“The Power of the Word”
Workbook and Skills Log
for
Religion 215
Fundamentals of Scripture Study
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................................3
SCRIPTURE READING AND REVELATION .......................................................................................................4
PROMISES ..................................................................................................................................................................9
STATEMENTS BY THE FIRST PRESIDENCY REGARDING PROMISES .................................................. 10
SCRIPTURAL PROMISES WORKSHEET .......................................................................................................... 13
ACQUIRING SPIRITUAL KNOWLEDGE ........................................................................................................... 14
HABITS ........................................................................................................................................... 19
READING THE SCRIPTURES .......................................................................................................... 21
WRITING ....................................................................................................................................... 25
PREPARE, SEEK, AND DO. ................................................................................................................................... 27
PREPARE. ................................................................................................................................................................. 28
A RESERVOIR OF LIVING WATER. .................................................................................................................. 29
SUBSTITUTION. ...................................................................................................................................................... 40
SUBSTITUTION WORKSHEET. ........................................................................................................................... 41
SETTING. .................................................................................................................................................................. 42
SETTING WORKSHEET. ....................................................................................................................................... 43
CLUSTERING ........................................................................................................................................................... 44
CLUSTERING WORKSHEET ............................................................................................................................... 45
CONTEXT ................................................................................................................................................................. 46
FLAG PHRASES ....................................................................................................................................................... 47
FLAG PHRASES WORKSHEET ........................................................................................................................... 48
LISTS .......................................................................................................................................................................... 49
LISTS WORKSHEET. ............................................................................................................................................. 50
CAUSE AND EFFECT ............................................................................................................................................. 51
CAUSE AND EFFECT WORKSHEET .................................................................................................................. 52
VISUALIZATION ..................................................................................................................................................... 53
VISUALIZATION WORKSHEET ......................................................................................................................... 54
SYMBOLISM ............................................................................................................................................................ 55
SYMBOLISM WORKSHEET ................................................................................................................................. 56
PRINCIPLES ............................................................................................................................................................. 57
PRINCIPLES WORKSHEET .................................................................................................................................. 59
LITERARY STYLES ................................................................................................................................................ 60
FINDING CHRIST IN THE SCRIPTURES ........................................................................................................... 61
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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INTRODUCTION
President Ezra Taft Benson counseled: "One of the most important things you can do … is to
immerse yourselves in the scriptures. Search them diligently. Feast upon the words of Christ.
Learn the doctrine Nephi Master the principles that are found therein" ("The Power of the
Word," Ensign, May 1986, 81).
Survey to Assess Your Relationship with Scripture
1.
How many days per week do you study the scriptures?
2.
How many minutes do you spend per session?
3.
Do you read sequentially or do you jump around or something else?
4.
How often do you use the study helps in the LDS editions of the scriptures?
5.
What is your favorite scripture study technique (other than just reading)?
6.
I would rate my own scripture reading proficiency as:
1
2
low interest
low comprehension
low engagement
7.
8.
3
4
5
high interest
high comprehension
high engagement
I think my biggest problem with scripture study is:
The thing I like the most about scripture study is:
Four Things People Believe about Scripture Study
Definitions
la·con·ic \l-kä-nik\ adj:
Canon \kan\n\ noun:
Thought Questions
1. What are some ways I can improve my study of the scriptures?
2. In what ways am I able to receive revelation from the scriptures?
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Scripture Reading and
Revelation
By Elder Dallin H. Oaks
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Latter-day Saints’ belief in continuing
revelation gives them a different approach to
reading and using the Holy Scriptures.
1. Some Christians accept the Bible as
the one true word, completely
inspired of God in its entirety. At the
opposite extreme, some other
Christians consider the Bible as the
writings of persons who may or may
not have been inspired of God, which
writings have little moral authority in
our day. The Latter-day Saint belief
that the Bible is “the word of God as
far as it is translated correctly” (A of
F 1:8) places us between these
extremes, but this belief is not what
makes us unique in Christianity.
2. What makes us different from most
other Christians in the way we read
and use the Bible and other scriptures
is our belief in continuing revelation.
For us, the scriptures are not the
ultimate source of knowledge, but
what precedes the ultimate source.
The ultimate knowledge comes by
revelation. With Moroni we affirm
that he who denieth revelation
“knoweth not the gospel of Christ”
(Morm. 9:8).
3. The word of the Lord in the scriptures
is like a lamp to guide our feet (see
Ps. 119:105), and revelation is like a
mighty force that increases the lamp’s
illumination
many
fold.
We
encourage everyone to make careful
study of the scriptures and of the
prophetic teachings concerning them
and to prayerfully seek personal
revelation to know their meaning for
themselves.
4. Because of our belief in continuing
revelation, we Latter-day Saints
maintain that the canon (the
authoritative body) of scriptures is
open. In fact, the scriptural canon is
open in several ways, and continuing
revelation is crucial to each of them.
5. First, we believe that God will guide
his children by giving new additions
to the existing body of scriptures
through the prophet and the
established procedures of his Church.
The Book of Mormon is such an
addition. So are the revelations in the
Doctrine and Covenants, including
sections 137 and 138 [D&C 137;
D&C 138], which were added in our
lifetime.
6. Second, we believe that God will give
new revelations on the meaning of
scriptures previously canonized,
meanings that were not evident in
earlier times. These new revelations
are of two types: public and private.
7. Public revelations on the meaning of
earlier scriptures come through those
we sustain as prophets, seers, and
revelators. Examples of public
revelations are the numerous
additions and clarifications in the
Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible
and in the Doctrine and Covenants
revelations on the meaning of Bible
passages. (For example, see D&C 77
on the book of Revelation and D&C
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113 on some prophecies in Isaiah.)
These public revelations usually
illuminate scriptural passages that are
doctrinal rather than those that are
descriptive or directive.
8. Our belief in an open canon also
includes private revelations to
individual seekers of the meaning of
existing scriptures. Such revelations
are necessary because, as Elder Bruce
R. McConkie of the Quorum of the
Twelve
observed,
“Each
pronouncement in the holy scriptures
… is so written as to reveal little or
much, depending on the spiritual
capacity of the student” (A New
Witness for the Articles of Faith, Salt
Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1985,
p. 71).
9. Nephi attempted to teach his brothers
that they could know the meaning of
their father’s prophetic utterances,
“which were hard to be understood,
save a man should inquire of the
Lord” (1 Nephi 15:3). Nephi told
them if they did not harden their
hearts and would keep the
commandments and inquire of the
Lord in faith, “surely these things
shall be made known unto you” (1
Nephi 15:11).
10. If we harden our hearts, reject
continuing revelation, and limit our
learning to what we can obtain by
study and reason on the precise
language of the present canon of
scriptures, our understanding will be
limited to what Alma called “the
lesser portion of the word” (Alma
12:11). If we seek and accept
revelation and inspiration to enlarge
our understanding of the scriptures,
we will realize a fulfillment of
Nephi’s inspired promise that those
who diligently seek will have “the
mysteries of God … unfolded unto
them, by the power of the Holy
Ghost” (1 Nephi 10:19).
11. To illustrate this essential truth,
consider the fact that the most
important knowledge we can obtain is
a testimony of the Father and the Son.
This vital knowledge is received
through the witness of the Holy
Ghost (see D&C 20:27). Many of the
other things mentioned in the
scriptures can be comprehended only
by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost.
In the words of the Apostle Paul,
“The things of God knoweth no man,
except he has the Spirit of God” (JST,
1 Corinthians 2:11).
12. We become receptive to inspiration
and revelation by obedience to the
commandments of God, by prayer,
and by attention to the teachings of
the living prophets. Their words serve
as a guide for each of us, in scripture
interpretation as in other matters.
13. The Lord promised Nephi: “Unto him
that receiveth I will give more; and
from them that shall say, We have
enough, from them shall be taken
away even that which they have” (2
Nephi 28:30; see also Matt. 13:12).
That verse capsulizes the Latter-day
Saint belief in the importance of
continuing revelation as we read and
interpret the scriptures. Even if there
were no additional revelations to be
added to the published canon, an
open canon would still be an essential
part of our belief and practice in
scripture reading. We believe that the
scriptures, which are the revelations
of the past, cannot be understood
without openness to the revelations of
the present.
14. Just as continuing revelation enlarges
and illuminates the scriptures, so also
a study of the scriptures enables men
and women to receive revelations.
Elder Bruce R. McConkie said, “I
sometimes think that one of the bestkept secrets of the kingdom is that the
scriptures open the door to the receipt
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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of revelation” (Doctrines of the
Restoration, ed. Mark L. McConkie,
Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1989, p.
243). This happens because scripture
reading puts us in tune with the Spirit
of the Lord.
15. The idea that scripture reading can
lead to inspiration and revelation
opens the door to the truth that a
scripture is not limited to what it
meant when it was written but may
also include what that scripture
means to a reader today. Even more,
scripture reading may also lead to
current revelation on whatever else
the Lord wishes to communicate to
the reader at that time. We do not
overstate the point when we say that
the scriptures can be a Urim and
Thummim to assist each of us to
receive personal revelation.
16. Because we believe that scripture
reading can help us receive
revelation, we are encouraged to read
the scriptures again and again. By this
means, we obtain access to what our
Heavenly Father would have us know
and do in our personal lives today.
That is one reason Latter-day Saints
believe in daily scripture study.
17. Similarly, what a scripture in the
Book of Mormon meant to me when I
first read it at age sixteen is not
conclusive upon me as I read it at age
sixty. With the benefit of my life’s
experiences and with my greater
familiarity with revelation, I can learn
things that were not available to me
yesterday by reading the scriptures
today.
18. Another reason for repeated reading
of the scriptures is that many of the
prophecies and doctrinal passages in
the
scriptures
have
multiple
meanings. The Savior affirmed that
fact when he told his disciples that
the reason he taught the multitude in
parables was that this permitted him
to teach them “the mysteries of the
kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 13:11)
while not revealing those mysteries to
the multitude. His parables had
multiple meanings or applications
according to the spiritual maturity of
the listener. They had a message for
both children and gospel scholars.
19. Other illustrations of multiple
meanings occur in the prophecies and
visions recorded in the scriptures.
Elder McConkie observed that “some
of the [Savior’s] prophetic utterances
[in 3 Nephi 21] apply to both preand post-millennial events; some
have an initial and partial fulfillment
in our day and shall have a second
and grander completion in the days
ahead” (The Millennial Messiah, Salt
Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1982,
p. 251). Similarly, in answer to his
brothers’ questions about the
meaning of Isaiah’s words in the
brass plates, Nephi explained that
these words spoke of “things both
temporal and spiritual” (1 Nephi
22:3).
20. The book of Isaiah contains
numerous prophecies that seem to
have multiple fulfillments. One seems
to involve the people of Isaiah’s day
or the circumstances of the next
generation. Another meaning, often
symbolic, seems to refer to events in
the meridian of time, when Jerusalem
was destroyed and her people
scattered after the crucifixion of the
Son of God. Still another meaning or
fulfillment of the same prophecy
seems to relate to the events attending
the Second Coming of the Savior.
The fact that many of these
prophecies can have multiple
meanings underscores the importance
of our seeking revelation from the
Holy Ghost to help us interpret them.
As Nephi says, the words of Isaiah
“are plain unto all those that are filled
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with the spirit of prophecy” (2 Nephi
25:4).
21. Another illustration of multiple
meanings concerns the prophecy in
the book of Joel that in the last days
the Lord will pour out his spirit upon
all flesh and that our sons and our
daughters will prophesy (see Joel
2:28). On the day of Pentecost, the
Apostle Peter declared that the events
they had witnessed were those
“spoken by the prophet Joel” (Acts
2:16). Eighteen hundred years later,
the angel Moroni quoted this same
prophecy and said that “this was not
yet fulfilled, but was soon to be”
(JS—H 41).
22. The principle that scriptures can have
multiple meanings also helps us
appreciate the fact that a single
scripture may be given to us in more
than one set of words. For example,
Moroni quoted the prophecy of
Malachi quite differently than it
appears in the Bible. (Compare Mal.
4:5–6 with JS—H 1:38–39.) We
believe that both accounts are
scripturally and doctrinally correct
and that the differences of expression
are attributable to the different
aspects of salvation for the dead
being stressed in these two different
circumstances (see D&C 128:17).
