Old Testament Survey – Come Follow Me 2022 – Introduction

Old Testament Study Guide: Come Follow Me 2022 – Insights from Moses, Abraham, and the Pearl of Great Price

The Old Testament can feel vast and overwhelming, but it’s filled with profound lessons about God’s love, power, and promises. In the 2022 Come Follow Me curriculum, we have a unique opportunity to explore how these scriptures connect to the restored gospel. From the Creation to the covenants with prophets like Moses and Abraham, each story ties deeply into God’s eternal plan. Paired with insights from the Pearl of Great Price, we’re invited to see our divine role in His work. This year’s study isn’t just about old texts—it’s about uncovering truths that guide our lives today. Let’s make this journey purposeful and personal.

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Understanding the Purpose of Old Testament Study

Studying the Old Testament through the lens of the 2022 Come Follow Me program invites us to connect deeply with the historical and spiritual framework that God intended for His children. It isn’t just about ancient stories or laws that seem distant from modern life. Instead, the Old Testament serves as the scaffolding for understanding Christ’s role in our salvation and God’s eternal plan. As we explore its timeline and structure, we uncover a rich, contextual narrative that ties directly to our faith.

Spiritual Framework of the Old Testament

At its core, the Old Testament is foundational to understanding Jesus Christ’s eternal mission. Throughout its pages, prophets like Moses, Abraham, and Isaiah provide glimpses of the Savior’s future role through deep symbolism, covenants, and direct prophecy. For instance, the sacrificial system outlined in the books of Exodus and Leviticus wasn’t just about rituals—it foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who would fulfill the law in its entirety.

As members of the LDS Church, the Old Testament resonates even more profoundly because it ties to restored doctrines found in the Pearl of Great Price. Concepts like premortal existence introduced in Abraham 3 help us frame the eternal nature of God’s plan. It’s clear that God’s purpose, as described to Moses, is “to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). But how do these ancient teachings guide us today? They help us understand that everything—every law, covenant, and promise—points back to Christ’s role as the Redeemer of all mankind.

When studying the Old Testament, we’re not just reading history; we’re tracing our spiritual heritage. The covenants God made with individuals like Abraham extend to us. The promises made to Israel remind us of the blessings that come through faithfulness. And the examples of resilience and deliverance, as seen in figures such as Joseph and David, enable us to strengthen our relationship with God in every trial.

Chronological Journey through Scripture

The Old Testament isn’t a single book; it’s a diverse compilation of writings spanning thousands of years, divided into sections like the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings. The Come Follow Me 2022 curriculum skillfully leads us through this sacred timeline, helping us connect with its overarching themes.

Let’s break down the general structure:

1. The Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy): These books offer the foundation of God’s commandments, beginning with the Creation, Adam and Eve’s fall, the covenants with Abraham, and Moses leading Israel from captivity to covenant.

2. Historical Books (Joshua-Esther): These chapters recount the rise of Israel as a nation, featuring leaders like Joshua and kings like David and Solomon. They remind us of God’s hand in guiding His covenant people.

3. Wisdom Literature (Job-Song of Solomon): Poetic and philosophical writings like Psalms and Proverbs provide deep insights into worship, faith, and human struggles with divine purpose.

4. The Prophets (Isaiah-Malachi): These books highlight the voices of God’s messengers, calling Israel back to repentance while foretelling the coming of Christ.

Each week’s lesson in Come Follow Me allowed us to focus on a specific portion of this magnificent journey. For example, we studied Moses’ role in Israel’s exodus and compared it to the deliverance Christ offers us. As we moved into later chapters, we saw how prophetic messages, like those from Isaiah, still apply today—teaching us to seek spiritual renewal and prepare for the second coming of the Savior.

By following the structured timeline, we gain clarity on how these accounts build upon one another. It’s not random or disconnected; it’s a flowing, divine narrative. This chronological approach helps us align God’s ancient promises with His continuing direction for us today.

