Come Follow Me Daily Study by Brother Mansfield

February 21, 2019... Matthew 5:38-47 and Luke 6:27-42

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-02-21 11:56:33 UTC

President Marvin J. Ashton taught in April 1992: "During an informal fireside address held with a group of adult Latter-day Saints, the leader directing the discussion invited participation by asking the question: “How can you tell if someone is converted to Jesus Christ?” For forty-five minutes those in attendance made numerous suggestions in response to this question, and the leader carefully wrote down each answer on a large blackboard. All of the comments were thoughtful and appropriate. But after a time, this great teacher erased everything he had written. Then, acknowledging that all of the comments had been worthwhile and appreciated, he taught a vital principle: 'The best and most clear indicator that we are progressing spiritually and coming unto Christ is the way we treat other people.'"

As you study these passages today, look for those things that you need the most help with in the way that you treat others.

Notice Luke 6:40, which in the NIV is translated as follows: "The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher."
Given that the Savior is the one teaching this message, it is clear that each of His teachings and instructions in these passages is designed to help us to develop to become more like Him. Keep that theme in mind!

When you are done with your study, write down in your study journal the teaching you most need to apply. Then consider writing down some ways that you can do so.

Consider how the messages you study relate to this video:

February 22, 2019... Matthew 5:48...What did Jesus mean when He said "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect."?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-02-22 12:19:07 UTC

The Greek word Jesus uses for perfect is as follows:

Strong's Definitions: τέλειος téleios, tel'-i-os; from G5056; complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as noun, with G3588) completeness:—of full age, man, perfect.

The word is also defined in this way: brought to its end, finished... Wanting nothing necessary to completeness... That which is perfect... Consummate human integrity and virtue...

The Savior's request is daunting! His Command is better understood in light of other passages where this same word is used. Here are some other passages:
Matthew 19:21
Ephesians 4:13
Philippians 3:15
Colossians 1:28
Colossians 4:12
James 1:4
James 3:2
1 John 4:18

You can also watch this talk from Elder Holland or read/listen to President Nelson’s October 1995 conference talk entitled “Perfection Pending”

February 23, 2019... Luke 6:12-13... How can I receive answers to my most important questions

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-02-23 12:41:17 UTC

As in all things, the Savior shows us a perfect example in these two verses of how to receive answers to important questions. What do you learn about how to receive answers from His example?

Link/cross reference this short example with three other examples that give us additional insights into today's question:

1 Nephi 10:17-19; 11:1-7 - What do you learn from Nephi?
DC 138:1-11 - What do you learn from Joseph F. Smith?
DC 8:2-3; 9:3-9 - What do you learn from the revelations to Oliver Cowdery?

Make notes in your scriptures as you study... what did they do to get answers? What do we need to do? What do these examples teach you about Heavenly Father? About the Holy Ghost?

Listen to or study the second half of President Nelson's April 2018 talk to learn additional principles about receiving revelation, along with principles of receiving revelation as a family.

Prayer is essential in this process. Notice what the Bible Dictionary teaches about prayer: "As soon as we learn the true relationship in which we stand toward God (namely, God is our Father, and we are His children), then at once prayer becomes natural and instinctive on our part (Matt. 7:7–11). Many of the so-called difficulties about prayer arise from forgetting this relationship. Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with each other. The object of prayer is not to change the will of God but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant but that are made conditional on our asking for them. Blessings require some work or effort on our part before we can obtain them. Prayer is a form of work and is an appointed means for obtaining the highest of all blessings."

Additional videos to help our understanding are found HERE, HERE and HERE

February 24, 2019... Luke 6:1-10... Why do we have the Sabbath?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-02-24 12:47:25 UTC

Sometimes we tend to see the Sabbath as a burden rather than a blessing. We forget why we have it and the blessings the Savior offers on His holy day. This story can help remind us! Cross reference with Exodus 31:12-17 to see what the Lord teaches Moses about the Sabbath.

Elder Mark E. Peterson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained what our observance of the Sabbath communicates to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ:

“Our observance or nonobservance of the Sabbath is an unerring measure of our attitude toward the Lord personally and toward his suffering in Gethsemane, his death on the cross, and his resurrection from the dead” (“The Sabbath Day,” Ensign, May 1975, 49).

Pres Nelson: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2015/04/the-sabbath-is-a-delight?lang=eng

February 25, 2019... Matthew 6:1-18... Why do we serve God and others?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-02-25 13:26:38 UTC

It is so important that we look at why we do what we do. As you study Matthew 6:1-18 today, look for what the Savior teaches about why we do things. Consider if any of His teachings about prayer, fasting and service touch on things that you need to change. Why do you do what you do? Read, watch or listen to this talk by President Oaks to begin your study (October 1984 Conference). Once you have done that, read Matthew 6:1-18 with his teachings in mind. Also study Moroni 7:6-9 and look for parallels. In your study journal, respond to the following:

What did I learn today?
What did I feel today?
What will I do because of what I learned and felt?

How does this video help us understand the "better way" to do things that the Savior is trying to teach in these verses? Also consider how "the right way" of doing things is exemplified in the life of Jesus Christ.

February 26, 2019... Matthew 6:19-21... What are my "treasures"?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-02-26 12:35:46 UTC

Jesus continues to focus on what our priorities are in these three verses. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin explained that, "Right now, this very moment, is part of our eternal progression towards returning with our families to the presence of our Father in Heaven. President Gordon B. Hinckley taught: “We are here [in this life] with a marvelous inheritance, a divine endowment. How different this world would be if every person realized that all of his actions have eternal consequences. How much more satisfying our years may be if … we recognize that we form each day the stuff of which eternity is made.”
That understanding helps us to make wise decisions in the many choices of our daily lives. Seeing life from an eternal perspective helps us focus our limited mortal energies on the things that matter most. We can avoid wasting our lives laying “up for [ourselves] treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt.” We can lay up treasures in heaven and not trade our eternal spiritual birthright.
This is the day of our mortal probation. We might compare our eternal journey to a race of three laps around the track. We have completed the first lap successfully and have made wonderful progress. We have started on the second lap. Can you imagine a world-class runner stopping along the track at this point to pick flowers or chase a rabbit that crossed his path? Yet this is what we are doing when we occupy our time with worldly pursuits that do not move us closer to the third lap toward eternal life, the greatest of all the gifts of God."

President Oaks spoke about our focus and priorities. Watch the last few minutes of his talk now and consider what your actions show are your "treasures." Our ponderize verse this week (Helaman 3:35) relates!

Sometimes we don't even realize the good we do or how much we are truly treasuring our families. As Sister Joy D. Jones explained: "The Lord counseled, “Look unto me in every thought.” And each week we covenant to do just that—to “always remember him.” Can such a godly focus apply in everything we do? Can performing even a menial task become an opportunity to demonstrate our love and devotion to Him? I believe it can and will.

We can make each item on our to-do list become a way to glorify Him. We can see each task as a privilege and opportunity to serve Him, even when we are in the midst of deadlines, duties, or dirty diapers." Consider these words as you watch the video below. Be prepared with a Bible Video that shows the Savior putting His priorities on things that matter most.

Watch this Mormon Message to hear President Monson discuss what matters most. Then in your study journal write down any adjustments you feel you need to make to your focus and priorities.

February 27, 2019... Matthew 6:22-34... Why should I put God first in my life?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-02-27 06:27:27 UTC

Here is an example of what you can do today in your study: in Matthew 6:22 we are promised that we will be filled with light if we have an eye single to the glory of God (see the JST in footnote 22b).
The footnote also explains that single means without guile, healthy or sincere. In other words, if I am sincere and honest in seeking God’s glory, He will fill me with light.
Jesus said “I am the light of the world”... therefore, we are promised that we can be filled with Christ! That is a great WHY for putting God first!
We also learn about Heavenly Father’s character and attributes... He loves us enough that He wants us to become like Him and be completely filled with light! He wants us to have joy!!!

So, for tonight, be prepared to share a verse or two, and what it teaches about WHY I would want to put God first. Also be prepared to share what you learned about the nature and character of our Heavenly Father from your verse(s).

Enjoy this video for an example of someone putting God first!

February 28, 2019... Matthew 7:1-5, 15-20... How do I know how to judge and when it is ok to judge?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-02-28 12:42:15 UTC

The first time you skim over Matthew 7:1-5, you wonder if the Savior is teaching that we should never make any judgments. However, when you continue on in the chapter, you find Him teaching us to make judgments in verses 15-20. In addition, the JST (footnote 1a) for Matthew 7:1-2 gives additional enlightenment. So the question is, how do I know how to judge and when it is ok to do so?

Carefully study Matthew 7:1-5,15-20 looking for and marking answers, and then study Alma 41:14, DC 11:11, and Moroni 7:12-19 doing the same thing. Then consider what you learn from the Savior's example in this Bible Video and the example shown in the Mormon Message below. You can also consider reading this talk by Elder Oaks and reading/watching this talk from Elder Robbins. This hymn can be helpful as well. Be prepared to share what you learned about judgment.

In your study journal, answer the following questions:

How do you want others to judge you?
What characteristics and attributes of the Savior are required for us to develop in order to make righteous judgments?
How is forgiveness related to judgment?
What corrections do you feel you need to make in order to be more like the Savior in judging?

March 1, 2019... Matthew 7:13-14... What is the “strait gate” and how do I enter it?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-01 12:27:55 UTC

It is apparent from Jesus’ words in these two verses that we don’t want to end up in the wide gate or broad way! So how do we make sure we enter in the strait gate?

First we need to know what it is. Then we can understand how. Better understanding comes as we use all the footnotes in Matthew 7:13-14. Start there. Focus on trying to understand both what that gate is and how we enter it. Then study the first two sections in Preach My Gospel. “The divine mission of Jesus Christ” and “The Gospel of Christ and Doctrine of Christ”. Finish your study by watching the video below to get additional insights. Then respond to these questions in your study journal:

How would you describe the “strait gate”?
How would you explain to someone how to enter it?
What differences would you expect to see in someone’s life if they are entering into the strait gate and following the strait and narrow way?

March 2, 2019... Matthew 7:15-23... How can I tell a true prophet from a false prophet?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-02 13:37:51 UTC

It is powerful to note that at the beginning of this chapter Jesus teaches about making righteous judgments and then gives us a specific opportunity to apply those teachings in verses 15-20. We read the verses earlier this week, but look at them in a more specific context... how can we determine if Joseph Smith was a true prophet or a false one? Make sure you are using the footnotes in all of these verses to gain a better understanding. Consider watching these three videos that discuss Joseph Smith’s fruits:
Part 1
Part 2

Another important fruit of Joseph’s seership is the Joseph Smith translation. Note the adjustments he made in Matthew 7:23... how does this help us better understand the Savior’s teachings? Consider reading or watching Elder Bednar’s talk about this verse.

March 3, 2019... Matthew 7:24-29... How do we build our foundation on rock?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-03 14:40:58 UTC

Elder L Tom Perry once taught: “To build a foundation strong enough to support a family in our troubled world today requires the best effort of each of us—father, mother, brother, sister, grandmother, grandfather, aunts, uncles, cousins, and so on. Each must contribute energy and effort in driving piles right down to the bedrock of the gospel until the foundation is strong enough to endure through the eternities. The Lord has promised us in the Doctrine and Covenants that “he that buildeth upon this rock shall never fall.”

Build traditions in your families that will bring you together, for they can demonstrate your devotion, love, and support for one another. For each of the members of your family, these events would include blessings of children, baptisms, other priesthood ordinances, graduations, missionary farewells, homecomings, and, of course, marriages. If distance, missions, or ill health prevent personal reunions, write one of those special letters that will be treasured in family histories. Sharing these occasions as a family will help us build a foundation established upon a rock.”
Use the topical guide under “rock” (in the footnote for Matthew 25c) to find insights.
Then study Bishop Davies April 2013 talk entitled “A sure foundation” to learn additional ways we can build on a foundation of rock!
Consider how this hymn applies...

March 4, 2019... Matthew 8:1-15; 9:27-31... How do I exercise faith in Christ?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-04 12:53:39 UTC

These few chapters record many instances of miraculous healings performed by the Savior. As you study these healings, look for possible messages for you. You might ask yourself:

What does the account teach about faith?
What does the account teach about the Savior?
What does God want me to learn from this miracle?

A leper (Matthew 8:1–4)
A centurion’s servant (Matthew 8:5–13)
Peter’s mother-in-law (Matthew 8:14–15)
Two blind men (Matthew 9:27–31)

Watch this video and look for how they exercised faith in Christ

March 5, 2019... Matthew 9:1-8 and Mark 2:1-12... We can be healed spiritually and physically by Jesus Christ as we come to Him in faith

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-05 12:45:11 UTC

This story is beautiful and teaches many important truths about faith, receiving the Savior’s healing power, helping others, etc. Ponder the following questions as you read:

Why was it so important that more than one person was involved with helping this man? (Study this talk for additional insight here)
How does our faith influence other people?
Why does Jesus address the man’s sinful condition first? (Watch this video for insights)
Think symbolically... These men brought their friend to Jesus’ house... what is that today? What is our palsy? Who do you know that is stuck and needs help? What could the bed represent? What could the hole created in Jesus’ roof represent? The physical AND spiritual healing?

Consider studying President Nelson’s talk about Jesus Christ as the Master Healer to help you understand how we can help ourselves and others find the Savior’s healing power.

To finish your study consider the parallels this story has with Joseph Smith’s first vision. Watch this rendering and look for similarities

March 6, 2019... Mark 5:1-20 and Luke 8:26-40... What eternal truths can we learn from this miracle?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-06 13:07:48 UTC

As you study this account carefully, look for and ponder what truths we can learn from this story. Consider the following questions:

What can we learn about premortal life?
What do you learn about the importance of a body?
What do you learn about satan and his followers?
Why was this man able to receive the Savior’s healing?
What evidence shows why he was a completely changed man by the end of the story?
What do you learn about Christ? (There should be a lot of answers here)
What do you learn about the Savior’s mission?
Why were the people afraid of Jesus and ask Him to depart out of their land?
Why were they open to the Savior upon His return?

Copy and paste the questions into your study journal and write down your answers. Be prepared to share them tonight! Consider how this story might parallel our own lives in many ways. What similarities does this story have with this video?

Matthew 9:18-26 and Mark 5:21-43... How can I persist through trials and ridicule to receive the Savior’s healing?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-07 12:39:03 UTC

Here we have two stories of miraculous healing. There are some striking similarities as well as some differences. For example, notice that both involve time periods of 12 years. The number 12 was significant for the Jews and symbolized priesthood. It is interesting to note that Jairus was a well respected member of the community whose peers hated Jesus. The woman with the issue of blood was an outcast. Both of these faithful people had to persist through trials of their faith, and most likely each experienced ridicule due to their circumstances, although for different reasons. What do you learn about how to persist through trials and ridicule and receive Christ’s healing and saving power? Consider these questions and answer them in your study journal:

What was the importance of humility in both accounts?
What do you learn about the Savior from each account?
What can we do to follow His example?
What were the actions they each took to show their faith?
How might Jesus’ stopping and healing the woman been both a trial of Jairus’ faith but also a blessing?
How did the Savior also show persistence and diligence despite ridicule?

Consider reading this talk from President Hunter to help you with your study (both today and in future studies)
How is Ryan’s story in the video below similar to these other two?

Matthew 9:9-13 and Mark 2:14-17... Why is it important to recognize we are sinners?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-08 12:24:43 UTC

In the New Living Translation of the Bible, Matthew 9:13 states, “Then he added, Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.”
Mark 2:17 is translated this way: “When Jesus heard this, he told them, ‘Healthy people don't need a doctor--sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.’"

Why would the Savior emphasize the importance of knowing you are a sinner?
Link these two stories in the Book of Mormon with Mark 2:17...

Alma 24:6-19
2 Nephi 4:17-35

Study these stories with today’s question in mind. Then answer these questions in your study journal:

What difference does it make in our lives when we recognize our sinful condition?
How does the Savior help those who recognize this?
When have you received the Savior’s help as you’ve recognized your sinful state?
What can you do to recognize your sinful condition without having it get you down?
What do you know about the Savior that gives you confidence that He will help you?

March 9, 2019... Mark 3:22-26... How can we avoid division in our families?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-09 14:19:26 UTC

The Savior’s words in these verses were a response to the ever critical scribes, but His response teaches principles that apply very well to a family situation. Follow these steps in your study today:

Study Mark 3:22-26 first and identify the principle or life lesson Jesus wants us to understand and write it next to the verses.
Then link 1 Nephi 7 to these verses and study this example of a family who went back and forth from being united to being divided. Pick one color to mark things that united them and one color to mark things that divided them.
In your study journal respond to these questions: what Christlike attributes are shown by Lehi and his family when they are united? Why do those attributes help unite a family?
Lastly, in your study journal write down something you feel you need to do in order to unite your own family. Write down how you will implement that action and how it will make a difference in your family.

March 10, 2019... Matthew 9:35-38... What kind of laborers does the Savior need?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-10 14:45:01 UTC

The Savior requests more laborers in these verses. After you study these verses, go to the first chapter of preach my gospel (entitled “What is my Purpose as a Missionary), and study the first section with its accompanying scriptures (Your Commission to Teach the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ). Look for and mark things that you need to know and do if you want to be the kind of laborer the Lord wants you to be.

For church tonight, come prepare to share that as well as:

A bible video showing the Savior being a missionary
A Book of Mormon children’s video story showing a great missionary

In your study journal write down one thing that you need to better understand and one thing you need to do in order to be the kind of missionary the Savior is asking for.

March 11, 2019... Matthew 11:28-30... How can I access the Savior’s power to help me with my burdens?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-11 11:34:27 UTC

These three scriptures are beautiful and have helped millions find comfort. How can these scriptures help us move beyond just comfort and help us receive real spiritual power from the Savior’s Atonement? Use the following resources to help you understand and be ready to share your thoughts tonight:
Mosiah 24:1-15
Elder Bednar April 2014 conference
President Hunter October 1990 conference
September 2013 Ensign article, “Take My Yoke Upon You”
Guide to the Scriptures “Covenants”

March 12, 2019... Luke 11:1-13... What does the Savior’s teachings on prayer teach us about Heavenly Father?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-12 11:52:23 UTC

Joseph Smith taught that if we do not comprehend the character of God that we do not comprehend ourselves. The Savior’s teachings on prayer here can help us learn much about our Father in Heaven. Mark and make notes in Luke 11:1-13 about anything that you learn about Heavenly Father. Then compare what you learn with this paragraph and the scriptures in it:

“God the Father is the Supreme Being whom we worship. He is the Father of our spirits (see Hebrews 12:9). He is perfect, has all power, and knows all things. He is also just, merciful, and kind. God loves each of His children perfectly, and all are alike unto Him (see 2 Nephi 26:33). His work and glory is to bring about the immortality and eternal life of man.”
Read these verses as well to see what else you learn about Him: John 17:3; Mosiah 4:9; Moses 1:39

When you are done, write down in your study journal what you learned about Heavenly Father that was most important to you and then write down an experience you have had where you have come to know that. Be prepared to share tonight.

March 13, 2019... Luke 7:11-16

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-13 11:05:14 UTC

As you study this story, look for the truth that We can follow Jesus Christ’s example by demonstrating compassion for others and ministering to their unspoken needs. Write this truth next to verse 16.

Think of a time that someone has helped you even when you hadn’t spoken about your needs. Be prepared to share that experience tonight. Find a story in the children’s videos from the Book of Mormon where you see someone serving to meet an unspoken need.

March 14, 2019... Matthew 10:22-42... What does it mean to endure to the end?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-14 11:29:38 UTC

Jesus taught the idea of enduring to the end many times. In Matthew 10:22, He teaches it very clearly. As you study the remainder of the chapter, look for what it means to endure to the end and ways that we can do it. Tag 3 verses that you feel teach this.
Link Matthew 10:22 with the section on enduring to the end in Preach My Gospel "Lesson 3: The Gospel of Jesus Christ." Study that section as well to learn more. Finish your study by searching 2 Nephi 31:17-21 and watching this video from Elder Perry. Then write in your journal something you feel you need to do to endure to the end.

March 15, 2019... Luke 7:36-50; Mosiah 27:23-37

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-15 12:25:51 UTC

Consider these 3 simple questions
What did you learn about the Savior? Highlight that in red
What did you learn about Forgiveness? Underline that in red
What did you learn about the Atonement of Jesus Christ? Underline that in red

Consider also reading this section in the Seminary Core Document to add to your understanding.

Remember that Luke 7:47 can be translated as follows: “Therefore I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; that’s why she loved much. But the one who is forgiven little, loves little.” Matthew Henry explained, "They are forgiven, for she loved much.' It should be rendered, therefore she loved much; for it is plain, by the tenour of Christ's discourse, that the loving much was not the cause, but the effect, of her pardon, and of her comfortable sense of it; for we love God because he first loved us; he did not forgive us because we first loved him." (1 John 4:19)

March 17, 2019... Matthew 10:1-8... Why did Jesus tell the disciples not to teach the Gentiles?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-17 13:16:28 UTC

Sometimes we read things that the Savior does or says that may not make as much sense to us or may seem out of character for Him. This is one example. We are always taught that Jesus loves all people, and yet He instructs the disciples to only teach the gospel to a select few... but then changes those instructions later on (Matthew 28:19-20). Link Matthew 10:5-6 with Matthew 28:19-20 and then think about what you know about God, the plan of salvation, about revelation, and about the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Use the video below as an outline of what to do in your study and use the seminary core document (in your gospel library) to find truths that will help us understand this question.

March 18, 2019... Luke 8:4-15; Matthew 13:1-23; 1 Nephi 8:19-34

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-18 13:31:56 UTC

Compare the parable of the sower to Lehi’s vision of the tree of life. There are four groups of people in Lehi’s vision and four groups of people in Jesus’ parable. How can we make sure that we are in the group that we want to be in?

President Oaks has a talk where he discusses this parable in detail. Consider studying the talk to help in your understanding

March 19, 2019... Luke 13:23-30... Are there few that be saved?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-19 11:17:03 UTC

Jesus is asked this question and He does give an answer although it isn’t overly specific in this particular case. Study the plan of salvation section in the Doctrinal Mastery Core Document (in gospel library click on “seminaries and institutes”, then “seminary”, then “Doctrinal Mastery Core Document”. As you read, look for truths that would help you answer this important question.

March 20, 2019... Luke 13:10-17... What does Heavenly Father want us to learn from this story?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-20 11:35:36 UTC

The stories are in the scriptures for a purpose, and most of the time for multiple purposes. Why do you think Heavenly Father had this story included in the scriptures? Ponder on lessons you can learn from this story and mark verses and take notes on things that you learn and thoughts that come to your mind. Consider how this girl’s story relates to the woman’s in Luke.

March 21, 2019... Luke 13:31-32... What is the purpose of the mission of Jesus Christ?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-21 11:05:20 UTC

The Savior explains here that He will be perfected after His resurrection (also evidenced by reading Matthew 5:48 and then 3 Nephi 12:48 and considering the time frames ). The church father Irenaeus, who died about A.D. 202, asserted that Jesus Christ “did, through His transcendent love, become what we are, that He might bring us to be what He is Himself.” Study Elder Uchtdorf’s April 2015 conference talk entitled “The Gift of Grace” and look for the answers to these questions:

What is the Savior’s grace?
What does Jesus Christ’s grace do for me?
What is the Savior’s ultimate goal for me?

March 22, 2019... Luke 8:1-3... How can we follow the example of these "certain women"?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-22 12:24:33 UTC

Study these verses carefully, then link them with Linda K Burton's April 2017 General Conference address entitled, "Certain Women." Study her talk and look for how you can follow the example of these "certain women."

Consider that verse 3 is translated in the NIV as follows: "Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means." - How can we support the Savior out of our own means? How can we have the courage to (like Joanna) support the Savior even when those around us may hate Him? (Remember our Ponderize verses Matthew 25:40 and Mosiah 2:17)

March 23, 2019... Matthew 13:13-16... What role do our eyes, ears, and hearts play in receiving the word of God?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-23 12:02:20 UTC

What are ways that we close our eyes, ears, and hearts to the word of God? How do we open them so we are prepared to receive? Study examples of both sides using some stories from Lehi’s family. Mark things we can do to receive in purple, and mark things we do that keep us from receiving in green.

1 Nephi 17:45-55
1 Nephi 2:12-17
1 Nephi 10:17-19
1 Nephi 11:1

March 24, 2019... Matthew 14:1-21

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-24 11:53:59 UTC

Consider the following questions as you study:

Why did Herod execute John the Baptist even though he didn’t want to? How can we relate and apply that to our own lives?
Why did the Savior want to go to “a desert place apart”? Even given those circumstances, how did he respond to people who needed help? What do you learn about how to deal with your own trials and difficulties?
What do you think we are to learn from the feeding of the 5,000? The number 5 represents the grace of God or man in his fallen state... 12 symbolizes priesthood and it’s right to govern...

March 25, 2019... Matthew 14:22-33; Mark 6:45-52; John 6:15-21

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-25 11:24:43 UTC

Jesus Christ invites me to set aside my fears and doubts and exercise faith in Him.

Picture in your mind the details of the scene described in Matthew 14:22–33; Mark 6:45–52; and John 6:15–21. Imagine how Peter and the other disciples may have felt. What do you learn about discipleship from the Savior’s words and actions in these verses? What do you learn from the words and actions of Peter? (See also 1 Nephi 3:7.) What is the Lord inviting you to do that might be like stepping out of the boat? What do you find in these verses that gives you courage to exercise your faith in Jesus Christ? Why might Jesus have questioned their faith?

March 26, 2019... John 5:1-16

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-26 22:10:00 UTC

Consider these questions as you study:

Why was this man able to be made whole without knowing who Jesus was?
What does it mean that he was “made whole”?
What do the Savior’s words mean in verse 14?
What is the significance of 38 years of waiting and then all of the sudden “immediately” he was made whole?

March 27, 2019... John 5:17-47... Coming to understand the Father and the Son

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-27 12:27:37 UTC

Elder James E. Talmage (1862–1933) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said: “[John 5:17-47] stands as the most comprehensive sermon in scripture on the vital subject of the relationship between the Eternal Father and His Son, Jesus Christ” (Jesus the Christ, 3rd ed. [1916], 208).

Study the sermon carefully, marking what you learn about the Father in yellow, and what you learn about the Son in red. Be prepared to share what you learned.

March 28, 2019... John 6:1-14

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-28 11:25:45 UTC

We read the brief account of this story in Matthew earlier this week, but John’s account provides some important details. Please consider the following as you study... please make notes in your scriptures about your answers so that you can share them with us tonight:

How was this miracle a test for the disciples of Jesus?
How did the disciples and the people show their faith in Christ and their obedience to Him?
How might this story give confidence and hope in Christ to someone who feels that they aren’t good enough? (Pay particular attention to verses 9 and 15 on this question... particularly how much they started with, who it came from, and how much they ended with)
Why do you think there was only bread left over?
What are the similarities between this story and 3 Nephi 20:1-7?
What does this account teach you about the Savior?

March 29, 2019... John 6:22-65

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-29 13:24:02 UTC

Why is Jesus called the Bread of Life?
What do you learn about the Savior from His teachings in this passage?
What actions does He invite us to take?
These videos from Elder Christofferson should help:
https://youtu.be/tJKmXtoMI5s
https://youtu.be/9kbgg7OT3TI

March 30, 2019... Matthew 15:21-28

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-30 13:33:29 UTC

What can we learn about prayer from this story? (Consider cross referencing with Alma 34:17-27)
What do you learn about the Savior from this story?
What attributes did this woman demonstrate that allowed the Savior to help her?

(In your study journal): How will your prayers change from seeing this woman’s example? What is an attribute that you admire about her and how can you work on developing that attribute?

March 31, 2019... Reaponding with doctrine

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-03-31 12:43:30 UTC

Your friend is talking to you about some things that are happening in his life. His mom is a really good woman who always tries to do the right thing, is constantly doing things for other people and is one of the kindest people you know. However, she has recently been diagnosed with cancer and your friend is obviously very sad, and even angry. He is angry with God that He would allow this to happen to someone so kind. How can you help your friend keep his faith and see things from an eternal perspective?

Remember this video? Watch it again to see an example, then use your Doctrinal Mastery Core Document under Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge, Godhead and Plan of Salvation (found in gospel library under seminaries and institutes and then seminary) to search and find some things to help your friend. Be prepared to share three scripture passages tonight and help us see how you would use them to help your friend.

April 1, 2019... Mark 9:14-29... “Lord I Believe”

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-01 12:03:21 UTC

This story teaches powerful truths about the Savior, about our testimony’s, about faith. Study the story in Mark and ask yourself this question as you study: “what lessons does Heavenly Father want me to learn?” Highlight verses or phrases that teach you things you need to hear.

When you are done, study Elder Holland’s April 2013 conference talk and see what additional lessons you can learn from this address. Be prepared to share your thoughts tonight!

