Gospel Art Book Picture Explanations

Old Testament

1 – Jesus ChristThe gospel of Jesus Christ can bring us peace. As we follow the example of the Savior and do the things He has taught us to do, we are blessed with the influence of His Spirit. During times of trouble or when we feel afraid, the Holy Ghost will be with us, and we can feel this peace in our hearts.

Near the close of His earthly mission, Jesus made this promise to His disciples: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid" (John 14:27).

Jesus knew His time on earth was short. He promised His disciples that when He left, Heavenly Father would send another Comforter to remain with them forever (see John 14:1618). This Comforter is the Holy Ghost, also referred to as the Spirit of truth. He was sent to teach the truth of all things and to help people remember the words of the Savior. (See John 14:26.)

SummaryThe gospel of Jesus Christ can bring us peace. As we follow the example of Jesus and do what He has taught us to do, we are blessed with the influence of the Holy Spirit. During times of trouble or when we feel afraid, the Holy Ghost will be with us, and we can feel this peace in our hearts. The Holy Ghost helps us remember Jesus and obey His teachings.

2- The Lord Created All ThingsThou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things (D&C 59:7).

When the great plan of happiness was presented in the Council in Heaven, we shouted for joy. Thanks to our Father in Heaven and His Son Jesus Christ, we were given the opportunity to progress, to learn, to grow, and to become like Them. What a great blessing!

This great plan included the creation of a beautiful world, where we would come to live our mortal lives. The Creation took six days and was done by Jesus Christ under the direction of Heavenly Father.

First, God divided the light from the darkness, making day and night. Then, on the second day, He organized the heaven and the earth. On the third day, He divided the land from the waters and created grass, flowers, trees, fruit, and herbs. On the fourth day, He created the sun, moon, and stars. The fish and fowl were created on the fifth day. On the sixth day, Jesus Christ created the animals. Then Heavenly Father created man “in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them” (Gen. 1:27).

3 – The Earth2 Nephi 2:14; D&C 45:58; D&C 88:1720; D&C 104:1118; Moses 1:33We will go down, for there is space there, and we will take of these materials, and we will make an earth whereon these may dwell; And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them. Abraham 3:2425

Jesus Christ, under the direction of God the Father, created this world (see 2 Nephi 2:14; Moses 1:33). The earth was prepared as a place where we could receive a body, learn more about the ways of God, and prove our faithfulness.

Because this world was created for our benefit, we enjoy many things on it, but we also have a responsibility to care for the earth and the people who live here with us. The Lord has taught us that "the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare." Our earthly blessings are great, but we all have stewardships that we will be held accountable for. One of the most important things we are asked to do is use the abundance of the earth to provide for the poor and needy. (See D&C 104:1118.)

The earth is a marvelous creation, and the Lord has promised that "after it hath filled the measure of its creation, it shall be crowned with glory, even with the presence of God the Father" (D&C 88:19). Those

who inherit the celestial kingdom will live on this earth in the presence of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ "forever and ever; for, for this intent was it made and created" (D&C 88:20; see also D&C 45:58; D&C 88:1718).

SummaryJesus Christ, under the direction of our Heavenly Father, created this world on which we live. This earth was prepared as a place where we could receive our bodies, be taught the gospel, and learn to be obedient. It is the plan of our Father in Heaven that we enjoy the beauty and bounty of the earth and take good care of it. Eventually the earth will be the place where those who have inherited the celestial kingdom will live with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

4 - Adam and EveAnd Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living. Genesis 3:20

Adam and Eve were the first man and woman to live on the earth (see Genesis 1:27; Genesis 2:7, Genesis 2:2122; Genesis 3:20). God blessed them and told them to have children (see Genesis 1:28). Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, where they could talk with and see Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (see Genesis 2:8).

There were many trees in the Garden of Eden. God told Adam and Eve they could eat fruit from all the trees except one: the tree of knowledge of good and evil. "Nevertheless," the Lord said, "thou mayest choose for thyself ... ; but, remember that I forbid it, for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die" (Moses 3:17; see also Genesis 2:9, Genesis 2:1617; Moses 3:9, Moses 3:16).

Satan came to the garden and tempted Eve to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Eve told Satan that the Lord had commanded her and Adam not to eat it or they would be cast out of the garden to die. (See Genesis 3:13; Moses 4:89.)

Satan lied, telling Eve, "Ye shall not surely die" (Genesis 3:4; Moses 4:10). He also said the fruit would make her wise so she would know good and evil (see Genesis 3:5; Moses 4:11). Eve chose to eat the fruit. Then she gave some of the fruit to Adam, and he also ate. (See Genesis 3:6; Moses 4:12.) When Adam and Eve heard the voice of the Lord, they hid because they were ashamed that they had disobeyed God (see Genesis 3:8; Moses 4:14).

When God asked Adam and Eve if they had eaten the forbidden fruit, they confessed that they had (see Genesis 3:1113; Moses 4:1719). God cast Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden (see Genesis 3:23; Moses 4:29).Even though they had to leave the beautiful garden, Adam and Eve believed that God loved them, and they had faith that He would send Jesus Christ to be their Savior.

SummaryAdam and Eve were the first man and woman to live on the earth. God placed them in the Garden of Eden and told them not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. He told them, however, that they could choose for themselves but to remember that eating the fruit was forbidden and that they would die if they ate it. Later Satan came to the garden and tempted Eve to eat the fruit. She chose to do so and then gave some of the fruit to Adam, who also ate. As a result, God sent Adam and Eve out of the garden. They were now mortal and would one day die, but they had faith that God would send Jesus Christ to be their Savior.

5 - Adam and Eve Teaching Their ChildrenMoses 5:12, Moses 5:5, Moses 5:1012, Moses 5:58; Moses 6:1And Adam and Eve blessed the name of God, and they made all things known unto their sons and their daughters. Moses 5:12

After Adam and Eve were driven from the Garden of Eden, they began to work to feed and clothe themselves. They also had a large family with many sons and daughters. (See Moses 5:12.)

The Lord gave Adam and Eve commandments, and they obeyed them (see Moses 5:5). They realized that their family was a blessing and knew that if they lived worthily, they would once again see Heavenly Father and be able to live with Him (see Moses 5:1011).

"Adam and Eve blessed the name of God, and [taught] all things ... unto their sons and their daughters" (Moses 5:12). They taught their children the gospel, to have faith in Jesus Christ, and to repent (see Moses 5:58; Moses 6:1).

SummaryAfter Adam and Eve were sent out of the Garden of Eden to live in the world, they worked very hard to provide for the needs of their children. They had many children and taught them the gospel and the ways of the Lord.

6 - Enoch and His People Are Taken Up to GodGenesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5; Moses 6:2639; Moses 7:121; Moses 7:6769And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them. Moses 7:18

Enoch was a great prophet in ancient times. When he was young the Lord called him to preach repentance to the people (see Moses 6:27). Enoch did not feel qualified for this great work, and he bowed himself before the Lord and asked, "Why is it that I have found favor in thy sight, and am but a lad, and all the people hate me; for I am slow of speech?" (Moses 6:31). The Lord blessed Enoch and promised to protect him and give him the words he should speak if Enoch would go forth and obey (see Moses 6:32).

Enoch taught his people as the Savior instructed. He was so obedient and faithful that he was blessed to see the Lord and talk with Him face to face (see Moses 7:4). Enoch's faith was so great that even the mountains and rivers moved according to his command (see Moses 7:13).Many of the people Enoch preached to believed his words and repented. They kept the commandments of God and lived so righteously that "the Lord came and dwelt with [them]" (Moses 7:16). Enoch and his people received great blessings because of their faithfulness. They built a city called the City of Holiness, or Zion, where the people lived in peace, unity, and prosperity (see Moses 7:1819). As the people of Enoch followed the Lord, they became more like Him. They grew so righteous that they were taken up to heaven without tasting death to live forever in the presence of God.

SummaryWhen Enoch was a young man the Lord told him to tell the people to repent. Enoch told the people what the Lord had said. Many believed Enoch's words, repented, and were baptized. These people built a city, Zion, where they lived together in peace, sharing all they had. The people in Zion became so righteous that they were taken up to heaven to live forever in the presence of God.

7- Building the ArkGenesis 67; Moses 8Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he. Genesis 6:22

During a time when almost everyone on the earth was wicked, the Lord called Noah to teach people the gospel. Noah told them to repent and be baptized or they would be destroyed by floods, but the people would not listen. Some of them were so angry with Noah that they wanted to kill him, but the Lord protected him. (See Genesis 6:5; Moses 8:1826.)

When the people would not repent, the Lord told Noah that He would "bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh" (Genesis 6:17). To protect Noah and his family from this great flood, the Lord commanded Noah to build an ark. The ark was to have three levels, many rooms, a window on the top, and a door in the side. Noah was to use pitch, or tar, to make the ark watertight, and the ark would be about 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high. (See Genesis 6:1416.)

Noah and his sons built the ark according to the Lord's instructions (see Genesis 6:22; Genesis 7:5). The Lord told them to take at least one male and one female "of every living thing of all flesh" (Genesis 6:19). They also had to take food for the animals and for themselves (see Genesis 6:21).

When the ark was finished and everything was ready, Noah and his family boarded the ark along with the animals (see Genesis 7:7). Noah was now 600 years old, and the flood waters were about to come upon the earth (see Genesis 7:6). Noah had obeyed the Lord in preaching the gospel, building the ark, and gathering the animals.

SummaryNoah and his family were righteous persons who lived at a time when nearly everyone on the earth was wicked. The Lord called Noah to teach the gospel to the people. Noah warned them that if they did not repent, floods would come to destroy them. When the people would not repent, the Lord told Noah to build an ark to protect his family and at least two of every animal during the Flood. Noah obeyed, and when the Flood came Noah's family and the animals were safe aboard the ark.

8 - Noah and the Ark with AnimalsGenesis 6:1221; Genesis 7:211; Genesis 8There went in two and two unto Noah into the ark, the male and the female, as God had commanded Noah. Genesis 7:9

Because of the wickedness of the people during Noah's time, God caused a flood to cover the entire earth with water. Noah and his family were righteous, so God spared their lives. He commanded Noah to build an ark so they would not drown. He also commanded Noah to save the animals so that they would not be destroyed. (See Genesis 6:1219.)

Noah built an ark big enough to take at least two of every animal on board. He was commanded, "Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female: and of beasts that are not clean by two, the male and his female. Of fowls also of the air by sevens, the male and the female ... and of every thing that creepeth upon the earth" (Genesis 7:23, Genesis 7:8).

Noah and his family lived on the ark with the animals for over a year (see Genesis 7:11; Genesis 8:14). When the earth had recovered from the Flood, Noah brought the animals out of the ark so they could "be fruitful, and multiply upon the earth" (Genesis 8:17).

SummaryBecause of the righteousness of Noah and his family, the Lord told Noah to build an ark so that his family would be safe during the flooding of the earth. The Lord also commanded Noah to gather each type of animal, male and female, so that they would not be destroyed. All kinds of animals, birds, and creeping things went into the ark. The rains and floods lasted many days. When the water had gone down and the land was dry again, Noah brought the animals out of the ark to multiply upon the earth.

9 - Abraham Taking Isaac to Be SacrificedGenesis 21:18; Genesis 22And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took ... Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him. Genesis 22:3

When Abraham was 100 years old, he and his wife Sarah were blessed with a baby son. They named him Isaac, and they were happy and loved him. (See Genesis 21:18.)

One day the Lord said to Abraham, "Take now thy son, thine only Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering, upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee" (Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 22:2). As difficult as this would be, Abraham prepared to obey the Lord. He began his journey to the mountain early in the morning, taking Isaac, two young servants, a donkey, and wood for the burnt offering (see Genesis 22:3). On the third day of the journey, Abraham left the two servants and the donkey, saying that he and Isaac would go farther to worship (see Genesis 22:45). Isaac carried the wood, and Abraham took a knife (see Genesis 22:6).Isaac was puzzled and he asked his father, "Where is the lamb for a burnt offering?" (Genesis 22:7).

Abraham answered, "My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering" (Genesis 22:8).

When they reached the place that God had revealed, Abraham built an altar. Then he put the wood across the altar, tied Isaac up, and laid him on the wood. (See Genesis 22:9.) Abraham sadly "stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son" (Genesis 22:10).

But at that moment an angel of the Lord called, "Abraham, Abraham: ... Lay not thine hand upon the lad" (Genesis 22:1112). Abraham did not have to kill his son, but his willingness to obey this difficult command proved that he was obedient and that he loved God.

After the angel had spoken, Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a thicket (bush). He then took the ram and offered it for a burnt offering in place of Isaac. (See Genesis 22:13.)

The angel spoke again to Abraham, telling him that the Lord would "multiply [his] seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore" (Genesis 22:17). The angel also said that Abraham's family would be a blessing to all the nations of the earth because Abraham had obeyed the Lord (see Genesis 22:1518).

SummaryAbraham was 100 years old when he and his wife Sarah were blessed with a son, Isaac. The Lord one day told Abraham to take Isaac to a mountain and offer him as a sacrifice. Although this was a difficult commandment, Abraham trusted the Lord and obediently took Isaac to the mountain. As Abraham took the knife to slay his son, he was stopped by an angel of the Lord. Abraham did not have to kill Isaac after all. He looked up and saw a ram, which he offered as a sacrifice instead. Because Abraham was willing to obey, the Lord promised that he would have many descendants and that his family would bless all nations.

10- Rebekah at the WellGenesis 24The servant ran to meet her, and said, Let me, I pray thee, drink a little water of thy pitcher. And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink. Genesis 24:1718

When Isaac was old enough to marry, Abraham wanted his son to have a wife who was worthy to receive the blessings of the covenant:"And Abraham said unto his eldest servant of his house, that ruled over all that he had, ... "... Swear by the Lord, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, ... "But thou shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son Isaac" (Genesis 24:24).

In obedience to Abraham's command, the servant took 10 camels laden with treasures and traveled to the city of Nahor, which was named after Abraham's brother. As the servant came to the city, he prayed:"O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and shew kindness unto my master Abraham."Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water:"And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac" (Genesis 24:1214).

Before the servant "had done speaking," Rebekah came to the well "with her pitcher upon her shoulder" (Genesis 24:15). When the servant asked for water, Rebekah replied: "Drink, my lord: and she hasted, ... and gave him drink."And when she had done giving him drink, she said, I will draw water for thy camels also, until they have done drinking" (Genesis 24:1819).

After Rebekah had finished drawing water for all the camels, the servant asked her, "Whose daughter art thou?" When Rebekah told him, "I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah, which she bare unto Nahor," the servant "bowed down his head, and worshipped the Lord" (Genesis 24:2324, Genesis 24:26). The servant knew that "the Lord God ... had led me in the right way to take my master's brother's [grand]daughter unto his son" (Genesis 24:48).

Rebekah took the servant to her home, where he immediately stated his errand. Her father and her brother, Laban, knowing that "the thing proceedeth from the Lord," agreed to the marriage. "And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go" (Genesis 24:50, Genesis 24:58).

Before she left her home, her father and brother "blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou art our sister, be thou the mother of thousands of millions" (Genesis 24:60).

As the servant and Rebekah were nearing the end of their journey, "Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel. ... And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her" (Genesis 24:64, Genesis 24:67).

SummaryAbraham wanted his son Isaac to marry a woman who would be worthy to receive the blessings that the Lord had promised to Abraham and his children. He asked his servant to go back to Abraham's land of birth and find a worthy wife for Isaac. The servant prayed that the Lord would show him which woman Isaac should have for a wife by having the woman give him a drink of water and offer to draw water from the well for his animals. As he waited at the well, a beautiful young woman named Rebekah offered to get water for him and his animals to drink. The servant then knew this was the woman the Lord wanted him to take back to be Isaac's wife. Rebekah agreed to become Isaac's wife, and she and Isaac were married.

11 - Joseph Resists Potiphar's WifeGenesis 39How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? Genesis 39:9Jacob's son Joseph was sold by some of his brothers to a caravan of Ishmaelite merchants. They took Joseph to Egypt and sold him to Potiphar, the captain of the guard for Pharaoh, who was the ruler of Egypt (see Genesis 39:1).

Joseph was a righteous young man, and the Lord blessed him. When Potiphar saw that Joseph worked hard, was trustworthy, and was blessed by the Lord, he appointed him overseer. This meant that Joseph was responsible for Potiphar's house and all that he owned. Because of Joseph's righteousness, the Lord blessed Potiphar's house and fields. (See Genesis 39:25.)

Potiphar's wife desired Joseph because he was handsome and talented. She tried to tempt him to do wrong, but Joseph refused. He told her that Potiphar had trusted him with everything except her. (See Genesis 39:69.) "Thou art his wife," Joseph said, "how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9).

Day after day Potiphar's wife tried to get Joseph to do wrong, but he would not (see Genesis 39:10).One day when Joseph went into the house to take care of his responsibilities, none of the men who worked in the house was there. When Potiphar's wife saw that she was alone with Joseph, she caught hold of his cloak and tried to coax him to come to her. Joseph pulled away and ran, leaving her holding his cloak. (See Genesis 39:1112.)

Potiphar's wife called the men of the house and showed them Joseph's cloak. She told them a false story, saying that Joseph had tried to do wrong with her but that she had "cried with a loud voice" (Genesis 39:14). She told them that when she screamed, Joseph ran away, leaving his cloak (see Genesis 39:15).

When Potiphar came home, his wife showed him Joseph's cloak and told him the same false story (see Genesis 39:1618). Because Potiphar believed his wife, he was angry and had Joseph put into prison (see Genesis 39:1920).

"But the Lord was with Joseph" (Genesis 39:21). He loved Joseph and helped the keeper of the prison to think well of him. Soon the keeper of the prison put Joseph in charge of the other prisoners and all that went on in the prison. Joseph was successful, even in prison, because he was obedient and the Lord was with him. (See Genesis 39:2123.)

SummaryJoseph was a righteous young man who had been sold into Egypt. He served Potiphar, captain of Pharaoh's guard. Potiphar trusted Joseph and gave him an important position in his house. Potiphar's wife liked Joseph and kept trying to get Joseph to do wrong. Joseph refused to give in to her. Then one day Potiphar's wife caught hold of Joseph's cloak and tried to tempt him to sin. Again he refused, and he ran from the room, leaving his cloak in her hand. Potiphar's wife called to the men of the house and claimed that Joseph had come to try to do wrong with her. She told the same untrue story to Potiphar, who had Joseph put into prison. But the Lord was with Joseph and blessed him.

12 - Jacob Blessing His SonsGenesis 22:1718; Genesis 26:4; Genesis 28:3; Genesis 48:21; Genesis 49; 2 Nephi 3:5; Jacob 2:25And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall

befall you in the last days. Gather yourselves together, and hear, ye sons of Jacob; and hearken unto Israel your father. Genesis 49:12

Jacob received the same blessings from the Lord that his father, Isaac, and his grandfather, Abraham, had received. The Lord changed Jacob's name to Israel and promised that his posterity would be as numerous as the stars in the heaven and that through his descendants all the nations of the earth would be blessed. (See Genesis 22:1718; Genesis 26:4; Genesis 28:3.)

When Jacob realized that he would soon die, he called his twelve sons together to give them each a patriarchal (father's) blessing (see Genesis 48:21; Genesis 49:1). Jacob scolded Reuben, Simeon, and Levi for past sins; he then prophesied that Judah's descendants would rule until the coming of Christ (see Genesis 49:312). He said that Dan would be a judge in Israel (see Genesis 49:1618), and he promised Joseph that he would have many descendants who would inherit the American continent and be greatly blessed (see Genesis 49:2226; 2 Nephi 3:5). Jacob also blessed Zebulun, Issachar, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, and Benjamin (see Genesis 49:1315, Genesis 49:1921, Genesis 49:27).

Jacob asked to be buried in the land of Canaan in the same cave where his wife Leah; his parents, Isaac and Rebekah; and his grandparents Abraham and Sarah were buried. He died soon after this. (See Genesis 49:2933.)

SummaryJacob, whose name the Lord changed to Israel, was a righteous prophet who had twelve sons. The family of each son was called a tribe, and they were known as the twelve tribes of Israel. When Jacob grew old he called his family together and blessed each of his sons. Their descendants would bring the blessings of the gospel to many people throughout the world. The Lord had blessed Jacob and had preserved him to become the father of a great nation.

13 - Moses and the Burning BushExodus 3:14:17God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I. Exodus 3:4

As Moses was tending the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law and the priest of Midian, he led the flock to the mountain of God. When Moses reached the mountain, an angel appeared to him "in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush ... and the bush was not consumed" (Exodus 3:2; see also Exodus 3:1). As he watched this miraculous sight, he heard a voice, which was the voice of God, calling "Moses, Moses" from the bush. Moses said, "Here am I." God told Moses to move back and take his shoes off because he was standing on holy ground. When God identified Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, "Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God" (Exodus 3:6; see also Exodus 3:45).Moses learned that God was aware of the children of Israel and their bondage to the Egyptian rulers. God told Moses to tell Pharaoh to release the children of Israel. Moses said, "Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh?" But God assured Moses that He would be with him. (See Exodus 3:712.) Moses was then concerned about what he should say to the children of Israel. God told him to say that I AM, the Lord God, had sent him unto them. (See Exodus 3:1314.) Moses' next concern was that the people would not believe him. The Lord asked Moses what he had in his hand, and Moses replied that he had a rod. Moses was told to cast it on the ground; it became a serpent and Moses fled. But the Lord told Moses to pick up the serpent, and it became a rod again. (See Exodus 4:14.)

The Lord gave Moses more signs from the burning bush (see Exodus 4:69), but Moses was still reluctant to perform the mission God had called him to do. He complained of being slow of speech, but God promised to help Moses with his speech (see Exodus 4:1012). When Moses continued to complain and ask for help, God finally became angry with his excuses. God told Moses he could take his brother, Aaron, for a spokesman. (See Exodus 4:1416.) Before Moses left the mountain, the Lord told him to take the rod and use it to make signs (see Exodus 4:17).

SummaryWhile tending his father-in-law's flock, Moses came to the mountain of God. There he saw a bush that was burning but not being destroyed by the flames. God called Moses by name from the burning bush. He told Moses to remove his shoes, for he was standing on holy ground. The Lord said that He knew of the troubles of His people, and He told Moses to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. Moses did not think he could do this. He was concerned that the people would not believe him and said that he was slow of speech.

However, the Lord promised to be with him and to give him power. He said that Moses could take his brother, Aaron, to speak for him.

14- The Ten CommandmentsGod called Moses to be the prophet to lead the children of Israel out of captivity in Egypt. He parted the Red Sea so that Moses could lead the people through it to escape the Egyptian armies who were chasing them. When the people had no food, the Lord gave them manna. When they needed water, He provided it. The Lord blessed His people, and they were grateful.

After they had traveled in the wilderness for two months, they came to Mount Sinai. Moses went up on the mountain, and the Lord called to him and told him to tell the people, “If ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people” (Ex. 19:5). The people answered, “All that the Lord hath spoken we will do” (Ex. 19:8).

The Lord asked Moses to gather the people at the foot of the mountain. When they had gathered there, the mountain was covered with a cloud of smoke and it shook. Then the Lord spoke, saying:

“I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

“Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image. …

“Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain. …

“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. …

“Honour thy father and thy mother. …

“Thou shalt not kill.

“Thou shalt not commit adultery.

“Thou shalt not steal.

“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

“Thou shalt not covet.” (Ex. 20:2–4, 7–8, 12–17.)

During the forty years that followed, as the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness on their way to the promised land, Moses taught them and counseled them. He tried to help them obey these commandments, known today as the Ten Commandments. And though we were not there at the foot of Mount Sinai when they were given, it is just as important for us to obey them today. As we read this story in the scriptures, we can imagine the voice of the Lord speaking to us, and the voice of Moses counseling us.

15 - Moses Calls Aaron to the MinistryExodus 4:10, Exodus 4:1416, Exodus 4:27; Exodus 5:1; Exodus 7:9; Exodus 8:617; Exodus 16:12; Exodus 24:910; Exodus 28:1; Exodus 40:1216Thou shalt put upon Aaron the holy garments, and anoint him, and sanctify him; that he may minister unto me in the priest's office. Exodus 40:13

When the Lord called Moses to go to Egypt to free the Israelites, Moses did not feel he could do it. He said he was slow of speech and was afraid to talk to Pharaoh (see Exodus 4:10). The Lord was angry with Moses. He told Moses he could take his brother, Aaron, with him to be his spokesman. (See Exodus 4:1416.) The Lord then spoke to Aaron: "Go into the wilderness to meet Moses" (Exodus 4:27). Aaron and Moses were happy to be together again.

The two brothers traveled to Egypt and went before Pharaoh. Aaron spoke for Moses, trying to get Pharaoh to let the children of Israel go (see Exodus 5:1). Through the power of the Lord, Moses and Aaron performed miracles (see Exodus 7:9) and brought plagues upon the Egyptians (see Exodus 8:617).

Aaron was with Moses when he led the Israelites out of Egypt and into the wilderness (see Exodus 16:12). He was also with Moses and 72 other priesthood bearers when the Lord appeared to them (see Exodus 24:910).

Once when Moses was on Mount Sinai, the Lord told him to anoint Aaron and Aaron's sons to serve as priests in the tabernacle (see Exodus 28:1). When the tabernacle was completed, Moses anointed Aaron and his sons to this calling. He gave them the priesthood of God and the authority to perform sacred ordinances. (See Exodus 40:1216.)

SummaryWhen Moses went before Pharaoh to free the Israelites, his brother, Aaron, went with him to speak for him. Aaron helped Moses to accomplish what the Lord had commanded. After the Israelites were led out of Egypt, the Lord instructed Moses to anoint Aaron and Aaron's sons to serve as priests in the tabernacle. When the tabernacle was finished, Moses did as the Lord directed and gave Aaron and his sons the priesthood of God.

16 - Moses and the Brass SerpentNumbers 20:17, Numbers 20:21; Numbers 21:49; John 3:1415; 1 Nephi 17:41; Alma 33:1920; Helaman 8:1415And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived. Numbers 21:9

After the prophet Moses led the Israelites out of captivity in Egypt, they journeyed in the wilderness for 40 years. During this time the Lord blessed the Israelites in many ways, including taking care of their physical needs.

The Israelites were nearing the end of their travels and were close to the borders of Canaan—the promised land. But when they asked the king of Edom if they could pass through his land, which would have been a short journey into Canaan, he told them no (see Numbers 20:17, Numbers 20:21). As a result, they had to travel a long way to find a different route into the country (see Numbers 21:4).

The Israelites became discouraged during this journey and "spake against God, and against Moses." They complained about the very things they should have been thankful for: God's help in freeing them from bondage and the manna He had provided for them in the wilderness. (See Numbers 21:5.)

Because of the ingratitude of the Israelites, "the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died" (Numbers 21:6).When the children of Israel saw family members and friends dying, they realized they had sinned in complaining against God. They asked Moses to pray to the Lord to take away the serpents. (See Numbers 21:7.)

Moses prayed, and in response the Lord told him to make a brass serpent, put it on a pole, and place it where the people could see it. The Lord promised that everyone who had been bitten would live if they looked at the serpent. (See Numbers 21:89.)

Alma, a Book of Mormon prophet, explained that many Israelites did look at the serpent and live, "but few understood the meaning of those things, and this because of the hardness of their hearts. But there were many who were so hardened that they would not look, therefore they perished. Now the reason they would not look is because they did not believe that it would heal them" (see Alma 33:1920; see also 1 Nephi 17:41).Part of what the Israelites did not understand, because of the hardness of their hearts, was that the brass serpent was a symbol of Jesus Christ being lifted up on the cross and bringing eternal life:"Yea, did [Moses] not bear record that the Son of God should come? And as he lifted up the brazen serpent in the wilderness, even so shall he be lifted up who should come."And as many as should look upon that serpent should live, even so as many as should look upon the Son of God with faith, having a contrite spirit, might live, even unto that life which is eternal" (Helaman 8:1415).

Jesus Christ Himself taught that the account of the brass serpent is a lesson for us about the importance of looking to the Savior and His atoning sacrifice: "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:1415).

SummaryAfter the Lord helped free the children of Israel from bondage, Moses led them in the wilderness for 40 years. The Lord provided for all their needs. When the people complained and were not grateful for all Heavenly Father had done, the Lord sent serpents among them, which bit some of the people. The people knew they had sinned for not being grateful. Moses prayed for them. The Lord told Moses to make a brass serpent and set it on a pole for the people to see. The brass serpent represented the Savior's sacrifice. The Lord promised that everyone who had been bitten would live if they looked at the brass serpent.

17 - Ruth Gleaning in the FieldsRuth 14And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter. And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers. Ruth 2:23

During the time the judges governed ancient Israel, there was a famine in the land. Elimelech, a man who lived in Bethlehem, decided to take his wife, Naomi, and his two sons to the land of Moab, where they would have enough food to eat. (See Ruth 1:12.)

After Elimelech died, Naomi stayed in Moab with her two sons, who married two Moabite women named Orpah and Ruth. After 10 years Naomi's sons died. Because the famine was over in Israel, Naomi decided to return to her people in Bethlehem. (See Ruth 1:36.)

