WEEK # 50

YOUR OWN CHOICE

We have come to the end of our year long topic study.  It has been a blessing for me to study the gospel  in more depth.  My testimony of Christ has been strengthened.  I have gained greater insight into a number of basic gospel topics.  The blog will continue to be available.  I have been able to study the topics but not all in the depth I would have liked.  I think I could fill gospel study time for the next few years going back over the outlines we have posted.  Study and discuss a topic of your own choice this week. The following are a few suggestions of possible topics:

Conversion
Last Days
Leadership
The Second Coming
Teaching with the Spirit
Joy

You might begin by writing in the left column of a sheet of paper a topic you plan to study.

Then in the right column write down questions that will help you learn more about the topic.  Use the Topical Guide and the other resources listed in the study outlines to learn what the Lord and his prophets have said about the topic.

Merry Christmas!!

WEEK # 49

EXAMPLE

"How wonderful it would be for every holder of the priesthood if he knew that the Lord knew he could count on him because of the way he lived.  I'd like to say today that it is a tremendous responsibility for members of this Church to so live that others, seeing their good works, can be led to glorify the Lord's name."  ( N. Eldon Tanner,  "Remember Who You Are," Ensign, Nov. 1981, p. 78).

"All of us give our lives daily for what we believe is important.  Those with whom we associate are silently assessing us, our values and character traits." (J. Richard Clarke,  "Hold Up Your Light, "Ensign, May 1985, p.74).

Questions and Activities

• What does it mean to "let your light so shine before men" (Matthew 5:16)?
• What does Christ mean when he says,  "Behold I am the light which ye shall hold up" (3 Nephi 18:24)?
• In what ways does your example hold up Christ as the light to others?
• What is the example set by the following people in the scriptures:  Jeroboam, the scribes and pharisees, Laman and Lemuel, Nephi, the sons of Mosiah, and Christ?
• What has the Lord said about those who set a bad example?  about those who do good works to be seen by others?
• What qualities do you expect to find in a representative of the Lord?
• Think of people who are examples to you and the ways in which they have influenced you.  Record your thoughts in your journal.
• In what ways has your example to your family and friends, affected their testimony of the gospel?

Topical Guide
Ensign
Example, Ensample
God, the Standard of Righteousness
Good Works
Jesus Christ, Exemplar
Jesus Christ, Light of the World
Leader
Pattern
Peculiar People
Peer Influence

Scriptures

2 Nephi 31:5-10

Jacob 2:35

Alma 4:11; 39:11

3 Nephi 18:1-9

D&C 115:5

Isaiah 62:1-3

Matthew 5:13-16; 6:1-8; 23:1-12

2 Thessalonians 3:7-11

1 Peter 2:21-25

Bible Dictionary

Peculiar

Other Sources

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder,  chapter 27-28

WEEK  # 48

THE KINGDOM OF GOD ON EARTH

"We ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object"  (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 160).

"As important as it is to have this vision in mind, defining and describing Zion will not bring it about.  That can only be done through consistent and concerted daily effort by every single member of the Church.  No matter what the cost in toil or sacrifice, we must do it. . . .

"May I suggest three fundamental things we must do if we are to bring about Zion, three things for which we who labor for Zion must commit ourselves.

"First, we must eliminate the individual tendency to selfishness that snares the soul, shrinks the heart, and darkens the mind. . . .

'Second, we must cooperate completely and work in harmony one with the other.  There must be unanimity in our decisions and unity in our actions. . . .

"Third, we must lay on the altar and sacrifice whatever is required by the Lord"  (Spencer W. Kimball, "Becoming Pure in Heart," Ensign,  May 1978, p. 79).

Questions and Activities

• What are the characteristics of Zion?
• What promises are found in the scriptures about the establishment of Zion in the latter days?
• What does the Lord mean when he says,  "The kingdom of God is within you."  (Luke 17:21)?
• What changes would have to occur in today's society in order for it to become like Zion?
• What is the role of the Church in establishing Zion?
• How can you assist in building Zion?
• What personal qualities do you have that qualify you to be a part of Zion?
• What qualities do you still need to develop?
• What will you do this week to build Zion in your heart?

Topical Guide

Earth, Renewal of

Jerusalem, New

Jesus Christ, Millennial Reign

Kingdom of God, on Earth

Millennium

Millennium, Preparing a People for

Promised Lands

Stake 

Zion, Sion

Scriptures

2 Nephi 8:11

Ether 13:2-11

D&C 45:63-75;  57:1-5;  64:33-43;  97

Isaiah 11

Matthew 13:18-50

Moses 7:17-23

Articles of Faith 1:10

Bible Dictionary

Kingdom of Heaven or Kingdom of God

Zion

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 44

The Articles of Faith, chapter 19

Jesus the Christ, chapter 42

WEEK  # 47

THE  GATHERING  OF  ISRAEL

" He who scattered Israel has promised to gather them."  (Discourses of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 195).

Questions and Activities

• What were the significant events that lead to the scattering of Israel?
• What is spiritual bondage?
• By what means has the Lord promised to gather his people from spiritual bondage in the last days?  What will be the major gathering places?  What is the significance of being "fishers of men"?  (See Jeremiah 16;16;  Matthew 4:19.)
• What does temple work have to do with the gathering of Israel?
• Why is the restoration of the gospel essential to the gathering of Israel?
• What responsibilities for scattered Israel has the Lord placed on you?

Topical Guide

Bondage, Spiritual

Graff, Graft

Israel, Bondage of, in Other Lands

Israel, Deliverance of

Israel, Gathering of 

Israel, Remnant of 

Israel, Restoration of 

Scriptures

I Nephi 15:12-20

2 Nephi 15

Jacob 5

3 Nephi 15:17-24;  16:4-20;  21

D&C 110:11;  133:17-35

Isaiah 5, 54

Jeremiah 16

Ezekiel 34

Micah 4

Zechariah 10

Romans 11

Articles of Faith 1:10

Bible Dictionary

Adoption

Israel, Kingdom of

Joseph, Son of Rachel

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 42

A Marvelous Work and  a Wonder, chapters 15-16

The Articles of Faith,  chapters 17-18

WEEK # 46

MISSIONARY  WORK

"Perhaps the greatest reason for missionary work is to give the world its chance to hear and accept the gospel.  The scriptures are replete with commands and promises and calls and rewards for teaching the gospel.  I use the word command deliberately for it seems to be an insistent directive from which we, singly and collectively, cannot escape. .

"I wonder if we are doing all we can.  Are we complacent in our approach to teaching all the world?  We have been proselyting now for 144 years.  Are we prepared to lengthen our stride?  To enlarge our vision?"  (Spencer W. Kimball,  Ensign, Oct. 1974, pp. 4-5).

Questions and Activities

• What  is the role of missionary work in accomplishing God's purposes?
• Why has God commanded his Saints to spread the gospel?
• What special help and protection have been promised to missionaries?
• What blessings have been promised to those who faithfully share the gospel?
• Study some missionary experiences found in the scriptures (for example, Ammon, Aaron, Alma, Nephi).
• Record in your journal your feelings about missionary work.
• Share with your family the experiences you have had that have strengthened your testimony of missionary work.
• Set some specific goals that will help you be a more effective instrument in the Lord's hands.

Topical Guide

Conversion, Convert

Fellowshipping 

Gentiles

Israel, Mission of

Jesus Christ, Teaching Mode of

Mission of Early Saints

Mission of Latter-Day Saints

Missionary Work

Preaching, Preach

Warn, Warnings

Worth of Souls

Scriptures

Alma 17-23

Helaman 5, 10

D&C 11-12, 18, 33

Jonah 1-3

Luke 10:1-20

Acts 13

Articles of Faith 1:11

Bible Dictionary 

Conversion

Gentile

Jew

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 33

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder,  chapter 18

Jesus the Christ, chapter 21, pp. 328-33

Truth Restored, chapter 4

WEEK # 45

COVENANTS

"Each ordinance and requirement given to man for the purpose of brining to pass his salvation and exaltation is a covenant."  (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 1:152).

