The Bible

One of the blessings of being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (a Mormon) is the ready access to the book of scripture known as the Book of Mormon.

The Book of Mormon is a companion volume to the Holy Bible. As Mormons, we revere both these books as scripture. I'm so grateful for them! And the Book of Mormon helps me to understand so much about the Lord and His purposes for me.

From the Book of Mormon, I learn how much the Lord really does love His children. In 2 Nephi 2:25 I learn that there was a purpose to Adam's fall and that the Lord intends for us to have joy - even here in mortality!

From the Book of Mormon, I learn that the Lord desires to bestow great blessings upon His children. In 1 Nephi 17:3 we read:

"And thus we see that the commandments of God must be fulfilled. And if it so be that the children of men keep the commandments of God he doth nourish them, and strengthen them, and provide means whereby they can accomplish the thing which he has commended them; ..."

And from the Book of Mormon, we read of the pending destructions for those amongst God's children who cause great harm to others. Regarding all unrepentant sinners, we learn this from the Book of Mormon:

"For behold, the Lord saw that his people began to work in darkness, yea, work secret murders and abominations; therefore the Lord said, if they did not repent they should be destroyed from off the face of the earth ...." (Alma 37:22).

Then speaking of interpreters created by the Lord to interpret ancient scriptural records, the Lord's prophet says:

"And now, my son, these interpreters were prepared that the word of God might be fulfilled, which he spake, saying:

"I will bring forth out of darkness unto light all their secret works and their abominations; and except they repent I will destroy them from off the face of the earth; and I will bring to light all their secrets and abominations, unto every nation that shall hereafter possess the land" (Alma 37:24-25).

The Book of Mormon prophet that recorded these words was none other than Alma. He was speaking both of individuals during his day AND of future inhabitants of the Americas. As he completes this portion of his testament, he shares these tender words to his son:

"O, remember, my son, and learn wisdom in thy youth; yea, learn in thy youth to keep the commandments of God" (Alma 37:35).

The Lord desires to bless all of His children. But He will stand by only so long if some of those children are bent and determined in hurting others. If the inhabitants of the world, especially here in the Americas, do not repent from such deeds, the day will come when the Lord will step in to stop the impenitent.

Oh, may we repent as a people of those things which are not appropriate in the sight of God! The Lord truly desires that we experience joy, as we read above in 2 Nephi 2:25. The Book of Mormon helps my understanding of the Bible's teachings in learning to have just that - joy that awaits for me from our God!

Oh, how important to listen to the warnings of God contained in the Holy scriptures, both in the Holy Bible and in the Book of Mormon. I invite you to explore both now. Simply click on these links:

• The Holy Bible (the Old and New Testaments)
• The Book of Mormon

One final question, though. How can you know all of this is true? Visit this link to find the answer.

I have the privilege of teaching early morning Mormon seminary. Seminary is a terrific opportunity to participate in each day. During the daily seminary hour teens study the scriptures in a classroom setting under the guidance of a seminary teacher. As stated at the Church's website, BeSmart.com, "Seminary will give you gospel knowledge and insights that will be invaluable in college and beyond."

In some locations Mormon seminary classes are offered during the day, and high school kids can opt to take seminary then. But in other areas, the only time seminary is taught is in the wee hours of the morning before most people even get up.

I have the privilege of serving as one of those early morning seminary teachers; it is a privilege to study the gospel of Jesus Christ with today's terrific teens. And often as I return home each day, after seminary, I'll pause in my car and take a few moments to think. Usually I'll open my scriptures to ponder what I might find there.

Today my scriptures fell open to Romans 1:16:

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."

As I sat in my car, I mused on the power of this verse. Can you imagine a world of individuals with reverence for the Messiah? Can you imagine society so fully converted to Jesus Christ and His teachings that no-one would be ashamed of living His word or His ways?

Then we could all experience the "power of God unto salvation." What a society that would be!

But our world is not there yet. There are still those who ridicule all things Christian. And there are still those who have not yet heard of Him who saves. That is why sharing the good news of the gospel is so essential. If you yourself had not heard about the gentle love and kindness of Christ - and all He holds out to you - wouldn't you want someone to share that with you?

This is why, for me, daily scripture study is so important - because potent verses will touch my heart and highlight impressions in my mind to serve others and to carry the word of the Lord to others - just like Romans 1:16 did for me today in the New Testament.

In the very next verse, verse 17 to be precise, we read that "the just shall live by faith." And how true this is. Until we can all come to the same understanding - that God is real and that He has a plan for each one of us - it can be challenging to live in today's society.

But as we live in faith, as we study God's word in the scriptures, and as we manifest that faith through good and kind application of those very scriptures, not only are we ourselves strengthened, but we also are making it possible for more and more to know of Christ, His ways, and His joyful gifts He waits to give everyone!

