Furthermore, he pointed out that the roots or scriptures of the three transplanted branches remained in existence or alive and by taking branches from the mother tree and grafting or combining them with these roots it might be possible to preserve these colonies of Israel as well. Certainly the coming forth of the Book of Mormon or the word of the Lord to the Nephites has been a most important source of strength for the colonies of Israelites that have been gathered in from among the Gentile Christians in the latter days. The lost ten tribes will also bring their scriptures with them when they come,10 which will further strengthen the various segments of Israel wherever they are.