Purpose
To help class members feel gratitude for the Savior’s Resurrection and the blessings it brings us.
“Many years ago … a writer for a newspaper was asked an important question, ‘What would be the most important news the world could receive?’”
• How would you answer this question?
Elder Paramore continued: “[The writer] thought and thought about the question, he talked to many people, and read all he could in an effort to find an answer for himself. And finally, he printed his answer, ‘To know that Jesus Christ lives today would be the most important news the world could receive. In fact, if He lives today, then we too will live eternally as He said’” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1990, 80; or Ensign, Nov. 1990, 64).
We too can rejoice in the knowledge that Christ was resurrected.
Scripture Discussion and Application
Ponder how your knowledge of the Resurrection affects your daily lives. Rather than trying to determine the exact order of events surrounding the Resurrection (each Gospel writer gives a slightly different order), focus on the testimonies of the Resurrection given in each Gospel account.
1. Mary Magdalene and other women are witnesses of the resurrected Lord.
Discuss Matthew 28:1–15; Luke 24:1–12; and John 20:1–10. Read selected verses aloud.
After Jesus was crucified, his body was wrapped in clean linen cloths and placed in a tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea, one of Jesus’ disciples (Matthew 27:57–60; Luke 23:50–53; John 19:38–42). This was done quickly because the Sabbath was about to begin. The morning after the Sabbath, Mary Magdalene and other women returned to the tomb with spices and ointments to more thoroughly anoint and embalm Jesus’ body.
• What did Mary Magdalene and the other women find when they came to Jesus’ tomb? (See Matthew 28:1–4; Luke 24:1–4. Note that the Joseph Smith Translation of Matthew 28 states, as Luke does, that there were two angels. See Matthew 28:2, footnote 2a.) What did the angels tell the women? (See Matthew 28:5–7; Luke 24:5–8.)
• What did the angels mean when they said, “He is risen”? (Jesus had been resurrected.) What does it mean to be resurrected? (See Alma 11:42–45; see also Bible Dictionary, “Resurrection,” 761.) What blessings will we receive because of Jesus’ Resurrection? (See 1 Corinthians 15:22, 50–58; Alma 11:42–45. We will all be resurrected and be given immortal bodies.)
• President Howard W. Hunter said that the words “He is not here, but is risen” (Luke 24:6) “contain all the hope, assurance, and belief necessary to sustain us in our challenging and sometimes grief-filled lives” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1986, 18; or Ensign, May 1986, 15–16). How has your testimony of the Atonement and the Resurrection helped you through difficult times?
• What did the women do after the angels finished speaking? (See Matthew 28:8; Luke 24:8–9.) What can we learn from their example?
• Mary and the other women were the first of many people who saw Jesus Christ after he was resurrected (see also the second and third additional teaching ideas). Why do you think it was important that the resurrected Lord appear to earthly witnesses? (See 2 Corinthians 13:1.)
2. Two disciples on the road to Emmaus are witnesses of the resurrected Lord.
Discuss Luke 24:13–35. Summarize the scripture passage.
• Why were Cleopas and his companion sad as they walked along the road to Emmaus? (See Luke 24:13–24.) What did the resurrected Lord teach them as they walked? (See Luke 24:25–27)
• How did the two disciples feel as Jesus taught them? (See Luke 24:32.) What gave them this feeling? (The influence of the Holy Ghost.) Shareeexperiences when they have received a witness from the Spirit while studying the gospel or hearing someone teach it.
3. The Apostles are witnesses of the resurrected Lord. Read and discuss selected verses from Matthew 28:16–20; Luke 24:33–53; and John 20:19–31.
• What did the Apostles think they were seeing when the Savior appeared to them on the evening of the day he was resurrected? (See Luke 24:36–37.) How did Jesus reassure them that he was a resurrected being, not a spirit? (See Luke 24:38–43.)
• How did Thomas respond to the other Apostles’ testimonies that the Lord had been resurrected? (See John 20:24–25.) How did he come to believe that the Lord had been resurrected? (See John 20:26–29.) How do we sometimes show the same weakness as Thomas?
Elder Gordon B. Hinckley said:
“Have you not heard others speak as Thomas spoke? ‘Give us,’ they say, ‘the empirical evidence. Prove before our very eyes, and our ears, and our hands, else we will not believe.’ This is the language of the time in which we live. Thomas the Doubter has become the example of men in all ages who refuse to accept other than that which they can physically prove and explain—as if they could prove love, or faith, or even such physical phenomena as electricity. …
“To all within the sound of my voice who may have doubts, I repeat the words given Thomas as he felt the wounded hands of the Lord: ‘Be not faithless, but believing’” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1978, 90; or Ensign, May 1978, 59).
• How can we more fully follow the Lord’s admonition to “be not faithless, but believing”? (John 20:27).
4. Some of the Apostles see Jesus again at the Sea of Tiberias (Sea of Galilee).
Read and discuss selected verses from John 21.
• The resurrected Lord showed himself again to seven of his Apostles as they were fishing. How did they come to realize it was Jesus on the shore? (See John 21:4–7.) After they had eaten, what did Jesus ask Peter and the other Apostles to do? (See John 21:15–17.) How can we feed the Lord’s sheep?
• What was John’s reason for writing down some of the things that the resurrected Jesus said and did? (See John 20:30–31.) How have you benefited from studying the scriptural accounts of Jesus’ Resurrection?
Conclusion
We testify that Jesus Christ was resurrected and that because of him we will also be resurrected. Bear testimony of the strength and comfort that your knowledge of the Resurrection has brought you.
Showing posts with label Lessons. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lessons. Show all posts
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Lesson 22 - Inherit the Kingdom Prepared For You
What should we "do" as a result of this lesson?
We should prepare ourselves for the Second Coming through living righteously, developing their talents, and serving others.
This lesson focuses on three parables the Savior taught in response to his Apostles’ questions about his Second Coming.
Think about hos the parables studied apply to daily life.
1. Jesus presents the parable of the ten virgins.
Read Matthew 25:1–13. The parable of the ten virgins is based on Jewish wedding customs. In Jesus’ time, the bridegroom and his friends would escort the bride from her home to the home of the bridegroom. Along the way, the friends of the bride waited to join them. When they arrived at the bridegroom’s home, they all went inside for the wedding. These weddings usually took place in the evening, so those waiting for the bride and bridegroom carried small lamps fueled by oil.
In the parable of the ten virgins, whom does the bridegroom represent? (The Savior.) Whom do the virgins represent? (Members of the Church.) What does the wedding represent? (The Savior’s Second Coming.) What does the oil in the lamps represent? (Preparation for the Second Coming.)
What did five of the virgins do that was foolish? (See Matthew 25:3.) What were the consequences of their lack of preparation? (See Matthew 25:8–12.) How do we sometimes make the same error as the foolish virgins?
What did five of the virgins do that was wise? (Matthew 25:4.) What were the consequences of their preparation? (See Matthew 25:10.) What can we learn from the actions of the five wise virgins? (See D&C 45:56–57. We must prepare ourselves for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.)
Keeping in mind that the oil in the parable represents preparation for the Second Coming, what are some ways we can add “oil” to our “lamps”? (Answers may include specific elements of righteous living, such as exercising faith, receiving ordinances, keeping covenants, or giving service.)
President Spencer W. Kimball:
“In the parable, oil can be purchased at the market. In our lives the oil of preparedness is accumulated drop by drop in righteous living. Attendance at sacrament meetings adds oil to our lamps, drop by drop over the years. Fasting, family prayer, home teaching, control of bodily appetites, preaching the gospel, studying the scriptures—each act of dedication and obedience is a drop added to our store. Deeds of kindness, payment of offerings and tithes, chaste thoughts and actions, marriage in the covenant for eternity—these, too, contribute importantly to the oil with which we can at midnight refuel our exhausted lamps” (Faith Precedes the Miracle [1972], 256).
What did you do this past week to add oil to your lamp? What are some things you will do this coming week to add oil to your lamp?
2. Jesus presents the parable of the talents.
Read Matthew 25:14–30. Explain that in New Testament times, a talent was a sum of money (Bible Dictionary, “Money,” 733–34).
In the parable of the talents, whom does the man traveling to a far country represent? (The Lord.) Whom do the servants represent? (Each of us.) What do the talents represent? (Gifts from God.)
What did the servants who were given five talents and two talents do with the money? (See Matthew 25:16–17.) What reward did they both receive? (See Matthew 25:21, 23.) What does this parable teach about the eternal reward our Heavenly Father will bless us with? (Answers may include that people who seem to have fewer gifts from God will receive every blessing if they use their gifts to the fullest.)
