The lesson schedule below follows the Book of Mormon Gospel Doctrine class study guide for 2016, which was developed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The church normally repeats this class every 4 years and will, from time to time, make minor revisions to lesson topics in order to make sure that the course study is balanced throughout the year. For those of you who are currently attending the Book of Mormon Gospel Doctrine class and would like to use our lesson material to supplement their experience in the class, the following document maps chapters and topics covered in the church’s lessons with our lessons. See the Sripitures101.com LDS.org Book of Mormon Course Comparison Chart.
- Brother Van Sweden welcomes you to the class.View Lesson
- An Introduction to the Book of Mormon. It addresses three questions: (1) What is the Book of Mormon?; (2) Why is the Book of Mormon important?; and, (3) Why should I read it? It also explains why the Book of Mormon is the "keystone" to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.View LessonReading: Title Page, Introduction, The Testimony of Three Witnesses, The Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith
- The Book of Mormon begins with a family. In approximately B.C. 600, Lehi and his family depart Jerusalem under the Lord's direction. This lesson tells why the brothers returned twice and how they were blessed.View LessonReading: 1 Nephi 1-7
- Father Lehi's vision of the Tree of Life is presented along with Nephi's additions. We also address why this vision is important to us. We noted the response of Laman and Lemuel compared to Nephi.View LessonReading: 1 Nephi 8-11; 12:16-18; 15
- These chapters are often referred to as "The Apocalypse of Nephi". In fact, 'acopalypse' means 'the opening of the veil'. Our focus is upon understanding Nephi's vision of the future, and it application for us.View LessonReading: 1 Nephi 11-14
- We explore the challenges Lehi and his company experience as they continued their journey in the wilderness. We note the setbacks they encounter that try their faith, as well as the blessing they receive.View LessonReading: 1 Nephi 16-22
- In this section, our focus is upon the words Father Lehi gave prior to his death. His words of admonition, counsel, and blessing as given to his family, also have value to us.View LessonReading: 2 Nephi 1-2
- Father Lehi continues to bless his sons. As he blessed his son, Joseph, we learn of the role of Joseph Smith will have regarding the Book of Mormon. In the Psalm of Nephi, found in Chapter 4, we learn of Nephi's feelings of sadness as well as joy as he strives to live a righteous life. We conclude with the separation of Nephi from his older brothers.View LessonReading: 2 Nephi 3-5
- These chapters are from a speech given by Jacob, Nephi's younger brother, to the Nephites. His focus is on our need for the Atonement of Jesus Christ and how we can receive its wonderful blessings.View LessonReading: 2 Nephi 6-10
- Nephi testifies of the importance of the writings of Isaiah and gives us keys to help us understand them. The following themes are addressed: Latter-day Temples and the gathering of scattered Israel; The Lord will raise an ensign prior to commencing Israel's gathering; and, Both Isaiah and Nephi testify of the Savior's redeeming power.View LessonReading: 2 Nephi 11-25
- In these chapters, Nephi prophesies of the Savior's ministry among the Nephities; The coming forth of the Book of Mormon; The tools and tactics Satan will use to spread false doctrine in the last days; and, Nephi's teachings about the importance of the Book of Mormon to us.View LessonReading: 2 Nephi 26-30
- This lesson focuses upon four eternal truths that are essential for us to understand if we desire to qualify for salvation. They are: (1) An understanding of the doctrine of Christ; (2) The importance of our pressing forward and enduring to the end; (3) The necessity of our feasting on the words of Christ and praying always; and, (4) An understanding that the words Nephi declared in the Book of Mormon are the words of Christ.View LessonReading: 2 Nephi 31-33
- Jacob, like his brother, Nephi, was privileged to see his Redeemer. With his brother, Joseph, they were called to be priests and teachers to the people. Their responsibility was to bring the people unto Christ. In his speech to those gathered at the temple, he addressed three serious sins that if allowed to continue unchecked, would bring about the downfall of the people. These three sins are prominent in the lives of many people today.View LessonReading: Jacob 1-4
- The Allegory of the Tame Olive Trees by the Prophet Zenos is addressed in detail. It was written to the members of the house of Israel as well as for those Gentiles who will become members of the house of Israel by adoption. It also includes the encounter Jacob had with Sherem, an anti- Christ.View LessonReading: Jacob 5-7
