In addition to all of the great resources listed in the Podcasts and Chapter outlines that are provided for this week's lesson material, I also wanted to include some Christmas Resources that might be helpful. These could be useful for family or class devotionals as we prepare for the Christmas season.

Church Library

Church Videos & Resources

The Bible Project

The Birth of Jesus: Luke 1-2

BYU’s RSC

Messages of Christ

Chosen

Drive Through History with David Stotts

Books

Good Tidings of Great Joy by Eric D. Huntsman
Advent of the Savior by Steven J. Blinz
The Nativity by Alonzo L Gaskill
Mary and Elisabeth by S. Kent Brown
A Coming Christ in Advent and An Adult Christ at Christmas by Raymond Brown

Additional Lesson Resources:

Moroni 1

Moroni 1 serves as an introduction to the final writings of Moroni. With the Nephites destroyed and his father Mormon gone, Moroni writes this chapter while in hiding from the Lamanites, who are actively seeking to kill him. This brief but poignant chapter highlights themes of faith, endurance, and the power of the priesthood, as Moroni remains committed to preserving the records and fulfilling his prophetic responsibilities despite the perils he faces.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

Endurance in Faith Amid Persecution
Moroni’s commitment to Christ, even under threat of death, exemplifies steadfastness and courage. His resolve to continue bearing testimony demonstrates faith in God’s ultimate plan.
Moroni, the Last of the Nephite Prophets
What the Book of Mormon Is (Concluded)
Moroni the Lonely: The Story of the Writing of the Title Page to the Book of Mormon
Moroni: The Final Voice
Mormon and Moroni: Father and Son
The Importance of Sacred Records
By continuing to preserve the records, Moroni ensures that future generations will have access to vital knowledge of Christ’s gospel, ordinances, and covenants.
Quotations of the Sealed Portions of the Book of Mormon
Faithful Stewardship
Moroni’s role as the last Nephite prophet highlights his responsibility as a steward of the sacred records. His faithfulness despite his solitude mirrors the principle of enduring to the end.

Major Topics/ Themes

Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Moroni 1

Moroni Invites All to Come unto Christ | Mormon 8–9; Moroni 1, 10; Title Page

Verses 1-4: Moroni’s Circumstances and Resolve

I, Moroni - Elder Wirthlin
I, Moroni, Will Not Deny the Christ
Why Did Moroni Keep Writing?
Hiding from the Lamanites:
Moroni describes his precarious situation, explaining that the Nephites have been destroyed and that the Lamanites are killing anyone who refuses to deny Christ.
Commitment to Christ:
Despite the danger, Moroni resolves to continue his testimony and preserve the sacred records, demonstrating his unwavering faith in the Savior.
Preservation of Sacred Ordinances:
Moroni expresses his intention to write more about sacred ordinances, particularly those associated with the priesthood, so future generations can have access to them.

Testimony

Hebrew word: עֵדוּת (Edut) — “Testimony,” “witness.” Greek Word: μαρτυρέω (Martyreo)
Edut reflects the act of bearing witness to sacred truths. Moroni’s determination to bear testimony aligns with his prophetic calling, even under life-threatening circumstances. This alligns with the Greek wort Martyreo, which is here we get the English Word Martyr. Being a martyr for Christ means being willing to die and live for him. Special Witness of Christ - Elder Holland, Witnesses Unto Me

Faith

Hebrew word: אֱמוּנָה (Emunah) — “Faith,” “steadfastness.”
Emunah emphasizes loyalty and trust, qualities Moroni demonstrates as he endures trials while remaining true to Christ.

Ordinance

Hebrew word: חֹק (Chok) — “Statute,” “decree.”
Chok refers to established laws or ordinances given by God. Moroni’s commitment to preserving sacred ordinances reflects the importance of maintaining divine order.

Moroni 2

Moroni 2 is a short but significant chapter in which Moroni records the exact words spoken by Jesus Christ to His disciples regarding the conferral of the Holy Ghost. This chapter preserves the sacred instructions given to the Nephite disciples after Christ’s resurrection, detailing how to bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost through priesthood authority. The chapter highlights the connection between divine power, sacred ordinances, and the Holy Ghost's role in guiding and sanctifying believers.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

1. The Sacred Ordinance of the Holy Ghost

The gift of the Holy Ghost is central to the gospel of Jesus Christ, providing divine guidance, comfort, and sanctification. This chapter preserves the precise wording and process of the ordinance as given by Christ.
From Presence to Practice: Jesus, the Sacrament Prayers, the Priesthood, and Church Discipline in 3 Nephi 18 and Moroni 2–6

2. Priesthood Power and Authority

The authority to bestow the Holy Ghost underscores the essential role of the Melchizedek Priesthood in performing sacred ordinances and administering God’s work.