23. Those who believe the scriptural
canon is closed typically approach the
reading of scriptures by focusing on
what was meant at the time the
scriptural words were spoken or
written. In this approach, a passage of
scripture may appear to have a single
meaning and the reader typically
relies on scholarship and historical
methods to determine it.
24. The Latter-day Saint approach is
different. Professor Hugh Nibley
illuminates this in his essay “The
Prophets and the Scripture.” He
observes that “men fool themselves
when they think for a moment that
they can read the scripture without
ever adding something to the text, or
omitting something from it. For in the
wise words of St. Hilary, …
‘Scripture consists not in what one
reads, but in what one understands.’ ”
Consequently, he continues, “in the
reading of the scripture we must
always have an interpreter” (The
World and the Prophets, The
Collected Works of Hugh Nibley, 12
vols., Salt Lake City: Deseret Book
Co., 1987, 3:202).
25. He concludes: The question is not
whether or not one shall add to the
word of the scripture—thousands of
volumes of learned commentary have
already done that—but whether such
addition shall come by the wisdom of
men or the revelation of God” (ibid.,
p. 206).
26. Latter-day Saints know that true
doctrine comes by revelation from
God, not by scholarship or worldly
wisdom (see Moses 5:58). Similarly,
the Apostle Paul wrote that we are
not “sufficient of ourselves to think
any thing as of ourselves; but our
sufficiency
is
of
God”
(2
Corinthians 3:5). Rather than
trusting in our own interpretations of
written texts, we rely on God and the
glorious “ministration of the spirit” (2
Corinthians 3:8). Here we encounter
a new meaning of Paul’s familiar
teaching that true believers are
“ministers … of the spirit: for the
letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life”
(2 Corinthians 3:6).
27. Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery set
the example for this dispensation.
After their baptism, they were filled
with the Holy Ghost. Then, as Joseph
explained in his personal history,
“Our minds being now enlightened,
we began to have the scriptures laid
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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open to our understandings, and the
true meaning and intention of their
more mysterious passages revealed
unto us in a manner which we never
could attain to previously, nor ever
before had thought of” (JS—H 1:74).
28. Latter-day Saints know that learned
or authoritative commentaries can
help us with scriptural interpretation,
but we maintain that they must be
used with caution.
29. Commentaries are not a substitute for
the scriptures any more than a good
cookbook is a substitute for food.
(When I refer to “commentaries,” I
refer to everything that interprets
scripture, from the comprehensive
book-length commentary to the brief
interpretation embodied in a lesson or
an article, such as this Nephi)
30. One trouble with commentaries is
that their authors sometimes focus on
only one meaning, to the exclusion of
others. As a result, commentaries, if
not used with great care, may
illuminate the author’s chosen and
correct meaning but close our eyes
and restrict our horizons to other
possible meanings. Sometimes those
other, less obvious meanings can be
the ones most valuable and useful to
us as we seek to understand our own
dispensation and to obtain answers to
our own questions. This is why the
teaching of the Holy Ghost is a better
guide to scriptural interpretation than
even the best commentary.
31. As Paul told Timothy, “all scripture is
given by inspiration of God” (2 Tim.
3:16; also see 2 Pet. 1:21). This
means that in order to understand
scripture, our minds need to be
enlightened by the Spirit of the Lord.
As we learn from the fiftieth section
of the Doctrine and Covenants, “he
that receiveth the word by the Spirit
of truth receiveth it as it is preached
by the Spirit of truth” (D&C 50:21).
When this happens, the reader is
edified by personal revelation.
32. President Spencer W. Kimball told
the members of the Church that he
was “convinced that each of us, at
some time in our lives, must discover
the scriptures for ourselves” (Ensign,
Sept. 1976, p. 4). When we do that,
we can obtain revelation. If we
depend only upon our own reasoning
or the scholarship or commentaries of
others, we will never obtain the
understanding that can come only by
revelation.
Persons
in
that
circumstance will be left forever with
what Alma calls “the lesser portion of
the word” (Alma 12:11).
© 2006 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights
reserved.
Thought Questions
1. In what ways do I limit myself to the lesser portion of the word?
2. What must I do to make the scriptures become a modern day Urim and
Thummim?
3. What can I do to ensure I receive the greater portion of the word as I study
the scriptures?
4. What one scriptural promise would I like to see happen this semester as I
immerse myself in scriptures?
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
9
PROMISES
President Ezra Taft Benson said: "More than at any time in our history, brothers and sisters, we have
need for greater spirituality. The way to develop greater spirituality is to feast on the words of Christ as
revealed in the scriptures" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1984, 7; or Ensign, May 1984, 7).
The Canon is Open
 New additions to existing scriptures through prophets.
 New revelations on the meaning of scripture already in the canon.

Public revelation through prophets.

Private revelation to individual seekers of truth.
 What it meant when it was written.
 What it may mean to the reader today.
 Anything else the Lord wishes to communicate.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
10
Statements from the First Presidency and
Quorum of the Twelve Regarding the
Promises Associated with Searching the
Scriptures
President Joseph Smith
He that can mark the power of
Omnipotence inscribed upon the heavens, can
also see God's own handwriting in the sacred
volume: and he who reads it oftenest will like it
best, and he who is acquainted with it, will know
the hand wherever he can see it; and when once
discovered, it will not only receive an
acknowledgment, but an obedience to all its
heavenly precepts (Teachings of the Prophet
Joseph Smith, Section Two 1834-37 p.56).
President Spencer W. Kimball
Scripture
study
is
a
family
responsibility. Scripture study as individuals and
as a family is most fundamental to learning the
gospel. Daily reading of the scriptures and
discussing them together has long been
suggested as a powerful tool against ignorance
and the temptations of Satan. . . . Home is where
we become experts and scholars in gospel
righteousness.
We shall indeed find answers to our
problems and peace in our hearts. We shall
experience the Holy Ghost broadening our
understanding, find new insights, witness an
unfolding pattern of all scripture; and the
doctrines of the Lord shall come to have more
meaning to us than we ever thought possible.
(Spencer W. Kimball, The Teachings of Spencer
W. Kimball, 129, 135.)
President Ezra Taft Benson
As I add my voice to these wise and
inspired brethren and say to you that one of the
most important things you can do as priesthood
leaders is to immerse yourselves in the
scriptures. Search them diligently. Feast upon
the words of Christ. Learn the doctrine Nephi
Master the principles that are found
therein….Few other efforts….will bring greater
dividends to your calling…..Few other ways
[will result in] greater inspiration (Ezra Taft
Benson, in Conference Report, Oct. 1986, 61; or
Ensign, Nov. 1986, 47).
It is not just that the Book of Mormon
teaches us truth, though it indeed does that. It is
not just that the Book of Mormon bears
testimony of Christ, though it indeed does that,
too. But there is something more. There is a
power in the book which will begin to flow into
your lives the moment you begin a serious study
of the book. You will find greater power to resist
temptation. You will find the power to avoid
deception. You will find the power to stay on the
strait and narrow path. The scriptures are called
“the words of life” (D&C 84:85), and nowhere is
that more true than it is of the Book of Mormon.
When you begin to hunger and thirst after those
words, you will find life in greater and greater
abundance (Ezra Taft Benson, in Conference
Report, Oct. 1986, 6; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, 7).
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
11
President Gordon B. Hinckley
I promise you that if you will read the
words of that writing which we call scripture,
there will come into your heart an understanding
and a warmth that will be pleasing to experience.
‘Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye
have eternal life: and they are they which testify
of me.’ (John 5:39) (Gordon B. Hinckley,
Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley, 572).
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin
Through daily study of the scriptures
and the words of the modern-day prophets, we
can keep our values in line with the will of our
Heavenly Father. The scriptures lead us to the
fountain of living waters, or to the tree of life;
which waters are a representation of the love of
God (1 Nephi 11:25). (Joseph B. Wirthlin, in
Conference Report, Oct. 1990, 83; or Ensign,
Nov. 1990, 66)
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
The Apostle Paul taught that the
scriptures are given by inspiration of God and
are profitable for instruction in righteousness (2
Timothy 3:16). We obtain instruction in
righteousness from the experiences recorded in
the scriptures. They provide what we might call
case studies of the results of keeping or breaking
the commandments of God. (Dallin H. Oaks, in
Conference Report, Oct. 1992, 52; or Ensign,
Nov. 1992, 37)
Elder M. Russell Ballard
Just think of the spiritual strength we
could gain in our lives and how much more
effective we would be as teachers, missionaries,
and friends if we studied the scriptures regularly.
I am sure we, like Hyrum, will be able to endure
our greatest trials if we search the word of God
as he did. (M. Russell Ballard, in Conference
Report, Oct. 1995, 6; or Ensign, Nov. 1995, 7)
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
12
Elder Richard G. Scott
How can you receive the greatest
happiness and blessings from this earth
experience? Learn the doctrinal foundation of
the great plan of happiness by studying the
scriptures, pondering their content, and praying
to understand them. (Richard G. Scott, in
Conference Report, Oct. 1996, 103; or Ensign,
Nov. 1996, 75).
Thought Questions
1. What promises does the Prophet Joseph Smith make regarding the scriptures?
2. List three promises President Benson makes to members of the church if they
will study the Word?
3. What does President Kimball promise if we will study the scriptures as
individuals and as families?
4. Elder Wirthlin said the scriptures will lead us to what?
5. Elder Oaks suggests the scriptures are case study for what?
6. According to Elder Ballard the scriptures will make more effective in what
areas of our lives?
7. What did Elder Scott promise we can receive if we come to understand the
doctrine of the great plan of happiness as taught in the scriptures?
8. What two promises does President Hinckley make to all who will search the
scriptures?
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13
Scriptural Promises Worksheet
Name _________________________________________
Scripture
Joshua 1:8
Brief Summary
Promises
Psalm 119:105
1 Nephi 1:12
1 Nephi 15:24
2 Nephi 32:3
Jacob 2:8
Alma 17:2
Helaman 15:7-8
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
14
Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge
upon [us] by the Lord, but a
marvelous blessing and opportunity”
(Ensign, Nov. 1986, p. 47).
6. President Spencer
commented:
Elder Richard G. Scott
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
1. You wonderful, righteous members
of this church constantly inspire and
motivate me. Thank you for your zest
for life, your generous giving of self,
your
devotion,
and
your
determination to live worthily. I also
express gratitude to our many friends
who have joined us through these
conference sessions. May the
messages given bless your lives.
2. Recently in South America a youth
inquired, “Can you give us
suggestions that will help us know
the Savior better and be able to
constantly follow His example?” That
meaningful question and others like it
have prompted this message on
acquiring spiritual knowledge.
3. President
Ezra
Taft
Benson
emphasized the importance of
spiritual knowledge, saying:
4. “We should make daily study of the
scriptures a lifetime pursuit. … The
most important [thing] you can do …
is to immerse yourselves in the
scriptures. Search them diligently. …
Learn the doctrine Master the
principles. …
5. “You must … see that … searching
the scriptures is not a burden laid
W.
Kimball
7. “Spiritual learning takes precedence.
The secular without the foundation of
the spiritual is … like the foam upon
the milk, the fleeting shadow. … One
need not choose between the two …
for there is opportunity to get both
simultaneously” (The Teachings of
Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L.
Kimball, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft,
1982, p. 390).
8. As you seek spiritual knowledge,
search for principles. Carefully
separate them from the detail used to
explain
them.
Principles
are
concentrated truth, packaged for
application to a wide variety of
circumstances. A true principle
makes decisions clear even under the
most confusing and compelling
circumstances. It is worth great effort
to organize the truth we gather to
simple statements of principle. I have
tried to do that with gaining spiritual
knowledge. The result is now shared
in hope that it will be a beginning
place for your study. That statement
of principle is:
9. To acquire spiritual knowledge and
to obey it with wisdom, one must:
10. • In humility, seek divine light.
11. • Exercise faith in Jesus Christ.
12. • Hearken to His counsel.
13. • Keep His commandments.