Elder James E. Faust said of those who seem to have received fewer talents:
“If their talents are used to build the kingdom of God and serve others, they will fully enjoy the promises of the Savior. The great promise of the Savior is that they ‘shall receive [their] reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come’ (D&C 59:23)” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1994, 5; or Ensign, May 1994, 6).
What did the servant who was given one talent do with the money? (See Matthew 25:24–25.) What did the master say to him? (See Matthew 25:26–30.) Why do we sometimes fail to develop the talents and gifts God has given us? How can we overcome obstacles to developing these gifts?
Elder Marvin J. Ashton taught that “it is our right and responsibility to accept our gifts and to share them” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 23; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20). How can we recognize and accept the talents or gifts the Lord has entrusted to us? Why do you think it is important to share our talents or gifts? What blessings have come into your life because you have developed and shared your talents or gifts? How have you been blessed because others have shared their talents or gifts?
Every person has been given at least one gift from God (D&C 46:11–12), but some gifts are easier to recognize than others. What are some gifts that might be difficult to recognize but that can be used to serve others and glorify God?
Elder Marvin J. Ashton said:
“Let me mention a few gifts that are not always evident or noteworthy but that are very important. Among these may be your gifts—gifts not so evident but nevertheless real and valuable.
“Let us review some of these less-conspicuous gifts: the gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 23; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20).
Write down one or two of their talents or gifts along with at least one specific thing they will do in the next few weeks to use them in the service of others.
3. Jesus presents the parable of the sheep and the goats.
Read Matthew 25:31–46.
Jesus taught that at his Second Coming he will separate us as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:31–32). In the parable of the sheep and the goats, whom do the sheep represent? (See Matthew 25:33–34.) Whom do the goats represent? (See Matthew 25:33, 41.)
What does this parable teach that we must do to prepare for the Second Coming and the day of judgment? (See Matthew 25:35–46.)
Elder Marion D. Hanks said:
“Jesus taught his followers the parable of the sheep and the goats, representing the judgment to come, in which he clearly identified those who will inherit ‘life eternal’ and those who will ‘go away into everlasting punishment’ (Matthew 25:46). The key difference was that those who should inherit the kingdom with him had developed the habit of helping, had experienced the joy of giving and the satisfaction of serving. They had responded to the needs of the hungry, thirsty, homeless, the naked, the sick, and those in prison. …
“Nothing would seem more clear than the high premium the Savior put upon selfless service to others as an indispensable element of Christian conduct and of salvation. Helping, giving, and sacrificing are, or should be, as natural as growing and breathing” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1992, 10; or Ensign, May 1992, 9).
How can we bless others by our service? How has serving another person blessed you? How do you feel about those you serve? How do you feel about those who serve you? How can we become more aware of others’ needs? How can we become more diligent in serving others?
What do you think the Savior meant when he said, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me”? (Matthew 25:40; see also Mosiah 2:17).
ConclusioN:
I testify that we should prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. We should develop the gifts God has given us and follow the Savior’s example in devoting our lives to the service of others. We can all do these things, regardless of our circumstances.
We should prepare ourselves for the Second Coming through living righteously, developing their talents, and serving others.
This lesson focuses on three parables the Savior taught in response to his Apostles’ questions about his Second Coming.
Think about hos the parables studied apply to daily life.
1. Jesus presents the parable of the ten virgins.
Read Matthew 25:1–13. The parable of the ten virgins is based on Jewish wedding customs. In Jesus’ time, the bridegroom and his friends would escort the bride from her home to the home of the bridegroom. Along the way, the friends of the bride waited to join them. When they arrived at the bridegroom’s home, they all went inside for the wedding. These weddings usually took place in the evening, so those waiting for the bride and bridegroom carried small lamps fueled by oil.
In the parable of the ten virgins, whom does the bridegroom represent? (The Savior.) Whom do the virgins represent? (Members of the Church.) What does the wedding represent? (The Savior’s Second Coming.) What does the oil in the lamps represent? (Preparation for the Second Coming.)
What did five of the virgins do that was foolish? (See Matthew 25:3.) What were the consequences of their lack of preparation? (See Matthew 25:8–12.) How do we sometimes make the same error as the foolish virgins?
What did five of the virgins do that was wise? (Matthew 25:4.) What were the consequences of their preparation? (See Matthew 25:10.) What can we learn from the actions of the five wise virgins? (See D&C 45:56–57. We must prepare ourselves for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.)
Keeping in mind that the oil in the parable represents preparation for the Second Coming, what are some ways we can add “oil” to our “lamps”? (Answers may include specific elements of righteous living, such as exercising faith, receiving ordinances, keeping covenants, or giving service.)
President Spencer W. Kimball:
“In the parable, oil can be purchased at the market. In our lives the oil of preparedness is accumulated drop by drop in righteous living. Attendance at sacrament meetings adds oil to our lamps, drop by drop over the years. Fasting, family prayer, home teaching, control of bodily appetites, preaching the gospel, studying the scriptures—each act of dedication and obedience is a drop added to our store. Deeds of kindness, payment of offerings and tithes, chaste thoughts and actions, marriage in the covenant for eternity—these, too, contribute importantly to the oil with which we can at midnight refuel our exhausted lamps” (Faith Precedes the Miracle [1972], 256).
What did you do this past week to add oil to your lamp? What are some things you will do this coming week to add oil to your lamp?
2. Jesus presents the parable of the talents.
Read Matthew 25:14–30. Explain that in New Testament times, a talent was a sum of money (Bible Dictionary, “Money,” 733–34).
In the parable of the talents, whom does the man traveling to a far country represent? (The Lord.) Whom do the servants represent? (Each of us.) What do the talents represent? (Gifts from God.)
What did the servants who were given five talents and two talents do with the money? (See Matthew 25:16–17.) What reward did they both receive? (See Matthew 25:21, 23.) What does this parable teach about the eternal reward our Heavenly Father will bless us with? (Answers may include that people who seem to have fewer gifts from God will receive every blessing if they use their gifts to the fullest.)
Elder James E. Faust said of those who seem to have received fewer talents:
“If their talents are used to build the kingdom of God and serve others, they will fully enjoy the promises of the Savior. The great promise of the Savior is that they ‘shall receive [their] reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come’ (D&C 59:23)” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1994, 5; or Ensign, May 1994, 6).
What did the servant who was given one talent do with the money? (See Matthew 25:24–25.) What did the master say to him? (See Matthew 25:26–30.) Why do we sometimes fail to develop the talents and gifts God has given us? How can we overcome obstacles to developing these gifts?
Elder Marvin J. Ashton taught that “it is our right and responsibility to accept our gifts and to share them” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 23; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20). How can we recognize and accept the talents or gifts the Lord has entrusted to us? Why do you think it is important to share our talents or gifts? What blessings have come into your life because you have developed and shared your talents or gifts? How have you been blessed because others have shared their talents or gifts?
Every person has been given at least one gift from God (D&C 46:11–12), but some gifts are easier to recognize than others. What are some gifts that might be difficult to recognize but that can be used to serve others and glorify God?
Elder Marvin J. Ashton said:
“Let me mention a few gifts that are not always evident or noteworthy but that are very important. Among these may be your gifts—gifts not so evident but nevertheless real and valuable.
“Let us review some of these less-conspicuous gifts: the gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 23; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20).
Write down one or two of their talents or gifts along with at least one specific thing they will do in the next few weeks to use them in the service of others.
3. Jesus presents the parable of the sheep and the goats.
Read Matthew 25:31–46.
Jesus taught that at his Second Coming he will separate us as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:31–32). In the parable of the sheep and the goats, whom do the sheep represent? (See Matthew 25:33–34.) Whom do the goats represent? (See Matthew 25:33, 41.)
What does this parable teach that we must do to prepare for the Second Coming and the day of judgment? (See Matthew 25:35–46.)
Elder Marion D. Hanks said:
“Jesus taught his followers the parable of the sheep and the goats, representing the judgment to come, in which he clearly identified those who will inherit ‘life eternal’ and those who will ‘go away into everlasting punishment’ (Matthew 25:46). The key difference was that those who should inherit the kingdom with him had developed the habit of helping, had experienced the joy of giving and the satisfaction of serving. They had responded to the needs of the hungry, thirsty, homeless, the naked, the sick, and those in prison. …
“Nothing would seem more clear than the high premium the Savior put upon selfless service to others as an indispensable element of Christian conduct and of salvation. Helping, giving, and sacrificing are, or should be, as natural as growing and breathing” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1992, 10; or Ensign, May 1992, 9).