- Sometimes valuable gifts come in small packages. This is truly the case for these four small books in the Book of Mormon. By themselves, their writings are condensed, however, the lessons they each contain have great value for our lives.View LessonReading: Enos, Jarom, Omni, and Words of Mormon
- In this lesson and the next [BM#16], we examined the farewell address of King Benjamin to his people. In BM#15, King Benjamin shared his testimony of the Book of Mormon. He reminded us that we are each indebted to God. We show our gratitude to Him by serving our fellowmen. He also taught of the ministry of Jesus Christ and the importance of his atonement.View LessonReading: Mosiah 1-3
- Here King Benjamin concluded his speech to his people. He reminded us that Jesus Christ is the author of our salvation and there are no other conditions whereby salvation may be obtained. He addressed the importance of our being “born again” in which we become the children of Christ. Without our continued diligence, Satan and his minions will continue to tempt us and endeavor to lead us away until we are in his grasp. Becoming like Christ in word and deed is a lifetime process.View LessonReading: Mosiah 4-6
- We learned of what became of a group of people who ignored counsel and departed from Zarahemla during the rule of King Mosiah. (see Omni 1:27-29.) As a result of their circumstances, a rescue party sent to obtain assistance from their brethren in Zarahemla. They did not find the land of Zarahemla, but did discover the remains of the Jaredite nation. They returned with 24 plates that could only be translated by one who is a Seer. We also learned the effect a wicked king can have upon his subjects. As a result of the wickedness of the people, the Lord sent a prophet to call them to repentance.View LessonReading: Mosiah 7-11
- Abinadi is the name of the prophet the Lord sent to the people of King Noah. He returned, only to learn, that during his absence, the people continued in their wickedness. He told them that they are to be placed in bondage and if they do not repent, they will be destroyed. Abinadi is arrested and placed in prison. He is brought before King Noah and his wicked priests. He taught them the purpose of the Law of Moses, the mission and atonement of Jesus Christ, his Second Coming, and the final judgment. One of the wicked priest’s is converted by Abinadi’s teachings. His name is Alma.View LessonReading: Mosiah 12-17
- This lesson addresses two groups of people who are brought into bondage. The first group, under the direction of Alma, consisted of people who are converted by his teaching. The second group were under the leadership of King Limhi. He became the king as a result of King Noah’s death by fire. Both groups suffered great persecution as a result of their prior wickedness. However, due to their humility and obedience, Alma’s group received an increase in blessings and intervention by the Lord.View LessonReading: Mosiah 18-24
- The people of Limhi and Alma join with King Mosiah II. The Church is persecuted by non-believers. Some members fall into wickedness and apostasy. Those members who refuse to repent are to have their names removed from the records of the Church. Alma, the younger and four sons of King Mosiah II are among those who are persecuting the members of the Church. Through the appearance of an angel, Alma, the younger and the four sons of King Mosiah II undergo a spiritual conversion. Alma's experience is described in his own words.View LessonReading: Mosiah 25-28; Alma 36
- The focus of this lesson is that the forces of evil can only be overcome through our obedience to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Some of the ways we can be influenced by the forces of evil are, if we are disobedient to our covenants; if we become prosperous and believe we are better than others; or, by ignoring the care of the poor and needy around us.View LessonReading: Mosiah 29, Alma 1-4
- Alma, the younger, resigned as the Chief Judge of the land. As President of the Church, he addressed the congregations gathered in Zarahemla and Gideon. He believed the only way righteousness could be restored to the Church was by preaching the word of God and reminding the people of the covenants they had made.View LessonReading: Alma 5-7
- After preaching to the people in Melek, Alma visited the people in Ammonihah and called them to repentance. He was rejected, and left, but was commanded by an angel to return. Amulek is called to serve as his companion. Together, they provided a powerful witness to the people of Ammonihah regarding to their apostasy from the truths of the gospel.View LessonReading: Alma 8-12
