Lesson 13: "This Generation Shall Have My Word Through You"

CLASS MEMBER STUDY GUIDE

Lesson 13: “This Generation Shall Have My Word through You”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Class Member Study Guide, (1999), 9

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Reading assignment: The scriptures listed in the following questions and in the scripture chain; Bible Dictionary, “Joseph Smith Translation,” 717; Our Heritage, pages 23–25, 41, 58.

• •Joseph Smith’s role in restoring and receiving the Lord’s word was foretold on several occasions. What prophecies are found in Moses 1:40–41 and 2 Nephi 3:11–15? What scriptures have come to us through the Prophet Joseph Smith?
• •Identify some plain and precious doctrines of the gospel that were restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. (See the following scripture chain.)

Scripture Chain: Doctrines and Practices Restored through Joseph Smith

• D&C 84:19–25 (Melchizedek Priesthood)
  
• D&C 88:15–24 (Three kingdoms of glory; see also D&C 76:50–112)
  
• D&C 93:29 (Premortal existence)
  
• D&C 107:23, 33, 35 (Apostles and prophets)
  
• D&C 124:37–42 (Temples)
  
• D&C 128:16–18 (Baptism for the dead)
  
• D&C 130:22 (The Godhead)
   

GOSPEL DOCTRINE LESSON

Lesson 13: “This Generation Shall Have My Word through You”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History: Gospel Doctrine Teacher’s Manual, (1999), 69–74

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Purpose

To help class members appreciate the Prophet Joseph Smith’s role in bringing forth the word of the Lord in this dispensation.

Preparation

1. 1. Prayerfully study the scriptures in this lesson and the following other materials:
   
   1. a. Our Heritage, pages 23–25, 41, 58.
      
   2. b. Bible Dictionary, “Joseph Smith Translation,” page 717.
      
2. 2. Review the material for this lesson in the Class Member Study Guide (35686). Plan ways to refer to the material during the lesson.
   
3. 3. Ask a class member to prepare to summarize the account of Mary Elizabeth and Caroline Rollins saving pages of the Book of Commandments (Our Heritage, page 41).
   
4. 4. If the picture Mary and Caroline Rollins Saving the Book of Commandments is available (62605; Gospel Art Picture Kit 409), prepare to use it during the lesson.
   
5. 5. Copy selected entries from the chart on page 74 onto a poster or prepare to write them on the chalkboard.
   

Suggestions for Lesson Development

Attention Activity

As appropriate, use the following activity or one of your own to begin the lesson.

List some or all of the following subjects on the chalkboard before class begins.

Physical nature of the Godhead

Our creation in God’s image

Apostles and prophets

Melchizedek Priesthood

Aaronic Priesthood

Mode of baptism

The gift of the Holy Ghost

Premortal existence

Baptism for the dead

Resurrection

The three kingdoms of glory

Eternal marriage

Our potential to become like Heavenly Father

Invite a class member to erase from the chalkboard anything that has not been revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Help class members see that nothing can be erased from the chalkboard—that all of these truths were restored through the Prophet Joseph. This lesson discusses how Joseph Smith has been instrumental in bringing forth the word of the Lord in this dispensation.

Discussion and Application

Prayerfully select the lesson material that will best meet class members’ needs. Encourage class members to share experiences that relate to the principles you teach.

1. The Lord declared that the people in this dispensation would receive His word through Joseph Smith.

Read D&C 5:10 with class members. Explain that in this verse, the phrase “this generation” refers to this dispensation—the time in which we live. Then share the following statement by President Brigham Young:

“What I have received from the Lord, I have received by Joseph Smith” (Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [1941], 458).

• •How is this statement true for you? How is it true for all Latter-day Saints?

Point out that the great outpouring of truth in this dispensation has come through the Prophet Joseph Smith. For example, latter-day scriptures, priesthood ordinances, the organization of the priesthood, and temple building have come from the Lord through the Prophet Joseph Smith.

2. Many ancient and latter-day scriptures have come through Joseph Smith.

• •Read Moses 1:40–41 with class members. How is the prophecy in verse 41 being fulfilled? (Emphasize that in a time when many have esteemed the Lord’s words lightly, the Lord raised up the Prophet Joseph Smith. The words of the Lord are now “had again among the children of men.”)
• •What scriptures have come to us through the Prophet Joseph Smith? (The Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price, and Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible. Point out that Joseph Smith was an instrument in the Lord’s hands in restoring ancient scriptures, and he received many revelations that became latter-day scriptures.)
  Speaking about Joseph Smith, Elder LeGrand Richards of the Quorum of the Twelve said, “As far as our records show, he has given us more revealed truth than any prophet who has ever lived upon the face of the earth” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1981, 43; or Ensign, May 1981, 33).

The Book of Mormon

Read 2 Nephi 3:11–15 with class members. Explain that this passage contains a prophecy about Joseph Smith. The writings mentioned in verse 12 are the Bible and the Book of Mormon.

• •In what ways does the Book of Mormon help eliminate contention and establish peace? In what ways does the Book of Mormon bring people to a knowledge of the Lord’s covenants?
• •How has the Book of Mormon blessed your life?
• •What are some of your favorite passages in the Book of Mormon?

As part of this discussion, you may want to share one or two passages from the Book of Mormon that are particularly meaningful to you.

The Doctrine and Covenants

Explain that from 1823 to 1831, Joseph Smith received more than 60 revelations from the Lord. A few handwritten copies of these revelations were given to missionaries and others, but most Church members did not have access to them. At a conference held in Ohio in late 1831, Church leaders decided to publish the revelations in a volume called the Book of Commandments (see the headings to D&C 67 and D&C 69). Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer were selected to take the revelations to Independence, Missouri, a distance of approximately 1,000 miles, where the book would be printed and bound.

The Book of Commandments. This is the first compilation of the revelations given through the Prophet Joseph Smith. These revelations later became part of the Doctrine and Covenants.

Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer reached Independence in January 1832, and by July 1833 William W. Phelps had printed the first 160 pages of the Book of Commandments. However, on 20 July 1833 a mob destroyed Brother Phelps’s printing press and many of the unbound pages of the Book of Commandments.

Ask the assigned class member to tell the story of the courage of Mary Elizabeth and Caroline Rollins (Our Heritage, page 41).

The pages that were salvaged were bound into a few copies of the Book of Commandments, but the revelations still were not widely available. In 1835, after 45 more revelations were added, the Book of Commandments was published as the Doctrine and Covenants.

• •What does the story of Mary Elizabeth and Caroline Rollins teach about how we should value the revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants?
• •How have you been blessed as you have studied the Doctrine and Covenants this year?
• •What are some of your favorite passages in the Doctrine and Covenants?

As part of this discussion, you may want to share one or two passages from the Doctrine and Covenants that are particularly meaningful to you.

