An Analysis of the Book of Mormon Including

from the

“Most Correct Book”

“…I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than any other book.” – Joseph Smith (Documentary History of the Church, Vol. IV, p.461)

A Study Aid for Future Missionaries, new Members, and Seminary Students

An analysis of The Book of Mormon including

Event Summaries

Teachings and Principles

Suggestions for Application in daily living

MESSAGES from the Most Correct Book

An Analysis of the Book of Mormon

This book is published by the James E. Neumann Institute.

N.A. Neumann, Director

The Institute may be contacted on the Internet at

The James E. Neumann Institute is a privately funded, non-profit institution devoted to religious education, especially the study of the scriptures. It is not officially sponsored or endorsed in any manner by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Foreword

Why create another book about the Book of Mormon? Well, that certainly wasn’t the intent when this effort started years ago. At the time, I was simply teaching Gospel Doctrine Class in the ward, leading that year’s discussion of the Book of Mormon. Since there was so much that we were unable to cover in class due to the meeting’s time limit, I asked myself the question: “What am I not teaching in these chapters that might be valuable to the class members?” To answer that question, I began creating handouts that attempted to note all the points of doctrine and/or the teachings and principles that were not being covered in the class lessons. I decided to summarize the events as a separate paragraph so that the doctrinal points could be associated with the relevant historical context, but not become lost in the context of the events. After all, it can be very difficult to take proper note of every principle when you are also trying to concentrate on just who is saying what to whom in what situation. As I began to create the handouts for each chapter, I also surmised that I would be more helpful to readers if I followed the practice of giving suggestions for application in daily living. That’s how I got started and this book is the outcome of those efforts. When I mentioned it to my father and sent him some samples of the work, he encouraged me to continue the work and served as editor and chief critic of the writing until his death.

This book is not designed, as many are, to mention a point of doctrine or principle and then expound or expand upon it. Such commentaries are widely available from authors who have knowledge, insight, wisdom, and spirituality that I do not possess. So, this book is simply a collection of my attempts to note every doctrine, principle, or teaching that is taught in each chapter of the Book of Mormon. Why do that? Because when we typically read a chapter, we read in such a way that if the prophet Alma is teaching about faith, we seek to understand every verse in the context of the broad subject of “faith”. That has tremendous value and should be done. But to go even further in your study, you will note that upon close study of each individual verse, you find that many other important points are made that, while supporting the teaching of “faith”, also have meaning on their own as important gospel concepts and explanations. That is one reason why the study of the Book of Mormon can be so rewarding as you read and ponder its teachings, hopefully becoming more and more receptive to all—not just the major teachings—of this wonderfully simple, yet intricate, inspired book of scripture.

My goal for this book is that it will be used by those members of the Church, or those who are investigating the Church, who wish to have their attention directed to a more detailed study of the Book of Mormon. And, if I had my dream fulfilled, it would be that you as a reader would take my challenge to do your own study of the scripture in this same manner. Don’t just read my book to see what I found in each verse or chapter. Instead, read each chapter, summarize the events, list each point of doctrine, each principle, each teaching, and think of your own ways to apply the teachings of the chapter. You will benefit just as I did as I pursued my personal study. You and I may not see the same teachings in each verse or chapter. You may have a more insightful, more intelligent view than mine.

The author claims no special expertise or spiritual insight in making this analysis of sacred scripture. I simply hope that it may help you as you study the Book of Mormon. Any mistakes herein are the author’s responsibility and his alone. Any good that comes of this book is due to a merciful Heavenly Father who loves me in spite of my many faults, a diligent earthly father who set a consistent example as a missionary and teacher of the gospel, and a loving wife who supported me in so many ways during the research, writing, rewriting, and editing of this work.

Dedication

This book is dedicated to my father, James Edward Neumann for his example in sharing the gospel with many associates over a period of fifty years of activity in the Church until his death at age 86. He is deeply missed by his children and friends.

In addition, the book is dedicated to my sister, Diana. She has earned my sincere admiration for her care of God’s other creatures—the animals that make this earth so diverse and interesting. Her most recent contribution is the design and creation of EED’s—Environmental Enhancement Devices—a variety of “toys”, if you will, for sick whales and dolphins who are cared for by volunteers in marine research institutes. Diana is one of those devoted volunteers who feeds and cares for sick and injured whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and other wonderful creatures that bring a special beauty to this lone and dreary world.

Finally, I dedicate this work to my loving wife Peggy, my faithful eternal companion for more than 35 years. She has supported me throughout my varied endeavors and comforted me through the trials. I admire her devotion to service of her fellowmen and her willingness to give freely of her time and talents in service to the Lord.

The First Book of Nephi

1 Nephi 1

Event Summary[Between 600-592B.C.]

