The main feature in Lehi’s dream is the tree of life—a representation of “the love of
God”. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever
believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” Thus, the birth, life, and
atoning sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ are the greatest display of God’s love for His
children. As Nephi testified, this love is “most desirable above all things” and, as the
angel in his vision declared, “most joyous to the soul” . Chapter 11 of 1 Nephi presents a
description of the tree of life as a symbol for the life, ministry, and sacrifice of the Savior.
The fruit on the tree is a symbol for the blessings of the Atonement. Partaking of the fruit
of the tree represents the receiving of ordinances and covenants whereby the
Atonement can become fully be effective in our lives. The fruit is described as
“desirable to make one happy” (1 Nephi 8:10) and produces great joy and the desire to
share that joy with others.
Lehi’s dream is one invitation of many found in the scriptures to come unto Christ. In
Lehi’s dream we learn about 4 group of people and how some came and left, others
who came and struggled to stay, some stayed and some didn’t come at all. We all can
find ours seleves somewhere in this dream. Different seasons of our lives we may find
ourseleves in different places. I testify that there is always an invitation to come unto
Christ. We are never too lost to save ourselves. I know the atonement is real and
powerful. This dream is an invitation to exercise the atonement and come unto christ.
Wording
From Elder Bednards talk “Lehi’s Dream Holding fast to the Rod” he describes these
groups
In 1 Nephi 8:21–23 we learn about the first group of people who pressed forward and
commenced in the path that led to the tree of life. However, as the people encountered
the mist of darkness, which represents “the temptations of the devil” (1 Nephi 12:17),
they lost their way,...