3. Continuity of Christ’s Teachings

By recording this ordinance, Moroni ensures that the teachings and instructions of Christ to His Nephite disciples are preserved for future generations.
Why Did Moroni Keep Writing?

Major Topics/ Themes

Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Moroni 2

Verses 1-3: Christ’s Instructions to the Disciples

The Power to Bestow the Holy Ghost:
Moroni explains that Jesus gave specific instructions to His twelve Nephite disciples on how to confer the gift of the Holy Ghost.
The disciples were instructed to lay their hands on believers and say, “In the name of Jesus Christ, receive the Holy Ghost.”
The Role of Priesthood Authority:
This ordinance could only be performed through the power and authority of the Holy Priesthood, which Christ Himself conferred upon His disciples.

Disciple

Greek Word: συμμαθητής (symmathētḗs) “fellow disciple.” Compound word made up of sym- “with, co-” + -mathetis “learner” Hebrew word: לָמַד (lâmad) “to measure,” to learn, teach, to excercise, be taught, be trained, to ve stretched.
The words mathetis and lamad, both share the mat/madad root, as in the name Matthew, which in Hebrew means “he/they learn, measure, and are stretched.” This is the same root we see in the term mathematics, which essentially means the “measurement of measures.” This implies that a true disciple of Christ is one who is an active learner with Christ, in whatever capacity that might be. It is someone who pays attention and is always measuring the attributes of the Savior as they seek to apply those characteristics and skills to themselves.

Holy Spirit

Hebrew word: רוּחַ הַקֹּדֶשׁ (Ruach HaKodesh) — “Holy Spirit,” “Spirit of Holiness.” Greek Word: ἁγίου πνεύματος (Hagios Pneûmatos)
Ruach and Pneumatos mean “spirit” or “breath,” symbolizing life and divine influence. HaKodesh and Hagios (“holy, the Holy”) denotes purity and sacredness, something or someone who is set apart and consecrated to the Lord. The Holy Ghost’s role in sanctifying believers reflects its sacred and transformative nature to make us holy.

Laying on of Hands

Hebrew word: סְמִיכָה (Semichah, from root Samach) — “Laying on of hands,” “to sustain.” Greek word: στηρίζω (stērízō) “set apart,” “strengthen,” “Make stable,” “confirm”
Semichah in ancient Israel was used to confer blessings, authority, or responsibility. The act of laying hands in this ordinance represents the transmission of divine power through priesthood authority.

Receive

Greek word: λαμβάνω (Lambano) — “To receive,” “to take by the hand.” Hebrew word: לָקַח (lâqach)
Lambano and laqach imply an active and willing acceptance or reception of a gift. Believers who receive the Holy Ghost must exercise faith to fully accept and benefit from its influence.

Moroni 3

Moroni 3 provides instructions regarding the ordination of priests and teachers in the Church. This short chapter preserves the sacred process through which individuals are called and ordained to serve in the ministry. By recording the exact wording and procedure, Moroni highlights the importance of proper priesthood authority and the role of priesthood holders in teaching and strengthening the Church.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

1. Priesthood Authority

The ordination of priests and teachers underscores the necessity of acting under proper authority in God’s Church. This ensures that all teachings and ordinances are performed in alignment with divine will.

2. The Role of Priests and Teachers

Priests and teachers are charged with preaching the gospel, teaching the doctrine of Christ, and administering sacred ordinances. Their role is to guide and strengthen the faith of the members.

3. Sacred Simplicity of Ordinances

The simplicity of the ordination process reflects the focus on humility and alignment with Christ’s example, avoiding unnecessary complexity in sacred practices.

Major Topics/ Themes

Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Moroni 3

Verses 1-3: Ordination of Priests and Teachers

The Importance of Ordinances in the Church of Jesus Christ, 1 - Elder Packer
The Importance of Ordinances in the Church of Jesus Christ, 2
Why Did Moroni Provide the Exact Wording of Priesthood Ordinances?
The Process of Ordination:
Elders lay their hands upon the individual to be ordained and offer a prayer, calling upon the name of Christ.
Through this prayer, the individual is given authority to preach, teach, and administer the ordinances of the gospel.
The Role of Authority:
The authority conferred during ordination comes directly from Christ and is administered under the direction of the Melchizedek Priesthood.

