2 Nephi 2

2 Nephi 2

2 Nephi 2: 1-6

rudeness of brothers........................................................Jacob underwent some kind of mockery or nastiness from his older brothers
consecrate afflictions.................................................The Lord knows when righteous people and innocent people suffer by the hands of others.
redeemed....................................................the Lord has chosen Jacob.  He is protected
blessed........................................................he lives under the observance of a just God
justification....................................................God is a righteous God.  He metes out righteous judgment
temporal and spirtitual.................................Divine laws work on both levels
Holy Messiah...............................................the Lord is consistent and the consequences are eternal

This section illustrates that the Lord knows all his children, and he explains how His favor will sustain and elevate his righteous children.  Jacob is assured of this from his father Lehi

2 Nephi 2: 7-10

broken heart and contrite spirit.............................attributes of the repentent.  We must have remorse and we must fight to do things right, even when it hurts
make known.................................................these principles are universal, must be taught
merits and mercy............................................to earn entry to the kingdom one must do something and one must give and receive mercy
Holy Messiah............................................he did both of these prerequisites
intercession..........................................The Father will only honor the salvation of the qualified
punishment affixed...............................Divine rule.  No one is save who is not qualified.  For us this means we must earn the mercy of Christ.
judge....................................................Christ himself will judge all men.  Each will need to stand before him

The passage instructs us about the operating principles of justice and mercy.  The ground rules of both are explained and the overruling power of mercy is explained.  If we seek salvation and eternal life, it will be by Christ's mercy.  We must become His.  There is no other way.

1 Nephi  2: 11-24

Opposition in all things...............................we grow by understanding the spiritual polarities.  We make good choices by them
without opposition, no purpose.............................if we exist with no learning, there is no point.
forbidden fruit..........................................choosing the wrong polarity.  It teaches us, but it alienates us as well and requires repentence
driven out.............................................Adam and Eve broke this rule.  They were punished
children.................................................this state actually made it possible to have families.
probation...............................................allows all of us to live under probation.  It teaches us
state............................................................Adam and Eve started in a spiritual situation but moved to a mortal one.  This enables them to make real choices
joy .............................................................a result of making correct choices
wisdom......................................................the Lord knows the value of doing things this way

A spirtual philosophical introspection would teach us all to accept the polarities of life.  We were meant to learn from them, but to choose the right course.  We benefit both here and in the eternities by choosing the correct course.

2 Nephi 2: 25

men are that they might have joy

2 Nephi 2: 26-30

Messiah................................................................the one who makes all the life experiences work
free.................................................................free agency given to choose the right course
look to Messiah................................................follow the Christ.  He gives the principles
can choose evil.....................................................given to us, but encouraged to go the other way
choose eternal life................................................make the commitment.  It will save you.
Last words..........................................................the dying wish of Lehi to his good son.
souls............................................................This applies to you, but also to others.

Men are given the free agency to make eternal choices.  Life is meant to try and test us all so that we can experience the great joy that comes as we do right.  The promise extends to all.

2 Nephi 2

This chapter of the Book of Mormon is extremely important to anyone who wants to earn the blessings promised by Christ to the faithful.  It promises to help us both in mortality and beyond.

2 Nephi 1

2 Nephi 1

2 Nephi 1: 1-5

rehearsed....................................................Lehi repeats many of his sermons to his sons
concerning rebellions......................................Lehi disturbed about the rebellions.  He tries to stop the behavior
merciful with warnings.................................The Lord had told them before what he would do to Jerusalem
seen a vision..........................................the Spirit manifested to Lehi that Jerusalem had been sacked
afflictions..........................................the migrating party had been through serious challenges
choice land..........................................Lehi declares their new home a great new home
covenant................................................The Lord promises that America will be home forever to his children


Lehi recounts the scriptures to his children.  He teaches them the lessons in repetition to have them remember.  he also warns them about their bad behaviors.  He also shares with the family the destruction of Jerusalem, and he promises prosperity in America if the family follows the commandments.

2 Nephi 1: 6-12

only those who are brought by the hand of God.................America is reserved for favored peoples
overrun.........................................................America so great that it would be invaded
shall prosper..............................................those who keep the commandments will thrive here
dwindlers.................................................if people are lax, they lose the promise, may be removed
reject the Messiah......................................a curse on the land if the people reject Christ
bring new people...........................................if a group rejects Christ, new people will come
visitations...................................................if no faith, the people will be driven here and there

People who live in America will need to worship Christ.  If they fail to do so, they will be replaced with those who do.

2 Nephi 1: 13-20

shake off...................................................a call for fallen people to repent and turn to Christ
awake.....................................................come to a full realization of the promises,  they are divine
about to lay down.................................Lehi is much advanced in age and sickly.  Will die
encircled..................................................Lehi has an assurance that he has succeeded with God
his anxiety............................................he fears and is saddened by the the reluctance of his sons
fullness of wrath...................................Lehi fears his sons have offended God
curse....................................................generations that will be in constant violence and misery
favored people........................................Christ will uphold those who come to him
curse/blessing..........................................based on the faith the people have in Christ

Lehi shares his divine promise and covenant that he and his people have with the Lord.  If they study and keep the commandments, showing faith in God, they will prosper.   However, if they fail to do this they could live in long stretches of cursings.

2 Nephi 1: 21-27

be of one mind........................................the cooperation between family members
just God............................................The Lord will mete out justice.  Live right.
out of obscurity...................................don't hid the spiritual gifts
rebel not.................................................the older sons have fought Nephi, unjustly
Nephi's intent...............................................glory of God.  Not rulership
murmured.....................................................you have fought, complained, mocked, etc
power of God................................................Lehi testifies that Nephi is a prophet to heed

Lehi is disturbed by the behavior of his older sons.  He exhorts them to act righteously and to make amends.  He tells them to respect their brother and to stop misinterpreting his acts

2 Nephi 1: 28-32

Ishmael............................................................Lehi includes the sons of Ishmael with Laman
take away........................................................He gives the same promises and curses to them
Zoram..........................................................true to Nephi.  Included with him.
promise to Zoram...............................................same as to Nephi

Lehi gives both blessings and warnings to all his sons.  He especially warns his two oldest sons.  he includes the others with his sons and treats and honors them the same way.  Zoram is included with Nephi

2 Nephi 1


Lehi begins his last fatherly blessings to his sons and the others that have gone with the family.  He stressed the importance of accepting Christ and in keeping the faith in the family in the future.  He warns of future times when various children will stray

1 Nephi 22

1 Nephi 22

1 Nephi 22: 1-5

hard to understand...................................................brothers do not study, have not prayed
voice of the spirit..............................................to understand by the spirit, one must use the spirit
scattered........................................................a time of great dispersal of the tribes of Israel in the future
lost...................................................................many already had moved at the time of Nephi
led away...........................................................Moved by the spirit
Holy One.................................................reason for the dispersal

Just as Nephi's group was moved, others had already been moved, and others would yet be moved

1 Nephi 22: 6-12

nursed by Gentiles............................................the remnant would be helped by the Gentiles
great nation......................................................a strong nation to arise, very powerful
face of this land........................................American nation
marvelous work............................................gospel teaching
nourished.................................................the gospel nation will strengthen the descendants
Abraham..................................................the children of Abraham would be blessed (future promise)
all blessed...............................................The Lord will work on all nations in the future
make bare...............................................the gospel will go forth and it will be taught to the House
from captivity...........................................the freedom will be the effects of the gospel
from obscurity...........................................the effect on the people will be great

The Lord plans to rescue the children of Israel all around the world.  They will be established and they will be made great.

