1 Nephi 16-18

One of the common statements I hear about the Book of Mormon is "the Book of Mormon doesn't teach about marriage".  While it is true that the Book of Mormon doesn't expound on the doctrine of eternal marriage, it has messages about family that pack quite a punch!  Let's start off with an examination of some of the teachings which the Book of Mormon offers on marriage and the family.


Marriage is a central topic to 1Ne 7:1, 16:7-8; 2Ne 5:6 and Jacob 2:27.  My basic understanding from these verses?  Marriage is commanded by God.

Parenting is a topic found in 1Ne 1:1; Mosiah 1:2-8, 4:14-15.  There is a wealth of information here, and as I read these verses in particular I am reminded of the Family Proclamantion.

Interestingly, the Book of Mormon is very direct about Fatherhood. Some significant scriptures on fatherhood in the Book of Mormon include Alma 43:45, 47, 44:5 and 3Ne 18:21. I love the positive, supportive, enabling responsibilities outlined in these verses.

My favorite Book of Mormon passage about Mothers is Alma 56:47.  Families in general seem to be the core of 1Ne 8:12, 1Ne 17:55 and Jacob 3:5,7. 

Journal Card to record your experiences of "Quick to Observe"  

Another feature of these chapters that stands out to me is Nephi's characteristic of being "quick to observe".  This spiritual gift is one that perhaps requires more attention as, in Elder Bednar's talk, we see it is a kind of "spiritual gatekeeper" to other gifts.  The class shared some wonderful observations of others who were "quick to observe". Our challenge for this week is to assess and improve our own ability to be "quick to observe"!

David A Bednar : Quick to Observe
http://speeches.byu.edu/?act=viewitem&id=1456