"A gospel covenant is a holy contract.  'God in his good pleasure fixes the terms, which man accepts' (Bible Dictionary, LDS ed., 'Covenants'). . . .  Man covenants to do certain things or meet certain conditions;  God cites promises that he will give in return.  (Carlos E. Asay,  "The Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood." Ensign, Nov. 1985, p. 43).

"The Lord identified the gospel as the great and all-embracing covenant. . . .  Many of the Lord's commandments are in the form of covenants promising specific blessings. . . .  Observing the gospel covenants we make with the Lord justifies us to enter the temple and there receive the ordinances and covenants essential to exaltation."  (Marion G. Romney, "Gospel Covenants,"  Ensign, May 1981,  pp. 43-44).

Questions and Activities

• What is a covenant?
• Name some of the covenants that we make with the Lord.
• Why does the Lord make covenants with men?
• What are the promised blessings of each of the major covenants in the gospel?
• What is the Abrahamic covenant, and what does it mean to us today?
• What specific covenants have you made with the Lord?  How do you feel about the way you are keeping them?
• What blessings can be yours if you live up to the covenants you have made with the Lord?
• How do the covenants you have made give you added responsibility?

Topical Guide

Abrahamic Covenant

Covenants

Oath

Promise

Stewardship, Steward

Swearing, Swear, Sware, Sworn

Vow

Scriptures

2 Nephi 29:1, 14

Alma 24:17-19;  56:1-8

Genesis 9:8-17 (compare JST, Genesis 9:21-25);  17:1-14

Deuteronomy 7:6-9;  26:12-19

Joshua 24:12-15;  21-27

Hebrews 8:6-13

Bible Dictionary

Abraham, Covenant of 

Corban

Covenant

Rainbow

Vows

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 15

WEEK # 44

SERVICE

"God does notice us, and he watches over us.  But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs.  Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other in the kingdom. . . .  so often, your acts of service consist of simple encouragement or of giving mundane help with mundane tasks, but what glorious consequences can flow from mundane acts and small but deliberate deeds!"  (Spencer W. Kimball, Ensign, Dec. 1974, pp. 4-5).

Questions and Activities

• What specific attitudes and attributes does the Lord require from us as we serve him?
• What does it mean to serve mammon (see Matthew 6:24)?
• What things could be considered mammon?  How can you avoid serving mammon?
• How has the Lord served you?  How have you served him?
• In what ways does the organization of the Church give us opportunities to serve others?
• What are the different attitudes that a person might have while serving others?  How does the attitude with which you serve influence what you gain from serving?
• Think of a specific experience when you gave service to another.  What were your feelings?
• How can you/ your families give service?
• What specific things can you do to develop a selfless attitude of service toward those around you?  

Topical Guide

Care

Church

Duty

Flock

Help

Minister

Needy

Serve

Service

Succor

Scriptures

Mosiah 2:12-22; 4:12-21

D&C 4; 72:3-4; 81:3-6

Luke 16:13

John 13:1-10

Romans 12:10-21

I Corinthians 12:13-31

Articles of Faith 1:13

Bible Dictionary

Church 

Mammon

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 28

Jesus the Christ, chapter 26, pp. 416-19

WEEK  #43

EXALTATION

"The Father has promised us that through our faithfulness we shall be blessed with the fullness of his kingdom.  In other words, we will have the privilege of becoming like him"  (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 2:48).

"Exaltation consists in the continuation of the family unit in eternity.  Exaltation is eternal life, the kind of life which God lives.  Those who obtain it gain an inheritance in the highest of three heavens within the celestial kingdom.  (D&C 131:14.)

". . .  They inherit in due course the fullness of the glory of the Father, meaning that they have all power in heaven and on earth" (Bruce R. McConkie,  Mormon Doctrine, p. 257)

Questions and Activities

• What is exaltation?  How does it differ from immortality?
• What must a person do to gain exaltation?
• What does it mean to be an heir to our Father's kingdom?
• What qualities must you possess if you are to feel comfortable in God's presence?
• What opportunities has God given you in mortal life to prepare for exaltation?  How have they helped you prepare for exaltation?
• What blessings will come to those who are exalted?
• If you were judged today, in what ways are you prepared to enter the celestial kingdom?  What would you need to change?

Topical Guide

Celestial Glory 

Eternal Life

Exaltation

Father

God

Grace, Man May Fall from

Holy, Holier, Holiest

Jesus Christ, Mission of

Man, Potential to Become Like Heavenly Father

Perfection, Perfect, Perfectly

Purity, Pure

Sanctification, Sanctify

Scriptures

3 Nephi 28:1-10

D&C 76;  78:17-22;  131-132;  137

Isaiah 56: 1-3

Matthew 19:16-29

John 14:1-6

2 Peter 1:10-12

Revelation 21-22

Bible Dictionary

Heaven 

Holiness

Saint

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 47

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 19

WEEK # 42

MISSION OF JESUS CHRIST

"Whether descriptively designated as Creator, Only Begotten Son, Prince of Peace, Advocate, Mediator, Son of God, Savior, Messiah, Author and Finisher of Salvation, King of Kings---I witness that Jesus Christ is the only name under heaven whereby one can be saved!  (See D&C 18:23)

"I testify that He is utterly incomparable in what He is, what He knows, what He has accomplished, and what He has experienced.  Yet, movingly, He calls us His friends.  (See John 15: 15).

"We can trust, worship , and even adore Him without any reservation!  As the only Perfect Person to sojourn on this planet, there is none like Him!  (See Isa. 46:9)"  (Neal A. Maxwell,  "O Divine Redeemer, " Ensign, Nov. 1981, p.8).

Questions and Activities

• What does it mean that "there is none other name given whereby man can be saved?"
• What are Christ's roles in our Father's plan (in the premortal council, the Creation, during Old Testament times, etc.").
• How have each of these roles affected your life?
• Search the Book of Mormon and the Old Testament for prophecies of Christ.  Have they been fulfilled?  How?
• In what ways is Jesus Christ the Father?  the Son? 
• What is our role in the Lord's work of bringing to pass the immortality and eternal life of man?
• Record in your journal your feelings about your role in this great work.
• In what ways are you showing your appreciation for Christ?

Topical Guide

Jesus Christ, Creator

Jesus Christ, Good Shepherd

Jesus Christ, Judge

Jesus Christ, Messenger of the Covenant

Jesus Christ Messiah

Jesus Christ, Millennial Reign

Jesus Christ, Mission of

Jesus Christ, Prophecies about

Jesus Christ, Redeemer

Jesus Christ, Savior

Jesus Christ, Teaching Mode of 

Jesus Christ, Types of, in Memory 

Redemption

Scriptures 

Mosiah 13-16

Alma 7

Isaiah 53

John 6, 10, 12, 17

I Corinthians 15

Bible Dictionary 

Advocate

Christ

Christ, Names of 

Jehovah

Jesus 

Messiah

Redemption

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapters 5, 11, 43

Jesus the Christ, chapters 3, 5

The Articles of Faith, chapter 20

WEEK # 41

DILIGENT WORK

"Work is to be re-enthroned as the ruling principle of the lives of our Church membership"  (Heber J. Grant, in Conference Report, Oct 1936, p. 3).

"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."  ( David O. Mc Kay, quoted in Franklin D. Richards, "The Gospel of Work,"  Improvement Era, Dec. 1969, p.103).

"Diligence is determination, perseverance, application to duty, zeal, industry, and heed to counsel.  Continuing diligence in church service is a mark of testimony, conversion, and spiritual stability."  (Bruce R. McConkie,  Mormon Doctrine. p. 197).

Questions and Activities

• How does the commandment given to Adam---"In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread"---apply to your life?
• What are some examples of diligence and hard work in the scriptures?
• What is meant by being "anxiously engaged" in a good cause?
• What was the process by which you have become proficient in a particular skill or hobby?
• Compare the attitudes and feelings of a hardworking person with those of a person who is satisfied with just doing the minimum.
• What is the role of work in perfecting our lives?  in gaining exaltation?
• In what ways do you feel you are a diligent servant of the Lord?
• What are you doing to become more diligent in other ways?