1 Nephi 22: 13-19

the curse on the church..............................the evil church and power will be destroyed
nations fall............................................any who engage in the evil will be destroyed
be stubble..............................................all those who choose evil will be thrown down
power to save.......................................all those who fight Zion will stop and be destroyed
by fire.....................................................Christ will even use divine fire to protect his people
destruction.........................................promised to all who war against Christ and his people
cut off................................................eventually the Lord will intercede to protect his people

1 Nephi 22: 20-31

the great prohet......................................a promise of the role and strength of the Lord
prophet the Holy One of Israel..............................the prophet is Christ
righteous shall not be confounded.............................Christ will uphold his righteous followers
wrong churches............................................any organization that does not support Christ
Holy One rules......................................When Christ returns he will rule all nations in power
gathering.................................................He will rule one united people
Satan bound................................................During Christ's reign Satan will be banished
according to flesh...................................this will happen to this physical, mortal earth
save repent.......................................all nations destroyed unless they repent and join him
durst not.............................................Nephi prompted to stop the prophecy
consider............................................bears testimony of the words of the plates
endure...............................................the gospel in universal and it is consistent

Promises associated with the Second Coming of Christ

1 Neph 22

This entire concluding chapter of Nephi gives an overview of the scattering and the gathering of the children of Israel.  Great promises are given to the people when they accept Christ and keep his commandments.

2 Nephi 22 And 2 Nephi 23

2 Nephi 22

Isaiah 12

2 Nephi 22: 1-6

praise thee............................................................will learn to respect God, and worship correctly
anger and comfort.........................................when the followers get it right they will find peace in the Lord
salvation........................................................it is necessary to acknowledge the Lord's role
wells...........................................................when we trust God, we have a well of living water
declare his doings.............................................in this future time, missionary work will be done
sing...............................................................an active acknowledgement of God's love.
Holy One.........................................................the call to the world, know God and worship him

This small chapter describes the essence of the Gospel message that will be published throughout the world.  When the people get it right, the curse of anger is removed and replaced with the peace and comfort of the Gospel

2 Nephi 23: 1-6

Isaiah 13

burden of Babylon..........................................a prophecy concerning the future Babylon
banner on the mountain.................................as the gospel message goes out at the last day
called my might ones.......................................Christ to call forward his missionaries who will instruct and                            ...................................................................chastize the world
tumultuous noise............................................the latter-day kingdom in the mountains to attract attention
far country.....................................................America
howl............................................................a sorrowful day for Babylon.  It's days are numbered

A prophetic description of the latter-day missionary efforts which will come to give the people of Babylon an opportunities to escape a great and terrible judgement.

2 Nephi 23: 7-11

hands faint, hearts melt............................................the message will have a way of changing men
sorrows................................................................the people will be affected by the gospel
wrath of God........................................................two messages, his missionaries, and his judgements
destroy sinners....................................................the wickedness of the earth is overruled
stars, sun, and moon...............................................full out war.  This is idiomatic of a battle to the death
I will punish.....................................................God promises to straighten out the evils of the Babylonians

God orders a change in the world.  Wickedness will be banished for the sake of the righteous.  God will send the message by two means, the missionaries and his judgements

2 Nephi 23: 12-18

value of man.......................................................Lord will increase the value of a soul with his gospel
each to his own land...............................................Men will be forced to rely on his own people to survive
fall by the sword.................................................those who refuse to do right will be lost in the battles
children and wives...........................................many innocent people will be hurt by the wickedness
stir up the Medes.............................................to end the wickedness, the judgments will be cruel
no pity..............................................................the scene will be very deadly.  All will be hurt.  Do not judge ..............................................................the good who are hurt in the battles.

The battle will be terrible with many casualties.  Many innocent people will die in the judgments.  This will stress the fact that we do not judge them as evil.  They are fallen because of the evils and the evil ones will be held responsible.

2 Nephi 23: 19-

Babylon will fall.............................................God will overrule the system of Babylon, the world.  It is evil
never be inhabited............................................When it falls it is a complete fall
creatures.....................................................symbolically indicates the desolation of the evil system.  No .......................................................human will accept it again
my people...............................................the promise is to the righteous.  They will survive and flourish

Despite the great destruction, there will be survivors.  These are those who fled Babylon.  They do not promote the evils of the Babylonian abomination.

The Lord describes the terrible destruction that awaits the world in the last day.  He makes it clear that those who do not flee the Babylonian aboimations will be swept away after the great divine battles of the last days. Men have a choice, to listen to the servants of God or to repent in the face of the terrible judgments of the last days.

1 Nephi 21

1 Nephi 21

Parallel to Isaiah 11

1 Nephi 21: 1-5

rod out of the stem of Jesse..........................................refers prophetically to Jesus Christ.  House of David

Spirit of the Lord.............................................the promised Messiah, to have the necessary attributes to act as Savior

judge..........................................................the position of ruler.  How Christ will judge.  Spiritual Judge

to bless and to curse....................................those who live right under trial are blessed.  Those who do harm are cursed

righteousness and faithfulness................................what motivates the savior.  All things done correctly

Isaiah prophesies the attributes and mission of Christ, both temporally and eternally.  As the great leader he will be the ultimate judge, and he will judge according to the spirit.

1 Nephi 21: 6-11

wolf and lamb.................................................Christ's position will lead to harmony

child and the asp................................................the enmity between man and the serpent will be completely dissolved

shall not hurt...................................................The great mission of heaven is to bring men together

ensign................................................................the people will be given a sign to aspire to.  Christ.

second time................................................Christ will start a work to recover all his people

The mission of Christ is to bring men to harmony.  He will work with people of different ages to recover them and to bring them into his eternal kingdom

1 Nephi 21: 12-16

gather from four corners.....................................the gospel message will be offered to all people.  Those who accept it will be gathered to his kingdom

14...................................................................The nations of the earth will be overruled to make it possible to hear the gospel

dry shod..........................................................the powers of the earth will be tempered to allow the gospel message

a highway.......................................................another way to describe the facilitating of teaching the gospel

The gospel teaching of the last days will be unstoppable.  The Lord will open the highways for acceptance in his time in all the four corners of the earth.

1 Nephi 21

Christ manifests to Isaiah that he will accomplish his work of recovering his people.  It will begin with his earthly mission and his teaching while in life, but it will continue after his death and at the right time will go forward all around the earth to open the way for all to accept the message and come into his kingdom.  

1 Nephi 20

1 Nephi 20

1 Nephi 20: 1-6

Isaiah Chapter 48

waters of Judah...............................................early reference to baptism in Old Testament?
swear not in truth...........................................People are members of the religion in name only, break promises
of the Holy City...............................................claim to belong to the Kingdom of God
Lord of Hosts....................................................In a kingdom, the people follow the king
thou art obstinate.............................................a difficult people to motivate and to lead
I showed them thee.....................................a teacher of the gospel
Mine idol...........................................................mocks the belief systems that are not based on divine leadership
Heard and declare...................................................those who hear the gospel should teach it to others

Isaiah addresses the people, explaining how he attempting to motivate the people and how he would have them follow the Lord instead of other ways that distract from righteousness

1Nephi 20: 7-11

idols do not create...............................................an idol of any kind is inadequate for leadership and guidance
knew of treachery...............................................the prophet even understands the nature of the luke-warm follower
cut thee not off....................................................patiently works with the people, even when in violation
furnace of affliction..............................................removal of the spirit leaves the person in trouble
 .......................................................the affliction could be a trial and test.
name not polluted............................................the Lord will teach.  The message is sacred.