Naomi's daughters-in-law started on the journey with her, but Naomi told them to go back to their own families (see Ruth 1:78). Both of the younger women wanted to go with Naomi, but she finally convinced Orpah to return to Moab. Ruth, however, would not leave. She pleaded with Naomi to let her go with her to Bethlehem: "Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God" (Ruth 1:16). Naomi returned to Bethlehem with Ruth at her side.

It was harvesttime when the women arrived in Bethlehem. During the harvest men gathered the grain into small bunches. As they worked, some stalks fell to the ground. Poor people were allowed to gather, or glean, the stalks left behind. Because they had no food, Ruth offered to glean the fields to get grain for Naomi and herself (see Ruth 2:2).

Ruth worked in the fields of a righteous relative of Elimelech named Boaz. Boaz was impressed with Ruth's kindness to Naomi and said, "The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel" (Ruth 2:12). Boaz was kind to Ruth and told her she could always glean from his fields. He even instructed his harvesters to leave grain behind for her to gather. (See Ruth 2:816.)

Naomi wanted Ruth to marry and have children. So she taught Ruth about the customs of the Israelites and told her to go to Boaz and ask to be his wife. Ruth did what Naomi said to do, and Boaz, knowing that Ruth was a virtuous and kind woman, married her. (See Ruth 3:14:12.)

After they married, Ruth and Boaz had a son, whom they named Obed. Obed grew up and had a son named Jesse, who later became the father of David. (See Ruth 4:1317.) David became the king of Israel, and it was through this line that Jesus Christ was born.

SummaryWhen the judges governed Israel there was a famine in the land. Naomi, who lived in Bethlehem, went with her husband and their two sons to the land Moab so they would have food to eat. While in Moab Naomi's husband died, and later her sons married two Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah. When her sons died, Naomi returned to Bethlehem. Orpah stayed in Moab, but Ruth went to Bethlehem with Naomi. Ruth cared for her mother-in-law by gathering leftover grain during the harvest. Boaz, who owned the fields, told Ruth that God would bless her for being kind to Naomi. Boaz married Ruth, and they had a son named

Obed, the grandfather of King David. Many years later Jesus Christ was born into the royal family of King David.

18 - Boy Samuel Called by the Lord1 Samuel 3The Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth. 1 Samuel 3:10When Samuel was a young boy, he served in the temple at Shiloh with Eli, the elderly priest (see 1 Samuel 3:12).

One night after Samuel had gone to bed, the Lord called, "Samuel." Samuel answered, "Here am I" (1 Samuel 3:4), then ran to Eli because he thought Eli had called him. But Eli said he had not called and sent him back to bed. (See 1 Samuel 3:5.)

Again the Lord called, "Samuel," and once more Samuel answered, "Here am I" (1 Samuel 3:6). The boy ran to Eli, who answered, "I called not, my son," and sent him back as before (see 1 Samuel 3:6).

The third time this happened, Eli knew that the Lord had been calling Samuel (see 1 Samuel 3:8). He told the boy to go back to bed and, if the voice called again, to say, "Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth" (1 Samuel 3:9).

When the Lord called, "Samuel, Samuel" again, the boy answered as Eli had told him (see 1 Samuel 3:10). Then the Lord talked to Samuel, "and Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him. ... And all Israel ... knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the Lord" (1 Samuel 3:1920).

SummaryThe child Samuel served in the temple with Eli, the high priest. One night while Samuel was sleeping, the Lord called to him by name. Samuel answered, "Here am I," and ran to Eli, believing he had called. Eli told Samuel he had not called him and to go lie down again. The Lord called Samuel two more times, and each time Samuel went to Eli. Eli now realized that the Lord must be calling Samuel and told the boy to answer. When the Lord called a fourth time, Samuel answered and then listened to His words. The Lord was with Samuel as he grew, and all the people knew he was a prophet.

19 - David Slays Goliath1 Samuel 17Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 1 Samuel 17:45

The Philistines and the Israelites were at war with each other. The Philistines gathered their armies on one mountain, while King Saul and the men of Israel gathered across the valley on the opposite mountain (see 1 Samuel 17:23).

Goliath was a giant Philistine soldier who was over nine feet tall. He wore heavy armor and a brass helmet and carried a large spear. (See 1 Samuel 17:47.)

Goliath shouted to the Israelite army to send a man to fight him. He said that if the Israelite killed him, the Philistines would be servants to the Israelites. But if Goliath killed the Israelite, then the Israelites would be servants to the Philistines. (See 1 Samuel 17:810.) King Saul and his army were afraid of Goliath (see 1 Samuel 17:11).

Goliath repeated his challenge each night and day for 40 days, but no one was brave enough to fight him (see 1 Samuel 17:16).

A man named Jesse had three sons who were part of Saul's army. But David, Jesse's youngest son, still lived in Bethlehem with his father. Jesse asked David to take some food to his three brothers and find out how they were doing. (See 1 Samuel 17:13, 1 Samuel 17:1718.)

While David was with his brothers, Goliath again shouted his challenge. The Israelites fled when they saw Goliath. (See 1 Samuel 17:2324.) David asked the soldiers, "Who is this ... Philistine, that he should defy [challenge] the armies of the living God?" (1 Samuel 17:26).

When Saul was told what David had said, he sent for him. David told Saul that he would fight Goliath. (See 1 Samuel 17:3132.) But Saul said to David, "Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth" (1 Samuel 17:33).

David told Saul that the Lord had helped him kill a lion and a bear while he tended his father's sheep. He said the Lord would help him as he fought Goliath. (See 1 Samuel 17:3437.) Saul said to David, "Go, and the Lord be with thee" (1 Samuel 17:37).

Then Saul gave David his armor, a helmet, and a sword, but they were too big and heavy for David. He removed the armor and took only his staff, five smooth stones, and a sling as he went to face the mighty Goliath. (See 1 Samuel 17:3840.)

When Goliath saw the young boy without armor, he made fun of him and cursed him (see 1 Samuel 17:4244). David said, "Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel" (1 Samuel 17:45). David told Goliath that with the Lord's help, he would kill him (see 1 Samuel 17:46).

As Goliath came near, David put a stone in his sling, swung the sling around his head, and let the stone go. The stone sank into Goliath's forehead, and Goliath fell to the ground. David then used Goliath's sword to kill the giant and cut off his head. When the Philistine army saw that Goliath was dead, they fled, but the men of Israel chased them and defeated them in battle. (See 1 Samuel 17:4853.)

SummaryGoliath, a giant Philistine soldier, challenged the Israelite army to send out a man to fight him. No Israelites were brave enough to stand against Goliath except David, a young shepherd. Armed with his faith in the Lord and with his sling, David went to fight the giant. Goliath made fun of the boy when he saw him, but David was not afraid. He trusted in the Lord's help. David put a stone in his sling, swung it, and let go. The stone sank into Goliath's forehead and he fell to the ground. David ran forward, picked up Goliath's sword, and cut off his head.

20- Elijah Contends against the Priests of Baal

21- Esther (Saves Her People)

When King Ahasuerus of Persia was looking for a new queen, he asked that all the fair young women of the kingdom come to the palace. Mordecai, a Jew who served in the palace, brought his niece, Esther. She was beautiful, and “the king loved Esther above all the women” (Esth. 2:17). She became his new queen.

The king placed a man named Haman over all the princes in his kingdom and ordered all the servants to bow before Haman. Mordecai refused to bow. This angered Haman, and when he discovered that Mordecai was a Jew, he decided to destroy all of the Jews.

Haman told the king that there was a people in his land who would not obey the laws and who, therefore, should be destroyed. The king agreed and offered a reward to those who would kill the Jews.

Esther and Mordecai realized that to save their people, Esther would have to go before the king and plead for them. This was a dangerous thing to do, because no one was to go before the king without being called. Esther asked that her people fast and pray for three days for her.

The fasting and prayers of her people gave the queen the courage to do what she needed to do. When she told the king of the wickedness of Haman, the king had him destroyed instead of Esther and her people.

You, too, can pray to Father in Heaven for the strength to do those things that are good and great. He loves you and will listen to your prayers, just as He did to Queen Esther’s.

22 - Isaiah Writes of Christ's BirthIsaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:67Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14

Isaiah was a prophet of God who prophesied to the people of Israel that the Savior Jesus Christ would be born to a pure and righteous woman. Isaiah said the Savior would be called "Immanuel" (Isaiah 7:14), a name which signifies that Jesus would save His people (see Bible Dictionary, "Immanuel," 706). Isaiah also prophesied that Jesus would be called "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6), and that He would rule over all the earth (see Isaiah 9:7).

SummaryIsaiah, an Old Testament prophet, foretold the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

23 - Daniel Refusing the King's Meat and WineDaniel 1But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank. Daniel 1:8

After King Nebuchadnezzar had captured Jerusalem and brought many captives back to Babylon, he ordered that some of the captive children be brought to the palace to be trained in the language and customs of his land. He wanted young people who were handsome and wise and who understood science and other subjects. The king ordered his servant to give these youth his best food and wine. Then, after teaching and nourishing these children for three years, the servant was to bring them before the king. (See Daniel 1:15.)

Among these youth of Judah were four young men named Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. Daniel and his friends did not want to eat the king's food nor drink his wine because they knew it would not be good for them. When they told this to the servant, he was afraid. He thought the king would kill him if Daniel and his friends did not look as healthy as the other young men their age. (See Daniel 1:610.)

Daniel pleaded with the servant to allow him and his three friends to eat only grains and vegetables and drink water for 10 days. At the end of the 10 days, the servant could decide whether these four boys looked less healthy than the children who ate the king's food. The servant agreed to try this. (See Daniel 1:1214.)

After 10 days the servant could see that these four young men looked healthier than all the others. He started feeding all the youth the type of food that Daniel had requested. (See Daniel 1:1516.)

Daniel and his friends grew in wisdom and knowledge, and the Lord also blessed Daniel to be able to understand the meanings of visions and dreams (see Daniel 1:17).

At the end of the three years, when all the young people were taken before King Nebuchadnezzar, none could compare with Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. The king found them to be 10 times wiser and more knowledgeable than all the magicians and astrologers in the land. (See Daniel 1:1820.)

SummaryAfter King Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem, he ordered that certain Israelite children live in his palace to study the language and learning of Babylon. They were to be given the king's food and wine. Four of these young people, Daniel and his friends, would not eat such foods because they knew they shouldn't. Daniel asked the king's servant to let him and his friends eat only grains and vegetables and drink water. They grew more healthy than the children who ate the king's food. When Daniel and his friends stood before the king, he found them 10 times wiser than all the wise men in the land.

24 - Daniel Interprets Nebuchadnezzar's DreamDaniel 2The great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure. Daniel 2:45

King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream that troubled him. He called for some of his wise men to explain what the dream meant. (See Daniel 2:13.) The problem was that the king could not remember his dream. He

ordered them to tell him both the dream and its meaning, threatening to kill them if they couldn't. When these men answered that no one could tell the king his dream, Nebuchadnezzar commanded that all the wise men in Babylon be killed. (See Daniel 2:56, Daniel 2:1012.)

Daniel, one of the captives the Babylonians had taken from Jerusalem, was among those who were to be slain. When he learned about the danger, he told the king's captain he would interpret the dream if the king would give him time. Daniel asked his friends Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego to pray with him. They asked Heavenly Father to show Daniel the dream, and the Lord revealed the dream to Daniel in a vision. (See Daniel 2:1323; see also Daniel 1:7.)

Daniel went to the king's captain and told him he could interpret the dream (see Daniel 2:24). The captain rushed Daniel to King Nebuchadnezzar. After saying that God had shown him the dream, Daniel described the image the king had seen. The image's head was made of gold, his breast and arms of silver, his belly and thighs of brass, his legs of iron, and his feet of part iron and part clay. Daniel said that a great stone struck the image's feet and broke them. Then the stone grew and filled the whole earth. (See Daniel 2:2835.)

Interpreting the dream, Daniel told the king, "Thou art this head of gold" (Daniel 2:38). Then he said an inferior kingdom, represented by the silver, would arise after Nebuchadnezzar's. A third kingdom would then rule the world, followed by a fourth. This last kingdom would be divided, like the feet of iron and clay: part strong and part weak. During the reign of these kings, God would set up a kingdom that would destroy all other kingdoms and stand forever. (See Daniel 2:3645.)

When Daniel was finished, King Nebuchadnezzar fell down before him and said, "Of a truth ... your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets" (Daniel 2:47; see also Daniel 2:46).

The king made Daniel a ruler in Babylon, gave him many gifts, and made him the chief over all the wise men. At Daniel's request, the king also made Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego rulers. (See Daniel 2:4849.)

SummaryKing Nebuchadnezzar had an important dream that he could not remember. He commanded some of his wise men to describe the dream and explain it. When they said this could not be done, Nebuchadnezzar ordered that all the wise men of Babylon be killed. Daniel was one of those who would be killed. He and his friends asked the Lord for mercy, and the Lord showed Daniel the dream and its meaning. Daniel then described the dream to King Nebuchadnezzar and explained what it meant. The king was pleased, and as a reward he made Daniel and his friends rulers in Babylon.

25 - Three Men in the Fiery FurnaceDaniel 3Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. Daniel 3:25

King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon made a large golden image and called all the princes, governors, captains, judges, and other rulers in the kingdom to come to the dedication of this image. As these people stood before the idol, one of the king's officials cried out that when the music played, everyone was commanded to fall down and worship the golden image. Anyone who didn't do this would be thrown into a fiery furnace. (See Daniel 3:16.)

The music sounded, and the people fell down to worship the golden image. But among the group were three Jewish men—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego—who would not worship the idol. They believed in Heavenly Father and knew that worshiping idols was wrong. Some of the rulers reported this to the king. (See Daniel 3:712.)

King Nebuchadnezzar was angry and commanded that the three men be brought to him (see Daniel 3:13). He asked them, "Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?" (Daniel 3:14). Then he said he would give them one more chance. The music would play again, and if the three men fell down to worship the image, all would be well. But if they still refused, they would immediately be thrown into a burning fiery furnace. (See Daniel 3:15.)

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego told the king that they knew their God could deliver them from the furnace if He chose to. But even if He did not deliver them, they would never worship false gods or this golden image. (See Daniel 3:1618.)

This made King Nebuchadnezzar even more furious. He ordered that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than usual; then he commanded his mightiest soldiers to tie up the three men and throw them into the fiery furnace. The soldiers did as the king asked, and the fire was so hot that it killed them as they threw Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego into the flames. (See Daniel 3:1923.)

Suddenly the king, who had been watching, jumped up and asked, "Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?" (Daniel 3:24). His counselors answered, "True, O king" (Daniel 3:24). Then the king continued, "Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God" (Daniel 3:25).

King Nebuchadnezzar then came near the opening of the furnace. He called, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth," and the three walked out of the fire (see Daniel 3:26). The other rulers had gathered around and could see that not one hair on the three men's heads had been burned. They didn't even smell of fire. (See Daniel 3:27.)

When the king saw this, he praised the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego for delivering them from the furnace. He sent a decree throughout the land that no one was to speak against their God, and he promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego to higher positions in Babylon. (See Daniel 3:2830.)

SummaryKing Nebuchadnezzar built a golden statue and commanded everyone to worship it. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego knew they should worship only Heavenly Father and refused to bow down to the idol. The king was angry and commanded that they be thrown into a fiery furnace. He was amazed then to see Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego calmly walking in the hot fire with a fourth man whose form was "like the Son of God." The king called the three men out of the furnace. They were not harmed. He praised their God for saving them, and sent out a decree that no one should speak against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego

26 - Daniel in the Lions' DenDaniel 6My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me. Daniel 6:22

King Darius of Babylon chose 120 princes to rule his kingdom. He also chose three presidents over these princes. Daniel, a righteous man, was the first of the three presidents "because an excellent spirit was in him" (Daniel 6:3; see also Daniel 6:12).

The other presidents and princes were jealous of Daniel. They tried to find a reason to complain to the king about him, but they could not. (See Daniel 6:4.)

Finally, the other rulers decided on a plan to get Daniel in trouble. They knew that Daniel prayed every day. So they asked King Darius to sign a decree that for the next 30 days no one could ask a favor of any God or man, except of the king. Anyone who disobeyed the decree would be thrown into a den of lions. King Darius signed the decree. (See Daniel 6:59.)

Though Daniel heard about the decree, he continued to pray three times a day in his home, as he had done before (see Daniel 6:10). The jealous rulers saw Daniel praying (see Daniel 6:11). They went to King Darius and reminded him, "Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions?" The king answered, "The thing is true" (Daniel 6:12). They then informed the king that Daniel had been praying to his God (see Daniel 6:13).

The king loved Daniel and did not want him to be killed. He tried to find a way to save Daniel, but he could not change the decree. (See Daniel 6:1415.) So Daniel was thrown into the den of lions. The sorrowful king told Daniel, "Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee" (Daniel 6:16). A large rock was placed over the opening to the lions' den (see Daniel 6:17).

King Darius spent the night fasting. He could not sleep. Early in the morning he hurried to the den of lions. (See Daniel 6:1819.) The anguished king cried out, "O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?" (Daniel 6:20).

From within the den came Daniel's voice: "My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me" (Daniel 6:22).

The king was joyful. He commanded that Daniel be taken out of the den. Because of Daniel's faith, God had protected him. (See Daniel 6:23.)

The men who had accused Daniel were thrown into the den and were killed by the lions (see Daniel 6:24). King Darius signed another decree that everyone in his kingdom should fear and tremble before Daniel's God (see Daniel 6:2527).

SummaryPowerful men were jealous of Daniel, who was favored by King Darius. These men tricked the king into signing a law which said that anyone who prayed, except to him, would be cast into a den of lions. Daniel knew this but still prayed to God three times a day. When Daniel was caught praying, King Darius tried to save Daniel but could not. Daniel was thrown into the den of lions. Early the next morning the king ran to the lions' den. Daniel was safe. He had been protected by an angel sent from God.

27- Jonah

Jonah was a prophet just before the ten tribes of Israel were taken captive into Babylonia, a country east of Israel. Only a small part of Jonah’s story is told in the Old Testament, but the part that is recorded teaches us that the Lord offers salvation to everyone who will repent.

The Lord commanded Jonah to tell the wicked people of Nineveh, a city north of Babylon, that if they didn’t repent, they would be destroyed. Jonah didn’t want to go to that wicked place. He didn’t think the people would listen to him or want to change, so he got on a boat that was sailing west to Tarshish, Spain.

A terrifying storm arose and tossed the boat to and fro. The sailors cried out to the prophet, who was sleeping, to pray to his God to save them. Knowing that his disobedience was the cause of the storm, Jonah told them, “Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you” (Jonah 1:12).

Though they didn’t want to, the sailors finally did as Jonah asked and threw him into the sea. “Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.” (Jonah 1:17.)

While in the fish, Jonah cried unto the Lord. He knew that he had disobeyed, and he wanted the Lord to forgive him. The Lord did, then caused that the fish “vomited out Jonah upon the dry land” (Jonah 2:10). He again told the prophet to go to Nineveh.

Jonah obeyed. To his surprise, when he told the people of Nineveh that the Lord was displeased with them and that they would soon be destroyed, they believed him and turned from their evil ways. They accepted the gift of repentance that would come through the Savior, and they were not destroyed. Both the prophet and the people he preached to had need of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ so that they could return to Heavenly Father. Because this gift is given to everyone, we too can repent when we make mistakes.

New Testament

28 - The Annunciation: The Angel Gabriel Appears to MaryIsaiah 7:14; Luke 1:2638; Mosiah 3:8; Alma 7:10And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. Luke 1:3031

Long before Jesus' birth, prophets had foretold that the Only Begotten Son of the Father would be born to a virgin named Mary (see Isaiah 7:14; Mosiah 3:8; Alma 7:10). Mary was chosen and foreordained for this important mission before she came to earth. As the Savior's mother, Mary would provide the Son of God with a body of flesh and blood, and she and her husband, Joseph, would raise Him, teach Him, and help Him prepare for His great mission.

Heavenly Father appointed the angel Gabriel to appear to Mary in Nazareth with the message of what He was asking her to do (see Luke 1:26). "And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women" (Luke 1:28).

Gabriel's greeting left Mary troubled and uncertain as to the meaning of the heavenly visitation. Gabriel, understanding her feelings, told Mary to "fear not" and continued to explain the miraculous event that would take place. (See Luke 1:2933.)

Mary still had questions and uncertainty about her mission. "How shall this be?" she asked when she heard that she would give birth to the "Son of the Highest." (See Luke 1:3134.) Gabriel told her that she would be overshadowed by the power of God, and the child would be the Son of Heavenly Father, "for with God nothing shall be impossible" (see Luke 1:35, Luke 1:37). Her questions answered, Mary recognized the great blessing the Lord was giving her and replied in faithfulness and obedience, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word" (Luke 1:38).

SummaryOne day the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, a righteous young woman who lived in Nazareth. He told Mary that she had been chosen by Heavenly Father to be the mother of Jesus, who would be the only earthly son of Heavenly Father. Mary knew that no other daughter of God had ever been so blessed. She told the angel she was happy to obey Heavenly Father and be the mother of Jesus.

29 - Flight into EgyptMatthew 2:1315, Matthew 2:1923When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt. Matthew 2:14

When Jesus was young, an "angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him" (Matthew 2:13).

Obeying this command, Joseph took Mary and Jesus to Egypt, traveling at night (see Matthew 2:14). When Herod died and the danger had passed, an angel again appeared to Joseph in a dream, this time telling him, "Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life" (Matthew 2:20; see also Matthew 2:15, Matthew 2:19). Joseph took Mary and Jesus back to Israel, and they lived in Nazareth (see Matthew 2:2123).

SummaryWhen Jesus was young, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him to take Jesus and Mary to Egypt. Joseph was warned to stay in Egypt until the angel declared it was safe to return, because King Herod would seek to kill Jesus. Joseph did as the angel instructed, and Jesus was protected from harm.

30 - The NativityLuke 2:116And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7

Caesar Augustus, the Roman emperor, sent out a decree (law) that everyone in his empire had to be taxed. Each man was to pay taxes in the city of his ancestors, so Joseph and Mary had to travel from their home in Nazareth to Bethlehem. It was a difficult trip for Mary because her baby was about to be born. (See Luke 2:15.)

When Mary and Joseph reached Bethlehem, the city was crowded with people who had come to pay taxes. There was no room for Joseph and Mary in the inns, but they were finally allowed to stay where Mary "brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger" (Luke 2:7).

That night there were also shepherds in the field watching over their flocks. An angel of the Lord appeared and the shepherds were frightened, but the angel said:

"Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

"And ... ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger" (Luke 2:1012).

Suddenly there appeared a multitude of angels praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men" (Luke 2:14; see also Luke 2:13).

When the angels had gone, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us now go ... unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us" (Luke 2:15). Hurrying to Bethlehem, the shepherds found Mary and Joseph, and the baby Jesus lying in a manger (see Luke 2:16).

SummaryWhen it was nearly time for Jesus to be born, Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem to pay taxes. Bethlehem was crowded with people, and the inns were full. Joseph and Mary found a place to stay in a stable. There the baby Jesus was born. Mary wrapped the babe in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger. Angels told shepherds the joyful news of Christ's birth, and the shepherds hurried to Bethlehem to see the newborn Savior.

31 - The Announcement of Christ's Birth to the ShepherdsLuke 2:820And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. Luke 2:89

On the night Jesus was born, there were shepherds in the field watching over their flocks. An angel of the Lord appeared and the shepherds were frightened, but the angel said:

"Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

"And ... ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger" (Luke 2:1012).

Suddenly there appeared a multitude of angels praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men" (Luke 2:14; see also Luke 2:13).

When the angels had gone, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us now go ... unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us" (Luke 2:15). Hurrying to Bethlehem, the shepherds found Mary and Joseph, and the baby Jesus lying in a manger (see Luke 2:16).

Later, as the shepherds returned to their flocks, telling the people abroad what the angel had said about Jesus, they glorified and praised God for all they had heard and seen (see Luke 2:1718).

SummaryThe night Jesus was born, an angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds tending their flocks. The angel announced the Savior's birth in Bethlehem and told the shepherds they would find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Suddenly many angels appeared to the shepherds, praising God and declaring peace on earth. The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem and found the baby Jesus, just as the angel had said. As the shepherds returned to their sheep, they told others of the glorious things they had heard and seen.

32- Simeon Reverencing the Christ ChildWhen the Savior was just eight days old, Mary and Joseph gave Him the name Jesus, as the angel Gabriel had instructed them. A short time later they took Jesus to the temple “to offer a sacrifice according to … the law of the Lord, A pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons.”

A devout man named Simeon had been promised through the power of the Holy Ghost that he would not die until he had seen the Christ. When Simeon “came by the spirit into the temple,” he saw Mary and Joseph and the baby. Happily he reached out and took the baby into his arms “and blessed God,” knowing at last that the Savior had come. Simeon also prophesied that Jesus would be a blessing to all people. Then he blessed Mary and Joseph and told Mary of the terrible suffering she would endure because of the way Jesus would be treated.

33- Jesus and His MotherIsaiah 7:14; Matthew 2:13; Joseph Smith Translation, John 2:4; John 19:2627; 1 Nephi 11:1820; Mosiah 3:8; Alma 7:10And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40

Mary was foreordained to be the mother of our Savior long before she came to earth. Many prophets before the meridian of time foretold that the Only Begotten Son of the Father would be born to the virgin Mary, a precious and chosen vessel of the Lord (see Isaiah 7:14; 1 Nephi 11:1820; Mosiah 3:8; Alma 7:10).

In the biblical accounts of Jesus' interaction with His mother, He demonstrates His obedience to her and the love that He feels for her. The account of Jesus' first miracle recorded in the scriptures, when He turned the water into wine at the marriage in Cana, shows the relationship Mary and Jesus had. When Mary saw that there was no more wine, she turned to her son for help. And when Mary asked for help, Jesus responded, "Woman, what wilt thou have me to do for thee? that will I do" (Joseph Smith Translation, John 2:4).

Jesus displayed this same devotion to His mother in the last few moments of His life. When He saw Mary and His Apostle John standing by the cross, He said: "Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother!" (John 19:2627). Even in the midst of great pain and suffering, He thought of His mother and her needs.

No other mortal woman will ever have the experiences Mary had of bearing Heavenly Father's physical Son and raising the Messiah. But Mary did not have to face these tasks alone. Her husband, Joseph, raised Jesus as his son, teaching and guiding Him and preserving His life so he could perform His great mission (see Matthew 2:13).

SummaryMary, a righteous and pure woman, was chosen to be the mother of Jesus Christ while she still lived with Heavenly Father. Jesus loved His mother and cared for her His entire life. Mary helped Jesus prepare to do the important work that Heavenly Father had called Him to do during His life. Mary's husband, Joseph, was a good man who loved Jesus and helped teach and raise Him.

34 - Boy Jesus in the TempleLuke 2:4152; Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 2:46After three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, and they were hearing him, and asking him questions. Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 2:46

When Jesus was 12 years old, He and His family traveled to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. On the trip back to Nazareth, Joseph and Mary thought Jesus was among the group of family and friends they traveled with. But after a full day's journey, they realized Jesus was not with them. (See Luke 2:4144.)

Joseph and Mary were worried and went back to Jerusalem to look for Jesus. For three days they searched for the young boy, finally finding Him in the temple, where He was teaching the wise men and answering their questions. (See Luke 2:4546; Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 2:46.) "And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers" (Luke 2:47).

Mary asked Jesus why He had done this, telling Him how she and Joseph had searched for Him, sorrowing. Jesus answered that He had been doing His Heavenly Father's work. Although Joseph and Mary knew that Jesus was to be the Savior, they did not understand His mission as well as He did. (See Luke 2:4850.)

Jesus returned to Nazareth with Joseph and Mary and was an obedient son. As He grew older, He studied and learned; He was close to His Heavenly Father and well liked by other people. (See Luke 2:5152.)

SummaryWhen Jesus was 12 years old, He went with His family to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. On the way home, Joseph and Mary realized that Jesus was not with their group. They went back to Jerusalem to look for Him. After three days of searching, they found Jesus teaching the wise men in the temple. Those who heard Him were amazed at His understanding. Mary asked Him why He had stayed behind and made them worry. Jesus explained that He was doing the work of His Father in Heaven.

35 - John the Baptist Baptizing JesusMatthew 3:1317; Mark 1:911; Luke 3:2123; Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:4446And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. Mark 1:9

When Jesus was about 30 years old, He came from Nazareth to the river Jordan and was baptized by John the Baptist (see Matthew 3:13; Mark 1:9; Luke 3:23). John knew that Jesus had not sinned, so he did not think Jesus needed to be baptized. Instead, John felt that Jesus should baptize him. Jesus explained to John that even the Savior of the world must be baptized. (See Matthew 3:1415.)

"And John went down into the water and baptized [Jesus].

"And Jesus when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water; and John saw ... the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting upon Jesus.

"And lo, he heard a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear ye him" (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:4446).

SummaryJesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized in the Jordan River. John knew that Jesus was without sin, and so he thought Jesus did not need baptism. When Jesus explained that even the Savior must be baptized, John went down into the water and baptized Him. When Jesus came out of the water, John saw the Holy Ghost come to the Savior and heard Heavenly Father's voice bearing witness of His Beloved Son.