This is the power of the scriptures ... and especially the power of Romans 1:16 as it came to me today. So glad I took the time to read it after teaching seminary so early in the morning!

(To learn more about seminary, feel free to visit here or here. To visit the scriptures, click here.)

Have you ever thought about the power of a word? For some reason, I've always loved words. Even when I was a kid. Shhhh, I'll tell you a secret. OK, well, maybe not so secret since I'm posting it here on this blog ... but when I was a kid I used to read the dictionary.

No, seriously. I really did. I was fascinated by the power of words. And at one point when I was in junior high, my quiet goal was to read every word in the dictionary I owned.

I'm here to tell you that I didn't achieve that far-reaching goal. But I did gain a love of the printed word. And guess where that love has benefitted me the most? That's right - in my scripture study.

I can't tell you how many times while reading the scriptures that the Spirit of the Lord will prompt me with a quiet impression to look up the meaning of a word. It usually is a word I've just barely read.

Originally, when these subtle thoughts came to mind, I'd respond with, "But I already KNOW that meaning!" (Yes, ok, that's a bit prideful - I'll admit it - but at least I'm honest!)

But the Spirit of God can work with anyone if they're willing to hearken. And eventually I became more amenable and willing. And as I followed the subtle promptings of the Spirit of God, an entirely new and richer world of understanding opened to my mind.

For example, one time I was reading in the scriptures about the Lord desiring a peculiar people. Now, in today's vernacular it's not real "cool" to be peculiar. So at first blush, being peculiar didn't seem desirable. I mused on this and an impression came to my mind to look up the term in the dictionary. So I did.

That's when I learned the other definitions of the word "peculiar." To be peculiar means to be uncommon, unusual, and distinctive in character. It also means to belong exclusively to a particular person or thing.

I began to catch a much deeper understanding of why the Lord would have a peculiar people. He desires a people that belong to him and that are uncommon and distinctive in character. This is a good thing. I could now see much better and understand much better what the Lord's prophet was attempting to teach through his record in the scriptures!

All because I used the dictionary to help me in my scripture study! If you'd like to try it, simply click here to begin your study of the scriptures. Keep a dictionary at hand and as you come across any new terms, feel free to flip open the dictionary. You might be surprised how much richer your scripture study will be because of it.

As Mormons, or members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we value greatly the word of God found in the scriptures. But even we at times need to be reminded of powerful ways to get more from scripture study. One of the best way to read the scriptures is to read them the slow way - in other words, stopping to ponder on a phrase or word that has caught your attention.

Whereas in school a person might get in trouble for staring out the window deep in thought, in scripture study it is completely a different matter. The Lord wants you to take the time to ponder on what you've just read.

In fact, if we speed-read through the scriptures, we might miss many priceless pieces of information that could help us in our current struggles!

I know that when I've been reading the scriptures, there have been times when I've absolutely had to stop. I couldn't help it. That which I'd just read struck me with such force or insight that I couldn't go on. And then I find myself in that traditional pose which aggravates many school teachers ... my eyes fixed on some distant point while my mind is "chewing" on something new and important!

At times, I'm in that mode for several minutes. And I think it is because of the very reason mentioned in this precept, as found in Isaiah 55:

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.

"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8-9).

I think this is why I need to stop and ponder at times while reading my scriptures. My thoughts aren't yet on the level of the Lord's thoughts. Therefore, those things contained in the scriptures at times will be or seem very new to my mentality and perspectives. THAT is why it is so very important that I take my time while reading them, and when needed, actually stop and mentally "chew" on what I've read.

This approach isn't much different than when we eat our food. Talk to any nutritionist and they will tell you that the slower you chew your food, the better your body is able to digest its nutrients.

I'm learning as I go through the years that scripture study is very similar. There are many spiritual "nutrients" contained in the scriptures that will strengthen me, simply if I take the time to "chew" on them slowly, thereby letting their spiritual truths seep into my life in powerful ways.

Yes, indeed, having the courage to read slowly during scripture study - and even stop to ponder from time to time - can be a powerful way to strengthen a person spiritually for the day!

As Mormons, we believe that the Lord loves His children very much. As such, He desires to help us. That is why He has given us the scriptures.

The scriptures contain the teachings of His servants, the prophets. In the scriptures we also can read about two additional groups of people: those who hearken to the prophets and those who don't.

I so very much want to be in that first category, don't you? When I seek God's will in my life, I feel much greater peace even if things don't go the way I want them to.

But I can't know about the teachings of the Lord's prophets if I don't spend time in the scriptures. It's a rather obvious statement, but sometimes I forget this. But every time I come back to the scriptures, there I find peace. And I wonder to myself - why did I stray in the first place?

I'm grateful for the Lord's patience as I learn to be more steady. Every day I do try to spend time in my scriptures. Every time I do, the peace comes to me steady and sure - a witness of the power of the Lord's word.