How can we bless others by our service? How has serving another person blessed you? How do you feel about those you serve? How do you feel about those who serve you? How can we become more aware of others’ needs? How can we become more diligent in serving others?
What do you think the Savior meant when he said, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me”? (Matthew 25:40; see also Mosiah 2:17).
ConclusioN:
I testify that we should prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. We should develop the gifts God has given us and follow the Savior’s example in devoting our lives to the service of others. We can all do these things, regardless of our circumstances.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Understanding the Parables - Quotes
President Eyring Quote
Testimony will come to you in pieces as parts of the whole truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ are confirmed. For instance, as you read and ponder the Book of Mormon, verses you have read before will appear new to you and bring new ideas. Your testimony will grow in breadth and in depth as the Holy Ghost confirms that they are true. Your living testimony will expand as you study, pray, and ponder in the scriptures. The best description for me of how to gain and keep this living testimony has already been referred to; it is in the 32nd chapter of Alma in the Book of Mormon. You may have read it many times. I find new light in it every time I read it. Let’s review the lesson it teaches once again tonight. We are taught in those inspired passages to begin our quest for testimony with a “particle of faith” and with desire for it to grow (see Alma 32:27). Tonight you have felt faith and that desire as you listened to stirring talks of the Savior’s kindness, His honesty, and of the purity His commandments and the Atonement made possible for us. So, a seed of faith is already planted in your heart. You may even have felt some of the expansion of your heart promised in Alma. I did. But, like a growing plant, it must be nurtured or it will wither. Frequent and heartfelt prayers of faith are crucial and needed nutrients. Obedience to the truth you have received will keep the testimony alive and strengthen it. Obedience to the commandments is part of the nourishment you must provide for your testimony. You remember the promise of the Savior: “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself” (John 7:17). That has worked for me, as it will for you. (President Eyring Address, Young Women Broadcast, Yesterday)
Joseph Smith said: "I have a key by which I understand the scriptures. I enquire what was the question which drew out the answer or caused Jesus to utter the parable. (Smith, Teaching, p.276)
Bible Dictionary about Parables. (1) Most teachers, especially Oriental teachers, have used some form of parable in their instruction, but none so exclusively as Jesus at one period of his ministry. During part of the Galilean ministry the record states that “without a parable spake he not unto them” (Mark 4:34). From our Lord’s words (Matt. 13:13–15; Mark 4:12; Luke 8:10) we learn the reason for this method. It was to veil the meaning. The parable conveys to the hearer religious truth exactly in proportion to his faith and intelligence; to the dull and uninspired it is a mere story, “seeing they see not,” while to the instructed and spiritual it reveals the mysteries or secrets of the kingdom of heaven. Thus it is that the parable exhibits the condition of all true knowledge. Only he who seeks finds.
Personal Research - Connections - Patterns & Themes (see how it relates to Lehi's Dream?)
1) Those that hear the message, but don't do anything about it. In the parable, they are desribed as falling by the wayside and being eaten by fowls. In Lehi's dream, he says that multitudes felt their way toward the great and spacious building (apparently ignoring the rod and the path to the tree altogether.)
2) Those that hear the message and start to obey, but fall away quickly. The Savior says that these fell into stony places and sprung up, but having no root withered in the sun. In the dream, these would be those that started along the path to the tree but lost their way in the mist.
3) Those that hear and accept the message, but are lost to the world. The parable describes these as falling among thorns which choked them. In Lehi's dream, these are the multitude who make it to the tree and partake of the fruit only to hear the scoffing of those in the great and spacious building and become ashamed, falling away.
4) The last group are those that hear and accept the message and then endure to the end. The Savior describes them as falling into good soil and bringing forth good fruit. Lehi says that "other multitudes" pressed forward, holding to the rod, and partook of the fruit of the tree.
Commentary to better understand parables:
Understanding the parables of Jesus helps in understanding the gospel, but it also involves understanding him, his times, and his people. We must often work at interpreting Jesus’ parables now, because the world of parables has largely passed away. Its herds were mainly those of sheep and goats, small enough to get personal attention; beef was a luxury even for a rich man. Its farms were small, often rocky, and towers were built for visibility in guarding the harvest. That world sharply divided rich and poor, and the economics of both are revealed in strange coins. Custom was strong, for even the poor fed a guest liberally. Their simple homes had one room; wealthy homes were filled with servants. Jesus used all of these as symbols for his messages, and understanding these symbols holds high priority for us, since the Savior warned: “Take heed therefore how ye hear. …” (Luke 8:18.) And understanding the parables is vital, for he illustrated with parable doctrines that he obviously cared about teaching.
In the case of the wheat and the tares. There are numerous symbols here that correspond to life, because Jesus designed these stories that way and he said so. But in the case of the wheat and tares, Jesus said the one who sowed the seed “is the Son of Man” (Matt. 13:37), or himself. There is no doubt that he was witnessing to his divine mission.
Jesus anticipated man’s varied responses to his messages. The leading example of that is the parable of the sower, which Elder Talmage suggested should be named “The Four Kinds of Soil,” since its main point concerns the way we respond to the seed of the gospel. (Jesus the Christ, p. 284.)
Jesus explained this in detail—how in some the seed fails to root at all, and in others it roots but withers because of lack of determination in serving God, and in still others the gospel seedlings are choked by the weeds of worldliness and materialism. (See Matt. 13:18–22.) But even when the seed grows, it does so with various degrees of success, as good ground may have low, medium, and high yields. (Matt. 13:23.) This parable is a story of vital personal relevance, for everyone hearing the gospel message can find his own “category” and evaluate his “yield.” In other parables the Savior tells how to measure our productivity. Comparing God’s kingdom to treasure or to a costly pearl, Jesus drove the point home that one gains eternal wealth by selling “all that he hath” (Matt. 13:33–36) or, in other words, one must be willing to continue in his word and do all that he commands.
For All Ages
A student can draw from the teachings of the Lord in a measure equal to that which he brings to it. That is why any of the great illustrations He used are useful in teaching Primary and in illustrating to tiny minds principles that they will come to understand in a greater measure later in life. Likewise the same parable or the same story can be the subject of a lesson in the Gospel Doctrine class in Sunday School or in the high priests quorum, to be wrestled by venerable senior members of the Church, still drawing lessons and instructions and meaning by association with other things they have learned in life.
There is no ideal age at which each or any of the illustrations might be used. They are good for every age and any age. They never become outdated. They were meaningful in Palestine in the meridian of time; they were powerful in the Middle Ages; they were necessary at the turn of the century; they are vital to us now; and they will be useful as the century turns again and will be important to each of us wherever we are then, on this side of the veil or beyond it.
The Book of Mormon has numerous examples of the use of symbolism. Particularly good examples of this are Lehi's dream of the tree of life (1 Nephi 8) and Nephi's vision of the same thing (1 Nephi 11 and 12).
Another good example of symbolism in the Book of Mormon is the comparison of the house of Israel unto an olive-tree. This symbolism is used extensively in Jacob, chapters 5 and 6. The following quotations indicate how the explanation of the symbol reinforces with the student the concept to be learned.
Behold, I say unto you, that the house of Israel was compared unto an olive-tree, by the Spirit of the Lord which was in our fathers; and behold are we not broken off from the house of Israel, and are we not a branch of the house of Israel?
Testimony will come to you in pieces as parts of the whole truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ are confirmed. For instance, as you read and ponder the Book of Mormon, verses you have read before will appear new to you and bring new ideas. Your testimony will grow in breadth and in depth as the Holy Ghost confirms that they are true. Your living testimony will expand as you study, pray, and ponder in the scriptures. The best description for me of how to gain and keep this living testimony has already been referred to; it is in the 32nd chapter of Alma in the Book of Mormon. You may have read it many times. I find new light in it every time I read it. Let’s review the lesson it teaches once again tonight. We are taught in those inspired passages to begin our quest for testimony with a “particle of faith” and with desire for it to grow (see Alma 32:27). Tonight you have felt faith and that desire as you listened to stirring talks of the Savior’s kindness, His honesty, and of the purity His commandments and the Atonement made possible for us. So, a seed of faith is already planted in your heart. You may even have felt some of the expansion of your heart promised in Alma. I did. But, like a growing plant, it must be nurtured or it will wither. Frequent and heartfelt prayers of faith are crucial and needed nutrients. Obedience to the truth you have received will keep the testimony alive and strengthen it. Obedience to the commandments is part of the nourishment you must provide for your testimony. You remember the promise of the Savior: “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself” (John 7:17). That has worked for me, as it will for you. (President Eyring Address, Young Women Broadcast, Yesterday)
Joseph Smith said: "I have a key by which I understand the scriptures. I enquire what was the question which drew out the answer or caused Jesus to utter the parable. (Smith, Teaching, p.276)
Bible Dictionary about Parables. (1) Most teachers, especially Oriental teachers, have used some form of parable in their instruction, but none so exclusively as Jesus at one period of his ministry. During part of the Galilean ministry the record states that “without a parable spake he not unto them” (Mark 4:34). From our Lord’s words (Matt. 13:13–15; Mark 4:12; Luke 8:10) we learn the reason for this method. It was to veil the meaning. The parable conveys to the hearer religious truth exactly in proportion to his faith and intelligence; to the dull and uninspired it is a mere story, “seeing they see not,” while to the instructed and spiritual it reveals the mysteries or secrets of the kingdom of heaven. Thus it is that the parable exhibits the condition of all true knowledge. Only he who seeks finds.
