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Sep 2129 min read

“Arise and Come Forth unto Me”






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The Book of Mormon: A Cultural and Religious Dialogue


This week, we'll delve into 3 Nephi 8-11, exploring the events surrounding Christ's visit to the Americas. As a reminder, 3 Nephi 8-10 details the time period around the Crucifixion, while 3 Nephi 11 occurs sometime later. Understanding this timeline in relation to Biblical history is crucial, so reviewing our previous lesson about Christ's resurrection might be helpful (He Shall Rise … with Healing in His Wings) .


While there are various theories about the exact timing of Christ’s appearance to the Nephites, most scholars agree that this occurred after the 40 days Christ spent with His apostles in Jerusalem following His resurrection. This timing is significant, as it likely coincided with the Israelite festival of Shavuot, which is also known as Pentecost. (The Timing of Christ’s Appearance to the Nephites, Shavuot, and the Temple Endowment).


The Significance of Shavuot


Shavuot (שָׁבֻעֹת) is an important Israelite holiday celebrated seven weeks (50 days) after Passover (Pesach). The term "Shavuot" translates to "weeks" or "sevens" in Hebrew, referring to the Counting of the Omer—the seven-week period leading to the festival. It was one of the three pilgrimage feasts during which the Israelites gathered at the Temple to celebrate and hear the Word of the Lord. This could explain why a large number of people were gathered at the Temple in Bountiful when Christ appeared. Given the dramatic events of that year, such a gathering would have held even greater significance.


Shavuot's Rich Symbolism


Harvest and Firstfruits:

Shavuot, also known as the Feast of Weeks was observed by the ancient Israelites as a harvest festival, which was initiated with the offering of the firstfruits (Bikkurim) to God (Deut 26). The apostle Paul explained that this concept symbolically foreshadowed the resurrection of Jesus Christ in 1 Corinthians 15:20-23, where he describes Christ as the "firstfruits" of the resurrection:


20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.

21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.

22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.


The term "firstfruits" (Hebrew: Bikkurim) refers to the first portion (rashit) of the harvest that was offered to God as a sign of gratitude and acknowledgment of His provision. Paul uses this concept to signify that Jesus is the first to rise from the dead, paving the way for the resurrection of all believers. This idea is closely tied to Shavuot, which celebrates the first harvest, linking to themes of resurrection and new life in and through Jesus Christ.


Giving and Receiving of the Torah:

In addition to the harvest, Shavuot commemorates the Gift and Receiving (לָקַח & קָבַל) of the Torah, or the Law, on Mount Sinai. This event is considered a pivotal moment in Jewish history, as it marked the establishment of the covenant between God and the Israelites (Exodus 19-20). This event is considered a pivotal moment in Israelite history, and it mirrors similar principles to those described in Christ’s teachings to the Nephites in 3 Nephi 11, where Jesus delivered an elevated and Higher interpretation of the Law, tying into His Sermon on the Mount. These teachings will be explored in greater detail in next week’s lesson.


Pentecost and the Holy Spirit:

Shavuot is also known by its Greek Name, Pentecost (meaning "50th"), and it was on this day that the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles and early Christians, as described in Acts 2. After Christ’s ascension, the apostles gathered in Jerusalem to celebrate Shavuot, where they anticipated the fulfillment of Christ’s promise to send the Comforter (John 14:16-26 and 15:26).


While the Apostles were gathered, the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles with a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit. They began to speak in different tongues, enabling them to communicate with people from various nations who were in Jerusalem for the festival.


Peter, empowered by the Holy Spirit, delivered a powerful sermon explaining the significance of the events as he proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah. He referenced the prophecy of Joel, stating that in the last days, God would pour out His Spirit on all people (Acts 2:17-21, Joel 2:28-32). The events of this Shavuot led to the conversion of about 3,000 people who accepted Peter's message and were baptized, marking the birth of the Christian Church (Acts 2:41).


