broadcasts on the Pearl of Great Price, and other articles relating to our study. But one of the best parts of class is the sharing of insights gained as we seek and pray for the Spirit to reveal the things of eternity. Please join us and share in this journey of discovery.