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When viewed through this lens, the Old Testament becomes much more than words on a page. It transforms into a mirror reflecting God’s eternal plan for humanity. This deep dive into its structure and meaning through Come Follow Me opens our eyes and hearts to seeing Christ in every chapter.

The Pearl of Great Price and Its Connection to the Old Testament

The Pearl of Great Price serves as a key complement to the Old Testament, enriching our understanding of foundational teachings such as creation, humanity's purpose, and God's eternal plan. By exploring texts like the Book of Moses and the Book of Abraham found within the Pearl of Great Price, we gain deeper insights that clarify and expand upon Old Testament principles.

Historical Background of the Pearl of Great Price

The Pearl of Great Price came together as a powerful collection of revelations and writings by Joseph Smith, designed to provide additional truths to early members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 1851, Franklin D. Richards, an Apostle of the Church, compiled this book primarily for Latter-day Saints living in Britain. At the time, the Church was growing rapidly in the United Kingdom, and a consolidated volume like this helped strengthen the understanding of key doctrines for new converts.

In October 1880, during General Conference, the Pearl of Great Price was formally canonized as scripture, joining the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Doctrine and Covenants as a standard work of the Church. Though its compilation has shifted slightly over time—with texts appearing or being removed as church doctrine evolved—it remains a treasured resource for understanding foundational concepts like the premortal existence, the Fall of Adam and Eve, and the restoration of the gospel.

Within its pages, you’ll find teachings that bring depth to many of the Old Testament’s stories, providing complementary perspectives. For instance, the Book of Moses offers additional revelations about the Creation, while the Book of Abraham dives into the premortal life and the organization of the heavens. These writings invite us to engage with the Old Testament not just as historical text but as living scripture tied to God’s modern revelations.

Insights from Moses 1 and Abraham 3

The Pearl of Great Price opens unique doors to understanding the Old Testament, particularly through the visionary experiences of Moses and Abraham.

Moses 1 introduces readers to God’s broader purposes. Before diving into the Creation account in Genesis, Moses is given a profound vision of the earth and its inhabitants. In this revelation, Moses learns of God’s “work and glory” to bring about “the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). Unlike Genesis, which begins with “In the beginning,” Moses 1 sets the stage by explaining why creation matters to us personally. The vision also emphasizes Moses’ divine identity and the immense love God has for humanity—a message that resonates deeply in today’s world.

Abraham 3 takes us into the celestial realm, offering a unique perspective on the premortal existence. Here, Abraham sees spirits organized in heaven before coming to earth. The vision highlights the eternal nature of spirits and the foreordination of key individuals like Abraham himself. Additionally, Abraham is shown the grandeur of God’s creations, including Kolob, a symbolic star closest to God’s presence. The chapter's description of the pre-earth life adds profound layers to our understanding of humanity's origin and individual purpose.

These revelations highlight themes that are only hinted at in the Old Testament. For instance, the council in heaven described in Abraham 3 illuminates the choice and agency we exercised before mortality, connecting this eternal perspective to humanity's journey on earth. Similarly, Moses' understanding of God's purpose gives profound meaning to the covenant relationships found throughout the Old Testament.

By bridging gaps and answering unanswered questions, Moses 1 and Abraham 3 help us see the Old Testament as part of a broader narrative—one that begins long before Genesis and extends into eternity. What does this mean for us? It means that as we study these texts, we’re not only learning history but uncovering eternal truths about our identity and destiny.

Key Themes in Moses 1 and Abraham 3

The accounts in Moses 1 and Abraham 3 offer transformative insights into our purpose, identity, and God’s eternal plan. These scriptures connect the grandeur of creation with deeply personal lessons for each of us. By understanding the key themes embedded within, we see more clearly how God's work in the universe extends directly to His children, including you and me.

