Genesis CHAPTER 18 Abraham entertains three holy men—They promise that Sarah will have a son—Abraham will command his children to be just—The Lord appears to him—They discuss the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Genesis CHAPTER 21 Sarah bears Isaac—He is circumcised—Hagar and her son are cast out of Abraham’s household—The Lord saves Hagar and Ishmael—Abraham and Abimelech deal honorably with each other.
Even though God had promised that Sarah and Abraham were going to have a son, as they got older it seemed impossible—Abraham was 100 years old, and Sarah was 90 (see Genesis 17:17).
Write on the chalkboard: Is anything too hard for the Lord? Invite the children to discuss this question. Or write each word from the first sentence of Genesis 18:14 on a separate piece of paper, and give one to each child. Then ask the class to put the words in the correct order.
You and your children could then read Genesis 17:15–21; 21:1–7 to find an example of something the Lord did that seemed impossible. Share with your children your faith that the Lord will fulfill His promises, even if they seem impossible or take a long time.
Abraham and Sarah had a baby boy, just as the Lord promised. They named him Isaac. Genesis 17:9; 21:1–3
To learn about Abraham and Sarah’s trust in God’s promises, you and your children could talk about a time when they had to wait for something they really wanted. You could then look at the picture of Sarah and Isaac and talk about the promise God made to her and Abraham. Help your children think of things that God has promised us if we are faithful. Encourage them to be patient and trust that God will keep His promises.
With the children, sing a song that testifies of God’s promises, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Help the children identify things that God has promised us if we are faithful.
This video is going too fast during the second verse and you will need to use the pictures below during that part.
Additional Teaching Ideas:
“Lesson 11: Abraham and Isaac,” Primary 6: Old Testament (Pages 35-38) Show the pictures The Crossing of the Red Sea, Daniel in the Lions’ Den, and Three Men in the Fiery Furnace. Briefly explain that the Lord parted the waters of the Red Sea to let Moses and the Israelites escape from the Egyptian army, he protected Daniel from a den of lions, and he kept three young men from being burned when they were cast into a fiery furnace. (Note: Do not teach these stories in detail. Tell the children that they will learn more about these stories later in the year.) Point out that these people trusted in the Lord and had faith that his will would be done. Their faith was rewarded with miracles.
Genesis CHAPTER 19 Lot entertains holy men—The men of Sodom seek to abuse Lot’s guests and are smitten with blindness—Lot is sent out of Sodom—The Lord rains brimstone and fire upon Sodom and Gomorrah—Lot’s daughters preserve his seed in the land.
Ask your children about situations in which someone might invite them to do something they know isn’t right. How would we “flee” these situations?
Friend November 2017 “Peer Pressure Problems” Ideas on how to deal with peer pressure to avoid making wrong choices
Summarize Genesis 19:15–26 by explaining that Lot’s family lived in a very wicked city and angels warned them to leave. As you and your children read together verses 15–17, 26, ask them what it might mean for us today to “escape” evil and “look not behind” (verse 17).
Display a picture of the Savior, and ask the children to take a step toward it as they share one thing they can do to flee wickedness and come closer to Christ.
Although we do not know the identity of the three messengers, Abraham treated them as if they were presiding authorities of the Lord’s kingdom then on the earth, and their messages were directly from the Lord (see Bruce R. McConkie, Doctrinal New Testament Commentary[1973], 3:235; Sidney B. Sperry, “Abraham’s Three Visitors,” Improvement Era, Aug. 1931, 583, 585).
ABRAHAM AND ISAAC, SACRIFICE
Genesis CHAPTER 22 Abraham is commanded to sacrifice Isaac, his son—Both father and son yield to the will of God—Abraham’s seed will be as the stars and the sand in number—In his seed, all nations will be blessed—Rebekah is born to Bethuel.
Using pictures of Abraham and Isaac and of the Crucifixion (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 9, 57) can help your children compare the story in Genesis 22 with the Savior’s sacrifice. How does the story of Abraham and Isaac remind us of the sacrifice Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ made for us.
Isaac was Abraham and Sarah’s only son (see Genesis 22:2).
Jesus was the Only Begotten Son of the Father (see John 3:16).
Isaac was to be offered on a mountain in the land of Moriah, which tradition holds was the temple mount in Jerusalem (see Genesis 22:2; 2 Chronicles 3:1).
Jesus was crucified on a hill outside of Jerusalem (see Mark 15:22).
Isaac was to be a burnt offering (see Genesis 22:2).
All sacrifices are to be done in similitude of Jesus Christ (see Moses 5:5–7).
Isaac carried the wood for the sacrifice (see Genesis 22:6).
Isaac submitted to the will of his father (see Genesis 22:9).
Jesus submitted to the will of His Father (see Luke 22:42).
Abraham did not withhold his son (see Genesis 22:11).
God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son (see John 3:16).
Can you think of a simple game to play with your children that requires them to follow directions? Maybe the directions could lead to a hidden picture of the Savior. The game could prompt a conversation about things Heavenly Father has commanded us to do so we can live with Him and Jesus Christ again. Consider singing a song such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). This week’s activity page could help as well.
Show the video “For God So Loved the World” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), or sing together a song about the Savior’s sacrifice, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook,34–35). Invite the children to talk about how Jesus’s sacrifice shows Heavenly Father’s love for us.
What have we been asked to sacrifice as a family? How have these sacrifices brought us closer to God?
Additional Resources
Additional Chapters
Genesis CHAPTER 20 Abimelech desires Sarah, who is preserved by the Lord—Abraham prays for Abimelech, and the Lord blesses him and his household.
Genesis CHAPTER 23 Sarah dies and is buried in the cave of Machpelah, which Abraham buys from Ephron the Hittite.
Abraham CHAPTER 1 Abraham seeks the blessings of the patriarchal order—He is persecuted by false priests in Chaldea—Jehovah saves him—The origins and government of Egypt are reviewed.
Abraham CHAPTER 2 Abraham leaves Ur to go to Canaan—Jehovah appears to him at Haran—All gospel blessings are promised to his seed and through his seed to all—He goes to Canaan and on to Egypt.
Genesis CHAPTER 12 Abram will become a great nation—He and his seed will bless all the families of the earth—He travels from Haran to the land of Canaan—Because of famine, he goes down into Egypt—Abram and Sarai are tested in Pharaoh’s court.
As you and your children read Abraham 1:18 and 2:8, you could invite them to listen for a part of the body that is mentioned in both verses. Maybe you could play a game in which a child closes their eyes and you lead the child somewhere by the hand. How would it feel to have Jesus Christ lead us by the hand or to have His hand protecting us?
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” Abraham wanted to be righteous even though members of his family were wicked. The Lord said to him, “I will lead thee by my hand” (Abraham 1:18). Just as God promised to help Abraham, He can lead the children you teach when they desire to choose the right. Testify that Jesus leads us by guiding us through His Spirit.
Friend January 2021 “The Party Problem” Luz felt uneasy about going to a graduation party. It didn’t sound like the kind of party where she’d be able to feel the Holy Ghost. She thought about it, made her choice not to go, and then asked Heavenly Father if that was the right choice. Afterwards she felt a wave of warmth and light and knew she had made the right choice.