Personal Research - Connections - Patterns & Themes (see how it relates to Lehi's Dream?)
1) Those that hear the message, but don't do anything about it. In the parable, they are desribed as falling by the wayside and being eaten by fowls. In Lehi's dream, he says that multitudes felt their way toward the great and spacious building (apparently ignoring the rod and the path to the tree altogether.)
2) Those that hear the message and start to obey, but fall away quickly. The Savior says that these fell into stony places and sprung up, but having no root withered in the sun. In the dream, these would be those that started along the path to the tree but lost their way in the mist.
3) Those that hear and accept the message, but are lost to the world. The parable describes these as falling among thorns which choked them. In Lehi's dream, these are the multitude who make it to the tree and partake of the fruit only to hear the scoffing of those in the great and spacious building and become ashamed, falling away.
4) The last group are those that hear and accept the message and then endure to the end. The Savior describes them as falling into good soil and bringing forth good fruit. Lehi says that "other multitudes" pressed forward, holding to the rod, and partook of the fruit of the tree.
Commentary to better understand parables:
Understanding the parables of Jesus helps in understanding the gospel, but it also involves understanding him, his times, and his people. We must often work at interpreting Jesus’ parables now, because the world of parables has largely passed away. Its herds were mainly those of sheep and goats, small enough to get personal attention; beef was a luxury even for a rich man. Its farms were small, often rocky, and towers were built for visibility in guarding the harvest. That world sharply divided rich and poor, and the economics of both are revealed in strange coins. Custom was strong, for even the poor fed a guest liberally. Their simple homes had one room; wealthy homes were filled with servants. Jesus used all of these as symbols for his messages, and understanding these symbols holds high priority for us, since the Savior warned: “Take heed therefore how ye hear. …” (Luke 8:18.) And understanding the parables is vital, for he illustrated with parable doctrines that he obviously cared about teaching.
In the case of the wheat and the tares. There are numerous symbols here that correspond to life, because Jesus designed these stories that way and he said so. But in the case of the wheat and tares, Jesus said the one who sowed the seed “is the Son of Man” (Matt. 13:37), or himself. There is no doubt that he was witnessing to his divine mission.
Jesus anticipated man’s varied responses to his messages. The leading example of that is the parable of the sower, which Elder Talmage suggested should be named “The Four Kinds of Soil,” since its main point concerns the way we respond to the seed of the gospel. (Jesus the Christ, p. 284.)
Jesus explained this in detail—how in some the seed fails to root at all, and in others it roots but withers because of lack of determination in serving God, and in still others the gospel seedlings are choked by the weeds of worldliness and materialism. (See Matt. 13:18–22.) But even when the seed grows, it does so with various degrees of success, as good ground may have low, medium, and high yields. (Matt. 13:23.) This parable is a story of vital personal relevance, for everyone hearing the gospel message can find his own “category” and evaluate his “yield.” In other parables the Savior tells how to measure our productivity. Comparing God’s kingdom to treasure or to a costly pearl, Jesus drove the point home that one gains eternal wealth by selling “all that he hath” (Matt. 13:33–36) or, in other words, one must be willing to continue in his word and do all that he commands.
For All Ages
A student can draw from the teachings of the Lord in a measure equal to that which he brings to it. That is why any of the great illustrations He used are useful in teaching Primary and in illustrating to tiny minds principles that they will come to understand in a greater measure later in life. Likewise the same parable or the same story can be the subject of a lesson in the Gospel Doctrine class in Sunday School or in the high priests quorum, to be wrestled by venerable senior members of the Church, still drawing lessons and instructions and meaning by association with other things they have learned in life.
There is no ideal age at which each or any of the illustrations might be used. They are good for every age and any age. They never become outdated. They were meaningful in Palestine in the meridian of time; they were powerful in the Middle Ages; they were necessary at the turn of the century; they are vital to us now; and they will be useful as the century turns again and will be important to each of us wherever we are then, on this side of the veil or beyond it.
The Book of Mormon has numerous examples of the use of symbolism. Particularly good examples of this are Lehi's dream of the tree of life (1 Nephi 8) and Nephi's vision of the same thing (1 Nephi 11 and 12).
Another good example of symbolism in the Book of Mormon is the comparison of the house of Israel unto an olive-tree. This symbolism is used extensively in Jacob, chapters 5 and 6. The following quotations indicate how the explanation of the symbol reinforces with the student the concept to be learned.
Behold, I say unto you, that the house of Israel was compared unto an olive-tree, by the Spirit of the Lord which was in our fathers; and behold are we not broken off from the house of Israel, and are we not a branch of the house of Israel?
And He Spake Many Things Unto Them in Parables
Lesson 11
Purpose
To develop “ears to hear” so you can understand how Jesus’ parables apply to them (Matthew 13:9).
a. Matthew 13:1–17. Jesus presents the parable of the sower and explains his use of parables.
b. Matthew 13:18–23. Jesus explains the parable of the sower.
c. Matthew 13:24–53. Jesus teaches about the kingdom of heaven on earth (the Church of Jesus Christ) through the parables of the wheat and the tares, the grain of mustard seed, the leaven, the treasure hid in the field, the pearl of great price, and the net cast into the sea.
Reminder for your Family Home Evenings: Elder Boyd K. Packer said: “No teaching aid surpasses, and few equal, the chalkboard. … You can use it to focus the eyes of your students while the main lesson is presented audibly. As you talk, you can put just enough on the board to focus their attention and give them the idea, but never so much that the visual aid itself distracts them and becomes more interesting than your lesson” (Teach Ye Diligently [1975], 224–25; see also Teaching, No Greater Call [36123], pages 162–63).
Attention Activity
Imagine you are riding in a bus. As the journey progresses, they look through the windows of the bus and observe the scenery. After traveling together in the same bus, will you have observed the same things as the other passengers? Why or why not?
People in the same situation do not always observe the same things. Likewise, not all the people who heard Jesus teach in parables understood how the parables applied to them.
This lesson will discuss how we can understand and apply Jesus’ parables.
Scripture Discussion and Application
Learn about the different persons, objects, and actions they represent. This will help you understand the parables and apply them in their lives.
1. Jesus presents the parable of the sower and explains his use of parables.
Read Matthew 13:1–17.
When the multitudes gathered on the seashore, Jesus “spake many things unto them in parables” (Matthew 13:3).
What is a parable? (A symbolic story that teaches gospel truths by comparing them to earthly things.)
What did Jesus say was his purpose in teaching with parables? (To simultaneously teach his message to his disciples and conceal it from unbelievers.
See Matthew 13:10–13; note the Joseph Smith Translation of Matthew 13:12 in footnote 12a.)
Read the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3–8). Remember that the objects and actions in the parable represent gospel truths.
What keeps the seeds that fall on the wayside from sprouting? (See Matthew 13:4.
Write on the chalkboard (Seeds on wayside—eaten by birds.)
Why do the seeds in the stony soil wither away? (See Matthew 13:5–6; Luke 8:6.
Write on the chalkboard (Seeds in stony places—have no root.)
What happens when some seeds fall among thorns? (See Matthew 13:7.
Write on the chalkboard (Seeds among thorns—choked by thorns.)
What happens to the seeds that fall in the good soil? (See Matthew 13:8.
Write on the chalkboard (Seeds in good soil—bring forth fruit.)
How might people react when they hear this parable without any explanation of its meaning? (Some people might become frustrated because they do not understand it. Others might understand it but think it does not apply to them. Others might ponder it and ask questions until they understand it and know how to apply it in their lives.)
What invitation did Jesus extend after he presented the parable of the sower? (See Matthew 13:9.)