Divine Destiny as Children of God

At the heart of Moses 1 is God’s declaration: “This is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). Think about the profound meaning here: God’s ultimate mission is centered on us. Through His vision, Moses learns not only the immensity of God’s creations but also his own divine nature. God reminds Moses, “Thou art my son,” and that he is created in the image of Christ (Moses 1:4, 6).

The same truth applies to each of us—we are children of God, endowed with potential that mirrors His eternal purpose. In contrast, Satan sought to diminish Moses’ understanding of his identity by labeling him merely a "son of man." How often do we face similar attacks on our worth? Remembering and claiming our divine destiny as God's children is not just comforting—it’s empowering. It changes how we live, setting a foundation for faith, confidence, and action.

The Premortal Existence and Plan of Salvation

Abraham 3 provides an extraordinary window into the premortal world, revealing that our existence didn’t begin here. Abraham is shown the “noble and great ones” who were foreordained to significant roles on earth. God explained that these spirits, including Abraham, were “organized before the world was” (Abraham 3:22-23). This concept of foreordination teaches us an eternal truth: we are not here by accident, but by divine design.

What does this mean for you and me? It means our lives have purpose beyond what we often see. Like the stars described in Abraham 3, each individual plays a unique, God-given role. As part of the “grand council” before mortality, we were presented with the plan of salvation, which included agency, tests, and the mission of Jesus Christ. This plan wasn’t just a broad framework—it was personal, tailored to each of us. The knowledge of who we were before can create clarity and direction for who we are striving to become now.

Resisting Satan’s Temptations

Moses 1 recounts a powerful confrontation between Moses and Satan. Immediately after experiencing a divine vision and understanding his role in God’s eternal plan, Moses is challenged. Satan commands Moses to worship him, but Moses—bolstered by knowledge of his divine identity—boldly responds, “Who art thou? For behold, I am a son of God” (Moses 1:13). This courage stems from clarity: Moses knows who he is and who God is.

Satan’s tactic is familiar. He doesn’t engage Moses through force but by sowing doubt, hoping to distract him from truth. Moses withstands by calling upon God’s strength. The lesson is striking: spiritual highs and profound insights are often followed by moments of testing. For us, Moses’ example offers a pattern for resisting temptations. By anchoring ourselves in the knowledge of our eternal identity and relying on God’s power, we too can overcome challenges.

Whether it’s reminders of our divine worth, confidence in a premortal plan, or tools to battle the adversary, these themes from Moses 1 and Abraham 3 have lasting relevance. As we ponder and apply these truths, our faith can grow deeper, our purpose become clearer, and our ability to withstand trials strengthened.

Lessons from Theophanies in Moses 1 and Abraham 3

Theophanies, or divine manifestations, are pivotal moments in scripture where God enters the mortal realm to reveal His character, purpose, and intentions for humanity. Both Moses 1 and Abraham 3 showcase profound instances of these encounters. Through these theophanies, God not only reveals His boundless power but also reassures us of our eternal significance in His grand plan. Let’s explore the lessons from these foundational visions.

Moses’ Ascension and Vision on the Mountain

In Moses 1, we witness Moses ascending a mountain, where he is caught up in a direct encounter with God. This is far more than a fleeting spiritual experience—it's a transformative moment that reshapes Moses’ understanding of his identity, God’s character, and the purpose behind creation.

Moses is shown the vast expanse of God's creations, including countless worlds. Imagine being told, “I am the Lord God Almighty” (Moses 1:3), followed by a vision of the work of God’s hands stretching endlessly. This wasn’t just a lesson in astronomy; it was a message of God’s unparalleled power and His intimate involvement in our lives. Despite His infinite creations, the Lord tells Moses that His “work and glory” is simply to "bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" (Moses 1:39). This single statement frames the entire purpose of the divine efforts Moses witnesses—it’s all centered on humanity.