The Pearl of Great Price

Point out that the Pearl of Great Price is appropriately named. Like a pearl, it is small in size but great in worth. Although it is only 61 pages long, it spans the eternities, including passages about the Grand Council in Heaven, the restoration of the gospel in the dispensation of the fulness of times, the Savior’s Second Coming, the Millennium, and everlasting life. It contains valuable teachings on the Creation, the Fall, the Atonement, and the agency of mankind. This book of scripture has five parts:

1. a. Selections from the book of Moses
   
2. b. The book of Abraham
   
3. c. Joseph Smith—Matthew
   
4. d. Joseph Smith—History
   
5. e. The Articles of Faith
   

Ask class members to turn to the Introductory Note at the beginning of the Pearl of Great Price. Have them review the last five paragraphs, which explain the background of each part of this book of scripture.

• •How have the teachings in the Pearl of Great Price helped you? What are some passages in the Pearl of Great Price that are particularly meaningful to you?

As part of this discussion, you may want to share one or two of your favorite passages from the Pearl of Great Price.

The Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible

• •Read the eighth article of faith with class members. What is the significance of the phrase “as far as it is translated correctly”?

Read 1 Nephi 13:24–28 with class members. (Explain that “the book [that] proceeded from the mouth of a Jew” is the Bible. The phrase “great and abominable church” refers to all those who fight against God, not to a specific church.) Remind class members that because of the Great Apostasy, the Lord withdrew the fulness of the gospel from the earth. During the centuries that followed, many parts of the Bible were changed and many plain and precious truths were lost.

Soon after the Church was restored, the Lord instructed the Prophet Joseph to begin making inspired corrections to the King James Version of the Bible. There are many references to this instruction in the Doctrine and Covenants (see, for example, D&C 35:20; 37:1; 45:60–61; 73:3–4; 93:53). Today we refer to the Prophet’s work as the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible.

Joseph Smith’s translation of the Bible differs from what we normally call a translation. The Prophet did not translate the Bible from one language to another. His only text was the King James Version of the Bible, and he was guided by the Spirit to make corrections and restore passages that had been lost completely.

Two excerpts from the Joseph Smith Translation are in the Pearl of Great Price (the book of Moses and Joseph Smith—Matthew). In addition, brief portions of the Joseph Smith Translation are included in the footnotes of the Latter-day Saint edition of the King James Bible. Longer excerpts are included in the appendix following the Bible Dictionary.

To help class members gain a greater appreciation of the Joseph Smith Translation, you may want to briefly compare some passages with the King James Bible. Two comparisons are suggested below:

1. a. The account and teachings of Enoch are an example of the restoration of long passages in the Joseph Smith Translation. The Bible’s only references to Enoch are in Genesis 5:18–24, Luke 3:37, Hebrews 11:5, and Jude 1:14–15. The Joseph Smith Translation’s references to Enoch are greatly expanded to include his teachings, visions, and prophecies as recorded in Moses 6:21–68 and Moses 7:1–69. Select a few of these verses to read in class, and discuss their value.
   
2. b. The revisions to Matthew 4 are an example of inspired corrections to specific verses in the Bible. If class members have excerpts of the Joseph Smith Translation in the footnotes of their Bibles, have them review a few of the footnotes for Matthew 4 that begin with “JST.” Discuss how these corrections clarify the verses in the King James Version.
   

The process of translating the Bible not only brought the correction and restoration of doctrines in the Bible. It also helped bring about the restoration of doctrines through the Doctrine and Covenants. Many revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants are responses to questions the Prophet asked while pondering the translation of the Bible. One Church member who spent many years studying the Joseph Smith Translation observed, “The Joseph Smith Translation is not just a better Bible; it was the channel, or the means, of doctrinal restoration in the infancy of this Church” (Robert J. Matthews, in The Capstone of Our Religion: Insights into the Doctrine and Covenants [1989], 64).

To give an example of how the Joseph Smith Translation led to “doctrinal restoration,” read the second full paragraph on page 24 of Our Heritage. You may also want to read the heading to D&C 76 and verses 15–19 in D&C 76:15–19.

Encourage class members to use the Joseph Smith Translation as they study the scriptures.

3. Plain and precious doctrines of the gospel have been restored through Joseph Smith.

The chart on page 74 highlights some of the doctrines of the gospel that were restored or clarified through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Note that the subjects listed in the left column are the same as those in the attention activity.

The middle column of the chart lists verses in the Bible where the doctrines and principles are unclear, incorrect, or incomplete. The right column shows where these doctrines and principles are explained or clarified in scripture given through Joseph Smith.

Select a few subjects from the chart, and review the accompanying scripture passages with class members. Discuss how the revelations that came through the Prophet clarify these subjects.

Subject	Scriptures in the Bible	Scriptures Given through Joseph Smith
Physical nature of the Godhead	Matthew 3:16–17; John 4:24; Acts 7:55	Joseph Smith—History 1:17; D&C 130:1, 22
Our creation in God’s image	Genesis 1:27	Moses 6:8–9
Apostles and prophets	Ephesians 2:20; 4:11–16	D&C 107:23, 33, 35, 39, 58; 112:30–32
Melchizedek Priesthood	Hebrews 6:20; 7:17	D&C 84:19–25; 107:1–8, 18–19
Aaronic Priesthood	Hebrews 7:11	D&C 13; 84:18, 26–27, 30; 107:1, 13–14, 20
Mode of baptism	Matthew 3:16	3 Nephi 11:22–26; Moroni 8:8–12; D&C 20:71–74
The gift of the Holy Ghost	Acts 8:17	D&C 20:41, 43; 35:6; 121:46
Premortal existence	Jeremiah 1:4–5	D&C 93:29; Abraham 3:22–26
Baptism for the dead	1 Corinthians 15:29	D&C 128:16–18
Resurrection	Job 19:25–26; John 5:28–29; 1 Corinthians 15:22	Alma 11:42–45
The three kingdoms of glory	1 Corinthians 15:40–42	D&C 76:50–112; 131:1
Eternal marriage	Genesis 2:24; 1 Corinthians 11:11	D&C 131:1–4; 132:19
Our potential to become like Heavenly Father	Romans 8:17	D&C 88:107; 93:20; 132:20–24

Conclusion

Express your appreciation for Joseph Smith’s role in bringing the Lord’s word to us. As prompted by the Spirit, testify of the truths discussed during the lesson.

Lesson 12: "The Gathering of My People"

 CLASS MEMBER STUDY GUIDE

Lesson 12: “The Gathering of My People”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Class Member Study Guide, (1999), 8–9

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Reading assignment: Doctrine and Covenants 29:1–8; 33:3–7; 37; 38:24–41; 52:2–5, 42–43; 57:1–3; 110:11; Articles of Faith 1:10; Our Heritage, pages 16–23, 37–39.

The spiritual gathering of Israel occurs as people learn the gospel, come unto Christ, are baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and keep their covenants. In this way they are gathered from the world into the Church, or the kingdom of God on earth. The physical gathering of Israel occurs as Church members come together in a particular location or in the stakes of Zion throughout the world.

