The Book of Mormon: What Would Your Life Be Like without It?

Recognize the Preciousness of the Book of Mormon

President Nelson recounts an experience with an African tribal king to illustrate the invaluable nature of the Book of Mormon. The king, after learning about the Book of Mormon, expressed that it was more precious than diamonds or rubies. This story underscores the eternal worth of the Book of Mormon and invites us to reflect on its significance in our lives.

“You could have given me diamonds or rubies, but nothing is more precious to me than this additional knowledge about the Lord Jesus Christ.”

“If you were offered diamonds or rubies or the Book of Mormon, which would you choose? Honestly, which is of greater worth to you?”

• Why did the African tribal king value the Book of Mormon more than diamonds or rubies?
• What does President Nelson's story about the king teach us about the eternal worth of the Book of Mormon?
• How do you personally value the Book of Mormon compared to worldly treasures?
• Can you recall a time when the Book of Mormon provided you with knowledge or comfort that you couldn't find elsewhere?
• What steps can you take to increase your appreciation for the Book of Mormon?

Daily Study and Pondering

President Nelson emphasizes the importance of daily study and pondering of the Book of Mormon. He shares his own experience following President Thomas S. Monson's counsel to study the Book of Mormon daily and encourages us to do the same. He suggests making lists of what the Book of Mormon is, affirms, refutes, fulfills, clarifies, and reveals as a method to gain deeper insights.

“President Thomas S. Monson pleaded with ‘each of us to prayerfully study and ponder the Book of Mormon each day.’”

“Looking at the Book of Mormon through these lenses has been an insightful and inspiring exercise! I recommend it to each of you.”

• What counsel did President Thomas S. Monson give regarding the study of the Book of Mormon?
• What method does President Nelson recommend for studying the Book of Mormon?
• How can you incorporate daily study and pondering of the Book of Mormon into your routine?
• Have you tried making lists as President Nelson suggested? If so, what insights have you gained?
• What changes have you noticed in your life when you consistently study the Book of Mormon?

The Impact of the Book of Mormon

President Nelson shares various testimonies from individuals who describe how the Book of Mormon has profoundly impacted their lives. These testimonies highlight the clarity, hope, and understanding that the Book of Mormon provides, especially regarding the Holy Ghost, life’s purpose, life after death, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

“Without the Book of Mormon, I would be confused about the conflicting teachings and opinions about so many things.”

“I would not know that there is continuing progress after this life.”

“Without the Book of Mormon, I wouldn’t understand that the Savior not only suffered for my sins, but He can heal my pains and sorrows.”

• What are some of the specific impacts the Book of Mormon has had on individuals according to President Nelson?
• How does the Book of Mormon clarify our understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ?
• How has the Book of Mormon impacted your understanding of life after death?
• In what ways has the Book of Mormon helped you understand your purpose here on earth?
• How has the Book of Mormon helped you feel the healing power of the Savior in your life?

The Book of Mormon's Role in Dispelling False Doctrines

The Book of Mormon dispels many false doctrines and clarifies important truths. President Nelson lists several erroneous beliefs that the Book of Mormon refutes, such as the need for infant baptism and the notion that revelation ended with the Bible. He emphasizes that the Book of Mormon teaches true doctrine and provides a fuller understanding of the gospel.

“The Book of Mormon teaches true doctrine to dispel false religious traditions—such as the erroneous practice of performing infant baptisms.”

“It abolishes forever the false concepts that revelation ended with the Bible and that the heavens are sealed today.”

• What are some of the false doctrines that the Book of Mormon refutes?
• How does the Book of Mormon clarify our understanding of revelation and its continuation?
• Have you encountered any false doctrines that the Book of Mormon has helped clarify for you?
• How can you use the teachings of the Book of Mormon to help others understand true doctrine?
• What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of the doctrines taught in the Book of Mormon?

The Power of the Book of Mormon

President Nelson testifies of the power of the Book of Mormon to heal, comfort, restore, succor, strengthen, console, and cheer our souls. He promises that daily study of the Book of Mormon will lead to better decision-making, answers to personal questions, and protection against the evils of the day.

“The truths of the Book of Mormon have the power to heal, comfort, restore, succor, strengthen, console, and cheer our souls.”

“I promise that as you prayerfully study the Book of Mormon every day, you will make better decisions—every day.”

“I promise that as you daily immerse yourself in the Book of Mormon, you can be immunized against the evils of the day.”

• What are some of the specific powers that President Nelson attributes to the Book of Mormon?
• What promises does President Nelson make to those who study the Book of Mormon daily?
• How have you experienced the healing or comforting power of the Book of Mormon in your life?
• What specific decisions have been influenced by your study of the Book of Mormon?
• How can you ensure that you are daily immersing yourself in the Book of Mormon to receive its promised blessings?