There is a grave danger of replacing God with some distraction.  These other ways provide not guidance or help in the troubles of life.

1 Nephi 20: 12-18

Israel my called...............................................the Lord begins his message to those who have listened
Mine hand.......................................................the Lord is the Creator of the earth, complete authority
he sends the message.....................................the Lord decrees sovereignty over all nations.
called him to declare..........................................pertains to all who speak in his name.  Especially Christ
not in secret.................................................nothing new in this message
I sent him..................................................the servant of God is on a mission from God.  Listen.
peace as a river...........................................the promise of internal peace.  God strengthens the man

The authority of Christ and the prophets is to act as direct messengers from God.  He sends and he teaches. If we listen, he will give us peace.

1 Nephi 20: 19-22

seed as the sand...........................................we have another challenge.  Raising children in the way.
go forth of.....................................................a message to keep a distance from the religions of others
Lord has redeemed his servant...............................the favor of God goes to the servants who listen to him
waters.............................................................the live of the gospel goes out to the true children
no peace for the wicked....................................those who do not receive the Spirit do not have internal peace

The Lord promises help in raising children.  He also warns about distractions.

1 Nephi 20

This resubmission of Isaiah lets us today know that we operate under the same principles.  We are to follow the Lord in life, receive his guidance, and enjoy his peace.

1 Nephi 18

1 Nephi 18

1 Nephi 18: 4

timbers of curious workmanship............................................the ship is made in a strange but competent way
not after man's manner.................................................Nephi follows inspiration, making ship as God led him
went and prayed oft...........................................Nephi spends considerable time praying for guidance
they did humble themselves..................................even the brothers are astounded by the ship

Nephi uses prayer and revelation to start and to complete the building of the ship.

1 Nephi 18: 5-8

voice of the Lord...........................................the Lord sends his message to leave to Lehi
provisions...........................................................the group prepares the provisions that they had amassed
what we brought...........................................not only necessary things, but personal items are loaded
Jacob and Joseph.........................................Lehi has two more sons during the desert passage
put forth......................................................Once the party has loaded the ship, they get on board

The message comes from God to leave the Old World.  The party loads the ship and cast off

1 Nephi 18: 9-19

many days...................................................they are on the ocean for a long time
make merry............................................negative sense.  They are partying boisterously
much rudeness.................................................the partying is offensive and inappropriate
fear exceedingly........................................because of the depravity, Nephi fears offending God
we will not that........................................a firm decision not to follow Nephi's leadership
bind with cords.............................................Nephi is bound and restrained and mocked
compass did stop working..............................the Liahona fails the group as a result of the bad behavior
terrible tempest...........................................the ship goes off course.  terrible hurricaneor typhoon
driven back.........................................the ship so much off course, that it is being blown back
judgements of God....................................the group deserves the testing they are receiving
praise God...................................................Nephi keeps his faith, and he prays
threatenings................................................the brothers are angry with Nephi, blaming him for the mess
parents stricken........................................Lehi and his wife are sick with the terrible confrontation
watery grave............................................the parents are almost to the verge of death
soften the heart..........................................the brothers are so bombarded with the other's supplications that they relent
loosed....................................................the brothers let Nephi go

The brothers forget that they are expected to cross the ocean with faith and with determination to obey the Lord.  As they sink into debauchery they become very hostile to Nephi, binding him.  As this is done, the Lord strikes the ship with terrible fury.  After a long battle, the brothers eventually relent and allow the journey to proceed as it was supposed to go.

1 Nephi 18: 20-25

Only repent when about to be swallowed.............................these are very hard characters, but they have a breaking point.
Nephi takes compass.....................................................Nephi seeks guidance immediately
prayer.............................................................................Nephi immediately prays
many days..................................................................still a long voyage.
arrive.....................................................................the land of promise reached
blessed.........................................................................once landed, they plant seeds and they prosper
many animals...........................................................cows and horses mentioned.  Often mocked by anti-Mormons.
all manner of ore.....................................................the party finds a lot of metal

Upon arrival, the group worships God and begins to prosper in abundance in the new promised land.

1 Nephi 18

This chapter summarizes the actual ocean voyage.  Few details are given as to anything the group saw or experienced except a very nasty confrontation between the older brothers and the rest of the group. Some thinkers believe that the group named native animals with old world names, because they were outside their experience.

1 Nephi 17

1 Nephi 17

1 Nephi 17: 1-13

wade through affliction.................................................the journey through the desert is difficult
bear without murmuring............................................the women become tough like men, enjoy the journey
fulfilled...............................................................the Lord's blessing make the life of journeying enjoyable
8 years.........................................................the journey is slow and tedious.
Land of Bountiful.............................................the end of the desert journey situated in a very fruitful place
many waters......................................................edge of the Indian Ocean
voice of the Lord......................................................Nephi instructed by the Lord
construct a ship..........................................................the migrants are to build a ship according to a divine design
whither for ore........................................................Nephi realizes that he does not have resources necessary
Lord told me................................................................the question is answered.
2 stones for fire.............................................................Nephi breaks the tradition of having no fire
not make much fire.......................................................generally the group had gone without cooked food
led.........................................................................their instructions were to move when instructed, listening to the Lord

A long journey takes place across the desert. The object is not speed, but rather safety.  So the group must move slowly, cautiously.  Once arriving at the sea shore, they settle down for a good rest.  This is ended when Nephi is instructed to make a ship.  He learns from the Lord where and how to do this.

1 Nephi 17: 14-22

delivered you........................................................the Lord was filling them with faith for their even greater journey.
exhort brethern.........................................Nephi teaches his brothers about what they must do
brother is a fool..............................................they find his intentions laughable and mock him
made tools................................................Nephi makes the necessary metal tools
not labor........................................................brothers not convinced.  Do not see it a good enterprise
rejoice over him..........................................a haughty attempt to put Nephi down for foolishness
like our father..............................................equate Nephi's visionary attitude with their father's dreams
would have enjoyed................................the brothers are angry over the loss of the family fortune
they are righteous.....................................the brothers are incredibly wrong about the people left behind
murmur and complain..................................the situation turns into a nasty confrontation

The duty of the family is made more known.  Nephi has no luck trying to convince his brothers to help in th endeavor.  In fact, they accuse his of foolishness and express their disdain.

1 Nephi 17: 23-31

Another leading away...................................Nephi compares their flight with that of those from Egypt
commanded Moses..........................................Moses had been instructed, they were to follow
brought out of bondage................................the Israelites were taken out of slavery
Lord used power to lead them.........................fire and protection
red sea............................................................the highway is given to escape
drowned...........................................................they were protected.  and the enemy destroyed.
manna.............................................................Lord provided the needs
water...................................................................when thirsty, the lord provided
still reviled Moses..............................................they turned on the leader, Moses.  Accused him.
Lord destroyed the revilers................................consequences for those who cannot acknowledge the help

Nephi recounts to his brothers the history of their people, reminding them that they also had received the same kinds of divine assistance and protection.  He warns them about their nasty revilings.

1 Nephi 17: 32-42

crossing Jordan..............................................the help of God continues.  They receive their Land
people there good? no..........................................Lord did not spare the people there, ie Canaanites
all men equal......................................................Lord helps all people
favored.............................................................those who listen to the Lord receive greater blessings
raiseth and destroyeth nations................................the Lord works with the destinies of nations
wicked destroyed...........................................those who turn away from God live under a curse
leads the righteous......................................the Lord will let good people take over the land of the wicked
ruleth........................................................regardless what we think, God is in charge of all
loveth them.....................................................the Lord has always favored those who listen and obey him
straitened them..................................................they journeyed to become purer.
tested them with fiery serpents..................................they needed even more instruction.  He tested them
they reviled Moses................................................again, despite unbelievable blessings, they rejected Moses

Another story told.  The Lord blesses some and destroys others.  His favor is with the obedient.  And when men turn on him, he straitens them.