Topical Guide

Trustworthiness

Valiant

Valiantly

Work

Work, value of

Scriptures

Jacob 1:7

Mosiah 1:11

Alma 18:7-10

Helaman 10-:4

D&C 4;  24:7-9;  75:3-5;  106

Matthew 25:15-46

2 Thessalonians 3:13

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 27

WEEK # 40

TITHING

" By this principle (tithing) the loyalty of the people of this Church shall be put to the test.  By this principle it shall be known who is for the kingdom of God and who is against it."    (Joseph F. Smith, Gospel Doctrine, p. 225).

" The principle of tithing should be more than a mathematical, mechanical compliance with the law. . . .  If we pay our tithes because of our love for the Lord, in complete freedom and faith, we narrow our distance from him and and our relationship to him becomes intimate.  We are released from the bondage of legalism, and we are touched by the spirit and feel a oneness with God.

"The payment of tithing strengthens faith, increases spirituality and spiritual capacity, and solidifies testimony"  (Howard W. Hunter,  "The Windows of Heaven,"  Improvement Era, June 1964, p. 476).

Questions and Activities

• What is the law of tithing?
• How does tithing develop unselfishness?
• How are tithing funds used?
• What is the history and future of the law of tithing?
• Share with your family experiences that have strengthened your testimony of the law of tithing.
• What blessings come from paying a full tithe?
• What is the importance of our attitude in paying tithing?
• What is your testimony of the law of tithing?  Record this in your journal.

Topical Guide

Consecrate

Consecration

Family, Managing Finances in

Tenth

Tithing

Scriptures

Jacob 2:18-19

3 Nephi 24:6-12

D&C 64:23-25; 119

Genesis 28:22

Numbers 18:26

2 Chronicles 31:5

Malachi 3:8-12

Luke 21:1-4

Bible Dictionary

Tithe

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 32

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 26

WEEK # 39

FASTING

"Compliance with the law of the fast would call attention to the sin of over-eating, place the body in subjection to the spirit, and so promote communion with the Holy Ghost, and insure a spiritual strength and power which the people of the nation so greatly need.  As fasting should always be accompanied by prayer, this law would bring the people nearer to God, and divert their minds once a month at least, from the mad rush of worldly affairs and cause them to be brought into immediate contact with practical, pure, and undefiled religion"  (Joseph F. Smith,  Gospel Doctrine,  pp. 237-38).

"Fasting, with prayer as its companion, is designed to increase spirituality;  to foster a spirit of devotion and love of God;  to increase faith in the hearts of men,  thus assuring divine favor;  to encourage humility and contrition of soul;  to aid in the acquirement of righteousness;  to teach man his nothingness and dependence upon God; and to hasten those who properly comply with the law of fasting along the path to salvation"  (Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon doctrine, p. 276).

Questions and Activities

• Describe a fast that would be acceptable to the Lord.
• Why has the Lord commanded us to fast?  to pay fast offerings?
• What has been promised to those who obey the law of the fast?
• In what ways does fasting increase our spiritual powers?  our self-control?
• What are some of the blessings that can come into your life through giving a generous fast offering?
• Why does the Lord refer to fasting as "rejoicing"?
• Recall a time when your fast was a spiritual and meaningful experience.  What made this experience special for you?
• Write down some specific goals that will help make your next fast a spiritual experience.

Topical Guide

Almsgiving

Fast, Fasting

Generosity

Hungry

Poor

Prayer

Welfare

Scriptures

Alms 6:6;  17:2-3

3 Nephi 13:16-18

D&C 59:9-19

1 Kings 19:8

Isaiah 58

Jonah 3:5

Matthew 4:2;  6:16-18

John 4:31-34

Bible  Dictionary

Fasts

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 25

WEEK # 38

SACRIFICE

"For a man to lay down his all, his character and reputation, his honor, and applause, his good name among men, his houses, his lands, his brothers and sisters, his wife and children, and even his own life. . . .requires more than mere belief or supposition that he is doing the will of God:  but actual knowledge, realizing that,  when these sufferings are ended , he will enter into eternal rest, and be a partaker of the glory of God. . . .

". . .  A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation. . . .

"It is vain for persons to fancy to themselves that they are heirs with those. . . .  who have offered their all in sacrifice, . . . . unless they, in like manner, offer unto him the same sacrifice"  (Joseph Smith, Lectures on Faith, 6:5, 7-8).

Questions and Activities

• Why does the Lord require his people to make sacrifices?
• Compare the present practice of the law of sacrifice with the Mosaic law of sacrifice.
• Discuss how the sacrifices in the Mosaic law symbolized the Savior's atonement.
• What specific examples are given in the scriptures of people sacrificing?  What can be learned from each example?
• What does it mean to lose your life for Christ's sake (see Luke 9:23-26)?
• What blessings have come into your life because others have sacrificed for you?
• In what ways have you sacrificed for others?  How have these experiences influenced your life?
• What things in your life would you have difficulty giving up for the gospel?
• What can you do to prepare to make sacrifices, should they become necessary?

Topical Guide

Blood, Symbolism of

Contrite Heart

Jesus Christ, Lamb of God

Jesus Christ, Types of , in Anticipation

Oblation

Offering

Passover

Self-sacrifice

Scriptures

Jacob 4:5

3 Nephi 9:19-21

D&C 13:98:11-15

Genesis 4:3-8; 22

1 Kings 18:17-46

Matthew 10:39

Acts 5:40-42

Hebrews 9:26

Moses 5:5-8

Bible Dictionary

Altar

Feasts

Lamb of God

Laver

Law of Moses

Moriah

Priests

Sacrifices

Other Sources

Gospel Principles,  chapter 26

Truth Restored,  chapters 8-10

WEEK # 37

CHARITY

"Love is one of the chief characteristics of Deity, and ought to be manifested by those who aspire to be the sons of God.  A man filled with the love of God, is not content with blessings his family alone but ranges through the whole world, anxious to bless the whole human race."  (Joseph Smith, in History of the Church, 4:227).

Questions and Activities

• How is charity defined in the scriptures?
• What actions and attitudes characterize a charitable person?
• How does charity help us become more like our Heavenly Father and fulfill his plan?
• How can a person develop charity?
• When have you shown charity to others?
• What specific examples from the Savior's life illustrate charity?  What examples can you find in the lives of the prophets?
• How can we love people in spite of their sins and faults?
• What are your feelings when others have been charitable toward you?
• What can you do to become a more charitable person?

Topical Guide

Benevolence

Charity

Compassion

Family, Love within

God, Love of

God, Mercy of

Love

Mercy, Merciful

Selfishness

Scriptures

Mosiah 4

Ether 12:28

Moroni 7:41-48

D&C 12:7-9

Matthew 25:31-46

Luke 10:29-42

John 15:12-19

1 Corinthians 13

1 John 4:8-21

Articles of Faith 1:13

Bible Dictionary

Almsgiving

Charity

Other Sources

Gospel Principles,  chapter 30

WEEK # 36

COURTESY

" Courtesy is a natural outgrowth of the refining influence of the Spirit of the Lord.  It presupposes the presence of kindness and an inherent consideration for the comfort and well-being of others"  (Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 166).

"It is a time-honored adage that love begets love.  Let us pour forth love---show forth our kindness unto all mankind, and the Lord will reward us with everlasting increase. . . .

"Nothing is so much calculated to lead people to forsake sin as to take them by the hand, and watch over them with tenderness.  When persons manifest the least kindness and love to me, O what power it has over my mind, while the opposite course has a tendency to harrow up all the harsh feelings and depress the human mind."  (Joseph Smith, in  History of the Church, 5:23-24, 517).