36 – Jesus and the Samaritan womanWhen Jesus left Judea to go into Galilee, He traveled through Samaria and came to Jacob’s well. John 4:3–6

He was tired, and He rested by the well. When a Samaritan woman came to get some water, Jesus asked her to give Him a drink. John 4:6–7

Since the people of Judah usually had nothing to do with the Samaritans, the woman was surprised. John 4:9

Jesus told her that He could give her water that would cause her to never thirst again. He explained that He was the Messiah and that the water He offered her was the “living water” of eternal life. John 4:10, 13–15, 25–26

The woman went to the city and told many people what she had heard. They went to the well and spoke with Jesus themselves, and many of them believed His words. John 4:28–30, 39–42

37 - Calling of the FishermenMatthew 4:1822; Mark 1:1620; Luke 5:111And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19

While Jesus was by the Sea of Galilee, many people crowded around to hear Him teach the word of God. Jesus saw two ships by the shore where the fishermen were washing their nets. He stepped onto Simon Peter's ship, asking the fishermen to move it from the shore; then He sat down and taught the people from the ship. (See Luke 5:13.)

When Jesus finished speaking, He told Peter to take the boat out where the water was deep and let down the nets for a large catch of fish (see Luke 5:4). Peter told Jesus that he and the other fishermen had worked all night without catching any fish. "Nevertheless," he continued, "at thy word I will let down the net" (Luke 5:5). Peter and Andrew lowered their net into the water, and it was filled with so many fish that it started to break. They called their partners, James and John, who were in another ship, to help them, and they filled both ships with so many fish that the ships began to sink. (See Luke 5:67.)

When Simon Peter saw all the fish, he fell down at Jesus' knees and said, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord" (Luke 5:8). Peter and the others were amazed at the great number of fish they had caught (see Luke 5:910).

When Jesus said to Simon Peter and Andrew, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men," they left their nets and followed Him (see Matthew 4:19; see also Matthew 4:20; Mark 1:1718; Luke 5:1011). Jesus also called James and John to follow Him; they did as He asked, immediately leaving their ship and their father (see Matthew 4:2122; Mark 1:1920).

SummaryOne day, Jesus taught from Peter's boat on the Sea of Galilee. Afterward He told Peter to take the boat to deep water and let out the nets to catch fish. Peter explained that he and others had been fishing all night without catching anything, but he said he would do as Jesus commanded. Peter and his brother Andrew caught so many fish that their net began to break. James and John came in another boat to help. The fishermen were all amazed. Jesus called Peter and Andrew to follow Him and become fishers of men. He also called James and John. They all left their boats and nets and followed Jesus.

38 - Christ Ordaining the ApostlesMatthew 10:14; Mark 3:1319; Luke 6:1216; John 15:16And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach. Mark 3:14

Early in His ministry, Jesus spent an entire night in the mountains praying to Heavenly Father. When daylight came, He called His faithful followers to Him and chose twelve whom He ordained to be Apostles. They were Simon Peter and his brother Andrew; James and John the sons of Zebedee; Philip; Bartholomew; Matthew; Thomas; James the son of Alpheus; Thaddeus; Simon the Canaanite; and Judas Iscariot. (See Matthew 10:24; Mark 3:13, Mark 3:1619; Luke 6:1216.)

Jesus gave the Twelve the power of the priesthood, which they were to use to help Him in His work—preaching the gospel, healing the sick, raising the dead, and casting out unclean spirits (see Matthew 10:1; Mark 3:1415).

As Jesus neared the end of His earthly ministry, He reminded the Apostles at the Last Supper that He had called them and ordained them to preach the gospel. Jesus told the Apostles that as they did this work, "whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you" (John 15:16).

SummaryBy revelation Jesus Christ chose twelve of His followers and ordained them to be His Apostles. He gave them the priesthood, which is the power to act in His name, so that they could preach the gospel and minister to the people.

39 - Sermon on the MountMatthew 57Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16Sitting on a mountainside, Jesus gave His disciples teachings called the Sermon on the Mount (see Matthew 5:12). In part of the sermon, Jesus promised special blessings, known as the Beatitudes, to people who live in certain ways. He taught:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:36).

Jesus also described blessings that come to the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and those persecuted for righteousness' sake (see Matthew 5:710).

Jesus went on to teach His disciples:

"Ye are the light of the world. ...

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:14, Matthew 5:16).

Jesus reminded the people of many teachings in the law of Moses, one of which had told the Israelites to love their neighbors and hate their enemies. But now Jesus taught His disciples a higher law, telling them to love their enemies and do good to them. (See Matthew 5:17, Matthew 5:4344.)

After telling His disciples to pray without letting others know about it (see Matthew 6:56), Jesus gave a pattern for prayer (see Matthew 6:913).

Jesus also said that His people should not judge others and that if His people first repent of their sins, they are better able to help others (see Matthew 7:15).

Telling His disciples how to obtain blessings from heaven, Jesus said, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find" (Matthew 7:7).

He also taught that few people find the narrow gate and path to heaven. Instead, many people choose the way to destruction. (See Matthew 7:1314.)

Jesus compared those who obey Him to a wise man who built his house on a rock. When the rains, floods, and winds came, the house did not fall, because it was built on a solid foundation. (See Matthew 7:2425.) He compared those who do not obey Him to a foolish man who built his house on sand. When the rains, floods, and winds came, the house fell. (See Matthew 7:2627.)

After Jesus ended teaching, the people were astonished because He taught them with the authority and power of God (see Matthew 7:2829).

SummarySitting on a mountainside, Jesus gave what is known as the Sermon on the Mount. Included in this sermon were the Beatitudes, special blessings that Jesus promised for righteous living. He also asked His followers to be good examples and to love their enemies. Jesus taught them how to pray and encouraged them to repent of their sins and not judge others. He taught that those who obey His words have a strong foundation for their lives. Those who heard Jesus were astonished, for He taught with the power of God.

40 – Jesus Calms the StormMatthew 8:2327; Mark 4:3641; Luke 8:2225Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. Matthew 8:26

Jesus and His disciples boarded a ship to cross the Sea of Galilee. As they were sailing, Jesus fell asleep and a great storm arose. The wind blew and waves covered the ship. Jesus' disciples thought they were going to be killed, so they awoke Jesus and cried, "Master, carest thou not that we perish?" (Mark 4:38; see also Matthew 8:2325; Mark 4:3637; Luke 8:2224).

Jesus said, "Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?" (Matthew 8:26; see also Mark 4:39). "[Then] he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm" (Mark 4:39; see also Matthew 8:26; Luke 8:24).

When the storm ceased, the disciples were amazed and said, "What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" (Mark 4:41; see also Matthew 8:27; Luke 8:25).

SummaryJesus fell asleep as He and His disciples were sailing across the Sea of Galilee. A great storm arose. The wind blew and waves covered the ship. The disciples, afraid for their lives, woke Jesus. He stood and told the winds and the sea to be still. The storm stopped, and the sea was calm. The disciples were amazed that even the wind and the sea obeyed Jesus.

41 - Jesus Rasising Jairus's DaughterMatthew 9:1819, Matthew 9:2325; Mark 5:2224, Mark 5:3543; Luke 8:4142, Luke 8:4956He went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose. Matthew 9:25

While Jesus was teaching the people, a ruler named Jairus came and knelt before Him. Jairus asked Jesus to come to his home because his only daughter, who was about 12 years old, was dying. Jairus had faith that his daughter could be healed if Jesus would lay His hands upon her. (See Matthew 9:1819; Mark 5:2223; Luke 8:4142.)

Jesus started to go home with Jairus, but other people crowded around Him. While Jesus was helping a sick woman, a man came and told Jairus that his daughter had died. (See Matthew 9:19; Mark 5:24, Mark 5:35; Luke 8:49.) When Jesus heard this He said, "Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole" (Luke 8:50; see also Mark 5:36).

When Jesus arrived at Jairus's home, He told the mourners not to cry because the girl was not dead. The mourners laughed at Jesus and made fun of Him because they knew she was dead. (See Matthew 9:2324; Mark 5:3840; Luke 8:5253.)

Jesus sent the mourners away and went into the house with Peter, James, John, Jairus, and Jairus's wife (see Mark 5:40; Luke 8:51). Then He took the girl by the hand and said, "I say unto thee, arise" (Mark 5:41; see also Luke 8:54). The girl's spirit returned to her body, and she arose from her bed (see Matthew 9:25; Mark 5:42; Luke 8:55).

"And her parents were astonished" (Luke 8:56; see also Mark 5:42). Jesus told them to give her something to eat and asked them not to tell anyone what had happened (see Mark 5:4243; Luke 8:5556).

SummaryA ruler named Jairus asked Jesus to come to his house and heal his dying daughter. On the way they learned it was too late: the little girl had died. However, Jesus told Jairus not to fear but to believe in Him.

When Jesus entered the house He told the mourners not to cry. He told them the girl was not dead but asleep. They laughed because they knew she was dead. Jesus took the girl by the hand and told her to arise. She returned to life and rose from her bed.

42- Christ Healing the sick at BethsedaOn a Jewish feast day, the Savior went to the pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem. People believed that the waters of the pool could cure them of disease or other physical problems. John 5:1–4

Near the pool, Jesus saw a man who had been crippled for thirty-eight years. The man explained that he could not get into the water by himself. John 5:5–7

Even though it was the Sabbath, Jesus told the man, “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.” The man was immediately healed and walked away. John 5:8–9

The Jews claimed that it was unlawful to perform miracles on the Sabbath, and they persecuted Jesus. John 5:10–16

Jesus answered that He was doing the work of His Father. John 5:17

43 - Christ Walking on the WaterMatthew 14:1333; Mark 6:4551But when [Peter] saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? Matthew 14:3031

When Jesus Christ heard the news that Herod had beheaded John the Baptist, "he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart" (Matthew 14:13). But thousands of people followed Him from their cities, bringing their sick with them. So Jesus spent the day healing the sick, and that evening He fed the multitude with five loaves of bread and two fishes. (See Matthew 14:1421.)

After having spent the day with His followers, Jesus once again sought an opportunity to be alone. He asked His disciples to go ahead on a ship while He sent the multitude home. Then "he went up into a mountain apart to pray" (Matthew 14:23; see also Mark 6:4546). But while He was praying, a storm came up on the sea. The ship the disciples were on was in the middle of the sea being blown about by the winds and tossed by the waves. Jesus went out to them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw Him coming toward them, they thought it was a spirit and were frightened. (See Matthew 14:2426; Mark 6:4849.) Jesus immediately calmed their fears, saying, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid" (Matthew 14:27; see also Mark 6:50).

The Apostle Peter answered, "Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water" (Matthew 14:28). Jesus told Peter to come, so Peter got out of the boat and began walking on the water toward Jesus. But when Peter saw the fierce winds and waves, he became afraid. He started to sink and cried out for Jesus to save him. (See Matthew 14:30.) Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught Peter, saying, "O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" (Matthew 14:31).

When Peter and Jesus were back on the ship, the winds ceased and the sea was calm once again. The disciples had seen all that had happened and worshiped Jesus, saying, "Of a truth thou art the Son of God" (Matthew 14:33).

SummaryOne night Jesus' disciples put out to sea in a boat while Jesus stayed behind to pray to Heavenly Father. A storm came up and tossed the boat in the waves. When Jesus saw His disciples struggling with their ship in the storm, He started walking on the water toward the ship. The disciples were frightened when they saw a man walking toward them on the water. Then they heard Jesus call to them and tell them not to fear. Peter asked Jesus if he could come to Him, and Jesus told Peter to come. But as Peter did so he became afraid and started to sink. Jesus took hold of Peter's hand and helped him back to the boat. The sea became calm again, and the disciples testified that Jesus was the Son of God.

44 - The Good SamaritanLuke 10:2537But a certain Samaritan ... had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, ... and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. Luke 10:3334

A lawyer asked Jesus, "Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" (Luke 10:25). Jesus asked him what was written in the scriptures, and the lawyer answered, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself" (Luke 10:27; see also Luke 10:26).

Jesus told the lawyer that he would have eternal life if he obeyed this command, but then the lawyer asked, "Who is my neighbour?" (Luke 10:29; see also Luke 10:28). To answer the lawyer's question, Jesus told the story of a man who was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way, he was attacked by thieves who took his clothes, beat him, and left him half dead. A priest came along and, seeing the injured man, passed by on the other side of the road. Then a Levite came by, but he also passed on the other side of the road to avoid the man. (See Luke 10:3032.)

Finally, a Samaritan came by and stopped to help the hurt man, washing and wrapping his wounds. The Samaritan put the man on his own animal, took him to an inn, and stayed with him through the night. The next day, the Samaritan gave the innkeeper money and said, "Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee" (Luke 10:35; see also Luke 10:3334).

Jesus then asked the lawyer which of the three travelers was a good neighbor to the injured man (see Luke 10:36). The lawyer replied that the Samaritan was because he had cared for the man, and Jesus said, "Go, and do thou likewise" (Luke 10:37).

SummaryIn the parable of the good Samaritan, Jesus told about a traveler who was attacked by thieves and left half dead. A priest and then a Levite saw the hurt man, but each of them passed by without helping. Finally, a Samaritan came by and stopped to help the man. He bandaged the man's wounds and carried him on his own animal to an inn. The Samaritan left money with the innkeeper for the man's care. This story shows us what it means to follow the commandment to love our neighbors.

45 - Mary and MarthaLuke 10:3842But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. Luke 10:42

Jesus went to the home of His friends Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Mary sat at Jesus' feet to hear His teachings, while Martha prepared a meal. Martha wanted Mary to help with the work, so she said to Jesus, "Bid [Mary] therefore that she help me" (Luke 10:40; see also Luke 10:3839).

Jesus understood how Martha felt, but He told her that Mary was wise in choosing to listen to Him. His teachings would stay with her always. (See Luke 10:4142.)

SummaryWhen Jesus was at the home of some friends, one of them, Mary, sat and listened to His teachings, while her sister, Martha, prepared a meal. Martha wanted Mary to help her, but Jesus explained that it was good for Mary to listen, since His teachings would stay with her always.

46- The Ten LepersJesus went to a small town, where He saw ten lepers. These men had sores all over their bodies. Their skin was falling off. Luke 17:12

Doctors could not help the lepers, and other people were afraid to go near them. The other people thought that they would get sick, too. Luke 17:12

The lepers asked Jesus to heal them. They knew that He could make their sores go away. Luke 17:13

Jesus wanted them to be well. He told them to go to the priests, so they did. Luke 17:14

On their way to the priests, the ten lepers were healed. Their sores were gone. Jesus had healed them. Luke 17:14

Knowing that Jesus had healed them, one of the lepers went back to thank Jesus. Jesus asked where the other nine lepers were. They had not come back to thank Him. He told the leper who had thanked Him that his faith had made him well. Luke 17:15–19

47 - Christ and the ChildrenMatthew 19:1315; Mark 10:1316; Luke 18:1517And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them. Mark 10:16

The multitudes brought their young children for Jesus to bless, but the disciples told them to go away, feeling that Jesus should not be bothered with children (see Matthew 19:13; Mark 10:13; Luke 18:15).

"But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God" (Mark 10:14; see also Matthew 19:14; Luke 18:16). Jesus then taught that only those people who accept the gospel with the faith of a little child could enter the kingdom of God (see Mark 10:15; Luke 18:17).

Jesus loved the children and took them in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them (see Mark 10:16).

SummaryMany people brought their children to be blessed by Jesus. The disciples thought Jesus should not be bothered and sent them away. Jesus told the disciples to let the little children come to Him. Then He taught that only those with the faith of a little child can enter God's kingdom. Jesus welcomed the little children into His arms and blessed them.

48 - Christ and the Rich Young RulerMatthew 19:1624; Mark 10:1725; Luke 18:1825Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions. Mark 10:2122

A rich young ruler came to Jesus asking, "Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" (Luke 18:18). Jesus told him to keep the commandments (see Luke 18:1920; see also Matthew 19:1619; Mark 10:1719).

The young man said that he had obeyed the commandments since he was a child, but Jesus looked upon him with love and told him of one more commandment he needed to keep (see Matthew 19:20; Mark 10:20; Luke 18:21). "Go and sell that thou hast," Jesus said, "and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me" (Matthew 19:21; see also Mark 10:21; Luke 18:22).

When the young man heard this, he went away sorrowful because he was very rich and did not want to give away all his costly possessions (see Matthew 19:22; Mark 10:22; Luke 18:23). Then Jesus said, "How hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!" (Mark 10:24; see also Matthew 19:2324; Mark 10:23, Mark 10:25; Luke 18:2425).

SummaryA rich young ruler came to Jesus and asked what he should do to have eternal life. Jesus told the man that he must obey the commandments. When the rich young man said that he had been obedient to the laws of God, Jesus said the man needed to do one more thing. He needed to sell all he had, give to the poor, and follow Jesus. The rich young man was very sad. He did not want to do what Jesus told him to do. He loved his riches more than he loved God.

49 – Raising Lazarus from the Dead

A man named Lazarus lived in Bethany with his sisters, Mary and Martha. Jesus loved Lazarus and his sisters, and they loved Jesus very much. John 11:1–2, 5

Lazarus became very sick while the Savior was teaching in another town. Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus that Lazarus was sick. John 11:3 The Savior asked His disciples to go with Him to help Lazarus. The disciples were afraid to go to Bethany. It was near Jerusalem, and some of the people there wanted to kill Jesus. The disciples did not want Him to go near Jerusalem again. John 11:6–8, 18

Jesus told His disciples that Lazarus was dead and that He would bring him back to life. His miracle would help the disciples know that He was the Savior. Jesus went to Bethany. Lazarus had been dead for four days. John 11:11–17, 19

When Jesus came, Martha told Him that Lazarus would not have died if He had been there. Jesus told Martha that Lazarus would live again and asked Martha if she believed Him. Martha said yes. She knew that Jesus was the Savior. John 11:20–27

Then Martha left Jesus to get her sister, Mary. Mary went to meet Jesus, too. Many people went with her. She knelt, crying, at the Savior’s feet. The people with her were also crying. Jesus cried. The people knew that He loved Lazarus very much. John 11:28–36

Jesus went to the cave where Lazarus was buried. There was a stone in front of it, and He told the people to move the stone. John 11:38–39

Looking up, He thanked Heavenly Father for hearing His prayers. Jesus asked Heavenly Father to help the people believe that He was the Savior. John 11:41–42

Then, in a loud voice, Jesus told Lazarus to come out of the cave. Lazarus, alive again, came out. The people saw the miracle, and many knew that Jesus was the Savior. John 11:43–45

50 - Triumphal EntryMatthew 21:111; Mark 11:111; Luke 19:2938; John 12:1215Much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord. John 12:1213

Jesus and His disciples were traveling to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. As they neared the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of His disciples to a nearby village, telling them that as they entered it they would find a donkey and her colt. The disciples were to untie the animals and bring them to Him. If anyone asked why they were doing this, they were to say, "The Lord hath need of them," and there would be no trouble. (See Matthew 21:15; Mark 11:16; Luke 19:2934.)

After the two disciples had brought the animals to Jesus, they laid clothing on the colt's back for Jesus to sit on. As Jesus rode the colt toward Jerusalem, large crowds of people gathered to honor Him and to spread clothing and palm branches on the ground in front of Him. The followers rejoiced and cried out, "Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord" (Mark 11:9; see also Matthew 21:69; Mark 11:710; Luke 19:3538; John 12:1213).

After Jesus entered Jerusalem, many of the people asked, "Who is this?" The multitude replied, "This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee" (Matthew 21:1011).

SummaryJesus traveled with His disciples to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover, and He entered the city riding on the colt of a donkey. Large crowds of people gathered to honor Jesus. They spread clothing and palm branches in His path. The people rejoiced and shouted, "Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord" (Mark 11:9).

51 – Cleansing the Temple

Jesus went to Jerusalem to the temple. Many people went there to make a sacrifice by killing an animal and burning it on an altar. The sacrifice helped people think about the Savior, who would sacrifice Himself by suffering and dying for them. Lev. 1:3–9; Moses 5:5–7; John 2:13

Because some people did not have an animal to sacrifice, men sold animals to them in the temple. The men just wanted to get money. They did not think about God. John 2:14

Jesus saw the men selling the animals in the temple. He said that the temple was His Heavenly Father’s house, a holy place. He did not want the men to sell things there. John 2:16

Jesus made a whip, overturned the tables, threw the money on the floor, and made the men leave the temple. He would not let the men sell animals and be irreverent in Heavenly Father’s house. John 2:15–16

52 - My Father’s HouseWhen Jesus kicked the money changers out of the temple he declared to all that the temple was the house of his Heavenly Father and that it was a holy place.

Temples are the most sacred places of worship on earth where sacred ordinances are performed—ordinances which pertain to salvation and exaltation in the kingdom of God. Each one is literally a house of the Lord—a place where He and His spirit may dwell, where He may come or send others to confer priesthood blessings and to give revelation to His people. … Temples built especially to the Lord have been erected in all ages. Moses built a tabernacle in the wilderness for the children of Israel. Solomon built a magnificent temple in Jerusalem. The Nephites built sacred temples. Joseph Smith built houses of the Lord in Kirtland and Nauvoo, and succeeding prophets have built temples throughout the world. These have all been … built under the direction and revelation of God. …

The moment we step into the house of the Lord, the atmosphere changes from the worldly to the heavenly. … It is a refuge from the ills of life and a protection from the temptations. (Elder David B. Haight - Ensign, November 1990, pages 59, 61.)

53 – Parable of the Ten VirginsJesus told a story about ten young women who went to a wedding. They waited at the door for the bridegroom (the Son of man) to come and let them in. They didn’t know just when He would come. Matt. 25:1, 13

The ten women had oil-burning lamps. Five of the women were wise. Besides the oil in their lamps, they had extra oil with them. Matt. 25:2, 4

The other five women were foolish. They had only the oil that was in their lamps. Matt. 25:3 The bridegroom did not come for a long time. When all the oil in the lamps was gone, the five wise women put their extra oil into their lamps. The five foolish women had to go buy more oil. Matt. 25:5–9

While they were gone, the bridegroom came. He let the five wise women in the door. They went to the wedding. Matt. 25:10

When the five foolish women returned, the door was closed. They could not go to the wedding. Matt. 25:10–13

Jesus, the Son of man, is the bridegroom in this story. The members of the Church are the ten women. When He comes again, some members will be like the wise women. They follow the Spirit’s promptings and obey God’s commandments, and so they will be ready when Jesus comes again. Others will be like the five foolish women and will not be able to be with the Savior. 3 Ne. 25:1–2; D&C 88:86, 92; D&C 45:56–57; Jesus the Christ, pages 576–580

54- The Last SupperEvery year the Jews had a feast called the Feast of the Passover. It helped them remember how God had saved the Israelites in Egypt long before, in the time of Moses. Ex. 12:27; Luke 22:7

Jesus and the Twelve Apostles needed a place to eat the Passover feast. The Savior sent Peter and John to get a room ready for it. Luke 22:8

They found the room and got the feast ready. Luke 22:9–13

Jesus and all the Apostles went there and ate the Passover feast. Luke 22:14

After the meal, Jesus gave His Apostles the sacrament for the first time. He took bread in His hands, blessed it, then broke it into pieces. He told the Apostles to eat the bread. Luke 22:19; Matt. 26:26

Jesus told them to think of His body when they ate the bread, to remember that He would die for them. Luke 22:19; Matt. 26:26

Jesus poured some wine into a cup. He blessed the wine. He told the Apostles to drink it. Matt. 26:27

He told them to think of His blood when they drank the wine, to remember that He would bleed and suffer for people’s sins. Luke 22:20; Matt. 26:28 Jesus also told the Apostles that wicked men would kill Him. Eleven of the Apostles were very sad. They loved the Savior and did not want Him to die. Jesus knew that one of the Apostles, Judas Iscariot, would help the wicked men. Matt. 26:2, 14–16, 21–25

After they finished eating, Jesus talked with His disciples. He said that people would know that they were His disciples if they loved one another as He had loved them. John 13:34–35

He said that if they loved Him, they would keep His commandments. He promised them the Holy Ghost, who would teach them all they needed to know. He said that the Holy Ghost would help them remember the things that He had taught them. John 14:15–18, 26

Jesus said that He was the true vine. His disciples were like branches of the vine. If they did not produce fruit, they would be cut off. If they stayed on the vine, they would be nourished by it and would produce good fruit. John 15:1–2

Jesus promised His disciples that if they lived the gospel, they would be like branches of the good vine. He would make them strong. Their fruit, or their works, would be good. But if they did not follow Him, they would produce nothing. John 15:3–8

Jesus Christ prayed for His disciples, that they would be one in doing Heavenly Father’s work. He was one with the Father because He did what His Father had sent Him to do. He prayed that His disciples would teach people to believe in Him and to know that Heavenly Father loves them. John 17:1–4, 6, 20–23

Then Jesus and the Apostles sang a song and left the room. Matt. 26:30

55 - Jesus Washing the Apostles' FeetJohn 13:415; Joseph Smith Translation, John 13:8He poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. John 13:5

After Jesus had eaten the Last Supper with His Apostles, He removed His outer robe and put a towel around His waist. Then He poured water into a basin and, one by one, began to wash and dry the Apostles' feet. (See John 13:45.)

When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter asked the Lord why He was washing his feet. Jesus told Peter that he would not understand then but that he would know later. Peter said, "Thou needest not to wash my feet" (Joseph Smith Translation, John 13:8). "Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me" (John 13:8). Peter said to Him, "Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head" (John 13:9). Jesus told him that He needed only to wash his feet (see John 13:10; Joseph Smith Translation, John 13:10).

Jesus told His Apostles that they were not all clean because He knew one would betray Him (see John 13:1011).

When Jesus finished washing the Apostles' feet, He said, "If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you" (John 13:1415).

SummaryAfter eating the Last Supper, Jesus poured water into a basin. He then washed the Apostles' feet and dried them with a towel. Jesus explained that He had done this to teach them that they were to serve others.

56 - Jesus Praying in GethsemaneMatthew 26:3645; Mark 14:3241; Luke 22:4046; John 18:1Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. Luke 22:42

Jesus led His disciples to a garden of olive trees called Gethsemane, where He instructed them, "Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder" (Matthew 26:36). Then He went farther into the garden, taking Peter, James, and John, whom He asked to wait nearby and watch while He withdrew to pray (see Matthew 26:3738; Mark 14:3233; Luke 22:4041; John 18:1).

Jesus' soul was filled with sorrow. Knowing that the time had come when He must suffer great agony to atone for the sins of the world, Jesus fell to the ground and prayed, "O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt" (Matthew 26:39; see also Matthew 26:38; Mark 14:3436; Luke 22:4142).

An angel from heaven appeared to Jesus, "strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground" (Luke 22:4344).

Then Jesus arose from prayer and went back to Peter, James, and John, who were sleeping. He said to Peter, "What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation" (Matthew 26:4041; see also Mark 14:3738; Luke 22:4546).

Again Jesus went to pray, and again He returned to the three Apostles and found them asleep (see Matthew 26:4243; Mark 14:3940). "[Then] he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time. ... Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners" (Matthew 26:4445; see also Mark 14:41).

In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus suffered for our sins.

SummaryFollowing the Last Supper, Jesus and His Apostles went to the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus went off by Himself to pray. He knew that the time had come for Him to suffer for the sins of the world. He prayed that He might not have to experience such suffering but told Heavenly Father that He would do the Father's will. Jesus prayed more earnestly, and He sweat great drops of blood as He atoned for our sins. Jesus had asked Peter, James, and John to wait nearby and watch while He prayed, but they were unable to stay awake. When Jesus finished praying, He came to them and told them that He was about to be taken away by wicked men.

57 - The CrucifixionMatthew 27:3350; Mark 15:2237; Luke 23:3246; John 19:1737And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him. Luke 23:33

Jesus was taken to a hill called Golgotha or Calvary to be crucified. Roman soldiers nailed His hands and feet to a cross and raised it between two thieves who were also crucified. (See Matthew 27:3335, Matthew 27:38; Mark 15:22, Mark 15:27; Luke 23:33; John 19:1718.)

As the Roman soldiers finished their awful task, Jesus prayed with great mercy, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34).

The guards and the soldiers made fun of Jesus. Some said, "If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself" (Luke 23:37). The leaders of the Jews cried aloud, "He saved others; himself he cannot save" (Matthew 27:42; see also Mark 15:31). They said they would believe He was the Messiah if He would come down from the cross. People passing by called out, "If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross" (Matthew 27:40; see also Matthew 27:3943; Mark 15:2932; Luke 23:3537).

One thief hanging by Jesus said, "If thou be Christ, save thyself and us" (Luke 23:39). The other thief reminded his companion that they were being crucified justly, but Jesus had done nothing wrong. This thief said to Jesus, "Remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom" (Luke 23:42). Jesus answered, "To day shalt thou be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43).

Jesus' mother, Mary, came to Calvary. The Apostle John was also there. Jesus looked down at His mother and said to her, "Woman, behold thy son," and to John, "Behold thy mother" (John 19:2627). Jesus wanted John to take care of Mary. John led Mary away from the cross and "took her into his own home" (John 19:27).

