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Exploring Jesus in Third Nephi

Sep 23, 2024

Don't Miss This Scripture Study Class

Introduction

  • Hosts: Dave Butler and Grace Freeman
  • Focus on an exciting section of the Book of Mormon, following the "Come Follow Me" schedule.
  • Aim: To inspire and assist in teaching, studying, and understanding scriptures.

Starting Third Nephi

  • Recently began the book of Third Nephi last week.
  • Tippins are useful study aids to insert at the beginning of Third Nephi.
  • Third Nephi 11 marks the start of Jesus's ministry in the Book of Mormon.
  • This section is considered the pinnacle or golden moment of the Book of Mormon.

Understanding God's Judgment (3 Nephi 8)

  • Chapter 8 describes destruction and can portray God as harsh.
  • Important to view the judgment of God as a reflection of His heart.
  • God’s judgment addresses wrongs and the blood of innocents.
  • The destruction is a response to human actions, not unprovoked.
  • Destruction serves the purpose of ultimately restoring and sanctifying.

God’s Mercy and Redemption (3 Nephi 9-10)

  • God's mercy is demonstrated through His continuous calls for repentance.
  • Not just destruction, but also a chance for conversion and healing.
  • 3 Nephi 9:13-14: Invitation for the spared to repent and be healed.
  • 3 Nephi 9:20: A broken heart and contrite spirit are the starting points for conversion.
  • 3 Nephi 10: God repeatedly attempts to gather and nourish His people.
  • Promises of restoration and fulfillment of covenants.

Seeing Jesus (3 Nephi 11)

  • Jesus's appearance is introduced with a voice from heaven.
  • Importance of listening and marveling to discern the voice of God.
  • God speaks to individuals repeatedly, showing patience and persistence.
  • Recognition of God's voice requires deliberate openness and attention.

First Impressions of Jesus

  • Jesus introduces Himself as the Light and Life of the world.
  • He presents Himself as exactly what the people need after darkness and death.
  • Jesus's role adapts to be what individuals need (e.g., Prince of Peace in anxiety).
  • His presence is personal, inviting, and healing.

Personal Invitation and Experience

  • Emphasis on individual, one-on-one experiences with Jesus.
  • Invitation to see, feel, and know Him personally.
  • Jesus shows His love through the evidence of His sacrifice.
  • Covenants keep this relationship alive even when Jesus is not physically present.

Conclusion

  • Invitation to build and recognize personal relationships with Jesus.
  • Encouragement to reflect on personal experiences of seeing, feeling, and knowing Jesus.
  • Discussion on the importance of community and individual relationships with God.
  • Jesus emphasizes kindness, unity, and love among individuals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Judgment and Mercy: Understanding God's actions as both just and merciful.
  • Experiencing Jesus: Personal encounters are central to faith.
  • Covenant Relationships: Maintain closeness with Jesus through sacred promises.
  • Unity and Love: Critical teachings of Jesus about community are consistently emphasized.