Given that the early Christians and followers of Christ in the Americas likely observed similar holy days as faithful observers of the Law of Moses, it is very possible that while the apostles in Jerusalem were experiencing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit during Shavuot, the Nephites were receiving Christ Himself, as they gathered to observe the same festival.


From Darkness to Divine Encounter: Preparing for the Theophany in 3 Nephi 8-11


As we transition from the historical and doctrinal context surrounding Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, and His appearance to the Nephites, we now enter into a profound theophany experience in 3 Nephi 8-11—a direct encounter and visible Manifestation of God. In scripture, a theophany, or divine manifestation, is often preceded by intense adversity and darkness. These experiences, while overwhelming and challenging, prepare the individual or group for a transformative encounter with God. The sequence of destruction, followed by Christ's appearance to the Nephites, mirrors this common pattern seen in theophanies throughout scripture.


In 3 Nephi 8-10, the Nephites endure extreme physical and spiritual darkness, symbolizing both the chaotic forces of nature and their own spiritual condition at the time of Christ’s crucifixion. The cities are destroyed, and the people are plunged into three days of impenetrable darkness, unable to kindle any light. This period of adversity strips away all distractions, forcing a reckoning with their own sins, mortality, and the consequences of rejecting divine counsel.


This darkness, however, serves a purpose—it prepares the people for the immense spiritual growth and divine manifestation that is about to unfold. In many scriptural theophanies, intense trials precede the appearance of God. These challenges act as a refining process, humbling the person or people involved and opening their hearts to a higher spiritual reality. The darkness they experience symbolizes the need to let go of their old ways, to surrender pride and false security, and to become fully receptive to the divine light that will soon break through.


By enduring adversity and facing the darkness, the Nephites are spiritually prepared for Christ’s appearance in 3 Nephi 11. When He finally comes, His teachings are not just words—they are the culmination of all the preparation that the people have experienced. Christ’s presence brings healing, light, and a profound invitation to follow Him more deeply. This sequence of events reflects how adversity often clears the way for divine opportunities, making space for growth, learning, and transformation.


As we now explore these chapters, beginning with the destruction and upheaval in 3 Nephi 8, we will see how this pattern of intense adversity leads to one of the most remarkable theophanies in scripture. Each chapter reveals how the people are prepared—through darkness and trial—to encounter the Savior in a way that transforms them and elevates their understanding of God’s plan.


Additional Resources:


 

Overview



3 Nephi 8


3 Nephi 8 marks a dramatic shift in the narrative, describing the catastrophic events that occurred at the time of Christ's crucifixion in Jerusalem. This chapter serves as a literal fulfillment of the prophecies concerning the signs of Christ's death, particularly but not limited to those given by Samuel the Lamanite.


The chapter begins with a reminder of the societal collapse and spiritual decay described in 3 Nephi 7. Despite the chaos and wickedness, some righteous individuals eagerly await the signs of Christ's coming. In the thirty-fourth year after the sign of Christ's birth, these long-awaited signs begin to manifest.


This chapter serves as a powerful climax to the mounting tension and wickedness described in the previous chapters. It demonstrates the fulfillment of prophecy and the consequences of rejecting God's messengers. The destruction and darkness serve as both a physical manifestation of God's power and a symbolic representation of the spiritual state of the people. On the other hand, we also see how this adversity helps to refine and prepare the righteous to receive the Lord.


The events in 3 Nephi 8 set the stage for the subsequent appearance of the resurrected Christ to the people in the Americas, marking a turning point in the Book of Mormon narrative. This chapter underscores the themes of divine justice, the importance of heeding prophetic warnings, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan despite human wickedness and natural calamities.


References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:


Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

3 Nephi 8

Jesus Christ Appears in the Ancient Americas | 3 Nephi 8–11

Verses 1-5: Setting the Stage for Destruction


  • Verse 1: Specific reference to the care and reliability of the records.