April 2, 2019... Matthew 16:13-17... Receiving a witness that Jesus is the Christ

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-02 11:43:40 UTC

Elder Uchtdorf taught that “We cannot depend on the testimonies of other people. We need to know for ourselves. President Gordon B. Hinckley said, ‘Every Latter-day Saint has the responsibility to know for himself or herself with a certainty beyond doubt that Jesus is the resurrected, living Son of the living God’ (‘Fear Not to Do Good,’ Ensign, May 1983, 80).

In these verses, Peter shares his witness of the Savior. How did he gain this witness? Search these other stories to see actions he took to gain a witness of Jesus Christ. Also consider studying Alma 17-19 to see how King Lamoni and his wife came to receive their witness of Christ. How can we follow their example and gain our own witness? Be prepared to share what you learn tonight.
Peters path to testimony:

John 1:35-42
Luke 4:38-40
Luke 5:1-11
Luke 6:13-19
Matthew 14:22-33

April 3, 2019... Mark 8:34-38; Matthew 16:21-28; Luke 9:23-27

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-03 12:32:02 UTC

What does it mean to take up the cross and follow Jesus and how do I do it?

Use the footnotes and search these verses for the answers. Ponder on what you need to do to follow the Savior’s counsel. Write it down in your study journal.

Then ponder if there are any other lessons you needed to learn from these verses. Be prepared to share tonight.

April 4, 2019... Matthew 16:16-19

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-04 10:57:13 UTC

General conference is coming up and you mention it at school with your friends. One friend asks you why you need to listen to prophets today if you already have the Bible... what do you say?
Use the following references to help you respond: (tag each of these references under “prophets”
Matthew 16:16-19
John 15:16
Amos 3:7
DC 1:37-38
DC 21:4-6
DC 18:34-36
Ephesians 2:19-20
Ephesians 4:11-14
How do prophets strengthen our faith in and bring us closer to the Savior?

April 5, 2019... Matthew 16:16-19... what are priesthood keys and why are they important to you?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-05 13:15:47 UTC

Peter is promised priesthood keys in these verses and then they are given in the following chapter on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 17). Study these four verses looking for an answer to today’s question. Then study “keys of the priesthood” under the Guide to the Scriptures in gospel library and this quote:

The keys of the priesthood given to Peter and the other Apostles on the Mount of Transfiguration were restored in our day (see D&C 110:11–16). Those who hold priesthood keys include the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and other General Authorities; presidents of temples, missions, stakes, and districts; and bishops, branch presidents, and quorum presidents.

To finish your study watch these two videos and write down any thoughts you have on today’s question in your study journal

https://youtu.be/lyUiA6Mmfdo

April 7, 2019 President Nelson, February 1991 Liahona

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-07 12:38:16 UTC

To help us better understand the importance of the land Jesus was born and raised in and why that particular land is so significant, study President Nelson’s February 1991 Liahona article entitled, “In This Holy Land”. Focus on the significance of some of the Savior’s name-titles and why He has them. Also consider how this article increases your faith and confidence in President Nelson as the Lord’s prophet.

April 8, 2019; Luke 9:49-62 How can I find life lessons in the scriptures?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-08 12:20:37 UTC

The scriptures are there for our benefit and to guide our lives. As we study the scriptures, we can ask ourselves important questions such as, "What does Heavenly Father want me to learn from this passage?" OR "Why is this passage in the scriptures?" OR one of my favorites, "What life lessons can be learned and applied from this passage?"

Today search for 3 different life lessons in the following passages:

Luke 9:49-50
Luke 9:51-56 (Link verse 56 with John 3:16-17)
Luke 9:57-62

Write down the life lesson you find next to where you find it and be prepared to discuss the importance of that lesson tonight. Watch this video to help you see examples of what scripture study can do for us:

April 9, 2019; Mark 8:22-26... Often the Savior heals us a little bit at a time

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-09 12:10:01 UTC

This miracle is different than others because of how the healing takes place. It is not completed all at once like some of the others. Consider these questions and answer them in your study journal:

Why do you think the Savior led the man out of town?
Why do you think Jesus asked the man if he could see (verse 23) when the Savior knows all things and can perceive the thoughts of men?
What actions were important to this man's healing?
Why is the word "restored" important in this story?
What do you learn about the Savior from this miracle?
How does the story apply to us?

How does this video show the Savior healing a little at a time?
Consider cross referencing this story with Alma 47:1-19 and the story of Lehonti... consider Amalickiah as a symbol for Satan... Satan also works a little at a time... how do we protect ouselves?

April 10, 2019... Mark 8:10-21; Matthew 16:1-12; Moroni 7:11-16... How can we tell if something is from God or intended to deceive?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-10 12:51:28 UTC

The disciples had some difficulty determining what Jesus was teaching and understanding what He was warning about. We have Pharisees and Sadducees in our day who teach false doctrines and we need to be able to determine truth from falsehoods. Search these passages and this short video to find truth to help.

April 11, 2019... DC 124:27-40; DC 127:5-7; DC 128:15-24; Matthew 16:16-19; John 3:5

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-11 12:47:19 UTC

Use these scriptures to answer the following questions:

Is baptism essential? How do you know?
What are baptisms for the dead and have they been practiced before?
Are we saved by ordinances or are we saved by Jesus Christ? Why are saving ordinances and their associated covenants essential?
What happens to those who have died without the opportunity to receive baptism?

Also feel free to use this website

April 12, 2019... DC 129-130; Luke 9:10-17

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-12 11:11:06 UTC

Can you find the answers to these questions???

How do I discern a true spirit from a false spirit?
How will the Savior look when we see Him?
What relationships will continue in heaven?
What angels minister to this earth?
Where do the angels of God reside?
What will each person in Celestial Glory receive?
Why is education so important in this life?
Why should I be obedient?
What kind of body does each member of the Godhead have?

Come Follow Me Connection: Luke 9:10-17... When it comes to education, how can this story give us confidence to give all our efforts? How can the Savior help us as we do so?

April 13, 2019... Matthew 17:24-27... Jesus Christ knows all things and can direct us for our good and the good of others

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-13 11:57:31 UTC

How does this story show the Savior's knowledge of all things?
Who benefitted from this experience?
Why might understanding that Jesus knows all things give you confidence and trust in the Savior?
How do you see this truth in the talk below?

April 15, 2019... Matthew 21:28-32; 22:37-39; Exodus 20:3-17

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-15 12:43:33 UTC

Yesterday was Palm Sunday... called this because of this event

Today we will focus on the Savior's words in Matthew 21:28-32; 22:37-39 and Exodus 20:3-17. Please look for and answer the following questions:

How do the 10 commandments "hang" from, or suspend from the two commandments that Jesus gives in Matthew 22:37-39?
How do these commandments help us become more like our Heavenly Parents?
Which of these commandments do we need to focus on as a family and how can we do it?
If we are struggling with obedience to some of these commandments, how does Matthew 21:28-32 help us understand what we can do?

You can also watch Dabo Swinney (Clemson Tigers coach) talk about the 10 commandments here

April 16, 2019... Matthew 23:1-12... True masters are true servants

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-16 11:22:08 UTC

As you study these verses, look for what the Savior says about Himself and about what we should strive for. Compare these words with the story of Ammon in Alma 17-18. Look for and mark the following:

How is Ammon like the Savior?
What specific actions and attitudes did he have that showed that he was humbling himself and serving?
Why do you think those attitudes and actions made a difference?
What do you feel inspired to do to follow Ammon’s (Jesus’) example?

How did the men in this video follow Christ’s example and words?

April 17, 2019... Matthew 25... The Final Parables of Jesus

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-17 12:36:24 UTC

This was the last week of the Savior's life. The three parables found in Matthew 25 are full of important truths for us to understand. Look for the following and be prepared to share tonight:
*Matthew 25:1-13... What is the oil? What is the lamp? How does the Joseph Smith Translation in verse 12 change your perspective and how does it relate to Mosiah 5:13 (link those two verses)? What's the lesson you learn from this parable (check DC 45:56-57 for help)?
*Matthew 25:14-30... Who is the lord? Who are the men? What could the talents symbolize? What is each person's responsibility? What does the man with one talent not understand about the lord?
*Matthew 25:31-46... What is the message of this parable?
How does the video below relate to this final parable?

April 18, 2019... Matthew 26... What do you learn about the Savior from this day's events?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-18 12:37:24 UTC

Matthew 26:1-16... Zechariah 11:12... Consider how the Savior knew about these events in the Old Testament... what does that tell you about Him?
Matthew 26:17-29... What do you learn about the Sacrament? Consider watching this video
Matthew 26:30... This verse shows us that a hymn was sung before Gethsemane... what does this teach you about how the Savior feels about music? And the power it can have? Consider the power of this hymn... how does it make you feel?
Matthew 26:36-46... What do you learn about the Savior? About His Atonement? Watch the video below from Elder Christofferson for additional insights...
Matthew 26:47-68... What characteristics does the Savior show here? How can we follow His example... watch here
Matthew 26:31-35,69-75... What life lessons can we learn from Peter?

April 20, 2019... DC 138... what did Jesus do while His body was in the tomb?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-20 13:26:55 UTC

What do you learn about the Savior?
About the spirit world?
How can Elder Ballard’s talk help our understanding?

April 21, 2019... Happy Easter!

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-21 13:50:09 UTC

Imagine what it would have been like for the disciples to watch Jesus being mocked, mistreated, and crucified. They had been witnesses of His power, felt the truth of His teachings, and had faith that He was the Son of God. Witnessing His death may have been a trial of faith for some, but soon they became witnesses of the great miracle of His Resurrection.
What can you learn from the accounts of those who witnessed the Resurrected Savior? Mark or note each person’s experience in Matthew 28:1–10; Luke 24:13–35; John 20:19–29; and 1 Corinthians 15:1–8, 55. (Note that other witnesses of the resurrected Christ can be found in 3 Nephi 11; Mormon 1:15; Ether 12:38–39; Doctrine and Covenants 76:19–24; 110:1–10; and Joseph Smith—History 1:15–17.) In these accounts, what strengthens your faith in the literal Resurrection of the Lord? After the Savior’s Resurrection, others were resurrected and appeared to many (see Matthew 27:52–53; 3 Nephi 23:9). Why do you feel it is important that this was recorded in both the Bible and the Book of Mormon?

April 22, 2019... Matthew 18:21-35... We must forgive others if we desire to be forgiven

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-23 12:41:06 UTC

Remember the following for the parable in this passage:
“During the first century A.D., it is estimated that 10,000 talents equaled 100,000,000 denarii. One denarius was a typical day’s wage for a common laborer. If that laborer worked three hundred days a year, it would take about 33 years for him to be able to purchase one talent. And it would take over 300,000 years to earn 10,000 talents, the sum of the servant’s debt” (Jay A. Parry and Donald W. Parry, Understanding the Parables of Jesus Christ [2006], 95). By comparison, the 100 pence owed by the fellow servant is about one million times less than the debt owed by the first servant.

Study President Monson’s April 2002 conference talk entitled, “Hidden Wedges” and determine what you can do to allow the Savior to help you forgive others and find peace and healing.

April 23, 2019... Matthew 18:1-6, Mosiah 3:13-21 We must be changed by the Atonement of Jesus Christ and become as little children in order to enter the kingdom of heaven

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-23 12:54:21 UTC

As you study these verses, ponder characteristics and attributes of little children that you need to develop. Search Sister Stevens April 2011 talk entitled “Become as a little child” to help you better understand.

Consider how this video can help you understand more about what children are like as well:

April 24, 2019... Luke 10:38-42... If we choose to devote ourselves to spiritual matters over temporal concerns, then we will receive lasting blessings.

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-24 12:39:07 UTC

What lessons can we learn from this short account of Mary and Martha?

Choose one of these two talks to study along with this passage to see what else we can learn:
Elder Oaks: Good, Better, Best (October 2007 Conference)
Elder Schwitzer: Developing Good Judgment and Not Judging Others (April 2010 Conference)
As you watch this video, ponder on what things were "needful" and perhaps what things could have been done without...

April 25, 2019... Matthew 18:11... Jesus came to save what was lost

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-25 11:14:32 UTC

How did He do this? It is about His Atonement. But what is His Atonement and what is my responsibility?
Study President Tad R Callister’s most recent conference talk and mark the answers to these important questions. Then watch this video to gain additional understanding about the Atonement of Christ

April 26, 2019... Luke 10:25-37... What can we learn about the Plan of Salvation from this parable?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-26 11:30:26 UTC

“The man who was going down is Adam. Jerusalem is paradise, and Jericho is the world. The robbers are hostile powers. The priest is the Law, the Levite is the prophets, and the Samaritan is Christ. The wounds are disobedience, the beast is the Lord’s body, the [inn], which accepts all who wish to enter, is the Church. … The manager of the [inn] is the head of the Church, to whom its care has been entrusted. And the fact that the Samaritan promises he will return represents the Savior’s second coming.”

As you look at these symbols, use this February 2007 article from the Ensign to help you better understand.

Watch the original depiction here, and then see children's interpretation below

April 27, 2019... Matthew 18:7-9... How do we know what to sacrifice in order to become what the Lord wants us to become?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-27 14:08:47 UTC

Pay attention to the footnotes... notice the Joseph Smith translation... what do we have to give up in order to become what the Savior wants us to become?

Think of a Book of Mormon story that you could share that illustrates what we need to give up and how we can do it?

April 28, 2019... John 8:1-11... How can we follow the Savior’s example in how He deals with those who have made mistakes?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-29 01:29:09 UTC

What does the Savior mean when He says, “neither do I condemn thee”?
What is important for us to understand about the phrase “go and sin no more”?
What are the “stones” that we sometimes cast?
How can remembering our own imperfections help us in dealing mercifully with others?

April 29, 2019... John 8:28-36...Enos 1:1-8... How can I find true freedom?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-29 11:24:13 UTC

So many things in this world appear to offer freedom when the reality is that certain decisions and actions will seriously limit our future ability to make choices. So what does Jesus teach in these verses that can help us find freedom?

How does this video relate to the Savior’s teachings in these verses?

Link John 8:28-36 with Enos 8:1-8... how does this Book of Mormon story also show the truthfulness of the Savior’s words?

April 30, 2019... John 7:14-17... Alma 32... How can I come to know what is true?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-04-30 12:11:55 UTC

As you study John 7:14-17 (particularly verse 17), ponder what the Savior is teaching on how we can come to know truth. Compare these words with what is taught in Alma 32 (pay particular attention to verses 26-35) and come prepared to share verses that you feel answer today's question.

May 1-2... John 9... What does Heavenly Father want us to come to know and understand in this chapter?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-01 11:52:04 UTC

We will study and discuss this chapter over the next two days. Each day pick 2-3 questions to study and ponder, and be ready to share your insights in family scripture study. Make sure you watch the Bible Video too!

John 9:1-3... what can we learn about premortal life from these verses?
John 9:1-3... what is one reason why we might have difficult trials and challenges in this life?
John 9:4... what does Jesus mean when he talks about the night coming when no man can work?
John 9:6-7... why do you think the Savior asked this man to go and wash? What significance is there in the man’s actions?
John 9:14... why would Jesus choose the Sabbath do perform this specific miracle?
How does the man’s understanding of who Jesus is develop throughout the chapter? What does he do to develop that understanding?
John 9:30-33... what do you learn about what is required to perform miracles?
John 9:39-41... what lesson is the Savior trying to get across in these verses?

May 3... John 10:1-18... What does it mean that Jesus is the Good Shepherd?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-03 12:45:15 UTC

As you study these verses, consider the importance of the title "The Good Shepherd" for Jesus. Why does He use this title for Himself? What do you learn about Him from these verses?
Watch this great video

May 4, 2019... John 10:19-30... What did Jesus mean when He said, “I and my Father are one”?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-04 14:11:16 UTC

After you study this passage in John, study Elder Holland’s October 2000 conference talk entitled “The Only True God and Jesus Christ Whom He Hath Sent”
Be prepared to share what you learned.

May 5, 2019... John 11... What life lessons can we learn from the story of Lazarus?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-05 19:31:23 UTC

Ponder these questions as you study:

How does the Savior show His love through delaying His coming?
How do Thomas and the other apostles show what it means to be true friends?
What can you learn about how to deal with trials through the example of Mary and Martha (think about what they say when Jesus comes)?
Why does Jesus weep when He knows that He will be raising Lazarus from the dead shortly?
What is the significance of Lazarus coming out at the word of Jesus but still needing help with the grave clothes?
How is this a story a microcosm of the Savior’s mission?

May 6, 2019... Luke 12:-17; Luke 15:1-10; Alma 26:26-37; DC 18:10-11; DC 19:16-19... what is our worth to God?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-06 11:20:26 UTC

As you study these passages, look for and mark words and phrases that show your value to God. Have at least three marked that you can share with us.

Ponder on personal experiences where you have felt the Lord’s love and when you have felt valued to Him and be ready to share that as well.

Luke 14:12-33... What must we be willing to sacrifice in order to receive all that Heavenly Father has to offer?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-07 12:23:22 UTC

Break this up into different passages and think about today's study question with each passage and then consider how the video relates as well:

Luke 14:12-14
Luke 14:15-24
Luke 14:25-33

What did you learn today?
What did you feel as you read?
What will you do because of what you learned and felt?

Luke 13:10-17; Luke 14:1-6... Home centered and church supported

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-08 11:01:39 UTC

Please ponder the following questions as you study these two miracles... write your responses in your study notebook and come prepared to share:

What do you learn about the Savior?
What do you learn about the Sabbath?
Why is it significant where the woman was when her healing occurred? What does that teach you about our church worship?
What do you think happened in her home before she came to church that contributed to her healing?
Why is it significant where the man was when his healing occurred? What does that teach you about our home church worship?
What can these two miracles teach us about the Savior’s role in our salvation?

Luke 15:11-32... The Prodigal Sons

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-09 12:07:09 UTC

This is one of the Savior's most important parables. As you study, ponder on what the following things might symbolize:

Younger son
Older son (See this video for insights)
Father
Living/inheritance
Far country
Riotous living
Famine
Swine food
"When he came to himself"
What happens in verses 18-21... what does that mean for us today?
Robe/ring
Fatted calf
Older son's refusal to come in

Be ready to share your thoughts tonight in family scripture study!

Luke 16:19-31... What can we learn about the Spirit World from this parable?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-11 12:37:13 UTC

After you study the parable itself, use the New Testament Institute Student Manual to help you understand it better, and then watch the video below. Come prepared to share what you learned about the spirit world and how that knowledge might influence how you live now.

Luke 17:11-19... What does gratitude do for me? How can it help me access the Savior’s healing power?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-12 19:35:03 UTC

As you study this parable, ponder this quote by Elder Bateman: “Luke describes Jesus meeting ten lepers. Upon seeing the Savior, they cried, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” Jesus responded: “Go shew yourselves unto the priests.” As they went their way, they were cleansed. One returned, fell on his face at the Master’s feet, and gave thanks. Jesus said, “Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?” And then the Lord said to the one who returned, “Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole” (see Luke 17:12–19). In becoming a whole person, the grateful leper was healed inside as well as on the outside. That day nine lepers were healed skin deep, but only one had the faith to be made whole. The tenth leper...[was] changed eternally by [his] faith in the Savior and the healing power of His atonement.”
Gratitude videos: 1... 2... 3

Luke 18:1... what does it mean to pray always and how do I do it?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-13 11:09:34 UTC

Carefully study Elder Bednar’s October 2008 talk entitled, “Pray Always”.

How would you explain to someone what it means to pray always?
How do Elder Bednar’s teachings about praying always relate to our church lesson yesterday about gratitude?
What do you feel you need to do differently to have more powerful prayers?
What is an example from the Savior’s life that shows us how to have powerful prayers?

May 14, 2019... Repentance... What is repentance? How do we repent?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-14 12:11:34 UTC

Last night Trenton gave us a lesson on Repentance for family night. For the next couple of days we will focus on this topic to help us understand it more completely.
For today, start with the definitions of Repentance in the Guide to the Scriptures and in the Bible Dictionary. How do those definitions help you understand repentance more completely?
Now study Mosiah 27 and look for how Alma the Younger and the Sons of Mosiah repent. What do they do to repent? Who makes it possible to repent? What were the results of their repentance?
Here is the video to the story that Trenton told to remind us of an example of repentance:

Luke 18:18-27; Mark 10:17-27; Matthew 19:16-26... What does the Savior require of me and why?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-15 11:59:39 UTC

These are three separate accounts of the story of the “rich young ruler”... as you study each one, look for the differences in the accounts and for the answers to the following questions:

What do you learn about the Savior and His character?
Why does the Savior require this of the young man?
What question does the young man ask Jesus that we ought to ask as well? Why is that question important?
How does this story compare with Aaron and the King of the Lamanites?

May 16, 2019... Matthew 20:1-17... What can we learn from the parable of the laborers in the vineyard?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-16 11:48:38 UTC

Study Elder Holland’s April 2012 talk about this parable along with studying the verses themselves.

What do you learn about Heavenly Father?
What do you learn about the Atonement of Jesus Christ?
What do you learn about the Plan of Salvation?

May 17, 2019... Matthew 20:25-28; Mark 10:42-45... What does it mean to minister and how does it help us become more like the Savior?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-05-17 11:15:07 UTC

As you study these two passages, ponder today’s question and make notes in the verses or in your study journal to respond to the question.
Next, find a bible video where you see Jesus showing us what it means to minister.
Finally, find a Book of Mormon story that shows someone ministering to help clarify the principle of ministering even more.

June 10, 2019... Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-06-10 11:22:14 UTC

What do we learn from the example of this woman?
What did she know and understand about Jesus that led her to do this?
What can we do to follow her example?
How might her actions be compared to our efforts to build temples for the Lord?

June 11 2019... Mark 14:17-19; Matthew 26:20-22... Lord is it I?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-06-11 12:28:07 UTC

Study these verse carefully along with this October 2014 conference talk by Elder Uchtdorf's entitled "Lord is it I"

June 12, 2019... Luke 22:31-35... What does it mean to be converted and how do I become converted?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-06-12 12:31:47 UTC

Jesus invites Peter to be converted in these verses... which is interesting because he is an apostle and has already done some great things. However, He loves Peter enough to expect more from him! When you read these verses look for and mark the following:
What help does Jesus offer to Peter?
What evidences do you see of the Savior’s love for Peter?
What should conversion lead us to do?
When you are done study this gospel topics page on conversion:
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics/conversion?lang=eng
After reading through it, pick a video that we can watch together tonight and if you feel inclined, pick a conference talk or magazine article that would help us understand and do as well.
Consider this Book of Mormon story as an example of conversion:

August 21, 2019... 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:19-20 - Why are our physical bodies so important?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-21 12:00:00 UTC

As you study these two brief passages in 1 Corinthians, carefully look for why a physical body is so important. Pay particular attention to how our bodies relate to the Holy Ghost and the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Link either of these passages with President Nelson's August 2019 New Era article entitled, "Your body: A Magnificent Gift to Cherish."

You might also link D&C 88:15 and D&C 93:33-34 to these passages in 1 Corinthians to enhance your understanding. Elder Bednar's June 2010 article entitled "Things as They Really Are" would also be helpful.

August 22, 2019... 1 Corinthians 5; 1 Corinthians 6:13-20; 1 Corinthians 7:1-5... Why is the law of chastity so important?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-22 19:54:54 UTC

Study one of the following:
Gospel Topics under "Chastity"
Elder Holland's October 1998 Conference Talk, "Personal Purity"
Elder Bednar's April 2013 Conference Talk, "We Believe in Being Chaste"

As you study these verses and one of these talks, look for why Chastity is so important to Heavenly Father and why sexual relations are so sacred and important in Marriage.

August 23, 2019... 1 Corinthians 3:4-9... What do I need to KNOW and DO to be a successful missionary for the Lord?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-23 12:30:08 UTC

As you study these verses, consider the important question: What do I need to KNOW and DO to be a successful missionary?

Find an example from the Book of Mormon of a successful missionary and find the children's video for that story to share with us tonight. What did they know about the Savior that led them to be such a powerful missionary? What did they do?

How does this video provide some examples of what is taught in 1 Corinthians 3:4-9? Are there people you feel we should reach out to? How can we do this?

August 24, 2019... 1 Corinthians 2:9-14... How does the Holy Ghost teach us truth?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-24 13:06:10 UTC

As you study this passage, ponder how the Holy Ghost teaches truth to you. Link and study the following passages to help with your understanding:

1 Nephi 10:17-19
DC 6:22-24
DC 8:2-3
DC 9:7-9
Moroni 10:3-5
Galatians 5:22-23
John 14:26

What personal experiences with the Holy Ghost could you share with us that can also help us understand how He speaks with us?

August 26, 2019... 1 Corinthians 8... Why should I be concerned about others in decisions that only affect me?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-26 12:45:36 UTC

Use the New Testament Institute Student Manual for 1 Corinthians 8 to understand what is being taught in this chapter.
Step 1: Study Chapter 8 on your own... look for anything that shows how our decisions impact others
Step 2: Study the quotes for this chapter in the manual
Step 3: Watch the video below to see how decisions influence others
Step 4: Write in your journal any changes that you feel you need to make

August 27, 2019... 1 Corinthians 9:25-27... How is the Plan of Salvation like a race?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-27 12:34:27 UTC

As you study these verses, ponder how the Plan of Salvation is like a race.

How does a runner prepare for a race? How do we prepare for the "race" of the Plan of Salvation?
How can a race be difficult? How might the Plan be difficult at times?

Then study these passages and look for counsel that can help us "win the race"... What has the Savior done and what does He invite us to do? What promises has He given?

Hebrews 12:1-2
Mosiah 4:27 (D&C 10:4)
Isaiah 40:31

How does this video give you confidence in the race?

August 28, 2019... 1 Corinthians 10:1-13... how can I be strengthened against temptation?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-28 11:07:35 UTC

Spiritual experiences, even miraculous ones, do not exempt us from temptations that are “common to man” (1 Corinthians 10:13). That may be one reason Paul wrote about how the Israelites in Moses’s day struggled with temptation, even though they witnessed mighty miracles (see Exodus 13:21; 14:13–31). Here are some of the miracles that the children of Israel experienced... choose one to watch:

As you read 1 Corinthians 10:1–13, what warnings in the Israelites’ experiences seem applicable to you? What kinds of “escape” from temptation has Heavenly Father provided for you? Link Alma 13:27–30 and 3 Nephi 18:18–19 with 1 Corinthians 10:13 to see how the Book of Mormon can add additional understanding. What do you feel inspired to do?

August 29, 2019... 1 Corinthians 12:12-27... How is a family like our physical bodies?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-29 20:16:45 UTC

As you study these verses, look for ways that the body that Paul describes can be compared to our family.
Why is each part/person necessary?
How is the family/body different without one of its members?
How can our family be more like the "body of Christ" that Paul describes?

August 30, 2019... 1 Corinthians 12:1-11... How can we be blessed by the Atonement of Jesus Christ through spiritual gifts?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-08-30 11:57:55 UTC

President Callister said this in last General Conference: “Because of Christ’s Atonement, we are eligible to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost and its accompanying spiritual gifts. These gifts are attributes of godliness; therefore, each time we acquire a gift of the Spirit, we become more like God. No doubt that is why the scriptures enjoin us on multiple occasions to seek these gifts.”
Oftentimes we see only the really “conspicuous” gifts... but Elder Marvin J. Ashton explains that there are others: “Let me mention a few gifts that are not always evident or noteworthy but that are very important. Among these may be your gifts—gifts not so evident but nevertheless real and valuable.
“Let us review some of these less-conspicuous gifts: the gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost” (“There Are Many Gifts,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20).
After you study, list each person in the family and identify a spiritual gift that you believe that they have (including yourself). Be prepared to share tonight!

September 1, 2019... 1 Corinthians 11:20-29... How can I make my sacrament experience more powerful?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-01 21:24:58 UTC

What does Paul teach here that could help our sacrament meeting more powerful?
What does it mean to “examine ourselves”?
What questions might we ask ourselves to “examine ourselves”?

Consider reading, watching or listening to Elder Holland’s most recent conference address to help and watch this video below:

September 2, 2019... 1 Corinthians 15:1-11... witnesses of the resurrection

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-02 17:55:44 UTC

As you study these verses look for how many people who are witnesses of the resurrected Christ. Consider the modern witnesses as well including DC 76:22-24 and in the Book of Mormon in 3 Nephi 11.
How can witnesses strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ?
What teachings stand out to you in this passage?
How can we gain our own witness of Christ (maybe without “seeing”)?

September 3, 2019... 1 Corinthians 15:12-28... What blessings come to us because of the Resurrection of Christ?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-03 12:42:35 UTC

As you study this passage, look carefully for any blessings that you see that come to us because of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
What opportunities and privileges would we miss out on if Jesus had not been resurrected?
Why would Paul say that our faith is vain if Christ wasn't resurrected?
Why would he say that we would still be in our sins?
Watch these three videos to enhance your understanding:
Hallelujah
Because He Lives

September 4, 2019... 1 Corinthians 15:29... Why do we do baptisms for the dead?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-04 11:46:50 UTC

Remember how Paul has been teaching about the resurrection and now references that early Christians have been baptizing for the dead, asking the question of why they promote this practice if there isn’t a resurrection. Study the gospel topics page on this subject and watch the video below to better understand this topic.