14. As spiritual knowledge unfolds, it
must be understood, valued, obeyed,
remembered, and expanded.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
15
15. I will explain that statement using
examples from the scriptures, the
prophets, and the precious, though
difficult, laboratory of personal
experience. My desire is that the
suggestions given will help you in
your quest for spiritual truth
throughout your life. Then, in time,
you may accomplish this objective
given by President Joseph F. Smith:
16. “The greatest achievement mankind
can make in this world is to
familiarize themselves with divine
truth, so thoroughly, so perfectly, that
the example or conduct of no creature
living in the world can ever turn them
away from the knowledge that they
have obtained. …
17. “From my boyhood I have desired to
learn the principles of the gospel in
such a way … that it would matter
not to me who might fall from the
truth, … my foundation would be …
certain in the truths … I have
learned” (Gospel Doctrine, Salt Lake
City: Deseret Book Co., 1939, pp. 3–
4).
18. Like President Smith, you and I need
that kind of secure anchor to keep our
life centered in righteousness and to
avoid being swept away by the
ruthless waves of worldliness.
19. The following scriptures teach why
we should seek divine light.
20. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet,
and a light unto my path” (Ps.
119:105; emphasis added).
21. “I, the Lord, … will be a light unto
them forever, that hear my words” (2
Nephi 10:14; emphasis added).
22. “It is I that speak; … I am the light
which shineth in darkness, and by my
power I give these words unto thee.
…
23. “Put your trust in that Spirit which
leadeth to do good—yea, to do justly,
to walk humbly, to judge righteously;
and this is my Spirit. …
24. “I will impart unto you of my Spirit,
which shall enlighten your mind,
which shall fill your soul with joy;
25. “And … by this shall you know, all
things whatsoever you desire of me,
which are pertaining unto things of
righteousness, in faith believing in
me that you shall receive” (D&C
11:11–14; emphasis added).
26. Analogies with physical light help us
understand the power of spiritual
light. A bulb ignited in a dark room
overpowers darkness. Yet if the
darkness is too intense, it can
overpower light, as with a bulb
plunged into a bucket of black ink.
Spiritual light overcomes the
darkness of ignorance and disbelief.
When transgression severely clouds a
life, the focused spiritual truths of
repentance cut the blackness as a
laser penetrates the darkest ink.
27. Humility is essential to the acquiring
of spiritual knowledge. To be humble
is to be teachable. Humility permits
you to be tutored by the Spirit and to
be taught from sources inspired by
the Lord, such as the scriptures. The
seeds of personal growth and
understanding germinate and flourish
in the fertile soil of humility. Their
fruit is spiritual knowledge to guide
you here and hereafter.
28. A proud individual cannot know the
things of the Spirit. Paul taught this
truth, saying:
29. “The things of God knoweth no man,
but the Spirit of God. …
30. “But the natural man receiveth not the
things of the Spirit of God: for they
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
16
are foolishness unto him: neither can
he know them, because they are
spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians
2:11, 14).
31. Since it requires much personal effort
to gain and use worthwhile
knowledge, you cannot endlessly
sample from every fascinating arena
of life. Therefore, you should select
carefully a few vital areas where you
can focus energy to learn and share
vital truths. I know that to gain
knowledge of great worth requires
extraordinary personal effort. This is
particularly true when our desire is to
obtain spiritual knowledge. President
Kimball said it this way:
32. “The treasures of both secular and
spiritual knowledge are hidden
ones—but hidden from those who do
not properly search and strive to find
them. … Spiritual knowledge is not
available merely for the asking; even
prayers are not enough. It takes
persistence and dedication of one’s
life. … Of all treasures of knowledge,
the most vital is the knowledge of
God” (The Teachings of Spencer W.
Kimball, pp. 389–90).
33. Brigham Young learned truth by
carefully listening to Joseph Smith
and striving to understand everything
that was taught by word, example, or
the Spirit. The resulting tutoring has
blessed generations. It conditioned
Brigham Young to learn additional
truths and to share far more than he
had received personally from Joseph
Smith. Follow his example.
34. The need to exercise faith in Jesus
Christ is absolutely essential. It is the
foundation of the plan of salvation.
When that exercise of faith is coupled
with sincere effort based upon a
willingness to hearken to His
counsel, great personal growth and
blessings
declared:
follow.
The
Savior
35. “I now give unto you a
commandment … to give diligent
heed to the words of eternal life.
36. “For you shall live by every word that
proceedeth forth from the mouth of
God.
37. “For the word of the Lord is truth,
and whatsoever is truth is light, and
whatsoever is light is Spirit, even the
Spirit of Jesus Christ.
38. “And the Spirit giveth light to every
man that cometh into the world; and
the Spirit enlighteneth every man
through the world, that hearkeneth to
the voice of the Spirit.
39. “And every one that hearkeneth to the
voice of the Spirit cometh unto … the
Father” (D&C 84:43–47; emphasis
added).
40. The role of obedience in gaining
spiritual knowledge is crucial, as this
comment of President Joseph
Fielding Smith confirms:
41. “Now the Lord would give us gifts.
He will quicken our minds. He will
give us … a knowledge that will be
so deeply rooted in our souls that [it]
… can never be rooted out, if we will
just seek for the light … and the
understanding which is promised to
us, and which we can receive if we
will only be true and faithful to every
covenant and obligation pertaining to
the gospel of Jesus Christ” (in
Conference Report, Oct. 1958, p. 22).
42. To keep the commandments, you
must know them. The best single
source for learning them is the
scriptures. President Joseph Fielding
Smith gave this admonition:
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
17
43. “Today we are troubled by evildesigning persons who [endeavor] …
to destroy the testimonies of members
of the Church, and many … are in
danger
because
of
lack
of
understanding and because they have
not sought the guidance of the Spirit.
… It is a commandment from the
Lord that members … be diligent …
and study … the fundamental truths
of the gospel. … Every baptized
person [can] have an abiding
testimony. … but [it] … will grow
dim and eventually disappear
[without] … study, obedience, and
diligent seeking to know and
understand the truth” (in Conference
Report, Oct. 1963, p. 22).
44. Profound spiritual truth cannot
simply be poured from one mind and
heart to another. It takes faith and
diligent effort. Precious truth comes a
small piece at a time through faith,
with great exertion, and at times
wrenching struggles. The Lord
intends it be that way so that we can
mature and progress. Moroni said,
“Dispute not because ye see not, for
ye receive no witness until after the
trial of your faith” (Ether 12:6). To
explain that truth, President Harold B.
Lee gave this wise instruction:
45. “The Savior’s blood, His atonement,
will save us, but only after we have
done all we can to save ourselves by
keeping His commandments. All of
the principles of the gospel are
principles of promise by which the
plans of the Almighty are unfolded to
us” (Ye Are the Light of the World,
Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co.,
1974, p. 245).
46. As packets of knowledge unfold, they
must be understood, valued, obeyed,
remembered, and expanded. I’ll
explain:
47. • Understood. As each element of
truth is encountered, you must
carefully examine it in the light of
prior knowledge to determine where
it fits. Ponder it; inspect it inside out.
Study it from every vantage point to
discover hidden meaning. View it in
perspective to confirm you have not
jumped
to
false
conclusions.
Prayerful reflection yields further
understanding. Such evaluation is
particularly important when the truth
comes as an impression of the Spirit.
48. • Valued. You show knowledge is
valued by expressing appreciation for
it, especially in heartfelt prayers of
gratitude. The Lord said: “He who
receiveth all things with thankfulness
shall be made glorious; and the things
of this earth shall be added unto him,
even an hundred fold, yea, more”
(D&C 78:19).
49. • Obeyed. Obedient application of
truth is the surest way of making it
eternally yours. The wise use of
knowledge will permeate your life
with its precious fruit.
50. • Remembered. Powerful spiritual
direction in your life can be overcome
or forced into the background unless
you provide a way to retain it.
Brigham Young declared, “If you
love the truth you can remember it”
(Discourses of Brigham Young, sel.
John A. Widtsoe, Salt Lake City:
Deseret Book Co., 1954, p. 10).
Knowledge carefully recorded is
knowledge available in time of need.
Spiritually sensitive information
should be kept in a sacred place that
communicates to the Lord how you
treasure it. That practice enhances the
likelihood of your receiving further
light.
51. • Expanded. This thought refers to
rich benefits that come from your
efforts to enlarge, extend, and
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
18
increase your understanding of truth.
Use the scriptures and the
declarations of the prophets to expand
your knowledge. You will find that
efforts to share knowledge are often
rewarded with more understanding as
additional light flows into your mind
and heart (see D&C 8:2–3).
52. We have come to the end of a great
conference. Through its messages,
you have been given inspired truth
without much effort on your part.
Make these truths yours through
study and thoughtful application and
by emulating a prophet of God,
Spencer W. Kimball, who at the
conclusion of a conference, taught:
53. “While sitting here, I have made up
my mind that when I go home from
this conference this night there are
many, many areas in my life that I
can perfect. I have made a mental list
of them, and I expect to go to work as
soon as we get through with
conference” (in Conference Report,
Oct. 1975, p. 164).
54. The privilege of learning absolute
truth is sacred to me. I stand in awe
that our Heavenly Father and His
Beloved Son are willing, even
anxious for us to learn from them.
Please use what I have shared with
sensitivity for the wondrous privilege
given each of us, willing to obey, to
be taught eternal truth. Gaining
spiritual knowledge is not a
mechanical process. It is a sacred
privilege based upon spiritual law. I
testify that you can receive inspired
help. Humbly ask your Eternal
Father. Seek divine light. Exercise
faith in the Savior. Strive to hearken
to His counsel and obey His
commandments. He will bless and
lead you as you move through this
sometimes treacherous world.
55. I solemnly testify that Jesus Christ
guides this, His church. He knows
and loves you personally. As you
walk in faithful obedience, He will
bless you, inspire you, and lead you
to greater knowledge and capacity. I
certify that He lives, in the name of
Jesus Christ, amen.
© 2006 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
19
Habits
Elder Bruce R. McConkie, said: “I think that people who study the scriptures get a dimension to their life
that nobody else gets and that can't be gained in any way except by studying the scriptures.
"There's an increase in faith and a desire to do what's right and a feeling of inspiration and
understanding that comes to people who study the gospel—meaning particularly the Standard Works—
and who ponder the principles, that can't come in any other way" (in David Croft, "Spare Time's Rare to
Apostle," Church News, 24 Jan. 1976, 4
Statements from the First Presidency and
Quorum of the Twelve Regarding the
Promises Associated with Studying the
Scriptures
President Ezra Taft Benson
Always remember, there is no satisfactory
substitute for the scriptures and the words of the
living prophets. These should be your original
sources. Read and ponder more what the Lord
has said, and less about what others have written
concerning what the Lord said. Ezra Taft
Benson, “The Gospel Teacher and His
Message,” Address to religious educators, 17
September 1976.
down the stream after the cattle have waded in
it. . . . I appreciate other people’s interpretation,
but when it comes to the gospel we ought to be
acquainted with what the Lord says. Marion G.
Romney, Address to Seminary and Institute
Coordinators, 13 April 1973.
President Gordon B Hinckley
I do not concern myself much with reading long
commentary volumes designed to enlarge at
length upon that which is found in the scriptures.
Rather, I prefer to dwell with the source, tasting
of the unadulterated waters of the fountain of
truth—the word of God as he gave it and as it
has been recorded in the books we accept as
scripture. Where there are questions, or where
cross-referencing will help, the tools in the new
editions will be invaluable. Through reading the
scriptures, we can gain the assurance of the
Spirit that that which we read has come of God
for the enlightenment, blessing, and joy of his
children. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Feasting upon
the Scriptures,” Ensign, Dec. 1985, 45.
Elder Marion G Romney
I don’t know much about the gospel other than
what I’ve learned from the standard works.
When I drink from a spring I like to get the
water where it comes out of the ground, not
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
20
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
Commentaries are not a substitute for the
scriptures any more than a good cookbook is a
substitute for food. . . . One trouble with
commentaries is that their authors sometimes
focus on only one meaning, to the exclusion of
others. As a result, commentaries, if not used
with great care, may illuminate the author’s
chosen and correct meaning but close our eyes
and restrict our horizons to other possible
meanings. Sometimes those other, less obvious
meanings can be the ones most valuable and
useful to us as we seek to understand our own
dispensation and to obtain answers to our own
questions. This is why the teaching of the Holy
Ghost is a better guide to scriptural
interpretation than even the best commentary.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Scripture Reading and
Revelation,” Ensign, Jan. 1995.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
21
Reading the Scriptures
Elder Howard W. Hunter
Of the Council of the Twelve
1. When we follow the counsel of our
leaders to read and study the
scriptures, benefits and blessings of
many kinds come to us. This is the
most profitable of all study in which
we could engage. The portion of
scripture known as the Old and New
Testaments is often referred to as the
great literature of the world. These
books have been regarded as
scientific treatises, as philosophic
dissertations, and also as historical
records; but if we understand the true
purpose of these and other scriptures,
we realize that they are really the
fundamental literature of religion.