Notably, Satan seeks to undermine Moses’ confidence by calling him only a "son of man." But Moses, empowered by his vision of God’s majesty and gaining clarity of his divine heritage, boldly refutes Satan. He declares, “I am a son of God” (Moses 1:13). This assertion isn’t just a statement of fact; it’s a spiritual defense that reaffirms our divine potential. When faced with doubt or temptation, could we, like Moses, draw strength from our knowledge of being children of God? His example reminds us that knowing who we truly are gives us power to stand firm against adversity.

Moses’ theophany underscores God’s immense love and power. He is both omnipotent, capable of creating endless worlds, and deeply personal, caring for each of His children individually.

Abraham’s Encounter with the Divine

Abraham’s theophany, recorded in Abraham 3, takes us even further into the mysteries of the universe. Abraham is brought into the presence of God and shown the organization of the heavens, including the stars’ order and hierarchy. Among these celestial bodies, Kolob—a star symbolizing proximity to God—is introduced to Abraham. This vision isn’t just about astronomy; it conveys profound spiritual truths about God’s precision and organization in His work.

One of the most striking aspects of this vision is the depiction of premortal existence. Abraham sees spirits, including “noble and great ones,” who were chosen before birth for specific roles in furthering God’s purposes (Abraham 3:22–23). This doctrine of foreordination teaches that our existence didn’t begin at birth, nor will it end at death. We lived before we came to Earth, and the choices we make here align with an eternal mission given to us long ago.

God explains to Abraham that life’s experiences are part of a divine test designed to allow His children the opportunity to “prove” themselves (Abraham 3:25). This offers insight into the purpose of mortality—it is a time of growth, learning, and preparation for eternal life. The challenges and opportunities we face aren’t random; they are carefully crafted elements of a divine plan.

Abraham’s theophany highlights the intricacy and intentionality of God’s creations. Just as the stars are set in meticulous order, so are our lives orchestrated by a loving Father in Heaven. In a world that feels chaotic, remembering this divine organization can bring peace and purpose to our personal journey.

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These two theophanies, one experienced by Moses and the other by Abraham, complement each other beautifully. While Moses’ vision highlights God’s power and intimate concern for humanity, Abraham’s encounter delves into our premortal beginnings and the eternal nature of God’s plan. Both remind us that we are not only part of God’s grand design but central to His work and purpose.

Revelations of Creation and Eternity

The Old Testament, paired with insights from the Pearl of Great Price, brings profound clarity to humanity’s place in a vast, divinely orchestrated universe. It sheds light on the eternal nature of God's work, inviting us to see both the grand scale of His creations and our intimate role within it. As we explore these revelations, we uncover truths that shape our understanding of eternity and divine purpose.

Worlds Without Number

What does "worlds without number" truly mean? In Moses 1:33, God declares to Moses, “And worlds without number have I created.” This isn’t just poetic language—it’s a literal testament to the vastness of God’s creative power. Imagine standing on a star-filled hillside, overwhelmed by the countless galaxies stretching beyond human comprehension. Now think: each star could signify countless worlds, all created with love and purpose by God. It’s humbling and awe-inspiring, isn't it?

This expansive view challenges us to think beyond the confines of our planet. Every one of those worlds is part of the same divine masterpiece. While our earth holds a central role in God’s plan as the site of Christ’s Atonement, it’s not the entirety of His work. The purpose of all creation is intricately tied to His ultimate mission, stated clearly: “to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).

But why create so many worlds? God’s plan is rooted in eternal progression—a principle of growth, learning, and becoming more like Him. Each creation unfolds His eternal purposes. Think of it as a grand symphony, where every note contributes to the harmony. God isn’t just a Creator; He’s a loving Father orchestrating these creations so His children can progress spiritually and eternally.

This expansive doctrine gives us perspective: Earth is part of a vast, eternal design. It’s significant to us, but it’s also just one of countless canvases where God’s children are given the chance to grow. Understanding this helps us see the infinite scope of God’s love and the meticulous care He gives every soul in His creations.