But I don't just want to read the scriptures, I also want to understand what I read. A great tool for this is the chapter heading included with every scripture chapter.

For example, Isaiah 53 in the Old Testament could be confusing to many readers. But by reading the heading (in italics) at the beginning of the chapter, the verbiage of Isaiah becomes much clearer. We learn that Isaiah 53 is about the Messiah and His willingness to offer Himself to atone for transgressors. Visit this link to check it out for yourself.

Another example can be found in the Old Testament book of Hosea. In Hosea, chapter 12, we read about wind and lies and oil. It all could be pretty confusing. But by taking time to read the heading at the beginning of the chapter, things become much clearer and better focused. We then can see that the prophet Hosea is teaching us that God uses prophets to guide us, but that many refuse to listen.

Yes, indeed the scriptures can guide us to greater peace - if we will but read them. And chapter headings make the process of understanding a lot easier.

Would you like to try it? Click here to get started! You can choose to start reading in the Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, or even the Pearl of Great Price. They all contain the word of God and all will enrich your life. Enjoy!

As Mormons, or members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we love the scriptures - even the Old Testament. Many people struggle with the Old Testament, confused by the ancient rhetoric of prophets who lived long ago.

But with aid from God, through His modern-day prophets and through the aid of the Holy Spirit, we can discern the value of the Old Testament writings. And how important to do so! There is so much that is contained in the Old Testament.

Just think about it - three of the world's religions spring from the Old Testament world: those of Islam, of Judaism, and those especially of Christian faith.

The messages contained within the Old Testament are priceless gems for those who are willing to polish personal scripture study of it with prayer and sincere effort.

Here are a few samples of knowledge gained from Old Testament study. There are actually more, but here are three to whet your spiritual appetite!

1. The testimony of the existence of God ...

2. The history of the beginnings of mankind as a divine race placed on the earth for eternal, divine purposes ...

10. The way by which the Saints can escape the major destructions of the last days ...

These are just a few of the many powerful strengths of knowledge to be found in the Old Testament. This list is contained in the Church's student manual as an aid to the Old Testament.

So although some might find the Old Testament to be hard to understand, it is not once you begin studying it in the right light. One of the best ways to do so is to use the online manuals offered for free by the Mormon church. I'll share that link at the end, but just know how excited I am for you to experience and explore the rich stories contained in the Old Testament.

Just think! These men and women really lived! They were mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, like us today. They had desires and dreams and difficulties, just like we do. But in some ways they were different than those around them during their time. These faithful individuals chose to put God first. And because they did so, we can read of amazing blessings and opportunities.

The children of Israel saw miracles: the miracle of the parting of the Red Sea, the miracle of manna, the miracle of water coming from a rock when they were ready to faint with thirst. But the children of Israel also rejected the God of Israel and as a result wandered for 40 years before being allowed to enter their promised land.

How often do we wander in this life, forgetting the One who created this world and who gave us spiritual life? It is for this reason I love to read the Old Testament, because as I read I am reminded of God's patience with all His children, who waits until they realize that indeed they need His help and His tutoring. If He could be patient with the wayward children of Israel so long ago, certainly He can be patient with me! This, then, is what studying the Old Testament does for me.

Here is a link to the Old Testament online and to the accompanying Old Testament student manual. I invite you to explore them. I think you'll love the experience.

Ever been stumped by something in life? Whether it is that a friend betrays you, or you lose your job, or it's just harder and harder to feel joy ... I think we've all been there!

That is precisely why I'm so grateful that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (casually know as the Mormons) publishes helpful scripture study aids, alongside the actual scriptures themselves. They all exist to aid you in drawing closer to your Father in Heaven and to help you understand your purpose in life. The scriptures can be a powerful tool for a happier life when actually read and studied!

As Mormons we love the scriptures, as so many do in the world. We value the scriptures for the peace they bring during challenging moments on earth. But not just peace for difficult times, but peace for joyous times also. What better way to worship our God than to read of His work, His love, His efforts on behalf of His children. Those things are contained within the pages of the scriptures and I love them.

As Mormons, we believe the Bible to be the word of God inasmuch as it is translated correctly. We also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God. Additionally, we have a volume of scripture called The Doctrine and Covenants, alongside a smaller volume entitled the Pearl of Great Price.

We discuss all of these great books of scripture here at LDSBlogs.com and I invite you to explore many of the postings and links contained at the site. I think you'll begin to rejoice as you learn and see all that the Lord has done to bless His children through these great words of scriptural text. The scriptures all work hand in hand to testify to God's children of earth of His mighty works done in their behalf - all for the purpose of their redemption.

Mormons often call all four books, when used in conjunction with each other, the "Standard Works." So if I wanted to study the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I could find scriptures in all four standard works that testify of Him and His mighty gift of grace and salvation for us.