1 Nephi 17: 43-55

about to be destroyed........................................Their contemporaries have again reached that state
captivity.........................................................promised enslavement for the survivors
murderers in your hearts.......................................your behavior and acts are similar to the Israelites
He can change things............................................God can and will change things
Spirit.................................................................Nephi so inspired that he feels the power of the Lord
touch me not................................................brothers incensed.  Want to kill him.  Lord gives Nephi power
work............................................................commanded to help Nephi.  To work
I can do it......................................................The faith of Nephi
confounded.......................................................the brothers are strongly shaken by the Spirit, Humbled
durst not.......................................................still angry, but they at least assist
stretch forth...................................................Lord commands Nephi to frighten them.  Lord shocks them
surety..........................................................they knew the Lord was with Nephi
worship him..............................................it is not Nephi who will be worshiped .  It is the Lord

The Lord is expecting the brothers to assist and to give diligence to the migration.  Nephi works with the Lord to give them a sign, since it is the only way to get their attention.

1 Nephi 17

The nature of the journey of Lehi's family is similar to the exodus of Israel from Egypt.  The Lord explains how the righteous are led and how the wicked are destroyed.  If men do as they are told, and pray, they are given the favor of the Lord.

1 Nephi 16

1 Nephi 16

1 Nephi 16: 1-4

declared hard things...............................................feel personally attacked, offended
the wicked...........................................the guilty, those who know better.
justified...........................................take the side of those who meet the qualifications, who get it right
cutteth to the center.....................................very difficult to accept when it is stated bluntly
diligence..................................................work harder, no excuse for idleness

When Nephi has delivered his message, the brothers accuse him of getting too personal.  He let's them know that they have exposed their personal value systems, and they are not congruous with a believer.

1 Nephi 16: 5-8

great hopes.......................................this time the brothers appear to accept his critiques
the tent.......................................still in the first stage of their migration.
took wives........................................the families match up well for the intermarriage of brothers and daughters

Before the direction to begin on their migration, the brothers and Nephi make a kind of peace.  Nephi believes there might be a change of heart.

1 Nephi 16: 9-17

on the morrow....................................When the time to move comes, it is quite immediate
ball...................................................a device for direction is left for them
gathering...........................................all preparations are made for the migration, food, provisions
4 days............................................the family moves across the peninsula
bows and arrows................................procurement of fresh food
direction of the ball..................................instructions given.
another camp..........................................the move is strenuous, must rest up

The journey begins.  In this case Lord fives the family a Liahona to direct their journey and to give them protection.  What is it?

1 Nephi 16: 18-28

breaks bow...............................................an expensive bow breaks.  Leaves the family in trouble since the others had alread become obsolete
want of food........................................fresh food has become a dire problem
murmur exceedingly....................................the brothers are unusually angry and complaining.  They do not see the justice of their complaints.
afflicted............................................they take no personal responsibility.  They place it all on Nephi
reminder...................................................Nephi again recounts and exposes the wrongness of their behavior
makes a wooden bow..........................Nephi finds his own solution and he respects the leadership of his father
humble themselves.................................the brothers are willing
chastened.................................................even Lehi had lost faith,  chastened by the lord.
consult the ball............................................the family had not looked where they were supposed to
faith and diligence.....................................the power of the ball is tied to the worthiness of the group

The situation of the family becomes perilous.  There are many of them, and they are hungry.  Nephi goes to the Lord for help, and he follows the correct path for respect.  Lehi is chastened for not following the commandments.  The family is set straight and told to follow the Liahona

1 Nephi 16: 29-

the mountain........................................since Nephi was seeking, he is the one given the answer
obtained food.........................................the food is easily obtained
traveled.....................................................the journey recommenses
Ishmael died, Nahum..........................................Nahum:  a place of sorrow
murmur...........................................................Ishmael loved, family begins to complain and gets nasty with Lehi
desirous to return..............................................the solution was to go back to Jerusalem.  Attacks on Lehi and Nephi
let us slay......................................................the brothers want to be rid of Nephi and Lehi.  They are willing to kill them rather than follow them
he says......................................................accuse Nephi of spinning the truth and of using trickery
Voice of the Lord came.................................the brothers chastised.  In some way they learn through divine means that they are completely wrong.
repent.......................................................the brothers accept this divine message and they abandon their murderous plot

The death of Ishmael forces the whole family to come to a better commitment towards the migration.  The Lord's voice settles the issue.  Their is a history of vacillation with the brothers.

1 Nephi 16

This chapter is a strong message about group cooperation, demonstrating those who help and those who hinder.  The stakes are elevated by the complaining, and by the crises that arise.  In the end, it is the Lord who heals the family, giving them the incentive to continue.  The vacillations indicate, that even with divine help, many differences continue to threaten the well being of the group.

1 Nephi 15

1 Nephi 15

1 Nephi 15: 1-4

brothers disputing...........................................they are not united in their understanding of Lehi's dream
a man should enquire....................................why dispute.  Man has prayer and can come to a divine understanding
hardness of hearts.........................................did not listen to the commandment to pray and seek
what would come to pass.................................Nephi disturbed.  He knows his brother's descendants will survive, but not his own
beheld their fall...............................................the vision included the demise of the Nephites

1 Nephi 15: 5-12

afflictions................................................Nephi full of grief.  Unable to deal with his emotions
we cannot understand.......................................the acknowledge an inability
Have ye?..........................................................Nephi confronts them directly and bluntly
Lord maketh not..............................................they claim no direct communication with God
commandments-perish..........................................to find salvation in the Lord a man must follow God
process..............................................................they have been taught to follow prayerful searches
parable of the olive...............................................a parable taught to the family of Lehi, to guide them

Nephi confronts his brothers who have not followed the commandment to pray about the teachings of Lehi.  He believes, but they do not.  They claim that they cannot receive revelation

1 Nephi 15: 13-18

overview................................................Nephi briefly summarizes Lehi's sermon
come to knowledge......................................a day of conversion will fall on all the descendants of Lehi
rock of salvation............................................these people will accept Christ, the Messiah
grafted in...............................................although a lost tribe, these people will become part of the House of Israel
scattered...............................................Lehi told the family that their children would be smitten and scattered by the Gentiles
whole house of Israel...............................the curse of apostasy would affect the whole House of Israel,  the opportunity will come to repent and restore itself to God

After a period of scattering and destruction after the coming of the Gentiles, the House of Lehi would become again the House of Israel, after accepting Christ.

1 Nephi 15: 19-29

restoration of the Jews..............................he also let them know about the Jews themselves
words of Isaiah.......................................Nephi knows and teaches the works of Isaiah
what meaneth..............................................They still don't get it.  Nephi becomes the teacher
tree................................................the tree of life
rod of iron...........................................word of God
hold fast............................................use it to hold onto and to help keep on the path
give heed and exhort...........................Nephi teaches his brothers and gives them a challenge
river of water....................................filth of the world, Satan, a destructive force that takes men backwards
gulf....................................................the filth keeps the imprudent from attaining to the tree of life
hell for the wicked............................symbolic separation from things that lead to Eternal Life

The brothers become students to Nephi, instead of seeking the knowledge themselves.  Nephi explains the items in Lehi's dream

1 Nephi 15: 30-

justice of God.................................there are divine laws that a man must listen to
temporal and spiritual..........................the law of God pertains both to the mortal and immortal aspects of life
probation........................................we are responsible for how we behave in life
die in wickedness.....................................people can lose their futures by dying spiritually
kingdom of God...................................not filthy, pure
place prepared.......................................the ones who fail will go somewhere.  Separated.
devil...................................................Satan is the author of the wickedness that destroys.
Tree of Life..................................the biggest and most important gift

God has firm rules to return to him.  The dream teaches people how to get to the destination.  It involves seeking the Tree of Life by following the path and holding firm to the Iron Rod.  Those who move away fall into the filth and can die spiritually.  This has everlasting consequences

Chapter 15

This chapter gives important keys for the understanding of the teachings of Lehi.  It contrasts with the beliefs of Nephi's brothers who find spiritually impossible.  Prayer is essential for understanding, and following the commandments is essential to obtain Eternal Life.