Ordination

Hebrew word: מִשְׁחָה (Mishchah) — “Anointing,” “consecration.”
Mishchah refers to setting apart someone for a sacred purpose. The root of this word is where the name Meshiach or Messiah is derived, indicating that Christ, the Greek name for Meshiach, was anointed and ordained from the beginning to be our Messiah, and it is through Him that we are anointed and consecrated to serve in His name, as we pursue His work and mission.

Priest

Hebrew word: כֹּהֵן (Kohen) — “Priest.” Greek word: ἱερεύς (hiereús) — “devoted to the sacred work of God”
Kohen denotes someone who officiates in the ordinances of the Gospel, thereby serving God and His people. In this context, priests are authorized to administer and mediate in various ordinances as they teach God’s commandments and instruct others along the path of discipleship. The greek, Hieros is where we get words such as Hieroglyph, and hierarchy.

Teach

Hebrew word: לָמַד (Lamad) — “To teach,” “to learn.” It is from this root that we got the Greek Mathano, Matheo, or Mathetevo.
(See the previous description for disciple.) Lamad emphasizes not only the act of teaching but also creating an environment of learning and understanding. Teachers are charged with helping others grow in gospel knowledge and faith.

Moroni 4

Moroni 4 provides the precise wording of the prayer used in administering the sacrament of the bread. This sacred ordinance is central to renewing covenants with God, remembering the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and receiving divine strength to remain faithful. By recording this prayer, Moroni ensures that the ordinance is performed consistently and in alignment with Christ’s instructions.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

1. Covenant Renewal

The sacrament is a sacred opportunity for believers to renew their covenants with God, recommitting to follow Christ and remember His atoning sacrifice.

2. Sanctification Through the Sacrament

The prayer asks for the bread to be sanctified for partakers, symbolizing the sanctifying power of Christ’s atonement.

3. The Promise of the Holy Ghost

The prayer promises that those who keep their covenants will always have the companionship of the Holy Ghost, a source of divine guidance, comfort, and strength.

4. Symbolism of the Bread

The bread symbolizes the body of Christ, broken for humanity as part of the Atonement. It serves as a reminder of His physical sacrifice and the eternal blessings made possible through Him.

1. Bread as a Sacred Symbol

In Jewish tradition, bread (לֶחֶם) is associated with life and God’s provision:
Manna in the Wilderness (Exodus 16): God provided manna to sustain the Israelites, symbolizing His care and mercy.
Unleavened Bread of Passover (Exodus 12:17-20): The matza, or unleavened bread of Passover commemorates deliverance and covenant renewal. The word Matza means “to find, draw out” and it reminds Israel to look for and find God.

2. Christ’s Institution of the Sacrament

In the sacrament, the bread represents Christ as the bread of life (John 6:35), the leavened bread reminds us that Christ has risen, and it serves as a token of His body, which was bruised, broken and torn for His body of Saints.
The sacrament prayer reflects Christ’s own words during the Last Supper:
Matthew 26:26: “Take, eat; this is my body.”
This continuity underscores the ordinance’s sacred origin and its role in Christian worship.

5. Kneeling in Prayer

The act of kneeling represents humility and reverence, showing the sacred nature of the sacrament and the partakers’ submission to God’s will.

6. Communal Worship

The ordinance unites the congregation in shared worship and commitment, emphasizing the collective covenant between God and His people.

Major Topics/ Themes

Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Moroni 4

Verses 1-3: The Sacramental Prayer for the Bread

Partake of the Sacrament - Elder Oaks
Where did Moroni Get the Sacramental Prayers from?
Why Are Ordinances So Important?
Administration of the Bread:
Elders and priests kneel with the congregation and bless the bread, which represents the flesh/ body of Christ, using the sacred prayer dictated by Christ.
The prayer includes:
A plea to bless and sanctify the bread.
A commitment from partakers to remember Christ, to stand as His witnesses, to take upon themselves His name, and keep His commandments.
A promise from God that they may always have His Spirit to be with them.
Renewing Covenants:
The prayer emphasizes the covenantal nature of the sacrament, allowing individuals to reaffirm their commitment to Christ, as He has kept His commitment to them.

Sanctify

Hebrew word: קָדַשׁ (Qadash) — “To sanctify,” “to set apart.” Greek word: ἁγιάζω (hagiázō)
Qadash signifies making something holy or consecrated for divine purposes. The prayer asks God to sanctify the bread, symbolizing Christ’s role in sanctifying His followers.

Covenant

Hebrew word: בְּרִית (Berit) — “Covenant,” “agreement.”
Berit reflects a sacred bond between God and His people. The sacrament prayer reaffirms this bond, reminding partakers of their commitment to follow Christ.