For example, in the Bible Dictionary (at the end of the Bible published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), under the entry "Atonement" we read:

"Atonement. The word describes the setting 'at one' of those who have been estranged, and denotes the reconciliation of man to God...."

The Bible Dictionary then refers me to scriptures about the Atonement. I could visit many, many scriptures, but I'll just share a verse from each of the standards works as samples that mention the Atonement:

New Testament: 1 Corinthians 15:22
Old Testament: Isaiah 53:4-9
Book of Mormon: Mosiah 13:28
Doctrine and Covenants: D&C 19:16-20

Do you see how beautifully all four volumes of scripture work together to give such an illustrious and deep understanding of God's work? The scriptures can be a powerful tool for life when actually read and studied! What an exciting adventure it is to do so. Not only does it help when the pains of life feel overwhelming, but scripture study brings even more peace to a soul who already is content.

I invite you to get started by visiting the online scriptures here. In fact, once you are at the scripture study site, at the top of the screen you can enter in one-word topics to narrow your study to your current interest. For example, if you'd like to learn more about "Joy", enter "joy" as your search topic. If you'd like to learn more about "Peace" or "Repentance", feel free to do the same.

May you have many happy hours studying the scriptures and learning of God's love for you!

Sometimes when we as new members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (casually known as the Mormons) study the scriptures, we come across something that confuses us or that we don't quite understand. This is perfectly normal. In fact, all of us experience this at one time or another. And one of the best tools of understanding we can use at this time is to simply ask questions.

What do I mean by this? Well, as the seminary student manual (for the Old Testament, for example) states,

Before you read it is helpful to ask yourself questions like "Who wrote these verses?" "To whom?" "Why is this teaching included in the scriptures?" "What do I want to know or learn as I read today?" and "What would the Lord want me to learn from these scriptures?" (Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide, p. 5)

I have found that question-asking is quite a potent scripture study tool. Rather than simply gliding along the scripture page, empty-minded and glibly reading, instead when I am asking questions as I read, I find more vibrancy in what I read.

For example, in the Bible in Exodus 32 we read that the Lord is quite angry with the children of Israel. In fact, He is so angry with the Israelites that He declares to Moses (as recorded in Exodus 32):

"Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them: ..."

This could appear puzzling on the surface. If God is a gracious God, why is He about to destroy those He'd just led in that miraculous exodus from Pharaoh (who was ready to destroy them himself)?

Thus, it is time for questions to help my understanding. If God is a merciful God (and there are many scriptures which point to this), then what could have brought Him to such ire He would destroy those whom He had led out of bondage in such miraculous ways?

Another question: What could Israel have done that was so repugnant to God that their destruction was preferable to their current activities? What is it about sin that at times it is better for the person to no longer live, rather than continue in destructive ways?

Or here is another question: Why could destruction of a wicked people actually be a merciful choice for and in behalf of them?

The questions that come might be different ones for different individuals. I urge you to read Exodus 32 so you can find out just what the Israelites did do that brought God's ire. But I promise you that as you spend time contemplating what you read in the scriptures, asking questions as you go, the Lord will lead you to truth and a deeper understanding of His ways.

I testify that the Lord indeed is a merciful God. I've seen His hand in patience and kindness in more times than I can count in my life. Thus, when I find a confusing passage of scripture, I know that it is my own lack of insight that confuses that issue - not any weakness on the part of God.

I invite you the next time you study your scriptures to use the tool of questions as you do so. Ask the questions and then seek the answers by researching deeper in the scriptures themselves and asking God Himself. You will find your answers and He will aid you in them. Here's the link to the scriptures to get started!

Don't you just love the scriptures? I do, too! The word of God is amazing. I can think of no other balm more soothing for my heart when I am feeling disconsolate and discouraged than the Lord's words.

Truly I didn't understand this as well when I was younger, but I also was new to Mormonism. Being a Mormon felt full of promise to me, but I was still learning.

But now that I've been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, my understanding for the scriptures has deepened; my appreciation for them has intensified.

For those who are new to the Church and just learning our basic beliefs, it might be unique to discover just how central the scriptures are to everything we as Mormons do. In fact, one of the reasons we gained our nickname of "Mormons" is precisely because of the volume of scripture called The Book of Mormon.

So first, a bit of history for this amazing book of scripture. The Book of Mormon acts as a companion to the Bible. In some ways it is similar; in some ways it is different.

Both the Bible and the Book of Mormon contain the word of God. Both the Bible and the Book of Mormon came about because of prophets. The Lord uses prophets to speak to His children. In Amos 3:7 we read:

"Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."

And thus it is that we have the Bible and the Book of Mormon. The Bible came about through the efforts and work of prophets called by God in the "old world" or areas near Jerusalem. The Book of Mormon came about through the efforts and work of prophets called by God in the "new world" or the Americas.

