Transcript
GOSPEL PRINCIPLES
GOSPEL PRINCIPLES
Published by
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah
© 1978, 1979, 1981, 1985, 1986, 1988, 1992, 1995, 1997
by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America.
English approval: 6/96.
CONTENTS
Introduction........................................................................................................................ 1
Our Premortal Life with God Unit One
Chapter 1 Our Father in Heaven........................................................................... 8
Chapter 2 Our Heavenly Family........................................................................ 11
Chapter 3 Jesus Christ, Our Chosen Leader and Savior................... 17
Chapter 4 Freedom to Choose ............................................................................. 21
Leaving the Presence of God Unit Two
Chapter 5 The Creation............................................................................................. 27
Chapter 6 The Fall of Adam and Eve ............................................................. 31
Communication between God and Man Unit Three
Chapter 7 The Holy Ghost...................................................................................... 36
Chapter 8 Praying to Our Heavenly Father............................................... 41
Chapter 9 Prophets of God..................................................................................... 47
Chapter 10 Scriptures ................................................................................................. 52
Jesus Christ as Our Savior Unit Four
Chapter 11 The Life of Christ ............................................................................... 61
Chapter 12 The Atonement.................................................................................... 71
The Church of Jesus Christ Unit Five
Chapter 13 The Priesthood..................................................................................... 81
Chapter 14 Priesthood Organization............................................................... 85
Chapter 15 The Lord’s Covenant People ..................................................... 95
Chapter 16 The Church of Jesus Christ in Former Times ..............101
Chapter 17 The Church of Jesus Christ Today.......................................109
The Gospel of Jesus Christ Unit Six
Chapter 18 Faith in Jesus Christ .......................................................................117
Chapter 19 Repentance............................................................................................122
Chapter 20 Baptism....................................................................................................129
Contents
Chapter 21 The Gift of the Holy Ghost .......................................................137
Chapter 22 The Gifts of the Spirit....................................................................141
Chapter 23 The Sacrament....................................................................................151
Perfecting Our Lives Unit Seven
Chapter 24 The Sabbath Day ..............................................................................159
Chapter 25 Fasting......................................................................................................165
Chapter 26 Sacrifice ...................................................................................................171
Chapter 27 Work and Personal Responsibility ......................................179
Chapter 28 Service ......................................................................................................185
Chapter 29 The Lord’s Law of Health..........................................................192
Chapter 30 Charity .....................................................................................................197
Chapter 31 Honesty...................................................................................................203
Chapter 32 Tithes and Offerings ......................................................................207
Chapter 33 Missionary Work..............................................................................211
Chapter 34 Developing Our Talents..............................................................218
Chapter 35 Obedience..............................................................................................223
Family Salvation Unit Eight
Chapter 36 The Family Can Be Eternal .......................................................231
Chapter 37 Family Responsibilities................................................................236
Chapter 38 Eternal Marriage...............................................................................241
Chapter 39 The Law of Chastity.......................................................................247
Chapter 40 Temple Work and Family History ......................................255
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ Unit Nine
Chapter 41 Signs of the Second Coming ....................................................265
Chapter 42 The Gathering of the House of Israel ................................271
Chapter 43 The Second Coming of Jesus Christ ...................................277
Chapter 44 The Millennium.................................................................................282
Life after Death Unit Ten
Chapter 45 The Postmortal Spirit World....................................................289
Chapter 46 The Last Judgment..........................................................................294
Chapter 47 Exaltation ...............................................................................................301
The Articles of Faith ...............................................................................................306
Contents
Hymns
The hymns are listed by suggested use, but many of them could be
used for more than one purpose. For instance, most of the opening
and closing hymns could be used for either purpose.
Opening
Come, Come, Ye Saints .........................................................................................310
Come, Ye Children of the Lord.......................................................................312
Redeemer of Israel....................................................................................................313
How Firm a Foundation.......................................................................................314
Count Your Blessings .............................................................................................316
Let Us All Press On..................................................................................................318
I Need Thee Every Hour......................................................................................320
Sweet Is the Work .....................................................................................................321
Joseph Smith’s First Prayer ................................................................................322
Sacrament
Behold the Great Redeemer Die .....................................................................324
O God, the Eternal Father ...................................................................................326
How Great the Wisdom and the Love.......................................................327
Jesus, Once of Humble Birth.............................................................................328
God, Our Father, Hear Us Pray ......................................................................329
I Stand All Amazed .................................................................................................330
There Is a Green Hill Far Away......................................................................332
We’ll Sing All Hail to Jesus’ Name...............................................................333
In Humility, Our Savior .......................................................................................334
Closing
The Spirit of God .......................................................................................................336
High on the Mountain Top ................................................................................338
Oh Say, What Is Truth?.........................................................................................339
Now Let Us Rejoice .................................................................................................340
Do What Is Right .......................................................................................................342
We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet ......................................................344
I Know That My Redeemer Lives..................................................................346
God Be with You Till We Meet Again .......................................................348
O My Father ..................................................................................................................350
Contents
Special Topics
Love at Home (Family, Home)........................................................................352
I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go (Mission) .......................................354
Did You Think to Pray? (Prayer) ...................................................................356
Praise to the Man (Joseph Smith)...................................................................358
Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains (Christmas) .......................................360
Silent Night (Christmas).......................................................................................361
Christ the Lord Is Risen Today (Easter)....................................................362
He Is Risen! (Easter) ................................................................................................363
Children’s Songs
I Am a Child of God................................................................................................366
I Know My Father Lives.......................................................................................367
I Think When I Read That Sweet Story.....................................................368
I Thank Thee, Dear Father ..................................................................................369
The Lord Gave Me a Temple ............................................................................370
Kindness Begins with Me....................................................................................371
Dare to Do Right........................................................................................................372
The Golden Plates .....................................................................................................373
Teach Me to Walk in the Light ........................................................................374
Family Prayer...............................................................................................................375
Glossary...........................................................................................................................376
Books Cited...................................................................................................................383
Index of First Lines and Titles (Music) ..................................................385
Index to Lesson Topics ........................................................................................387
Musical accompaniments for the hymns and children’s songs
included in this publication are recorded on the Hymns and Children’s Songs audiocassettes (52052), available through Church distribution centers.
INTRODUCTION
Gospel Principles was written both as a personal study guide
and as a teacher’s manual. Therefore, you can use this manual
in many ways. It can help you—
• Build your knowledge and testimony of the gospel.
• Answer questions about the gospel.
• Study scriptures by topics.
• Prepare talks.
• Prepare lessons for family home evening.
• Prepare lessons for Church meetings.
As you study this manual, seek the Spirit of the Lord. The
Holy Ghost will increase your understanding and testimony
of Jesus Christ, his atonement, and the restoration of the gospel. Through your study of this text and its related scriptures,
you can find answers to life’s questions, gain an assurance of
your purpose and self-worth, and solve personal difficulties.
Many of the instructions for teachers listed below are also
important when you use this manual as a personal study
guide.
Instructions for Teaching at Church and at Home
In one way or another, everyone is a teacher. Being a teacher
is a great opportunity and responsibility. The most important
things you will ever teach are the doctrines of Christ as revealed through the scriptures and modern prophets and as
confirmed by the Holy Ghost. To do this effectively, you must
obtain the Spirit of the Lord. “The Spirit shall be given unto you
by the prayer of faith,” said the Lord, “and if ye receive
not the Spirit ye shall not teach” (D&C 42:14). The Holy Ghost
is the real teacher, so it is important to create an environment
in which the Lord’s Spirit can be present.
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Introduction
You can do many things to bring the Spirit into your class or
home. The following suggestions will help you be a better
teacher:
• Pray continually for divine understanding and guidance.
• Establish a habit of daily scripture study.
• Testify of the truthfulness of the gospel to your family and
friends.
• Let sacred, uplifting music help you focus your thoughts
and moods.
• Keep yourself free from sin, repenting when necessary and
striving always to improve.
• Express your love to others and to your Heavenly Father.
• Rely on priesthood authority and its power to bless.
Related to these suggestions are some other ways to come
unto Christ by drawing upon the Spirit. Consider fasting. It
can give you spiritual strength and confidence. Attend the
temple as often as possible. Ponder the covenants you have
made, the ordinances you have entered into, and the gospel
truths you are learning. As you draw close to the Lord, you
and those you teach will receive more than mere intellectual
understanding; you will receive a knowledge of truth that
only the Spirit can give. You will experience the love of God
and the benefits of living the gospel, which will greatly enhance your capacity to teach.
Obtain divine knowledge and spiritual guidance through
careful study, prayerful preparation, and righteous living.
Never speculate about Church doctrine. Teach only what is
supported by the scriptures and the Holy Spirit.
Read and teach from the scriptures regularly. Remind those
you are teaching to use their scriptures at home and in class.
If necessary, obtain extra copies of the scriptures so that all
may refer to them. Help others become more familiar and
confident with the scriptures. Give scriptural references
clearly and, if needed, provide help in finding them. Lesson
discussions should lead participants to read and ponder the
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scriptures personally and with their families each day. Emphasize that the home is the main setting for gospel learning.
Become familiar with the teaching resources in this manual
and, if available, the materials in your meetinghouse library.
There are visual aids, music, audiovisual materials, general
conference addresses, Church magazines, and other resources. Find out what they are and use them when the Spirit
impresses you to do so.
As you teach, help others see how gospel principles apply to
daily living. Encourage discussions on how these principles
can affect our feelings about God, ourselves, our families, and
our neighbors. Challenge participants to live according to the
principles.
Try to involve as many people as possible in the lessons. You
can do this by inviting them to read aloud, answer questions,
or share experiences, but do so only when you are sure it will
not embarrass them. You may want to make special assignments to class members while preparing the lessons. Be sensitive to the needs and feelings of others. You may need to talk
privately with individuals before the lesson and ask how they
feel about participating.
Some of the people you teach may need special attention. Be
sensitive to those with language, cultural, social, or age differences; hearing, sight, physical, or speech difficulties; or mental, emotional, or learning disabilities. In some cases, you may
want to talk with a person’s family members or with Church
leaders. When appropriate, speak to the person directly about
any special concerns.
The Lord’s Spirit will be present when love and unity exist.
The Lord said, “Where two or three are gathered together in
my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20).
When the Spirit of the Lord is present, you will see significant
results. The Lord promised that “every good tree bringeth
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forth good fruit” (Matthew 7:17). The following list suggests
some of the fruits that you and those you teach will enjoy:
• Knowledge and understanding
The desire to search for eternal truths.
The desire to live according to the word of God.
(See D&C 1:37–38.)
• Faith
The desire to believe.
The desire to draw closer to God.
The desire to act in faith.
(See Alma 22:16; D&C 11:17; 88:63.)
• Prayer
The desire to worship God.
The desire to communicate more with him.
The desire to give thanks.
The desire to seek direction.
(See 1 Nephi 15:8; 18:3; Alma 33:1–11; Moroni 10:4–5.)
• Humility
The desire to submit to the Lord.
The desire to seek the Lord’s will and glory.
The desire to remove pride.
(See John 6:38; Mosiah 3:19; Alma 34:38; D&C 5:24, 28.)
• Repentance
The desire to repair any wrongs against others.
The desire not to judge.
The desire to change.
The desire to acknowledge unworthiness.
The desire to do good works.
The desire to live according to the doctrines of Christ.
(See Alma 26:21–22; 34:32–35; 38:14.)
• Covenants
The desire to obtain all the saving ordinances.
The desire to keep and renew covenants through priesthood
ordinances.
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The desire to obtain spiritual strength and power through
priesthood ordinances. (See Ezekiel 11:19–20; D&C 84:19–
21; 136:4.)
As you draw close to the Lord, you will find happiness and
the fulfillment of Paul’s words in Ephesians 4:13–15:
“[We will] come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure
of the stature of the fulness of Christ: that we henceforth be
no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with
every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning
craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking
the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is
the head, even Christ.”
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OUR PREMORTAL
LIFE WITH GOD
Unit One
OUR FATHER
IN HEAVEN
Chapter 1
There Is a God
Alma, a Book of Mormon prophet, wrote, “All things denote
there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are
upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the
planets which move in their regular form do witness that
there is a Supreme Creator” (Alma 30:44). We can look up at
the sky at night and have an idea of what Alma meant. There
are millions of stars and planets all in perfect order. They did
not get there by chance. We can see the work of God in the
heavens and on the earth. The many beautiful plants, the
many kinds of animals, the mountains, the rivers, the clouds
that bring us rain and snow—all these testify to us that there
is a God.
Discussion
• Have someone read the first article of faith.
• What are some of the things around us that show us there is
a God?
God Is the Ruler of Heaven and Earth
The prophets have taught us that God is the almighty ruler of
the universe. God dwells in heaven (see D&C 20:17). Through
his Son, Jesus Christ, he created heaven and earth and all
things that are in them (see Moses 2:1). He made the moon,
the stars, and the sun. He organized this world and gave it
form, motion, and life. He filled the air and the water with
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living things. He covered the hills and plains with all kinds of
animal life. He gave us day and night, summer and winter,
seedtime and harvest. He made man in his own image to be a
ruler over his other creations (see Genesis 1:26–27).
God is the one supreme and absolute being in whom we believe and whom we worship. He is the Creator, Ruler, and
Preserver of all things (see Discourses of Brigham Young,
pp. 18–23).
Discussion
• Read Mosiah 4:9. What things did God create?
What Kind of Being Is God?
Because we are made in his image (see Moses 6:9), we know
that God has a body that looks like ours. His eternal spirit is
housed in a tangible body of flesh and bones (see D&C 130:22).
God’s body, however, is perfected and glorified, with a glory
beyond all description.
God is perfect. He is a God of love, mercy, charity, truth,
power, faith, knowledge, and judgment. He has all power. He
knows all things. He is full of goodness.
All good things come from God. Everything that he does is
to help his children become like him—a god. He has said,
“Behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the
immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).
Discussion
• Ask class members to read the following scriptural references and discuss what each one teaches about our Heavenly Father: Abraham 3:18–19; John 3:16; Mormon 9:9;
2 Nephi 9:17; Alma 26:35; Doctrine and Covenants 109:77.
Why Should We Try to Know God?
Knowing God is so important that the Savior said, “This is life
eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and
Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3).
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The first and greatest commandment tells us, “Thou shalt love
the Lord thy God with all thy heart” (Matthew 22:37).
The more we know God, the more we love him and keep his
commandments (see 1 John 2:3). By keeping his commandments we can become like him.
Discussion
• Why is it important to know God?
How Can We Know God?
We can know God if we will—
1. Believe that he exists and that he loves us (see Mosiah 4:9).
2. Study the scriptures (see 2 Timothy 3:14–17).
3. Pray to him (see James 1:5).
4. Obey all his commandments as best we can (see John
14:21–23).
As we do these things, we will come to know God and eventually have eternal life.
Discussion
• What are some of the ways we can come to know God?
• How can each of us do these things in our lives?
Additional Scriptures
• Acts 7:55–56 (Son at the right hand of the Father)
• D&C 88:41–44 (qualities of God)
• Psalm 24:1 (the earth is the Lord’s)
• Moses 1:30–39 (Creation)
• Alma 7:20 (God cannot do wrong)
• Joseph Smith—History 1:17 (Father and Son are separate)
• Alma 5:40 (good comes from God)
• John 14:6–9 (Son and Father are alike)
• Mormon 9:15–20 (God of miracles)
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OUR HEAVENLY
FAMILY
Chapter 2
We Are Children of Our Heavenly Father
God is not only our ruler and creator; he is also our Heavenly
Father. “All men and women are . . . literally the sons and
daughters of Deity. . . . Man, as a spirit, was begotten and
born of heavenly parents, and reared to maturity in the eternal mansions of the Father, prior to coming upon the earth in
a temporal [physical] body” (Joseph F. Smith, “The Origin of
Man,” Improvement Era, Nov. 1909, pp. 78, 80).
Every person who was ever born on earth was our spirit
brother or sister in heaven. The first spirit born to our heavenly parents was Jesus Christ (see D&C 93:21), so he is literally
our elder brother (see Discourses of Brigham Young, p. 26). Because we are the spiritual children of our heavenly parents,
we have inherited the potential to develop their divine qualities. If we choose to do so, we can become perfect, just as they
are.
Discussion
• Who is the Father of our spirits?
• Where did we live before we were born on earth?
• What is our relationship to God and to each other? Read
Hebrews 12:9.
• Who was the first spirit born to our heavenly parents?
• How are we like our heavenly parents?
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Our Father provided us a heavenly home more glorious and beautiful
than any place on earth.
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We Developed Personalities and Talents While We Lived
in Heaven
The scriptures teach us that the prophets prepared themselves to become leaders on earth while they were still spirits
in heaven (see Alma 13:1–3). God foreordained (chose) them
to be his leaders on earth before they were born into mortal
bodies. Jesus, Adam, and Abraham were some of these leaders. (See Abraham 3:22–23.) Joseph Smith taught that everyone who has a calling to lead people on earth in the Church
was foreordained to do so (see Teachings of the Prophet Joseph
Smith, p. 365). However, everyone is free on earth to accept or
reject the calling.
We were not all alike in heaven. We were given different
talents and abilities, and we were called to do different things
on earth. (See Discourses of Brigham Young, p. 51.) We can learn
more about our talents and callings when we receive our patriarchal blessings (see Harold B. Lee, Stand Ye in Holy Places,
p. 117).
Even though we have forgotten, our Father in Heaven remembers who we were and what we did before we came here
(see Discourses of Brigham Young, p. 50). He has chosen the
time and place for each of us to be born so we can learn the
lessons we personally need and do the most good with our
individual talents and personalities.
Discussion
• What was our premortal life like?
Our Heavenly Parents Desired to Share Their Joy with Us
Our heavenly parents provided us with a celestial home more
glorious and beautiful than any place on earth. We were
happy there. Yet they knew we could not progress beyond a
certain point unless we left them for a time. They wanted us
to develop the godlike qualities that they have. To do this, we
needed to leave our celestial home to be tested and to gain
experience. We needed to choose good over evil. Our spirits
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needed to be clothed with physical bodies. We would need to
leave our physical bodies at death and reunite with them in
the Resurrection. Then we would receive immortal bodies like
those of our heavenly parents. If we passed our tests, we
would receive the fulness of joy that our heavenly parents
have received. (See D&C 93:30–34.)
Discussion
• How does earth life help prepare us to become like our heavenly parents?
Our Heavenly Father Presented a Plan for Us to Become
like Him
Since we could not progress further in heaven, our Heavenly
Father called a Grand Council to present his plan for our
progression (see Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pp. 348,
349, 365). We learned that if we followed his plan, we would
become like him. We would have a resurrected body; we
would have all power in heaven and on earth; we would
become heavenly parents and have spirit children just as he
does (see D&C 132:19–20).
We learned that he would provide an earth for us where we
would be tested (see Abraham 3:24–26). A veil would cover
our memories, and we would forget our heavenly home. This
would be necessary so we could choose good or evil without
being influenced by the memory of living with our Heavenly
Father. Thus we could obey him because of our faith in him,
not because of our knowledge or memory of him. He would
help us recognize the truth when we heard it again on earth
(see John 18:37).
At the Grand Council we also learned the purpose for our
progression: to have a fulness of joy. However, we also
learned that not all of our Father’s children would want to
receive a fulness of joy. Some of us would be deceived, choose
other paths, and lose our way. We learned that all of us would
have trials in our lives: sickness, disappointment, pain, sorrow, and death. But we understood that these would be given
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to us for our experience and our good (see D&C 122:7). If we
allowed them to, these trials would purify us rather than defeat us. They would teach us to have endurance, patience,
and charity (see Spencer W. Kimball, Faith Precedes the Miracle,
pp. 97–98).
At this council we also learned that because of our weakness,
all of us would sin. We learned that a Savior would be provided for us so we could overcome our sins and overcome
death with resurrection. We learned that if we placed our
faith in him, obeying his word and following his example, we
would be exalted and become like our heavenly parents. We
would receive a fulness of joy.
Discussion
• What plan did our Heavenly Father present to us?
• What did we learn would happen to us on earth?
• Why would our Father in Heaven permit us to experience
suffering and death on earth?
Additional Scriptures
• Hebrews 12:9 (God is the father of our spirits)
• Job 38:4–7 (premortal life implied)
• Abraham 3:22–28 (vision of premortal life)
• Jeremiah 1:5 (vision of premortal life)
• D&C 29:31–38 (vision of premortal life)
• Moses 3:4–7 (spiritual then temporal creations)
• 1 Corinthians 15:44 (spiritual and temporal creations)
• D&C 76:23–24 (begotten sons and daughters)
• D&C 132:11–26 (plan for progression)
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Under Heavenly Father’s direction,
Jehovah (Jesus Christ) created the earth.
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JESUS CHRIST, OUR
CHOSEN LEADER
AND SAVIOR
Chapter 3
A Savior and Leader Was Needed
When the plan for our salvation was presented to us in the
spirit world, we were so happy that we shouted for joy (see
Job 38:7).
We understood that we would have to leave our heavenly
home for a time. We would not live in the presence of our
heavenly parents. While we were away from them, all of us
would sin and some of us would lose our way. Our Heavenly
Father knew and loved each one of us. He knew we would
need help, so he planned a way to help us.
We needed a Savior to pay for our sins and teach us how to
return to our Heavenly Father. Our Father said, “Whom shall
I send?” (Abraham 3:27). Two of our brothers offered to help.
Our oldest brother, Jesus Christ, who was then called
Jehovah, said, “Here am I, send me” (Abraham 3:27).
Jesus was willing to come to the earth, give his life for us, and
take upon himself our sins. He, like our Heavenly Father,
wanted us to choose whether we would obey Heavenly Father’s commandments. He knew we must be free to choose in
order to prove ourselves worthy of exaltation. Jesus said,
“Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever”
(Moses 4:2).
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Satan, who was called Lucifer, also came, saying, “Behold,
here am I, send me, I will be thy son, and I will redeem
all mankind, that one soul shall not be lost, and surely I will
do it; wherefore give me thine honor” (Moses 4:1). Satan
wanted to force us all to do his will. Under his plan, we would
not be allowed to choose. He would take away the freedom of
choice that our Father had given us. Satan wanted to have all
the honor for our salvation.
Discussion
• Who is our leader and Savior?
• Who besides Jesus wanted to be our leader?
Jesus Christ Became Our Chosen Leader and Savior
After hearing both sons speak, Heavenly Father said, “I will
send the first” (Abraham 3:27).
Jesus Christ was chosen and ordained to be our Savior. Many
scriptures tell about this. One scripture tells us that long before Jesus was born, he appeared to the brother of Jared, a
Book of Mormon prophet, and said: “Behold, I am he who
was prepared from the foundation of the world to redeem my
people. Behold, I am Jesus Christ. . . . In me shall all mankind
have life, and that eternally, even they who shall believe on
my name” (Ether 3:14).
When Jesus lived on earth, he taught: “I came down from
heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent
me. . . . And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one
which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:38,
40).
Discussion
• Ask each person to tell something about Jesus.
The War in Heaven
Because our Heavenly Father chose Jesus Christ to be our
Savior, Satan became angry and rebelled. There was war in
heaven. Satan and his followers fought against Jesus and his
followers.
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In this great rebellion, Satan and all the spirits who followed
him were sent away from the presence of God and cast down
from heaven. One-third of the spirits in heaven were punished for following Satan: they were denied the right to receive mortal bodies.
Because we are here on earth and have mortal bodies, we
know that we chose to follow Jesus Christ and our Heavenly
Father. Satan and his followers are also on the earth, but as
spirits. They have not forgotten who we are, and they are
around us daily, tempting us and enticing us to do things that
are not pleasing to our Heavenly Father. In our premortal life,
we chose the right. We must continue to choose the right here
on earth. Only by following Jesus can we return to our heavenly home.
Discussion
• How do we know that we chose to follow Jesus?
We Have the Savior’s Teachings to Follow
From the beginning, Jesus Christ has revealed the gospel,
which tells us what we must do to return to our Heavenly
Father. At the appointed time he came to earth himself. He
taught the plan of salvation and exaltation by his word and by
the way he lived. He established his Church and his priesthood on the earth. He took our sins upon himself.
By following the Lord’s teachings, we can return to live with
him and our heavenly parents in the celestial kingdom. He
was chosen to be our Savior when we all attended the great
council with our heavenly parents. When he became our Savior, he did his part to help us return to our heavenly home. It
is now up to each of us to do our part and become worthy of
exaltation.
Discussion
• What are some of the things we must do to follow Jesus?
• Bear testimony of the Savior.
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Additional Scriptures
• Moses 4:1–4 (Council in Heaven)
• Abraham 3:22–28 (Council in Heaven)
• D&C 76:24–29 (War in Heaven)
• Revelation 12:7–9 (War in Heaven)
• Isaiah 14:12–15 (why Lucifer was cast out)
• 2 Nephi 9:6–26; 3 Nephi 27:13–20 (purpose of the
Atonement)
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FREEDOM
TO CHOOSE
Chapter 4
“Thou mayest choose for thyself, for it is given unto thee”
(Moses 3:17).
God has told us through his prophets that we are free to
choose between good and evil. We may choose liberty and
eternal life by following Jesus Christ. We are also free to
choose captivity and death by following Satan. (See 2 Nephi
2:27.) The right to choose between good and evil is called
agency.
Agency Is an Eternal Principle
In the premortal life we were free agents. That means we had
power to act for ourselves (see D&C 93:29–30). One purpose
of earth life is to show what choices we will make (see 2 Nephi
2:15–16). If we were forced to choose the right, we would not
be able to show what we would choose for ourselves. Also, we
are happier doing things when we have made our own
choices.
Agency may have been one of the first issues to arise in the
premortal council in heaven. It was one of the main causes of
the conflict between the followers of Christ and the followers
of Satan. Satan said he would bring all of us back to our Father’s presence, but he would have taken away our agency.
When his offer was rejected, he rebelled and was cast out of
heaven with his followers (see D&C 29:36–37).
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Discussion
• Ask class members to compare the feelings the words force
and choice bring to mind.
Agency Is a Necessary Part of the Plan of Salvation
Agency makes our life on earth a period of testing. When
planning the mortal creation of his children, God said, “We
will prove [test] them herewith, to see if they will do all things
whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them”
(Abraham 3:25). Without the gift of agency, we would have
been unable to show our Heavenly Father whether we would
do all that he commanded us. Because we are able to choose,
we are responsible for our actions (see Helaman 14:30–31).
When we choose to live according to God’s plan for us, our
agency is strengthened. Right choices increase our power to
make more right choices.
As we obey each of our Father’s commandments, we grow in
wisdom and strength of character. Our faith increases. We
find it easier to make right choices.
We began to make choices as spirit children in our Heavenly
Father’s presence. Our choices there made us worthy to come
to earth. Our Heavenly Father wants us to grow in faith,
power, knowledge, wisdom, and all other good things. If we
keep his commandments and make right choices, we will
learn and understand. We will become like him. (See D&C
93:28.)
Discussion
• Read Moses 3:17 and Joshua 24:14–15. What choices have
you made this week? Did these choices bring you closer to
the Lord?
• Why is agency necessary?
• Read 2 Nephi 28:30. How does making right choices help us
make more right choices?
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Agency Requires That There Be a Choice
We cannot choose unless the opposites of good and evil are
placed before us. Lehi, a great Book of Mormon prophet, told
his son that in order to bring about the eternal purposes of
God, there must be “an opposition in all things. If not so, . . .
righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad”
(2 Nephi 2:11).
God allows Satan to oppose the good. God said of Satan:
“I caused that he should be cast down;
“And he became Satan, yea, even the devil, the father of all
lies, to deceive and to blind men, and to lead them captive at
his will, even as many as would not hearken unto my voice”
(Moses 4:3–4).
Satan does all he can to destroy God’s work. He seeks “the
misery of all mankind, . . . for he seeketh that all men might be
miserable like unto himself” (2 Nephi 2:18, 27). He does not
love us. He does not want any good thing for us. He does not
want us to be happy. He wants to make us his slaves. He uses
many disguises to capture us.
When we follow the temptations of Satan, we limit our
choices. The following example suggests how this works.
Imagine seeing a sign on the seashore that reads: “Danger—
whirlpool. No swimming allowed here.” We might think that
is a restriction. But is it? We still have many choices. We are
free to swim somewhere else. We are free to walk along the
beach and pick up seashells. We are free to watch the sunset.
We are free to go home. We are also free to ignore the sign
and swim in the dangerous place. But once the whirlpool has
us in its grasp and we are pulled under, we have very few
choices. We can try to escape, or we can call for help, but we
may drown.
Even though we are free to choose our course of action, we
are not free to choose the consequences of our actions. The
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consequences, whether good or bad, follow as a natural result
of any choice we make (see Revelation 22:12). If we touch a
hot flame, for example, we are burned.
Heavenly Father has told us how to escape the captivity of
Satan. We must watch and pray always, asking God to help us
withstand the temptations of Satan (see 3 Nephi 18:15). Our
Heavenly Father will not allow us to be tempted beyond our
power to resist (see 1 Corinthians 10:13).
God’s commandments direct us away from danger and toward eternal life. By choosing wisely, we will gain exaltation,
progress eternally, and enjoy perfect happiness (see 2 Nephi
2:27–28).
Discussion
• Place a treat within the reach of someone. Loosely wrap a
cord around him, binding his arms to his body. Ask him if he
can reach the treat. Tighten the cord so the person is bound.
Explain that sin and ignorance also interfere with agency
and prevent us from receiving blessings from God. Discuss
how repentance and righteous living free us from the
bondage of sin.
• Why is opposition necessary? See 2 Nephi 2:15–16.
• Read 2 Nephi 2:28. How can you choose eternal life?
Additional Scriptures
• Moses 7:32 (freedom of choice)
• Abraham 3:24–25 (earth life a test)
• Moroni 7:5–6 (works judged)
• 2 Nephi 2:11–16 (opposition is necessary)
• Moroni 7:12–17 (choosing good and evil)
• 2 Peter 2:19; John 8:34 (sin is bondage)
• 2 Nephi 2:28–29; Alma 40:12–13 (reward according to works)
24
LEAVING THE
PRESENCE OF GOD
Unit Two
Jehovah created a beautiful world for us.
26
THE CREATION
Chapter 5
When we lived as spirit children with our heavenly parents,
our Heavenly Father told us about his plan for us to become
more like him. We shouted for joy when we heard his plan
(see Job 38:7). We were eager for new experiences. In order for
these things to happen, we needed to leave our Father’s presence and receive mortal bodies. We needed another place to
live where we could prepare to become like him. Our new
home was called earth.
Who Created the Earth for Us?
Jesus Christ created this world and everything in it. He also
created many other worlds. He did so through the power of
the priesthood, under the direction of our Heavenly Father.
God the Father said, “Worlds without number have I created; . . . and by the Son I created them, which is mine Only
Begotten” (Moses 1:33). We have other testimonies of this
truth. Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon saw Jesus Christ in a
vision. They testified “that by him, and through him, and of
him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants
thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God” (D&C
76:24).
Discussion
• Who created the earth? Read Hebrews 1:1–2 and Moses 1:33.
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Carrying Out the Creation
The earth and everything on it were created spiritually before
they were created physically (see Moses 3:5). In planning to
create the physical earth, Christ said to those who were with
him, “We will go down, for there is space there, . . . and we
will make an earth whereon these [the spirit children of our
Father in Heaven] may dwell” (Abraham 3:24).
Under the direction of the Father, Christ formed and organized the earth. He divided light from darkness to make day
and night. He formed the sun, moon, and stars. He divided
the waters from the dry land to make seas, rivers, and lakes.
He made the earth beautiful and productive. He made grass,
trees, flowers, and other plants of all kinds. These plants contained seeds from which new plants could grow. Then he
created the animals—fish, cattle, insects, and birds of all
kinds. These animals had the ability to reproduce their own
kind.
Now the earth was ready for the greatest creation of all—
mankind. Our spirits would be given bodies of flesh and
blood so they could live on earth. “And I, God, said unto mine
Only Begotten, which was with me from the beginning: Let
us make man in our image, after our likeness; and it was so”
(Moses 2:26). And so the first man, Adam, and the first
woman, Eve, were formed and given bodies that resembled
those of our heavenly parents. “In the image of God created
he him; male and female created he them” (Genesis 1:27).
When the Lord finished his creations, he was pleased and
knew that his work was good, and he rested for a time.
Discussion
• Show a food recipe or a dress pattern. What is another word
for recipe and pattern? (Plan .) Read Abraham 3:24 to show
that God plans for all of his creations.
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God’s Creations Show His Love
We are now living in this beautiful world. Think of the sun,
which gives us warmth and light. Think of the rain, which
makes plants grow and makes the world feel clean and fresh.
Think of how good it is to hear a bird singing or a friend
laughing. Think of how wonderful our bodies are—how we
can work and play and rest. When we consider all of these
creations, we begin to understand what wise, powerful, and
loving beings Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father are. They
have shown great love for us by providing for all of our needs.
Plant life and animal life were also made to give us joy. The
Lord said, “Yea, all things which come of the earth, in the
season thereof, are made for the benefit and the use of man,
both to please the eye and to gladden the heart; yea, for food
and for raiment, for taste and for smell, to strengthen the body
and to enliven the soul” (D&C 59:18–19). Even though God’s
creations are many, he knows and loves them all. He said, “All
things are numbered unto me, for they are mine and I know
them” (Moses 1:35).
Discussion
• Discuss how we can show reverence for plants and animals.
• Discuss the purpose of God’s creations (see D&C 59:18–19).
• How do God’s creations show that he loves us?
• To help develop an appreciation for the beauty of God’s
creations, you might do the following activities for home
evenings: plan a picnic, plant a garden, take a nature walk,
enjoy a sunrise or sunset.
Additional Scriptures
• Genesis 1:1–2:7; Abraham 3:22–23 and chapters 4–5; Moses
1:27–42 and chapters 2–3 (accounts of the Creation)
• Hebrews 1:1–3; Colossians 1:13–17; D&C 38:1–3 (Jesus the
Creator)
• D&C 59:18–20; Moses 2:26–31; D&C 104:13–17; Matthew
6:25–26 (Creation shows God’s love)
29
Adam and Eve kneeling at an altar.
30
THE FALL OF
ADAM AND EVE
Chapter 6
Adam and Eve Were the First to Come to Earth
God prepared this earth as a home for his children. Adam and
Eve were chosen to be the first people to live on the earth (see
Moses 1:34). Their part in our Father’s plan was to bring mortality into the world. They were to be the first parents. (See
D&C 107:54–56.)
Discussion
• Read D&C 107:54–56. Who was Adam? What was he chosen
to do?
Adam and Eve Were Valiant Spirits
Adam and Eve were among our Father’s noblest children. In
the spirit world Adam was called Michael the Archangel (see
D&C 27:11; Jude 1:9). He was chosen by our Heavenly Father
to lead the righteous in the battle against Satan (see Revelation 12:7–9). Adam and Eve were foreordained to become the
parents of the human race. The Lord promised Adam great
blessings: “I have set thee to be at the head; a multitude of
nations shall come of thee, and thou art a prince over them
forever” (D&C 107:55).
Although the scriptures do not tell us anything about Eve
before she came to earth, she must have been a choice daughter of God. She was called Eve because she was the mother of
all living (see Moses 4:26). She was given to Adam because
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God said “it was not good that the man should be alone”
(Moses 3:18). She shared Adam’s responsibility and will also
share his eternal blessings.
Discussion
• Read Revelation 12:7–9. How did Adam (Michael) prove
that he was a valiant spirit?
• Why was Eve given to Adam?
The Garden of Eden
When Adam and Eve were placed in the Garden of Eden,
they were not yet mortal. They were not able to have children. There was no death. They had physical life because their
spirits were housed in physical bodies made from the dust of
the earth (see Abraham 5:7). They had spiritual life because
they were in the presence of God (see Bruce R. McConkie,
Mormon Doctrine, p. 268). They had not yet made a choice between good and evil.
God commanded them to have children and to learn to control the earth. He said, “Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it, and have dominion over . . .
every living thing that moveth upon the earth” (Moses 2:28).
God told them they could freely eat of every tree in the garden except one, the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Of
that tree God said, “In the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt
surely die” (Moses 3:17).
Satan, not knowing the mind of God but seeking to destroy
God’s plan, came to Eve in the Garden of Eden. He tempted
her to eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and
evil. He assured her that she and Adam would not die, but that
they would “be as gods, knowing good and evil” (Moses 4:11).
Eve yielded to the temptation and ate the fruit. When Adam
learned what had happened, he chose to partake also. The
changes that came upon Adam and Eve because they ate the
fruit are called the Fall.
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Discussion
• Read Moses 4:6–32. How was the Garden of Eden different
from the world as we know it?
• Discuss the conditions of Adam and Eve in the Garden of
Eden.
Adam and Eve’s Separation from God
Because Adam and Eve had eaten the fruit of the tree of
knowledge of good and evil, the Lord sent them out of the
Garden of Eden into the world as we now know it. Their
physical condition changed as a result of their eating the forbidden fruit. As God had promised, they became mortal. They
were able to have children. They and their children would
experience sickness, pain, and physical death.
Because of their transgression, Adam and Eve also suffered
spiritual death. This meant they and their children could not
walk and talk face to face with God. Because Satan had introduced evil into the world, Adam and Eve and their children
were separated from God both physically and spiritually.
Discussion
• As a result of their transgression, what physical change occurred in Adam and Eve? What spiritual change occurred?
• Read Moses 5:1–5. What was life like for Adam and Eve
outside the Garden of Eden?
Great Blessings Resulted from the Transgression
Some people believe Adam and Eve committed a serious sin
when they ate of the tree of knowledge of good and evil.
However, latter-day scriptures help us understand that their
fall was a necessary step in the plan of life and a great blessing
to all of us. Because of the Fall, we are blessed with physical
bodies, the right to choose between good and evil, and the
opportunity to gain eternal life. None of these privileges
would have been ours had Adam and Eve remained in the
garden.
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After the Fall, Eve said, “Were it not for our transgression we
never should have had seed [children], and never should
have known good and evil, and the joy of our redemption,
and the eternal life which God giveth unto all the obedient”
(Moses 5:11).
The prophet Lehi explained:
“And now, behold, if Adam had not transgressed he would
not have fallen [been cut off from the presence of God], but he
would have remained in the Garden of Eden. And all things
which were created must have remained in the same state in
which they were after they were created; . . .
“And they would have had no children; wherefore they
would have remained in a state of innocence, having no joy,
for they knew no misery; doing no good, for they knew no
sin.
“But behold, all things have been done in the wisdom of him
who knoweth all things.
“Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might
have joy” (2 Nephi 2:22–25).
Discussion
• Read Moses 5:6–12. After the Fall, how did Adam and Eve
feel about their transgression and the Lord’s promise to
redeem them?
Additional Scriptures
• 1 Nephi 5:11; 2 Nephi 2:20 (Adam and Eve first parents,
family)
• 2 Nephi 2:14–21 (opposition and the Fall; life a probation)
• 2 Nephi 2:22–26 (Fall part of the plan of salvation)
34
COMMUNICATION
BETWEEN
GOD AND MAN
Unit Three
THE HOLY GHOST
Chapter 7
After Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden, they began to till
the earth and work at other tasks for their living. They had
many children, and their sons and daughters also married and
had children (see Moses 5:1–3). Thus, spirit children of
our Heavenly Father began leaving his presence to come to
the earth as they had been promised. As they came to earth,
the memory of their heavenly home was taken from them.
But our Father did not shut them away from his influence. He
sent the Holy Ghost to comfort and help and guide all of his
spirit children.
Why Did the Holy Ghost Come to Adam?
Adam and Eve called upon Heavenly Father in prayer. He
spoke to them and gave them commandments, which they
obeyed. (See Moses 5:4–5.) An angel of the Lord came and
taught Adam and Eve the plan of salvation. The Lord sent the
Holy Ghost to testify of the Father and of the Son and to teach
Adam and Eve the gospel (see Moses 5:9).
Through the power of the Holy Ghost, Adam “began to
prophesy concerning all the families of the earth, saying:
Blessed be the name of God, for because of my transgression
my eyes are opened, and in this life I shall have joy, and again
in the flesh I shall see God” (Moses 5:10). Because of the witness of the Holy Ghost to Eve, she said, “Were it not for our
transgression we never should have had seed, and never
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should have known good and evil, and the joy of our redemption, and the eternal life which God giveth unto all the obedient” (Moses 5:11).
Discussion
• Read the account of the Holy Ghost being sent to Adam and
Eve (see Moses 5:4–11). Discuss why the Holy Ghost was
sent to them.
Who Is the Holy Ghost?
The Holy Ghost is a member of the Godhead (see 1 John 5:7;
D&C 20:28). He is a spirit that has the form and likeness of a
man (see D&C 130:22). He can be in only one place at a time,
but his influence can be everywhere at the same time.
Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are called
the Godhead. They are unified in purpose. Each has an important assignment in the plan of salvation. Our Heavenly Father
is our Father and ruler. Jesus Christ is our Savior. The Holy
Ghost is the revealer and testifier of all truth.
The Holy Ghost is our Heavenly Father’s messenger and is a
special gift to us. How we can receive the Holy Ghost will be
discussed in chapter 21.
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 130:22. Discuss how the Holy
Ghost differs from the Father and the Son.
• How are the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost one? To answer,
use the example of a father, mother, and children working
for one same purpose. Relate examples.
• How can the influence of the Holy Ghost be in many places
at one time? To answer, compare the Holy Ghost to the sun.
There is just one sun, but its light and warmth are felt by
everyone on earth.
Why Is the Holy Ghost Necessary?
The mission of the Holy Ghost is to bear witness of the Father
and the Son and of the truth of all things.
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The Holy Ghost will witness to us that Jesus is our Savior and
Redeemer (see 3 Nephi 28:11; D&C 20:27; Hebrews 10:15). He
will reveal to us that our Heavenly Father is the Father of our
spirits. He will help us understand that we can become exalted like our Heavenly Father. (See Romans 8:16–17.) The
prophets of the Lord have promised, “By the power of the
Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (Moroni
10:5).
Without the Holy Ghost, we could not know that Jesus is the
Christ. The Apostle Paul wrote, “No man can say that Jesus is
the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost” (1 Corinthians 12:3). The
Savior himself said, “And this is life eternal, that they might
know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou
hast sent” (John 17:3). It is by the power of the Holy Ghost
that we are led to understand and live the gospel of Jesus
Christ.
The convincing power of the Holy Ghost is so great that there
can be no doubt that what he reveals to us is true. President
Joseph Fielding Smith said:
“When a man has the manifestation from the Holy Ghost, it
leaves an indelible impression on his soul, one that is not
easily erased. It is Spirit speaking to spirit, and it comes with
convincing force. A manifestation of an angel, or even the Son
of God himself, would impress the eye and mind, and eventually become dimmed, but the impressions of the Holy Ghost
sink deeper into the soul and are more difficult to erase” (Answers to Gospel Questions, 2:151).
President Smith also said, “Through the Holy Ghost the truth
is woven into the very fibre and sinews of the body so that it
cannot be forgotten” (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:48).
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, we should make ourselves worthy to receive this special messenger and witness of our Heavenly Father and Jesus
Christ.
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Discussion
• Why is the Holy Ghost necessary? Read again the statement
by President Joseph Fielding Smith.
• Encourage the members to tell how they felt when the Holy
Ghost bore witness to them of the truthfulness of the gospel.
Additional Scriptures
• Moses 5 (story of Adam’s family)
• 2 Nephi 31:21 (Holy Ghost identified)
• Moroni 10:6–7 (Holy Ghost will witness of Jesus Christ)
• John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13; Luke 12:12; D&C 8:2–3; 11:12–13;
20:26 (Holy Ghost as comforter, teacher, testator of Christ,
guide to all truth, revelator, companion, leader, guide,
source of inspiration)
39
We should pray individually and as families morning and night.
40
PRAYING TO OUR
HEAVENLY FATHER
Chapter 8
Jesus taught, “Ye must always pray unto the Father in my
name” (3 Nephi 18:19).
Prayer is one of the greatest blessings we have while we are
here on earth. Through prayer we can communicate with our
Heavenly Father and seek his guidance daily.
What Is Prayer?
Prayer is a sincere, heartfelt talk with our Heavenly Father.
We should pray to God and to no one else. We do not pray to
any other being or to anything made by man or God (see
Exodus 20:3–5).
Why Do We Pray?
Prayer has been an important part of the gospel from the
beginning of the world. An angel of the Lord commanded
Adam and Eve to repent and call upon God in the name of the
Son (see Moses 5:8). This commandment has never been taken
away. Nothing will help us draw closer to God than prayer.
All of our thoughts, our words, and our actions are influenced
by our prayers.
We should pray for strength to resist the temptations of Satan
and his followers (see 3 Nephi 18:15; D&C 10:5). We should
pray to confess our sins to God and ask him to forgive us (see
Alma 38:14).
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We should pray for the Lord’s guidance and help in our daily
lives. We need to pray for our families and friends, our neighbors, our crops and our animals, our daily work, and our other
activities. We should pray for protection from our enemies.
(See Alma 34:17–25.)
We should pray to express love to our Heavenly Father and to
feel closer to him. We should pray to our Father to thank him
for our welfare and comfort and for all things he gives us each
day (see 1 Thessalonians 5:18). We need to pray to ask our
Heavenly Father for strength to live the gospel.
We should pray so we can keep on the straight and narrow
path that leads to eternal life. We must pray to God, the
author of all righteousness, so we may be righteous in our
thoughts, words, and actions.
Discussion
• How has prayer helped you grow closer to our Heavenly
Father?
• Tell the story of Daniel to the class (see Daniel 6:1–23).
• How did Daniel pray?
• How important was prayer to Daniel?
When Should We Pray?
We can pray whenever we feel the need to communicate with
our Heavenly Father, whether silently or vocally. Sometimes
we need to be alone where we can pour out our souls to him
(see Matthew 6:6). In addition, we can pray during our daily
activities. We can pray while we are in a Church meeting, in
our house, walking down a path or street, working, preparing
a meal, or wherever we may be and whatever we may be
doing. We can pray any time of the day or night. We can pray
when we are alone or when we are with other people. We can
keep our Heavenly Father in our thoughts at all times (see
Alma 34:27).
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At times we may not feel like praying. We may be angry or
discouraged or upset. At these times we should make a special
effort to pray.
We should each pray privately at least every night and every
morning. The scriptures speak of praying morning, midday,
and evening (see Alma 34:21).
We are commanded to have family prayers so that our families may be blessed (see 3 Nephi 18:21). Our Church leaders
have counseled us to pray as families each morning and night.
We also have the privilege of praying to give thanks and ask
a blessing on the food before each meal.
We open and close all of our Church meetings with prayer.
We thank the Lord for his blessings and ask for his help so we
may worship in a manner that pleases him.
Discussion
• Ask someone to read the story of Enos (see Enos 1:1–12).
• What words did Enos use to describe how he prayed?
How Should We Pray?
No matter where we are, whether we stand or kneel, whether
we pray vocally or silently, whether we pray privately or in
behalf of a group, we should always pray in faith, “with a
sincere heart, with real intent” (Moroni 10:4).
As we pray to our Heavenly Father, we should tell him what
we really feel in our hearts, confide in him, ask him for forgiveness, plead with him, thank him, express our love for him.
We should not repeat meaningless words and phrases (see
Matthew 6:7–8). We should always ask that his will be done,
remembering that what we desire may not be best for us (see
3 Nephi 18:20). At the end of our prayer, we close in the name
of Jesus Christ (see 3 Nephi 18:19).
How Are Prayers Answered?
Our sincere prayers are always answered. Sometimes the answer may be no, because what we have asked for would not
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be best for us. Sometimes the answer is yes, and we have a
warm, comfortable feeling about what we should do (see
D&C 9:8–9). Sometimes the answer is “wait a while.” Our
prayers are always answered at a time and in a way that the
Lord knows will help us the most.
Sometimes the Lord answers our prayers through other
people. A good friend, a husband or wife, a parent or other
family member, a Church leader, a missionary—any of these
individuals may be inspired to perform acts that will answer
our prayers. An example of this is the experience of a young
mother whose baby was injured in an accident at home. She
had no way to get the baby to a doctor. She was new in the
neighborhood and did not know her neighbors. The young
mother prayed for help. In a few minutes, a neighbor lady
came to the door, saying, “I had a feeling I should come and
see if you needed any help.” The neighbor helped the young
mother get the baby to a doctor.
Often God gives us the power to help answer our own
prayers. As we pray for help, we should do all we can to bring
about the things we desire.
As we live the gospel of Jesus Christ and pray always, we will
have joy and happiness. “Be thou humble; and the Lord thy
God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy
prayers” (D&C 112:10).
Discussion
• Are we always given what we ask for? Why not?
• Read D&C 46:30. Why is it important to ask “according to the
will of God”?
• Ask members to share experiences of when and how the
Lord has answered their prayers.
• Close with your own testimony of prayer.
• Encourage prayers in the family, blessings on the food, and
individual prayer.
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Additional Scriptures
• James 1:5 (what to pray for)
• 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Psalm 55:17; 2 Nephi 32:9 (when to
pray)
• Alma 34:26 (where to pray)
• 3 Nephi 19:6, 24; 1 Timothy 4:15 (how to pray)
• D&C 88:63–65 (how prayers are answered)
• Moroni 10:3–5; Alma 37:37 (promises for prayer)
45
Joseph Smith
Brigham Young
John Taylor
Wilford Woodruff
Lorenzo Snow
Joseph F. Smith
Heber J. Grant
George Albert Smith
David O. McKay
Joseph Fielding Smith
Harold B. Lee
Spencer W. Kimball
Ezra Taft Benson
Howard W. Hunter
Gordon B. Hinckley
The Lord has sent prophets in our own day.
46
PROPHETS
OF GOD
Chapter 9
“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his
secret unto his servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7).
Many people live in darkness, unsure of God’s will. They
believe that the heavens are closed and that people must face
the world’s perils alone. How fortunate are the Latter-day
Saints! We know that God communicates to the Church
through his prophet. With grateful hearts, Saints the world
over sing the hymn, “We thank thee, O God, for a prophet to
guide us in these latter days.”
What Is a Prophet?