  • Verse 2: Thirty-three years pass away from the prophecy of Samuel.

  • Verse 3: The Nephites begin to look for signs in the heavens, preparing for the coming days of darkness.

  • Verse 4: Doubts and disputes arise

  • Verse 5: 34th years following Samuel's prophesy, the Storm begins.

How Does Prophecy Shape the Book of Mormon’s Content and Structure?

Verses 6-10: The Great Destruction of Cities


  • Verse 6-7: The storm grows worse, causing massive destruction as the land is violently shaken by earthquakes.

  • Verse 8: The city of Zarahemla catches fire.

  • Verse 9: The city of Moroni sinks into the sea, with all its inhabitants perishing.

  • Verse 10: The city of Moronihah is buried under a mountain, completely covering the city and its people.

  • Verse 10: Many other cities are destroyed by the violent earthquakes and fires, leaving widespread destruction across the land. The natural disasters continue to devastate the land, fulfilling the prophecies of destruction given by the prophets.

Volcano in Central Mexico

Verses 11-19: Earthquakes and Upheavals Throughout the Land, changing the Geography (a period of 3 hours)

  • Matthew 27:45, "Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour."

  • Verse 11-12: The earthquakes tear the earth apart, creating vast chasms and leveling many mountains and valleys in all areas.  The land is hit hardest, and is reshaped by the violent destruction, with many cities completely ruined or buried.

  • Verse 13-14: The highways are broken up, level roads are destroyed. Many of the cities are completely wiped out.

  • Verse 15-18: Some cities have some survivors, but tornados and other elements have ripped them apart.


Verses19-25: Three Days of Darkness (wisdom of 72 hour kits?)

  • Three Days of Darkness prophesied by Samual but also alluded to in the Old Testament, particularly with the story of Jonah and the Whale, which was specifically referenced by Christ in Matthew 12:40, "For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth."

  • What Caused the Darkness and Destruction in the 34th Year?

  • Verse 19-20: Following the initial destruction, a thick darkness covers the entire land, so heavy that no light can penetrate it.

  • Verse 21-22: The darkness is so intense that no fire, candle, or light can be ignited, leaving the people in complete blackness.

  • Verse 23: The people are left in total darkness, unable to see anything, and they mourn deeply for the destruction and loss of life.

  • Verse 24: During this time, the people reflect on their sins and the wickedness that led to such devastation.

  • Verse 25: Many cry out in despair, recognizing that the destruction is a direct consequence of their rejection of God’s prophets and commandments. The chapter concludes with the people continuing to mourn for their families and loved ones in complete darkness, waiting in fear and uncertainty.


3 Nephi 9

3 Nephi 9 features the voice of Jesus Christ calling out to the survivors of the catastrophic destruction, fulfilling the prophecies of Samuel the Lamanite. He announces the destruction of numerous cities due to their wickedness and rejection of His prophets. Christ invites the people to repent, come unto Him, and be healed. He declares that the Law of Moses has been fulfilled in Him and that animal sacrifices are no longer required, replacing them with the need for a broken heart and contrite spirit. The chapter emphasizes Christ’s atoning sacrifice and the invitation to receive salvation and eternal life through repentance.


References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:


Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

3 Nephi 9


Verses 1-5: Christ Declares the Destruction of Wicked Cities


  • Verse 1: While the people are still in the darkness caused by the destruction, they hear the voice of Jesus Christ speaking from heaven.

  • Verse 2: Christ addresses the people with a quadruple Wo, inviting them to repent. He then introduces and accounts for many great cities that have been destroyed because of the people's wickedness and their rejection of His prophets. The people from these areas rejected God's offer of protection and mercy because they refused to listen to and heed the help that the Savior sent. Jesus laments that the devil laughs, and his angels rejoice at the terrible loss.