• •Read D&C 29:1–2, 7–8. What do these verses teach about the purposes of the gathering?
• •What purposes did the Lord give for commanding His people to go to Ohio? (See D&C 38:31–32; 39:15.) How were the Saints “endowed with power from on high” after they gathered to Ohio? (See D&C 95:8; 105:33; 110:9.)
• •Rather than gather to a central location as the early Saints did, we are now counseled to gather to and strengthen the stakes of Zion where we live. What can we do to ensure that our stakes are a refuge and a defense against evil?
• •The gathering of the Lord’s people continues today. Many of Heavenly Father’s children are searching for the truth, and “are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it” (D&C 123:12). What responsibilities do we have to assist with this work?

Scripture Chain: The Gathering of the Lord’s People

• 1 Nephi 15:12–17
  
• 1 Nephi 22:11–12
  
• D&C 29:7
  
• D&C 33:6
  
• D&C 110:11
  
• Articles of Faith 1:10
   

GOSPEL DOCTRINE LESSON

Lesson 12: “The Gathering of My People”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History: Gospel Doctrine Teacher’s Manual, (1999), 63–68

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Purpose

To help class members understand how latter-day Israel was gathered in the early days of the Church, how it is being gathered today, and how they can participate in this gathering.

Preparation

1. 1. Prayerfully study the following scriptures and other materials:
   
   1. a. Doctrine and Covenants 29:1–8; 33:3–7; 37; 38:24–41; 52:2–5, 42–43; 57:1–3; 110:11; Articles of Faith 1:10; and the other scriptures in this lesson.
      
   2. b. Our Heritage, pages 16–23, 37–39.
      
2. 2. Review the material for this lesson in the Class Member Study Guide (35686). Plan ways to refer to the material during the lesson.
   
3. 3. Ask class members to prepare to summarize the following accounts from Our Heritage:
   
   1. a. The sacrifices of Newel Knight and Joseph Knight Sr. in gathering to Kirtland (page 18).
      
   2. b. The exodus of Saints from Fayette, led by Lucy Mack Smith (page 19).
      
   3. c. The sacrifices of Brigham Young in gathering to Kirtland (page 23).
      
   4. d. The journey of the Colesville Saints to Missouri and their settlement there (pages 37–39).
      
4. 4. If you use the attention activity, bring several small sticks to class.
   

Suggestions for Lesson Development

Attention Activity

As appropriate, use the following activity or one of your own to begin the lesson.

Scatter several small sticks around the room. Show how easily one stick can be broken. Then invite class members to gather all the sticks, and let someone attempt to break them all at the same time.

• •What can this activity teach us about the Lord’s purposes in gathering His people?

Explain that this lesson focuses on the gathering of Israel and our part in it.

Discussion and Application

Prayerfully select the lesson material that will best meet class members’ needs. Discuss how the scriptures apply to daily life. Encourage class members to share experiences that relate to the scriptural principles.

1. The Lord is gathering His people.

Explain that the gathering of Israel is a prominent theme in the Doctrine and Covenants. Anciently when the twelve tribes of Israel fell into apostasy, they were taken captive by their enemies and scattered among the nations of the earth, just as the Lord had warned. Although the prophets grieved over the wickedness of the people, they rejoiced as they foresaw the time in the latter days when Israel would be gathered again (see Topical Guide, “Israel, Gathering of”). This great process commenced with the restoration of the gospel and the calling of missionaries to “declare glad tidings of great joy unto this generation” (D&C 31:3).

The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “All that the prophets … have written, from the days of righteous Abel, down to the last man that has left any testimony on record for our consideration, in speaking of the salvation of Israel in the last days, goes directly to show that it consists in the work of the gathering” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 83).

• •Read the tenth article of faith and D&C 45:71 with class members. What is the gathering of Israel? (Explain that the gathering of Israel has a spiritual meaning and a physical meaning, as outlined below.)
  
  1. a. Spiritual gathering. The spiritual gathering of Israel occurs as people learn the gospel, come unto Christ, are baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and keep their covenants. In this way they are gathered from the world into the Church, or the kingdom of God on earth.
     
  2. b. Physical gathering. The physical gathering of Israel occurs as Church members come together in a particular location or in the stakes of Zion throughout the world.
     
• •Read D&C 29:1–2, 7–8 with class members. What can we learn from these verses about the purposes of the gathering? How is being gathered into the Lord’s Church a blessing in your life?
• •Explain that the authority to direct the gathering of Israel is provided through specific keys of the priesthood. When were the keys of the gathering of Israel restored to the earth? (See D&C 110:11 and the section heading.)
• •Explain that in this dispensation, the gathering began with a few people in New York. It is now spreading throughout the earth, bringing hundreds of thousands of people each year into the Lord’s Church. What responsibilities do we have to help gather people to the Lord’s Church? (See D&C 33:7; 38:40; 39:11; 88:81.)

2. The Saints gathered in Ohio.

In December 1830, just eight months after the Church was organized, the Lord gave the first call in this dispensation for the Saints to gather physically. He revealed to Joseph Smith that the Saints should leave New York and gather in Ohio (D&C 37:3). You may want to refer to maps 1 and 3 on pages 274 and 276 in this manual and pages 29 and 31 in the Class Member Study Guide.

• •What purposes did the Lord give for commanding His people to go to Ohio? (See D&C 38:31–32; 39:15.) In what way were the Saints “endowed with power from on high” after they gathered to Ohio? (See D&C 95:8; 105:33; 110:9. In part, the Saints received this endowment of power through the appearances of the Savior and the restoration of priesthood keys after the completion of the Kirtland Temple.)
• •Read D&C 38:24–27 with class members. What counsel did the Lord give in these verses as His people prepared to gather to Ohio? (Answers could include being virtuous, loving each other, and being united.) Why is unity important in the Church? How has feeling united with other Church members been a blessing in your life? How can we become more united?
• •Read D&C 38:34–39 with class members. What counsel did the Lord give in these verses as His people prepared to gather to Ohio? How does this counsel apply to us? What did the Lord promise those who heeded the commandment to gather? (See D&C 38:39.)

Explain that between January and May 1831, most Church members in New York sold, rented, or left their farms and made the 300-mile journey to Ohio. Many of these Saints made great sacrifices to heed the Lord’s call to gather. Ask the assigned class members to summarize the accounts of these sacrifices from Our Heritage (these are the first three summaries listed under “Preparation,” item 3).

• •Why do you think these Church members were willing to suffer financially and in other ways to obey the Lord’s call to gather in Ohio? What can we learn from their example? What sacrifices does the Lord ask us to make to help build His kingdom?

3. The Saints gathered in Missouri.

The early Saints had read prophecies about the city of Zion, or New Jerusalem, being established in the latter days (Isaiah 2:2–3; 3 Nephi 20:22; 3 Nephi 21:22–28; Ether 13:2–12; Moses 7:61–62). Locating and establishing this city was one of the prime objectives of these Church members.