A prophet is a man called by God to be his representative on
earth. When a prophet speaks for God, it is as if God were
speaking. A prophet is also a special witness for Christ, testifying of His divinity and teaching His gospel. A prophet teaches
truth and interprets the word of God. He calls the unrighteous to repentance. He receives revelations and directions
from the Lord for our benefit. He may see into the future and
foretell coming events so that the world may be warned.
A prophet may come from various stations in life. He may be
young or old, highly educated or unschooled. He may be a
farmer, a lawyer, or a teacher. Ancient prophets wore tunics
and carried staffs. Modern prophets wear suits and carry
briefcases. What, then, identifies a true prophet? A true
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prophet is always chosen by God and called through proper
priesthood authority.
Latter-day Saints sustain the First Presidency and the
Twelve Apostles as prophets. However, when we speak of
“the prophet of the Church,” we mean the President of the
Church, who is President of the high priesthood.
Discussion
• What is a prophet?
• What powers and gifts does he have?
• What does he do?
• What office does he hold in the Church?
Through the Ages God Has Called Prophets to Lead
Mankind
There have been prophets on the earth since the days of
Adam. Experiences of these great men excite and inspire us.
Moses, an Old Testament prophet, led thousands of his
people out of Egypt and slavery into the promised land. He
wrote the first five books of the Old Testament and recorded
the Ten Commandments. Nephi, a Book of Mormon prophet,
sailed from Jerusalem to the American continent about six
hundred years before the birth of Christ. This great leader and
colonizer gave us many important writings in the Book of
Mormon. John the Baptist was chosen to prepare the world
for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Through Joseph
Smith, a latter-day prophet, the Lord restored the Church.
Joseph Smith also translated the Book of Mormon while a
young man.
We Have a Living Prophet on the Earth Today
We have a prophet living on the earth today. This prophet is
the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints. He has the right to revelation for the entire Church. He
holds the “keys of the kingdom,” meaning that he has the
right to control the administration of the ordinances (see
Matthew 16:19). No person except the chosen prophet and
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president can receive God’s will for the membership of the
Church.
We should do those things the prophets tell us to do. President Wilford Woodruff said that a prophet will never be
allowed to lead the Church astray:
“I say to Israel, the Lord will never permit me or any other
man who stands as president of this Church to lead you
astray. It is not in the program. It is not in the mind of God. If
I were to attempt that the Lord would remove me out of my
place, and so he will any other man who attempts to lead the
children of men astray from the oracles of God and from
their duty. God bless you” (Discourses of Wilford Woodruff,
pp. 212–13; see also Official Declaration 1).
Discussion
• Ask class members to name as many prophets as they can.
• Who is the prophet who directs the Church today? Have a
class member tell about the living prophet.
We Should Sustain the Lord’s Prophet
Many people find it easy to believe in the prophets of the
past. But it is much greater to believe in and follow the living prophet. We raise our hands to sustain the President of
the Church as prophet, seer, and revelator.
How can we sustain the prophet? We should pray for him.
His burdens are heavy, and he needs to be strengthened by
the prayers of the Saints.
We should study his words. We can listen to his conference
addresses or read them in Church publications.
We should follow his inspired teachings completely. We
should not choose to follow part of his inspired counsel and
discard that which is unpleasant or difficult. The Lord commanded us to follow the inspired teachings of his prophet:
“Thou shalt give heed unto all his [the prophet’s] words and
commandments which he shall give unto you as he receiveth
them, walking in all holiness before me;
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“For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in
all patience and faith” (D&C 21:4–5).
The Lord will never allow the President of the Church to lead
us astray.
Discussion
• Discuss what we can do to follow and sustain the prophet.
• Where can we learn of his counsel today?
Great Blessings Follow Obedience to the Prophet
If we obey, the Lord promises, “The gates of hell shall not
prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the
powers of darkness from before you; and cause the heavens
to shake for your good, and his name’s glory” (D&C 21:6).
When we do as our prophet directs, blessings pour down
from heaven. A story from the life of Lorenzo Snow, the fifth
president of the restored Church, shows how God rewards
his people for their obedience. In those days the Church was
suffering great financial trouble and had little money to pay
its debts. Then more trouble came. A great drought afflicted
many of the Saints. President Snow went to the Lord and
prayed for relief. One day as the prophet was speaking in the
St. George Tabernacle in Utah, the Holy Ghost inspired him to
promise the Saints that they would receive rain if they would
pay a full tithe. He quoted Malachi: “Bring ye all the
tithes into the storehouse, . . . and prove me now herewith,
saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of
heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be
room enough to receive it” (Malachi 3:10). The people obeyed
their prophet, and the rains fell on the parched crops.
In order to stand, the true Church must be built upon the
foundation of prophets (see Ephesians 2:20). We are blessed
in this insecure world to have a prophet through whom the
Lord reveals his will.
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Discussion
• Have someone share an experience in which obedience to
the counsel of the prophet was a blessing.
Additional Scriptures
• Numbers 12:6 (God speaks through prophets)
• 1 Samuel 9:9 (prophet called a seer)
• Luke 1:70 (God speaks through prophets)
• D&C 45:10, 15 (God speaks today as in days of old)
• 1 Nephi 22:2 (by the Spirit things are made known to
prophets)
• D&C 68:3–5 (when the Lord’s servants speak as moved by
the Holy Ghost, it is the mind, will, and voice of the Lord)
• D&C 107:65–67, 91–92 (duties of the President of the
Church)
• D&C 43:1–7 (only the prophet is authorized to receive
revelations for the Church)
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SCRIPTURES
C h a p t e r 10
When the Lord’s servants speak or write under the influence
of the Holy Ghost, their words become scripture (see D&C
68:4). From the beginning, the Lord has commanded his
prophets to keep a record of his revelations and his dealings
with his children. He said: “I command all men, both in the
east and in the west, and in the north, and in the south, and
in the islands of the sea, that they shall write the words which
I speak unto them; for out of the books which shall be written
I will judge the world, every man according to their works,
according to that which is written” (2 Nephi 29:11).
What Scriptures Do We Have Today?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints accepts four
books as scripture: the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. These
books are called the standard works of the Church. The
inspired words of our living prophets are also accepted as
scripture.
The Bible is a collection of sacred writings containing God’s
revelations to man. These writings cover many centuries,
from the time of Adam through the time when the Apostles of
Jesus Christ lived. They were written by many prophets who
lived at various times in the history of the world.
The Bible is divided into two sections: the Old Testament and
the New Testament. Many prophecies in the Old Testament
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foretell the coming of a Savior and Redeemer. The New Testament tells of the life of that Savior and Redeemer, who is Jesus
Christ. It also tells of the establishing of his Church in that
day. “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is
translated correctly” (Articles of Faith 1:8).
The Book of Mormon is a sacred record of some of the people
who lived on the American continents between about 2,000
b.c. and a.d. 400. It contains the fulness of the gospel of Jesus
Christ (see D&C 20:9; 42:12; 135:3). The Book of Mormon tells
of the visit Jesus Christ made to the people in the Americas
soon after his resurrection.
Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon into English
through the gift and power of God. He said that it is “the most
correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion,
and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts,
than by any other book” (History of the Church, 4:461).
President Ezra Taft Benson helped us understand how the
Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion. He said:
“There are three ways in which the Book of Mormon is the
keystone of our religion. It is the keystone in our witness of
Christ. It is the keystone of our doctrine. It is the keystone of
testimony.
“The Book of Mormon is the keystone in our witness of Jesus
Christ, who is Himself the cornerstone of everything we do.
It bears witness of His reality with power and clarity. . . .
“[It] broadens our understandings of the doctrines of salvation. The Book of Mormon . . . was written for our day. In [it]
we find a pattern for preparing for the Second Coming. . . .
“The Book of Mormon teaches us truth [and] bears testimony
of Jesus Christ. . . . But there is something more. There is a
power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the
moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find
greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to
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avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait
and narrow path. The scriptures are called ‘the words of life,’
and nowhere is that more true than it is of the Book of Mormon. . . . ‘Every Latter-day Saint should make the study of
this book a lifetime pursuit’ ” (in Conference Report, Oct.
1986, pp. 4–7; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, pp. 5–7).
The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of modern revelations. In section 1 of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord
reveals that the book is published to the inhabitants of the
earth to prepare them for his coming:
“Wherefore the voice of the Lord is unto the ends of the
earth, that all that will hear may hear:
“Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the
Lord is nigh” (1:11–12).
This book contains the revelations regarding the Church of
Jesus Christ as it has been restored in these last days. Several
sections of the book explain the organization of the Church
and define the offices of the priesthood and their functions.
Other sections, such as sections 76 and 88, contain glorious
truths that were lost to the world for hundreds of years. Still
others, such as sections 29 and 93, shed light on teachings in
the Bible. In addition, some sections, such as section 133, contain prophecies of events to come. God has commanded us to
study his revelations in this book: “Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and
promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled” (D&C 1:37).
The Pearl of Great Price contains the Book of Moses, the Book
of Abraham, and some inspired writings of Joseph Smith. The
Book of Moses contains an account of some of the visions and
writings of Moses, revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith in
June and December 1830. It clarifies doctrines and teachings
that were lost from the Bible and gives added information
concerning the creation of the earth.
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The Book of Abraham was translated by the Prophet Joseph
Smith from a papyrus scroll taken from the Egyptian catacombs. This book contains valuable information about the
Creation, the gospel, the nature of God, and the priesthood.
The writings of Joseph Smith include part of Joseph Smith’s
inspired translation of the Bible, selections from his History of
the Church, and the Articles of Faith.
Words of Our Living Prophets
In addition to these four books of scripture, the inspired
words of our living prophets become scripture to us. Their
words come to us through conferences, Church publications,
and instructions to local priesthood leaders. “We believe all
that God has revealed, all that he does now reveal, and we
believe that he will yet reveal many great and important
things pertaining to the Kingdom of God” (Articles of Faith
1:9).
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 68:4. What is scripture?
• Name the standard works of the Church. Have four people
each tell about what is in one of the standard works and how
we received it.
• Ask a class member to read or quote the ninth article of faith.
• Show a copy of a Church publication. Have someone read
some inspired words of the prophet found there.
Studying the Scriptures
We should each study the scriptures every day. We should
share these truths with our children. Our standard works
should be placed where our children will see them and learn
to love them and use them for the truths they contain.
If we desire to avoid the evils of this world, we must feed our
minds with the truth and righteousness found in the scriptures. We will grow closer to God and to each other as we read
and ponder the scriptures together.
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As we read, ponder, and pray about the scriptures and ask
God for understanding, the Holy Ghost will bear witness to us
of the truth of these things. We will each know for ourselves
that these things are true. We will not be deceived (see Joseph
Smith—Matthew 1:37). We can receive the same feelings
Nephi expressed when he said, “My soul delighteth in the
things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon
the things which I have seen and heard” (2 Nephi 4:16).
Discussion
• Plan the time and place for your scripture study, and set a
goal to study each day. Discuss how to keep the commitment to study the scriptures each day.
Additional Scriptures
• 1 Nephi 19:1–3; 1 Nephi 14:20–26 (prophets commanded to
write)
• 1 Nephi 19:1–3, 6–7; Alma 37:1–8 (great worth of scriptures)
• 2 Nephi 33:10 (scriptures testify of Christ)
• Alma 29:8 (Lord speaks to all nations through scriptures)
• 2 Timothy 3:16–17; 1 Nephi 19:21–24 (why and how scriptures are given)
• 2 Peter 1:20; Alma 13:20; D&C 10:62 (scriptures are clear and
do not distort)
• D&C 128:18; 1 Nephi 14:25–26 (scriptures yet to come)
• 2 Nephi 29:3–10 (scriptures to Jews and to Gentiles)
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VISUAL AIDS
Visual
Aids
Key to Visual Aids 1–16
1. Isaiah, one of the prophets of the Old Testament, foretold
the coming of Jesus Christ.
2. John the Baptist baptized Jesus in the Jordan River.
3. Jesus called Peter and others to follow him.
4. Jesus ordained twelve Apostles.
5. Jesus loved and blessed the children.
6. Jesus taught the people the gospel. (The Sermon on the
Mount, by Carl Bloch. Original at the Chapel of
Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark. Used by permission of the
Frederiksborgmuseum.)
7. In the Garden of Gethsemane, the Savior took upon himself the sins of all mankind.
8. Jesus died for our sins on the cross at Calvary.
9. On the third day, the Savior rose from the grave.
10. The resurrected Savior showed his wounds to his Apostles.
11. The resurrected Savior visited his people in the Americas.
12. Joseph Smith was inspired by James 1:5–6 to ask God
which was the true Church of Jesus Christ.
13. In answer to Joseph Smith’s prayer, Heavenly Father and
Jesus Christ visited him.
14. The angel Moroni delivered to Joseph Smith the golden
plates that contained the Book of Mormon.
15. John the Baptist visited Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery
and conferred upon them the Aaronic Priesthood.
16. Peter, James, and John conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery.
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JESUS CHRIST
AS OUR SAVIOR
Unit Four
The Savior Jesus Christ, known as Jehovah in the premortal existence,
was born in a humble stable.
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OF CHRIST
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Every person who comes to earth depends on Jesus Christ to
fulfill the promise He made in heaven to be our Savior. Without him, the plan of salvation would have failed. Because his
mission was necessary, all of the prophets from Adam to
Christ testified that he would come (see Acts 10:43). All of the
prophets since Christ have testified that he did come. All of us
need to study the life of the Savior and follow him faithfully
throughout our lives. We each need to have a personal relationship with him.
The Life of Christ Was Predicted Long before His Birth
An angel told Adam that the Savior’s name would be Jesus
Christ (see Moses 6:51–52). Enoch saw that Jesus would die
upon the cross and be resurrected (see Moses 7:55–56). Noah
and Moses also testified of him (see Moses 8:23–24). About
eight hundred years before the Savior was born on the earth,
Isaiah foresaw his life. When Isaiah saw the grief and sorrow
that the Savior would suffer to pay the price for our sins, he
exclaimed:
“He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and
acquainted with grief. . . .
“Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows. . . .
“He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for
our iniquities. . . .
“He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not
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While yet a boy, the Savior taught the learned men in the temple.
By Carl Bloch. Original at the Chapel of Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark.
Used by permission of the Frederiksborgmuseum.
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his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter” (Isaiah
53:3–7).
Nephi also saw a vision of the Savior’s future birth and mission. He saw a beautiful virgin, and an angel explained, “Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of
God, after the manner of the flesh” (1 Nephi 11:18). Then
Nephi saw the virgin holding a child in her arms. The angel
declared, “Behold the lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the
Eternal Father!” (1 Nephi 11:21).
About 124 years before Jesus was born, King Benjamin, another Nephite prophet and king, also foresaw the Savior’s life:
“For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with
power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is
from all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven
among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of
clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, causing the
lame to walk, the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to
hear, and curing all manner of diseases.
“And he shall cast out devils, or the evil spirits which dwell in
the hearts of the children of men.
“And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except
it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so
great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people.
“And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary” (Mosiah 3:5–8).
He Was the Only Begotten of the Father
The story of the birth and life of the Savior is found in the
New Testament in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and
John. From their accounts we learn that Jesus was born of a
virgin named Mary. She was engaged to marry Joseph when
an angel of the Lord appeared to her. The angel told her that
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she was to be the mother of the Son of God. She asked him
how this was possible (see Luke 1:34). He told her, “The Holy
Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest
shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which
shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God” (Luke
1:35). Thus, God the Father became the literal father of Jesus
Christ.
Jesus is the only person on earth to be born of a mortal mother
and an immortal father. That is why he is called the Only
Begotten Son. From his mother he inherited mortality and
was subject to hunger, thirst, fatigue, pain, and death. He
inherited divine powers from his Father. No one could take
the Savior’s life from him unless He willed it. He had power to
lay it down and power to take up his body again after dying.
(See John 10:17–18.)
Discussion
• Read Luke 1:34–35. Why was Jesus Christ known as the
Only Begotten of the Father?
• What did he inherit from his Father?
• What did he inherit from his mother?
He Led a Perfect Life
From his youth, Jesus obeyed all that was required of him by
our Heavenly Father. Under the guidance of Mary and
Joseph, Jesus grew much as other children grow. He loved
and obeyed the truth. Luke tells us, “And the child grew, and
waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of
God was upon him” (Luke 2:40).
By the time he was twelve years old, Jesus knew he had been
sent to do the will of his Father. He went with his parents to
Jerusalem. When his parents were returning home, they discovered that he was not with their group. They went back to
Jerusalem to look for him. “After three days they found him in
the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing
them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him
were astonished at his understanding and answers” (Luke
2:46–47).
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Joseph and Mary were relieved to find him but unhappy that
he had treated them so. Mary said: “Son, why hast thou thus
dealt with us? Behold, thy father [Joseph] and I have sought
thee sorrowing.” Jesus answered her gently, reminding her
that Joseph was only a stepfather: “Wist ye not that I must be
about my [Heavenly] Father’s business?” (Luke 2:48–49).
In order to fulfill his mission, Jesus was to do the will of his
Father in Heaven. “I do nothing of myself,” he declared, “but
as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. . . . I do
always those things that please him” (John 8:28–29).
When Jesus was thirty years old, he came to his cousin John to
be baptized in the Jordan River. John was reluctant to baptize
Jesus because he knew that Jesus had never sinned. Jesus
asked John to baptize him in order “to fulfil all righteousness.”
John did baptize the Savior, immersing him completely in the
water. When Jesus was baptized, his Father spoke from
heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well
pleased.” The Holy Ghost descended, as shown by the sign of
the dove. (See Matthew 3:13–17.)
Soon after Jesus’ baptism, Satan came to him to tempt him. He
wanted Jesus to fail his mission. If Satan could get him to
commit just one sin, then Jesus would not be worthy to be our
Savior, and the plan would fail. In this way Satan could make
us as miserable as he is. We would never be able to return to
our Heavenly Father.
Satan’s temptations came after Jesus had been fasting for forty
days. Jesus firmly resisted all these temptations, then commanded Satan to leave. When Satan was gone, angels came
and ministered to Jesus. (See Matthew 4:1–11.)
He Taught Us How to Love and Serve One Another
After being tempted by Satan, Jesus began his public ministry.
He came to earth not only to die for us but also to teach us
how to live. He taught that there are two great commandments: first, to love God with all our heart, mind, and
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strength; and second, to love others as we love ourselves (see
Matthew 22:36–39). His life is an example of how we should
obey these two commandments. If we love God, we will trust
and obey him, as Jesus did. If we love others, we will help
them meet their physical and spiritual needs.
Jesus spent his life serving others. He cured them of diseases.
He made the blind see, the deaf hear, and the lame walk.
Once when he was healing the sick, it became late and the
people were hungry. Instead of sending them away, he
blessed five loaves of bread and two fish and miraculously
was able to feed a multitude of five thousand people. (See
Matthew 14:14–21.) He taught that whenever we find people
hungry, cold, naked, or lonely, we should help them all we
can. When we help others, we are serving the Lord. (See
Matthew 25:35–46.)
Jesus loved others with all his heart. Often his heart was so
full of compassion that he wept. He loved little children, the
elderly, and the humble, simple people who had faith in him.
He loved those who had sinned, and with great compassion
he taught them to repent and be baptized. He taught, “I am
the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).
Jesus even loved those who sinned against him and were
unrepentant. At the end of his life, as he hung on the cross, he
prayed to the Father for the soldiers who had crucified him,
pleading, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they
do” (Luke 23:34). He taught, “This is my commandment, That
ye love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12).
Discussion
• Read Matthew 22:36–40. What are some ways we can show
the Lord that we love him?
• Read Matthew 5:48. Is it possible to become perfect in aspects of our own daily lives (such as paying debts, keeping the Sabbath day holy, fasting, keeping the Word of
Wisdom)?
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He Organized the Only True Church
Jesus wanted his gospel taught to people all over the earth, so
he chose twelve Apostles to testify of him. They were the original leaders of his Church. They received the authority to act
in his name and do the works they had seen him do. Those
who received authority from them were also able to teach,
baptize, and perform other ordinances in his name. After his
death, they continued to do his work until the people became
so wicked that they killed the Apostles.
Discussion
• Why did Jesus choose the Twelve Apostles?
• Read Mark 3:14–15. For what purpose were the Apostles
ordained?
He Redeemed Us from Our Sins and Saved Us from Death
When his work of teaching and blessing the people was finished, Jesus prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for all the
sins of mankind. He had been condemned to die because he
had testified to the people that he was the Son of God.
The night before his crucifixion, he went to a garden called
Gethsemane. There he knelt and prayed. Soon he was
weighed down by deep sorrow and wept as he prayed.
Latter-day Apostle Orson F. Whitney was permitted to see the
Savior’s suffering in a vision. Seeing the Savior weep, he said:
“I was so moved at the sight that I also wept, out of pure
sympathy. My whole heart went out to Him; I loved Him with
all my soul, and longed to be with Him as I longed for nothing
else” (in Bryant Hinckley, The Faith of Our Pioneer Fathers,
p. 211). Jesus “went a little further, and fell on his face, and
prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass
from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt” (Matthew
26:39).
In a modern revelation the Savior described how great his
suffering was, saying it caused him “to tremble because of
pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and
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spirit” (D&C 19:18). The awful anguish of taking upon himself
every sin that any human being has ever committed went
through the Savior’s body. No mortal person can comprehend
just how great this burden was. No other person could have
endured such agony of body and spirit. “He descended below
all things . . . that he might be in all things and through all
things, the light of truth” (D&C 88:6).
But his suffering was not yet complete. The following day,
Jesus was beaten, humiliated, and spit upon. He was required
to carry his own cross up the hill; then he was lifted up and
nailed to it. He was tortured in one of the cruelest ways men
have ever devised. After nine hours on the cross, he cried out
in agony, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”
(Mark 15:34). In Jesus’ bitterest hour, the Father had withdrawn his spirit from him so Jesus could finish suffering the
penalty for the sins of all mankind that Jesus might have complete victory over the forces of sin and death.
When the Savior knew that his sacrifice had been accepted by
the Father, he exclaimed in a loud voice, “It is finished” (John
19:30). “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” (Luke
23:46). He bowed his head and voluntarily gave up his spirit.
The Savior was dead. A violent earthquake shook the earth.
Some friends took the Savior’s body to a tomb, where it lay for
three days. During this time his spirit went and organized the
missionary work to other spirits who needed to receive his
gospel (see 1 Peter 3:18–20; D&C 138). On the third day, a
Sunday, he returned to his body and took it up again. He was
the first to overcome death. The prophecy had been fulfilled
“that he must rise again from the dead” (John 20:9).
Shortly after his resurrection, the Savior appeared to the
Nephites and established his Church in the Americas. He
taught the people and blessed them. This moving account is
found in 3 Nephi 11 through 28.
Discussion
• How do you feel as you ponder the Savior’s sacrifice for us?
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What Does the Savior’s Life Mean for Us?
Jesus taught: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man
lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do
whatsoever I command you” (John 15:13–14). He willingly
and humbly went through the sorrow in Gethsemane and the
suffering on the cross.
The Savior will have died in vain for our sins if we do not
come unto him, repent of our sins, and love him with all our
hearts. He said:
“And this is the gospel which I have given unto you—that I
came into the world to do the will of my Father, because my
Father sent me.
“And my Father sent me that I might be lifted up upon the
cross; and after that I had been lifted up upon the cross, that
I might draw all men unto me . . . that they may be judged
according to their works. . . .
“For the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also
do; . . .
“Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I
say unto you, even as I am ” (3 Nephi 27:13–15, 21, 27; italics
added).
Discussion
• Imagine that you had a large debt but could not pay it. How
would you feel about a person who offered to pay the debt
for you? Compare this to the sacrifice of Jesus.
Additional Scriptures
• 2 Nephi 25:12 (the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh)
• Moses 6:57 (Jesus Christ named as the Only Begotten)
• Matthew, Mark, Luke, John (life and teachings of Jesus
Christ)
• Matthew 10:1–8; Luke 9:1–2 (Apostles ordained with power
and authority)
• Matthew 26–28; Mark 14–16; Luke 22–24 (Jesus in the Garden; betrayed, crucified, and resurrected)
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In the Garden of Gethsemane,
Christ took upon himself the sins of all mankind.
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Jesus Christ “came into the world . . . to be crucified for the
world, and to bear the sins of the world, and to sanctify the
world, and to cleanse it from all unrighteousness; that
through him all might be saved” (D&C 76:41–42). The great
sacrifice he made to pay for our sins and overcome death is
called the Atonement. It is the most important event that has
ever occurred in the history of mankind: “For it is expedient
that an atonement should be made; for according to the great
plan of the Eternal God there must be an atonement made, or
else all mankind must unavoidably perish; . . . yea, all are
fallen and are lost, and must perish except it be through the
atonement” (Alma 34:9).
Discussion
• Why did Jesus come to the earth?
The Atonement Was Necessary for Our Salvation
The fall of Adam brought two kinds of death into the world:
physical death and spiritual death. Physical death is separation of the body and spirit. Spiritual death is separation from
God. If these two kinds of death had not been overcome by
Jesus’ atonement, two consequences would have resulted:
our bodies and our spirits would have been separated forever,
and we could not have lived again with our Heavenly Father.
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Christ died on the cross for the sins of all mankind.
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But our wise Heavenly Father prepared a wonderful, merciful plan to save us from physical and spiritual death. He
planned for a Savior to come to earth to ransom (redeem) us
from our sins and from death. Because of our sins and the
weakness of our mortal bodies, we could not ransom ourselves (see Alma 34:10–12). The one who would be our Savior
would need to be sinless and to have power over death.
Discussion
• Compare our earthly bodies to a hand with a glove on it.
Take off the glove. Explain that this is like physical death—
the spirit (the hand) and the body (the glove) are separated.
Christ Was the Only One Who Could Atone for Our Sins
There are several reasons why Jesus Christ was the only person who could be our Savior. One reason is that Heavenly
Father chose him to be the Savior. He was the Only Begotten
Son of God and thus had power over death. Jesus explained:
“I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh
it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it
down, and I have power to take it again” (John 10:17–18).
Jesus also qualified to be our Savior because he is the only
person who has ever lived on the earth who did not sin. This
made him a worthy sacrifice to pay for the sins of others.
Discussion
• Have class members discuss the reasons why Jesus was the
only one who could atone for our sins.
Christ Suffered and Died to Atone for Our Sins
The Savior atoned for our sins by suffering in Gethsemane
and by giving his life on the cross. It is impossible for us to
fully understand how he suffered for all of our sins. In the
Garden of Gethsemane, the weight of our sins caused him to
feel such agony and heartbreak that he bled from every pore
(see D&C 19:18–19). Later, as he hung upon the cross, Jesus
suffered painful death by one of the most cruel methods
known to man.
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How Jesus loves us, to suffer such spiritual and physical
agony for our sake! How great the love of Heavenly Father
that he would send his Only Begotten Son to suffer and die
for the rest of his children. “For God so loved the world, that
he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in
him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
Discussion
• Ask class members to imagine themselves in the Garden of
Gethsemane as witnesses of the suffering of Jesus Christ.
Have someone read the account in Luke 22:39–44.
The Atonement and Resurrection Bring Resurrection to All
On the third day after his crucifixion, Christ took up his body
again and became the first person to be resurrected. When his
friends went to seek him, the angels who guarded his tomb
told them, “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said”
(Matthew 28:6). His spirit had reentered his body, never to be
separated again.
Christ thus overcame physical death. Because of his atonement, everyone born on this earth will be resurrected (see
1 Corinthians 15:21–22). Just as Jesus was resurrected, our
spirits will be reunited with our bodies, “that they can die no
more . . . , never to be divided” (Alma 11:45). This condition is
called immortality. All people who have ever lived will be resurrected, “both old and young, both bond and free, both male
and female, both the wicked and the righteous” (Alma 11:44).
Discussion
• Refer again to the hand and glove. Explain that because
Jesus Christ atoned for our sins, all people will someday be
resurrected. (Put the glove on your hand.) Our bodies and
our spirits will reunite.
The Atonement Makes It Possible for Those Who Have Faith
in Christ to Be Saved from Their Sins
The Savior’s atonement makes it possible for us to overcome
spiritual death. Although all people will be resurrected with a
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body of flesh and bone, only those who accept the Atonement will be saved from spiritual death.
We accept Christ’s atonement by placing our faith in him.
Through this faith, we repent of our sins, are baptized, receive
the Holy Ghost, and obey his commandments. We become
faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. We are forgiven and cleansed
from sin and prepared to return and live forever with our
Heavenly Father.
The Savior tells us, “For behold, I, God, have suffered these
things for all, that they might not suffer . . . even as I” (D&C
19:16–17). Christ did his part to atone for our sins. To make his
atonement fully effective in our lives, we must strive to obey
him and repent of our sins.
Elder Boyd K. Packer of the Council of the Twelve gave the
following illustration to show how Christ’s atonement makes
it possible to be saved from sin if we do our part.
“Let me tell you a story—a parable.
“There once was a man who wanted something very much. It
seemed more important than anything else in his life. In order
for him to have his desire, he incurred a great debt.
“He had been warned about going into that much debt, and
particularly about his creditor. But it seemed so important for
him to do what he wanted to and to have what he wanted
right now. He was sure he could pay for it later.
“So he signed a contract. He would pay it off some time along
the way. He didn’t worry too much about it, for the due date
seemed such a long time away. He had what he wanted now,
and that was what seemed important.
“The creditor was always somewhere in the back of his mind,
and he made token payments now and again, thinking somehow that the day of reckoning really would never come.
“But as it always does, the day came, and the contract fell due.
The debt had not been fully paid. His creditor appeared and
demanded payment in full.
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“Only then did he realize that his creditor not only had the
power to repossess all that he owned, but the power to cast
him into prison as well.
“ ‘I cannot pay you, for I have not the power to do so,’ he
confessed.
“ ‘Then,’ said the creditor, ‘we will exercise the contract, take
your possessions and you shall go to prison. You agreed to
that. It was your choice. You signed the contract, and now it
must be enforced.’
“ ‘Can you not extend the time or forgive the debt?’ the debtor begged. ‘Arrange some way for me to keep what I have
and not go to prison. Surely you believe in mercy? Will you
not show mercy?’
“The creditor replied, ‘Mercy is always so one-sided. It would
serve only you. If I show mercy to you, it will leave me unpaid. It is justice I demand. Do you believe in justice?’
“ ‘I believed in justice when I signed the contract,’ the debtor
said. ‘It was on my side then, for I thought it would protect
me. I did not need mercy then, nor think I should need it ever.
Justice, I thought, would serve both of us equally as well.’
“ ‘It is justice that demands that you pay the contract or suffer
the penalty,’ the creditor replied. ‘That is the law. You have
agreed to it and that is the way it must be. Mercy cannot rob
justice.’
“There they were: One meting out justice, the other pleading
for mercy. Neither could prevail except at the expense of the
other.
“ ‘If you do not forgive the debt there will be no mercy,’ the
debtor pleaded.
“ ‘If I do, there will be no justice,’ was the reply.
“Both laws, it seemed, could not be served. They are two
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eternal ideals that appear to contradict one another. Is there
no way for justice to be fully served, and mercy also?
“There is a way! The law of justice can be fully satisfied and
mercy can be fully extended—but it takes someone else. And
so it happened this time.
“The debtor had a friend. He came to help. He knew the
debtor well. He knew him to be shortsighted. He thought him
foolish to have gotten himself into such a predicament. Nevertheless, he wanted to help because he loved him. He stepped
between them, faced the creditor, and made this
offer.
“ ‘I will pay the debt if you will free the debtor from his contract so that he may keep his possessions and not go to
prison.’
“As the creditor was pondering the offer, the mediator added,
‘You demanded justice. Though he cannot pay you, I will do
so. You will have been justly dealt with and can ask no more.
It would not be just.’
“And so the creditor agreed.
“The mediator turned then to the debtor. ‘If I pay your debt,
will you accept me as your creditor?’
“ ‘Oh yes, yes,’ cried the debtor. ‘You saved me from prison
and show mercy to me.’
“ ‘Then,’ said the benefactor, ‘you will pay the debt to me and
I will set the terms. It will not be easy, but it will be possible.
I will provide a way. You need not go to prison.’
“And so it was that the creditor was paid in full. He had been
justly dealt with. No contract had been broken.
“The debtor, in turn, had been extended mercy. Both laws
stood fulfilled. Because there was a mediator, justice had
claimed its full share, and mercy was satisfied” (in Conference
Report, Apr. 1977, pp. 79–80; or Ensign, May 1977, pp. 54–55).
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Our sins are our spiritual debts. Without Jesus Christ, who is
our Savior and Mediator, we would all pay for our sins by
suffering spiritual death. But because of him, if we will keep
his terms, which are to repent and keep his commandments,
we may return to live with our Heavenly Father.
It is wonderful that Christ has provided us a way to be healed
from our sins. He said:
“Behold, I have come unto the world . . . to save the world
from sin.
“Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little
child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God.
Behold, for such I have laid down my life, and have taken it
up again; therefore repent, and come unto me ye ends of the
earth, and be saved” (3 Nephi 9:21–22).
Discussion
• Read Acts 2:38. What must we do to show that we accept the
Atonement?
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–17. What is the penalty
for those who do not accept the atonement of the Savior?
Additional Scriptures
• Alma 34:9–16 (Atonement necessary; sacrifice of God)
• Romans 5:12–17 (by one came death, by one came life)
• Helaman 14:15–18 (purpose of Jesus’ death)
• Articles of Faith 1:3 (all may be saved)
• 1 Peter 1:18–20 (Jesus was foreordained)
• Matthew 16:21 (Jesus’ sacrifice was necessary)
• Luke 22:39–46 (Jesus’ suffering in the Garden)
• 1 John 1:7 (Jesus cleanses from sin)
• 2 Nephi 9:21–22 (the Savior suffered for all people)
• Mosiah 16:6–8 (resurrection possible only through Jesus)
• Alma 11:40–45; Mormon 9:12–14 (all to be resurrected)
• Isaiah 1:18 (sins shall be made white)
• 1 Corinthians 15:40–44 (description of the Resurrection)
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THE CHURCH OF
JESUS CHRIST
Unit Five
Moses conferred the priesthood on Aaron by the laying on of hands.
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THE PRIESTHOOD
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What Is the Priesthood?
The priesthood is the power and authority of God. By his
priesthood power the heavens and the earth were created. By
this power the universe is kept in perfect order. Through this
power he accomplishes his work and glory, which is “to bring
to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).
Our Heavenly Father shares his priesthood power with worthy male members of the Church. The priesthood enables
them to act in God’s name for the salvation of the human
family. Through it they can be authorized to preach the gospel, administer the ordinances of salvation, and govern God’s
kingdom on earth.
Why Do We Need the Priesthood on the Earth?
We must have priesthood authority to act in the name of God
when performing the sacred ordinances of the gospel, such as
baptism, confirmation, administration of the sacrament, and
temple marriage. If a man does not have the priesthood, even
though he may be sincere, the Lord will not recognize ordinances he performs (see Matthew 7:21–23). These important
ordinances must be performed on the earth by men holding
the priesthood.
Men need the priesthood to preside in The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints and to direct the work of the
Church in all parts of the world. When Christ lived on the
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earth, he chose his Apostles and ordained them so that they
could lead his Church. He gave them the power and authority
of the priesthood to act in his name. (See Mark 3:13–15; John
15:16.)
Another reason the priesthood is needed on the earth is so we
can understand the will of the Lord and carry out his purposes. God reveals his will to his authorized priesthood representative on the earth, the prophet. The prophet, who is
President of the Church, serves as the spokesman for God to
all members of the Church and all people on the earth.
Discussion
• Name some things that can be done only by men who hold
the priesthood. Discuss the need for priesthood authority.
How Do Men Receive the Priesthood?
The Lord has prepared an orderly way for his priesthood to
be given to his sons on the earth. A worthy male member of
the Church receives the priesthood “by the laying on of hands
by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof” (Articles of Faith 1:5).
This is the same way men received the priesthood long ago,
even in the days of Moses: “And no man taketh this honour
unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron”
(Hebrews 5:4). Aaron received the priesthood from Moses, his
priesthood leader (see Exodus 28:1). Only those who hold the
priesthood can ordain others.
Men cannot buy and sell the power and authority of the priesthood. Nor can they take this authority upon themselves. In
the New Testament we read of a man named Simon who lived
when Christ’s Apostles presided over the Church. Simon became converted and was baptized into the Church. Because he
was a skillful magician, the people believed he had the power
of God. But Simon did not have the priesthood, and he knew it.
Simon knew that the Apostles and the other priesthood leaders of the Church had the true power of God. He saw them
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use their priesthood to do the Lord’s work, and he wanted
this power for himself. He offered to buy the priesthood. (See
Acts 8:9–19.) But Peter, the chief Apostle, said, “Thy money
perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of
God may be purchased with money” (Acts 8:20).
Discussion
• Have someone read or quote the fifth article of faith.
• Who is given the priesthood? How is it given?
• Who may ordain a worthy male member of the Church to
the priesthood?
How Do Men Properly Use the Priesthood?
The priesthood should be used to bless the lives of our Heavenly Father’s children here on earth. Priesthood holders
should preside in love and kindness. They should not force
their families and others to obey them. The Lord has told us
that the power of the priesthood cannot be controlled except
in righteousness (see D&C 121:36). When we try to use the
priesthood to gain wealth or fame or for any other selfish
purpose, “behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the
Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen
to the priesthood or the authority of that man” (D&C 121:37).
When a man uses the priesthood “by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned”
(D&C 121:41), he can do many wonderful things for his family
and others. He can baptize and confirm, administer the sacrament, and bless the sick. He can give priesthood blessings to
his family members to encourage and protect them when they
have special needs. He can also help other families with these
ordinances and blessings when asked to do so.
Men use priesthood authority to preside in the Church in
such callings as branch president, bishop, quorum president,
or stake and mission leader. Women who hold positions in
the Church as officers and teachers work under the direction
of the priesthood.
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Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 121:34–40. How should the
priesthood not be used?
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 121:41–44. How should the
priesthood be used?
What Blessings Come When We Use the Priesthood
Properly?
The Lord has promised great blessings to righteous priesthood holders who use the priesthood to bless others:
“Then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of
God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy
soul as the dews from heaven.
“The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and thy
scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth;
and thy dominion shall be an everlasting dominion, and without compulsory means it shall flow unto thee forever and
ever” (D&C 121:45–46).
A great latter-day prophet, David O. McKay, promised every
man who uses the priesthood in righteousness that he “will
find his life sweetened, his discernment sharpened to decide
quickly between right and wrong, his feelings tender and
compassionate, yet his spirit strong and valiant in defense of
right; he will find the priesthood a neverfailing source of happiness—a well of living water springing up unto eternal life”
(“Priesthood,” Instructor, Oct. 1968, p. 378).
Discussion
• What are some of the blessings you have received through
the priesthood?
• What are some of the blessings you can receive through the
priesthood?
Additional Scriptures
• D&C 107 (revelation on priesthood)
• D&C 20:38–67 (duties of the priesthood explained)
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PRIESTHOOD
ORGANIZATION
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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is governed by
the priesthood. The priesthood, which is always associated
with God’s work, “continueth in the church of God in all
generations, and is without beginning of days or end of years”
(D&C 84:17). It is upon the earth today. Men young and old
are baptized into the Church, and when they are judged
worthy they are ordained to the priesthood. They are given
the authority to act for the Lord and do his work on the earth.
Two Divisions of Priesthood
The priesthood is divided into two parts: the Melchizedek
Priesthood and the Aaronic Priesthood (see D&C 107:1). The
greater priesthood is the Melchizedek Priesthood. Long ago it
was called “the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of
God.” But the name was changed so the name of the Lord
would not be used so often. The Church in ancient days called
the priesthood “the Melchizedek Priesthood” after a great
high priest who lived during the time of Abraham. (See D&C
107:2–4.)
The lesser priesthood is an appendage to the Melchizedek
Priesthood. It is called the Aaronic Priesthood because it was
conferred on Aaron and his sons throughout all their generations. Those who hold the Aaronic Priesthood have authority
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Deacon
Teacher
Elder
Priest
Evangelist
High Priest
Seventy
Apostles and Prophets
Jesus Christ
The Church of Jesus Christ can be compared to a building with Christ as the
chief cornerstone and the Apostles and prophets as the foundation.
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to administer the outward ordinances of repentance and
baptism. (See D&C 107:13–14, 20.)
Those holding the Melchizedek Priesthood have the power
and authority to lead the Church and direct the preaching of
the gospel in all parts of the world. They are in charge of all
the spiritual work of the Church (see D&C 84:19–22). They
direct the work done in the temples; they preside over wards,
branches, stakes, and missions; they heal the sick, bless babies,
and give special blessings to Church members. The Lord’s
chosen prophet, the President of the Church, is the presiding
high priest over the Melchizedek Priesthood (see D&C
107:65–67).
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 107:1–4. What are the two divisions of the priesthood? How did the Melchizedek Priesthood get its name?
Keys of the Priesthood
“There is a difference between priesthood and the ‘keys’ of
the priesthood. A priest in a ward has power sufficient to
baptize, yet he has not the right to perform this ordinance
until he has been authorized by the bishop. The bishop has
the ‘keys’ to administer to the affairs belonging under his
ecclesiastical jurisdiction. Therefore, he is the person who can
tell a priest to baptize.
“The president and prophet of the Church has the ‘keys’ of
the priesthood to administer in all spiritual and temporal affairs of the Church. It is his right to delegate stake presidents,
bishops, patriarchs and others, as holders of the ‘keys’ pertaining to specific offices in certain geographical areas.
“President Joseph F. Smith taught on this subject:
“ ‘Every man ordained to any degree of the priesthood has
this authority delegated to him. But it is necessary that every
act performed under this authority shall be done at the proper
time and place, in the proper way, and after the proper order.
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The power of directing these labors constitutes the keys of the
priesthood’ (Gospel Doctrine, p. 136)” (Melvin R. Brooks, L.D.S.
Reference Encyclopedia, p. 393).
Discussion
• What is the difference between the priesthood and the keys
of the priesthood?
The Offices and Duties of the Aaronic Priesthood
When the Aaronic Priesthood is conferred on a man or boy, he
is ordained to an office in that priesthood. The offices in the
Aaronic Priesthood are deacon, teacher, priest, and bishop.
Each office carries duties and responsibilities. Each group or
quorum is presided over by a group leader or quorum president who teaches the members their duties and asks them to
fill assignments.
Some men join the Church or become active after they have
passed the usual age to receive the offices of this priesthood.
They are usually ordained to an office in the Aaronic Priesthood and can soon be advanced to higher offices if they are
worthy.
Deacon
A boy who has been baptized and confirmed a member of the
Church and is worthy may be ordained to the office of deacon
when he is twelve years old. The deacons are usually assigned
to pass the sacrament to members of the Church, act as ushers,
keep Church buildings and grounds in good order, act as
messengers for priesthood leaders, and fulfill special assignments such as collecting fast offerings.
Teacher
A worthy boy may be ordained a teacher when he is fourteen
years old or older. Teachers have all the duties, rights, and
powers of the office of deacon plus additional ones. Teachers
in the Aaronic Priesthood are to help Church members live
the commandments (see D&C 20:53–59). To help fulfill this
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responsibility, they are usually called as home teachers. They
visit the homes of Church members and encourage them to
live the principles of the gospel. They have been commanded
to teach the truths of the gospel from the scriptures (see D&C
42:12). Teachers also prepare the bread and water for the
sacrament service.
Priest
A worthy boy may be ordained a priest when he is sixteen
years old or older. Priests have all the duties, rights, and powers of the offices of deacon and teacher plus some additional
ones (see D&C 20:46–51). A priest may baptize. He may also
administer the sacrament. He may ordain other priests, teachers, and deacons. A priest may take charge of meetings when
there is no Melchizedek Priesthood holder present. He is to
preach the gospel to those around him.
Bishop
A bishop is ordained and set apart to preside over the Aaronic
Priesthood in a ward. He is the president of the priests quorum (see D&C 107:87–88). When he is acting in his Aaronic
Priesthood office, a bishop deals primarily with temporal matters, such as administering finances and records and directing
care for the poor and needy (see D&C 107:68).
A bishop is also ordained a high priest so he can preside over
all members in the ward (see D&C 107:71–73; 68:15). A bishop
is a judge in Israel (see D&C 107:74) and interviews members
for temple recommends, priesthood ordinations, and other
needs. It is his right to have the gift of discernment.
Discussion
• Discuss the duties of the deacon, teacher, priest, and bishop.
The Offices and Duties of the Melchizedek Priesthood
The offices of the Melchizedek Priesthood are elder, high
priest, patriarch, seventy, and Apostle.
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Elder
Elders are called to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and
watch over the Church (see D&C 20:42). All Melchizedek
Priesthood holders are elders. They have the authority to bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands (see
D&C 20:43). Elders should conduct meetings of the Church as
they are led by the Holy Ghost (see D&C 20:45; 46:2). Elders
may administer to the sick (see D&C 42:44). They are commanded to bless little children (see D&C 20:70). Elders may
preside over Church meetings when there is no high priest
present (D&C 107:11).
High Priest
A high priest may be given the authority to officiate in the
Church and be in charge of spiritual things (see D&C 107:10,
12). He may also officiate in all lesser offices (see D&C 68:19).
Stake presidents, mission presidents, high councilors, bishoprics, and other leaders of the Church are ordained high
priests.
Patriarch
Patriarchs are ordained by General Authorities, or by stake
presidents when they are authorized by the Council of the
Twelve, to give special patriarchal blessings to members of the
Church. These blessings give us some understanding of our
callings on earth. They are the word of the Lord personally to
us. Patriarchs are also ordained high priests (see D&C 107:39–
56).
Seventy
Seventies are special witnesses of Jesus Christ to the world
and assist in building up and regulating the Church (see D&C
107:25, 34, 38, 93–97).
Apostle
An Apostle is a special witness of Jesus Christ in all the world
(see D&C 107:23). The Apostles administer the affairs of the
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Church throughout the world. Those who are ordained to the
office of Apostle in the Melchizedek Priesthood are usually set
apart as members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Each
one is given all the keys of the kingdom of God on earth, but
only the senior Apostle, who is President of the Church,
actively exercises all of the keys. The others act under his direction.
Discussion
• Discuss the duties of elder, high priest, patriarch, seventy,
and Apostle.
The Quorums of the Aaronic Priesthood
The Lord has instructed that the holders of the priesthood be
organized into quorums. A quorum is a body of brethren
holding the same priesthood office.
There are three quorums of the Aaronic Priesthood:
1. The deacons quorum, which consists of up to twelve deacons (see D&C 107:85). The presidency of the deacons quorum is called by the bishop from among the quorum
members.
2. The teachers quorum, which consists of up to twenty-four
teachers (see D&C 107:86). The presidency of the teachers
quorum is called by the bishop from among the quorum
members.
3. The priests quorum, which consists of up to forty-eight
priests (see D&C 107:87–88). It is presided over by the
bishop of the ward to which the quorum belongs. The
bishop is a high priest and thus also belongs to the high
priests quorum.
Whenever the number specified for a quorum is exceeded, the
quorum may be divided.
The Quorums of the Melchizedek Priesthood
There are in the stakes of Zion the following Melchizedek
Priesthood quorums:
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Elders Quorum
Each elders quorum “is instituted for standing ministers; nevertheless they may travel, yet they are ordained to be standing
ministers” (D&C 124:137). They do most of their work near
their homes. The quorum is to consist of up to ninety-six elders, presided over by a quorum presidency that is called by
the stake president.
High Priests Quorum
Each quorum includes all high priests residing within the
boundaries of a stake, including patriarchs and bishops. The
stake president and his counselors are the presidency of this
quorum. The high priests in each ward are organized into a
group with a group leader.
Importance of Priesthood Quorums
When ordained to the priesthood, a man or boy automatically
becomes a member of a priesthood quorum. From then on
through life, it is expected that he will hold membership in a
quorum of the priesthood according to his office. (See Boyd K.
Packer, “The Quorum,” in Strengthen Your Brethren [Melchizedek Priesthood Personal Study Guide 4, 1991], pp. 142–48.)
If a priesthood quorum functions properly, the members of
the quorum are encouraged, blessed, fellowshipped, and
taught the gospel by their leaders. Even though a man may be
called and released from Church assignments such as teacher,
officer, bishop, high councilor, or stake president, his membership in his quorum does not change. Membership in a
quorum of the priesthood should be regarded as a sacred
privilege.
Discussion
• What is a quorum? How does a quorum help strengthen
individual members?
• How many members make up a quorum of elders, high
priests, deacons, teachers, priests?
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Additional Scriptures
• Alma 13:1–19 (manner in which men were ordained to the
priesthood)
• Hebrews 7:11–13 (Melchizedek Priesthood restored at the
coming of Christ)
• Matthew 16:19; D&C 68:12 (Apostles given power; what
they seal on earth is sealed in heaven)
• D&C 20:38–67 (duties of elders, priests, teachers, deacons)
• D&C 84; 107 (revelations on the priesthood)
• 1 Corinthians 12:14–31 (all offices of the priesthood are
important)
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Abraham made a covenant with the Lord.
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THE LORD’S
COVENANT PEOPLE
C h a p t e r 15
From the beginning the Lord has made covenants with his
children on earth. When his people make covenants (or promises) with him, they know what he expects of them and what
blessings they may expect from him. They can better carry out
his work on earth. The people who covenant with the Lord
and with whom the Lord makes covenants are known as the
Lord’s covenant people. Members of the Church are part of the
Lord’s covenant people.
Discussion
• Read Deuteronomy 26:18. What does the Lord mean when
he calls his people a peculiar people?
• Why are Latter-day Saints called a covenant people?
What Is a Covenant?
Within the gospel, a covenant means a sacred agreement or
mutual promise between God and a person or a group of
people. In making a covenant, God promises a blessing for
obedience to particular commandments. He sets the terms of
his covenants, and he reveals these terms to his prophets. If
we choose to obey the terms of the covenant, we receive
promised blessings. If we choose not to obey, he withholds
the blessings, and in some instances a penalty also is given.
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For example, when we join the Church we make several covenants with God (see chapter 20, “Baptism”). We covenant
with the Savior at baptism to take upon ourselves his name.
