Oct. 21-27 - 3 Nephi 27-4 Nephi
"There Could Not Be a Happier People"
Russell Lee (American, 1903-1986)
Congregation Leaving the Latter Days Saints Church at Mendon, Utah (1940)
Photograph, 17.5 x 23 inches
Library of Congress
After Christ's ministry to the Nephites, we observe a people learning to thrive through their belief in Christ. As we delve into these scriptures, we are reminded of the profound themes of unity among the body of Christ as "there could not be a happier people" (4 Nephi 1:16). In Russell Lee’s photograph of a Cache Valley ward departing Sunday School in 1940, a sense of community is visible in the members faces and and in their body language. Captured at a transition point between coming together and then dispersing into their community, the members embody some of the togetherness that these scriptures teach us. Just as the congregation in the photograph shares a moment of connection and purpose, you, too, can ponder your own experiences of unity and your role within the body of Christ.
Discussion Questions:
1. Jesus' disciples are described as "united in mighty prayer and fasting" (3 Nephi 27:1). Have you ever experienced a feeling of unity when fasting and praying with others? What is it about these sacred actions that unifies us?
2. Three of Jesus' disciples asked to never die so that they could continue to preach and minister to the people until Jesus comes again (3 Nephi 28:4-11) and their request was granted (3 Nephi 28:18, 40). If Jesus agreed to give you a "superpower" to bless others, what power would you ask for and why?
3. Jesus gives a specific list to the Gentiles of behaviors that they should turn away from ("your wicked ways") (3 Nephi 30:2). What specific behaviors do you think Jesus would encourage you to leave behind to follow Him?
Questions for Youth & Children:
1. Elder Patrick Kearon is the newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. In the October General Conference, he talked about our Church as "the Church of Joy" (Elder Patrick Kearon, "Welcome to the Church of Joy," October 2024 General Conference). Maybe you listened to his talk during General Conference. If not, you can read or listen to it now on the Church website. What did Elder Kearon teach that we can do to make going to church more joyful? What can you do to make going to church a happier place each Sunday for you and your family?
2. When they were walking and talking with Jesus, He asked His disciples, "What will ye that I shall give unto you?" (3 Nephi 27:1). They asked Him what name they should give to the Church. If you were actually walking and talking with Jesus, what would you ask Him?
3. Jesus taught that "no unclean thing can enter into his kingdom" (3 Nephi 27:19). Think about a time when you were dirty from playing outside or doing something that was messy. How did you feel after you cleaned up? How does Jesus help us to be clean? Idea: think about how you can help to clean something around your house. How do you feel when you help clean up and how do you feel about the area or thing after it is clean? How does this experience relate to following Jesus?