When Abraham’s life was in danger, he called on God. When Hagar was alone in the wilderness, she learned that God heard her. Consider sharing these two stories with your children: “Abraham and Sarah” and “Hagar” in Old Testament Stories, 28–31, 32–33. What do we learn about God from these stories? Then you could share with each other experiences when you felt that God heard you. A song like “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13) could reinforce this principle.
Display the picture An Angel Saves Abraham (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and invite the children to share what they know about the story it depicts, found in Abraham 1:12, 15–17. Ask the children to read these verses and share things they learn about prayer.
President Joseph Fielding Smith, commenting on the human sacrifices that took place during the time of Abraham, wrote: “Abraham was of the [tenth] generation from Noah. Several hundred years had passed since the flood, and people had multiplied and spread over the face of the earth. The civilizations of Egypt, Chaldea, Assyria and the petty nations of Canaan, had been established. In the midst of this scattering the true worship of the Father was nearly lost. Sacrifice instituted in the days of Adam and continued in the practice and teaching of Noah, in the similitude of the great sacrifice of the Son of Man, had become perverted. Instead of offering clean animals, such as the lamb and bullock, the apostate nations had dwindled in unbelief to the extent that human sacrifice was offered to their idol gods” (The Way to Perfection, 85).
Invite the children to share experiences when Heavenly Father answered their prayers, and share one of your own experiences.
Friend October 2018 “Canyon Prayer” Carsen and some family members get lost in a canyon while hiking. Carsen knew that Heavenly Father knew the way out so he suggested they pray. He then receives a prompting on which way to go, and they are able to quickly find their way out.
Genesis CHAPTER 13 Abram returns from Egypt—He and Lot part—The Lord will make Abram’s seed as the dust of the earth in number—Abram settles in Hebron.
Your children might enjoy acting out the story from Genesis 13:5–12, pretending to be Abraham, Lot, and the herdsmen. How can we follow Abraham’s example of being a peacemaker with our family or friends? Try role-playing their answers.
Read Matthew 5:9, and explain that Jesus wants us to be peacemakers. Help the children think of what they can do to be peacemakers at home or with friends. Invite them to draw a picture of themselves being a peacemaker. Ask the children to share how they feel when they are peacemakers like Jesus Christ.
“Cease From Anger” (February 2010 Friend) Take this quiz to see how forgiving you are. When we are loving and forgiving, we can be peacemakers.
Write Main Characters, Setting, Problem, and Solution on the board. Invite the children to read Genesis 13:5–12 and identify the parts of the story listed on the board. Help the children think of situations when they could be peacemakers, such as when someone argues or tries to fight. Then invite them to role-play how they could be peacemakers in those situations.
Help the children find the topics “Peace” and “Peacemaker” in the Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite each child to select a scripture about peace and share what he or she learns with the class. Help them think of some examples of the Savior being a peacemaker, such as in Luke 22:50–51. How can we follow His example?
“Matt and Mandy” (October 1994 Friend) Mandy learns to be a peacemaker by watching her mother’s example.
Genesis CHAPTER 14 Lot is captured in the battles of the kings—He is rescued by Abram—Melchizedek administers bread and wine and blesses Abram—Abram pays tithes—He declines to accept the spoils of conquest.
In Genesis 14:20, we read that Abraham paid tithing. Elder David A. Bednar has taught that spiritual blessings “are poured out through the windows of heaven and into our lives as we honor the law of tithing” (“The Windows of Heaven,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 18).
As a family, discuss the blessings you’ve seen from obeying the law of tithing.
Have one person write the blessings down.
Together, go through the list again and discuss some of the ways these blessings make your life better.
Elder Bednar also taught that “a subtle but significant blessing we receive [as we honor the law of tithing] is the spiritual gift of gratitude that enables our appreciation for what we have. … A grateful person is rich in contentment” (“The Windows of Heaven,” 18). How has your family seen gratitude as a blessing of paying tithing?
The Lord Makes Covenants with Abraham
Genesis CHAPTER 15 Abram desires offspring—The Lord promises him seed in number as the stars—Abram believes the promise—His seed will be strangers in Egypt—Then, after four generations, they will inherit Canaan.
Genesis CHAPTER 16 Sarai gives Hagar to Abram as his wife—Hagar flees from Sarai—An angel commands Hagar to return and submit herself to Sarai—Hagar bears Ishmael.
Genesis CHAPTER 17 Abram is commanded to be perfect—He will be a father of many nations—His name is changed to Abraham—The Lord covenants to be a God unto Abraham and his seed forever—Also, the Lord gives Abraham the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession—Circumcision becomes a token of the everlasting covenant between God and Abraham—Sarai’s name is changed to Sarah—She will bear Isaac, with whom the Lord will establish His covenant—Abraham and the men of his house are circumcised.
Consider showing your children a container of sand, the stars in the night sky, or the picture at the end of this outline. This could help them understand God’s promises in Genesis 13:16; 15:1–6. Talk about how you’ve learned to trust God’s promises, even when they seemed impossible.
To teach your children about covenants, ask them to tell you about a time when they made a promise or someone made a promise to them.
Friend April 2021 “Trouble at the Creek” Brian doesn’t keep his promise to his mom to stay away from the creek after the storm. He crosses it on a fallen log and gets his foot stuck.
Sometimes keeping our promises helps keep us physically safe, such as in the the story above. Keeping the covenants we make with Heavenly Father can also help keep us safe, spiritually and physically, and help us to become more like our Heavenly Father
Share some examples of your own—including covenants you’ve made with God at baptism or in the temple. How have your covenants affected your relationship with God?
Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.
Help the children understand that Abraham and Sarah promised to obey God. Choose a few phrases from Genesis 15:1–6; 17:1–8; Abraham 2:9–11 to share some of the blessings God promised to them. These might include “Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield,” “Thou shalt be a father of many nations,” or “All the families of the earth [shall] be blessed.”
Song: “I Want to Live the Gospel” (Children’s Songbook, 148)
Activity: Draw or make a shield. Write on your shield ways you can obey God.
Liahona February 2022 “The Abrahamic Covenant” God promised Abraham that “as many as receive this Gospel shall be … thy seed” (Abraham 2:10). Our covenants at baptism and in the temple allow us access to the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant and make us part of the covenant people of God, as long as we are faithful (see Ezekiel 11:20).
To help your children prepare to make a covenant with God when they are baptized, you could use some of the activity ideas suggested in appendix A or appendix B.
I Can Keep the Covenants I Make with Heavenly Father.
Institute: Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel Abraham could validly state that Sarah was his sister. In the Bible the Hebrew words brother and sister are often used for other blood relatives. (See Genesis 14:14, in which Lot, Abraham’s nephew, is called “his brother.”) Because Abraham and Haran, Sarah’s father, were brothers, Sarah was Abraham’s niece and thus could be called sister. The accompanying pedigree chart shows this relationship.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “John 2–4” When we are baptized, which Jesus called being “born of water,” we receive a remission of our sins and can “enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). How can you help the children you teach understand what being born again means?
Make word strips showing the Savior’s words in John 3:3, and let the children put them in the correct order. How is being baptized and confirmed like being born again?
What does it mean to be born again?
Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught: “We begin the process of being born again through exercising faith in Christ, repenting of our sins, and being baptized by immersion for the remission of sins by one having priesthood authority. …
President Ezra Taft Benson taught: “In addition to the physical ordinance of baptism and the laying on of hands, one must be spiritually born again to gain exaltation and eternal life” (“Born of God,” Ensign, July 1989, 2–4). Therefore, being born again requires more than simply being baptized and confirmed. In order to be born again one needs to live in such a manner that the Holy Ghost changes the heart.
Elder David A. Bednar taught: “Conversion … is mighty, not minor—a spiritual rebirth and fundamental change of what we feel and desire, what we think and do, and what we are. As we choose to follow the Master, we choose to be changed—to be spiritually reborn” (“Ye Must Be Born Again,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 20).in order to realize the intended blessings of this born-again status, we must still keep our covenants and endure to the end” (“Have You Been Saved?,” Ensign, May 1998, 56).
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “John 2-4” Talk with your family about the miracle of pregnancy and birth—the process of creating a living, intelligent being. Jesus taught that we must be reborn before entering the kingdom of God. Why is rebirth a good metaphor for the change required of us before we can enter the kingdom of God? How can we experience the process of spiritual rebirth? (It takes time for an living intelligent being to grow in the womb and be born. Being born again is also a process and doesn’t happen instantly. )
“Total immersion in and saturation with the Savior’s gospel are essential steps in the process of being born again” (“Ye Must Be Born Again,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 21).
Display a picture of a newborn baby and of someone getting baptized and confirmed (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 104–5). How are we like a newborn baby after we are baptized and confirmed? (see John 3:3–5).
Invite the children to share memories of their baptisms. Read Mosiah 18:8–10 and Doctrine and Covenants 20:37 to review the baptismal covenant. Teach the children that taking the sacrament thoughtfully every week is a way to continue the process of being born again.
John 3:7–8. Why did Jesus compare being “born again” to the wind?
New Testament Seminary Teacher Manual “John In response to Nicodemus’s confusion about being born again, the Savior compared being born of the Spirit to the wind. (The Greek word for spirit is pneuma, which may also be translated as breath or wind.) Just as the wind is difficult to see, so it is difficult to see the process of being born again. We can see the effects of the wind but struggle to know when it starts and when it ends as well as where it comes from. A similar conclusion can be drawn about the process of being born again. It is difficult to see exactly when it starts or when it ends, but its effects are very visible as actions and desires change.
Friend February 2021 “Feeling Christ’s Love” When Elder Takashi Wada Of the Seventy was young he read the Bible in school and wanted to know more about Jesus. Then he met the missionaries and they gave him a Book of Mormon and her learned more about Jesus. He wanted to be baptized and follow Jesus.
Several years ago, my son Jack and I had the opportunity to play the Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland, where the game of golf began. It was simply amazing! Upon my return I tried to convey to others the magnitude of the experience. But I couldn’t. Photos, videos, and my best descriptions were totally inadequate. I finally realized the only way for someone to know the grandeur of St. Andrews is to experience it—to see the vast fairways, breathe the air, feel the wind in their face, and hit a few errant shots into the cavernous bunkers and burly gorse bushes, which we did with great efficiency.
So it is with the word of God. We can teach it, we can preach it, we can explain it. We can talk about it, we can describe it, we can even testify of it. But until a person feels the sacred word of God distill upon his or her soul like the dews from heaven through the power of the Spirit,8 it will be like looking at a postcard or someone else’s vacation photos. You have to go there yourself. Conversion is a personal journey—a journey of gathering.
Ezra Booth was converted to the Church after seeing Joseph Smith heal Elsa Johnson’s arm (which she hadn’t been able to use for two years). But Ezra later lost his faith, and he became critical of the Prophet. Doctrine and Covenants 63 contains warnings against trying to build our faith on signs, such as miraculous healings, rather than on spiritual confirmation of truth. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”)
Invite the children to draw a house sitting on top of a rectangle and another house sitting on the point of a triangle. Tell the children that the houses represent our faith and testimonies. Ask them to read Doctrine and Covenants 63:9–10 and Helaman 5:12. Then have them write in the rectangle what we should build our faith on and in the triangle what we should not build our faith on. Point out that the rectangle provides a solid place to build but the triangle is not safe and secure. Why is it important to build our faith on Jesus Christ rather than on other things? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”)
Explain that a miracle is something God does to show His power and bless our lives (see Bible Dictionary, “Miracles”)You might also consider why some people receive signs “for the good of men unto [God’s] glory” (verse 12) and others receive them “unto … condemnation” (verse 11). Maybe your family members could talk about miracles that have strengthened their faith, including experiences from your family or your family history. How did they exercise the faith needed to receive these miracles? What does Doctrine and Covenants 63:7–12 teach about the relationship between faith and miracles? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 60–62”)
The people felt different and new inside because they had faith in Jesus. Now they wanted to do good things all the time. They made a promise to follow God’s commandments for the rest of their lives. Because they believed in Jesus and made this promise, they were called Jesus’s people. Mosiah 5:2–9, 15; 6:1–2
Come Follow Me Kid “Mosiah 4-6” A Mighty Change – What does the word “change” mean? Share examples of things that change (caterpillars change to butterflies, dough changes to cookies when you bake it, etc.). Can WE change? Mosiah 5:2 says that the Spirit of the Lord caused a “mighty change” in the hearts of people.
After King Benjamin taught his people about the Atonement of Jesus Christ, they experienced “a mighty change” in their hearts, so that they had “no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually” (Mosiah 5:2).
Cut out six paper hearts and write the letters C-H-A-N-G-E, one letter on each heart. Turn the hearts upside down on the table and scramble them.
Choose a family member to flip the papers over and unscramble the word. Discuss how King Benjamin’s people experienced a change in their hearts.
Each family member now chooses a letter from the table and thinks of a word or phrase that suggests a mighty change of heart. (Example: C = charity, or choose the right; H = happiness; and so on.)
Discussion: What caused the people to experience “a mighty change” in their hearts? What blessings can we receive when we turn our hearts to God?
Friend February 2001 “Latter-day Prophets Wheel” Fasten the two circles together with a metal fastener through the center dots. Find the picture of Joseph Smith; in the window below his picture you can read an interesting fact about him. Continue turning the top circle to the right to see the men in the order that they served as Presidents of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to read something that that prophet is remembered for. You might want to use the wheel to help you sing “Latter-day Prophets”* in a family home evening.
Friend January 2001 “Funstuf: Latter-day Prophets” All of the latter-day prophets are listed below, but it is difficult to read them. To unscramble the letters in each group, start at the IN arrow and connect the letters to spell a prophet’s name ending at the OUT arrow. Some letters will not be used. The first one has been done as an example for you.
Prophet Dot-to-Dot Activity Idea: Make several cards with information about the prophet on each one. Label the back of each card with a section of numbers from the dot-to-dot such as 1-5 or 15-20. Put the cards, numbers face up, on a table. A child picks one of the cards, reads the clue, and gets to draw those lines on the picture and try to guess who the prophet it is. They write their guess down and their name on the first slot of a numbered card. Continue in this manner until all the clues are read and the lines on the picture are drawn. Reveal the name of the prophet, and then read the card with the guesses to see who got the correct answer first. (Note: You may need to display a picture that contains all the prophets and their names to help the children have a reference to make their guesses from.)