A few months after the Saints began gathering in Ohio, Joseph Smith traveled to Missouri and received a revelation designating Missouri as the place for the city of Zion (D&C 57:1–3). With this revelation, Missouri became a second gathering place for the Church in this dispensation (D&C 63:24, 36–48). From 1831 to 1838, the Church maintained centers of population in both Ohio and Missouri. You may want to refer to maps 2 and 3 on pages 275 and 276 in this manual and pages 30 and 31 in the Class Member Study Guide.

The following time line summarizes the early revelations about the land of Zion and the establishment of the Church in Missouri. Review the time line with class members, using the chalkboard as needed.

1. a. September 1830 (in New York): The Lord revealed that the city of Zion would be built “on the borders by the Lamanites,” with the precise location to be identified later (D&C 28:9).
   
2. b. September and October 1830 (in New York): The Lord called four missionaries to preach the gospel to the Lamanites (D&C 30:5–6; 32:1–3). These missionaries were the first Church members to go to Missouri.
   
3. c. February 1831 (in Kirtland, soon after the Saints began arriving there): The Lord said He would reveal the location of the New Jerusalem in His own due time (D&C 42:62).
   
4. d. June 1831 (in Kirtland, after the first conference there): The Lord called Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, and other elders to go on a mission to Missouri. The Lord also promised to consecrate the land of Missouri to His people as the land of their inheritance (D&C 52:2–5, 42–43).
   
5. e. June 1831 (in Kirtland): The Lord revealed that the Saints from the Colesville Branch in New York, who had journeyed to Ohio, should continue on to Missouri (D&C 54:8).
   
6. f. July 1831 (after the Prophet had traveled to Missouri): The Lord revealed that the city of Zion would be located in Missouri, with Independence as the center place. A temple would be built in Independence (D&C 57:1–3).
   

The Colesville Saints were the first to gather in Missouri, and many others soon followed. Invite the assigned class member to summarize the experiences of the Colesville Saints as they journeyed to Missouri and began to settle there (see “Preparation,” item 3d).

• •What impresses you about these accounts of the Colesville Saints? (You may want to review some of the good qualities these Saints exhibited in very challenging circumstances.) What can we learn from their example?

4. The Saints now gather to the stakes of Zion in their own lands.

Church members maintained a strong presence in Ohio and Missouri from 1831 to 1838, when persecution forced most of them to leave (see lessons 26–28). In 1839 they gathered in Illinois and established the city of Nauvoo. They were forced to leave Nauvoo in 1846, and in 1847 President Brigham Young led them to a new gathering place in the Rocky Mountains near the Great Salt Lake. You may want to refer to map 3 on page 276 in this manual and page 31 in the Class Member Study Guide.

For many years after the Saints settled in Utah, the call continued for Church members all over the world to gather to that area. However, that phase of the gathering has now ended, and Church members are counseled to gather to the stakes of Zion wherever they live. In an area conference held in Mexico City in 1972, Elder Bruce R. McConkie said:

“[The] revealed words speak of … there being congregations of the covenant people of the Lord in every nation, speaking every tongue, and among every people when the Lord comes again. …

“The place of gathering for the Mexican Saints is in Mexico; the place of gathering for the Guatemalan Saints is in Guatemala; the place of gathering for the Brazilian Saints is in Brazil; and so it goes throughout the length and breadth of the whole earth. Japan is for the Japanese; Korea is for the Koreans; Australia is for the Australians; every nation is the gathering place for its own people” (in Conference Report, Mexico and Central America Area Conference 1972, 45).

In April 1973, President Harold B. Lee, the 11th President of the Church, quoted those words in general conference. In doing so, he “in effect, announced that the pioneering phase of gathering was now over. The gathering is now to be out of the world into the Church in every nation” (Boyd K. Packer, in Conference Report, Oct. 1992, 99; or Ensign, Nov. 1992, 71).

• •What conditions in the Church brought about the change that members should gather in their own nations rather than to a central location? (Answers could include that the Church’s membership and resources became sufficient to establish stakes and build temples in many areas of the world.)
• •One purpose of gathering to a central location during the pioneering phase of the Church was so members could strengthen each other and find refuge and protection from the world. How are these same purposes fulfilled by gathering to the stakes of Zion today? (See D&C 115:6 and the following quotation. Invite class members to share how they have felt protected and strengthened through the stakes of Zion.) What can we do to ensure that our stakes are a refuge and a defense against evil?
  President Ezra Taft Benson said:
  “Presently, Israel is being gathered to the various stakes of Zion. … A stake has at least four purposes:
• •[Stakes are] to unify and perfect the members who live in [their] boundaries by extending to them the Church programs, the ordinances, and gospel instruction.
• •Members of stakes are to be models, or standards, of righteousness.
• •Stakes are to be a defense. They do this as stake members unify under their local priesthood officers and consecrate themselves to do their duty and keep their covenants. …
• •Stakes are a refuge from the storm to be poured out over the earth” (“Strengthen Thy Stakes,” Ensign, Jan. 1991, 2, 4–5).
• •Temple building was an essential part of the gathering in Kirtland, Missouri, Nauvoo, and Utah. It continues to be essential as the Saints today gather to the stakes of Zion throughout the world. Why is temple building an essential part of the gathering? How does temple work contribute to the great work of the gathering on earth and in the spirit world?
  The Prophet Joseph Smith taught: “What was the object of gathering … the people of God in any age of the world? … The main object was to build unto the Lord a house whereby He could reveal unto His people the ordinances of His house and the glories of His kingdom, and teach the people the way of salvation. … It is for the same purpose that God gathers together His people in the last days, to build unto the Lord a house to prepare them for the ordinances and endowments, washings and anointings” (History of the Church, 5:423–24).

Conclusion

Emphasize that the Lord’s promises to gather Israel are being fulfilled in our day. This great work is hastening as people join the Church and worship together in the stakes of Zion in more than 160 nations throughout the world. Encourage class members to labor diligently to gather people into the Church and to build up and strengthen the Church wherever they live. Testify of the promised blessings that come through the gathering.

Additional Teaching Ideas

You may want to use one or both of the following ideas to supplement the suggested lesson outline.

1. “Zion will extend … all over this earth”

You may want to explain that although the center place of Zion will be in Missouri, Zion will eventually spread over all the earth. President Brigham Young said:

“When Joseph [Smith] first revealed the land where the Saints should gather, a woman in Canada asked if we thought that Jackson County would be large enough to gather all the people. … I will answer the question. … Zion will extend, eventually, all over this earth. There will be no nook or corner upon the earth but what will be in Zion. It will all be Zion. …

“We are going to gather as many as we can, bless them, give them their endowments, etc., preach to them the truth, lay the principles of eternal life before them, inform their minds all we have power to do, and lead them into the path of truth and righteousness” (in Journal of Discourses, 9:138).