He promises that “as many as . . . are baptized in my name,
which is Jesus Christ, and endure to the end, the same shall be
saved” (D&C 18:22). We covenant with the Lord as we partake of the sacrament. We promise to remember him and to
obey his commandments. We are promised that the Holy
Spirit will be with us. (See D&C 20:77–79.) As members of the
Church, we also covenant to obey the law of chastity, to keep
the Sabbath day holy, and to be honest. When we enter into
the eternal marriage covenant, we make other sacred promises and are promised exaltation for faithful obedience (see
D&C 132; see also chapter 47 in this manual).
God has also made special covenants with particular persons
or groups. He made special covenants with Adam, Enoch,
Noah, the children of Israel, and Lehi (see Moses 6:52; Moses
6:31–36; Genesis 9:9–17; Exodus 19:5–6; 2 Nephi 1). He made
a special covenant with Abraham and his descendants that
blesses members of the Church today.
Discussion
• What is a covenant?
• What kinds of covenants have we made with God?
• What blessings has he promised us for keeping certain
covenants?
God’s Covenant with Abraham and His Descendants
Abraham, an Old Testament prophet, was a very righteous
man. He refused to worship his father’s idols. He kept all of
the Lord’s commandments. Because of Abraham’s righteousness, the Lord made a covenant with him and his descendants.
The Lord promised Abraham that he would have numberless
descendants. He promised that all of them would be entitled
to receive the gospel, the blessings of the priesthood, and all
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of the ordinances of exaltation. These descendants, through
the power of the priesthood, would carry the gospel to all
nations. Through them, all the families of the earth would be
blessed (see Abraham 2:11). God further promised that if they
were righteous he would establish his covenant with all generations of Abraham’s children (see Genesis 17:4–8).
God made the same covenant with Abraham’s son Isaac and
again with Isaac’s son Jacob. God changed Jacob’s name to
Israel. Since that time, the descendants of Jacob, called Israelites, have been known as God’s covenant people.
Discussion
• Read Abraham 2:9–11. List the promises that God has made
to his covenant people.
Members of the Church Are a Covenant People
The blood descendants of Abraham are not the only people
whom God calls his covenant people. In speaking to
Abraham, God said, “As many as receive this Gospel shall be
called after thy name, and shall be accounted thy seed [lineage], and shall rise up and bless thee, as their father”
(Abraham 2:10). Thus, two groups of people are included in
the covenant made with Abraham: (1) Abraham’s righteous
blood descendants and (2) those adopted into his lineage by
accepting and living the gospel of Jesus Christ.
When we are baptized into the Church, we are adopted into
Abraham’s family and have part in the covenant the Lord
made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (see Galatians 3:26–29).
If we are obedient, we inherit the blessings of that covenant.
We have the right to receive help and guidance from the Holy
Ghost. We have the right to hold the priesthood. We can gain
eternal life in the celestial kingdom. There are no greater
blessings than these.
Along with the blessings we receive as the Lord’s covenant
people, we have great responsibilities. The Lord promised
Abraham that through his descendants the gospel would be
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taken to all the earth. We are fulfilling this responsibility
through the full-time missionary program of the Church and
the missionary work done by the members. This opportunity
to preach the gospel to all the world belongs only to the
Lord’s Church and his covenant people.
As the Lord’s covenant people, we must keep his commandments. The Lord said, “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do
what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise” (D&C 82:10). If we reject our covenant after accepting the
gospel, the covenant becomes void and we will stand condemned before God (see D&C 132:4). He has said: “Refrain
from sin, lest sore judgments fall upon your heads. For of him
unto whom much is given much is required; and he who sins
against the greater light shall receive the greater condemnation” (D&C 82:2–3).
Discussion
• Read the words of the Savior in Matthew 5:14–16. What
responsibility do we have as members of the Church to be a
light (example) unto the world?
• What does this have to do with how we dress, act, and keep
the commandments of God?
• What happens when we break a covenant we have made?
The New and Everlasting Covenant
The fulness of the gospel is called the new and everlasting covenant. It includes the covenants made at baptism, during the
sacrament, in the temple, and at any other time. The Lord calls
it “everlasting” because it is ordained by an everlasting God
and because the covenant will never be changed. He gave this
same covenant to Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and other
prophets. In this sense it is not new. But the Lord calls it
“new” because each time the gospel is restored after being
taken from the earth, it is new to the people who receive it
(see Jeremiah 31:31–34; Ezekiel 37:26).
When we accept the new and everlasting covenant, we agree
to repent, be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, receive our
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endowments, receive the covenant of marriage in the temple,
and follow and obey Christ to the end of our lives. As we keep
our covenants, our Heavenly Father promises us that we
will receive exaltation in the celestial kingdom (see D&C
132:20–24; see also chapter 47 in this manual).
How blessed we are to be God’s covenant people. To the
faithful Saint, the Lord has promised, “All that my Father hath
shall be given unto him” (D&C 84:38). The greatness of that
promise is hard for mortals to understand. The commandments he gives are for our benefit, and as we are faithful we
may forever share the blessings and beauties of heaven and
earth. We may live in his presence and partake of his love,
compassion, power, greatness, knowledge, wisdom, glory,
and dominions.
Discussion
• What do we agree to do when we enter the new and everlasting covenant?
Additional Scriptures
• 1 Nephi 13:23–26 (covenants recorded in the Bible)
• 1 Peter 2:9–10 (peculiar people)
• D&C 54:4–6 (effects of covenants kept and broken)
• D&C 132:7 (covenants made by proper authority)
• D&C 133:57–60 (purpose of covenants)
• D&C 35:24 (promises for obedience to covenants)
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Jesus Christ ordained Apostles.
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THE CHURCH OF
JESUS CHRIST
IN FORMER TIMES
C h a p t e r 16
“We believe in the same organization that existed in the
Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth” (Articles of Faith 1:6).
Jesus established his Church when he was on the earth. It was
called the Church of Jesus Christ (see 3 Nephi 27:8), and the
members were called Saints. Through the persecution and
martyrdom of Church leaders and the general wickedness of
the people, the Church of Jesus Christ was taken from the
earth.
Today the Church of Jesus Christ has been restored and is
called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All of the
offices and functions of the Church in the days of Jesus are
present in the Church today.
Discussion
• Have someone read or quote the sixth article of faith. Read
Ephesians 4:11. Discuss the similarity of this scripture and
the article of faith.
Some Features That Identify the Church of Jesus Christ
Revelation
When Jesus established his Church, he personally instructed
and directed its leaders. He, in turn, received his instructions
from his Father in Heaven. Thus the Church of Jesus Christ
was directed by God and not by men (see Hebrews 1:1–2).
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Jesus taught his followers that revelation was the “rock” upon
which he would build his Church (see Matthew 16:16–18).
Before Jesus ascended into heaven after his resurrection, he
told his Apostles, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of
the world” (Matthew 28:20). True to his word, he continued to
guide them from heaven. He sent the Holy Ghost to be a
comforter and a revelator to them (see Luke 12:12; John
14:26). He spoke to Saul in a vision (see Acts 9:3–6). He revealed to Peter that the gospel should be taught not only to
the Jews but to the whole world (see Acts 10). He revealed
many glorious truths to John, which are written in the Book of
Revelation. The New Testament records many other ways in
which Jesus revealed his will to guide his Church and enlighten his disciples.
Authority from God
The ordinances and principles of the gospel cannot be administered and taught without the priesthood. The Father gave
this authority to Jesus Christ (see Hebrews 5:4–6), who in turn
ordained his Apostles and gave them the power and authority
of the priesthood (see Luke 9:1–2; Mark 3:14). He reminded
them, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and
ordained you” (John 15:16).
That there might be order in his Church, Jesus gave the greatest responsibility and authority to the Twelve Apostles. He
appointed Peter chief Apostle and gave him the keys to seal
blessings both on earth and in heaven (see Matthew 16:19).
Jesus also ordained other officers with specific duties to perform. After he ascended into heaven, the pattern of appointment and ordination was continued. Others were ordained to
the priesthood by those who had already received that authority. Jesus made it known through the Holy Ghost that he
approved of those ordinations (see Acts 1:24).
The Church Organization
The Church of Jesus Christ was a carefully organized unit. It
was compared to a perfectly formed building that was “built
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upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus
Christ himself being the chief corner stone” (Ephesians 2:20).
Jesus appointed other priesthood leaders to assist the
Apostles in the work of the ministry. He sent officers called
seventies in pairs to preach the gospel (see Luke 10:1). Other
officers in the Church were evangelists (patriarchs), pastors
(presiding leaders), high priests, elders, bishops, priests,
teachers, and deacons (see chapter 14, “Priesthood Organization”). These officers were all necessary to do missionary
work, perform ordinances, and instruct and inspire Church
members. These officers helped the members come to a “unity
of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God” (Ephesians 4:13).
The Bible does not tell us everything about the priesthood or
the organization and government of the Church. However,
enough of the Bible has been preserved to show the beauty
and perfection of the Church organization. The Apostles were
commanded to go into all the world and preach. They could
not stay in any one city to supervise new converts. Therefore,
local priesthood leaders were called and ordained, and the
Apostles presided over them. The Apostles visited and wrote
letters to the leaders in the various branches. Thus, our New
Testament contains letters written by the Apostles Paul, Peter,
James, John, and Jude, giving counsel and instruction to the
local priesthood leaders.
The New Testament shows that this Church organization was
intended to continue. For example, the death of Judas left
only eleven Apostles. Soon after Jesus had ascended into
heaven, the eleven Apostles met together to choose someone
to take the place of Judas. Through revelation from the Holy
Ghost, they chose Matthias. (See Acts 1:23–26.) Later, other
Apostles died or were killed. Paul, Barnabas, and James, the
brother of the Lord, were all ordained in their places. Jesus
had set a pattern for twelve Apostles to govern the Church. It
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seemed clear that the organization was to continue as he had
established it.
First Principles and Ordinances
The Apostles taught two basic principles: faith in the Lord
Jesus Christ and repentance. After new converts had faith in
Jesus Christ as the Son of God and their Redeemer and had
repented of their sins, they received two ordinances: baptism
by immersion and the laying on of hands for the gift of the
Holy Ghost. These were the first principles and ordinances of
the gospel. Jesus had taught, “Except a man be born of water
and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God”
(John 3:5). Everyone needed these saving ordinances of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Ordinances Performed for the Dead
Jesus has provided for everyone to hear the gospel, whether
on earth or after death. Between his death and resurrection,
Jesus went among the spirits of those who had died. He organized missionary work among those who were dead. He appointed righteous messengers and gave them power to teach
the gospel to all the spirits of people who had died. This gave
them an opportunity to accept the gospel. (See 1 Peter 3:18–
20; 4:6; D&C 138.) Living members of his Church then performed ordinances in behalf of the dead (see 1 Corinthians
15:29). Ordinances such as baptism and confirmation must be
done on earth.
Spiritual Gifts
All faithful members of the Church were entitled to receive
gifts of the Spirit. These were given to them according to their
individual needs, capacities, and assignments. Some of these
gifts were faith, including the power to heal and to be healed;
prophecy; and visions. (The gifts of the Spirit are discussed in
more detail in chapter 22.) Spiritual gifts always exist in the
true Church of Jesus Christ (see 1 Corinthians 12:4–11). Jesus
told his disciples that these signs or spiritual gifts always follow them that believe (see Mark 16:17–18). Many of his
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disciples performed miracles, prophesied, or beheld visions
through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Discussion
• List the features that identify the Church of Jesus Christ. Are
all of these features found in any other church?
The Church of Jesus Christ in the Americas
After Jesus was resurrected, he visited the people in America
and organized his Church among them (see 3 Nephi 11–28).
Then he left them and ascended into heaven. For over two
hundred years they lived righteously and were among the
happiest people whom God had created (see 4 Nephi 1:16).
Apostasy from the True Church
Throughout history, evil people have tried to destroy the
work of God. This happened while the Apostles were still
alive and supervising the young, growing Church. Some
members taught ideas from their old pagan or Jewish beliefs
instead of the simple truths taught by Jesus. In addition, there
was persecution from outside the Church. Church members
were tortured and killed for their beliefs. One by one, the
Apostles were killed. Because of the persecution, surviving
Apostles could not meet to choose and ordain men to replace
those who were dead. Eventually, local priesthood leaders
were the only ones who had authority to direct the scattered
branches of the Church. The perfect organization of the
Church no longer existed, and confusion resulted. More and
more error crept into Church doctrine, and soon the destruction of the Church was complete. The period of time when the
true Church no longer existed on earth is called the Great
Apostasy.
Soon pagan beliefs dominated the thinking of those called
Christians. The Roman emperor adopted this false Christianity as the state religion. This church was very different from
the church Jesus organized. Members of this church believed
that God was a being without form or substance.
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These people lost the understanding of God’s love for us.
They did not know that we are his children. They did not
understand the purpose of life. Many of the ordinances were
changed because the priesthood and revelation were no
longer on the earth.
The emperor chose his own leaders and called them by the
same titles used by priesthood leaders in the true Church of
Christ. Church officers were given honor and wealth. Bishops
and archbishops fought among themselves to gain more
power. There were no Apostles or other priesthood leaders
with power from God, and there were no spiritual gifts. The
prophet Isaiah had foreseen this condition, prophesying,
“The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant” (Isaiah 24:5). It was
the Church of Jesus Christ no longer; it was a church of men.
Even the name had been changed. In the Americas, apostasy
also occurred (see 4 Nephi).
Discussion
• What does the term apostasy mean?
• Have someone review the story of the Apostasy.
• What were some of the signs of the Apostasy?
A Restoration Foretold
God had foreseen the Apostasy and prepared for the gospel
to be restored. The Apostle Peter spoke of this to the Jews: “He
shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:
whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution
of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his
holy prophets since the world began” (Acts 3:20–21).
John the Revelator had also foreseen the time when the gospel would be restored. He said, “I saw another angel fly in the
midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto
them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6).
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Discussion
• Read Daniel 2:44–45. What did Daniel see? Explain that the
Church is the “stone” mentioned in this scripture.
Additional Scriptures
• Ephesians 2:19 (members called Saints)
• 1 Corinthians 12:12–31 (Church likened to a perfect body)
• Luke 10:1; Acts 14:23; Titus 1:7; 1 Timothy 2:7 (officers of the
Church identified)
• John 8:26–29 (the Father directs Jesus)
• Luke 9:1; James 1:17; 5:14–15 (spiritual gifts)
• 2 Peter 2:1; Matthew 24:9–12; John 16:1–3; Amos 8:11;
2 Thessalonians 2:3–4 (Apostasy predicted)
• Daniel 2:44–45; Matthew 24:14; Micah 4:1; Isaiah 2:2–4
(Restoration predicted)
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The Father and the Son visited Joseph Smith.
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THE CHURCH
OF JESUS CHRIST
TODAY
C h a p t e r 17
When Jesus lived on the earth, he established his Church, the
only true Church. He organized his Church so the truths of
the gospel could be taught to all people and the ordinances of
the gospel could be administered correctly with authority.
Through this organization, Christ could bring the blessings of
salvation to mankind.
After the Savior ascended into heaven, men changed the ordinances and doctrines that he and his Apostles had established. Because of apostasy, there was no direct revelation
from God. The true Church was no longer on the earth. Men
organized different churches that claimed to be true but
taught conflicting doctrines. There was much confusion and
contention over religion. The Lord had foreseen these conditions, saying there would be “a famine in the land, not a
famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the
words of the Lord. . . .They shall . . . seek the word of the
Lord, and shall not find it” (Amos 8:11–12).
Discussion
• What does it feel like to go without food or water?
• Read Amos 8:11–12. What kind of famine is spoken of in this
scripture? Compare the famine to the period of time before
the Restoration.
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The Lord Promised to Restore His True Church
The Savior promised to restore his Church in the latter days.
He said, “I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this
people, even a marvellous work and a wonder” (Isaiah 29:14).
For many years people lived in spiritual darkness. About 1700
years after Christ, people were becoming more and more interested in knowing the truth about God and religion. Some
of them could see that the gospel Jesus taught was no longer
on the earth. Some recognized that there was no revelation
and no true authority and that the church that Christ organized did not exist on the earth. The time had arrived for the
Church of Jesus Christ to be restored to the earth.
Discussion
• Read Isaiah 29:14. What is the “marvellous work” spoken of
in Isaiah?
New Revelation from God
In the spring of 1820, one of the most important events in the
history of the world occurred. The time had come for the
marvelous work and wonder of which the Lord had spoken.
As a young boy, Joseph Smith wanted to know which of all
the churches was the true Church of Christ. He went into the
woods near his home and prayed humbly and intently to his
Heavenly Father, asking which church he should join. On
that morning a miraculous thing happened. Heavenly Father
and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith. The Savior told
him not to join any church because the true Church was not
on the earth. He also said that the teachings of present
churches were “an abomination in his sight” (Joseph Smith—
History 1:19; see also 1:7–20). Beginning with this event, there
was again direct revelation from the heavens. The Lord had
chosen a new prophet. Since that time the heavens have not
been closed. Revelation continues to this day through each of
his chosen prophets. Joseph was to be the one to help restore
the true gospel of Jesus Christ.
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Discussion
• Have a class member read Joseph Smith—History 1:7–21 or
tell the Joseph Smith story.
Authority from God Was Restored
In restoring the gospel, God again gave the priesthood to
men. John the Baptist came in 1829 to ordain Joseph Smith
and Oliver Cowdery to the Aaronic Priesthood (see D&C 13;
27:8). Then Peter, James, and John, the presidency of the
Church in ancient times, came and gave Joseph and Oliver
the Melchizedek Priesthood and the keys of the kingdom of
God (see D&C 27:12–13). Later, additional keys of the priesthood were restored by heavenly messengers such as Moses,
Elias, and Elijah (see D&C 110:11–16). Through the Restoration the priesthood was returned to the earth. Those who
hold this priesthood today have the authority to perform ordinances such as baptism. They also have the authority to
direct the Lord’s kingdom on earth.
Discussion
• Have a class member tell about the restoration of the priesthood. Include the following: the restoration of the Aaronic
Priesthood, the restoration of the Melchizedek Priesthood,
and the effect of these restorations on the Lord’s work.
Christ’s Church Was Organized Again
On 6 April 1830, the Savior again directed the organization of
his Church on the earth (see D&C 20:1). His Church is called
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (see D&C
115:4). Christ is the head of his Church today, just as he was
in ancient times. The Lord has said that it is “the only true and
living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I,
the Lord, am well pleased” (D&C 1:30).
Joseph Smith was sustained as prophet and “first elder” of the
Church (see D&C 20:2–4). Later the First Presidency was organized, and he was sustained as President. When the Church
was first organized, only the framework was set up. The organization was completed during the next several years.
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The Church was organized with the same offices as were in
the ancient Church. That organization included Apostles,
prophets, seventies, evangelists (patriarchs), pastors (presiding officers), high priests, elders, bishops, priests, teachers,
and deacons. These same offices are in his Church today (see
Articles of Faith 1:6).
A prophet, acting under the direction of the Lord, leads the
Church. This prophet is also the President of the Church. He
holds all the authority necessary to direct the Lord’s work on
earth (see D&C 107:65, 91). Two counselors assist the President. Twelve Apostles, who are special witnesses of Jesus
Christ, teach the gospel in all parts of the world. Other general officers of the Church with special assignments include
the Presiding Bishopric and the Quorums of the Seventy.
The offices of the priesthood include Apostles, seventies, patriarchs, high priests, elders, priests, teachers, and deacons.
These are the same offices that existed in the original Church.
The Church has grown much larger than it was in the days of
Jesus. As it has grown, the Lord has revealed additional units
of organization within the Church. When the Church is fully
organized in an area, it has local divisions called stakes. A stake
president and his two counselors preside over each stake. The
stake has twelve high councilors who help do the Lord’s work
in the stake. Melchizedek Priesthood quorums are organized
in the stake under the direction of the stake president (see
chapter 14, “Priesthood Organization”).
Each stake is divided into smaller areas called wards. A bishop
and his two counselors preside over each ward. In areas of the
world where the Church is developing, there are missions,
which are divided into the smaller units of districts, branches,
small branches, groups, and families.
Discussion
• Read the testimony of Joseph Smith contained in the preface
to Doctrine and Covenants 20.
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First Principles and Ordinances Were Restored
The Church today teaches the same principles and performs
the same ordinances as were performed in the days of Jesus.
The first principles and ordinances of the gospel are faith in
the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism by immersion, and
the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost (see
Articles of Faith 1:4). These precious truths were returned in
their fulness when the Church was restored.
Through the gift and power of God, Joseph Smith translated
the Book of Mormon, which contains the plain and precious
truths of the gospel. Many other revelations followed and
have been recorded as scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price (see chapter 10, “Scriptures”).
Discussion
• Read the fourth article of faith and discuss what it means to
Church members.
Other Important Truths Were Restored
Other important truths that the Lord restored include the
following:
1. Our Heavenly Father is a real person with a tangible, perfected body of flesh and bones.
2. We existed in premortal life as spirit children of God.
3. The priesthood is necessary to administer the ordinances of
the gospel.
4. We will be punished for our own sins and not for Adam’s
transgression.
5. Children do not need to be baptized until they are
accountable (eight years old).
6. There are three degrees of glory in the heavens, and people
will be rewarded according to their actions on earth.
7. Family relationships can be eternal through the sealing
power of the priesthood.
8. The temple endowment and sealings are available for both
the living and the dead.
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The Church of Jesus Christ Will Never Be Destroyed
Since its restoration in 1830, The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints has grown rapidly in membership. There are
members in nearly every country in the world. The Church
will continue to grow. As Christ said, “This Gospel of the
Kingdom shall be preached in all the world, for a witness unto
all nations” (Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:31). The Church will
never again be taken from the earth. Its mission is to take the
truth to every person. Thousands of years ago, the Lord said
he would “set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed:
and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, . . . and it
shall stand for ever” (Daniel 2:44).
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 84:76. What can you do to
help spread the kingdom of God?
Additional Scriptures
• Revelation 14:6; Daniel 2:44–45; Isaiah 2:2–4; 2 Nephi 3:6–15
(Restoration foretold)
• D&C 110; 128:19–21; 133:36–39, 57–58 (restoration of the
gospel)
• Ephesians 2:20 (Jesus Christ the cornerstone of the Church)
• D&C 20:38–67 (duties of officers of the Church)
• Matthew 24:14 (gospel to be preached to all nations)
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THE GOSPEL OF
JESUS CHRIST
Unit Six
To return to Heavenly Father, we must have faith in Jesus Christ.
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FAITH IN
JESUS CHRIST
C h a p t e r 18
Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the first principle of the gospel. It is necessary to our salvation. King Benjamin declared,
“Salvation cometh to none . . . except it be through repentance and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ” (Mosiah 3:12).
What Is Faith?
Faith is a “hope for things which are not seen, which are true”
(Alma 32:21; see also Hebrews 11:1). The Prophet Joseph
Smith taught that faith is a principle of power that motivates
our day-to-day activities.
Would we study and learn if we did not believe we could
obtain wisdom and knowledge? Would we work each day if
we did not hope that by doing so we could accomplish something? Would a farmer plant if he did not expect to harvest?
Each day we act upon things we hope for when we cannot see
the end result. This is faith. (See Hebrews 11:3.)
Many scriptural stories tell how great things were accomplished through faith.
By faith Noah built an ark and saved his family from the flood
(see Hebrews 11:7). Moses parted the waters of the Red Sea
(see Hebrews 11:29). Elijah called down fire from heaven (see
1 Kings 18:17–40). Nephi called for a famine (see Helaman
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11:3–5). He also asked the Lord to end the famine (see
Helaman 11:9–17). Seas have been calmed, visions opened,
and prayers answered, all through the power of faith.
As we carefully study the scriptures, we learn that faith is a
strong belief of truth within our souls that motivates us to do
good. This causes us to ask: In whom should we have faith?
Discussion
• Ask the group to think about their everyday activities. How
does faith move you to action?
Why Should We Have Faith in Jesus Christ?
We must center our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
To have faith in Jesus Christ means to have such trust in him
that we obey whatever he commands. There is no faith where
there is no obedience. Likewise, there is true obedience only
where there is faith. As we place our faith in Jesus Christ,
becoming his obedient disciples, Heavenly Father will forgive
our sins and prepare us to return to him.
The Apostle Peter preached that “there is none other name
under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved”
(Acts 4:12). Jacob taught that men must have “perfect faith in
the Holy One of Israel [Jesus Christ], or they cannot be saved
in the kingdom of God” (2 Nephi 9:23). Through faith in the
Savior and through repentance, we make his atonement fully
effective in our lives. Through faith we can also receive
strength to overcome temptations (see Alma 37:33).
We cannot have faith in Jesus Christ without also having faith
in our Heavenly Father. If we have faith in them, we will also
have faith that the Holy Ghost, whom they send, will teach us
all truth and will comfort us.
Discussion
• Read Acts 4:10–12 and Alma 37:33. Why do we need to have
faith in Jesus Christ?
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How Can We Increase Our Faith in Jesus Christ?
Knowing of the many blessings that come through exercising
faith in Jesus Christ, we should seek to increase our faith in
him. The Savior said, “If ye have faith as a grain of mustard
seed, . . . nothing shall be impossible unto you” (Matthew 17:20).
A mustard seed is very small, but it grows into a large tree.
How can we increase our faith? The same way we increase or
develop any other skill. How do we develop skills in woodcarving, weaving, painting, cooking, making pottery, or playing a musical instrument? We study and practice and work at
it. As we do so, we improve. So it is with faith. If we want to
increase our faith in Jesus Christ, we must work at it. The
Prophet Alma compared increasing our faith to planting a
seed:
“But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even
to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of
faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let
this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that
ye can give place for a portion of my words.
“Now, we will compare the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give
place, that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it
be a true seed, or a good seed, if ye do not cast it out by your
unbelief, that ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it
will begin to swell within your breasts; and when you feel
these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the
word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it
beginneth to enlighten my understanding. . . .
“Now behold, would not this increase your faith?” (Alma
32:27–29).
So we can increase our faith in God by acting on our desire to
have faith in him.
We can also increase our faith by praying to Heavenly Father
about our hopes, desires, and needs (see Alma 34:17–25). But
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we must not suppose that all we have to do is ask. We are told
in the scriptures that “faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being
alone” (James 2:17). The following story is about a man whose
faith was shown by his works.
This man wanted to study the scriptures, but he could not
read. He prayed for Heavenly Father to help him learn to
read. In time a teacher came to his village, and he asked the
teacher to help him. He learned the alphabet. He studied
sounds and learned to put the letters together to make words.
Soon he was reading simple words. The more he practiced,
the more he learned. He thanked the Lord for sending the
teacher and for helping him learn to read. This man has increased his faith, humility, and knowledge to such a degree
that he has served as a branch president in the Church.
President Spencer W. Kimball explained: “There must be
works with faith. How foolish it would be to ask the Lord to
give us knowledge, but how wise to ask the Lord’s help to
acquire knowledge, to study constructively, to think clearly,
and to retain things that we have learned” (Faith Precedes the
Miracle, p. 205).
Faith involves doing all we can to bring about the things we
hope and pray for. President Kimball said: “In faith we plant
the seed, and soon we see the miracle of the blossoming. Men
have often misunderstood and have reversed the process.”
He continued by explaining that many of us want to have
health and strength without keeping the health laws. We
want to have prosperity without paying our tithes. We want
to be close to the Lord but don’t want to fast and pray. We
want to have rain in due season and to have peace in the land
without observing the Sabbath as a holy day and without
keeping the other commandments of the Lord. (See Faith
Precedes the Miracle, p. 4.)
An important way to increase our faith is to hear and study
the word of the Lord. We hear the word of the Lord at our
Church meetings. We can study his word in the scriptures.
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“And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one
another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books
words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by
faith” (D&C 88:118).
Discussion
• Read James 2:17. Why do you think President Kimball said
“faith involves doing everything we can”? How can we
strengthen our faith? (Pray, fast, study the scriptures, obey
commandments.)
• Challenge class members to strengthen their faith in these
ways.
What Are Some Blessings That Follow Faith?
By faith, miracles are wrought, angels appear, the gifts of the
Spirit are given, prayers are answered, and men become the
sons of God (see Moroni 7:25–26, 36–37). The Prophet Joseph
Smith taught:
“When faith comes it brings . . . apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, gifts, wisdom, knowledge, miracles,
healings, tongues, interpretation of tongues, etc. All these appear when faith appears on the earth, and disappear when it
disappears from the earth; for these are the effects of faith. . . .
And he who possesses it will, through it, obtain all necessary
knowledge and wisdom, until he shall know God, and the
Lord Jesus Christ, whom he has sent—whom to know is eternal life. Amen” (Lectures on Faith, p. 69).
Discussion
• Tell a story about how showing faith made a person stronger, or tell a story about faith from the list of additional
scriptures.
Additional Scriptures
• Hebrews 11; Alma 32 (nature of faith explained)
• Exodus 14:19–22 (parting the waters of the Red Sea)
• Genesis 6–8 (Noah and the flood)
• Matthew 8:5–33 (sick healed, tempest, miracles of faith)
• Mark 5:25–34 (healed by faith)
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REPENTANCE
C h a p t e r 19
Faith in Jesus Christ naturally leads to repentance. There has
been the need for repentance in the world from the time of
Adam to the present day. The Lord instructed Adam, “Wherefore teach it unto your children, that all men, everywhere,
must repent, or they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of
God, for no unclean thing can dwell there, or dwell in his
presence” (Moses 6:57).
We All Need to Repent
We come to earth for the purpose of growing and progressing. This is a lifelong process. During this time we all sin. We
all have need to repent. Sometimes we sin because of ignorance, sometimes because of our weaknesses, and sometimes
because of willful disobedience. In the Bible we read that
“there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and
sinneth not” (Ecclesiastes 7:20) and that “if we say that we
have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us”
(1 John 1:8).
What is sin? The Apostle James said, “To him that knoweth to
do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). Another Apostle described sin as “all unrighteousness” (1 John
5:17).
That is why the Lord said “all men, everywhere, must repent”
(Moses 6:57). Except for Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect life,
everyone who has lived upon the earth has sinned. Our
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Heavenly Father in his great love has provided us this opportunity to repent of our sins.
Discussion
• Why do all people need to repent?
What Is Repentance?
Repentance is the way provided for us to become free from
our sins and receive forgiveness for them. Sins slow our spiritual progression and can even stop it. Repentance makes it
possible for us to grow and develop spiritually again.
The privilege of repenting is made possible through the
atonement of Jesus Christ. In a way we do not fully understand, Jesus paid for our sins. President Joseph Fielding Smith
said of this:
“I have suffered pain, you have suffered pain, and sometimes
it has been quite severe; but I cannot comprehend pain . . .
that would cause the blood, like sweat, to come out upon the
body. It was something terrible, something terrific. . . .
“There was no man ever born into this world that could have stood
under the weight of the load that was upon the Son of God, when he
was carrying my sins and yours and making it possible that we
might escape from our sins” (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:130–31).
Repentance sometimes requires great courage, much strength,
many tears, unceasing prayers, and untiring efforts to live the
commandments of the Lord.
Discussion
• What does the word repentance mean to you?
How Do We Repent?
Elder Spencer W. Kimball declared: “There is no royal road to
repentance, no privileged path to forgiveness. Every man must
follow the same course whether he be rich or poor, educated or untrained, tall or short, prince or pauper, king or
commoner. . . . There is only one way. It is a long road spiked
with thorns and briars and pitfalls and problems” (The Miracle
of Forgiveness, p. 149).
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Discussion
• Why must we repent of our sins?
We Must Recognize Our Sins
The first step of repentance is to admit to ourselves that we
have sinned. If we do not admit this, we cannot repent.
Alma counseled his son Corianton, who had been unfaithful
in his missionary calling and had committed serious sins: “Let
your sins trouble you, with that trouble which shall bring you
down unto repentance. . . . Do not endeavor to excuse yourself in the least point” (Alma 42:29–30). The scriptures advise
us further not to justify our sinful practices (see Luke 16:15–
16).
We cannot hide any act of our lives from ourselves or from the
Lord.
We Must Feel Sorrow for Our Sins
In addition to recognizing our sins, we must feel sincere sorrow for what we have done. We must feel that our sins are
terrible. We must want to unload and abandon them. The
scriptures tell us, “All those who humble themselves before
God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken
hearts and contrite spirits, and . . . have truly repented of all
their sins . . . shall be received by baptism into his church”
(D&C 20:37).
We Must Forsake Our Sins
Our sincere sorrow should lead us to forsake (stop) our sins.
If we have stolen something, we will steal no more. If we have
lied, we will lie no more. If we have committed adultery, we
will stop. The Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith, “By
this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he
will confess them and forsake them” (D&C 58:43).
We Must Confess Our Sins
Confessing our sins is very important. The Lord has commanded us to confess our sins. Confession relieves a heavy
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burden from the sinner. The Lord has promised, “I, the Lord,
forgive sins, and am merciful unto those who confess their
sins with humble hearts” (D&C 61:2).
We must confess all our sins to the Lord. In addition, we must
confess serious sins, such as adultery, fornication, and robbery, which might affect our standing in the Church, to the
proper priesthood authority. If we have sinned against another person, we should confess to the person we have injured. Some less serious sins involve no one but ourselves and
the Lord. These may be confessed privately to the Lord.
We Must Make Restitution
Part of repentance is to make restitution. This means that as
much as possible we must make right any wrong that we have
done. For example, a thief should give back what he has
stolen. A liar should make the truth known. A gossip who has
slandered the character of a person should work to restore the
good name of the person he has harmed. As we do these
things, God will not mention our sins to us when we are
judged (see Ezekiel 33:15–16).
We Must Forgive Others
A vital part of repentance is to forgive those who have sinned
against us. The Lord will not forgive us unless our hearts are
fully cleansed of all hate, bitterness, and bad feelings against
other people (see 3 Nephi 13:14–15). “Wherefore, I say unto
you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned
before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin”
(D&C 64:9).
We Must Keep the Commandments of God
To make our repentance complete we must keep the commandments of the Lord (see D&C 1:32). We are not fully repentant if we do not pay tithes or keep the Sabbath day holy
or obey the Word of Wisdom. We are not repentant if we do
not sustain the authorities of the Church and do not love the
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Lord and our fellowmen. If we do not pray and are unkind to
others, we are surely not repentant. When we repent, our life
changes.
Elder Kimball said: “Repentance means not only to convict
yourselves of the horror of the sin, but to confess it, abandon
it, and restore to all who have been damaged to the total
extent possible; then spend the balance of your lives trying to
live the commandments of the Lord so he can eventually pardon you and cleanse you” (The Miracle of Forgiveness, p. 200).
Discussion
• Discuss the steps of repentance.
How Repentance Helps Us
As we repent, the atonement of Jesus Christ becomes fully
effective in our lives, and the Lord forgives our sins. We become free from the bondage of our sins, and we find joy.
Alma recounted his experience of repenting from his sinful
past:
“My soul was harrowed up [troubled] to the greatest degree
and racked with all my sins.
“Yea, I did remember all my sins and iniquities, for which I
was tormented with the pains of hell; yea, I saw that I had
rebelled against my God, and that I had not kept his holy
commandments.
“ . . . So great had been my iniquities, that the very thought of
coming into the presence of my God did rack my soul with
inexpressible horror.
“ . . . It came to pass that as I was . . . harrowed up by the
memory of my many sins, behold, I remembered also to have
heard my father prophesy . . . concerning the coming of one
Jesus Christ, a Son of God, to atone for the sins of the world.
“Now, as my mind caught hold upon this thought, I cried
within my heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have mercy on
me. . . .
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“And now, behold, when I thought this, I could remember my
pains no more. . . .
“And oh, what joy, and what marvelous light I did behold;
yea, my soul was filled with joy as exceeding as was my pain!
“ . . . There can be nothing so exquisite and sweet as was my
joy” (Alma 36:12–14, 17–21).
Discussion
• Read Alma 36:10–28. Discuss the agony Alma suffered while
remembering his sins; discuss also his repentance and how
forgiveness brought him joy.
When Should We Repent?
The prophets have declared that “this life is the time for men
to prepare to meet God” (Alma 34:32). We should repent now,
every day. When we get up in the morning, we should examine ourselves to see whether the Spirit of God is with us. At
night before we go to sleep, we should review our acts and
words of the day and ask the Lord to show us the things for
which we need to repent. By repenting every day and having
the Lord forgive our sins, we will experience the daily process
of becoming perfect. As with Alma, our happiness and joy can
be sweet and exquisite.
Discussion
• Discuss how difficult it is to learn something new all at once.
By contrast, discuss how easy it is to practice each day until
we gain mastery. How is this like repentance?
Additional Scriptures
• Matthew 9:10–13; Luke 13:3; Ezekiel 18:30 (repent or perish)
• 2 Corinthians 7:9–10 (godly sorrow)
• Mosiah 4:10–12 (steps to repentance)
• Isaiah 1:18; Mosiah 26:28–32 (repentance brings forgiveness)
• D&C 58:42 (sins remembered no more)
• 2 Nephi 9:23 (repentance necessary to salvation)
• 2 Nephi 2:21 (repent while in the flesh)
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Alma baptized in the waters of Mormon.
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BAPTISM
C h a p t e r 20
Today, as in the days of Jesus, there are certain principles and
ordinances of the gospel that we must learn and obey. A principle is a belief or a teaching. An ordinance is a rite or a ceremony. The first two principles of the gospel are faith in the
Lord Jesus Christ and repentance. Baptism is the first ordinance of the gospel. One of the instructions the Lord gave his
Apostles was, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I
have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20).
Discussion
• How does a principle of the gospel differ from an ordinance
of the gospel?
Why Must We Be Baptized?
We Must Be Baptized for the Remission of Our Sins
When we place our faith in Jesus Christ, repent, and are
baptized, our sins are forgiven through the atonement of Jesus
Christ.
From the scriptures we learn that John the Baptist “did baptize
in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance
for the remission of sins” (Mark 1:4). The Apostle Peter taught,
“Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of
Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). Following
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We must be baptized by immersion for the remission of our sins.
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Paul’s conversion, Ananias said to him, “Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins” (Acts 22:16).
We Must Be Baptized to Become Members of the Church of
Jesus Christ
“All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to
be baptized . . . that . . . have truly repented of all their sins . . .
shall be received by baptism into his church” (D&C 20:37).
We Must Be Baptized before We Can Receive the Gift of the
Holy Ghost
The Lord said, “If thou wilt turn unto me, and . . . repent of all
thy transgressions [sins], and be baptized, even in water, in
the name of mine Only Begotten Son, . . . ye shall receive the
gift of the Holy Ghost” (Moses 6:52).
We Must Be Baptized to Show Obedience
Jesus Christ was without sin, yet he was baptized. He said his
baptism was necessary “to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew
3:15). The prophet Nephi explained that the Lord told him,
“Follow me, and do the things which ye have seen me do . . .
with full purpose of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no deception before God, but with real intent, repenting of your sins,
witnessing unto the Father that ye are willing to take upon
you the name of Christ, by baptism” (2 Nephi 31:12–13).
We Must Be Baptized to Enter the Celestial Kingdom
Jesus said, “Whoso believeth in me, and is baptized . . . shall
inherit the kingdom of God. And whoso believeth not in me,
and is not baptized, shall be damned” (3 Nephi 11:33–34).
Baptism is the gateway through which we enter the celestial
kingdom.
Discussion
• Discuss some of the reasons why we need to be baptized.
How Should We Be Baptized?
There is only one correct mode of baptism. Jesus revealed to
the Prophet Joseph Smith that a person having the proper
priesthood authority to baptize “shall go down into the water
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with the person who has presented himself or herself for baptism. . . . Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and
come forth again out of the water” (D&C 20:73–74). Immersion is necessary. The Apostle Paul taught that being immersed in water and coming out again is symbolic of death
and resurrection. Our sins are washed away when we are
baptized. After baptism we start a new life. Paul said:
“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus
Christ were baptized into his death?
“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:
that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of
the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
“For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his
death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection”
(Romans 6:3–5).
Baptism by immersion by a person having the proper authority is the only acceptable way of being baptized.
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 20:73–74. Why is authority to
perform a baptism important?
• Why does the Apostle Paul liken our baptism to the burial of
the Savior?
Who Should Be Baptized?
Every person who has reached eight years of age and is accountable (responsible) for his or her actions should be baptized. Some churches teach that little children should be
baptized. This is not in keeping with the teachings of the
Savior. When Jesus spoke of little children, he said, “Of such
is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14).
The prophet Mormon said that it is mockery before God to
baptize little children because they are not capable of sinning.
Likewise, baptism is not required of people who are mentally
incapable of knowing right and wrong (see Moroni 8:9–22).
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All other people are to be baptized. We must receive the ordinance of baptism and remain true to the covenants we make at
that time.
Discussion
• Read Moroni 8:11–20. Why do we not baptize little children?
We Make Covenants When We Are Baptized
Many scriptures teach about baptism. In one of these scriptures, the prophet Alma taught that faith and repentance are
steps that prepare us for baptism. He taught that when we are
baptized we make a covenant with the Lord. We promise to
do certain things, and God promises to bless us in return.
Alma explained that we must want to be called the people of
God. We must be willing to help and comfort each other. We
must stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things
and in all places. As we do these things and are baptized, God
will forgive our sins. Alma told the people who believed his
teachings about the gospel:
“Behold, here are the waters of Mormon. . . . And now, as ye
are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his
people, . . . what have you against being baptized in the name
of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into
a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his
commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?” (Mosiah 18:8–10). The people clapped
their hands for joy and said it was their desire to be baptized.
Alma baptized them in the Waters of Mormon. (See Mosiah
18:7–17.)
Alma taught that when we are baptized we make covenants
with the Lord to—
1. Come into the fold of God.
2. Bear one another’s burdens.
3. Stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all places.
4. Serve God and keep his commandments.
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When we are baptized and keep the covenants of baptism, the
Lord promises to—
1. Forgive our sins.
2. Pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon us.
3. Give us daily guidance and the help of the Holy Ghost.
4. Let us come forth in the First Resurrection.
5. Give us eternal life.
Discussion
• Review the baptismal covenants. List and discuss the promises we make and those made by our Heavenly Father. How
can we help each other keep these covenants?
Baptism Gives Us a New Beginning
With baptism we begin a new way of life. That is why we call
it a rebirth. Jesus said that unless we are born of the water and
of the spirit, we cannot enter the kingdom of God (see John
3:3–5). This principle was explained clearly to Adam:
“Inasmuch as ye were born into the world by water, and
blood, and the spirit, which I have made, and so became of
dust a living soul, even so ye must be born again into the
kingdom of heaven, of water, and of the Spirit, and be
cleansed by blood, even the blood of mine Only Begotten”
(Moses 6:59).
The Apostle Paul said that after our baptism we should begin
a new life: “We are buried with him by baptism; . . . even so
we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). One of
the great blessings of baptism is that it provides us with a new
start on our way toward our eternal goal.
Discussion
• Invite class members to think about their own baptism.
How was baptism a new beginning for you?
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Additional Scriptures
• 2 Nephi 31:4–7 (purpose and necessity of baptism)
• 3 Nephi 11:21–27 (how to perform a baptism)
• Acts 2:38–39 (be baptized for the remission of sins)
• D&C 20:71–72 (baptism is not required of little children;
baptism is required of all who repent)
• Alma 7:14, 15–16 (baptism is cleansing, entering into a
covenant of eternal life)
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We must receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands.
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THE GIFT OF THE
HOLY GHOST
C h a p t e r 21
In chapter 7 we learned that the Holy Ghost is a member of
the Godhead. He is a spirit in the form of a man. He does not
have a body of flesh and bones. He can be in only one place
at a time, but his influence can be everywhere at once. His
mission is to bear witness of the Father and the Son and of
all truth. Furthermore, the Holy Ghost purifies, or sanctifies, us to prepare us to dwell in the presence of God. The
Holy Ghost purifies our hearts so we no longer have the desire to do evil.
There is a difference between the Holy Ghost and the gift of
the Holy Ghost. In this chapter we will learn what the gift of
the Holy Ghost is and how we can receive this great gift
from God.
Discussion
• Have class members tell what they know about the Holy
Ghost (see chapter 7, “The Holy Ghost”).
What Is the Gift of the Holy Ghost?
The gift of the Holy Ghost is the privilege, given to people
who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, been baptized,
and been confirmed as members of the Church, to receive
guidance and inspiration from the Holy Ghost.
Joseph Smith said we believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost
being enjoyed now as much as it was enjoyed in the days of
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the first Apostles. We believe in this gift in all its fullness,
power, greatness, and glory. (See Teachings of the Prophet Joseph
Smith, p. 243.)
A person may be temporarily guided by the Holy Ghost without receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. However, this guidance will not be continuous unless the person is baptized and
receives the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
We read in Acts 10 that the Roman soldier Cornelius received
inspiration from the Holy Ghost so that he knew the gospel of
Jesus Christ was true. But Cornelius did not receive the gift of
the Holy Ghost until after he was baptized. The Prophet
Joseph Smith taught that if Cornelius had not received baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost, the Holy Ghost would
have left him (see Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 199).
Today many nonmembers of the Church learn by the power
of the Holy Ghost that the Book of Mormon is true (see
Moroni 10:4–5). But that flash of testimony leaves them if they
do not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. They do not receive
the continuing assurance that can come to those who have the
gift of the Holy Ghost.
Discussion
• Discuss the difference between inspiration from the Holy
Ghost and the gift of the Holy Ghost.
How Do We Receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost?
People who have been baptized and confirmed are given the
gift of the Holy Ghost through the laying on of hands by the
elders of the Church. The Lord said, “Whoso having faith you
shall confirm in my church, by the laying on of the hands, and
I will bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost upon them” (D&C
33:15).
Every worthy elder of the Church, when authorized, may
give the gift of the Holy Ghost to another person. However,
there is no guarantee that the person will receive inspiration
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and guidance from the Holy Ghost just because the elders
have laid their hands on his or her head. Each person must
“receive the Holy Ghost.” This means that the Holy Ghost will
come to us only when we are faithful and desire help from
this heavenly messenger (see Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon
Doctrine, p. 313).
To be worthy to have the help of the Holy Ghost, we must
seek earnestly to obey the commandments of God. We must
keep our thoughts and actions pure. President David O.
McKay said: “One chief purpose of life is to overcome evil
tendencies, to govern our appetites, to control our passions—
anger, hatred, jealousy, immorality. We have to overcome
them; we have to subject them, conquer them because God
has said: ‘. . . the Spirit of the Lord doth not dwell in unholy
temples—’ (Helaman 4:24), nor will it ‘. . . always strive with
man’ (2 Nephi 26:11)” (“Emotional Maturity,” Instructor, Sept.
1959, p. 281).
Discussion
• What must we do to receive the constant companionship of
the Holy Ghost?
One of God’s Greatest Gifts
The gift of the Holy Ghost is one of God’s greatest gifts to us.
Through the Holy Ghost we may know that God lives, that
Jesus is the Christ, and that his Church has been restored to
the earth. We may have the promptings of the Holy Ghost to
tell us all the things we should do (see 2 Nephi 32:5). The Holy
Ghost sanctifies us to prepare us for God’s presence. We may
enjoy the gifts of the Spirit (see chapter 22, “The Gifts of the
Spirit”). This great gift from our Heavenly Father can also
bring peace to our hearts and an understanding of the things
of God (see 1 Corinthians 2:9–12).
Discussion
• In what ways has the Holy Ghost helped you?
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Additional Scriptures
• 1 Corinthians 3:16–17; D&C 130:22–23 (the Holy Ghost
dwells with the faithful)
• Moroni 8:25–26 (how to receive the Holy Ghost)
• Moroni 10:5 (the Holy Ghost is a witness to truth)
• Mosiah 5:2 (the Holy Ghost changes hearts)
• Alma 5:54 (the Holy Ghost sanctifies)
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THE GIFTS OF
THE SPIRIT
C h a p t e r 22
Following baptism, each of us had hands laid on our heads to
receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. If we are faithful, we can
have his influence constantly with us. Through him, each of
us can be blessed with certain spiritual powers called gifts of
the Spirit. These gifts are given to those who are faithful to
Christ. They help us know and teach the truths of the gospel.
They will help us bless others. They will guide us back to our
Heavenly Father. To use our gifts wisely, we need to know
what they are, how we can develop them, and how to recognize Satan’s imitations of them.
Discussion
• Discuss the reasons the Lord has given us spiritual gifts.
The Gifts of the Spirit
The scriptures mention many gifts of the Spirit. These gifts
have been given to members of the true Church whenever it
has been on the earth (see Mark 16:16–18). The gifts of the
Spirit include the following:
The Gift of Tongues (D&C 46:24)
Sometimes it is necessary to communicate the gospel in a language we have not learned. When this happens, the Lord can
bless us with the ability to speak that language. Many missionaries have received the gift of tongues when there was a
great need for it. For example, Elder Alonzo A. Hinckley was
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Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon by the power of the Spirit.
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a missionary in Holland who understood and spoke very little
Dutch even though he had prayed and studied hard. When
he returned to a home he had visited before, a lady opened
the door and spoke to him very angrily in Dutch. To his
amazement he could understand every word. He felt a strong
desire to bear his testimony to her in Dutch. He began to
speak, and the words came out very clearly in Dutch. But
when he returned to show his mission president that he could
speak Dutch, the ability had left him. Many faithful members
have been blessed with the gift of tongues. (See Joseph
Fielding Smith, Answers to Gospel Questions, 2:32–33.)
The Gift of Interpretation of Tongues (D&C 46:25)
This gift is sometimes given to us when we do not understand
a language and we need to receive an important message
from God. For example, President David O. McKay had a
great desire to speak to the Saints in New Zealand without an
interpreter. He told them that he hoped that the Lord would
bless them that they could understand him. He spoke in English. His message lasted about forty minutes. As he spoke, he
could tell by the expression on many of their faces and the
tears in their eyes that they were receiving his message. (See
Answers to Gospel Questions, 2:30–31.)