Watch the video “President Nelson: Prophet of God” from time code 0:00 to 5:41. How do you see President Nelson ministering to others in the same way Jesus Christ did?
Friend January 2021 “I Love You” President Nelson met with some Primary children in a log house in Palmyra, New York and shared the following messages: The Lord loves effort; Commandments are a recipe for happiness; Repentance is a joyous opportunity. (See the article for more info.)
Friend June 2019 “Grateful for Parents” President Nelson’s parents didn’t attend church when he was young, and he wanted them to. When he learned about the Word of Wisdom he broke every bottle of liquor in the house. The thing he wanted for Christmas every year was to be sealed to his parents.
Friend August 2018 “President Nelson Loves Children” President Nelson meets Primary children as he travels all over the world. (Link includes photos.)
Friend January 2019 “Show and Tell” Senior Primary children in Greater Manchester, England, wrote their own verse about President Russell M. Nelson for the song “Follow the Prophet.”
Russell is a prophet, Baptised at sixteen, His parents were less active; He was very keen. He became a doctor, Doctor of the heart. Building many temples, He has made a start.
Friend March 2021 “Trust in the Prophet” When Elder Homer was young, he wanted to be very reverent when passing the sacrament. Russel M. Nelson was in his ward and noticed his reverence and complimented him on it. That meant a lot to Elder Homer. (Make a mobile of quotes by President Russel M. Nelson.)
Friend May 2019 Bookmark with a testimony by President Nelson
Among President Nelson’s most important teachings are the following:
He has admonished us to use the correct name of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
He has counseled us in how to let God prevail in our lives.
He has encouraged us to “think celestial.”
He has taught us an enlarged vision of gathering Israel on both sides of the veil.
He has inspired us to progress on the covenant path, and he has lovingly invited us to return to that path if we have strayed.
He has exhorted Church members everywhere to follow a home-centered, Church-supported pattern of gospel learning.
Friend November 2025 “Remembering President Nelson” Our wonderful prophet President Russell M. Nelson passed away the week before general conference. He was 101 when he died and set an example of following Jesus Christ his whole life.
Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024) It was decreed in the counsels of eternity, long before the foundations of the earth were laid, that he, Joseph Smith, should be the man, in the last dispensation of this world, to bring forth the word of God to the people, and receive the fulness of the keys and power of the Priesthood of the Son of God.(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young [1997], 96, 343)
Prophets long ago knew that a man named Joseph would translate the scriptures (see 2 Nephi 3:7, 15). They wrote about him on the gold plates. Can you imagine how Joseph Smith felt when he translated those words?
Joseph of Egypt Prophesied about Joseph Smith
Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024) Chapter 3 of 2 Nephi records Lehi’s dying words to his youngest son, Joseph. Lehi quoted a prophecy [from the brass plates] made by Joseph of Egypt roughly 1,700 years before the birth of Christ. Imagine Joseph Smith’s surprise when he discovered that he was the subject of much of the prophecy made by Joseph of Egypt. (see also Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:24–38 (Note that “fruit of thy loins” refers to children or posterity.)
Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:27–33 (in the Bible appendix) Joseph in Egypt prophesies of Moses freeing Israel from Egyptian bondage; of a branch of Joseph’s descendants being led to a faraway land, where they will be remembered in the covenants of the Lord; of God calling a latter-day prophet named Joseph to join the records of Judah and of Joseph.
Give the children descriptive clues about Joseph Smith, and invite them to guess who you are describing. Include clues from Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:27–33 (in the Bible appendix), such as “he taught us about covenants” (see verse 28), “he gave us the word of the Lord” (see verse 30), and “he was named after his father” (see verse 33). After the children guess correctly, invite them to find these clues in the verses. What else do we learn about Joseph Smith from the prophecy of Joseph in Egypt?
Invite the children to search 2 Nephi 3:6–24 for clues about which prophet is being spoken of. List the clues on the board. Why is Joseph Smith called a “choice seer”? What did Joseph Smith do that is “of great worth to [his brethren]”? (verse 7).
Liahona February 2020 “Meet the Four Josephs” Lehi tells his son Joseph about some of the prophecies that Joseph of Egypt made about Joseph Smith, who was named after his father, Joseph. The article includes the following: What Did Joseph of Egypt Say about Joseph Smith? How Was Joseph Smith Like Joseph of Egypt? How Did Lehi Know about Joseph of Egypt?
Joseph Smith Made Good Choices as a Child and So Can I
Come Follow Me Kid Watch “Joseph Smith and His Family”, or tell the story above about the operation on Joseph’s leg. Tell them to pay close attention to what Joseph Smith decided to do when doctors told him that his leg would hurt a LOT during the operation unless he would drink wine. Joseph Smith made good choices as a child. We can make good choices too.
Joseph Smith was prepared to be a prophet of God.
The home life and nurture provided by Joseph Smith’s parents and siblings shaped much of Joseph’s early prophetic work. His attention to prayer and Bible study owed much to his parents’ religious commitments. (Church History Topics: Joseph Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith Family)
Joseph was chosen by God and prepared to be a prophet. Joseph’s experiences as a boy prepared him to be a prophet of God. A prophet is someone who speaks for God.
Learning about Joseph Smith’s youth could help your children relate to him as they learn from his experiences. Maybe they could hold a picture of Joseph Smith and share what they know about him. If needed, you might add some facts about him from Joseph Smith—History 1:3–14 (see also “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 6–8, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library). What did Joseph experience that helped prepare him to become a prophet? What might God be preparing us to do?
Joseph Smith was born in 1805 in the state of Vermont in the United States of America. He was the fourth of nine children. When Joseph was ten years old, he and his family moved to the state of New York, settling near the town of Palmyra (point out this area on the map). The Smith family was poor, and all the members of the family had to work hard to provide food and other necessities for the family. The family had moved many times before settling near Palmyra, where they found farmland on which crops would grow well.
How did Joseph Smith help his family? (JS—H 1:55.) How do you think learning to work hard helped prepare Joseph to serve the Lord? What are some ways you work in your family? Why should we be willing to work in our homes and yards to help our families? How will learning to work and take on responsibilities help us serve the Lord?
Joseph did not have much opportunity to attend school, so he learned only the basics of reading, writing, and simple arithmetic. Joseph’s mother said that he seemed just like other boys his age until the time of his vision. She said he was quiet and well-mannered and liked to study and think about important things. He was a tall, athletic, cheerful boy who seldom got angry.
“My grandfather, Asael smith long ago predicted that there would be a prophet raised up in the family, and. my grandmother was fully satisfied that it was fulfilled in me. My grandfather Asael died Oct 31, 1830 after having received the Book of Mormon and read it nearly through, and. he declared, that I was the very prophet that he had long known would come in his family.” (D.H.C. Vol. II p. 443)
“It has been borne in upon my soul that one of my descendants will promulgate a work to revolutionize the world of religious faith” (quoted in George Q. Cannon, Life of Joseph Smith, the Prophet [1986], 26).
Voices of the Restoration Lucy Mack Smith’s illness where she almost died and her promise that if the Lord would let her live she would find the religion that would enable her to serve him best. Also, Joseph said his father never did a mean or ungenerous act in his life.
Childhood Games
“Stick Pull” (February 2014 Friend) You can play a game played by Joseph Smith.
