What I'll present in this post is a summary of an idea championed by John W. Welch. He's written entire books on the subject, so this will just be a brief overview of his biggest points. I find the case to be pretty interesting, although I'm not sure exactly what to make of it all. Some points are definitely stronger than others, and some of these points seem like a stretch, but overall it is an interesting idea.
- Jesus appeared to the Nephites who were already gathered at the temple (3 Nephi 11:1-12).
- Jesus instructed the people and also gave the people authority to baptize, bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost, and prepare them to pass through the final judgment and enter into God's presence. (3 Nephi 14:21-23) and to be "raise[d] up at the last day" (3 Nephi 15:1).
- In 3 Nephi 11, the whole multitude falls to the earth when they realize what has happened. Then they go forth "one by one" and felt the marks of His crucifixion. After this, they cry "Hosanna! Blessed be the name of the Most High God!" with one accord, and fell down again and worshipped Him (see verses 12-17).
- Jesus tells the people to "give heed" to the words of His disciples (3 Nephi 12:1-2).
- The commandments given to the people in 3 Nephi 12-13 include (in order): obedience and sacrifice (3 Nephi 12:19), evil speaking of the brethren (12:22), chastity and marriage (12:28-32), love for one's enemies and obedience to the law of love or the law of the gospel (12:39, 41-45), alms to the poor and consecration (13:1, 20, 24).
- There is a warning against revealing holy things (14:6).
- Jesus prays things which cannot be written and the people are encircled by fire, angels, and witnesses (3 Nephi 17:17, 21, 24-25).
- The people take upon themselves a new name, the name of Christ (18:5, 11).
