"Come and See"

In my scripture studies recently, I came across a phrase that was repeatedly used: “Come and see.”  This phrase appears twice in the first chapter of the Gospel of John.  First, right after Jesus is baptized and his divinity is testified by God the Father and John the Baptist, some of John’s disciples approached Jesus and asked where he lived.  His reply: “Come and see.”  Later, when Philip tells his friend, Nathanial, about having found the prophesied Messiah and that he lives in Nazareth, Nathanial scoffs and asks if anything worthwhile can come out of a town like Nazareth.  Philip’s response: “Come and see.”

It struck me as I read that this is a perfect approach to missionary work.  A coworker asks a question about the Book of Mormon?  Give them a free copy and challenge them to read it for themselves.  A neighbor asks where you go to Church dressed so nicely every Sunday morning?  Invite them to attend with you.  A friend asks about what the deal with that big fancy temple is?  Invite them to attend the visitor’s center with you (if one is available).

This very topic was discussed by Elder Bednar in the last General Conference, so it shouldn’t be surprising that these particular words stood out to me.  Even so, discovering the significance of this phrase for myself, rather than hearing a lecture (even one from an inspired man of God), meant that the lesson is much more personal and memorable.

In closing, I encourage everyone to remember the words of the Savior and, when the opportunity presents itself, invite.  Our responsibility is to share the Gospel with those around us; after that, the words of the Lord and the power of the Holy Ghost will do the rest.