At noonday, about three hours after Jesus was nailed to the cross, darkness spread across the land (see Matthew 27:45; Mark 15:33; Luke 23:4445). About three hours later, Jesus cried, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46, see also Mark 15:34). Jesus' suffering was almost more than He could stand. The Savior atoned for us by suffering in Gethsemane and by giving His life on the cross. Heavenly Father had to let Him do it alone. (See Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34.)

Having accomplished His mission, Jesus exclaimed, "It is finished" (John 19:30). Then He said, "Father, into thy hands I commend [give] my spirit." Jesus bowed His head and gave up His life. (See Matthew 27:50; Mark 15:37; Luke 23:46; John 19:30.)

SummaryJesus was taken to a place called Calvary. Roman soldiers nailed His hands and feet to a cross and raised it between two thieves. Having mercy for the soldiers, Jesus asked Heavenly Father to forgive them. Jesus hung, suffering pain, thirst, and ridicule. One of the thieves taunted Jesus, but the other defended Him. When Jesus saw that His mother, Mary, had come to Calvary, He asked the Apostle John to care for her. Later, as Jesus continued to suffer, He cried out to Heavenly Father, asking why the Father had forsaken Him. This great anguish was part of the Savior's suffering to pay for our sins. When His mission had been fulfilled, Jesus gave up His life.

58 – Burial of JesusAfter Jesus died, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, another disciple of Jesus, took the body down from the cross and prepared it for burial according to Jewish burial custom. They laid Jesus' body in Joseph's new sepulchre (tomb), which was in a garden near where Jesus was crucified. They then rolled a stone against the tomb doorway. (See Matthew 27:5960; Mark 15:46; Luke 23:53; John 19:3942.)

The Pharisees and chief priests, afraid that the followers of Jesus would try to steal His body and then claim that He had been resurrected, asked Pilate to place guards around the tomb. When Pilate agreed, "they ... made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch" (Matthew 27:66; see also Matthew 27:6265).

On the third day after Jesus' death (on the first day of the week), Mary Magdalene and several other women went to the tomb to put spices and ointments on the body of Jesus. When they arrived, they saw that the stone had been rolled away from the sepulchre and that Jesus' body was gone. (See Matthew 28:12; Mark 16:14; Luke 24:13, Luke 24:10; John 20:1.) As they entered the tomb, they saw a "young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment. ... And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here" (Mark 16:56; see also Matthew 28:27; Luke 24:47).

When Mary Magdalene saw that the tomb was empty, "she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him" (John 20:2). Peter and John followed Mary back to the tomb and saw for themselves that the burial clothes were there but the body of Jesus was gone (see John 20:39).

SummaryAfter Jesus was crucified, His disciples laid His body in a new tomb. A large stone was rolled in front of the opening. The Pharisees and chief priests were afraid Jesus' followers would take away the body and claim He had risen from the dead, so they posted guards at the tomb. On the third day after Jesus died, Mary Magdalene and several other women went to the tomb. The stone had been rolled away, and Jesus' body was gone. A young man clothed in white told them that Jesus was risen. Mary Magdalene ran to tell Peter and John that Jesus' body had been taken away. They went back to the tomb with her and found it empty except for Jesus' burial clothes.

59 - Mary and the Resurrected LordJohn 20:1018Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. John 20:16

Having found Jesus' tomb empty on the third day after His death, Mary Magdalene ran to tell Peter and John. They went back with her and saw for themselves that Jesus' body was not there. After Peter and John went home, Mary stood weeping outside the empty tomb. She looked into the sepulchre and saw two angels in white. Both were sitting where Jesus' body had lain. The angels asked Mary why she was crying. She said, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him" (John 20:13; see also John 20:1012).

Mary turned away and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not recognize Him. He asked her why she was crying and whom she was looking for. Mary thought He was the gardener or caretaker and said, "Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away" (John 20:15; see also John 20:14).

Then Jesus said, "Mary." Mary turned and recognized Him and cried, "Rabboni," which means Master. (See John 20:16.)

Jesus asked Mary not to touch Him because He had not yet ascended to His Father in Heaven. He told her to go to the Apostles and tell them that she had seen Him. Jesus said, "Say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God" (John 20:17).

Mary hurried to tell the Apostles that she had seen the Lord and that He had spoken to her (see John 20:18).

SummaryMary Magdalene stood weeping outside Jesus' tomb. She stooped to look inside and saw two angels, who asked her why she wept. Mary said she did not know where Jesus' body had been taken. As she turned back, Mary noticed someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she did not recognize Him until He spoke her name. The Savior explained that He had not yet ascended to His Father in Heaven and asked her to tell the Apostles the things He said to her. Mary ran quickly to tell the Apostles that she had seen the risen Lord.

60 - Jesus Shows His WoundsLuke 24:3643; John 20:1920, John 20:24Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. Luke 24:39

The Sunday evening after Jesus was resurrected, the Apostles and some other disciples were gathered together discussing the Resurrection. Suddenly Jesus appeared to them and said, "Peace be unto you" (Luke 24:36; see also John 20:19).

They were frightened because they thought they were seeing a spirit. Jesus asked, "Why are ye troubled?" (Luke 24:38; see also Luke 24:37).

"Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have" (Luke 24:39).

Jesus showed them the wounds in His hands, feet, and side. To further prove to them that He was not a spirit but had a body, Jesus asked for something to eat. They gave Jesus a piece of broiled fish and a piece of honeycomb, and He ate in front of them. They were happy to see the Savior and to know He had been resurrected. (See Luke 24:4043; John 20:20.)

SummaryNot long after His Resurrection, Jesus appeared to the Apostles and some other disciples. They were frightened because they thought He was a spirit. Jesus showed them the wounds in His hands, feet, and side and invited the members of the group to touch Him so they would know He was not just a spirit. Jesus also asked for food and ate fish and honey to show that He had a resurrected body. The Apostles and other disciples rejoiced to see their risen Lord.

61 - Go Ye ThereforeMatthew 28:1620; Mark 16:1420Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Matthew 28:19

After Jesus was resurrected, He appeared to the Apostles. He told them He was disappointed because they had not believed those who said they had seen Him after His Resurrection. He reminded them that He had great power both in heaven and on earth. Then He expanded their missionary callings, saying, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19; see also Matthew 28:1618; Mark 16:14). He also told them that only those people who believed and were baptized would be saved (see Mark 16:16).

After Jesus ascended into heaven, the Apostles "went forth, and preached every where," and the Spirit of the Lord was with them (see Mark 16:1920).

SummaryAfter Jesus was resurrected, He appeared to the Apostles. He told them to teach the gospel to all the world. After Jesus ascended into heaven, the Apostles went forth to preach the gospel as the Savior had commanded them.

62 - The Ascension of JesusActs 1:311Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? Acts 1:11

For 40 days after His Resurrection, Jesus met with the Apostles and spoke to them about the kingdom of God. After He had finished teaching them, He promised that the power of the Holy Ghost would come upon them and they would be witnesses of the Savior. (See Acts 1:38.)

Then the Apostles watched as Jesus was taken up into heaven and a cloud took Him out of sight. Two angels dressed in white suddenly stood by them and asked why they were looking up into heaven. The angels told the Apostles about the Second Coming of Jesus, when the Savior would come in a way similar to the one He had just left. (See Acts 1:911.)

SummaryJesus taught His Apostles for 40 days after His Resurrection. He promised them the power of the Holy Ghost and that they would be witnesses of the Savior. Then, as the Apostles watched, Jesus was taken up into heaven. Two angels appeared and declared to the Apostles that Jesus would come again.

63 – Stephen Sees Jesus on the Right Hand of GodAfter Jesus was resurrected, His Apostles continued to teach the gospel, and many people believed and were baptized. Some Jewish leaders also believed and followed Jesus’ teachings. The work kept the Apostles busy, and they did not have enough time to do all that was necessary in the Church, so they chose and ordained seven good men to assist them. One of the seven men chosen was Stephen, “a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost.” Stephen’s calling was very special to him, and he preached the gospel and performed through the power of the priesthood “great wonders and miracles among the people.”

Unfortunately, many Jews were angered by Stephen’s preaching. They did not believe that Jesus was the Savior, and they accused Stephen of blasphemy. Some of these nonbelievers brought Stephen before the Sanhedrin, a court of Jewish leaders. An unlawful trial was held, and some of the people lied about Stephen, hoping to get him into trouble. But even though Stephen was falsely accused, he remained strong, faithful, and forgiving. He knew that God was with him.

During the trial Stephen’s face was like the face of an angel, for the power of God was with him. In answering the charges of the council, Stephen did not try to defend himself but instead spoke of the history of Israel and told the people that they were not obeying God’s commandments.

The people were angry. They hated Stephen for telling them the truth. They became violent and wanted to attack Stephen. But Stephen, full of the Holy Ghost, looked steadfastly toward heaven and declared, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.”

The wicked people could not see Stephen’s glorious vision, so they did not believe him. In their terrible anger they cast him outside the walls of the city. Leaving their coats at the feet of a young Jewish leader named Saul, they gathered rocks and stoned Stephen.

The stones painfully cut and bruised Stephen’s body, and he knew he was going to die. But he was not afraid, for he knew he would be with Jesus again. Courageously Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”

Feeling no anger toward his murderers, Stephen humbly cried out before he died, “Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.”

64 – Jesus Carrying a Lost LambLuke 15 3 -7 And he spake this parable unto them, saying,   4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine ain the wilderness, and go after that which is blost, until he find it?

  5 And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.

  6 And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.

  7 I say unto you, that likewise ajoy shall be in heaven over one bsinner that crepenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

65 - Jesus at the DoorRevelation 3:20Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Revelation 3:20

In a revelation given to the Apostle John, Jesus said, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him" (Acts 3:20).

Jesus wants everyone to believe in Him and receive the blessings that come to His righteous followers. He is ready and waiting to help everyone. He gives people the opportunity to learn about Him and accept His teachings. Those who have faith in Jesus can open the door to Him by repenting, being baptized, and living righteously. These faithful followers will receive the great blessing of eternal life with Jesus and Heavenly Father.

SummaryJesus stands at the door ready to help us, but we need to invite Him into our lives. By having faith in Him, repenting, being baptized, and following His commandments, we open the door to the great blessing of eternal life with Him and Heavenly Father.

66 - The Second ComingMalachi 4:1; Matthew 24:30, Matthew 24:36; Acts 1:11; D&C 5:19; D&C 29:11, D&C 29:13; D&C 88:9697; D&C 133:10, D&C 133:20, D&C 133:25, D&C 133:4849For I will reveal myself from heaven with power and great glory, with all the hosts thereof, and dwell in righteousness with men on earth a thousand years. D&C 29:11

At the time the Savior ascended into heaven, two angels dressed in white stood by His Apostles and said, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven" (Acts 1:11).

Jesus will return to the earth again, but His Second Coming will be dramatically different from His humble birth in Bethlehem. When He comes again, He will descend in power and great glory (see Matthew 24:30; D&C 29:11). His glory will be so great "that the sun shall hide his face in shame, and the moon shall withhold its light, and the stars shall be hurled from their places" (D&C 133:49).

The Second Coming will be a terrible day for the wicked. Those who have not repented will be burned and destroyed by the brightness of Jesus' coming. (See Malachi 4:1; D&C 5:19.)

The Savior's appearance will be a glorious day for the righteous. Those Saints who are on the earth will be changed and caught up to meet the Savior, while the righteous who have died will come out of their graves and be caught up to meet Him. (See D&C 29:13; D&C 88:9697.)

No one except Heavenly Father knows when Jesus will come the second time (see Matthew 24:36). But when He comes, He will be dressed in red and will appear in many places: "He shall stand upon the mount of Olivet, and upon the mighty ocean, even the great deep, and upon the islands of the sea, and upon the land of Zion" (D&C 133:20; see also D&C 133:48). He will stand among His people and rule over all the earth (D&C 133:25).

The Lord told us, "Prepare yourselves for the great day of the Lord" (D&C 133:10).

SummaryWhen Jesus ascended into heaven, angels told His Apostles that He would someday return. This event will be the Second Coming. No one but God knows when Jesus will come again, but the scriptures say He will come with power and great glory. It will be a terrible day for the wicked and a time of great joy for the righteous. Jesus will live among His people and rule over the earth for a thousand years of peace. The Lord has told us to prepare for the great day of His return.

Book Of Mormon

67 – Lehi Prophesying to the People of Jerusalem1 Nephi 1:420Behold he went forth among the people, and began to prophesy and to declare unto them concerning the things which he had both seen and heard. 1 Nephi 1:18

Many prophets told the people living in Jerusalem that they must repent or the city would be destroyed. The prophet Lehi lived in Jerusalem and was concerned about his people. He prayed for them with all his heart. (See 1 Nephi 1:45.)

As Lehi prayed, a pillar of fire appeared on a rock in front of him. He saw and heard many things that made him shake and tremble. Overcome by the Spirit, Lehi returned home and lay on his bed. Then Jesus Christ appeared to him in a vision. Jesus gave Lehi a book that told what would happen to the Jews if they did not repent. As Lehi read the book, he was filled with the Spirit of the Lord. He learned that many people would be killed and others would be taken captive when Jerusalem was destroyed. He also read about many great and marvelous events that would happen. Lehi praised the Lord for the goodness and mercy He shows to those who repent. (See 1 Nephi 1:615.)

After this vision Lehi went among the people of Jerusalem to prophesy and declare what he had seen and heard. He told them of the Messiah, who would come to redeem the world. The people mocked Lehi as he told them of their wickedness and the things he had read in the book. They became angry and tried to kill Lehi, but the Lord protected him. (See 1 Nephi 1:1820.)

SummaryThe prophet Lehi lived in Jerusalem about 600 years before the time of Christ. Many prophets were telling the people to repent or the city would be destroyed. Lehi received a vision in which he learned that many people would be killed or taken captive when Jerusalem was destroyed. Lehi prophesied to the people and told them about the things he had seen and heard, and he warned them about their wickedness. He also told them about the coming of a Messiah, or Savior. When the Jews heard these things, they were angry and tried to kill Lehi, but the Lord protected him.

68 – The Liahona1 Nephi 16:6, 1 Nephi 16:910, 1 Nephi 16:16, 1 Nephi 16:2829; Alma 37:38And it came to pass that as my father arose in the morning, and went forth to the tent door, to his great astonishment he beheld upon the ground a round ball of curious workmanship. 1 Nephi 16:10

After Lehi and his family left Jerusalem, they camped in a valley that Lehi named Lemuel. One night the Lord spoke to Lehi, commanding him to continue his journey into the wilderness the next day. (See 1 Nephi 16:6, 1 Nephi 16:9.)

The following morning Lehi went to the tent door and, to his amazement, found a strange round ball on the ground (see 1 Nephi 16:10). The ball was called the Liahona, which means "compass" (see Alma 37:38).

The Liahona was made of fine brass, and inside the ball were two spindles. One of the spindles pointed the direction Lehi and his family were to travel. (See 1 Nephi 16:10.) They followed the directions in the ball and were led through "the more fertile parts of the wilderness" (1 Nephi 16:16). They found that the pointers worked according to their faith, work, and obedience (see 1 Nephi 16:28).

The ball also contained writings that helped them understand the ways of the Lord. This writing changed from time to time as they believed and obeyed the Lord's instructions. (See 1 Nephi 16:29.)

SummaryThe Liahona was an unusual compass, round like a ball and made of fine brass. The prophet Lehi discovered it one morning at the door of his tent in the wilderness. The Liahona pointed the direction that Lehi and his family should travel. It also contained written messages that helped them understand the ways of the Lord. The Liahona worked according to their faith, work, and obedience.

69 – Lehi’s DreamLehi told his family about an important vision that he received in a dream. Lehi’s dream made him feel happy for Nephi and Sam, but sad for Laman and Lemuel. 1 Ne. 8:2–4

Lehi saw a man dressed in a white robe, who told Lehi to follow him. Lehi dreamed that he followed him into a dark and dreary wilderness. 1 Ne. 8:5–7

After traveling for many hours in darkness, Lehi prayed for help. 1 Ne. 8:8–9

After praying, Lehi saw a tree. The tree had white fruit on it. This sweet, white fruit made those who ate it happy. 1 Ne. 8:10–11 Lehi tasted the fruit, and it filled him with joy. Lehi wanted his family to eat some of the fruit, because he knew that it would make them happy also. 1 Ne. 8:12

Lehi saw a river of water near the tree. At the head of the river he saw Sariah, Sam, and Nephi. 1 Ne. 8:13–14

Lehi called to his wife and sons to come and taste the fruit. Sariah, Sam, and Nephi came and tasted the fruit, but Laman and Lemuel would not come. 1 Ne. 8:15–18

Lehi also saw a rod of iron and a strait and narrow path leading to the tree. 1 Ne. 8:19–20

He saw many people walking toward the path. Some started on the path. Because of a mist of darkness, some let go of the iron rod and became lost. 1 Ne. 8:21–23

Some held tightly to the rod of iron and were able to get through the darkness to the tree. Then they ate the fruit of the tree. 1 Ne. 8:24

People in a large building on the other side of the river made fun of those who ate the fruit. Some who ate the fruit became ashamed and went away and were lost. 1 Ne. 8:25–28

Lehi saw many people. Some took hold of the iron rod. They came through the darkness and tasted the fruit. Other people were headed for the large building. Some were drowned or lost.

Laman and Lemuel would not come and eat the fruit. Lehi was worried about them. He tried to help them believe in the gospel and obey God’s commandments. 1 Ne. 8:29–38

70 – Nephi Subdues His Rebellious Brothers1 Nephi 17And it came to pass that I stretched forth my hand unto my brethren, and ... the Lord did shake them, even according to the word which he had spoken. 1 Nephi 17:54

After leaving Jerusalem, Lehi's people traveled in the wilderness for eight years. They came to a land where there was much fruit and wild honey. They pitched their tents by the seashore. (See 1 Nephi 17:16.)

After they had been there for many days, the Lord told Nephi, "Arise, and get thee into the mountain" (1 Nephi 17:7). Nephi climbed the mountain and prayed. The Lord said to him, "Construct a ship, after the manner which I shall show thee, that I may carry thy people across these waters" (1 Nephi 17:8).

The Lord told Nephi how to build the ship. When Laman and Lemuel saw that Nephi was going to build a ship, they said he was a fool. They did not want to help Nephi, nor did they believe the Lord had told him to build a ship. (See 1 Nephi 17:911, 1 Nephi 17:1618.)

Laman and Lemuel also thought Lehi was foolish for having led them around in the wilderness when they could have enjoyed their riches in Jerusalem. The brothers insisted that the people back in Jerusalem were righteous, not wicked as Lehi claimed. (See 1 Nephi 17:2022.)

Nephi told his brothers the Lord had commanded their father to leave Jerusalem. He said they had sought to kill their father. They had seen an angel, and the Lord had spoken to them. But they were "past feeling,"

so the Lord's words did not touch their hearts. Nephi told Laman and Lemuel that he was afraid that they would be cast out of God's presence forever. (See 1 Nephi 17:4447.)

Laman and Lemuel became angry and wanted to throw Nephi into the sea. When they tried to grab him, Nephi said, "Touch me not, for I am filled with the power of God" (1 Nephi 17:48). He said if they did touch him, they would die. Nephi said they were to help with the ship Heavenly Father had commanded him to build. (See 1 Nephi 17:4849.)

For many days Nephi's brothers did not dare touch him. Then the Lord told Nephi to stretch forth his hand to his brothers. The Lord said they would not die but would feel a shock. This would remind them that the Lord was their God. (See 1 Nephi 17:5253.)

Nephi reached out his hand to them, and they were shaken. Laman and Lemuel said, "We know of a surety that the Lord is with thee, for we know that it is the power of the Lord that has shaken us" (1 Nephi 17:55). They wanted to worship Nephi, but he told them, "Worship the Lord thy God, and honor thy father and thy mother" (1 Nephi 17:55).

SummaryAfter traveling in the wilderness for eight years, Lehi's people arrived at the sea. The Lord told Nephi to build a ship to carry the group across the ocean. His brothers Laman and Lemuel said Nephi could not build a ship, and they would not help. They also complained against their father, Lehi. As Nephi accused them of hard hearts, they became angry and wanted to throw him into the sea. Nephi warned his brothers that he was filled with God's power. If they touched him, they would die. He told them not to complain anymore and to help build the ship. Later the Lord told Nephi to reach out his hand to his brothers so they would receive a shock, reminding them of the Lord's power. When Nephi did so, Laman and Lemuel were shaken and testified that the Lord was with Nephi.

71 – Lehi and His People Arrive in the Promised Land1 Nephi 18:524And it came to pass that after we had sailed for the space of many days we did arrive at the promised land. 1 Nephi 18:23

The Lord spoke to Lehi and told him it was time to take his people into the ship. Lehi's people prepared fruits, meat, honey, seeds, and other supplies for the journey, and then all the men, women, and children went into the ship. The wind blew them toward the promised land. (See 1 Nephi 18:58.)

After sailing for many days, Laman and Lemuel and the sons of Ishmael and their wives began to dance and sing with rudeness. They forgot that it was God's power that was taking them to the promised land. Nephi was afraid the Lord would be angry and cause the ship to be swallowed in the sea. He spoke to those who were singing and dancing so rudely, but they became angry with him. Laman and Lemuel did not like their younger brother telling them what to do. They took Nephi and tied him up. After they did this, the compass—the Liahona—stopped working, and they did not know where to steer the ship. (See 1 Nephi 18:913.)

A great storm arose, and for three days they were driven back on the waters. Although Laman and Lemuel were afraid they were going to drown, they would not untie Nephi. Lehi spoke to Laman and Lemuel and the others, but they were rude to him and threatened him. They treated Lehi and Sariah so badly that they became sick. Nephi's younger brothers, Jacob and Joseph, were not given the nourishment they needed because of their mother's afflictions. Nephi's wife and children cried and prayed that Nephi would be released. (See 1 Nephi 18:13, 1 Nephi 18:1719.)

After four days of this terrible storm, Laman and Lemuel realized that God's judgments were upon them and that they would be killed if they did not repent. Finally they went to Nephi and untied him. His wrists and ankles were swollen and sore because of the tight cords that had been around them. (See 1 Nephi 18:15.)

Nephi picked up the Liahona, and it began to work again. Then he prayed, and the wind and the storm stopped. The sea became calm once more. (See 1 Nephi 18:21.)

Nephi guided the ship, and after many days they arrived in the promised land. They went out onto the land, put up their tents, and began to prepare the soil and plant the seeds they had brought with them. (See 1 Nephi 18:2224.)

SummaryAfter many days of sailing, some of Lehi's family began to behave rudely and to forget the Lord. Nephi was afraid the Lord would not be pleased and warned his brothers. Laman and Lemuel became angry that Nephi was telling them what to do, so they tied him up. The Liahona stopped working, and no one could guide the ship. A great storm raged, but Lehi and some of the others could not get Laman and Lemuel to untie Nephi. On the fourth day, Laman and Lemuel realized they were about to be destroyed by the storm. At last they freed Nephi, and the Liahona began to work. Nephi prayed, and the sea became calm. He guided the ship, and after many days they reached the promised land.

72 – Enos PrayingEnos 1My soul hungered; and I kneeled down before my Maker, and I cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication. Enos 1:4

Enos was Jacob's son. One day Enos went into the forest to hunt animals. He began thinking about the teachings of his father. He had often heard his father talk about eternal life and the joy of those who keep God's commandments. (See Enos 1:1, Enos 1:3.)

Enos wanted to have that joy. He knelt down and prayed to Heavenly Father to forgive him of his sins. Enos prayed all day and into the night. (See Enos 1:4.)

While Enos was praying, he heard the voice of the Lord say to him, "Enos, thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou shalt be blessed" (Enos 1:5).

Enos knew his sins were forgiven (see Enos 1:6). He was very grateful and asked, "Lord, how is it done?" (Enos 1:7).

The Lord answered, "Because of thy faith in Christ" (Enos 1:8).

Enos wanted all the Nephites to feel the joy he felt, so he prayed for them. The voice of the Lord again came to his mind. The Lord said He would bless the Nephites if they kept His commandments. (See Enos 1:910.)

Then Enos prayed for his enemies, the Lamanites. He wanted the records of his people to be preserved so that someday the Lamanites would read them and believe. The Lord said to Enos, "I will grant unto thee according to thy desires, because of thy faith" (Enos 1:12; see also Enos 1:1116).

Enos was happy. He spent the rest of his life preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. (See Enos 1:17, Enos 1:19, Enos 1:26.)

SummaryAs Enos went into the forest to hunt, he remembered what his father had taught him about eternal life and the joy of the Saints. Enos wanted to have that joy. He knelt down and prayed all day long and into the night. The Lord said to Enos that his sins were forgiven and that he would be blessed. Enos then prayed for the Nephites, and the Lord told him they would be blessed if they were righteous. Finally Enos prayed for his enemies, the Lamanites, and asked that the Nephite records would be kept safe and help the Lamanites someday. The Lord said He would do as Enos asked because of Enos's faith.

73 – Mormon Abridging the PlatesWords of Mormon 1:111; Helaman 3:14; 3 Nephi 5:917; 3 Nephi 26:12; Mormon 1:15; Mormon 6:6; Mormon 7; Mormon 8:1I make [my record] according to the knowledge and the understanding which God has given me. Words of Mormon 1:9

Several hundred years after Jesus visited the Nephites, a Nephite prophet and military commander named Mormon received the Nephite records. Mormon took a portion of the records and abridged, or summarized, them. To this he added a small, unabridged portion, as well as his own history. This collection of records is called the Book of Mormon because he was its main editor and writer. (See Words of Mormon 1:111; 3 Nephi 5:917; Mormon 1:15.)

In his abridgment, Mormon could not "write the hundredth part" of the history of his people (see Words of Mormon 1:5; Helaman 3:14). However, he did include material that would help people learn about Jesus Christ and believe in Him. To those of the latter days, Mormon wrote: "Repent, and be baptized in the name of Jesus, and lay hold upon the gospel of Christ, which shall be set before you, not only in this record [the Book of Mormon] but also in the record [the Bible] which shall come unto the Gentiles from the Jews, which record shall come from the Gentiles unto you" (Mormon 7:8; see all of Moroni 7).

Mormon's mission came by commandment of the Lord (see 3 Nephi 26:12), and he was guided by the Spirit in his work with the records (see Words of Mormon 1:7). Near the end of his life, Mormon hid most of the records in the Hill Cumorah and gave the rest to his son, Moroni, who finished the work begun by his father (see Words of Mormon 1:1; Mormon 6:6; Mormon 8:1).

SummaryMormon was the main editor and writer of what is known as the Book of Mormon. Having been commanded of the Lord, Mormon abridged, or summarized, a portion of the Nephite records. His abridgment does not contain even a "hundredth part" of his people's history, but it does contain important teachings about Jesus Christ and His gospel. Besides this abridgment—which forms the main part of the Book of Mormon—Mormon and later his son, Moroni, were inspired to include other writings. The resulting book of scripture stands alongside the Bible as another testament of Jesus Christ.

74 – King Benjamin Addresses His PeopleMosiah 16Behold, I have things to tell you concerning that which is to come. Mosiah 3:1

Before he died, King Benjamin called all his people together. He wanted to tell them his son Mosiah would be their next king, and he wanted to encourage them to live the gospel. (See Mosiah 1:910.)

The people gathered from all over the land (see Mosiah 1:18). Each family put up their tents with the doors facing the temple. There were so many people that King Benjamin had a high tower built to help them hear his words. (See Mosiah 2:12, Mosiah 2:57.) When he began to speak from the tower, many people still could not hear him, so he had his teachings written down (see Mosiah 2:8).

King Benjamin taught the people, "When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God" (Mosiah 2:17). He also taught them to keep the commandments. He said the Lord had chosen his son Mosiah to be their next king. (See Mosiah 2:1831, Mosiah 2:41.)

King Benjamin told the people that an angel had told him Jesus would be born and His mother's name would be Mary (see Mosiah 3:2, Mosiah 3:8). He also taught them that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. King Benjamin said Jesus would suffer and die for the sins of all people and then be resurrected. He told the people to repent and believe in Christ. (See Mosiah 3:912.)

The people fell to the ground, asking Heavenly Father to forgive them for their sins, saying, "For we believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, ... who shall come down among the children of men" (Mosiah 4:2). The Spirit of the Lord came upon them, and they were filled with peace and joy (see Mosiah 4:13).

King Benjamin continued encouraging the people to believe in God's great wisdom and power. He told them to be kind to each other and to teach their children to love and serve one another. (See Mosiah 4:9, Mosiah 4:1315.) King Benjamin told the people to continue having faith in the coming of the Lord. (See Mosiah 4:30.)

When King Benjamin finished speaking, he asked the people if they believed what he had told them. They all said they did. (See Mosiah 5:12.) The people knew his words were true because the Holy Ghost caused a "mighty change" in their hearts and they wanted to do good and not evil (see Mosiah 5:2).

King Benjamin took the names of those who wanted to make a covenant, or promise, with Heavenly Father to obey Him. Every person, except the little children, made this covenant. They took upon themselves the name of Christ. King Benjamin then made Mosiah king. (See Mosiah 6:13.) "And King Benjamin lived three [more] years and he died" (Mosiah 6:5).