Questions and Activities

• In the scripture, what words and phrases have the same meaning as courteous?
• What is the Lord's counsel concerning courtesy and kindness?
• What blessings are promised to those who are courteous/
• What is the role of kindness and courtesy in developing charity?
• How have you felt when others have been courteous to you?
• How do you feel when you make the effort to be kind and courteous to those around you?
• How has courtesy affected your daily life?
• In what ways are you courteous?  In what ways do you need to improve?

Topical Guide

Brotherhood and Sisterhood

Comfort

Courtesy

Gentle

Gentleness

Gracious

Hospitality

Kindness

Neighbor

Pity

Scriptures

Mosiah 18:8-10

3 Nephi 14:8-12

D&C 4:3-6

Genesis 18:3-8

Ecclesiastes 11:1-6

Matthew 7:12

John 13:4-9

Hebrews 13:1-3

James 3:17-18

1 Peter 3:8-9

Articles of Faith 1:13

Bible Dictionary

Hospitality

WEEK # 35

THE WORD OF WISDOM

"Every commandment of God is spiritual in nature. . . .   The Word of Wisdom is spiritual.  It is true that it enjoins the use of deleterious substances and makes provision for the health of the body.  But the largest measure of good derived from its observance  is in increased faith and the development of more spiritual power and wisdom."  (Stephen L. Richards, in Conference Report, Apr. 1949, p. 141).

Questions and Activities

• What is the Word of Wisdom?
• What dietary counsel (in addition to D&C 89) is given in the scriptures?
• In what ways is the Word of Wisdom a spiritual commandment?
• What does it mean to live the Word of Wisdom?
• What are the specific blessings promised to those who keep the Word of Wisdom?
• In what ways can obeying the Word of Wisdom help you be a better person?
• What experiences in your life or in the lives of those around you have strengthened your testimony of the Word of Wisdom:
• What are you doing to live the Word of Wisdom?
• What can you do to follow the spirit of the Word of Wisdom more closely?

Topical Guide

Body, Sanctity of

Drunkenness

Food

Health

Temperance, Temperate

Wisdom

Wine

Word of Wisdom

Scriptures

Mosiah 22:7-8

D&C 49:18-21;  89

Deuteronomy 14:3-20

Proverbs 23:20-21

Isaiah 5:11

Daniel 1:3-15

Bible Dictionary

Health

Kosher

Meat

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 29

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 25

WEEK # 34

CHASTITY

"How glorious is he that lives the chaste life.  He walks unfearful in the full glare of the noonday sun, for he is without moral infirmity.  He can be reached by no shafts of base calumny, for his armor is without flaw.  His virtue cannot be challenged by any just accuser, for he lives above reproach.  His cheek is never blothed with shame, for he is without hidden sin.  He is honored and respected by all mankind, for he is beyond their censure.  He is loved by the Lord, for he stands without blemish.  The exaltations of eternities await his coming."  (Heber J. Grant,  J. Reuben Clark, David O. Mc Kay,  "The Message of the First Presidency to the Church,"  Improvement Era, Nov. 1942. p. 759).  

Questions and Activities

• What is the law of chastity?
• Why does the Lord ask us to be chaste?
• What are the blessings for obeying the law of chastity?
• What are the penalties for disobeying?
• What can you do in your life to make sure your thoughts, words, and actions will always be clean and pure?
• What long-term effects does chastity have on your family?  
• What blessings have you received from obeying the law of chastity?
• What examples of cleanliness and purity in those you know make you want to live the law of chastity?

Topical Guide

Adulterer, Adultery

Chastity, Chaste

Clean

Fornication

Lust

Modesty

Purity, Pure

Sensuality

Sexual Immorality

Virtue, Virtuous

Scriptures

Jacob 2:28

Alma 39:3-11

D&C 42:22-26

Genesis 39:1-12

Leviticus 18:22-24

Matthew 5:27-28

Galatians 5:16-19

Articles of Faith 1:13

Bible Dictionary

Adultery

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 39

Week # 33

ETERNAL  FAMILY

" God not only commends but he commands marriage.  While man was yet immortal, before sin had entered the world, our heavenly Father himself performed the first marriage.  He united our first parents in the bonds of holy matrimony, and commanded them to be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth."  (Joseph F. Smith, Gospel Doctrine, p. 274).

"Among the saints the family is the basic unit of the Church and of society, and its needs and preservation in righteousness take precedence over all other things.  True family organization is patriarchal in nature;  it is patterned after that organization which exists in heaven (Eph. 3:15). . . .

"Eternal families have their beginning in celestial marriage here in mortality. . .  By obedience to the laws of the gospel, Latter-day Saint families begin here and now to enjoy much of that peace, joy, love, and charity which will be enjoyed in eternal fullness in the exalted family unit"  (Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 273).

Questions and Activities

• Why does God command us to be married and have families?
• What covenants and attributes establish the family as an eternal unit?
• How does the family unit help each individual prepare for eternal life?
• What are the responsibilities of the husband, wife, and children?
• For what reasons is the priesthood necessary to an eternal family?
• In what ways has your family influenced your life?
• How has your belief that your family can be eternal influenced your relationship with your parents?  with brothers and sisters?  with your spouse?
• Write in your journal the characteristics you want to possess as a wife or mother.

Topical Guide

Family, children, Duties of

Family, Children, Responsibilities toward

Family, Eternal

Family, Love within

Family, Patriarchal

Honoring Father and Mother

Marriage, Celestial

Marriage, Continuing Courtship in

Marriage, Fatherhood

Marriage, Motherhood

Parent

Scriptures

3 Nephi 17:1-3

D&C 68:25-28;  131:1-4;  132

Official Declaration---1

Psalm 127:3-5

Mark  10:2-16

Ephesians 5:21-33;  6:1-9

Abraham 5:14-18

Bible Dictionary

Family 

Marriage

Patriarch, Patriarchs

Other Sources
Gospel Principles, chapters 36-38
A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 14
The Articles of Faith, chapter 24, pp. 442-46

Week # 32

TEMPLES

" Temple work. . . gives a wonderful opportunity for keeping alive our spiritual knowledge and strength. . . .  The mighty perspective of eternity is unraveled before us in the holy temples;  we see time from its infinite beginning to its endless end;  and the drama of eternal life is unfolded before us.  Then I see more clearly my place amidst the things of the universe,  my place among the purposes of God;  I am better able to place myself where I belong, and I am better able to value and to weigh,  to separate and to organize the common, ordinary duties of my life, so that the little things shall not oppress me or take away my vision of the greater things that God has given us."  (John A. Widstoe, in Conference Report, April 1922, pp.  97-98).

Questions and Activities

• Why has the Lord commanded his people to build temples?
• What blessings has the Lord promised to give through the temple?
• What is the significance of each temple ordinance in the plan of salvation?
• What is the history and future of temples?
• What blessings have you received because of the temple?
• What experiences have strengthened your testimony of temple work?
• What were your feelings as you attended the temple most recently?

Topical Guide

Baptism for the Dead

Book of Remembrance

Endowment, Endow

Genealogy and Temple Work

Mount

Salvation for the Dead

Sanctuary

Temple, House of the Lord

Scriptures

2 Nephi 5

Exodus 26, 40

Ezekiel 40-44, 46-47

John 2

D&C 124

Bible Dictionary

Elijah

Genealogy

Holy of Holies

Tabernacle

Temple

Temple of Herod

Temple of Solomon

Temple of Zerubbabel

Temple on Mount Gerizim

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 40

Truth Restored, chapter 5, pp. 47-40;  and chapter  7,  pp. 70-72

WEEK # 31


JUDGMENT


" Every man that dies shall live again, and shall stand before the bar of God, to be judged according to his works, whether they be good or evil.  It is then that all will have to give an account for their stewardship in this mortal life."  (Joseph F. Smith, Gospel Doctrine, p. 69).

"Judgment consists in the power to arrive at a wise and righteous decision , to the blessing of the righteous and the condemnation of the wicked.  It is an attribute of Deity.  'The Lord is a God of judgment'  (Isa. 30:18)"  (Bruce R. Mc Conkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 400).