The Gift of Translation (D&C 5:4)
If we have been called by the leaders of the Church to translate the word of the Lord, we can receive a gift to translate
beyond our natural ability. As with all gifts, we must live
righteously, study hard, and pray to receive it. When we do
these things, the Lord causes us to feel a burning inside concerning the correctness of the translation (see D&C 9:8–9).
Joseph Smith had the gift of translation when he translated the
Book of Mormon. This gift came to him only when he was in
tune with the Spirit.
The Gift of Wisdom (D&C 46:17)
Some of us have been blessed with the ability to understand
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people and the principles of the gospel as they apply in our
lives. We are told:
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to
all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given
him.
“But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and
tossed.
“For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of
the Lord” (James 1:5–7).
The Lord said, “Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you” (D&C
6:7).
The Gift of Knowledge (D&C 46:18)
Everyone who becomes like Heavenly Father eventually
knows all things. The knowledge of God and his laws is revealed by the Holy Ghost (see D&C 121:26). We cannot be
saved if we are ignorant of these laws (see D&C 131:6).
The Lord revealed, “If a person gains more knowledge and
intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience
than another, he will have so much the advantage in the
world to come” (D&C 130:19). The Lord has commanded us to
learn as much as we can about his work. He wants us to learn
about the heavens, the earth, things that have happened or
will happen, things at home and in foreign lands (see D&C
88:78–79). However, there are those who try to gain knowledge by their own study alone. They do not ask for the help
of the Holy Ghost. They are those who are always learning but
never arrive at the truth (see 2 Timothy 3:7). When we
receive knowledge by revelation from the Holy Ghost, his
Spirit speaks to our minds and our hearts and we feel the
truth burn within us (see D&C 8:2).
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Discussion
• What kinds of things should we learn about? (See also D&C
90:15.)
• Read 2 Nephi 9:28–29 and Doctrine and Covenants 88:118.
What is the right way to gain knowledge?
The Gift of Teaching Wisdom and Knowledge
(Moroni 10:9–10)
Some people are given a special ability to explain and testify
of the truths of the gospel. This gift can be used when we
teach a class. It can be used by parents to teach their children.
This gift also helps us instruct others so they can understand
the gospel.
Discussion
• Why must we have the Spirit of the Lord to teach? (See D&C
42:14.)
The Gift of Knowing That Jesus Christ Is the Son of God
(D&C 46:13)
This has been the gift of prophets and apostles who have been
called as special witnesses of Jesus Christ. However, others
are also given this gift. Every person can have a testimony. It
usually comes through the whispering of the Holy Spirit but
may come in a dream or vision. Elder Orson F. Whitney saw
a vision of the Savior in Gethsemane. He saw the great suffering of the Savior, and it caused him to weep. Then the Savior
took him into his arms and blessed him. (See Bryant S.
Hinckley, The Faith of Our Pioneer Fathers, pp. 211–13.)
The Gift of Believing the Testimony of Others (D&C 46:14)
By the power of the Holy Ghost we may know the truth of all
things. If we want to know whether someone else is speaking
the truth, we must ask God in faith. If the thing we are praying about is true, the Lord will speak peace to our minds (see
D&C 6:22–23). In this way we can know when someone else,
even the prophet, has received revelation. Nephi asked the
Lord to let him see, feel, and know that his father’s dream was
true (see 1 Nephi 10:17–19).
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The brother of Jared had such great faith that he saw the finger of the Lord.
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Discussion
• How can we receive a testimony that another person is
speaking the truth?
The Gift of Prophecy (D&C 46:22)
Those who receive true revelations about the past, present, or
future have the gift of prophecy. Prophets have this gift, but
we too can have it to help us govern our own lives (see
1 Corinthians 14:39). We may receive revelations from God for
ourselves and our own callings, but never for the Church
or its leaders. It is contrary to the order of heaven for a person
to receive revelation for someone higher in authority. If we
truly have the gift of prophecy, we will not receive any revelation that does not agree with what the Lord has said in the
scriptures (see Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation,
3:203–4).
The Gift of Healing (D&C 46:19–20)
Some have the faith to heal, and others have the faith to be
healed. We can all exercise the faith to be healed when we are
ill (see D&C 42:48). Many who hold the priesthood have the
gift of healing the sick. Others may be given a knowledge of
how to cure illness.
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 42:43–44. What should we do
when we are ill?
The Gift of Working Miracles (D&C 46:21)
The Lord has blessed his people many times in miraculous
ways. When the Utah pioneers planted their first crops, a
plague of locusts nearly destroyed them. The pioneers prayed
that the Lord would save their crops, and he sent sea gulls to
devour the locusts. When we need help and ask in faith, if it is
for our good the Lord will work miracles for us (see Matthew
17:20; D&C 24:13–14).
The Gift of Faith (Moroni 10:11)
The brother of Jared had great faith. Because of his faith, he
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received other gifts. His faith was so great that the Savior appeared to him (see Ether 3:9–15). Without faith, no other gift
can be given. Moroni promises, “Whoso believeth in Christ,
doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the
name of Christ it shall be granted him” (Mormon 9:21). We
should seek to increase our faith, find out our gifts, and use
them.
Some people lack faith and deny that these gifts of the Spirit
actually exist. Moroni says to them:
“And again I speak unto you who deny the revelations of
God, and say that they are done away, that there are no revelations, nor prophecies, nor gifts, nor healings, nor speaking
with tongues, and the interpretation of tongues;
“Behold I say unto you, he that denieth these things knoweth
not the gospel of Christ; yea, he has not read the scriptures; if
so, he does not understand them” (Mormon 9:7–8).
We Can Develop Our Gifts
The Lord has said: “For all have not every gift given unto
them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a
gift by the Spirit of God. To some is given one, and to some
is given another, that all may be profited thereby” (D&C
46:11–12).
To develop our gifts, we must find out which gifts we have.
We do this by praying and fasting. We should seek after the
best gifts (see D&C 46:8). Sometimes patriarchal blessings will
tell us which gifts we have been given.
We must be obedient and faithful to be given our gifts. We
then should use these gifts to do the work of the Lord. They
are not given to satisfy our curiosity or to prove anything to
us because we lack faith. Our gifts are to be used to build up
the kingdom of God and to strengthen our testimonies.
Discussion
• How can we discover our spiritual gifts?
• How might Satan tempt us to misuse them?
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Satan Imitates the Gifts of the Spirit
Satan can imitate the gifts of tongues, prophecy, visions, healings, and other miracles. Moses had to compete with Satan’s
imitations in Pharaoh’s court (see Exodus 7:8–22). Satan
wants us to believe in his false prophets, false healers, and
false miracle workers. They may appear to be so real to us that
the only way to know is to ask God for the gift of discernment.
The devil himself can appear as an angel of light (see 2 Nephi
9:9).
Satan wants to blind us to the truth and keep us from seeking
the true gifts of the Spirit. Mediums, astrologers, fortune tellers, and sorcerers are inspired by Satan even if they claim to
follow God. Their works are abominable to the Lord (see Isaiah 47:12–14; Deuteronomy 18:9–10). We should avoid all associations with the powers of Satan.
Discussion
• How can we discern between the true gifts of the Spirit and
Satan’s imitations?
We Must Be Careful with Our Gifts of the Spirit
The Lord said, “A commandment I give unto them, that they
shall not boast themselves of these things, neither speak them
before the world; for these things are given unto you for your
profit and for salvation” (D&C 84:73). We must remember that
spiritual gifts are sacred.
The Lord asks only one thing in return for giving us these
gifts. He says, “Ye must give thanks unto God in the Spirit for
whatsoever blessing ye are blessed with” (D&C 46:32).
Discussion
• How do we keep our spiritual gifts sacred?
Additional Scriptures
• 3 Nephi 29:6–7 (fate of those who deny gifts)
• Moroni 10:7–19 (gifts depend on faith)
• 1 Corinthians 12 (spiritual gifts)
• Acts 10 (a gift given at baptism)
• D&C 46:9–26 (gifts of the Spirit)
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Jesus administered the sacrament at the last supper with his Apostles.
By Carl Bloch. Original at the Chapel of Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark.
Used by permission of the Frederiksborgmuseum.
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THE SACRAMENT
C h a p t e r 23
Our Savior wants us to remember his great atoning sacrifice
and keep his commandments. To help us do this, he has commanded us to meet often and partake of the sacrament.
The sacrament is a holy priesthood ordinance that helps remind us of the Savior’s atonement. During the sacrament, we
partake of bread and water. We do this in remembrance of his
flesh and his blood, which he gave as a sacrifice for us. As we
partake of the sacrament, we renew sacred covenants with
our Heavenly Father.
Discussion
• What is the sacrament?
• What is the purpose of the sacrament?
Christ Introduced the Sacrament
Shortly before his crucifixion, Jesus gathered his Apostles
around him in an upstairs room. He knew he would soon die
on the cross. This was the last time he would meet with these
beloved men before his death. He wanted them to always
remember him so they could be strong and faithful.
To help them remember, he introduced the sacrament. He
broke bread into pieces and blessed it. Then he said, “Take,
eat; this is in remembrance of my body which I give a ransom
for you” (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:22). Next he
took a cup of wine, blessed it, and gave it to his Apostles to
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We partake of the sacrament in remembrance of Jesus Christ.
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drink. He said: “Drink ye all of it. For this is in remembrance
of my blood . . . , which is shed for as many as shall believe on
my name, for the remission of their sins” (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:23–24; see also Matthew 26:26–28; Mark
14:22–24; Luke 22:15–20).
After his resurrection, Jesus came to the Americas and taught
the Nephites the same ordinance (see 3 Nephi 18:1–11). After
the Church was restored in the latter days, Jesus once again
commanded his people to partake of the sacrament in remembrance of him, saying, “It is expedient that the church meet
together often to partake of bread and wine in the remembrance of the Lord Jesus” (D&C 20:75).
Discussion
• Read Matthew 26:26–28. Ask class members to think about
the Lord’s Supper the next time they partake of the sacrament.
How the Sacrament Is Administered
The scriptures explain exactly how the sacrament is to be administered. Members of the Church meet each Sabbath day to
worship and partake of the sacrament (see D&C 20:75). The
sacrament is administered by those who hold the necessary
priesthood authority. A priest or elder breaks bread into pieces,
kneels, and blesses it (see D&C 20:76). A deacon or other
priesthood holder then passes the sacrament bread to the congregation. Then the priest or elder blesses the water and it too
is passed to the members. Jesus gave his disciples wine when
he introduced the sacrament. However, in a latter-day revelation he has said that it doesn’t matter what we eat and drink
during the sacrament as long as we remember him (see D&C
27:2–3). Today, Latter-day Saints drink water instead of wine.
Jesus has revealed the exact words for both sacrament
prayers. We should listen carefully to these beautiful prayers
and try to understand what we are promising and what is
being promised to us. Here is the prayer that is offered to bless
the bread:
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“O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy
Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls
of all those who partake of it, that they may eat in remembrance of the body of thy Son, and witness unto thee, O God,
the Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the
name of thy Son, and always remember him and keep his
commandments which he has given them; that they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen” (D&C 20:77).
Here is the prayer that is offered to bless the water:
“O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy
Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this wine [water] to the
souls of all those who drink of it, that they may do it in remembrance of the blood of thy Son, which was shed for them;
that they may witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father,
that they do always remember him, that they may have his
Spirit to be with them. Amen” (D&C 20:79).
The ordinance of the sacrament is performed very simply and
reverently.
Discussion
• Read the sacrament prayers one sentence at a time. Discuss
the meaning of each sentence. Challenge each class member
to memorize the prayers.
The Covenants We Renew during the Sacrament
Each time we partake of the sacrament, we renew covenants
with the Lord. A covenant is a sacred promise between the
Lord and his children. The covenants we make are clearly
stated in the sacramental prayers. It is important to know
what those covenants are and what they mean.
We covenant to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ.
By this we show we are willing to be identified with him and
his Church. We promise that we will not bring shame or reproach upon that name.
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We covenant to remember Jesus Christ. All our thoughts, feelings, and actions will be influenced by him and his mission.
We promise to keep his commandments.
We take these obligations upon ourselves when we are baptized (see D&C 20:37; Mosiah 18:6–10). Thus, when we partake
of the sacrament, we renew the covenants we made when we
were baptized. Jesus gave us the pattern for partaking of the
sacrament (see 3 Nephi 18:1–12) and said that when we follow
this pattern, believing on his name, we will gain a remission of
our sins (see Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:24).
The Lord promises that if we keep our covenants, we will always have his Spirit to be with us. A person guided by the
Spirit will have the knowledge, faith, power, and righteousness to gain eternal life.
Discussion
• Refer to D&C 20:77 again. What promises do we make during the sacrament?
Our Attitude When Taking the Sacrament
Before partaking of the sacrament, we are to prepare ourselves spiritually. The Lord emphasizes that no one should
partake of the sacrament unworthily. That means we must
repent of our sins before taking the sacrament. The scriptures
say, “If any have trespassed, let him not partake until he
makes reconciliation” (D&C 46:4). The scriptures also say, “Ye
shall not suffer any one knowingly to partake of my flesh and
blood unworthily, when ye shall minister it; For whoso eateth
and drinketh my flesh and blood unworthily eateth and
drinketh damnation to his soul” (3 Nephi 18:28–29).
During the sacrament service we should dismiss from our
minds all worldly thoughts. We should feel prayerful and
reverent. We should think of the atonement of our Savior and
be grateful for it. We should examine our lives and look for
ways to improve. We should also renew our determination to
keep the commandments.
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We do not need to be perfect before partaking of the sacrament, but we must have the spirit of repentance in our hearts.
The attitude with which we partake of the sacrament influences our experience with it. If we partake of the sacrament
with a pure heart, we receive the promised blessings of the
Lord.
Discussion
• Ask someone to tell how we should prepare ourselves to
partake of the sacrament.
• What can we think about during the sacrament to help us be
more reverent?
Additional Scripture
• 1 Corinthians 11:27–29 (partake of the sacrament worthily)
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PERFECTING
OUR LIVES
Unit Seven
Sunday is a day for worship.
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THE SABBATH DAY
C h a p t e r 24
“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8; see
also D&C 68:29).
What Is the Sabbath Day?
The word Sabbath comes from the Hebrew word meaning day
of rest. The Sabbath day commemorates God’s day of rest after
he finished the Creation. We read in the book of Genesis that
God created the heavens and the earth in six periods of time,
which he called days: “And on the seventh day God ended his
work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day
from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the
seventh day, and sanctified it” (Genesis 2:2–3).
The Sabbath day is every seventh day. It is a holy day ordained by God for us to rest from our daily labors and
worship him.
Discussion
• What is the Sabbath day?
The Purpose of the Sabbath Day
Jesus taught that the Sabbath day was made for our benefit
(see Mark 2:27). The purpose of the Sabbath is to give us a
certain day of the week on which to direct our thoughts and
actions toward God. It is not a day merely to rest from work.
It is a sacred day to be spent in worship and reverence. As we
rest from our usual daily activities, our minds are freed to
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ponder spiritual matters. On this day we should renew our
covenants with the Lord and feed our souls on the things of
the Spirit.
Discussion
• What is the Lord’s purpose for the Sabbath day?
History of the Sabbath
The seventh day was consecrated by God as a Sabbath in the
beginning of the earth (see Genesis 2:2–3). Since earliest times,
the tradition of a sacred seventh day has been preserved
among various peoples of the earth. God renewed a commandment concerning this day to the Israelites, saying, “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).
Keeping the Sabbath day was also a sign that the Israelites
were his covenant people (see Exodus 31:12–13, 16; Isaiah
56:1–8; Jeremiah 17:19–27).
However, some Jewish leaders made many unnecessary rules
about the Sabbath. They decided how far people could walk,
what kind of knots they could tie, and so forth. When certain
Jewish leaders criticized Jesus Christ for healing sick people
on the Sabbath, Jesus reminded them that the Sabbath was
made for the benefit of man.
The Nephites also observed the Sabbath day according to the
commandments of God (see Jarom 1:5).
In modern times the Lord has repeated his commandment
that we should remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy
(see D&C 68:29).
Discussion
• Have someone tell about the history of the Sabbath using the
following scriptures: Genesis 2:2–3; Exodus 20:8; Isaiah
56:1–8; Jarom 1:5; Mark 2:27; Doctrine and Covenants 68:29.
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The Lord’s Day
Until the resurrection of Jesus Christ, he and his disciples
honored the seventh day as the Sabbath. After his resurrection, Sunday was held sacred as the Lord’s day in remembrance of his resurrection on that day (see Acts 20:7;
1 Corinthians 16:2). From that time on, his followers appointed the first day as their Sabbath. In both cases there were
six days of labor and one for rest and devotion.
The Lord has given us a direct commandment in these days
that we, too, should honor Sunday, the Lord’s day, as our
Sabbath (see D&C 59:12).
Discussion
• Why was the Sabbath changed from the seventh day to the
first day?
• What special event does the first day commemorate?
How Do We Keep the Sabbath Day Holy?
The Lord asks us, first, to sanctify the Sabbath day. In a revelation given to Joseph Smith in 1831, the Lord commanded the
Saints to go to the house of prayer and offer up their sacraments, rest from their labors, and pay their devotions to the
Most High (see D&C 59:9–12).
Second, he asks us to rest from daily work. This means we
should perform no labor that would keep us from giving our
full attention to spiritual matters. The Lord told the Israelites,
“Thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy
daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy
cattle” (Exodus 20:10). Our prophets have told us that we
should not shop, hunt, fish, attend sports events, or participate in similar activities on that day.
Elder Spencer W. Kimball cautioned, however, that if we
merely lounge about doing nothing on the Sabbath, we are not
keeping the day holy. The Sabbath calls for constructive
thoughts and acts. (See The Miracle of Forgiveness, pp. 96–97.)
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What kinds of things may we do on the Sabbath? The Lord has
told us to prepare only simple foods on that day, keeping the
purpose of the Sabbath in mind (see D&C 59:13). The prophet
Isaiah suggested that we should turn away from doing our
own pleasure and should “call the sabbath a delight, the holy
of the Lord, honourable” (Isaiah 58:13). We should do righteous things. We keep the Sabbath day holy by—
1. Attending Church meetings.
2. Reading the scriptures and the words of our Church
leaders.
3. Visiting the sick, the aged, and our loved ones.
4. Listening to uplifting music and singing hymns.
5. Praying to our Heavenly Father with praise and thanksgiving.
6. Performing Church service that we have been assigned to
do.
7. Preparing family history records and personal histories.
8. Telling faith-promoting stories and bearing our testimony
to family members and sharing spiritual experiences with
them.
9. Writing letters to loved ones.
10. Fasting with a purpose.
11. Sharing time with children and others in the home.
In deciding what other activities we should properly engage
in on the Sabbath, we should ask ourselves: Will it uplift and
inspire me?
There may be times when we are required to work on the
Sabbath. We should avoid this whenever possible, but when it
is absolutely necessary, we should still maintain the spirit of
Sabbath worship in our hearts as much as possible.
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 59:9–13. What things can we
do to draw nearer to our Heavenly Father?
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Blessings for Observing the Sabbath
If we honor the Sabbath day, we may receive great spiritual
and temporal blessings. The Lord has said that if we keep the
Sabbath day with thanksgiving and cheerful hearts, we will
be full of joy. He has promised:
“The fulness of the earth is yours, . . . whether for food or for
raiment, or for houses, or for barns, or for orchards, or for
gardens, or for vineyards;
“Yea, all things which come of the earth, in the season thereof,
are made for the benefit and the use of man, both to please the
eye and to gladden the heart;
“Yea, for food and for raiment, for taste and for smell, to
strengthen the body and to enliven the soul” (D&C 59:16–19).
Discussion
• Read together Doctrine and Covenants 59:15–19. Discuss
some of the blessings that come from keeping the Sabbath
day holy.
Additional Scriptures
• Exodus 31:14–17 (under Mosaic law the Sabbath was kept
holy under pain of death)
• Mosiah 13:16–19; 18:23; Exodus 35:1–3 (observe the Sabbath
as a holy day)
• Luke 6:1–11 (lawful to do good on the Sabbath)
• Luke 13:11–17; John 5:1–18 (Jesus’ example of doing good
on the Sabbath)
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Fasting and prayer bring blessings.
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FASTING
C h a p t e r 25
Since the time of Adam, God’s people have fasted to help
them draw near to him and to worship him. Jesus showed the
importance of fasting by his own example (see Luke 4:1–4).
Through latter-day revelation we learn that the Lord still expects his people to fast and pray often (see D&C 88:76).
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 88:76. Discuss why fasting is
given as a commandment.
How to Fast Properly
Fasting means to go without food and drink (see Joseph F.
Smith, Gospel Doctrine, p. 243). Occasional fasting is good for
our bodies and helps our minds become more active (see Principles of the Gospel, p. 175).
The Savior taught us that purposeful fasting is more than just
going without food and drink. We must also concentrate on
spiritual matters.
We Should Pray When We Fast
Prayer is a necessary part of fasting. Throughout the scriptures, prayer and fasting are mentioned together. Our fasting
should be accompanied by sincere prayer, and we should begin and end our fasting with prayer.
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We Should Fast with a Purpose
Fasting can have many purposes. We can overcome weaknesses or problems by fasting and praying. Sometimes we
may wish to fast and pray for help or guidance for others,
such as a family member who is ill and needs a blessing (see
Mosiah 27:22–23). Through fasting we can come to know the
truth of things just as did the prophet Alma in the Book of
Mormon. He said: “I have fasted and prayed many days that
I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of
myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them
manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit” (Alma 5:46).
We can fast for our nonmember friends to become converted
to the truth. Fasting can help comfort us in times of sorrow
and mourning (see Alma 28:4–6). Fasting can help us become
humble and feel closer to our Heavenly Father (see Helaman
3:35).
Our purpose in fasting should not be to impress others. The
Lord counseled:
“Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad
countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast.
“Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
“But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash
thy face; that thou appear not unto men to fast” (Matthew
6:16–18).
We should be cheerful when we fast and not advertise our
fasting to others.
Discussion
• What things should we do to make our fasting more spiritual? What things do we need to fast for?
The Fast Day
One Sunday each month Latter-day Saints observe a fast day.
On this day we neither eat nor drink for two consecutive
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meals, thus making a fast of twenty-four hours. If we were to
eat our evening meal on Saturday, then we would not eat or
drink until the evening meal on Sunday.
Everyone who can do so should fast. However, “many are
subject to weakness, others are delicate in health, and others
have nursing babies; of such it should not be required to fast.
Neither should parents compel their little children to fast”
(Gospel Doctrine, p. 244).
We should encourage our children to fast after they have
been baptized, but we should never force them. The fast day
is a special day for us to humble ourselves before the Lord in
fasting and prayer. It is a day to pray for forgiveness from our
sins and for the power to overcome our faults and to forgive
others.
On fast Sunday, members of the Church meet together and
partake of the sacrament. They strengthen themselves and
one another by bearing testimony in fast and testimony meeting.
Fast Offerings
When we fast each month, the Lord asks us to help those in
need. One way we do this is by giving through the proper
priesthood authority either the food or the money we would
have spent on food for the two meals. We should give as
generously as we are able. Through our fast offerings we become partners with the Lord in administering to the needs of
our less fortunate brothers and sisters.
Discussion
• What should we do on fast day to make fasting more meaningful?
• What are some of the reasons we pay fast offerings?
We Are Blessed When We Fast
Isaiah, an Old Testament prophet, wrote of the Lord’s rich
promises to those who fast and help the needy. We are promised peace, improved health, and spiritual guidance. Isaiah
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tells us that when we fast: “Then shall thy light break forth as
the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and
thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord
shall be thy reward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall
answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am” (Isaiah
58:8–9).
Fasting improves our lives and gives us added strength. It
helps us live other principles of the gospel because it draws us
nearer to the Lord.
Fasting Teaches Self-Control
Fasting helps us gain strength of character. This reason alone
makes fasting important (see David O. McKay, True to the
Faith, p. 81). When we fast properly, we will learn to control
our appetites, our passions, and our tempers. Solomon said,
“He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that
ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city” (Proverbs 16:32).
Even fasting for only two meals can give us a feeling of success. We are a little stronger by having proved to ourselves
that we have self-control. If we teach our children to fast, they
will develop the willpower to overcome greater temptations
later in their lives.
Fasting Gives Us Spiritual Power
When we fast wisely and prayerfully, we develop our faith.
With that faith we will have greater spiritual power. For example, Alma (the Book of Mormon prophet) tells the story of
meeting again with the sons of Mosiah many years after their
miraculous conversion. He felt great joy when he learned that
they had strengthened their faith and had developed great
spiritual power. They had gained this power because “they
had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore
they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation”
(Alma 17:3).
The sons of Mosiah had been preaching for fourteen years to
the Lamanites. Because the sons of Mosiah had fasted and
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prayed, the Spirit of the Lord increased the power of their
words. This gave them great success in their missionary work.
(See Alma 17:4.)
The Savior has said to those who fast properly, “Thy Father,
which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly” (Matthew
6:18).
Discussion
• Why is it important to have self-control?
• How does fasting give or increase our spiritual power?
• Have class members tell how they have been blessed by observing a proper fast.
Additional Scriptures
• Luke 2:37; Alma 45:1 (worshiping God through fasting)
• Mosiah 27:19, 23 (fasting for the sick)
• 3 Nephi 27:1–3; Exodus 34:27–28 (fasting for revelation and
testimony)
• Alma 6:6; 17:9 (fasting for nonmembers)
• Acts 13:2–3 (fasting for selection of Church officers)
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The rich young ruler lacked the faith to sacrifice his possessions and
follow Jesus.
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SACRIFICE
C h a p t e r 26
Sacrifice means giving to the Lord whatever he requires of our
time, our earthly possessions, and our energies to further his
work. The Lord commanded, “Seek ye first the kingdom of
God, and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). Our willingness
to sacrifice is an indication of our devotion to God. People
have always been tried and tested to see if they will put the
things of God first in their lives.
Discussion
• Have class members think of a favorite thing they possess.
How would you feel if you were asked to give it up?
• Consider the sacrifices of many people as you read Matthew
19:29 and Romans 12:1–2.
Animal Sacrifice Was an Ordinance of the Gospel
From the time of Adam and Eve to the time of Jesus Christ, the
Lord’s people practiced the law of animal sacrifice (see Moses
5:5). It was an ordinance of the gospel. They were commanded to offer as sacrifices the firstlings of their flocks.
These animals had to be perfect, without blemish. The ordinance was given to remind the people that Jesus Christ, the
firstborn of the Father, would come into the world. He would
be perfect in every way, and he would offer himself as a sacrifice for our sins (see Moses 5:5–8).
Jesus did come and offer himself as a sacrifice, just as the
people had been taught he would. Because of his sacrifice,
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Abraham had such great faith that he was prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac
at the Lord’s command.
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everyone will be saved from physical death by the Resurrection and all can be saved from their sins through faith in Jesus
Christ (see chapter 12, “The Atonement”).
Christ’s atoning sacrifice marked the end of blood sacrifices.
Blood sacrifice was replaced by the ordinance of the sacrament. The ordinance of the sacrament was also given to remind us of the Savior’s great sacrifice. We should partake of
the sacrament often. The emblems of bread and water remind
us of the Savior’s bruised body and of his blood, which he
shed for us (see chapter 23, “The Sacrament”).
Discussion
• Read Moses 5:5–7. What did the sacrifice of a lamb represent
in ancient times?
• What event brought blood sacrifice to an end?
• What ordinance was given to replace the ancient law of
sacrifice?
We Still Must Sacrifice
Even though blood sacrifice was ended, the Lord still asks us
to sacrifice. But now he requires a different kind of offering.
He said: “Ye shall offer up unto me no more the shedding of
blood, . . . and your burnt offerings shall be done away. . . .
And ye shall offer for a sacrifice unto me a broken heart and
a contrite spirit” (3 Nephi 9:19–20). A “broken heart and a
contrite spirit” means that we offer deep sorrow for our sins
as we humble ourselves and repent of them.
Discussion
• How do we observe the law of sacrifice today?
We Must Be Willing to Sacrifice Everything We Have to
the Lord
The Apostle Paul wrote that we should become living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto God (see Romans 12:1).
If we are to be a living sacrifice, we must, if asked, be willing
to give everything we have for The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints.
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A rich young ruler asked the Savior, “What shall I do to inherit
eternal life?” Jesus answered, “Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do
not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother.”
And the rich man said, “All these have I kept from my youth.”
When Jesus heard this, he said, “Yet lackest thou one thing:
sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou
shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.” When
the young man heard this, he was sorrowful. He was very rich
and had his heart set on his riches. (See Luke 18:18–23.)
The young ruler was a good man. But when he was put to the
test, he was not willing to sacrifice his worldly possessions.
On the other hand, the Lord’s disciples Peter and Andrew
were willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of the kingdom of God. When Jesus said unto them, “Follow me, . . . they
straightway left their nets, and followed him” (Matthew
4:19–20).
Like the disciples, we can offer our daily activities as a sacrifice to the Lord. We can say, “Thy will be done.” Abraham did
this. He lived on the earth before Christ, in the days when
blood sacrifices and burnt offerings were required. As a test of
Abraham’s faith, the Lord commanded him to offer up his son
Isaac as a sacrifice. Isaac was the only son of Abraham and
Sarah. To offer him as a sacrifice was extremely painful for
Abraham.
Nevertheless, he and Isaac made the long journey to Mount
Moriah, where the sacrifice was to be made. They traveled for
three days. Imagine Abraham’s thoughts and his heartache.
His son was to be sacrificed to the Lord. When they reached
Mount Moriah, Isaac carried the wood and Abraham carried
the fire and the knife to the place where they were to build
the altar. Isaac said, “My father . . . behold the fire and the
wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Abraham
answered, “My son, God will provide himself a lamb.” Then
Abraham built an altar and arranged the wood on it. He
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bound Isaac and laid him upon the wood. He then took the
knife to kill Isaac. At that moment an angel of the Lord
stopped him, saying, “Abraham . . . lay not thine hand upon
the lad, neither do thou anything unto him: for now I know
that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son,
thine only son from me” (see Genesis 22:1–14).
Abraham must have been overcome with joy when he was no
longer required to sacrifice his son. But he loved the Lord so
much that he was willing to do anything the Lord asked.
Discussion
• Have someone tell the story of Abraham’s being commanded to sacrifice Isaac (see Genesis 22:1–14). Have someone tell the story of the rich young ruler (see Luke 18:18–23).
• Ask class members to think what they might have done in
these situations.
Sacrifice Helps Us Prepare to Live in the Presence of God
Only through sacrifice can we become worthy to live in the
presence of God. Only through sacrifice can we enjoy eternal
life. Many who have lived before us have sacrificed all they
had. We must be willing to do the same if we would earn the
rich reward they enjoy (see Joseph Smith, Lectures on Faith,
p. 58).
We may not be asked to sacrifice all things. But like Abraham,
we should be willing to sacrifice everything to become worthy
to live in the presence of the Lord.
The Lord’s people have always sacrificed greatly and in many
different ways. Some have suffered hardship and ridicule for
the gospel. Some new converts to the Church have been cut
off from their families. Lifetime friends have turned away.
Some members have lost their jobs; some have lost their lives.
But the Lord notices our sacrifices; he promises,
“Every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters,
or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my
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name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit
everlasting life” (Matthew 19:29).
As our testimonies of the gospel grow, we become able to
make greater sacrifices to the Lord. Note the sacrifices made
in these true examples:
A member of the Church in Germany saved his tithing for
years until someone with priesthood authority could come
and accept it.
A Relief Society visiting teacher served for thirty years without missing an assignment.
A group of Saints in South Africa rode for three days, standing
up, to be able to hear and see the prophet of the Lord.
At an area conference in Mexico, members of the Church slept
on the ground and fasted during the days of the conference.
They had used all their money just to get to the conference
and had nothing left for food and shelter.
One family sold their car to get the money they wanted to
contribute to a temple building fund.
Another family sold their home to get money to go to the
temple.
Many faithful Latter-day Saints have very little to live on, yet
they pay their tithes and offerings.
One brother sacrificed his job because he refused to work on
Sunday.
In one branch, the youth gave freely and willingly of their
time to care for the young children while their parents helped
build the meetinghouse.
Young men and women give up good job opportunities to
serve as missionaries.
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Many more examples could be given of those who sacrifice for
the Lord. Yet a place in our Heavenly Father’s kingdom is
worth any sacrifice we have to make of our time, talents, energy, money, and lives. Through sacrifice we can obtain a
knowledge from the Lord that we are acceptable to him (see
D&C 97:8).
Discussion
• Have class members tell of sacrifices they or their family
members have made for the gospel and some of the blessings they have received as a result of the sacrifice.
Additional Scriptures
• Luke 12:16–34 (where the treasure is, there is the heart)
• Luke 9:57–62 (sacrifice to be fit for the kingdom)
• D&C 64:23; 97:12 (today is a day of sacrifice)
• D&C 98:13–15 (those who lose life for the Lord will find it)
• Alma 24 (the people of Ammon sacrifice their lives rather
than break their oath to the Lord)
• Alma 27:5–10 (the people of Ammon offer to become slaves
in payment of their sins)
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Families become stronger by working together.
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WORK AND
PERSONAL
RESPONSIBILITY
C h a p t e r 27
Work Is an Eternal Principle
Our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have shown us by their
examples and teachings that work is important in heaven and
on earth. God worked to create the heavens and the earth. He
caused the seas to gather in one place and the dry land to
appear. He caused grass, herbs, and trees to grow on the land.
He created the sun, the moon, and the stars. He created every
living thing in the sea or on the land. Then he placed Adam
and Eve on the earth to take care of it and to govern the other
creatures (see Genesis 1:1–28).
Jesus said, “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work” (John
5:17). He also said, “I must work the works of him that sent
me” (John 9:4).
Discussion
• Read John 9:4. Why is work an eternal principle?
• Who set the example for work?
We Are Commanded to Work
Work has been the way of life on earth since Adam and Eve
left the Garden of Eden. The Lord said to Adam, “In the sweat
of thy face shalt thou eat bread” (Genesis 3:19). Adam and Eve
worked in the fields so they could provide for their own
needs and the needs of their children (see Moses 5:1).
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The Lord said to the people of Israel, “Six days shalt thou
labour” (Exodus 20:9).
In the early days of the restored Church, the Lord told the
Latter-day Saints, “Now, I, the Lord, am not well pleased with
the inhabitants of Zion, for there are idlers among them”
(D&C 68:31).
In this century, a prophet of God has said, “Work is to be
reenthroned as the ruling principle of the lives of our Church
membership” (Heber J. Grant, in Conference Report, Oct.
1936, p. 3).
Discussion
• What would happen if people did not work?
Family Responsibility
Parents work together to provide for the physical, spiritual,
and emotional well-being of their family. They should never
expect anyone to take care of this responsibility for them. The
Apostle Paul wrote, “If any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith”
(1 Timothy 5:8).
Couples should seek inspiration from the Lord and follow the
counsel of the prophets when establishing individual responsibilities. Creating a home where principles of the gospel are
taught daily and where love and order abound is as important
as providing the basic necessities of food and clothing.
Children should do their part in the work of the family. It is
necessary for children to have work assignments to fit their
abilities. They need to be praised for their successes. Good
work attitudes, habits, and skills are learned through successful experiences in the home.
Sometimes people encounter hardships when trying to provide for their families. Chronic illness, the loss of a spouse, or
the addition of an elderly parent can add to the responsibilities in a home. Our Heavenly Father remembers the families
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in these situations and gives them the strength to carry out
their duties. He will always bless them if they ask him in faith.
Discussion
• List the responsibilities of maintaining a home. Let members
decide what they can do to share in the work.
We Can Enjoy Our Work
To some people work is a drudgery. To others it is an exciting
part of life. One way to enjoy life’s fullest benefits is to learn
to love work.
Not all of us can choose the kind of work we do. Some of us
labor for long hours for the bare necessities. It is difficult to
enjoy such work. Yet the happiest people have learned to
enjoy their work, whatever it is.
We can help one another in our work. The heaviest load becomes lighter when someone shares it.
Our attitude toward work is very important. The following
story shows how one man saw beyond his daily labor. A traveler passed a stone quarry and saw three men working. He
asked each man what he was doing. Each man’s answer revealed a different attitude toward the same job. “I am cutting
stone,” the first man answered. The second replied, “I am
earning three gold pieces per day.” The third man smiled and
said, “I am helping to build a house of God.”
In any honest work we can serve God. King Benjamin, a
Nephite prophet, said, “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah
2:17). If our work provides only enough for necessities for
ourselves or our families, we are still helping some of God’s
children.
Discussion
• How does our attitude affect our work?
• How can we improve our attitude?
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God Condemns Idleness and Gain Obtained from Evil or
Idle Practices
The Lord is not pleased with those who are lazy or idle. He
said, “The idler shall not have place in the church, except he
repent and mend his ways” (D&C 75:29). He also commanded, “Thou shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not
eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer” (D&C
42:42).
From the earliest days of the Church, the prophets have
taught Latter-day Saints to be independent and self-sustaining
and to avoid idleness. True Latter-day Saints will not voluntarily shift from themselves the burden of their own support.
So long as they are able, they will supply themselves and their
families with the necessities of life.
As far as they are able, all Church members should accept the
responsibility to care for their relatives who are unable to
provide for themselves.
God condemns receiving gain from evil and idle pursuits.
Elder Spencer W. Kimball said, “I feel strongly that men who
accept wages or salary and do not give . . . [fair] time, energy,
devotion, and service are receiving money that is not clean.”
He also said that money obtained by evil or idle practices,
such as theft, gambling (including lotteries), graft, illegal
drugs, oppression of the poor, and the like is unclean money.
Elder Kimball defined the difference between honorable work
and evil work: “Clean money is that [pay] received for a full
day’s honest work. It is that reasonable pay for faithful service. It is that fair profit from the sale of goods, commodities,
or service. It is that income received from transactions where
all parties profit. Filthy lucre is . . . money . . . obtained
through theft and robbery, . . . gambling, . . . sinful operations, . . . bribery, and from exploitation” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1953, p. 52).
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Discussion
• Discuss the effects of idleness in your community. Discuss
the effects of idleness on an individual or family.
• How can idleness lead people into sinful practices?
Work, Rest, and Relaxation
We should each find the proper balance between work, rest,
and relaxation. There is an old saying: “Doing nothing is the
hardest work of all, because one can never stop to rest.” Without work, rest and relaxation have no meaning.
Not only is it pleasant and necessary to rest, but we are commanded to rest on the Sabbath day (see Exodus 20:10; D&C
59:9–12). This day of rest after each six days of labor brings
refreshment for the days that follow. The Lord also promises
the “fulness of the earth” to those who observe the Sabbath
day (see D&C 59:16–20; see also chapter 24, “The Sabbath
Day”).
On other days of the week we should schedule some time
when we can visit with family, friends, and relatives. We may
spend time to improve our talents and enjoy our hobbies,
recreation, or other activities that will refresh us.
Discussion
• Why is it important to rest and relax from work?
• Why is it important to keep a balance in life between work,
play, rest, and education?
The Blessings of Work
God revealed to Adam, “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat
bread” (Genesis 3:19). In addition to being a temporal law, this
was a law for the salvation of Adam’s soul. There is no real
division between spiritual, mental, and physical work. Work
is essential to each of us for growth, character development,
and many satisfactions that the idle never know.
“The happiest man is he who has toiled hard and successfully
in his life work. The work may be done in a thousand different ways; with the brain or the hands, in the study, the field,
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or the workshop; if it is honest work, honestly done and well
worth doing, that is all we have a right to ask” (Theodore Roosevelt, A Nation of Pioneers, quoted by Richard L. Evans, Improvement Era, Nov. 1963, p. 984). President David O.
McKay said, “Let us realize that the privilege to work is a gift,
that the power to work is a blessing, that the love of work is
success” (quoted by Franklin D. Richards, “The Gospel of
Work,” Improvement Era, Dec. 1969, p. 103).
“Men are, that they might have joy” (2 Nephi 2:25). Work is a
key to full joy in the plan of God. If we are righteous, we will
return to live with our Heavenly Father, and we will have
work to do. As we become like him, our work will become like
his work. His work is “to bring to pass the immortality and
eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).
Discussion
• List the blessings that come from work.
• Discuss the blessings that we enjoy because of honest labor.
Additional Scriptures
• Moses 4:23–25 (Adam told that he would work all his life for
his food)
• D&C 56:16–17 (God warns the rich and poor against greed,
envy, and laziness)
• D&C 58:26–29 (men should be anxiously engaged in a good
cause)
• Matthew 25:14–30 (parable of the talents)
• Ephesians 4:28 (steal no more but rather labor)
• 1 Thessalonians 4:11–12 (work with your own hands)
• 2 Nephi 5:17 (Nephi taught his people to work and be industrious)
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SERVICE
C h a p t e r 28
Jesus said, “I am among you as he that serveth” (Luke 22:27).
As true followers of Jesus, we also must serve others.
Service is helping others who need assistance. Christlike service grows out of genuine love for the Savior and of love and
concern for those whom he gives us opportunities and direction to help. Love is more than a feeling; when we love others,
we want to help them.
All of us must be willing to serve, no matter what our income,
age, condition of health, or social position. Some people believe that only the poor and lowly should serve. Other people
think service should only be given by the rich. But Jesus
taught otherwise. When the mother of two of his disciples
asked him to honor her sons in his kingdom, Jesus replied,
“Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your
servant” (Matthew 20:26–27).
How We Can Serve
There are many ways to serve. We can help others economically, socially, physically, and spiritually. For example,
we can give money, food, or other articles to those who need
them. We can be a friend to a newcomer. We can plant a
garden for an elderly person or care for someone who is sick.
We can teach the gospel to someone who needs the truth or
comfort someone who grieves.
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When we help one another, we serve God.
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We can do small and large acts of service. We should never fail
to help someone because we are unable to do great things. A
widow tells of two children who came to her door shortly
after she had moved to a new town. The children brought her
a lunch basket and a note that read, “If you want anyone to do
errands, call us.” The widow was gladdened by the small
kindness and never forgot it.
Sometimes, however, we must sacrifice greatly to serve someone. The Savior gave up his life in serving us.
Discussion
• Have class members tell how they have benefited at some
time from kind acts of service.
• Ask members to list as many ways to serve as they can.
Why the Savior Wants Us to Serve Others
Through the service of men and women and boys and girls
God’s work is done. President Spencer W. Kimball explained:
“God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually
through another person that he meets our needs” (“Small Acts
of Service,” Ensign, Dec. 1974, p. 5).
Throughout our lives all of us depend on others for help.
When we were infants, our parents fed, clothed, and cared for
us. Without this care we would have died. When we grew up,
other people taught us skills and attitudes. Many of us have
needed nursing care during illness or money in a financial
crisis. Some of us ask God to bless suffering people and then
do nothing for them. We must remember that God works
through us.
When we help one another, we serve God. King Benjamin, a
great king in Book of Mormon times, taught his people this
principle by the way he lived. He served them all his life,
earning his own living instead of being supported by the
people. In an inspired sermon he explained why he loved
service, saying:
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To show humility, Jesus washed the feet of his Apostles.
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“When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only
in the service of your God. . . .
“And if I, whom ye call your king, do labor to serve you, then
ought not ye to labor to serve one another?” (Mosiah 2:17–18).
Discussion
• Read Matthew 25:40. Why does the Lord want and need us
to serve others?
• Who benefits when we perform acts of service?
We Receive Blessings through Service
When we serve others we gain important blessings. Through
service we increase our ability to love. We become less selfish.
As we think of the problems of others, our own problems
seem less serious. We must serve others to gain eternal life.
God has said that those who live with him must love and
serve his children.
When we consider the lives of people who serve unselfishly,
we can see that they gain more than they give. One such
person was a Latter-day Saint named Paul who lost the use of
both legs in an accident. Some men might have become bitter
and useless, but Paul chose to think of others instead. He
learned a trade and earned enough money to buy a house.
There he and his wife made room for many homeless, unwanted children. Some were badly handicapped. Until his
death twenty years later, he served these children and others.
In return he was greatly loved, and his thoughts turned away
from his crippled legs. He grew close to the Lord.
Discussion
• What blessings do we receive through service to others?
• How does serving others increase our ability to love them?
Opportunities to Serve
Some of us serve only those we enjoy being around and avoid
all others. However, Jesus commanded us to love and serve
everyone. There are many opportunities to serve (see Mosiah
4:15–19).
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We can serve members of our families. Husbands and wives
should be aware of each other’s needs. Parents should serve
their children not only by feeding and clothing them but also
by teaching and by playing and working with them. Children
can serve by helping with household chores and by helping
brothers and sisters.
A husband can care for a sick baby when his wife needs rest.
A wife can prepare a favorite dish for her husband. A mother
and father may sacrifice to send a child on a mission. An older
boy may comfort a little sister who is afraid of the dark or help
her learn to read. Our prophets have told us that a family is
the most important unit in society. We must serve our families
well (see Mosiah 4:14–15).
We have many opportunities to serve our neighbors, our
friends, and even strangers. If a neighbor is having difficulty
harvesting crops before a storm, we can help. If a mother is ill,
we can watch her children or help with the housework. If a
young man is falling away from the Church, we can lead him
back. If a child is ridiculed, we can befriend him and persuade
others to be kind. We do not need to know the people we
serve, nor do we need to be fond of them. We should look for
ways to serve as many of our Heavenly Father’s children as
we can.
If we have special talents, we should use them to serve others.
God blesses us with talents and abilities to help improve the
lives of others.
We have opportunities to serve in the Church. One purpose
of the Church organization is to give us opportunities to help
each other. Members of the Church serve by doing missionary
work, accepting leadership assignments, visiting other
Church members, teaching classes, and doing other Church
work. In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints there
is no professional clergy, so the lay members must carry on all
of the activities of the Church.
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Discussion
• Have class members each write on a sheet of paper one way
they can serve someone in their family and one way they
can serve someone outside their family during the week.
Have them place their papers where they can see them often
as a reminder.
Christ Is the Perfect Example of Service
The Savior provided the perfect example of service. He explained that he didn’t come to earth to be served but to serve
and to give his life for us (see Matthew 20:28).
Jesus loves all of us more than we can understand. When he
was on earth he served the poor, the ignorant, the sinner, the
despised. He taught the gospel to all who would listen, fed
crowds of hungry people who came to hear him, healed the
sick, and raised the dead.
He is our God and Savior and Lord of the universe, yet he did
many humble acts of service. Just before his crucifixion he met
with his disciples. After teaching them, he took a basin of
water and a towel and washed their feet (see John 13:4–10). In
those days washing a visitor’s feet was a sign of honor and
was usually done by a servant. Jesus did it as an example of
love and service. When we willingly serve others in the spirit
of love, we become more like Christ.
Discussion
• Give three people a scripture reference and have each tell of
the Savior’s example of service: John 13:4–10 (washing of
feet); Matthew 15:30–31 (healing); Matthew 15:32–38 (feeding the 4,000).
Additional Scriptures
• Mosiah 2 (King Benjamin’s discourse on service)
• D&C 81:5 (succor, lift, strengthen)
• Colossians 3:23–24 (serve others as you would serve the
Lord)
• Galatians 5:13 (serve one another by love)
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THE LORD’S LAW
OF HEALTH
C h a p t e r 29
One of the great blessings we received when we came to earth
was a physical body. We need a physical body to become like
our Heavenly Father. Our bodies are so important that the
Lord calls them temples of God (see 1 Corinthians 3:16–17).
Our bodies are holy.
Because our bodies are important, our Father in Heaven
wants us to take good care of them. He knows that we can be
happier, better people if we are healthy. The Spirit of our
Heavenly Father can be with us if our bodies are clean. Our
Father knows that we face temptations to treat our bodies
unwisely or to take harmful things into them. For this reason
he has told us which things are good for our health and which
things are bad. Much of the information God has given us
concerning good health is found in Doctrine and Covenants
89. This revelation is called the Word of Wisdom.
We must obey the Word of Wisdom to be worthy to enter the
temple. If we do not obey the Word of Wisdom, the Lord’s
Spirit may not dwell with us. If we defile the “temple of God”
which is our body, we hurt ourselves physically and spiritually.
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 89.
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We Are Commanded Not to Take Certain Things into Our
Bodies
The Lord commands us not to use wine and strong drinks,
meaning drinks containing alcohol. The First Presidency has
taught that strong drink often brings cruelty, poverty, disease,
and plague into the home. It often is a cause of dishonesty,
loss of chastity, and loss of good judgment. It is a curse to all
who drink it (see “Message of the First Presidency,” Improvement Era, Nov. 1942, p. 686). Expectant mothers who drink can
cause physical and mental damage to their children. Many
automobile accidents are caused each year by people who
drink alcohol.
The Lord has also told us that “tobacco is not for the body”
(D&C 89:8). It is harmful to our bodies and our spirits. We
should not smoke cigarettes or cigars or use chewing tobacco.
Scientists have shown that tobacco causes many diseases and
can harm unborn children.
The Lord also counsels us against the use of “hot drinks.”
Church leaders have said that this means coffee and tea,
which contain harmful drugs. We should avoid all drinks that
contain harmful drugs.
We should not use drugs except when they are necessary as
medicine. Some drugs are even more harmful than alcohol
and tobacco (which are also drugs). Those who misuse drugs
need to repent of this habit.
We should avoid anything that we know is harmful to our
bodies. We should not use any substance that is habit forming.
The Word of Wisdom does not tell us everything to avoid, but
it does give us guidelines. It is a valuable temporal law. It is
also a great spiritual law. By living the Word of Wisdom, we
become stronger spiritually. We purify our bodies so the Spirit
of the Lord can dwell with us.
Discussion
• List the things we should not take into our bodies.
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• Discuss why these things should not be used.
We Are Taught That Certain Things Are Good for Our
Bodies
Fruits, vegetables, and wholesome herbs are good for us. We
should use them with wisdom and thanksgiving.
The flesh of birds and animals is also provided for our food.
However, we should eat meat sparingly (see D&C 49:18;
89:12). Fish is also good for us to eat.
Grains are good for us. Wheat is especially good for us. Grains
may be used also to make mild drinks.
Discussion
• According to the Word of Wisdom, what are some of the
things the Lord says are good for us?
