Book of Mormon written for future generations
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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 time, said Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve.
"The Book of Mormon is a voice of warning to this generation," he said, explaining why reading the sacred book is important for Church members today.
Speaking Saturday morning, Elder Perry reminded the worldwide congregation that President Hinckley has asked them to re-read the Book of Mormon this year.
"Often we read the record primarily as a history of a fallen people, failing to remember that it was compiled by inspired prophets for the purpose of helping us come unto Christ. The major writers of the Book of Mormon did not intend it to be a history book at all."
Each time Latter-day Saints read the Book of Mormon, they should ask themselves what value the book has today.
"Among the lessons we learn from the Book of Mormon are the cause and effect of war and under what conditions it is justified," Elder Perry said. "It tells of the evils and dangers of secret combinations, which are built up to get power and gain over the people. It tells of the reality of Satan and gives an indication of some of the methods he uses. It advises us on the proper use of wealth. It tells us of the plain and precious truths of the gospel and the reality and divinity of Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice for all mankind. It informs us of the gathering of the house of Israel in the last days. It tells us of the purpose and principles of missionary work. It warns us against pride, indifference, procrastination, the dangers of false traditions, hypocrisy and unchastity."
Now, he said, it is up to Church members to learn the principles and apply them to their lives.
"The Book of Mormon begins with a great story on the importance of families having and using the scriptures," he said. "Lehi, a prophet-father, was warned that there were people who were seeking to take away his life because of his declarations concerning their wickedness. He was instructed to take his family and flee. . . .
"After journeying some distance, Lehi had a dream in which the Lord said that they should not journey farther without returning to Jerusalem and obtaining the record of their fathers which was engraven on plates of brass. These plates also contained the words of the prophets and the commandments of the Lord."
Lehi's sons returned to Jerusalem to retrieve the plates. After failed attempts, Nephi obtained the sacred record, Elder Perry said.
"Nephi's example teaches us that the blessings of the scriptures are far more valuable than property and other worldly things. Pursuing the things of the world can sometimes give momentary pleasure but not lasting joy and happiness. When we seek after the things of the Spirit, the rewards are eternal and will bring us the satisfaction we seek through this mortal experience."
President Hinckley is encouraging Latter-day Saints to read the Book of Mormon to lift them above the things of the world, to enjoy the things of the Lord, Elder Perry said.
If Church members, he added, will approach President Hinckley's challenge with faith, they have the sure promise of blessings resulting from their study.
"I pray that each of us will read the Book of Mormon by the end of the year in response to a challenge from our current prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley, to honor the Prophet of the restoration, Joseph Smith. May we have a plan that we follow in faith to taste and be filled with that which is of infinite and eternal value, even the word of God found in the Book of Mormon."