Historical Sites
Friend December 2018 “Digging into History” Children help archaeologists dig for clues for what life was like for Joseph Smith when he was young living in Vermont with his family. They find stone fences and some artifacts. The article includes photos.
“A Prophet Is Born” (December 2012 Friend) Learn about Joseph Smith’s early life with three children who visit their grandparents who are missionaries at the Prophet’s birthplace in Vermont.
What the Lord accomplished through the Prophet Joseph Smith
Show the children pictures that represent important things Joseph Smith did or taught (see, for example, Gospel Art Book, nos. 89–95, 97, 98, 117, 118). Help the children think of blessings we have because of Joseph Smith. For example, how has his work helped us come closer to Jesus Christ?
Display items that represent some of the Lord’s marvelous works during the latter days, such as a picture of the First Vision or of Joseph Smith receiving the priesthood (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 90, 93, 94) or a copy of the Book of Mormon. Invite the children to choose an item and share why it is marvelous to them.
Consider how you can teach your children about the great work that God accomplished through Joseph Smith. To begin, you could help your children find the word “seer” in 2 Nephi 3:6 and explain that prophets are called seers because Heavenly Father helps them see things we can’t see. Share why you are grateful to have a seer leading the Church.
To help family members understand what a seer is, perhaps you could show them pictures of tools that help us see things we couldn’t otherwise see, such as binoculars, a telescope, or a microscope. How are these tools like a seer? (see Moses 6:35–36). What can seers see that we do not? What evidence do we have that Joseph Smith was a seer?
The Gospel Art Book has several pictures you could use to teach about the work God did through Joseph Smith (see pictures 89–95). Let your children share what they know about the pictures. Why is Joseph Smith called a “choice seer”? What did Joseph Smith do that is “of great worth”? (verse 7).
“City of Enoch” (December 1994 Friend) Solve this code to figure out why the people in the city of Enoch were so righteous.
For the Strength of Youth January 2026 “Fun Stop The city of Enoch was “taken up into heaven” after they became of “of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18–21). Can you help this city become “one” by figuring out the correct missing piece? (Answer: 2)
Moses 7 Enoch continued preaching repentance. The Lord protected His people from their enemies. Enoch established the city of Zion on the principles of righteousness. He saw a vision of the earth’s history from his own day to the Millennium. He saw the influence of the adversary and watched God weep for the suffering of His children. Enoch also foresaw the coming of the Savior, the eventual Restoration of the gospel, the gathering of Israel, and the return of the city of Zion upon the earth. Enoch and his city were translated. (Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Moses 7”)
Activity: The Lord helped Enoch teach the gospel. Teach the gospel like Enoch by sharing your testimony! Say a prayer to receive help from Heavenly Father. Write or draw something you believe. Then share your testimony with someone you love.
God wants us to be “of one heart and one mind.”
To help your children learn about Enoch and Zion, you could use “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories (19–21) or the second verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Then you could ask your children to help you retell the story in their own words. The pictures of Enoch in this outline might help.
Here’s one way to help your children understand what it means to be of “one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18): Make a paper heart and cut it into pieces, enough for each child to have one. Let them write their name on their piece and work together to put the heart together. As they do, you might talk about things you love about each child.
Help your children count how many times the word “Zion” appears in Moses 7:18–21, 62–63, 68–69. Each time they find the word, help them discover what the verse says about Zion (see also Guide to the Scriptures, “Zion,” Gospel Library). How can we be more like the people described in these verses?
Ask the children to look for words that describe Enoch’s people, also known as Zion, as they read Moses 7:18. Write these words as headings at the top of the board, and invite the children to write, under each heading, things they can do to be more like Enoch’s people. After they share, ask the children how they can make their homes more like Zion. They might find some ideas in 4 Nephi 1:15–18.
Help the children think of actions related to the phrase “one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). Explain that this phrase means that the people of Enoch loved and were kind to each other. Invite them to use this week’s activity page to draw a way they can show love.
Story: Enoch and his people built a city called Zion. The people in Zion were righteous and “were of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). That means they loved and cared for each other. They didn’t fight or hurt each other.
Song: “Love at Home” (Hymns, no. 294)
Activity: Read Moses 7:19–21. Then build a city with blocks, stones, or sticks. As you build, talk about how you can make your family more like Zion. You can send pictures of your finished city to the Friend!
Sing a song about loving one another, such as “Love at Home” (Hymns, no. 294). Bring pictures that illustrate key phrases in the song to help the children learn the words. Ask the children to share ways they can show love to each other in Primary and in their homes. Then let them act out their ideas.
Read Doctrine and Covenants 38:24-25 What does it mean to esteem someone as yourself? We need to value others as much as we value ourselves. Have the children tell what different parts of the body does. Explain that each part of the body is important and needed. Just like our body parts are united, we need to be united as people [and help, support, and take care of each other.]
The Redwood trees are joined together as one.
“The giant redwood trees that grow in northern California [USA] … have a very shallow root system. But when they are surrounded by other redwood trees, the strongest, fiercest wind cannot blow them over. The roots of the giant redwood trees intertwine and strengthen each other. When a storm comes, they actually hold each other up” (Conference Report, Oct. 1994, p. 103; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, p. 78).
1. I know you, and you know me. We are as diff’rent as the sun and the sea I know you, and you know me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
2. I help you, and you help me. We learn from problems, and we’re starting to see. I help you, and you help me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
3. I love you, and you love me We reach together for the best we can be I love you, and you love me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
To introduce Moses 7:32–33 to your children, you might talk to them about a choice they had to make recently. Then you could read the verses together to find out what Heavenly Father wants us to choose. What choices can we make to show that we choose Him? Perhaps your children could take turns acting out one of these choices while the others guess what the action represents.
Help the children think of things that make Heavenly Father happy. Read Moses 7:28 with the children, and explain that Heavenly Father was sad because the people were very wicked (see verses 32–33).
Invite the children to play a game in which they act out things they can do that make Heavenly Father happy. Ask the other children to guess what they are doing. Share with each of the children something you have seen them do that makes Heavenly Father happy.
In Moses 7:59, Enoch asks the Lord a question. Invite your children to find it, and then ask them to find the answer in verse 60. You might also talk with them about a time when they were expecting someone special to visit or return home. Ask them how they felt and what they did to prepare for the visit? What are some ways we can prepare for Jesus to come again?
Consider showing pictures of times when the Savior appeared to people (such as Gospel Art Book, nos. 60, 82, 83, and 84). What are the people doing in the pictures? How might the people have felt when they met Jesus?
You could also sing a song about the Savior’s Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83), and ask the children what they think it will be like when Jesus comes again. Let the children share how they feel about seeing Jesus when He comes again.
As your family reads Moses 7:59–67, try marking or noting things the Lord tells Enoch about the last days—for example, that God will “gather out [His] elect” (verse 62) and that there will be “great tribulations among the wicked” (verse 66). How can we have faith and hope despite the wickedness in the last days? As part of this discussion, consider reading these words from Elder Ronald A. Rasband: “Take heart, brothers and sisters. Yes, we live in perilous times, but as we stay on the covenant path, we need not fear. I bless you that as you do so, you will not be troubled by the times in which we live or the troubles that come your way. I bless you to choose to stand in holy places and be not moved. I bless you to believe in the promises of Jesus Christ, that He lives and that He is watching over us, caring for us and standing by us” (“Be Not Troubled,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 21).