Nephi introduced himself, commented that he has borne afflictions, and introduced his record as being written in his father’s language. He testified that the record is true and reflects his personal knowledge. He stated that prophets came to Jerusalem preaching repentance around 600 B.C. lest Jerusalem be destroyed. His father, Lehi, prayed about the situation and received a vision of God, the Messiah, and the Twelve Apostles. He stated that he would not write all that his father saw or heard, but would concentrate on the proceedings of his days and only abridge his father’s experiences. Lehi began prophesying of the coming of the Messiah and his redeeming mission, which infuriated the residents of Jerusalem, putting Lehi’s life in danger. Nephi reported that he would show how God protected his father and his family.

Teachings and Principles (verse number)

Goodly parents meet their responsibilities through teaching, sharing what they have learned. (1)
Having afflictions is common to all, even those highly favored of the Lord. (1)
Having knowledge of the goodness and mysteries of God is a blessing in one’s life. (1)
God has prepared a true record of his dealings with his children. That record is written by inspired individuals who have first-hand knowledge of the events. (3)
God always warns his children when they need to repent and change their lives to avoid the consequences of sin. (4)
God’s servants sincerely and fervently petition Heavenly Father on behalf of their people. (5)
The presence of the Spirit is necessary to prepare a mortal for visions and dramatic revelations. (8)
Heavenly visions can be physically taxing, causing trembling and weakness. (6-7)
The Savior’s glory is almost unimaginably bright. (9)
Reading holy things can enable us to be filled with the Spirit. (12)
When individuals and peoples commit abominations, they place their mortal, as well as immortal, destiny in grave jeopardy and dire consequences will follow. (13)
The Lord often uses others to inflict his judgments on the wicked. (13)
Those who “come unto thee [the Savior]” in times of tribulation will not perish. (14)
Great spiritual experiences consume the body and spirit—the soul—with joy. (15)
Assuring that the prophecies and lessons of the past are documented is just as important as documenting our own experiences and knowledge for posterity. (17-18)
Prophets teach and warn based on inspiration, revealed knowledge, and scriptures. (18-19)
When the Lord sends someone on a mission, He watches over them as they are faithful, and delivers them from their enemies according to His will. (20)

Suggested Application

As a child, are you thankful for the good things that you have been taught by your parents? As a parent, are you what your children would acknowledge as “goodly parents”? Think about what it means to be a goodly parent in today’s world.

When experiencing trials, remember to demonstrate faith.

1 Nephi 2

Event Summary [Between 600 and 592 B.C.]

Lehi took his family into the wilderness by the Red Sea, leaving their property. He offered a sacrifice to the Lord and taught his sons obedience to the commandments. Laman and Lemuel murmured against Lehi while Nephi was obedient and prayed faithfully. The Lord spoke to Nephi, and he was chosen to rule over his brethren.

Teachings and Principles

Dreams are one form of revelation to prophets. (1)
Heavenly Father’s children are blessed because of what they do and the faith they demonstrate. (1)
Worldly goods are not comparable to the worth of one’s family and the reward for following God’s commands. (4)
It is appropriate to express gratitude to God for guidance and protection. (7)
Righteous fathers set high expectations for their posterity. (9-10)
Humility is required to recognize and accept the Lord’s prophets. (11-12)
Prophets are often threatened with death because of their teaching against the practices and values of the world. (13)
Power to overcome disbelief and ignorance, confound opposition, and command obedience, comes from the Spirit. (14)
Youth is not a barrier to knowledge of the Lord and holy things if desire and humility are present. (16)
Bearing testimony of revealed truth strengthens others. (17)
Pray for those who deny the truth. (18)
We are blessed when we demonstrate diligence and humility. (19)
The Americas are a Promised Land, prepared for the tribe of Joseph who will be obedient to the commandments of the Lord. (20)
Rebellion will result in loss of blessings and birthrights. (21)
Righteousness is the foundation of authority and responsible leadership. (22)
Fighting against the Lord’s servants is fighting against the Lord. (23)
The Lord uses the wicked to chasten the Church members when necessary. (24)

Suggested Application

We can learn from Nephi’s example to pray to make our hearts receptive to the word of the Lord through his prophets.

View sacrifices required in the service of the Lord as a blessing, not as a burden.

Develop feelings of thankfulness even in times of tribulation.

1 Nephi 3

Event Summary[Between 600 and 592 B.C.]

Nephi and his brothers returned to Jerusalem to obtain the plates of brass, the record of the Jews and also a genealogy of their forefathers, from Laban, who refused to part with them. Nephi exhorted and encouraged his brethren as they attempted various strategies, while Laban took their property and attempted to slay them. Laman and Lemuel smote Nephi, but were then reproved by an angel.

Teachings and Principles

The Lord requires that genealogical records be preserved. (3-4)
“…The Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.” (7)
Because the Lord has prepared the way, we should do as commanded with complete faith and courage. (7)
Faith in keeping commandments requires repeatedly seeking for ways to satisfy our obligation rather than giving up if our first attempt fails. (15-16)
Wickedness brings adverse consequences. (17)
Even prophets would perish if they failed to obey the word of the Lord. (18)
Preserving language, especially that which expresses lineage and/or sacred knowledge and teachings is important to the Lord’s people. This had been emphasized by the Lord since the beginning. (19-20).
Persuasion requires presenting the benefits of keeping the commandments to those in need of encouragement. (21)
Angels watch over us as commanded by our Father. (29)
The Lord appoints righteous rulers to lead the wicked away from their iniquity. (29)

Suggested Application

When given an assignment, remember that the Lord has asked it of you.