Questions and Activities

• Why is judgment essential to the plan of salvation?
• What scriptures show that God's judgments are just?
• Alma taught that we will be judged according to what three things?
• What are the different degrees of glory and the characteristics of those who inherit each?
• Ponder the principle that "of him unto whom much is given much is required"  (D& C 82:3).
• How do you feel about the fact that the Savior will be your judge?
• How has knowing that you will be judged influenced the way you live?
• If you were to be judged right now, what thoughts, words, and actions would condemn you?  How can you change in order to prepare better for the judgment?

Topical Guide

Accountability

Book of Life

Condemnation

Death, Spiritual, Second

Excommunication

God, Justice of

God, Mercy of

Good Works

Injustice

Jesus Christ, Judge

Judge

Judgment, the Last

Justice

Mercy,Merciful

Reward

Wages

Wickedness, Wicked

Scriptures

Alma 5:57-58;  12:12-15;  42

3 Nephi 27

Ecclesiastes 3:16-22

Matthew 7:21-23

Romans 2

2 Timothy 4:7-8

Articles of Faith 1:2

Bible Dictionary

Book of Life

Damnation

Degrees of Glory

Other Sources 

Gospel Principles, chapter 46

The Articles of Faith, chapter 22

Jesus the Christ, chapter 32, pp. 584-86

WEEK # 30


THE POSTMORTAL SPIRIT WORLD


"The spirits of all men, as soon as they depart from this mortal body, whether they are good or evil. . . are taken home to that God who gave them life, where there is a separation, a partial judgment, and 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 expand in wisdom where they have respite from all their troubles, and where care and sorrow do not annoy."  (Joseph F. Smith, Improvement Era,  June 1904, p. 621).

"The great misery of departed spirits in the world of spirits, where they go after death, is to know that they come short of the glory that others enjoy and that they might have enjoyed themselves, and they are their own accusers."  (Discourses of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 127).

Questions and Activities

• What are the conditions in the spirit world?
• What is the nature of our spirits?
• What is the purpose of the spirit world?
• What is the state of the righteous in the spirit world? of the wicked?
• What experiences have you had that give you the assurance of our spirits will live on after death?
• How does your understanding of life after death influence your feelings about death?
• How does missionary work here on earth affect the work among the dead?

Topical Guide

Dead

Death

Grave

Gulf

Hell

Mortality

Paradise, Paradisiacal

Salvation for the Dead

Spirits, Disembodied

Spirits in Prison

Scriptures

2 Nephi 9:12-19

Alma 40

D&C 128:6-22;  137-138

Luke 16:19-31

1 Peter 3-4

Bible Dictionary

Abraham's Bosom

Hell

Paradise

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 45

Jesus the Christ, chapter 36

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 13

Week # 29


FREE  AGENCY


"Next to the bestowal of life itself, the right to direct that life is God's greatest gift to man.  Among the immediate obligations and duties resting upon members of the Church today, and one of the most urgent and pressing for attention and action of all liberty-loving people, is the preservation of individual liberty.  Freedom of choice is more to be treasured than any possession earth can give."  (David O. McKay, in Conference Report, Apr. 1950, p. 32).

Questions and Activities

• What is meant by the term free agency?
• What was the role of free agency in the pre mortal life?  in the Fall?  in the Atonement?
• Why is agency vital to the plan of salvation?
• In what ways does the exercising of agency bring bondage?  freedom?
• Ponder and record in your journal the relationship between keeping God's commandments and maintaining your free agency?
• In what ways do opposition and free agency help us grow?
• What decisions or choices do you make everyday or every week that have eternal significance?  What ought to influence you in making these decisions?

Topical Guide

Agency

Choose, Chose, Chosen

Free

Initiative

Liberty

Opposition

Probation, Probationary

Prove

Temptation

Test, Try, Prove

Scriptures

2 Nephi 2:11-18

Mosiah 29:26-27, 32

Alma 30:7-9;  43:9

Moroni 7:12-19

D&C 93:30

Moses 4:3-4

Articles of Faith 1:11,  12

Bible Dictionary

Conscience

Fall of Adam

Tempt

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 4

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 24

Week # 28


THE  PREMORTAL  LIFE


"Spirits are eternal.  At the first organization in heaven we were all present, and saw the Savior chosen and appointed, and the plan of salvation made, and we sanctioned it."  (Discourses of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p.77).

"There is no way to make sense of life without a knowledge of the doctrine of premortal life.''

"The idea that mortal birth is the beginning is preposterous.  There is no way to explain life if you believe that. . . .

"We are the children of God, created in his image.

"Our child-parent relationship to God is clear."  ( Boyd K. Packer, " The Mystery of Life,"  Ensign, Nov. 1983, p. 18).


Questions and Activities

• According to the scriptures, what happened in the council in heaven?
• What proposals were made in premortal life for our salvation?  What would have been the consequences of each proposal?
• What does it mean to keep our first estate?
• What blessings and opportunities do you enjoy in your life because you kept your first estate?
• How does your understanding of the premortal life influence the decisions you make and the way you live?
• What examples can you find in the scriptures of people being prepared and ordained in the premortal life for their earthly missions?
• How would a clear understanding of premortal life make a difference in the lives of people who are investigating the church?
• In what ways is learning gospel principles really a relearning or a remembering of things previously learned?

Topical Guide

Council in Heaven

Earth, Purpose of

Jesus Christ, Antemortal Existence of

Man, a Spirit Child of Heavenly Father

Man, Antemortal Existence of 

Man, Potential to Become Like Heavenly Father

Spirit Body

Spirit Creation

Scriptures

Alma 13:2-5

Ether 3:13-16

D&C 29:40-45

Moses 3:5

Abraham 3:22-28

Proverbs 8:22-31

Isaiah 14:12-15

Jeremiah 1:4-5

Ephesians 1:4-11

Bible Dictionary

Election

Spirit

War in Heaven

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, Chapter 2

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 20

Jesus the Christ, chapter 2

Week # 27


PATIENCE


"To fill the full measure and purpose of our mortal probation, we must have patience.  This mortal existence is the Lord's sifting sphere, the time when we are subject to trials, testing, and tribulations.  Future rewards will be based on our patient endurance of all things."  (Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 557).

Questions and Activities

• Why does the Lord command his people to be patient in all things?
• Find scriptures describing different situations in which patience is necessary.
• What is the role of patience in being charitable?  in being forgiving?  in developing faith?  in developing talents?  in developing a testimony?  in becoming a dependable servant of God?
• How do the following scriptures illustrate patience:  Mark 15,  Alma 14, 1 Nephi 17, Isaiah 53?  What other scriptural accounts provide examples of Jesus Christ and other prophets showing patience?  Why have the people of God had to bear so much affliction in all generations?
• What experiences have you had in which you benefitted because someone was patient with you?
• What experiences have helped you develop patience?
• In what circumstances do you find it easiest to show patience?  When is it most difficult?
• What will you do today to be more patient?

Topical Guide

Adversity

Endure

Forbear, Forbearance

Long-Suffering

Oppression, Oppress

Patience, Patient, Patiently

Perseverance

Self-mastery

Test, Try, Prove

Tribulation

Scriptures

Mosiah 23:21-22,  24:15

Alma 17:19-39

D&C 98:1-4;  121:34-46;  122: 5-9

Job 1-2

Luke 21:19

James 1:3-4

Articles of Faith 1:13

Week # 26


SABBATH


"The purpose of the Sabbath is for spiritual uplift, for a renewal of our covenants, for worship, for prayer.  It is for the purpose of feeding the spirit, that we may keep ourselves unspotted from the world by obeying God's command"  (Ezra Taft Benson,  God, Family, Country:  Our Three Great Loyalties,  pp. 103-4.)