Work, Cleanliness, Rest, and Exercise Are Important
In addition to Doctrine and Covenants 89, other scriptures tell
us how to be healthy. They tell us that we should “cease to be
idle; cease to be unclean; . . . cease to sleep longer than is
needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary;
arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated” (D&C 88:124). We are also told, “Six days shalt
thou labour and do all thy work” (Exodus 20:9). The Lord
counsels us not to labor more than we have strength for (see
D&C 10:4).
A latter-day prophet has told us that people “should learn to
keep their bodies healthy by right living, . . . by inhaling pure
air, taking plenty of exercise, and bathing . . . often in fresh
water” (Joseph F. Smith, Gospel Doctrine, p. 241).
Discussion
• What do work, cleanliness, rest, and exercise have to do with
the Lord’s law of health?
Blessings for Living the Lord’s Law of Health
Our Heavenly Father has given us health laws to teach us
how to care for our bodies. The scriptures tell us about God’s
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laws: “No temporal commandment gave I, . . . for my commandments are spiritual” (D&C 29:35). This means that his
commandments concerning our physical state are for our
spiritual good.
When we keep the Lord’s law of health and obey his other
commandments, the Lord promises to bless us physically and
spiritually.
Physically we have been promised good health. As a result of
this good health we “shall run and not be weary, and shall
walk and not faint” (D&C 89:20). This is a great blessing, but
the spiritual blessings he has promised us are even greater
than the physical ones.
The Lord promises us that we “shall find wisdom and great
treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures” (D&C 89:19).
We will be taught important truths by the Holy Ghost
through revelation. The Lord also promises that the destroying angel shall pass us by. Elder Spencer W. Kimball said that
in our time this means we will be saved from spiritual death:
“For observing the Word of Wisdom the reward is life, not
only prolonged mortal life but life eternal” (The Miracle of
Forgiveness, p. 211).
Discussion
• What eternal blessings come to us from living the Word of
Wisdom?
• Ask the members to share ideas about how they can obey the
Word of Wisdom and overcome any problems they might
have.
Additional Scriptures
• Judges 13:13–14; Proverbs 20:1; Isaiah 5:11–12; Daniel 1
(avoid strong drink)
• D&C 59:16–20 (things of the earth for the benefit of man)
• Proverbs 23:20–21 (warning against drunkenness, gluttony,
laziness)
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The good Samaritan showed us by his example how to love our neighbor.
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CHARITY
C h a p t e r 30
The life of the Savior reflects his pure love for all people. He
even gave his life for us. Charity is that pure love which our
Savior Jesus Christ has. He has commanded us to love one
another as he loves us. The scriptures tell us that charity is felt
within the heart. We have pure love when, from the heart, we
show genuine concern and compassion for all our brothers
and sisters. (See 1 John 3:16–24.)
Discussion
• What is charity?
Charity Is the Greatest of All Virtues
The prophet Moroni tells us, “Wherefore, cleave unto charity,
which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—but charity
is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever” (Moroni
7:46–47).
The Savior gave us the example of his life to follow. He was a
perfect man. He had perfect love, and he showed us how we
must love. By his example, he showed us that the spiritual and
physical needs of our fellowmen are as important as our own.
Before he gave his life for us, he said:
“This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I
have loved you.
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“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his
life for his friends” (John 15:12–13).
Speaking to the Lord, Moroni said:
“I remember that thou hast said that thou hast loved the
world, even unto the laying down of thy life for the world. . . .
“And now I know that this love which thou hast had for the
children of men is charity; wherefore, except men shall have
charity they cannot inherit that place which thou hast prepared in the mansions of thy Father” (Ether 12:33–34).
It may not be necessary for us to give our lives as the Savior
did. But we can have charity if we make him the center of our
lives and follow his example and teachings. Like the Savior,
we too can bless the lives of our brothers and sisters here on
earth.
Discussion
• Why is charity the greatest of all virtues?
• Why is it so important that we develop this virtue?
Charity Includes Giving to the Sick, Afflicted, and Poor
The Savior gave us many teachings in the form of stories or
parables. The parable of the good Samaritan teaches us that
we should give to those in need, regardless of whether they
are our friends or not (see Luke 10:30–37; see also James E.
Talmage, Jesus the Christ, pp. 430–32). In the parable, the Savior said that a man was traveling to another city. On the road
he was attacked by bandits. They stole his clothes and money
and beat him, leaving him half dead. A priest came along, saw
him, and passed him by. Then a temple attendant walked
over, looked at him, and went on. However, a Samaritan, who
was despised by the Jews, came along, and when he saw the
man he felt compassion. Kneeling beside him, the good
Samaritan bandaged his wounds and took him on a donkey to
an inn. He paid the innkeeper to take care of the man until he
recovered.
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Jesus taught that we should give food to the hungry, shelter to
those who have none, and clothes to the poor. When we
visit the sick and those who are in prison, it is as if we were
doing these things to him instead. He promises that as we do
these things, we will inherit his kingdom. (See Matthew
25:34–46.)
We should not try to decide whether someone really deserves
our help or not (see Mosiah 4:16–24). If we have taken care of
our own family’s needs first, then we should help all who
need help. In this way we will be like our Father in Heaven,
who causes rain to fall on the just and on the unjust alike (see
Matthew 5:44–45).
President Harold B. Lee reminded us that there are those who
need more than material goods: “It is well to remember that
there are broken hearts and wounded souls among us that
need the tender care of a brother who has an understanding
heart and is kind” (Stand Ye in Holy Places, p. 228).
Discussion
• Have a person tell the parable of the good Samaritan (see
Luke 10:30–37).
• Discuss the attitude of those who passed the injured man
and of the Samaritan who cared for him.
Charity Comes from the Heart
Even when we give to those in need, unless we feel compassion for them we do not have charity (see 1 John 3:16–17). The
Apostle Paul taught that when we have charity we are filled
with good feelings for all people. We are patient and kind. We
are not boastful or proud, selfish or rude. When we have
charity we do not remember or rejoice in the evil others have
done. Neither do we do good things just because it is to our
advantage. Instead, we share the joy of those who live by
truth. When we have charity we are loyal, we believe the best
of others, and we defend them. When we really have charity
these good feelings stay with us forever (see 1 Corinthians
13:4–8).
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The Savior was our example of how to feel toward and treat
others. He despised wickedness, but he loved sinners in spite
of their sins. He had compassion for children, the elderly, the
poor, and the needy. He had such great love that he could beg
our Heavenly Father to forgive the soldiers who drove the
nails into his hands and feet (see Luke 23:34). He taught us
that if we do not forgive others, our Father in Heaven will not
forgive us (see Matthew 18:33–35). He said: “I say unto you,
Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to
them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use
you and persecute you. . . . For if ye love them which love
you, what reward have ye?” (Matthew 5:44, 46). We must
learn to feel toward others as Jesus did.
Discussion
• Read Moroni 7:45. What attitudes show that we have
charity?
• How can we love people in spite of their sins and faults?
How Can We Become Charitable?
One way we can become charitable is by studying the life of
Jesus Christ and keeping his commandments. We can study
what he did in certain situations and do the same things
when we are in the same kinds of situations.
Second, when we have uncharitable feelings, we can pray to
have them taken away. Moroni urges us, “Pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with
this love [charity], which he hath bestowed upon all who are
true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ” (Moroni 7:48).
Third, we can learn to love ourselves. The Savior taught that
we must love others as we love ourselves (see Matthew 22:39).
To love ourselves, we must respect and trust ourselves. This
means that we must be obedient to the principles of the gospel. We must repent of any wrongdoings. We must forgive
ourselves when we have repented. We will come to love ourselves only when we can feel the deep, comforting assurance
that the Savior truly loves us.
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Fourth, as we love ourselves, our love for others will increase.
We will not think we are better than other people. We will
have patience with their faults. Joseph Smith said, “The nearer
we get to our heavenly Father, the more we are disposed to
look with compassion on perishing souls; we feel that we
want to take them upon our shoulders, and cast their sins behind our backs” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 241).
In the Book of Mormon we read of Enos, a young man who
wanted to know that his sins had been forgiven. He tells us:
“My soul hungered; and I kneeled down before my Maker,
and I cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication for
mine own soul; and all the day long did I cry unto him; yea,
and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it
reached the heavens.
“And there came a voice unto me, saying: Enos, thy sins are
forgiven thee, and thou shalt be blessed” (Enos 1:4–5).
The Lord explained to Enos that because of his faith in Christ
his sins had been forgiven. When Enos heard these words he
no longer was concerned about himself. He knew the Lord
loved him and would bless him. He began instead to feel
concern for the welfare of his friends and relatives, the Nephites. He poured out his whole soul unto God for them. The
Lord answered and said they would be blessed according to
their faithfulness in keeping the commandments they had
already been given. Enos’s love increased even further after
these words, and he prayed with many long strugglings for
the Lamanites, who were the enemies of the Nephites. The
Lord granted his desires, and he spent the rest of his life
trying to save the souls of the Nephites and the Lamanites.
Enos was so grateful for the Lord’s love and forgiveness that
he willingly spent the rest of his life helping others receive
this same gift. (See Enos 1:7–23.) Enos had become truly charitable. We too can do so. In fact, we must do so to inherit the
place that has been prepared for us in our Father’s kingdom.
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Discussion
• Read Moroni 8:25–26 and 2 Peter 1:5–7. What can we do to
become charitable?
Additional Scriptures
• Colossians 3:12–14 (charity is the bond of perfectness)
• Alma 34:28 (prayers are not answered unless we act
charitably)
• 1 Corinthians 12:29–13:3 (charity is greater than any spiritual gift)
• D&C 121:45–46 (charity is necessary to have the companionship of the Holy Ghost)
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HONESTY
C h a p t e r 31
The thirteenth article of faith says, “We believe in being honest.” The Book of Mormon tells us about a group of people
who were “distinguished for their zeal towards God, and also
towards men; for they were perfectly honest and upright in
all things; and they were firm in the faith of Christ, even unto
the end” (Alma 27:27). Because of their honesty, these people
were noted by their fellowmen and by God. It is important to
learn what honesty is, how we are tempted to be dishonest,
and how we can overcome this temptation.
Discussion
• Read Alma 27:27. What would a society be like where everyone was perfectly honest?
Honesty Is a Principle of Salvation
Complete honesty is necessary for our salvation. An Apostle
of the Lord has said: “Honesty is a principle of salvation in the
kingdom of God. . . . Just as no man or woman can be saved
without baptism, so no one can be saved without honesty”
(Mark E. Petersen, in Conference Report, Oct. 1971, p. 63; or
Ensign, Dec. 1971, p. 72).
God is honest and just in all things (see Alma 7:20). We too
must be honest in all things to become like him. The brother of
Jared testified, “Yea, Lord, I know that thou . . . art a God of
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truth, and canst not lie” (Ether 3:12). In contrast, the devil is a
liar. In fact, he is the father of lies (see 2 Nephi 9:9). “Those
who choose to cheat and lie and deceive and misrepresent
become his slaves” (Mark E. Petersen, in Conference Report,
Oct. 1971, p. 65; or Ensign, Dec. 1971, p. 73).
Discussion
• Why is honesty a principle of salvation?
What Is an Honest Person?
Honest people love truth and justice. They are honest in their
words and actions. They do not lie, steal, or cheat.
To Lie Is Dishonest
Lying is intentionally deceiving others. Bearing false witness
is one form of lying. The Lord gave this commandment to the
children of Israel: “Thou shalt not bear false witness against
thy neighbour” (Exodus 20:16). Jesus also taught this when he
was on earth (see Matthew 19:18). There are many other
forms of lying. When we speak untruths, we are guilty of
lying. We can also intentionally deceive others by a gesture or
a look, by silence, or by telling only part of the truth. Whenever we lead people in any way to believe something that is
not true, we are not being honest.
The Lord is not pleased with such dishonesty, and we will
have to account for our lies. Satan would have us believe it is
all right to lie. He says, “Yea, lie a little; . . . there is no harm in
this” (2 Nephi 28:8). Satan encourages us to justify our lies to
ourselves. Honest people will recognize Satan’s temptations
and will speak the whole truth, even if it seems to be to their
disadvantage.
To Steal Is Dishonest
Jesus taught, “Thou shalt not steal” (Matthew 19:18). Stealing
is taking something that does not belong to us. When we take
what belongs to someone else or to a store or to the community without permission, we are stealing. Taking merchandise
or supplies from an employer is stealing. Accepting more
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change or goods than one should is dishonest. Taking more
than our share of anything is stealing.
To Cheat Is Dishonest
We cheat when we give less than we owe, or when we get
something we do not deserve. Some employees cheat their
employers by not working their full time; yet they accept full
pay. Some employers are not fair to their employees; they pay
them less than they deserve. Satan says, “Take the advantage
of one because of his words, dig a pit for thy neighbor”
(2 Nephi 28:8). Taking unfair advantage is a form of dishonesty. Providing inferior service or merchandise is cheating.
Discussion
• Have three people tell how we can be honest. Discuss lying,
stealing, and cheating.
We Must Not Excuse Our Dishonesty
People use many excuses for being dishonest. People lie to
protect themselves and to have others think well of them.
Some excuse themselves for stealing, thinking they deserve
what they took, intend to return it, or need it more than the
owner. Some cheat to get better grades in school or because
“everyone else does it” or to get even.
These excuses and many more are given as reasons for
dishonesty. To the Lord, there are no acceptable reasons.
President Kimball taught that when we excuse ourselves, we
cheat ourselves and the Spirit of God ceases to be with us. We
become more and more unrighteous. (See Faith Precedes the
Miracle, p. 234.)
Discussion
• What happens to us spiritually when we excuse our dishonesty?
We Can Be Completely Honest
To become completely honest, we must look carefully at our
lives. If there are ways in which we are being even the least bit
dishonest, we should repent of them immediately.
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When we are completely honest, we cannot be corrupted. We
are true to every trust, duty, agreement, or covenant, even if it
costs us money, friends, or our lives. Then we can face the
Lord, ourselves, and others without shame. President Joseph
F. Smith counseled, “Let every man’s life be so that his character will bear the closest inspection, and that it may be seen as
an open book, so that we will have nothing to shrink from or
be ashamed of” (Gospel Doctrine, p. 252).
Discussion
• What does it mean to be completely honest? What must we
do to be completely honest?
Additional Scriptures
• D&C 50:17 (speak only by the spirit of truth)
• D&C 76:103–6 (destination of liars)
• D&C 42:27 (commandment not to speak evil of neighbors)
• Exodus 20:15–16 (commandment not to steal or bear false
witness)
• D&C 42:20, 84–85; 59:6 (forbidden to steal)
• D&C 3:2 (God is honest)
• D&C 10:25–28 (Satan deceives)
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TITHES AND
OFFERINGS
C h a p t e r 32
Our Heavenly Father knows all of the things we need. He has
given us this commandment and promise: “Seek ye first the
kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things
shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).
We have been given commandments to help us prepare in
every way to live in the presence of our Heavenly Father. He
has given us a way to thank him for our blessings. Willingly
paying tithes and offerings is one way we thank him. As we
pay these offerings, we show the Savior that we love him and
will obey his counsel: “And verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a
day for the tithing of my people” (D&C 64:23).
Discussion
• How do we show our gratitude to our Heavenly Father for
all his blessings to us?
Obeying the Law of Tithing
Anciently Abraham and Jacob obeyed the commandment to
pay a tithe of one-tenth of their increase (see Hebrews 7:1–10;
Genesis 28:20–22).
In modern times the Prophet Joseph Smith prayed, “O Lord,
show unto thy servants how much thou requirest of the properties of thy people for a tithing” (D&C 119, section introduction). The Lord answered: “This shall be the beginning of the
tithing of my people. And after that, those who have thus
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been tithed shall pay one-tenth of all their interest annually;
and this shall be a standing law unto them forever” (D&C
119:3–4).
A tithe is one-tenth of our increase. This means that we give
one-tenth of all we earn before we pay for our own needs
such as food, clothing, and shelter. If our increase is in the
form of flocks, herds, or crops rather than money, we give
one-tenth of those things (see Leviticus 27:30–32).
When we pay tithing we show our faithfulness to the Lord.
We also teach our children the value of this law. They will
want to follow our example and pay tithing on any money
they earn.
Discussion
• What is an honest tithe?
• What can we do to teach our children to pay tithing?
We Should Give Willingly
It is important to give willingly. “When one pays his tithing
without enjoyment he is robbed of a part of the blessing. He
must learn to give cheerfully, willingly and joyfully, and his
gift will be blessed” (Stephen L. Richards, The Law of Tithing
[pamphlet, 1983], p. 8).
The Apostle Paul taught that how we give is as important as
what we give. He said, “Let him give; not grudgingly, or of
necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Discussion
• Read 2 Corinthians 9:6–7. What does it mean to give grudgingly?
• Discuss the importance of our attitude in giving.
Tithing and Other Offerings
As members of the Church, we give tithing and other offerings to the Lord in money, goods, and time.
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Tithing
Tithing is used by the Church for many purposes. Some of
these are to—
1. Build, maintain, and operate temples, meetinghouses, and
other buildings.
2. Provide operating funds for stakes, wards, and other units
of the Church. (These units use the funds to carry out the
ecclesiastical programs of the Church, which include teaching the gospel and recreation and social activities.)
3. Help the missionary program.
4. Educate young people in Church schools, seminaries, and
institutes.
5. Print and distribute lesson materials.
6. Help in family history and temple work.
Other Offerings
Fast Offerings. Church members fast each month by going
without food and drink for two consecutive meals. They contribute at least the amount of money they would have spent
for the meals. They may give as generously as they are able.
This offering is called the fast offering. Bishops use these fast
offerings to provide food, shelter, clothing, and medical care
for the needy.
As part of the fast, members attend a meeting called the fast
and testimony meeting, where they share with each other their
testimonies of Christ and his gospel.
Missionary Funds. Members contribute missionary funds to the
Church to help spread the gospel around the world. These
funds are used to support missions and missionaries in almost
every country.
Service. Members also offer their time, skills, and goods to help
others. This service allows the Church to help needy members
and nonmembers around the world at community, national,
and international levels, especially when disasters occur.
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Discussion
• How do the offerings in addition to tithing show that we are
grateful to our Heavenly Father?
We Are Blessed When We Give Tithes and Offerings
The Lord promises to bless us as we faithfully pay our tithes
and offerings. He said, “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me
now herewith . . . if I will not open you the windows of
heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be
room enough to receive it” (Malachi 3:10).
Latter-day revelation tells of another blessing for those who
tithe: “Verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a day for the tithing of
my people; for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his
coming” (D&C 64:23).
The blessings we have been promised are both material and
spiritual. If we give willingly, Heavenly Father will provide
our daily needs for food, clothes, and shelter. He will also help
us grow “in a knowledge of God, in a testimony, in the power
to live the gospel and to inspire our families to do the same”
(Heber J. Grant, Gospel Standards, p. 58).
Those who pay their tithes and offerings are greatly blessed.
They have a good feeling that they are helping to build the
kingdom of God on earth.
Discussion
• Name three blessings we receive from being obedient to the
law of tithing.
Additional Scriptures
• D&C 119:1–4 (the law of tithing)
• Genesis 14:19–20; Alma 13:13–16 (Abraham paid tithes)
• 2 Chronicles 31:5–6, 12; Nehemiah 10:37–38 (children of
Israel paid tithing)
• 3 Nephi 24:8–10 (will a man rob God?)
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MISSIONARY WORK
C h a p t e r 33
The Lord revealed the gospel plan to Adam: “And thus the
Gospel began to be preached, from the beginning” (Moses
5:58). Later, when people became wicked, Adam’s righteous
sons were sent to preach the gospel to the others on the earth:
“They . . . called upon all men, everywhere, to repent; and
faith was taught unto the children of men” (Moses 6:23).
All the prophets have been missionaries. Each in his day was
commanded to preach the gospel message. Whenever the
priesthood has been on the earth, the Lord has needed missionaries to preach the eternal principles of the gospel to his
children.
Discussion
• When was the gospel message first preached on the earth?
The Lord’s Church Is a Missionary Church
The Lord’s Church has always been a missionary church.
When the Savior lived on the earth, he ordained Apostles and
Seventies and gave them the authority and responsibility to
preach the gospel. Most of their preaching was to their own
people, the Jews (see Matthew 10:5–6). After Jesus was resurrected, he sent Apostles to preach the gospel to the Gentiles.
He commanded the Apostles, “Go ye into all the world, and
preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).
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Jesus commanded his Apostles to teach the gospel in all the world.
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The Apostle Paul was a great missionary sent to the Gentiles.
After he was converted to the Church, he spent the remainder
of his life preaching the gospel to them. At different times
during his mission he was whipped, stoned, and imprisoned.
Yet each time he escaped from his persecutors, he preached
the gospel as diligently as before (see Acts 23:10–12; Acts 26).
Missionary work began again when the Lord’s Church was
restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Today the
Apostles and Seventies have been given the chief responsibility for preaching the gospel and seeing that it is preached in
all the world. The Lord told Joseph Smith: “Proclaim my gospel from land to land, and from city to city. . . . Bear testimony
in every place, unto every people” (D&C 66:5, 7). In June 1830,
Samuel Harrison Smith, the Prophet’s brother, began the first
missionary journey for the Church.
Since that time thousands of missionaries have been called
and sent forth to preach the gospel. The message they take to
the world is that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and our Savior.
They testify that the gospel has been restored to the earth
through a prophet of God (see David O. McKay, Gospel Ideals,
p. 132). The missionaries are given the responsibility to preach
the gospel to all people, to baptize them, and to teach them to
do all things that the Lord has commanded (see Matthew
28:19–20). Latter-day Saint missionaries go at their own expense to all parts of the world to preach the gospel message.
Discussion
• What two important messages do missionaries teach and
testify of?
The Gospel Will Be Preached to All the World
We have been told in latter-day revelation that we must take
the restored gospel to every nation and people (see D&C
133:37). The Lord never gives us a commandment without
preparing a way for us to accomplish it (see 1 Nephi 3:7). The
Lord has prepared ways for us to teach the gospel in nations
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that were once closed to us. As we continue to pray and exercise faith, the Lord will open other nations to missionary
work.
The Lord is also “inspiring the minds of great people to create
inventions that further the work of the Lord in ways this
world has never known” (Russell M. Nelson, “Computerized
Scriptures Now Available,” Ensign, Apr. 1988, p. 73). Newspapers, magazines, television, radio, satellites, computers, and
related discoveries help give the gospel message to millions of
people (see Spencer W. Kimball, “When the World Will Be
Converted,” Ensign, Oct. 1974, pp. 10–14). We who have the
fulness of the gospel need to use these inventions to fulfill the
Lord’s commandment: “For, verily, the sound must go forth
from this place into all the world, and unto the uttermost
parts of the earth—the gospel must be preached unto every
[person]” (D&C 58:64).
Discussion
• Who needs to hear the gospel? Have class members think of
people with whom they could share the gospel.
Missionary Work Is Important
“This is our first interest as a Church—to save and exalt the
souls of the children of men” (Ezra Taft Benson, in Conference Report, Apr. 1974, p. 151; or Ensign, May 1974, p. 104).
Missionary work is necessary in order to give the people of
the world an opportunity to hear and accept the gospel. They
need to learn the truth, turn to God, and receive forgiveness
from their sins.
Many of our brothers and sisters on earth are blinded by false
teachings and “are only kept from the truth because they
know not where to find it” (D&C 123:12). Through missionary
work we can bring them the truth.
The Lord has commanded, “Labor ye in my vineyard for the
last time—for the last time call upon the inhabitants of the
earth” (D&C 43:28). As we teach the gospel to our brothers
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and sisters, we are preparing the way for the second coming
of the Savior (see D&C 34:6).
Discussion
• Why is it important for each person to hear and understand
the gospel?
We Should All Be Missionaries
Every member of the Church is to be a missionary. We should
be missionaries even if we are not formally called and set
apart. We are responsible to teach the gospel by word and
deed to all of our Heavenly Father’s children. The Lord has
told us, “It becometh every man who hath been warned to
warn his neighbor” (D&C 88:81). We have been told by a
prophet that we should show our neighbors that we love
them before we warn them. They need to experience our
friendship and fellowship.
The sons of Mosiah willingly accepted their responsibility to
teach the gospel. When they were converted to the Church,
their hearts were filled with compassion for others. They
wanted to preach the gospel to their enemies the Lamanites,
“for they could not bear that any human soul should perish;
yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble” (Mosiah
28:3). As the gospel fills our lives with joy, we will feel this
kind of love and compassion for our brothers and sisters. We
will want to share the message of the gospel with everyone
who desires to listen.
Discussion
• Why do we feel a desire to share the gospel with others
when we are truly converted?
How Can We All Be Missionaries?
There are many ways we can share the gospel. Following are
some suggestions:
1. We can show friends and others the joy we experience from
living the truths of the gospel. In this way we will be a light
to the world (see Matthew 5:16).
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2. We can overcome our natural shyness by being friendly to
others and doing kind things for them. We can help them
see that we are sincerely interested in them and are not
seeking personal gain.
3. We can explain the gospel to nonmember friends and
others.
4. We can invite friends who are interested in learning more
about the gospel into our homes to be taught by the missionaries. If our nonmember friends live too far away, we
can request that missionaries in their areas visit them.
5. We can teach our children the importance of sharing the
gospel, and we can prepare them spiritually and financially
to go on missions.
6. We can pay our tithing and contribute to the missionary
fund. These donations are used for furthering missionary
work.
7. We can help support financially missionaries whose families are unable to support them.
8. We can do family history research and temple work to help
our ancestors receive the full blessings of the gospel.
9. We can invite nonmembers to activities such as family
home evenings and Church socials, conferences, and meetings.
Our Heavenly Father will help us be effective missionaries
when we have the desire to share the gospel and pray for
guidance. He will help us find ways to share the gospel with
those around us.
Discussion
• Ask class members to decide on ways to share the gospel
with the people they thought of earlier in the lesson.
The Lord Promises Us Blessings for Doing Missionary Work
The Lord told the Prophet Joseph Smith that missionaries
would receive great blessings. Speaking to elders who were
returning from their missions, the Lord said, “Ye are blessed,
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for the testimony which ye have borne is recorded in heaven
for the angels to look upon; and they rejoice over you” (D&C
62:3).
The Lord has told us:
“If it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me,
how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my
Father!
“And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you
have brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how
great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto
me!” (D&C 18:15–16).
Discussion
• Why is it important to bear testimony to the truth of the
gospel?
• What blessings come from sharing the gospel?
Additional Scriptures
• D&C 1:17–23 (Joseph Smith commanded to preach)
• D&C 34:4–6; Acts 5:42 (gospel to be preached)
• D&C 60:1–2 (Lord warns those who are afraid to preach the
gospel)
• Matthew 24:14 (gospel to be preached before the end shall
come)
• Abraham 2:9 (priesthood to be given to all nations)
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DEVELOPING
OUR TALENTS
C h a p t e r 34
We all have special talents and abilities given to us by our
Heavenly Father. When we were born, we brought these talents and abilities with us (see chapter 2, “Our Heavenly
Family”). Each of us has been given at least one special talent.
We All Have Different Talents and Abilities
The prophet Moses was a great leader, but he needed Aaron,
his brother, to help as a spokesman (see Exodus 4:14–16).
Some of us are leaders like Moses or good speakers like Aaron.
Some of us can sing well or play an instrument. Others of us
may be good in sports or able to work well with our hands.
Other talents we might have are understanding others, patience, cheerfulness, or the ability to teach others.
Discussion
• Ask class members to identify talents of the people sitting
next to them.
We Should Use and Improve Our Talents
Our Heavenly Father has said it is up to us to receive the gifts
he has given us (see D&C 88:33). This means we must develop
and use our talents. Sometimes we think we do not have
many talents or that other people have been blessed with
more abilities than we possess. Sometimes we do not use our
talents because we are afraid that we might fail or be criticized
by others. We should not hide our talents. We should use
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them. Then others can see our good works and glorify our
Heavenly Father (see Matthew 5:16).
Discussion
• Why should we improve our talents?
How Can We Develop Our Talents?
There are certain things we must do to develop our talents.
First, we must discover our talents. We should evaluate ourselves to find our strengths and abilities. Our family and
friends can help us do this. We should also ask our Heavenly
Father to help us learn about our talents.
Second, we must be willing to spend the time and effort to
develop the talent we are seeking.
Third, we must have faith that our Heavenly Father will help
us, and we must have faith in ourselves.
Fourth, we must learn the skills necessary for us to develop
our talents. We might do this by taking a class, asking a friend
to teach us, or reading a book.
Fifth, we must practice using our talent. Every talent takes
effort and work to develop. The mastery of a talent must be
earned.
Sixth, we must share our talent with others. It is by our using
our talents that they grow (see Matthew 25:29).
All of these steps are easier if we pray and seek the Lord’s
help. He wants us to develop our talents, and he will help us.
Discussion
• Name a talent or a skill you possess. How can a person develop this talent or skill? Have class members explain how
they have developed talents or skills.
We Can Develop Our Talents in Spite of Our Weaknesses
Sometimes the Lord gives us weaknesses so we will work
hard and overcome them. With his help, our weaknesses can
become our strengths (see Ether 12:27). Beethoven composed
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his greatest music after he was deaf. Demosthenes overcame
weak lungs and a lisp to become one of the greatest orators of
all time.
Some great athletes have had to overcome handicaps before
they have succeeded in developing their talents. Shelly Mann
was such an example. “At the age of five she had polio. . . .
Her parents took her daily to a swimming pool where they
hoped the water would help hold her arms up as she tried to
use them again. When she could lift her arm out of the water
with her own power, she cried for joy. Then her goal was to
swim the width of the pool, then the length, then several
lengths. She kept on trying, swimming, enduring, day after
day after day, until she won the gold medal for the butterfly
stroke—one of the most difficult of all swimming strokes”
(Marvin J. Ashton, in Conference Report, Apr. 1975, p. 127; or
Ensign, May 1975, p. 86).
Heber J. Grant overcame many of his weaknesses and turned
them into talents. He had as his motto these words: “That
which we persist in doing becomes easier for us to do; not that
the nature of the thing is changed, but that our power to do
is increased” (Gospel Standards, p. 355).
Discussion
• Read Ether 12:27. How can weak things be made strong?
The Lord Will Bless Us If We Use Our Talents Wisely
President Joseph F. Smith said, “Every son and every daughter of God has received some talent, and each will be held to
strict account for the use or misuse to which it is put” (“The
Returned Missionary,” Juvenile Instructor, Nov. 1903, p. 689). A
talent is one kind of stewardship (responsibility in the kingdom of God). The parable of the talents tells us that when we
serve well in our stewardship we will be given greater responsibilities. If we do not serve well, our stewardship will eventually be taken from us. (See Matthew 25:14–30.)
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We are also told in the scriptures that we will be judged according to our works (see Matthew 16:27). By developing and
using our talents for other people, we perform good works.
The Lord is pleased when we use our talents wisely. He will
bless us if we use our talents to benefit other people and to
build up his kingdom here on earth. Some of the blessings we
gain are joy and love from serving our brothers and sisters
here on earth. We also learn self-control. All these things are
necessary if we are going to be worthy to live with our Heavenly Father again.
Discussion
• Read and discuss the parable of the talents found in
Matthew 25:14–30.
Additional Scriptures
• James 1:17 (gifts come from God)
• D&C 46:8–9; 1 Timothy 4:14 (develop gifts)
• 2 Corinthians 12:9 (weak things made strong)
• Revelation 20:13; 1 Nephi 15:33; D&C 19:3 (judged by our
works)
• Hebrews 13:21 (show good works)
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Jesus showed obedience to his Father by being baptized.
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OBEDIENCE
C h a p t e r 35
When Jesus was on the earth, a lawyer asked him a question:
“Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with
all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
“This is the first and great commandment.
“And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor
as thyself.
“On these two commandments hang all the law and the
prophets” (Matthew 22:36–40).
From these scriptures we learn how important it is for us to
love the Lord and our neighbors. But how do we show our
love for the Lord?
Jesus answered this question when he said, “He that hath my
commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me:
and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father” (John
14:21).
We Should Obey God Willingly
Each of us should ask ourselves why we obey God’s commandments. Is it because we fear punishment? Is it because
we desire the rewards for living a good life? Is it because we
love God and Jesus Christ and want to serve them?
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It is better to obey the commandments because we fear punishment than not to obey them at all. But we will be much
happier if we obey God because we love him and want to
obey him. When we obey him freely, he can bless us freely. He
said, “I, the Lord, . . . delight to honor those who serve me in
righteousness and in truth unto the end” (D&C 76:5). Obedience also helps us progress and become more like our Heavenly Father. But those who do nothing until they are
commanded and then keep the commandments unwillingly
lose their reward (see D&C 58:26–29).
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 58:26–29. Why is it important
to obey willingly rather than unwillingly? How can we increase our desire to obey?
We Can Obey without Understanding Why
By keeping God’s commandments, we prepare for eternal life
and exaltation. Sometimes we do not know the reason for a
particular commandment. However, we show our faith and
trust in God when we obey him without knowing why.
Adam and Eve were commanded to offer sacrifices to God.
One day an angel appeared to Adam and asked why he offered sacrifices. Adam replied that he did not know the reason. He did it because the Lord commanded him to. (See
Moses 5:5–6.)
The angel then taught Adam the gospel and told him of the
Savior who was to come. The Holy Ghost fell upon Adam, and
Adam prophesied concerning the inhabitants of the earth
down to the last generation (see Moses 5:9–10; D&C 107:56).
This knowledge and great blessings came to Adam because he
was obedient.
Discussion
• Discuss why we need not understand the Lord’s purposes
in order to be obedient.
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God Will Prepare a Way
The Book of Mormon tells us that Nephi and his older brothers received a very difficult assignment from the Lord (see
1 Nephi 3:1–6). Nephi’s brothers complained, saying, “It is a
hard thing you require of us.” But Nephi said, “I will go and
do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know
that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of
men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may
accomplish the thing which he commandeth them” (1 Nephi
3:7). When we find it difficult to obey a commandment of the
Lord, we should remember Nephi’s words.
Discussion
• Have members memorize 1 Nephi 3:7.
• Ask members to tell about times when the Lord prepared a
way for them to obey him.
No Commandment Is Too Small or Too Great to Obey
Sometimes we may think a commandment is not very important. The scriptures tell of a man named Naaman who
thought that way. Naaman had a dreadful disease and traveled from Syria to Israel to ask the prophet Elisha to heal him.
Naaman was an important man in his own country, so he was
offended when Elisha did not greet him in person but sent his
servant instead. Naaman was even more offended when he
received Elisha’s message: wash seven times in the river Jordan. “Are not [the] rivers of Damascus better than all the
waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean?” he
demanded. He went away in a rage. But his servants asked
him: “If the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he
saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?” Naaman was wise enough
to understand that it was important to obey the prophet of
God, even if it seemed a small matter. So he washed in the
Jordan and was healed. (See 2 Kings 5:1–14.)
Sometimes we may think a commandment is too difficult for
us to obey. Like Nephi’s brothers, we may say, “It is a hard
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thing you require of us.” Yet, like Nephi, we can be sure that
God will give us no commandment unless he prepares a way
for us to obey him.
It was a “hard thing” when the Lord commanded Abraham to
offer his beloved son Isaac as a sacrifice (see Genesis 22:1–13;
see also chapter 26, “Sacrifice”). Abraham had waited many
years for the birth of Isaac, the son God had promised him.
How could he lose his son in such a way? The deed must have
been most repugnant to Abraham. Yet he chose to obey God.
We too should be willing to do anything God requires. The
Prophet Joseph Smith said, “I made this my rule: when the
Lord commands, do it” (History of the Church, 2:170). This can
be our rule also.
Discussion
• How does obeying the commandments strengthen us?
Jesus Christ Obeyed His Father
Jesus Christ was the sublime example of obedience to our
Heavenly Father. He said, “I came down from heaven, not to
do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me” (John
6:38). His whole life was devoted to obeying his Father; yet it
was not always easy for him. He was tempted in all ways as
other mortals (see Hebrews 4:15). In the Garden of Gethsemane he prayed to his Father, asking if he might avoid the
agony he was enduring and the suffering to come on the
cross. Then he ended his prayer by saying, “Not as I will, but
as thou wilt” (Matthew 26:39).
Because Jesus obeyed the Father’s will in all things, he made
salvation possible for all of us.
Discussion
• How can remembering the example of the Savior help us be
obedient?
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Results of Obedience and Disobedience
The kingdom of heaven is governed by law, and when we
receive any blessing, it is by obedience to the law upon which
that blessing is based (see D&C 130:21; 132:5). The Lord has
told us that through our obedience and diligence we may
gain knowledge and intelligence (see D&C 130:18–19). We
may also grow spiritually (see Jeremiah 7:23–24). On the other
hand, disobedience brings disappointment and results in a
loss of blessings. “Who am I, saith the Lord, that have promised and have not fulfilled? I command and men obey not; I
revoke and they receive not the blessing. Then they say in
their hearts: This is not the work of the Lord, for his promises
are not fulfilled” (D&C 58:31–33).
When we keep the commandments of God, he fulfills his
promises, as King Benjamin told his people: “He doth require
that ye should do as he hath commanded you; for which if ye
do, he doth immediately bless you” (Mosiah 2:24).
Discussion
• Read together Jeremiah 7:23–24. What happens to those
who do not repent of their disobedience?
The Obedient Gain Eternal Life
The Lord counsels us, “If you keep my commandments and
endure to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the
greatest of all the gifts of God” (D&C 14:7).
The Lord has described other blessings that will come to those
who obey him in righteousness and truth until the end:
“Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their glory.
“And to them will I reveal all mysteries, yea, all the hidden
mysteries of my kingdom from days of old, and for ages to
come, will I make known unto them the good pleasure of my
will concerning all things pertaining to my kingdom.
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“Yea, even the wonders of eternity shall they know, and
things to come will I show them, even the things of many
generations.
“And their wisdom shall be great, and their understanding
reach to heaven. . . .
“For by my Spirit will I enlighten them, and by my power will
I make known unto them the secrets of my will—yea, even
those things which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor yet
entered into the heart of man” (D&C 76:6–10).
Discussion
• Read 2 Nephi 31:16. Why is it important to endure to the
end?
Additional Scriptures
• Abraham 3:25 (we came to earth to test our obedience)
• 1 Samuel 15:22 (obedience is better than sacrifice)
• Ecclesiastes 12:13; John 14:15; Romans 6:16; D&C 78:7;
132:36; Deuteronomy 4:1–40 (we should obey God)
• 2 Nephi 31:7 (Jesus Christ was obedient)
• Proverbs 3:1–4; 6:20–22; 7:1–3; Ephesians 6:1–3; Colossians
3:20 (children should obey their parents)
• D&C 21:4–6 (obey the prophet)
• John 8:31–32; Mosiah 2:22, 41; D&C 82:10; 1 Nephi 2:20
(blessings for obedience)
• D&C 58:21–22; 98:4–6; 134 (obey the laws of the land)
• Isaiah 60:12; D&C 1:14; 93:39; 132:6, 39 (consequences of disobedience)
• 2 Nephi 31:16; D&C 53:7; Matthew 24:13; Luke 9:62 (endure
to the end)
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FAMILY SALVATION
Unit Eight
Families can be together forever.
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THE FAMILY
CAN BE ETERNAL
C h a p t e r 36
The first family on earth was established by our Heavenly
Father when he gave Eve to Adam in marriage (see Moses
3:21–24). Since then, each of us has been commanded to
marry and have children so that through our own experience
we can learn to be heavenly parents. President Brigham
Young explained that our families are not yet ours. The Lord
has committed them to us to see how we will treat them. Only
if we are faithful will they be given to us forever. What we do
on earth determines whether or not we will be worthy to
become heavenly parents (see chapter 2, “Our Heavenly
Family”).
The Importance of Families
After Heavenly Father gave Eve to Adam, he commanded
them to have children (see Genesis 1:28). He revealed that one
of the purposes of marriage is to provide mortal bodies for his
spirit children. Parents are partners with our Heavenly
Father. He wants each of his spirit children to receive a physical body and to experience earth life. When a man and a
woman bring children into this world, they help our Heavenly Father carry out his plan.
Every new child should be welcomed into the family with
gladness. Each is a child of God. We should take time to enjoy
our children, to play with them, and to teach them.
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President David O. McKay said, “With all my heart I believe
that the best place to prepare for . . . eternal life is in the
home” (“Blueprint for Family Living,” Improvement Era, Apr.
1963, p. 252). At home, with our families, we can learn selfcontrol, sacrifice, loyalty, and the value of work. We can learn
to love, to share, and to serve one another.
Fathers and mothers are responsible to teach their children
about Heavenly Father. They should show by example that
they love him because they keep his commandments. Parents
should also teach their children to pray and to obey the commandments (see Proverbs 22:6).
Discussion
• Why did the Lord give us families?
• Why is the home the best place to prepare for eternal life?
The Eternal Family
Families can be together forever. To enjoy this blessing we
must be married in the temple. When people are married
outside the temple, the marriage ends when one of the partners dies. When we are married in the temple by the authority
of the Melchizedek Priesthood, we are married for time and
eternity. Death cannot separate us. If we obey the commandments of the Lord, our families will be together forever as
husband, wife, and children.
Discussion
• What must we do to make our families eternal?
Loving Family Relationships
Husbands and wives should be thoughtful and kind to each
other. They should never do or say anything to hurt each
other’s feelings. They should also try to do everything possible to make each other happy.
Parents are to teach children to love one another. In the Book
of Mormon, King Benjamin explained:
“Ye will not suffer your children . . . [to] fight and quarrel one
with another. . . .
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“But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and
soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to
serve one another” (Mosiah 4:14–15).
As family members we can help each other feel confident by
giving encouragement and sincere praise. Each child should
feel important. Parents need to show they are interested in
what their children do and express love and concern for their
children. Children should likewise show their love for their
parents. They should be obedient and try to live the kind of
life that will bring honor to their parents and to their family
name.
Discussion
• Read Ephesians 4:29–32. How can we develop greater harmony in our homes?
How to Have a Successful Family
President Harold B. Lee taught, “The most important of the
Lord’s work that you will ever do will be the work you do
within the walls of your own home” (Strengthening the Home
[pamphlet, 1973], p. 7).
The following story illustrates this point:
After performing a temple marriage ceremony, President
Spencer W. Kimball greeted the parents of the young couple.
One of the fathers said, “My wife and I are common people,
and have never been successful, but we are very proud of our
family.” The father explained that all eight of his children had
now been married in the temple. All are faithful and serve in
the Church, teaching the gospel in their families.
President Kimball looked at the calloused hands and wrinkled
face of the father and said: “That is the greatest success story
I have heard. . . . You are fulfilling the purpose for which you
were sent to this world by keeping your own lives righteous,
bearing and rearing this great family, and training them in
faith. Why, my dear folks, you are very successful. God bless
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you” (Spencer W. Kimball, in Conference Report, Oct. 1971,
pp. 152–53; or Ensign, Dec. 1971, pp. 37–38).
Satan knows how important families are to our Heavenly Father’s plan. He seeks to destroy them by keeping us from
drawing near to the Lord. He will tempt us to do things that
will draw our families apart.
All of us want to have happy, successful families. The following things will help us achieve this:
1. Have family prayer every night and morning (see 3 Nephi
18:21).
2. Teach children the gospel by meeting together as a family
at least once a week to study gospel principles. “There
shouldn’t be—there mustn’t be—one family in this Church
that doesn’t take the time to read from the scriptures every
day” (H. Burke Peterson, in Conference Report, Apr. 1975,
p. 79; or Ensign, May 1975, pp. 53–54).
3. Do things together as a family, such as work projects, outings, and decision making.
4. Kneel together as husband and wife each night in prayer.
5. Learn to be kind, patient, long-suffering, and charitable (see
Moroni 7:45–48).
6. Attend church meetings regularly (see D&C 59:9–10).
7. Follow the counsel of the Lord in D&C 88:119: “Organize
yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a
house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of
faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order,
a house of God.”
8. Keep a family history and gather family genealogy.
The family is the most important unit in The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Church exists to help families
gain eternal blessings and exaltation. The organizations and
programs within the Church are designed to strengthen us
individually and help us live as families forever.
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Discussion
• What can we do to have a successful family?
• As a family, decide which principles to work on during
the weeks ahead.
Additional Scriptures
• Moses 2:27–28 (man and woman created and blessed)
• Genesis 2:24 (man to cleave unto his wife)
• D&C 49:15–16 (God ordained marriage)
• Ephesians 6:4 (train children in righteousness)
• D&C 132:15–21 (eternal marriage)
• D&C 88:119–26 (instructions for a successful family)
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RESPONSIBILITIES
C h a p t e r 37
Each person has an important place in his or her family.
Through prophets the Lord has explained how fathers,
mothers, and children should behave and feel toward one
another. As husbands, wives, and children we need to learn
what the Lord expects us to do to fulfill our purpose as a
family. If we all do our part, we will be able to live together as
a family forever.
Discussion
• What is the purpose of a family?
Responsibilities of the Parents
In marriage neither the man nor the woman is more important than the other. They are equal partners and should work
together to provide for the spiritual, emotional, intellectual,
and physical needs of the family.
Some responsibilities must be shared by the husband and the
wife. Parents should teach their children the gospel. The Lord
warned that if parents do not teach their children about faith,
repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, the sin
will be upon the heads of the parents. Parents should also
teach their children to pray and to obey the Lord’s commandments. (See D&C 68:25, 28.)
One of the best ways parents can teach their children is by
example. Husbands and wives should show love and respect
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for each other and for their children by both actions and
words. It is important to remember that each member of the
family is a child of God. Parents should treat their children
with love and respect, being firm but kind to them.
Parents should understand that sometimes children will make
wrong choices even after they have been taught the truth.
When this happens, parents should not give up or become
discouraged. They should continue to teach their children, to
express love for them, to be good examples to them, and to
fast and pray for them.
The Book of Mormon tells us how the prayers of a father
helped a rebellious son return to the ways of the Lord. Alma
the Younger had fallen away from the teachings of his righteous father, Alma, and had gone about seeking to destroy the
Church. The father prayed with faith for his son. Alma the
Younger was visited by an angel and repented of his evil way
of living. He became a great leader of the Church. (See Mosiah
27:8–32.)
Parents can provide an atmosphere of reverence and respect
in the home if they teach and guide their children with love.
Parents should also provide happy experiences for their
children.
Discussion
• Discuss the responsibilities of the parents.
Responsibilities of the Father
The father is the patriarch of the family and has important
responsibilities that are his alone. He is the priesthood holder
and has the duties of priesthood leadership. He should guide
his family with humility and kindness rather than with force
or cruelty. The scriptures teach that those who hold the
priesthood should lead others by persuasion, gentleness, love,
and kindness (see D&C 121:41–44; Ephesians 6:4).
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The father shares the blessings of the priesthood with the
members of his family. When a man holds the Melchizedek
Priesthood, he can share these blessings by naming and blessing babies, administering to the sick, baptizing children, and
giving special priesthood blessings and ordinations. He
should set a good example for his family by keeping the commandments. He should also make sure the family prays together twice daily and holds family home evening.
The father should spend time with each child individually. He
should teach his children correct principles, talk with them
about their problems and concerns, and counsel them lovingly. Some good examples are found in the Book of Mormon
(see 2 Nephi 1:14–3:25; Alma 36–42).
It is also the father’s duty to provide for the physical needs of
his family, making sure they have the necessary food, housing, clothing, and education. Even if he is unable to provide all
the support himself, he does not give up the responsibility of
the care of his family.
Responsibilities of the Mother
President David O. McKay said that motherhood is woman’s
noblest calling (see Treasures of Life, p. 54). It is a sacred calling,
a partnership with God in bringing his spirit children into the
world. A mother’s most important responsibility is to bring
children into the world and to care for and teach them. Bearing children is one of the greatest of all blessings.
Elder Boyd K. Packer praised women who were unable to
have children of their own yet sought to care for others. He
said: “When I speak of mothers, I speak not only of those
women who have borne children, but also of those who have
fostered children born to others, and of the many women
who, without children of their own, have mothered the children of others” (Mothers, p. 8).
A mother needs to spend time with her children and teach
them the gospel. She should play and work with them so they
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can discover the world around them. She also needs to help
her family know how to make the home a pleasant place to
be. If she is warm and loving, she helps her children feel good
about themselves.
The Book of Mormon describes a group of two thousand
young men who rose to greatness because of the teachings of
their mothers (see Alma 53:16–23). Led by the prophet
Helaman, they went into battle against their enemies. They
had learned to be honest, brave, and trustworthy from their
mothers. Their mothers also taught them that if they did not
doubt, God would deliver them (see Alma 56:47). They all
survived the battle. Later they expressed faith in the teachings
of their mothers, saying, “We do not doubt our mothers knew
it” (Alma 56:48). Every mother who has a testimony can have
a profound effect on her children.
Discussion
• Why is motherhood called a partnership with God?
• Assign someone to tell the story of Helaman’s young
warriors.
Responsibilities of the Children
Children share with their parents the responsibilities of building a happy home. They should obey the commandments and
cooperate with other family members. The Lord is not pleased
when children quarrel (see Mosiah 4:14).
The Lord has commanded children to honor their parents. He
said, “Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be
long upon the land” (Exodus 20:12). To honor parents means
to love and respect them. It also means to obey them. The
scriptures tell children to “obey your parents in the Lord: for
this is right” (Ephesians 6:1).
President Spencer W. Kimball said that children should learn
to work and to share responsibilities in the home and yard.
They should be given assignments to keep the house neat and
clean. Children may also be given assignments to take care of
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the garden (see Conference Report, Apr. 1976, p. 5; or Ensign,
May 1976, p. 5).
Discussion
• What should children do to honor and respect their parents?
Accepting Responsibilities Brings Blessings
A loving and happy family does not happen by accident. Each
person in the family must do his or her part. The Lord has
given responsibilities to both parents and children. The scriptures teach that we must be thoughtful, cheerful, and considerate of others. When we speak, pray, sing, or work together,
we can enjoy the blessings of harmony in our families. (See
Colossians 3.)
Discussion
• Have class members tell how they can help make home a
happier place.
