3 Nephi 23

Study Isaiah and the Scriptures

We are commanded by the Lord to “search these things diligently.” He refers to the writings of Isaiah, but this can be applied to all the scriptures.

The Bible dictionary notes (under Isaiah), "Isaiah is the most quoted of all the prophets, being more frequently quoted by Jesus, Paul, Peter, and John (in his Revelation) than any other O.T. prophet. Likewise the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants quote from Isaiah more than from any other prophet. The Lord told the Nephites that “great are the words of Isaiah,” and that all things Isaiah spoke of the house of Israel and of the gentiles would be fulfilled."

It goes on to say, "The reader today has no greater written commentary and guide to understanding Isaiah than the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants. As one understands these works better he will understand Isaiah better, and as one understands Isaiah better, he more fully comprehends the mission of the Savior, and the meaning of the covenant that was placed upon Abraham and his seed by which all the families of the earth would be blessed."

Perhaps when I have completed my "inspection" of the Book of Mormon, I will take the time to study Isaiah … maybe even enroll in the BYU Independent study course (Teachings of Isaiah) offered there.

Another option is to use the (Old Testament) Institute manual as a guide to studying Isaiah.

Search the Prophets

Jesus also commanded the Nephites (and commands us) to “search the prophets.” To me, this means that we are to search the teachings of the prophets. Every month the Ensign is published and contains the words of the prophets. Every six months, the members of the Church virtually gather to listen to the prophets. LDS.org is a rich repository of many of the prophets' writings. There is so much to read, learn and study.

Secure Sources

There are so many sources of information and disinformation. Not only must we search and gain knowledge, but we must be careful where we obtain our knowledge and information. The beauty of the organization of the Church is that the prophet have a "direct line" of communication with the Savior. In turn, we have a "direct line" from the prophets. The Savior laid organized this line of communication as described in 3 Nephi 23:14. Jesus taught his apostles and then the apostles are commanded to teach the people.