1 Nephi 14

1 Nephi 14

1 Nephi 14: 1-4

Gentiles in that day...........................................when the the prophecy comes true, these European peoples
shall manifest himself........................................a promise of Christ's presence, if worthy
stake away stumbling blocks..............................the obstacles that trip up the Gentiles removed
harden not hearts......................................willing to listen and accept the gospel
numbered with House of Israel................................they will be accepted as part of the House of Israel
blessed people forever........................................the people will have an opportunity of eternal blessings
pit digged.....................................................a serious impediment of growth, a trap
founded by devil and children...............................those who follow Satan
filled with those who dig it.....................................the very trap used to enslave will enslave the evil doers
justice...............................................................the Lord will hold them responsible for their evil

At the given time, the Lord will begin his work by giving the Gentiles the opportunity of accepting the gospel. The effect of the acceptance will result in a serious reversal of the wicked machinations of the evil one.

1 Nephi 14: 5-17

repenteth.................................................the blessings of Israel go to the accepting Gentiles
wo...........................................................if Gentiles reject the message they will fall under condemnation
great and marvelous work..........................the gospel will be brough forward, giving men a choice
choice......................................................men are responsible for the their choices, especially spirtiual choices
brought down..........................................those who reject will be part of those who will be caught in the pit
remember?.............................................Nephi asked to bring other things to mind
abominable church........................................the choice that will lie ahead.  This church is the Gentile way.
two churches.............................................2 choices.  one holy, the other evil
belongeth.................................................a man cannot belong to both.  Make a choice
whore of the earth.......................................the great Gentile evil will affect all nations in the last days
church of the Lamb.......................................much smaller in numbers, but protected by God
wickedness.................................................the righteous will need to endure the evil of that day
power from God.........................................divine help will elevate the Saints (Power from on high)
wrath poured out......................................the times of judgement descent.  the evil perish and the righteous stand
wars.....................................................the evil peoples will destroy themselves in continual warfare
wrath on the mother..........................................the central reason for the war will be the center of the war
work of the father.........................................as these wars commence and spread, the gospel goes world wide

Nephi prophecies about the nature of the teachings of the Gentiles.  The result will be disastrous, enveloping the whole world in warfare and great calamity.  The saints will flourish, but will be much smaller in numbers.  They will be upheld by divine assistance.

1 Nephi 14: 18-30

on of the 12............................................a special message from the great apostle
will write....................................................John will write down an apocalyptic message to the people
end of the world..........................................this apostle has the calling to warn the people, not Nephi's mission
in the book..........................................those things are written in the Bible and will be part of the Bible
what he saw and wrote...............................Nephi sees in vision the same things as John in the Bible
shalt not write.....................................Nephi may see it, but he is not to write any more
small part...............................................Nephi writes only what he is allowed, what his father say, not what John saw
make an end.............................................Nephi deeply affected by the vision.  Vision ends, but not where the record ends

The Lord gives Nephi a great vision about the future, but he withholds what he saw by commandment.  That message was given to John, and the current people have it from the the Eastern book, the Bible.

1 Nephi 14

Nephi is given a great vision of the future, and he sees our day.  He sees the big picture of the Gentiles, their divisions, the rising of the latter-day church, and the ultimate battles that will be waged.

1 Nephi 13

1 Nephi 13

1 Nephi 13: 1-10

beheld many nations....................................Nephi's dream jumps into the latter-days
nations and kingdoms...................................an assortment of different political entities exist, kings and nations
of the Gentiles....................................the vision focuses first on the European-style nations
formation of a great church..............................the great core of the group is a strong underlying "church"
church.....................................................a loose and unflattering description of the latter-day core of the gentile nations
most abominable.....................................in the core of this gentile world is an incredibly wicked control
slayeth the Saints............................................the people of this group want to destroy all truth of the gospel
tortureth....................................................these do more than just oppose, they actively pursue and antagonize
yoketh and bring down...................................these make conditions so that the righteous cannot assume any form of government, they oppress and intimidate
devil founder...................................................quite honestly, it is the church of Satan
praise of the world.............................................their ideology promotes the worldly, not the sacred

At the opening of the latter-day times, the Gentiles ascend to world dominance.  Among them will by an assortment of different kinds of kingdoms and governances.  One thing they will have in common is a strong wicked association with worldly, sinful world control.  The ideologies will be worldly and will be very oppressive to those who wish to follow Christ.

1 Nephi 13: 11-16

many waters..................................................the gentiles move away from Europe, Atlantic Ocean
wrath on the seed.......................................the Lord will prepare those in the New World for the connection to these gentiles as they colonize and spread
man among................................................the Lord will work with one man among the Gentiles
will guide this man..........................................the man, Columbus, will be the figure to connect the Gentiles with the Americans.
wrought upon others.........................................following Columbus, many others will be moved upon to move
out of captivity..............................................a large number of these will be seeking freedom from the bad church
multitudes and scattering....................................the arriving Gentiles will set up and grow, they will plague the natives of the land
Spirit of the Lord................................................the Lord will work with these refugee gentiles.  He will help them
fair and beautiful...........................................will freely admit that these are good people who come
did humble....................................................a considerable  dominant number of these people will please God in their humility and their choices

The Lord will lead a large number of freedom-seeking Gentiles to come to the Americas.  They will be serious, truth-seeking people who will be blessed by the Spirit.  They will be a serious threat to the natives left from the family of Lehi

1 Nephi 13: 17-27

mother gentiles....................................as the new colonists become stronger, they upset the mother countries.
wrath of God.....................................the Lord will reward the American colonists.  He will help them in wars against the mother countries.
delivered by God................................The American colonies will win with God's help
beheld a book...........................................the new colonists will believe in a sacred book, the Bible
mouth of a Jew.......................................Identifieds as the ancient sacred record of the Jews
similar to your record....................................Nephi learns that it is parallel history to his book
original nature............................................the book was initially accurate
purity...............................................when Gentiles received it the record was pure and useful
hands of the church...................................eventually the abominable church gets it and changes it
taken away.......................................deliberate omissions of great and important truths--removal
plain and precious.................................some of the most important points of the gospel removed
to pervert..............................................this church deliberately misleads the people for its own power
hardens heart......................................some the changes actually make people bad

The latter-day future will show the Gentiles deeply divided.  The new nations of the Americas will have God's favor and will help the Lord to oppose the abominable doctrines of the old world.  The energizing force will be the Bible, a sacred book that will be prevalent among the peoples, but it will also demonstrate some of the evil workings of the great and abominable church with its manipulations of the text.

