1 Nephi Chapter 4
Summary: The brothers go forth back to Jerusalem to obtain the records. Nephi goes into the city. Nephi find a drunken Laban. In probably one of the most contradictory chapters in the Book of Mormon, the spirit of the Lord directs Nephi to kill Laban. After much internal reflection, he does so, dresses up as Laman, directs Laban's servant, Zoram, to go with him and they obtain the plates of brass (the ancient records described previously). Upon taking the plates with Nephi to the outer walls of the city and see that Nephi was disguised as Laban, Zoram is frightened but Nephi swears an oath and promise that Zoram would be spared if he joins with Lehi and his family in the wilderness. Zoram agrees and they all journey back with the ancient records.
Lessons Taught/To be Learned:
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When faced with a difficult decision, have faith that the Lord will direct you to do what is right, even if it does not seem right to you. The Lord will always direct you in the right direction.
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Go to the Lord in prayer when you are unsure what to do. He will always guide you in way that beings you closer to him and that is in your best eternal interests.
Key Scriptures (italicized and in quotes):
"13 Behold the Lord slayeth the wicked to bring forth his righteous purposes. It is better than one man should perish that that a nation should dwindle and perish in unbelief."