Additional Scriptures
• Proverbs 22:6 (train up a child)
• Ephesians 6:1–3 (children are to obey parents)
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ETERNAL
MARRIAGE
C h a p t e r 38
Marriage is ordained of God. The Lord has said, “Whoso forbiddeth to marry is not ordained of God, for marriage is ordained of God unto man” (D&C 49:15). Since the beginning,
marriage has been a law of the gospel. Marriages are intended
to last forever, not just for our mortal lives.
Adam and Eve were married by God before there was any
death in the world. They had an eternal marriage. They
taught the law of eternal marriage to their children and their
children’s children. As the years passed, wickedness entered
the hearts of the people and the authority to perform this
sacred ordinance was taken from the earth. Through the restoration of the gospel, eternal marriage has been restored to
earth.
Discussion
• When was eternal marriage first performed on the earth?
Eternal Marriage Is Essential for Exaltation
Many people in the world consider marriage to be only a
social custom, a legal agreement between a man and a woman
to live together. But to Latter-day Saints, marriage is much
more. Our exaltation depends on marriage. We believe that
marriage is the most sacred relationship that can exist between a man and a woman. This sacred relationship affects
our happiness now and in the eternities.
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Heavenly Father has given us the law of eternal marriage so
we can become like him. We must live this law to be able to
have spirit children. The Lord has said:
“In the celestial glory there are three heavens or degrees;
“And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this
order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting
covenant of marriage];
“And if he does not, he cannot obtain it” (D&C 131:1–3).
Discussion
• Why do we believe marriage is the most sacred relationship
between a man and woman?
Eternal Marriage Must Be Performed by Proper Authority
in the Temple
An eternal marriage must be performed by one who holds the
sealing power. The Lord promised, “If a man marry a wife
by . . . the new and everlasting covenant . . . by him who is
anointed, . . . it . . . shall be of full force when they are out of
the world” (D&C 132:19).
Not only must an eternal marriage be performed by the
proper priesthood authority, but it must also be done in one
of the holy temples of our Lord. The temple is the only place
this holy ordinance can be performed.
In the temple, Latter-day Saint couples kneel at one of the
sacred altars in the presence of their family and friends and
two special witnesses. They make their marriage covenants
before God. They are pronounced husband and wife for time
and all eternity. This is done by one who holds the holy
priesthood of God and has been given the authority to perform this sacred ordinance. He acts under the direction of the
Lord and promises the couple the blessings of exaltation. He
instructs them in the things they must do to receive these
blessings. He reminds them that all blessings depend on obedience to the laws of God.
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If we are married by any authority other than by the priesthood in a temple, the marriage is for this life only. After death,
the marriage partners have no claim on each other or on their
children. An eternal marriage gives us the opportunity to continue as families after this life.
Discussion
• Who has the authority to perform an eternal marriage? Why
must it be performed in the temple?
Benefits of an Eternal Marriage
As Latter-day Saints, we are living for eternity and not just for
the moment. However, the blessings of an eternal marriage
can be ours now as well as for eternity.
The blessings we can enjoy in this life are as follows:
1. We know that our marriage can last forever. Death can part
us from one another only temporarily. Nothing can part us
forever except our own disobedience. This knowledge
helps us work harder to have a happy, successful marriage.
2. We know that we can have our children with us throughout eternity. This knowledge helps us be careful in teaching
and training our children. It also helps us show them
greater patience and love. As a result, we should have a
happier home.
Some of the blessings we can enjoy for eternity are as follows:
1. We can live in the highest degree of the celestial kingdom
of God.
2. We can be exalted as God is and receive a fulness of joy.
3. We can, at some future time, increase our family by having
spirit children.
Discussion
• Have class members discuss the blessings of an eternal marriage in this life and in eternity.
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We Must Prepare for an Eternal Marriage
President Spencer W. Kimball taught that “marriage is perhaps the most vital of all the decisions and has the most
far-reaching effects. . . . It affects not only the two people involved, but their children and . . . their children’s children. . . .
Of all the decisions, this one must not be wrong.” He recommended “that all boys and girls from their infancy up plan to
be married only in the temple . . . to keep their lives spotless
so that this can be accomplished” (“ . . . The Matter of Marriage,” devotional address, Salt Lake Institute of Religion,
22 Oct. 1976).
President Kimball also said:
“We say to all youth regardless of what country is your home,
and regardless of the customs in your country, your Heavenly
Father expects you to marry for eternity and rear a good,
strong family.
“It would be our hope that parents would train you . . . to
earn some money, and to put it away for your missions and
your marriages. . . .
“There will be a new spirit in Zion when the young women
will say to their boyfriends: ‘I am sorry, but as much as I love
you, I will not marry out of the holy temple’ ” (“Marriage—
The Proper Way,” New Era, Feb. 1976, p. 4).
An eternal marriage should be the goal of every Latter-day
Saint. This is true even for those already married by civil law.
To prepare for an eternal marriage takes much thought and
prayer. Only members of the Church who live righteously are
permitted to enter the temple (see D&C 97:15–17). We do not
suddenly decide one day that we want to be married in the
temple, then enter the temple that day and get married. We
must first meet certain requirements.
Before we can go to the temple, we must be active, worthy
members of the Church for at least one year. Men must hold
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the Melchizedek Priesthood. We must be interviewed by the
branch president or bishop. If he finds us worthy, he will give
us a temple recommend. If we are not worthy, he will counsel
with us and help us set goals to become worthy to go to the
temple.
After we receive a recommend from our bishop or branch
president, we must have it signed by a member of the stake
presidency or the mission president.
We are asked questions like the following in interviews for a
temple recommend:
1. Do you have faith in and a testimony of God the Eternal
Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost? Do you
have a firm testimony of the restored gospel?
2. Do you sustain the President of The Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints as the Prophet, Seer, and Revelator? Do
you recognize him as the only person on earth authorized
to exercise all priesthood keys?
3. Do you live the law of chastity?
4. Are you a full-tithe payer?
5. Do you keep the Word of Wisdom?
6. Are you totally honest in your dealings with others?
7. Do you strive to keep the covenants you have made, to attend your sacrament and priesthood meetings, and to keep
your life in harmony with the laws and commandments of
the gospel?
When you ask for a temple recommend, you should remember that entering the temple is a sacred privilege. It is a serious
act, not something to be taken lightly.
We must seek earnestly to obey every covenant that we make
in the temple. The Lord has said that if we are true and faithful, we will pass by the angels to our exaltation. We will become gods. (See D&C 132:19–20.) Temple marriage is worth
any sacrifice. It is a way of obtaining eternal blessings beyond
measure.
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Discussion
• Ask each person to think about the temple interview questions as you reread them.
• How can we prepare for an eternal marriage?
Additional Scriptures
• Genesis 1:26–28 (we should multiply and replenish the
earth)
• Genesis 2:21–24 (the first marriage was performed by God)
• Matthew 19:3–8 (what God has joined)
• D&C 132 (the eternal nature of the marriage law)
• D&C 42:24–26 (marriage vows should be kept)
• Jacob 3:5–11 (blessings for keeping the law of marriage)
• Matthew 22:23–30 (no marriage in the Resurrection)
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THE LAW
OF CHASTITY
C h a p t e r 39
A Note to Parents
This chapter includes some parts that are beyond the maturity
of young children. It is best to wait until children are old
enough to understand sexual relations and procreation before
teaching them these parts of the chapter. Our Church leaders
have told us that parents are responsible to teach their children about procreation (the process of conceiving and bearing
children). Parents must also teach them the law of chastity.
Parents can begin teaching children to have proper attitudes
toward their bodies when children are very young. Talking to
children frankly but reverently and using the correct names
for the parts and functions of their bodies will help them grow
up without unnecessary embarrassment about their bodies.
Children are naturally curious. They want to know how their
bodies work. They want to know where babies come from.
If parents answer all such questions immediately and clearly
so children can understand, children will continue to take
their questions to their parents. However, if parents answer
questions so that children feel embarrassed, rejected, or dissatisfied, they will probably go to someone else with their questions and perhaps get incorrect ideas and improper attitudes.
It is not wise or necessary, however, to tell children everything at once. Parents need only give them the information
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they have asked for and can understand. While answering
these questions, parents can teach children the importance of
respecting their bodies and the bodies of others. Parents
should teach children to dress modestly. They should correct
the false ideas and vulgar language that children learn from
others.
By the time children reach maturity, parents should have
frankly discussed procreation with them. Children should understand that these powers are good and were given to us by
the Lord. He expects us to use them within the bounds he has
given us.
Little children come to earth pure and innocent from Heavenly Father. As parents pray for guidance, the Lord will inspire them to teach children at the right time and in the right
way.
The Power of Procreation
After the Creation, God commanded each living thing to reproduce after its own kind (see Genesis 1:22). Reproduction
was part of his plan so that all forms of life could continue to
exist upon the earth.
Then he placed Adam and Eve on the earth. They were different from his other creations because they were his spirit children. God married Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and
commanded them to multiply and replenish the earth (see
Genesis 1:28). However, their lives were to be governed by
moral laws rather than by instinct.
God wanted his spirit children to be born into families so they
could be properly cared for and taught. We, like Adam and
Eve, are to provide physical bodies for these spirit children
through sexual reproduction.
The powers of procreation are sacred. God has commanded us
that only in marriage are we to have sexual relations. This
commandment is called the law of chastity.
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Discussion
• What are some important purposes of the marriage relationship?
What Is the Law of Chastity?
We are to have sexual relations only with our spouse to whom
we are legally married. No one, male or female, is to have
sexual relations before marriage. After marriage, sexual relations are permitted only with our spouse.
To the Israelites the Lord said, “Thou shalt not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14). Those Israelites who broke this commandment were put to death (see Leviticus 20:10). The Lord
repeated this commandment to the Prophet Joseph Smith (see
D&C 42:24).
We have been taught that the law of chastity encompasses
more than sexual intercourse. Elder Spencer W. Kimball
warned young people of other sexual sins:
“Among the most common sexual sins our young people commit are necking and petting. Not only do these improper relations often lead to fornication, [unwed] pregnancy, and
abortions—all ugly sins—but in and of themselves they are
pernicious evils, and it is often difficult for youth to distinguish where one ends and another begins. They awaken lust
and stir evil thoughts and sex desires. They are but parts of
the whole family of related sins and indiscretions” (The Miracle
of Forgiveness, p. 65).
Discussion
• What is the law of chastity?
• How can we be chaste?
Satan Wants Us to Break the Law of Chastity
Satan’s plan is to deceive as many of us as he can to prevent
us from returning to live with our Heavenly Father. One of
the most damaging things he can do is entice us to break the
law of chastity. He is cunning and powerful. He would like us
to believe it is no sin to break this law. Many people have
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been deceived. We must guard ourselves against evil influences.
Satan attacks the standards of modesty. He wants us to believe that because the human body is beautiful, it should be
seen and appreciated. Our Heavenly Father wants us to keep
our bodies covered so that we do not put improper thoughts
into the minds of others.
Satan not only encourages us to dress immodestly, but he also
encourages us to think immoral or improper thoughts. He
does this with pictures, movies, stories, jokes, music, and
dances that suggest immoral acts. The law of chastity requires
that our thoughts as well as our actions be pure. The prophet
Alma taught that when we are judged by God, “our thoughts
will also condemn us; and in this awful state we shall not dare
to look up to our God” (Alma 12:14).
Jesus taught, “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old
time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
“But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to
lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his
heart” (Matthew 5:27–28).
Satan sometimes tempts us through our emotions. He knows
when we are lonely, confused, or depressed. He chooses this
time of weakness to tempt us to break the law of chastity. Our
Heavenly Father can give us the strength to pass through
these trials unharmed.
The scriptures tell about a righteous young man named
Joseph who was greatly trusted by his master, Potiphar. Potiphar had given Joseph command over everything he had. Potiphar’s wife lusted after Joseph and tempted him to commit
adultery with her. But Joseph resisted her and fled from her.
(See Genesis 39:1–18.)
Our Heavenly Father has promised, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye
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are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to
escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Discussion
• What are some ways Satan tempts us to break the law of
chastity?
• What promise has the Lord given us to help us overcome
Satan’s temptations?
Breaking the Law of Chastity Is Extremely Serious
The prophet Alma grieved because one of his sons had broken
the law of chastity. Alma said to his son Corianton, “Know ye
not, my son, that these things are an abomination in the sight
of the Lord; yea, most abominable above all sins save it be the
shedding of innocent blood or denying the Holy Ghost?”
(Alma 39:5). Unchastity is next to murder in seriousness.
If a child is conceived by those who break the law of chastity,
they may be tempted to commit another abominable sin: abortion. There is seldom any excuse for abortion. “The only exceptions are when—
“1. Pregnancy has resulted from incest or rape;
“2. The life or health of the woman is in jeopardy in the opinion of competent medical authority; or
“3. The fetus is known, by competent medical authority, to
have severe defects that will not allow the baby to survive
beyond birth.
“Even in these cases the couple should consider an abortion
only after consulting with each other and their bishop [or
branch president] and receiving divine confirmation through
prayer” (General Handbook of Instructions [30943], p. 11-4).
It is extremely important to our Heavenly Father that his children obey the law of chastity. Members of the Church who
break this law may be disfellowshipped or excommunicated
(see D&C 42:22–26, 80–81). All those who do not repent after
committing adultery will not be able to live with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ but will live in the telestial king251
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dom (see D&C 76:81–86, 103–5; see also chapter 46, “The Last
Judgment”).
Discussion
• Why is breaking the law of chastity such a serious transgression?
• What blessings do people lose if they break the law of
chastity?
Those Who Break the Law of Chastity Can Be Forgiven
Peace can come to those who have broken the law of chastity.
The Lord tells us, “If the wicked will turn from all his sins that
he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, . . . all his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him” (Ezekiel 18:21–22). Peace comes only
through forgiveness. But forgiveness has a high price.
Elder Kimball said: “To every forgiveness there is a condition. . . . The fasting, the prayers, the humility must be equal
to or greater than the sin. There must be a broken heart and a
contrite spirit. . . . There must be tears and genuine change of
heart. There must be conviction of the sin, abandonment of
the evil, confession of the error to properly constituted authorities of the Lord” (The Miracle of Forgiveness, p. 353).
For many people, confession is the most difficult part of repentance. We must confess not only to the Lord but also to the
person we have offended, such as a husband or wife, and to
the proper priesthood authority. The priesthood leader
(bishop or stake president) will judge our standing in the
Church. The Lord told Alma, “Whosoever transgresseth
against me . . . if he confess his sins before thee and me, and
repenteth in the sincerity of his heart, him ye shall forgive,
and I will forgive him also” (Mosiah 26:29).
But Elder Kimball warns: “Even though forgiveness is so
abundantly promised, there is no promise nor indication of
forgiveness to any soul who does not totally repent. . . . We
can hardly be too forceful in reminding people that they
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cannot sin and be forgiven and then sin again and again and
expect forgiveness” (The Miracle of Forgiveness, pp. 353, 360).
Those who receive forgiveness and then repeat the sin are
held accountable for their former sins (see D&C 82:7; Ether
2:15).
Those Who Keep the Law of Chastity Are Greatly Blessed
When we obey the law of chastity, we can live without guilt
or shame. Our lives and our children’s lives are blessed when
we keep ourselves pure and spotless before the Lord. Children can look to our example and follow in our footsteps.
Discussion
• Read Doctrine and Covenants 76:58–60. How will those
who keep all of God’s commandments, including the law of
chastity, be blessed?
Additional Scriptures
• Matthew 19:5–9; Genesis 2:24 (marriage relationship is
sacred)
• Titus 2:4–12 (instructions for chastity)
• Proverbs 6:25–32; Leviticus 19:29; 20:13, 15–16 (perversion
condemned)
• 1 Corinthians 7:2–5; Ephesians 5:28 (loyalty to spouse)
• Revelation 14:4–5 (blessings for obedience to the law of
chastity)
• Proverbs 31:10 (virtue praised)
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The Portland Temple.
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TEMPLE WORK AND
FAMILY HISTORY
C h a p t e r 40
The atonement of Jesus Christ assures each of us that we will
be resurrected and live forever. But if we are to live forever
with our families in Heavenly Father’s presence, we must do
all that the Savior commands us to do. This includes being
baptized and receiving the ordinances of the temple.
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, we have each been baptized by one having the proper
priesthood authority. Each of us may also go to the temple to
receive the saving priesthood ordinances performed there.
But many of God’s children have not had these same opportunities. They lived at a time when the gospel was not available to them.
Heavenly Father wants all of his children to return and live
with him. For those who died without baptism or the temple
ordinances, he has provided a way for this to happen. He has
asked us to perform ordinances for our ancestors in the
temples.
Discussion
• What blessings does the Savior’s atonement provide for us?
• What must we do to return and live with our Heavenly
Father?
Temples of the Lord
Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are
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bers may go there to receive sacred ordinances and make
covenants with God. Like baptism, these ordinances and
covenants are necessary for our salvation. They must be performed in the temples of the Lord.
We also go to the temple to learn more about Heavenly Father
and his Son, Jesus Christ. We gain a better understanding of
our purpose in life and our relationship with Heavenly Father
and Jesus. We are taught about our premortal existence, the
meaning of earth life, and life after death.
Discussion
• Show a picture of a temple. Why are temples important in
our lives?
Temple Ordinances Seal Families Together Forever
All temple ordinances are performed by the power of the
priesthood. Through this power, ordinances performed on
earth are sealed, or bound, in heaven. The Savior taught his
Apostles, “Whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be
bound in heaven” (Matthew 16:19; see also D&C 132:7).
Only in the temple can we be sealed together forever as families. Marriage in the temple joins a man and woman as husband and wife eternally if they honor their covenants.
Baptism and all other ordinances prepare us for this sacred
event.
When a man and woman are married in the temple, their
children also become part of their eternal family. Couples
who have been married civilly can receive these blessings by
preparing themselves and their children to go to the temple
and be sealed to each other.
Discussion
• What does it mean to be sealed?
Our Ancestors Need Our Help
Mario Cannamela married Maria Vitta in 1882. They lived in
Tripani, Italy, where they raised a family and shared many
wonderful years together. Mario and Maria did not hear the
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message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ during their
lifetimes. They were not baptized. They did not have the opportunity to go to the temple and be sealed together as an
eternal family. At death, their marriage ended.
Over a century later a great reunion took place. Descendants
of Mario and Maria went to the Los Angeles Temple, where a
great-grandson and his wife knelt at an altar and served as
proxies for the sealing of Mario and Maria. Tears filled their
eyes as they shared in Mario and Maria’s joy.
Many of our ancestors are among those who died without
hearing about the gospel while on the earth. They now live in
the spirit world (see chapter 45, “The Postmortal Spirit
World”). There they are taught the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Those who have accepted the gospel are waiting for the
temple ordinances to be performed for them. As we perform
these ordinances in the temple for our ancestors, we can share
their joy.
Discussion
• How are baptism and other ordinances made available to
our ancestors?
Family History—How We Begin Helping Our Ancestors
Latter-day Saints are encouraged to participate in family history activities. Through these activities we learn about our ancestors so that we can perform ordinances for them. Family
history involves three basic steps:
1. Identify our ancestors.
2. Find out which ancestors need temple ordinances performed.
3. Make certain that the ordinances are performed for them.
Most wards have family history consultants who can answer
questions and direct us to the resources we need. If a ward
does not have a family history consultant, the bishop or
branch president can provide direction.
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Identify Our Ancestors
To perform temple ordinances for our ancestors, we need to
know their names. Many wonderful resources are available
today to help us identify our ancestors’ names.
A good way to begin gathering information about our ancestors is to see what we have in our own homes. We may have
birth, marriage, or death certificates. We may also find family
Bibles, obituaries, family histories, or diaries and journals. In
addition, we can ask relatives for information they have.
How much we learn will depend on what information is
available to us. We may have only a little family information
and may be able to do no more than identify our parents and
grandparents. If we already have a large collection of family
records, we may be able to identify ancestors from generations further back in time.
We can keep track of the information we gather on family
group records and pedigree charts. Samples of these forms are
shown at the end of this chapter.
Find Out Which Ancestors Need Temple Ordinances Performed
Temple ordinances have been performed for the dead since
the early days of the Church. Consequently, some ordinances
for our ancestors may have already been done. To find out
which ancestors need temple ordinances, we can look in two
places. Our own family records might have information about
what has been done. If not, the Church has a record of all
ordinances that have been performed in the temple.
Make Certain the Ordinances Are Performed
Many of our ancestors in the spirit world may be anxious to
receive their temple ordinances. As soon as we identify these
ancestors, we should arrange for this work to be done for
them.
One of the blessings of family history work comes from going
to the temple and performing ordinances in behalf of our
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ancestors. We should prepare ourselves to receive a temple
recommend so that, when possible, we can do this work. If
our children are twelve years or older, they can share in these
blessings by being baptized and confirmed for their ancestors.
If it is not possible for us to go to the temple to participate in
the ordinances, the temple will arrange to have the ordinances performed by other Church members.
Discussion
• How do we go about performing ordinances for our ancestors?
• What help is available if we need it?
Additional Family History Opportunities
In addition to providing temple ordinances for the ancestors
we know about, we can help those in the spirit world in many
other ways. We should seek the guidance of the Spirit as we
prayerfully consider what we might do. Depending on our
circumstances, we can do the following things:
1. Attend the temple as often as possible. After we have gone
to the temple for ourselves, we can perform the saving ordinances for others waiting in the spirit world.
2. Do research to identify ancestors who are more difficult to
find. Family history consultants can guide us to helpful
resources.
3. Serve in the Church’s name extraction program where it is
available. Through this program, members prepare genealogical information for use in the Church’s family history
computer programs. These programs make it easier for us
to identify our ancestors.
4. Contribute family history information to Ancestral FileTM,
one of the Church’s computer programs. It contains genealogies contributed by people all over the world. Ancestral File allows people to share their family information.
Family history consultants can provide more information
about Ancestral File.
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5. Participate in family organizations. We can accomplish
much more for our ancestors as we work together with
other family members.
Discussion
• What are some of the things we can do to help those in the
spirit world?
Additional Scriptures
• 1 Peter 4:6 (gospel was preached to the dead)
• Malachi 4:5–6; D&C 2:2; 3 Nephi 25:5–6 (mission of Elijah)
• D&C 1:8–9 (sealing power)
• 1 Corinthians 15:29; D&C 128:15–18 (work for the dead)
• D&C 138 (redemption of the dead)
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40
THE SECOND
COMING OF
JESUS CHRIST
Unit Nine
There are many signs that the second coming of the Lord is near.
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SIGNS OF THE
SECOND COMING
Chapter 41
Jesus Christ Will Return to the Earth
The Savior told Joseph Smith, “I will reveal myself from
heaven with power and great glory . . . and dwell in righteousness with men on earth a thousand years, and the
wicked shall not stand” (D&C 29:11; see also chapters 43 and
44, “The Second Coming of Jesus Christ” and “The Millennium”). Jesus has told us that certain signs and events will
warn us when the time of his second coming is near. This
second coming is also called “the great and dreadful day of
the Lord” (D&C 110:16).
Discussion
• Read Acts 1:9–11. What great truth did the two angels tell
the Apostles?
Signs Will Tell Us of Jesus’ Coming
For thousands of years, followers of Jesus have looked forward to the Second Coming as a time of peace and joy. But
before the Savior comes, the people of the earth will experience great trials and calamities. Our Heavenly Father wants
us to be prepared for these troubles. He also expects us to be
spiritually ready when the Savior comes in his glory. Therefore, he has given us signs, which are events that will tell us
when the Savior’s second coming is near. Throughout the ages
God has revealed these signs to his prophets. He has said that
all faithful followers of Christ will know what the signs
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are and will be watching for them (see D&C 45:39). If we are
obedient and faithful, we will study the scriptures and know
of the signs.
Discussion
• Why is it important to know the signs of the Second
Coming?
• How may we know the signs?
What Are the Signs Foretelling Jesus Christ’s Coming?
Some of the signs foretelling the second coming of Jesus
Christ have already been or are now being fulfilled. Others
will be fulfilled in the future.
Wickedness, War, and Turmoil
Many of the signs are terrifying and dreadful. The prophets
have warned that the earth will experience great turmoil,
wickedness, war, and suffering. The prophet Daniel said that
the time before the Second Coming would be a time of trouble
such as the earth has never known (see Daniel 12:1). The Lord
said, “The love of men shall wax cold, and iniquity shall
abound” (D&C 45:27). “And all things shall be in commotion;
and . . . fear shall come upon all people” (D&C 88:91). We can
expect earthquakes, disease, famines, great storms, lightnings,
and thunder (see Matthew 24:7; D&C 88:90). Hailstorms will
destroy the crops of the earth (see D&C 29:16).
Jesus told his disciples that war would fill the earth: “Ye shall
hear of wars and rumours of wars. . . . For nation shall rise
against nation, and kingdom against kingdom” (Matthew
24:6–7). These wars will continue until a great and final war,
the most destructive the world has known. In the midst of this
war the Savior will appear. (See Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon
Doctrine, p. 732.)
Many of these signs are being fulfilled. Wickedness is everywhere. Nations are constantly at war. Earthquakes and other
calamities are occurring. Many people now suffer from devastating storms, drought, hunger, and diseases. We can be cer-
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tain that these calamities will become more severe before the
Lord comes.
However, not all the events preceding the Second Coming are
dreadful. Many of them bring joy to the world.
The Restoration of the Gospel
The Lord said, “Light shall break forth among them that sit in
darkness, and it shall be the fulness of my gospel” (D&C
45:28). Prophets of old foretold the restoration of the gospel.
The Apostle John saw that the gospel would be restored by an
angel (see Revelation 14:6–7). In fulfillment of this prophecy,
the angel Moroni and other heavenly visitors brought the
gospel of Jesus Christ to Joseph Smith.
The Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon
The Lord told the Nephites of another sign: the Book of Mormon would come to their descendants (see 3 Nephi 21). In
Old Testament times the prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel foresaw
the coming of the Book of Mormon (see Isaiah 29:4–18;
Ezekiel 37:16–20). These prophecies are now being fulfilled.
The Book of Mormon has been brought forth and is being
taken to all the world.
The Gospel Preached to All the World
Another sign of Jesus’ coming is that the “gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all
nations” (Matthew 24:14). All people will hear the fulness of
the gospel in their own language (see D&C 90:11). Ever since
the restoration of the Church, missionaries have preached the
gospel. The missionary effort has increased until now tens of
thousands of missionaries preach in many countries of the
world in many languages. Before the Second Coming, the
Lord will provide a way to bring the truth to all nations.
The Coming of Elijah
The prophet Malachi predicted that before Christ came the
second time, the prophet Elijah would visit the earth. Elijah
would restore the sealing powers so families could be sealed
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together. He would also inspire people to be concerned about
their ancestors and descendants (see Malachi 4:5–6; D&C 2).
The prophet Elijah came to Joseph Smith in April 1836. Since
that time, interest in genealogy and family history has grown
rapidly. We are also able to perform sealing ordinances in the
temples for the living and the dead.
The Lamanites Will Become a Great People
The Lord said that when his coming was near, the Lamanites
would become a righteous and respected people. He said,
“Before the great day of the Lord shall come, . . . the Lamanites shall blossom as the rose” (D&C 49:24). Great numbers of
Lamanites in North and South America and the South Pacific
are now receiving the blessings of the gospel.
Building of the New Jerusalem
Near the time of the coming of Jesus, the faithful Saints will
build a righteous city, a city of God, called the New Jerusalem.
Jesus Christ himself will rule there. (See 3 Nephi 21:23–25.)
The Lord said the city will be built in the state of Missouri in
the United States (see D&C 84:3–4).
These are only a few of the signs that the Lord has given us.
The scriptures describe many more.
Discussion
• List some of the signs of the Second Coming. Discuss each
one.
Knowing the Signs of the Times Can Help Us
No one except our Heavenly Father knows exactly when the
Lord will come. The Savior taught this with the parable of the
fig tree. He said that when we see a fig tree putting forth
leaves, we can tell that summer will soon come. Likewise,
when we see the signs described in the scriptures, we can
know that his coming is near. (See Matthew 24:32–33.)
The Lord gave these signs to help us. We can put our lives in
order and prepare ourselves and our families for those things
yet to come.
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We do not need to worry about the calamities but can look
forward to the coming of the Savior and be glad. The Lord
said, “Be not troubled, for, when all these things [the signs]
shall come to pass, ye may know that the promises which
have been made unto you shall be fulfilled” (D&C 45:35). He
said those who are righteous when he comes will not be destroyed “but shall abide the day. And the earth shall be given
them for an inheritance; . . . and their children shall grow up
without sin. . . . For the Lord shall be in their midst, and his
glory shall be upon them, and he will be their king and their
lawgiver” (D&C 45:57–59).
Discussion
• How can knowing the signs of the Second Coming help us?
Additional Scriptures
• 1 Corinthians 15:22–28 (the end cometh; death is done
away)
• Matthew 16:1–4 (discern signs of the times)
• Matthew 24 (signs of the Second Coming)
• 1 Thessalonians 5:1–6 (watch for the signs and prepare)
• D&C 38:30 (prepare so we might not fear)
• D&C 68:11 (we can know the signs)
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Jacob blessed his sons and prophesied what would happen to their
descendants in the last days.
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THE GATHERING
OF THE
HOUSE OF ISRAEL
C h a p t e r 42
The House of Israel Are God’s Covenant People
Jacob was a great prophet who lived hundreds of years before
the time of Christ. Because Jacob was faithful, the Lord gave
him the special name of Israel, which means “a prince of God”
(see Genesis 32:28). Jacob had twelve sons. These sons and
their families became known as the twelve tribes of Israel, or
Israelites (see Genesis 49:28).
Jacob was a grandson of Abraham. The Lord made an everlasting covenant with Abraham that was renewed with Jacob
and his children (see Deuteronomy 32:7–9; see also chapter
15, “The Lord’s Covenant People”). God promised that the
Israelites would be his covenant people as long as they would
obey his commandments (see Deuteronomy 28:9–10). They
would be a blessing to all the nations of the world by taking
the gospel and the priesthood to them. Thus, they would
keep their covenant with the Lord and he would keep his
covenant with them.
Discussion
• Discuss the promise of the Lord to make the Israelites his
chosen people.
The House of Israel Was Scattered
Again and again prophets of the Lord warned the house of
Israel what would happen if they were wicked. Moses
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prophesied, “And the Lord shall scatter thee among all
people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other”
(Deuteronomy 28:64).
Gradually the Israelites began to break the commandments of
God. They fought among themselves and split into two kingdoms: the Northern Kingdom, called the kingdom of Israel,
and the Southern Kingdom, called the kingdom of Judah. Ten
of the twelve tribes of Israel lived in the Northern Kingdom.
During a war they were conquered by their enemies and carried away into captivity. Some of them later escaped into the
lands of the north and became lost to the rest of the world.
About one hundred years after the capture of the Northern
Kingdom, the Southern Kingdom was conquered. The capital
city of Jerusalem was destroyed in 586 b.c., and the remaining
two tribes of Israel were taken captive. Later, some of the
members of these tribes returned and rebuilt Jerusalem. Just
before Jerusalem was destroyed, Lehi and his family left the
city and settled in the Americas. The Lamanites are descendants of Lehi’s people.
After the time of Christ, Jerusalem was again destroyed, this
time by Roman soldiers. The Jews were scattered over much
of the world. Today Israelites are found in all countries of the
world. Many of these people do not know that they are descended from the ancient house of Israel.
Discussion
• Have class members list the important events that are part of
the scattering of the house of Israel.
The House of Israel Must Be Gathered
The Lord promised that the Israelites, his covenant people,
would someday be gathered: “I will gather the remnant of my
flock out of all countries whither I have driven them”
(Jeremiah 23:3).
The Lord has some important reasons for gathering the Israelites. The people of Israel need to learn the teachings of the
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gospel and prepare themselves to meet the Savior when he
comes again. The Israelites have the responsibility of building
temples and performing sacred ordinances for ancestors who
died without having this opportunity. The covenant people
of God must take the gospel to all nations. They must fulfill
the covenant to be a blessing to all the world.
The power and authority to direct the work of gathering the
house of Israel was given to Joseph Smith by the prophet
Moses, who appeared in 1836 in the Kirtland Temple (see
D&C 110:11). Since that time, each prophet has held the keys
for the gathering of the house of Israel, and this gathering has
been an important part of the Church’s work. The house of
Israel is now being gathered as they accept the restored gospel and serve the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (see
Deuteronomy 30:1–5).
Discussion
• List some of the reasons why the house of Israel must be
gathered.
How Will the House of Israel Be Gathered?
The Israelites are to be gathered spiritually first and then
physically. They are gathered spiritually when they join The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This spiritual
gathering began during the time of the Prophet Joseph Smith
and continues today all over the world. Converts to the
Church are Israelites either by blood or adoption. They belong
to the family of Abraham and Jacob (see Abraham 2:9–11; Galatians 3:26–29).
President Joseph Fielding Smith said: “There are many nations represented in the . . . Church. . . . They have come because the Spirit of the Lord rested upon them; . . . receiving
the spirit of gathering, they have left everything for the sake of
the gospel” (Doctrines of Salvation, 3:256).
The physical gathering of Israel means that the Israelites will
be “gathered home to the lands of their inheritance, and shall
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be established in all their lands of promise” (see 2 Nephi 9:2).
The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh will be gathered to the
land of America. The tribe of Judah will return to the city of
Jerusalem and the area surrounding it. The ten lost tribes will
receive from the tribe of Ephraim their promised blessings
(see D&C 133:26–35).
When the Church was first established, the Saints were instructed to gather in Ohio, then Missouri, and then the Salt
Lake Valley. Today, however, modern prophets have taught
that Church members are to build up the kingdom of God in
their own lands. Elder Bruce R. McConkie said:
“Every stake on earth is the gathering place for the lost sheep
of Israel who live in its area.
“The gathering place for Peruvians is in the stakes of Zion in
Peru, or in the places which soon will become stakes. The
gathering place for Chileans is in Chile; for Bolivians it is in
Bolivia; for Koreans it is in Korea; and so it goes through all
the length and breadth of the earth. Scattered Israel in every
nation is called to gather to the fold of Christ, to the stakes of
Zion, as such are established in their nations” (“Come: Let
Israel Build Zion,” Ensign, May 1977, p. 118).
The physical gathering of Israel will not be complete until the
second coming of the Savior (see Joseph Smith—Matthew
1:37). Then the Lord’s promise will be fulfilled:
“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that it shall no more
be said, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel
out of the land of Egypt;
“But, the Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel
from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he
had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land
that I gave unto their fathers” (Jeremiah 16:14–15).
Discussion
• In what two ways will the house of Israel be gathered?
Discuss each of these.
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Additional Scriptures
• Genesis 17:1–8 (God’s covenant with Abraham)
• 2 Kings 17 (Northern Kingdom taken captive)
• 2 Chronicles 36:11–20 (Southern Kingdom taken captive)
• James 1:1 (twelve tribes scattered abroad)
• 1 Nephi 10:12–13 (Nephite migration was part of the scattering)
• Jeremiah 3:14–18 (one from a city, two from a family)
• Jeremiah 31:7–14 (lost tribes to come from the north
countries)
• Ezekiel 20:33–36 (Israel will be gathered from all countries)
• 3 Nephi 20:29–46 (Jews will be gathered to Jerusalem)
• 3 Nephi 21:26–29 (gathering starts with restoration of the
gospel)
• D&C 133:26–34 (ten tribes to return from the north)
• Isaiah 11:11–13 (the Lord will recover his people)
• Revelation 18:4–8 (a voice will proclaim the gathering)
• D&C 133:6–15 (Gentiles to Zion, Jews to Jerusalem)
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Jesus Christ will return to the earth in glory.
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THE SECOND
COMING OF
JESUS CHRIST
C h a p t e r 43
Forty days after his resurrection, Jesus and his Apostles were
gathered together on the Mount of Olives. The time had come
for Jesus to leave the earth. He had completed all the work
that he had to do at that time. He was to return to our Heavenly Father until the time of his second coming.
After he had instructed his Apostles, Jesus ascended into
heaven. While the Apostles looked up into the heavens, two
angels stood beside them and said, “Ye men of Galilee, why
stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is
taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner
as ye have seen him go” (Acts 1:11).
From that time until the present day, the followers of Jesus
Christ have looked forward to the Second Coming.
Discussion
• Why is it important for us to know about the Second
Coming?
What Will Jesus Do When He Comes Again?
When Jesus Christ comes again to the earth, he will do the following things:
1. He will cleanse the earth. When Jesus comes again, he will
come in power and great glory. At that time the wicked will
be destroyed. All things that are corrupt will be burned, and
the earth will be cleansed by fire (see D&C 101:24–25).
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2. He will judge his people (see chapter 46, “The Last Judgment”). When Jesus comes again, he will judge the nations
and will divide the righteous from the wicked (see Matthew
25:31–46). John the Revelator wrote about this judgment: “I
saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was
given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were
beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of
God . . . and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand
years.” The wicked he saw “lived not again until the thousand years were finished” (Revelation 20:4–5; see also D&C
88:95–98).
3. He will usher in the Millennium. The Millennium is the
thousand-year period when Jesus will reign on the earth. At
the beginning of this period of time, the righteous will be
caught up to meet Jesus at his coming. His coming will
begin the millennial reign. (See chapter 44, “The Millennium.”)
Brigham Young said:
“In the Millennium, when the Kingdom of God is established on the earth in power, glory and perfection, and the
reign of wickedness that has so long prevailed is subdued,
the Saints of God will have the privilege of building their
temples, and of entering into them, becoming, as it were,
pillars in the temples of God, and they will officiate for their
dead. . . . And we will have revelations to know our forefathers clear back to Father Adam and Mother Eve, and we
will enter into the temples of God and officiate for them.
Then man will be sealed to man until the chain is made
perfect back to Adam, so that there will be a perfect chain of
Priesthood from Adam to the winding-up scene” (Discourses of Brigham Young, p. 116).
4. He will complete the Resurrection. Those who have obtained the privilege of coming forth in the Resurrection of
the Just will rise from their graves. They will be caught up
to meet the Savior as he comes down from heaven.
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After Jesus Christ rose from the dead, other righteous
people who had died were also resurrected. They appeared
in Jerusalem and also on the American continent (see
Matthew 27:52–53; 3 Nephi 23:9). This was the beginning of
the First Resurrection. Some people have been resurrected
since then. Those who already have been resurrected and
those who will be resurrected at the time of his coming will
all inherit the glory of the celestial kingdom (see D&C
76:50–70).
After the beginning of the Millennium, those who will receive a terrestrial glory will be resurrected (see D&C 88:99;
D&C 76:71–80). When all these people have been resurrected, the First Resurrection will be completed.
The wicked who are living at the time of the second coming
of the Lord will be destroyed in the flesh. They, along with
the wicked who are already dead, will have to wait until the
end of the Millennium before they can come forth from
their graves. At the end of the Millennium, the Second Resurrection will take place. All of the remaining dead will rise
to meet God. They will either inherit the telestial kingdom
or be cast into outer darkness with Satan (see D&C 76:32–
33, 81–112).
5. He will take his rightful place as king of heaven and earth.
When Jesus comes, he will establish his government on the
earth. The Church will become part of that kingdom. He
will rule all the people of the earth in peace for a thousand
years.
When Jesus Christ first came to the earth, he did not come
in glory. He was born in a lowly stable and laid in a manger
of hay. He did not come with great armies as the Jews had
expected of their Savior. Instead, he came saying, “Love
your enemies, . . . do good to them that hate you, and pray
for them which despitefully use you” (Matthew 5:44). He
was rejected and crucified. But he will not be rejected at his
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second coming, “for every ear shall hear it, and every knee
shall bow, and every tongue shall confess” that Jesus is the
Christ (D&C 88:104). He will be greeted as “Lord of Lords
and King of Kings.” He will be called “Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of
Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
Discussion
• Have members discuss some of the things the Lord will do
when he comes the second time.
How Will We Know When Jesus’ Coming Is Near?
When Jesus was born, very few people knew that the Savior
of the world had come. When he comes again, there will be no
doubt who he is. No one knows the exact time that the Savior
will come again. “Of that day and hour knoweth no man, no,
not the angels of heaven, but my Father only” (Matthew
24:36).
The Lord used a parable to give us an idea of the time of his
coming:
“Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet
tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is
near:
“So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to
pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors” (Mark 13:28–29).
The Lord has also given us some signs to let us know when
his coming is near. After revealing the signs, he cautioned:
“Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth
come. . . .
“Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son
of man cometh” (Matthew 24:42–44).
For more information about how we will know when Jesus’
second coming is near, see chapter 41, “Signs of the Second
Coming.”
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Discussion
• Read Mark 13:1–29. How can we know when the Savior’s
coming is near?
We Can Be Ready When the Savior Comes
The best way we can prepare for the Savior’s coming is to
accept the teachings of the gospel and make them part of our
lives. We should live each day the best we can, just as Jesus
taught when he was on the earth. We can look to the prophet
for guidance and follow his counsel. We can live worthy to
have the Holy Ghost guide us. Then we will look forward to
the Savior’s coming with happiness and not with fear. The
Lord said: “Fear not, little flock, the kingdom is yours until I
come. Behold, I come quickly. Even so. Amen” (D&C 35:27).
Discussion
• Read Matthew 25:1–13. What are some things we can do to
be ready when the Savior (the bridegroom) comes again?
Additional Scriptures
• John 14:2–3; Matthew 26:64 (Jesus to prepare a place and
come again)
• Malachi 3:2–3; 4:1; D&C 64:23–25 (earth to be burned)
• D&C 133:41–51 (wicked to be destroyed)
• Matthew 13:40–43 (the Judgment predicted)
• Romans 2:6–9; Revelation 20:12–13 (the Judgment)
• 1 Corinthians 15:40–42; D&C 78; 88:17–35 (degrees of glory)
• 2 Corinthians 12:2 (a man was caught up to the third
heaven)
• D&C 43:29–30; 29:11 (the Savior’s coming will usher in the
Millennium)
• Articles of Faith 1:10 (Jesus to reign)
• Alma 11:43–44; Alma 40 (the Resurrection explained)
• Helaman 14:25 (the dead to rise)
• Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 11:15; 1 Nephi 22:24–26 (Jesus to
reign as King)
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THE MILLENNIUM
C h a p t e r 44
A thousand years of peace, love, and joy will begin on the
earth at the second coming of Jesus Christ. This thousandyear period is called the Millennium. It will be the final thousand years of the earth’s temporal existence. The scriptures
and the prophets help us understand what it will be like to
live on the earth during the Millennium.
Discussion
• What is the Millennium?
Who Will Be on Earth during the Millennium?
Only righteous people will live on the earth during the Millennium. They will be those who have lived virtuous and
honest lives. These people will inherit either the terrestrial or
celestial kingdom.
During the Millennium, mortals will still live on earth, and
they will continue to have children as we do now (see D&C
45:58). Joseph Smith said that immortal beings will frequently
visit the earth. These resurrected beings will help with the
government and other work. (See Teachings of the Prophet
Joseph Smith, p. 268.)
Brigham Young taught that there will be nonmembers of The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints living on earth as
well as members. People will still have their agency, and for a
time many will continue to believe their false religions and
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ideas. Eventually everyone will accept Jesus Christ as the
Savior. (See Daniel H. Ludlow, ed., Latter-day Prophets Speak,
pp. 261–62.)
During the Millennium, Jesus will “reign personally upon the
earth” (Articles of Faith 1:10). Joseph Smith explained that
Jesus and the resurrected Saints will probably not live on the
earth all the time but will visit whenever they please or when
necessary to help in the governing of the earth (see Teachings
of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 268).
Discussion
• Who will be on the earth during the Millennium?
What Will Be Done during the Millennium?
There will be two great works for members of the Church during the Millennium: temple work and missionary work. Temple
work involves the ordinances that are necessary for exaltation.
These include baptism, the laying on of hands for the gift of
the Holy Ghost, and the temple ordinances—the endowment,
temple marriage, and the sealing together of family units.
Many people have died without receiving these ordinances.
People on the earth must perform these ordinances for them.
This work is now being done in the temples of the Lord. There
is too much work to finish before the Millennium begins, so it
will be completed during that time. Resurrected beings will
help us correct the mistakes we have made in doing research
concerning our dead ancestors. They will also help us find the
information we need to complete our records.
The other great work during the Millennium will be missionary work. The gospel will be taught with great power to all
people. Eventually there will be no need to teach others the
first principles of the gospel because “they shall all know me,
from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the
Lord” (Jeremiah 31:34).
Discussion
• Discuss the great works to be done during the Millennium.
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Conditions during the Millennium
The earth will again be as it was when Adam and Eve lived in
the Garden of Eden (see Articles of Faith 1:10). The whole
earth will be a delightful garden. There will not be different
continents as we have now, but the land will be gathered in
one place as it was in the beginning (see D&C 133:23–24).
Satan Bound
During the Millennium, Satan will be bound. This means he
will not have power to tempt those who are living at that time
(see D&C 101:28). The “children shall grow up without sin
unto salvation” (D&C 45:58). “Because of the righteousness of
his people, Satan has no power; wherefore, he cannot be
loosed for the space of many years; for he hath no power over
the hearts of the people, for they dwell in righteousness, and
the Holy One of Israel reigneth” (1 Nephi 22:26).
Peace on the Earth
During the Millennium, there will be no war. People will live
in peace and harmony together. Everything that has been
used for war will be turned to useful purposes. “They shall
beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into
pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war any more” (Isaiah 2:4).
Righteous Government
Jesus Christ will not only lead the Church during the Millennium, but he will also be in charge of the political government. This government will be based on principles of
righteousness and will preserve the basic rights and freedoms
of all people. Mortals, both members of the Church and nonmembers, will hold government positions (see Brigham
Young, in Journal of Discourses, 2:310). They will receive help
from resurrected beings. At this time there will be two capitals
in the world, one in Jerusalem, the other in America (see
Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 3:66–72). “For out
of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from
Jerusalem” (Isaiah 2:3).
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No Disease or Death
Even though mortals will live on the earth during the Millennium, they will not have diseases as we do now. There will be
no death as we know it. When people have lived to an old
age, they will not die and be buried. Instead, they will be
changed from their mortal condition to an immortal condition
in an instant (see D&C 63:51; 101:29–31).
All Things Revealed
Some truths have not been revealed to us. These will be revealed during the Millennium. The Lord said he will “reveal
all things—things which have passed, and hidden things
which no man knew, things of the earth, by which it was
made, and the purpose and the end thereof—things most
precious, things that are above, and things that are beneath,
things that are in the earth, and upon the earth, and in
heaven” (D&C 101:32–34).
Changes in the Animal Kingdom
The animal kingdom will also be at peace. All animals, even
those that are now enemies, will live together in harmony.
Animals that now eat flesh will eat grass and grain (see Isaiah
11:6–7).
Other Millennial Activities
In many ways, life will be much as it is now, except that
everything will be done in righteousness. People will eat and
drink and will wear clothing (see Discourses of Brigham Young,
p. 115). People will continue to plant and harvest crops and
build houses (see Isaiah 65:21).
Discussion
• Discuss the conditions that will exist during the Millennium.
Use the scriptural reference listed for each condition.
One Final Struggle after the Millennium
At the end of the thousand years, Satan will be set free for a
short time. Some people will turn away from Heavenly Father. Satan will gather his armies, and Michael (Adam) will
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gather the hosts of heaven. In this great struggle, Satan and his
followers will be cast out forever. Then will come the final
judgment, and all people will be assigned to the kingdoms
they will have prepared for by the way they have lived. The
earth will be changed into a celestial kingdom (see D&C
29:22–29; 88:17–20, 110–15).
Additional Scriptures
• Zechariah 14:4–9; 1 Nephi 22:24–26 (Jesus to reign on earth)
• Daniel 7:27 (Saints to be given the kingdom)
• D&C 88:87–110 (conditions during the Millennium)
• Revelation 20:1–3; 2 Nephi 30:10–18 (Satan to be bound)
• D&C 101:22–31 (enmity to cease; no death; Satan to have no
power to tempt)
• Isaiah 11:1–9 (wolf and lamb to dwell together)
• D&C 43:31; Revelation 20:7–10 (Satan loosed to gather
forces)
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LIFE AFTER DEATH
Unit Ten
We will join our families and loved ones in the spirit world after death.
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THE POSTMORTAL
SPIRIT WORLD
C h a p t e r 45
Heavenly Father prepared a plan for our salvation. As part
of this plan, he sent us from his presence to live on earth
and receive mortal bodies of flesh and blood. Eventually
our mortal bodies will die, and our spirits will go to the
spirit world. The spirit world is a place of waiting, working,
learning, and resting from care and sorrow. Our spirits will
live there until we are ready for our resurrection. Then our
mortal bodies will once more unite with our spirits, and we
will receive the degree of glory we have prepared for (see
chapter 46, “The Last Judgment”).
Many of us have wondered what the spirit world is like.
The scriptures and latter-day prophets have given us information about the spirit world.
Discussion
• What is the purpose of the spirit world?
Where Is the Spirit World?
In a funeral sermon, Joseph Smith declared that the spirits of
righteous people who have died “are not far from us, and
know and understand our thoughts, feelings, and motions,
and are often pained therewith” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph
Smith, p. 326). Other latter-day prophets have made similar
statements. President Ezra Taft Benson said: “Sometimes the
veil between this life and the life beyond becomes very thin.
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Our loved ones who have passed on are not far from us” (in
Conference Report, Apr. 1971, p. 18; or Ensign, June 1971,
p. 33). President Brigham Young said: “Where is the spirit
world? It is right here” (Discourses of Brigham Young, p. 376).
Discussion
• Where is the spirit world?
What Are Spirits Like?
Spirit beings have the same bodily form as mortals except that
the spirit body is in perfect form (see Ether 3:16). Spirits carry
with them from earth their attitudes of devotion or antagonism toward things of righteousness (see Alma 34:34). They
have the same appetites and desires that they had when they
lived on earth.
All spirits are in adult form. They were adults before their
mortal existence, and they are in adult form after death, even
if they die as infants or children (see Joseph F. Smith, Gospel
Doctrine, p. 455).
Discussion
• Read Ether 3:16. What do spirit bodies look like?