Genesis Chapter 5 The generations of Adam are Adam, Seth, Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch (who walked with God), Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah (who begat Shem, Ham, and Japheth).
Moses Chapter 6 Adam’s seed keep a book of remembrance—His righteous posterity preach repentance—God reveals Himself to Enoch—Enoch preaches the gospel—The plan of salvation was revealed to Adam—He received baptism and the priesthood.
Adam and Eve’s family kept a book of remembrance. They wrote their family history in the book. They wrote about how the Lord helped them.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6” Reading about the “book of remembrance” that Adam and Eve’s family kept may inspire your family to make your own book of remembrance. Discuss as a family what you would like to include. Maybe you have photos, stories, or documents from your family history. You might choose to include things that are happening in your family now. What will future generations find valuable? You could also discuss how the phrases “by the spirit of inspiration” (Moses 6:5) and “the pattern given by the finger of God” (Moses 6:46) could guide your efforts. Consider saving information from your book of remembrance on FamilySearch.org.
Story: Adam and Eve’s family made a “book of remembrance” (Moses 6:5). They wrote about Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father’s plan. This book was the beginning of the scriptures.
Song: “Love Is Spoken Here” (Children’s Songbook, 190–91)
Activity:Â You can make a book of remembrance too! Ask everyone in your family to write down their testimony of Jesus Christ. Then attach the pages together to make a book.
Ask the children to share a time when they were asked to do something that was hard or scary for them. Share the story of, or read together, Enoch’s call to be a prophet, found in Moses 6:27, 31–34 (see also “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories).
When Enoch was called to preach the gospel, he worried that he would fail. But God helped him do great things. Why did Enoch feel that he couldn’t preach the gospel? (see Moses 6:31). How did God help Enoch? (see Moses 6:32–34; 7:13).
Enoch was not the only prophet who felt inadequate when the Lord called him. Read about Moses’s and Jeremiah’s reactions in Exodus 4:10–12 and Jeremiah 1:4–9.
Your children might enjoy sharing or acting out other examples of when God helped people do difficult things—for example, Noah building the ark, David fighting Goliath, Ammon defending the king’s flocks, or Samuel the Lamanite preaching. (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 7, 19, 78, 81). You could also share an experience of your own and let your children talk about how God helps them do hard things.
Invite the children to name some difficult things that children their age sometimes do (such as completing an assignment for school, being kind to someone who is unkind, or telling the truth when they have made a mistake). Help the children find phrases in Moses 6:32–34 that can help them. Ask the children to share a time when God helped them do something difficult. Share your own experiences too.
Friend August 2020 “Maddy’s Courage” Maddy didn’t want to start school because she was afraid. Her mom reminded her of sometimes we have to do brave and hard things, such as Daniel facing the lions, or Nephi crossing the ocean, or Esther talking to the king. And just like Heavenly Father helped all of those people, He would help her too.
Faith in Christ, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost prepare me to return to God.
Adam and Enoch taught their people the first principles and ordinances of the gospel: faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (see also Articles of Faith 1:4).
God taught Adam what we need to do to return to Him—have faith in Jesus Christ, repent, be baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Help your children find these principles in Moses 6:52, 57. Then you could help them write a short talk about one of the principles. Each talk could include a scripture from Moses 6, an experience, and a testimony. Let them share their talks with each other.
You could also display pictures that represent the first principles of the gospel (see the fourth article of faith). Place them in a line leading to a picture of Jesus Christ. As you read Moses 6:52, your children could stand next to the correct picture when they hear the words the picture represents.
Your children might enjoy singing songs that teach the principles in Moses 6:52, such as “Faith,” “When I Am Baptized,” and “The Holy Ghost” (Children’s Songbook, 96–97, 103, 105). Help them find these principles in Moses 6:52.
How would we answer Adam’s question found in Moses 6:53? What answers do we find in verses 57–62?
What does it mean to be “born again into the kingdom of heaven”? (Moses 6:59) (To have the Spirit of the Lord cause a mighty change in a person’s heart so that he has no more desire to do evil, but rather desires to seek the things of God. (Guide to the Scriptures, “Born Again, Born of God” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) For additional information click on link.)
What can we do to continue to be born again throughout our lives?
From the time of Adam and Eve, parents have been commanded to teach their children the gospel. How can you encourage the children to listen to and follow the righteous teachings of their parents?
To encourage your children to support their parents in their role as gospel teachers, consider asking a child to read Moses 6:58 and identify the commandment God gave to parents. Then you could show a picture of Adam and Eve teaching their children (like the one at the end of this outline) and let your children talk about what they see in the picture. Your children could draw pictures of their families reading the scriptures together, praying together, or playing together. Ask the children what they can do to support their parents when they teach them the gospel.
Friend March 2019 “A Lesson From My Parents” Color the pictures and circle the things a parent or other family member has taught you. What else can you think of?
What are some of the things that “bear record of [Christ]”? (see also 2 Nephi 11:4). Consider inviting family members to share something that they see “in the heavens above” or “on the earth” that helps them learn about Jesus Christ. For example, how do trees, rocks, or the sun remind us of the Savior? What do the titles “living water” and “bread of life” teach us about Him? (John 4:10–14; 6:35). (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6” )
Enoch taught that after Adam was baptized, “the Spirit of God descended upon him, and thus he was born of the Spirit, and became quickened in the inner man.” After this sacred experience, Adam heard a voice from heaven saying, “Behold, thou art one in me, a son of God; and thus may all become my sons.”
The title “son of God” now had two different meanings for Adam. Not only was he a literal spirit son of God created in His image, but Adam was also a son of God because he had been born again through Jesus Christ. Those who experience spiritual rebirth and receive the ordinances of the Savior’s gospel are also sometimes referred to as “children of Christ.” (Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Genesis 5, Moses 6: How does the Fall affect us?”)
Enoch taught that Adam asked God why all people must repent and be baptized. In response, God taught Adam important truths that clarified how the Fall would impact the posterity of Adam and Eve.
First, God made it clear not only that Adam and Eve were forgiven for their transgression in the Garden of Eden, but also that the consequences of their sins would not be passed down to their children. The Prophet Joseph Smith reiterated this truth when he taught, “We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.”
God also taught Adam that his posterity would be “conceived in sin” (or “born into a world of sin”). As mortal people living in a fallen world, we commit sin, which makes us unclean and separates us from God. While this experience gives us opportunity to “prize the good” after we “taste the bitter,” we also must be cleansed from our sins through Jesus Christ, for “no unclean thing can dwell” in God’s presence.
God commanded Adam to teach his children to repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Ghost so they could be sanctified from their sins through Jesus Christ. God declared, “This is the plan of salvation unto all men, through the blood of mine Only Begotten.”
It had been three years since God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to Joseph Smith in the grove, but Joseph hadn’t received any additional revelations since then. He began to wonder about his standing before the Lord. Like all of us, he had made mistakes, and he felt condemned by them.
One night, after everyone was asleep, Joseph decided to pray. God had answered his prayers before, and Joseph knew He would answer them again.
While Joseph was praying, light filled the room. Joseph saw an angel standing in the air by his bed. The angel said that his name was Moroni. God had sent him. He said God had forgiven Joseph and had a work for him to do.