Both volumes of scripture serve as a testament of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Mormon faith. In a world that begins to doubt more and more the authenticity of a Savior, the Book of Mormon stands as a companion witness of the Bible as to the immense nature of the Holy Son of God.

Just as there are two or three hinges to secure a door to a door jamb (can you imagine a door functioning well with just one hinge?), the Lord has given, in His wisdom, more than one witness to verify the truth as taught by Jesus of Nazareth ... that Jesus indeed was (and is) the Son of God. He does this for a world that struggles more and more to accept that truth. The Bible and the Book of Mormon both stand as sure testaments to the veracity that Jesus Christ was (and is) who He said he was. Studying them together enriches a life in eternally significant ways.

There are some that reject the idea that God is capable or willing of giving scripture to more than one continent. I ask why? And here is the Lord's response to the doubtful sentiment of some:

"Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, ... created all men, ... and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth?

"...Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And ... the testimony of the two nations shall run together also" (2 Nephi 29:7-8, John 10:16, 3 Nephi 16:1) .

This is something to rejoice in! The Lord loves all His children. Of course He would teach more than just a few as to the amazing gift His Son brought through His willing sacrifice and atonement.

I invite you today to begin to explore the Book of Mormon, another testament of Jesus Christ!

Why study the scriptures? Because studying the scriptures helps us to understand several important aspects of our lives:

• Where did we come from?
• Why are we here?
• What does God expect from me?
• What awaits me after this life?

I love the scriptures. They function for me as a best friend. Do you know the kind I speak of? A best friend will support you when you feel discouraged. A best friend will uplift and encourage. A best friend will even gently chasten you when you are wrong or hurting others with your choices. And especially, a best friend will help you become better than you were before.

Well, scriptures are this for me. They lift me when discouraged; they correct my erroneous paths. And they especially create within me a better person than I could be otherwise.

That is why scripture study can be such an important companion to daily life. And one of the best scripture study approaches we can use to get the most out of our scripture study is to understand the history/background of the verses on the printed page.

At the end of the Bible published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Mormons), there is a handy background research tool called the Bible Dictionary. When you click through to this link online you can look up many concepts found in the Bible.

For example, in Romans 11 the apostle Paul speaks in detail about olive trees and a grafting process. But wait! What on earth does this have to do with saving souls? After all, is not saving souls the purpose of the scriptures?

So after musing on this for a minute, you decide to look up "olive tree" in the Bible Dictionary. What you find helps to illuminate a bit why Paul used the concept of an olive tree. (To learn more about Paul's allegorical use of "olive trees", feel free to click on this link in the Bible Dictionary. And if you still have questions, you could visit some of the verses mentioned in the Bible Dictionary entry, "Olive Tree.")

Can you see how exciting this can be? In other words, the Bible Dictionary will give you summaries and explanations of important Biblical key figures, dates, culture, and events. It may not answer all of your questions, but it will be a powerful start.

Thus, when you read in the scriptures and if you come to something you don't understand, why not quickly flip open to the Bible Dictionary (or click here, if you're reading online) and look up the concept that puzzles or interests you. Chances are you'll find it in the Bible Dictionary and can learn a little more about the new term.

If the term you are looking for is not in the Bible Dictionary (can you imagine how huge the scripture volumes would be if every concept therein were printed in the Bible Dictionary?), there are other powerful tools you can use:

• Guide to the Scriptures
• Chronological Tables
• Harmony of the Gospels
• Topical Guide
• Index
• Joseph Smith Translation
• Bible Maps
• Church History Maps
• Photographs of Scriptural Sites
• Photographs of Church History Sites
• Chronology of Church History
• Abbreviations and Designations

We'll discuss more applications of these tools in future blogs. But aren't they are exciting resources for scripture study?

Yes, indeed, the scriptures can be a man's or a woman's best friend. So let's get started now! Simply click on one of these links above to begin exploring. What a friend you'll find in the Lord's word, the scriptures!

(Some people prefer to have scriptures in their hands, so they can mark favorite passages. If that is the case for you, then you are welcome to order them at wholesale prices here for the Bible and here for the rest of the tools. But for many people, using the free online scriptures works perfectly as a best friend to turn to daily!)

President Henry B. Eyring stated:

“There should never be a conscious choice to let the spiritual become secondary as a pattern in our lives. Never. That will lead to tragedy. The tragedy may not be obvious at first, nor may it ever be clear in mortal life. But remember, you are interested in education not for life, but for eternal life” (Education for Real Life [CES fireside for young adults, May 6, 2001], 3).

What an important statement. As Mormons, we believe strongly in education; we believe strongly in scripture study. Both are pathways towards pleasing our Father in Heaven and His son Jesus Christ. These activities help us to emulate them.

One excellent scripture study resource (free and at the same time very dynamic) is the LDSCES.org website. This site houses many links to study guides, manuals, church firesides, and higher education information.

