The Role of the Book of Mormon in Conversion
Contents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- How does the Book of Mormon help in gaining a testimony of Jesus Christ and Joseph Smith?
- What role does the Book of Mormon play in the gathering of Israel?
- What are the covenants of the Eternal Father mentioned in the talk?
- How can personal conversion be strengthened through the Book of Mormon?
- What did President Russell M. Nelson say about the importance of the Book of Mormon in the latter days?
Topics
Strengthening Testimony through the Book of Mormon
Elder Bowen explains that the Book of Mormon is crucial for gaining a testimony of Jesus Christ and the divine calling of Joseph Smith. He shares his personal experience and the story of Mr. Gonzalez to illustrate how reading and praying about the Book of Mormon can lead to conversion.
My testimony of the divine calling of the Prophet Joseph Smith has been strengthened by prayerfully studying the Book of Mormon.
I bear witness that I know it is true. That knowledge has come to me, as it can come to you, "by the power of the Holy Ghost."
- What steps did Elder Bowen take to gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon?
- How did Mr. Gonzalez's experience with the Book of Mormon lead to his conversion?
- Have you prayed to know the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon? What was your experience?
- How can you incorporate regular study of the Book of Mormon into your daily routine?
Personal Conversion and Commitment
Elder Bowen discusses how understanding our identity and the purpose of the Book of Mormon can deepen our personal conversion and strengthen our commitment to God's covenants. He highlights the role of the Book of Mormon in gathering scattered Israel and leading us to Christ.
As we better understand who we are and the purposes of the Book of Mormon, our conversion deepens and becomes more certain.
We are strengthened in our commitment to keep the covenants we have made with God.
- What does Elder Bowen say about the relationship between understanding the Book of Mormon and personal conversion?
- How does the Book of Mormon help in gathering scattered Israel?
- In what ways has your understanding of the Book of Mormon strengthened your personal conversion?
- How can you help in the gathering of Israel through your study and sharing of the Book of Mormon?
The Covenants of the Eternal Father
Elder Bowen explains the covenants made by the Eternal Father with His children, as mentioned in the Book of Abraham. He emphasizes the importance of these covenants in the gathering of Israel and our role in this divine work.
What are the "covenants of the Eternal Father" referred to by Moroni?
President Russell M. Nelson taught ... "the Lord is hastening His work to gather Israel."
- What are the covenants of the Eternal Father mentioned in the Book of Abraham?
- How does President Nelson describe the importance of the gathering of Israel?
- What can you do to better understand and honor the covenants you have made with God?
- How can you participate more actively in the gathering of Israel?
The Book of Mormon’s Role in the Gathering of Israel
Elder Bowen underscores the central role of the Book of Mormon in the gathering of Israel. He quotes President Nelson to highlight that the gathering would not occur without the Book of Mormon, and he encourages members to share its message.
The Book of Mormon is central to the gathering of Israel.
If there were no Book of Mormon, the promised gathering of Israel would not occur.
- Why is the Book of Mormon central to the gathering of Israel?
- What did President Nelson say about the Book of Mormon's role in the latter days?
- How can you use the Book of Mormon to help gather Israel in your community?
- What experiences have you had that testify of the Book of Mormon's role in conversion?
Testifying of the Book of Mormon
Elder Bowen concludes by testifying of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and its power to change lives. He encourages members to gain their own testimony and share it with others, emphasizing the importance of both word and deed.
The Book of Mormon is true. It has changed my life.
I promise you ... that it can change yours.
- What does Elder Bowen promise about the Book of Mormon?
- How does he suggest members should share their testimony of the Book of Mormon?
- Have you shared your testimony of the Book of Mormon with others? What was the experience like?
- In what ways can you bear testimony of the Book of Mormon through your actions?