SummaryBefore he died, King Benjamin gathered his people to the temple to speak to them. Speaking from a tower, he taught his people to serve one another and to keep the commandments. He spoke about Jesus Christ, who would suffer and die for the sins of all and be resurrected. When he finished speaking, King Benjamin took the names of all who promised Heavenly Father to keep the commandments. King Benjamin then made his son Mosiah king over the people.

75 – Abinadi before King NoahMosiah 1117Now it came to pass after Abinadi had spoken these words that the people of king Noah durst not lay their hands on him, for the Spirit of the Lord was upon him. Mosiah 13:5

King Noah was evil and led his people into wickedness (see Mosiah 11:14). The Lord sent a prophet named Abinadi to tell King Noah and his people to repent. Abinadi warned that if they did not repent, their enemies would conquer them. King Noah and his people were angry with Abinadi and wanted to kill him, but the Lord protected him. (See Mosiah 11:2029.)

Two years later Abinadi returned to Noah's people. He said because they had not repented, their enemies would conquer them. If they did not repent after that, they would be destroyed. The people were angry and took Abinadi to King Noah, who threw Abinadi into prison. Then the king and his wicked priests questioned him. Abinadi answered all their questions and told King Noah and his priests they were teaching false things and needed to repent. (See Mosiah 12:12, Mosiah 12:9, Mosiah 12:1719, Mosiah 12:2637.)

King Noah was angry and ordered that Abinadi be put to death. But Abinadi said, "God shall smite you if ye lay your hands upon me, for I have not delivered the message which the Lord sent me to deliver" (Mosiah 13:3; see also Mosiah 13:12).

The Lord's Spirit rested on Abinadi so strongly his face shone with light. He spoke "with power and authority from God" as he declared the rest of his message. (See Mosiah 13:56.) He read the Ten Commandments to King Noah and his priests. He also taught them about Jesus and the Atonement. Again he called on them to repent. (See Mosiah 13:535; see also Mosiah 1416.)

After Abinadi finished speaking, King Noah ordered his guards to put him in prison (see Mosiah 17:1, Mosiah 17:5). Three days later King Noah brought Abinadi before him. King Noah told Abinadi he would kill him unless he took back what he had said against him and his people. Abinadi said he would never deny the truth. King Noah feared that what Abinadi had said would come true. The king was about to release him, but the priests made King Noah angry again against Abinadi. (See Mosiah 17:612.)

The guards tied Abinadi up and beat him. Then they burned him with fire. As Abinadi died, he again warned the people to repent and believe in God. He said King Noah would also suffer death by fire. Abinadi gave his life as a witness of the truth. (See Mosiah 17:1320.)

SummaryThe Lord sent the prophet Abinadi to tell wicked King Noah and his people to repent. The people were angry at Abinadi and brought him before the king. When Abinadi was questioned by the king's priests, he spoke boldly against their wickedness. This angered King Noah, who ordered Abinadi killed. But no one dared touch Abinadi, for the Lord's Spirit was upon him. He spoke with power and authority. He taught the Ten Commandments, testified of Jesus Christ, and again called for repentance. After Abinadi finished delivering the message God wanted him to teach, King Noah had Abinadi killed.

76 – Alma Baptizes in the Waters of MormonMosiah 17:24; Mosiah 18:117Yea, and they were baptized in the waters of Mormon, and were filled with the grace of God. Mosiah 18:16

Alma, one of the priests of wicked King Noah, heard Abinadi preach the word of God to the king. Alma believed Abinadi's teachings and asked King Noah not to harm Abinadi. King Noah became angry and threw Alma out from among his people. Then the king sent servants to kill Alma. Alma hid for many days, and the servants did not find him. While hiding, Alma wrote down everything Abinadi had taught. (See Mosiah 17:24.)

Alma repented of his sins and went around privately teaching the people Abinadi's message. He taught them about Jesus Christ and His mission. Many believed Alma. After a number of days a large group had gathered to Mormon, a place on the border of the land, to hear Alma preach. This place had a fountain of pure water running by a thicket of small trees. In the daytime Alma hid here from the king's servants. Alma taught the people about repentance and faith in the Lord. (See Mosiah 18:17.)

The people believed the things Alma taught, and they desired to be called the people of God. Alma said that if this was their desire, they should be baptized. The people understood and joyfully accepted their responsibility to "bear one another's burdens," "mourn with those that mourn," "comfort those that stand in need of comfort," and "stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places ... even until death" (Mosiah 18:89).

Being baptized would show that the people wanted to covenant with God to serve Him and keep His commandments. Then He would pour out His Spirit more fully upon them. (See Mosiah 18:10.)

When the people heard this, "they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is the desire of our hearts" (Mosiah 18:11).

Alma led a man named Helam into the Waters of Mormon. Alma said the baptismal prayer, and then both he and Helam went entirely under the water. Alma then baptized the others, but he did not go under the water again. About 204 people were baptized. From that time on they were called the Church of Christ. (See Mosiah 18:1217.)SummaryAlma, one of the priests of King Noah, believed Abinadi. He repented of his sins and began to secretly teach the words of Abinadi to all who would listen. Many gathered at the Waters of Mormon, and Alma taught them of repentance and faith in the Lord. He asked if they wanted to be baptized, which would show their desire to serve God and keep His commandments. Clapping their hands for joy, the people said that this was what they wanted to do. With authority from God, Alma baptized about 204 people. From that time on they were called the Church of Christ.

77 – Conversion of Alma the YoungerI was in the darkest abyss; but now I behold the marvelous light of God. Mosiah 27:29

The first Alma mentioned in the Book of Mormon was a priest of wicked King Noah who later became a prophet and leader of the Church in Zarahemla after hearing the words of Abinadi. Many people believed his words and were baptized. But the four sons of King Mosiah and the son of the prophet Alma, who was also called Alma, were unbelievers; they persecuted those who believed in Christ and tried to destroy the Church through false teachings. Many Church members were deceived by these teachings and led to sin because of the wickedness of Alma the Younger. (See Mosiah 27:110.)

As Alma and the sons of Mosiah continued to rebel against God, an angel of the Lord appeared to them, speaking to them with a voice as loud as thunder, which caused the earth to shake. They were so frightened that they fell to the ground. (See Mosiah 27:1112.) The angel "cried again, saying: Alma, arise and stand forth, for why persecutest thou the church of God?" (Mosiah 27:13).

The angel told Alma why he had come to him: "Behold, the Lord hath heard the prayers of his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the knowledge of the truth; therefore, for this purpose have I come to convince thee of the power and authority of God, that the prayers of his servants might be answered according to their faith" (Mosiah 27:14). Before the angel left, he told Alma to remember the power of God and to quit trying to destroy the Church (see Mosiah 27:16).

Alma the Younger and the four sons of Mosiah fell to the earth. They knew that the angel was sent from God and that the power of God had caused the ground to shake and tremble. Alma's astonishment was so great that he could not speak, and he was so weak that he could not move even his hands. The sons of Mosiah carried him to his father. (See Mosiah 27:1819.)

When Alma the Elder saw his son, he rejoiced because he knew what the Lord had done for him. Alma and the other Church leaders fasted and prayed for Alma the Younger. After two days and nights Alma regained his strength and was able to stand and speak to the people. He told them, "I have repented of my sins, and have been redeemed of the Lord; behold I am born of the Spirit" (Mosiah 27:24; see also Mosiah 27:2023).

From that time forth, Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah traveled throughout the land trying to undo the damage they had done to the Church, confessing their sins, telling what they had seen, and explaining the scriptures to all who wanted to hear them (see Mosiah 27:35). Alma spent the rest of his life teaching the principle of repentance and proclaiming the word of God.

SummaryAlma the Younger and the four sons of King Mosiah were trying to destroy the Church, and many people followed them. The prophet Alma and King Mosiah were worried about their sons and prayed for them. So did other members of the Church. The Lord heard their prayers, and one day an angel came to Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah. The angel told them to stop destroying the Church. From that time on Alma the Younger and the four sons of Mosiah repented and spent the rest of their lives teaching the word of God.

78 – Ammon Defends the Flocks of King LamoniAlma 17:1939; Alma 18Behold, every man that lifted his club to smite Ammon, he smote off their arms with his sword. Alma 17:37

Ammon went to the land of Ishmael to teach the gospel to the Lamanites. When he entered the land, the Lamanites tied him up and took him before King Lamoni. (See Alma 17:1921.) Ammon told the king he wanted to live with Lamoni's people. King Lamoni was pleased and freed Ammon. Ammon told the king he wished to be his servant, so King Lamoni sent him to tend his flocks. (See Alma 17:2225.)

Not long after, some Lamanite robbers scattered King Lamoni's flocks. Lamoni's servants were upset because they knew the king would have them put to death for losing his flocks. (See Alma 17:2628.)

Ammon realized this was an opportunity to be a missionary. He invited the servants to help him find the flocks. (See Alma 17:2931.)

After Ammon and the others had gathered the animals, however, the robbers came again. Ammon told his fellow servants to keep the flocks together while he fought the robbers. The robbers thought they could kill Ammon, but he had the Lord's protection. (See Alma 17:3335.)

Ammon used his sling to throw stones at the robbers, killing six. The men were astonished. They tried to kill him with stones but could not hit him. Then they came at him with clubs. But every time a robber lifted a club, Ammon cut off the man's arm with his sword. The remaining robbers became scared and ran away. (See Alma 17:3638.)

When King Lamoni learned what had happened, he was amazed. He thought Ammon was the Great Spirit. He asked where Ammon was. The servants said that Ammon was feeding the king's horses and preparing the chariots. King Lamoni was even more astonished. (See Alma 18:4, Alma 18:810.)

The king was afraid to ask Ammon to come to him because he thought Ammon was a god. When Ammon finished his work, he went to the king and asked what the king desired of him. But King Lamoni did not know what to say. (See Alma 18:1115.)

With the help of the Holy Ghost, Ammon knew the king's thoughts. Ammon asked King Lamoni if what he had done in defending the flocks was causing the king to marvel. The king wondered how Ammon could

know his thoughts and asked if he was the Great Spirit. Ammon said he was not; then the king asked him about the power he used against the robbers. (See Alma 18:1620.)

Ammon taught King Lamoni and his servants about Heavenly Father, the Creation of the earth, the scriptures, and the plan of salvation. The king believed Ammon. He prayed to the Lord for mercy. (See Alma 18:2441.)

SummaryAmmon served a mission to the Lamanites. He offered to be King Lamoni's servant and was sent to help guard the king's flocks. Wicked men scattered the flocks. The other servants were afraid, but Ammon convinced them to gather the animals. When the robbers came again, Ammon fought them, cutting off the arm of each man who lifted a club to attack him. The robbers became frightened and fled. King Lamoni was amazed at Ammon's power. Ammon told the king his power came from God. He taught King Lamoni the gospel, and the king believed.

79 – Captain Moroni Raises the Title of LibertyAlma 46:137He rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it—In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children—and he fastened it upon the end of a pole. Alma 46:12

Amalickiah was a wicked man who wanted to be king of the Nephites. His promises and flattery persuaded many rich and power-hungry people to support him. Even many Church members were deceived into following Amalickiah. (See Alma 46:17.)

When Moroni, the chief commander of the Nephite armies, heard what Amalickiah was doing, he became angry. He tore his coat to make a flag. On it he wrote: "In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children" (Alma 46:12; see also Alma 46:11). He fastened the flag to a pole and called it the title of liberty. Then, dressed in his battle armor, he prayed to God, asking Him to allow the people to keep the freedom they had. (See Alma 46:1213.)

When Moroni finished praying, he went among the people, waving the title of liberty in the air. He cried out, "Whosoever will maintain this title upon the land, let them come forth in the strength of the Lord, and enter into a covenant that they will maintain their rights, and their religion, that the Lord God may bless them" (Alma 46:20; see also Alma 46:19).

The people came running, dressed in their armor and tearing their cloaks as a symbol of the covenant they were making to obey the Lord. They gathered around Captain Moroni, ready to defend their freedom. (See Alma 46:21, Alma 46:28.)

When Amalickiah saw that Moroni's army was larger than his, he was afraid. He and his followers left to join the Lamanites. Moroni tried to stop them because he did not want them to stir up the Lamanites to battle. Amalickiah and a few of his men escaped, but Captain Moroni captured the others and took them back to Zarahemla. (See Alma 46:2933.)

Most of Amalickiah's captured followers were willing to covenant with Captain Moroni's people to defend freedom, and they were set free. Moroni placed a title of liberty on every tower in the Nephite land, and the Nephites again had peace. (See Alma 46:3537.)

SummaryAmalickiah was a wicked Nephite who wanted to be king, and he convinced many people to support him. When Moroni, chief commander of the Nephite armies, learned of this, he became angry; he knew that the people were in danger of losing their freedom. He tore his coat, wrote a message of freedom on it, and raised it as a flag he called the title of liberty. Moroni prayed for the blessing of freedom in the land. He then went forth, waving the title of liberty and calling on the Nephites to join him in protecting their freedom. Amalickiah and his followers fled to join the Lamanites. He and a few others escaped, but Moroni captured the remainder. Most of the captured persons then promised to defend freedom.

80 – Two Thousand Young Warriors

Alma 53:1021; Alma 56:4456; Alma 58:39And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all—they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted. Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him. Alma 53:2021

The people of Ammon, who were called the Anti-Nephi-Lehies, had covenanted with God never to kill, even in war. They lived in the land of Zarahemla, where Nephite armies protected them from the Lamanites. (See Alma 53:1012.)

However, as the Anti-Nephi-Lehies saw the danger and everything the Nephites suffered for them, they wanted to break their covenant and fight to defend themselves. But Helaman, the leader of the Church, persuaded them not to fight. He worried that they might lose their souls if they broke their covenants. (See Alma 53:1315.)

The Anti-Nephi-Lehies had many sons who had not made the covenant not to go to war. Two thousand of these young men gathered together and promised to defend the liberty of their people and the Nephites. They asked Helaman to be their leader. (See Alma 53:1619.)

Although they were young, these men were strong and brave. Most important, they were trustworthy and obeyed God's commandments; "they were men of truth" (Alma 53:21; see also Alma 53:20). Helaman called them his sons, and they called him father. When Helaman asked them if they were willing to go to battle, they answered, "Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth" (Alma 56:46; see also Alma 56:4445).

These brave young men did not fear death. They valued the freedom of their people more than their own lives. Their mothers had taught them that if they trusted in God, He would protect them. (See Alma 56:4748.)

Helaman led his young warriors in a terrible battle against the Lamanites. With the help of Helaman's army, the Nephites won the battle. Helaman feared that many of his sons had been killed, but to his great joy, he found that not one had been killed. The young men had fought with the strength of God, and He had protected them. (See Alma 56:49, Alma 56:5456; Alma 58:39.)

SummaryThe people of Ammon, or the Anti-Nephi-Lehies, had made a covenant never to kill. They lived in the land of Zarahemla under Nephite protection. Seeing what the Nephites suffered to defend them from the Lamanites, the Anti-Nephi-Lehies thought they should help and were about to break their covenant. Helaman, the leader of the Church, convinced them not to do this. However, the Anti-Nephi-Lehies had many sons who had not made the covenant, and 2,000 of them decided to fight for the liberty of the Nephites. They asked Helaman to lead them in battle. They fought the Lamanites with great courage and faith, trusting in the Lord. With the help of Helaman's army, the Nephites won a terrible battle. To Helaman's great joy, not one of the young warriors was killed.

81 – Samuel the Lamanite on the WallHelaman 1315; Helaman 16:18But as many as there were who did not believe in the words of Samuel were angry with him; and they cast stones at him upon the wall, and also many shot arrows at him as he stood upon the wall; but the Spirit of the Lord was with him, insomuch that they could not hit him with their stones neither with their arrows. Helaman 16:2

At a time when the Lamanites were more righteous than the Nephites, a Lamanite prophet named Samuel preached repentance to the Nephites. After the Nephites cast Samuel out of the city, he started back to his own land. However, the Lord told him to return and say whatever the Lord put into his heart. (See Helaman 13:13.)

The people would not let Samuel back into their city, so he climbed on top of the city wall. From there Samuel foretold the destruction of the Nephite nation in about 400 years. He said that if the Nephites did not repent, they would be destroyed by war, famine, and pestilence. (See Helaman 13:411.)

Samuel said that if it were not for the few righteous people in the city, they would be destroyed by fire (see Helaman 13:1214). He told the people that they did not remember the Lord. Instead, they remembered their riches. (See Helaman 13:1722.) The people were so wicked they made fun of the prophets and murdered them (see Helaman 13:2426).

Samuel declared that in five years a sign would indicate that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, had been born. There would be a day, a night, and a day without darkness. A new star would appear, and there would be other signs in heaven. (See Helaman 14:26.)

Samuel also told them the signs of Jesus' death. Following Jesus' death, there would be total darkness for three days, until Jesus was resurrected (see Helaman 14:20). There would also be thundering and lightning, violent earthquakes, and tempests. Entire cities would be destroyed. (See Helaman 14:2124.) After Christ's Resurrection, many righteous dead would be resurrected (see Helaman 14:25).

Many Nephites believed Samuel. Those who did not believe threw stones and shot arrows at him as he stood on the wall, but they could not hit him. When some realized the Spirit of the Lord was protecting him, they too believed. (See Helaman 16:13.)

Most Nephites, however, did not believe Samuel. When they saw the stones and arrows were not hitting him, they tried to capture him. Samuel jumped down from the wall and left the land. The Nephites never heard from him again. (See Helaman 16:68.)

SummarySamuel, a Lamanite prophet, preached repentance to the Nephites in Zarahemla, but they threw him out of the city. The Lord told Samuel to return. The Nephites would not let Samuel back into the city, so he climbed on the city wall. From there he preached repentance. He also prophesied about the signs that would accompany Jesus Christ's birth and death and told of His Resurrection. Some people believed. Others were angry and threw stones or shot arrows at Samuel, but the Lord protected him. When the Nephites tried to capture him, he jumped from the wall and fled to his own land.

82 – Jesus Teaching in the Western Hemisphere3 Nephi 1127; 3 Nephi 28:12Arise and come forth unto me, ... that ye may know that I am the God of Israel, and the God of the whole earth. 3 Nephi 11:14

After Jesus' Resurrection, He visited the Nephites in the land of Bountiful. Jesus had the people come to Him one by one to feel the prints of the nails in His hands and feet. He wanted them to know He was the resurrected Savior. The Nephites fell down and worshiped Him. (See 3 Nephi 11:817.)

Jesus gave Nephi and eleven other men the power to baptize and give the gift of the Holy Ghost. He taught them how to baptize (see 3 Nephi 11:1827; 3 Nephi 12:1; 3 Nephi 18:3637) and told them to teach the gospel to the Nephites (see 3 Nephi 11:41).

Jesus asked the multitude to listen to these twelve men and be baptized. He then taught them what He had taught the Jews in the Sermon on the Mount. (See 3 Nephi 12:148; 3 Nephi 13; 3 Nephi 14.) Jesus said the Nephites were the other sheep He had spoken of in Jerusalem (see 3 Nephi 15:21).

Jesus healed the sick and prayed with the people. As He blessed their children, angels came down from heaven and ministered to them. (See 3 Nephi 17.)

Jesus taught the Nephites about the sacrament (see 3 Nephi 18:111). He told them to pray for themselves, their families, and others (see 3 Nephi 18:1523).

At the end of the day, Jesus left the Nephites. The next morning Jesus' chosen disciples divided the multitude into twelve groups and taught them. Nephi was baptized, then baptized the other eleven disciples. They were then filled with the Holy Ghost. Angels came and ministered to them, and suddenly Jesus appeared and ministered to them. (See 3 Nephi 19:115.)

Jesus had the multitude kneel and asked the disciples to pray. Then He also prayed. During one of His prayers the Savior's words were so marvelous they could not be written or spoken by mortals. (See 3 Nephi 19:1636.)

After administering the sacrament again (see 3 Nephi 20:39), Jesus continued teaching the Nephites. He told them about the importance of the scriptures (see 3 Nephi 23). He talked about His Second Coming and commanded the people to pay tithes and offerings (see 3 Nephi 24). Jesus taught the Nephites for three days and met with them many times after that (see 3 Nephi 26:13).

One day the disciples were fasting and praying, trying to decide what to call the Church. Jesus appeared to them and told them that because it was His Church, it should be named after Him. (See 3 Nephi 27:110.)

Jesus ended His ministry among the Nephites by blessing His disciples (see 3 Nephi 28:12).

SummaryAfter Jesus was resurrected, He came to the Nephites. He invited the people to feel the prints of the nails in His hands and feet so they could know He was the resurrected Savior. Jesus chose twelve disciples to minister to the people and gave them the power to baptize and give the gift of the Holy Ghost. He taught His gospel to the Nephites, offered the sacrament, healed the sick, prayed with the people, and blessed the children. He taught them about the scriptures, tithing, His Second Coming, and naming the Church after Him. Before leaving, Jesus blessed the disciples.

83 – Jesus Healing the Nephites3 Nephi 17:110And it came to pass that ... all the multitude, with one accord, did go forth with their sick and their afflicted, and their lame, and with their blind, and with their dumb, and with all them that were afflicted in any manner; and he did heal them every one as they were brought forth unto him. 3 Nephi 17:9

The first day the Savior was among the Nephites, He taught them many things. As Jesus looked at them, He could tell they did not understand all of His teachings. So He told them to go home and think about His words. He told them to pray to Heavenly Father for understanding and to prepare their minds to receive more teachings. He then promised He would return the next day and teach them again. (See 3 Nephi 17:13.)

The people did not want Jesus to leave them. Tears filled their eyes as they looked longingly at Him. They wanted to ask Him to stay. Jesus knew what they were thinking, and He wanted to help them. (See 3 Nephi 17:56.)

He asked, "Have ye any that are sick among you? ... Bring them hither and I will heal them" (3 Nephi 17:7). Jesus could tell that the Nephites had enough faith to be healed (see 3 Nephi 17:8).

The multitude brought their sick to Jesus—the lame and crippled, the blind, the deaf, the dumb, the lepers, those who had all kinds of illnesses. Jesus lovingly healed every one as they were brought to Him. (See 3 Nephi 17:9.)

All the people Jesus healed and all who were well knelt down at Jesus' feet and worshiped Him. Those who could get close enough kissed His feet and bathed them with their tears. (See 3 Nephi 17:10.)

SummaryAt the end of His first day with the Nephites, Jesus could see that the people wanted Him to stay. Feeling compassion for them and knowing they had great faith, He asked them to bring their sick or suffering and He would heal them. The people came forward with all who were sick, lame, blind, deaf, or afflicted in some other manner. Jesus lovingly healed each one. All who were healed and those who were well bowed down together to worship the Savior. As many as could reach Him bathed His feet with their tears.

84 – Jesus Blesses the Nephite ChildrenMatthew 18:3; 3 Nephi 17:1125And he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them. 3 Nephi 17:21

During His mortal ministry, Jesus often took time to bless little children. He taught His disciples that one must become like a little child to enter the kingdom of heaven (see Matthew 18:3).

After His Resurrection, Jesus visited the Nephites to teach and bless them. During this time He asked that the little children be brought to Him (see 3 Nephi 17:11). When they were gathered about Him, He knelt down and prayed to Heavenly Father for all His people (see 3 Nephi 17:15). So great was the love and faith of the multitude for their Savior that He declared: "Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now behold, my joy is full" (3 Nephi 17:20). After saying this, Jesus wept because He had such great love for the people. Then He took the children one by one and blessed them and prayed for them. (See 3 Nephi 17:21.)

Afterward, Jesus wept again and said to the people, "Behold your little ones" (3 Nephi 17:23). Then, as the multitude watched, the heavens opened and angels came in great glory to minister to the children. The children were encircled by this heavenly glory and looked as though they were surrounded by fire. (See 3 Nephi 17:24.) This wonderful event was witnessed by the entire multitude, and they "did see and hear and bear record" (3 Nephi 17:25).

SummaryJesus wants all children to know He loves them. After His Resurrection, Jesus visited the Nephites to teach and bless them. He asked that the children be brought to Him so He could bless them and pray for them. As the Nephites watched, the heavens opened and angels came down and circled the children; the children looked as if they were being circled by fire.

85 – The Brother of Jared Sees the Finger of the LordGenesis 11:38; Ether 1:3343; Ether 23; Ether 6:23The veil was taken from off the eyes of the brother of Jared, and he saw the finger of the Lord. Ether 3:6

Jared and his brother* were righteous men who lived in a city called Babel. Most people were wicked. They even started to build a tower to heaven, but the Lord stopped them. (See Genesis 11:38; Ether 1:3337.)

The Lord told the brother of Jared to gather his family and friends and journey northward (see Ether 1:3842). The Lord led them through the wilderness to the seashore, where they lived for four years (see Ether 2:56, Ether 2:13).

While the Jaredites camped by the sea, the Lord chastised the brother of Jared for not praying. The brother of Jared repented, and the Lord forgave him. (See Ether 2:1415.)

The Lord told the brother of Jared to build barges to take his people to the promised land (see Ether 2:1617). After eight barges were finished, the brother of Jared brought two serious problems to the Lord. There would be no fresh air and no light. The Lord told the brother of Jared to cut a hole in the top and the bottom of each barge. The holes could be opened to let air in and closed to keep water out. (See Ether 2:1820.)

The Lord asked the brother of Jared to think of a way to have light inside the barges (see Ether 2:2223, Ether 2:25). The brother of Jared formed 16 small stones that were clear like glass. He asked the Lord to touch the stones so they would give light. (See Ether 3:1, Ether 3:4.)

The Lord touched each stone with His finger. When the brother of Jared saw the Lord's finger, he fell down with fear. (See Ether 3:6.) The Lord said, "Arise, why hast thou fallen?" (Ether 3:7). The brother of Jared answered that when he saw the Lord's finger, he was afraid. He did not know the Lord had a body. (See Ether 3:8.)

The Lord told the brother of Jared that because of his faith he had seen that the Lord would someday receive a body of flesh and blood. The Lord then asked the brother of Jared if he had seen more than His finger. The brother of Jared answered, "Nay; Lord, show thyself unto me" (Ether 3:10; see also Ether 3:9).

The Lord showed Himself to the brother of Jared and explained that all men were created in the Lord's image (see Ether 3:1315). What the brother of Jared was seeing was the body of the Lord's spirit. When born on earth, Jesus would receive a physical body that would look the same as His spirit. (See Ether 3:16.)

The brother of Jared took the stones and placed one in each end of the barges. They gave light to the Jaredites as they traveled to the promised land. (See Ether 6:23.)

SummaryJared and his brother were righteous men who lived at the time of the tower of Babel. The Lord said He would lead them and their family and friends to a promised land. The group traveled until they came to the seashore, where the Lord instructed the brother of Jared to build barges to take them across the sea. The eight barges had no light, so the brother of Jared prayed. The Lord told him to think of what to do. The brother of Jared prepared 16 clear stones and asked the Lord to touch them so they would shine. When the Lord touched the stones, the brother of Jared saw the Lord's finger. Because of the brother of Jared's great faith, Jesus showed him His spirit body. Afterward, the brother of Jared placed the stones in the barges to give the Jaredites light.

86 – Moroni Hides the Plates in the Hill Cumorah Mormon 6:6; Mormon 8:1, Mormon 8:34; Moroni 1:1; Moroni 10:2, Moroni 10:45And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. Moroni 10:4

The Lord commanded Mormon not to let the sacred records fall into the hands of the Lamanites. Mormon took most of the records that had been handed down from generation to generation and hid them in the Hill Cumorah. Then Mormon gave his son, Moroni, the rest of the plates so he could finish the record. (See Mormon 6:6.)

After the final battle, the Lamanites killed all the Nephites except Moroni (see Mormon 8:3). While Moroni hid from the Lamanites, he abridged the history of the Jaredite people (see Moroni 1:1). He also wrote more upon the plates his father had given him (see Mormon 8:1).

Moroni wanted those who read the teachings from these records to know how to find out that they are true. He wrote:

"And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

"And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things" (Moroni 10:45).

After writing this testimony, Moroni sealed the records and hid them in the Hill Cumorah (see Mormon 8:4; Moroni 10:2).

SummaryAfter Mormon hid most of the sacred Nephite records in the Hill Cumorah, he gave his son, Moroni, the rest of the plates. Moroni finished the record of his father and told of the destruction of the Nephites. He also included a shortened history of the Jaredite people. Near the end of his record, Moroni described how a person who prays with real intent can know through the Holy Ghost that the record is true. Moroni then sealed the plates and hid them in the Hill Cumorah.

Church History

87 – Brother JosephD&C 76:2224; D&C 135:3; Joseph Smith—History 1:25Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. D&C 135:3

Joseph Smith was a man of integrity. He was persecuted for saying what he knew to be true. Even though he was arrested and jailed many times, tarred and feathered, and tormented in other ways, Joseph never denied his testimony:

"I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true; and while they were persecuting me, reviling me, and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart: Why persecute me for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision; and who am I that I can withstand God, or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen? For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it; at least I knew that by so doing I would offend God, and come under condemnation" (Joseph Smith—History 1:25).

