Introduction
LDS missionaries sometimes invite people to read 3 Nephi 11, which describes Jesus’ supposed visit to the Americas after his resurrection. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints claims that this visit is connected to Jesus’ words in John 10:16:
“I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also…”
Latter-day Saints believe “the other sheep” refers to the ancient inhabitants of the Americas, whom the Book of Mormon identifies as Israelites. However, in context, the Bible consistently shows that “the other sheep” refers to the Gentiles (non-Jews), who would later be brought into God’s family through the preaching of the gospel.
So why do missionaries often ask you to read 3 Nephi 11?
Honestly, many don’t have a clear reason. It’s simply something they’ve been taught to do. That’s why it can be helpful to ask them,“Why do you recommend this chapter?”
That simple question often opens the door to a more meaningful conversation.
A few topics to be aware of (but not to discuss)
When missionaries ask you to read 3 Nephi 11, you don’t need to feel pressure to address every unusual claim in the chapter. Instead, focus on what really matters: sin, repentance, and salvation.
Here are some topics you may want to avoid, at least at first:
1. Baptizing with Proper Authority
LDS doctrine teaches that only baptisms performed by holders of the LDS priesthood are valid. Even though they may use words that sound familiar to Christians, their concept of authority is very different. Rather than debating this directly, consider waiting to bring it up unless they repeatedly say, “We’re Christians just like you.”
2. Verses That Sound Like the Trinity
Verses 27 and 36 sound Trinitarian, but LDS missionaries will typically interpret them as teaching oneness of purpose, not oneness of being. It’s rarely fruitful to get stuck here.
3. Contention
Verse 29 warns against being contentious. Some missionaries may appeal to this verse to shut down uncomfortable conversations, even if you’ve been respectful. If that happens, gently agree that quarrelsome arguing is unhelpful, but then point out:
“There’s a difference between being contentious and contending for the truth. The Bible encourages us to lovingly stand up for the faith (Jude 3).”
What to Talk About: Repentance
Instead of chasing side topics, focus the conversation on repentance, which is mentioned several times in the chapter (e.g., verses 23 and 32). You might say, “I appreciated how much emphasis was put on repentance here. I’ve noticed that different people define that word very differently. Would it be okay if we spent some time talking about what repentance means?”
Rather than asking how they define it, consider bringing in a short article from churchofjesuschrist.org that outlines the LDS steps of repentance. You can say, “I came across this on your church’s official website and was really struck by one part in particular. Maybe we could talk about it?”
The Key Difference: “Abandonment of Sin”
The LDS definition of repentance includes several steps, such as recognizing sin, feeling sorrow, confessing, making restitution, and abandoning the sin entirely. Here’s what their website says:
“We must maintain an unyielding, permanent resolve that we will never repeat the transgression.”
You can gently help the missionaries reflect on how absolute this is. Try asking:
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“What does it mean to abandon or forsake something?”
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“When someone says ‘forsaking all others’ in their marriage vows, does that leave any room for romantic feelings toward someone else?”
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“If someone sins again, even once, does that mean they didn’t truly repent?”
You don’t need to win an argument here. Your goal is to help them feel the weight of this definition and realize how impossible it is to carry.
Many will try to soften it with language like, “We just need to try.” You can kindly ask, “Where does it say that in the article? I’m just wondering how we’re supposed to understand what it really means.”
From Burden to Joy: The Gospel Contrast
After talking through their definition, this is your chance to share the gospel. Contrast their view of repentance as a painful process with the joyful transformation that comes through faith in Christ. “For me, repentance isn’t just sorrow; it’s a change of mind. The Bible talks about turning from trusting ourselves to trusting completely in Jesus and his finished work. That’s what gives me peace.”
You could share the story of Zacchaeus (Luke 19) and say, “I don’t see pain in his repentance. It looks more like joy to me—joy that comes from knowing that Jesus already accepts him.”
They may have never heard repentance explained that way. And that’s exactly what makes it so powerful.
Click here to download the article on repentance from churchofjesuschrist.org. If you can, make copies for each person in the conversation.