Try this video as well

September 5, 2019... 1 Corinthians 15:30-58... How can understanding the resurrection influence our thoughts and actions?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-05 12:29:44 UTC

As you study this passage, notice how Paul mentions several times how our actions can be influenced by our understanding of the resurrection. Why do you feel that is the case? Consider these other questions as well:
In verses 35-38, Paul uses wheat as a symbol for the Savior. How can wheat testify of Jesus and the resurrection and the blessings that come to us?
Why are there different types of resurrected bodies? (verses 39-44)
Adam as used as a symbol for Christ in verses 45-49... in what ways is Adam like Christ?
Why can't flesh and blood inherit the kingdom of God? (verse 50) What does that teach you about resurrected bodies?
What does verse 56 mean to you? What do you think Paul is trying to teach?
Consider linking 1 Corinthians 15:54-55 with Mosiah 16:8-9, two of our Ponderize verses and then watch 1-2 of these videos to add to your understanding:
Video 1
Video 2

September 6, 2019... 1 Corinthians 14:1-5,24-26,31-33,39-40... Why does Paul want all of us to receive the gift of prophecy?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-06 11:19:56 UTC

To start your study, read Revelation 19:10 (located in the last few pages of the New Testament)... notice that the spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jesus. Now as you read 1 Corinthians 14, insert “testimony of Jesus” in for prophecy as you read. Ponder these questions:
Why is a testimony of Jesus so essential?
How might a testimony of Jesus help us understand and see future events (prophecy)?

To finish, come prepared tonight with a Book of Mormon story where someone developed a testimony of Jesus... be ready to share how they did it.
The Living Christ testimonies

September 8, 2019... 1 Corinthians 16:13-14... how can we be on guard and do all things with charity?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-08 12:44:43 UTC

Look at this other translation of verse 13 and 14 first:
(NIV) Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.
(ESV) Let all that you do be done in love.

First: Watch the video below and look for examples from the Savior’s life where He lives the counsel from these two verses. Be ready to share with the family.
Second: Find a Book of Mormon story where someone lived this counsel and be prepared to share it.
Third: Pick one thing you can do this next week to follow the counsel in verses 13-14

September 9, 2019... 2 Corinthians 1:1-5,18-22; 2 Corinthians 5:4-5... The God of all comfort and the earnest of the Spirit

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-09 12:47:10 UTC

2 Corinthians 1:1-5... Why does Paul call Heavenly Father the "God of all comfort"? When has He been that for you?
One of the most important ways that He comforts us is through the Holy Ghost. Paul teaches about this in 2 Corinthians 1:18-22 and 5:4-5. He calls the gift of the Holy Ghost "the earnest."
In the Bible Dictionary this is explained: "A pledge or security. The word thus translated is a commercial term denoting the deposit paid by a buyer on entering into an agreement for the purchase of anything. As used by Paul (2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5; Eph. 1:14) it means that the Lord gives us His Holy Spirit in this life as a foretaste of the joy of eternal life. The Spirit is also the Lord’s surety that He will fulfill His promise to give eternal life to the faithful."
President Henry B. Eyring taught, “If you have felt the influence of the Holy Ghost … , you may take it as evidence that the Atonement is working in your life.”
As you come to understand this, what does it mean to you to be able to receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost?

September 10, 2019... 2 Corinthians 2:5-11; 1 Nephi 7:6-22; DC 64:9-11... Why should I forgive others who have wronged me?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-10 11:27:39 UTC

We aren’t sure of the name of the person who Paul describes in this chapter that needed forgiveness from his fellow church members, but we can see his important pleadings for why he wanted the saints to forgive this individual. Make sure you study all of these verses and be prepared to share why we should forgive others.
What do we need to know about the Savior and His Atonement that would encourage us to forgive?

September 11, 2019... 2 Corinthians 3

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-12 02:33:25 UTC

Verses 1-3... How can we be the “epistles of Christ“?
Verses 4-5... Why is it so important that we recognize that we are insufficient without God?
Verses 6-17... What does it mean to live by the spirit rather than by the letter of the law?
Verse 18... How can we be changed to be like Christ?
How do all these relate to this video?

September 12, 2019... 2 Corinthians 1:3–7; 4:6–10, 17–18; 7:4–7... How can trials be a blessing and how does God help me through them?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-12 11:45:35 UTC

As you study these verses, look for principles that help us understand how our trials can actually help us. In addition, look for ways that Paul promises that the Lord will help us.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5... how can we comfort others the way the Savior comforts us? Think of a story from Jesus’ life where he comforted someone and consider how we can follow that example.
2 Corinthians 1:6... what does it mean that suffering is for our consolation and salvation? Consider linking this with DC 122:5-9
2 Corinthians 4:18... why is keeping an eternal perspective so important during trials?
2 Corinthians 7:4-7... notice how the Lord sends help in trials in these verses. When have you been helped by someone the Lord sent?

September 13, 2019... 2 Corinthians 5

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-13 12:17:57 UTC

Verses 1-5... as you look in verses 1-4, mark what Paul is looking forward to (and inviting us to look forward to). Remember our discussion on the "earnest of the spirit" from earlier in the week. How can the gift of the Holy Ghost give us confidence in these future promises of the Lord?
Verse 6... think of the preceding verses... why is Paul saying we should be confident?
Verse 7... How can all of the preceding verses strengthen our faith?
Verses 8-17... Verse 17 has been quoted frequently over the last several conferences... What do you learn about becoming a "new creature" from these verses?
Verses 18-21... Jesus became sin for us so that we could be made righteous... Why is this important for you to understand?
Watch Elder Bednar's talk and see how he explains these important truths:

September 14, 2019... 2 Corinthians 5:17,21; 6:1-10,17-18; 7:8-10... How can I actually become a new creature in Christ?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-14 12:30:26 UTC

Watch the changes in these videos:
https://youtu.be/ocWgSgMGxOc
Beetle
How is this like becoming a new creature in Christ? What is required of us?
How is this possible?
Look for answers in the verses above and then look for those principles to show themselves in a real life situation in the video below:

September 15, 2019... 2 Corinthians 7:8-11... what is godly sorrow and why is it important to me?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-15 15:16:37 UTC

Study these verses and look for the answer to this question.
Notice the NIV translation of verses 9-10:
9 yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us.

10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
Now study or watch or listen to President Uchtdorf’s talk (godly sorrow is addressed starting at time code 5:31) to learn the blessings that can come to us from the Savior as we truly repent with godly sorrow.

September 16, 2019... 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; Mosiah 18:26-29... How does providing for the poor and needy help us to become more like the Savior?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-16 12:47:14 UTC

As you study these two passages, look for how following the principles taught by Paul (and Alma) can help us to not only take care of the temporal needs of others, but also become more like the Savior. Make sure you take particular note of 2 Corinthians 8:9! (Read the NIV for 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 to help it make more sense)

How can these principles also be applied spiritually?

Watch how these two videos provide examples of people taking care of others even when their own circumstances were less than ideal:
The Coconut Farmer

September 17, 2019... 2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Mosiah 4:16-27; Moroni 7:6-10... Why does my attitude matter when I give?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-17 11:19:40 UTC

Why does Paul teach that God loves cheerful givers?
Why does Mormon say that if we don’t give with real intent we might as well have not given?
Why does King Benjamin say that giving to the poor helps us retain a remission of our sins?

It is apparent that attitude is important! Look for the answers to these questions as you study these passages and watch the video below:

September 18, 2019... 2 Corinthians 10:12... Avoiding comparisons and finding joy.

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-18 11:27:40 UTC

“Comparison is the thief of joy”... In today’s world we are constantly having opportunities to compare ourselves and we often find ourselves lacking because of what we see around us. These constant comparisons destroy our self worth and rob us of joy. How can we stop ourselves from comparing and see ourselves as who we really are?
Look through these few short articles from the August Ensign and New Era and link them to 2 Corinthians 10:12.
Overcoming negative body image
Rethinking beauty
Seeing as God sees
August 2019 New Era Q&A... What do I do if I don’t like my body?
Be ready to share what you learned tonight!

September 19, 2019... 2 Corinthians 11:1-3; 12:7-10... Why does God allow us to have weaknesses?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-19 12:16:55 UTC

There are two aspects to today... figuring out why God allows us to have weaknesses and then recognizing how we can lovingly interact with others in their weaknesses.
First, search 2 Corinthians 11:1-3 and see what Paul asks the Saints to do with his weaknesses. He speaks words similar to Joseph Smith who said that, "After Elders Taylor, Woodruff and Samuel Bennett had addressed the brethren and sisters, I spoke to them at considerable length, showing them the proper course to pursue, and how to act in regard to making purchases of land... I showed them that it was generally in consequence of the brethren disregarding or disobeying counsel that they became dissatisfied and murmured; and many when they arrived here, were dissatisfied with the conduct of some of the Saints, because everything was not done perfectly right, and they get angry, and thus the 🤬 gets advantage over them to destroy them. I told them I was but a man, and they must not expect me to be perfect; if they expected perfection from me, I should expect it from them; but if they would bear with my infirmities and the infirmities of the brethren, I would likewise bear with their infirmities."
Elder Dale G. Renlund told the following story that helps us as well: "Just as God rejoices when we persevere, He is disappointed if we do not recognize that others are trying too. Our dear friend Thoba shared how she learned this lesson from her mother, Julia. Julia and Thoba were among the early black converts in South Africa. After the apartheid regime ended, black and white members of the Church were permitted to attend church together. For many, the equality of interaction between the races was new and challenging. One time, as Julia and Thoba attended church, they felt they were treated less than kindly by some white members. As they left, Thoba complained bitterly to her mother. Julia listened calmly until Thoba had vented her frustration. Then Julia said, “Oh, Thoba, the Church is like a big hospital, and we are all sick in our own way. We come to church to be helped.”
Julia’s comment reflects a valuable insight. We must not only be tolerant while others work on their individual illnesses; we must also be kind, patient, supportive, and understanding. As God encourages us to keep on trying, He expects us to also allow others the space to do the same, at their own pace. The Atonement will come into our lives in even greater measure. We will then recognize that regardless of perceived differences, all of us are in need of the same infinite Atonement."

Ponder: How does understanding that we all have weaknesses help us to be more kind, forgiving and loving?

Next, study 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 and link it with Ether 12:27... look for why the Lord gives us weaknesses. Also look for how we can overcome weakness, but also understand that Paul teaches that some weaknesses will not be removed in mortality.

How does understanding this help you be more patient with yourselves? How can it help you have a more positive attitude? How does this help you more fully appreciate your need for the Savior?

September 20, 2019... 2 Corinthians 12:1-4; 13:14; 1 Corinthians 15:40-42... What can we learn about the Plan of Salvation and the Godhead from Paul and President Oaks?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-20 12:40:14 UTC

As you study these verses, look for what you can learn about the Plan of Salvation and the Godhead. Think specifically about the three degrees of glory and what that teaches you about our Heavenly Father. You might also consider studying DC 76:50-98 if you want a deeper understanding.
After you study the scriptures, pick one of these talks to learn more about the Plan and the Godhead:
"The Godhead and the Plan of Salvation" (April 2017 Conference)
"Apostasy and Restoration" (April 1995 Conference)

September 23, 2019... Galatians 2:16-21; 5:1-6 ... What does Paul mean by saying we can’t be justified by the law?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-23 21:22:19 UTC

Watch this video to see an overview of the Book of Galatians before you study these two passages. Remember that when Paul speaks of the law he is speaking about the acts of the law of Moses (circumcision, etc).
Next go to the guide to the scriptures and find and study the word “justified” so you can better understand what Paul is saying.
Then go read the passages and figure out what is being taught. You might also cross reference with 2 Nephi 2:2-7 to seek additional understanding.

September 24, 2019... Galatians 1:11-24... We can be strengthened and find joy in the conversion of others to Christ

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-24 12:24:54 UTC

As you study, ponder the following questions:

Why is it so important that the knowledge of Christ comes by revelation?
What does Paul mean in Galatians 1:15 when he says that "God...separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace"?
As you read verses 23-24, where do you see the following principle: We can be strengthened and find joy in the conversion of others to Christ?

When you get done with your study, find a story in the Book of Mormon that shows someone being converted to Christ and influencing others positively. Be ready to share the answers to the following questions:

What happened that allowed them to be converted?
What happened that allowed them to influence others for good?
What do you learn about the Savior and His gospel from the story?

To finish, watch the following story (till about the 6:00 minute mark) and ponder these questions:

What happened to allow this man to be converted?
Why did his story influence others positively?
What do you learn about the Savior and His gospel from this story?

September 25, 2019... Galatians 3; Genesis 15... What does it mean to be Children of Abraham or to be blessed with Abraham?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-25 11:59:40 UTC

Start by reading the entry in the guide to the scriptures under “Abrahamic Covenant”, then study both Galatians 3 and Genesis 15 to see if you can find what it means to be blessed with Abraham. You might also consider studying Abraham 2:9-11.
Video

September 26, 2019... Galatians 4:1-9... What does it mean to be an heir of God?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-26 12:54:05 UTC

Study these verses first. Then go to the Guide to the Scriptures under the entry for "Heir" and see what an "Heir" is. Read through each of the references to gain a deeper understanding.
In your journal, respond to the following questions:

What is an "heir" of God?
Why does understanding that matter to you?
What does it influence you to do?

September 27, 2019... Galatians 5... Walking in the Spirit and not seeking after the lusts of the flesh

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-27 12:31:19 UTC

This chapter is extremely important. Paul helps us to see if the Savior really is working in us through the Spirit or if we are still turning to worldly things. Ponder the following questions as you study:

What does it mean to "stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free" and how do we do it?
Leaven is frequently a symbol for sin... given that, what does verse 9 mean?
Use your footnote tools for verse 11... what is "the offence of the cross"?
Verses 19-25... how can we know if the Savior is working in us through the Spirit or if we remain unchanged?
What do all of the teachings in this chapter have to do with BECOMING?

As you watch this video, look for when he is walking in the Spirit versus lusting with the flesh. When does he stand fast in liberty and when does he not? What did he become as a result of the Savior working in him?

September 28, 2019... The law of Christ and the law of the Harvest

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-28 12:02:02 UTC

Consider linking Galatians 6:1-2 with Mosiah 18:8-10... how does this counsel help us fulfill the law of Christ? According to verse 1 what do we need to be careful of and why?
What do you learn from the rest of the verses and how does it relate to this video?

September 29, 2019... The fruits of the spirit

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-29 12:13:07 UTC

Galatians 5:22-23... what are the fruits of the spirit? Think of a fruit tree... what is required in order for us to receive fruit from the tree? How might this relate to our ability to receive the fruit of the spirit?

Where do you see the fruits of the spirit in the following video?

What does this teach you about Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ?

September 30, 2019... General Conference Prep week!

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-09-30 12:56:53 UTC

This week we will focus on modern prophets and apostles and how their words can help us understand and apply the words of Paul.
Start out your week by studying what Paul says about prophets and apostles in Ephesians 2:19-20 and Ephesians 4:11-14... what blessings are promised to us through these prophets and apostles?
Ephesians 1:10 and Elder Bednar's October 2018 Conference talk "Gather Together in One All Things in Christ"
Ephesians 1:5-7,13-14 and Elder Cook's April 2010 Conference talk, "We Follow Jesus Christ" OR Elder Oaks April 1998 talk, "Have you Been Saved?"
Ephesians 1:1-5 and Elder Maxwell's October 1978 BYU Speech "Meeting the Challenges of Today"

October 1, 2019... "For by grace are ye saved"

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-01 12:44:04 UTC

Have you ever felt that you have fallen short? Have you wondered about your own salvation and whether you are "good enough"? Understanding grace is one of the most important ways that we can overcome our feelings of inadequacy. The prophet Zenock taught that "Thou art angry, O Lord, with this people, because they will not understand thy mercies which thou hast bestowed upon them because of thy Son." - It is apparent that the Lord wants us to understand His mercy and grace!
Start in Ephesians 2:8-10 and look for what you learn about grace. Remember that the Greek word for grace is defined as, "the merciful kindness by which God, exerting his holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtues"
Choose one of these talks or articles to enhance your understanding of grace:
Uchtdorf, "The Gift of Grace", April 2015 Conference
April 1981 Ensign Article by Gerald Lund, "Salvation: By Grace or by Works?"
Devn Cornish October 2016, "Am I Good Enough"

October 2, 2019... Why do we need prophets and apostles?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-02 12:36:34 UTC

Ephesians 2:19-20
Ephesians 4:11-14
Study these passages and Elder Holland’s October 2004 conference talk entitled “Prophets, Seers and Revelators”
What does it teach you about Heavenly Father and the Savior that they provide modern prophets?

October 3, 2019... How can we be more unified? Ephesians 2:1-20

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-03 13:07:50 UTC

Read this prior to your study to help you understand:
"The temple in Jerusalem contained several courts or areas, and only certain types of people could enter each court. Gentiles were permitted to ascend the temple mount and enter the outer court, called the court of the Gentiles. The inner courts of the temple, however, were shielded from Gentile access by a special partition or wall that stood about one meter high. If a Gentile passed beyond this wall, he could be put to death. Archaeologists have discovered two of the marble blocks that made up this barrier, and they contain inscriptions in Greek and Latin that read: “No foreigner is to pass beyond the barriers surrounding the sanctuary. Whoever is caught doing so will have himself to blame for his death which will follow” (Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, Eric D. Huntsman, Thomas A. Wayment, Jesus Christ and the World of the New Testament [2006], 160). Following Paul’s third missionary journey, some Jews in Jerusalem accused Paul of bringing Gentiles beyond the barrier, leading to a riot and ultimately to Paul’s arrest (see Acts 21:27–29; Numbers 1:51).

In Ephesians 2:12–19, Paul spoke about the “wall of partition,” meaning the spiritual barrier that separated Jews from Gentiles and also separated Gentiles from God. These and all other barriers were removed by the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Gentiles who accepted the gospel were no longer to be regarded as aliens, strangers, and foreigners —they were now of “the household of God,” part of God’s covenant people. By accepting the gospel of Jesus Christ through faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, both Jewish and Gentile members of the Church had access to God (see Ephesians 2:18).

In modern times, we enjoy the same blessings when we are baptized and live worthily. The “walls” between us and the Lord are removed, and we gain full access to God’s blessings. We also become members of “the household of God” (Ephesians 2:19)."

What did you learn about how we can become more unified?
What blessings and benefits come from unity?
What did you learn about the Savior and what He has done to produce unity?
What actions can you take to increase the unity in our family?

Extra Video

October 4, 2019... What are the purposes of General Conference? What blessings can come from hearkening to the words heard there? Ephesians 3

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-04 12:50:59 UTC

As you study Ephesians 3, ponder what Paul says about how he receives the words he teaches... how is this similar to how the Conference speakers receive their messages today?
What does Paul focus on in his message and how does Conference have a similar focus in our day?
What blessings does Paul promise through Jesus Christ and when have you experienced those blessings?
Watch or listen to Elder Holland's April 2011 Conference talk to help you connect Ephesians 3 with the General Conference messages in our day.

October 5, 2019... Is there really only one true church? Ephesians 4:1-6,11-14

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-05 13:29:42 UTC

Many struggle with the claim that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints makes that this is the “only true and living church” on the earth. As you study these verses in Ephesians 4, look for evidences of why there needs to be one true church. Then pick one of these talks to study:
Elder Packer October 1985 “The Only True Church”
Elder Stapley April 1977 “What Constitutes the Only True Church”

October 6, 2019... putting of the old man and becoming more Christ like. Ephesians 4:17-32

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-06 13:50:14 UTC

As you study these verses, look for attributes of Christ and think of examples from His life where these attributes are illustrated. Also consider Book of Mormon stories where these principles are illustrated.

For example: Ephesians 4:28 connects with the people of Alma in Mosiah 18 and they lived this principle. See their example here

Verse 32 was illustrated in the Savior’s life here and in the video below

October 7, 2019... The armor of God

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-08 11:35:53 UTC

Ephesians 6:10-18
Identify each piece of the armor of God and ponder what the Lord wants us to think about protecting spiritually ... why that particular body part. Ponder that as you watch this video:

October 8, 2019... Ephesians 6:10-18; DC 27:15-18... How can I put on the armor of God each day so that I am prepared against the fiery darts of the adversary?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-08 12:41:03 UTC

We know that each day we will face challenges and temptations from the adversary. How can we prepare ourselves so that we are protected? As you study today, ponder that question. To help you, carefully read Elder Ballard's July 2004 Ensign article entitled "Be Strong in the Lord"... think about what temptations that you give in to most, and think of what specific action that he suggests might help you to receive the Savior's help in rejecting that temptation.

To finish your study, watch this video and consider the difference in your life of being protected or not:

October 9, 2019... Ephesians 5:22-33... How can I have an exemplary marriage?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-09 12:39:11 UTC

As you study these verses, look for principles that you feel will help you to have an exemplary marriage... one that your Heavenly Parents would smile upon. Ponder these questions as you study:

What is the relationship between the head and the body? How might understanding this influence your views on how a marriage works?
What examples from the Savior's life show how He "gave Himself" for the church? (the church is us... a people)... see if you can find a Bible Video that illustrates the example you thought of.

Look for the principles of this kind of marriage in this video:

October 10, 2019... Ephesians 1:1-5... What were you predestinated/foreordained to do?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-10 12:34:14 UTC

President Nelson has emphasized over and over again how we have been chosen to fulfill missions that the Lord has in store for us. Read these 5 verses in Ephesians first, paying attention to the footnotes. Then link Elder John C. Pingree's October 2017 Conference talk entitled, "I have a work for thee" to these verses and study his talk. To finish things off, watch Sister Nelson's portion of the June 2018 Youth Devotional.
Throughout this whole study, please ask yourself this question: What is the work that God has for ME to do?

October 11, 2019... The Plan of Salvation... Ephesians 1:6-7; 2:8-10

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-11 12:19:48 UTC

Today we will do something a little different... we are going to focus on the Plan of Salvation. Get out a piece of paper and watch this video. When you are done, read these two passages from Ephesians to remind you that Jesus Christ is at the center of everything, especially the Plan of Salvation. On your piece of paper, do your best to draw out the Plan of Salvation as you understand it. Ponder questions you have or things you want to know about. Write those down and be prepared to discuss them tonight!

October 14, 2019... Philippians 4:1-20

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-14 13:03:07 UTC

Paul’s life is a vivid illustration of the truth expressed by President Russell M. Nelson: “When the focus of our lives is on … Jesus Christ and His gospel, we can feel joy regardless of what is happening —or not happening —in our lives. Joy comes from and because of Him” (“Joy and Spiritual Survival,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2016, 82).

As you read Philippians —particularly chapter 4 —search for statements that can help you find joy in any circumstance of your life.

When have you experienced “the peace of God” during a challenging time? (verse 7).
When have you found strength “through Christ” to do hard things? (verse 13).
Why do you think it is important to “be content” in all circumstances? (verse 11). How can practicing the attributes in verse 8 help you find joy in your circumstances?

October 15, 2019... Philippians 1... How can I have a more powerful scripture study?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-15 12:47:56 UTC

Today as you study Philippians 1, try and use the Blue Letter Bible (BLB) and gospel library to help you better understand Paul's message. Pick one or two activities below to help you have a more effective scripture study.

For example, Philippians 1:10 might be a little bit confusing. However, if you use the translation comparison you can see that the NLT translates the verse as follows: "For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return." How does that help you understand Paul's words more completely? What blessings are promised in verses 10-11 as we take the effort to understand what really matters?
Use the Blue Letter Bible today to better understand any confusing verses or words, and come prepared to share the insights that you found by doing so.
Consider using the following questions/sources to help you as well:
What is Paul teaching in Philippians 1:21? Watch the music video below to help you better understand (in addition to using the BLB)
Consider using Romans 7:12-25, Galatians 5:16-17 and 2 Nephi 4:17-30 to help you better understand Paul's teachings in Philippians 1:22.
Perhaps you could search the phrase "stand fast" in Gospel library (highlight the two words in Philippians 1:27 and then click the search/magnifying glass). How do the other scriptural references to "stand fast" help you better understand and apply Paul's message?

October 16, 2019... Philippians 2:12-13; 3:7-17; 4:13,19; Colossians 1:9-23; 2:10-14; 3:12-13... Are we saved by grace or by works?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-16 12:00:20 UTC

Have you been “saved”? Do you think you would go to heaven if you died today? Do you think we are saved by grace or by works?
This is a frequent debate amongst Christians of all denominations. These teachings of Paul provide some powerful insights into this question. Before you study these passages, read the Gospel Topics overview on Grace.
Now as you study these passages, look for where you see grace. Ponder the question for today and consider how you would use these passages to teach about grace and works.
When you are done, feel free to study more from the gospel topics page to help you better understand. Come prepared to share your insights on this important question!
Where do you see grace in the video below?

October 17, 2019... Colossians 1:17-22; 2:13-15... Why is the cross such an important symbol to us?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-17 14:01:39 UTC

Paul uses the cross as a symbol many times in his epistles. In Colossians 1-2 he uses it twice. Study these passages in order:
Matthew 27:36-39... What is the bitter cup? What is in it?
3 Nephi 11:10-11... What does Jesus do with it?
2 Corinthians 5:21... what does Jesus become as a result?
Colossians 1:17-22... what do you learn about the crucifixion of Christ and its importance to us from this passage?
Colossians 2:13-15... in the New Testament institute student manual for this passage, we read that, “Paul reminded the Saints in Colossae that God had forgiven them (see Colossians 1:14, 20, 22). The imagery that Paul used in Colossians 2:14–15 emphasizes how Christ’s Atonement makes it possible for our sins to be forgiven. In Paul’s day it was customary for Romans to write on a placard the crimes committed by a condemned person. When the wrongdoer was crucified, the placard was also nailed to the cross for all passersby to see (see John 19:19–22). Paul used this imagery in verses 13–15 to teach the Colossians that they had been forgiven. It was as though a list of all of the spiritual charges and accusations against the Colossian Saints, including their sins and infractions against the ordinances of the law of Moses, were placed on a placard and nailed to the cross. Through the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ, these were erased or blotted out.”
How does understanding this influence your desire to repent?
Search the following passages for additional understanding and then enjoy the song below which teaches these same doctrines. Pay attention to verse 3!
DC 76:40-42
3 Nephi 27:13-15
1 Peter 2:21-25

October 18, 2019... Philippians 3:3-16... What blessings come from sacrifice? What should I sacrifice?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-18 14:43:12 UTC

Paul gave up much in his conversion to the Savior. He describes the blessings and benefits in Philippians 3:3-16. As you study, consider what he gave up but what blessings he received.
3 Nephi 9:19-20; DC 59:8; Psalm 51:16-17... what does the Savior want us to sacrifice?
DC 58:2-5... what additional blessings do you see that come as we sacrifice?
1 Samuel 15:1-22... what interesting principles can we learn about sacrifice from this story about Saul?
Watch the following two stories to learn ways that we need to sacrifice and ponder on what you need to give up for the Lord (watch till time code 2:31)

October 19, 2019... how can I stay rooted in Jesus Christ? Colossians 1:23; 2:6-7

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-19 19:46:22 UTC

In Colossians 2:7 the word “rooted” literally means, “to cause to strike root, to strengthen with roots, to render firm, to fix, establish, cause a person or a thing to be thoroughly grounded.”

How can we be rooted to the Savior in this way? Search these additional passages and watch the video below to see examples of what we can do.

Philippians 1:10-11,27-30
Philippians 2:1-4; 12-15
Philippians 3:6-16
Philippians 4:1-13
Colossians 3:1-17

Elder Johnson’s most recent talk contained the example of Moses. How does he stay rooted in Christ despite Satan’s efforts to deceive and destroy him?

October 21, 2019... How can God’s love for me and my love for others help prepare me for the second coming of Jesus Christ?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-21 03:19:23 UTC

Paul’s epistle to the Thessalonians provides a major focus on the second coming of Jesus Christ and how to prepare for that coming. Each day this week we will look at different things that we can understand that will help us prepare for the second coming of the Savior.
Today let’s focus on love. As you search the following passages, look for evidence of God’s love for you and also look for counsel for us to love others. Ponder how each aspect of love can help us be more ready for the Savior’s coming.
What scriptural examples help us to see the importance of this love? What stories show us the influence of love?
1 Thessalonians 1:1-3
1 Thessalonians 2:7-9
1 Thessalonians 3:12-13
1 Thessalonians 4:7-12
1 Thessalonians 5:8-15
2 Thessalonians 2:10,16-17
2 Thessalonians 3:1-5
How does love influence our family relationships? How will that influence our preparation for the second coming of Christ?
Watch this example:

October 22, 2019... what will happen at the second coming of Christ?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-22 04:00:31 UTC

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
In 1 Thessalonians 4:18, why does Paul say that we can comfort one another with these words? Why do they bring hope?
DC 88:87-107
Moses 7:58-68 - look carefully for what will happen here and consider what the Lord prepared for these calamitous events (especially verse 62). Watch Elder Holland's talk below to see the connection.