1 Nephi 13: 28-39

book goes forth......................................a publishing of the altered book goes big
do stumble.............................................because of the alterations, many will stumble, make grave errors
God will not suffer................................the Lord will help the colonists find and fix the errors
protect the natives..................................the Lord will not allow the Gentiles to destroy all the inhabitants
gentiles...............................................Lord knows the gentile hearts,  he will work with them
great judgment.....................................the Lord will favor the Gentiles,  but he will protect the Lamanites
bring forth the gospel....................................The promise of the American record, the Book of Mormon
your descendants.........................................the writings of Nephi and his children will help
my gospel...........................................the record will correct the altered parts of the Bible
tidings of joy........................................the pure gospel will come with the Book of Mormon
to the remnant.........................................the Gentiles will receive the book and share it with Lamanites

The method for correcting the false beliefs and behaviors of the Gentile nations will come through the discovery and publishing of the Book of Mormon.  It will correct the egregious errors that the abominable church has caused with the Bible.

1 Nephi 13: 40-42

last and first records...............................their effect on each other will be profound.  they will inform each other
The righteous words of both groups.....................these two records will come together to make a people very great
will manifest himself..................................the Lord will make himself known in the latter-days.  A promise
first and last.......................................Lord will start with the Gentiles and move to the House of Israel.

The effect of the latter-day work will begin with the publishing and acceptance of the concepts with the Bible and the Book of Mormon, working in unison to strengthen true doctrine and to increase the faith of good people.  It will begin with the Gentiles as promised and move to the House of Israel.

1 Nephi 13

This chapter is a divine plan to raise good, god-fearing people for the last days.  The Lord will lead Gentiles to relocate to the Americas where he will strengthen them, free them, and then allow them to reestablish his church on the earth, as a counter force to take on the great and abominable church of the Gentiles.  This church of the gentiles is a term used loosely to describe the inner and evil core of the gentile world that seeks its own selfish interest and is based on worldly and wicked pursuits.

1 Nephi 12

1 Nephi 12

1 Nephi 12:  1-5

brethern, land of promise................................Nephi sees the destiny of his brothers
wars and rumors of wars.............................a future strife to be continual between the groups
many generations.....................................Nephi receives an overview of the future in the land
mist of darkness.......................................a day of calamity..........the time of Christ
terrible judgments......................................in the vision, Nephi sees tremendous damage

Nephi tells of a terrible time in the America that coincides with the life of Christ

1 Nephi 12: 6-13

Lamb of God....................................the Messiah will appear to the inhabitants of America
12 others, ordained and chosen...........................the Lord will give power to a select group
will judge...................................................the Lord will make them spiritual leaders to the people
another 12...........................................the Lord will have his apostles ultimately above them
three generations..........................................after Christ's appearance, 3 times would pass in righteousness
multitudes gather......................................tremendous population growth

Christ will make an appearance.  His Church will be established to the government of heaven.  The result will be a short time of peace and tremendous growth.

1 Nephi 12:  14-15

thy seed, brothers' see......................................after time, Nephi again sees a tribal division of his people
gathered against.....................................the groups would go to war against each other

Nephi sees the great strife that would come after the advent of Christ and the peaceful period

1 Nephi 12:  16- 23

filthy water...............................there would be a strong current of evil, and people would die in it
mists of darkness.............................without the light of the Gospel, people would perish
great and spacious building.........................the arrogance of an misled society,  would act on imagintions
contentions.........................................the time of strife would come,  great destruction let loose
the filth and darkness would catch up........................the children of Nephi largely destroyed
wars................................................after destroying the children of Nephi, the remainder would war for many years
dwindle........................................the people would degenerate, losing much of the prior growth and prosperity
unbelief....................................because of their rejection of the gospel, and long curse would fall on the people

The people would continue to fall until the entire Nephite group would cease.  What is left of the other group would go many years without much progress of any kind

1 Nephi 12

This 12th chapter gives Nephi a glimpse into the destiny of his father's family.  It is a very short future history that will span 1000 years of time

1 Nephi 11

1 Nephi 11

1 Nephi 11: 1-6

pondering in my heart................................Nephi strongly affected by Lehi's discussions
caught away in the spirit.............................a spiritual manifestation
mountain..................................................associated with divine revelation in ancient times
spirit questions.......................................allowed to ask questions directly
see what my father saw.................................request to see the same vision
believe?............................................Nephi accounts for his level of belief
i believe............................................willing to believe all his father's teachings
blessed art thou..................................those who believe enjoy the grace of heaven

Belief constitutes the activating force in revelation and other spiritual manifestations

1 Nephi 11: 7-28

ye shall bear witness..............................you will have the vision, but you must bear testimony of it
tree............................................beautiful and white...........the tree is great purity
interpretation...........................................sees it, but needs to understand its meaning
form of a man....................................the visitor is like a man, but in a spiritual form
look...........................................Nephi expected to study what he sees
Nazareth and virgin................................Nephi sees the home town for Jesus
condescension of God...............................you are witnessing the earthly mission of Christ, beginning with Mary
bearing a child..................................the first advent of Christ
the tree.................................................symbolic of the tree of life, which is Christ
rod of iron..........................................word of God. leads to eternal life and Christ
baptism of Christ.................................beginning of the ministry
prepare.....................................John the Baptist
cast out.....................................Christ rejected by the people

This concerns some of the highlights of Christ's mortal ministry

1 Nephi 11: 29-36

12 others.......................................the leadership of the church that Christ establishes
angels descending............................many spiritual manifestations to believers
ministering..................................Christ would serve the people, completing many miracles
judged..........................................Christ would be found guilty and executed by the wicked people
sins of the world............................Christ's death a necessary work to give men redemption
multitudes fight..................................the wicked then go after the church and his 12 chosen apostles
great and spacious building...................the symbol for the wicked world
pride of the world................................greatest sin of all, vaunting oneself over the authority of God
will fall............................................the wickedness of the world is destroyed and overruled by God
all destroyed..................................Anyone on the wrong side of the Lord's battle will fail.  Fall of the building

This section prophesies the end of the wicked world that will kill the Christ and destroy his church

1 Nephi 11

Nephi asks for and receives a witness of the Lord, his Church, his mission, and his divinity.  This will serve as the basis for many of Nephi's future prophecies, and will help him negotiate the pitfalls that will confront him subsequent to this manifestation.

1 Nephi 10

1 Nephi 10

1 Nephi 10:  1-6

things of my father and brethern.......................Nephi wants to make sense of his family division
made an end............................................Lehi ends his speech about the dream and his family situation
great city destroyed..................................the prophecy of the fall of Jerusalem and enslavement
return again.............................................the enslavement period will eventually end
possess the land......................................the nation will be reestablished
600 years, a Messiah....................................Christ will be born in 600 years
the Redeemer..........................................because of mankind's fallen state, the Redeemer necessary
how many.............................................the prophets all point to the Christ, everyone of them

Lehi teaches his sons what will take place for the next 600 years.

1 Nephi 10: 7-10

a forerunner to the Christ..................................John the Baptist
Prepare ye the way.............................................His mission was to prepare the world for Christ's ministry
I am not worthy..........................................this great prophet will teach with great humility
he standeth................................................will be a contemporary of the Messiah prophet
baptize in Bethabara..........................................a prophecy of the Aaronic Priesthood.  A great "bishop"
baptize the Messiah...........................................his great calling,
the great sign..............................................John the Baptist will recognize the Lord and receive a witness
take away the sins of the world............................Christ will redeem all his true followers

Lehi mentions the culmination of the work of the faith/religion before the advent of the Lord.  John will finish off the pre-Messianic age, the greatest of all the prior prohets.  At the moment of the Lord's arrival to his mission, he will receive a witness.