We all sometimes feel “condemned for [our] weakness and imperfections,” as Joseph Smith did. You and your children could study Joseph Smith—History 1:29 together, looking for what Joseph did when he felt that way. What can we learn from his example that can help us when we make mistakes? Why is it important to know that Joseph was called by God even though he was not perfect?
Moroni said there was a book made of gold pages or plates. It was buried in a hill near Joseph’s home. The book was about people who lived in the Americas long ago. They knew about Jesus Christ and His gospel. Moroni said God would help Joseph translate the book so people could read it.
Read with the children Joseph Smith—History 1:33–35, and ask them to listen for what Moroni wanted Joseph to know about the work Joseph was called to do. How we are blessed as a result. For example, how have we been blessed because Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon? How has his work helped us come closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? Invite the children to read the Book of Mormon regularly.
Draw students’ attention to Moroni’s prophecy about Joseph Smith’s name in Joseph Smith History—1:33. Why do you think there is so much opposition to the Prophet Joseph Smith? You could point out that Satan always opposes truth.
What are ways you can help fulfill Moroni’s prophecy to speak good of Joseph Smith?
Why do you think Moroni appeared to Joseph four times (three times during the night and once the next morning), giving him the same message each time?
(Another option would be to have some items covered on a tray that are related to Moroni’s message. Uncover the tray for a short time and then recover it. See if the children can remember what was on the tray. Do this three more times and see if they remember more each time. Afterwards, use the items on the tray to teach about the words Moroni spoke.)
Display a picture of Moroni visiting Joseph Smith (see Gospel Art Book, no. 91). Ask the children to point out things they notice in the picture. Summarize the account of Moroni’s visits to Joseph.
Who was Moroni? Show the children the book of Moroni in the Book of Mormon. Explain that Moroni was the last of the Nephite prophets. He lived about A.D. 400 and wrote some of the Book of Mormon. What did Moroni do with the gold plates when he finished writing on them? (Mormon 8:1, 4.) Why was Moroni chosen to visit Joseph Smith?
Your children might have fun pretending to be Joseph Smith as you tell the account of Moroni’s visits in Joseph Smith—History 1:27–54 or “Chapter 3: The Angel Moroni and the Gold Plates” (in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 13–17, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library). For example, they could fold their arms like they are praying or pretend to climb the Hill Cumorah, and so on.
Or, invite the children to act out or draw pictures of events from Joseph Smith—History 1:30–54, such as Moroni appearing to Joseph (verses 30–47), Joseph talking to his father (verses 48–50), and Joseph finding the plates (verses 51–54). What do we learn from this account about the work Joseph was called to do?
Let the kids have fun showing how the angel came back twice more while Joseph was in bed, and then showing Joseph going back to Hill Cumorah each year.
Receiving the Gold Plates
“Receiving the Gold Plates” (June 2008 Liahona and May 2008 Friend) An illustrated retelling of the story of Joseph Smith receiving the plates from Moroni.
Tell the children that you would like them to help you prepare some things for the lesson. Give some of the children blank wordstrips and pens or pencils, and have them write the following words on the wordstrips: Joseph Smith, prayer, light, Moroni, message, four times. Have another child display the picture of Moroni appearing to Joseph Smith. Thank the children for helping you prepare.
Why is it important that we prepare for certain events, such as taking a test in school or giving a talk in Primary? What happens when we do not prepare? Using the wordstrips and the appropriate pictures, have the children help you review what they learned in lesson 3 about Moroni’s visits to Joseph Smith. Remind the children that Joseph was not allowed to take the plates the first time he saw them. Explain that Joseph had a great work to do, but he needed to be better prepared in order to do it.
Joseph was only 17 years old when he first saw the gold plates. They weren’t entrusted to his care, however, until four years later. Read Joseph Smith—History 1:48–60, looking for what happened in Joseph’s life during that time. How do you think these events prepared him for the work God called him to do?
Joseph Smith’s mother, Lucy Mack Smith, wrote that after the first visits of Moroni, “Joseph continued to receive instructions from the Lord, and we continued to get the children together every evening for the purpose of listening while he gave us a relation of the same. . . . During our evening conversations, Joseph would occasionally give us some of the most amusing recitals that could be imagined. He would describe the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress, mode [method] of traveling, and the animals upon which they rode; their cities, their buildings, with every particular; their mode of warfare; and also their religious worship. This he would do with as much ease, seemingly, as if he had spent his whole life among them” (Lucy Mack Smith, History of Joseph Smith, pp. 82–83). Because he had always been honest, Joseph Smith’s parents and brothers and sisters believed all Joseph told them.
What experiences have you had that have prepared you to serve God and others? What are you currently experiencing that can help you prepare for future service?
What have Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ given us to help us prepare to serve them? (Answers may include scriptures, parents, prophets, teachers, the gift of the Holy Ghost, and Primary.) Write the children’s answers to this question under the heading Heavenly Father helps me prepare by:.
What is our responsibility to help prepare ourselves? Using the items listed on the chalkboard, discuss with the children what each of us needs to do with the things that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have given us (for example: scriptures—study them daily; parents—follow their counsel). Summarize their answers under the heading I can prepare myself by:.
What are we preparing to do? (Serve Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and others, in positions such as teacher, missionary, or parent.) How does this preparation help us now? How will it help us in the future? Help the children realize their responsibility to prepare themselves now to serve (See more at lesson link.)
The Book of Mormon was given to us by the power of God.
Why were some ancient records written on metal plates? (Take a piece of paper, tear it, and pour a little water on it.) Explain that during ancient times, the people used other materials than paper for written communications, but those materials could also be easily damaged and could decompose and disintegrates over time. Some ancient historians used metal if they had an important message that they wanted to endure for a long period of time.
By restoring His gospel, the Savior fulfilled ancient prophecies.
When Moroni appeared to Joseph Smith, he quoted several Old and New Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 11; Acts 3:22–23; and Joel 2:28–32. As you read Joseph Smith—History 1:34–47, think about why these prophecies might have been important for Joseph to know. Why are they important for you to know?
After reading the Book of Matthew, Joseph Smith decided to pray about which church to join. (See JS—H 1:11.)
True: Move right three dots
False: Move left three dots
Joseph Smith was instructed to join any church he wanted to. (See JS—H 1:19.)
True: Move up one dot
False: Move diagonally down and left two dots
Joseph Smith was fourteen years old when he received the First Vision. (See JS—H 1:23.)
True: Move down two dots
False: Move left two dots
Joseph Smith received a strong testimony of the reality and divinity of Heavenly Father and Jesus, which he never denied. (See JS—H 1:25.)
True: Move right three dots
False: Move down two dots
Joseph Smith had forgotten to say his prayers the night Moroni first appeared to him. (See JS—H 1:29–30.)
True: Move down and right one dot
False: Move diagonally up and right two dots
Joseph Smith’s room was very dark while Moroni was there. (See JS—H 1:32.)
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False: Move up two dots
Moroni told Joseph Smith that he, Moroni, had been sent by Noah to teach Joseph. (See JS—H 1:33.)
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False: Move diagonally down and left two dots
Moroni told Joseph Smith about certain gold plates that contained the gospel. (See JS—H 1:34.)