Remember that the Lord has prepared the way for you to accomplish his work.

1 Nephi 4

Event Summary [Between 600 and 592 B.C.]

Nephi encouraged his brethren to have faith in God and return to Jerusalem to retrieve the family history. Being guided by the Spirit, Nephi led his brethren back for another attempt and found Laban drunk and helpless. Nephi reluctantly slew Laban as commanded by the Lord. He obtained the plates of brass by stratagem, disguising himself as Laban to gain entry to Laban’s home. Laban’s servant, Zoram, chose to join Nephi and Lehi’s family in the wilderness.

Teachings and Principles

The Lord is omnipotent—all powerful. The historical record is clear on that point. (1-3)
You can have faith in the Lord, or doubt, but you cannot have both simultaneously. (3)
Faith requires us to step into the darkness rather than wait until the way is illuminated. (6)
Behold the Lord slayeth the wicked to bring forth his righteous purposes. It is better that one man should perish than that a nation should dwindle and perish in unbelief. (13)
Inasmuch as the Lord’s people shall keep his commandments, they shall prosper in the land of promise. (14)
To know what is required of us, we must have the law. We cannot obey or choose wisely if we are in ignorance. (15-16)
Whatever the Lord commands is right. (18)
“Oaths” were sacred among men of honor at this time in the history of Israel. (33-35, 37)

Suggested Application

Even when we do not know beforehand what to do, we should follow Nephi’s example and go forth in faith to accomplish the Lord’s commands.

1 Nephi 5

Event Summary[Between 600 and 592 B.C.]

Lehi’s worried wife, Sariah, complained against him. The safe return of their sons brought joy to both parents, so sacrifices of gratitude were offered. The plates of brass contained the writings of Moses and the other prophets. The genealogies on the plates identified Lehi as a descendant of Joseph. Lehi prophesied concerning his seed and the preservation of the brass plates.

Teachings and Principles

Husbands and patriarchs are to comfort their wives even if the wife is unfairly criticizing them. (6)
Given time and understanding, testimony will come as the Lord’s hand is revealed. (8)
We should search the scriptures from beginning to end. (10)
Adam and Eve were our first earthly parents. (11)
Ancient and contemporary prophecies are documented to help strengthen our faith in their fulfillment as well as to warn those who may read them. (13)
The children of Israel were preserved (against famine and war) by the Lord during their Egyptian captivity. (15)
The coming forth of the “plates” (as contained in the Book of Mormon) in our day was foreseen and foretold by Lehi. (18)
Lehi and Nephi were rewarded for their obedience. (20)
The plates contained the commandments Lehi’s family were required to keep, so it was wisdom in the Lord that they should have them. (21-22)

Suggested Application

Remember to comfort those who are in stressful situations even if they say or do something to you that might offend you. Forgive them in those circumstances.

Because we know of Lehi’s prophecy concerning the spread of the Book of Mormon, we should be active missionaries, giving copies of the scripture to our associates.

1 Nephi 6

Event Summary[Between 600 and 592 B.C.]

Nephi wrote of the things of God with the intent to persuade men to come unto the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and be saved.

Teachings and Principles

At God’s direction, a persuasive ecclesiastical record was to be kept separate from the temporal record. (3-4, 6)
There is a great difference between that which is pleasing to the worldly and that which is pleasing to the spiritually-oriented people of God. (5)

Suggested Application

Keep a journal in which you record the spiritual experiences of your life, so that both you and your posterity may benefit from your experience and testimony.

Look at that which pleases you and assess your progress toward perfection.

1 Nephi 7

Event Summary[Between 600 and 592 B.C.]

Lehi sent his sons back to Jerusalem to invite Ishmael and his household—including a number of marriageable daughters—to flee with them. Laman and some others rebelled while Nephi exhorted his brethren to have faith in the Lord. His brethren bound Nephi with cords and planned his destruction. He was freed by the power of faith, and his brethren sought forgiveness. Lehi and his company again offered sacrifice and burnt offerings.

Teachings and Principles

Families and posterity are the highest of priorities in the Lord’s plan. (1)
When we deliver a message from the Lord, the Spirit testifies to its truth to the intended recipient. (4-5)
Elder brethren (and sisters) should be setting the righteous example, not requiring that their younger brethren teach them to be faithful and obedient. (8)
Even dramatic temporal experiences are soon forgotten by those who lack real faith. (10-12)
The Spirit of the Lord will only strive so long with those who reject his servants. (14)
Free agency is ours, even if it allows us to choose death after being warned. (15)
Nephi asked to be strengthened so that he might do all that he could, rather than just asking the Lord to untie his restraints. (17)
We must forgive those who sin against us. We should also counsel them to seek the Lord’s forgiveness for their own good. (20-21)

Suggested Application