2. The Lord’s preparation for the physical gathering of the “dispersed of Judah” (Isaiah 11:12)

A few decades after the Savior’s death, the Jews were “scattered among all nations” (2 Nephi 25:15; see also verse 2 Nephi 25:14). However, the scriptures record many prophecies that in the latter days the scattered Jews will be gathered again and be given Jerusalem “for the land of their inheritance” (3 Nephi 20:33; see also 1 Nephi 15:19–20; 2 Nephi 9:1–2; 2 Nephi 10:8).

On 27 March 1836, in the dedicatory prayer of the Kirtland Temple, the Prophet Joseph Smith prayed that the gathering of the Jews and the redemption of Jerusalem might begin (D&C 109:62–67). Share the following information to show one way in which the Lord has prepared for the gathering of the Jews:

Orson Hyde recalled that when he joined the Church, Joseph Smith prophesied, “In due time thou shalt go to Jerusalem … ; and by thy hands shall the Most High do a great work, which shall prepare the way and greatly facilitate the gathering together of that people” (History of the Church, 4:375). In the April 1840 general conference, Elder Hyde, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, was called on a mission to Palestine (History of the Church, 4:106). About 18 months later he arrived at his destination.

Early on Sunday morning, 24 October 1841, Elder Hyde ascended the Mount of Olives and offered a prayer. In his prayer he dedicated and consecrated the land “for the gathering together of Judah’s scattered remnants, according to the predictions of the holy Prophets—for the building up of Jerusalem again … and for rearing a Temple in honor of [the Lord’s] name.” He also prayed that the Lord would remember the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob forever and “give them this land for an everlasting inheritance” (History of the Church, 4:456).

As a witness of the deed, Elder Hyde erected a pile of stones on the top of the Mount of Olives. He also erected a pile of stones “on what was anciently called Mount Zion [possibly Mount Moriah], where the Temple stood” (History of the Church, 4:459).

Lesson 11: "The Field Is White Already to Harvest"

CLASS MEMBER STUDY GUIDE

Lesson 11: “The Field Is White Already to Harvest”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Class Member Study Guide, (1999), 8

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Reading assignment: Doctrine and Covenants 4; 11–12; 14–18; 31; 33; 75; Our Heritage, page 11.

• •According to D&C 4:2, what does the Lord require of those who serve in His kingdom?
• •Which attributes are repeated most frequently in D&C 4:5–6; 12:8; 18:19? What experiences have you had that show the importance of any of these attributes in serving the Lord?
• •Read D&C 4:4; 11:3; 33:3. What did the Lord mean by comparing missionary work to a field that is ready to be harvested?
• •What should the Lord’s servants teach? (See D&C 11:9; 15:6; 18:6; 31:3–4; 33:10–11; 42:12; 52:8–9.)

Scripture Chain: Missionary Work

• Alma 17:2–3
  
• Alma 26:22
  
• D&C 4:1–7
  
• D&C 11:21
  
• D&C 12:8
  
• D&C 18:10–16
   

GOSPEL DOCTRINE LESSON

Lesson 11: “The Field Is White Already to Harvest”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History: Gospel Doctrine Teacher’s Manual, (1999), 58–62

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Purpose

To help class members resolve to strengthen the kingdom of God through diligent service, particularly by sharing the gospel through missionary work.

Preparation

1. 1. Prayerfully study the following scriptures and other materials:
   
   1. a. Doctrine and Covenants 4, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 31, 33, 75, and the other scriptures in this lesson.
      
   2. b. Our Heritage, page 11.
      
2. 2. Review the material for this lesson in the Class Member Study Guide (35686). Plan ways to refer to the material during the lesson.
   

Suggestions for Lesson Development

Attention Activity

As appropriate, use the following activity or one of your own to begin the lesson.

Write on the chalkboard Samuel Smith → Phinehas Young and John P. Greene → ____________________. Explain that once the gospel was restored, the Church began a tremendous missionary effort to spread these glad tidings throughout the world. Many new converts responded with zeal to missionary calls. One of these converts was Joseph Smith’s brother Samuel.

In April 1830, Samuel Smith began traveling to neighboring towns in New York to preach the gospel and introduce people to the Book of Mormon. He had little success, though he did sell a copy of the book to a man named Phinehas Young. In June 1830, Samuel was set apart by the Prophet Joseph to take a missionary journey to the east. He walked 25 miles the first day and stopped at many houses, but the people treated him unkindly and would not listen. The next day he left a copy of the Book of Mormon with John P. Greene, a Methodist minister. John Greene’s wife, Rhoda, was Phinehas Young’s sister.

Facing rejection from almost everyone he contacted, Samuel felt that his mission had not been very successful. However, the books he left with Phinehas Young and John P. Greene led to their conversion and the conversion of many others. For example, Phinehas Young and Rhoda Greene had a brother named Brigham, who was converted and later became the second President of the Church. Brigham Young’s friend Heber C. Kimball also joined the Church. He later served in the First Presidency. Both Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball were instrumental in the conversion of thousands in the United States and England.

Point out that if you were to fill in the blank on the chalkboard with the names of all the people who have been influenced by Samuel Smith’s missionary work, you would have to write millions of names. Those directly influenced included some of the great leaders of the Church. Many of those you teach, if not all of them, have in some way been touched by this service. You may want to write your name and the names of some of the class members on the chalkboard.

This lesson discusses some of the key revelations the Lord has given concerning service in His kingdom, particularly in sharing the gospel. Point out that just as Samuel Smith’s missionary efforts have blessed many generations of Church members, when we share the gospel there is potential to bless many people now and hundreds or even thousands in the future.

Discussion and Application

This lesson contains more material than is possible to teach in one class period. Prayerfully select the material that will best meet class members’ needs.

In February 1829, Joseph Smith’s parents came to visit Joseph and Emma in Harmony, Pennsylvania. During this time, the Prophet inquired of the Lord and received the revelation recorded in D&C 4 for his father, Joseph Smith Sr.

In addition to this revelation for his father, the Prophet received revelations for many others who asked him to inquire of the Lord and learn of His will for them. Some of these revelations are recorded in D&C 11, 12, 14, 15, and 16. Although these revelations were given for individuals, the principles pertain to all who serve in the Lord’s kingdom (D&C 11:27).

1. “Serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength.”

• •Read D&C 4:1–2 with class members. According to verse 2, what does the Lord require of those who serve in His kingdom? What does it mean to serve with all our heart, might, mind, and strength? (This suggests total dedication to the Lord’s service.)
• •Why is it important that we devote our whole souls to the Lord’s service? Why are we sometimes less than fully committed to the Lord’s service? How can we improve our commitment to serve the Lord with full devotion?