True: Move down two dots
False: Move up two dots
Moroni quoted prophecies from the Old Testament. (See JS—H 1:36–40.)
True: Move up two dots
False: Move diagonally down and left two dots
The Book of Mormon was translated from the gold plates. (See JS—H 1:66–67.)
True: Move left three dots
False: Move right one dot.
Protecting the Gold Plates
After receiving the plates from the angel Moroni, Joseph hid them in a hollow log to keep them safe until he could get a box to lock them in. The next day, while Joseph Smith was at work, his father overheard a group of men plotting to steal the plates. Emma went to warn Joseph, and he, through the Urim and Thummim, was able to see that the plates were safe. He also knew it was time to get the plates from the log to keep them safe.
“Hurrying to the hill, Joseph found the log where the plates were hidden and carefully wrapped them in a shirt. He then ducked into the woods and headed for home, his eyes alert to danger. …
“Straining under the weight of the record, Joseph tramped through the woods as fast as he could. A fallen tree blocked the path ahead of him, and as he bounded over it, he felt something hard strike him from behind. Turning around, he saw a man coming at him, wielding a gun like a club.
“Clutching the plates tightly with one arm, Joseph knocked the man to the ground and scrambled deeper into the thicket. He ran for about half a mile when another man sprang from behind a tree and struck him with the butt of his gun. Joseph fought the man off and darted away, desperate to be out of the woods. But before he could get very far a third man attacked, landing a heavy blow that sent him reeling. Gathering his strength, Joseph hit the man hard and ran for home. …
“After Joseph brought the gold plates home, treasure seekers tried for weeks to steal them. To keep the record safe, he had to move it from place to place, hiding the plates under the hearth, beneath the floor of his father’s shop, and in piles of grain. He could never let his guard down.
“… He was determined to care for the plates, trusting in the Lord’s promise that if he did everything he could, they would be protected” (Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days, vol. 1, The Standard of Truth, 1815–1846 [2018], 40-41, 43).
Church History Topics “Martin Harris’s Consultations with Scholars” This article tells the story and has pictures of Martin Harris and Professor Anthon.
What did Professor Anthon say when Martin Harris first showed him a copy of some of the Book of Mormon writings? (JS—H 1:64.) Why do you think Professor Anthon tore up the certificate when he learned that an angel had shown Joseph Smith where to find the gold plates? (JS—H 1:65.
Why do you think the Lord used Joseph Smith, who was an unlearned man, to bring forth the Book of Mormon?
The Garden of Eden was beautiful. But Adam and Eve needed something more than beautiful surroundings. They needed—and we all need—an opportunity to grow. Leaving the Garden of Eden was the necessary first step toward returning to God and eventually becoming like Him.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5” If Adam and Eve had stayed in the Garden of Eden, they would not have had children and would not have progressed to become like Heavenly Father. We are grateful for their choice to partake of the fruit because this choice made possible our mortal life and our opportunity for eternal life.
To help your children better understand the Fall of Adam and Eve, you could copy the pictures from “Adam and Eve” (in Old Testament Stories, 13–16) and cut them out. Then you could work together to put the pictures in order as you discuss the experiences of Adam and Eve. As you do, talk about why it was important, in Heavenly Father’s plan, for Adam and Eve to leave the Garden of Eden.
Write two titles on the board: Because of Fall of Adam and Eve,(I…) and Because of Jesus Christ, (I…) Help the children identify the consequences of the Fall as you read together Moses 4:23-25; 6:48; Romans 5:12; 2 Nephi 2:22–23. Let them write what they learn under the first title. Then help them identify how Jesus Christ overcame sin and death as you read together Moses 5:8–11, 14–15; 6:59; Alma 11:42. Let them write what they learn under the second title. Why are we thankful for Jesus Christ? Your children can feel gratitude for the Atonement of Jesus Christ as they understand how He overcomes the effects of the Fall.
Ideas for under the title “Because of Fall of Adam and Eve” could include the following:
We could choose to be born on the earth.
We know good from evil.
We became separated from Heavenly Father.
We will someday die.
Ideas for under the title “Because of Jesus Christ” could include the following:
We will live again after we die
We can return to Heavenly Father if we will repent.
We have a perfect example to follow.
Show a video about the Savior’s Atonement, such as “Because of Him” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite the children to share how they feel about Jesus Christ.
Consider a simple object lesson to introduce the principle of agency: invite your children to color this week’s activity page, but give them only one color to use. Why would it be better to have choices? You could then read together Moses 4:1–4 and talk about why God wants us to be able to choose between right and wrong. How do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ help us make good choices?
Help your children think of and draw pictures of good choices they can make to follow Jesus Christ. Or you could sing together a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). You might tell each other about a time when you made a good choice and talk about how you felt afterward.
When Adam and Eve had to leave the Garden of Eden, they couldn’t be with Heavenly Father anymore. Read Moses 5:4, 8 with your children, and help them find what Adam and Eve did to feel near to Him and hear Him.
Explain that we pray to Heavenly Father in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ (see Moses 5:8). What are some things we can say to Heavenly Father in our prayers?
Sing with the children a song about prayer, such as “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13).
Additional Resources
Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament Place the picture of Adam and Eve next to the one of God the Father and Jesus Christ. Explain that when Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, they could walk and talk with Heavenly Father and Jesus. To help the children understand why the result of Adam and Eve’s choice is known as the Fall, take the picture of Adam and Eve and move it down below the picture of God the Father and Jesus Christ as you tell of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit. Adam and Eve “fell” or were removed from the presence of God. Explain that because Adam and Eve could no longer freely associate with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, this is referred to as the Fall. Adam and Eve’s separation from Heavenly Father and Jesus began mortal life on earth.
Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament Ask the children to think of opposites—such as happy and sad, hot and cold, hard and soft, smooth and rough, heavy and light, high and low, or fast and slow—to illustrate the importance of opposition (see 2 Nephi 2:11, 15). Let the children describe their experiences with opposites. To help them get started, you might use the following examples: After someone has been sick, they can better appreciate feeling well. Or without darkness, you cannot recognize light, which is why you cannot see the stars during the day. To illustrate this second example, you might bring a flashlight and show how its light is barely noticeable in a well-lit room, but the light is much brighter when you darken the room.
Memorizing Tip: Adam and Eve were the first two people to live on the earth, and Article of Faith 2 is about Adam.
To transgress means to break a law or commandment. In the Garden of Eden, God told Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, but they ate it anyway. We are each responsible for our own decisions. We can’t be punished for someone else’s sins. (Friend Jan 2015)
• In the preexistence Satan had a plan to destroy the freedoms and agency of the people who came to earth. What did Satan hope to gain from implementing his plan? (Glory and power for himself)
(Possible activity to demonstrate life without agency) • What would life be like without agency? To help the children imagine what it might be like to live under Lucifer’s plan, tell them that for the next few minutes they must do exactly what you say and nothing else (make sure they know they cannot talk). Have them stand and remain standing perfectly still for a few seconds. Then tell each child where to sit. (Do not sit friends near each other.) Tell the children they must sit erect, feet flat to the floor, looking straight ahead, not moving or speaking. Have them hold the position until you tell them otherwise. After about thirty seconds, let them stand again and sit where they want. (Walk in His Ways pg 62)
