3 Nephi 23

In the next minute, see how many of the following you can search for and find in your room or house: a phone, a book, a picture, a cup, a pillow, and a shoe.

• What does it mean to search?

• What is interesting or exciting about searching?

• What can be difficult or discouraging about it?

Read 3 Nephi 23:1–5, looking for what the Savior commanded us to search and why.

In the previous chapters, the Savior quoted much of Isaiah to help and bless the Nephites. (See 3 Nephi 16:18–20; 20:32, 34–45; 21:8; 22:1–17.)

• What reasons did the Lord give for us to search the words of Isaiah? (see 3 Nephi 23:1–3).

• According to 3 Nephi 23:5, why should we hearken to the Lord’s words and the words of the prophets?

One of the important principles we learn in this lesson is that the Savior commands us to heed His words and search diligently the words of the prophets.

• What do you think it means to search the scriptures diligently?

Take a moment to reflect on your scripture study. This can include personal and family study as well as study in church and seminary. Do you feel you search the scriptures diligently? Why or why not?

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icon, record

1. Answer the following questions:

   • What are some reasons it might be difficult to search the scriptures diligently?

   • Despite these difficulties, what are some things you have done, or could do, to have a meaningful scripture study experience?

Here are some examples:

• Pray before you study.

• Mark important words and phrases, especially those that help you know the Savior better.

• Look up words or phrases that are difficult to understand.

• Pause and summarize what you have read.

• Use cross-references to understand a topic or doctrine better.

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Christ talking to Nephi about the records

To practice two of these skills, read 3 Nephi 23:6–14 and do the following:

• Summarize in your own words what you read.

• Mark any words or phrases that help you better understand the Savior.

• What words make it clear that the Savior cares about what is recorded in scripture?

• How might knowing this about the Savior affect how you study the scriptures?

Take a few minutes to practice searching the scriptures diligently. You might choose to study a chapter or to search verses about a topic you want to know more about. Use at least one scripture skill you thought of or discovered in the list above.

During the coming week, reflect on what you have learned today. Choose one way you can strive to search the scriptures more diligently. Consider how this can help you in your life.