Scripture and Genealogy | 1 Nephi 3:3-4

The scriptures and the genealogy of Lehi found in the brass plates were so important that the Lord sent Nephi and his brothers back to get them. Nephi explains why the brass plates were so vital to his family and to his posterity:

• They preserved their genealogy (1 Nephi 3:3). The scriptures teach me of my lineage through Joseph and the Lord's tender mercies towards Israel. My own genealogy and the sacred stories contained therein should be treated as personal scripture showing the tender mercies of the Lord. It helps me see who I am and where I come from.
• They preserved their language (1 Nephi 3:19). Although language today is readily available through other sources, scripture preserves the language of the Lord and the language and interpretation of prophecy for me.
• They contained the words of the prophets (1 Nephi 3:20). The scriptures are just as important to me today in teaching the words of the holy prophets. They help me to know the will of the Lord.
• They contained the law of Moses (1 Nephi 4:14-16). Although I am asked to follow a higher law today, the scriptures contain the commandments that the Lord wants me to follow.
• They preserved their history (1 Nephi 5:10-12). Learning of the greatest historical events in the history of God's people such as the creation, fall of man, the flood, the exodus and the restoration of His church, helps me to know of God's love for His people and His tender mercies for the faithful.
• They contained prophecies of the Lord (1 Nephi 5:13). Those same prophecies from the Lord by prophets such as Isaiah and Jeremiah help me find direction in my own life and help me to prepare for the coming of the Lord in the last days.

Scriptures and family history go hand in hand. One is my spiritual heritage and the other is my physical heritage. Together they give me the big picture of my full potential—who I am and where I am going.