Explain that Joseph Smith’s father devoted his life to serving the Lord, as he was instructed in D&C 4. Share the following account, which shows the depth of his commitment to share the gospel:

“Joseph Smith, Sr., was filled with the testimony of the truth, and was always anxious to share it with others. He was almost sixty when he made the tedious journey … to carry the gospel to his father and mother, his sisters and brothers. Soon after his return [home,] he was imprisoned for a small debt of fourteen dollars, rather than deny the divinity of the Book of Mormon and be forgiven the debt! He was cast into a cell with a condemned murderer and left for four days without food. Later he was transferred to the prison workyard where he preached the gospel and converted two persons whom he later baptized. He was in prison a full month before his family was able to obtain his release” (E. Cecil McGavin, The Family of Joseph Smith [1963], 68; see also Lucy Mack Smith, History of Joseph Smith, ed. Preston Nibley [1958], 172–73, 179–86).

• •How can we show the same commitment to sharing the gospel that Joseph Smith Sr. showed? What experiences have you had when sharing the gospel with your family or neighbors? with people at school or work? with people you meet as you travel? in other circumstances?

2. Prepare to serve the Lord.

Throughout the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord counsels us in how to prepare ourselves to serve Him. Explain that this preparation should be a continual effort throughout our lives.

• •What are some of the attributes the Lord desires in those who serve Him? (See the following scriptures. List the attributes on the chalkboard and use the questions to encourage discussion.)
  
  1. a. D&C 4:3; 11:8. Why is desire an important attribute in serving the Lord? How can we increase our desire to serve Him?
     
  2. b. D&C 4:5–6; 12:8; 18:19. Which attributes are repeated most frequently in these verses? Invite class members to share experiences that show the importance of any of these attributes in serving the Lord.
     
  3. c. D&C 11:6, 20. Why is obedience important in serving the Lord?
     
  4. d. D&C 4:7; 31:12. How has prayer helped you in serving the Lord?
     
  Encourage class members to select one of these attributes and prayerfully strive to improve in it.
• •Read D&C 11:21 with class members. What can we learn from this verse about preparing to serve the Lord? How have your experiences shown the wisdom of this counsel?

3. “The field is white.”

Throughout the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord communicates a sense of urgency about spreading the gospel. This is because the purpose of missionary work is “the salvation of souls” (D&C 100:4).

• •Read D&C 4:4, 11:3, and D&C 33:3 with class members. What did the Lord mean by comparing missionary work to a field that is ready to be harvested? (Answers could include that many people are prepared to receive the gospel.)
• •The Lord warned the elders not to be idle and said that they should “go forth” rather than “tarry” (D&C 60:13; 75:3). How might this warning apply to us? Why do some of us delay sharing the gospel?

Elder Henry B. Eyring of the Quorum of the Twelve related the following experience:

“It’s easy to say, ‘The time isn’t right.’ But there is danger in procrastination. Years ago I worked for a man in California. He hired me; he was kind to me; he seemed to regard me highly. I may have been the only Latter-day Saint he ever knew well. I don’t know all the reasons I found to wait for a better moment to talk with him about the gospel. I just remember my feeling of sorrow when I learned, after he had retired and I lived far away, that he and his wife had been killed in a late-night drive to their home in Carmel, California. He loved his wife. He loved his children. He had loved his parents. He loved his grandchildren, and he will love their children and will want to be with them forever.

“Now, I don’t know how the crowds will be handled in the world to come. But I suppose that I will meet him, that he will look into my eyes, and that I will see in them the question, ‘Hal, you knew. Why didn’t you tell me?’” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1998, 42; or Ensign, Nov. 1998, 33).

4. “Open your mouths and they shall be filled.”

In the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord gives direction about what we should teach and how we should teach as we share the gospel. He also encourages us to share the gospel without fear, promising to help when we feel inadequate.

• •Read some of the following verses with class members: D&C 11:9, 15:6, 18:6, 31:3–4, 33:10–11, 42:12, and D&C 52:8–9. What do these verses reveal about what the Lord’s servants should teach? Why is the message of repentance so important? (See D&C 18:10–14.)
• •Read some of the following verses with class members: D&C 18:20–21, 38:41, 42:6, 14, 75:4, and D&C 100:7–8. What do these verses reveal about how the Lord’s servants should teach? Why is it important to avoid contention in teaching the gospel? What does it mean to “[lift] up your voices as with the sound of a trump”? (D&C 42:6; 75:4). How can we be both bold and meek as we teach the gospel? (See Alma 38:10–12.)
• •The Lord repeatedly exhorted the elders to open their mouths to declare His gospel, “not fearing what man can do” (D&C 30:11; see also D&C 30:5; 33:8–11). The Lord also said that He is not pleased with those who “will not open their mouths … because of the fear of man” (D&C 60:2). How might this apply to us? How can we overcome fear in sharing the gospel? (See D&C 19:38; 33:12–14; 75:9–13.)
• •Explain that some of us hesitate to share the gospel because we lack confidence in our speaking or teaching abilities. How can we overcome such a concern? (See D&C 11:21; 14:8; 31:3.) Invite class members to tell of experiences when the Spirit has prompted their words as they have shared the gospel.
• •Refer to the account of Samuel Smith’s first mission, summarized in the attention activity. Why might Samuel Smith have felt like a failure after his first mission? In what ways was he successful? What can we learn from his experience to help us in our missionary efforts?

5. The Lord promises great blessings to those who labor in His service.

• •What does the Lord promise those who labor diligently in His service? (Select some of the following scripture passages to read with class members. Discuss the promises in each passage. Summarize the information on the chalkboard and use the discussion suggestions to encourage application.)
  
  1. a. D&C 4:4; 11:3; 75:5.
     
  2. b. D&C 18:15–16. Invite class members to express their feelings for Church members who shared the gospel with them or to describe their feelings as they shared the gospel.
     
  3. c. D&C 31:5; 84:60–61.
     
  4. d. D&C 31:7; 109:55–57. Invite class members to share experiences when the Lord has opened their hearts or the hearts of others to the gospel.
     
  5. e. D&C 31:11; 84:85; 100:5–6. Invite class members to share experiences when the Spirit has guided their efforts or inspired them as they have shared the gospel.
     
  6. f. D&C 31:13; 75:9–13; 84:88. Invite class members to share experiences when they have felt the Lord support them and bear them up as they have shared the gospel.
     
  7. g. D&C 71:9–10. Point out that the Lord gave this promise at a time when the Church was under attack from a bitter apostate. How can this promise help us today?
     
  8. h. D&C 84:80. Invite class members to tell how the Lord has sustained them mentally, physically, and spiritually as they have preached the gospel.
     
  9. i. D&C 100:7–8. Invite class members to share experiences when they have felt the Holy Ghost bear record while they have shared the gospel.
     

Conclusion

Encourage class members to give full devotion to serving the Lord. Emphasize that the Lord will bless them as they share the gospel with others. As directed by the Spirit, testify of the truths discussed during the lesson.

Additional Teaching Ideas

You may want to use one or more of the following ideas to supplement the suggested lesson outline.

1. Repetition of teachings

Have class members each turn to four different sections: D&C 6, 11, 12, and 14. Have one person read the first six verses of any of these sections, and ask the others to follow along in the other sections. Explain that in the scriptures the Lord repeats many instructions, often word for word.