Divisions in the Spirit World
The prophet Alma in the Book of Mormon taught about two
divisions or states in the spirit world:
“The spirits of those who are righteous are received into a
state of happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a
state of peace, where they shall rest from all their troubles and
from all care, and sorrow.
“And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of the wicked,
yea, who are evil—for behold, they have no part nor portion
of the Spirit of the Lord; for behold, they chose evil works
rather than good; therefore the spirit of the devil did enter
into them, and take possession of their house—and these
shall be cast out into outer darkness; there shall be weeping,
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and wailing, and gnashing of teeth, and this because of their
own iniquity, being led captive by the will of the devil.
“Now this is the state of the souls of the wicked, yea, in darkness, and a state of awful, fearful looking for the fiery indignation of the wrath of God upon them; thus they remain in this
state, as well as the righteous in paradise, until the time of
their resurrection” (Alma 40:12–14).
The spirits are classified according to the purity of their lives
and their obedience to the will of the Lord while on earth. The
righteous and the wicked are separated (see 1 Nephi 15:28–
30), but the spirits may progress from one level to another as
they learn gospel principles and live in accordance with them
(see Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 762).
Discussion
• What divisions are there in the spirit world?
Paradise
According to the prophet Alma, the righteous spirits rest from
earthly care and sorrow. Nevertheless, they are occupied in
doing the work of the Lord. President Joseph F. Smith saw in
a vision that immediately after Jesus Christ was crucified, he
visited the righteous in the spirit world. He appointed messengers, gave them power and authority, and commissioned
them to “carry the light of the gospel to them that were in
darkness, even to all the spirits of men” (D&C 138:30).
The Church is organized in the spirit world, with each
prophet standing at the head of his own generation (see
Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 4:209). Priesthood holders
continue their responsibilities in the spirit world. President
Wilford Woodruff taught: “The same Priesthood exists on the
other side of the veil. . . . Every Apostle, every Seventy, every
Elder, etc., who has died in the faith as soon as he passes to
the other side of the veil, enters into the work of the ministry”
(in Journal of Discourses, 22:333–34).
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Family relationships are also important. President Jedediah
M. Grant, a counselor to Brigham Young, saw the spirit world
and described to Heber C. Kimball the organization that exists
there: “He said that the people he there saw were organized
in family capacities. . . . He said, ‘When I looked at families,
there was a deficiency in some, . . . for I saw families that
would not be permitted to come and dwell together, because
they had not honored their calling here’ ” (Heber C. Kimball,
in Journal of Discourses, 4:135–36).
Discussion
• What do the spirits in paradise do?
• Why are some families incomplete in paradise?
Spirit Prison
The Apostle Peter referred to the spirit world as a prison,
which it is for some (see 1 Peter 3:18–20). In the spirit prison
are the spirits of those who have not yet received the gospel
of Jesus Christ. These spirits have agency and may be enticed
by both good and evil. If they accept the gospel and the ordinances performed for them in the temples, they may prepare
themselves to leave the spirit prison and dwell in paradise.
Also in the spirit prison are those who rejected the gospel
after it was preached to them on earth or in the spirit prison.
These spirits suffer in a condition known as hell. They have
removed themselves from the mercy of Jesus Christ, who said,
“Behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they
might not suffer if they would repent; but if they would not
repent they must suffer even as I; which suffering caused
myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of
pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and
spirit” (D&C 19:16–18). After suffering in full for their sins,
they will be allowed to inherit the lowest degree of glory,
which is the telestial kingdom.
The hell in the spirit world will not continue forever. Even the
spirits who have committed the greatest sins will have suf-
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fered sufficiently by the end of the Millennium (see Acts 2:25–
27). They will then be resurrected.
Discussion
• What are some of the activities that go on in the spirit
world?
Additional Scriptures
• 1 Peter 4:6 (gospel preached to the dead)
• Moses 7:37–39 (spirit prison prepared for the wicked)
• D&C 76 (revelation about the three kingdoms of glory)
• Luke 16:19–31 (fate of beggar and rich man in the spirit
world)
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THE LAST
JUDGMENT
C h a p t e r 46
Judgments of God
We are often told in the scriptures that the day will come
when we will stand before God and be judged. We need to
understand how judgment takes place so we can be better
prepared for this important event.
The scriptures teach that all of us will be judged according to
our works: “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before
God; and the books were opened: and another book was
opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged
out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works” (Revelation 20:12; see also D&C 76:111;
1 Nephi 15:32; Abraham 3:25–28).
In this scripture, John the Revelator is referring to the Final
Judgment. This judgment is the last in a long series of judgments. In the premortal life all spirits who were judged worthy were allowed to receive a body and come to earth. Here
on earth we are often judged as to our worthiness to receive
opportunities within the kingdom of God. When we are baptized we are judged worthy to receive this ordinance. When
we are called to serve in the Church or interviewed for a
priesthood advancement or a temple recommend, we are
judged.
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Alma taught that when we die our spirits are assigned to a
state of happiness or of misery (see Alma 40:11–15). This is a
partial judgment.
Discussion
• Name some of the judgments we have received and will
receive.
Our Words, Works, and Thoughts Are Used to Judge Us
The prophet Alma testified, “Our words will condemn us, yea,
all our works will condemn us; . . . and our thoughts will also
condemn us” (Alma 12:14).
The Lord said: “Every idle word that men shall speak, they
shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy
words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be
condemned” (Matthew 12:36–37).
Only through faith in Jesus Christ can we be prepared for the
Final Judgment. Through faithful discipleship to him and repentance of all our sins, we can be forgiven for our sins and
become pure and holy so that we can dwell in the presence of
God. As we repent of our sins, giving up every impure
thought and act, the Holy Ghost will change our hearts so we
no longer have even the desire to sin. Then when we are
judged, we will be found ready to enter into God’s presence.
Discussion
• Ask class members to imagine hearing all their thoughts,
words, and actions revealed at the Judgment. Then have them
silently think about what they can do to improve their
thoughts, words, and actions.
We Will Be Judged by Records
The Prophet Joseph Smith said that the dead will be judged
out of records kept on earth. We will also be judged out of the
“book of life,” which is kept in heaven (see D&C 128:6–8).
“We are going to be judged out of the things written in books,
out of the revelations of God, out of the temple records, out of
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those things which the Lord has commanded us to keep. . . .
There will be the record in heaven which is a perfect record”
(Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 2:200).
There is another record that will be used to judge us. The
Apostle Paul taught that we ourselves are the most complete
record of our life (see Romans 2:15; 2 Corinthians 3:1–3).
Stored in our body and mind is a complete history of everything we have done. President John Taylor taught this truth:
“[The individual] tells the story himself, and bears witness
against himself. . . . That record that is written by the man
himself in the tablets of his own mind—that record that cannot lie—will in that day be unfolded before God and angels,
and those who sit as judges” (Daniel H. Ludlow, ed., Latterday Prophets Speak, pp. 56–57).
Discussion
• What are three records from which we will be judged?
• How do our daily thoughts and actions influence these
records?
Those Who Will Judge
The Apostle John taught that “the Father judgeth no man, but
hath committed all judgment unto the Son” (John 5:22). The
Son, in turn, will call upon others to assist in the Judgment.
The Twelve who were with him in his ministry will judge the
twelve tribes of Israel (see Matthew 19:28; Luke 22:30). The
Nephite Twelve will judge the Nephite and Lamanite people
(see 1 Nephi 12:9–10; Mormon 3:18–19). President John
Taylor said the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles in
our own dispensation will also judge us (see The Mediation and
Atonement, p. 157).
Discussion
• Read John 5:22. Who is at the head of the Judgment of all
people?
• Who will help judge the people living in our day?
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Assignment to Glories
At the Final Judgment we will be assigned to the kingdom for
which we are prepared. We will be sent to one of four places:
the celestial kingdom (the highest degree of glory), the terrestrial kingdom (the second degree), the telestial kingdom (the
lowest degree), or outer darkness (the kingdom of the devil—
not a degree of glory).
In Doctrine and Covenants 76, the Lord described the ways
we can choose to live our mortal lives. He explained that our
choices will determine which of the four kingdoms we are
prepared for. We learn from this revelation that even members of the Church will inherit different kingdoms because
they will not be equally faithful and valiant in their obedience
to Christ.
The following are the kinds of lives we can choose to live and
the kingdoms our choices will obtain for us.
Celestial
“They are they who received the testimony of Jesus, and believed on his name and were baptized, . . . that by keeping the
commandments they might be washed and cleansed from all
their sins, and receive the Holy Spirit.” These are they who
overcome the world by their faith. They are just and true so
that the Holy Ghost can seal their blessings upon them. (See
D&C 76:51–53.) Those who inherit the highest degree of the
celestial kingdom, who become gods, must also have been
married for eternity in the temple (see D&C 131:1–4). All who
inherit the celestial kingdom will live with Heavenly Father
and Jesus Christ forever (see D&C 76:62).
Terrestrial
These are they who rejected the gospel on earth but afterward
received it in the spirit world. These are the honorable people
on the earth who were blinded to the gospel of Jesus Christ by
the craftiness of men. These are also they who received the
gospel and a testimony of Jesus but then were not valiant.
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They will be visited by Jesus Christ but not by our Heavenly
Father. (See D&C 76:73–79.) They will not be part of eternal
families; they will live separately and singly forever (see D&C
131:1–4).
Telestial
These people did not receive the gospel or the testimony of
Jesus either on earth or in the spirit world. They will suffer for
their own sins in hell until after the Millennium, when they
will be resurrected. “These are they who are liars, and sorcerers, and adulterers, and whoremongers, and whosoever loves
and makes a lie.” These people are as numerous as the stars in
heaven and the sand on the seashore. They will be visited by
the Holy Ghost but not by the Father or the Son. (See D&C
76:81–86, 103–6.)
Outer Darkness
These are they who had testimonies of Jesus through the Holy
Ghost and knew the power of the Lord but allowed Satan to
overcome them. They denied the truth and defied the power
of the Lord. There is no forgiveness for them, for they denied
the Holy Spirit after having received it. They will not have a
kingdom of glory. They will live in eternal darkness, torment,
and misery with Satan and his angels forever. (See D&C
76:28–35, 44–48.)
Discussion
• Have someone tell about the three degrees of glory and
outer darkness and describe who will go to each (see D&C
76:50–88).
We Should Prepare Now for Judgment
In reality, every day is a day of judgment. We speak, think,
and act according to celestial, terrestrial, or telestial law. Our
faith in Jesus Christ, as shown by our daily actions, determines which kingdom we will inherit.
We have the restored gospel of Jesus Christ in its fulness. The
gospel is the law of the celestial kingdom. All the priesthood
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ordinances necessary for our progression have been revealed.
We have entered the waters of baptism and have made a
covenant to live Christlike lives. If we are faithful and keep
the covenants we have made, the Lord has told us what our
judgment will be. He will say unto us: “Come, ye blessed of
my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the
foundation of the world” (Matthew 25:34).
Discussion
• What must we do to be ready for the Final Judgment?
• Ask class members to think how they would feel about
hearing the words recorded in Matthew 25:34 spoken to
them.
Additional Scriptures
• D&C 88:98–102 (sounding of the trumps of judgment)
• Alma 11:41, 45; Mormon 7:6; 9:13–14 (we are judged in a
resurrected state)
• 2 Nephi 29:11; 3 Nephi 27:23–26 (books used in the Judgment)
• Alma 41:2–7 (our judgment is determined by our works, the
desires of our hearts, repentance, enduring to the end)
• Mormon 3:22 (repent and prepare to stand before the judgment seat)
• Luke 12:47–48; D&C 82:3 (of whom much is given, much is
required)
• D&C 88:16–33 (we each receive that for which we are
worthy)
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Those who are faithful to the end will be exalted with Heavenly Father
and Jesus Christ.
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EXALTATION
C h a p t e r 47
When we lived with our Heavenly Father, he explained a
plan for our progression. We could become like him, an exalted being. The plan required that we be separated from him
and come to earth. This separation was necessary to prove
whether we would obey our Father’s commandments even
though we were no longer in his presence. The plan provided
that when earth life ended, we would be judged and rewarded according to the degree of our faith and obedience.
We would then be assigned to the place for which we had
prepared.
Jesus taught, “In my Father’s house are many mansions”
(John 14:2). From the scriptures we learn that there are three
kingdoms of glory in heaven. The Apostle Paul mentioned
that he knew a man who was “caught up to the third heaven”
(2 Corinthians 12:2). Paul named two of the kingdoms in
heaven: the celestial and the terrestrial (see 1 Corinthians
15:40–42). The celestial is the highest, and the terrestrial is
second. Through latter-day revelation we learn that the third
kingdom is the telestial kingdom (see D&C 76:81). We also
learn that there are three heavens or degrees within the celestial kingdom (see D&C 131:1).
Discussion
• Have someone tell about our Heavenly Father’s plan for us.
301
Chapter
47
What Is Exaltation?
Exaltation is eternal life, the kind of life God lives. He lives in
great glory. He is perfect. He possesses all knowledge and all
wisdom. He is the Father of spirit children. He is a creator. We
can become like our Heavenly Father. This is exaltation.
If we prove faithful to the Lord, we will live in the highest
degree of the celestial kingdom of heaven. We will become
exalted, just like our Heavenly Father. Exaltation is the greatest gift that Heavenly Father can give his children (see D&C
14:7).
Discussion
• What is exaltation?
Blessings of Exaltation
Our Heavenly Father is perfect. However, he is not jealous of
his wisdom and perfection. He glories in the fact that it is
possible for his children to become like him. He has said, “This
is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality
and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).
Those who receive exaltation in the celestial kingdom
through faith in Jesus Christ will receive special blessings. The
Lord has promised, “All things are theirs” (D&C 76:59). These
are some of the blessings given to exalted people:
1. They will live eternally in the presence of Heavenly Father
and Jesus Christ (see D&C 76).
2. They will become gods.
3. They will have their righteous family members with them
and will be able to have spirit children also. These spirit
children will have the same relationship to them as we do
to our Heavenly Father. They will be an eternal family.
4. They will receive a fulness of joy.
5. They will have everything that our Heavenly Father and
Jesus Christ have—all power, glory, dominion, and knowledge. President Joseph Fielding Smith wrote: “The Father
has promised through the Son that all that he has shall be
given to those who are obedient to his commandments.
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47
They shall increase in knowledge, wisdom, and power, going from
grace to grace, until the fulness of the perfect day shall burst upon
them” (Doctrines of Salvation, 2:36).
Discussion
• List some of the blessings that will be given to those who
are exalted.
Requirements for Exaltation
The time to fulfill the requirements for exaltation is now (see
Alma 34:32–34). President Joseph Fielding Smith said, “In order to obtain the exaltation we must accept the gospel and all
its covenants; and take upon us the obligations which the
Lord has offered; and walk in the light and understanding of
the truth; and ‘live by every word that proceedeth forth from
the mouth of God’ ” (Doctrines of Salvation, 2:43).
To be exalted, we first must place our faith in Jesus Christ and
then endure in that faith to the end of our lives. Our faith in
him must be such that we repent of our sins and obey his
commandments.
He commands us all to receive certain ordinances:
1. We must be baptized and confirmed a member of the
Church of Jesus Christ.
2. We must receive the laying on of hands for the gift of the
Holy Ghost.
3. We must receive the temple endowment.
4. We must be married for time and eternity.
In addition to receiving the required ordinances, the Lord
commands all of us to—
1. Love and worship God.
2. Love our neighbor.
3. Repent of our wrongdoings.
4. Live the law of chastity.
5. Pay honest tithes and offerings.
6. Be honest in our dealings with others and with the Lord.
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47
7. Speak the truth always.
8. Obey the Word of Wisdom.
9. Search out our kindred dead and perform the saving ordinances of the gospel for them.
10. Keep the Sabbath day holy.
11. Attend our Church meetings as regularly as possible so we
can renew our baptismal covenants by partaking of the
sacrament.
12. Love our family members and strengthen them in the
ways of the Lord.
13. Have family and individual prayers every day.
14. Honor our parents.
15. Teach the gospel to others by word and example.
16. Study the scriptures.
17. Listen to and obey the inspired words of the prophets of
the Lord.
Finally, each of us needs to receive the Holy Ghost and learn
to follow his direction in our individual lives.
Discussion
• Why are faith in and obedience to Jesus Christ necessary to
become exalted?
• What ordinances must we accept in order to become exalted?
• What laws does the Lord give us that we must obey to become exalted?
• Why must we learn to follow the direction of the Holy
Ghost to become exalted?
After We Have Endured to the End
What happens when we have endured to the end in faithful
discipleship to Christ? The Lord has said, “If you keep my
commandments and endure to the end you shall have eternal
life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God” (D&C
14:7). President Joseph Fielding Smith said, “If we will continue in God; that is, keep his commandments, worship him
and live his truth; then the time will come when we shall be
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47
bathed in the fulness of truth, which shall grow brighter and
brighter until the perfect day” (Doctrines of Salvation, 2:36).
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught: “When you climb up a ladder,
you must begin at the bottom, and ascend step by step, until you
arrive at the top; and so it is with the principles of the Gospel—you
must begin with the first, and go on until you learn all the principles
of exaltation. But it will be a great while after you have passed
through the veil [died] before you will have learned them. It is not all
to be comprehended in this world; it will be a great work to
learn our salvation and exaltation even beyond the grave” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 348).
This is the way our Heavenly Father became God. Joseph
Smith taught: “It is the first principle of the Gospel to know
for a certainty the character of God. . . . He was once a man
like us; . . . God himself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth,
the same as Jesus Christ himself did” (Teachings of the Prophet
Joseph Smith, pp. 345–46).
Our Heavenly Father knows our trials, our weaknesses, and
our sins. He has compassion and mercy on us. He wants us to
succeed even as he did.
Imagine what joy each of us will have when we return to our
Heavenly Father if we can say: “Father, I did what you
wanted me to do. I have been faithful and have kept your
commandments. I am happy to be home again.” Then we will
hear him say, “Well done; . . . thou hast been faithful over a
few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter
thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:23).
Discussion
• Describe how you might feel to hear the Savior’s words in
Matthew 25:23.
• What must we do to endure to the end?
Additional Scriptures
• D&C 132:3–4, 16–26, 37 (pertaining to exaltation)
• D&C 131:1–4 (eternal marriage is key to exaltation)
• D&C 76:59–70 (blessings of celestial glory explained)
305
THE ARTICLES
OF FAITH
In the spring of 1842, the Prophet Joseph Smith sent a letter to
John Wentworth, who was editor of a newspaper called the
Chicago Democrat. This letter contained an account of many of
the events of early Church history. The document also contained thirteen statements outlining Latter-day Saint beliefs.
These have come to be known as the Articles of Faith, which
are given below.
The Articles of Faith are official doctrine of the Church and
have been canonized as a part of latter-day scripture. They
are clear statements of belief that help members understand
the basic beliefs of the Church and explain these beliefs to
others. They are not, however, a complete summary of Church
doctrine. Through living prophets, the Church is guided by
continuous revelation and inspiration.
1
2
3
We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus
Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.
We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and
not for Adam’s transgression.
We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind
may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the
Gospel.
306
The
Articles
of
Faith
4
We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel
are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third,
Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of
hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
5
We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by
the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the
Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
6
We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive
Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists,
and so forth.
7
8
We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions,
healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.
We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated
correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of
God.
9
We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal,
and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important
things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
10
We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the
restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem)
will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign
personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and
receive its paradisiacal glory.
11
We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men
the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what
they may.
12
13
We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and
magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.
We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous,
and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we
follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all
things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure
all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or
praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
Joseph Smith
307
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Doctrine and Covenants 59:1– 4
311
Come, Ye Children of the Lord
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312
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Revelation 7:9–17
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313
Exodus 13:21–22
1 Nephi 22:12
How Firm a Foundation
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315
Isaiah 41:10; 43:2–5
Helaman 5:12
Count Your Blessings
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Music: Edwin O. Excell, 1851–1921
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Doctrine and Covenants 78:17–19
Alma 34:38
317
Let Us All Press On
q = 92-108
With vigor
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Text and music: Evan Stephens, 1854–1930
may say,
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1 Nephi 22:15–17
319
I Need Thee Every Hour
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Psalm 143:1
320
Sweet Is the Work
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Text: Isaac Watts, 1674–1748
Music: John J. McClellan, 1874–1925
Psalm 92:1– 5
Enos 1:27
321
Joseph Smith’s First Prayer
With dignity
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Music: Sylvanus Billings Pond, 1792–1871; adapted by
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323
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of
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James 1:5
Behold the Great Redeemer Die
Reverently
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glo
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6. He lives— he lives. We humbly now
Around these sacred symbols bow,
And seek, as Saints of latter days,
And seek, as Saints of latter days,
To do his will and live his praise.
Doctrine and Covenants 18:11
Luke 22:42; 23:46
Text: Eliza R. Snow, 1804–1887
Music: George Careless, 1839–1932
325
O God, the Eternal Father
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Text: William W. Phelps, 1792–1872. Included in the first
LDS hymnbook, 1835.
Music: Felix Mendelssohn, 1809–1847
˙˙ ..
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œ œ œœ ˙˙ ..
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all
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326
sanc - ti - fy,
flesh and blood,
souls with love —
Lord
in flesh,
œ œ œœ .. œœ ˙˙ ..
œ œ
J
œ
œœ # # œœ œœ œ ˙˙ ..
œ ˙
œœ œ ˙ ˙˙
mem - ber
Spir - it
Sav - ior,
sta - tion,
œ œ œœ .. œœj ˙
˙
œ œ
J
To
And
To
And
œœ œœ
If
we
are pure be - fore
thee,
That we may ev - er
wit - ness
With no
ap - par - ent beau - ty,
To walk up - on his foot - stool
j
œ œ œœ .. œœ ˙˙ ..
œ œ
J
œ
œ
di - vine —
as one.
with fire.
was lost.
œ ˙˙ ..
œ
Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79
Isaiah 53:2–5
How Great the Wisdom and the Love
[
Calmly
]
&
b 43
[
œ
q = 66-76
œ
˙
œ œœ
1. How great
2. His
pre 3. By
strict
4. He marked
3 œœ
b
4
?
œ˙
& b œ˙ œ œœ
filled
life
prize
ev
-
˙
?b˙
& b œœ œœ œœ
from
fice
mine
end -
œ œœ
œ
˙
˙
˙
U
˙
˙
˙˙
u
dom and
he
free
dience Je
and
led
high
gave,
rife:
fines
œ
œ
œœ
5. In mem’ry of the broken flesh
We eat the broken bread,
And witness with the cup, afresh,
Our faith in Christ, our Head.
˙˙
the
ly
sus
the
love
spilt;
won
way,
œ
œ
˙˙
the
less
O
and
œ
œ
That
His
The
And
œ
œ
˙
˙
œœ
Sav - ior
sac - ri God,
not
life
and
˙œ œ œœ
œ œœ
˙œ
]
˙˙
œ nœ bœ
œ œ œ
œœ
To
suf A
dy A - dorned
Where God’s
œœ
-
And sent
A
sin “Thy will,
To
light
˙˙
[
-
˙˙
œ
œ
˙˙
on
ly
ry
de -
œ˙ œ œ
œ # œœ
œ
œ˙ œ œ
a - bove
for guilt,
be
done,”
less day
œ˙ œ œ
œ
?b
œ˙
the
wis cious blood
o - be the
path
the courts
he
free with glo ’ry point
œœ
œ
œ œ
œœ
˙
œ œ
œœ
˙
]
˙˙
fer, bleed,
and
die!
ing world
to
save.
his
mor - tal
life.
full pres - ence shines.
œœ
˙˙
œ
œ
˙˙
˙
6. How great, how glorious, how complete,
Redemption’s grand design,
Where justice, love, and mercy meet
In harmony divine!
Text: Eliza R. Snow, 1804–1887
Music: Thomas McIntyre, 1833–1914
Verses 1, 2, 5, and 6 are especially appropriate for the sacrament.
327
Moses 4:1–2
Alma 42:14–15
Jesus, Once of Humble Birth
Solemnly
## 3[
& 4 ˙˙
œœ
1. Je 2. Once
3. Once
4. Once
# 3 ˙
? #4 ˙
&
##
q = 76-88
˙˙
œœ
sus, once
a
meek
he groaned
for - sak -
œœ
˙
˙
## ˙
? ˙
## ˙
& ˙
comes
char King
now
# ˙
? #˙
to earth.
I
Am.
ap - pears.
a throne.
œœ
Once
Once
Once
Once
œ ˙˙ Œ ˙˙
œ
œ ˙ œ
˙˙
˙˙
œœ
œœ
]
˙˙
œœ
˙˙
Now
Now
Now
Now
œœ ˙
˙
˙
œœ
œœ
˙
˙
œœ
œœ œœ œœ ˙˙ Œ ˙˙
œ
œ
Œ ˙˙
œœ
˙˙
Now he
Now his
Now their
But
he
œœ ˙
˙ Œ ˙˙
[
Text: Parley P. Pratt, 1807–1857
Music: Giacomo Meyerbeer, 1791–1864, adapted
328
œ
œ
]
œœ
˙˙
œœ œœ œœ œœ ˙ .
Now he comes on earth
Now his char - iot
is
Now their King he shall
But
he now will bear
˙ Œ ˙˙
œœ
in
glo - ry
the Lord, the
in
glo - ry
ex - alt - ed
he suf - fered grief and pain;
up - on the cross
he bowed;
re - ject - ed
by
his own,
all things he meek - ly bore,
˙ Œ ˙
˙
on earth to reign.
iot
is the cloud.
he shall be known.
will bear no more.
œ ˙ œ
Œ
of hum - ble birth,
and low - ly Lamb,
in blood and tears;
en, left
a - lone,
œœ œœ œœ ˙˙ Œ ˙˙
comes
great
he
to
œœ œœ œ ˙
œ ˙
œœ
˙
˙
œœ ˙
˙
to reign.
the cloud.
be known.
no more.
œ ˙˙ ..
œ
Luke 2:7
Matthew 25:31
God, Our Father, Hear Us Pray
Worshipfully
# 3[
& 4 ˙˙
q = 69 - 84
œ
œœ œœ œ
# œœ
1. God,
2. Grant
3. As
our
Fa us,
Fa we drink
#3 œ
? 4 ˙ œ # œœ
#
& œœ n œœ œœ # ˙˙
grace
smile
Spir
-
this
ho
up - on
it
lin
# œ˙ œ œœ
?
[
]
#
& # ˙˙
# ˙
? ˙
œ
œ
-
˙˙
blest,
bread,
pray;
˙˙ ..
˙˙
œ œ ˙.
˙.
œ
œ œ ˙ ..
˙
œ
em - blems
bro - ken
Lord, we
ther, hear
ther, grace
the
wa -
œ œ
œ
œ˙
˙
˙
ly
us
ger
day.
shine.
near.
œ
œ
˙˙ ..
˙
˙
us pray;
di - vine;
ter clear,
œœ
# œœ
Send
May
Let
thy
thy
thy
œœ
˙˙
˙˙ ..
˙˙
# œœ
As
As
Par
we
we
don
-
œ
œœ œœ œ
take
eat
faults,
of
the
O
œ˙
œ œ
œ
œ
œ
˙.
˙.
our Sav - ior’s love
ap - prov - al
on
our
ef - forts day
we
us
by
rest.
shed.
day.
œœ œœ œ
œœ
˙˙ ..
[
œ œ œ
#˙
œ
On
Thine
Bless
]
˙.
˙.
œ
œ
# ˙œ œ œœ
Text: Annie Pinnock Malin, 1863–1935
Music: Louis M. Gottschalk, 1829–1869;
adapted by Edwin P. Parker, 1836–1925
œ œ #œ
œ
˙
œ œ
œœ œ œ
˙
˙
˙˙
]
Doctrine and Covenants 59:9–12
2 Nephi 10:24–25
329
I Stand All Amazed
Thoughtfully
q = 66-84
b b3
& b b 4 œœ œœ œœ œœ
Duet
œœ
œ œ
œ œ
œœ
œœ
œœ
œœ .. œœ œœ ..
1. I stand all a - mazed
at
the love
Je - sus of - fers me,
2. I mar - vel that he
would de - scend from his throne di - vine
3. I think of his hands pierced and bleed - ing to pay the debt!
b 3
? b bb 4 Œ ˙.
b b j
& b b œœ
J
˙.
œœ œœ œœ
œ
˙.
œœ
œœ œ
œ
œœ
œœ œœ
Con - fused at the grace that so
ful - ly
he
To
res - cue a
soul so re - bel - lious and
Such mer - cy, such love, and de - vo - tion can
b
? b bb ‰
˙.
b b j
& b b œœ œœ
˙.
œ
œ
œœ
œœ
œœ œœ
œœ .. n œœ b œœ ..
prof - fers me.
proud as mine,
I
for - get?
œ
˙.
œœ œœ œœ
œ.
œ.
œœ .. œœ œœ ..
I
trem - ble
to
know that for
me he was cru - ci - fied,
That he should ex - tend his great love un - to such as I,
No, no,
I
will praise and a - dore at the mer - cy seat,
b
? b bb ‰
˙.
˙.
˙.
330
œ
œ.
b b œj
b
& b œ
œœ n œœ œœ œ œœ œœ
nœ
œœ
œœ
œœ
œœ .. n œœ b ˙˙
That for me, a
sin - ner, he
suf - fered, he bled and died.
Suf - fi - cient to own, to re - deem, and to
jus - ti - fy.
Un - til
at the glo - ri - fied throne I kneel at his feet.
˙.
b
? b bb ‰
˙.
b b œ œ
& b b œ œ œœ
[
˙.
˙.
œ . œ œ œœ œ œ
œ. œ œ
œ œ
œœ .. œœ œœ œœ œœ œœ
Harmony
Oh,
it
is
won - der-ful that he should care for me
E - nough to
b b œ œ œ
b
? b œ œ œ
œœ .. œœ œœ œœ œœ œœ
œœ .. œ œ œ œ œ
œ œ œ œ œ
bb b
& b œœ .. œœ ˙˙
œ œ œ
œ œ œ
œœ .. œœ œ œ ˙
œ œ ˙
die for me!
b
? b bb
œ. œ ˙
Oh, it
is
œœ œœ œ
œœ .. œœ ˙˙
won - der-ful,
œ. nœ ˙
œ. œ ˙
Text and music: Charles H. Gabriel, 1856–1932
won - der-ful to
]
me!
n œ . œœ œœ œœ ˙
œ.
˙
Mosiah 3:5 –8
John 15:13
331
There Is a Green Hill Far Away
q = 72 - 84
Reverently
b b 4[
b
4 œœ
&
œœ
œœ
1. There
is
a
2. We
may
not
3. There was
no
4. Oh,
dear - ly,
b b 44 œœ
b
?
b
& b b œœ
œœ
œ
œ
bb œ
b
œ
&
œœ
œœ
œ
œ
œœ
œœ
˙˙ ..
œ
œ
œ
œœ
œœ
œœ ..
hill
we
er
ly
far
can
good
has
œ
œ
œ.
œ.
j
œœ œœ
a - way,
not tell,
e - nough
he loved!
-
œ œ
œ œ
J
œœ n œœ
œ
œ
wall,
bear,
sin.
too,
Where the dear
But
we
be He
on - ly
And
trust in
˙˙ ..
œœ
œœ
œœ b œœ
With What
To
And
œ
œ
œ
œ
œœ
Lord was
lieve
it
could un his
re -
œœ
œ
œ
]
œœ
cru - ci - fied,
was
for
us
lock the gate
deem - ing blood,
œ
bb œ
b
?
green
know,
oth dear -
œœ
out
a
cit - y
pains he
had
to
pay
the price of
we must love him
b œ
?b b œ
œœ
œ
œ
œœ
œ
œ
œœ
œœ
œœ
Who died
to
save
us
He
hung and
suf - fered
Of
heav’n and
let
us
And
try
his works to
œ
œ
œ
œ
œœ
Text: Cecil Frances Alexander, 1818–1895
Music: John H. Gower, 1855–1922
œ
œ
œ
œ
˙˙ ..
all.
there.
in.
do.
˙˙ ..
John 19:16–20
Hebrews 13:12
332
We’ll Sing All Hail to Jesus’ Name
Fervently
b3
& b 4 œœ
[
q = 76-88
œ œ œ
˙
œ
1. We’ll sing
2. He
passed
3. He
seized
4. The bread
all
the
the
and
hail
por
keys
wa
œ
3
b
?b 4 œ
œ œ œ
œ œ œ
b
& b ˙˙
œœ n œ˙ œ œœ
praise
va
bruised
sac
-
?
˙
bb ˙
and
tion
the
ri -
˙
˙
vary’s
bound
un ti
-
œ
œ
œœ
hill
soul
fold,
fy
˙
˙
Je
of
death
rep
-
œœ
˙˙
œœ
name,
grave;
hell
sent
To
He
He
Ye
him
called
bid
Saints,
œ
œ
˙
˙
œ
œ
œœ .. œœ œœ œœ
who bled
up - on
the
pris
par - take
œ
œ
˙
˙
œ˙
˙
on
the
on
and
-
œ œ
œ
œ œ ˙˙
œ
that
we
might
the heav’n - ly
yield
up
her
re - mem - ber
˙
œ
œ. œœ œ
And
Sal And
His
˙
˙
œœ
œœ .. œœ œœ œœ
˙ œ œ
œ. œ œ
And died
To
join
The grave
Ye
do
œœ œœ œœ
sus’
the
and
re -
˙˙
œ˙ œ œœ
[
b ˙˙
b
?
-
˙˙
œœ
bb
& œœ . œ œJ œœ œœ œœ œœ œœ
Cal
sin
doors
tes
-
œœ .. œœ œœ œœ
to
tals
of
ter
-
hon - or
give
was
his
song;
ser - pent’s head;
fice
for
sin;
œœ
]
œœ œœ œœ
œ
œ
]
live.
throng.
dead.
him.
˙˙
2 Nephi 9:5, 10–12
Moses 4:20 –21
Text: Richard Alldridge, 1815–1896
Music: Joseph Coslett, 1850–1910
333
In Humility, Our Savior
Meekly
[
q = 72 - 84
3
& b 4 ˙˙
1. In
2. Fill
œœ
œ
œ
Spir tol
-
˙˙
?b
œœ
œ˙ œ œœ
œ˙ œ œœ
it
here,
er - ance
œ
œ
we
and
œ œ œ
œ œ œ
˙
& b ˙œ œ œœ œœ œœ œœ ˙
bread
ac -
and wa
cess to
œ œ œ ˙
œ œ ˙
?b œ
-
ter
thee
In
In
œ ˙˙
œ
]
˙œ œ œœ
hu - mil
i - ty,
our hearts
with sweet
3 ˙˙
b
4
?
& b ˙˙
œ˙ œ œœ
œœ œœ œœ
our Sav
for - giv
œ œ œ
œ œ œ
œ
œ
œœ
˙˙
pray,
love.
As
Let
˙˙ ..
˙˙
˙˙
ior,
ing;
˙
˙
˙.
œœ
-
œœ
334
˙˙
œ
œ
Grant
Teach
˙˙
œ
œ
œœ
thy
us
œœ
œ˙ œ œœ
we bless
our prayers
the
find
œ˙ œ œœ
œ˙ œ œœ ˙ .
thy name
this ho thy ho - ly courts
œœ
˙˙
ly day.
a - bove.
œ œ œ ˙˙ ..
œ œ œ
[
]
˙
&b˙
Let
Then,
œœ # œœ œœ œ
œ
me not
when we
˙˙
œœ
for - get,
have prov
-
œœ
œ œ œœ
˙
˙˙
œ
& b œœ œœ œ
œœ œœ œ
œ
œ˙ . ˙
˙˙
b
?
bleed
sac -
and die
ri - fice
˙
œ
œ
œ
b
œ
?
˙
˙
œ
œ
and bro - ken On
thy pres - ence; Let
œ ˙
œ ˙
-
˙
œ
œ œ œ
œ œ œ
˙ œ
œœ
didst
thy
œ
œ
œœ œ œœ
thy heart
let
us
˙œ œ œœ
˙˙
Thou
Of
˙˙
œ˙ œ œœ
˙œ œ
œœ
˙˙
ior,
thy
When
Lord,
œœ
[
œ˙ œ œœ ˙
˙
b
?
œ
œ
Sav
wor
for
me
di - vine,
˙
& b œ˙ œ œœ œœ œ œœ œ œœ ˙
stilled
gain
O
en
œœ n œœ œ
œ
was
re -
˙œ
œ
œ œ
]
œœ ˙˙ ..
the cross
at Cal - va - ry.
thy glo - ry round us shine.
œœ
Text: Mabel Jones Gabbott, b. 1910. © 1948 LDS
Music: Rowland H. Prichard, 1811–1887
œ œ œ
œ œ œ
˙
˙
œ ˙˙ ..
œ
2 Nephi 2:7
Doctrine and Covenants 59:9
335
The Spirit of God
Exultantly
b4
& b 4 œœ
[
œ
4
b
?b 4 œ
˙
˙
œœ œœ
˙
˙
1. The
2. The
3. We’ll
4. How
b
& b œœ
q = 96 -112
Spir - it of
Lord
is ex call
in our
bless - ed the
˙
˙
œœ œœ
œ œ
œœ œœ œ œ
The
lat - ter - day
Re - stor - ing their
To spread forth the
Shall lie
down to -
b œ
?b œ
˙˙
œœ œœ
b
& b œœ
˙
˙
œœ
œœ
œ œ
œ œ
God like
tend - ing
sol - emn
day when
˙
˙˙
œœ œœ
a
fire
is
burn - ing!
the Saints’ un - der - stand - ing,
as - sem - blies in
spir - it,
the lamb and the
li - on
œœ œœ
œ
œ
˙ œ œœ œ
˙˙
œœ œœ
œœ œ œœ œ
œ
œ
œ œ
œ œ
˙
˙
b
& b œœ
œ œœ
œ
œœ œ œ
œœ
œœ
And an - gels are
The veil
o’er the
The
vi - sions and
As
Je - sus de -
bœ
?b œ
˙˙
œœ œœ
˙
œœ œœ
˙˙ ..
œ œœ œœ œœ
œ
˙˙
˙˙
œ
œ
to come forth;
as at
first.
- en a - broad,
an - y
ire,
The
vi - sions and bless - ings of
old
The knowl - edge and
pow - er of God
That we through our
faith
may be - gin
And
E - phraim be crowned with his bless -
b œœ
b
?
˙
˙
œ œœ œ œ
œ œ
œ
glo - ry be - gins
judg - es and
all
king - dom of
heav
geth - er with - out
˙
˙
j]
œœ .. œœ œœ
œœ œœ
are
are
to
ing
˙.
˙.
j
œ
œœ .. œ œœ
re - turn - ing,
ex - pand - ing;
in - her - it
in
Zi - on,
œœ œœ
˙
˙
œ˙ œ œ œ
œ œ
œ œ œ œ
œ œ œ œ
˙˙ ..
com - ing to
earth
is be bless - ings and
scends
with his
vis - it the
gin - ning to
glo - ries of
char - iot of
earth.
burst.
God.
fire!
œœ œœ œœ œ
œ
336
œ œ œœ œœ
œ œ
˙.
˙.
œ
œ
[
]
b
& b œœ
˙˙
We’ll sing
b œœ
b
?
˙
˙
œœ œœ
˙˙
œœ œœ
œ œœ œœ n œœ
œ
and we’ll
shout
with the
ar - mies of
˙˙
œœ œœ
œœ œ
œ
˙
˙
b
œ œ
& b œœ œ ˙œ œ œ œ
Ho - san
bœ
?b œ
b œ
&b œ
Let
b œœ
b
?
-
na, ho - san
œœ œœ œœ œ
œ
œ œ œ œ
˙
œ œ
glo
˙œ
-
ry
to
œ
œ œœ
˙˙
œœ œ
œ
-
na
to
œ œ
œ œ
œ
b
?b œ
œ œ
œ œ
˙
˙
j
œ. œ ˙.
œ. œ ˙.
God
˙˙
them
in the
˙˙
œ œ
œ œ
- ev
-
the Lamb!
œ . œœ
œ. J
˙˙ ..
[
œ˙ œ œ œ
jest be giv - en,
œ˙ . œ œœ œ œœ œœ œœ
œ
high
-
˙
˙
er, A - men
œœ œ œ œ
œ œ œ
Text: William W. Phelps, 1792–1872. Included in the first LDS
hymnbook, 1835. Sung at the Kirtland Temple dedication in 1836.
Music: Anon., ca. 1844
337
and
˙
˙
œœ œ œ
œ œ
j
œ˙ . œ œ œ
œ nœ
œ œ
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jand for
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.
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&
Hence - forth
œ˙ œ œ œ
˙
œ œœ
œ
˙.
˙.
]
and a - men!
œ œ
œ œ
˙˙ ..
Doctrine and Covenants
109:79–80
Doctrine and Covenants 110
High on the Mountain Top
h = 56 -72
Resolutely
#2[
& 2 œ
œœ
1. High on
2. For God
3. His house
4. For there
œ
# 22 œ
?
#
&
œœ
œ
œ
˙˙ ..
œœ
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the moun-tain top
re - mem - bers still
shall there be reared,
we shall be taught
œ œ
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œ
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#
&
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er
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On
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And save
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our
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It
waves to
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all the earth.
œ œ œ ˙.
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In
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We’ll now
For - ev
œœ œœ œœ œœ
˙˙
Ye
na - tions, now look
up;
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œ
# œ
?
]
˙˙ ..
A
ban - ner is un - furled.
His prom - ise made of
old
His glo - ry to dis - play,
The law that will go forth,
˙
˙
œœ # œœ
œœ œ
œœ œœ œœ œœ
œœ
mount
world
truth
selves
œ
œ
Text: Joel H. Johnson, 1802–1882
Music: Ebenezer Beesley, 1840–1906
œ œ
œ œ
œ œœ œœ # œ
œ
Œ
peace
tract
serve
ways
-
ful
the
the
we’ll
˙ œ ˙œ
Œ
œ
˙˙
be - hold
in
lat and learn
with all
œ # œœ œœ œœ
œ
œ
˙
˙
˙˙ ..
˙.
˙.
land,
gaze
Lord,
tread,
˙ ..
˙
]
˙˙
˙˙ ..
it
ter
his
our
stand!
days.
word.
dead.
œ˙ œ
˙˙ ..
Isaiah 2:2–3
Isaiah 5:26
338
Oh Say, What Is Truth?
[
]
Firmly
[
4
& b4 œ
q = 72 - 96
1. Oh
2. Yes,
3. The
4. Then
4 œœ
?b4
& b œœ
rich mor winds
lim -
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œ
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say,
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scep
say,
what is truth?
what is truth?
- tre may fall
what is truth?
œœ
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& b œœ
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’Tis
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from
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The proud
Or
as And its
Truth, the
œ
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To which
When with
For
the
œ
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And
price - less
Go
search in
But the pil - lar
Tho the heav - ens
œ . œœ œ
œ.
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œ.
the fair - est
gem
the bright - est
prize
the des - pot’s
grasp
the last
and the first,
œ. œ
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es of worlds can pro - duce,
tals or Gods can as - pire.
of stern jus - tice he copes.
its of time it steps o’er.
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œ
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˙˙ .. œ . œ œ
œ
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will
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glit - ter - ing lies,
dure
to
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earth’s foun - tains burst,
œ
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]
œœ
œ
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the val - ue of
the depths where it
of truth will en de - part and the
œœ .. œœ œœ
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œœ
mon - arch’s
cost - li cend
in pur - suit
to
firm - root - ed bul - warks
sum
of ex - is - tence,
est
the
out will
œœ œ œœ œœ œœ œ œœ
œœ .. œœ
œœ
œœ .. œœ
œœ
]
˙˙ ..
di - a
dem
Is
count - ed but dross and ref - use.
loft - i - est skies: ’Tis an aim for the
no - blest de - sire.
stand the rude blast
And the wreck of the
fell
ty - rant’s hopes.
weath - er the worst, E
ter - nal, un-changed, ev - er - more.
œ
?b œ
œ. œ œ
œ. œ œ
œ . œ œœ
œ. œ
Text: John Jaques, 1827–1900
Music: Ellen Knowles Melling, 1820–1905
œ .. œ
œ œ
œ
œ
œ. œ
œ. œ
˙˙ ..
Doctrine and Covenants 93:23–28
John 18:37–38
339
Now Let Us Rejoice
Cheerfully
&
q = 100 -120
## 3
4 œœ .. œœ œ
1. Now
2. We’ll
3. In
let
us
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love one an - oth - er
faith we’ll re - ly
on
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?
&
##
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the
and
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us
and each
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of
re - demp - tion
when the Sav - ior
when the Sav - ior
340
œœ .. œœ
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na - tion,
trem - ble,
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ly the hour
for the day
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&
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When
When
Then
all
all
all
that was prom - ised
that was prom - ised
that was prom - ised
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they will
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ap - pear
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the Saints
the Saints
the Saints
mo - lest them from
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be crown’d with the
## [
& œœ . œ œ
##
j
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morn un - til
morn un - til
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˙˙
ev’n,
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heav’n,
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the
the
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]
sus will say
to all Is - rael, “Come home.”
sus will say
to all Is - rael, “Come home.”
and his peo - ple will ev - er
be
one.
œ . œ ˙˙
œ. œ
œœ .. œœ œœ
Text: William W. Phelps, 1792–1872. Included in the
first LDS hymnbook, 1835.
Music: Henry Tucker, ca. 1863
341
œ
œ
œ
˙˙
Moses 7:61–67
Tenth Article of Faith
Do What Is Right
Resolutely
# 3 [œ .
& 4 œ.
1. Do
2. Do
3. Do
q = 96 -116
j
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in
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342
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light.
bright;
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si - lent notes
cease to
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long will
be
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shack - les
are
faith - ful and
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Light - ened by
hope,
Eyes
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wet
# œ.
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tak - ing
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do
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right!
right!
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œœ ..
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J
˙.
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with stout
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and
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j
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œœ # œœ ..
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j
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con - se - quence
in
œ
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till
to - mor - row.
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you;
then
do
what is
œ
œ
œ
œ
œœ ..
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J
œ
œ
Text: Anon., The Psalms of Life, Boston, 1857
Music: George Kaillmark, 1781–1835
˙
˙
˙
˙
right!
˙.
˙.
Deuteronomy 6:17–18
Helaman 10:4–5
343
We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet
Brightly
q = 76 - 92
## 4 [
& 4 œ . œœ œœ
1. We
2. When
3. We’ll
?
&
œœ
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&
##
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To
And
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thank
There is hope
Re
joice
˙.
˙.
U
œœ œœ .. œœ
send - ing the gos - pel
bright - ly be - fore
us,
glo - ri - ous gos - pel,
˙
˙
et
us
cy.
]
œœ .. œ
œ
guide
us in these lat - ter days.
threat - en our peace to de - stroy,
praise him by day and by night,
# # œœ
?
˙˙
thank thee, O God,
for
a proph dark clouds of trou - ble hang o’er
sing
of
his good - ness and mer -
# # 44 œœ . œ œœ
##
œœ .. œœ œ . œœ œœ .. œœ
œœ ..
œœ
œœ .. œœ
thee for
smil - ing
in
his
œœ œœ
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œœ .. œœ
To
light - en our minds with its
And we know that de - liv - ’rance is
And
bask
in its life - giv - ing
œœ œœ .. œœ
u
344
œœ
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œ. œ
œ. œ
&
##
˙˙ ..
rays.
nigh.
light.
?
&
##
##
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œ
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We
We
Thus
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& œ
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We
The
While
œ
œ
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œ
œ
œ. œ
œ. œ
feel
it
a
wick - ed who
they who re -
œ
œ
œœ .. œœ œ œ .. œ
œ œ œ
œ .. œ
œ œ
]
˙.
love
to o - bey thy com - mand.
sure - ly be smit - ten at
last.
nev - er such hap - pi - ness know.
œœ œœ . œ œœ
Text: William Fowler, 1830–1865
Music: Caroline Sheridan Norton, 1808–ca. 1877
œ. œ
œ. œ
[
œœ œ . œœ œœ
plea - sure to serve thee, And
fight
a - gainst Zi - on Will
ject
this glad mes - sage Shall
# # œœ
?
˙˙
thank thee for ev - e - ry bless - ing Be doubt not the Lord nor his good - ness. We’ve
on
to
e - ter - nal per - fec - tion The
stowed
by thy boun - te - ous hand.
proved him in days that are past.
hon
- est and faith - ful will go,
# # œœ
œœ .. œœ
œœ .. œœ œ œ . œ
œ œ. œ
˙˙ ..
Doctrine and Covenants 21:1– 5
Mosiah 2:41
345
I Know That My Redeemer Lives
Peacefully
# 4[
& 4 œ
q = 72 - 84
œ
œ
œœ œœ
Unison
œ œ œœ
œ œ œ
U
œ
œœœ œœ
1. I
know that my
Re - deem - er
2. He lives to grant me
rich sup
3. He lives, my kind, wise
heav’n - ly
4. He lives! All glo - ry
to
his
#4
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sweet
me
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ior,
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still
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eye.
end.
same.
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dead.
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sing.
gives:
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lives,
know
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Friend.
name!
˙˙
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and loves
my Sav -
œ
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sweet
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to com - fort me when
and while he lives, I’ll
the joy this sen - tence
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œ
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˙.
my ev - er - liv - ing Head.
to hear my soul’s com - plaint.
my Proph - et, Priest, and King.
that my Re - deem - er
lives!”
˙
˙
346
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j
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j
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Harmony
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?
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& œœ
lives
lives
lives
lives!
œœ ..
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plead for
wipe
a I
shall
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me
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[
& ˙˙
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feed.
heart.
pare.
gives:
?
to bless me with his love.
to
si - lence all my fears.
and grants me dai - ly breath.
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#˙
˙˙ ..
bove.
tears.
death.
same.
˙˙ ..
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He
He
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“I
œœ
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lives
lives
lives
know
œœ # œ œ ..
œ
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œ
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He
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Oh,
œ
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Text: Samuel Medley, 1738–1799. Included in the first
LDS hymnbook, 1835.