When you are done, ponder the following questions:

What do you learn about what the second coming will be like and what will happen?
What questions do you still have?
How does this knowledge influence your desire to be prepared for this great day?

October 23, 2019... How do I prepare myself for the second coming of Jesus Christ?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-23 03:34:01 UTC

Before you begin your study today, watch the video below from President Nelson. Would you say with confidence that you are prepared to meet your maker? If the second coming were today how would you feel?
1 Thessalonians 5
Elder Oaks April 2004 conference talk
As you study 1 Thessalonians 5 and Elder Oaks talk, look for things that you can do and Christlike attributes that you need to develop to be prepared for the second coming of the Savior. Ponder why for some His coming will be like a thief in the night. There are other metaphors used to describe His coming in this chapter as well. Why are they used? How can you be ready?

October 24, 2019... the great apostasy

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-24 03:03:21 UTC

Amid increasing persecutions, many of the Thessalonian Saints believed the Savior’s Second Coming must be near. But Paul knew that before Jesus returned to earth there would be an apostasy—a rebellion or “falling away” from the truth (see 2 Thessalonians 2:1–4). You could deepen your understanding of the Great Apostasy—and your appreciation for the Restoration—by exploring some of the following resources:
Scriptures that foretold the Apostasy: Isaiah 24:5; Amos 8:11–12; Matthew 24:4–14; 2 Timothy 4:3–4

Scriptures that show the Apostasy was already beginning in Paul’s time: Acts 20:28–30; Galatians 1:6–7; 1 Timothy 1:5–7

Observations about the Great Apostasy by Christian reformers:
Martin Luther: “I have sought nothing beyond reforming the Church in conformity with the Holy Scriptures. … I simply say that Christianity has ceased to exist among those who should have preserved it” (in E. G. Schweibert, Luther and His Times: The Reformation from a New Perspective [1950], 590).
Roger Williams: “The apostasy … hath so far corrupted all that there can be no recovery out of that apostasy till Christ send forth new apostles to plant churches anew” (in Philip Schaff, The Creeds of Christendom [1877], 851).
Erasmus: “Everything is now so entangled with these questions [of doctrine] and decrees that we dare not even hope to call the world back to true Christianity” (The Praise of Folly, trans. Clarence H. Miller, 2nd ed. [2003], 155–56).

See also 2 Nephi 28; “Apostasy,” Gospel Topics, topics.lds.org.

Videos:
What the apostasy and restoration mean to me
Apostasy and restoration now you know

October 25, 2019... what can I do to experience greater joy in my life?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-25 03:54:04 UTC

The world is often a dark and difficult place, and yet in 1 Thessalonians 5:16 Paul instructs the saints to “rejoice evermore”... how can we do this?

First we must understand what joy is. According to the guide to the scriptures joy is “A condition of great happiness coming from righteous living. The purpose of mortal life is for all people to have joy (2 Ne. 2:22–25). A full joy will come only through Jesus Christ (John 15:11; D&C 93:33–34; 101:36).”

With that in mind, search the following passages from this week's material to find things you can do to have more joy. Ponder on what is most needed in your life, make a plan and do it!

Don’t forget President Nelson’s words that joy comes from and because of Jesus Christ! So make sure your focus is on Him with whatever you study!

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
1 Thessalonians 3:1-3, 7-13
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
1 Thessalonians 5:9-22
2 Thessalonians 1:11-12
2 Thessalonians 2:15-17
2 Thessalonians 3:3-6,13

October 26, 2019... How can I become more holy? More sanctified?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-26 12:10:40 UTC

In 1-2 Thessalonians Paul teaches about holiness several times and also talks about being sanctified. What does this mean and how do we do it? Remember that it will always involve the Savior and His atonement and will come because of His grace. Keep that focus in mind as you study.

Start by studying the definition for sanctification in the guide to the scriptures and the definition for holiness in the Bible dictionary.

From there study these two talks:
Pres Eyring October 2019, “Holiness and the plan of happiness”
Elder Bednar October 2007, “Clean hands and a pure heart”

Where do you see increased holiness and sanctification in this woman’s life? What actions did she take to get there? What do you feel inspired to do to become more holy like the Savior? What do you know about Him that gives you confidence He will help?

October 28, 2019... how can the examples of others help me know how to have experiences with the Savior? 1 Timothy 1:1-17

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-28 04:23:46 UTC

Sometimes we worry about all the bad things we have done in the past and worry how those actions might prevent us from being what God wants and intends us to be. However, Elder Renlund explained that, “God is more pleased with repentant sinners who are trying to draw closer to Him than with self-righteous, faultfinding individuals who, like the Pharisees and scribes of old, do not realize how badly they need to repent.”

Paul had no qualms about addressing his former sins and in his epistle to Timothy he discussed how his example is a pattern for all of us to be saved by Christ from our sinful ways.

As you study these verses, look for what you learn about the Savior that gives you confidence that He can save you just as He did to Paul.

After you study, watch this video and consider how this parable is an example of Jesus saving (He is the Good Samaritan).

What other examples from the Savior’s life or from the scriptures can you think of where He saved people. What stories impress you most? What actions did they take to receive the Savior’s saving power? What do you feel inspired to do?

October 29, 2019... How can I be “an example of the believers”? 1 Timothy 4:12

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-29 03:29:12 UTC

It will help to read this translation of the verse:
1 Timothy 4:12 (NLT) Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.

Come prepared with one Bible video that shows the Savior being the perfect example in one of these ways.

Search these scriptures and come prepared to share one way that you feel you can follow the example of the Savior by being an example:
1 Timothy 6:6-8,11-12
2 Timothy 1:8
2 Timothy 2:1-5,22-26
2 Timothy 3:14
Titus 2:11-14

October 30, 2019... What does it mean that Jesus is the Mediator? 1 Timothy 2:5; Philemon

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-30 03:53:20 UTC

Jesus is called the mediator in multiple places including 1 Timothy 2:5 and DC 76:69. What does that mean?

The Greek word for mediator is μεσίτης mesítēs, mes-ee'-tace... which means, “a go-between, i.e. (simply) an internunciator, or (by implication) a reconciler (intercessor):—mediator.

one who intervenes between two, either in order to make or restore peace and friendship, or form a compact, or for ratifying a covenant

a medium of communication, arbitrator”

Search Philemon 1:10-21 to see how Paul is a symbol for Christ as a mediator ... Paul mediates for Onesimus as he writes to Philemon.

Watch this brief story from Elder Gong where a woman became a mediator for someone else and thus learned about the Savior's love through her experience. (Watch till time code 12:30)

How does it comfort you to understand Jesus’ role as mediator?

October 31, 2019... What is a testimony and why is it important? 2 Timothy 2:7-15

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-10-31 04:06:55 UTC

In addition to studying this passage, choose one of these conference talks to study and then look for the answers to the questions below in both the scriptures and the talk you choose:

Converted to the Lord by Elder Bednar (October 2012 conference)
Pure Testimony by Elder Ballard (October 2004 conference)

What is a testimony?
Why is it important to you?
What are the main principles or doctrines that our testimonies should be focused on?
How do you gain a testimony?
How have you been impacted by testimony?

November 1, 2019... What blessings come from scripture study? 2 Timothy 3:14-17

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-01 03:14:45 UTC

We have little time in today’s world... it requires sacrifice to study the scriptures consistently. What blessings come to us as we diligently study the scriptures?
Be prepared to share the following in family scripture study :

What is a scripture that has strengthened your faith in Christ?
What is a scripture that has touched you as being inspired by God?
What is a scripture that has encouraged you to do good works?
Elder David A. Bednar spoke about how scripture study brings divine direction and protection: “The scriptures contain the words of Christ and are a reservoir of living water to which we have ready access and from which we can drink deeply and long. You and I must look to and come unto Christ, who is ‘the fountain of living waters’ (1 Nephi 11:25; compare Ether 8:26; 12:28), by reading (see Mosiah 1:5), studying (see D&C 26:1), searching (see John 5:39; Alma 17:2), and feasting (see 2 Nephi 32:3) upon the words of Christ as contained in the holy scriptures. By so doing, we can receive both spiritual direction and protection during our mortal journey” (“A Reservoir of Living Water” [Church Educational System fireside for young adults, Feb. 4, 2007], 1).

November 2, 2019... How can I overcome my fears?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-02 13:14:02 UTC

We all have fears. Sometimes they can immobilize us and make it difficult for us to progress. What are your fears that prevent you from doing and becoming what God wants?

Paul offers Timothy and Titus significant counsel on how we can overcome our fears. Search these passages and mark anything you see that can help us overcome those fears so we can become who we need to become: (pay particular attention to 2 Timothy 1:6-14)
1 Timothy 1:12
1 Timothy 2:4-6
1 Timothy 4:10-16
1 Timothy 6:6-8
2 Timothy 1:6-14
2 Timothy 2:11-13,19-21
2 Timothy 3:10-14
2 Timothy 4:5-8,17-18
Titus 2:11-14
Titus 3:3-7

November 3, 2019... How do ordinances and covenants and righteous choices connect me to the Savior’s power?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-03 03:03:53 UTC

First study Elder Bednar’s April 2016 general conference talk entitled “Always Retain a Remission of your sins”... look for the answers to today’s question.
Next study this passage in Titus, looking for those same doctrines.
Titus 3:1-8
What do you learn about ordinances and covenants and how they can connect you to the Savior’s atoning power?

November 4, 2019... Why is it so important to understand that Jesus is the Creator of earth and everything on the face of it?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-04 12:43:39 UTC

We know that it is life eternal to come to know Heavenly Father and the Savior (John 17:3). Why is this the case? Why is it so important that we know them?

What do you learn about the Savior and His role as Creator from the following passages:
Hebrews 1:1-4,10-12
Mosiah 3:5-10
DC 76:22-24
John 1:1-3
Read the first section of this article (story about President Boyd K Packer) to help you better understand the importance of Jesus as the Creator.
Then watch these two videos below:
Elder Maxwell

November 5, 2019... Why did Jesus have to have a mortal experience?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-05 13:11:08 UTC

Hebrews 2:9-18
Hebrews 4:14-16
Hebrews 5:8-9
What do you learn about why the Savior had a mortal experience?
How does His mortal experience influence you personally?
What does it mean to "come boldly before the throne of grace"? How do I do it?

November 4-10... What can the Savior’s life, example and teachings teach me about Heavenly Father?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-06 04:12:22 UTC

As you study Hebrews 1-6 this week, ponder this quote from Elder Holland:
“Of the many magnificent purposes served in the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ, one great aspect of that mission often goes uncelebrated...It is the grand truth that in all that Jesus came to say and do, including and especially in His atoning suffering and sacrifice, He was showing us who and what God our Eternal Father is like, how completely devoted He is to His children in every age and nation. In word and in deed Jesus was trying to reveal and make personal to us the true nature of His Father, our Father in Heaven.”
This idea is emphasized in Hebrews 1:1-3 and we learn much about the Savior in these chapters. Consider creating a notebook where you list the names, titles and attributes of the Savior throughout your week of study. Ponder why those titles are meaningful to you and when you have seen that in your life.

November 8-11... How can I enter into the rest of God?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-08 04:24:20 UTC

President Joseph F. Smith (1838–1918) taught that there is...a sense in which we might enter the Lord’s rest while in mortality: “The ancient prophets speak of ‘entering into God’s rest’; what does it mean? To my mind, it means entering into the knowledge and love of God, having faith in his purpose and in his plan, to such an extent that we know we are right, and that we are not hunting for something else, we are not disturbed by every wind of doctrine, or by the cunning and craftiness of men who lie in wait to deceive. … The man who has reached that degree of faith in God that all doubt and fear have been cast from him, he has entered into ‘God’s rest.’ … I pray that we may all enter into God’s rest--rest from doubt, from fear, from apprehension of danger, rest from the religious turmoil of the world” (Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed. [1939], 58).

As you study Hebrews 3-4, look for the answers to the following questions:
How can I enter into God’s rest?
What prevents me from entering?
How can I overcome the things that prevent me from entering?
Look how this man was able to enter into God’s rest:

November 11, 2019... What is faith and why is it important to me?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-11 13:21:31 UTC

Before you study Hebrews 11 today, ponder on what the greatest hindrance to your faith is. Watch the video version of Hebrews 11 below first. Then as you go back through and read it for yourself, look for things that will increase your faith and help you to be stronger. Ponder these questions after you read:

What is faith in Jesus Christ?
Why does faith have to be centered in Jesus Christ?
How can my faith bring me more joy right now?

November 12, 2019... How can I be more confident in the revelation I receive and the spiritual experiences I have?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-12 13:28:45 UTC

Hebrews 10:31-39
In conjunction with your study today, read, watch or listen to this talk from Elder Holland:
A condensed version is located in the March 2000 Ensign here

What can the ancient tabernacle teach us about the Savior, His Atonement and God’s plan is salvation?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-13 13:11:10 UTC

Focus on Hebrews chapter 9 today. First watch the video below to help you visualize the ancient tabernacle.

Now as you study with those images in mind, focus on the Savior and His Atonement. What do you learn about Him and His Atonement? What do you learn about Heavenly Father’s plan? Be prepared today share your insights tonight!

If you want to take more time, consider reading about the symbolism of the tabernacle in this commentary

How can I have joy even while struggling through difficult experiences? Hebrews 12:1-2

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-14 13:45:29 UTC

This will be a short explanation... study these two verses and then see how President Nelson uses these verses to teach us how to have joy no matter what! "Joy and Spiritual Survival" - October 2016 Conference

Why is Jesus called the "High Priest of Good Things to Come"?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-15 12:59:04 UTC

Hebrews 9:11-14 is the passage that contains this title for the Savior. After you study these verses and ponder why He has this name, watch, listen to or read Elder Holland's October 1999 conference talk, or at least watch the condensed version in video form below:

Why does Jesus have these titles?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-16 15:35:02 UTC

Search these passages to look for the titles that Jesus is referred to by in them. Use the Bible dictionary, the guide to the scriptures, the New Testament Institute student manual and the Blue Letter Bible app to learn more about each title. Ponder if the Savior has been that for you.
Hebrews 7:2 (shares these titles with Melchizedek)
Hebrews 7:15-17
Hebrews 7:22
Hebrews 7:24-27
Hebrews 8:1-2
Hebrews 9:11-12
Hebrews 9:14-16
Hebrews 12:2
Hebrews 12:24
Hebrews 13:6
Hebrews 13:8
Hebrews 13:20-21

How can I be guided through difficult times? James 1:1-18

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-18 14:27:31 UTC

James contains many principles that can guide us throughout our lives. As you study James 1:1-18, look for truths that can guide you through difficult trials or that can at least comfort you during difficult trials. Consider what you might also learn from the Savior’s first miracle (as shown in the video below).

How can I put my faith into action? How can I be a doer of the word and not a hearer only? James 1:17-27; James 2:1-26

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-19 04:05:20 UTC

As you study, look for specific counsel that James gives that will help us know how to put our faith into practice. Ponder what this has to do with the new children and youth program. How does following this counsel help us become more like the Savior. What Christlike attributes would we need to develop?

What difference can I make by being careful of how I speak? James 3

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-20 12:23:11 UTC

Ponder these questions as you study James 3:

Why would James say that someone who doesn't offend in word is able to bridle the whole body?
When has someone made a positive difference in your life with their words?
When has someone hurt you with their words?
What specific changes do you feel inspired to make?

What difference did kind words make for this young lady? How would the ending of the story been different if unkindness had been used?

How can I develop greater patience and what blessings will come as I do? James 1:2-4; 5:7-11

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-21 04:30:20 UTC

Why is patience a desirable attribute?
How can patience help us in our lives?
What is an example from the Book of Mormon of someone showing patience?
What is your favorite example of the Savior showing patience in His life? Or in His dealings with others?
When have you experienced the blessings of someone’s patience? Of the Lord’s patience?

How can I learn to pray more like the Savior? James 4:3

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-22 13:34:24 UTC

It may seem simple, but we do this every day without truly understanding the importance of prayer and the power that it can bring into our lives.
First - read James 4:3 and think about why James says we do not get answers to our prayers.
Second - read this paragraph from the Bible Dictionary about Prayer... looking for the antidote to unanswered prayers: "As soon as we learn the true relationship in which we stand toward God (namely, God is our Father, and we are His children), then at once prayer becomes natural and instinctive on our part (Matt. 7:7–11). Many of the so-called difficulties about prayer arise from forgetting this relationship. Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with each other. The object of prayer is not to change the will of God but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant but that are made conditional on our asking for them. Blessings require some work or effort on our part before we can obtain them. Prayer is a form of work and is an appointed means for obtaining the highest of all blessings."
Third - Study the following examples of prayer from the Savior's life and look for principles that will help us increase the power of our prayers:
Luke 22:41-44
John 11:41-42
Matthew 6:5-13
Fourth - Watch this video and consider how prayer influenced this man's search.
Fifth - determine a specific thing you can do to increase the power of your own personal prayers. Look to the Savior's example and to James 4:3 and Moroni 7:9 as you decide.

How can I keep an eternal perspective through trials? How will doing that help me endure? 1 Peter 1

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-25 13:44:56 UTC

All of us have trials and struggles. It may be that we wrestle with physical, mental or emotional illnesses, or perhaps we have spiritual trials of our faith. No matter what your trials are, Peter's teachings about the Savior and God's plan for us can help us to keep an eternal perspective. Ponder these questions as you study:

How can knowing you have an eternal inheritance (that is being kept/reserved) purchased for you by Christ help you keep an eternal perspective?
What questions can we ask ourselves during our trials to see them as a "refining" blessing rather than as something negative? (see verses 6-7)
How can trials help us to fulfill the command in verse 16?

Watch this video to see how we can keep an eternal perspective:

How can I be a “living stone” for God and others? 1 Peter 2

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-26 13:46:21 UTC

In the Old Testament the Israelites would often leave stones as markers or memorials to significant things that happened to them. For example, when they crossed the Jordan river with Joshua they left a pile of stones as a memorial to what had happened (see Joshua 3-4). In 1 Peter 2, we are invited to be these memorials so that others can see our good works and glorify God as a result. Search 1 Peter 2 for counsel on how you can do this. Pay particular attention to verses 21-25 and the Savior’s example in this. Then watch the video below. Start it at time code 4:55 and watch till the end of the Steve Hawkes story.

What happens in the spirit world? 1 Peter 3:18-20; 4:1-6

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-27 12:49:57 UTC

President Lorenzo Snow (1814–1901) taught about how the gospel will be received by those in the spirit world: “I believe, strongly too, that when the Gospel is preached to the spirits in prison, the success attending that preaching will be far greater than that attending the preaching of our Elders in this life. I believe there will be very few indeed of those spirits who will not gladly receive the Gospel when it is carried to them. The circumstances there will be a thousand times more favorable” (“Discourse by President Lorenzo Snow,” The Latter-day Saints’ Millennial Star, Jan. 22, 1894, 50).

As you study these passages, also consider studying one of the following talks:
April 2019 President Oaks “Trust in the Lord” and/or October 2000 Elder Christofferson “The redemption of the dead and the testimony of Jesus”

How can I avoid getting lured back to past sinful behavior?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-11-30 17:51:47 UTC

2 Peter 2

What is required of me in order to obtain forgiveness?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-03 04:55:20 UTC

1 John 1:5-10
What actions does John recommend?
What do these verses teach you about the Savior?
What examples do you see in the scriptures where these truths are shown?
When have you experienced these truths in your own life?

What is the purpose of life?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-04 12:25:03 UTC

1 John 3:1-3
What is the purpose of life? It’s a question that many ask. Study 1 John 3:1-3 along with the associated footnotes. Then watch Elder Oaks talk from time code 10:28 till the end. Look for and listen for our ultimate purpose and potential.
How does this knowledge strengthen you?

What is the relationship between God's love and His commandments? Between our love for God and our obedience to His commandments?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-05 14:31:35 UTC

1 John 1:1-8
1 John 3:22-24
1 John 4:21
1 John 5:1-4
2 John 1:1-6
Ponder these two questions as you study today, and then watch this video to see additional insights.

1 John 4:1-19... 1 John 3:16-18... God is love

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-06 12:25:05 UTC

God is love... it’s a powerful statement and a powerful truth. What evidence do you see of God’s love in these passages?
What is your favorite scripture story of the Savior showing His love for someone?
When has God shown His love for you?
How is God’s love manifest in our trials?

What can the names and titles of Christ teach me about Him? Revelation 1

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-09 13:21:41 UTC

Jesus told us on His last night in mortality that it is eternal life to know Him and to know the Father (see John 17:3). He also mentioned that He is the example of who and what the Father is (see John 14:7-9).

As you study Revelation 1, look for any names and titles of Christ. Consider using the Bible Dictionary and/or Guide to the Scriptures (or the New Testament Institute Student Manual) to learn more about what those mean and what it means in your day to day life. Consider looking for anything else that you learn about the Savior from this chapter in addition to names and titles.

What does God promise to His faithful saints? Revelation 2-3

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-10 13:22:23 UTC

Look for the answers to the following questions as you study today:

What blessings does God promise to those who “overcome”?
What do you see that shows how well the Savior knows each individual? Why is that important?
What are some of the things that He is pleased with in these churches?
At the end of chapter 3 we learn about being lukewarm and about A door that seems to have no handle on the outside... what messages do you get from these analogies?

How central is the Savior to God's plan? Revelation 5

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-11 13:37:00 UTC

For most of us the book of Revelation is really tough to understand. Imagine if you could have a Q&A with the Lord on this book. What would it be like? Well, Joseph Smith did! Use the following resources to guide your study today and look for how central the Savior is to Heavenly Father's plan:
DC 77
New Testament Institute Student Manual
Consider these questions:

What is the book with the seals and what does Jesus do with it? What does that mean? Why is He the only one able to do that?
The Savior is compared to two different animals in this chapter... what are they and how are they both accurate descriptions of who He is and what His mission is?

Revelation 6-10... What's up with the Book and the Seals?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-12 17:47:58 UTC

After you read Revelation 6-10, use the New Testament Institute Student Manual and the charts to understand the seals and the horses and what it all means. What did you need to hear most?

Consider how it all relates to dispensations and apostasy...

Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-16 13:56:38 UTC

Ponder these questions as you study:
What do you learn about the Savior from these two accounts?
What do you think was required of Mary and Joseph previous to this so that they would be prepared to act in faith when they received these instructions?
What role did revelation play in the Savior coming into the world?
What do you learn about Heavenly Father from these accounts?

Matthew 2:1-12... How can I be a wise man? A star?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-17 10:14:51 UTC

Elder Maxwell said this:

“The same God that placed that star in a precise orbit millennia before it appeared over Bethlehem in celebration of the birth of the Babe has given at least equal attention to placement of each of us in precise human orbits so that we may, if we will, illuminate the landscape of our individual lives, so that our light may not only lead others but warm them as well.” (That My Family Should Partake, p. 86)

He also said:

“This is a stunning thing for us to contemplate in all seasons! His planning and precision pertain not only to astrophysical orbits but to human orbits as well.... Therefore, what about ourindividualized orbits and schedules? Do we appear on the scene on time, and "shine as lights in the world" as the Apostle Paul urged? (Philippians 2:15). YES, there is a personalized plan for each of us. Like the Christmas star, each of us, if faithful, has an ordained orbit, a prescribed path, as we pass through this second estate.” (The Christmas Scene, Deseret Book, p.3)

Ponder these questions as you study:
How can we be like the star and lead people to Christ?

Who has been a star for you?

How might this star be like the Holy Ghost?
How can I be more like the Wise Men?

Luke 2:1-20

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-18 13:23:39 UTC

After you read the account of the Savior’s birth ponder these questions and the following scriptures:
What do you know about who Jesus Christ was before He was born? (see, for example, John 17:5; Mosiah 3:5; D&C 76:13–14, 20–24; Moses 4:2). How does this knowledge affect the way you feel when you read about His birth?
What do you know about why Jesus Christ came to earth? (see, for example, Luke 4:16–21; John 3:16–17; 3 Nephi 27:13–16; D&C 20:20–28). How does this knowledge affect the way you feel about the Savior? How does it affect the way you live?

What gifts has Jesus Christ given us? What gifts can we give Him?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-20 02:24:54 UTC

1 Corinthians 15:21–26; Colossians 1:12–22; 1 Peter 2:21–25

Revelation 14:1-7

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-23 18:00:22 UTC

Who is this angel and what is his role?
Study these verses and then study President Russell M Nelson’s April 2013 talk entitled “Catch the Wave” to learn more

Bonus question: from revelation 14:1... what might it mean to have the father’s name written in our foreheads?

Revelation 19... What will the end of the world be like?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-27 05:14:14 UTC

Use the New Testament institute student manual to help you understand the events described in this chapter.

What do you learn about the Savior? About His Second Coming? About “the end of the world “?

Revelation 20... what will the final judgment be like?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-27 05:16:40 UTC

Use the institute student manual again to deepen understanding. Ponder these questions:
What is the millennium like and why will Satan be bound?
Who will be our judge and why is that important?
What makes up the book of life?
What other books will we be judged out of?

Revelation 21:1-7... How can remembering God’s promises in these verses help us have joy now and in the eternities?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-28 05:28:41 UTC

Mark each of the promises God gives us. Consider what each promise really means. Then watch this talk by Elder Uchtdorf and look for the answer to today’s question.

Revelation 22... The end of the Book of Revelation

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-28 05:33:34 UTC

Verses 1-7... What do you learn about the Savior and His followers in these verses?
Verses 8-17... What do you learn about the Savior and the final judgment from these verses?
Verses 18-22... many use these verses to say that we should not have additional scripture beyond the Bible. Watch Elder Holland’s response to this below...

Practice for the upcoming year... tech tools

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-29 14:09:21 UTC

Scripture Citation Index (SCI):

Use the most recent 3 entries from the Title Page of the Book of Mormon, the Introduction to the Book of Mormon, and the 3 and 8 witnesses to search for what insights you can use in your families this week.

A little practice for the next week in the SCI: (You can also use the Book of Mormon Institute Student Manual entries for these passages to help as well.)

1 Nephi 1:1… Find insights about becoming goodly parents and teaching in the home as well as dealing with afflictions

1 Nephi 1:20… What are “tender mercies” and how can I be prepared to receive them/notice them?

1 Nephi 2:16… How can I be prepared to receive revelation?

1 Nephi 3:7… Look at the talks that use this passage… what stories from these talks could you use to teach your family?

1 Nephi 4:6… How can I be led by the Spirit?

1 Nephi 7:21… What story about forgiveness could I use from this talk to help my family?

Book of Mormon Institute Student Manual:

Look for headings to study and gain insights on topics that you feel would be helpful for your family this week. The following topics are in this first chapter/entry (in this order):

Title Page: To come forth in due time, Interpretation/Translation by the gift of God, God’s covenant affirmed, convincing that Jesus is the Christ

Introduction Page: How the Book of Mormon is the Keystone of our Religion, Nearer to God by abiding by its precepts than by any other book, we determine what is learned, gaining a testimony of the Book of Mormon

Also: External Evidences of the Book of Mormon, Blessings of the Book of Mormon, & Witnesses of the Book of Mormon

Title page to the Book of Mormon... What are the purposes of the Book of Mormon and what can I expect by studying it?

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-30 05:26:08 UTC

Start by watching this video for children about how we got the Book of Mormon

Consider this video for adults and older children

As you study the title page, consider the following questions:

What are the stated purposes of the Book of Mormon?
What benefits and blessing might one expect from studying it?
The title page says that the Book is focused on Jesus ... please find 2-3 passages from the Book of Mormon that have helped you focus on the Savior and learn more about Him.

Finish by watching the story below from Elder Bowen... watch from time code 2:30 to 6:05... what impresses you most about this story and what Elder Bowen teaches?

The Book of Mormon “outlines the plan of salvation.”

ViewmontSeminary — 2019-12-31 05:11:24 UTC

The plan of salvation is Heavenly Father’s plan to help His children become exalted, as He is, and experience the joy He feels (see 2 Nephi 2:25–26). The Atonement of Jesus Christ makes this plan possible, and every doctrine, ordinance, covenant, and commandment that God has given is meant to help accomplish the plan.
If you want to understand the plan of salvation, there’s no better book to read than the Book of Mormon. It refers to God’s plan—using a variety of names—more than 20 times. During your study this year, notice when God’s plan is mentioned or alluded to and what the Book of Mormon says about it.
Here’s an activity to get you started. Read the following passages, and list the different names given to God’s plan: 2 Nephi 9:13; 11:5; and Alma 12:32–34; 24:14; 41:2; 42:15–16. What do each of these names suggest to you about the Father’s plan?

