The Book of Mormon is an important canon of scripture for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is even the inspiration for our nickname: the Mormons. But the Book of Mormon means so much more to Latter-day Saints. It has been called the keystone of our religion. President James E. Faust taught,
The Book of Mormon is a keystone because it establishes and ties together eternal principles and precepts, rounding out basic doctrines of salvation. It is the crowning gem in the diadem of our holy scriptures.
It is also a book of scripture written specifically for our day. Sister Cheryl Esplin said,
Book of Mormon prophets saw our day and the dangers that our families face. Book of Mormon prophets teach us what to do to protect and strengthen our families.
The Book of Mormon teaches us the importance of modern prophets. Clyde J. Williams, a professor of religious education at Brigham Young University, taught,
From beginning to end the Book of Mormon can be viewed as a handbook on following the prophets. Clear examples are given of the blessings that come from heeding the words of the prophets, and clear examples are given of the dangers inherent in rejecting prophetic direction. Thus, its messages are just as relevant today as when they were written. Indeed, the book itself exists because prophets’ words were heeded.
Most importantly, however, the Book of Mormon teaches us about our Savior, Jesus Christ. There are more than 6,000 verses in the Book of Mormon, and those verses refer to Jesus Christ nearly 4,000 times and by 100 different names, including “Jehovah,” “Immanuel,” “Holy Messiah,” “Lamb of God” and “Redeemer of Israel.” This is one of the reasons that President Boyd K. Packer taught,
The Book of Mormon is an endless treasure of wisdom and inspiration, of counsel and correction.
Want to find out a little more about the Book of Mormon? Check out this video. You can also request a free copy from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
