What do we learn about Jesus Christ from the First Vision?

From a young humble farm boy’s sacred experience calling upon God in mighty prayer vocally for the first time in a grove of trees we learn that Jesus Christ lives! He has a resurrected body of flesh and bones.

He is a God who tenderly cares for and loves us; just as in the days of old, He is the Great Redeemer who speaks and manifests Himself to us today.

We learn that He is the very Christ, the Lord of glory, it was He who was “crucified for the world, that all those who believe on [His] name may have eternal life."¹

One scholar observed, “the real resonance of the First Vision today is to know that it’s the nature of God to give to those who lack wisdom. … The God that reveals Himself to Joseph Smith in the sacred grove is a God who answers teenagers in times of trouble."²

We learn that Jesus Christ is merciful, forgiving, administering grace while also insisting upon truth. Forgiving of Joseph Smith’s sins in his sincere effort to turn to Him, whilst not condoning the sinful state of those in the world who have their hearts far from Him.

I bear my unwaivering witness that Jesus Christ lives! I know that He loves us all, and even if we struggle to feel it, I testify that His love is still there, stronger than anything we could ever know. I witness that He is a God of miracles. May we continue to draw our hearts to and cast our minds upon the Holy One of Israel, His life, and His literal resurrection this Easter season and be prepared for and awaiting His glorious return, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.