Consider using this short video below and connecting what you learn from the Book of Mormon passages with what you learn here... a longer video can also be found here

Testimony of the 3 and 8 witnesses

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-01 06:10:56 UTC

As you study these two brief testimonies, consider marking phrases that show things you share in common with these witnesses... you may not have seen the actual plates, but there are other ways to gain a witness... and share it!

How have you been influenced by other’s testifying of the Book of Mormon? How did they testify of it?
When have you testified of it? How can you do it more often?

You may also want to use the scripture citation index app to find a conference talk or two to listen to about these witness accounts.

Ponder the power of the testimony of the Book of Mormon and see its influence in this video:👇🏽

The testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-02 05:18:08 UTC

The miracles that had to take place in order for the Book of Mormon to come about are countless! As you study the testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith today, mark every miracle that you see. Don’t forget the miracles that the Smith family moved right to the area where the plates could be found (consider reading the first chapter of “saints” to see these miraculous details... chapters two and three contain important details as well).

Watch these couple of simple miracles and consider how the Book has continued to bring miracles for many today.

The miraculous coming forth of the Book of Mormon

A testimony of the miracle of the Book of Mormon

What would your life be like without the Book of Mormon?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-03 12:57:43 UTC

Read or watch President Nelson’s October 2017 Conference talk entitled, “The Book of Mormon: What would your life be like without it?” And then compare what he says with the video below:

The Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-04 05:35:45 UTC

What does this actually mean? President Ezra Taft Benson explained that, “There are three ways in which the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion. It is the keystone in our witness of Christ. It is the keystone of our doctrine. It is the keystone of testimony.”

Elder Gary Stevenson expounded on this idea in his October 2016 conference talk entitled “Look to the Book, Look to the Lord”... consider reading, watching or listening to his talk to help you better understand what it means that the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion.

One comment he makes is that, “In architectural terms a keystone is a main element in an arched gateway. It is the wedge-shaped stone in the very center and at the highest point of an arch. It is the most important of the stones because it keeps the sides of the arch in place, preventing collapse. And it is the structural element that ensures the gate, or opening below, is passable.”

With that in mind, today in your study, focus on how the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our testimony of Christ. Choose one of the following chapters and mark everything you see that helps you better understand the Savior and His mission... who He is and what He does.

2 Nephi 2
2 Nephi 9
Mosiah 3
Alma 34
Helaman 5
Helaman 14
3 Nephi 11
3 Nephi 27
Moroni 7

You could use the video below tonight to have your family listen for what they learn about the Savior and His mission from Jacob’s words:

Book of Mormon challenge from Elder Stevenson:

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-04 05:44:18 UTC

Invite everyone in your family to accept this invitation from an apostle of the Lord:

“In order to help the Book of Mormon become the keystone of your testimony, I offer you a challenge. I recently learned that many young people spend an average of seven hours a day looking at TV, computer, and smartphone screens. With this in mind, would you make a small change? Will you replace some of that daily screen time—particularly that devoted to social media, the internet, gaming, or television—with reading the Book of Mormon? If the studies I referred to are accurate, you could easily find time for daily study of the Book of Mormon even if for only 10 minutes a day. And you can study in a way that allows you to enjoy it and understand it—either on your device or in book form. President Russell M. Nelson recently cautioned, “We should never make reading the Book of Mormon seem like an onerous duty, like the gulping of nasty medicine to be swallowed quickly and then checked off with finality.”

1 Nephi 1-2... How can I seek and obtain revelation from the Lord?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-05 05:57:22 UTC

President Nelson said that, “We live in a world that is complex and increasingly contentious. The constant availability of social media and a 24-hour news cycle bombard us with relentless messages. If we are to have any hope of sifting through the myriad of voices and the philosophies of men that attack truth, we must learn to receive revelation... in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.”

As you study these two chapters, consider how Lehi and Nephi are able to seek and receive revelation. What actions do they take that allow them to receive it? How can you follow their example? Be prepared to share your insights in home church today.

Consider watching the video version of these two chapters to help you gain additional insights into today’s question.

1 Nephi 3-4... How can I get the Lord’s help to make the BEST decision?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-06 04:27:56 UTC

Step 1: What is a decision or choice you are facing that you want help with?
Step 2: Study 1 Nephi 3-4 with that decision in mind and look for insights and principles that will help guide you to make the right decision.
Step 3: Read this October 1979 conference talk from Elder Perry entitled “Making the right decisions” and look for additional insights to help you.
Step 4: ponder these questions and how the answers might help you...

Why did Nephi fail the first two attempts even when it was something the Lord wanted Nephi to accomplish?
What does it teach you about the nature and character of God that He allowed Nephi to fail?
What made the final attempt successful and how does that relate to you and your decision?
How does the Lord help Nephi fulfill the commandment but what was Nephi’s responsibility?

Step 5: Write down your insights and use what you’ve learned in making your decisions. Come prepared to discuss your insights tonight.
Bonus: Consider how this video below applies to Nephi’s story and your own life and decisions... you may also enjoy this talk by Elder Perkins about making important decisions.

1 Nephi 5-7... How can I have greater peace in my family?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-07 04:12:33 UTC

Even a prophet’s family has a few conflicts. Lehi and his family were not immune from family problems and neither are we! Think about what you feel the biggest problems are in our family and as you search through these chapters look for principles that would help us to have increased peace in our home.

Pay particular attention to anytime you see a Christlike attribute displayed by anyone in the story. Also notice when people are not Christlike what attribute may have helped them create better circumstances and more peace for their family. What difference does it make when we develop and use Christlike attributes in our family?

Watch the Book of Mormon video of chapter 7 below to help you see more clearly what our family needs.

1 Nephi 1:20... What are the “tender mercies” of the Lord and how can I prepare myself to receive and recognize them?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-08 03:36:39 UTC

Read this verse carefully and maybe even rewrite it in terms that you can understand more clearly. Carefully study, watch or listen to Elder Bednar’s April 2005 conference talk entitled “The Tender Mercies of the Lord” and look for the answers to today’s questions.

Ponder when the last tender mercy was that you experienced and consider keeping a “tender mercy” journal such as the one illustrated in the video below:

How is Nephi a type or symbol of Jesus Christ? (1 Nephi 1-7)

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-09 04:01:59 UTC

Watch the video(s) below after studying a few examples below. How is Nephi a type or symbol of Christ? What can we learn about the Savior through Nephi’s example?

Taught in the learning of father (1 Nephi 1:1 and Luke 2:40,52)

Faithful parents who were willing to do whatever the Lord required (see 1 Nephi 1-7 and Matthew 1-2; Luke 1-2)

Highly favored of the Lord, great knowledge of God (1 Nephi 1:1 and Luke 2:40,52)

Came at a time when Jerusalem was wicked (1 Nephi 1:4 and Matthew 11)

Left position of glory, wealth and power to fulfill a mission (1 Nephi 1-2; Luke 2)

Grew in wisdom and stature in favor with God and man (1 Nephi 2:16; Luke 2:40,52)

Rejected by brothers/brothers did not believe him or believe in his (John 7:3-5; 1 Nephi 2:18; 1 Nephi 17)

Kids video 1
Kids video 2
Kids video 3
Kids video 4 (bonus... includes stuff from next week)

What problems can murmuring cause and how can I avoid them? 1 Nephi 2:9-24; 3:1-7

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-10 04:56:28 UTC

What attitudes and actions do Laman and Lemuel display?
What attitudes and actions does Nephi display?
Which attitudes and actions helped Nephi get closer to the Lord and become more like Him and why?
How can we follow Nephi’s example?
Consider studying Elder Renlund’s April 2016 conference talk to deepen your understanding.
Then watch the video below And look for how this man takes attitudes and actions of each of these brothers and see the impact that it had on him.

How can the Savior strengthen me through the power of His Atonement so that I can faithfully endure the trials of mortality? 1 Nephi 7

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-11 14:51:58 UTC

We will use chapter 7 for the next two days to study some important principles. So for today, study chapter 7 again and look for places where Jesus Christ strengthens people to accomplish His work. Pay particular attention to Nephi’s experience in verses 16-18. Then read Elder Bednar’s April 2012 ensign article entitled “The Atonement and the Journey of Mortality”... notice how Nephi’s experience and Elder Bednar’s words can help us understand today’s question.

Watch how this video illustrates these principles:

Why should I forgive others when they have wronged me? 1 Nephi 7

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-12 14:48:01 UTC

Today we will focus on this chapter again. However, we will focus on the end of the chapter where Nephi forgives his brothers (verses 19-22). Ponder these questions after you study the verses again:
What did Nephi know about Jesus Christ and His Atonement that allowed him to forgive?
Why did Nephi have to forgive before they could continue on their journey? (Read this talk to help)
How is Nephi like Christ in this scene?
To finish, study DC 64:9-11 and watch the video below to see forgiveness in action.

How can I develop the desire to share the good news of Christ with others? 1 Nephi 8:1-18

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-13 05:00:12 UTC

When you see a good movie, what do you do next time you see your friends?
When you see a great game or read a great book it’s the same thing. You tell the people you love all about it!
So with Christ and the blessings of His Atonement... what do we do to develop this same desire? Look for the answer today as you study. Remember to look in this month’s Ensign magazine to learn more about what the fruit of the tree symbolizes.

Watch this video to help deepen your understanding or even watch or listen to Elder Bednar’s October 2014 co detente talk entitled “Come and See”

How can I stay with the Savior and never leave? 1 Nephi 8:19-38

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-14 04:41:38 UTC

As you study the rest of the chapter, pay attention to the other symbols such as the rod, the tree, the fruit, etc. What are the differences between those who stay at the tree and those who leave? What lessons is the Lord trying to teach you?

Consider using Elder Bednar’s October 2011 Ensign article about Lehi’s dream to help you gain more insights.

How does the talk below help you answer today’s question?

Why did Nephi make two sets of plates? 1 Nephi 9

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-15 03:23:31 UTC

The Lord’s “wise purpose” in having Nephi create two records became clear centuries later. After Joseph Smith translated the first 116 manuscript pages of the Book of Mormon, he gave the pages to Martin Harris, who lost them (see Doctrine and Covenants 10:1–23). But Nephi’s second set of plates covered the same time period, and the Lord commanded Joseph Smith to translate these plates rather than retranslate what had been lost (see Doctrine and Covenants 10:38–45).
For more about the plates mentioned in 1 Nephi 9, see “A Brief Explanation about the Book of Mormon”; 1 Nephi 19:1–5; 2 Nephi 5:29–32; and Words of Mormon 1:3–9.

With this all considered... focus on what you can learn about the nature and character of God from 1 Nephi 9 to help you understand why Nephi (and Mormon) were willing to trust Him.

Consider these two videos to help you:
Why did Nephi write his small plates?

What does the Savior’s mission mean for me personally? 1 Nephi 10:1-16

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-16 04:11:10 UTC

As you study these verses, look for anything you see that adds to or reinforces your understanding of Jesus Christ’s mission. Ponder what it means to you and for you. Think about these questions:
Why is it important to know that prophets have testified of Christ for years?
What does it mean to “rely on” the Redeemer? How do I do it?

What is the process for acquiring spiritual knowledge? 1 Nephi 10:17-19, 1 Nephi 11:1

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-17 04:26:30 UTC

As you study these verses, look for attitudes and actions that allowed Nephi to receive the spiritual knowledge he was seeking.

What do these verses teach you about God that gives you confidence that He can/will answer?

Search Elder Richard G Scott’s October 1989 general conference talk for additional insights. Also consider watching the three part video series below and breaking up this study into two days:
Spirit of revelation
The light of Christ
Discerning light

How can I partake of the fruit of the tree of life and receive joy? 1 Nephi 8

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-18 04:51:24 UTC

Today review Lehi’s vision of the tree of life. Consider using the church’s new AR Tree of Life app to do so. Remember from earlier in the week that the tree is Jesus Christ and that the fruit is the blessings of Christ’s Atonement. So how do we partake of that fruit?

Elder Bednar explained that one way is through ordinances and covenants. Think about the ordinances and covenants you have received/made. How do they connect you to the Savior and His Atonement?

Consider the sacrament for example. What are we doing with the sacrament that helps us partake of the blessings of Christ’s Atonement? What can we do differently during the sacrament to make that experience a joyful one that strengthens us for the next week?

How does God teach us about His love? 1 Nephi 11

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-20 05:24:03 UTC

As you study this chapter, pay close attention to what Nephi wants to see and understand and how the Spirit responds (and the angel later on). Think carefully about the order of the events. What does God use to teach Nephi about His love? What has God used to teach you about His love? When have you experienced His love?

Remember that the tree is Jesus Christ (1 Nephi 11:7), so everything you ponder about in today’s study should be centered in Him.

How does the vision play out in real life? 1 Nephi 12

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-21 04:13:08 UTC

Now that Nephi has seen the same basic vision as his father. The dream expands and in chapter 12 he sees his descendants. What happens when they partake of the fruit? What happens when the fall to the mists of darkness or go towards the great and spacious building? What does it mean to have garments made white in the blood of the Lamb?

What events prepared the way for the restoration of Christ’s gospel? 1 Nephi 13:1-29

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-22 04:53:13 UTC

As you study today, use the Book of Mormon institute student manual to understand the events and people prophesied of in this passage and how they are connected to preparing the way for the restoration of the gospel. Please remember this insight about the Church of the Lamb and the Church of the 🤬 from an article by Stephen E Robinson:
“In either the apocalyptic sense or the historical sense, individual orientation to the Church of the Lamb or to the great and abominable church is not by membership but by loyalty. Just as there are Latter-day Saints who belong to the great and abominable church because of their loyalty to Satan and his life-style, so there are members of other churches who belong to the Lamb because of their loyalty to him and his life-style. Membership is based more on who has your heart than on who has your records.”

What plain and precious truths does the Book of Mormon restore? Why do we need the Book of Mormon? 1 Nephi 13:30-42

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-23 04:14:42 UTC

Elder Tad R. Callister taught:
“The Bible is one witness of Jesus Christ; the Book of Mormon is another. Why is this second witness so crucial? The following illustration may help: How many straight lines can you draw through a single point on a piece of paper? The answer is infinite. For a moment, suppose that single point represents the Bible and that hundreds of those straight lines drawn through that point represent different interpretations of the Bible and that each of those interpretations represents a different church.
“What happens, however, if on that piece of paper there is a second point representing the Book of Mormon? How many straight lines could you draw between these two reference points: the Bible and the Book of Mormon? Only one. Only one interpretation of Christ’s doctrines survives the testimony of these two witnesses” (“The Book of Mormon—a Book from God,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 75).

How can I receive power from God to be protected against the intensifying influence of the adversary? 1 Nephi 14

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-24 04:39:42 UTC

President Nelson said this: “we need to do better and be better because we are in a battle. The battle with sin is real. The adversary is quadrupling his efforts to disrupt testimonies and impede the work of the Lord. He is arming his minions with potent weapons to keep us from partaking of the joy and love of the Lord.”
How is the adversary attacking your testimony? How can you be protected? Pay close attention to verses 12-14!!!

Principles of acquiring spiritual knowledge.... How can I deal with doubts? 1 Nephi 15

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-26 14:40:35 UTC

This chapter contains important principles that we can learn on gaining spiritual knowledge and dealing with doubts.

Look for the following principles in this chapter:

The attitude and intent with which we ask our questions makes a difference in our ability to receive spiritual knowledge.
Seeing our questions from an eternal perspective can help us eliminate doubts.
Seeking answers from divine sources of knowledge Will help us find accurate answers to our most important questions.
Acting in faith on what we do know can help us stand strong until additional knowledge comes.
Maintaining a focus on the Savior and His grace is essential in dealing with our doubts and questions.

How does the video below illustrate these same principles?

What are our modern day Liahona’s? 1 Nephi 16

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-27 04:27:33 UTC

How is the Liahona like the following:
The gift of the Holy Ghost (see Elder Bednar’s talk)
The words of Christ (see Alma 37:38-47)
A patriarchal blessing

In what ways are these things similar to the Liahona?
What blessings can we expect as we use them correctly?
What is required of us in order to have these things bless our lives?
How do each of these help us come closer to and be more like the Savior Jesus Christ ?

Liahona video

How can I exercise faith in Christ?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-28 04:54:31 UTC

Joseph Smith taught that, “Let us here observe that three things are necessary, in order that any being may exercise faith in God unto life and salvation ..
3. Firstly, the idea that he actually exists.
4. Secondly, a correct idea of his character, per- fections, and attributes.
5. Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing is according to his will.

As you study 1 Nephi 17 today. Start with looking for the character, perfections and attributes of God/Christ. This should be a very fruitful study.

If you still have time, then look for principles that teach us how to pattern our lives in a way that is according to God’s will.

Do you see any similarities with the video below and what Lehi’s family was experiencing? What do you learn from chapter 17 that we can apply?

How can I find life lessons that I need from the scriptures? 1 Nephi 18

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-29 05:00:27 UTC

Before you study today, think of something you are facing or dealing with right now. A trial, decision, struggle or temptation... maybe even a difficult relationship that you want help with.

As you study today. Look for life lessons that are specifically for you and your circumstance. As Elder Peter Johnson reminded us in last conference: “Book of Mormon studies tend to go better when I read with a question in mind.”

Consider these questions as helps:
How is Nephi like Christ in this chapter? How might that be of help to you?
What if the ship is us? What lessons can we learn from that?
What is the significance of putting all they had on the boat and then putting all their seeds in the ground when they get to the promised land?
What does Nephi do in his trials that can be an example to you?
What might the significance be of the Liahona and what happens with it? Are there any things in your life that might be disrupting the influence of your Liahona’s?
Compare/contrast this story with the story/video below:

How can I liken the scriptures to myself? 1 Nephi 19

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-30 04:53:40 UTC

Sometimes it can be hard to see yourself in the scriptures because it was a different time and place. However, if we can learn to “liken” the scriptures to ourselves it can make a big difference. Try this with chapter 19. It can help to ask yourself some questions. For example:

In what ways are you setting at naught God and not hearkening to His counsels? (Verse 7)
When has God demonstrated His patience, loving kindness and long suffering to you? (Verse 9)
You may not have been there to see the signs of the Savior’s death, but what signs have you seen in your life that help you know that He really did die for you? (Verses 10-13)

There are other questions you might ask yourself to help you liken. Try a few and see how you feel as you ponder about those things.

Think about Jesus’ loving kindness as you review the final scenes of His life:

How can I understand Isaiah? 😱1 Nephi 20-21

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-01-31 04:35:52 UTC

For the next two days you will be studying Isaiah... famously difficult to understand but also famously important. One way to make Isaiah more relatable is to look at Nephi’s intro to Isaiah and why he writes it. 1 Nephi 19:23-24 show that he wanted his brothers to be able to:
1. Liken the words of Isaiah to themselves
AND
2. Have hope as a result

So... as you study, think through the lens of Laman and Lemuel... what would they have likened to themselves? What would have brought them hope?

Consider watching these two videos to help you understand Isaiah better as well:
Isaiah 1-39

What can we learn about the last days and the millennium from 1 Nephi 22?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-02 16:44:25 UTC

When Nephi finishes quoting Isaiah his brothers have some additional questions. He answers those questions by teaching about the fulfillment of the covenant to gather scattered Israel and by explaining the last days and the millennium. Look for what you can learn about these things today. Consider the following questions:
What do you learn about the scattering a gathering of Israel from 1 Nephi 22:1-12?
End of days from 1 Nephi 22:13-23?
Millennium from 1 Nephi 22:24-28?
The Book of Mormon from 1 Nephi 22:29-31?

How can I be delivered from my personal “bondage”? 2 Nephi 1

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-03 04:56:40 UTC

Each of us find ourselves in bondage in one way or another at different points in our lives. Before you study today identify yours... what keeps you limited in your potential or abilities? Is it a sin? Weakness? Habit? Addiction?

Today as you study, search for principles and doctrines that can help you get out of bondage and find freedom in Christ. See how the principles work in real life in the video below:

What can I come to know and understand about Jesus Christ and His Atonement that can help me in my daily life? 2 Nephi 2:1-10

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-04 04:20:19 UTC

Knowing something is cognitive and is typically just in the mind. Understanding gets to the heart. Today focus on opening your heart to what the Savior has done for you and how it can help you. Study 2 Nephi 2:1-10 with that in mind.

After you study, go deeper by studying a talk on one of the following subjects:
Verses 1-2: God can consecrate our afflictions for our gain
Verses 3-4: We are redeemed through the righteousness of Christ / Salvation is free
Verses 5-8: We must have a broken heart and a contrite spirit to accept Christ’s gift of grace
Verses 9-10: Study “Mediator” in the guide to the scriptures along with the associate passages you find there... consider watching the video below to help as well.

How do opposition, the Fall of Adam and Eve and agency all fit in with the Plan of Salvation? Why are they all so necessary? 2 Nephi 2:11-30

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-05 04:33:37 UTC

As you study these verses, consider the following questions: (talks linked in that can help)
Why is opposition so important to God’s plan?
What does it mean to act and not be acted upon?
Why is the Fall so important?
What is the difference between sin and transgression and why is it important in the case of the Fall?
How did we receive our agency? (Verse 26)
Why is it so important to consider how we use our agency in daily life?
See also Moses 5:9–12; 6:51–62; “Fall of Adam and Eve,” Gospel Topics

Why was Joseph Smith so important to the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ? 2 Nephi 3

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-06 12:17:05 UTC

This prophecy is given to Joseph son of Lehi, but much is taken from A prophecy of Joseph in Egypt and it is mostly about Joseph Smith and his mission but even mentions Joseph Smith Sr! That’s a lot of Joseph’s!

As you study you might consider reading the institute student manual along with this chapter to help you see clearly who and what is being discussed in each verse. There are also a couple of mentions of the Book of Mormon coming forth!

When you get done, ponder about what Joseph Smith did and what it means to you and your relationship with God. Also ponder about the Book of Mormon and what it means to you and your relationship with God.

How can I get through times of temptation and discouragement? 2 Nephi 4

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-07 04:41:08 UTC

Do you ever have times when you feel that you are not good enough? Where you get down on yourself? You have a friend in Nephi! Look for how his feelings match yours at those times (verses 17-19). Pay close attention to verses 15-16 and 19-35... what does Nephi do that helps him through the discouragement and even despair? What does he do to overcome temptation? Mark your insights and be prepared to share tonight!

The Musical form of Nephi’s psalm in 2 Nephi 4:17-35 is found below:

How can I live after the manner of happiness? 2 Nephi 5

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-08 15:24:53 UTC

The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it” (Documentary History of the Church, vol. 5, pp. 134–35.)

President Nelson also taught that, “When the focus of our lives is on God’s plan of salvation and Jesus Christ and His gospel, we can feel joy regardless of what is happening —or not happening —in our lives. Joy comes from and because of Him. He is the source of all joy. We feel it at Christmastime when we sing, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come.” And we can feel it all year round. For Latter-day Saints, Jesus Christ is joy!”

As you search 2 Nephi 5, look for how Nephi’s people live after the manner of happiness and make Christ the center of their life. Consider reading this Ensign article to help.

How can understanding the Savior’s nature and character help me understand other basic doctrines? 2 Nephi 6

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-10 04:45:25 UTC

Before you start reading, remember all that these people have been through and that they have just separated from family. In addition, it would be important to recognize that they had probably already intermingled with existing peoples, so the words in these chapters will have relevance for those people as well.

As you study this chapter, focus first on what you learn about the nature and character of Christ. What do you learn about Him and His mission and Atonement?

Once you have considered that, then think about what you learn about the gathering of Israel and about covenants? How is all this relevant to these people? How is it relevant to you right now?

Why does Jacob quote these two Isaiah chapters in the middle of two other discourses? 2 Nephi 7-8

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-11 04:49:44 UTC

Again it is important to remember what is happening with the people of Nephi at this time... having just been separated from other family and likely having joined with existing peoples in the area... they are probably needing some reminders of God’s covenants and His power, care and concern. Jacob says he will share these words so that the people can “learn and glorify the name of their God “... so what do you see in these two chapters that helps you better understand God and gives you cause to glorify Him even more?

Consider the example in 2 Nephi 8:3... how does the Lord turn this wilderness into an Eden and the desert into a garden? What does this teach you about Him?

February 12, 2020... Why do I need to be rescued and how does the Savior do it? 2 Nephi 9:1-26

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-12 12:36:19 UTC

Before you study watch this video showing the situation of 33 miners in Chile. In what ways are we trapped and in a horrible situation like them? What if there was no rescue? Search 2 Nephi 9:1-9 to see what our condition would be without Christ’s rescue.

Now search 2 Nephi 9:10-26 to see how He rescues us. What do you learn about Him and His Atonement? How do you feel towards the Savior knowing that He rescued you?

February 13, 2020... Jacob’s 10 woes and the importance of getting an education and a S.M.I.L.E. (2 Nephi 9:27-39)

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-13 04:01:44 UTC

Break down this study a little today and focus on each separate subject before you see the whole.

Verses 28-29... what do we have to be careful about with learning? Consider also reading DC 130:18-19

Verse 30... consider cross referencing with 2 Corinthians 4:18, Matthew 6:19-21 and 1 Timothy 6:6-16

Verse 31... Mark 7:31-37... how can we be like the man that was healed rather than stay deaf?

Verse 32... John 9:1-7 and John 9:39-41..: compare and contrast... how can we avoid spiritual blindness?

Verse 33...uncircumcised of heart means part of the covenant people outwardly but not inwardly

Verse 34... why is honesty so important? See the talk below...

Verse 35-36... how are these two sins similar? See also Alma 39:5-6

Verse 37... what idols do we worship and how does it distract us from worshipping God?

Verse 38-39... verse 39 teaches that being Spiritually Minded Is Life Eternal (SMILE)... what does it mean to be spiritually minded and how does it make us SMILE more?

February 14, 2020... How does God show His love to us through His Son and the Plan of Salvation? 2 Nephi 9:40-54

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-14 05:02:04 UTC

It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without something about love! What needs do you see in the world today for people to see and experience God’s love? Why do you need it? Study these verses and look for the following:
What warnings and invitations does Jacob give and how are they evidence of God’s love?
What do you learn about the Savior and what does that teach you about God’s love?
What do you learn about the Plan of Salvation and how is it evidence of God’s love?

February 15, 2020... The gathering of Israel and personal reconciliation with God... how are they related? 2 Nephi 10

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-15 14:03:23 UTC

2 Nephi 10:1-22... what do you learn about the gathering and scattering of Israel? Read President Nelson’s October 2006 conference talk entitled “The gathering of scattered Israel” to help you better understand.

2 Nephi 10:23-25... how are we reconciled to God? What is the role of grace? What is our role? Study Elder Renlund’s October 2018 conference talk entitled “Choose You This Day” for additional insights.

How is the gathering of Israel similar to personal reconciliation with God?

February 17, 2020... What can I learn from 2 Nephi 11-13 that can help me to rejoice and that can help me with my own life?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-17 04:52:25 UTC

Focus on 2 Nephi 11 first as it provides the foundation for how we can understand Isaiah:

What do the first three verses of this chapter teach you about the importance of Isaiah?
How do all things testify of Christ? Consider pulling out a few random objects (our simply looking around) and seeing if you can figure out how they testify of Him.
What do you learn from verses 5-7?

In 2 Nephi 11:8, Nephi explains, “And now I write some of the words of Isaiah, that whoso of my people shall see these words may lift up their hearts and rejoice for all men. Now these are the words, and ye may liken them unto you and unto all men.”

So as you study Isaiah this week, you will want to look for things that should lead us to rejoice and look for things which you can liken to yourself. You may want to consider reading the NIV Bible for the Isaiah chapters to assist you in your understanding. Especially in chapter 13.

February 18, 2020... Life helps from Isaiah... 2 Nephi 14-16

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-18 04:48:02 UTC

As you study these chapters, ponder the following questions:
Chapter 14... what are the dwelling places, assemblies, and tabernacles referenced in the last two verses? How do they provide a defense and refuge for us?

Chapter 15... What is the Lord teaching us in the first 16 verses? In verse 18 how is sin like being attached to a cart with a rope? In verse 20... how is good being called evil and vice versa? (Consider reading/watching/listening to Elder Bednar’s most recent conference talk which relates)

Chapter 16... read the symbolism in this... notice how Isaiah feels so inadequate in the beginning and then slowly gets better... what brings about the change? What is the smoke? The altar? The live coal? The angel? Think about what happens with these things and it will help you. (Hint: it May be something similar to something we do every Sunday!)

Ponder how the video below relates to chapter 16

February 19, 2020... How can I put my trust in the Lord even in difficult circumstances? 2 Nephi 17-19

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-19 05:17:32 UTC

You might consider reading the back story to these Isaiah chapters in 2 Kings 17-19... Hezekiah and Ahaz and Sennacherib... this will help you to see what is happening (try the NIV Bible for easier reading).

You Should also watch the video below to help you understand and be sure to use the Old Testament Institute Student Manual for 2 Kings 17-19 to make it more clear.

What did Hezekiah do to show his trust in the Lord? How can we follow his example?

