3 Nephi 11 – The Doctrine of Jesus Christ – Beautifully Simple

Jesus shows himself to the Nephites who are milling around the temple and marveling at the changes that have taken place as a result of the tempests, earthquakes, etc.  At least that is what I think it is.  In a class I attended, it was made clear that this was not immediately after Christ’s death or even immediately after his resurrection, but some time later. 

God the Father introduced Jesus.  How many times in recorded history has that happened? 

1. When Jesus was baptized. Matthew 3:17
2. High on a mountaintop with Peter, James and John. Matthew 17:5
3. On the American continent.  3 Nephi 11:7
4. Joseph Smith’s first vision – JS History 1:17

Moses saw God face-to-face (Moses 1:2), but even though God spoke of his Beloved Son, he was not introduced to him.  So, these are the four that I found.  Each time God the Father introduced his son, he called him his “beloved”.  That’s not hard for a parent to understand.  Those children who stay on the covenant path are beloved.  It is a parent thing.  Do we love all our children?  Of course!  But I do understand having a beloved child.

In this chapter is given the doctrine of Christ. 

• Believe in Christ (v33)
• Be baptized
• Holy Ghost will cleanse him (v35)
• Repent and become as a little child (v37)

They aren't listed in the same order, but it looks to me like it is the fourth Article of Faith:  We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the gospel are: first, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, repentance; third, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

I am so grateful for the simplicity of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  It is beautiful.  It is real.  I will never forget the amazing feelings that came when I repented and turned my life around.  Those were amazing days for me, and the blessings just kept coming.  I know Heavenly Father loves me and loves all his children.  I know he blesses those who truly love Him and try to keep his commandments.  I know this is available to anyone who wants it.