Questions and Activities

• What is the history of the Sabbath day?
• What is the difference between the Sabbath day and the Lord's day?
• What does it mean to keep the Sabbath day holy?
• What activities have been suggested as appropriate on the Sabbath?
• Why is it important for Church members to assemble and worship together on the Sabbath?
• What  spiritual experiences have you had recently while attending Church meetings?
• What blessings have come into your life through keeping the Sabbath day holy?
• Think of ways that you can make the Sabbath day more meaningful.  Record these things in your journal.

Topical Guide

Assembly for Worship

Congregation

Meetings

Sabbath

Sabbatical Year

Scriptures

Mosiah 13:16-19

Exodus 20:8-11

Isaiah 58:13-14

Matthew 12:1-8

Acts 20:7

D&C 59:9-19

Bible Dictionary

Lord's Day

Sabbath

Sabbatical Day's Journey

Sabbatical Year

Synagogue

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 24

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder,  chapter 23

Jesus the Christ, chapter 15

Week  # 25


SACRAMENT


" Who is there among us that does not wound his  spirit by word, thought, or deed, from Sabbath to Sabbath?  We do things for which we are sorry and desire to be forgiven, or we have erred against someone and given injury. . . .

"We want every Latter-day Saint to come to the sacrament table because it is the place for self-investigation, for self-inspection, where we may learn to rectify our course and to make right our own lives, bringing ourselves into harmony with the teachings of the Church and with our brothers and sisters."  (Melvin J. Ballard,  Sermons and Missionary Services of Melvin Joseph Ballard, pp.  148-50).

Questions and Activities

• What are the purposes of the sacrament?
• What do the bread and water symbolize?
• How did the Savior introduce the sacrament?
• Read the sacrament prayers one phrase at a time.  What covenants do we make?  What blessings can we receive?
• How can you prepare yourself properly to partake of the sacrament?
• How has the sacrament helped you become closer to your Heavenly Father?
• What blessings have you recently received from partaking of the sacrament?
• What are you doing to make partaking of the sacrament a meaningful experience each Sunday?  What are some things you can think about during that sacred time?

Topical Guide

Bread of Life

Jesus Christ, Taking the Name of

Jesus Christ, Types of, in Memory

Sacrament

Scriptures

3 Nephi 18:1-10;  20:3-9

Moroni 4-5

D&C 20:75-84;  27

Matthew 26:17--30

Mark 14:12-26

Luke 22:7-20

John 6:26-35

1 Corinthians 11:22-29

Bible Dictionary

Communion

Other Sources

Gospel Principles,  chapter 23

Jesus the Christ, chapter 33

The Articles of Faith,  chapter 9

Week # 24


RESTORATION OF THE GOSPEL


"The greatest event that has ever occurred in the world since the resurrection of the Son of God from the tomb and his ascension on high, was the coming of the Father and of the Son to that boy Joseph Smith, to prepare the way for the laying of the foundation of His Kingdom, not the kingdom of man--never more to cease nor be overturned."  (Joseph F. Smith, as quoted in Preston Nibley,  Joseph Smith the Prophet, p. 28).

"What then is our message for all men?  It is the message of the Restoration. . . .

"The message of the Restoration includes three great truths, truths which must be accepted by all mankind if  they are to save themselves.  These are, first, the divine Sonship of Christ;  second the divine mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith; and third, the truth and divinity of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints"  (Bruce R. McConkie, "Who Hath Believed Our Report,"  Ensign, Nov. 1981.p.46).

Questions and Activities

• What is meant by the phrase "the restoration of the gospel"?
• What were the major events of the Restoration?
• What ancient prophecies were fulfilled by the Restoration?
• Why has the Restoration been called "a marvelous work and a wonder"?
• What does it mean to you to be a member of the true Church of Jesus Christ?
• What blessings have come to you because of the restoration of the gospel?
• Record in your journal your testimony of the Restoration.
• What are you doing to strengthen your testimony of the Restoration?

Topical Guide

Dispensations

Ensign

Israel, Mission of

Israel, Restoration of

Millennium, Preparing a People for Restoration

Restoration of the Gospel

Scriptures

1 Nephi 13:32-42; 15:1-16

2 Nephi 25:6-20

Isaiah 29

Daniel 2

Acts 3:19-26

Revelation 14:6-11

D& C 1:17-23;  27:5-13;  110

JS---H 1

Articles of Faith 1:6

Bible Dictionary

Restoration, Restitution

Other Sources

Gospel  Principles, chapter 17

Truth Restored, chapter 3

Jesus the Christ,  chapter 41

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 5

Week # 23


PRIESTHOOD  ORGANIZATION


"The priesthood is greater than any of its offices.  No office adds any power, dignity, or authority to the priesthood.  All offices derive their rights, virtues, and authorities from the priesthood.  Our concern is with those holding the offices of elder, of seventy, and of high priest. . . .

"Why do we have offices or callings in the priesthood? . . . .So that brethren can become specialists in the performance of priesthood labors. . . .

"Elders are called to be standing ministers;  to perfect the Saints;  to labor for the salvation of the brethren.

"Seventies are called to proclaim the message of salvation to our Father's other children.

"High priests are called to be standing presidents;  to perfect the Saints;  to guide, govern, and direct the organization of the Church."  (Bruce R. McConkie, Address at Regional Representatives' Seminar, 7 Oct. 1973, p.2).

Questions and Activities

• Discuss the history of the orders of the priesthood.
• What are the responsibilities of each of the offices of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods?
• What is the difference between priesthood authority and priesthood keys?
• What prophets visited Joseph Smith, and what priesthood keys did they restore?
• Why has the Lord established priesthood quorums?
• How have priesthood quorums helped you and your family?

Topical Guide

Apostles

Church

Church Organization

Elder--Melchizedek Priesthood

High Priest--Aaronic Priesthood

High Priest--Melchizedek Priesthood

Jesus Christ, Head of the Church

Ministry, Unpaid

Patriarch

Priesthood, Aaronic

Priesthood,Keys of

Priesthood, Magnifying Callings within

Priesthood, Melchizedek

Quorum

Scriptures

3 Nephi 12:1-2

Moroni 3

D&C 20,  68, 107

Exodus 18:13-27

Luke 10:1-4

Acts 1:20-26;  6:1-4

Ephesians 4:11-14

Titus 1:7-9

Articles of Faith 1:6

Bible Dictionary

Apostle

Bishop

Elders

Evangelist

High Priest

Ministry

Patriarch, Patriarchs

Transfiguration, Mount of

Help Others Feel and Recognize the Spirit

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 14

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 12

Jesus the Christ, chapters 16, 23

The Articles of Faith, chapter 11

Week # 22


PRIESTHOOD


"When we receive the priesthood, we do so with the understanding that it will be used for the benefit of others.  This is an obligation we take upon us.  In fact, priesthood blesses us in two ways:  first, it is the means through which exaltation comes to those who hold it;  second, is to be used in behalf of others that they also may be blessed. . . .  No man has been given the priesthood as an ornament only.  He is expected to use it in behalf of others.

Not only is he expected, but he is commanded to do so."  (Joseph Fielding Smith, "No Exaltation without the Priesthood,"  Improvement Era, June 1996, p.538).

Questions and Activities

• What is the priesthood?
• How were the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods restored?
• Why do we need the priesthood on the earth?
• What are the ordinances of the priesthood, and how is each administered?
• What does it mean to magnify a calling in the priesthood?
• What personal experiences have strengthened your testimony of the power of the priesthood?
• Record in your journal the blessings that have come into  your life through the priesthood.
• What are you doing to magnify your calling received through the power of the priesthood?

Topical Guide

Authority

Called of God

Calling

Election, Elect

False Priesthoods 

Foreordination

Jesus Christ, Authority of

Ordain

Ordinance

Ordination

Priesthood

Priesthood, Authority

Priesthood, History of

Priesthood, Ordination

Priesthood, Power of

Sealing, Sealed

Scriptures

Alma 13:1-19

D& C 2,  13,  84:6-44;  86,  110,  121

Official Declaration----2

John 15:1-10

Hebrews 5:1-10;  7

Abraham 1:1-5

Articles of Faith 1:5

Bible Dictionary

Aaronic Priesthood

Anoint

Birthright

Levites

Melchizedek Priesthood

Other Sources

Gospel Principles,  chapter 13

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 9

The Articles of Faith, chapter 10

Week # 21


SCRIPTURES


"All that we teach in this church ought to be couched in the scriptures.  It ought to be found in the scriptures.  We ought to choose our texts from the scriptures"  (Harold B. Lee, "Using the Scriptures in Our Church Assignments, " Improvement Era, Jan. 1969, p.13.)