1 Nephi 10: 11-12

dwindling in unbelief.....................................the children of Israel will have strayed far from the gospel
slain the Messiah.........................................these children will actually kill the Messiah
rise from the dead.....................................Christ will be the first to resurrect
manifest in the Spirit.......................................the Holy Ghost will make the Lord known to true seekers

The earthly mission of the Lord will end in the Lord's death and resurrection.  These necessary events will lead the way for all men to enjoy the atonement.

1 Nephi 10: 13-16

what is expedient.......................................Nephi can write more.  He elects not to.  He will chose what he feels is necessary for his record
house scattered......................................many years into the future, the children of Israel will be scattered all over the earth
Olive tree...............................................a symbol of the House of Israel.  Many parables about the olive
in a tent.................................................this event, like others, occurs during the first encampment

Some of the purpose of Nephi's writings in the record are to aid in the reassembling of the House of Israel at a much later date.

1 Nephi 10: 17-

Nephi curious.........................................seeks a spiritual witness of what he has learned
gift of the Holy Ghost................................a gift predicated on the diligence of the person who seeks the Spirit
same yesterday, today, and forever.......................the Lord words according to the eternal law
repent............................................Universally decreed to be the foundation for forgiveness and eternal life
shall find........................................promise, those diligent receive the witness
mysteries of God.............................can tap into eternal blessings that surpass all earthly gifts
eternal round....................................it doesn't matter when one does this,  all may experience it
remember justice................................the Lord will judge all men.  therefore repent and receive forgiveness
sought to do wickedly..........................if a person has not intention of repenting, he will suffer
no unclean thing..................................only the forgiven can stand blameless before God
Holy Ghost gives authority........................the witness of Nephi borne.  We can have the same

Nephi makes it clear how he heard the teachings of his father and received a witness about it.  He has a testimony in Christ and the other details about his future coming and purpose.  He expounds that all people can receive a similar testimony through the Holy Ghost.  Ultimately, we need the testimony for the Savior to perfect our eternal lives.

This chapter makes it clear that the Book of Mormon is primarily about gaining and maintaining a testimony of the Lord and his mission.

1 Nephi 9

1 Nephi 9

1 Nephi 9: 1-6

a great many more..............................................many things are taught and learned during encampment
plates................................record on metal plates, described as brass
plates of Nephi.................................takes responsibility and ownership of the plates
make plates.......................................Nephi given instructions to make plates and record on them
ministry...............................................particular assignment, record sacred things
others of kings........................................a secular history to also be recorded
wise purpose in him...............................obeying the commandments without a clear understanding why
He has all power..............................trust in the commandments, even when not understanding

A short chapter that explains Nephi's role as a record keeper.  He makes and he records according to the instructions.  He keeps dual records, without understanding why.

1 Nephi 8

1 Nephi 8

1 Nephi 8: 1-4

gather seeds......................................preparations made for their long journey
dreamed a dream, vision............................Hebraism, a dreamer or visionary working within his calling
Nephi and Sam and children........................Lehi receives comfort about two of his sons
Laman and Lemuel................................very distraught over the message of the other 2 sons
dark and dreary....................................the symbolism surrounding the families of Laman and Lemuel

The prophet Lehi receives a message concerning the future spiritual welfare of his family

1 Nephi 8: 5-18

saw a man................................................in the dream, Lehi visited by angel messenger
bade me follow...........................................instruction to pay attention, to follow
journey in darkness...................................sees a lot of unsettling images
prays for delivery........................................the prophet looks for promising imagery.  Disturbed
sees a field.....................................................a wide open are,  immediate answer
tree and fruit...............................................Lehi sees a much different image,  something desirable
did partake............................................Lehi enjoying the better future, very happy with it
concern for family.....................................symbolically Lehi receives the promise.  Wants it for his family
cast eyes..............................................tries to locate his family.  Makes efforts to understand family
tree and river...........................................more symbolism, not explained
sees wife, 2 sons............................................Lehi sees a division within his family
call to join.............................................Lehi invites his family to enjoy the fruit
they do...................................................Indicates the believing side of his family
Laman, Lemuel, would not come.........................different response from the other children

In Lehi's vision, he receives spiritual confirmation and warning about the state and future of his family.  This manifestation both pleases him and deeply disturbs him.  Some of his family receives Eternal life, but some fail and don't desire it.

Nephi 8: 19-28

rod of iron......................................a "highway" to the fruit
straignt and narrow way that leads......................................the correct use of the rod leads men to eternal life.
numberless concourse...........................the vision is enlarged.  The key components apply to all people
did come forward..................................likewise, all men come forward and receive the test
mist of darkness........................................the common experience, men manuever the darkness
some cling to the end.................................many people cling to the path and arrive to the correct place
partake and look around...................................many enjoy, they look around,  why?  different answers
spacious building........................................symbolizes the reaction of many men to contrast with those who arrive
were ashamed........................................wrong response for someone who receives the fruit,  apostasy
filled with people, fake behavior.............................the building is not filled with genuine believers.  facades
fell away..............................................those who join this group are lost.  Deluded with their achievements.

Many people are tricked and fooled by the temptations of wealth and related "successes."  If not grounded in the gospel of Christ, they become all involved in the floating building and end up falling from the protections of the spirit.

1 Nephi 8: 29-34

multitudes................................................those who find the gospel are many
many go to the building......................................these two divisions are very large, perhaps the 2 biggest categories.
Many drowned.....................................some do not acheieve arrival in either category
did point and sorned.................................Many of those who get to the building are very accusatory and persuasive
those who heeded.....................................those who follow the way to the great building are lost

Those who choose the worldly goal are the most easily lost.  People move that direction and become lost before they even arrive.  Others arrive, and become deluded at that point.  They stand in stark contrast to those who choose and remain faithful to the gospel

1 Nephi 8: 35-38

Laman and Lemuel.......................................do not choose the fruit,  Responses upset Lehi
fears for them............................................Lehi uses the dream to warn his sons.  Shares his dream vision
exhorts with feeling......................................so disturbed that he takes tremendous care to teach them

Lehi centers on those who need the teaching most.  He attempts to change the warnings that seem to come from his vision.  The future of Laman and Lemuel are really disturbing to their father

1 Nephi 8

Nephi learns in a dream how the choices made by men and women as they encounter the choices of life will alter their futures.  If men choose the good and stay in that way they arrive at the fruit of eternal life.  If they hearken to the other voices and promises, it pulls them from the right way and compromise their futures.  Lehi is particularly disturbed by the prophetic message of his own family.  As a prophet he uses the message immediately to teach his family.

1 Nephi 7

1 Nephi 7

1 Nephi 7: 1-5

End of prophesying.............................................Lehi teaches his children and forecasts the future
daughters.................................a need for wives for his sons.
bring Ishmael and family................even the name of the family is told
did gain favor........................the boys become friends to Ishmael's family
softened................................Ishmael accepts the invitation and joins with the boys

The Lord tells Lehi exactly whom to invite and the invitation is accepted.

1 Nephi 7: 6-15

did rebel...................................Ishmael's family similar to Lehi's.  A great division in the group
desirous............................had every intention.
calls upon the hard hearted...........................the rebellious want to leave.  Nephi reproaches them.
forgotten.............................hard to believe, but they forget the spiritual lessons
Laban incident......................they don't even see the sacred nature of the help
exercise faith..........................the only thing they need to do
you will know...........................the Lord will let them know at the appropriate time.  Have patience
Spirit ceaseth.........................warning of the Lord concerning Jerusalem.  Not the place to go.
you choose...............................you know the truth.  Exercise faith.