Panoramic View of Humanity’s Role

Have you ever thought about how God sees us from eternity’s vantage point? Through the visions given to Moses and Abraham, we gain extraordinary insights into humanity’s divine role. In Abraham 3:22-23, the Lord shows Abraham a vision of spirits organized before the world was, declaring, “Thou wast chosen before thou wast born.” It’s not just about Abraham; it’s about all of us. Every soul has been foreordained with a unique purpose in God’s vast plan.

Moses 1 further reveals a breathtaking vision of generations past, present, and future. In this panoramic view, God not only shows Moses the earth’s history but also the interconnectedness of humanity. This isn’t history as linear or random—it’s a tapestry, where every thread has meaning. Your life, my life, all of our lives are threads in this divine narrative.

What does this mean for you and me? It means we’re not here by accident. Humanity’s role as stewards of God’s creation and as part of His eternal family is both a privilege and a responsibility. We’re called to reflect God’s image in how we live and how we care for the world around us. It’s like an inheritance given with strings attached; we are both recipients and caretakers of God’s creations.

The visions gifted to Moses and Abraham aren’t just about the past or even the infinite stretch of God’s creations. They’re about how we are invited to act today. We’re asked to align our will with God’s, embrace our divine heritage, and fulfill the purposes we were foreordained for. Whether in small acts of service, family responsibilities, or larger efforts to build God’s kingdom, we’re playing a central role in His eternal plan. Doesn’t that change how you see your life? It’s no longer routine—it’s sacred.

By stepping into the truths revealed in the Old Testament and the Pearl of Great Price, we learn this: We have always been a part of God’s work, and we always will be. These revelations of eternity and creation expand our faith and inspire us to live with greater purpose in every moment.

Practical Applications for Latter-day Saints

The Old Testament is more than just stories from ancient times; it’s a guide to understanding God’s eternal purposes and how they apply to our lives today. For Latter-day Saints, the 2022 Come Follow Me program offers a tailored approach to connect these sacred writings with personal and family spiritual growth. Let’s explore actionable ways to make study meaningful and impactful.

Strengthening Testimonies Through Study

Immersing ourselves in the Old Testament can deepen our testimonies and bring clarity to our faith. To maximize your study, you might consider these strategies:

1. Seek Christ in Every Chapter
   As you read, ask yourself: “How does this relate to Christ’s mission?” The Old Testament is filled with symbolism and events that foreshadow the Atonement. For instance, the story of the Exodus is more than history—it’s a testimony of deliverance through a redeemer, just as Christ delivers us from sin.

2. Make Distinctions Between Law and Covenant
   Understanding the difference between laws (rules given for a specific time) and covenants (eternal promises) can help you see how God’s promises apply to us today. For example, while some Mosaic laws no longer apply, the Abrahamic Covenant continues to shape our identity as a covenant people.

3. Study With Prayer and Intention
   Don’t just read—engage with the text prayerfully. Before opening the scriptures, ask Heavenly Father to guide your understanding. Write down impressions or connections you feel prompted to explore further.

4. Use Additional Resources
   Supplement your reading with tools like the Topical Guide or insights from modern prophets. For instance, President Russell M. Nelson has spoken extensively about the gathering of Israel, which ties directly to themes throughout the Old Testament.

By actively engaging with the scriptures in these ways, you’ll find that your testimony isn't just strengthened—it becomes deeply rooted, like a tree planted by living waters.

Guiding Families in Gospel Learning

Using the Come Follow Me program for family scripture study creates opportunities to grow closer as a family and strengthen faith together. Here are tips for making family gospel learning successful:

• Set a Regular Time and Keep It Simple: Establish a consistent time for family scripture study, even if it’s brief. Focus on quality over quantity—one meaningful discussion is worth more than rushing through multiple chapters. Consistency builds habits.

• Make It Interactive: Engage younger children with stories or activities. For example, when studying Moses parting the Red Sea, you might create a hands-on activity like reenacting it with water and a bowl. Older children might take turns teaching or sharing a favorite insight.