• •What can we learn from the Lord’s repetition of these instructions? Why is an understanding of these instructions important to us today?

2. “Seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion” (D&C 6:6)

• •Several times the Lord admonished His servants to “seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion” (D&C 6:6; 11:6; 12:6; 14:6). How can we help establish the cause of Zion? (Answers could include by living righteously and building up the kingdom of God in our families, in our stakes and wards, through missionary work, and through temple work.) What are some causes that may distract us from establishing the cause of Zion?

3. Called to Serve video presentation

If the videocassette Called to Serve is available (53072), consider showing part of it during class (21 minutes).

Lesson 10: "This Is My Voice unto All"

CLASS MEMBER STUDY GUIDE

Lesson 10: “This Is My Voice unto All”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Class Member Study Guide, (1999), 7–8

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Reading assignment: Doctrine and Covenants 25.

Many of the revelations given in the Doctrine and Covenants were given to individuals. Although the counsel in the revelations was specific to individuals who lived many years ago, much of this counsel applies to us today. In July 1830, the Lord directed a revelation to Emma Smith, the wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith (D&C 25).

• •Read D&C 25:5, 14. What are some ways that husbands and wives can help each other in times of difficulty? How can spouses show that they delight in each other?

Read the following passages about the Lord’s counsel to avoid pride:

Warnings to avoid pride: D&C 23:1; 25:14; 38:39; 90:17; 98:19–20

Blessings for those who are humble: D&C 1:28; 19:23; 112:10; 124:97

Scripture Chain: Likening the Scriptures to Ourselves

• 1 Nephi 19:23
  
• D&C 25:13–16
  
• D&C 61:36–37
  
• D&C 82:1–6
  
• D&C 93:49
  

GOSPEL DOCTRINE LESSON

Lesson 10: “This Is My Voice unto All”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History: Gospel Doctrine Teacher’s Manual, (1999), 53–57

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Purpose

To help class members learn to apply in their own lives the instructions the Lord has revealed to other individuals in the scriptures.

Preparation

1. 1. Prayerfully study Doctrine and Covenants 25 and the other scriptures in this lesson.
   
2. 2. Review the material for this lesson in the Class Member Study Guide (35686). Plan ways to refer to the material during the lesson.
   
3. 3. If a picture of Emma Smith is available, prepare to use it during the lesson (62509; Gospel Art Picture Kit 405).
   

Suggestions for Lesson Development

Attention Activity

As appropriate, tell the following experience or use an activity of your own to begin the lesson:

Elder Jay E. Jensen of the Seventy described a time when he was serving as a mission president and found himself frustrated and discouraged at the end of a district conference by the many problems that confronted him. As he was traveling home, he was turning the pages of his scriptures, looking for comfort and direction, when he stopped at the third section of the Doctrine and Covenants. He said:

“When I read a verse, I often insert my name in it. I did so with verse 5 and found the help I needed to remove my gloomy feelings: ‘Behold, you [Jay Jensen] have been entrusted with these things, but how strict were your commandments; and remember also the promises which were made to you [Jay Jensen]’ (D&C 3:5).

“The words ‘remember also the promises’ struck me with unusual power. … During those four days I had focused on nothing but problems. I had not stopped to consider one single promise” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1992, 112; or Ensign, Nov. 1992, 80).

Elder Jensen then reviewed in his mind the promises given to him in his patriarchal blessing, in the blessing when he was set apart as a mission president, and in the scriptures. By so doing, he was able to find the strength and comfort he needed.

• •How can this idea of putting our own names in the scriptures help us as we read the scriptures?
• •Read 1 Nephi 19:23 with class members. What did Nephi teach about the importance of applying the scriptures in our own lives?

Explain that this lesson discusses how we can apply the counsel that the Lord gave to individual Saints in the Doctrine and Covenants.

Discussion and Application

Prayerfully select the lesson material that will best meet class members’ needs. Encourage class members to share experiences that relate to the scriptural principles.

Point out that many of the revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants were given to individuals. Although the counsel in the revelations was specific to these individuals, and although these Church members lived many years ago, much of the counsel applies to us today. As the Lord repeatedly said, “What I say unto one I say unto all” (D&C 61:36; see also D&C 25:16; 82:5; 93:49).

In July 1830, the Lord directed a revelation to Emma Smith, the wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith (D&C 25). Display a picture of Emma Smith. Explain that this lesson focuses on three themes from the Lord’s revelation to Emma.

1. Husbands and wives should support and comfort each other.

The Lord’s revelation to Emma Smith included counsel about her responsibilities to her husband. If you are teaching youth, use the material in this section to help them understand the importance of supporting their future spouse.

• •Read D&C 25:5 with class members. What did the Lord counsel Emma Smith in this verse? What are some ways that husbands and wives can help each other in times of difficulty? (As class members discuss this question, invite them to share personal experiences or observations of other spouses who have comforted and supported each other.)
  The Prophet Joseph Smith taught wives that they should treat their husbands “with mildness and affection. When a man is borne down with trouble, when he is perplexed with care and difficulty, if he can meet a smile instead of an argument or a murmur—if he can meet with mildness, it will calm down his soul and soothe his feelings” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 228).
  The Prophet taught husbands, “It is the duty of a husband to love, cherish, and nourish his wife, and cleave unto her and none else; he ought to honor her as himself, and he ought to regard her feelings with tenderness” (Elders’ Journal, Aug. 1838, 61).
• •Read D&C 25:14 with class members. What did the Lord counsel Emma Smith in this verse? How can spouses show that they delight in each other?

Joseph and Emma Smith were a great support to each other during the many times of affliction they faced. In 1842, when Joseph was in hiding because his life was in danger, Emma was able to visit him. Joseph later said about this visit:

“With what unspeakable delight, and what transports of joy swelled my bosom, when I took by the hand, on that night, my beloved Emma—she that was my wife, even the wife of my youth, and the choice of my heart. Many were the reverberations of my mind when I contemplated for a moment the many scenes we had been called to pass through, the fatigues and the toils, the sorrows and sufferings, and the joys and consolations, from time to time, which had strewed our paths. … Oh what a commingling of thought filled my mind for the moment, again she is here, … undaunted, firm, and unwavering—unchangeable, affectionate Emma!” (History of the Church, 5:107).

Joseph and Emma also supported and comforted each other as they endured the deaths of many of their children. In four years, they had four infant children die. Out of eleven children (two adopted), only three sons and one daughter lived into late adulthood.

At a time when the Prophet was carrying heavy burdens in connection with the growing Church in Kirtland, Ohio, Emma gave birth to twins, a boy and a girl, both of whom died within hours of their birth. At nearly the same time, in the nearby city of Orange, Ohio, twins were born to John and Julia Murdock, new converts to the Church. Within six hours of the Murdock twins’ birth, Sister Murdock died. When Emma and Joseph learned of this, they asked Brother Murdock if they might adopt the twins. Soon the two babies, Joseph and Julia Murdock, were taken into the Smiths’ home.