As stated at the site:

"The objective of religious education in the Church Educational System is to assist the individual, the family, and priesthood leaders in accomplishing the mission of the Church by—

1. Teaching students the gospel of Jesus Christ as found in the standard works and the words of the prophets.
2. Teaching students by precept and example so they will be encouraged, assisted, and protected as they strive to live the gospel of Jesus Christ.
3. Providing a spiritual and social climate where students can associate together.
4. Preparing young people for effective Church service (Teaching the Gospel: A Handbook for CES Teachers and Leaders [1994], 3)."

One of the ways the Church follows these objectives is by creating sites like the LDSCES.org website. I invite you to explore it. When you visit the site, you'll see several options present themselves before you.

At the top of the screen, in a column on the left, will be several choices:

Seminary
Institute
Teachers/Administrators
LDS.org

Under the Seminary option, you'll find may helpful scripture study resources, such as study guides, reaching charts, scripture mastery aids, bookmarks, and free downloads. Even though the actual seminary classes taught throughout the world are for high school students (whether at the local high school or in early morning locations), their learning materials are for everyone. I invite you to explore those resources here.

Under the Institute option, you'll also find additional scripture study materials that are quite helpful for when you want to understand the scriptures on a deeper level. You can study at your own pace by clicking and exploring this link.

And under the LDS.org option on the first screen, you'll go straight to the heart of the Church's website, with many rich resources to benefit your growth and knowledge in Christ.

Finally, make sure to explore the "Fireside" links where you'll find more links to firesides where speakers have shared enlightening and inspired messages about the Savior and how to live His teachings and thereby receive the joy He desires to give you.

Yes, indeed, as Mormons, we believe strongly in education; we believe strongly in scripture study. Both are pathways towards pleasing our Father in Heaven and His son Jesus Christ and in emulating them. And the LDSCES.org website is an amazing tool to help do just that!

The scriptures are inspired tools for our growth toward God. Through them we can learn of His ways, His desires for us, and what He expects from us as His children. This all excites me to no end. And it is why I desire to show Him I value my scriptures by reading from them.

I have found that one of the most potent tools in scripture study is to begin that study with prayer. For indeed, if I want to understand what it is the Lord has placed before me in the scriptures, it would be important to approach those sacred words in the best frame of mind possible. That is achieved through prayer.

Ezra in the Old Testament is a perfect example of this. He was a priest who felt the duty to teach the Israelites God's laws. He eventually received permission to bring out of captivity certain exiles so that they might worship in the temple.

He was known for his willingness to serve, even with such unpleasantries as having the Jews divorce from their pagan spouses. He worked diligently to bring about much order for the Lord's people and is known for teaching that even daily life holds much eternal significance (see the Bible Dictionary for more insights into the ancient prophet Ezra).

But the thing I love the best about Ezra was his example of how he approached the Lord's laws. We can do the same as we approach the scriptures, which contain those laws and manifestation of God's love.

In Ezra 7:10, we read:

"For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statues and judgments."

This touches me, because it requires humility to ready oneself to "seek the law of the Lord." What if that law requires that we set aside certain indulgences? What if that law expects that we serve another without thought of self? What if ... ?

In every respect, if we are to truly benefit from our personal scripture study, we need to approach receiving the law of the Lord contained in those scriptures with the same humility that Ezra manifested. He prepared himself to do that very thing. And what is one of the most potent ways we can do the same? Through prayer just prior to scripture reading, and in fact, all through the day until we read again.

Prayer is more potent than many people realize. In fact, it is from the days of Adam and his sons that the instruction has come to pray to God (see Genesis 4:26). The Lord hears our prayers. In 2 Kings 19:20, we read:

"Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, That which thou hast prayed to me ... I have heard."

Thus, when we ask for the Lord's help during scripture study, He will help us. When we ask for increased understanding of what we read, He will respond in kind. When we seek the Spirit's aid in application of what we've read, that help will be given.

Yes, indeed, how important to begin each scripture study time with prayer. We can call on Heavenly Father's name, thank Him for what He has given through the scriptures, and ask for understanding while we read them. We then close in the name of Jesus Christ, and with the word "amen" signify our sincerity. By so doing, we've increased the benefit of scripture study in our life!

In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 we read:

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness;

"That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."

Isn't this exciting? That the Lord would give us such a tool for our growth and benefit! What a thing to rejoice in. Therefore, how essential to have good scripture study techniques to aid this process.

The purpose of the "Scripture" blog at LDSBlogs.com is to help you enjoy the many mighty benefits that studying your scriptures can bring. Therefore, how important it is to gain as many study tools as possible to rejoice in the process.

When the scripture teaches us that "all scripture ... is profitable," it is helpful to understand that the Lord is not necessarily speaking of monetary profits. As mankind, we tend to think on material goods, since so many of those are necessary for our lives (i.e. shelter, food, clothing).