• Apply Lessons to Daily Life: After reading, discuss how the teachings apply to current challenges and experiences. How can Noah's faith inspire our family’s choices? How does Esther’s courage teach us to stand firm in today’s world?

• Incorporate Music or Art: Sing hymns related to the week’s lesson or let children draw scenes from the scriptures. Creativity often makes the stories more memorable, especially for younger family members.

• Encourage Questions and Discussion: Create a safe space for family members to ask questions. For example, what does it mean to “walk in God’s ways” as Israel was commanded? Open discussions deepen understanding and inspire individual application.

Bringing Old Testament teachings into family life doesn’t need to be complicated. A small, consistent effort can transform these moments into treasured traditions. Whether it’s a five-minute discussion around the dinner table or a longer family home evening, these efforts invite the Spirit and strengthen bonds.

Weekly Old Testament Study Schedule

Building a solid spiritual routine is key when diving into the Old Testament as part of the 2022 Come Follow Me curriculum. By breaking study into weekly segments, the program allows individuals and families to engage with meaningful scripture while reflecting on its relevance to modern life. With assigned readings, thematic insights, and guided questions, the schedule ensures that scripture study becomes a consistent habit rather than an overwhelming task.

How the Weekly Study Plan is Organized

The Come Follow Me schedule works by assigning specific chapters of the Old Testament to each week, progressing chronologically through the scriptures. This structure provides clarity and makes the study straightforward for everyone, whether you're a scripture study novice or have years of experience.

Each week centers on key moments, such as the Creation, the Exodus, or the teachings of prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah. For example:

• January 3–9 focuses on Genesis 1-2, allowing readers to reflect on Creation and the beginnings of God's plan for humanity.
• March 21–27 dives into Exodus 1-6, where Moses emerges as a central figure in God's covenant with His people.
• Later sections, like those in Isaiah or Psalms, focus more deeply on prophecy, prayers, and personal covenant relationships.

What’s more, there are accompanying discussion points titled “Thoughts to Keep in Mind” sprinkled throughout. These are not just for academic reading—they are prompts to help us connect the stories and principles to our daily challenges and spiritual goals.

Integrating Insights into Daily Life

You know what’s great about this schedule? It doesn’t expect you to spend hours each day. Instead, it’s about consistency. You can digest a few verses during breakfast or a chapter before bed. Think of it less like a marathon and more like watering a plant daily—a small amount of effort keeps your spiritual growth thriving.

To make the most out of your weekly plan, consider these tips:

1. Set Specific Times: Make study part of your daily routine. Whether it’s five minutes in the morning or 15 minutes as a family after dinner, consistency matters.
2. Journal Your Thoughts: Use a notebook to jot down feelings or ideas as you read. What stands out to you? How does the week’s reading apply to your life? Writing solidifies your understanding and helps you track personal growth over time.
3. Involve Your Family: For families, engage children with questions or brief activities related to the week's readings. For example, while studying Moses’ role, ask, “What can we learn about courage from Moses?”

The weekly curriculum isn’t just about reviewing scripture; it’s about learning to apply ancient wisdom to today's complexities. As we faithfully follow the plan laid out in the Old Testament schedule, the scriptures begin to resonate more deeply with our lives.

Conclusion

The Old Testament study outlined in the 2022 Come Follow Me curriculum is more than just a historical overview. It provides a clear pathway to uncover deep spiritual truths that strengthen our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. By exploring key revelations from Moses 1 and Abraham 3, we learn of God's eternal plan, our premortal existence, and our divine destiny as His children.

As we continue to engage with these scriptures, let’s embrace their teachings with purpose and reflection. Each lesson is an opportunity to see Christ’s role in our lives and to align our actions with His gospel. Share these insights with those around you, and let the Old Testament inspire greater faith, understanding, and personal purpose in your journey.