  • Verse 3-5: He announces the destruction of Zarahemla by fire, along with the cities of Moroni (destroyed by flood) and Moronihah (covered in a landslide). He uses the phrase "to hide their iniquities and their abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints shall not come any more unto me against them." He repeats this same phrase five times throughout the chapter, in verses 5, 7, 8,9, and 11. Why five times? Perhaps each segment represents each of the dispensations leading up to that point, demonstrating that Jesus himself has taken account of every person in every dispensation, and he is systematically and methodically answering for every injury through His Atonement according to the demands of Justice per the Law. Mike and Taylor offer some good insight in their Scripture Insights Podcast, sections 7:16-12:08.

Sunken Cities

Verses 6-10: Further Destruction of Cities for Wickedness


  • Verse 6-7: Christ lists more cities that have been destroyed due to their great wickedness: The city of Gilgal has been sunk, covered by earth. Onihah, Mocum, and the city of Jerusalem have been buried in the sea.

  • Verse 7: The Savior again repeats his

  • Verse 8: The city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, and all of its people were buried in the depths of the earth.

  • Verse 9: The city of Jacobugath, known for its secret combinations and murders, along with its inhabitants, was destroyed by fire.

  • Verse 10: The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishkumen are all destroyed by fire. Christ explains that the destruction has come upon these cities because of their abominations, murders, rejection, and persecution of the prophets, which had polluted the land.

Verses 11-12: Christ's Lament Over the People's Rebellion, taking personal responsibility for the destruction


  • Verse 11: Christ mourns over the people's continuous rebellion, reminding them that prophets had been sent to warn them, but they would not listen.

  • Verse 12: He notes that their destruction came because they refused to turn from their wicked ways despite the many opportunities they were given to repent.


Verses 13-16: Invitation to Repent and Come Unto Christ



Verses 17-22: Christ's Atonement and New Covenant

A Change in the Commandment to Sacrifice- Christofferson

  • Verse 17: He testifies that He has fulfilled the Law of Moses, and that salvation can now be obtained through Him by all who will receive Him. Through Him, they become sons/children of God. Redemption is available to those who believe on His name, per the Law, which He Justified.

  • Verse 18: Jesus proclaims, I am the  Light and Life of the world. I am the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and end.

  • Verse 19: The blood sacrifices and burnt offerings of animals under the Law of Moses are no longer required.

  • Verse 20: Instead, Christ asks for a broken heart and a contrite spirit. He promises to receive those who come unto Him with a humble and repentant heart, offering them forgiveness and healing through His atonement; in addition, he will baptize those who do so with fire and with the Holy Ghost, like he did the Lamanites when they were converted, although they didn't fully understand what they had experienced. This is possibly alluding to Alma 19 and 3 Nephi 7, but certainly not limited to just these chapters.

  • Verse 21: Christ states his purpose and invites all, both Gentiles and the house of Israel, to repent and come unto Him, extending His promise of salvation to all who turn to Him.

  • Verse 22: The chapter concludes with Christ’s call to repent, as a little child, emphasizing that all who come unto Him will be saved and that no one is beyond His reach if they are willing to repent and follow Him. This was why he laid down his life, for all to the ends of the earth, that they might inherit the kingdom of God.

3 Nephi 10


In 3 Nephi 10, the voice of Christ speaks to the survivors of the great destruction. He laments the people’s refusal to repent, using the metaphor of a hen gathering her chicks to describe His efforts to protect and save them. Despite the destruction, He invites those who remain to come unto Him and be gathered. The storms and darkness cease, and the people are left in a profound silence, which allows them to reflect on the magnitude of the events. Mormon testifies that these events fulfilled the prophecies of Samuel the Lamanite and other ancient prophets, proving Christ's divinity and the truth of God's words. The chapter highlights themes of divine compassion, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the call to repentance and renewal even after intense adversity.


This chapter sets the stage for Christ’s personal appearance to the Nephites in 3 Nephi 11, where His teachings will bring healing, spiritual clarity, and a renewed covenant with His people.