Remember

Hebrew word: זָכַר (Zakar) — “To remember,” “to call to mind.”
Zakar implies an active remembrance that influences behavior. The prayer emphasizes remembering Christ’s sacrifice as a continual motivator for righteous living.

Moroni 5

Moroni 5 records the prayer for blessing the sacramental cup, used to represent the blood of Jesus Christ shed for the remission of sins. Like Moroni 4, this chapter ensures the sacredness and proper administration of the sacrament by preserving the exact words dictated by Christ. The ordinance is a vital part of covenant renewal and discipleship, connecting believers to Christ’s atoning sacrifice and the promise of redemption.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

1. Symbolism of the Blood of Christ

The water (or wine) symbolizes the blood of Christ, shed for the remission of sins. This reflects His infinite atonement and the redemption available to all who come unto Him.
Wine in Jewish Worship
Wine is a common symbol of joy, covenant, and redemption in Jewish tradition:
Passover Meal: Wine is part of the Passover and religious ceremonies, symbolizing deliverance from Egypt and sin. Similarly, the sacrament cup symbolizes deliverance from sin through Christ.
The Cup of Blessing: In Jewish prayers, the cup of wine represents thanksgiving (Eucharest) and covenant renewal, paralleling the sacrament.
Christ’s Institution of the Cup
The sacrament cup reflects Christ’s words during the Last Supper:
Matthew 26:27-28: “Drink ye all of it; for this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”
This emphasizes the personal and communal connection to Christ’s atoning blood.

2. Covenantal Renewal

The prayer invites participants to reaffirm their covenant to follow Christ by remembering Him, obeying His commandments, and striving to be like Him.

3. Promise of the Holy Ghost

The gift of the Holy Ghost is reaffirmed as a continual blessing for those who remain faithful to their covenants, emphasizing the sacrament’s role in spiritual renewal.

Major Topics/ Themes

Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Moroni 5

Verses 1-2: The Sacramental Prayer for the Water (or Wine)

Intertextuality of Sacrament Prayers

Sanctification of the Water:

The priest offers the sacrament prayer over the cup, asking for God’s blessing and sanctification of the water (or wine) as a sacred symbol of Christ’s blood.
Covenantal Commitment:
The prayer reaffirms the participants’ covenant to take upon themselves the name of Jesus Christ, remember Him always, and keep His commandments.
Promise of the Holy Ghost:
In return, God promises that participants may always have His Spirit to guide and strengthen them.

1. Blood

Hebrew word: דָּם (Dam) — “Blood.”
Dam in Hebrew symbolizes life and atonement, as seen in the sacrificial blood of the Mosaic law (Leviticus 17:11). In the sacrament, the water (or wine) represents Christ’s atoning blood, which offers spiritual life and cleansing.

2. Name

Hebrew word: שֵׁם (Shem) — “Name.”
Taking upon oneself the name of Christ (Shem) signifies a personal identification with Him. Like a wife often takes her husbands, last name, members of the Church take upon themselves the name of Christ as a recognition of their covenant with Him. As bearers of His name, they agree to honor and reflect His teachings, and His mission. This covenantal act reflects the believer’s commitment to live as a disciple of Christ.

3. Remission

Greek word: ἄφεσις (Aphesis) — “Forgiveness,” “pardon,” “remission.”
Aphesis signifies release from sin or debt. The prayer highlights that through Christ’s blood, believers receive forgiveness and freedom from spiritual bondage.

Moroni 6

In Moroni 6, Moroni outlines the practices and principles that governed the organization and functioning of the early Church. He focuses on the prerequisites for baptism, the role of repentance, the sanctity of the sacrament, and the importance of community worship and spiritual fellowship. This chapter highlights themes of worthiness, commitment, and mutual support within the Church, ensuring that members grow together in faith and righteousness.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

1. Worthiness and Preparation

Baptism and sacrament participation require sincere repentance and commitment, ensuring that ordinances are received with reverence and faith.

2. The Church as a Spiritual Community

The Church provides a nurturing environment where members can grow together in faith, support each other, and partake of sacred ordinances.
The Articles and Covenants of the Church of Christ and the Book of Mormon

3. Accountability and Sanctity

Church discipline ensures that members maintain a Christlike standard of behavior, preserving the sanctity of the ordinances and the unity of the community.

4. Focus on Christ

All Church practices are centered on Christ, reflecting His teachings and glorifying His name.