2. The scriptural library contains the
basic declarations concerning God
and
his
children
and
the
interrelationship
between
them.
Throughout each of the books there is
an appeal to believe and have faith in
God the Eternal Father and in his son,
Jesus Christ; and from the first to the
last of these books of scripture is the
call to do the will of God and keep
his commandments.
3. Scriptures contain the record of the
self-revelation of God, and through
them God speaks to man. Where
could there be more profitable use of
time than reading from the scriptural
library the literature that teaches us to
know God and understand our
relationship to him? Time is always
precious to busy people, and we are
robbed of its worth when hours are
wasted in reading or viewing that
which is frivolous and of little value.
4. Reading habits vary widely. There are
rapid readers and slow readers, some
who read only small snatches at a
time and others who persist without
stopping until the book is finished.
Those who delve into the scriptural
library, however, find that to
understand requires more than casual
reading or perusal—there must be
concentrated study. It is certain that
one who studies the scriptures every
day accomplishes far more than one
who devotes considerable time one
day and then lets days go by before
continuing. Not only should we study
each day, but there should be a
regular time set aside when we can
concentrate without interference.
5. There is nothing more helpful than
prayer to open our understanding of
the scriptures. Through prayer we can
attune our minds to seek the answers
to our searchings. The Lord said:
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek,
and ye shall find; knock, and it shall
be opened unto you” (Luke 11:9).
Herein is Christ’s reassurance that if
we will ask, seek, and knock, the
Holy Spirit will guide our
understanding if we are ready and
eager to receive.
6. Many find that the best time to study
is in the morning after a night’s rest
has cleared the mind of the many
cares that interrupt thought. Others
prefer to study in the quiet hours after
the work and worries of the day are
over and brushed aside, thus ending
the day with a peace and tranquility
that comes by communion with the
scriptures.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
22
7. Perhaps what is more important than
the hour of the day is that a regular
time be set aside for study. It would
be ideal if an hour could be spent
each day; but if that much cannot be
had, a half hour on a regular basis
would
result
in
substantial
accomplishment. A quarter of an hour
is little time, but it is surprising how
much enlightenment and knowledge
can be acquired in a subject so
meaningful. The important thing is to
allow nothing else to ever interfere
with our study.
8. Some prefer to study alone, but
companions can study together
profitably. Families are greatly
blessed when wise fathers and
mothers bring their children about
them, read from the pages of the
scriptural library together, and then
discuss freely the beautiful stories
and thoughts according to the
understanding of all. Often youth and
little ones have amazing insight into
and appreciation for the basic
literature of religion.
9. We should not be haphazard in our
reading but rather develop a
systematic plan for study. There are
some who read to a schedule of a
number of pages or a set number of
chapters each day or week. This may
be perfectly justifiable and may be
enjoyable if one is reading for
pleasure, but it does not constitute
meaningful study. It is better to have
a set amount of time to give scriptural
study each day than to have a set
amount of chapters to read.
Sometimes we find that the study of a
single verse will occupy the whole
time.
10. The life, acts, and teachings of Jesus
can be read rapidly. The stories are
simple in most instances and the
stories are simply told. The Master
used few words in his teachings, but
each one is so concise in meaning
that together they portray a clear
image to the reader. Sometimes,
however, many hours might be spent
in contemplation of profound
thoughts expressed in a few simple
words.
11. There was an incident in the life of
the Savior that was mentioned by
Matthew, Mark, and Luke. A
significant part of the story is told by
Mark in only two short verses and
five words of the following verse. Let
me read them to you.
12. “And, behold, there cometh one of
the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by
name; and when he saw him [that is,
when he saw Jesus], he fell at his
feet,
13. “And besought him greatly, saying,
My little daughter lieth at the point of
death: I pray thee, come and lay thy
hands on her, that she may be healed;
and she shall live.
14. “And Jesus went with him” (Mark
5:22–24).
15. The reading time of that portion of
the story is about thirty seconds. It is
short and uncomplicated. The visual
picture is clear and even a child could
repeat it without difficulty. But as we
spend time in thought and
contemplation, a great depth of
understanding and meaning comes to
us. We conclude that this is more
than a simple story about a little girl
who was sick and Jesus went to lay
his hands on her. Let me read these
words to you again:
16. “And, behold.” The word behold is
used frequently in scripture with a
wide variety of meanings. Its use in
this instance designates suddenness
or unexpectedness. Jesus and those
who were with him had just recrossed
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
23
the Sea of Galilee, and a multitude of
people who had been waiting met
him on the shore near Capernaum.
“And,
behold
[suddenly
and
unexpectedly], there cometh one of
the rulers of the synagogue.” The
larger synagogues of that day were
presided over by a college of elders
under the direction of a chief or a
ruler. This was a man of rank and
prestige whom the Jews looked upon
with great respect.
17. Matthew doesn’t give the name of
this chief elder, but Mark identifies
him by adding to his title the words,
“Jairus by name.” Nowhere else in
the scriptures does this man or his
name appear except on this occasion,
yet his memory lives in history
because of a brief contact with Jesus.
Many, many lives have become
memorable that otherwise would
have been lost in obscurity had it not
been for the touch of the Master’s
hand that made a significant change
of thought and action and a new and
better life.
18. “And when he saw him [that is, when
Jairus saw Jesus], he fell at his feet.”
19. This was an unusual circumstance for
a man of rank and prestige, a ruler of
the synagogue, to kneel at Jesus’
feet—at the feet of one considered to
be an itinerant teacher with the gift of
healing. Many others of learning and
prestige saw Jesus also but ignored
him. Their minds were closed. Today
is no different; obstacles stand in the
way of many to accept him.
20. “And [Jairus] besought him greatly,
saying, My little daughter lieth at the
point of death.” This is typical of
what happens frequently when a man
comes to Christ, not so much for his
own need, but because of the
desperate need of a loved one The
tremor we hear in Jairus’s voice as he
speaks of “My little daughter” stirs
our souls with sympathy as we think
of this man of high position in the
synagogue on his knees before the
Savior.
21. Then
comes
a
great
acknowledgement of faith: “I pray
thee, come and lay thy hands on her,
that she may be healed; and she shall
live.” These are not only the words of
faith of a father torn with grief but are
also a reminder to us that whatever
Jesus lays his hands upon lives. If
Jesus lays his hands upon a marriage,
it lives. If he is allowed to lay his
hands on the family, it lives.
22. The words, “and Jesus went with
him” follow. We would not suppose
that this event had been within the
plans for the day. The Master had
come back across the sea where the
multitude was waiting on the shore
for him to teach them. “And
behold”—suddenly
and
unexpectedly—he was interrupted by
the plea of a father. He could have
ignored the request because many
others were waiting. He could have
said to Jairus that he would come to
see his daughter tomorrow, but “Jesus
went with him.” If we follow in the
footsteps of the Master, would we
ever be too busy to ignore the needs
of our fellowmen?
23. It is not necessary to read the
remainder of the story. When they got
to the home of the ruler of the
synagogue, Jesus took the little girl
by the hand and raised her from the
dead. In like manner, he will lift and
raise every man to a new and better
life who will permit the Savior to take
him by the hand.
24. I am grateful for the library of
scripture through which a greater
knowledge of Jesus Christ can be
learned by devoted study. I am
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
24
grateful that in addition to the Old
and New Testaments, the Lord,
through prophets of The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has
added other revealed scripture as
additional witnesses for Christ—the
Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and
Covenants, and the Pearl of Great
Price—all of which I know to be the
word of God. These bear witness that
Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the
living God.
25. May the Lord bless us in our study
and righteous quest to seek him, I
pray in the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen.
© 2006 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.
Instructions:
Read the first ten paragraphs of Elder Hunter’s talk looking for things he suggests that you do as part of
your regular scripture study—things that ought to become habits for your study. List below everything you can find:
Now read paragraphs 11-25 and look for the techniques or scripture study skills you see Elder Hunter illustrating.
Make a list of as many different skills as you can find:
Four Habits of Successful Scripture Study
1.
2.
3.
4.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
25
Writing: Practice in Alma 36.
Elder Richard G. Scott taught: “Knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge available in time of
need. Spiritually sensitive information should be kept in a sacred place that communicates to the
Lord how you treasure it. That practice enhances the likelihood of your receiving further light.”
Richard G. Scott, Ensign, Nov. 1993, p.86
Marking (on the text) What did you mark in Alma 36?


Annotating (in the text) What notes in the margins or footnotes have you added?



Note Taking (outside of the text) What notes did you write in a journal or note book?




Thought Questions
1. Why is writing such an important part of scripture study?
2. How can the tool of writing as part of your scripture study improve your
ability to receive revelation
3. Will you begin to make writing a part of scripture study routine?
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
26
Statements from Latter-day prophets
Regarding the Promises Associated with
Recording Effectively our Thoughts and
Feelings as Study the Scriptures
Prophet Joseph Smith
If you assemble from time to time, and
proceed to discuss important questions, and
pass decisions upon the same, and fail to
note them down, by and by you will be
driven to straits from which you will not be
able to extricate yourselves, because you
may be in a situation not to bring your faith
to bear with sufficient perfection or power to
obtain the desired information; or, perhaps,
for neglecting to write these things when
God had revealed them, not esteeming them
of sufficient worth, the Spirit may withdraw,
and God may be angry. Joseph Smith,
minutes of Instruction to the Council of the
Twelve, 27 Feb. 1835
priority as to put it aside. Neal A. Maxwell,
Press Forward, p. 122
Elder Richard G. Scott
Knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge
available in time of need. Spiritually
sensitive information should be kept in a
sacred place that communicates to the Lord
how you treasure it. That practice enhances
the likelihood of your receiving further light.
Richard G. Scott, Ensign, Nov. 1993, p.86
Elder Neal A. Maxwell
The prompting that goes unresponded to
may not be repeated. Writing down what we
have been prompted with is vital. A special
thought can be lost later in the day in the
rough and tumble of life. God should not,
and may not, choose to repeat the prompting
if we assign what was given such a low
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
27
Prepare $ Seek $ Do
Ezra 7:10 suggests a process for scripture study which can benefit us:
For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord and to do it. . . . (Emphasis added).
1. Prepare your heart.
A.
Preparation is essential for success.
B.
You can prepare your heart as you:
1
Have Faith.
2.
Be Humble.
3.
Pray Always.
4.
Be Obedient.
C.
Some useful habits are:
1.
Study every day.
2.
Try to eliminate interference.
3.
Begin with prayer.
4.
Study for a set amount of time.
2.
Seek the Law of the Lord.
To seek is to try to discover or acquire; it requires us to do more than just read.
A.
With our heart prepared, we can seek in the scriptures by using the study helps and
various study approaches:
1.
Principles of Substitution.
2.
Determine the Setting.
3.
Look for Flag Phrases.
4.
Clustering.
5.
Look for Lists.
6.
Look for Cause and Effect.
7.
Visualize.
8.
Understand Symbolism.
9.
Look for Principles.
B.
Additional considerations are:
1.
Context
2.
Literary Styles
3.
Writing to Learn
4.
Seeking Christ in Scripture
3.
Do it.
A.
B.
The ultimate goal of scripture study is to better live the gospel.
It is in the doing that the real blessing comes. Do it! That’s our motto (Spencer
W. Kimball, Ensign, May 1979, 100-101).
We must apply to our daily lives the insight and understanding we’ve gained from
seeking. Some ways we can do this are:
1.
Ask, ASo what?
2.
3.
Identify personal action items.
Commit to do it.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
28
Prepare, Seek and Do (Set 4 goals and summarize each verse)
President Kimball also taught: "I find that when I get casual in my relationships with divinity and when it
seems that no divine ear is listening and no divine voice is speaking, that I am far, far away. If I immerse
myself in the scriptures the distance narrows and the spirituality returns. I find myself loving more
intensely those whom I must love with all my heart and mind and strength, and loving them more, I find it
easier to abide their counsel" (Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, 135).