But in these two verses, we are taught that the scriptures will profit us in other ways. They will be beneficial or useful in ways that strengthen us in our daily lives ... and thereby bring us home to God one day.

One aspect of sincere, consistent scripture study is to increase in knowledge of God's doctrine, as Paul states in 2 Tim. 3:16 above. With so many whims of opinions about God, it is nice to know that we can go to the source to learn who He is, what He cares about, and why He bothers with us! That source is scripture itself.

The word, "doctrine," essentially means the principles or laws of God. Are you as curious about those as I am? How much I desire to know them, for if I fail to understand God's laws during my lifetime, how can I fully live them and thereby fully please my Heavenly Father? Through Christ's grace, I am redeemed. But how I desire to study the Lord's ways and abide within them!

Thus, by studying my scriptures, the apostle Paul of Biblical times tells me in those two verses that scripture study will increase my understanding of God's laws and principles, or in other words His doctrine. Yes, I say, yes to this!

Paul also teaches that the scriptures are there to reprove us when we are off-track. I would rather experience rebuke now and correct my ways, then receive it at the judgment bar of Christ. I've experienced this reproof at times while studying my scriptures. They will fall open to a certain page and there in gleaming proof is the ability for the Lord to speak to me through His word. I seek to receive it with open heart, for I'd rather correct my choices now than wait till it is too late.

Paul also teaches us that the scriptures exist to instruct us. This I also rejoice in. Man's thoughts are always changing. The scientists will say one year a medicine is good for you; the next year they'll state it is not. But God's ways do not vary. We can see this throughout the centuries in the prophets' recordings of His ways. I find this so steadying in my life, to read the instructions the Lord sets out for us in His holy word.

All of this leads us to righteousness, as Paul states at the end of verse 16. He then elaborates on this righteousness, explaining that we will eventually be "furnished unto all good works."

So yes, I say, yes to all of this. And it is why scripture study techniques are so important to me. I am not perfect. Far from it. But I love the word of God as found in the scriptures. As I learn powerful scripture study techniques, I'll share them with you here!

Mormons will refer to "the Pearl of Great Price." But how confusing to someone who is just learning about our faith and membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Just what is "the Pearl of Great Price"?

First of all, the Pearl of Great Price is included within a volume of scripture that contains the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine & Covenants. The Pearl of Great Price comes third in that volume. And since the entire volume contains three books of scripture, Mormons often call it "the triple."

There are several segments to "the Pearl of Great Price." But before I share those pieces, just know that as members of the Church of Jesus Christ, or otherwise called Mormons, we hold the scriptures in great esteem. We believe the Bible to be true, inasmuch as it is translated correctly. We also believe the Book of Mormon to contain the word of God, along with the Doctrine & Covenants. Feel free to browse through this blog to learn more about these great books or even click on the links to read directly from their pages.

But within specifically the Pearl of Great Price we find these priceless extracts:

"Selections from the Book of Moses"
This contains portions from the book of Genesis, but retranslated by the prophet Joseph Smith.This actually isn't that odd to consider when one understands how many times the Bible has been translated and retranslated from its original languages. Errors crept in over time; Joseph Smith simply clarified confusing portions of Genesis.

"The Book of Abraham"
Many in the world have heard of Egyptian papyri and other findings archeologists have uncovered through the years. The Book of Abraham is one such find. Joseph Smith translated this particular papyrus, which contained the writings of none other than father Abraham from the Bible. Wouldn't you love to know what Abraham recorded of his experiences? The early records from the Bible are from thousands of years ago; having the Book of Abraham helps clarify some confusing, yet significant points.

"Joseph Smith - Matthew"
This extract and clarification comes from the book of Matthew in the New Testament. D&C 45:60-61 gives additional information as to how this extract came about.

"Joseph Smith - History"
This brief portion within the Pearl of Great Price contains Joseph Smith's official history of his experiences being called to as the Lord's prophet to usher in the fulness of times in the latter-days. The beauty is that you don't have to take Joseph's words at face value. As always when discovering information, why not petition the Lord to understand the truth of each matter ... or not!

"The Articles of Faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints"
Want to know in brief what Mormons believe? The Pearl of Great Price contains this summary. The Articles of Faith are a synopsis taken from a letter Joseph Smith wrote in 1842 to a newspaper reporter inquiring after that very information.

Altogether, the Pearl of Great Price truly is of great value. I can't wait for you to explore it further!

What an important time we live in to have received these additional clarifications and aids to understand the Lord's almighty word and His love for His children.

Nephi is the first prophet-historian we meet in the pages of the Book of Mormon. He was born into a culture that permeated life at Jerusalem. And within that culture, prophets were not foreign to the people during this time. In fact, many prophets had been sent by the Lord to warn His people as to their choices, their actions, their appalling behaviors.