"The Lord is not trifling with us when he gives us these things, 'for unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required' (Luke 12:48).  Access to these things means responsibility for them.  We must study the scriptures according to the Lord's commandment;  and we must let them govern our lIves and the lives of our children....

"So I ask all to begin now to study the scriptures in earnest, if you have not already done so" ( Spencer W. Kimball,  Ensign,  Sept. 1976, p.  5).

Questions and Activities

• What is scripture?
• What is the history and content of each of the standard works?
• What are the purposes of the scriptures?
• What do the standard works themselves tell us about how we should study the scriptures?
• What blessings are promised to those who study the scriptures faithfully?
• What blessings have come into your life through scripture study?
• How has your testimony been strengthened by studying the scriptures?
• What are you doing to improve the quality of your scripture study?

Topical Guide

Scripture

Scriptures, Lost

Scriptures, Preservation of

Scriptures to Come Forth

Scriptures, Study of

Scriptures, Value of

Scriptures, Writing of

Scriptures

1 Nephi 5:10-22;  13:20-29, 35-42;  19:1-7

2 Nephi 29

Mosiah 1:3-7;  8:9-13

Alma 37:1-14

3 Nephi 23

Mormon 7:9-10

D& C 18:1-4, 34-46;  68:3-4

2 Kings 22-23

Articles of Faith 1:8

Bible Dictionary

Apocrypha

Bible 

Canon

Chronology

Gospels

Lost Books

Pentateuch

Scripture

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 10

The Articles of Faith, chapter 13-15

Week # 20


APOSTASY


"From Adam to the present, the whole history of the world has been one recurring instance of personal and group apostasy after another. . . . Apostasy consists in abandonment and forsaking of . . . true principles, and all those who do not believe and conform to them are in an apostate condition, whether they are the ones who departed from the truth or whether they inherited their false concepts from their apostate fathers....

"With the loss of the gospel, the nations of the earth went into a moral eclipse called the Dark Ages.  Apostasy was universal.  'Darkness covereth the earth, and gross darkness the minds of the people, and all flesh has become corrupt before my face.'  (D&C 112:23.)  And this darkness still prevails except among those who have come to a knowledge of the restored gospel (Doctrines of Salvation, vol. 3, pp. 265-326)
(Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, pp.43-44).


Questions and Activities

• What does the word apostasy mean?
• What were the causes of the great apostasy that lasted through the Dark Ages?
• What truths, ordinances, and covenants were lost during the great apostasy?
• Find in the scriptures prophecies about the great apostasy.
• What are the evidences of apostasy in the world today?
• What are the indications of individual apostasy?
• What is the role of missionary work in overcoming apostasy?

Topical Guide

Apostasy of Individuals

Apostasy of Israel

Apostasy of the Early Christian Church

Darkness, Spiritual

False Doctrine

Hardheartedness, Harden, Hardness

Holy Ghost, Loss of

Scriptures

2 Nephi 26-28

Jacob 5

2 Thessalonians 2:1-3

2 Timothy 4:1-5

Bible Dictionary

Darkness

Other Sources

Jesus the Christ, chapter 40

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 4

The Articles of Faith, chapter 11,  pp. 198-204

Week # 19

SOURCE  OF  TRUTH


"If there is anything great or good in the world, it came from God." (Discourses of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 201).

"The Lord's 'law is truth' (Ps 119:142), all his 'commandments are truth' (Ps:119:151), all his 'works are truth' (Dan. 4:37), his scriptures are truth (Dan. 10:21), and his 'word is truth' (John 17:17). . . . Truth. . . conforms to reality, is centered in God, and is as enduring as Deity himself"  (Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 810).

"Then knowledge through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is the grand key that unlocks the glories and mysteries of the kingdom of heaven" (Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:388-89).

Questions and Activities

• How do the scriptures define truth?
• How does the truth make you free?
• Through what means can we learn truth from God?
• What examples illustrate that man's understanding is not always based on true principles?
• How can you distinguish truth from error?
• What blessings have come into your life through the gospel truths?
• What are you doing to learn more truth?
• What are some of the gospel truths you have learned recently?

Topical Guide

Church Organization

Gospel

Knowledge

Learn, Learning

Light

Mysteries of Godliness

Revelation

Scriptures, Value of

True

Trust in God

Trust Not in the Arm of Flesh

Truth

Scriptures

1 Nephi 16:1-3

Jacob 4:8-14

Moroni 7:13-18; 10:3-7

D&C 50:23-25;  93:21-37;  100:1-8

Isaiah 55

Daniel 2

Matthew 16

John 8:12-58

1 Corinthians 2

Articles of Faith 1:9

Bible Dictionary

Knowledge

Light of Christ

Revelation

Other Sources

Gospel Principles,  chapter 16

The Articles of Faith, chapter 16

Jesus the Christ, chapter 25, pp. 408-12

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 29

Week # 18

HUMILITY


"If the Lord was meek and lowly and humble, then to become humble one must do what he did in boldly denouncing evil, bravely advancing righteous work, courageously meeting every problem, becoming the master of himself and the situations about him and being near oblivious of personal credit. . . .  Humility is not pretentious, presumptuous or proud.  it is not weak, vacillating, or servile."  (Spencer W. Kimball,  "Humility, "  Improvement Era,  Aug. 1963, p. 656).

Questions and Activities

• What are the qualities of a humble person?
• Why does the Lord require us to be humble?
• What role does humility play in the conversion process?  In the repentance process?
• What blessings have been promised those who humble themselves before the Lord?
• Find instances in the scriptures where the Lord gave men experiences to make them humble.  Compare them with modern examples.
• Recall examples from the scriptures in which prophets became powerful and great because of their humility before the Lord.
• What experiences in your life have helped and are currently helping you learn humility?
• What are you doing to show the Lord your humility?

Topical Guide

Contrite Heart

Heart

Humility, Humble

Meek, Meekness

Poor in Spirit

Pride

Submissiveness, Submit

Teachable

Scriptures

1 Nephi 8

Mosiah 2:24-27;  3

Alma 26:11-12;  32:1-16;  38:13-15

3 Nephi 12:5

Ether 12:26-27

D&C 19:20;  112:10

Proverbs 3:5-12

Moses 6:26-47

Other Sources

Jesus the Christ, chapter 17

Week #17

OBEDIENCE

"Obedience is the first law of heaven, the cornerstone upon which all righteousness and progression rest."(Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine. P.539)"We cannot keep all the commandments without first knowing them, and we cannot expect to know all or more than we now know unless we comply with or keep those we have already received." (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 256)

Questions and Answers

• Why is obedience the first law of heaven?
• How does obedience make us free?
• Think of examples of obedience from the Savior's life.Why does God give us commandments?
• Why is it important to obey willingly rather than unwillingly?
• What specific blessings have you received from being obedient?
• Record in your journal experiences when the Lord has prepared a way for you to obey him?
• What are you specifically doing to increase the Lord's trust in you?
  
• To show your love for him?