Major Topics/ Themes

Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Moroni 6

Verses 1-3: Requirements for Baptism

Faith and Repentance:
Candidates for baptism must demonstrate sincere repentance and a determination to take upon themselves the name of Christ and serve Him to the end.
Worthiness and Witnesses:
Baptism is only performed for those who bring forth fruits of repentance, and it must be witnessed by others, emphasizing its covenantal and communal nature.
Cleansing Power:
Baptism is described as a sanctifying ordinance, enabling individuals to be cleansed from sin and begin their journey as disciples of Christ.

Repentance

Hebrew word: תְּשׁוּבָה (T’shuvah) — “Returning,” “repentance.”
T’shuvah emphasizes turning back to God with humility and sincerity, describing the requirements of a broken heart and contrite spirit. Moroni highlights repentance as a prerequisite for baptism, ensuring that candidates are spiritually prepared.

Sanctify

Hebrew word: קָדַשׁ (Qadash) — “To sanctify,” “to make holy.”
Baptism and the sacrament sanctify participants, setting them apart as covenant members of Christ’s Church.

Verses 4-6: Community Worship and Spiritual Fellowship

What Can an Ancient Christian Text Tell us About the Book of Mormon?n
Parallels between the Didache and Moroni 2–6
The Church as a Community:
Newly baptized members are to be numbered, nurtured, and strengthened in the “right way” (the straight strait path) within the Church, partaking of the sacrament and receiving the companionship of the Holy Ghost. Members should rely only upon the merits of Jesus Christ, the author and finisher (the Alpha and Omega) of their faith.
Regular Meetings:
Members meet together often to partake of the sacrament, pray, and be spiritually nourished through inspired teaching.
Mutual Support:
The Church provides a structure for members to strengthen each other in faith, bearing one another’s burdens and building a unified, Christ-centered community.

Church

Greek word: ἐκκλησία (Ekklesia) — “Assembly,” “gathering.”
Ekklesia refers to the body of believers gathered in Christ’s name. The Church serves as a supportive community where members worship, grow, and serve together.
Fellowshipping, 1
Fellowshipping, 2.
Retaining Converts - Elder Wirthlin

Sacrament

Greek word: διαθήκη (Diathēkē) — “Covenant,” “testament.”
The sacrament is a covenant renewal, where believers reaffirm their commitment to Christ and receive His Spirit.

Verses 7-9: Accountability and Spiritual Discipline

Church Discipline:
Those who commit serious transgressions and refuse to repent are “blotted out,” and not permitted to partake of the sacrament, ensuring the sanctity of the ordinance.
Focus on Christ:
All aspects of Church worship, prayer, music, and teaching are directed toward the glorification of Christ and the building up of His kingdom.
Why Was Singing Hymns a Part of Nephite Worship Services?
Is the Book of Mormon Musical?

Church Videos & Resources

Scripture Central

Study Guide The study guide with the Reading Plan is now up under the Scripture Central Podcast Materials

BYU’s RSC

Moroni, the Last of the Nephite Prophets

The Articles and Covenants of the Church of Christ and the Book of Mormon

The Merits of Christ: Fallen Humanity’s Hope for Redemption

“To Keep Them in the Right Way”

“To Keep Them in the Right Way”

Moroni 1-6

Moroni 1-6

Moroni 1-6

Moroni 1-6 (Show Notes)

Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class, Book of Mormon

Moroni 1-6 Moroni's Commentary on the Jaradites & the Nephites

The Book of Mormon: A Cultural and Religious Exploration

Moroni 1

Endurance in Faith Amid Persecution

The Importance of Sacred Records

Faithful Stewardship

Testimony

Faith

Ordinance

Moroni 2

1. The Sacred Ordinance of the Holy Ghost

2. Priesthood Power and Authority

3. Continuity of Christ’s Teachings

Disciple

Holy Spirit

Laying on of Hands

Receive

1. Priesthood Authority

2. The Role of Priests and Teachers

3. Sacred Simplicity of Ordinances

Ordination

Priest

Teach

Moroni 4

1. Covenant Renewal

2. Sanctification Through the Sacrament

3. The Promise of the Holy Ghost

4. Symbolism of the Bread

1. Bread as a Sacred Symbol

2. Christ’s Institution of the Sacrament

5. Kneeling in Prayer

6. Communal Worship

Sanctify

Covenant

Remember

Moroni 5

1. Symbolism of the Blood of Christ

Wine in Jewish Worship

Christ’s Institution of the Cup

2. Covenantal Renewal

3. Promise of the Holy Ghost

1. Blood

2. Name

3. Remission

Moroni 6

1. Worthiness and Preparation

2. The Church as a Spiritual Community

3. Accountability and Sanctity

4. Focus on Christ

Repentance

Sanctify

Church

Sacrament