 Prepare: What are four goals you are willing to set?




 D&C 93:36 (Summarize each verse)
 D&C 93:24
 D&C 88:11
 D&C 50:24
 D&C 93:28
 D&C 93:37
 D&C 93:39
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
29
A Reservoir of Living Water
Elder David A. Bednar
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
CES Fireside for Young Adults • February 4,
2007 • Brigham Young University
only three or four days without water.
Most of the world’s great centers of
population are situated near sources
of fresh water. Simply stated, life
could not exist without the
availability of and access to adequate
supplies of clean water.
Living Water
4. Given the vital role of water in
sustaining all forms of life, the
Savior’s use of the term “living
water” is supernally significant. As
described in the fourth chapter of
John, Jesus and His disciples passed
through Samaria as they were
traveling from Judea to Galilee. In the
city of Sychar they stopped at Jacob’s
well.
1. Sister Bednar and I are grateful to
meet with you tonight. As we travel
the earth, we especially appreciate
opportunities to gather with and learn
from faithful young people like you.
Tonight I pray for the assistance of
the Holy Ghost as we worship
together and seek in unity to be
taught from on high (see D&C
43:16).
2. I want to begin by asking a simple
question. What is the most valuable
substance or commodity in the
world? We might initially think that
gold, oil, or diamonds have the
greatest worth. But of all the
minerals, metals, gems, and solvents
found on and in the earth, the most
valuable is water.
3. Life springs from water. Life is
sustained by water. Water is the
medium required to perform the
various functions associated with all
known forms of life. Our physical
bodies are approximately two-thirds
water. Whereas a person can survive
for many days or even weeks without
food, an individual will usually die in
5. “There cometh a woman of Samaria
to draw water: Jesus saith unto her,
Give me to drink.
6. “(For his disciples were gone away
unto the city to buy meat.)
7. “Then saith the woman of Samaria
unto him, How is it that thou, being a
Jew, askest drink of me, which am a
woman of Samaria? for the Jews have
no dealings with the Samaritans.
8. “Jesus answered and said unto her, If
thou knewest the gift of God, and
who it is that saith to thee, Give me to
drink; thou wouldest have asked of
him, and he would have given thee
living water.
9. “The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou
hast nothing to draw with, and the
well is deep: from whence then hast
thou that living water? . . .
10. “Jesus answered and said unto her,
Whosoever drinketh of this water
shall thirst again:
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
30
11. “But whosoever drinketh of the water
that I shall give him shall never thirst;
but the water that I shall give him
shall be in him all of water springing
up into everlasting life” (John 4:7–11,
13–14).
12. The living water referred to in this
episode is a representation of the
Lord Jesus Christ and His gospel.
And as water is necessary to sustain
physical life, so the Savior and His
doctrines, principles, and ordinances
are essential for eternal life. You and
I need His living water daily and in
ample supply to sustain our ongoing
spiritual growth and development.
The Scriptures Are a Reservoir of Living
Water
13. The scriptures contain the words of
Christ and are a reservoir of living
water to which we have ready access
and from which we can drink deeply
and long. You and I must look to and
come unto Christ, who is “the
fountain of living waters” (1 Nephi
11:25; compare Ether 8:26; 12:28),
by reading (see Mosiah 1:5), studying
(see D&C 26:1), searching (see John
5:39; Alma 17:2), and feasting (see 2
Nephi 32:3) upon the words of Christ
as contained in the holy scriptures.
By so doing, we can receive both
spiritual direction and protection
during our mortal journey.
14. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints has a sacred stewardship
to preserve the written revelations in
purity and in safety (see D&C
42:56)—this precious reservoir of
living water. A monumental work
was accomplished by the Church in
the 1970s and 1980s and resulted in
the edition of the scriptures we enjoy
today with extensive footnotes, crossreferences, and additional study aids,
maps, and information.
15. As the updated scriptures were first
introduced to the members of the
Church in the early 1980s, Elder
Boyd K. Packer prophesied:
16. “With the passing of years, these
scriptures will produce successive
generations of faithful Christians who
know the Lord Jesus Christ and are
disposed to obey His will.
17. “The older generation has been raised
without them, but there is another
generation
growing
up”
(in
Conference Report, Oct. 1982, 75; or
Ensign, Nov. 1982, 53).
18. Twenty-four years have passed since
Elder Packer spoke those words. And
the generation to which he was
referring is seated tonight in Church
buildings all across the globe! He was
talking about you, and he was talking
about me. The vast majority of you
have only known the scriptures as we
have them today. Please keep that
fact in mind as I continue to quote
Elder Packer:
19. “The revelations will be opened to
them as to no other in the history of
the world. Into their hands now are
placed the sticks of Joseph and of
Judah. They will develop a gospel
scholarship beyond that which their
forebears could achieve. They will
have the testimony that Jesus is the
Christ and be competent to proclaim
Him and to defend Him” (in
Conference Report, Oct. 1982, 75; or
Ensign, Nov. 1982, 53).
20. Not only are we blessed to have these
scriptures so readily available to us
today, but we also have the
responsibility
to
use
them
consistently and effectively and to
drink deeply from the reservoir of
living water. I believe this generation
of youth is more immersed in the
scriptures, more deeply acquainted
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
31
with the words of the prophets, and
more prone to turn to the revelations
for answers than any previous
generation. But we still have a great
distance to travel along the strait and
narrow path—more to learn, more to
apply, and more to experience.
Obtaining Living Water
Scriptural Reservoir
from
the
21. I now want to review with you three
basic ways or methods of obtaining
living water from the scriptural
reservoir: (1) reading the scriptures
from beginning to end, (2) studying
the scriptures by topic, and (3)
searching
the
scriptures
for
connections, patterns, and themes.
Each of these approaches can help
satisfy our spiritual thirst if we invite
the companionship and assistance of
the Holy Ghost as we read, study, and
search.
22. Reading a book of scripture from
beginning to end initiates the flow of
living water into our lives by
introducing us to important stories,
gospel doctrines, and timeless
principles. This approach also enables
us to learn about major characters in
the scriptures and the sequence,
timing, and context of events and
teachings. Reading the written word
in this way exposes us to the breadth
of a volume of scripture. This is the
first and most fundamental way of
obtaining living water.
Studying by topic typically follows, grows out
of, and builds upon our reading of the scriptures
from beginning to end. For example, as we read
the Book of Mormon we may identify and seek
to find answers to important doctrinal and
practical questions such as these:
• What is faith in the Savior?
• Why is faith in Jesus Christ the first
principle of the gospel?
• Why and how does faith in the
Redeemer lead to repentance?
• How does the Atonement strengthen
me to do things in my daily life that I
could never do with my own limited
capacity and in my own strength?
23. Focusing upon such questions and
studying by topic, using the Topical
Guide and index to the triple
combination, allow us to dig into and
explore the depth of the scriptures
and obtain a much richer spiritual
knowledge. This approach increases
the rate at which living water flows
into our lives.
24. Both reading from beginning to end
and
studying
by
topic
are
prerequisites to the third basic
method of obtaining living water
from the scriptural reservoir. Whereas
reading a book of scripture from
beginning to end provides a basic
breadth of knowledge, studying by
topic increases the depth of our
knowledge.
Searching
in
the
revelations for connections, patterns,
and themes builds upon and adds to
our spiritual knowledge by bringing
together and expanding these first
two methods; it broadens our
perspective and understanding of the
plan of salvation.
25. In my judgment, diligently searching
to discover connections, patterns, and
themes is in part what it means to
“feast” upon the words of Christ. This
approach can open the floodgates of
the spiritual reservoir, enlighten our
understanding through His Spirit, and
produce a depth of gratitude for the
holy scriptures and a degree of
spiritual commitment that can be
received in no other way. Such
searching enables us to build upon
the rock of our Redeemer and to
withstand the winds of wickedness in
these latter days.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
32
26. I want to emphasize an essential
point. You might initially assume that
a person must have extensive formal
education to use the methods I am
describing. This assumption simply is
not correct. Any honest seeker of
truth, regardless of educational
background, can successfully employ
these simple approaches. You and I
do not need sophisticated study aids
and should not rely extensively upon
the spiritual knowledge of others. We
simply need to have a sincere desire
to learn, the companionship of the
Holy Ghost, the holy scriptures, and
an active and inquiring mind.
27. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that
we should “search the Scriptures—
search the revelations which we
publish, and ask your Heavenly
Father, in the name of His Son Jesus
Christ, to manifest the truth unto you,
and if you do it with an eye single to
His glory, nothing doubting, He will
answer you by the power of His Holy
Spirit. You will then know for
yourselves and not for another. You
will not then be dependent on man for
the knowledge of God” (History of
the Church, 1:282).
28. If you and I will ask, seek, and knock
(see Matthew 7:7), always keeping
ourselves worthy to learn from the
Spirit, then the gates of the spiritual
reservoir will open to us and the
living water will flow. I witness, I
testify, and I promise that this is true.
29. Let me briefly explain and provide
examples of what I mean by
connections, patterns, and themes.
Connections
30. A connection is a relationship or link
between ideas, people, things, or
events, and the scriptures are full of
connections.
Consider
the
relationship between the Eternal
Father and His Son, Jesus Christ (see
Mosiah 15:1–9); between mercy and
grace (see 2 Nephi 9:8); between
clean hands and a pure heart (see
Psalm 24:4); between a broken heart
and a contrite spirit (see 3 Nephi
9:20); between the wheat and the
tares (see D&C 101:65); between
knowledge and intelligence (see
D&C
130:18–19);
between
justification and sanctification (see
D&C 20:30–31); between sheep and
goats (see Matthew 25:32–33);
between immortality and eternal life
(see Moses 1:39); and countless
others.
Prayerfully
identifying,
learning about, and pondering such
connections—the similarities and
differences, for example—is a
primary source of living water and
yields inspired insights and treasures
of hidden knowledge.
31. As I have read each of the standard
works from beginning to end and
studied different topics, I noticed that
the
word
understanding
was
commonly described in relation to the
heart. Two verses in the Book of
Mormon illustrate this connection:
32. “Ye have not applied your hearts to
understanding; therefore, ye have not
been wise” (Mosiah 12:27; italics
added).
33. “And the multitude did hear and do
bear record; and their hearts were
open and they did understand in their
hearts the words which he prayed” (3
Nephi 19:33; italics added).
34. I find it most interesting in these and
many other verses that understanding
is linked primarily to the heart. Note
that we are not explicitly counseled to
apply our minds to understanding.
Obviously, we must use our minds
and our rational capacity to obtain
and evaluate information and to reach
appropriate
conclusions
and
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
33
judgments. But perhaps the scriptures
are suggesting to us that reason and
“the arm of the flesh” (D&C 1:19) are
not sufficient to produce true
understanding. Thus, understanding,
as the word is used in the scriptures,
does not refer solely or even
primarily to intellectual or cognitive
comprehension.
Rather,
understanding occurs when what we
know in our minds is confirmed as
true in our hearts by the witness of
the Holy Ghost.
35. The spiritual gift of revelation most
typically operates as thoughts and
feelings put into our minds and hearts
by the Holy Ghost (see D&C 8:2–3;
100:5–8). And as testimony and
conviction move from our heads to
our hearts, we no longer just have
information or knowledge—but we
begin to understand and seek after the
mighty
change
of
heart.
Understanding, then, is the result of
revelation; it is a spiritual gift, it is a
prerequisite to conversion, and it
entices us to more consistently live in
accordance with the principles we are
learning.
36. This revealed insight about the
relationship between the heart and
understanding has greatly influenced
my approach to gospel learning and
study, has affected positively the way
Sister Bednar and I teach our children
and grandchildren, and has impacted
my priesthood service.
Patterns
37. A pattern is a plan, model, or
standard that can be used as a guide
for repetitively doing or making
something. And the scriptures are full
of spiritual patterns. Typically, a
scriptural pattern is broader and more
comprehensive than a connection. In
the Doctrine and Covenants we find
patterns for preaching the gospel (see
D&C 50:13–29), for avoiding
deception (see D&C 52:14, 18–19),
for constructing temples (see D&C
115:14–16), for establishing cities
(see D&C 94), for organizing
priesthood quorums (see D&C
107:85–100) and high councils (see
D&C 102:12), and for a variety of
other purposes. Identifying and
studying scriptural patterns is another
important source of living water and
helps us become acquainted and more
familiar with the wisdom and the
mind of the Lord (see D&C 95:13).
