“This Is My Gospel”
Consider your feelings about this nickname.
President Boyd K. Packer said: “Others refer to us as Mormons. I do not mind if they use that title. However, sometimes we are prone ourselves to say ‘Mormon Church.’ I do not think it best for us to do so.” (“The Peaceable Followers of Christ,” Ensign, Apr. 1998, 64)
We refer to ourselves as “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” This full name was given by revelation from God to Joseph Smith in 1838.—While the term “Mormon Church” has long been publicly applied to the Church as a nickname, it is not an authorized title, and the Church discourages its use.
3 Nephi 27 includes Jesus’ instructions to His Nephite disciples concerning the name of His Church. Today’s lesson is designed to help us understand the fundamental doctrines of the gospel of Jesus Christ and to teach that living the gospel is the only way to true and eternal happiness.
Summary -3 Nephi 27–30; 4 Nephi:
- 3 Nephi 27. The Savior commands His twelve Nephite disciples to call the Church after His name. He expounds His gospel.
- 3 Nephi 28. One by one, the Savior grants His twelve Nephite disciples the desires of their hearts. Three of the disciples desire and are given power to remain on earth to preach the gospel until the Savior returns in His glory.
- 4 Nephi 1. All the people are converted, and they establish a society of perfect peace. Many years later, the majority of the people dwindle in unbelief and reject the gospel.
- Additional reading: Doctrine and Covenants 39:1–6.
Here is this week’s lesson handout: Book of Mormon Lesson 42.
pax vobiscum
Filed under: Gospel Doctrine Tagged: | Christianity, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gospel Doctrine, LDS, Mormon, Religion
