Seminary: 84 3 Nephi 13

Background: While Christ was with the Nephites he taught them similar things that he taught the Jews. He taught them the Beatitudes and teaches that he had come to fulfill not replace the Mosaic law.


Pictures: Blessing the sacrament (Gospel art kit 603), Passing the sacrament (Gospel art kit 604).

Elder Dallin H. Oaks:

“If a person performs a seemingly righteous act but does so for the wrong reasons, such as to achieve a selfish purpose, his hands may be clean but his heart is not ‘pure.’ His act will not be counted for righteousness…

“We must not only do what is right. We must act for the right reasons. The modern term is good motive. The scriptures often signify this appropriate mental attitude with the words full purpose of heart or real intent.

“The scriptures make clear that God understands our motives and will judge our actions accordingly” (Pure in Heart [1988], 13, 15).

How does this quote apply to these pictures?

What are some proper motives for blessing or partaking of the sacrament?

How might blessings we receive vary depending upon our motives?

Matthew 6:1 (read footnote b)

3 Nephi 13:1-4

What do these verses teach about proper motive?

What did the Savior warn against?

How does this apply to our service, tithe and fast offering payments and worship?

Can someone be blessed for doing the right thing for the wrong reason?

Why would this be the case?

How much more blessed would a person be if they did the right thing for the right reason?

Matthew 6:2 (footnote a)

3 Nephi 13:5-15

What is a hypocrite?

What does the Savior warn against in these verses?

How can these teachings help you improve your prayers?

What should we avoid when praying?

3 Nephi 13:16-24, scan and see how they relate to the warnings from the Savior.

Bishop Robert D. Hales:

“We must examine our motives. A good check and balance in decision making is to look at our motives for making our decisions. We should ask ourselves, ‘Are my motives selfish, or is there charity in the decision I am about to make? Is my decision in keeping with the commandments, both in the spirit and the letter of the law? Is my decision basically right, honorable, and compatible with the golden rule? Have I considered the impact of my decision on others?’

“’Let all your [decisions] be done with charity’ (1 Corinthians 16:14).

“Beware of fear and greed. Be aware of your true motives.” (Ensign, Nov. 1988, 11).

What are some of the rules that Full-Time missionaries have to follow that regular members do not.

Why do missionaries have these additional rules?

How does obeying these rules help them to succeed in their work?

These blessings of obedience are applicable not just to missionaries but to everyone.