There are basically six passages in the Book of Mormon that deal with “skins” in a way that have racial overtones in the Book of Mormon. They are the following: 1 Nephi 11.13 – Mary, the mother of Jesus, is described as “exceedingly fair and white.” 1 Nephi 13.15 –Continue Reading

At the very beginning of the Book of Mormon record, Nephi gives his readers the hint that he is going to speak in terms that those that understand the first Israelite temple drama would understand. Nephi writes: I Nephi, having been born of goodly parents, therefore I was taught somewhatContinue Reading

The Tree of Life vision is a lens through which Nephi’s visions are seen in the chapters of 1 Nephi 11-14. Once Nephi sees the tree, he realizes that this is the only thing that will make us happy. Every thing else is just an imitation. Some important things toContinue Reading

This letter dated Feb. 10, 1879, is written by John Gilbert, typesetter of the text of the Book of Mormon. Of note in this letter is the fact that Mr. Gilbert states that the entire text of the Book of Mormon manuscript was without punctuation (page 1), as well asContinue Reading

Occasionally I find myself in a conversation with those that ask the question, “Is Satan essential for the Plan of Salvation to work?” While I do not think this question is one of the more vital gospel questions we may ask, it certainly is interesting! The answer may help usContinue Reading

In Mosiah 4 we read how the atoning blood of Jesus Christ is applied to our life. King Benjamin taught that when we truly apply the atonement of Jesus Christ, our views change. We see ourselves, others, and the Lord in a different light. The word repent is filled withContinue Reading

King Benjamin teaches many things that relate with young people. The truth that we cannot pay the Savior Jesus Christ back for what he has done for us is an important truth to stress with those we teach. King Benjamin said, “If ye should serve him who has created youContinue Reading

The books of Jarom and Omni show us many things. One of the first messages we read in these books is that the Small Plates of Nephi were running out of space! Jarom writes, “I Jarom, do not write more, for the plates are small…” (Jarom 1:14) and Amaleki tellsContinue Reading

Enos had a struggle to know the Lord. Many people today do as well. I believe a key to gaining a testimony of Jesus Christ and the Restoration is to want to know the truth, as well as have an honest heart. An honest heart to me means that youContinue Reading