Sunday School: Gospel Doctrine
Lesson 4: ‘The Things Which I Saw While I Was Carried Away in the Spirit’


“Lesson 4: ‘The Things Which I Saw While I Was Carried Away in the Spirit’” Book of Mormon Class Member Study Guide (1999), 3–4

“Lesson 4,” Book of Mormon Class Member Study Guide, 3–4

Lesson 4

“The Things Which I Saw While I Was Carried Away in the Spirit”

1 Nephi 12–14

  • In 1 Nephi 12, Nephi describes his vision of the future of his seed (his descendants) and the seed of his brothers. In what ways did the symbols in the vision of the tree of life (the mist of darkness, the great and spacious building, and the river of filthy water) foreshadow the downfall of Nephi’s seed?

  • What did Nephi see formed “among the nations of the Gentiles”? (See 1 Nephi 13:4–5.) Who is the founder of the great and abominable church? (See 1 Nephi 13:6.)

  • What did the great and abominable church do to the Bible? (See 1 Nephi 13:20–26.) Why? (See 1 Nephi 13:27.) What are some doctrines that are difficult to understand in the Bible but plain and precious in the Book of Mormon? How has the Book of Mormon helped make the Bible more understandable to you or increased your testimony of the Bible?

  • Nephi saw that even though the members of the Lord’s Church in the last days would be comparatively few, they would be able to overcome the persecution of the great and abominable church. What did Nephi see the Saints of God armed with? (See 1 Nephi 14:14.) How can you be “armed with righteousness and with the power of God”?

Suggestion for Family Discussion

Read selected verses from 1 Nephi 12–14 as a family. As you study these chapters, give close attention to Nephi’s prophecies. Suggest that family members mark the prophecies in their scriptures. Make a list of the prophecies that have been fulfilled.

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