References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

  • Christ’s Desire to Gather His People, Application for Modern Day: This chapter centers on Christ's deep desire to gather His people, using the metaphor of a hen gathering her chicks. This metaphor illustrates His longing to protect, nurture, and save them. However, He laments that the people repeatedly refused His invitation.

  • The Fulfillment of Prophecy: Mormon emphasizes that the destruction and signs of Christ’s death fulfilled the prophecies of many ancient prophets, such as Samuel the Lamanite and Zenos. This reinforces the idea that God’s word through His prophets will always come to pass.

  • Mercy and Repentance: Despite the great destruction, Christ invites those who survived to repent and return to Him. He offers mercy to all who will come unto Him, emphasizing that those who repent will be spared and gathered.

  • Silence and Reflection After Destruction: The calm that follows the destruction allows the people to reflect deeply on the events. This silence gives the people time to recognize the significance of the signs they have witnessed and understand the need to turn to God.

  • Hen and Chick Metaphor: In Hebraic tradition, a hen gathering her chicks symbolizes protection, care, and safety. Christ uses this metaphor to illustrate His deep love for His people and His desire to protect them from spiritual harm, emphasizing that this protection is contingent upon their willingness to repent and be gathered.

Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

3 Nephi 10

Jesus Christ's Appearance in the Ancient Americas

Verses 1-7: The Voice of Christ and the Invitation to Be Gathered


  • Verse 1: Silence covers the land during the three days of darkness. The people hear the voice of Christ again.

  • Verses 2-3: After hearing the voice the first time, the people cease lamenting and continue in silence until they hear the voice again.

  • Verse 4-5: Christ repeats the metaphor of a hen gathering her chicks, emphasizing His desire to protect and save them. Christ states that if the people had repented and come unto Him, they would have been spared. He reiterates His desire to gather them as a hen gathers her chicks, but they are unwilling.

  • Verse 5-7: Christ continues lamenting, explaining that those who were not gathered have suffered destruction because they refused to repent, but if they would return with a full purpose of heart, he wants to spare them. He extends His arms of mercy again, promising that if the people will now repent and come unto Him, He will gather them and protect them.

  • Verse 7: Christ warns that those who continue to reject Him will suffer further destruction, following the terms and conditions of the covenant that was issued to the fathers of the House of Israel, but those who repent will be saved and gathered into His fold. (Deuteronomy 28-32, 2 Nephi 1:20)

Verses 8-10: The Calming of the Storms and the End of the Darkness

Christ Brings Light Where There Is Darkness - Elder Hales

  • Verse 8: After Christ's voice ceases, the people again begin to mourn the loss of their loved ones.

  • Verse 9: On the morning of the 3rd day, the darkness lifts, and the earth becomes calm. The trembling and destruction stop. The storms and earthquakes subside, and the land is left in a state of peace after the intense destruction. This marks the end of the great calamities.

  • Verse 10: There is complete silence across the land. The calmness after the destruction gives the people time to reflect on the magnitude of what has happened. The earth cleaves together again. Mourning turns to joy, lamentations to praise, and thanksgiving to the Lord and Redeemer.


Verses 11-19: Fulfillment of Prophecies and Testimony of Mormon


  • Verse 11: Mormon reflects on the fulfillment of many ancient prophecies, including those made by Samuel the Lamanite about the destruction and signs of Christ’s death.

  • Verse 12-13: Mormon testifies that many people were spared because they had listened to the prophets and had been more righteous than those who were destroyed.

  • Verse 14: Mormon teaches, "Those who read, let them understand." He counsels us to search the scriptures and examine the signs and wonders because they serve as evidence of God’s power and Christ’s divinity, fulfilling the words of many prophets.

  • Verse 15: Mormon emphasizes that many testified of the coming of Christ and have died for their testimony.