- Alma and Amulek concluded their message of repentance to the people of Ammonihah, however, for the most part, they rejected the message. Those who received the gospel were either cast out of the land or, with Alma and Amulek as witnesses, put to death by fire. Following their miraculous release from prison, Alma and Amulek visited those who had been cast out and established a church in the land. Here Zeezrom joined the church and became a powerful missionary.View LessonReading: Alma 13-16
- The four sons of Mosiah II and others were determined to serve a mission to the Lamanites. Few have served a mission as difficult or dangerous. The success of their missionary labor is a tribute to their dedication and perseverance to the work of the Lord.View LessonReading: Alma 17-22
- These chapters concluded the missionary effort of the sons of Mosiah II and others to the Lamanites. We see the effect of their efforts upon the Lamanites. As the Lamanites were converted to the gospel, they buried their weapons of war and become known as the “Anti-Nephi-Lehies” (Alma 23:17). In order to protect their lives, Ammon made arrangements with the Nephites to give them land and protect them from their enemies.View LessonReading: Alma 23-29
- These two chapters focused upon two groups of apostates. One was a man named Korihor who was an anti- Christ; the other, a group of people called the Zoramites. In this lesson, we are alerted to ways that help increase our ability to recognize false teachings and address them when they occur. Our best protection is a strong testimony and our obedience to the commandments.View LessonReading: Alma 31-30
- Alma the younger and his missionary companions go forth to teach the Zoramites. The people who were most receptive to their message are “among the poor class of people” (Alma 32:2). Because of their humility, Alma and his companions had success with them.View LessonReading: Alma 32-35
- These four chapters, [36-39], and the three chapters that follow [40-42], contain the feelings of a father for his three sons, Helaman, Shiblon, and Corianton. We are also taught by his words of admonition and correction regarding eternal truths.View LessonReading: Alma 36-39
- In these chapters, Alma instructed his son, Corianton. As he addressed his questions, he taught him, and us, the “great plan of happiness” (Alma 42:8). We learned what happens after our death and judgment. We also learned about God’s justice and mercy. The choices we make now do have a great effect upon our eternal happiness.View LessonReading: Alma 40-42
- Traditionally, Alma, Chapters 43-62, are referred to as the “War Years.” The lessons to be learned from these chapters are extremely relevant for those of us living in the latter days. The enemy is more difficult to see, but just as dangerous to our salvation.View LessonReading: Alma 43-52
- This is a continuation of the previous lesson. The lessons taught here are just as powerful and important. We are introduced to the "Sons of Helaman," who as youth, exemplified the courage and obedience each of us seek to obtain.View LessonReading: Alma 53-63
- In these chapters, we learned the impact of those who are righteous, who lived at a time of great wickedness. This is exemplified by Helaman II and his sons, Nephi and Lehi, and included the conversion of eight thousand Lamanites. Amidst this wickedness the Gadianton robbers had their beginning, and became instruments of spreading evil among the people.View LessonReading: Helaman 1-5
- These chapters exemplify the "Pride Cycle" as manifested in the Book of Mormon. We are introduced to four distinct phases with accompanying examples. We noted a dramatic change as the Nephites who are wicked and the Lamanites are righteous.View LessonReading: Helaman 6-12
- These four chapters contain the message of the Lord to the Nephites as delivered by Samuel, the Lamanite. They are important for us as many have noted a similarity between the wickedness of our day and the events preceding the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. If we heed the words of the prophets, we will experience the promised blessings.View LessonReading: Helaman 13-16
- Nephi 2, the son of Nephi, was the prophet of the Church. The sign was given, as prophesied by Samuel, the Lamanite, of a day, a night, and a day, without darkness. Many are converted, but evil continued. The Gadianton robbers are numerous that the destruction of the Nephites and Lamanites was only adverted when the people repented of their sins and served God. Again, the people returned to wickedness. Nephi 2 and his brother, Lehi, preached repentance throughout the land, however, few repented.View LessonReading: 3 Nephi 1-7