The younger brother must step forward and correct his brothers.  They are so out of line that they are forgetting all the positive lessons of the past.

1 Nephi 7: 16-20

bind him................................the brothers have every intention of getting rid of Nephi.  Too troublesome to them
prayer to burst bands............................Nephi has the faith that he wants brothers to exercise
loosed............................................Nephi is freed.  He attributes it to his prayer
angered again................................Once free, the brothers again angry.  Intend to bind him again.
did plea...............................looks like the majority side with Nephi
sorrowful...............................the brother break down.  Ask forgiveness

The brothers become so upset with Nephi that they intend to recapture him, even forgetting the past events, and not considering that Nephi had been loosed by direct divine intervention

1 Nephi 7: 21-22

again travel...................................the group moves until they meet the encampment
gave thanks.................................the whole group celebrates the arrival of Ishmael's family

Once again, when the mission is completed, the group offers sacrifice and express gratitude to
God

1 Nephi 7

This chapter shows another insight of God about the party and its future.  They will need wives, so Ishmael and his family are summoned to join with the son's of Lehi.  The reader gets a little faith and prayer lesson, how important it is to rely on God and to hold onto his promises.

1 Nephi 6

1 Nephi 6

1 Nephi 6: 1-6

no genealogy................................since his father wrote it, he will not
of Joseph.....................................broad tribal identification
fulness of purpose..............................he has only one goal
pleasing unto God................................his entries are doing according to God, doesn't car about opinions
commandment.............................other writers should do the same

This short chapter indicates the focus that Nephi intends to have in his writing.

1 Nephi 5

1 Nephi 5

1 Nephi 5: 1-8

mother exceedingly glad.............................idiomatic, unusually happy
accuses of being visionary.........................sounds mocking here, described as Laman and Lemuel do
manner of language..............................she is upset and uses the same types of arguments used all ready
I know...........................................Lehi admits his "visionary" pattern, but bears witness it is of God
he does not sound worried.
comforts his wife..................................his words are full of faith, and he manages to calm her
the return........................................the mother is even more comforted.  She offers up declarations of faith and of joy

This short narrative illustrates the misapprehensions of a distraught wife and mother. Her faith is shaken, but is restored.

1 Nephi 5: 9-17

offer thanks and sacrifice........................Lehi's first reaction
Lehi took the records.............................Lehi takes the occasion to read from the record
contents......................................books of Moses, Adam and Eve, histories down to that current time
Jeremiah................................a contemporary to Lehi
genealogy..................................Lehi's family is recorded.  He belongs to the tribe of Joseph
freedom from slavery.............................the story of the Exodus
Laban..........................................a relative, also of the same family
filled with prophecy.............................from the record, and from his own experiences, Lehi prophecies beyond even the book, concerning his descendants and the promised land.

Lehi studies the book.  He comes to a knowledge of his people and his family.  The record strengthens him and opens himself to be taught by the Spirit

1 Nephi 5: 18-22

record to be published to many times and places..................Lehi sees the future dissemination of the record
I had kept commandments..........................Nephi at peace with himself, in harmony with the Lord
desirable records...........................Nephi begins to see the great significance of the brass records
wisdom of the Lord.......................the family begins to understand how important the record will be in the future

Nephi and his family have a sublime time of joy.  The mission is accomplished and the family is full of spiritual manifestations of the future value of the record.

1 Nephi 4

1 Nephi 4

1 Nephi 4:  1-3

Lord is mightier......................................reminder of the omnipotence and helpfulness of God
strong like Moses............................remember the narratives,  trust them
angel hath spoken.........................recipients of an obvious spiritual manifestation, trust it
Lord about to deliver..............................call to action

To gain strength and faith for difficult situations, we need to "remember."

1 Nephi 4: 4-7

wroth, murmur.........................................the brothers complain and act in anger
hide themselves....................................if they won't help, hide them safely
I crept.............................................he has fear, but he goes
led by Spirit, not knowing...................................sometimes it's more important to show up
I went forth...............................................He did what he said he would do
found a man........................................He is led directly where he should go

The Spirit requires action.  By starting the journey, he is led, directly to the place he needed to go.  He also safely hid his less courageous brothers.

1 Nephi 4: 8-13

found Laban...............................................he recognizes the very person he needed
the sword........................................reveals Laban as a powerful military leader at his time
constrained by the spirit.......................interesting word. Nephi is required to act.  Spiritual obligation
I shrunk...........................................take courage, even when the commandment goes against core values
the Lord has delivered....................................when the Lord prepares, the servant obeys
sought thy own life....................................he tried to kill you
he would not follow commandment...............................the man has broken faith with God
taken property...........................................he is a thief
Slay him...................................................a blunt order from the Spirit.
better for one than a nation.....................................Justified death in terms of the man's treachery and evil

This section has long led to academic discussions about the ethics and appropriateness of Nephi's killing of Laban.  At least from the narrative, the killing is perfectly legal in a spiritual sense.  The Spirit has justified it.  Like the offering of Isaac on the altar, and the other ultimate tests of religious narrative, this story places Nephi in a category apart.

1 Nephi 4: 14-18

I remembered.........................................his own sermon to his brothers comes back to educate him
need the law............................................must sometimes act according to the rules of the Law of Moses, even when it is not pleasant
need the law.............................................the same expression holds for those who will receive the record
purpose of his finding of Laban......................the Spirit lets him know that this is the way to get the plates
he acts........................................the spiritual logic and impressions lead Nephi to kill Laban with his sword

Nephi acts.  The act will change the rest of his life profoundly.

1 Nephi 4: 19-27

girded in the armor.......................................his Spirit-driven continues  He is drawn to imitate Laban
went to the treasury...................Nephi goes directly to the place where he will find the record.
commanded in the voice of Laban.........................Nephi either had this talent to imitate, or Laban had a such an idiosyncratic type voice that it was easy to imitate
he supposed.................................the servant of Laban does not question Laban's identity
the conversation......................................Nephi able to have a continuing conversation with the servant without detection.
carry the engravings and follo...........................the servant actually assists in the removal of the record.  Nothing is spoken about any other removals, particularly Lehi's property

The Spirit makes it simple to obtain the record and to transfer it to Lehi's family.  The servant doesn't even question Nephi's actions.

1 Nephi 4: 28-35

reactions of the brothers..........................the imitation of Laban is so convincing that the brothers assume Nephi has been killed
calls for them.....................................they are stopped and realize the presence of Nephi
servant's reaction......................................now it is the servants turn to fear
the oath...............................................the servant is given an opportunity to join Nephi and the family.  Does he have a choice?  He is given a promise of equal status.
teaches him.........................................Nephi even gives his an opportunity to make a spiritual conversion
Zoram agrees..............................................This man, with little actual force, joins the family of Nephi

The disguise almost backfires.  However as the events continue to develop, another member of the migration is brought into play.

1 Nephi 4: 35-

tarry with us....................................he is made an honored guest.  They do not want him to return to the city.  He could be their undoing.
Zoram's oath.................................he become an integral member of their community.  They do not fear him at all
return to the tent..................................they journey home.

Zoram become a worrisome issue.  But he actually joins with them.  This brings up many questions about his motivations and his relationship to Laban.  It sounds like he was more a slave than anything else, and his emancipation offers him a far better future.

The chapter:

Nephi offers this narrative to us so that we can understand the tremendously difficult decisions that he went through to follow the dictates of the Spirit.  As he continued, he found the events fell miraculously into line, each item working to the future success of his life and to the establishing of his family in America.  He makes no apologies for his behavior.  He triumphs in accomplishing his duty.  I think that this story would become a permanent controversy concerning himself.