  • Verse 16-17: Mormon lists the specific prophets whose words were fulfilled by the events, including Zenos, Zenock, Ezias, Isaiah, and Jeremiah, all of whom testified of Christ and the destruction that would accompany His death.

  • Verse 17: Mormon explains that Jacob, in particular, prophesied about the remnant of Joseph's seed and the ultimate redemption of Israel through Christ and that these things are written in the brass plates.

  • Verse 18: Mormon concludes by noting that the signs and events that had been prophesied were now fulfilled, providing clear evidence of God's involvement in human history.

  • Verse 19: The chapter closes with Mormon testifying that these signs and wonders were shown to the people so they might believe in Christ. He emphasizes that those who had been spared should turn to the Lord, having witnessed His power and mercy firsthand.


3 Nephi 11


3 Nephi 11 marks a pivotal moment in the Book of Mormon as the resurrected Jesus Christ descends and appears to the Nephites. He introduces Himself as the Savior of the world and invites the people to feel the marks of His crucifixion, bearing witness to His Atonement. Christ teaches His doctrine clearly: faith in Him, repentance, baptism by immersion, receiving the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. He emphasizes the need for unity and warns against contention, which comes from the devil. Christ grants priesthood authority to Nephi and others to baptize and calls the people to follow His doctrine, promising salvation to those who do so.

This chapter highlights the profound love of the Savior and His role in the salvation of all humankind. His personal appearance, teachings, and ordinances bring light, clarity, and hope to the people, showing the way to eternal life through obedience to His gospel.


References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

3 Nephi 11

Jesus Christ Teaches and Gives Power to Baptize | 3 Nephi 11

Verses 1-7: The People Hear the Voice of God


  • Verses 1-2: A large multitude of Nephites has gathered near the temple in Bountiful. As they discuss the events that have taken place and the prophecies of Jesus Christ, including the sign of his death, they hear a voice from heaven but cannot initially understand it.

  • Verses 3-4: They people hear a voice from heaven but cannot initially understand it. The voice speaks again, and although it is small and soft, it pierces their hearts, causing them to burn. They hear it but still do not comprehend.

  • Verse 5-7: The voice speaks a third time, and the people finally understand it. The voice declares: "Behold my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased, in whom I have glorified my name—hear ye him." The people look steadfastly towards heaven, whrom whence the sound came. and see a man descending from heaven, clothed in a white robe, coming down to stand in their midst.

  • Verse 7: The voice from heaven declares that this is Jesus Christ, the Beloved Son of God, and commands the people to listen to Him.


Verses 8-17: Jesus Introduces Himself and Invites the People to Witness His Wounds

Covenants and Ordinances - Elder Bednar

  • Verse 8: As the people cast their eyes heavenward, following the voice, they see a man descending from heaven, clothed in a white robe, coming down to stand in their midst. Christ stands among the people, and they don't know what to do or say. Initially, they think it is an angel standing before them.

  • Verse 9-10: Jesus stretches forth his hand, and speaks to them, introducing Himself as the one who has been slain for the sins of the world.

  • Verse 10-11: Jesus declares that He is the Light and Life of the world and that He has drunk the bitter cup the Father gave Him. He testifies that He has glorified the Father by accomplishing the work of the Atonement. The Savior invites the people to come forward and feel the marks of His crucifixion.

  • Verses 12-15: The people remember that it was prophesied that Christ would come to them following his ascension. He invites the people to come forward and feel the marks of His crucifixion. One by one, the people go forward, thrusting their hands into his side, feeling the prints of the nails in His hands and feet, witnessing firsthand the physical evidence of His sacrifice. (John 20:25-27)

  • Verses 16-17: The entire multitude goes forth, falling at His feet and exclaiming in one voice, "Hosanna! Blessed be the name of the Most High God!"

  • Verse 17: After witnessing His wounds, they fall at his feet and worship Him.

Verses 18-22: Jesus Calls Nephi and Gives Authority to Baptize


  • Verse 18: Jesus calls Nephi, son of Nephi, to come forward.