Music: Lewis D. Edwards, 1858–1921
347
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Job 19:25
Psalm 104:33–34
God Be with You Till We Meet Again
Reverently
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2 Thessalonians 3:16
Numbers 6:24–26
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Acts 17:28–29 (22– 31)
351
Love at Home
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Text and music: John Hugh McNaughton, 1829–1891
353
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Mosiah 4:14 –15
Ecclesiastes 9:9
I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go
Resolutely
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Text: Mary Brown, 1856–1918
Music: Carrie E. Rounsefell, 1861–1930
1 Nephi 3:7
Doctrine and Covenants 4:2
355
Did You Think to Pray?
Thoughtfully
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Music: William O. Perkins, 1831–1902
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Psalm 5:3, 12
Mark 11:24–25
357
Praise to the Man
Vigorously
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- hood.
- en;
˙˙
last
dis - pen - sa
shed
by
as - sas
en - ter
his king
con - flict
of jus
œ
œ
œœ ..
œ
œ
œœ .. œœ
œœ
œœ .. œ
œ
œœ
]
œ
œ
com - muned with Je - ho
he
died
as
a mar
and end - less his priest
the bless - ings of heav
2 œ
?4œ
œœ
œ .. œ
œ œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œœ
- tion,
- sins,
- dom,
- tice.
œ
œ
˙
re - vere.
his fame.
of
old.
a - gain.
œ
œ
˙˙
[
]
œ
& œ
Hail
œ. œ
œ. œ
to
the Proph
œœ œ œœ .. œœ
?
œ
& œ
œ ..
œ
Trai - tors
œ
? œ
œœ ..
& œ
œ.
Min - gling
œ
? œ
[
& œœ
Death
?
œœ
œœ ..
œœ ..
-
et,
œ
œ
ed
to
heav
-
en!
œ œ œœ œ
Uj j
œ œ œ œœ œ œ # œœ œœ
œ
œ
œ
œ nœ œ œ
ty
œœ
œ
-
rants now fight
he can
œ œ
œœ œ œ œ
œœ œœ
œœ œ
œ
-
plan
for
œ
œ
œœ
his breth - ren;
œœ .. œœ
œœ
vain.
œ nœ œ œ
œ .. œ
œ œ
œ
œ
œœ œ œœ œœ
œœ ..
him in
œœ œ œœ œœ
œ œ
œ œ
uJ J
with Gods,
œœ
-
œ œ œ œ
œ
œœ œ œœ .. œœ
and
œ
œ. œ
œ. œ
as - cend
œ œ œœ œœ
can - not con
œœ ..
œ
œ
œ œ œ œœ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
]
œœ œœ œ œœ œœ
quer
the he
œœ ..
œœ œ
œ
Text: William W. Phelps, 1792–1872
Music: Scottish folk song
-
ro
˙
a - gain.
œ œ
œ œ
˙˙
Doctrine and Covenants 135
359
Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains
q = 92 -112
Joyfully
[
4
& b4 œ
œ.
œœ œœ
œœ
œœ .. œœ
]
œœ .. œœ ˙˙
1. Far,
far
a - way on
Ju - de - a’s
plains,
2. Sweet are these strains of
re - deem - ing
love,
3. Lord, with the an - gels we too would re- joice;
4. Has - ten the time when, from ev - ’ry
clime,
4
?b4
& b œœ
œ
œ
œ
œœ œœ
œ
?b
œ
˙
œœ œœ œ œ œ
œ œ œ œœ œœ œ . œœ œœ Œ
œ œ .. œ œœ Œ
œ œ œ
old heard the joy - ous strains:
mer - cy from heav’n a - bove: Glo - ry to God,
sing with the heart and voice:
nite
in the strains sub - lime:
œ
Glo - ry to God,
Glo - ry to God in the
œœ œœ .. œœ œœ Œœ œ œ œ . œ œ œ œ
˙
Œ
˙
˙
Shep - herds of
Mes - sage of
Help
us to
Men
shall u -
˙
œ
œ
Glo - ry to God in the high
œ. œ œ
œ. œ œ
bœ
& œ
Glo - ry to God
high
est,
œ œœ
œ œœ ˙
˙
œ œ
in the
high
˙
œ . œ œœ
b
? œ. œ
œœ œœ
œœ
Glo - ry
in the
high
b
& œœ
will
œ
?b œ
to God
œœ
˙
˙
to
men;
œœ
˙
œœ .. œœ
œœ
-
est;
œœ ˙
˙
-
œœ
œœ
Peace
on
œ
œ
œ
œ
-
est,
œœ
œœ
earth, good -
œ
œ
œœ
est;
j
j
œ. œ œ œ.
œ
œœ
œ
œ œ œ œ.
J
Peace
on earth,
good - will
j
œ
œ
œ
œœ . œ œ œœ œœ œ œ œJ œ
J
[
Text and music: John Menzies Macfarlane, 1833–1892
360
]
œœ
˙
to
men!
œ œ ˙
œ ˙
Luke 2:8 –20
Doctrine and Covenants 45:71
Silent Night
[
]
Peacefully
q = 80 -100
b6[ j
b
& 4 œœ .. œœ œœ ˙˙ ..
1. Si
2. Si
3. Si
b 46 ˙˙
b
?
b
& b ˙˙
all
at
love’s
-
j
œœ .. œœ œœ ˙ .
˙.
lent night!
lent night!
lent night!
Ho
Ho
Ho
œ ˙.
œ ˙.
œ ˙.
œ ˙.
is bright
the sight!
pure light
˙
˙
˙˙
-
]
ly night!
ly night!
ly night!
œœ ˙˙ ..
b
& b ˙˙
j
œœ œœ .. œœ œœ
˙˙
b .
& b ˙˙ .
peace;
born!
birth;
b ˙.
? b ˙.
˙˙
œœ œœ .. œœ œœ
J
[
˙ Œ œ.
˙
˙
˙
˙
Sleep
Christ,
Je
-
Œ
œœ
j
œœ .. œœ œ
œ
œœ
˙˙
œœ
j
œœ .. œœ œœ ˙˙ ..
Ho - ly
In - fant, so
ten - der and mild,
Heav’n - ly hosts
sing
Al - le - lu - ia!
With
the dawn of re - deem - ing grace,
?
˙ ..
˙
˙.
j
œœ .. œœ œœ ˙˙ ..
Round yon
vir - gin moth - er and Child.
Glo - ries stream from heav - en a - far;
Ra - diant beams from thy ho - ly face,
b˙
?b ˙
bb ˙
œ
œ
All
is
calm,
Shep - herds quake
Son
of
God,
œ ˙.
œ ˙.
œœ
˙
˙
˙
œ. œ œ
œ. œ œ
J
j
œ œ œœ ..
œ
˙˙ ..
j
œœ œœ
in heav - en - ly
the Sav - ior, is
sus, Lord, at thy
œ
j
œ. œ œ
œ. œ œ
Text: Joseph Mohr, 1792–1848; trans. by John F. Young, 1820–1885
Music: Franz Gruber, 1787–1863
361
œ. œ œ
œ. œ œ
J
˙ œ œ ..
˙ œ œ
˙˙ ..
j
œ œ
œ œ
Sleep in heav - en - ly
Christ, the Sav - ior, is
Je - sus, Lord, at thy
œœ œœ .. œœ œ
J
˙˙
˙.
˙
Œ
]
peace.
born!
birth.
˙˙ ..
˙˙
Œ
Luke 2:7–14
Alma 7:10–12
Christ the Lord Is Risen Today
With exultation
[
4
& 4œ
œœ
q = 96 -108
œœ
œ
]
œœ œœ œ˙ œ œ˙ œ œ œ œœ œ œœ œ œœ œœ ˙
1. Christ the Lord is ris’n to - day,
2. Love’s re - deem - ing work is done,
3. Lives a - gain our glo - rious King,
œœ
4œ
?4œ
& œœ
œœ
œ
œ
œœ
œ œœ œœ œ œœ ˙
˙
œœ
œ
& œ.
œ # œ œœ œ
J
œœ
œœ
˙
˙
Raise your joys and
tri - umphs high,
Je - sus’ ag - o - ny
is
o’er,
Once he died our souls to
save,
?
j
œœ œœ œ .
œ
n œ œ œ ˙˙
œ œ
& œ œ œ œ œ
-
ia!
œœ œ œœ œ œ
œ
Al
-
le
-
lu
-
ia!
j
˙œ œ œ œœ œ œ œ œ . œ ˙˙
œœ ˙
˙œ œ œ œ œœ # œ œœ œ œœ # œœ ˙
Al
-
le
-
lu
-
j
ia!
˙œ œ œ œœ œœ œ œ . œ ˙˙
œ ˙
[
œœ
œ
œœ œœ œ˙ œ œœ œœ œœ œœ œœ œ œœ œ œœ œœ œ ˙˙
Sing,
ye heav’ns, and earth re - ply,
Dark - ness veils the earth no more,
Where thy
vic - to - ry, O grave?
?
le - lu
œ œ œ œ œ œ œœœ œ œ œ œ œ
œ œ œ œ œ œ œ ˙ œœœœ œ œ ˙
œ
? œ
œœ
-
j
œ œ œ˙ œ ˙œ œ œ œœ œ œœ œ œ . œ ˙˙
œ œ
œ ˙
Sons
of men and an - gels say,
Fought the fight, the vic - t’ry won,
Where, O death, is now thy sting?
œœ
Al
Al
-
j
œ
œœ œ œ œ˙ œ œœ .œ œ œ œœ
œ œ œ
Text: Charles Wesley, 1707–1788
Music: Anon., Lyra Davidica, 1708
]
le - lu - ia!
œœœ
œ œ œ ˙œ œ ˙˙
Matthew 28:5 –6
1 Corinthians 15:20, 53 – 57
362
He Is Risen!
With dignity
[
4
& 4 œ.
q = 92-104
j
œœ œœ
1. He
2. Come
3. He
œ
& œ
œ
j
œ œ
œ œ
œœ
˙
˙
?
œ
& œ
œ œ œœ
œ
?
œ
& œ
œœ œ œœ
œ
œ
man is
pur - ple
Eas - ter
œ
?
˙˙
free.
east,
beam
œ œ˙ # œ
œ œ
œ
œ
œœ
œ
has burst
his
one dark - some
are free from
j
œ œ
œ œ
œœ ..
œ
œ
œœ
j
œœ œœ
He
Not
We
Let
the whole wide
Yon - der
glo - rious
Ris - en
to
a
œ
œ œœ
œ.
˙
˙
œœ
œœ
He is
ris - en!
ho - ly hymn - ing;
He is
ris - en!
œœ
joy - ful voice.
um - phant lay.
heav - en’s gate.
œœ
œœ œœ
is
ris - en!
with high and
is
ris - en!
4 œ.
? 4 œ.
œœ
œœ
œ
œ
œœ
˙
˙
earth re - joice.
morn - ing ray,
ho - lier state.
œ
œ
œ.
œ
œœ
Christ has
Sym - bol
On
our
œœ
œœ
Text: Cecil Frances Alexander, 1818–1895
Music: Joachim Neander, 1650–1680
]
œ
œ
Tell
it
out with
Chant our Lord’s tri He
hath
o - pened
œ
œœ œ œ
œ
œ
œ
œœ
œœ
œœ
œœ
three days’ pris - on;
cloud
is
dim - ming
sin’s dark pris - on,
œ
œœ
œœ
œœ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
[
œ
œ
won the
of
our
long - ing
œœ
œ œ œœ
œ
Death is
con - quered,
Break - ing o’er
the
And
a bright - er
˙
˙
j
œ œ
œ œ
œ
œ
œ
œ œœ
œ œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
œœ
˙
˙
]
vic - to - ry.
Eas - ter
feast.
eyes shall stream.
œœ
œ
˙
˙
Mark 16:6–7
Mosiah 16:7–9
363
CHILDREN’S SONGS
I Am a Child of God
Fervently
q = 80 - 96
## 4 [
& 4 œœ œœ œœ œœ œœ
1. I
2. I
3. I
am a child of
am a child of
am a child of
œ
# # 44 œœ œœ œœ œœ œ
?
&
##
˙˙ ..
œ
God,
God,
God.
And
And
Rich
œ
œ
˙˙ ..
œœ # œœ œ œ œœ
œ œ
œœ ..
œœ œœ
J
œœ
˙˙ ..
he
has sent me
so
my needs are
bless - ings are
in
œœ ..
œœ œœ
J
here,
great;
store;
œœ
]
œœ œœ œœ .. œj œœ œ œœ
œ
J
˙.
˙.
œ
œ
˙ .. Œ
˙
Has giv - en me an earth - ly home With par - ents kind and dear.
Help me to un - der - stand his words Be - fore it grows too late.
If
I but learn to
do his will I’ll
live with him once more.
# œ
? # œ
&
##
œœ
œœ œœ œœ # œœ
œœ
œœ œœ
Lead me, guide me,
# # œœ
?
&
##
œœ
œ œ
œ œ
œœ œœ œœ œœ
Teach me
all that
# # œœ œœ n œœ œœ
?
œœ œœ œœ .. œœ # œ œœ œœ
œ
J
˙. Œ
˙.
œœ
j
œœ œœ œœ .. œœ ˙ .
˙.
œœ œœ œ œœ
œ
walk be - side me,
Help me find
Œ
the way.
œœ œœ œ œ œœ œœ œ . œ ˙ ..
œ œ
œ. œ ˙ Œ
J
[
]
U
œœ œ œ . j œ œ
Œ
œ œ . œœ œ œ œœ œœ ˙ .
J
I must do
To
œ œ œœ .. œ
œ œ
u œ
J
Text: Naomi W. Randall, b. 1908. © 1957 LDS
Music: Mildred T. Pettit, 1895–1977. © 1957 LDS
366
live with him some - day.
œ œ
œ œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
˙˙ .. Œ
Psalm 82:6; Mosiah 4:15
Doctrine and Covenants 14:7
I Know My Father Lives
Gently
[
q = 76 - 96
j
œœ . ˙ œ œ
4
& 4 œ
œœ
˙˙ ..
œœ
œ˙
lives
earth,
and
by
loves
faith
œ œœ
œœ
Unison
1. I
2. He
4
?4
know
sent
œ
œ
& ˙œ . œ
œ
œ
œ
& w
?
œ
˙
œ.
˙
The
The
Spir
Spir
œ
œ
œ œ œ
.
œ œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
too.
plan.
?
my Fa - ther
me here to
j
œ œœ
-
it whis - pers
it whis - pers
˙.
œ
œ œ nœ œ
is
I
true,
can,
˙.
œ #˙.
œ
œ
#˙
tells me
it
tells me that
# œœ
And
And
#œ
( )
Text and music: Reid N. Nibley, b. 1923. © 1969 LDS
When played on organ, use manuals only (no pedals).
367
me
live
œ
œ˙ œ # ˙œ
this
this
his
˙
œ œ
J
to
to
˙
œ œ
˙
˙œ .
tells me
it
tells me that
˙
to
œ nœ
me
me
œ
and
and
#˙
j
œ ˙˙ ..
is
I
]
true.
can.
˙.
Moroni 10:5
Abraham 3:22–28
I Think When I Read That Sweet Story
q. = 42 - 46 (Conduct two beats to a measure.)
Lovingly
#6[j
& 8 œ œœ . œ œ
1. I
2. I
œ. œ
œ
œ
œ
#œ.
Je - sus
arms had
was
been
here
thrown
œ
J
œœ
#
? œ
œ
œ
j
œ
œ.
œ
œœ .
# œ.
#
& œœ
like
to
lit - tle
#
? œ
œ
œ
J
œ
œ
have been
ones come
j
œ
œ
œ˙ .
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ
with him
un - to
j
œ
Text: Jemima Luke, 1813–1906
Music: Leah Ashton Lloyd, 1894–1965
œ
When
That his
lambs to
his
look when he
œ.
œ.
œ
œ
How he
That
j
œ œ.
œ b œœ
J
œ.
œ
œ
of old,
my head,
œ
#œ nœ
J
men,
me,
œ
J
œ.
œ
œœ .
a - mong
a - round
œ
œ
œ œ #œ œ.
œ.
œ.
œ
œ
called lit - tle chil - dren like
I
might have seen his kind
?
œ # œœ œœ
œœ
think when I
read that sweet sto - ry
wish that his hands had been placed on
#6
.
? 8 œJ œœ .
#
& œœ . œ œ
#
& œœ .
]
[
œ
œ
œœ œ
J
fold;
said,
I should
“Let the
œ.
]
œ
œ
then.
me.”
œ.
œ
3 Nephi 17:21–23
Luke 18:16
368
I Thank Thee, Dear Father
[
]
Smoothly
#2 [
& 2 œœ
h = 52 - 58 (Conduct two beats to a measure.)
˙˙ # # œœ
1. I
thank
2. Help me
w
#
& ˙˙
œœ œ
œ
good - ness and
mind
what my
# # œœ œœ
thee for
name of
#
? w
for
ask
#˙
? ˙
]
˙˙ ..
œ œ # ˙˙
œ œ
˙˙
mer - cy, thy
fa - ther and
œ
œ
œ
#œ
home, friends, and
Je - sus,
so
w
˙˙
ev - ’ry
thee to
bless
bless
# œ œ # ˙˙
œ œ
œ œ
œ œ
kind - ness and
moth - er shall
w
w
˙
˙
œ œœ
œ
˙.
w
w
#
#˙
& ˙
œ
œ
w
#
? w
thank
dear
œ
#œ
œ œ
œ œ
thee, dear Fa - ther in heav - en a - bove,
to
be good, kind, and gen - tle to - day,
#2 Œ
? 2
& ˙˙
˙
˙
œœ
˙
˙
œ œ
œ œ
par - ents so
lov - ing and
-
œœ # œœ
˙
ing that
me and
I
keep
œœ œœ
Text: Anon.
Music: George Careless, 1839–1932
˙˙
# œœ n œœ
Œ
œœ œ
love.
say.
I
In the
Œ
[
˙˙ ..
œ
dear,
mild,
And
I
Œ
˙.
w
For thy
And
˙˙ ..
˙˙ ..
˙
˙
œ œ
]
˙.
˙.
en - joy here.
me thy child.
œ œ
˙.
Ephesians 5:20
Alma 37:36–37
369
The Lord Gave Me a Temple
Sweetly
q = 96 -116
# # 4[
& 4œ œ ˙
1. The
2. If
&
##
gave me a
keep my
˙˙
˙˙
œœ œ œ
˙.
earth.
free,
&
œ˙
œ
œ
œ
œœ
˙
˙
# ˙
? #˙
##
˙˙
bright
morn
?
œ
## ˙
œ
œ
-
I
was
Fa - ther’s
˙˙ ..
œœ
birth.
me.
I’ll
On
œ
-
it,
ple
œ
œ
œ
œ
œ˙
œ
œœ
œœ
œ˙
œ
˙˙ .
keep
take
my
my
œ
œœ
370
spir - it
bod - y
˙œ
œ
but I
claim
make my tem - ple
res - ur - rec - tion
œ˙
I’ll
I’ll
œœ œ
spir
tem
œ
œ
er;
ing,
˙œ
œ
œœ
œ
œ
œ
œœ
œœ
œ
œ
œ
˙
œ œ
œœ
œ
œ
œ
Œ
œ
œ
live with - in on
pure and hab - it -
œ
˙˙
œ
œ
œ
œœ
ple
to
clean and
œœ œœ œ
˙˙
left
my home at
bless - ings prom - ised
&
tem bod - y
Once in Heav - en
I
may
in
# œ œ
? # œ œ œœ œ
##
œœ
œ œ œ œ œ œœ
Lord
I
# 4
? #4 Œ
]
œ
˙
œ
œ
œ
œœ œ
free.
bright
˙˙ .
My
And
œ
œ
œ
[
]
&
##
[
œ
˙œ
# œ œœ œ
œ˙ œ œ˙ œ
bod - y
is the
in
ce - les - tial
# ˙
? #˙
tem
glo
˙
˙
-
]
œ œ œ œ
˙
˙
˙œ . œ
œ
ple my
Fa - ther gave to
ry for - ev - er live in
˙˙
me.
light.
œ œ œ
˙
œ
Œ œ ˙
˙
˙
œ œ
Text: Donnell Hunter, b. 1930. © 1969 LDS
Music: Darwin Wolford, b. 1936. © 1969 LDS
1 Corinthians 3:16 –17
Doctrine and Covenants 88:27–29
Kindness Begins with Me
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371
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Ephesians 4:32
Dare to Do Right
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Music: Arr. by A. C. Smyth, 1840–1909
Matthew 4:1–11
Ephesians 6:1
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Music: J. Spencer Cornwall, 1888–1983. Arr. © 1989 LDS
373
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Text and music: Clara W. McMaster, b. 1904. © 1958 LDS
Copyright renewed 1986.
374
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Ephesians 5:8
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Text and music: DeVota Mifflin Peterson, 1910 –1996
1969 LDS
375
And
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Doctrine and Covenants 59:7
3 Nephi 18:21
GLOSSARY
Aaronic Priesthood: The lesser
of the two divisions of the
priesthood in the Church. It includes the offices of deacon,
teacher, priest, and bishop.
Adam: The first man; the father
of the human race. Before his
earth life, he was known as
Michael. He led the righteous
in the War in Heaven. He
helped create the earth.
Administer the sacrament: To
bless the sacrament.
Administer to the sick: To
anoint and bless the sick by the
power of the priesthood.
Adultery: Sexual intercourse
between a married person and
someone other than his or her
wife or husband.
Adversary: One of Satan’s
names.
Affliction: Anything causing
pain or suffering.
Agency: The ability and freedom to choose good or evil.
Age of accountability: The age
at which a person becomes responsible for his or her actions
and may be baptized; in most
cases, eight years old.
Altar: Anciently, a raised place
on which sacrifices were of-
fered. In Latter-day Saint
temples today, a place where
covenants are made and couples or families are sealed together for time and eternity.
Angel: A messenger sent from
God.
Anoint: To place a few drops of
oil on the head, usually as part
of a priesthood blessing.
Apostasy: Turning away from
or leaving the teachings of the
gospel.
Apostle: A person called and
appointed to be a special witness for Christ. An office in the
Melchizedek Priesthood.
Articles of Faith: Thirteen
statements written by the
Prophet Joseph Smith describing some of the basic teachings
and ordinances of The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints.
Atonement: The suffering and
death of Jesus Christ, through
which resurrection is provided
to all mortals and eternal life is
offered to those who have faith
in Christ and repent of their
sins.
Authority: The right to function in certain capacities in the
Church.
376
Glossary
Baptism by immersion: An ordinance in which a person is
immersed in water and
brought up out of the water. It
is necessary to become a member of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Baptism for the dead: Baptism
by immersion performed by a
living person for one who is
dead. This ordinance is performed in temples.
Bible: One of the standard
works of the Church. It includes the Old and New Testaments.
Bishop: A man who has been
ordained and set apart as the
presiding high priest for a
ward. He has responsibility for
the temporal and spiritual
well-being of all his ward
members. He also presides
over the Aaronic Priesthood.
Book of Mormon: One of the
standard works of the Church.
An account of God’s dealings
with the people of the American continents from about 2,200
years before the birth of Jesus
Christ to 421 years after the
death of Jesus Christ. It was
translated from gold plates by
Joseph Smith and contains the
fulness of the gospel.
Born in the covenant: Born to
parents who have been sealed
in the temple.
Broken heart and contrite
spirit: A deep, godly sorrow
for our sins; humility.
Called: To be assigned a duty
or position in the Church.
Celestial kingdom: The highest kingdom of glory, where
one is in the presence of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Charity: Love and compassion;
the pure love of Christ.
Chastity: Avoiding sexual relations with anyone except one’s
spouse.
Comforter: The Holy Ghost.
Commandments: Directions
given by God to his children to
prepare them for eternal life in
the world to come.
Confirmation: An ordinance in
which a person is confirmed a
member of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints by
the laying on of hands and
given the gift of the Holy
Ghost. The ordinance is performed after baptism.
Convert: One who has accepted the gospel of Jesus
Christ and been baptized and
confirmed. Usually applied to
those who join the Church after
eight years of age.
Council in Heaven: The meeting in heaven in which Heavenly Father announced the plan
of salvation and chose Jesus
Christ as our Redeemer.
377
Glossary
Covenant: A binding agreement or promise between God
and a person or group of
people.
Create: To organize elements
that already exist into a new
form.
Crucifixion: A method of execution used in the days of the
Savior. A person’s hands and
feet were nailed or tied to a
cross.
Death: Separation of a person’s
spirit from his physical body.
Devil: A spirit son of God who
rebelled against the Father and
tried to destroy the agency of
man. He is also known as
Lucifer or Satan and is the author of sin.
Discernment: A spiritual gift
that allows a person to understand or know something.
Disciple: A follower, especially
a follower of Christ.
Dispensation: A period of time
in which truth from heaven is
given to people on earth
through prophets.
Doctrine and Covenants: One
of the standard works of the
Church containing revelations
given to Joseph Smith and
other latter-day Presidents of
the Church.
Endowment: A gift of power
given through ordinances in
the temple to worthy members
of the Church. The endowment
includes instructions about the
plan of salvation.
Enduring to the end: Obedience to God’s laws to the end
of mortal life.
Eternal: Everlasting, without
beginning or end.
Eternity: Time without end.
Eve: Adam’s wife, the mother
of the human race.
Exaltation: The highest state of
happiness and glory in the celestial kingdom; the continuation of the family unit in
eternity; “all that [the] Father
hath” (D&C 84:38).
Fall of Adam: The change to
mortality that occurred when
Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden.
Family history: Research to
identify ancestors.
Fast: To abstain from food and
drink for the purpose of drawing closer to the Lord.
Fast offering: Contribution to
the Church of the money or
commodities saved by fasting
for two consecutive meals.
First Presidency: A quorum
that presides over the entire
Church; made up of the President of the Church and his
Counselors.
Foreordination: Callings given
by Heavenly Father to his children to come to earth at a specific time and place to help
378
Glossary
with his work in a particular
way.
Fornication: Sexual intercourse
between unmarried people.
Full-tithe payer: A person who
pays one-tenth of his or her annual increase to the Lord.
Gathering of Israel: The spiritual and physical gathering of
all the house of Israel in the latter days.
Gentile: A person who does
not belong to the chosen
people. The scriptures use the
word to mean (1) non-Israelites, and (2) nonmembers of
The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints.
Gift of the Holy Ghost: The
right, received by the laying on
of hands, to enjoy the constant
companionship of the Holy
Ghost when we are worthy.
Gifts of the Spirit: Spiritual
blessings given by God to those
who are faithful to Jesus Christ.
God: Our Father in Heaven,
the Father of Jesus Christ in the
flesh and of the spirits of all
mortals.
Godhead: Our Father in
Heaven; his Son, Jesus Christ;
and the Holy Ghost.
Gospel: The plan of salvation,
which embraces all that is necessary for us to be saved and
exalted; the good news that
Jesus is the Christ.
Hell: The part of the spirit
world where wicked spirits
await the day of their resurrection; also the place where Satan and his followers dwell.
Holy Ghost: The third member
of the Godhead; a personage of
spirit.
House of Israel: Natural or
adopted descendants of the
sons of Jacob, who was given
the name of Israel by the Lord.
Humble: Willing to learn,
teachable.
Immerse: To put completely
under water.
Immortal: Beyond the power
of death. Immortal people cannot die.
Inspiration: Divine guidance
that comes through the
promptings of the Holy Ghost.
Israel: (1) The name given to
Jacob of the Old Testament. (2)
The name given to the descendants of Jacob’s twelve sons.
(3) The modern nation to
which many Jews have gathered today.
Jesus Christ: The Only Begotten Son of the Father in the
flesh and the Firstborn Son in
the spirit; our Redeemer and
Savior.
Jew: Someone who belongs to
the tribe of Judah, to the ancient kingdom of Judah, or to
the Jewish religion.
379
Glossary
Kingdom of God: The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints on earth; also the celestial kingdom.
Last days: The time near the
end of the world and the second coming of the Savior.
Latter-day Saints: Members of
The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints.
Laying on of hands: The placing of hands on a person’s
head by a priesthood holder to
bless, anoint, confirm, ordain,
or heal the person.
Lord: God, master; often refers
to Jesus.
Lucifer: Satan, the devil.
Mercy: Love and forgiveness.
Messiah: Jesus Christ, the
Anointed One.
Millennium: One thousand
years of peace when Jesus
Christ will reign personally on
the earth.
Mission: A period of time during which a person who has
been called and set apart
preaches the gospel; a task or
assignment.
Missionary: A member of the
Church who is called to preach
the gospel to the people of the
world.
Mortal: Able to die; pertaining
to this life.
Mortality: Earthly existence in
a body that is subject to death.
Nonmember: A person who is
not a member of The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints.
Only Begotten Son: Jesus
Christ, the only person who
had God the Father as the
father of his mortal body.
Ordain: To give a man a priesthood office by the laying on of
hands.
Ordinances: Sacred rites and
ceremonies that are necessary
for eternal progression. God’s
laws and commandments.
Outer darkness: The dwelling
place of the devil and his followers.
Paradise: The part of the spirit
world where righteous spirits
await the day of their resurrection.
Patriarchal blessing: An inspired blessing declaring a person’s lineage and giving
inspired counsel and insight
about his or her life.
Pearl of Great Price: One of
the standard works of the
Church, including ancient and
modern scripture.
Plan of salvation: Our Heavenly Father’s plan for his children by which they can
overcome sin and death and
gain eternal life.
Prayer: Communication with
the Lord.
380
Glossary
Premortal existence: The period between the birth of spirit
children of God and their birth
into mortal life.
Preside: To take charge of; to
be in authority.
Priesthood: The power and authority of God given to men on
earth to act in all things for our
salvation.
Prophecy: Inspired words of a
prophet about a future event.
Prophesy: To tell something
before it happens.
Prophet: One who has been
called of the Lord to be a special witness of the divinity of
Jesus Christ. The prophet refers
to the President of The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints.
Quorum: An organized unit of
the priesthood.
Recommend: A certificate to
identify people as members of
the Church and to certify their
worthiness to receive certain
ordinances or blessings.
Redeem: To free people from
the results of sins they have
repented of; to free from the effects of physical death.
Redeemer: The Savior, Jesus
Christ.
Remission: Forgiveness.
Repentance: Turning from sin
and changing the course of
one’s life to follow the Savior’s
teachings.
Restitution: Giving repayment
for a sin.
Restoration: To make something as it was; to reestablish;
to bring back.
Resurrection: Reuniting of
body and spirit, never to be
separated again.
Revelation: Divine truths communicated from God to mankind.
Sabbath day: A day of worship
and rest from daily work and
activities; observed by members of the Church on Sunday,
the first day of the week.
Sacrament: An ordinance in
which bread and water are
blessed and passed to members of the Church. The bread
and water are emblems of the
body and blood sacrificed by
the Savior.
Sacrifice: To offer to God
something precious; to forsake
all things for the gospel of
Jesus Christ.
Salvation: Inseparable connection of body and spirit brought
about through the Savior’s
atonement and resurrection;
eternal life.
Sanctify: To make clean, pure,
and spotless; to make free from
the blood and sins of this
world.
Satan: A name of the devil,
who opposes the plan of salvation.
381
Glossary
Savior: Jesus Christ, who has
saved us from physical death
and made it possible for us to
be saved from spiritual death.
Scriptures: Words written and
spoken by holy men of God
when moved upon by the Holy
Ghost.
Sealing: An ordinance performed in the temple, eternally
uniting a husband and wife or
children and their parents.
Second death: Spiritual death;
death as to things of righteousness.
Seed: In one sense, children or
descendants.
Set apart: To authorize someone, by the laying on of hands,
to act in a specific calling.
Sin: Breaking the laws of God.
Son of God: The Savior, Jesus
Christ.
Sons of perdition: The spirit
hosts of heaven who followed
Lucifer. Also, those who gain a
perfect knowledge of the divinity of the Savior and then turn
from him and follow Satan.
Spiritual death: Separation
from the Spirit of God and
from his presence.
Standard works: The volumes
of scripture officially accepted
by the Church: Bible, Book of
Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price.
Sustain: To support and accept.
Telestial kingdom: The lowest
kingdom of glory.
Temple: A place of worship
and prayer; the house of the
Lord prepared and dedicated
for sacred gospel ordinances.
Temple ordinance work: Sacred gospel ordinances performed in temples by the
living for themselves and for
those who are dead. These ordinances include baptisms,
endowments, marriages, and
sealings.
Terrestrial kingdom: The middle kingdom of glory.
Testify: To declare what one
knows; to bear witness.
Testimony: Knowledge revealed by the Holy Ghost, of
the divinity of the Savior and
of gospel truths.
Tithe: Payment to the Lord of
one-tenth of one’s annual increase.
Transgression: Violation or
breaking of a commandment
or law; sin.
Word of Wisdom: A revelation
concerning health practices
given to Joseph Smith in 1833;
section 89 of the Doctrine and
Covenants.
Worship: Reverence, honor, or
devotion given to God.
Zion: The name given by the
Lord to those who obey his
laws. The name of the place
where the righteous live.
382
BOOKS CITED
Grant, Heber J. Gospel Standards. Compiled by G. Homer
Durham. Salt Lake City: Improvement Era, 1941.
Hinckley, Bryant S. The Faith of Our Pioneer Fathers. Salt Lake
City: Bookcraft, 1956.
Journal of Discourses. 26 vols. London: Latter-day Saints’ Book
Depot, 1854–86.
Kimball, Spencer W. Faith Precedes the Miracle. Salt Lake City:
Deseret Book Co., 1972.
———. The Miracle of Forgiveness. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft,
1969.
———, et al. Priesthood. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co.,
1981.
Lee, Harold B. Stand Ye in Holy Places. Salt Lake City: Deseret
Book Co., 1974.
Ludlow, Daniel, ed. Latter-day Prophets Speak. Salt Lake City:
Bookcraft, 1948.
McConkie, Bruce R. Mormon Doctrine. 2nd ed. Salt Lake City:
Bookcraft, 1966.
McKay, David O. Gospel Ideals. 2nd printing. Salt Lake City:
Improvement Era, 1954.
383
Books
Cited
———. Treasures of Life. Compiled by Clare Middlemiss. Salt
Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1962.
———. True to the Faith. Compiled by Llewelyn R. McKay.
Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1966.
Packer, Boyd K. Mothers. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co.,
1977.
Principles of the Gospel. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1976.
Smith, Joseph. History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints. 7 vols. 2nd ed. rev. Edited by B. H. Roberts. Salt Lake
City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
1932–51.
———. Lectures on Faith. Compiled by N. B. Lundwall. Salt
Lake City: N. B. Lundwall, n. d.
———. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Selected by
Joseph Fielding Smith. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co.,
1938.
Smith, Joseph F. Gospel Doctrine. 5th ed. Salt Lake City:
Deseret Book Co., 1939.
Smith, Joseph Fielding. Answers to Gospel Questions. 5 vols.
Compiled by Joseph Fielding Smith, Jr. Salt Lake City:
Deseret Book Co., 1957–66.
———. Doctrines of Salvation. 3 vols. Compiled by Bruce R.
McConkie. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954–56.
Talmage, James E. Jesus the Christ. 3rd ed. Salt Lake City: The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1916.
Taylor, John. The Mediation and Atonement. Photolithographic
reprint of 1st ed., 1882. Salt Lake City: Deseret News Co.,
1964.
Young, Brigham. Discourses of Brigham Young. Selected by
John A. Widtsoe. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1941.
384
INDEX OF FIRST
LINES AND TITLES
Behold the Great Redeemer Die...................................................................324
Christ the Lord Is Risen Today.....................................................................362
Come, Come, Ye Saints .......................................................................................310
Come, Ye Children of the Lord.....................................................................312
Count Your Blessings...............................................................................................316
Dare to Do Right.......................................................................................................372
Did You Think to Pray?..........................................................................................356
Do What Is Right......................................................................................................342
Ere you left your room this morning.......................................................356
Family Prayer ................................................................................................................375
Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains..................................................................360
God Be with You Till We Meet Again.....................................................348
God, Our Father, Hear Us Pray....................................................................329
He Is Risen!...................................................................................................................363
High on the Mountain Top ..............................................................................338
How Firm a Foundation ...................................................................................314
How Great the Wisdom and the Love ....................................................327
I Am a Child of God ..............................................................................................366
I Know My Father Lives.....................................................................................367
I Know That My Redeemer Lives ...............................................................346
I Need Thee Every Hour ....................................................................................320
I Stand All Amazed................................................................................................330
I Thank Thee, Dear Father ................................................................................369
385
Index
of
First
Lines
and
Titles
I Think When I Read That Sweet Story ..................................................368
I want to be kind to ev’ryone .........................................................................371
I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go...................................................................354
In Humility, Our Savior .....................................................................................334
It may not be on the mountain height.....................................................354
Jesus, Once of Humble Birth...........................................................................328
Joseph Smith’s First Prayer ..................................................................................322
Kindness Begins with Me.......................................................................................371
Let Us All Press On ................................................................................................318
Let us gather in a circle ......................................................................................375
Love at Home..................................................................................................................352
Now Let Us Rejoice................................................................................................340
O God, the Eternal Father .................................................................................326
O My Father .................................................................................................................350
Oh, how lovely was the morning!..............................................................322
Oh Say, What Is Truth?.......................................................................................339
Praise to the Man .....................................................................................................358
Redeemer of Israel ..................................................................................................313
Silent Night...................................................................................................................361
Sweet Is the Work....................................................................................................321
Teach Me to Walk in the Light......................................................................374
The Golden Plates....................................................................................................373
The Lord Gave Me a Temple ..........................................................................370
The Spirit of God......................................................................................................336
There Is a Green Hill Far Away ...................................................................332
There is beauty all around................................................................................352
We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet ...................................................344
We’ll Sing All Hail to Jesus’ Name............................................................333
When upon life’s billows...................................................................................316
386
INDEX
TO LESSON TOPICS
A
Abraham, God’s covenant
with, 96–97
Adam and Eve
commanded to have
children, 32
fall of, 32–34
first to come to earth, 31
Holy Ghost came to, 36–39
separation of, from God, 33
valiant spirits, 31
Agency
an eternal principle, 21–22
necessary to plan of
salvation, 22
requires choice, 23–24
Satan sought to take away, 21
Alcohol, 193
Ancestors, helping, 256–61
Apostasy, Great, 105–6
Apostle, office and duties of,
90–91
Apostles special witnesses of
Christ, 112
Astrologers, 149
Atonement, 71–78
Christ only one able to
perform, 73
Christ suffered and died to
make, 67–68, 73–74
necessary for salvation,
71–73
resurrection a result of, 74
salvation from sin a result
of, 74–78
story by Boyd K. Packer
illustrating, 75–78
statement on, by Joseph
Fielding Smith, 123
Authority
a feature of true Church, 102
restored, 111
B
Baptism, 129–35
covenants of, 133–34
mode of, 131–32
new beginning through, 134
Baptized
who should be, 132–33
why we must be, 129–31
Believing testimony of others,
gift of, 145–47
Bible, 52–53
Birth, time and place of, chosen
by Father in Heaven, 13
Bishop, office and duties of, 89
Book of Mormon, 53–54
C
Celestial kingdom
baptism necessary to enter,
131
exaltation in, 297, 301–5
Charity, 197–202
statement on, by Harold B.
Lee, 199
statement on, by Joseph
Smith, 201
Chastity, 247–53
387
Index
to
statements on, by Spencer
W. Kimball, 249, 252–53
Cheating, 205
Children
Adam and Eve commanded
to have, 32
responsibilities of, 239–40
Choose, freedom to, good and
evil, 14
Christ. See Jesus Christ
Church of Jesus Christ
apostasy from, 105–6
authority in, 102, 111
become member of, by
baptism, 131
features that identify, 101–6
in former times, 101–7
in Americas, 105
organized through Joseph
Smith, 111–12
organization of, 102–4,
111–12
restoration of, foretold, 106,
110
restored, will never be
destroyed, 114
revelation in, 101–2
today, 109–14
Cleanliness, 194
Coffee, 193
Council in heaven. See Grand
Council
Covenant
Baptismal, 133–34
God’s, with Abraham and
descendants, 96–98
new and everlasting, 98–99
what is, 95–96
Covenants renewed by
sacrament, 154–55
Creation, 27–29
carrying out the, 27–28
by Jesus Christ, 27
Lesson
Topics
shows God’s love, 28–29
D
Deacon, office and duties of,
88–89
Dead, ordinances for, a feature
of the true Church, 104
Devil. See Satan
Disobedience, results of, 227
Doctrine and Covenants, 54
Drugs, 193
E
Elder, office and duties of, 90
Elijah, coming of, 267–68
Endure to the end, 304–5
Evil practices, gain received
from, 182–83
statement on, by Spencer W.
Kimball, 182
Exaltation, 301–5
become worthy of, 19
eternal marriage essential
for, 241–42
statement on, by Joseph
Fielding Smith, 302–3
F
Faith, gift of, 147–48
Faith in Jesus Christ, 117–21
blessings that follow, 121
statement on, by Joseph
Smith, 121
how we can increase, 119–21
statement on, by Spencer
W. Kimball, 120
what is, 117–18
why we should have, 118
Fall, 32–34
blessings result from, 33–34
Family
eternal, 231–35
statement on, by David
O. McKay, 232
importance of, 231–32
388
Index
to
Lesson
relationships, 232–33
responsibilities, 236–40
successful, 233–34
statement on, by Harold
B. Lee, 233
statement on, by Spencer
W. Kimball, 233–34
Family history, 255–61
Fast, how to, properly, 165–66
Fast day, 166–67
statement on, by Joseph F.
Smith, 167
Fast offerings, 167, 209
Fasting, 165–69
blessings for, 167–69
Father, responsibilities of,
237–38
First Presidency, 111–12
judgment by, 296
First principles and
ordinances, 104
restored through Joseph
Smith, 113
Foreordination
of Church leaders, 13
of prophets, 13
Forgiveness for breaking law
of chastity, 252–53
statements on, by Spencer
W. Kimball, 252–53
Fornication, 249
Fortune tellers, 149
Freedom to choose. See Agency
Fruits, 194
G
Garden of Eden, 32–33
Gift of Holy Ghost, 137–40
how received, 138–39
what is, 137–38
Gifts of the Spirit. See
Spiritual gifts
Giving, 208
Topics
statement on, by Stephen L.
Richards, 208
Glories, assignment to, 297
Glory, degrees of, 297–98
God
attributes of, 9
body of, 9
creator of all things, 8–9
fatherhood of, 11
statement on, by Joseph
F. Smith, 11
knowing, 9–10
people made in his image, 9
ruler of all things, 8–9
there is a, 8
work and glory of, 9
Gospel truths restored, 113
Grains, 194
Grand Council, 14–15
H
Healers, false, 149
Healing, gift of, 147
Health, Lord’s law of. See
Word of Wisdom
Heavenly parents
desire of, to share joy with
us, 13–14
spirits have potential of
becoming like, 11
Herbs, 194
High priest, office and duties
of, 90
Holy Ghost, 36–39
baptism necessary to receive
gift of, 131
gift of. See Gift of Holy Ghost
mission of, 37
statements on, by Joseph
Fielding Smith, 38
who is the, 37
Honesty, 203–6
statement on, by Joseph F.
Smith, 206
389
Index
to
Lesson
statements on, by Mark E.
Petersen, 203, 204
statement on, by Spencer W.
Kimball, 205
Hot drinks, 193
I
Idleness, 182
Interpretation of tongues, gift
of, 143
Isaac, God’s covenant with, 97
Israel
name of Jacob changed to,
97, 271
gathering of House of, 271–75
statement on, by Bruce R.
McConkie, 274
statement on, by Joseph
Fielding Smith, 273
scattering of House of, 271–72
Israelites, 97, 271
J
Jacob
God’s covenant with, 97
name changed to Israel, 97,
271
Jesus Christ
Atonement of. See Atonement
creator, 27
example of charity, 200
example of service, 191
faith in. See Faith in Jesus
Christ
introduced sacrament, 151–53
life of, 61–69
meaning of, for us, 69
predicted before birth,
61–63
obeyed the Father, 226
Only Begotten Son of the
Father, 63–64
organized Church, 67
perfect life of, 64–65
Topics
redemption by, 67–68
witness of, by Orson F.
Whitney, 67
Savior and leader in earth
life, 18
second coming of. See Second
coming of Jesus Christ
spirit child of God, 11
teachings of, 65–66
wants us to serve others,
187–89
statement on, by
Spencer W. Kimball,
187
Joy, fulness of, 14
Judged
by First Presidency and
Twelve Apostles, 296
by records, 295–96
by Son, 296
by words, works, thoughts,
295
Judgment
last, 294–99
prepare for, 298–99
Judgments of God, 294–95
K
Knowing that Jesus Christ is
Son of God, gift of, 145
Knowledge, gift of, 145
L
Lord’s day, 161
Lucifer. See Satan
Lying, 204
M
Man
child of God, 11
statement on, by Joseph
F. Smith, 11
created in image of God, 9
to rule over God’s creations,
9
390
Index
to
Lesson
Marriage, eternal, 241–46
statements on, by Spencer
W. Kimball, 243–44
Meat, 194
Mediums, 149
Mild drinks, 194
Millennium, 282–86
Miracle workers, false, 149
Miracles, gift of working, 147
Missionary funds, 209
Missionary work, 211–17
statement on, by Ezra Taft
Benson, 214
Mother, responsibilities of,
238–39
statement on, by Boyd K.
Packer, 238
N
Necking, 249
New and everlasting
covenant, 98–99
O
Obedience, 223–28
baptism shows, 131
Offerings, 207–10
statement on, by Heber J.
Grant, 210
statement on, by Stephen L.
Richards, 208
Ordinances
a feature of true Church, 104
restored, 113
Outer darkness, 298
P
Paradise, in spirit world, 291–92
statement on, by Jedediah
M. Grant, 292
statement on, by Wilford
Woodruff, 291
Parents, responsibilities of,
236–39
Topics
Patriarch, office and duties of,
90
Pearl of Great Price, 54–55
Personalities developed in
heaven, 13
Petting, 249
Pray
how to, 43
when to, 42–43
why to, 37–38
Prayer, 41–45
what is, 41
how is answered, 43–44
Priest, office and duties of, 89
Priesthood, 81–84
Aaronic
offices and duties of, 88–91
quorums of, 91–92
blessings for using properly,
84
divisions of, 85–87
how men receive, 82–83
how is properly used, 83–84
keys of, 87–88
Melchizedek
offices and duties of, 89–91
quorums of, 91–92
what is, 81
why we need, 81–82
Priesthood organization, 85–93
Procreation, power of, 248
Progress, earth life necessary
for, 13–14
Prophecy, gift of, 147
Prophet
blessings for obedience to,
50–51
false, 149
leads Church, 112
living on earth today, 48–49
statement on, by Wilford
Woodruff, 49
391
Index
to
Lesson
sustaining the, 49–50
what is, 47–48
Prophets, 47–51
foreordained, 13
God has called throughout
ages, 48
words of living, 55
R
Records, judged by, 295–96
Relaxation, 183
Remission of sins, baptism for,
129–31
Repent
how to, 123–26
statements on, by Spencer
W. Kimball, 123, 126
when we should, 127
Repentance
how helps us, 126–27
need for, 122–23
what is, 123
Responsibility for family, 180–81
Rest, 183, 194
Restoration of Church
foretold, 106–7, 110
through Joseph Smith,
110–13
Revelation a feature of true
Church, 101–2
S
Sabbath, 159–63
blessings for observing, 163
history of, 160–61
keeping holy, 161–62
purpose of, 159–60
Sunday, 161
what is, 159
Sacrament, 151–56
administration of, 153–54
attitude when taking, 155–56
Christ introduced the, 151–53
covenants renewed during,
154–55
Topics
Sacrifice, 171–77
Satan
appears as angel of light, 149
cast out of heaven, 18–19
and followers tempt us, 19
fought against Jesus in
heaven, 18–19
and Millennium, 284, 285–86
opposes good, 23–24
sought to take away
freedom to choose, 18
tempted Eve, 32
wants us to break law of
chastity, 249–51
Savior. See Jesus Christ
Scriptures, 52–56
four books of, 52–55
studying, 55–56
what are, 52
Sealing, power of, restored by
Elijah, 267–68
Second coming of Jesus Christ,
277–81
statement on, by Brigham
Young, 278
signs of, 280
Service, 185–91
Seventy, office and duties of, 90
Signs of the times. See Second
coming of Jesus Christ
Sin
all are guilty of, 122
what is, 122
Smith, Joseph, Church restored
through, 110–13
Sorcerers, 149
Spirit, gifts of. See Spiritual gifts
Spirit prison, 292–93
Spirit world, 289–93
statement on, by Brigham
Young, 289–90
statement on, by Ezra Taft
Benson, 289–90
392
Index
to
Lesson
statement on, by Joseph
Smith, 289
Spirits
bodily form of, 290
of men and women resemble
heavenly parents, 11
Spiritual gifts, 141–49
developing, 148
a feature of true Church,
104–5
Satan imitates, 149
Stake, 112
Stealing, 204–5
Strong drinks, 193
Sunday the Sabbath, 161
T
Talents
developed in heaven, 13
developing, 218–21
statement on, by Heber J.
Grant, 220
statement on, by Marvin
J. Ashton, 220
Tea, 193
Teacher, office and duties of,
88–89
Teaching, gift of, 145
Telestial glory, 298
Temple, eternal marriage
performed in, 242–43
Temple work, 255–61
during Millennium, 283
Temples, 255–56
Topics
Terrestrial glory, 297
Test, earth life a, 14–15
Thoughts, judged by, 295
Tithes, 207–10
statement on, by Heber J.
Grant, 210
statement on, by Stephen L.
Richards, 208
Tithing, blessings for, 50
Tobacco, 193
Tongues, gift of, 141–43
Translation, gift of, 143
Trials necessary to
progression, 14–15
Twelve Apostles
judgment by, 296
V
Vegetables, 194
Veil covers memory of
heavenly home, 14
W
Ward, 111–12
Wheat, 194
Wine, 193
Wisdom, gift of, 143–44
Word of Wisdom, 192–95
statement on, by Spencer W.
Kimball, 195
Words, judged by, 295
Work, 179–84, 194
statement on, by David O.
McKay, 184
Works, judged by, 295
393
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16