- Great promises were fulfilled. For the wicked, the day of repentance had passed. For the righteous, it was a glorious day as the resurrected Savior appeared to the righteous gathered at the temple in Bountiful. To the twenty five hundred, He began his three day ministry. They felt the wounds in his hands and feet and he called twelve disciples. He taught about baptism and the effects of contention. He concluded by teaching them the basic doctrine of his gospel.View LessonReading: 3 Nephi 8-11
- 3 Nephi, Chapters 12 through 15, are similar to Matthew, Chapters 5 through 7. In 3 Nephi, they are referred to as the “Sermon at Bountiful,” while in Matthew/Luke, they are known as the “Sermon on the Mount or Plain”. He confirmed to the people that the Law of Moses had been fulfilled through his atonement and resurrection. He then taught them the higher law. Their obedience to the principles of the higher law would result in their returning to the presence of the Father and the Son.View LessonReading: 3 Nephi 12-15
- Christ's three day ministry began shortly after his appearance. He told them he would visit the Lost Ten Tribes of Israel, and that in the Old World did not know about his visit to the Nephites. He healed their sick and prayed to the Father on behalf of the little children. Angels came down and ministered to them. He instituted the Sacrament. In 3 Nephi 19, He returned to teach the increased number of people who had gathered for the second day.View LessonReading: 3 Nephi 16-19
- As Jesus continued his teachings, he again administered the Sacrament, especially for those who had not been present on Day One. He continued his message, begun in 3 Nephi 16, regarding the Father’s promise to gather scattered Israel. In these additional chapters, He provided further details regarding events that will commence the gathering. These included, among others, the coming forth of the Book Mormon and the restoration of His Church on the earth.View LessonReading: 3 Nephi 20-21
- The Savior continued his instructions on Day Two of his visit to the Nephites by quoting from the prophecies of Isaiah and Malachi. He addressed his covenant relationship with Zion and the preparations necessary for his Second Coming.View LessonReading: 3 Nephi 22-25
- We learn important truths taught by Christ to his twelve disciples. They included the name of His Church, and His Gospel. One of the signs of His Second Coming is the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. In 4 Nephi, we learn of the blessings of becoming a Zion society along with the reminder of persistent righteousness.View LessonReading: 3 Nephi 27–30; 4 Nephi
- As we draw ever closer to the concluding battle between the Lamanites and Nephites, we can’t help but admire Mormon for his valiancy amongst wickedness and his love for his people. Not only are we grateful for his abridgement of most of the Book of Mormon, but his life also stands as an example to each of us.View LessonReading: Mormon 1-6; Moroni 9
- Chapter 7 is written by Mormon to the Lamanite descendants of the latter days. Chapters 8 and 9 were written by his son, Moroni, who survived the destruction of the Nephite nation. He concluded his father’s record and then addressed the wickedness in the latter days as well as the fate of those who continued to deny Jesus Christ.View LessonReading: Mormon 7-9
- Moroni abridged the records of the Jaredites. They came from Babylon at a time of language confusion of language due to the people’s wickedness and building the tower of Babel. God guided them to ancient America where they established a nation that existed for approximately 1500 years. The brother of Jared or Mahonri Moriancumer was one who stood as an example of righteousness among his people, and to us today.View LessonReading: Ether 1-6
- We conclude Moroni’s abridgment of the Jaredite nation’s records. We learned of their blessings as they followed the counsel of the Lord and the wickedness that came when they rejected God’s word. Like the Nephites, their nation also ended in destruction.View LessonReading: Ether 7-15
- In these chapters, Moroni described the teachings and commandments given by Jesus Christ to the twelve disciples. They include the doctrine of receiving the Holy Ghost, priesthood ordinations, sacrament prayers, and baptism. They provide a blueprint for the essential ordinances in the true Church of Jesus Christ.View LessonReading: Moroni 1-6
- Chapters 7 and 8, were written by Mormon. Chapter 7 is a talk by Mormon on the importance of faith, hope, and charity. Chapter 8 is a letter written to Moroni regarding why it is not necessary to baptize infants. Chapter 10 is Moroni’s farewell address. It includes a promise to the sincere investigator, a discussion of spiritual gifts, and an invitation to come unto Christ. He concluded with his witness of the truth of the Book of Mormon.View LessonReading: Moroni 7-8; 10
- Brother Van Sweden's conclusion of the Book of Mormon.View Lesson