  • Verse 19: Nephi approaches, kneels before Christ, and kisses His feet as a sign of reverence.

  • Verse 20: Jesus commands Nephi to arise.

  • Verse 21: Jesus gives Nephi and others the power and authority to baptize the people, providing them with the priesthood authority to perform this sacred ordinance. Hebrew tradition Miqvah, from the root כּבס (meaning to wash).

  • Verse 22: Christ commands that they teach His gospel and baptize in His name, according to the instructions He will give. He also instructs them that there should be no disputations (dissension, arguing, quarreling) among His people.


Verses 23-28: Jesus Teaches the Correct Manner of Baptism


  • Verse 23: Jesus explains how baptism should be performed and who should be baptized: those who desire to be baptized, repent of their sins, and are willing to take upon themselves His name. In His name, those who qualify are to be baptized by being immersed in water, according to the proper ordinance and through the proper authority.

  • Verse 24: Christ introduces the order of baptism:

  • Verse 25: He outlines the specific words to be used during baptism, including the importance of calling them by name and saying: "Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."

  • Verse 26: The person performing the baptism must then immerse the individual fully in the water.

  • Verse 27: Christ emphasizes the unity and oneness of the Godhead.

  • Verse 28: He instructs them to avoid contention and disputes, especially about His doctrine, as contention is of the devil and leads people away from His teachings.

Plates and Rituals

Verses 27-30: Choose Unity, Reject Contention, and Follow Christ's Doctrine


  • Verse 27: Christ emphasizes the unity and oneness of the Godhead.

  • Verse 28-30: He instructs them to avoid contention and disputes, especially about His doctrine, as contention is of the devil and leads people away from His teachings Jesus warns the people that stirring people up to anger and division is not His doctrine, and these practices must stop.

Verses 31-36: Christ Declares His Doctrine: Faith, Repentance, Baptism, and the Holy Ghost


  • Verses 31-32: Jesus declares that His doctrine comes from the Father and that salvation comes by doing the will of the Father (John 5:30.) He teaches faith in His name, repentance, and baptism by water as essential steps in receiving salvation.

  • Verse 33: He promises that those who are baptized in His name and endure to the end will be saved, and they will inherit the kingdom of God.

  • Verse 34: Jesus warns that anyone who rejects His doctrine and is not baptized will be damned; in other words, their eternal progression will be halted, and they will be held accountable for all of their sins and transgressions in accordance with the law. He will not take away anyone's agency, nor will he force himself upon anyone who does not choose to accept his help and grace.

  • Verse 35: He explains that after baptism, faithful individuals must receive the Holy Ghost, which completes the ordinance and sanctifies them.

  • Verse 36: Christ emphasizes the unity of the Godhead: the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one, working together as one to bring about the salvation of mankind.


Verses 37-41: Invitation to Repent, Become as a Little Child, and Enter the Kingdom


  • Verse 37: Christ invites the people to repent, be baptized, and become as little children, promising that only those who humble and purify themselves as His children will receive and inherit the kingdom of God.

  • Verse 38: He emphasizes the importance of faith, repentance, and the baptism of water and the Holy Ghost as the path to salvation.

  • Verse 39: Jesus reiterates that this is His doctrine and instructs the people to build their foundations upon it, stating that if we build upon the rock of his gospel, the gates of hell cannot prevail against it. Mat 16:18

  • Verse 40: He warns that whoever declares anything more or less than this doctrine is not of Him; they build upon a sandy foundation, and their structure will not stand against the forces that will beat upon them. (Mat 7:26)

  • Verse 41: The chapter concludes with Christ calling the people to repent, follow His doctrine, and receive the promise of eternal life through obedience to His teachings.



Church Videos & Resources


Scripture Central

  • Study Guide The study guide with the Reading Plan is now up under the Scripture Central Podcast Materials


BYU’s RSC








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