38. As I have both read from beginning
to end and studied topics in the
Doctrine and Covenants, I have been
impressed with a pattern that is
evident in many of the Lord’s
responses to the questions of
missionaries. On a number of
occasions in 1831, various groups of
elders who had been called to preach
the gospel desired to know how they
should proceed and by what route and
manner they should travel. In
revelations given through the Prophet
Joseph Smith, the Lord respectively
counseled these brethren that they
could travel on water or by land (see
D&C 61:22), that they could make or
purchase the needed vehicles (see
D&C 60:5), that they could travel all
together or go two by two (see D&C
62:5), and that
they could
appropriately travel in a number of
different directions (see D&C 80:3).
The revelations specifically instructed
the brethren to make these decisions
“as seemeth you good” (D&C 60:5;
62:5) or “as it is made known unto
them according to their judgments”
(D&C 61:22). And in each of these
instances the Savior declared, “It
mattereth not unto me” (D&C 60:5;
61:22; 62:5; 63:40; see also 80:3).
39. The Lord’s statement that such things
“mattereth not unto me” initially may
seem surprising. Clearly, the Savior
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
34
was not saying to these missionaries
that He did not care about what they
were doing. Rather, He was
emphasizing the importance of
putting first things first and focusing
upon the right things—which, in
these instances, were getting to the
assigned field of labor and initiating
the work. They were to exercise faith,
use good judgment, act in accordance
with the direction of the Spirit, and
determine the best way to travel to
their assignments. The essential thing
was the work they had been called to
perform; how they got there was
important but was not essential.
40. What a remarkable pattern for you
and for me to apply in our lives. Jesus
Christ knows and loves us
individually. He is concerned about
our spiritual development and
progress, and He encourages us to
grow through the exercise of inspired,
righteous, and wise judgment. The
Redeemer will never leave us alone.
We should always pray for guidance
and direction. We should always seek
for the constant companionship of the
Holy Ghost. But we should not be
dismayed or discouraged if answers
to our petitions for direction or help
do not necessarily come quickly.
Such answers rarely come all at once.
Our progress would be hindered and
our judgment would be weak if every
answer was given to us immediately
and without requiring the price of
faith, work, study, and persistence.
41. The pattern I am describing is
illustrated succinctly in the following
instruction
to
those
early
missionaries:
42. “I, the Lord, am willing, if any
among you desire, to ride upon
horses, or upon mules, or in chariots,
he shall receive this blessing, if he
receive it from the hand of the Lord,
with a thankful heart in all things.
43. “These things remain with you to do
according to judgment and the
directions of the Spirit.
44. “Behold, the kingdom is yours. And
behold, and lo, I am with the faithful
always. Even so. Amen” (D&C 62:7–
9; italics added).
45. The principal issues in this episode
are not horses, mules, or chariots;
rather, they are gratitude, judgment,
and faithfulness. Please note the basic
elements in this pattern: (1) a
thankful heart in all things; (2) act
according to judgment and the
directions of the Spirit; and (3) the
Savior is with the faithful always.
Can we begin to sense the direction
and assurance, the renewal and
strength that can come from
following this simple pattern for
inspired and righteous judgment?
Truly, scriptural patterns are a
precious source of living water.
46. The most demanding judgments we
ever make are seldom between good
or bad or between attractive and
unattractive alternatives. Usually, our
toughest choices are between good
and good. In this scriptural episode,
horses, mules, and chariots may have
been equally effective options for
missionary travel. In a similar way,
you and I also might identify at
various times in our lives more than
one acceptable opportunity or option
that we could choose to pursue. We
should remember this pattern from
the scriptures as we approach such
important decisions. If we put
essential things first in our lives—
things such as dedicated discipleship,
honoring covenants, and keeping the
commandments—then we will be
blessed with inspiration and strong
judgment as we pursue the path that
leads us back to our heavenly home.
If we put essential things first, we
“cannot go amiss” (D&C 80:3).
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
35
Themes
47. Themes are overarching, recurring,
and unifying qualities or ideas, like
essential threads woven throughout a
text. Generally, scriptural themes are
broader and more comprehensive
than patterns or connections. In fact,
themes provide the background and
context
for
understanding
connections and patterns. The process
of searching for and identifying
scriptural themes leads us to the
fundamental doctrines and principles
of salvation—to the eternal truths that
invite the confirming witness of the
Holy Ghost (see 1 John 5:6). This
approach to obtaining living water
from the scriptural reservoir is the
most demanding and rigorous; it also
yields the greatest edification and
spiritual refreshment. And the
scriptures are replete with powerful
themes.
48. For example, the Book of Mormon
came forth in this dispensation to “the
convincing of the Jew and Gentile
that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal
God, manifesting himself unto all
nations” (Book of Mormon title
page). The central and recurring
theme of the Book of Mormon is the
invitation for all to “come unto
Christ, and be perfected in him”
(Moroni 10:32). The teachings,
warnings, admonitions, and episodes
in this remarkable book of scripture
all focus upon and testify of Jesus the
Christ as the Redeemer and our
Savior.
49. Let me provide a few additional
examples of important themes using
scriptures from the Book of Mormon:
50. “If . . . 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
commanded them” (1 Nephi 17:3).
51. “Press forward with a steadfastness in
Christ” (2 Nephi 31:20).
52. “Men are, that they might have joy”
(2 Nephi 2:25).
53. “In the strength of the Lord thou
canst do all things” (Alma 20:4).
54. “Wickedness never was happiness”
(Alma 41:10).
55. If you promise not to laugh, I will tell
you about one of the simple ways I
search for scriptural themes. I do not
advocate or recommend that you use
the same approach; different people
use different methods with equal
effectiveness. I am simply describing
a process that works well for me.
56. In preparation for a recent speaking
assignment, I was impressed to talk
about the spirit and purposes of
gathering. I had been studying and
pondering Elder Russell M. Nelson’s
recent conference message on the
principle
of
gathering
(see
Conference Report, Sept.–Oct. 2006,
83–87; or Ensign, Nov. 2006, 79–82),
and the topic was perfectly suited to
the nature of and setting for my
assignment (see The Spirit and
Purposes of Gathering [address
delivered at a BYU–Idaho devotional,
Oct. 31, 2006]).
57. I recognized that I had much to learn
from the scriptures about gathering.
So I identified and made copies of
every scripture in the standard works
that included any form of the word
gather. I next read each scripture,
looking for connections, patterns, and
themes. It is important to note that I
did not start my reading with a
preconceived set of things for which I
was looking. I prayed for the
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
36
assistance of the Holy Ghost and
simply started reading.
58. As I reviewed the scriptures about
gathering, I marked verses with
similar phrases or points of emphasis,
using a colored pencil. By the time I
had read all of the scriptures, some of
the verses were marked in red, some
were marked in green, and some were
marked in other colors.
59. Now, here comes the part that may
make you laugh. I next used my
scissors to cut out the scriptures I had
copied and sorted them into piles by
color. The process produced a large
pile of scriptures marked with red, a
large pile of scriptures marked with
green, and so forth. I then sorted the
scriptures within each large pile into
smaller piles. As a first grader I must
have really liked cutting with scissors
and putting things into piles!
60. The results of this process taught me
a great deal about the principle of
gathering. For example, I learned
from examining my large piles that
the scriptures describe at least three
key aspects of gathering: the
purposes of gathering, the types and
places of gathering, and the blessings
of gathering.
61. I noted that some of the primary
purposes of gathering are to worship
(see Mosiah 18:25), to receive
counsel and instruction (see Mosiah
18:7), to build up the Church (see
D&C 101:63–64), and to provide
defense and protection (see D&C
115:6). In studying about the types
and places of gathering, I discovered
that we are gathered into eternal
families (see Mosiah 2:5), into the
restored Church (see D&C 101:64–
65), into stakes of Zion (see D&C
109:59), into holy temples (see Alma
26:5–6), and into two great centers:
old Jerusalem (see Ether 13:11) and
the city of Zion or New Jerusalem
(see D&C 42:9; Articles of Faith
1:10). I was grateful to learn that
edification (see Ephesians 4:12–13),
preservation (see Moses 7:61), and
strength (see D&C 82:14) are some
of the blessings of gathering.
62. Through this process I gained an even
deeper appreciation for the spirit of
gathering as an integral part of the
restoration of all things in the
dispensation of the fulness of times. I
will not take the time now to recount
the other things I learned about
gathering; my purpose here is to
briefly illustrate one way of searching
for scriptural themes.
The Blessings We Can Receive
63. The
blessings
of
knowledge,
understanding,
revelation,
and
spiritual exhilaration that we can
receive as we read, study, and search
the
scriptures
are marvelous.
“Feasting upon the word of Christ” (2
Nephi 31:20) is edifying, exciting,
and enjoyable. The word is good, “for
it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea,
it beginneth to enlighten my
understanding, yea, it beginneth to be
delicious to me” (Alma 32:28).
“Behold they are written, ye have
them before you, therefore search
them” (3 Nephi 20:11), and they
“shall be in [you] a well of water
springing up into everlasting life”
(John 4:14).
64. In my personal reading, studying, and
searching over a period of years, I
have focused many times upon the
doctrine of the Atonement of Jesus
Christ. No event, knowledge, or
influence has had a greater impact
upon me during my 54 years of
mortality than repeatedly reading
about, studying in depth, and
searching for connections, patterns,
and themes related to the doctrine of
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
37
the Atonement. This central, saving
doctrine, over time, gradually has
distilled upon my soul as the dews
from heaven; has influenced my
thoughts, words, and deeds (see
Mosiah 4:30); and literally has
become for me a well of living water.
Lehi’s Vision
65. The importance of reading, studying,
and searching the scriptures is
highlighted in several elements of
Lehi’s vision of the tree of life.
66. Father Lehi saw several groups of
people pressing forward along the
strait and narrow path, seeking to
obtain the tree and its fruit. The
members of each group had entered
onto the path through the gate of
repentance and baptism by water and
had received the gift of the Holy
Ghost (see 2 Nephi 31:17–20). The
tree of life is the central feature in the
dream and is identified in 1 Nephi 11
as a representation of Jesus Christ.
The fruit on the tree is a symbol for
the blessings of the Savior’s
Atonement. Interestingly, the major
theme of the Book of Mormon,
inviting all to come unto Christ, is
central in Lehi’s vision. Of particular
interest is the rod of iron that led to
the tree (see 1 Nephi 8:19). The rod
of iron is the word of God.
67. In 1 Nephi 8, verses 21 through 23,
we learn about a group of people who
pressed forward and commenced in
the path that led to the tree of life.
However, as the people encountered
the mist of darkness, which
represents the temptations of the devil
(see 1 Nephi 12:17), they lost their
way, they wandered off, and they
were lost.
68. It is important to note that no mention
is made about the rod of iron in these
verses. Those who ignore or treat
lightly the word of God do not have
access to that divine compass which
points the way to the Savior.
Consider that this group obtained the
path and pressed forward, exhibiting
a measure of faith in Christ and
spiritual conviction, but they were
diverted by the temptations of the
devil and were lost.
69. In verses 24 through 28 of chapter 8
we read about a second group of
people who obtained the strait and
narrow path that led to the tree of life.
This group pressed forward through
the mist of darkness, clinging to the
rod of iron even until they did come
forth and partake of the fruit of the
tree. However, as this second group
of people was mocked by the
occupants of the great and spacious
building, they were ashamed and fell
away into forbidden paths and were
lost. Please notice that this group is
described as clinging to the rod of
iron.
70. It is significant that the second group
pressed forward with faith and
commitment. They also had the
added blessing of the rod of iron, and
they were clinging to it! However, as
they
were
confronted
with
persecution and adversity, they fell
away into forbidden paths and were
lost. Even with faith, commitment,
and the word of God, this group was
lost—perhaps because they only
periodically read or studied or
searched the scriptures. Clinging to
the rod of iron suggests to me only
occasional “bursts” of study or
irregular
dipping
rather
than
consistent, ongoing immersion in the
word of God.