What do you think the word hear means in this invitation? What does it mean to see but see not and to hear but hear not? (See Matthew 13:13–15.) The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “The multitude … received not His saying … because they were not willing to see with their eyes, and hear with their ears; not because they could not, and were not privileged to see and hear, but because their hearts were full of iniquity and abominations. … The very reason why the multitude … did not receive an explanation upon His parables, was because of unbelief” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 96–97).
2. Jesus explains the parable of the sower.
Read Matthew 13:18–23, and discuss the meaning of the objects and actions in the parable of the sower.
Seed
In the parable of the sower, what does the seed represent? (See Matthew 13:19; Luke 8:11.
Write on the chalkboard (Seed = word of God.)
Wayside
What does the wayside represent? (See Matthew 13:19.) Write on the chalkboard Wayside = people who hear the word of God but do not understand it (abbreviate the statement if desired).
What are some things we might do that prevent us from understanding God’s word? (See Mosiah 26:1–3 for one possible answer.)
What must we do to be able to understand the word of God? (See Alma 32:27.)
How does lack of understanding make it easier for Satan to take away the word from our hearts? (See Matthew 13:19.)
Stony Places
What do the stony places represent? (See Matthew 13:20–21.) Write on the chalkboard Stony places = people who hear and receive the word of God but do not allow it to take root in them (abbreviate the statement if desired).
Why do some people not allow the word of God to take root in them? (See Matthew 13:21; Mark 4:5.)
How can we allow the word to establish deep roots in us? (See Alma 32:41–43.)
How will this help us endure the heat of tribulation, persecution, and offense?
Thorny Places
What do the thorny places represent? (See Matthew 13:22; Mark 4:19; Luke 8:14.)
Write on the chalkboard Thorny places = people who hear the word of God but are distracted by the cares of the world (abbreviate the statement if desired).
What does it mean for a person to be unfruitful?
What “thorns” cause people to be unfruitful? (See Matthew 13:22; Mark 4:19; Luke 8:14.)
How are these thorns evident in the world today?
What can we do to prevent these thorns from choking the word of God in us?
Good Ground
What does the good ground represent? (See Matthew 13:23.)
Write on the chalkboard Good ground = people who hear the word of God, understand it, and do works of righteousness (abbreviate the statement if desired).
What could be done to help the unproductive areas produce fruit? (The wayside could be plowed and fertilized, the stones could be removed, and the thorns could be uprooted.)
How can this apply to our efforts to be more receptive to God’s word?
Why do you think the parable of the sower focuses more on the ground than on the sower or the seed?
3. Jesus uses parables to teach about the kingdom of heaven on earth (the Church of Jesus Christ).
Matthew 13:24–53. In these verses the term “kingdom of heaven” refers to the Church of Jesus Christ, which is the kingdom of heaven on earth (Bible Dictionary, “Kingdom of Heaven or Kingdom of God,” 721).
What is the meaning of the parable of the wheat and the tares? (See Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43; D&C 86:1–7. List who or what is represented by the sower, the field, the good seed, the tares, the enemy, the harvest, and the reapers.)
In the parable of the wheat and the tares, why does the sower refuse to let his servants immediately gather the tares, or weeds? (See Matthew 13:27–30; see also D&C 86:5–7, which clarifies Matthew 13:30.)
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that the parables of the mustard seed and the leaven are about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 98–100).
What can we learn about the restored Church from the Savior’s comparing it to a mustard seed? (See Matthew 13:31–32.) To leaven? (See Matthew 13:33. Leaven is an ingredient, such as yeast or baking powder, that causes bread to rise.)
How have you seen the work of God increase as illustrated by these parables?
What can we learn from the parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price? (See Matthew 13:44–46.)
What sacrifices should we be willing to make to obtain the treasure of the gospel?
What sacrifices have you or those you know made for the gospel? What blessings have resulted from those sacrifices?
What does the net represent in the parable of the net cast into the sea? (See Matthew 13:47.)
What does it mean to be gathered into the net?
What is represented by the action of gathering the good into vessels and casting the bad away? (See Matthew 13:48–50. Use Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:4 to explain that “the end of the world” in verse 49 refers to the destruction of the wicked.)
What can we do to help us stay faithful in the Church and to help others do the same?
Conclusion
Point out that Jesus explained his parables to those who sought understanding.
Testify that as we study Jesus’ parables with a sincere desire to understand, we will see how they apply in our day.
Object lessons
To understand and remember the parables in the lesson, display some of the objects described in them. For example, you could show how yeast reacts when combined with water and sugar.
You could bake one loaf of bread with yeast and one without yeast, and allow class members to see and taste the difference. show some mustard seed (or ground pepper, which looks like black mustard seed). See Teaching, No Greater Call, pages 163–64, for suggestions on teaching with objects.
Purpose
To develop “ears to hear” so you can understand how Jesus’ parables apply to them (Matthew 13:9).
a. Matthew 13:1–17. Jesus presents the parable of the sower and explains his use of parables.
b. Matthew 13:18–23. Jesus explains the parable of the sower.
c. Matthew 13:24–53. Jesus teaches about the kingdom of heaven on earth (the Church of Jesus Christ) through the parables of the wheat and the tares, the grain of mustard seed, the leaven, the treasure hid in the field, the pearl of great price, and the net cast into the sea.
Reminder for your Family Home Evenings: Elder Boyd K. Packer said: “No teaching aid surpasses, and few equal, the chalkboard. … You can use it to focus the eyes of your students while the main lesson is presented audibly. As you talk, you can put just enough on the board to focus their attention and give them the idea, but never so much that the visual aid itself distracts them and becomes more interesting than your lesson” (Teach Ye Diligently [1975], 224–25; see also Teaching, No Greater Call [36123], pages 162–63).
Attention Activity
Imagine you are riding in a bus. As the journey progresses, they look through the windows of the bus and observe the scenery. After traveling together in the same bus, will you have observed the same things as the other passengers? Why or why not?
People in the same situation do not always observe the same things. Likewise, not all the people who heard Jesus teach in parables understood how the parables applied to them.
This lesson will discuss how we can understand and apply Jesus’ parables.
Scripture Discussion and Application
Learn about the different persons, objects, and actions they represent. This will help you understand the parables and apply them in their lives.
1. Jesus presents the parable of the sower and explains his use of parables.
Read Matthew 13:1–17.
When the multitudes gathered on the seashore, Jesus “spake many things unto them in parables” (Matthew 13:3).
What is a parable? (A symbolic story that teaches gospel truths by comparing them to earthly things.)
What did Jesus say was his purpose in teaching with parables? (To simultaneously teach his message to his disciples and conceal it from unbelievers.
See Matthew 13:10–13; note the Joseph Smith Translation of Matthew 13:12 in footnote 12a.)
Read the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3–8). Remember that the objects and actions in the parable represent gospel truths.
What keeps the seeds that fall on the wayside from sprouting? (See Matthew 13:4.
Write on the chalkboard (Seeds on wayside—eaten by birds.)
Why do the seeds in the stony soil wither away? (See Matthew 13:5–6; Luke 8:6.
Write on the chalkboard (Seeds in stony places—have no root.)
What happens when some seeds fall among thorns? (See Matthew 13:7.
Write on the chalkboard (Seeds among thorns—choked by thorns.)
What happens to the seeds that fall in the good soil? (See Matthew 13:8.
Write on the chalkboard (Seeds in good soil—bring forth fruit.)
How might people react when they hear this parable without any explanation of its meaning? (Some people might become frustrated because they do not understand it. Others might understand it but think it does not apply to them. Others might ponder it and ask questions until they understand it and know how to apply it in their lives.)
What invitation did Jesus extend after he presented the parable of the sower? (See Matthew 13:9.)
What do you think the word hear means in this invitation? What does it mean to see but see not and to hear but hear not? (See Matthew 13:13–15.) The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “The multitude … received not His saying … because they were not willing to see with their eyes, and hear with their ears; not because they could not, and were not privileged to see and hear, but because their hearts were full of iniquity and abominations. … The very reason why the multitude … did not receive an explanation upon His parables, was because of unbelief” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 96–97).
2. Jesus explains the parable of the sower.
Read Matthew 13:18–23, and discuss the meaning of the objects and actions in the parable of the sower.
Seed
In the parable of the sower, what does the seed represent? (See Matthew 13:19; Luke 8:11.
Write on the chalkboard (Seed = word of God.)
Wayside
What does the wayside represent? (See Matthew 13:19.) Write on the chalkboard Wayside = people who hear the word of God but do not understand it (abbreviate the statement if desired).
What are some things we might do that prevent us from understanding God’s word? (See Mosiah 26:1–3 for one possible answer.)