Joseph Smith’s mother, Lucy Mack Smith, described some of the characteristics that made it possible for Emma to support Joseph through difficult times:

“I have never seen a woman in my life, who would endure every species of fatigue and hardship, from month to month, and from year to year, with that unflinching courage, zeal, and patience, which she has ever done; for I know that which she had had to endure. … She has breasted the storms of persecution, and buffeted the rage of men and devils, which would have borne down almost any other woman” (History of Joseph Smith, ed. Preston Nibley [1958], 190–91).

• •What can husbands and wives learn from the example of Joseph and Emma Smith to help them be more loving and supportive?

2. We should be meek and avoid pride.

The Lord commanded Emma Smith to “continue in the spirit of meekness, and beware of pride” (D&C 25:14). He gave similar instructions to other Church members. Read the following verses with class members:

1. a. D&C 23:1 (to Oliver Cowdery): “Beware of pride, lest thou shouldst enter into temptation.”
   
2. b. D&C 38:39 (to the Saints in a conference of the Church): “Beware of pride, lest ye become as the Nephites of old.”
   
3. c. D&C 90:17 (to the First Presidency of the Church): “Be admonished in all your high-mindedness and pride, for it bringeth a snare upon your souls.”
   
4. d. D&C 98:19–20 (to the Saints in Kirtland): “I, the Lord, am not well pleased with many who are in the church at Kirtland; For they do not forsake their sins, and their wicked ways, the pride of their hearts, and their covetousness.”
   

• •What is pride? Why do you think the Lord’s warnings about pride are so strong and frequent?
  President Ezra Taft Benson taught:
  “Most of us think of pride as self-centeredness, conceit, boastfulness, arrogance, or haughtiness. All of these are elements of the sin, but the heart, or core, is still missing.
  “The central feature of pride is enmity—enmity toward God and enmity toward our fellowmen. Enmity means ‘hatred toward, hostility to, or a state of opposition’” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1989, 3; or Ensign, May 1989, 4).
• •How does pride affect our relationship with God?
  President Benson explained:
  “Pride is essentially competitive in nature. We pit our will against God’s … in the spirit of ‘my will and not thine be done. …
  “Our will in competition to God’s will allows desires, appetites, and passions to go unbridled (see Alma 38:12; 3 Nephi 12:30). …
  “Our enmity toward God takes on many labels, such as rebellion, hard-heartedness, stiff-neckedness, unrepentant, puffed up, easily offended, and sign seekers. The proud wish God would agree with them. They aren’t interested in changing their opinions to agree with God’” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1989, 4; or Ensign, May 1989, 4).
• •How does pride affect our relationship with others?
  President Benson observed:
  “Another major portion of this very prevalent sin of pride is enmity toward our fellowmen. We are tempted daily to elevate ourselves above others and diminish them (see Helaman 6:17; D&C 58:41). …
  “Pride … is manifest in so many ways, such as fault-finding, gossiping, backbiting, murmuring, living beyond our means, envying, coveting, withholding gratitude and praise that might lift another, and being unforgiving and jealous. …
  “Selfishness is one of the more common faces of pride. ‘How everything affects me’ is the center of all that matters—self-conceit, self-pity, worldly self-fulfillment, self-gratification, and self-seeking. …
  “Another face of pride is contention. Arguments, fights, unrighteous dominion, generation gaps, divorces, spouse abuse, riots, and disturbances all fall into this category of pride” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1989, 4–5; or Ensign, May 1989, 4–6).
• •How can we overcome pride and cultivate a spirit of meekness?
  President Benson counseled: “The antidote for pride is humility—meekness, submissiveness (see Alma 7:23). It is the broken heart and contrite spirit. … We can choose to humble ourselves by loving God, submitting our will to His, and putting Him first in our lives” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1989, 6; or Ensign, May 1989, 6–7).
• •Read the following passages with class members: D&C 1:28, 19:23, 112:10, and D&C 124:97. According to these passages, what are some blessings that come to us when we choose to be meek and humble?
• •What blessings have come into your life when you have chosen to be humble instead of proud?

3. We should rejoice and be of good cheer.

The Lord admonished Emma Smith, “Lift up thy heart and rejoice” (D&C 25:13). Even as the early Saints of this dispensation faced great tribulation, the Lord repeatedly gave similar admonitions to them. Read the following verses with class members:

1. a. D&C 29:5 (to the Prophet Joseph Smith and others): “Lift up your hearts and be glad, for I am in your midst, and am your advocate with the Father.”
   
2. b. D&C 61:36 (to the Prophet Joseph Smith and others): “Be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you.”
   
3. c. D&C 68:6 (to Orson Hyde, Luke S. Johnson, Lyman E. Johnson, and William E. McLellin): “Be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you.”
   
4. d. D&C 78:18 (to the Prophet Joseph Smith and others): “Ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along.”
   
5. e. D&C 136:29 (to the Camp of Israel at Winter Quarters): “If thou art sorrowful, call on the Lord thy God with supplication, that your souls may be joyful.”
   

• •In these passages, what reasons does the Lord give for being of good cheer? What can we do to develop and maintain good cheer? How can we help others be of good cheer?
• •What are some consequences of dwelling on the negative aspects of life, even though they may be serious and prevalent?

Elder Marvin J. Ashton of the Quorum of the Twelve counseled:

“None of us will escape tragedy and suffering. Each of us will probably react differently. However, if we can recall the Lord’s promise, ‘for I the Lord am with you,’ we will be able to face our problems with dignity and courage. We will find the strength to be of good cheer instead of becoming resentful, critical, or defeated. We will be able to meet life’s unpleasant happenings with clear vision, strength, and power. …

“What a joy it is to see someone of good cheer, who, when others because of an unpleasant happening or development live in angry silence or vocal disgust, meets the situation with cheerful endurance and good spirits” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1986, 84–85; or Ensign, May 1986, 66).

Emphasize that the Savior’s many admonitions to be of good cheer remind us that we can find peace and joy regardless of our circumstances.

Conclusion

Reaffirm that the Lord’s counsel to individual Saints many years ago can greatly bless our lives today. Encourage class members to read the scriptures with the intent of applying the messages to their individual circumstances.

Additional Teaching Idea

Applying the scriptures in our lives

In advance, obtain photographs of a few class members. Also prepare to display a picture of Emma Smith (62509; Gospel Art Picture Kit 405).

Display the picture of Emma Smith and explain that D&C 25 contains the Lord’s instructions to her. Place the photographs of class members next to the picture of Emma. Have class members read D&C 25:16. Explain that the counsel in this revelation can also apply to us. Have class members read D&C 61:36, 82:5, and D&C 93:49. Help them see that we can “liken all scriptures unto us” (1 Nephi 19:23).

• •How has scriptural counsel to a certain person been of benefit in your life? How did you apply the counsel to your own circumstances?