71. In verse 30 we read about a third
group of people who pressed forward
continually holding fast to the rod of
iron until they came forth and fell
down and partook of the fruit of the
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
38
tree. The key phrase in this verse is
“continually holding fast” to the rod
of iron.
72. The third group also pressed forward
with faith and conviction; however,
there is no indication that they
wandered off, fell into forbidden
paths, or were lost. Perhaps this third
group of people consistently read and
studied and searched the words of
Christ. Perhaps it was the constant
flow of living water that saved the
third group from perishing. This is
the group you and I should strive to
join.
73. “What meaneth the rod of iron which
our father saw, that led to the tree?
74. “And I said unto them that it was the
word of God; and whoso would
hearken unto the word of God, and
would hold fast unto it, they would
never perish; neither could the
temptations and the fiery darts of the
adversary overpower them unto
blindness, to lead them away to
destruction” (1 Nephi 15:23–24;
italics added).
75. What, then, is the difference between
clinging and holding fast to the rod of
iron? Let me suggest that holding fast
to the iron rod entails the prayerful
and consistent use of all three of the
ways of obtaining living water that
we have discussed tonight.
76. “And it came to pass that I beheld
that the rod of iron, which my father
had seen, was the word of God,
which led to the fountain of living
waters, or to the tree of life” (1 Nephi
11:25).
77. Each of these approaches—reading
from beginning to end, studying by
topic, and searching for connections,
patterns, and themes—is edifying, is
instructive,
and
provides
an
intermittent portion of the Savior’s
living water. I believe, however, that
the regular use of all three methods
produces a more constant flow of
living water and is in large measure
what it means to hold fast to the rod
of iron.
78. Through normal activity each day,
you and I lose a substantial amount of
the water that constitutes so much of
our physical bodies. Thirst is a
demand by the cells of the body for
water, and the water in our bodies
must be replenished daily. It frankly
does not make sense to occasionally
“fill up” with water, with long
periods of dehydration in between.
The same thing is true spiritually.
Spiritual thirst is a need for living
water. A constant flow of living water
is far superior to sporadic sipping.
79. Are you and I daily reading, studying,
and searching the scriptures in a way
that enables us to hold fast to the rod
of iron—or are you and I merely
clinging? Are you and I pressing
forward toward the fountain of living
waters—relying upon the word of
God? These are important questions
for each of us to ponder prayerfully.
80. As we conclude tonight, we will sing
together the hymn “The Iron Rod.”
Indeed, this song of the righteous will
be a fervent and poignant prayer (see
D&C 25:12). May we have ears to
hear the lessons this hymn teaches.
81. I witness of Jesus Christ and of the
power of His word and of Him as the
Word. He is the Son of the Eternal
Father, and I know that He lives. I
testify that holding fast to the rod of
iron will lead to His living water. As
His servant, I invoke this blessing
upon you: that your desire and
capacity to hold fast to the rod of iron
will be enlarged, that your faith in the
Savior will increase and replace your
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
39
fears, and that as you drink deeply
from the scriptural reservoir you will
come to know Him. May we ever
remember that
When temptation’s power is nigh,
Our pathway clouded o’er,
Upon the rod we can rely,
And heaven’s aid implore.
(Hymns, no. 274)
82. In the sacred name of Jesus Christ,
amen.
© 2007 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights
reserved. Printed in the USA. English approval:
6/06. 02153
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
40
Substitution
1.
2.
3.



Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
41
Substitution Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn Journal 5)
Places to practice substitution:
Follow the pronoun.
1 Corinthians 15:24
1 Nephi 22:6
2 Nephi 5:25
Words of Mormon 1:17-18
Alma 11:20
Helaman 9:18-19
3 Nephi 15:16-24
3 Nephi 19:28
Ether 8:10
Moroni 6:2
D&C 42:80-93
D&C 45:36
D&C 109:46
Moses 5:30
Definitions
Acts 15:32
Luke 22:32
1 Nephi 11:16
1 Nephi 15:18
Alma 1:15
Alma 3: 26-27
Alma 39:9
confirmed
converted
condescension
kindred’s
ignominious
listed, listeth
cross
D&C 20:75
D&C 33:17
D&C 43:8
D&C 60:4
D&C 92:2
Moses 6:29
JS-H 1:8
expedient
trimmed
edify
bespeaketh
lively
foresworn
poignant
Skills Log model:
What:
Substitution (Look up words)
Where:
Alma 1:15
How:
I looked up the word “ignominious” and replaced it with the words “disgraceful or
shameful,” i.e., “[Nehor] suffered a [disgraceful or shameful] death.”
So What
I thought the word was like “magnanimous,” meaning a good thing—but it’s the
opposite. What a horrible way to be remembered
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Setting
1. Who?
2. Where?
3. When?
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
43
Setting Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn Journal 5)
Places to practice setting:
Genesis 22:1-14
1 Samuel 16:6-13
1 Kings 18:22-39
3 Nephi 3:1-16;
Matthew 9:20-26
Matthew 14:13-21
Mark 11:7 – 11
John 4: 3 – 26
Acts 28: 1 – 11
Doctrine and Covenants 6:14-24
Skills Log model:
What:
Setting
Where:
Luke 4:16-30
How:
Who? Jesus, people at the synagogue
Where? Nazareth, hometown, synagogue
When? Sabbath, early in His ministry
So what:
These people wouldn’t accept Him because they thought they knew him too well. They were
unwilling to reclassify Him in their minds. They probably missed out on some remarkable
blessings because of the stubbornness. I wonder what He might have done for them if they’d
been willing. I must be careful to accept and sustain whomever the Lord calls, even if I know
them (or think I know them) well. I don’t want to miss out on whatever blessings the Lord
has in store for me through these people He has called
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
44
Clustering
1.
2.
Elder Maxwell
Cluster your scriptures together so that the Old Testament scripture on a particular topic is related by you
to a scripture in the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, the Pearl of Great Price, and the New
Testament, and to the utterances of the living prophets. The scriptures of the Church need each other, just
as the members of the Church do. And they help each other, just as the members of the church do.
Cluster the scriptures topically as if they were a bunch of grapes from which you then squeeze all the
juice, and distill all the meaning. Neal A. Maxwell, Address to CES, 16 Aug 1979.
Elder Packer
Individual doctrines of the gospel are not fully explained in one place in the scriptures, nor presented in
order or sequence. They must be assembled from pieces here and there. They are sometimes found in
large segments, but mostly they are in small bits scattered through the chapters and verses.
You might think that if all the references on baptism, for instance, were assembled in one chapter of each
standard work, and all references on revelation in another, it would make the learning of the gospel much
simpler. I have come to be very, very grateful that scriptures are arranged as they are. Because the
scriptures are arranged the way they are, there are endless combinations of truths that will fit the need of
every individual in every circumstance. Boyd K. Packer, Address to CES, 10 Aug 1993.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
45
Clustering Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn Journal 5)
Places to practice clustering:
Clustering:
Genesis 4:3-5
Genesis 19:26
Genesis 32:24-30
Exodus 12:21
Exodus 14:16
Joshua 10:12-14
2 Samuel 11:2-4
1 Kings 2:1-3
2 Kings 2:11
Isaiah 58:3-7
Ezekiel 37:15-17
Daniel 1:5, 7-8, 17
1 Nephi 15:23-24
Mosiah 5:2-8
Helaman 3:28
Skills Log Model:
What:
Clustering
Where:
Numbers 21:4-9
How:
Cross reference to 1 Nephi 17:41.
New information is that the serpents can fly and many wouldn’t look at the image Moses
made because they thought it was too simple
Cross reference to Alma 33:19-22
New information is that the image was a type of Christ and that many didn’t look because of
unbelief.
So What
It’s interesting how we often have a hard time accepting the simple things as being effective
when it comes to solving problems. We seem to want complex
solutions. It makes me think of Naaman who was told by Elisha to wash in the Jordan River
to cleanse himself of leprosy but he almost didn’t do it because it seemed like a foolishly
simple solution. Prayer, scripture study, diligence in my assignments these things are where
real answers can be found.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
46
Consider Context
 Context • from the Latin contexere meaning “to weave together.”
 1.
 2.
 3.
 Proof-texting
Elder Dallin H. Oakes
The scriptures do not set forth these doctrinal subjects in a comprehensive, organized list of rules, like the
Internal Revenue Code or [Robert's] Rules of Order. For the most part, the scriptural teachings on the
various doctrines of the gospel must be gleaned from a number of sources, each containing a less than
complete account of the subject. …
If we were left to gain a complete understanding of a gospel principle from what is mentioned in only one
account, for example in the Old Testament, we could well misunderstand in part and stumble, even as
many sincere followers of Christ did during the period we call the apostasy. …
This required the restoration of the gospel in our own dispensation. With that restoration came the Book
of Mormon, another witness of Christ, and an outpouring of revelations addressed to the needs of our day.
…
An accurate and complete understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ requires us to use all of the
scriptures available to us. This explains why the Lord has commanded us to 'search the scriptures' (John
5:39). It also helps us understand why it is dangerous to rest a firm conclusion as to a point of doctrine on
a reading of only one passage of scripture. Dallin H. Oaks, "Studying the Scriptures" Unpublished
Thanksgiving devotional to seminaries of Salt Lake and Davis counties, 24 Nov. 1985, 5-6.
Elder Marion G. Romney
The word search [in the scriptures] means to inquire into, study, and examine for the purpose of
discovering the meaning of. Searching implies more than just reading or even memorizing.
When Jesus told the Jews to 'search the scriptures,' he was talking to men who prided themselves on their
acquaintance with the scriptures. They had spent their lives reading and memorizing them. They could
and did quote reams and reams of scripture in support of their apostate rules and rituals. They had wholly
failed, however, to discover the true message of the scriptures. …
This incident from the life and teachings of Jesus [John 5:39] graphically distinguishes between searching
and wresting the scriptures and reveals the awful consequences of wresting them. Searching them for the
purpose of discovering what they teach as enjoined by Jesus is a far cry from hunting through them for
the purpose of finding passages which can be pressed into service to support a predetermined conclusion.
`Behold,' said Alma, `the scriptures are before you; if ye will wrest them it shall be to your own
destruction' (Alma 13:20).
Marion G. Romney, Improvement Era, Jan. 1958, 26.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Looking for Flag Phrases
 Words for Emphasis/Attention/Focus
 yea; behold; even; and it came to pass
 Summary Phrases
 thus we see; therefore; wherefore;
 Similes
 as; like
 Superlatives
 great worth; marvelous work; very good; wonderful
 Absolutes
 always; never; all; none; every
 Connecting Words
 because; but; nevertheless
 Repeated Words, Phrases, Actions
 When the words of prophets seem repetitive, that should rivet our attention. Henry B.
Eyring, “Finding Safety in Counsel,” Ensign, May 1997, 24.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
48
Flag Phrases Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn Journal 5)
Places to practice flag phrases:
Words for Emphasis/Attention/Focus
-Yea (1 Nephi 18:18; 2 Nephi 4:35)
-Behold (1 Nephi 2:1; 2 Nephi 1:10)
-Even (1 Nephi 10:4; Alma 32:27)
-And It Came to Pass (1 Nephi 18:25; Enos 1:25; 1 Nephi 7:1; Jacob 5:4)
Summary Phrases
- Thus we see (Alma 24:19; 30:60; Helaman 12:3)
- Therefore (1 Nephi 1:1; 3:6; 3 Nephi 13:8, 9)
- Wherefore (1 Nephi 2:16; 7:12; D&C 1:6-7)
Similes
- As (Isaiah 35:1; 2 Nephi 3:19; D&C 65:2; 101:39; Abr. 3:18)
- Like (Matt. 13:31, 44, 47; 28:3; Jacob 5:3; Mosiah 2:38)
Superlatives
- Great Worth (1 Nephi 13:23)
- A marvelous work (2 Nephi 25:17; D&C 4:1)
- Good, very good (Moses 2:25, 31)
- Great (Gen. 12:2)
- Wonderful (Isaiah 9:61)
Absolutes
- Always (Mosiah 4:11-12)
- Never (John 6:35; 1 Corinthians 13:8; Alma 41:10)
- All (Rom. 3:23; 2 Nephi 32:3, D&C 18:11)
- All/None (Mark 12:30; 2 Nephi 2:6-7; 26:33)
- Nothing (2 Nephi 26:33)
- Every (Moro. 7:16 **also note the use of the word the in this verse)
- No (Alma 40:26)
Connecting Words
-Because (Mosiah 26:1-4)
-But (D&C 45:30-32)
- Nevertheless (1 Nephi 13:23; 14:12, D&C 1:32)
Repeated Words, Phrases, or Actions
-Find some of these on your own.
