Elder L. Tom Perry
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"Why is reading the Book of Mormon important for us today? It is because the major writers of the Book of Mormon fully understood that their writings were primarily for the people of future generations rather than for the people of their own generations.
"The Book of Mormon is a voice of warning to this generation." It vividly describes today's world conditions and contains valuable lessons for those now in mortality. Among those lessons are: the cause and effect of war and under what conditions it is justified; evils and dangers of secret combinations that are built up to get power and gain over people; the reality of Satan and methods he uses to destroy humankind; how to wisely and properly use wealth; the reality and divinity of Jesus Christ and his atoning sacrifice for all mankind; the gathering of Israel in the last days; the purpose and principles of missionary work; the evils of pride, indifference, procrastination, hypocrisy and unchastity.
Although it tells of a fallen people, its intent is not to recount a history but "to help us come unto Christ." Its writers were, in fact, admonished not to dwell on the secular history of its subjects.
"President Hinckley is encouraging us to read the Book of Mormon to lift us above the things of the world, to enjoy the things of the Lord." Those who approach the challenge with faith have the promise of the Lord's blessings, as they were given to the faithful in Book of Mormon times.