What must we do to be able to understand the word of God? (See Alma 32:27.)
How does lack of understanding make it easier for Satan to take away the word from our hearts? (See Matthew 13:19.)
Stony Places
What do the stony places represent? (See Matthew 13:20–21.) Write on the chalkboard Stony places = people who hear and receive the word of God but do not allow it to take root in them (abbreviate the statement if desired).
Why do some people not allow the word of God to take root in them? (See Matthew 13:21; Mark 4:5.)
How can we allow the word to establish deep roots in us? (See Alma 32:41–43.)
How will this help us endure the heat of tribulation, persecution, and offense?
Thorny Places
What do the thorny places represent? (See Matthew 13:22; Mark 4:19; Luke 8:14.)
Write on the chalkboard Thorny places = people who hear the word of God but are distracted by the cares of the world (abbreviate the statement if desired).
What does it mean for a person to be unfruitful?
What “thorns” cause people to be unfruitful? (See Matthew 13:22; Mark 4:19; Luke 8:14.)
How are these thorns evident in the world today?
What can we do to prevent these thorns from choking the word of God in us?
Good Ground
What does the good ground represent? (See Matthew 13:23.)
Write on the chalkboard Good ground = people who hear the word of God, understand it, and do works of righteousness (abbreviate the statement if desired).
What could be done to help the unproductive areas produce fruit? (The wayside could be plowed and fertilized, the stones could be removed, and the thorns could be uprooted.)
How can this apply to our efforts to be more receptive to God’s word?
Why do you think the parable of the sower focuses more on the ground than on the sower or the seed?
3. Jesus uses parables to teach about the kingdom of heaven on earth (the Church of Jesus Christ).
Matthew 13:24–53. In these verses the term “kingdom of heaven” refers to the Church of Jesus Christ, which is the kingdom of heaven on earth (Bible Dictionary, “Kingdom of Heaven or Kingdom of God,” 721).
What is the meaning of the parable of the wheat and the tares? (See Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43; D&C 86:1–7. List who or what is represented by the sower, the field, the good seed, the tares, the enemy, the harvest, and the reapers.)
In the parable of the wheat and the tares, why does the sower refuse to let his servants immediately gather the tares, or weeds? (See Matthew 13:27–30; see also D&C 86:5–7, which clarifies Matthew 13:30.)
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that the parables of the mustard seed and the leaven are about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 98–100).
What can we learn about the restored Church from the Savior’s comparing it to a mustard seed? (See Matthew 13:31–32.) To leaven? (See Matthew 13:33. Leaven is an ingredient, such as yeast or baking powder, that causes bread to rise.)
How have you seen the work of God increase as illustrated by these parables?
What can we learn from the parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price? (See Matthew 13:44–46.)
What sacrifices should we be willing to make to obtain the treasure of the gospel?
What sacrifices have you or those you know made for the gospel? What blessings have resulted from those sacrifices?
What does the net represent in the parable of the net cast into the sea? (See Matthew 13:47.)
What does it mean to be gathered into the net?
What is represented by the action of gathering the good into vessels and casting the bad away? (See Matthew 13:48–50. Use Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:4 to explain that “the end of the world” in verse 49 refers to the destruction of the wicked.)
What can we do to help us stay faithful in the Church and to help others do the same?
Conclusion
Point out that Jesus explained his parables to those who sought understanding.
Testify that as we study Jesus’ parables with a sincere desire to understand, we will see how they apply in our day.
Object lessons
To understand and remember the parables in the lesson, display some of the objects described in them. For example, you could show how yeast reacts when combined with water and sugar.
You could bake one loaf of bread with yeast and one without yeast, and allow class members to see and taste the difference. show some mustard seed (or ground pepper, which looks like black mustard seed). See Teaching, No Greater Call, pages 163–64, for suggestions on teaching with objects.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Lesson 9 - Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God
Doctrine - what doctrine if understood would help us become more Spirit-directed Disciples of Christ? - The Plan of Happiness
Principles - Obedience, Faith, Prayer, Kindness, and Service
Application - to become more dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ by our prompted actions.
Making It Stick With A Story
Elder William R. Bradford of the Seventy once spoke with the bishop of a ward whose youth had worked to earn money for an activity. The bishop asked Elder Bradford if he would help the youth get some recognition for what they had done. To the bishop’s surprise, Elder Bradford said he would not. He said that he was glad that the young people had worked hard, but that it was not important that they receive public recognition for that work.
When the youth decided to donate their money to the Church’s general missionary fund instead of using it for the activity, they wanted to have their picture taken with Elder Bradford as they made the donation, and they wanted to have the picture and an article put into the newspaper. Again Elder Bradford surprised them by saying “no.” He told the bishop: “You might consider helping your young people learn a higher law of recognition. Recognition from on high is silent. It is carefully and quietly recorded there. Let them feel the joy and gain the treasure in their heart and soul that come from silent, selfless service” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 90–91; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 75).
• What lessons can we learn from Elder Bradford’s response to the youth?
One lesson we can learn is that we should do good things because we love God and want to please him, not because we want to receive recognition from other people. This is one of the characteristics of a true disciple of Jesus Christ.
List the qualities of true discipleship taught by the Savior in this sermon.
Further Application
Consider what you need to do to become a more dedicated and sincere disciple of Christ. Share personal experiences that relate to the principles of true discipleship.
1. True disciples do right things for right reasons.
Read and discuss Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21.
• Why did Jesus condemn some people for doing good things such as giving alms (giving to the poor), praying, and fasting? (See Matthew 6:1–2, 5, 16. They were doing these things for the wrong reason.) Jesus referred to these people as hypocrites. What is a hypocrite? (A person who pretends to have certain qualities but does not have them; a person who tries to appear righteous but is not. Footnote 2a indicates that the Greek word for hypocrite can also be translated “pretender.” See Matthew 15:8; Luke 11:39.)
• What will be the reward for people who do good things to be seen by others? (See Matthew 6:2, 5, 16.) What things might we do to be seen by others instead of to please God? How can we purify our motives for serving and performing other good works?
• In this sermon, what did Jesus teach about what we should value most? (See Matthew 6:19–21.) What does it mean to “lay up … treasures in heaven”? What are some heavenly treasures we can seek? (See D&C 18:14–16 and D&C 130:18–19 for two examples.)
• What does it mean that “where your treasure is, there will your heart be also”? How can we determine what we treasure? (One way is to evaluate the amount of time, money, and thought we devote to something.) What do people today treasure? Think about the things they treasure and silently consider what these treasures say about where their heart is.
2. True disciples follow the Savior’s example of prayer.
Read Matthew 6:7–13; 7:7–11. Matthew 6:9–13 is known as the Lord’s Prayer.
• What does the Lord’s Prayer teach us about how we should pray? (See Matthew 6:9–13.)
• How does the Lord’s Prayer show Jesus’ reverence and respect for Heavenly Father? How can we show reverence and respect for Heavenly Father when we pray?
Elder Dallin H. Oaks commented on the kind of language we should use when we pray: “The special language of prayer follows different forms in different languages, but the principle is always the same. We should address prayers to our Heavenly Father in words which speakers of that language associate with love and respect and reverence and closeness. … Men and women who wish to show respect will take the time to learn the special language of prayer” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1993, 17, 20; or Ensign, May 1993, 16, 18).
• How can we avoid using “vain repetitions” when we pray? (See Matthew 6:7.)
• Since Heavenly Father knows what we need before we pray (Matthew 6:8), why do we need to pray? Why are asking, seeking, and knocking (Matthew 7:7) necessary for our spiritual progress? How can we seek more diligently for Heavenly Father’s help?
• How are we to understand the Savior’s promise that “every one that asketh receiveth”? (Matthew 7:8). Why do we sometimes not receive what we ask for at the time we ask for it or in the way we would like it? (See 3 Nephi 18:20.) How have you learned that God knows what is best for you?
3. True disciples treat others kindly and fairly.
Read Matthew 6:14–15; 7:1–6, 12.
• Why do you think the Savior commands us to forgive others? How can we become more forgiving?
• The Joseph Smith Translation amends Matthew 7:1 to read, “Judge not unrighteously, that ye be not judged; but judge righteous judgment” (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 7:2). What is righteous judgment? What harm can come to us and to those we judge if we judge unrighteously? How can we ensure that we judge righteously? (See Matthew 7:3–5; Moroni 7:14–18.)
• Jesus said a person who unrighteously tries to correct others is a hypocrite (Matthew 7:4–5). How is judging unrighteously a sign of hypocrisy?