February 20, 2020... 2 Nephi 20-22

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-20 13:01:21 UTC

2 Nephi 20... the story continues... we learn that the Lord used Assyria to humble the nations including Judah (verses 1-11)... but because Sennacherib claimed it was done by his own power and gave no credit to God (verses 12-15), the Lord promises to punish him for his pride (verses 16-34). What does this teach you about God’s justice and mercy?

2 Nephi 21-22... these are prophecies of the millennium. What do you learn about the millennium? What does this teach you about Heavenly Father and His plan? About the Savior?

February 21, 2022... How can I be prepared for the second coming of Christ? 2 Nephi 23-24

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-21 04:33:10 UTC

As you study this chapter you may see some things that cause you some worry and concern about the Second Coming of the Savior. But who will actually be afraid? Or rather who SHOULD be afraid?

Take a positive spin on this and look for attitudes and actions that will allow you to have safety and peace in the time of the second coming.

February 22, 2020... Christ and His saving mission... 2 Nephi 25

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-22 04:54:36 UTC

So many other Christian denominations question the “Christianity” of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Book of Mormon is one of the greatest evidences of our Christianity and is truly another testament of Jesus Christ... and this chapter proves it!

In verses 1-10 Nephi finishes his thoughts on Isaiah and then in verse 11 he really focuses in on the Savior and His mission. Ponder these questions as you study:

What do you learn about the Savior’s Atonement?
What do you learn particularly from verse 20?
What do you learn about grace in verse 23? (Make sure you link that verse with Alma 24:10-12; 2 Nephi 10:24 and then watch this video and read this talk)
What actions are required of us in verse 28-30?

February 24, 2022... How does The adversary try to entrap us? (2 Nephi 26:20-22). What do we know about the Savior that can help? (2 Nephi 26:12-13,23-33)

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-24 13:54:26 UTC

President Nelson has said that, “the assaults of the adversary are increasing exponentially, in intensity and in variety.” We know that we need to be prepared and aware of this. As you study 2 Nephi 26, look for what the adversary does to trap us (verses 20-22). What do you know about the Savior that can help?

When you get done, ponder these questions and write the answers in your journal:
What are the stumbling blocks that you “trip” over most?
What are the “flaxen cords” that get you to stumble?
What did you learn about the Savior that can help you?
Watch this video below to see an example of stumbling blocks, flaxen cords and the Savior’s help

February 25, 2020... What can I learn about the apostasy and restoration from 2 Nephi 27?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-25 04:04:11 UTC

As you study this chapter, use the Book of Mormon Institute Student Manual and see what you can learn about the apostasy and restoration? What role does the Book of Mormon play in all of this?

February 26, 2020... How does Satan work to try to deceive me? 2 Nephi 28

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-26 04:11:35 UTC

Whenever you go into battle or go into a sporting contest against an opponent, you always want to know their strategies. Same thing with Satan! We need to know his strategies if we want to be able to defend against them!

As you study chapter 28, look for the strategies that you see the 🤬 employ. How are they similar to this Komodo dragon in the video below? How does Satan use these tactics on you? How can we defend against these tactics?

February 27, 2020... why do we need the Book of Mormon in addition to the Bible? 2 Nephi 29

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-27 03:47:51 UTC

As you study, mark each reason the Lord gives for why He gives us the Book of Mormon in addition to the Bible. What does this teach you about God and His plan?

Consider studying President Oaks April 2006 general conference talk entitled “All Men Everywhere “ or President Nelson’s October 2017 conference talk entitled “The Book of Mormon: What would your life be like without it?”

February 28, 2020... various and sundry topics ... 2 Nephi 30

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-02-28 04:37:15 UTC

Verses 1-2... how do we become the people of the Lord?
Verses 3-9... what is the role of the Book of Mormon according to this passage? How has it done this for you? For others you know?
Verse 10... how do you see this being fulfilled today?
Verses 11-18... what do you learn about the millennium? What does it teach you about God?

March 2, 2020... Why are we baptized? 2 Nephi 31:1-13

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-02 04:38:05 UTC

Why are we baptized?
What blessings can we expect from baptism?
What Christlike attributes are required of us in order to be ready to receive those blessings?
What did the Savior teach us through His baptism?

Consider also studying Romans 6:1-6, Mosiah 18:8-10 and Brother Brian K Ashton’s conference address entitled “The Doctrine of Christ”

You might also consider reading Moses 6:48-62 where Adam asks the Lord “Why must we be baptized?”

March 3, 2020... What is the doctrine of Christ and how does it impact me? 2 Nephi 31:14-21

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-03 04:20:13 UTC

Notice how in these verses both the voices of the Father and the Son are present. Jesus speaks and so does the Father. What do you learn about each of them from what they say?

What do you learn about baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost?

To learn more about ordinances and covenants and how they connect us to Jesus Christ’s power, study Elder Bednar’s April 2016 talk entitled “Always Retain a Remission of Sins”

To learn more about enduring to the end study Elder Renlund’s April 2015 talk entitled “Latter day Saints Keep on Trying”

This talk can help you better understand the doctrine of Christ

March 4, 2020... Feasting on the words of Christ and the tongue of angels... 2 Nephi 32:1-6

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-04 03:50:47 UTC

After you study these verses, consider what you learn about the Holy Ghost and the scriptures. Ponder what it means to speak with the tongue of angels. If you feel you need help with feasting on the words of Christ, study this BYU Speech by Elder Bednar or this conference talk by President Benson.

If you want to learn more about how to speak with the tongue of angels then study this talk by Elder Holland.

March 5, 2020... What does it mean to “Pray Always”? 2 Nephi 32:7-9

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-05 04:04:16 UTC

As you study think about today’s question as well as the following:
What do verses 8-9 teach you about Satan?
About Heavenly Father?
What blessings come from praying always?
Make sure you study Elder Bednar’s October 2008 talk entitled “Pray Always” and see what you can learn about how to do this and what blessings are involved.

March 6, 2020... How far will God go to honor agency and why? 2 Nephi 33:1-2

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-06 03:50:05 UTC

Pay attention to the word “unto” and consider what you learn about agency from this. Then study Elder Gerald Lund’s April 2008 conference talk entitled “Opening Our Hearts”.

What is the heart as it is referenced here?
Which type of heart is yours?
How can you get it to where it needs to be?
Why is the heart so important to God?
How does this man’s heart change and what impact does it have? How does his story relate to our verses today?
What stands in our way of opening our hearts and how do we overcome those obstacles?

March 7, 2020... What would your last words be? 2 Nephi 33:3-15

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-07 05:00:37 UTC

There are plenty of famous last words throughout history. It’s always interesting to think about what we would want to say before we pass on to the next life. Nephi’s last words are powerful and Christ centered. What do you learn about the Savior from his words? Why do you think he said the specific things he said?
What did you need to hear?
What impresses you most?
Consider his last words as you watch this video and consider the final messages of a few modern day prophets:

March 9, 2020... How is Jacob like Christ? Jacob 1

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-09 03:45:52 UTC

As you study Jacob 1, mark ways that you see that Jacob is like the Savior. What can we learn from Jacob about who Jesus is and what His nature and character are?

Also consider these other questions:
What will be in Jacob’s Book?
What does verse 8 mean? Especially the part about viewing Christ’s death and suffering His cross?
What do you learn about magnifying callings?

March 9, 2020... How is Jacob like Christ? Jacob 1

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-10 01:46:17 UTC

March 10, 2020... Money or motives? Jacob 2:1-21

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-10 01:49:55 UTC

Jacob is concerned with several crimes that his people are engaging in, but in this particular section he is concerned with their love of money. As you study, consider whether it is the money itself or the motivation behind the money and after the money that causes the problems.
What truths does Jacob teach us about God and ourselves that will motivate us to be more generous to one another and less greedy?

March 11, 2020... Why is chastity so important? What does the Book of Mormon say about polygamy? What does Jacob teach about pornography?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-11 03:23:49 UTC

Jacob 2:1-10, 22-35

Study Jacob 1-10 again... notice that Jacob is addressing three basic groups:
Those who are victims and who are not sinning
Those who are thinking about sinning/sinning through their thoughts
Those who are engaged in sinful behavior

Search for answers to all three of today’s questions and mark answers you see. Make sure you study President Oaks April 2005 talk entitled “Pornography”... as he uses Jacobs words to teach about it.

March 12, 2020... What Christlike attributes can we develop to receive the blessings promised in Jacob 3?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-12 03:17:37 UTC

Jacob 3:1-2
What is a firm mind? This story helps us understand:
“As you pray to Heavenly Father in faith, “he will console you in your afflictions, … [and ye may] feast upon his love.” President Henry B. Eyring shared that his father’s prayers during a losing battle with cancer taught him the deeply personal relationship between God and His children:
“When the pain became intense, we found him in the morning on his knees by the bed. He had been too weak to get back into bed. He told us he had been praying to ask his Heavenly Father why he had to suffer so much when he had always tried to be good. He said a kindly answer came: ‘God needs brave sons.’
“And so he soldiered on to the end, trusting that God loved him, listened to him, and would lift him up. He was blessed to have known early and to never forget that a loving God is as close as a prayer.”

What difference does a firm mind make? How does the Savior exemplify this?

Jacob 3:3-10... what Christlike attributes are required to live this counsel?

And how about this counsel? Jacob 3:11-14

March 13, 2020... Why do we speak so much about the Atonement of Christ? Jacob 4:1-13

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-13 03:39:41 UTC

As you study, look for and mark every reason you can see for why we speak so often about the Atonement of Christ. Ponder what you learn about the Savior and His mission. What would our lives be like without Him?

March 14, 2020... What does it mean to “look beyond the mark” and how do we avoid it?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-14 14:53:13 UTC

First, carefully study Jacob 4:13-18 and determine what “the mark “ is.
Next study Elder Cook’s March 2003 Ensign article entitled “Looking beyond the mark”
Then study Elder Larsen’s October 1987 talk with the same title.
What did you need to hear? What do you need to do?

March 15, 2020... magnifying our callings

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-15 15:47:48 UTC

To Jacob, teaching the word of God was more than an assignment from his brother—it was an “errand from the Lord,” so he labored diligently to “magnify [his] office” (Jacob 1:17, 19). President Gordon B. Hinckley taught that we magnify our callings “as we serve with diligence, as we teach with faith and testimony, as we lift and strengthen and build convictions of righteousness in those whose lives we touch” (“Magnify Your Calling,” Ensign, May 1989, 47). Think about your own “[errands] from the Lord” as you read Jacob 1:6–8, 15–19 and 2:1–11. Why did Jacob serve so faithfully? What does his example inspire you to do to magnify your Church callings and your responsibilities at home?

March 16, 2020... The allegory is the olive tree

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-16 02:43:57 UTC

To start your study, watch this video from the beginning until time code 6:48. This will give you a visual idea (although the visuals might be cheesy!) of the care of olive trees.

Now study Jacob 5:1-14 and ponder what the Lord intends to teach with this allegory? If the house of Israel is the tree, then what is the pruning, etc?

In what ways could the Lord of the Vineyard be symbolizing Heavenly Father? In what ways could the servant be Christ?
OR
In what ways could the Lord of the Vineyard be symbolizing Christ and the servant be the prophets?

What do you learn about God’s love for His children?

Go back to that same video and watch from 6:48-8:54 and consider how the time period represented is similar to verses 1-14 in Jacob 5. This is the Old Testament time period. What do you learn about the children of Israel during this time? About God’s love for them during this time? His care and concern?

How can this message be more personal as in the video below:

March 17, 2020... What can we learn about God’s love through the Great Apostasy? Jacob 5:15-51

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-17 03:50:11 UTC

This time period relates to Christ’s first coming and when He established His church on the earth. The verses also describe the Great Apostasy and the Lord’s feelings towards His children during this time.

Watch the remainder of this video (from 8:54-end) to see this portion described as well as to get a foretaste of tomorrow’s study.

See if you can see the pattern of Jacob 5 so far in the video below:

March 18, 2020... What is my duty in this final call? Jacob 5:52-77

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-18 03:28:08 UTC

As Zenos describes the final work of the Lord and His servants, we need to see ourselves in these passages. What is the Lord asking us to do? What is He going to do? Remember that the roots of the tree can be symbols for covenants. Also be aware of anything that you see that symbolizes Christ’s atonement. What do you feel inspired to do?

March 19, 2020... How do I prepare for the completion of Christ’s work? (Jacob 6)

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-19 03:19:47 UTC

Jacob 5 finishes by relating the last fall to serve and how the Lord will finish His work by burning His vineyard with fire. Jacob 6 then teaches us several principles that help us be prepared for the completion of Christ’s work on this earth. As you study Jacob 6, ponder these questions and read this article in this months ensign that relates.
What does it mean that God remembers both roots and branches?
Notice our default position is a soft heart and we are asked not to harden our hearts. How do we maintain a soft heart?
What does it mean to come to the Lord with full purpose of heart? What scriptural examples have you seen of someone doing this?
What does it mean to “quench not the spirit”?

How does the video below relate to all of this?

March 20, 2020... How can I develop unshakeable faith? (Jacob 7:1-15)

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-20 03:29:32 UTC

As you study these verses, look for and mark what Jacob did that allowed him to develop unshakeable faith. Why do you feel those actions led him to that faith?
Ponder these questions after you study:
What did Jacob know about Jesus Christ that gave him the confidence to stand up to Sherem?
Read DC 84:85; DC 11:21 and DC 100:5-8... how did these scriptures prove true in Jacob’s case?
What is the doctrine of Christ and how was Sherem trying to overthrow it?
When have you had any experiences similar to Jacob? (Consider the experiences he had to develop the unshakeable faith and the experience he had with Sherem himself)

March 21, 2020... How can we have the peace and love of God restored to our lives after mistakes have been made? Jacob 7:16-27

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-21 04:08:56 UTC

Watch how Jacob’s people respond to what happens to Sherem. What actions do they take that allow the peace and love of God to be restored? How do these same principles apply to our lives after we may have made mistakes or been misguided? How do these principles also prove true in the video below?

March 22, 2020... CONFERENCE PREP... JSH 1:1-20

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-22 13:15:05 UTC

Since we have finished reading the assignments for this week, let’s focus on doing what President Nelson invited us to do last conference in preparing for this one... he said, “You may wish to begin your preparation by reading afresh Joseph Smith’s account of the First Vision as recorded in the Pearl of Great Price.”

So today, study this account... pondering on what we will want to know from this account that can bless our lives. What would Heavenly Father want you to understand from this account? What life lessons do you learn?

In light of what is currently happening with the Covid pandemic, you might consider how Joseph dealt with his fear and uncertainty and follow his example. Watch the first vision video below and look for additional insights:

As a bonus, try searching the word “fear” in the Doctrine and Covenants (received through Joseph Smith for the most part) and see how many times and how many different ways the Lord invites us to not fear. What reasons do we have to not fear?

March 23, 2020... How do I know I’ve been forgiven and how does it impact me? Enos 1:1-17

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-23 03:18:16 UTC

How do I know when I’ve been forgiven? It’s a question many ask! As you study this part of the story of Enos, look for how you would answer this important question. What does Enos know about Heavenly Father and the Savior that allows him to have this experience? What’s the importance of the word wrestle?

March 24, 2020... How can I find rest? How do desires influence this? Enos 1:17-27 (and review Enos 1:1-16)

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-24 12:54:16 UTC

Enos mentioned “rest” three times (once in verse 17 and twice in verse 27).

First: what is rest? What do you learn from Enos that could help you understand what it is? Try studying Elder Per G Malm’s October 2010 conference talk entitled “Rest unto your souls” to help you better understand rest and how to receive this blessing from the Lord. Why does God want you to be able to rest? What does this teach you about Him? How does Matthew 11:28-30 add to your understanding? Or DC 54:10?

Desire influences Enos greatly. Consider looking at desire in relationship to rest. You might also want to read, watch, or listen to Elder Oak’s April 2011 talk entitled “Desire” to help you better understand this.

Then watch this video and look for how desire and rest are shown:

March 25, 2020... How can I be a powerful leader? Jarom 1:1-15

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-25 03:15:05 UTC

All of us have a chance to lead... whether it is a team at work, a sports team, a family, a group of friends, or perhaps even in a church calling. In this short chapter we see some examples of powerful leaders. Ponder these questions as you study:
What do powerful leaders do?
What Christlike attributes do they have?
Where do they direct and point people to?

Then watch, read of listen to Brother Owen’s April 2016 conference talk entitled “The Greatest Leaders are the Greatest Followers” to add to your understanding. Think of leaders you have had as you read. Think about their influence on you and your relationship with the Savior.

What are your favorite examples of Christ as a leader? Watch this video to see if you can remember some of the examples...

March 26, 2020... Can God still have a work for me to do even if I have made poor choices? What does it mean to “prosper” in the land? Omni 1:1-11

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-26 12:57:50 UTC

There are two focuses today. Let’s deal with the first question first!
Can God still have a work for me to do even if I have made poor choices?

Study Omni 1:1-3... what was Omni asked to do? What was his past like? What does this teach you about Heavenly Father?
Cross reference Omni 1:2 with JSH 1:27-33... what do you learn from Joseph’s experience that could help answer our question?

Now study Joseph Smith’s 1832 account of the first vision (found in gospel library by going to “church history”, then “first vision”, then “circa summer 1832 history”). Notice what the first thing was that Joseph was seeking and what the Lord’s response was... what do you learn about Heavenly Father and the Savior from all this?

Now let’s consider question 2... what does it mean to “prosper” in the land?

Study Omni 1:4-11... pay particular attention to verse 6...
Cross reference verse 6 with 2 Nephi 1:20; 4:4 and 5:20... the converse promise is given in these passages...
If you recognize what happens when you don’t keep the commandments it will help you recognize the true blessings of keeping the commandments and what prosperity really means! Especially when you study John 14:15-18!
How does this video show what prosperity really means?

March 27, 2020... How can I give my whole soul to God? Omni 1:12-30

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-27 03:36:22 UTC

Read the rest of this chapter with today’s question in mind.

But make sure you focus on verses 25-26! What do you learn from these 2 verses on how to give your whole soul to God?

Study Elder Bednar’s October 2012 conference address entitled “Converted Unto the Lord” for addition insights.

What does verse 26 have to do with President Nelson’s invitation for the world this weekend?

What can prayer and fasting do in helping us give our all to God? What blessings can we expect? How does it make us more like the Savior?

March 28, 2020... How can Heavenly Father know and be aware of all His children? Words of Mormon 1:1-18

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-28 13:27:41 UTC

In this brief chapter... kind of an intermission of sorts... Heavenly Father shows us several ways in which He is aware of and reaches out to us. Look for the ways He does this in the following verses:

Words of Mormon 1-1-2,8... how does He reach out to those on the other side of the veil? (Pay attention to what Mormon says about his people)

1:3-6,10-11... how does He reach out through the Book of Mormon? What do you learn about the Book of Mormon that would be important for us to remember and believe?

1:7,9... What do you learn about God here that give you confidence to trust Him?

1:12-18... how does He reach out to us through the church leaders in our day? What similarities do you see?

March 29, 2020... What similarities does Enos share with Joseph Smith?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-29 03:37:14 UTC

Take this opportunity to review Enos 1:1-17... then read the first two chapters of “Saints” Volume 1 (found in gospel library under the “Church History” tab). What similarities do Enos and Joseph share in their prayer and vision experiences? What impresses you most about the events that led up to Joseph’s experience? If you have time you might even consider reaching chapter 3 in “Saints” as well... and seeing how important the Book of Mormon is to the restoration (remember all that was said in Enos, Jarom, Omni and Words of Mormon about the importance of the Book as well!)

You might also watch Joseph’s first vision and then Enos’ vision and see if you can see any other similarities after watching both.

March 30, 2020... Why is the resurrection of Jesus so important? 2 Nephi 2:1-8; 2 Nephi 9:6-15,22

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-30 03:30:08 UTC

Use today’s question to search these two Book of Mormon passages and mark answers you see... why is the resurrection of Jesus so crucial to us that the apostle Paul would say, “If Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.”?

Then study Elder Holland’s April 2015 conference talk entitled “Where Justice, Love and Mercy Meet” for additional insights.

Enjoy these two witnesses of Christ below as well:
Elder Soares special witness
Elder Gong special witness

March 31, 2020... How does the resurrection of Christ influence me?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-03-31 04:14:12 UTC

Study the following passages to learn more about the impact of the resurrection on you personally:
Alma 11:41–45
Alma 40:21–23
3 Nephi 26:4–5
Mosiah 16:6-11
1 Corinthians 15:20-22,39-50
Try studying President Oaks’ April 2000 conference talk entitled simply “Resurrection” to deepen your understanding.

What does it mean to be resurrected?
What will resurrected bodies be like?

Elder Renlund special witness
Elder Rasband special witness
Elder Stevenson special witness

April 1, 2020... “Behold the Man!”

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-01 03:08:16 UTC

Today study Elder Uchtdorf’s April 2018 conference talk entitled “Behold the Man!”

Make sure to look in the footnotes and study the associated references. Ponder the following questions:

How can you more completely “behold the Man”?
What would “beholding the Man” more completely do for you?
What do you know about Christ that would make you want to behold Him more completely?
How would your ability to behold Christ be different if you did not have the Book of Mormon and modern prophets?

Elder Andersen witness
Elder Cook witness
Elder Christofferson witness

April 2, 2020... The climax of the Book of Mormon

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-02 02:52:36 UTC

In preparation for conference (and Easter), study 3 Nephi 11 carefully. Ponder the following questions:

What did the people have to do to finally #HearHim?
What do you learn about the Savior from this chapter...His nature, attributes and character?
What do you learn about the Savior’s gospel? What constitutes the Gospel?
What did you hear that wasn’t said?

April 3, 2020... How can Christ cleanse and change me?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-03 03:05:12 UTC

It could be said that the Book of Mormon is largely an account of people who changed because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. In fact, some of those people committed grievous sins and were even enemies of God’s people before the Savior’s power worked in them a mighty change according to their faith in Him. You can read some of these experiences in Mosiah 5:1–2; 27:8–28; and Alma 15:3–12; 24:7–19; you might think of other examples to study as well. What do you notice that each of these experiences has in common? What differences do you notice? What do these accounts teach you about how the Savior’s Atonement can change you?
See also Alma 5:6–14; 13:11–12; 18; 19:1–16; 22:1–26; 36:16–21; Ether 12:27; Moroni 10:32–33.

April 4, 2020... Conference prep

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-04 03:21:57 UTC

Prepare for conference by doing one or more of the following:
Study Elder Uchtdorf’s April 2014 conference talk entitled “Are you sleeping through the restoration?” And ponder how this connects us with President Nelson’s request for us to ponder how our lives are different because of the First Vision and what has come since then.

Study DC 25 and consider how it relates to right now and why President Nelson would invite the sisters to study that particular section.

Study DC 84 and 107 and consider the blessings of the priesthood available to all and why President Nelson would invite the sisters to study these sections before conference.

Read Joseph Smith History again and think about why his story is so relevant to us right now and what God wants us to learn from it to be prepared for this weekend.

Watch the First Vision video again:

April 5, 2020... Hosanna Shout Conference Prep

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-05 03:19:12 UTC

Take a few minutes this morning to study the entries in the Bible Dictionary and Guide to the Scriptures under “Hosanna”... make sure to study the associated scriptures as well. This will help prepare you for the Hosanna shout in the solemn assembly for the Sunday morning session.

Also read this brief church news article to deepen your understanding of what will happen this morning

April 6, 2020... Holy Week... How can I #HearHim more clearly?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-06 02:53:55 UTC

First, follow the instructions in this article including reading the scriptures and watching the video.

Next, write down HOW you will eliminate distractions, including which one you specifically need to eliminate.

Now study 3 Nephi 17 and look for how these people eliminated all distractions and what the result was.

Finally, watch this video and see these same principles in action.

April 7, 2020... Follow the example of the Savior by serving others

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-07 02:16:49 UTC

Study:
Matthew 25:31-40
Mosiah 2:17
President Eyring’s April 2016 conference talk entitled “Trust in that Spirit which leadeth to do good”
Holy Week video

Ponder:
How is serving others serving God?
What does this teach you about the Savior and His Atonement?

Apply: Take some time today to serve someone else. It can be something large or small, for a person in your home or a person online. Just do your best to make a difference in someone’s life.

Share:
Comment below on who you served and how. Consider sharing your experience on social media using the #HearHim

April 8, 2020... Follow the example of the Savior by hearing Him through the scriptures.

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-08 03:14:01 UTC

Study:
Alma 7:11-13
Mosiah 3:1-8
Mosiah 15:5-9
Isaiah 53 (or Mosiah 14 is the same)
“Scriptures are like packets of light that illuminate our minds and give place to guidance and inspiration from on high. They can become the key to open the channel to communion with our Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. …
“Great power can come from memorizing scriptures. To memorize a scripture is to forge a new friendship. It is like discovering a new individual who can help in time of need, give inspiration and comfort, and be a source of motivation for needed change” (Richard G. Scott, “The Power of Scripture,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011,6).

Ponder:
What scriptures about Jesus Christ inspire you and are a source of motivation in your life?

Apply:
Which scripture stood out to you today that you can apply the truth from to more fully receive the Savior and His Atonement in your life?

Share:
Your favorite scripture from today’s study on social media or with a family member or friend. #HearHim

April 9, 2020... #HearHim by remembering Him!

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-09 11:18:09 UTC

Study:
Matthew 26:17-56
Mark 14:12-50
Luke 22:19-51
DC 19:16-19 cross referenced with DC 18:10-11
Also consider studying one or more of the following chapters which are Jesus’ final sermons: John 13-17

You might also choose to watch these events:
The Last Supper and The Setting of the Last Supper
The Savior Suffers in Gethsemane

Ponder:
What do you learn about the nature and character of Christ from these events?
What blessings have come into your life because the Savior performed these acts?

Apply:
What do you want to do to remember Him more often?
How will you do it?

Share:
Share with a family member or friend (or on social media using #HearHim) the blessings that have come into your life because of Jesus Christ

April 10, 2020... #HearHim through forgiveness.

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-10 04:16:34 UTC

Study:
“My beloved brothers and sisters, I testify that forgiving and forsaking offenses, old or new, is central to the grandeur of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I testify that ultimately such spiritual repair can come only from our divine Redeemer, He who rushes to our aid ‘with healing in his wings’ (Malachi 4:2). We thank Him, and our Heavenly Father who sent Him, that renewal and rebirth, a future free from old sorrows and past mistakes, are not only possible, but they have already been purchased, paid for, at an excruciating cost symbolized by the blood of the Lamb who shed it” (Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Ministry of Reconciliation,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 79).
Beating before Jewish leaders and Peter’s denial
Jesus’ Trial
Jesus is Scourged and Crucified
Bible dictionary under “Barabbas”... consider what happened to him and what his name means and what that means for our relationship with Jesus.
Moroni 6:8
3 Nephi 27:13-14
Mosiah 26:30
1 Peter 2:21-25
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Colossians 2:13-14

Ponder:
What is the connection between Gethsemane and the cross? (Think bitter cup and sin and you and Jesus)
What is the connection between you and Barabbas and you and Jesus?
We often rail on the chief priests and scribes for beating and spitting on the Savior, but in what ways do we do this today?

Apply:
Who do you need to forgive? What do you know about Jesus and His Atonement that encourages you to forgive?
What do you need to forgive yourself for?

Share:
What does what happened on the Cross mean to you and for you?

April 11, 2020... #HearHim through prayer

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-11 03:44:01 UTC

Study:
“It’s hard to imagine the anguish Jesus Christ’s followers must have felt on the day after His death. The night before, His body was lovingly prepared and placed in a garden tomb. Today, they are left to figure out how life can possibly go on without Him.

When we are in desperate need of comfort, sometimes the only thing we can do is pray. But far from a last resort, prayer is one of the most important ways we can feel close to our Heavenly Father when life is at its most difficult.”

Jesus promised His disciples a Comforter when He left them. That comforter can come through prayer. What do you learn about the Comforter from Jesus’ final words?
John 14:14-18,26
John 15:26
John 16:7-15
His words to the Nephites?
3 Nephi 27:20-29
Paul’s words?
Romans 8:24-27
Ponder:
What missions does the Holy Ghost fill?
What does it teach you about Heavenly Father and the Savior that they provide the Holy Ghost?
When have you prayed and received comfort through the Holy Ghost?

Apply:
What changes can you make to your prayers to be more connected with heaven and to Hear Him more often and more clearly? Consider thinking of examples from the Savior’s life where He prayed and learn from His perfect example about specific actions you can take to make prayers more powerful.

Share:
Share with a family member, friend or on social media about a time when. You were comforted through prayer.

April 12, 2020... He is Risen! #HearHim through worship

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-12 01:48:12 UTC

Today is Easter Sunday! We celebrate the resurrection of the greatest man who ever lived! God manifest in the flesh! The Lord Jesus Christ! Consider picking one or more of the following chapters to study:
John 20
Luke 24
Mark 16
Matthew 28
Mosiah 16
You might also enjoy watching one or more of the following videos:
He is Risen: John the Beloved’s witness of the Resurrection
Jesus is Resurrected Bible Video
Finding Hope through the Resurrection
Because of Him
He Lives
Hallelujuah

Ponder:
Who have you loved and lost that makes you grateful for the knowledge of the resurrection?
What does the resurrection teach you about the importance of a body?
What does the resurrection teach you about the nature and character of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?