In February 1832 the Prophet Joseph Smith and Elder Sidney Rigdon recorded:

"And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

"For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—

"That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God" (D&C 76:2224).

Joseph Smith's martyrdom on 27 June 1844 in Carthage, Illinois, sealed his testimony (see D&C 135:3). The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has its foundation in that testimony and in the revelations Joseph Smith received, the sacred truths he taught, and the authority of God's priesthood restored through him.

SummaryFrom the time of Joseph Smith's vision of the Father and the Son in 1820, the Prophet had a strong testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Joseph was persecuted throughout his life because of the truths he revealed and taught. But he never denied his testimony and always taught what he knew to be the truth. In 1844 Joseph was killed in Carthage Jail. The men who shot Joseph hoped that killing him would put an end to the Church and Joseph's teachings. Instead it made Joseph's testimony even stronger for the members of the Church because he "sealed his mission and his works with his own blood" (D&C 135:3).

88- Emma SmithD&C 25Hearken unto the voice of the Lord your God, while I speak unto you, Emma Smith, my daughter. D&C 25:1

Emma Hale Smith was the wife of Joseph Smith, prophet of the Restoration. She was born 10 July 1804 to Isaac and Elizabeth Lewis Hale, who were the first permanent settlers in Harmony, Pennsylvania. Emma met Joseph when he boarded at her father's inn while working near Harmony. They were married 18 January 1827. That fall Joseph received the gold plates and began to translate them as directed by the Lord. Emma served as a scribe during the early part of the translation of the Book of Mormon.

Emma Smith received several significant blessings from the Lord. Section 25 of the Doctrine and Covenants is addressed directly to Emma, and in verse 3 the Lord tells her, "Behold, thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou art an elect lady, whom I have called." The Lord told Emma in her patriarchal blessing that

she was blessed because of her faithfulness and truth and that she also would be blessed with her husband. (See Gracia N. Jones, "My Great-Great-Grandmother Emma Hale Smith," Ensign, Aug. 1992, 32.)

Emma and Joseph had 11 children, two of whom were adopted. Six of these little ones died at birth, in infancy, or early childhood. Emma had much of the responsibility of providing for their children during Joseph's long absences due to imprisonment or duties as the prophet of the Church.

Emma's contributions to the Church, in addition to being an early scribe for the translation of the Book of Mormon, were numerous. In 1830 she was instructed by the Lord to compile a book of hymns for the Church (see D&C 25:11), a task she completed five years later. When the Relief Society was organized in Nauvoo in 1842, Emma was the first general president. She continually cared for many ill and homeless Saints in addition to her children and Joseph's extended family.

After Joseph's death on 27 June 1844, the Saints knew they would have to leave Nauvoo, so they began to make plans. In 1846 they headed west. Emma, a 41-year-old widow with her aged mother-in-law and five children to care for, chose the security of her home in Nauvoo rather than the unknown perils of the frontier and did not accompany the Saints.

A few months before she died, Emma bore her testimony to her sons. She told them she participated in the events of the Restoration, including "the translation of the plates." She had no doubt that the Book of Mormon was "of divine authenticity" and said also that the translation of the Book of Mormon was "a marvel and a wonder" to her. She stated that she knew the gospel was true and that the Church had been established by divine direction. (See Jones, "Emma Hale Smith," Ensign, Aug. 1992, 36.)

SummaryEmma Hale Smith was the wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith. She contributed greatly to the work of the restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was a scribe for Joseph during the early days of translating the Book of Mormon, she compiled the first book of hymns for the Church, and she was chosen as the first president of the Relief Society when it was organized in 1842. She helped Joseph in his work whenever she could, she cared for their children, and she cared for others who were sick and poor. After Joseph was martyred, Emma chose not to travel with the pioneers to the Salt Lake Valley but remained in Nauvoo, where she continued to care for her aged mother-in-law and her five children.

89- Joseph Smith Seeks Wisdom in the BibleJoseph Smith—History 1:3, 515Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again. Joseph Smith—History 1:12

Young Joseph Smith moved with his family from Vermont to Palmyra, New York, when he was about 10 years old. When he was 13, the family settled on a farm near Palmyra. Shortly after the Smiths moved there, Joseph said, the people in the area became very excited about religion. Preachers from several churches were trying to win converts. The Smith family was caught up in the excitement, for they were a sincere, God-fearing family.

Joseph, then 14 years old, worried a great deal about which church to join. He carefully tried to find the truth. He visited the different church meetings and studied the Bible, reading often from its pages. One day when he was reading in the book of James in the New Testament he noticed especially the fifth verse in chapter one: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." (See Joseph Smith—History 1:711.)

Joseph pondered the words of this scripture, "knowing that if any person needed wisdom from God, [he] did" (Joseph Smith—History 1:12).

Finally Joseph decided to ask God which church to join. He went to a grove of trees and knelt in prayer. The Father and Son appeared to him, and the Savior told him that the true Church of Jesus Christ was not on the earth and had to be restored. As time went on, Joseph received authority and instructions to restore the true Church of Jesus Christ to the earth.

SummaryYoung Joseph Smith worried about which church was right. He carefully studied the Bible as he searched for truth. One day he read in the book of James that a person who wants to know the truth should ask God, who will help those who ask Him. Joseph felt great power in the words of this scripture and thought about them again and again. He decided he would ask God which church to join. He went to a grove of trees and prayed. In answer to Joseph's prayer, the Father and the Son appeared to him. The Savior told him to join none of the churches because none of them was the true Church. Later, Joseph received authority and instructions to restore the true Church of Jesus Christ.

90 – The First VisionJoseph Smith—History 1:1420When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him! Joseph Smith—History 1:17

On a beautiful spring morning in 1820, Joseph Smith went into the woods near his home to pray. He did not know which church to join and decided to ask Heavenly Father. Joseph looked around to make sure he was alone, then knelt and began to pray. He was immediately overcome by some evil power. Thick darkness surrounded him, and he could not speak. Joseph thought he was going to be destroyed, but using all the energy he had, he asked God to deliver him from this unseen enemy. Just as Joseph was about to give up, he saw a pillar of light over his head, and he was released from the evil force that had held him. The light came down and rested on him, and Joseph saw two personages whose brightness and glory were beyond description. They were standing in the air above Joseph. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:1417.) One called Joseph by name, pointed to the other, and said, "This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!" (Joseph Smith—History 1:17). These personages were Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

Joseph asked Heavenly Father and Jesus which church was right and which he should join. Jesus told Joseph that he should not join any of the churches, because they were all wrong. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:1819.) He said, "They draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me" (Joseph Smith—History 1:19).

Jesus again told Joseph not to join any of the churches. He also told him many other things during the vision. After the vision Joseph was lying on his back looking up into heaven. As the bright light left, he found he was too weak to walk. Joseph's strength gradually returned and he went home. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:20.)

SummaryIn the spring of 1820, when Joseph Smith was 14 years old, he went into the woods near his home to ask God which church to join. As Joseph knelt down and began to pray, he was overcome by an evil power that seemed about to destroy him. He used all his strength to ask God for help. Then Joseph saw a pillar of light over his head and was released from the evil power that held him. When the light rested upon Joseph, he saw two personages standing in the air above him. Heavenly Father spoke to Joseph, calling him by name, and introduced His Son, Jesus Christ. When Joseph asked which church to join, Jesus told him not to join any, for they were all wrong. Joseph was told many other things before the vision ended.

91 – Moroni Appears to Joseph Smith in His RoomJoseph Smith—History 1:2747He called me by name, and said unto me that he was a messenger sent from the presence of God to me, and that his name was Moroni. Joseph Smith—History 1:33

After Joseph Smith received his First Vision, he told several people about it. Instead of believing him, most people made fun of him. Still, Joseph knew that he had been called of God. He was a fun-loving boy, however, and sometimes not very serious, so he felt he needed forgiveness. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:2728.)

On the night of 21 September 1823, 17-year-old Joseph went to his bedroom and began to pray for forgiveness (see Joseph Smith—History 1:29). As he prayed, a light appeared in his room, and "a

personage appeared at [Joseph's] bedside, standing in the air" (Joseph Smith—History 1:30). This personage had on a very white, loose robe (see Joseph Smith—History 1:31).

The messenger introduced himself as Moroni. He said God had sent him to tell Joseph of the work God had for him to do. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:33.)

Moroni told Joseph about a book written on gold plates. This book was about people who had lived on the American continent many years before. Jesus visited these people after He was resurrected and taught them the gospel. Moroni also told Joseph about something called a Urim and Thummim. The Urim and Thummim was with the gold plates, and Joseph was to use it to translate the plates. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:3435.)

Moroni quoted Old Testament prophecies about events that would happen. He also quoted from the New Testament. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:3641.)

Moroni told Joseph that when he got the plates, he should show them only to those God chose to see them. While Moroni was speaking, Joseph saw in a vision the place where the gold plates were buried. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:42.) When Moroni finished speaking, he rose toward heaven until he disappeared (see Joseph Smith—History 1:43).

As Joseph thought about the things he had just seen and heard, Moroni returned and told Joseph the same things he had told him before. Then Moroni told Joseph of many problems that would come to the earth in the future. When Moroni finished, he went up into heaven again. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:4445.)

Joseph was so overwhelmed he could not sleep. Then, to his surprise, Moroni came a third time. Again Moroni repeated what he had told Joseph. He also warned Joseph that Satan would tempt him to use the gold plates to become rich, but that they should only be used to build God's kingdom. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:46.)

Again Moroni left. As Joseph pondered his unusual experience, he heard a rooster crow. Moroni's visits had taken the entire night. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:47.)

SummaryOn the night of 21 September 1823, 17-year-old Joseph Smith was praying. An angel named Moroni appeared. Moroni told Joseph that God had a work for him and described a book written on gold plates. This book was a record of ancient people who had lived on the American continent, and it contained the fulness of the gospel. Joseph was to translate this record. Moroni quoted some verses from the Bible and gave Joseph instructions. Moroni appeared to Joseph two more times that night, repeating the same message.

92 – Joseph Smith Translating the Book of MormonD&C 20:811; Joseph Smith—History 1:3435, Joseph Smith—History 1:71 footnoteThe Book of Mormon ... [proves] to the world that the holy scriptures are true, and that God does inspire men and call them to his holy work in this age and generation, as well as in generations of old. D&C 20:8, D&C 20:11

Three years after Joseph Smith was visited by God the Father and Jesus Christ, the angel Moroni appeared to Joseph and told him there was a record written on gold plates that gave an account of the ancient inhabitants of the Americas. Joseph was to translate this record using two stones fastened to a breastplate, the Urim and Thummim. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:3435.) Moroni taught Joseph about the work he was called to do for four more years and then delivered the plates and the interpreters to him in 1827.

Oliver Cowdery served as a scribe to the Prophet Joseph as he translated the Book of Mormon. In describing his experience, Oliver wrote: "These were days never to be forgotten—to sit under the sound of a voice dictated by the inspiration of heaven, awakened the utmost gratitude of this bosom! Day after day I continued, uninterrupted, to write from his mouth, as he translated with the Urim and Thummim, or, as the Nephites would have said, 'interpreters,' the history or record called 'The Book of Mormon' " (Joseph Smith—History 1:71 footnote).

SummaryWhen the Prophet Joseph Smith received the gold plates from the angel Moroni, he studied the strange language written on them. With Heavenly Father's help, Joseph translated the writing on the gold plates into words he could understand. Oliver Cowdery helped Joseph by being his scribe. As Joseph read out loud from the plates, Oliver wrote down the words. When the translation into English was completed, the book was printed. It is called the Book of Mormon.

93 – John the Baptist Conferring the Aaronic PrisesthoodD&C 13; Joseph Smith—History 1:6873Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins. D&C 13

Joseph Smith translated the gold plates into English, and Oliver Cowdery wrote it down. While translating, they learned about baptism for the remission of sins. On 15 May 1829 they went into the woods to pray, to ask Heavenly Father about baptism. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:68, Joseph Smith—History 1:72.)

As they prayed, an angel from heaven appeared in a cloud of light. He laid his hands on Joseph and Oliver and ordained them, saying, "Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah, I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness" (Joseph Smith—History 1:69; see also Joseph Smith—History 1:68; D&C 13).

The angel said the Aaronic Priesthood had the power to baptize but not to give the gift of the Holy Ghost. The angel commanded Joseph and Oliver to be baptized. He told Joseph to baptize Oliver and then Oliver to baptize Joseph. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:70.)

They baptized each other in the Susquehanna River near Harmony, Pennsylvania. Then, following the angel's instructions, Joseph laid his hands upon Oliver's head and ordained Oliver to the Aaronic Priesthood. Oliver then ordained Joseph in the same way. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:71; introduction to D&C 13.)

The angel said his name was John the Baptist. He told them he was acting under the direction of Peter, James, and John, who held the keys of the Melchizedek Priesthood. Joseph and Oliver, he said, would receive the Melchizedek Priesthood in due time. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:72.)

After Joseph and Oliver were baptized, they "experienced great and glorious blessings from ... Heavenly Father" (Joseph Smith—History 1:73).

SummaryWhile translating the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery learned about baptism. They went into the nearby woods to ask the Lord more about this important ordinance. As they prayed, John the Baptist appeared. He laid his hands upon Joseph and Oliver and gave them the Aaronic Priesthood, which gave them the power to baptize. John the Baptist instructed Joseph to baptize Oliver and Oliver to baptize Joseph, which they did in the Susquehanna River. Afterward Joseph and Oliver ordained each other to the Aaronic Priesthood, as instructed by John the Baptist.

94 – Melchizedek Priesthood RestorationD&C 27:1213; D&C 107:8; D&C 128:20; Joseph Smith—History 1:72Peter, and James, and John ... I have sent unto you, by whom I have ordained you and confirmed you to be apostles, and especial witnesses of my name, and bear the keys of your ministry and of the same things which I revealed unto them. D&C 27:12

When Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery received the Aaronic Priesthood from John the Baptist, they were promised they would later receive the Melchizedek Priesthood (see Joseph Smith—History 1:72). "The

Melchizedek Priesthood holds the right of presidency, and has power and authority over all the offices in the church" (D&C 107:8).

In June 1829 Joseph was translating the Book of Mormon, and Oliver was writing for him. During this time Joseph and Oliver went into the wilderness area near the Susquehanna River between the towns of Harmony and Colesville, Pennsylvania. Peter, James, and John appeared and conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Peter, James, and John said they held the keys of the kingdom, and they were to bring the Melchizedek Priesthood to the earth in the dispensation of "the fulness of times," or the latter days. (See D&C 27:1213; see also D&C 128:20.) Because of this great event, we have the Melchizedek Priesthood on the earth today. (See John A. Widtsoe, Priesthood and Church Government, rev. ed. [1954], 11011.)

SummarySometime after John the Baptist gave them the Aaronic Priesthood, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were visited by the Apostles Peter, James, and John near the Susquehanna River in the state of Pennsylvania. The Apostles conferred upon Joseph and Oliver the Melchizedek Priesthood, which had been taken from the earth anciently. With this power and authority, Joseph could organize the Church of Jesus Christ on the earth again.

95 – Elijah Appearing in the Kirtland TempleMalachi 4:56; Matthew 17:13; D&C 110:1316Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. D&C 2:12

Elijah was the last prophet to hold certain keys of the Melchizedek Priesthood before the time of Jesus Christ. During Christ's mortal ministry, Elijah appeared on the Mount of Transfiguration with Moses to give these keys to the Savior (see Matthew 17:13). Elijah appeared again on 3 April 1836 in the Kirtland Temple to restore these same keys to the Prophet Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery (see D&C 110:1316). This appearance was the fulfillment of a prophecy that declared that Elijah would come in the last days as a preparation for the Second Coming of the Lord (see Malachi 4:56).

The keys Elijah held and restored are the keys to the sealing power of the high priesthood of God. By this authority, families can be sealed together for eternity according to the plan of our Father in Heaven. The keys of this power and blessing are used in the holy temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to provide sealing ordinances for all of God's children.

SummaryElijah, a prophet who lived on this earth hundreds of years before Christ was born, visited the Prophet Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in the Kirtland Temple in 1836. Elijah gave these men the authority and priesthood power to seal families together for eternity.

96 – Emma Crossing the IceIn the winter of 1838–39, the Missouri state militia was under orders from the governor to drive the Latter-day Saints from the state, and the Prophet Joseph Smith was imprisoned in Liberty Jail. That winter and the following spring, a scene of terrible suffering unfolded as thousands of Saints were forced to flee their homes in Missouri. Leaving much of their property behind, they began making their way 200 miles eastward to western Illinois, under the direction of Brigham Young and other Church leaders. Few of the Saints had good wagons and horses, and many slept unsheltered in the rain and snow. Some who did not have shoes wrapped their feet in rags as they walked across the snow.

In February 1839, a kind neighbor helped Emma Smith place her four children and her few belongings into a wagon lined with straw. When their party came to the frozen Mississippi River, Emma walked across the ice with her children, carrying the manuscripts of the Prophet’s Bible translation in two cloth bags tied around her waist under her skirt. She and many other destitute Saints took refuge in the community of Quincy, Illinois, where they continued to suffer from hunger, cold, and sickness, though these sufferings were alleviated by many acts of kindness from a caring community.

97 – Joseph Smith in Liberty JailShortly after the massacre at Haun’s Mill, the Prophet Joseph Smith and other leaders were taken prisoner by the state militia. A court-martial was held and the Prophet and his fellows were condemned to be shot to death by a firing squad the following morning in the town square at Far West. However, General Alexander W. Doniphan of the militia refused to carry out the shooting, calling the decision “cold-blooded murder.” He warned the general who commanded the militia that if he continued his efforts to kill these men, “I will hold you responsible before an earthly tribunal, so help me God.” 23

The Prophet and the others were first taken to Independence, and then sent to Richmond, Ray County, where they were jailed awaiting trial. Parley P. Pratt was one of those with the Prophet. He said that one evening the guards were taunting the prisoners by telling of their deeds of rape, murder, and robbery among the Latter-day Saints. He knew that the Prophet was awake beside him and recorded that Joseph suddenly stood on his feet and rebuked the guards with great power:

“ ‘SILENCE, ye fiends of the infernal pit. In the name of Jesus Christ I rebuke you, and command you to be still; I will not live another minute and hear such language. Cease such talk, or you or I die THIS INSTANT!’

“He ceased to speak. He stood erect in terrible majesty. Chained, and without a weapon; calm, unruffled and dignified as an angel, he looked upon the quailing guards, whose weapons were lowered or dropped to the ground; whose knees smote together, and who, shrinking into a corner, or crouching at his feet, begged his pardon, and remained quiet till a change of guards.”

Parley then observed, “I have tried to conceive of kings, of royal courts, of thrones and crowns; and of emperors assembled to decide the fate of kingdoms; but dignity and majesty have I seen but once, as it stood in chains, at midnight, in a dungeon in an obscure village of Missouri.” 24

When the court of inquiry was over, Joseph and Hyrum Smith, Sidney Rigdon, Lyman Wight, Caleb Baldwin, and Alexander McRae were sent to Liberty Jail in Clay County, arriving on 1 December 1838. The Prophet described their situation: “We are kept under a strong guard, night and day, in a prison of double walls and doors, proscribed in our liberty of conscience, our food is scant. … We have been compelled to sleep on the floor with straw, and not blankets sufficient to keep us warm. … The Judges have gravely told us from time to time that they knew we were innocent, and ought to be liberated, but they dare not administer the law unto us, for fear of the mob.” 25

98 – The Foundation of the Relief SocietyWhile the Nauvoo Temple was under construction, Sarah Granger Kimball, wife of Hiram Kimball, one of the city’s wealthiest citizens, hired a seamstress named Margaret A. Cooke. Desiring to further the Lord’s work, Sarah donated cloth to make shirts for the men working on the temple, and Margaret agreed to do the sewing. Shortly thereafter, some of Sarah’s neighbors also desired to participate in the shirt making. The sisters met in the Kimball parlor and decided to formally organize. Eliza R. Snow was asked to write a constitution and bylaws for the new society.

Eliza presented the completed document to the Prophet Joseph Smith, who declared it was the best constitution he had seen. But he felt impressed to enlarge the vision of the women concerning what they could accomplish. He asked the women to attend another meeting, where he organized them into the Nauvoo Female Relief Society. Emma Smith, the Prophet’s wife, became the society’s first president.

Joseph told the sisters that they would receive “instruction through the order which God has established through the medium of those appointed to lead—and I now turn the key to you in the name of God and this Society shall rejoice and knowledge and intelligence shall flow down from this time—this is the beginning of better days to this Society.” 9

Soon after the society came into existence, a committee visited all of Nauvoo’s poor, assessed their needs, and solicited donations to help them. Cash donations and proceeds from the sale of food and bedding

provided schooling for needy children. Flax, wool, yarn, shingles, soap, candles, tinware, jewelry, baskets, quilts, blankets, onions, apples, flour, bread, crackers, and meat were donated to help those in need.

Besides helping the poor, Relief Society sisters worshiped together. Eliza R. Snow reported that in one meeting “nearly all present arose and spoke, and the spirit of the Lord like a purifying stream, refreshed every heart.” 10 These sisters prayed for each other, strengthened each other’s faith, and consecrated their lives and resources to help further the cause of Zion.

99 – Exodus from Navoo, February – May 1846The evacuation of Nauvoo was originally planned to take place in April 1846. But as a result of threats that the state militia intended to prevent the Saints from going west, the Twelve Apostles and other leading citizens hurriedly met in council on 2 February 1846. They agreed that it was imperative to start west immediately, and the exodus began on 4 February. Under the direction of Brigham Young, the first group of Saints eagerly began their journey. However, that eagerness faced a great test, for there were many miles to be covered before permanent camps gave them respite from late winter weather and an exceptionally rainy spring.

To seek safety from their persecutors, thousands of Saints first had to cross the wide Mississippi River to Iowa territory. The perils of their journey began early when an ox kicked a hole in a boat carrying a number of Saints and the boat sank. One observer saw the unfortunate passengers hanging on to feather beds, sticks of wood, “lumber or any thing they could get hold of and were tossed and sported on the water at the mercy of the cold and unrelenting waves. … Some climbed on the top of the wagon which did not go quite under and were more comfortable while the cows and oxen on board were seen swimming to the shore from whence they came.” 1 Finally all the people were pulled onto boats and brought to the other side.

Two weeks after the first crossing, the river froze over for a time. Though the ice was slippery, it supported wagons and teams and made the crossing easier. But the cold weather caused much suffering as the Saints plodded through the snow. In the encampment at Sugar Creek on the other side of the river, a steady wind blew snow that fell to a depth of almost eight inches. Then a thaw caused the ground to become muddy. Around, above, and below, the elements combined to produce a miserable environment for the 2,000 Saints huddled in tents, wagons, and hastily erected shelters while they waited for the command to continue on.

The most difficult part of the journey was this early stage through Iowa. Hosea Stout recorded that he “prepared for the night by erecting a temporary tent out of bed clothes. At this time my wife was hardly able to sit up and my little son was sick with a very high fever and would not even notice any thing that was going on.” 2 Many other Saints also suffered greatly.

100 – Dan Jones Preaching the Gospel in WalesDan Jones, a Welsh convert, joined the Prophet in the Carthage Jail. On 26 June 1844, the last night of his life, Joseph heard a gun fire, left the bed, and lay on the floor near Jones. The Prophet whispered, “Are you afraid to die?” “Engaged in such a cause I do not think that death would have many terrors,” Jones replied. “You will yet see Wales and fulfill the mission appointed you before you die,” Joseph prophesied. 15 Thousands of faithful Latter-day Saints enjoy the blessings of the Church today because Dan Jones later served an honorable and successful mission to Wales.

101 – Mary Fielding Smith and Joseph F. Smith Crossing the PlainsMary Fielding Smith was left a widow when her husband, Hyrum, was killed with his brother the Prophet Joseph. She had to care for not only her own large family but also several other helpless or ill people. Hyrum and Mary's son, Joseph F. Smith, who would later become the sixth President of the Church, was only five years old at the time.

Mary and her family left Nauvoo in 1846. Joseph, then seven, drove "one of the ox teams from Montrose [across the river from Nauvoo] to Winter Quarters," which was about 200 miles (see Joseph Fielding Smith, comp., Life of Joseph F. Smith [1969], 131).

In the spring of 1848 most of the Saints were leaving Winter Quarters to travel to the Salt Lake Valley. Mary determined to go with them. She had no money, no oxen, and no provisions, but she relied on the Lord and managed to reach the starting point with seven "almost ready" wagons in her care. When the captain of the group to which Mary was assigned saw Mary's situation, he told her she was foolish to attempt the journey. He said she would be a burden to the company the whole way. Mary calmly replied that not only would she not ask for his help but "that she would beat him to the Valley"! (Don Cecil Corbett, Mary Fielding Smith: Daughter of Britain [1966], 228).

And so the long journey began. Nine-year-old Joseph and his 15-year-old half brother John cared for the cattle and helped guide the huge oxen along the trail.

Despite hardships, it seemed Mary's group would make it to the valley. Then one hot day, one of Mary's best oxen collapsed. The wagons behind Mary's were forced to stop. It looked as though the ox would die. The captain came and declared that the ox was dead. He said he would have to find a way to take that wagonload the rest of the way and that he had known all along Mary would be a burden.

But Mary's faith never faltered; she "went to her wagon and returned with a bottle of consecrated oil. She asked her brother Joseph and James Lawson to administer to her fallen ox" (Corbett, Mary Fielding Smith, 237). So Joseph Fielding "knelt, laid his hands on the head of the ox ... , and prayed over it." When the prayer was finished, a moment passed; then, to the astonishment of the onlookers, the stiffened ox stirred, gathered his legs beneath him, stood, and "started off [pulling again] as if nothing had happened" (Corbett, Mary Fielding Smith, 237).

Not far from the end of the journey, some of Mary's cows were lost. While her stepson John went to find the cattle, the captain ordered the rest of the company to move on. Mary waited for John and prayed he would be able to find their cows. Then a sudden rainstorm came, and the company that had moved ahead was thrown into confusion. The cattle scattered, and it took all day to round them up. Meanwhile, John had returned with the lost cows. The Smith party moved forward, past the rest of the company, and on into the valley.

Mary had kept her word. Her courage and faith had led her family across the plains and finally into the Salt Lake Valley, 20 hours in advance of the captain who had tried to discourage her.

Summary

Mary Fielding Smith was left with a large family when her husband, Hyrum, was killed with his brother the Prophet Joseph Smith. She was determined to travel to the Salt Lake Valley with the Saints and managed to gather wagons, oxen, and supplies for the journey. Mary was told she would be a burden to others, but she pressed forward. Her young son Joseph helped care for the oxen and cattle along the way. Mary relied on the Lord when her oxen became sick and when the cows became lost. With courage and faith Mary led her family into the Salt Lake Valley.

102 – Handcart Pioneers Approaching the Salt Lake ValleyIn the 1850s Church leaders decided to form handcart companies as a way to reduce expenses so that financial aid could be extended to the greatest number of emigrants. Saints who traveled this way put only 100 pounds of flour and a limited quantity of provisions and belongings into a cart and then pulled the cart across the plains. Between 1856 and 1860, ten handcart companies traveled to Utah. Eight of the companies reached the Salt Lake Valley successfully, but two of them, the Martin and Willie handcart companies, were caught in an early winter and many Saints among them perished.

Nellie Pucell, a pioneer in one of these ill-fated companies, turned ten years old on the plains. Both her parents died during the journey. As the group neared the mountains, the weather was bitter cold, the rations were depleted, and the Saints were too weak from hunger to continue on. Nellie and her sister

collapsed. When they had almost given up hope, the leader of the company came to them in a wagon. He placed Nellie in the wagon and told Maggie to walk along beside it, holding on to steady herself. Maggie was fortunate because the forced movement saved her from frostbite.

When they reached Salt Lake City and Nellie’s shoes and stockings, which she had worn across the plains, were removed, the skin came off with them as a result of frostbite. This brave girl’s feet were painfully amputated and she walked on her knees the rest of her life. She later married and gave birth to six children, keeping up her own house and raising a fine posterity. 10 Her determination in spite of her situation and the kindness of those who cared for her exemplify the faith and willingness to sacrifice of these early Church members. Their example is a legacy of faith to all Saints who follow them.

A man who crossed the plains in the Martin handcart company lived in Utah for many years. One day he was in a group of people who began sharply criticizing the Church leaders for ever allowing the Saints to cross the plains with no more supplies or protection than a handcart company provided. The old man listened until he could stand no more; then he arose and said with great emotion:

“I was in that company and my wife was in it. … We suffered beyond anything you can imagine and many died of exposure and starvation, but did you ever hear a survivor of that company utter a word of criticism? … [We] came through with the absolute knowledge that God lives for we became acquainted with him in our extremities.

“I have pulled my handcart when I was so weak and weary from illness and lack of food that I could hardly put one foot ahead of the other. I have looked ahead and seen a patch of sand or a hill slope and I have said, I can go only that far and there I must give up, for I cannot pull the load through it. … I have gone on to that sand and when I reached it, the cart began pushing me. I have looked back many times to see who was pushing my cart, but my eyes saw no one. I knew then that the angels of God were there.

