In the past two days my scripture reading has taken me to Ezekiel 37-38 and to 3 Nephi 15-16. Especially when reading the chapters in Ezekiel, I found the LDS Institute of Religion student manual very helpful (see http://institute.lds.org/manuals/old-testament-institute-student-manual-2/ot-in2-08-jer-ez-27.asp).
Sections 27-20 through 27-27 of the manual discuss Ezekiel 37-38. Among other things, there are prophecies about writing on the "stick of Judah" and the "stick of Joseph" (Ezekiel 37:16) and the symbolism of these sticks being joined together. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints believe this is a prophecy of the coming forth of the Bible and the Book of Mormon to both testify of Christ. There is also a discussion in the student manual that some bible scholars believe the word "stick" should be interpreted as "'rod or scepter' rather than a record of some kind". The student manual goes on to present archaelogical findings as well as additional scriptures to discuss both points of view. Like many prophecies, this one has dual meanings. It is very interesting reading, I recommend it.
I also enjoyed the reminder that the Book of Mormon "will bring us to a knowledge of Christ". President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is quoted on page 314 of the Book of Mormon Institute student manual, "The central purpose of the Book of Mormon is its testament of Jesus Christ. Of more than 6,000 verses in the Book of Mormon, far more than half refer directly to Him."
President Packer goes on to quote a verse that is one of my favorites, "We talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins." (2 Nephi 25:26)
We cannot rejoice in Christ enough! It is a true blessing to have an additional testament of Him.
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