Apply:
How can you show your feelings toward God and His Son for the gift of the resurrection through your worship today?

Share:
Your feelings about the resurrection with your family and friends in any way you can!

April 13, 2020... What ways does Heavenly Father provide to us to help us become like him? Mosiah 1

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-13 04:00:26 UTC

Study:
As you study Mosiah 1 this time, try to find all of the different ways that Heavenly Father uses in this chapter to help His children become like Him.

Ponder:
How do those things help us become more like God?
Which ways has He used with you?
What ways is He using with you now?

Apply:
How should you respond to those efforts if you want to experience the maximum growth?

April 14, 2020... how is serving others serving God? Mosiah 2:1-17

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-14 02:45:34 UTC

Mosiah 2:17 is famous. You probably have it memorized. But all the verses before and after add to it in a powerful way!

Try connecting everything you see in verses 1-16 to verse 17. What is the Lord trying to teach you?

How is serving others serving God?
How would the opposite be true?
What does it teach you about the nature and character of God that He gives this commandment?
What examples from the Savior’s life show that He lived this commandment perfectly?

Consider studying Sister Joy D Jones’ October 2018 talk entitled “For Him” to deepen your understanding.

April 15, 2020... How can I find increased happiness? Mosiah 2:18-41

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-15 03:27:23 UTC

As you study these verses, look for every way that you see that brings more happiness. Remember this quote as you study:
“That man is greatest and most blessed and joyful whose life most closely approaches the pattern of the Christ. This has nothing to do with earthly wealth, power, or prestige. The only true test of greatness, blessedness, joyfulness is how close a life can come to being like the Master, Jesus Christ. He is the right way, the full truth, and the abundant life...men and women who turn their lives over to God will discover that He can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace...”

April 16, 2020... How can the Savior’s mission impact me personally? Mosiah 3:1-10

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-16 03:32:31 UTC

As you study these verses, try to go through the following 4 steps:

What do these verses teach you about the nature, character and attributes of the Savior?
What examples can you find in the scriptures for each of the miracles performed by Jesus? (You can use the Bible videos Found here or simply find them in the New Testament gospel accounts)
When have you seen any or all of these miracles performed by the Savior in your life or in the lives of those you know?
What did you (or the person/people you know) do that allowed those miracles to take place? What do you need to start doing (or do more of) or stop doing (or do less of) to allow the Savior to perform more miracles in your life?

The greatest miracle is discussed in these verses and in the song below:

April 17, 2020... How can I NOT be an enemy to God? Mosiah 3:11-19

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-17 03:55:14 UTC

There are a few key doctrines here that teach us much about the Savior and about Heavenly Father’s plan. Ponder these questions:

What do you learn about the Savior’s Atonement and how it opens up the plan of salvation to many more of heavenly father’s children?
What do you learn about the role of Christ in the plan?
What do you learn about how the Savior and His Atonement can not only help us be forgiven but help us become better?

Enjoy this story as you think about how to apply Mosiah 3:19... watch till time code 5:16

April 18, 2020... What will the final judgment be like? Mosiah 3:20-27

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-18 04:29:18 UTC

Combine the study of this passage with two recent conference talks from this month. Elder James Rasband “Ensuring a Righteous Judgment” and President Oaks “The Great Plan.”

What does the Holy Ghost teach you that you need to do to be prepared for the final judgment?
What is the Savior’s role in this?

April 19, 2020... How can we ever repay God? Mosiah 3:1-10 and Mosiah 2:18-24

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-19 13:49:56 UTC

Today as you receive the sacrament, ponder what you learn from these two passages and consider the debt Jesus paid that He did not owe. Carefully study and apply the teachings found in Elder Wirthlin’s April 2004 talk entitled “Earthly Debts, Heavenly Debts.” Focus on the heavenly debts, but be aware of the temporal teachings (see also DC 29:34-35).

April 20, 2020... Why should I put my trust in God? Mosiah 4:1-9

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-20 04:10:32 UTC

What do you learn about God from these verses that gives you good reason to trust Him?
When have you experienced those things about God in your own life?
How do these truths apply to our current circumstances?
Make sure you also study Elder Mccune’s conference talk from this month called “Come unto Christ-living as Latter Day Saints”

April 21, 2020... What does it mean to be a beggar? And who are the beggars? Mosiah 4:10-27

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-21 03:24:40 UTC

As you study these passages, look for the answers to these two questions. To deepen your study, look at Elder Holland’s October 2014 conference talk entitled, “Are we not all beggars?”

What is the Holy Ghost whispering to you about who God is and what He wants us to understand with this?
What is the Holy Ghost prompting you to do?

April 22, 2020... what does the Lord want us to “watch” for? Mosiah 4:27-30

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-22 03:48:02 UTC

Watch is a word that is used frequently in the scriptures. Study this passage first and then use the photo in this Padlet post to study other passages where the Savior invites us to “watch.” What is Heavenly Father trying to teach you? How do these teachings apply specifically to your situation right now?

You might also consider studying Elder Bednar’s October 2009 conference talk entitled “More diligent and concerned at home” and learn some helps in your own home church efforts as well as some counsel that helps us better understand today’s question.

April 23, 2020... How can I have my nature changed so that I have no more desire to sin? Mosiah 5:1-2

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-23 03:40:09 UTC

Remember what King Benjamin has been teaching in the first few chapters as you begin your study today. That is key to understanding today’s question. You may want to briefly skim chapters 3-4 or at least read the chapter headings.

As you study Mosiah 5:1-2, look for the change that came to King Benjamin’s people... why did they experience this change? Use this story and then study Elder David A Bednar’s April 2007 talk entitled “Ye Must Be Born Again.” Also use the video below to see the blessings that come from these changes and what we must do to have those changes come.

See also Ezekiel 36:26–27; Alma 5:14; David A. Bednar, “Converted unto the Lord,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2012, 106–9.

April 24, 2020... What does it mean to take upon myself the name of Christ and how do I do it? Mosiah 5:1-15

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-24 04:06:36 UTC

This is an incredibly important question... especially when you consider Mosiah 5:8 and understand that taking upon ourselves the name of Christ is required for salvation! As you study today, please answer the following questions in your study journal:

What does it mean to take upon myself the name of Christ?
How do I do it?
What results and/or blessings should I anticipate from doing so?
How will my life be different?

It would be helpful to consider studying one or more of the following talks before answering these questions:

Elder Oaks April 1985 “Taking upon us the name of Jesus Christ”
Elder Pieper October 2018 “All must take upon them the name given of the Father”
Elder Gay October 2018 “Taking upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ”

April 25, 2020... How do I minister? Mosiah 6

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-25 04:15:32 UTC

Study Mosiah 6 and President Nelson’s April 2018 conference talk entitled “Ministering with the Power and Authority of God.”

What connections does chapter 6 have with the talk?
How do these things help ya become more like the Savior?
What blessings have you seen and do you expect to see as you follow the counsel contained in these two places?

April 27, 2020... In what ways is Ammon a type of Christ? Mosiah 7:1-18

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-27 04:29:22 UTC

First you need to watch this video so that you can understand this story.

Second you need to check out the photo below to see the different movements of different groups (photo cred Seminaries and institutes). Make sure you understand where King Limhi’s people are and where they are going.

Third... pay attention to the role Ammon plays in all of this. Study Mosiah 7:1-18 and look for every possible way that Ammon is a type or symbol or Christ. Mark them in your scriptures. What do you learn about the Savior from this activity?

April 29, 2020... What are the consequences of ignoring God’s counsel and how do I seek for His mercy when I experience those consequences? Mosiah 7:19-33

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-28 04:26:55 UTC

Ponder today’s question as you read and then answer these questions in your study journal:

What did you learn about the Savior and His Atonement from these verses?
What did you learn about repentance?
How does this passage relate to the video below?

April 29, 2020... What are prophets and seeds and how can they help me? Mosiah 8

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-29 03:48:47 UTC

When Limhi heard Ammon’s testimony that the Lord had raised up a seer, Limhi “rejoiced exceedingly, and gave thanks to God” (Mosiah 8:19). Why do you suppose he felt that way? What do you learn about seers from Ammon’s words in Mosiah 8:13–19? In our day, “the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve are sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators” (Bible Dictionary, “Seer”). When was the last time you pondered the blessing of having prophets, seers, and revelators on the earth? Perhaps you could record how prophets, seers, and revelators have been a “great benefit” to you (Mosiah 8:18).
The Prophet Joseph Smith is the great seer who stands at the head of our dispensation (see D&C 21:1; 124:125; Joseph Smith—History 1:62). How did he exemplify Ammon’s description of a seer during his ministry?

The most important thing a prophet does is bring us closer to Christ? When have you been brought closer to Him by a prophet/seer?

April 30, 2020... What problems come from “looking back” or being “overzealous” about something? How can I avoid those problems? Mosiah 9

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-04-30 04:07:11 UTC

Sometimes we look at something we want and become so fixated on it that we don’t realize the problems we are placing ourselves in. Perhaps we look at something or someone we used to have and want it back so badly that we do things we probably shouldn’t do and place ourselves in bondage. As you study Mosiah 9, ponder on any applications for your life. Is there something you are overzealous about? Is there something that you want to go back to so badly that you might place yourself in bondage for it? Listen to the promptings of the Holy Ghost as you read and then look for connections between this story and the video below:

May 1, 2020... How can I maintain peace for my family? Mosiah 10:1-5

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-01 03:52:29 UTC

Mosiah 10:1-5
Mosiah 4:30
1 Peter 5:6-9
John 16:33

What can we do to keep peace in our families?

Consider studying these passages as well:
4 Nephi 1:1-18
2 Nephi 5:1-27

How does the Savior feel towards those who strive to keep peace in their families?
What did the Savior do to allow us to have peace in our families?

May 2, 2020... “Never let an earthly circumstance disable you spiritually.“

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-02 03:57:34 UTC

Mosiah 10:6-22

This is a compare contrast study. There are two groups to consider in this passage. The people of Zeniff and the Lamanites.

How did the people of Zeniff respond when things did not go their way? Look for and ponder how they responded and what the results were.
How did the Lamanites respond? Look how Laman and Lemuel responded (wronged/wroth) and how it impacted the future generations.

Combine this with the compare and contrast stories in Elder Hallstrom’s April 2010 talk entitled “Turn to the Lord.” What is the message for you?

May 4, 2020... What can happen if I set my heart on the things of the world? Mosiah 11

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-04 05:08:14 UTC

As you study this chapter, look for and ponder the following questions:
What did Noah and his people set their hearts on? Why?
What were the results?
As you see Abinadi’s words, how did the Savior feel about these people with where they were?
What do you know about Christ that makes you want to keep your heart with him over the things of the world?

Consider how these questions relate to this video:

May 5, 2020... How can I apply my heart to understanding? Mosiah 12

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-05 03:50:54 UTC

Abinadi’s warnings become a bit more severe in his second go around (notice that Abinadi had waited 2 years before coming back... what does that teach you about the mercy and patience of the Lord?).

The Lord is trying desperately to encourage repentance that will lead these people back to the path of righteousness and joy, but they are not listening! Notice what seems to be the primary problem in Mosiah 12:27... it has to do with their heart and with understanding. Study this talk from Elder Kim B Clark to deepen your own understanding of what it means to apply our hearts to understanding. Remember it’s not just cognitive!

What Christlike attributes are required of us in order to learn in this way? Consider that as you watch this video:

May 6, 2020... How can we be saved? Mosiah 13

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-06 03:34:01 UTC

In this chapter, Abinadi testifies of how salvation comes. As you study, ponder these few questions:

How do commandments assist us in becoming more like Heavenly Father?
What is the Savior’s role in our salvation?
How might our obedience to and faith in Christ change as we come to understand His true role in our salvation?

May 7, 2020... How can the Savior bless me through His Atonement with what I am experiencing right now? Mosiah 14

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-07 03:34:12 UTC

There is so much in this quote of Isaiah’s messianic prophecy (Isaiah 53). As you study Mosiah 14, make it personal. What is the personal nature of Jesus’ Atonement?
Perhaps read verses 3-5 in this way after you have read it from Mosiah 14:
3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and I hid as it were my face from him; he was despised, and I esteemed him not.
4 Surely he has borne my griefs, and carried my sorrows; yet I did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for my transgressions, he was bruised for my iniquities; the chastisement of my peace was upon him; and with his stripes I am healed.
You might consider reading this talk from Elder Maxwell or this talk from Elder Bednar to help you understand more completely.

It might also be helpful to get on blueletterbible.org (or in the blue letter bible app) and try reading Isaiah 53 in the NIV or NET versions to help you more fully understand what Abinadi is teaching here.

May 8, 2020... How can I be a part of the first resurrection? Mosiah 15

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-08 03:33:35 UTC

Because of Jesus Christ all people will be resurrected (1 Corinthians 15:20-22). However, not all will be raised to the same glory or come forth at the same time (1 Corinthians 15:40-42; John 5:25-29). The choices we make and how much we are willing to receive from the Savior will determine our glory in the resurrection and when we come forth. As you study today, look for how we can receive this blessing from Christ. You might consider using the Book of Mormon institute student manual for this chapter as it has some helpful insights... especially for the first few verses in Mosiah 15 which can be difficult to understand.

May 9, 2020... What is the sting of death and how does Christ overcome it? Mosiah 16 (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-09 04:35:32 UTC

Consider the following questions as you study and ponder this chapter:

What impact does the fall of Adam and Eve have on humanity and what would be our state without the Savior?
How might we be enemies to God?
Why does Abinadi speak as if things had already happened?
What is the sting of death and how does Christ overcome it?
Is there significance in the phrase swallowed up? (Perhaps consider the following references: 2 Tim 3:8; Exodus 7:8-12)
When has the Savior been a light for you? Why can His light not be darkened?
What does it mean that there can be no more death and why is that significant especially at this time? (And why are there specifically 7 questions for today?)

May 10, 2020... How is Abinadi a type of Christ? Mosiah 17

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-10 03:07:17 UTC

All prophets teach and testify of Christ, but their lives are also types or shadows of His life, His character and His mission. After you get done reading Mosiah 17, watch the Book of Mormon video and see how many ways you can identify that Abinadi is like Christ. Post your number in the comments below!

May 11, 2020... How can baptism and adherence to the covenants associated with it help me to become more like the Savior? Mosiah 18

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-11 03:14:40 UTC

C.S. Lewis once said that, “the whole offer which Christianity makes is this: that we can, if we let God have His way, come to share in the life of Christ. If we do, we shall then be sharing a life which was begotten, not made, which always existed and always will exist. Christ is the Son of God. If we share in this kind of life we also shall be sons of God. We shall love the Father as He does and the Holy Ghost will arise in us. He came to this world and became a man in order to spread to other men the kind of life He has — by what I call "good infection." Every Christian is to become a little Christ. The whole purpose of becoming a Christian is simply nothing else.”

As you study this chapter look for the attitudes, actions and attributes that baptism and its associated covenants encourage in us. Ponder the meaning of the baptismal ordinance in our ability to become like Christ (see also 2 Nephi 31:4-7 and Romans 6:3-6). Also ponder how each of the covenants we make helps us gain attributes and attitudes that help us in becoming “little Christ’s “... then see how those covenants empowered Alma and his people. Can you see how it’s all connected with ministering as well?https://youtu.be/7tDnv2oHns4

May 12, 2020... What can we learn about fidelity in marriage and family from Mosiah 19?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-12 03:29:02 UTC

What examples do you see in this chapter of those who were willing to keep fidelity and trust in marriage and family at all costs? What about those who did not? What were the consequences for each?

Consider husbands, wives and children and how they showed fidelity or a lack thereof. How can we follow the good examples from this story? What life lessons can we learn?

What examples from the Savior’s life show how He felt about marriage and family? How can that encourage us to focus in on keeping our family strong?

You might consider studying Elder Uchtdorf’s talk entitled “In Praise of those who save” to deepen understanding and find more applications.

May 13, 2020... life lessons from Mosiah 20...

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-13 03:40:04 UTC

Let’s break this down into three parts today.

Lesson one: Mosiah 20:1-5... what parallels do you see with the modern plague of pornography? How can we avoid it? What leads up to it? What can we remember about the Savior and His Atonement to strengthen us when we face that temptation? What can we learn from Jesus’ example of resisting temptation in Matthew 4:1-11 that can help?

Lesson two: Mosiah 20:6-12... What lessons can we learn about staying alert to what our enemies are doing and watching for the attacks of the adversary?

Lesson three: Mosiah 20:13-26... how is this story an example of the principle taught by Jesus that “the merciful obtain mercy”? How can we show mercy to others? How can we go forth “without arms” in our marriages, families, friendships... perhaps even in our politics? What do we need to understand about Jesus and His Atonement that will help us in this effort? Ponder who you need to extend more mercy to and make efforts to do so...

Make sure you watch this video

May 14, 2020... How does God sometimes answer prayers? Mosiah 21

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-14 03:30:53 UTC

As you study this chapter, look for all the ways that God answered the prayers of Limhi and his people. Ponder on these questions and write your answers in your study journal:

Why was God slow to hear their prayers?
What actions did they take that were most important in drawing on the powers of heaven?
What does this story teach you about Heavenly Father?

Compare this story with the video below... what similarities do you see? Pay close attention to how prayers were answered...

May 15, 2020... The Book of Mosiah and the Plan of Salvation... Mosiah 22

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-15 03:22:17 UTC

This is where a lot of things come together as far as types shadows and lessons from the Book of Mormon. Consider these ideas:

Zeniff and his people leaving Zarahemla= Us leaving premortal life to mortality
Zeniff’s overzealousness= The Fall
Noah(Zeniff’s posterity) and then Limhi getting into bondage to the Lamanites= Bondage of Sin
Lamanites = Satan
Limhi and his people= us
Ammon= Christ
Ammon’s brethren = prophets and apostles
Gideon = priesthood and organization leaders
King Mosiah= Heavenly Father
Zarahemla= celestial kingdom

Think about everything you have studied so far with these people... think about how they got into bondage... think about Ammon and where he came from and what he does with these people... think about all the ways he is like Christ (see also chapter 7)

What do you learn about the Plan of Salvation?
What do you learn about Christ’s role?
What do you learn about being delivered from sin?
What does all this teach you about the Book of Mormon?

May 16, 2020... What similarities do you currently share with Alma and his people? Mosiah 23

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-16 12:32:28 UTC

As you study Mosiah 23, look for ways that your current situation parallels theirs. As you do this, you can look for how they respond faithfully and be guided to what you can do. Think both temporally and spiritually. You might consider how their situation is similar to the man in this video as well and his acting in faith might help guide you.

You might also consider the principle of having our fears hushed (Mosiah 23:27-29)... study Elder Bednar’s April 2015 conference address entitled “Therefore They Hushed Their Fears.” This is quite relevant to what we are experiencing right now.

May 17, 2020... Why does the Lord allow us to go through trials? AND How does the Lord help us through them? Mosiah 24

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-17 03:16:08 UTC

This chapter is one that is about as relevant as it gets for the current coronavirus struggles. The virus has impacted people all over the world... good and bad, just and unjust. As you study this chapter, look for the answers to today’s questions and see what the Lord has to teach you today.

May 18, 2020... How can we have the Lord’s Spirit poured out on us? Mosiah 25

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-18 03:34:26 UTC

At the end of Mosiah 25 we see this phrase: “And the Lord did pour out his Spirit upon them, and they were blessed, and prospered in the land.”

What is happening in your life right now that makes you truly desire the Spirit? What difference would it make for you if you had the Lord’s Spirit with you more frequently and with greater power?

As you search through Mosiah 25, mark attitudes and actions that you feel led these people to the blessing of the Spirit being poured out on them. Look for things that you can implement as well!

May 19, 2020... How do priesthood leaders help is come into Christ and receive the blessings of His Atonement? Mosiah 26:1-30

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-19 04:06:50 UTC

As you study these verses, look for how Alma as a priesthood leader brought his congregants to Christ and what blessings they had the ability to receive through His Atonement. Pay close attention to what you learn about the Savior’s nature and character and what you learn about forgiveness. Watch how these truths play out in the video below:

May 20, 2020... Counsel for a pandemic... Mosiah 26:31-39

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-20 03:30:29 UTC

Most of us have experienced significant disruptions to our “normal” lives over the last couple of months. There are several significant truths in these short verses that can be of help to us. Today is more active learning than usual! Try doing the following:

Study the verses and mark any counsel that you feel is important for us given today’s circumstances.
Choose the counsel that is most important for you personally
Find a scripture story (one from the Savior’s life if possible) that illustrates the truth you discovered and share it in family study tonight. Or find a video on the media library on the church website that illustrates it.
Think of a personal experience that relates and share it in family study tonight.
Share a specific way that you and your family can apply that counsel.

Here is an example:
I chose gratitude from verse 39. We can experience greater joy as we express gratitude. This is illustrated in the story of Lehi’s family in the Book of Mormon... the more they were grateful to God and expressed it the more joy they experienced and the better they did at enduring the journey. It’s also shown by the Savior as He expressed gratitude for Heavenly Father hearing Him at the death of Lazarus. There is a video showing this below as well.
For me personally there have been times where I have known that I need to express more gratitude and ask for less. I say “gratitude only” prayers during that period and start to recognize so many more blessings and feel so much more peace. I believe that my family can benefit from focusing more on gratitude in our prayers and perhaps even mention things we are grateful for in our nightly dinner discussions.

May 21, 2020... How can I help others experience being “born again” through Christ? Mosiah 27

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-21 04:12:35 UTC

As you study this chapter, view it from the lens of attitudes and actions that we can develop/take to help others come to Christ and be born again.

What does this chapter teach you about the Savior?
What characters in this chapter exhibit the most Christlike actions?
When have you experienced the feelings of being born again?

May 22, 2020... How can I become like the sons of Mosiah? Mosiah 28:1-3

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-22 03:57:13 UTC

“There is the example of the four sons of Mosiah —Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni —who received a forgiveness of sins through the Atonement and then labored for years among the Lamanites to bring them to Christ. The record states that they could not bear the thought that any soul should perish (see Mosiah 28:3). …
“A great indicator of one’s personal conversion is the desire to share the gospel with others. For this reason the Lord gave an obligation to every member of the Church to be missionaries” (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, ed. Clyde J. Williams [1997], 249).

Consider watching these videos to see how others have developed and demonstrated charity and ponder what you can do.

Paul’s discourse on charity
Giving to others
A high school example
Fixing a roof
Serving the critically ill

May 23, 2020... How does God use “different” answers to prayer to our eternal benefit? Mosiah 28

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-23 13:08:25 UTC

There are three examples in this chapter of this principle:

1. Mosiah 28:1-4... King Mosiah and other church members had prayed for Alma and the sons of Mosiah. While they certainly prayed for their conversion I doubt that they anticipated the extent to which these young men would bless the church upon their conversion. What does this teach your about Heavenly Father?

2. Mosiah 28:5-9... Following their conversion, the sons of Mosiah begged for the opportunity to visit the mortal enemies of their people (the Lamanites). It is doubtful that Mosiah was hoping for a confirming answer tho this question as it is almost certain that the fear of sending his sons to these people would have been intense. How did the course of the Book of Mormon change because of this mission? What would King Mosiah have to know about revelation and about Heavenly Father that would give him the confidence to trust his sons to go on this mission?

3. Mosiah 28:10-20... King Limhi and his people were trying to find Zarahemla and ended up finding the Jaredite record. Not exactly the answer they were looking for! How would your life be different without the book of Ether? When has God used different answers to your prayers to your eternal benefit?

Watch these videos to deepen your understanding of the importance of the Jaredite record:
Knowhy 557
Knowhy 510
Knowhy 106
Knowhy 417
Knowhy 409

May 25, 2020... What is important for us to learn about the nephite political system? Mosiah 29

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-25 04:31:56 UTC

This chapter is not about political parties or who we need to vote for, but the Lord does offer some important political advice in this chapter (and in Alma chapter 1 tomorrow). There are some interesting points in this chapter that should cause us to stop and think. At the forefront should be an obvious question from verses 26-27...

What do these things teach you about Heavenly Father and how He feels about us?
How do these political things influence our ability to become like our Heavenly Father?

May 26, 2020... How can I stay faithful when others around me are not? Alma 1

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-26 03:39:44 UTC

This chapter shows many of the problems that faithful church members were facing. They are similar to those we face today. What do you learn about attitudes and actions that help us stay faithful? What Christlike attributes are required to do so?

You might consider studying Elder Andersen’s October 2012 conference talk entitled “Trial of your faith”... for example... how Verse 24 relates to this quote from his talk:
“How do you remain “steadfast and immovable” during a trial of faith? You immerse yourself in the very things that helped build your core of faith: you exercise faith in Christ, you pray, you ponder the scriptures, you repent, you keep the commandments, and you serve others.
When faced with a trial of faith—whatever you do, you don’t step away from the Church! Distancing yourself from the kingdom of God during a trial of faith is like leaving the safety of a secure storm cellar just as the tornado comes into view.”

May 27, 2020... How can I overcome sin and temptation and what help does the Savior give? Alma 2

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-27 03:54:48 UTC

I love to read the scriptures symbolically and make personal applications. The Holy Ghost will teach us what we need to know as we search the scriptures with specific questions in mind.

Today think of a specific sin or temptation that is difficult for you. Think of Amlici and his followers as that sin or temptation as you read today. Ponder the following questions:

How are you like Alma and what actions and attitudes can you take to overcome?

How is Amlici like Satan?

How is Alma like Christ? What help does he provide us? What do you learn about Him from this chapter?

Where do you see prophets in this story? What do they do to help?

May 28, 2020... Who is your employer? And what is he paying you? Alma 3

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-28 03:38:33 UTC

Start by carefully reading verses 26-27 in this chapter. Ponder what these verses mean in reference to today’s two questions...

Now think about it... are you doing Satan’s work or God’s? What “wages” are you receiving? What “wages” do you want to receive?

As you study the rest of the chapter, look for who was working for what employer and what the wages ended up being for each. What attitudes and actions must we develop if we want to work for God’s team?

Think about which employer this man worked for at different times in his life and what the results were. What does this teach you about the Savior? What do you know about Him that makes you want to be on His side?

May 29, 2020... How does my personal example influence others? Alma 4

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-29 11:54:12 UTC

As you study Alma 4, you will notice that different people have different influences... for good or for bad. How does one’s personal example influence others? How can we stay faithful and show forth good examples? What did those who showed good examples focus on? Why do you think that helped them?

May 30, 2020... the power of personal testimony Alma 4:19-20

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-05-30 04:24:29 UTC

The prophet Joseph Smith said:
“Salvation cannot come without revelation: it is in vain for anyone to minister without it. No man is a minister of Jesus Christ without being a Prophet. No man can be a minister of Jesus Christ except he has the testimony of Jesus; and this is the spirit of prophecy. Whenever salvation has been administered, it has been by testimony. Men of the present time testify of heaven and hell, and have never seen either; and I will say that no man knows these things without this.” (TPJS 160)

“Faith comes by hearing the word of God, through the testimony of the servants of God; that testimony is always attended by the Spirit of prophecy and revelation.” (TPJS 148)

Elder David A Bednar taught. “The bearing of testimony need not be lengthy or eloquent. And we do not need to wait until the first Sunday of the month to declare our witness of things that are true. Within the walls of our own homes, we can and should bear pure testimony of the divinity and reality of the Father and the Son, of the great plan of happiness, and of the Restoration.
Brethren and sisters, when was the last time you bore testimony to your eternal companion? Parents, when was the last time you declared your witness to your children about the things you know to be true? And children, when was the last time you shared your testimony with your parents and family?
Each of us already knows we should bear testimony to the people we love the most. But what we know is not always reflected in what we do. We may feel unsure, awkward, or even perhaps a bit embarrassed.
As disciples of the Savior, we are not merely striving to know more; rather, we need to consistently do more of what we know is right and become better.
We should remember that bearing a heartfelt testimony is only a beginning. We need to bear testimony, we need to mean it, and most importantly we need consistently to live it. We need to both declare and live our testimonies.
The relationship between testimony and appropriate action is emphasized in the Savior’s instruction to the Saints in Kirtland: “That which the Spirit testifies unto you even so I would that ye should do” (D&C 46:7). Our testimony of gospel truth should be reflected both in our words and in our deeds. And our testimonies are proclaimed and lived most powerfully in our own homes. Spouses, parents, and children should strive to overcome any hesitancy, reluctance, or embarrassment about bearing testimony. We should both create and look for opportunities to bear testimony of gospel truths—and live them.
A testimony is what we know to be true in our minds and in our hearts by the witness of the Holy Ghost (see D&C 8:2). As we profess truth rather than admonish, exhort, or simply share interesting experiences, we invite the Holy Ghost to confirm the verity of our words. The power of pure testimony (see Alma 4:19) does not come from sophisticated language or effective presentation; rather, it is the result of revelation conveyed by the third member of the Godhead, even the Holy Ghost.
Feeling the power, the edification, and the constancy of testimony from a spouse, a parent, or a child is a rich blessing. Such testimony fortifies faith and provides direction. Such testimony generates light in a world that grows increasingly dark. Such testimony is the source of an eternal perspective and of enduring peace.
We can become more diligent and concerned at home as we bear testimony—and consistently live it.”