Skills Log Model
What:
Flag Phrases
Where:
Doctrine and Covenants 18:11
How:
The word “all” is used twice in this verse. “All” is an absolute.
So What:
Jesus Christ suffered for ALL—not just for the faithful or for members of the Church.
“That ALL men might repent…” Just as He suffered for all, all have the opportunity to
repent. God loves all of his children and provides every single one of them an equal
opportunity for exaltation.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Looking for Lists
 Purposeful grouping
1.
Ask:



2.
Ask:
 Sample list: Proclamation—The Family,
“Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer,
repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.”
The Family: A Proclamation to the World
The First Presidency and Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints
 Sample list: Young Womanhood Theme,
 Faith
 Divine Nature
 Individual Worth
 Knowledge
 Choice and Accountability
 Good Works
 Integrity
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
50
Lists Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn Journal 5)
Places to practice lists:
2 Nephi 3:12
2 Nephi 4:20-23
2 Nephi 11:2, 4-6
Mosiah 15:8-9
Alma 9:19-22
Alma 13:28-29
Alma 17:2-3
Alma 26:22
Alma 32:42
Alma 34:37-41
Alma 38:3
Helaman 12:1-3
3 Nephi 11:15
3 Nephi 20:25
3 Nephi 29:2-4, 8, 9
Mormon 7:2-5
Ether 8:26
Moroni 10:3-4, 7-8, 18-19, 27, 30
Skills Log Model:
What:
Lists
Where:
2 Nephi 2:8
How:
Lehi says that “no flesh can dwell in the presence of God save it be through”
three things:
1. The merits
2. The mercy
3. The grace of Jesus Christ
I believe this to be an ordered list.
So What:
It’s interesting to note that all three things belong to Christ—not to me. Christ’s merits
qualify Him to extend mercy and grace to us. Is mercy and grace the same thing? I don’t
think so. If mercy is forgiveness then grace is what makes me better than just forgiven.
The Bible Dictionary says that grace is an “enabling power” that gives me “strength and
assistance to do good works” that I would not be able to do otherwise. Because of
Christ’s merits I can be forgiven through His mercy and then enabled to do more through
His grace.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Cause and Effect
 If → then
 Inasmuch as
 Because
 If without then
 No marker
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
52
Cause and Effect Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn
Journal 5)
If – Then
Leviticus 26:3-4, 18, 23- 24, 27-28,
40-42
Isaiah 58:13-14
John 8:31
2 Nephi 31:13
Alma 34:33
Ether 12:27
Doctrine and Covenants 5:24
1 Nephi 7:12 (reverse)
1 Nephi 17:13 (reverse)
“Inasmuch as”
Matthew 25:40, 45
1 Nephi 2:20, 21
Alma 50:20
Helaman 4:15
Ether 11:8
Doctrine and Covenants 1:25-28
Doctrine and Covenants 43:10 (9-10)
Doctrine and Covenants 44:2
If – (without) Then
Leviticus 26:14-17
Jeremiah 18:8
Mark 11:26
John 7:17
1 Nephi 17:3 (1-3, 20)
1 Nephi 22:31
2 Nephi 1:7
2 Nephi 31:20
2 Nephi 32:4-5, 8
Doctrine and Covenants 3:4
No Markers
1 Nephi 20:18
2 Nephi 31:17
Alma 7:24
Alma 12:11
Doctrine and Covenants 11:21
Doctrine and Covenants 121:45
“Because”
2 Kings 22:13,17,19
Ezekiel 5:11
Matt 24:12
1 Nephi 13:29
2 Nephi 1:31
Alma 49:30
Helaman 15:10
Doctrine and Covenants 103:4
Skills Log Model
What:
Cause and Effect
Where:
Ether 12:27
How:
The first half of the verse has an IF without a THEN: “If men come unto me I will show
unto them their weakness.”
The second half has an IF/THEN: “If they humble themselves… then I will make weak
things become strong…”
So What:
It seems that one of the first things that happens when we turn to God is that He makes us
aware of our weakness—our dependence on Him. If we are humble enough to accept that
heart-breaking moment, then He will make us strong by helping us overcome the things
that are weak in us.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Visualize
1.
 Who?
 Where?
 When?
2.
3.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
54
Visualize Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn Journal 5)
Places to practice visualize
Matthew 8:5-13
Mark 4:36-41
Luke 5:1-11
Luke 19:1-10 – I love this one
John 21:1-14
Acts 2:1-13
Acts 16:19-34
2 Nephi 26:22
Jacob 7:1-23
Mosiah 12:1-13:11
Mosiah 17:1-20
Alma 17:19-39
3 Nephi 11:1-17
Skills Log Model:
What:
Visualize
Where:
Acts 3:1-11
How:
1. Determine the setting.
Who? Peter--senior apostle—president of the Church, John member of First
Presidency), lame man, crowds at the temple.
When? 3 pm, hour of prayer, some time after Pentecost (could be July and very
hot), the first miracle performed by Peter.
Where? The temple, on the steps of the Beautiful Gate (the main gate into the
Court of the Women, the gate everyone must enter to go inside the temple).
2. Look for details in the text.
- hour of prayer is crowded
- the man is lame from his mother’s womb
- laid daily at the temple
- he is carried there
- Peter lifts him to his feet
- he is healed “immediately”
- he “leaps,” “stands,” and “walks.”
- he “holds” Peter and John
3. Ask questions to fill in your mental picture.
- What is his life like?
- Who carried him?
- Had Peter and John seen him before?
- Had he witnessed the Savior healing others?
- Lame from birth…What does this imply about how his legs looked?
- Why does he hold Peter and John after he is healed?
- How does this day change the man’s life?
So What: This man had no life to speak of. He couldn’t be married or have children. He could have
no career. He couldn’t even take care of his own basic needs. He was stuck wherever he
was laid down. Peter gave him the power to walk but more than that, he gave him a life.
When we come to Christ our life is changed in fundamental ways. We become able to do
things and enjoy things that we never could without Him. Christ gives us new life just as
Peter gave this man a new life through the power of Christ.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Understanding Symbolism
 Symbols are helpful.
1.
2.
3.
4.
 Remember that symbols more often suggest rather than represent.
1.
Look for Scriptural Interpretation.
2.
Consider the Context.
3.
Ponder the Characteristics of the Symbol itself.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Symbolism Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn Journal 5)
Places to practice symbolism
Isaiah 40:6
Matthew 5:13, 14
John 6:35
John 14:6
Doctrine and Covenants 76:85
Joel 2:8
Revelation 1:16; 12:3
Revelation 1:12, 16 – see v 20
Revelation 4:6 – see Doctrine and Covenants 77:1, 2, 4
1 Nephi 8:2-35 – see 1 Nephi 11:21-25, 36; 12:16-18; 15:21-30
Matthew 13:24-30 – see vs 36-43
Leviticus 1
Skills Log Model
What:
Symbolism
Where:
Matthew 11:28-30
How:
The Savior uses the symbol of a “yoke” and invites us to take his yoke upon us.
Scriptural interpretation: I could not find any scriptural interpretation but I noticed that
every scripture (except for Matthew 11) which uses the term “yoke,” uses it in a negative
way. It is always a “yoke of bondage” or a “yoke of burden” or a yoke that we are
seeking to cast off.
Context: The context of Matthew 11 and 12 seems to be the Lord clarifying who He is.
Nature of the symbol: There are two kinds of yokes. 1) Single yoke: It is used to carry a
load. It appears to be a symbol of work and/or slavery. This kind of yoke allows you to
transfer the weight of what you are carrying from the muscles of the arms to the much
larger muscles of the legs and back. You can carry a much heavier load this way. Balance
also seems important with this type of yoke. 2) Double yoke: It is used to combine the
pulling power of two animals. Again, always used for work and, like the other kind of
yoke, it allows you to get more done than you could otherwise. Also, balance between the
two animals plays a role here. If the two animals are not equally matched in terms of
pulling power then the stronger of the two ends up pulling the weight of the load plus the
weight of the other animal. In such a case, the yoke actually makes it harder for the
stronger animal.
So what:
In these verses, Christ is inviting me to rest. Yet the invitation is to take up a symbol of
work or slavery. It’s as if He is saying, “Put down your work and your troubles and come
work for me. Your work is burdensome and tiring but My work is restful and peaceful
and rewarding.” It is interesting that He is not inviting me to cease working. It is not an
invitation to lie around and do nothing. If I imagine the yoke as the second type—the
double yoke—it even gets more interesting. I am not evenly matched with Christ. I am
infinitely weaker. Bringing me along in His yoke only complicates things for Him. And
yet He wants me to join Him. With Him in the yoke alongside me, I can do things that
would be utterly impossible otherwise.
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Looking for Principles
 “Thus we see . . .”
 What are the unchanging truths, eternal laws, fundamental beliefs at work here?
 What can I learn and apply?
 What is the “moral of the story”?
 “So, what?” or “Therefore, what?”
 Homilies (hom•i•ly \hä-mə-lē\ n: an inspirational catchphrase).
From doctrine, we learn principles of conduct, how to respond to problems of everyday living, even to
failures, for they too are provided for in the doctrines. Boyd K. Packer, Ensign, May 1994, 20.
Programs blindly followed bring us to a discipline of doing good, but principles properly understood and
practiced bring us to a disposition to do good. Glenn L. Pace, Ensign, May, 1986, 24.
 Understood,

 Valued,

Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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 Obeyed,

 Remembered, and

 Expanded.

Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook
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Principles Worksheet (Do 10—Record in your I-learn Journal 5)
Places to practice principles
1 Nephi 16:26-29
Alma 30:48-54, 56-58, 60
Alma 46:8
Helaman 3:23-30
1 Nephi 3:7
2 Nephi 2:25
2 Nephi 26:24
Doctrine and Covenants 6:36
Doctrine and Covenants 43:16
Skills Log Model
What:
Look for principles
Where:
1 Nephi 16:26-29
How:
Nephi uses this story about the Liahona as an example of the principle that “small means
can bring about great things.” I asked myself if I could see any additional lessons in this
passage. I think that another principle found here is that “when we obey the direction
we’ve received, God will give us more guidance, but if we disregard the direction we’ve
already received, God will withhold further guidance.”
So What:
I need to be careful to follow the direction I have already been given if I want God to
continue to guide me. I can’t pick and choose from among His commandments and only
obey the ones I want to. God’s commandments are not a buffet where I can just refuse to
partake of the things that don’t appeal to me.
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Literary Styles
Hyperbole \hy•per•bo•le \hī-pər-bə-lē\ n: extravagant exaggeration
Matthew 5:29
Deuteronomy 1:28
Idiom \id•i•om \i-dē-əm\ n: having a meaning that cannot be derived from the conjoined meaning of its
elements
Job 19:20
Jacob 7:20
Isaiah 37:36
Ezekiel 20:37
Parable \par•a•ble \par-ə-bəl\ n: a short fictitious story that illustrates a religious principle
Matthew 13:10-13
Rhythm and rhyme
Parallelism \parallelism / par•al•lel•ism \par-ə-le-li-zəm\ n: repeated syntactical similarities introduced
for rhetorical effect
• Repeating
– Numbers 23:19
• Contrasting
– Proverbs 15:1
• Amplifying
– Isaiah 55:8
• Chiasm
– Isaiah 55:8
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways…”
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways…”
Mosiah
Alma
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Find Christ in the Scriptures
 Leviticus 1:3-9
 Numbers 14:11-12, 17-19
 Titus 1:7; 1 Peter 2:25
 Ephesians 5:25-28
 1 Cor. 7:13-14
 Finding Christ in the Exodus
Bondage in Egypt
Release by death of death
Led by law-giver and spokeman
Pass thru Red Sea to be rid of Egyptians
Led by pillar of fire
Sacrifice at the tabernacle
Enter the promised land w/Joshua
Fundamentals of Scripture Study Workbook