You might notice that themes related to darkness and light are repeated throughout 3 Nephi 8–11. What do you learn from these chapters about spiritual darkness and light? (see, for example, 3 Nephi 8:19–23; 9:18; 10:9–13). What brings darkness into your life? What brings light? Why do you think the Savior introduced Himself as “the light and the life of the world”? (3 Nephi 9:18; 11:11).

The events described in 3 Nephi 9–11 are among the most sacred in the Book of Mormon. Read them slowly, and ponder carefully. Here are some questions to help you. Consider recording the impressions that come to you.

• How would I have felt if I were among these people?

• What impresses me about the Savior in these chapters?

• How do I know that Jesus Christ is my Savior?

• How has He been a light in my life?

See also Sharon Eubank, “Christ: The Light That Shines in Darkness,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 73–76.

• To help your children relate to the experiences described in 3 Nephi 8–9, you could retell or listen to a recording of portions of these chapters in a darkened room. Discuss what it might have been like to be in darkness for three days. Then you could talk about why Jesus Christ called Himself the Light of the World (see 3 Nephi 9:18). What did Jesus invite the people, and us, to do so He can be our light? (see 3 Nephi 9:20–22).

• The imagery of a hen gathering her chicks can be a powerful teaching tool to help children understand the Savior’s character and mission. You could read 3 Nephi 10:4–6 while your family looks at a picture of a hen and chicks. Why would a hen need to gather her chicks? Why does the Savior want to gather us close to Him? How do we come to Him for safety?

• Perhaps you could read some of these verses in a soft, “small voice” (3 Nephi 11:3). Or you could play a recording of a song like “This Is My Beloved Son” (Children’s Songbook, 76) softly so that it is difficult to hear. What did the people have to do to understand the voice from heaven? (see verses 5–7). What do we learn from their experience?

About 2,500 people were gathered at the temple in Bountiful when Jesus Christ appeared (see 3 Nephi 17:25). Despite this large number, the Savior invited them each “one by one” to feel the nail prints in His hands and feet (3 Nephi 11:14–15). As you read, imagine what it might have been like to be there. In what ways is the Savior inviting you to “arise and come forth unto” Him? (3 Nephi 11:14).

• How will you help your children feel the Spirit as you read 3 Nephi 11:1–15 together? Perhaps you could ask them to tell you when they find something in these verses that helps them feel God’s love. You could do the same with the pictures in this outline or the video “Jesus Christ Appears at the Temple” (Gospel Library). Tell your children about how you feel when you read and ponder these events. Let them share their feelings too.