• The teaching in Matthew 7:12 is often called the Golden Rule. What experiences have shown you the value of this principle?
How does following the Golden Rule make us better disciples of Jesus Christ?
Elder Marvin J. Ashton described a meeting in which a group of Church members considered the question “How can you tell if someone is converted to Jesus Christ?”:
“For forty-five minutes those in attendance made numerous suggestions in response to this question, and the leader carefully wrote down each answer on a large chalkboard. All of the comments were thoughtful and appropriate. But after a time, this great teacher erased everything he had written. Then, acknowledging that all of the comments had been worthwhile and appreciated, he taught a vital principle: ‘The best and most clear indicator that we are progressing spiritually and coming unto Christ is the way we treat other people.’”
Elder Ashton added: “The way we treat the members of our families, our friends, those with whom we work each day is as important as are some of the more noticeable gospel principles we sometimes emphasize” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1992, 25; or Ensign, May 1992, 20).
4. True disciples serve God and do his will.
Read selected verses from Matthew 6:22–34; 7:13–29.
• Why is it impossible to serve both God and mammon, or worldliness? (See Matthew 6:24.) What blessings does God promise to those who serve him? (See Matthew 6:25–33; D&C 11:7.)
• Jesus promised that if we “seek … first the kingdom of God,” we will be given all other things that we need (Matthew 6:33). What experiences have helped you gain a testimony of this promise?
• How does worldliness turn our loyalty and service away from God? What are some ways we might be tempted to seek the things of the world before the things of God? (Answers may include waiting to pay tithing until after we buy the things we need or want or deciding not to serve a mission because of a desire for worldly things.)
• As Jesus neared the end of his sermon, what did he teach about entering the kingdom of heaven? (See Matthew 7:13–14, 21–23.) Why is it significant that the way to eternal life is narrow, while the way to destruction is broad?
• At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told the parable of the wise man and the foolish man (Matthew 7:24–27). How does this parable apply to us? What is the “rock” on which we should build? (See Helaman 5:12.) What do some people build their lives on that might be comparable to sand?
Sing “The Wise Man and the Foolish Man” (Children’s Songbook, 281).
Conclusion
We testify of the importance of following Jesus Christ. Consider what they need to do to become better disciples of Christ.
Additional Principles
1. “By their fruits ye shall know them” (Matthew 7:20)
• Jesus cautioned his followers about false prophets—people who teach false doctrine or try to lead people away from Christ (Matthew 7:15). How can we discern between false and true prophets? (See Matthew 7:16–20; see also Moroni 7:5, 10–11.) How can Matthew 7:20 apply to us as well as to prophets?
2. Video presentation
The second segment of “New Testament Customs,” a selection from New Testament Video Presentations (53914), explains the Jews’ use of phylacteries and fringes. Discuss how these items, once used to show obedience to God, became symbols of the Pharisees’ desires to “be seen of men” as they worshiped (Matthew 6:5).
3. Finding the beam in our own eye
Share the following story about how the Prophet Joseph Smith taught one sister to look for the beam in her own eye when dealing with a personal offense:
A woman went to the Prophet Joseph Smith upset about some things another member of the Church had said about her. The Prophet told her that if what the man had said was untrue, she should ignore the matter, because truth would survive but untruths would not. The woman felt the comments were untrue, but she was not satisfied with ignoring the matter. The Prophet then told his way of handling such comments:
“When an enemy had told a scandalous story about him, which had often been done, before he rendered judgment he paused and let his mind run back to the time and place and setting of the story to see if he had not by some unguarded word or act laid the block on which the story was built. If he found that he had done so, he said that in his heart he then forgave his enemy, and felt thankful that he had received warning of a weakness that he had not known he possessed.”
The Prophet told the sister that she should think carefully about whether she had unconsciously given the man any reason to say the things he did. After much thought, she decided she had, and she thanked the Prophet and left. (See Jesse W. Crosby, quoted in Hyrum L. Andrus and Helen Mae Andrus, comps., They Knew the Prophet [1974], 144.)
Principles - Obedience, Faith, Prayer, Kindness, and Service
Application - to become more dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ by our prompted actions.
Making It Stick With A Story
Elder William R. Bradford of the Seventy once spoke with the bishop of a ward whose youth had worked to earn money for an activity. The bishop asked Elder Bradford if he would help the youth get some recognition for what they had done. To the bishop’s surprise, Elder Bradford said he would not. He said that he was glad that the young people had worked hard, but that it was not important that they receive public recognition for that work.
When the youth decided to donate their money to the Church’s general missionary fund instead of using it for the activity, they wanted to have their picture taken with Elder Bradford as they made the donation, and they wanted to have the picture and an article put into the newspaper. Again Elder Bradford surprised them by saying “no.” He told the bishop: “You might consider helping your young people learn a higher law of recognition. Recognition from on high is silent. It is carefully and quietly recorded there. Let them feel the joy and gain the treasure in their heart and soul that come from silent, selfless service” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 90–91; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 75).
• What lessons can we learn from Elder Bradford’s response to the youth?
One lesson we can learn is that we should do good things because we love God and want to please him, not because we want to receive recognition from other people. This is one of the characteristics of a true disciple of Jesus Christ.
List the qualities of true discipleship taught by the Savior in this sermon.
Further Application
Consider what you need to do to become a more dedicated and sincere disciple of Christ. Share personal experiences that relate to the principles of true discipleship.
1. True disciples do right things for right reasons.
Read and discuss Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21.
• Why did Jesus condemn some people for doing good things such as giving alms (giving to the poor), praying, and fasting? (See Matthew 6:1–2, 5, 16. They were doing these things for the wrong reason.) Jesus referred to these people as hypocrites. What is a hypocrite? (A person who pretends to have certain qualities but does not have them; a person who tries to appear righteous but is not. Footnote 2a indicates that the Greek word for hypocrite can also be translated “pretender.” See Matthew 15:8; Luke 11:39.)
• What will be the reward for people who do good things to be seen by others? (See Matthew 6:2, 5, 16.) What things might we do to be seen by others instead of to please God? How can we purify our motives for serving and performing other good works?
• In this sermon, what did Jesus teach about what we should value most? (See Matthew 6:19–21.) What does it mean to “lay up … treasures in heaven”? What are some heavenly treasures we can seek? (See D&C 18:14–16 and D&C 130:18–19 for two examples.)
• What does it mean that “where your treasure is, there will your heart be also”? How can we determine what we treasure? (One way is to evaluate the amount of time, money, and thought we devote to something.) What do people today treasure? Think about the things they treasure and silently consider what these treasures say about where their heart is.
2. True disciples follow the Savior’s example of prayer.
Read Matthew 6:7–13; 7:7–11. Matthew 6:9–13 is known as the Lord’s Prayer.
• What does the Lord’s Prayer teach us about how we should pray? (See Matthew 6:9–13.)
• How does the Lord’s Prayer show Jesus’ reverence and respect for Heavenly Father? How can we show reverence and respect for Heavenly Father when we pray?
Elder Dallin H. Oaks commented on the kind of language we should use when we pray: “The special language of prayer follows different forms in different languages, but the principle is always the same. We should address prayers to our Heavenly Father in words which speakers of that language associate with love and respect and reverence and closeness. … Men and women who wish to show respect will take the time to learn the special language of prayer” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1993, 17, 20; or Ensign, May 1993, 16, 18).
• How can we avoid using “vain repetitions” when we pray? (See Matthew 6:7.)
• Since Heavenly Father knows what we need before we pray (Matthew 6:8), why do we need to pray? Why are asking, seeking, and knocking (Matthew 7:7) necessary for our spiritual progress? How can we seek more diligently for Heavenly Father’s help?
• How are we to understand the Savior’s promise that “every one that asketh receiveth”? (Matthew 7:8). Why do we sometimes not receive what we ask for at the time we ask for it or in the way we would like it? (See 3 Nephi 18:20.) How have you learned that God knows what is best for you?
3. True disciples treat others kindly and fairly.
Read Matthew 6:14–15; 7:1–6, 12.
• Why do you think the Savior commands us to forgive others? How can we become more forgiving?
• The Joseph Smith Translation amends Matthew 7:1 to read, “Judge not unrighteously, that ye be not judged; but judge righteous judgment” (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 7:2). What is righteous judgment? What harm can come to us and to those we judge if we judge unrighteously? How can we ensure that we judge righteously? (See Matthew 7:3–5; Moroni 7:14–18.)
• Jesus said a person who unrighteously tries to correct others is a hypocrite (Matthew 7:4–5). How is judging unrighteously a sign of hypocrisy?