“Was I sorry that I chose to come by handcart? No. Neither then nor any minute of my life since. The price we paid to become acquainted with God was a privilege to pay, and I am thankful that I was privileged to come in the Martin Handcart Company.”11

Our hymnbook contains a song about the early Church members who courageously accepted the gospel and traveled far to live on the outposts of civilization:

They, the builders of the nation,Blazing trails along the way;Stepping-stones for generationsWere their deeds of ev’ry day.Building new and firm foundations,Pushing on the wild frontier,Forging onward, ever onward,Blessed, honored Pioneer!

Their example teaches us how to live with more faith and courage in our own countries:

Service ever was their watchcry;Love became their guiding star;Courage, their unfailing beacon,Radiating near and far.Ev’ry day some burden lifted,Ev’ry day some heart to cheer,Ev’ry day some hope the brighter,Blessed, honored Pioneer! 12

Gospel In Action

103 – Young Man Being Baptized104 – Young Woman Being BaptizedMatthew 3:1317; 2 Nephi 31:512; Mosiah 18:811; 3 Nephi 11:2326; D&C 68:27; Moses 6:6465We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Articles of Faith 1:4

Baptism is the introductory ordinance of the gospel. Being baptized by immersion by one having authority from Jesus Christ is necessary to become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ (see 3 Nephi 11:2326). Adam was the first to be baptized (see Moses 6:6465). Jesus was also baptized to fulfill all righteousness and to show us the way (see Matthew 3:1317; 2 Nephi 31:512). When we reach the age of eight years, we are considered accountable for our own actions and can choose to accept the ordinance of baptism (see D&C 68:27).

With baptism we begin a new way of life. One of the great blessings of baptism is that it provides us with a fresh start as we strive for our eternal goal of returning to live with our Father in Heaven. If we have truly repented, baptism cleanses us from sin. We can then renew this cleansing by remembering and recommitting ourselves to our baptismal covenants. We do this each week when we partake of the sacrament.

Baptism is a witness to the world that we are willing to follow the Savior. When we are baptized, we make certain covenants with the Lord. We promise to serve Him and keep His commandments. The Lord promises that He will give us the Holy Ghost and that we can return to the presence of our Father in Heaven. (See Mosiah 18:811.)

SummaryBaptism by immersion (going completely under the water) by one having authority from Jesus Christ is necessary to become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jesus was baptized and set an example for all of us. To be baptized we must be at least eight years of age so we will be old enough to know right from wrong. When we are baptized we covenant, or promise, that we will follow Jesus and keep His commandments. Each week when we take the sacrament, we remember our promises to Jesus and what He did for us.

105 – The Gift of the Holy GhostActs 2:38; 1 Corinthians 12:3; 2 Nephi 32:5; D&C 130:22We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Articles of Faith 1:4

Everyone who has repented of his or her sins, has been baptized as a member of the Church, and continues to live worthily can have the constant influence of the Holy Ghost (see Acts 2:38). After people are baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands by those who have the authority to administer this ordinance.

The Holy Ghost, sometimes referred to as the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God, the Spirit of the Lord, or the Comforter, is a personage of Spirit and not of flesh and bones (see D&C 130:22). It is through the Holy Ghost that people gain a testimony of Jesus Christ (see 1 Corinthians 12:3). Once we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, "it will show unto [us] all things what [we] should do" (2 Nephi 32:5). Some hear the Holy Ghost as a still, small voice; others experience a strong sense of peace. As we listen to the Holy Ghost, we can tell right from wrong and be strengthened in our resolve to live righteously. Through the Holy Ghost we may be warned of danger or receive protection. The Holy Ghost can send comfort and love in times of need and will help us understand sacred things.

SummaryAfter we are baptized we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. The Holy Ghost will be our constant companion as long as we live righteously. We can feel the influence of the Holy Ghost in

different ways. Sometimes we will hear a still, small voice; have a feeling of peace; or have a warm feeling in our heart. The Holy Ghost can help us understand sacred things and will testify of the truth. As we listen to the Holy Ghost, we can tell right from wrong and feel comforted and loved.

106 – Ordination to the Priesthood

107 – Blessing the SacramentJoseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:24; Moroni 4:3; Moroni 5:2; D&C 20:7579Behold there shall one be ordained among you, and to him will I give power that he shall break bread and bless it and give it unto the people of my church, unto all those who shall believe and be baptized in my name. 3 Nephi 18:5

The sacrament is a holy priesthood ordinance that reminds us of the Savior's Atonement. During the sacrament, we partake of bread and water. We do this to remember the flesh and blood Christ offered as a sacrifice for us. As we partake of the sacrament, we renew sacred covenants with Heavenly Father.

The scriptures explain exactly how the sacrament is to be administered. Members of the Church meet each Sabbath day to worship and partake of the sacrament (see D&C 20:75). The sacrament is administered by those who hold the proper priesthood authority. A priest or elder breaks bread into pieces, kneels, and blesses it (see D&C 20:76). A deacon or other priesthood holder passes the sacrament bread to the congregation. Then the priest or elder blesses the water, and it is also passed to the members.

The Lord has revealed the exact words for both sacrament prayers (see Moroni 4:3; Moroni 5:2; D&C 20:77, D&C 20:79). Very few of the prayers we offer have the exact wording given to us, but the covenants we make during the sacrament are important, so it is necessary that we renew them the same way each week. As we partake of the sacrament and keep our covenants, we can be forgiven of our sins (see Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:24). We should listen carefully to these prayers and partake of the sacrament with purity of heart.

SummaryThe sacrament is blessed by those having priesthood authority. A priest or elder breaks the bread into pieces and then blesses it. The sacrament is then passed to the congregation by a deacon or other priesthood holder. Then the water is blessed and passed. Jesus revealed the exact words to be used for both sacrament prayers. We should listen carefully to the prayers and think of Jesus Christ as we partake of the sacrament.

108 – Passing the SacramentJoseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:2224; 3 Nephi 18:111; Moroni 4; Moroni 5; D&C 20:7579; D&C 27:23And they did meet together oft to partake of the bread and wine, in remembrance of the Lord Jesus. Moroni 6:6

Shortly before His Crucifixion, Jesus Christ and His Apostles had gathered to celebrate the Feast of the Passover. Jesus knew this was the last time He would meet with these beloved men before His death. He wanted them to always remember Him so they would be strong and faithful.

To help them remember, Christ introduced the sacrament. He broke the bread into pieces, blessed it, and said, "Take, eat; this is in remembrance of my body which I give a ransom for you" (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:22). Next He took a cup of wine, blessed it, and gave it to His Apostles to drink, saying: "Drink ye all of it. For this is in remembrance of my blood of the new testament, which is shed for as many as shall believe on my name, for the remission of their sins" (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:2324; see also Matthew 26:2629; Mark 14:2025; Luke 22:1520).

After His Resurrection, Jesus came to the Americas and taught the Nephites the same ordinance (see 3 Nephi 18:111). After the Church was restored in the latter days, Jesus once again commanded His people to partake of the sacrament in remembrance of Him, saying, "It is expedient that the church meet together often to partake of bread and wine in the remembrance of the Lord Jesus" (D&C 20:75). Jesus gave His disciples wine when He introduced the sacrament. However, in latter-day revelation He said it does not

matter what we eat and drink during the sacrament as long as we remember Him (see D&C 27:23). Today Latter-day Saints drink water instead of wine.

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we have the opportunity to partake of the sacrament each week. Each time we take the sacrament, we renew the covenants we made when we were baptized. A covenant is a sacred promise between the Lord and His children. The promises we make are clearly stated in the sacramental prayers. We take upon ourselves the name of Christ and covenant to always remember Him. We also promise to keep His commandments.

As we honor our covenants, the Lord promises special blessings: first, we will always have His Spirit to be with us, and second, we will have eternal life (see D&C 20:7579; Moroni 4; Moroni 5). As we partake of the sacrament worthily, we are spiritually strengthened.

SummaryAs members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we can partake of the sacrament each week. During the sacrament we partake of bread and water. We do this to remember the flesh and blood Jesus Christ offered as a sacrifice for us. Each time we take the sacrament, we renew the covenants, or promises, we made with the Lord when we were baptized. We promise to always remember the Savior, to take His name upon us, and to keep His commandments. The Lord promises that we will always have His Spirit to be with us and that we can live again with Him.

109 – Missionaries: Elders110 – Missionaries: SistersD&C 1:18; D&C 42:58; Moses 5:5859Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life. 3 Nephi 5:13

Our Father in Heaven wants all His children to return to Him. This is why The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sends missionaries throughout the world to teach those who want to hear the gospel message.

The Lord has commanded His followers to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people; to preach repentance; and to seek out those who will hear the truth. During every gospel dispensation, the followers of Christ have gone forth in boldness and faith to share the gospel and declare His word. (See D&C 42:58; Moses 5:5859.)

Today tens of thousands of Latter-day Saints, in fulfillment of prophecy, serve missions around the world for the Church (see D&C 1:18). Young men and women make great contributions to the missionary effort. In addition, several thousand married couples serve as missionaries to support the Lord's work with their experience and leadership. Missionaries must stand firm in the faith, live by strict standards of worthiness, and support themselves financially.

SummaryThe Lord commanded us to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ to the people of the world. Today thousands of missionaries are called to go forth in boldness and faith to share the gospel. We should all prepare ourselves to be worthy to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.

111 – Young Boy Praying2 Nephi 32:9; Alma 34:1827; Alma 37:3637; 3 Nephi 18:1920Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers. D&C 112:10

Heavenly Father has commanded us to pray so that we can grow closer to Him, feel His protecting care, receive direction and support in our lives, and ultimately obtain exaltation and eternal life (see Alma 37:3637). God wants us to pray to Him always so He can bless us in all aspects of our lives (see 2 Nephi 32:9; Alma 34:1827).

Heavenly Father has promised to always listen to our prayers and answer them: "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in [Jesus'] name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you" (3 Nephi 18:20). As we pray we should also express our love and gratitude to God for all of life's blessings. Through prayer we become more receptive to promptings and inspiration of the Holy Ghost.

SummaryHeavenly Father wants each of His children to pray to Him. We should thank Him every morning and every evening for the blessings He has given us, and we can ask for special help from Him. Heavenly Father loves all of His children and will answer our prayers. When we pray to Him, we receive comfort and direction from the Holy Ghost.

112 – Family Prayer3 Nephi 18:21; D&C 88:119Pray in your families unto the Father, always in my name, that your wives and your children may be blessed. 3 Nephi 18:21

Heavenly Father loves us and wants our families to be strong and live righteously. He has given us guidance to help us have Christ-centered homes: "Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God" (D&C 88:119).

Family prayer is essential to building strong families. When families speak regularly with Heavenly Father, they grow closer to Him and to each other. Prayer helps families focus on the most important things in life as family members express gratitude for their blessings and each other and evaluate their family's needs.

Great blessings are given to families who gather together each morning and evening for family prayer. Children will learn to pray to their Heavenly Father. Even small children can take their turn, with parents giving help if needed. Through family prayer, parents can teach the principles of faith, humility, and love. Family prayer unites family members, strengthens faith, and helps families gain answers to their prayers.

SummaryHeavenly Father loves us and wants our families to be strong and live righteously. Praying together as a family is a way to grow closer to our Father in Heaven and to each other. We are able to thank Heavenly Father for our many blessings and ask for His guidance in strengthening our family.

113 – Payment of Tithing

114 – A Tithe Is a Tenth Part

115 – Service Matthew 6:14; Matthew 25:3540When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God. Mosiah 2:17

The life of Jesus Christ is a wonderful example of service to others. He taught us to love one another and to show kindness without thinking of a reward (see Matthew 6:14).

During His mortal ministry Jesus taught His followers to value service and reach out to those in need. In the parable of the sheep and the goats, He explains that He will bless those who feed the hungry, welcome strangers, clothe the naked, and visit the sick. He promises that our charitable acts will never go unnoticed, because "inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" (Matthew 25:40; see also Matthew 25:3539).

When we are willing to share and show kindness to others, we help our Savior. Many times others' prayers are answered through our willingness to serve. We should listen to the promptings of the Spirit so we will know where the Lord wants us to offer our help.

Summary

The life of Jesus Christ is a wonderful example of service to others. He taught us to love one another and to show kindness by helping other people. When we serve others, we are showing our love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

116 – Christ and Children from around the WorldMatthew 11:2830; 2 Nephi 26:33; 3 Nephi 9:1418; Moroni 10:32Blessed are those who come unto me. 3 Nephi 9:14

Jesus Christ invites all people "to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile" (2 Nephi 26:33).

Jesus asks us to "come unto him" for several reasons: (1) He wants us to feel of His great love for us, and He wants to comfort us and help us when we face challenges in life (see Matthew 11:28); (2) He wants us to follow His teachings so we can become "perfect in Christ" (see Moroni 10:32); and (3) He wants us to have faith in His atoning sacrifice so we can have the hope of eternal life (see 3 Nephi 9:1418).

President Howard W. Hunter explained why opportunities of coming unto Christ must be universal: "This world needs the gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel provides the only way the world will ever know peace. As followers of Jesus Christ, we seek to enlarge the circle of love and understanding among the people of the earth" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1994, 11819; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, 88).

SummaryJesus Christ loves all people everywhere, and He wants all of Heavenly Father's children to be happy. He knows that we will be happy if we learn about Him, follow His example, and share what we know with others.

117 – Kirtland TempleOrganize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God. D&C 88:119

Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, like those in ancient times, are holy buildings dedicated to the Lord. A temple, also called the house of the Lord, is a place where worthy Church members receive sacred ordinances and make solemn covenants with God. In these holy temples, families are sealed together forever. Although design and location vary, the work accomplished in each of the Lord's temples is the same.

Heavenly Father established a plan so that the blessings of the temple could be offered to all His children. People who have received their own ordinances are encouraged to return to the temple often to act as proxies for those who have died without having the opportunity of going to the temple for themselves.

The Kirtland (Ohio) Temple was the first house of the Lord built in the latter days. In 1832 the Lord commanded the Saints to build this holy house for a place of revelation and instruction (see D&C 88:11730). For three years the Kirtland Saints devoted themselves to fulfilling this commandment. As the Saints sacrificed money and labor, the Lord blessed and strengthened them. The temple was dedicated on 27 March 1836. The Saints witnessed many spiritual manifestations and had many spiritual experiences in the weeks before the dedication, during the dedication itself, and in the weeks following the dedication. (See D&C 109.)

The most important of these spiritual manifestations occurred a week after the dedication. On 3 April 1836, Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery and accepted the Kirtland Temple as His house. Then Moses, Elias, and Elijah appeared and gave Joseph and Oliver authority to gather Israel in the last days and to seal families together for eternity. (See D&C 110.) Elijah had restored the sealing keys so Latter-day Saints could perform sacred ordinances for both the living and the dead. Unfortunately, the Saints were forced to abandon the Kirtland Temple before these sacred ordinances could be performed, but the spiritual knowledge received there helped prepare the Saints for future trials and blessings.

The Kirtland Temple is currently owned by the Community of Christ (Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints).

SummaryTemples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are holy buildings dedicated to the Lord. A temple is also called the house of the Lord. It is a place where worthy Church members receive saving ordinances and make sacred covenants with God. In temples families can be sealed together forever. The Kirtland Temple was the first house of the Lord built in the latter days and was a place where several heavenly visitors came. Jesus Christ Himself appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery and accepted the Kirtland Temple as His house. Moses, Elias, and Elijah also came and gave Joseph and Oliver the authority to gather Israel and to seal families together forever.

118 – Nauvoo Illinois TempleD&C 124:2644And verily I say unto you, let this house be built unto my name, that I may reveal mine ordinances therein unto my people. D&C 124:40

Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, like those in ancient times, are holy buildings dedicated to the Lord. A temple, also called the house of the Lord, is a place where worthy Church members receive sacred ordinances and make solemn covenants with God. In these holy temples, families are sealed together forever. Although design and location vary, the work accomplished in each of the Lord's temples is the same.

Heavenly Father established a plan so that the blessings of the temple could be offered to all His children. People who have received their own ordinances are encouraged to return to the temple often to act as proxies for those who have died without having the opportunity of going to the temple for themselves.

In 1841, the Lord commanded the Latter-day Saints to build a temple in Nauvoo, Illinois (see D&C 124:2628). Anxious to receive the blessings of the temple, the Saints began work immediately. Within a year they were able to perform baptisms for their ancestors.

The Nauvoo Temple was built mainly by donated labor. Most men worked one day in 10 on the temple, and the sisters provided clothing and food for them. The Saints also donated about $1 million to buy building materials and supplies. It was a time of great sacrifice for them.

After Joseph and Hyrum Smith were martyred in 1844, the Saints knew they would soon be forced to leave Nauvoo. But they wanted to receive sacred ordinances and kept working on the temple. Rooms were dedicated as they were completed so that ordinance work could begin as soon as possible. The first full endowments were performed 10 December 1845, but the entire temple was not finished and formally dedicated until 30 April 1846. More than 5,000 members received their endowments before starting their journey west.

An arsonist's fire gutted the Nauvoo Temple in October 1848, and later a tornado severely damaged the remaining walls. Residents of Nauvoo then razed the temple and salvaged the stones from the walls.

On 4 April 1999, President Gordon B. Hinckley announced that the Nauvoo Temple was to be rebuilt (see Conference Report, Apr. 1999, 117; or Ensign, May 1999, 89). Accordingly, a new temple, designed to look like the original, was constructed on the site where the first building once stood. The new Nauvoo Illinois Temple was dedicated on 27 June 2002.

SummaryTemples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are holy buildings dedicated to the Lord. A temple is also called the house of the Lord. It is a place where worthy Church members receive saving ordinances and make sacred covenants with God. In temples families can be sealed together forever. The Nauvoo Temple was the first temple in the latter days where endowments, sealings, baptisms for the dead, and other temple ordinances could be performed. Construction on the temple began soon after the Saints came to Nauvoo; it was dedicated on 30 April 1846. Even though members were being driven from their homes by their enemies, more than 5,000 people received their endowments before they started the

journey west. Eventually destroyed after the Saints left, the temple was rebuilt 150 years later and dedicated as the Nauvoo Illinois Temple on 27 June 2002.

119 – Salt Lake Temple Isaiah 2:23And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths. Isaiah 2:23

Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, like those in ancient times, are holy buildings dedicated to the Lord. A temple, also called the house of the Lord, is a place where worthy Church members receive sacred ordinances and make solemn covenants with God. In these holy temples families are sealed together forever. Although design and location vary, the work accomplished in each of the Lord's temples is the same.

Heavenly Father established a plan so that the blessings of the temple could be offered to all His children. People who have received their own ordinances are encouraged to return to the temple often to act as proxies for those who have died without having the opportunity of going to the temple for themselves.

On 28 July 1847, only four days after the Mormon pioneers entered the Salt Lake Valley, Brigham Young marked a site with his cane and declared, "Here we will build a temple to our God." That site is now Temple Square, the center of Salt Lake City.

Construction on the temple began on 14 February 1853 with a ceremonial groundbreaking, and on 6 April the cornerstones were laid. In 1855 the foundation was finished, and the first granite blocks from a quarry 20 miles south in Little Cottonwood Canyon were assembled. But in 1857 the Saints learned that a U.S. Army unit known as Johnston's Army was marching on Utah. The pioneers buried all the work they had done, making the entire site look like a plowed field.

Work on the temple progressed very slowly until 1869, when the transcontinental railroad was finished and a spur could be built into the canyon. The completed temple was finally dedicated on 6 April 1893, 40 years to the day since the cornerstones had been laid. Today the Salt Lake Temple stands as a monument to the pioneers who built it and as the religious symbol of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the world.

SummaryTemples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are holy buildings dedicated to the Lord. A temple is also called the house of the Lord. It is a place where worthy Church members receive saving ordinances and make sacred covenants with God. In temples families can be sealed together forever. President Brigham Young marked the site for the Salt Lake Temple on 28 July 1847, but construction did not begin until February 1853. It took the Saints 40 years to build the temple, and today it is the religious symbol of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the world.

120 – Young Couple Going to the TempleD&C 132:7, D&C 132:1920And they were married, and given in marriage, and were blessed according to the multitude of the promises which the Lord had made unto them. 4 Nephi 1:11

Heavenly Father's divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to continue beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally. Inside these holy temples, worthy couples can be united, or sealed, in the everlasting covenant of marriage. The children of this union are joined to their parents by the power and authority of God. Families who live worthy of these temple covenants can be together throughout all eternity. (See D&C 132:7.)

Marriage is sacred and ordained of God. The family unit is central to Heavenly Father's great plan of happiness. As we accept the covenants and blessings of eternal marriage and live the gospel of Jesus Christ, we can progress to the highest exaltation in the celestial kingdom (see D&C 132:1920).

SummaryHeavenly Father wants families to be together forever. In holy temples a worthy man and woman are married for time and eternity. They are promised that if they live God's commandments, they and their children can be sealed together as a family forever.

121 – Temple Baptismal Font John 3:5; D&C 124:2930Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. John 3:5

Baptism is an ordinance commanded by Heavenly Father for the salvation of all His children. As we participate in this ordinance, we make a sacred covenant that acts as a gate leading to eternal life: "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:5).

Our Father in Heaven established the way this sacred ordinance could be performed for those who died without having the opportunity to hear the gospel and be baptized. Each temple has a baptismal font, and worthy Church members are baptized in the name of people who died without receiving this ordinance (see D&C 124:2930). Afterward, each individual, again represented by a faithful member, is confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is given the Holy Ghost. For all who choose to accept them, these ordinances then become as valid as those that are performed for the living.

Modern-day temple fonts are patterned after the brazen sea in the Temple of Solomon. The sea sat in the outer court of the temple and was used by the priests to wash themselves before they performed sacrifices at the altar. It rested on the backs of twelve oxen, which represented the twelve tribes of Israel.

SummaryHeavenly Father has commanded that all His children should be baptized. Some people who lived on this earth never had the opportunity to hear the gospel and be baptized. For this reason, each temple that has been built in the latter days has a baptismal font, where all worthy members age 12 and older can be baptized for people who died without receiving this ordinance. Each of these temple fonts sits on the backs of twelve oxen, which represent the twelve tribes of Israel.

Latter-Day Prophets

122 – Joseph Smith D&C 76:2224; D&C 135:3; Joseph Smith—History 1:25Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. D&C 135:3

Joseph Smith was a man of integrity. He was persecuted for saying what he knew to be true. Even though he was arrested and jailed many times, tarred and feathered, and tormented in other ways, Joseph never denied his testimony:

"I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true; and while they were persecuting me, reviling me, and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart: Why persecute me for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision; and who am I that I can withstand God, or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen? For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it; at least I knew that by so doing I would offend God, and come under condemnation" (Joseph Smith—History 1:25).

In February 1832 the Prophet Joseph Smith and Elder Sidney Rigdon recorded:

"And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

"For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—

"That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God" (D&C 76:2224).

Joseph Smith's martyrdom on 27 June 1844 in Carthage, Illinois, sealed his testimony (see D&C 135:3). The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has its foundation in that testimony and in the revelations Joseph Smith received, the sacred truths he taught, and the authority of God's priesthood restored through him.

SummaryFrom the time of Joseph Smith's vision of the Father and the Son in 1820, the Prophet had a strong testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Joseph was persecuted throughout his life because of the truths he revealed and taught. But he never denied his testimony and always taught what he knew to be the truth. In 1844 Joseph was killed in Carthage Jail. The men who shot Joseph hoped that killing him would put an end to the Church and Joseph's teachings. Instead it made Joseph's testimony even stronger for the members of the Church because he "sealed his mission and his works with his own blood" (D&C 135:3).

123 – Brigham YoungPresident of the Church, 1847 - 1877"I feel like shouting Hallelujah, all the time, when I think that I ever knew Joseph Smith," said Brigham Young (Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [1954], 458). He proved to be a loyal friend and follower of the Prophet Joseph.

His example of speaking out for truth and righteousness caused some to label him the "Lion of the Lord." "I care nothing about my character in this world," he declared. "I do not care what men say about me; I want my character to stand fair in the eyes of my Heavenly Father" (Brigham Young Office Minutes, 24 April 1859, Historical Department Archives, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).

As a colonizer of the West and as governor of Utah Territory, he established orderly cities and fruitful orchards. He acknowledged the Lord's hand in making the desert blossom: "We prayed over the land, and

dedicated it and the water, air and everything pertaining to them unto the Lord, and the smiles of heaven rested on the land and it became productive" (Discourses, 483).

He left this counsel to those who hesitate to pray: "It matters not whether you or I feel like praying; when the time comes to pray, pray. If we do not feel like it, we should pray till we do" (Discourses, 44).

1801 Born on 1 June to John Young and Abigail Howe Young in Whitingham, Vermont

1824 Age 23, marries Miriam Works on 8 October; she dies in 1832

1832 Age 30, baptized on 14 April in his own millpond near Mendon, New York

1832 - 33 Ages 31 - 32, serves a mission to Canada and leads a small company of converts to Kirtland, Ohio

1834 Age 32, marries Mary Ann Angell on 18 February; she dies in 1882

1835 Age 33, ordained on 14 February as one of the original members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles by the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon: Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris

1839 - 41 Ages 38 - 40, serves a mission to Great Britain

1840 Age 38, sustained as President of the Quorum of the Twelve on 14 April

1844 Age 43, becomes leader of the Church as President of the Quorum of the Twelve at Joseph Smith's death on 27 June

1846 - 47 Ages 44 - 46, leads the exodus west to the Salt Lake Valley and then returns to Winter Quarters

1847 Age 46, sustained as President of the Church on 27 December, with Heber C. Kimball and Willard Richards as counselors

1853 Age 51, lays the cornerstone for the Salt Lake Temple

1877 Age 76, dies on 29 August in Salt Lake City after presiding over the Church for more than 30 years

SummaryBrigham Young, second President of the Church, was the pioneer leader who guided the Saints west to the Salt Lake Valley. He sent families to establish towns and colonies throughout the West. He taught the people to stand for truth and righteousness, to work hard, and to be educated.

124 – John TaylorPresident of the Church, 1880 - 1887John Taylor enjoyed close association with Joseph Smith and Brigham Young. In the early years of the Restoration he became known as "Champion of Liberty and Defender of the Faith" because of his vocal and written support of the Church and its leaders during times of trouble.

He was shot several times at the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. After a bullet struck him, he started falling out the window of his jail cell. Another bullet, though, struck his watch, and the blow forced him back in the room. Of this event he wrote, "I felt that the Lord had preserved me by a special act of mercy; that my time had not yet come, and that I had still a work to perform upon the earth." (See History of the Church, 7:11920.)

He testified at the funeral of President Brigham Young: "We are not alone! God is with us, and He will continue with us from this time henceforth and forever" (quoted in B. H. Roberts, The Life of John Taylor [1963], 325).

He taught that God watches over all the nations and peoples of the earth: "We say we are the children of God. That is true, we are. We are sparks struck from the blaze of His eternal fire. But what of the rest of the world—whose children are they? They are also the children of our Heavenly Father, and He is interested in their welfare as He is in ours" (quoted in Roberts, The Life of John Taylor, 421).

1808 Born on 1 November at Milnthorpe, England, to James and Agnes Taylor

1833 Age 24, marries Leonora Cannon on 28 January; she dies in 1868

1836 Age 27, baptized with Leonora in Black Creek at Georgetown, Ontario, Canada, on 9 May

1838 Age 30, ordained an Apostle by Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball on 19 December

1839 - 41 Ages 30 - 32, serves a mission to England

1844 Age 35, seriously wounded in Carthage Jail when Joseph and Hyrum Smith were killed on 27 June

1846 - 47 Ages 37 - 38, serves a second mission to England

1849 - 52 Ages 40 - 43, serves a mission to France and Germany; has the Book of Mormon published in French and German

1854 - 57 Ages 45 - 48, presides over the Eastern States Mission

1877 Age 68, leads the Church as President of the Quorum of the Twelve at Brigham Young's death on 29 August

1880 Age 71, sustained as President of the Church on 10 October, with George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith as counselors

1884 Age 75, dedicates the Logan Temple on 17 May

1887 Age 78, dies on 25 July in Kaysville, Utah, after nearly seven years as President of the Church

SummaryJohn Taylor, third President of the Church, was with the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum when they were shot and killed at Carthage Jail. Though he was shot several times, he said, "I felt that the Lord had preserved me by a special act of mercy." He taught that God watches over all the nations of the earth and loves His children everywhere.

125 – Wilford WoodruffPresident of the Church, 1889 - 1898When Wilford Woodruff heard the testimonies of two missionaries on 29 December 1833, he was quick to recognize the truth and was baptized just two days later. Because of his humility and willingness to serve, he was called "Wilford the Faithful" (see Preston Nibley, The Presidents of the Church [1974], 101).

He wrote this advice about family harmony to his 19-year-old daughter: "We are expecting to live together forever after death. I think we all as parents and children ought to take all the pains we can to make each other happy as long as we live that we may have nothing to regret" (quoted in Dean C. Jessee, "Wilford Woodruff," in The Presidents of the Church, ed. Leonard J. Arrington [1986], 137).