These were some of the words the ancient Israelites were hearing - and ignoring:

"I have sent also unto you all my servants the prophets, rising up early and sending them, saying, Return ye now every man from his evil way, and amend your doings, and go not after other gods to serve them, and ye shall dwell in the land which I have given to you and to your fathers: but ye have not inclined your ear, nor hearkened unto me" (Jeremiah 35:15).

These were the words of the ancient Biblical prophet Jeremiah (found in the Old Testament). In fact, Jeremiah follows up verse 15 with a very bold pronouncement in verse 17 of that same chapter. Listen to this Old Testament prophet speak with great clarity:

"Therefore thus saith the Lord God of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring upon Judah and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem all the evil that I have pronounced against them; because I have spoken unto them, but they have not heard; and I have called unto them, but they have not answered" (vs 17).

Oh, how frightening. Eventually Jeremiah was imprisoned for his faithful testament of God's pending wrath.

We have a prophet today, President Gordon B. Hinckley. How imperative we hearken to his counsel, for he is every bit the Lord's spoke person now as Jeremiah was then.

But the ancient Israelites refused to hearken to their prophet Jeremiah. And this was the culture seen by the boy Nephi. In fact, Jeremiah wasn't the only ancient Biblical prophet trying to sound a warning call. There were others: Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah. Their words can also be read and studied in the Old Testament.

The political conditions also weren't great during Nephi's time. The Babylonians had crushed Egypt's hold over the Jewish nation. It is during this time that the weak king Zedekiah was appointed to the throne by Babylon's Nebuchadnezzar. Nephi speaks of Zedekiah in the first chapter, verse four, of his record (1 Nephi 1).

Soon Nephi tells us that his father too had seen and heard much from the Lord, and although trembling, began to go forth uttering his testament that Jerusalem would be destroyed if the Israelites did not repent.

Any guesses about the response? Jeremiah is in prison and yes, you guessed it - soon there came attempts at taking the life of Nephi's father. But Nephi bears a touching witness to us at the end of that very first chapter that, " ... the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance" (1 Nephi 1:20).

This is a message which Nephi repeatedly shares throughout his entire record in the Book of Mormon. I'm excited to invite you on this journey as we learn more and more about not just Nephi, but many of these faithful men and women within the pages of this sacred book, the Book of Mormon. Its purpose is to testify of Jesus Christ and of His goodness for all those who follow Him. And what a joyous experience it is to read. To get started, simply click on this link.

If you've not had a chance to read from the Book of Mormon, you are in for a treat. It is very similar to the Bible, in that it contains the holy words of God. Its purpose is much like that of the Holy Bible - to bring people to Christ, to discover His redeeming love, and to bring peace therein.

I love the Book of Mormon. What a privilege to have one and to be able to read it. If you don't yet own a Book of Mormon, did you know that you can read it online for free? Of course, I like having an actual one, so that I can cross reference it with the Bible, writing notes in the columns and corners of each page to remind myself of flashes of understanding and new feelings of peace.

But until you are able to receive your own copy, if you've not already, here is a link to the online version.

The Book of Mormon begins with an account written by an individual named Nephi. His family traveled away from Jerusalem a short time before its destruction. Both Nephi and his father, Lehi, were record-keepers of the events of their lives, in addition to being prophets.

Nephi begins his record with the following words:

"An account of Lehi and his wife Sariah and his four sons, being called, (beginning at the eldest) Laman, Lemuel, Sam, and Nephi. The Lord warns Lehi to depart out of the land of Jerusalem, because he prophesieth unto the people concerning their iniquity and they seek to destroy his life. He taketh three days’ journey into the wilderness with his family. Nephi taketh his brethren and returneth to the land of Jerusalem after the record of the Jews. The account of their sufferings. They take the daughters of Ishmael to wife. They take their families and depart into the wilderness. Their sufferings and afflictions in the wilderness. The course of their travels. They come to the large waters. Nephi’s brethren rebel against him. He confoundeth them, and buildeth a ship. They call the name of the place Bountiful. They cross the large waters into the promised land, and so forth. This is according to the account of Nephi; or in other words, I, Nephi, wrote this record."

There is much that is contained in Nephi's record. So much so that his writings comprise two individuals "books" within the entire Book of Mormon - 1 Nephi and 2 Nephi. But what I love most from Nephi is his certainty in his Savior and Redeemer.

In spite of all the hardships Nephi passed through, these were his words:

"Rejoice, O my heart, and cry unto the Lord, and say: O Lord, I will praise thee forever; yea, my soul will rejoice in thee, my God, and the rock of my salvation" (2 Nephi 4:30).

Yes, indeed, if this is the first opportunity you've had to read from the Book of Mormon, what a beautiful experience you have waiting for you. You will meet individuals every bit as valiant as Nephi in their testimony, witness, and love of the Lord. And every day you read their words is a day that can help you become stronger for the Lord yourself. Happy reading!