Study Alma 4:19-20 First and then study Elder Ballard’s October 2004 talk entitled “Pure Testimony”

Ponder on your own testimony. Think about the testimony of others and how they have influenced you. What do you know? What do you want to know? Think about how your testimony and the testimony of others has shaped your life and strive to use that testimony more often

June 1, 2020... When we remember the righteous examples of our ancestors, we can be inspired to become more righteous ourselves. Alma 5:1-13

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-01 03:50:08 UTC

As you study these verses... look for where you see this truth: When we remember the righteous examples of our ancestors, we can be inspired to become more righteous ourselves.

“It would be a wonderful thing if every Latter-day Saint knew the conversion stories of their forefathers. …

“The more connected we feel to our righteous forefathers, the more likely we are to make wise and righteous choices.

“And so it is. Each of us will be greatly blessed if we know the stories of faith and sacrifice that led our forefathers to join the Lord’s Church” (William R. Walker, “Live True to the Faith,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 97, 99).

What have you learned about Christ from the examples of your ancestors?

Consider having each child in your family call a grandparent or aunt or uncle to ask them about a spiritual experience they have had that could be shared. How might remembering those experiences strengthen you?

June 2, 2020... Are you prepared to approach the throne of God with confidence? Alma 5:14-36

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-02 04:16:01 UTC

Elder Jörg Klebingat once asked the following questions:
“What thoughts come to mind if you had a personal interview with your Savior one minute from now? Would sins, regrets, and shortcomings dominate your self-image, or would you simply experience joyful anticipation? Would you meet or avoid His gaze? Would you linger by the door or confidently walk up to Him?”

These verses are a bit of a personal interview between the Savior and us. You might consider what these questions mean about Jesus and who He is, what He wants for us.

So today as you study, look for and mark your answers to today’s question and then consider studying Elder Klebingat’s October 2014 talk entitled “Approaching the Throne of Confidence

You might also consider focusing on Elder Bednar“Clean Hands and a Pure Heart” from October 2007 to help you deepen.

June 3, 2020... Christ is the Good Shepherd ... Alma 5:37-62; John 10:1-18

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-03 04:03:16 UTC

A shepherd in the Near East was responsible for watching out for enemies trying to attack the sheep, defending the sheep from attackers, healing the wounded and sick sheep, finding and saving lost or trapped sheep, loving them, and sharing their lives and to earn their trust. A shepherd in the Middle East was once asked how well he knew his sheep. He responded, “If you were to put a cloth over my eyes, and bring me any sheep and only let me put my hands on its face, I could tell in a moment if it was mine or not” (G. M. Mackie, Bible Manners and Customs [n.d.], 35).

Alma’s discourse teaches us much about Christ as the Good Shepherd. Compare his words in Alma 5:37-62 with the Savior’s in John 10:1-18 and use both of these accounts to see what you can learn about the Savior. Ponder these questions when you are done with your study:

What did you learn about Jesus Christ today that is most needed in the world? For you personally?
When have you experienced the Savior as your Good Shepherd? How do you need Him as the Good Shepherd now?

Please take the time to read this talk as well, which will give you additional insights on the Savior as the Good Shepherd:

April 1988 John R Lasater “Shepherds in Israel”

June 4, 2020... I must experience—and continue to feel—a mighty change of heart.

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-04 04:09:17 UTC

The introspective questions that Alma asked the people of Zarahemla, found in Alma 5:14–33, can help you search your own soul and understand what it means to experience a “mighty change of heart” throughout your life. President M. Russell Ballard explained the value of these questions: “I need to regularly take time to ask myself, ‘How am I doing?’ It’s kind of like having a personal, private interview with yourself. … As a guide for me during this private, personal review, I like to read and ponder the introspective words found in the fifth chapter of Alma” (“Return and Receive,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 64).
Consider reading Alma’s questions as if you were interviewing yourself and examining your heart. You may want to record your responses to the questions. What do you feel inspired to do as a result of your interview?
Also study Elder Dale G. Renlund’s talk “Preserving the Heart’s Mighty Change,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 97–99.

How does this all apply to what is happening in the world right now? How is Jesus Christ the answer to our problems?

June 5, 2020... What are the reasons why I should fast? What blessings should I look for? Alma 5:45-45; Alma 6

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-05 03:42:48 UTC

As you study Alma 5:45-46 and Alma 6, look for the reasons why people fasted the the blessings that they received as a result.

This weekend we have a fast Sunday. What do you feel inspired to fast for? President Davenport has invited us to include something in our fast that Alma’s people did in Alma 6... what will you do differently in this Sunday’s fast to exercise your faith in Jesus Christ?

Also consider studying Isaiah 58:6-7

How does fasting help you become more like the Savior?
What have you done to make your fast more effective? Share your insights in the comments below 👇🏽

June 6, 2020... Why is Jesus Christ’s birth of more importance than anything else? Alma 7:1-13

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-06 03:19:37 UTC

As you study these verses, look for the answer to this question. Pay particular attention to verses 11-13. Note these words from Elder Neal A Maxwell:
Elder Neal A. Maxwell (1926-2004) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles wrote of the Savior’s familiarity with the afflictions of mortality and with our individual transgressions: “He knows by actual, personal experience, because not only did He suffer pains, afflictions, and temptations of every kind during His second estate, but He took upon Himself our sins as well as our pains, sicknesses, and infirmities. (See Alma 7:11-12.) Thus He knew, not in abstraction but in actuality, ‘according to the flesh,’ the whole of human suffering. He bore our infirmities before we bore them. He knows perfectly well how to succor us. We can tell Him nothing of pain, temptation, or affliction; He learned ‘according to the flesh,’ and His triumph was complete!” (We Will Prove Them Herewith 1982, 46).

And these words from Elder David A Bednar:
“Thus, the Savior has suffered not just for our sins and iniquities—but also for our physical pains and anguish, our weaknesses and shortcomings, our fears and frustrations, our disappointments and discouragement, our regrets and remorse, our despair and desperation, the injustices and inequities we experience, and the emotional distresses that beset us.
There is no physical pain, no spiritual wound, no anguish of soul or heartache, no infirmity or weakness you or I ever confront in mortality that the Savior did not experience first. In a moment of weakness we may cry out, “No one knows what it is like. No one understands.” But the Son of God perfectly knows and understands, for He has felt and borne our individual burdens. And because of His infinite and eternal sacrifice (see Alma 34:14), He has perfect empathy and can extend to us His arm of mercy. He can reach out, touch, succor, heal, and strengthen us to be more than we could ever be and help us to do that which we could never do relying only upon our own power. Indeed, His yoke is easy and His burden is light.”

What does this all teach you about the Lord Jesus Christ?
What does this mean to you with what is happening in the world right now with coronavirus?
How might understanding this increase your confidence and trust in the Savior?

June 7, 2020... How can I keep my changed heart and receive eternal life? Alma 7:14-27

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-07 12:44:29 UTC

Whenever a discussion of the requirements of eternal life come up, we are tempted to think that we somehow earn eternal life. Remember that it is a gift... the greatest of all gifts... and that it comes through and because of Jesus Christ and His Atonement.

As you study these verses, remember verses 11-13... Alma taught these first because when we truly understand in our hearts what Jesus has done for us, it changes us and encourages and empowers us to live the way described in Alma 7:14-27.

What are the attitudes and attributes we need to develop?
What specific actions do you feel inspired to take?
How does following this counsel help us to become more like the Savior?

June 8, 2020... How does the Lord guide us through our lives? Alma 8

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-08 01:08:28 UTC

This chapter has some extremely powerful life lessons. The Lord shows how well He knows each of us and how much He does to help us through our lives.

Consider each of the following questions as you read and write down your answers in your study journal at the end of your study.

What do you notice about the angel that appears to Alma and what does this teach you about the Savior’s love and concern for us?
Why was Alma blessed even though he was not having “success”?
What is important to notice about how Alma responds to the angel’s instructions? (See the video below for a related story)
What lessons do we learn from Alma finding Amulek? (Consider studying one or both of the following talks that address this idea: Elder Rasband October 2017 “Divine Design” or Elder Uchtdorf October 2016 “Learn from Alma and Amulek”)

June 9, 2020... Spiritually defining memories... Alma 9

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-09 03:43:44 UTC

This last conference Elder Andersen gave an important message about spiritually defining memories. Alma 9 goes along with this address perfectly! As you study, look for any and all questions he asks to remind these people of these important spiritually defining memories. Elder Andersen defines them as follows:
“Along with the peaceful direction we receive from the Holy Ghost, from time to time, God powerfully and very personally assures each of us that He knows us and loves us and that He is blessing us specifically and openly. Then, in our moments of difficulty, the Savior brings these experiences back into our mind.
Think of your own life...These experiences may come at pivotal times in our lives or in what may at first seem as uneventful happenings, but they are always accompanied by an exceptionally strong spiritual confirmation of the love of God.
Remembering these spiritually defining experiences takes us to our knees, declaring as did the Prophet Joseph: “What I received was from heaven. I know it, and I know that God knows that I know it.”

Consider these few examples from Alma 9 to help you see what to look for...

When have you or someone you know been brought out of a bad situation (Jerusalem) or led through one (wilderness)? (By God)... verse 9
When have you or someone you know been delivered or preserved by God? ... verse 10
When has the Lord been merciful to you or someone you know when you’ve called on His name? ... verse 17
When have you been visited by the Spirit, received revelation, received prophetic words, experienced the gift of tongues, etc? ... verse 21
When have you experienced the grace or long suffering of God? Or gotten a quick answer to prayer? ... verse 26

Look for as many of these as you can and take time to reflect on all the spiritually defining memories in your life. How did it influence you? How did it help you come closer to and become more like Heavenly Father?

June 10, 2020... how can I make a difference when the world is so wicked? Alma 10

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-10 03:35:05 UTC

Surely Alma and Amulek had asked themselves this same question... they saw all the wickedness and the rejection Alma experienced and they had to wonder how they could make a difference. However, they acted in faith and the Savior empowered them (and others).

What do you notice Alma and Amulek doing to make a difference? That might seem hard... but you can do it! You might also want to pay attention to the people mentioned in Alma 10:21-23 and see how they made a difference as well!

Think about the Savior’s life... He was only one person but He made ALL the difference... how? How is Amulek similar to Christ in this chapter?

What will you do to make a difference?

June 11, 2020... True doctrine understood ... Alma 11

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-11 03:43:25 UTC

President Boyd K Packer frequently taught that, “True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior. The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior.”

In Alma 11, there are several doctrines that as we understand, will influence our behavior.

One is that no unclean thing can dwell with God... that God doesn’t save us in our sins. Study this idea in chapter 11 along with Elder Christofferson’s October 2016 conference talk entitled “Abide in My Love” to deepen your understanding of this truth.

A second is regarding the resurrection. When we truly understand the doctrine of the resurrection and resurrected bodies it should definitely influence the way we live. Be sure to study Elder Christofferson’s April 2014 talk entitled “The Resurrection of Jesus Christ” and perhaps even this chapter in the Joseph F Smith manual: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/teachings-joseph-f-smith/chapter-10?lang=eng

Whichever topic you choose to focus on, mark any insights that you feel might influence your behavior. What did you learn about the Savior?

June 12, 2020... How can I acquire spiritual knowledge? Alma 12:1-18

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-12 04:02:41 UTC

A change happens in Zeezrom over the course of the events in chapters 11-12. Here in the beginning of chapter 12 we start to see him really gainin in spiritual knowledge and Alma teaches important truths regarding our ability to gain spiritual knowledge. Look for the following as you study:

Where do you see the truth that the attitude and intent with which we seek answers will greatly influence our ability to learn from the Holy Ghost?
Where do you see the truth taught that God will reveal truth to us according to the heed and diligence we give to Him?
What Christlike attributes are required in order to receive spiritual knowledge?
What examples in the scriptures do you see of people living these truths and receiving the promised blessings?
Why is gaining spiritual knowledge so essential in our quest to become like our Heavenly Parents?

You might also consider studying this talk from Sister Sheri Dew that illustrates these principles.

June 13, 2020... What is the plan of redemption? Alma 12:19-37

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-13 04:37:37 UTC

Compare these verses with President Oaks April 2020 conference talk entitled “The Great Plan.” Ponder the following questions as you study and consider writing down your answers in your study journal:

What similarities do you see between President Oaks’ talk and Alma 12:19-37?
What do you learn about the Savior and His role in the plan?
What insights do you gain about the fall of Adam and Eve?
What is the purpose of mortality?
Where do you see teachings about the temple in both places?
What does all of this teach you about your Heavenly Parents?

June 15, 2020... How can understanding premortal life help us now? Alma 13:1-9

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-15 01:39:29 UTC

In the first several verses of Alma 13:1-9 Alma teaches some important doctrine about the premortal life. As you study these verses, be sure to use the commentary located in the Book of Mormon Institute Student Manual

Ponder what Sis Dalton said: “Our personal mission began long before we arrived on the earth. In the premortal life, we were ‘called and prepared’ to live on the earth at a time when temptations and challenges would be the greatest. This was ‘on account of [our] exceeding faith and good works’ and because of our ‘having chosen good.’ We understood our Father’s plan and knew that it was good. We not only chose it, but we defended it. We knew that our earthly missions would be fraught with temptation, challenges, and hardship, but we also knew that we would be blessed by the fulness of the gospel, living prophets, and the guidance of the Holy Ghost. We knew and understood that our success on this earth would be determined by our worthiness and purity.”

What do you learn about the Savior?
How does this understanding of premortal life help you in the here and now?
What do you feel inspired to do?

June 16, 2020... How can we enter into the “rest of God”? Alma 13:10-31

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-16 03:26:17 UTC

President Joseph F. Smith (1838-1918) commented on the meaning of the phrase “rest of God” when he said: “What does it mean to enter into the rest of the Lord? Speaking for myself, it means that through the love of God I have been won over to Him, so that I can feel at rest in Christ, that I may no more be disturbed by every wind of doctrine, by the cunning and craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; and that I am established in the knowledge and testimony of Jesus Christ, so that no power can turn me aside from the straight and narrow path that leads back into the presence of God, to enjoy exaltation in His glorious kingdom; that from this time henceforth I shall enjoy that rest until I shall rest with Him in the heavens” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith 1998, 426).

As you study Alma 13:10-31 today, look for ways that will help us receive this rest.

Remember that the priesthood and it’s ordinances will help with this. Consider studying Elder Renlund’s October 2017 conference talk entitled “The Priesthood and the Savior’s Atoning Power”

June 17, 2020... the Alma 14 buffet

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-17 02:52:17 UTC

As you study Alma 14 there are many different approaches you can take to have a meaningful study. Here are a few different questions to approach your study with:

Why does the Lord allow bad things to happen to good people?
How can I access the Savior’s power to deliver me out of trials or bondage?
How can I respond in Christlike ways to those who may hurt me?
In what ways are Alma and Amulek like the Savior?
What similarities do you see with this story and situations today?

Choose what direction you feel will help you most. Don’t forget to think about how what you learn teaches you about the nature and character of Christ.

June 18, 2020... Alma 15

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-18 04:52:34 UTC

Very simple study today. Study these two conference talks and look for what they have to do with Alma 15 and then ponder what you might need to do based on what you learn.

How do these things apply to your life?
What do they teach you about the Savior?

Elder Oaks April 2010 Healing the Sick
Elder Andersen April 2007 It’s True Isn’t It?

June 19, 2020... How are prophets a sign of the mercy and love of God? Alma 16:1-11

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-19 03:04:43 UTC

As you study these verses, focus on the blessings that God wanted to provide to these people through His prophets and the blessings He did provide to those who were willing.

What does this teach you about God that He would provide these prophets?
When have you been blessed by prophets?

June 20, 2020... How can we get the victory over the devil? Alma 16:12-21

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-20 13:21:19 UTC

The people in this chapter were able to be victorious over the devil. How did they do it? Study and mark anything you see and ponder how you can apply that in your life.

What role did the Savior play?
How did they access His mighty power?

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2007/06/an-unending-conflict-a-victory-assured?lang=eng

June 22-24, 2020... How is Ammon like Christ? Alma 17-19

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-22 04:07:04 UTC

For the next three days, take one chapter a day and find ways that Ammon is like Christ. Ponder the following:
What does he do that is like Christ?
What does he say that is like Christ?
What Christlike attributes does he exhibit?

As you learn more about the Savior through Ammon’s example, ponder on how your love for the Savior increases and what steps you can take to become more like Him.

June 25, 2020... Life lessons from Lamoni... Alma 20

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-25 03:25:19 UTC

As you study today, consider what you might learn by asking yourself the following questions as you study (note that it would still help you come to know the Savior even more by considering ways that Ammon is like Christ in this chapter as well):

What role does desire play in this chapter? What do you learn about desire? How can you develop better desires?

How does love influence this story? How can you develop this kind of love? What examples from the Savior’s life illustrate this kind of love?

If Ammon is like Christ how might this chapter be a symbol for Christ’s visit to the Spirit world?

Another interesting activity might be to look at how Lamoni was being tested right after having made covenants with God. Look in verse 15 at his response... “I will not” and “I will not return”... what are some of the things that you have Covenanted that you will not do? Consider writing some commitments to yourself in your journal... “I will not do...”

Now what are some things you may have struggled with in the past that you can revolt to? Write down “I will not return”... and list those things. Consider reviewing these two lists for sacrament on Sunday and ask for the Savior’s help to keep those commitments.

June 26, 2020... Similarities with today... Alma 21

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-26 04:08:22 UTC

As you study Alma 26 today, think about this... in Mormon 8:35, we see Mormon tell us that he saw our day... which means that he placed what we needed in the Book of Mormon!

What do you see in Alma 21 that YOU need today?
What do you learn about the power of scripture?
What excuses for unbelief do we sometimes give?
What is the relationship between spiritual things and political liberties?
How does the Savior show His love to different groups in this chapter? How has He shown it to you?

This talk by Elder Christofferson relates to several topics in this chapter and is quite relevant for what is happening today!

June 27... “Man cannot merit anything of himself... what shall I do that I may have this eternal life?” Alma 22

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-27 04:24:06 UTC

There has been debate for years about salvation... are we saved by grace or by works? Do we have a responsibility or does Christ save indiscriminately? Do we earn our way into heaven? Look for answers to these questions in Alma 22 and make sure to pick one or more of the following talks below to study that might help. And don’t forget to read the quotes from CS. Lewis and see how they relate to this chapter:
“I know the words "leave it to God" can be misunderstood, but they must stay for the moment.

The sense in which a Christian leaves it to God is that he puts all his trust in Christ: trusts that

Christ will somehow share with him the perfect human obedience which He carried out from

His birth to His crucifixion: that Christ will make the man more like Himself and, in a sense,

make good his deficiencies. In Christian language, He will share His "sonship" with us, will

make us, like Himself, "Sons of God": in Book IV I shall attempt to analyse the meaning of

those words a little further. If you like to put it that way, Christ offers something for nothing: He

even offers everything for nothing. In a sense, the whole Christian life consists in accepting

that very remarkable offer. But the difficulty is to reach the point of recognising that all we

have done and can do is nothing. What we should have liked would be for God to count our

good points and ignore our bad ones. Again, in a sense, you may say that no temptation is

ever overcome until we stop trying to overcome it throw up the sponge. But then you could

not "stop trying" in the right way and for the right reason until you had tried your very hardest.

And, in yet another sense, handing everything over to Christ does not, of course, mean that

you stop trying. To trust Him means, of course, trying to do all that He says. There would be

no sense in saying you trusted a person if you would not take his advice. Thus if you have

really handed yourself over to Him, it must follow that you are trying to obey Him. But trying in

a new way, a less worried way. Not doing these things in order to be saved, but because He

has begun to save you already. Not hoping to get to Heaven as a reward for your actions, but

inevitably wanting to act in a certain way because a first faint gleam of Heaven is already

inside you.

Christians have often disputed as to whether what leads the Christian home is good actions,

or Faith in Christ. I have no right really to speak on such a difficult question, but it does seem

to me like asking which blade in a pair of scissors is most necessary. A serious moral effort is

the only thing that will bring you to the point where you throw up the sponge. Faith in Christ is

the only thing to save you from despair at that point: and out of that Faith in Him good actions

must inevitably come. There are two parodies of the truth which different sets of Christians

have, in the past, been accused by other Christians of believing: perhaps they may make the

truth clearer. One set were accused of saying, "Good actions are all that matters. The best

good action is charity. The best kind of charity is giving money. The best thing to give money

to is the Church. So hand us over $10,000 and we will see you through." The answer to that

nonsense, of course, would be that good actions done for that motive, done with the idea that

Heaven can be bought, would not be good actions at all, but only commercial speculations.

The other set were accused of saying, "Faith is all that matters. Consequently, if you have

faith, it doesn't matter what you do. Sin away, my lad, and have a good time and Christ will

see that it makes no difference in the end." The answer to that nonsense is that, if what you

call your "faith" in Christ does not involve taking the slightest notice of what He says, then it is

not Faith at allnot faith or trust in Him, but only intellectual acceptance of some theory about

Him.

The Bible really seems to clinch the matter when it puts the two things together into one

amazing sentence. The first half is, "Work out your own salvation with fear and

trembling"which looks as if everything depended on us and our good actions: but the second

half goes on, "For it is God who worketh in you" which looks as if God did everything and we

nothing. I am afraid that is the sort of thing we come up against in Christianity. I am puzzled,

but I am not surprised. You see, we are now trying to understand, and to separate into

watertight compartments, what exactly God does and what man does when God and man

are working together. And, of course, we begin by thinking it is like two men working together,

so that you could say, "He did this bit and I did that." But this way of thinking breaks down.

God is not like that. He is inside you as well as outside: even if we could understand who did

what, I do not think human language could properly express it. In the attempt to express it

different Churches say different things. But you will find that even those who insist most

strongly on the importance of good actions tell you you need Faith; and even those who insist

most strongly on Faith tell you to do good actions. At any rate that is as far as I go.” (Mere Christianity, Ch. 12)

“Give me all of you!!! I don’t want so much of your time, so much of your talents and money, and so much of your work. I want YOU!!! ALL OF YOU!! I have not come to torment or frustrate the natural man or woman, but to KILL IT! No half measures will do. I don’t want to only prune a branch here and a branch there; rather I want the whole tree out! Hand it over to me, the whole outfit, all of your desires, all of your wants and wishes and dreams. Hand over the whole natural self, all the desires which you think innocent as well as the ones you think wicked—the whole outfit. Turn them ALL over to me, give yourself to me and I will make of you a new self---in my image. Give me yourself and in exchange I will give you Myself. My will, shall become your will. My heart, shall become your heart.” (C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity)

Elder Renlund
Elder Uchtdorf

June 28, 2020... standing up for the right

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-28 05:16:30 UTC

Alma 20:8–15

What can we learn from how Lamoni responded to his father? How can we follow Lamoni’s example in standing up for what is right?

June 29, 2020 Why is freedom of religion so important? Alma 23

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-29 11:46:10 UTC

In this chapter the king of the Lamanites makes a proclamation of religious freedom. Look for what happens asa result and what might have been missed if this religious freedom would not have been granted.

How important is religious freedom?
What does it teach you about Heavenly Father that He wants us to have religious freedom?

Consider also reading Elder Hales’ April 2015 address entitled “Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom.”

NOTE: The name Anti-Nephi-Lehi could indicate the joining together of the descendants of Nephi and those who followed him with the other posterity of Lehi: “The name ‘Anti’ of ‘Anti-Nephi-Lehi’ may be a reflex of the Egyptian nty ‘he of, the one of.’ Thus, rather than having the sense ‘against,’ it has the meaning ‘the one of Nephi and Lehi’” (Stephen D. Ricks, “Anti-Nephi-Lehi,” in Dennis L. Largey, ed., Book of Mormon Reference Companion [2003], 67).

June 30, 2020... How can I stay completely committed to God? Alma 24

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-06-30 03:09:49 UTC

As you study this chapter, look for how the people of Ammon stayed completely committed to God.
What did they know about Jesus Christ and His Atonement that helped?
What did they understand about sin that helped?
What actions were most important to their commitment?

Along with this chapter you might consider studying one or more of the following talks:

“Personal strength through the Atonement of Christ” by Elder Scott

“Converted unto the Lord” by Elder Bednar

“Unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ” by Elder Renlund

July 1, 2020... How reliable is God’s word? Alma 25

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-07-01 04:11:03 UTC

As you study Alma 25, look for all the different prophecies that are fulfilled in this chapter. Think about the following questions:

What does this teach you about Heavenly Father?
What do you learn about prophets from this chapter?
Ordinances and covenants?
What do you feel inspired to do because of what you learned?

July 2, 2020... How can I find joy? Alma 26

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-07-02 04:26:02 UTC

Ammon glories in the Lord in this chapter. He is experiencing deep and abiding joy and shares with us the way that he was able to experience this joy. As you study this chapter look for the following:

What actions and attitudes allowed Ammon to experience joy?
What did he know and understand about God and His plan that helped him experience joy?

What do you feel inspired to do as a result of what you learn?

Don’t forget this: “This essential relationship between the principle of gathering and the building of temples is highlighted in the Book of Mormon.…The sheaves in this analogy represent newly baptized members of the Church. The garners are the holy temples. Elder Neal A. Maxwell explained: ‘Clearly, when we baptize, our eyes should gaze beyond the baptismal font to the holy temple. The great garner into which the sheaves should be gathered is the holy temple’. This instruction clarifies and emphasizes the importance of sacred temple ordinances and covenants—that the sheaves may not be wasted.” Bednar, David A. “Honorably Hold a Name and Standing.” April 2009.

July 3, 2020... what parallels does Alma 27 have with modern refugee experiences?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-07-03 04:28:02 UTC

Refugees have been struggling to find homes in many different places and times. Many of them are refugees because of religious beliefs and practices.

Consider what you and yours family can do to ensure that those of different religious beliefs or practices do not feel marginalized or hated. How can you show and share the Savior’s love?

Alma 27 and this video give beautiful examples of God’s love in action and exemplify Alma 26:37

July 4, 2020... how can I keep hope in the midst of difficulties?

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-07-04 05:32:16 UTC

Alma 27:28
Alma 28

July 5, 2020... how can I be content with what God has given me? Alma 29

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-07-05 03:52:25 UTC

Alma glories in the Lord in this chapter but also had additional desires for more. How does he find contentment?

Understanding this principle is essential in today’s world and Elder Neal A Maxwell’s April 2000 conference address is a key to doing so. Consider what actions and attitudes you can take or develop to find contentment,

July 6, 2020... What is an Antichrist? Alma 30:1-6

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-07-06 05:02:13 UTC

“Here we find an interesting definition of an anti-Christ: one who defies and denies the prophecies concerning the coming of Christ. This definition would, of course, pertain primarily to those who lived before the meridian of time. In our day we would speak of an anti-Christ as one who denies the divine birth of Jesus; who downplays the significance of his teachings; who claims that Jesus’ sufferings, death, and resurrection have no significance for mankind. Many in this dispensation have been seduced into the damnable heresy that Jesus was merely a good man, a brilliant speaker, and a loving and tender example of mercy and forgiveness--these things alone. The restored gospel--especially as made known through the Book of Mormon--testifies that Jesus Christ was and is divine, that he is God”

McConkie, Joseph Fielding, and Robert L. Millet. Doctrinal Commentary on the Book of Mormon. Salt Lake City, UT: Deseret Book, 2007, 3:201.

Sister Julie Beck also taught that: “Satan knows that he will never have a body; he will never have a family. So he targets young women, who will create the bodies for the future generations.
Korihor was an anti-Christ. Anti-Christ is antifamily. Any doctrine or principle our youth hear from the world that is antifamily is also anti-Christ. It’s that clear.”

Study the Bible Dictionary definition of antichrist as well as the one in the guide to the scriptures.

What are the counterfeits and teachings that you see in the world today that fit these definitions? Recognize that they are often disguised as movements for good.

Be on the lookout for these Antichrist teachings and organizations and look for ways to teach and protect your family.

July 7, 2020... What are the modern Korihor’s saying? Alma 30:7-60

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-07-07 03:44:52 UTC

As you study the rest of Alma 30 today, consider creating a “T-Chart” with one side identifying Korihor’s philosophies/teachings and the other side identifying what you see and hear today that is similar.

It would also be important to notice what religious freedoms this community had and where the limits were. The Book of Mormon can guide us in religious, social and political ways in this manner just as President Benson said.

ViewmontSeminary — 2020-07-08 04:02:34 UTC