Come Closer to Jesus Christ through Study of the Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon is a book of inspired scripture that exists to give us direction in our lives and connect us to Jesus. Where does the name come from? Hundreds of years ago in the ancient Americas, a prophet named Mormon compiled a record of his people. They faced a lot of the same challenges we do. Just like us, they have found strength when they turn to Jesus Christ.

The Book of Mormon is meant to be read alongside the Bible as another testament of Jesus Christ and His divine mission as the Savior and Redeemer of the world. Together, the Bible and the Book of Mormon provide more understanding of God’s great love for all of us and can help us come closer to Him.

The principles recorded in the Book of Mormon—faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, joy, salvation—changed the lives of an ancient people. In our day, the Book of Mormon influences the lives of millions of people around the world by bringing them closer to Jesus Christ.

Scriptures are more than old words and stories. They are relevant, timely messages for the problems we face. When you approach reading the Book of Mormon by frequently asking yourself, “What is this really saying?” you’ll find there are many relevant messages for you today. The book was written to inspire readers to make decisions that improve their lives and bring them closer to God. It was the authors’ hope that their words would lead people to Jesus Christ and change behaviors; lift life’s sadness, uncertainty, and fear; offer purpose and direction to people’s outlook on life; and give people evidence that God is still “a God of miracles” (Mormon 9:11).

The significance of the Book of Mormon in the world can be measured by the number of copies distributed or the increase in the number of people who choose to follow Jesus Christ after reading the book. The most important effect, however, is personal. The Book of Mormon answers questions, provides hope, and solidifies spiritual strength in people, one by one.

The Book of Mormon can change people’s lives when they are sinful or faithful, hopeless or happy. Many people find meaning in the Book of Mormon, people that may be learned or uneducated, alone or surrounded by friends and family, wealthy or poor. A common characteristic of people affected by this book is the simple desire to know and understand its truth.