3 Nephi 19: Jesus Prays with and for the People

Book of Mormon Student Study Guide, (2000), 170–171

After the events in 3 Nephi 18, Jesus Christ left the people and ascended into heaven. Chapter 19 tells what the people did throughout the night and the next day, when Jesus returned. At the end of this chapter is Jesus’s testimony about the strength of their faith. As you read, look for what they did that demonstrated their faith, and consider how you might follow their example.

Understanding the Scriptures

3 Nephi 19

Disperse (v. 1)Separate
Noised abroad (vv. 2–3)Talked about everywhere
Varying (v. 8)Different
Ceasing (vv. 24, 30)Stopping
They did not multiply many words (v. 24)They prayed as directed by the Holy Ghost
Countenance (v. 25)Appearance, face

3 Nephi 19:11–13—Weren’t These People Already Baptized?

President Joseph Fielding Smith, then President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught:

“Although they had been baptized previously for the remission of their sins. … The Savior commanded Nephi and the people to be baptized again, because he had organized anew the Church under the gospel. Before that it had been organized under the law [of Moses].

“For the same reason Joseph Smith and those who had been baptized prior to April 6, 1830, were again baptized on the day of the organization of the Church” (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 2:336).

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity B and activity A or C as you study 3 Nephi 19.

Activity A iconReceiving the Holy Ghost

After we are baptized, the person who confirms us will bless us to “receive the Holy Ghost.” In other words, the power of the priesthood can confer or bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost, but it is up to us to receive it.

  1. 1.

    What did the disciples do in 3 Nephi 19:8–14 that led them to the experience of receiving the Holy Ghost?

  2. 2.

    How can you follow the example of those disciples to feel the Holy Ghost in your life more often? As you answer, consider also what you learned in 3 Nephi 18.

Activity B iconPrayers of Jesus

Christ praying
  1. 1.

    List what Jesus said in His prayers about those who believe in Him (see 3 Nephi 19:19–23, 27–29).

  2. 2.

    What most impresses you about what Jesus prayed for?

  3. 3.

    What difference might it make in your life on a daily basis to know that this was the Savior’s prayer for you?

Activity C iconExamples of Faith

In 3 Nephi 19:35, Jesus said that the disciples had demonstrated “great faith.” Write what you think are two significant examples of faith in 3 Nephi 19.

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