Topical Guide
Commandments of God
Commitment
Diligence, Diligent, Diligently
Disobedience, Disobey
Do, Did, Done
Endure
Obedience, Obedient, Obey
Steadfastness, Steadfast
Walking with God

Scriptures
1 Nephi 3:1-8
Mosiah 2:22
Alma 5:39-41
D&C 59:21; 82:10; 105:5-7
Genesis 22:1-13
Deuteronomy 8
Matthew 7:21-29
Abraham 4:25
Articles of Faith 1:3, 12

Bible Dictionary
Commandments, The Ten
Fear

Other Sources
A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 21
Gospel Principles, chapter 35
The Articles of Faith, chapter 23
Truth Restored, chapter 13

Week # 16

THE GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST

"It is my judgment that there are many members of the Church who have been baptized for the remission of their sins, who have had hands laid upon their heads for the gift of the Holy Ghost, who have never received that gift, that is, the manifestations of it. Why? Because they have never put themselves in order to receive these manifestations. They have never humbled themselves. They have never taken the steps that would prepare them for the companionship of the Holy Ghost" (Joseph Fielding Smith, in Conference Report, Oct. 1958, p. 21).

Questions and Activities

• What is the mission of the Holy Ghost?
• What are the fruits of the Spirit?
• What is the differences between having the Holy Ghost bear witness and having the gift of the Holy Ghost?
• Find scriptural examples of Jesus or his representatives conferring the gift of the Holy Ghost.
• How do you gain the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost?
• In what ways have you been helped by following the promptings of the Holy Ghost?
• Recall experiences when you felt guided by the Holy Ghost in your life. Record them in your journal.
• What are you doing in your life to gain the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost?

Topical Guide

Comforter

God, Spirit of

Hands, Laying on of

Holy Ghost

Holy Ghost, Baptism of

Holy Ghost, Gift of

Holy Ghost, Mission of

Holy Spirit

Lord, Spirit of

Remission of Sins

Sanctification, Sanctify

Scriptures

3 Nephi 18:35-39

3 Nephi 19:1-4; 27:1-2, 20

John 16:1-14

Acts 2; 8:9-20; 19:1-7

Bible Dictionary

Confirmation

Dove, Sign of

Holy Ghost

Laying on of Hands

Other sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 21

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 11

Week # 15

BAPTISM

"Baptism is a sign to God, to angels, and to heaven that we do the will of God, and there is no other way beneath the heavens whereby God hath ordained for man to come to him to be saved, and enter into the kingdom of God, except faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, and baptism for the remission of sins, and any other course is in vain; then you have the promise of the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 4:555).

Questions and Activities

• What is an ordinance of the gospel? Why does the Lord give us ordinances?
• What is the purpose of the ordinance of baptism?
• Find scriptural examples of the proper mode of baptism.
• How is baptism by immersion symbolic of the blessings of the atonement of Jesus Christ?
• Why was the Savior baptized?
• Review the covenants made at baptism--the promises made by you and the promises made by Heavenly Father.
• What are some of the blessings that you have received because you have been baptized?
• What feelings did you have as you attended a baptismal service? Why are baptismal services such powerful spiritual experiences?

Topical Guide

Baptism

Baptism, Essential

Baptism, Immersion

Baptism, Qualifications for

Jesus Christ, Baptism of

Jesus Christ, Taking the Name of

Remission of Sins

Scriptures

2 Nephi 31

Mosiah 18

3 Nephi 11:19-41

Moroni 6, 8:4-16

D&C 20:37

Matthew 3

John 3:1-5

Acts 8:26-40

Romans 6:1-16

Articles of Faith 1:4

Bible Dictionary

Baptism

Bethabara

John the Baptist

Jordan River

Regeneration

Symbolism

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 20

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 10

Jesus the Christ, chapter 10

The Articles of Faith, chapters 6-7

Week # 14

REPENTANCE

" True repentance is not only sorrow for sins, and humble penitence and contrition before God, but it involves the necessity of turning away from them, a discontinuance of all evil practices and deeds, a thorough reformation of life, a vital change from evil to good, from vice to virtue, from darkness to light. Not only so, but to make restitution, so far as it is possible, for all the wrongs we have done, to pay our debts, and restore to God and man their rights---that which is due to them from us." (Joseph F. Smith, Gospel Doctrine, pp. 100-101).

Questions and Activities

• What is sin? What is repentance?
• What is the process of repentance?
• In what way is changing your behavior to righteous actions part of repentance?
• How does forgiving others help you obtain forgiveness of your sins?
• How has the Lord let you know when your repentance is accepted?
• What blessings have come to you through repentance?
• Record in your journal your feelings about the opportunity provided by the Savior to repent and change.
• What in your life are you trying to change and make better?

Topical Guide

Change

Confess

Confession

Forgive, Forgiveness

Guilt, Guilty

Man, New, Spiritually Reborn

Remission of Sins

Repent, Repentance

Turn

Scriptures

Enos 1

Alma 5, 7:14-22, 36

Helaman 7:17-29

Ezekial 33:7-16

Luke 15

Articles of Faith 1:4

Bible Dictionary

Confession

Repentance

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter19

Jesus the Christ, chapter 27

The Articles of Faith, chapter 5

Week 13

FAITH

"Three things are necessary in order that any rational and intelligent being may exercise faith in God unto life and salvation.

"First, the idea that he actually exists.

"Secondly, a correct idea of his character, perfections, and attributes.

"Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing is according to his will" (Joseph Smith, Lectures on Faith, 3:2-5).

Questions and Activities

• What is faith?
• What does it mean to have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ? How do faith, belief, and knowledge differ?
• Review examples from the scriptures when people showed faith in Christ.
• Why is faith in Jesus Christ the first principle of the gospel?
• What has increased your faith in Christ?
• Think of an experience when your life was blessed by the power of faith.
• What in your life is strengthening your faith and building faith in others?

Topical Guide

Assurance

Believe

Confidence

Doubt, Doubtful

Faith

Faithful

Hope

Scriptures

1 Nephi 7:11-18; 17

Alma 32, 56-57

Ether 12

Moroni 7

Moses 6-7

1 Samuel 17

Matthew 9

Romans 4, 10

Hebrews 11

James 2

Articles of Faith 1:4

Bible Dictionary

Faith

Knowledge

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 18

The Articles of Faith, chapter 5

Week 12

THE ATONEMENT OF CHRIST

"The atonement of the Master is the central point of world history. Without it, the whole purpose for the creation of the earth and our living upon it would fail....

"...Without it, no man or woman would ever be resurrected.... And so all the world, believers and non believers, are indebted to the Redeemer for their certain resurrection, because the resurrection will be as wide as was the fall, which brought death to every man.

"There is another phase of the atonement which makes me love the Savior even more, and fills my soul with gratitude beyond expression.... In addition to atoning for Adams's transgression, thereby bringing about the resurrection, the Savior by his suffering paid the debt for my personal sins. He paid the debt for your personal sins and for the personal sins of every living soul that ever dwelt upon the earth. But this he did conditionally.

"The benefits of this suffering for our individual transgressions will not come to us unconditionally in the same sense that the resurrection will come, regardless of what we do. If we partake of the blessings of the atonement as far as our individual transgressions are concerned, we must obey the law" (Marion G. Romney, in Conference Report, Oct. 1953, pp. 34-36).

Questions and Activities

• How does sin keep us from returning to our Father in Heaven?
• How can the effects of sin be overcome through Christ?
• What is the law of mercy?
• What is the law of justice?
• How does Christ's mercy satisfy the law of justice?
• What is the penalty for those who do not accept Christ's atonement?
• Think of experiences when other people's lives have been changed through the atonement of Jesus Christ.
• Record in your journal the blessings the Atonement has brought to your life.
• What are you doing to show your gratitude to the Savior for his atoning sacrifice?

Topical Guide

Blood

Jesus Christ, Atonement through

Jesus Christ, Mission of

Jesus Christ, Redeemer

Jesus Christ, Savior

Man, Natural, Not Spiritually Reborn

Salvation of Little Children

Sin

Scriptures

2 Nephi 9

Mosiah 15

Alma 34:8-16; 41-42

D&C 19:15-20

Leviticus 16:20-28

Luke 22-23

Hebrews 2

Articles of Faith 1:3

Bible Dictionary

Atonement

Blood

Calvary

Crucifixion

Gethsemane

Golgotha

Redemption

Scapegoat

Other Sources

Gospel Principles, chapter 12

The Articles of Faith, chapter 4