2 Nephi 9

[pam]

In regards to the Atonement of Jesus Christ, the Bible tells us what happened and the Book of Mormon tells us why and how it happened.

Joseph Smith was asked: “What are the fundamental principles of your religion?” He answered: “The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it.”

I think there is no place where we have a finer discussion of the plan of the Atonement than in the writings of Jacob, as found in the Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi, the 9th chapter. I therefore call it to your attention and urge you to read carefully again and again that precious explanation…

Harold B. Lee

One of the most enlightening discourses ever delivered in regard to the atonement is found in the ninth chapter of II Nephi in the Book of Mormon. It is the counsel given by Jacob, the brother of Nephi. It should be carefully read by every person seeking salvation. We have been taught that the greatest gift of God is eternal life, and eternal life comes through obedience to all the commandments and covenants to man by our Heavenly Father.

There is an overwhelming lack of understanding in the world in relation to these principles of salvation and exaltation given to prepare mankind for a place in the kingdom of God, and this lack causes many to stumble. There is no excuse on the part of members of the church for they have received the necessary revelation directly from the heavens in this Dispensation of the Fulness of Times. The great mission of the son of God has been revealed in the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants more clearly than any other place. Many passages that have been misunderstood, and therefore mistranslated in the Bible, are clarified in these sacred volumes.

Answers to Gospel Questions, compl. Joseph Fielding Smith Jr., 5 vols. (1957-66) 4:57-58

Major Points of Jacob’s Sermon

1. 2 Nephi 9:3-9 Why the Atonement was needed

2. 2 Nephi 9:10-19 What the Atonement did

3. 2 Nephi 9:20-22 How the Atonement was made

4. 2 Nephi 9:23-26 How to get the effects of the Atonement

5. 2 Nephi 9:27-39 What prevents the effects of the Atonement

6. 2 Nephi 9:40-49 Why the Atonement must be taught

7. 2 Nephi 9:50-51 The Atonement is a free gift

8. 2 Nephi 9:52-54 Remember words of God and give thanks

Monte S. Nyman, I Nephi Wrote This Record, Chapt. 10