To the young people he taught: "I feel to exhort and counsel you, my young friends, to listen to the voice of God and obey it while young, as Samuel did, that you may be great, good, and useful, and the beloved of the Lord and your parents. ... Your eternal destiny for time and eternity, will in a great measure depend upon the foundation which you lay in the days of your youth" (The Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, sel. G. Homer Durham [1946], 26566).

1807 Born on 1 March at Avon (currently Farmington), Connecticut, to Aphek Woodruff and Beulah Thompson Woodruff

1833 Age 26, baptized in an icy stream near Richland, New York, on 31 December

1834-36 Ages 27-29, serves a mission to the southern United States

1837 Age 30, marries Phoebe Carter on 13 April; she dies in 1885

1837-38 Ages 30-31, serves a mission to the eastern United States and the Fox Islands

1839 Age 32, ordained an Apostle by Brigham Young on 26 April

1839-41 Ages 32-34, serves a mission to Great Britain

1843 Age 36, serves a mission to the eastern United States

1844-46 Ages 36-39, serves as president of the European Mission

1847 Age 40, enters Great Salt Lake Valley with Brigham Young on 24 July

1887 Age 80, leads the Church as President of the Quorum of the Twelve at John Taylor's death on 25 July

1888 Age 81, dedicates Manti Temple on 17 May

1889 Age 82, sustained as President of the Church on 7 April; keeps as counselors George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith

1890 Age 83, issues Manifesto on 24 September after receiving a revelation to discontinue the practice of plural marriage

1893 Age 86, dedicates the Salt Lake Temple on 6 April

1898 Age 91, dies on 2 September in San Francisco, California, after nine years as President of the Church

SummaryWilford Woodruff, fourth President of the Church, quickly recognized the truth of the gospel and was baptized two days after hearing the message. He entered the Great Salt Lake Valley with Brigham Young on 24 July 1847. He taught the young people "to listen to the voice of God and obey it." He said to them, "Your eternal destiny for time and eternity, will in a great measure depend upon the foundation which you lay in the days of your youth."

126 – Lorenzo SnowPresident of the Church, 1898 - 1901Lorenzo Snow received a personal revelation about the destiny of mankind that the Prophet Joseph Smith later confirmed as true. Lorenzo related: "The Spirit of the Lord rested mightily upon me—the eyes of my understanding were opened, and I saw as clear as the sun at noonday, with wonder and astonishment, the pathway of God and man. I formed the following couplet, which expresses the revelation, as it was shown to me ... : As man now is, God once was: As God now is, man may be" (quoted in LeRoi C. Snow, "Devotion to a Divine Inspiration," Improvement Era, June 1919, 656).

After the death of President Woodruff in 1898, President Snow saw and was instructed by the Lord Jesus Christ in the Salt Lake Temple. President Snow later related this experience to his granddaughter, adding, "I want you to remember that this is the testimony of your grand-father, that he told you with his own lips that he actually saw the Savior, here in the Temple, and talked with Him face to face" (quoted in LeRoi C. Snow, "An Experience of My Father's," Improvement Era, Sept. 1933, 677).

"Jesus has commanded us to be perfect even as God, the Father, is perfect," taught President Snow. "It is our duty to try to be perfect, and it is our duty to improve each day, and look upon our course last week and do things better this week; do things better today than we did them yesterday, and go on and on from one degree of righteousness to another" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1898, 13).

1814 Born on 3 April to Oliver Snow and Rosetta Leonora Pettibone Snow in Mantua, Ohio

1836 Age 22, baptized on 19 June in the Chagrin River, which runs through Kirtland, Ohio

1837 Age 23, serves a mission to Ohio

1838-39 Ages 24-25, serves a mission to Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Ohio

1840-43 Ages 26-29, serves a mission to Great Britain

1845 Age 31, marries Charlotte Merrill Squires, Mary Adaline Goddard, Sarah Ann Prichard, and Harriet Amelia Squires on 17 January*

1849 Age 34, ordained an Apostle by Heber C. Kimball on 12 February

1849-52 Ages 35-38, serves a mission to Italy, England, Switzerland, and Malta

1864 Age 50, serves a short mission to the Sandwich (Hawaiian) Islands

1873-77 Ages 59-63, serves as counselor to President Brigham Young

1885 Age 71, serves a mission to the Indians of northwestern United States

1898 Age 84, sustained as President of the Church on 13 September; keeps George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith as counselors

1899 Age 85, begins a drive to reemphasize the law of tithing, starting in St. George, Utah

1901 Age 87, dies on 10 October in Salt Lake City after three years as President of the Church

SummaryLorenzo Snow, fifth President of the Church, was instructed by the Lord Jesus Christ in the Salt Lake Temple following the death of President Woodruff. President Snow later told his granddaughter, "I want you to remember that this is the testimony of your grand-father, that he told you with his own lips that he actually saw the Savior, here in the Temple, and talked with Him face to face." President Snow taught the Saints to pay their tithing and that if they did, the Lord would bless them with all they needed.

127- Joseph F. SmithPresident of the Church, 190 - 11918In 1915, when Joseph F. Smith was President of the Church, the First Presidency wrote a letter encouraging families to hold "home evening" activities. They promised blessings to families who would participate: "If the Saints obey this counsel, we promise that great blessings will result. Love at home and obedience to parents will increase. Faith will be developed in the hearts of the youth of Israel, and they will gain power to combat the evil influence and temptations which beset them" (in James R. Clark, comp., Messages of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints [196575], 4:33839).

Just six weeks before his death, while reading and pondering the scriptures, Joseph F. Smith received a beautiful and magnificent vision. This vision showed Jesus Christ visiting the spirits of righteous people who had died. The Savior organized the spirits into a missionary force to preach the gospel to those who had died without a knowledge of the gospel or who had rejected the truth. Among the faithful who were teaching others were his father, Hyrum Smith, and the Prophet Joseph Smith. The Church accepted this revelation as scripture, and it was published in 1976 as section 138 of the Doctrine and Covenants.

1838 Born on 13 November in Far West, Missouri, to Hyrum Smith (the Prophet Joseph's brother) and Mary Fielding Smith

1844 Age 5, his father martyred at Carthage Jail, Carthage, Illinois

1848 Age 9, drives an ox team across the plains

1852 Age 13, baptized a member of the Church on 21 May in City Creek, Salt Lake City

1852 Age 13, becomes an orphan when his mother, Mary Fielding Smith, dies on 21 September

1854-58 Ages 15-19, serves a mission to Hawaii

1860-63 Ages 21-24, serves a mission to Great Britain

1864 Age 25-26, serves a special mission to Hawaii

1866 Age 27, marries Julina Lambson on 5 May; she dies in 1936

1866 Age 27, ordained an Apostle by Brigham Young on 1 July and called as a counselor in the First Presidency; later called as a counselor to Presidents Taylor (1880), Woodruff (1889), and Snow (1898)

1873-75 Ages 35-37, serves as president of the European Mission

1877 Age 38, serves again as president of the European Mission

1901 Age 62, sustained as President of the Church on 17 October, with John R. Winder and Anthon H. Lund as counselors

1915 Age 76, dedicates the temple site at Laie, Hawaii, where he had served on a mission as a youth

1918 Age 80, dies on 19 November in Salt Lake City after 17 years as President of the Church

SummaryJoseph F. Smith, sixth President of the Church, was five years old when his father, Hyrum Smith, was killed at Carthage Jail with the Prophet Joseph Smith. Joseph F. Smith was nine years old when he drove an ox team across the plains. As President of the Church, he encouraged families to hold "home evening" activities, promising that "great blessings will result. Love at home and obedience to parents will increase. Faith will be developed in the hearts of the youth of Israel, and they will gain power to combat the evil influence and temptations which beset them."

128 – Heber J. Grant President of the Church, 1918-1945Heber J. Grant was an example of persistence and determination. He lived by these words: "That which we persist in doing becomes easier for us to do; not that the nature of the thing itself is changed, but that our power to do is increased" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1901, 63)."Keep the commandments of God," he urged. "That is my keynote speech, just those few words: Keep the commandments of God" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1920, 10).

He reaffirmed such principles as the Word of Wisdom, the law of tithing, and industry and thrift. Under his direction, the Church moved to secure financial footing.

As the Lord's prophet, he invited all people to come unto Christ: "No matter in what land we may dwell the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ makes us brothers and sisters" (in James R. Clark, comp., Messages of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints [196575], 5:311).

1856 Born in Salt Lake City on 22 November to Jedediah Morgan Grant and Rachel Ridgeway Ivins Grant; his father, a counselor to President Brigham Young, dies nine days later

1864 Baptized in a wagon box set up as an outdoor baptismal font in City Creek, Salt Lake City

1877 Age 20, marries Lucy Stringham on 1 November; she dies in 1893

1882 Age 25, ordained an Apostle by George Q. Cannon

1883-84 Ages 26-28, serves a mission to the American Indians

1901-3 Ages 44-46, organizes and presides over the Japanese Mission

1904-6 Ages 47-50, serves as president of the British and European Missions

1918 Age 62, sustained as President of the Church on 23 November, with Anthon H. Lund and Charles W. Penrose as counselors

1919 Age 63, dedicates the Hawaii Temple on 27 November

1923 Age 66, dedicates the Alberta (Canada) Temple on 26 August

1927 Age 70, dedicates the Arizona Temple on 23 October

1936 Age 80, establishes the Church welfare plan

1945 Age 88, dies on 14 May in Salt Lake City after more than 26 years as President of the Church

SummaryHeber J. Grant, seventh President of the Church, was an example of persistence and determination. He led the Church during the difficult time of World War I and through World War II and helped the Church become financially secure. He urged members to keep the Word of Wisdom, pay tithing, and be thrifty. He invited all people to come unto Christ and keep the commandments of God.

129 – George Albert SmithPresident of the Church, 1945-1951George Albert Smith was the fourth generation of his family to serve as a General Authority. He and his father, John Henry Smith, served in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles at the same time—the only time in Church history for this to occur.

He developed a creed that included the following ideals: "I would be a friend to the friendless and find joy in ministering to the needs of the poor. ... I would not seek to force people to live up to my ideals but rather love them into doing the thing that is right. ... I would not knowingly wound the feeling of any, not even one who may have wronged me, but would seek to do him good and make him my friend. ... I would not be an enemy to any living soul" (quoted in Bryant S. Hinckley, "Greatness in Men: Superintendent George Albert Smith," Improvement Era, Mar. 1932, 295).

He served the youth of the Church as superintendent of the YMMIA for over a decade and as a member of the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America.

He repeated many times these words of his grandfather George A. Smith, for whom he was named: "There is a line of demarkation, well defined, between the Lord's territory and the devil's. If you will stay on the Lord's side of the line you will be under his influence and will have no desire to do wrong; but if you cross to the devil's side of the line one inch, you are in the tempter's power, and if he is successful, you will not be able to think or even reason properly, because you will have lost the spirit of the Lord" (Sharing the Gospel with Others, sel. Preston Nibley [1948], 4243).

1870 Born on 4 April to John Henry Smith and Sarah Farr Smith in Salt Lake City

1878 Age 8, baptized in City Creek, Salt Lake City

1892 Age 22, marries Lucy Emily Woodruff; she dies in 1937

1892-94 Ages 22-24, serves a mission to the southern United States, where Lucy joins him in the work

1903 Age 33, ordained an Apostle by President Joseph F. Smith on 8 October

1919-21 Ages 49-51, serves as president of the European Mission

1945 Age 75, sustained as President of the Church on 5 October, with J. Reuben Clark Jr. and David O. McKay as counselors; dedicates the Idaho Falls Temple on 23 September; plans the

Church's massive welfare assistance to Europe following World War II

1951 Age 81, dies on 4 April, his 81st birthday, in Salt Lake City after six years as President of the Church

SummaryGeorge Albert Smith was the eighth President of the Church. His father, grandfather, and great-grandfather also served as General Authorities. He enjoyed Scouting and camping. He developed a creed that was a guide for his life: "I would be a friend to the friendless. ... I would not be an enemy to any living soul."

130 – David O. McKayPresident of the Church, 1951-1970"Every member a missionary," taught President McKay (in Conference Report, Apr. 1959, 12122). The Church accelerated its missionary work under his direction.

He championed the family and the home, reminding us that "no other success can compensate for failure in the home" (quoted from J. E. McCulloch, Home: The Savior of Civilization [1924], 42; in Conference Report, Apr. 1935, 116).

He often quoted, "To be trusted is a greater compliment than to be loved" (Gospel Ideals [1953], 187).

"Next to the bestowal of life itself, the right to direct that life is God's greatest gift to man" (Gospel Ideals, 299).

Although he valued education highly, he said, "Character is higher than intellect" (Gospel Ideals, 443).

President McKay explained the importance of good works: "Spirituality is best manifested in doing, not in dreaming. Rapturous day dreams, flights of heavenly fancy, longings to see the invisible, are not so impressive as the plain doing of duty" (True to the Faith, comp. Llewelyn R. McKay [1966], 24445).

1873 Born on 8 September in Huntsville, Utah, to David McKay and Jennette Evans McKay

1881 Age 8, baptized in Spring Creek, Huntsville, Utah, on his birthday while his father served a mission to Great Britain

1897-99 Ages 24-26, serves a mission to Scotland

1901 Age 27, marries Emma Ray Riggs, his college sweetheart, on 2 January; she dies in 1970

1906 Age 32, ordained an Apostle by President Joseph F. Smith on 9 April

1920-21 Ages 47-48, visits Church missions worldwide; dedicates the land of China to missionary work

1922-24 Ages 49-51, serves as president of the European Mission

1934 Age 61, called as a counselor to President Heber J. Grant; later called as a counselor to President George Albert Smith (1945)

1951 Age 77, sustained as President of the Church on 9 April, with Stephen L. Richards and J. Reuben Clark Jr. as counselors

1955 Age 82, dedicates the Swiss Temple on 11 September

1956 Age 82, dedicates the Los Angeles Temple on 11 March

1958 Age 84, dedicates the New Zealand Temple on 20 April and the London Temple on 7 September

1964 Age 91, dedicates the Oakland Temple on 17 November

1970 Age 96, dies on 18 January in Salt Lake City after serving almost 64 years as a General Authority, longer than any other man, and nearly 19 years as President of the Church

SummaryDavid O. McKay, ninth President of the Church, encouraged missionary work when he said, "Every member a missionary." He also taught the importance of home and family by saying that having a righteous family is the best success we can have in this life.

131 – Joseph Fielding SmithPresident of the Church, 19701972President Joseph Fielding Smith invited all people to come unto Christ: "There is no cure for the ills of the world except the gospel of Jesus Christ. ... And so we invite all our Father's children, everywhere, to believe in Christ, to receive him as he is revealed by living prophets, and to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ... To the honest in heart in all nations we say: The Lord loves you. He wants you to receive the full blessings of the gospel" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1972, 13; or Ensign, July 1972, 27).

He left this blessing on the youth of the Church: "The Lord bless you and keep you, which most assuredly will be so as you learn his laws and live in harmony with them. Be true to every trust. Honor thy father and thy mother. Dwell together in love and conformity. Be modest in your dress. Overcome the world, and do not be led astray by the fashions and practices of those whose interests are centered upon the things of this world" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1972, 1314).

1876 Born on 19 July to Joseph F. Smith and Julina Lambson Smith in Salt Lake City

1884 Age 8, baptized by his father in Salt Lake City on his birthday

1893 Age 16, attends the dedication of the Salt Lake Temple

1898 Age 21, marries Louie Emily (Emyla) Shurtliff on 26 April; she dies in 1908

1899-1901 Ages 22-24, serves a mission to England

1908 Age 32, marries Ethel Georgina Reynolds on 2 November; she dies in 1937

1910 Age 33, ordained an Apostle on 7 April by his father, Joseph F. Smith, President of the Church

1938 Age 61, marries Jessie Ella Evans on 12 April; she dies in 1971

1965 Age 89, called as a counselor to President David O. McKay

1970 Age 93, sustained as President of the Church on 6 April, with Harold B. Lee and N. Eldon Tanner as counselors

1971 Age 95, presides over the first area general conference of the Church, held in Manchester, England

1972 Age 95, dedicates the Ogden Temple on 18 January and the Provo Temple on 9 February

1972 Age 95, dies on 2 July in Salt Lake City after two and a half years as President of the Church

SummaryJoseph Fielding Smith, 10th President of the Church, invited all to come unto Christ. He said: "There is no cure for the ills of the world except the gospel of Jesus Christ. ... The Lord loves you. He wants you to receive the full blessings of the gospel."

132 – Harold B. LeePresident of the Church, 1972-1973"The greatest miracles I see today," expressed President Lee, "are not necessarily the healing of sick bodies, but the greatest miracles I see are the healing of sick souls, those who are sick in soul and spirit and are downhearted and distraught. ... We are reaching out to all such, because they are precious in the

sight of the Lord, and we want no one to feel that they are forgotten" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1973, 178; or Ensign, July 1973, 123).

"I know that there are powers divine that reach out when all other help is not available" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1973, 179).

"Take time for family home evening. Draw your children around about you. Teach them, guide them, and guard them. There was never a time when we needed so much the strength and the solidarity of the home" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1973, 130; or Ensign, July 1973, 98).

To the Saints in Mexico and Central America, he told a sacred experience following his call as President of the Church: "On the early morning thereafter with my wife I kneeled in humble prayer, and suddenly it seemed as though my mind and heart went out to over three million people in all the world. I seemed to have a love for every one of them no matter where they lived nor what their color was, whether they were rich or poor, whether they were humble or great, or educated or not. Suddenly I felt as though they all belonged to me, as though they were all my own brothers and sisters" (in Conference Report, Mexico and Central America Area Conference 1972, 151).

1899 Born on 28 March to Samuel Marion Lee and Louisa Emeline Bingham Lee in Clifton, Idaho

1907 Age 8, baptized on Sunday, 9 June, in Bybee Pond, an old lime kiln

1920-22 Ages 21-23, serves a mission to the western United States

1923 Age 24, marries Fern Lucinda Tanner on 14 November; she dies in 1962

1935 Age 36, called to organize a Churchwide program to help the needy

1941 Age 42, ordained an Apostle on 10 April by President Heber J. Grant

1963 Age 64, marries Freda Joan Jensen on 17 June; she dies in 1981

1970 Age 70, called as a counselor to President Joseph Fielding Smith

1972 Age 73, sustained as President of the Church on 6 October, with N. Eldon Tanner and Marion G. Romney as counselors

1973 Age 74, dies on 26 December in Salt Lake City after nearly a year and a half as President of the Church

SummaryHarold B. Lee, 11th President of the Church, had a great love for the members of the Church. He told the Saints to hold family home evening, teach their children, and protect them from the temptations of our world.

133 – Spencer W. KimballPresident of the Church, 1973-1985Because of surgery on his vocal cords, President Kimball had a quiet voice, but his life spoke loudly of good works. He inspired Church members worldwide: "Put your shoulders to the wheel, lengthen your stride, heighten your reach, increase your devotion" (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 564). He was an example of action. On his desk was a plaque with the motto "Do It."

"The Lord will not translate one's good hopes and desires and intentions into works," he wrote. "Each of us must do that for himself" (The Miracle of Forgiveness [1969], 8).

On Sabbath worship, he instructed: "We do not go to Sabbath meetings to be entertained or even solely to be instructed. We go to worship the Lord. If the service is a failure to you, you must have failed. No one can worship for you; you must do your own waiting upon the Lord" ("The Sabbath—A Delight," Ensign, Jan. 1978, 45).

Under his direction, temple work expanded rapidly worldwide. The Church dedicated temples in Australia, Brazil, Chile, Germany, Guatemala, Mexico, the Philippines, the United States (five locations), South Africa, Sweden, Taiwan, Tahiti, Tonga, Samoa, and Japan. New temples were announced for Canada, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, South Korea, and the United States (three locations).

1895 Born on 28 March in Salt Lake City to Andrew Kimball and Olive Woolley Kimball

1903 Age 8, baptized on his birthday by his father in the hog-scalding tub that the family also used as a bathtub

1906 Age 11, his mother dies

1914-16 Ages 19-21, called to serve in the Swiss-Austrian Mission, but because of World War I he is reassigned to the central United States

1917 Age 22, marries Camilla Eyring on 16 November; she dies in 1987

1943 Age 48, ordained an Apostle on 7 October by President Heber J. Grant

1946 Age 51, receives an assignment from President George Albert Smith to work with the American Indians

1964-67 Ages 69-72, supervises missionary work in South America; begins missionary work among the Indians of the Andes

1974 Age 79, sustained as President of the Church on 6 April (having been ordained on 30 December 1973), with N. Eldon Tanner and Marion G. Romney as counselors

1978 Age 83, receives a revelation to extend the priesthood to all worthy male members

1979 Age 84, new edition of the Bible published

1981 Age 86, new edition of the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price published

1985 Age 90, dies on 5 November in Salt Lake City after nearly 12 years as President of the Church

SummarySpencer W. Kimball, 12th President of the Church, told the members of the Church, "Lengthen your stride." His life was an example of good works and action. On his desk was a plaque with the motto "Do It." Under his direction, temples were built in many areas of the world.

134 – Ezra Taft BensonPresident of the Church, 1985-1994President Ezra Taft Benson placed renewed emphasis on the Book of Mormon: "The Book of Mormon is the instrument that God designed to 'sweep the earth as with a flood, to gather out [His] elect' (Moses 7:62). This sacred volume of scripture needs to become more central in our preaching, our teaching, and our missionary work. ... Indeed, I have a vision of flooding the earth with the Book of Mormon" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1988, 35; or Ensign, Nov. 1988, 46).

"Let us continually reread the Book of Mormon so that we might more fully come to Christ, be committed to Him, centered in Him, and consumed in Him" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 104; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 85).

"There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path. ... This is my prayer, that the Book of Mormon may become the keystone of our lives" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1986, 67; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, 7).

He is remembered for his condemnation of pride: "Pride is the universal sin, the great vice. ... Pride is the great stumbling block to Zion" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1989, 67; or Ensign, May 1989, 67).

Elder Mark E. Petersen wrote this tribute to President Benson: " 'What is best for the kingdom?' The answer to that question has been the deciding factor in every important matter that has come before [him] throughout his life" ("President Ezra Taft Benson," Ensign, Jan. 1986, 23).

1899 Born 4 August in Whitney, Idaho, to George T. Benson and Sarah Dunkley Benson

1907 Age 8, baptized on his birthday in the Logan River Canal in Whitney, Idaho

1921-23 Ages 21-24, serves a mission to Great Britain

1926 Age 27, marries Flora Smith Amussen on 10 September; she dies in 1992

1943 Age 44, ordained an Apostle by Heber J. Grant on 7 October

1946 Age 46, begins service as president of the European Mission; distributes needed supplies to the Europeans after World War II

1953-61 Ages 5361, serves as United States secretary of agriculture under President Dwight D. Eisenhower

196465 Ages 65-66, serves as president of the European Mission

1968-71 Ages 68-72, supervises missionary work in Asia

1986 Age 86, sustained as President of the Church on 6 April (having been ordained on 10 November 1985), with Gordon B. Hinckley and Thomas S. Monson as counselors

1986 Age 87, dedicates the Denver Colorado Temple on 24 October

1987 Age 88, dedicates the Frankfurt Germany Temple on 28 August

1994 Age 94, dies on 30 May in Salt Lake City after eight and a half years as President of the Church

SummaryEzra Taft Benson, 13th President of the Church, encouraged every member to read the Book of Mormon. He testified that the Book of Mormon will help us come unto Christ. He said, "There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. ... This is my prayer, that the Book of Mormon may become the keystone of our lives."

135 – Howard W. HunterPresident of the Church, 1994-1995"Look to the temple of the Lord as the great symbol of your membership," President Hunter urged. "It is the deepest desire of my heart to have every member of the Church worthy to enter the temple" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1994, 8; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, 8).

"Let us follow the Son of God in all ways and in all walks of life. Let us make him our exemplar and our guide. We should at every opportunity ask ourselves, 'What would Jesus do?' and then be more courageous to act upon the answer. ...

"What manner of men and women ought we to be? Even as he is" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1994, 84; or Ensign, May 1994, 64).

"I invite all members of the Church to live with ever more attention to the life and example of the Lord Jesus Christ, especially the love and hope and compassion he displayed. I pray that we will treat each other with more kindness, more patience, more courtesy and forgiveness" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1994, 7).

1907 Born 14 November in Boise, Idaho, to John William (Will) Hunter and Nellie Marie Rasmussen Hunter

1920 Age 12, baptized on 4 April in an indoor swimming pool in Boise, Idaho; ordained a deacon by his bishop on 21 June

1931 Age 23, marries Clara (Claire) May Jeffs on 10 June; she dies in 1983

1959 Age 51, ordained an Apostle by President David O. McKay on 15 October

1989 Age 81, dedicates the BYU Jerusalem Center, marking the completion of a decade-long endeavor

1990 Age 82, marries Inis Bernice Egan on 10 April

1994 Age 86, sustained as President of the Church on 1 October, with Gordon B. Hinckley and Thomas S. Monson as counselors; dedicates the Orlando Florida Temple on 9 October; age 87, presides over creation of the Church's 2,000th stake, the Mexico City Mexico Contreras Stake, on 11 December

1995 Age 87, dedicates the Bountiful Utah Temple on 8 January; dies at home in Salt Lake City on 3 March after nine months as President of the Church

SummaryHoward W. Hunter, 14th President of the Church, encouraged each member to live worthy to receive the blessings of the temple. He told us to follow the example of Jesus Christ and to "treat each other with more kindness, more patience, more courtesy and forgiveness."

136 – Gordon B. HinckleyPresident of the Church 1995 - 20081910: Born in Salt Lake City

1932: Graduates from the University of Utah

1933-35: Serves a full-time mission to the British Isles

1935: Works on the LDS Church's new Radio, Publicity and Mission Literature Committee

1937: Marries Marjorie Pay in the Salt Lake LDS Temple

1937: Called to the Deseret Sunday School Union Board

1956: Called as president of the East Millcreek Stake

1958: Sustained as an Assistant to the Quorum of the Twelve

1961: Ordained an LDS apostle at age 51

1981: Called as a counselor to President Spencer W. Kimball

1982: Called as second counselor to President Kimball

1985: Called as first counselor to President Ezra Taft Benson

1994: Called as first counse-lor to President Howard W. Hunter

1995: Sustained as president of the LDS Church

1996: First Presidency issues Proclamation on the Family

1996: Becomes first president to visit mainland China

1999: Announces reconstruction of the Nauvoo LDS Temple (dedicated in 2002)

2000: Celebrates his 90th birthday; dedicates the Conference Center

2001: Creates the Perpetual Education Fund

2002: Becomes first president to visit Russia and the Ukraine

2004: Marjorie Pay Hinckley, President Hinckley's wife, dies at age 94

2004: Receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award

2005: Commemorates 10 years with Presidents Monson and Faust as a First Presidency

2005: Celebrates his 95th birthday

2006: Has surgery to remove a cancerous growth in his large intestine

2007: Rededicates renovated Salt Lake tabernacle

2007: Gordon B. Hinckley Alumni and Visitors Center dedicated at BYU

2008: Rededicates Utah's renovated state Capitol

2008: He dies at home on Jan. 27

137 – Thomas S. MonsonPresident of the Church 2008 -

Aug. 21, 1927: Born in Salt Lake City to G. Spencer Monson and Gladys Condie Monson.

1945-46: Served in Navy in San Diego.

1948: Graduated with honors from the University of Utah with a bachelor's of science in marketing.

Oct. 7, 1948: Married Frances Johnson in the Salt Lake Temple.

1949: Named assistant classified advertising manager of the Deseret News.

1950: Named Deseret News classified advertising manager.

March 12, 1950: Sustained as second counselor in the 6th-7th Ward bishopric. Had previously been ward clerk and ward Young Men's president.

May 7, 1950: Sustained as bishop of the 6th-7th Ward.

1953: Appointed sales manager for Deseret News press.

June 26, 1955: Sustained as second counselor in the Temple View Stake presidency.

1958: Named assistant manager of Deseret News press.

1959: Called as president of the Canadian Mission.

Feb. 1, 1962: Sustained as a high councilor in the Valley View Stake.

April 1962: Named supervisor of Area No. 3 of stake missions.

May 1963: Named member of the Priesthood Home Teaching Committee.

Oct. 4, 1963: Called to the Quorum of the Twelve and ordained an apostle.

1974: Received master's of business administration from Brigham Young University.

April 1981: Received honorary doctorate of law from Brigham Young University.

Nov. 10, 1985: Set apart as second counselor in First Presidency to President Ezra Taft Benson.

Jan. 17, 1986: Dedicated the Buenos Aires Temple in Argentina.

June 5, 1994: Set apart as second counselor in First Presidency to President Howard W. Hunter

March 12, 1995: Set apart as first counselor in First Presidency to President Gordon B. Hinckley.

2000: Dedicated the Louisville Kentucky, Reno Nevada, Tampico Mexico, Villahermosa Mexico, Merida Yucatan Mexico and Veracruz Mexico temples.

Jan. 20, 2007: Received the Worldwide Humanitarian Award at the Salt Lake Rotary International convention.

Feb. 4, 2008: Announced as the 16th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.