Minister Launches Study Companion to the Book of Mormon

Auburn, Washington

Retired high school teacher and minister in the Community of Christ church, David Johnson, has debuted one of the most comprehensive guides to the Book of Mormon. Titled, "From Jews to Christians in Ancient America," Johnson has created an in-depth introduction to the Book of Mormon and, at the same time, a resource book for more advanced students.

The guide includes a chapter-by-chapter outline of each of the 15 books and it identifies all 22 authors and all of the various groups of people and individuals who appear on the scene. Most importantly, the book summarizes the teachings found in the Book of Mormon regarding Jesus Christ, discipleship, life after death, salvation and redemption, the nature of man, and others. This book is the ultimate companion to the study of the Book of Mormon.

"David's book is educational and entertaining. His explanations, graphs, and timelines make it easy to understand as well as give any reader a better understanding of the early Americans," said reader David Swenson. "It could easily become a good textbook for anyone with an interest in this time period."

The Book of Mormon chronicles a family who leaves Jerusalem in 600 B.C and sails to America. There they split into two factions. One faction keeps a record of their conflicts, discoveries, intrigues, religious experiences and various sundry adventures until 400 A.D. This record is the Book of Mormon as abridged by Mormon.

Some of the more memorable passages include Nephi's soliloquy, King Benjamin's farewell address, Alma's instructions to his three sons, and the discovery of the gold plates of Ether. From the prophecies in First Nephi to the visitation in Third Nephi, the Book of Mormon focuses on Jesus Christ.

To purchase "From Jews to Christians in Ancient America," visit whatsanephite.com. The 400-page paperback book retails for $24.95 and was published by Classic Day Publishing in Seattle in 2014.

About the author: David Johnson grew up in Puyallup, Wash. and was a high school teacher in Tacoma, Wash. for 40 years. He has been an active minister in the Community of Christ since 1955. David has compiled this book from his notes resulting from years of studying and teaching classes on the Book of Mormon.

To post a comment, you must register and login.