• The teaching in Matthew 7:12 is often called the Golden Rule. What experiences have shown you the value of this principle?
How does following the Golden Rule make us better disciples of Jesus Christ?
Elder Marvin J. Ashton described a meeting in which a group of Church members considered the question “How can you tell if someone is converted to Jesus Christ?”:
“For forty-five minutes those in attendance made numerous suggestions in response to this question, and the leader carefully wrote down each answer on a large chalkboard. All of the comments were thoughtful and appropriate. But after a time, this great teacher erased everything he had written. Then, acknowledging that all of the comments had been worthwhile and appreciated, he taught a vital principle: ‘The best and most clear indicator that we are progressing spiritually and coming unto Christ is the way we treat other people.’”
Elder Ashton added: “The way we treat the members of our families, our friends, those with whom we work each day is as important as are some of the more noticeable gospel principles we sometimes emphasize” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1992, 25; or Ensign, May 1992, 20).
4. True disciples serve God and do his will.
Read selected verses from Matthew 6:22–34; 7:13–29.
• Why is it impossible to serve both God and mammon, or worldliness? (See Matthew 6:24.) What blessings does God promise to those who serve him? (See Matthew 6:25–33; D&C 11:7.)
• Jesus promised that if we “seek … first the kingdom of God,” we will be given all other things that we need (Matthew 6:33). What experiences have helped you gain a testimony of this promise?
• How does worldliness turn our loyalty and service away from God? What are some ways we might be tempted to seek the things of the world before the things of God? (Answers may include waiting to pay tithing until after we buy the things we need or want or deciding not to serve a mission because of a desire for worldly things.)
• As Jesus neared the end of his sermon, what did he teach about entering the kingdom of heaven? (See Matthew 7:13–14, 21–23.) Why is it significant that the way to eternal life is narrow, while the way to destruction is broad?
• At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told the parable of the wise man and the foolish man (Matthew 7:24–27). How does this parable apply to us? What is the “rock” on which we should build? (See Helaman 5:12.) What do some people build their lives on that might be comparable to sand?
Sing “The Wise Man and the Foolish Man” (Children’s Songbook, 281).
Conclusion
We testify of the importance of following Jesus Christ. Consider what they need to do to become better disciples of Christ.
Additional Principles
1. “By their fruits ye shall know them” (Matthew 7:20)
• Jesus cautioned his followers about false prophets—people who teach false doctrine or try to lead people away from Christ (Matthew 7:15). How can we discern between false and true prophets? (See Matthew 7:16–20; see also Moroni 7:5, 10–11.) How can Matthew 7:20 apply to us as well as to prophets?
2. Video presentation
The second segment of “New Testament Customs,” a selection from New Testament Video Presentations (53914), explains the Jews’ use of phylacteries and fringes. Discuss how these items, once used to show obedience to God, became symbols of the Pharisees’ desires to “be seen of men” as they worshiped (Matthew 6:5).
3. Finding the beam in our own eye
Share the following story about how the Prophet Joseph Smith taught one sister to look for the beam in her own eye when dealing with a personal offense:
A woman went to the Prophet Joseph Smith upset about some things another member of the Church had said about her. The Prophet told her that if what the man had said was untrue, she should ignore the matter, because truth would survive but untruths would not. The woman felt the comments were untrue, but she was not satisfied with ignoring the matter. The Prophet then told his way of handling such comments:
“When an enemy had told a scandalous story about him, which had often been done, before he rendered judgment he paused and let his mind run back to the time and place and setting of the story to see if he had not by some unguarded word or act laid the block on which the story was built. If he found that he had done so, he said that in his heart he then forgave his enemy, and felt thankful that he had received warning of a weakness that he had not known he possessed.”
The Prophet told the sister that she should think carefully about whether she had unconsciously given the man any reason to say the things he did. After much thought, she decided she had, and she thanked the Prophet and left. (See Jesse W. Crosby, quoted in Hyrum L. Andrus and Helen Mae Andrus, comps., They Knew the Prophet [1974], 144.)
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Lesson 7: “[He] Took Our Infirmities, and Bare Our Sicknesses
Purpose
What doctrine if understood would help each of us to understand some of the reasons the Savior performed miracles?
Doctrine: Godhead
Principle: Faith
Application - this lesson
Preparation
1. Read, ponder, and pray about the following scriptures:
a. Mark 1:14–15, 21–45. Jesus travels throughout Galilee teaching the gospel, casting out devils, and healing the sick. He casts an unclean spirit out of a man, heals Simon Peter’s mother-in-law, and cleanses a leper.
b. Mark 2:1–12. Jesus forgives a man’s sins and heals the man of palsy.
c. Mark 4:35–41; 5:1–20; Luke 7:11–17. Jesus calms the stormy sea, casts out a legion of devils, and raises the son of the widow of Nain from the dead.
d. Mark 5:21–43. Jesus heals a woman who has an issue of blood and raises Jairus’s daughter from the dead.
2. Additional reading: Matthew 8–9; Luke 4:33–44; 5:12–32; 8:22–56; Alma 7:11–12; Mormon 9:7–20; Moroni 7:27–29, 33–37; Bible Dictionary, “Miracles,” 732–33.
Question!
• What is a miracle? (An extraordinary event caused by divine or spiritual power; see Bible Dictionary, “Miracles,” 732–33.)
• What is one of the Savior’s miracles that you would like to have witnessed?
Why?
This lesson will discuss some of the Savior’s miracles and his reasons for performing them.
Scripture Discussion and Application
Each of the following scriptures apply to daily life. Jesus continues to perform miracles in our lives. Share, as appropriate, miracles they have experienced. (some experiences are too sacred to share. The Holy Ghost can help us know when it is appropriate to share an experience.)
1. Jesus travels through Galilee teaching the gospel and performing miracles.
Read Mark 1:14–15, 21–45.
• As Jesus traveled throughout Galilee teaching the gospel, he performed many miracles, including healing the sick and casting out devils (Mark 1:34, 39).
a. To show love and compassion (see Mark 5:19; see also 3 Nephi 17:6–7).
b. To build and confirm faith (see Matthew 9:27–30).
c. To prove his divinity and power (see Mark 1:27; 2:10–11).
• Why were the people in the synagogue in Capernaum amazed at Jesus’ teachings and his ability to cast out unclean spirits? (See Mark 1:22, 27.)
By what authority did Jesus teach and perform miracles? (By the power of the priesthood, which the scribes did not have.) How do we have access to this power and authority today?
• According to Mark 1:41, what was one reason Jesus healed the leper? Point out that Jesus performed many miracles that directly blessed just one person.
What do these incidents demonstrate about how Jesus feels about us individually? How has he shown love and compassion for you?
• How can we show Christlike love and compassion for those around us? How have other people shown Christlike love and compassion for you?
2. Jesus forgives a man’s sins and heals the man of palsy.
Read Mark 2:1–12.
• Whose faith contributed to the healing of the man who was sick with palsy? (See Mark 2:3, 5.)
How did these people demonstrate their faith? (See Mark 2:1–4.)
How can we exercise faith in behalf of others? How has the faith of others helped you or someone you know?
• What did some of the scribes think when Jesus told the man with palsy that his sins were forgiven? (See Mark 2:5–7.)
How did Jesus respond to these scribes? (See Mark 2:8–11.)
It was a miracle for the man to be healed of palsy and it was also a miracle for him to be forgiven of his sins. This miracle is available to each of us as we repent.
• What greater healing power might be symbolized by the Savior’s physical healings? (See Isaiah 53:5; 2 Nephi 25:13; 3 Nephi 9:13.)
How has Jesus’ healing power blessed you spiritually?
How can we seek spiritual healing?
3. Jesus calms the sea, casts out devils, and raises the son of the widow of Nain from the dead.
Read Mark 4:35–41; 5:1–20 and Luke 7:11–17.
• The physical aspects of the Savior’s miracles often symbolized spiritual truths. What spiritual truths can we learn from the following miracles?
a. Mark 4:35–41. Jesus calmed the sea. (He can bring us peace.)
b. Mark 5:1–20. Jesus cast out a legion of devils. (He can cast Satan and his influence out of our lives.)
c. Luke 7:11–17. Jesus raised a young man from the dead. (Because of his Atonement, we will rise from the dead in the Resurrection.)
What are other miracles the Savior performed and the spiritual truths that we can learn from those miracles?
• What other insights have you gained from studying these three miracles?
4. Jesus heals a woman with an issue of blood and raises Jairus’s daughter from the dead.
Read Mark 5:21–43.
• How did the woman with an issue of blood show her faith? (See Mark 5:25–29.)
What was the cause of her healing? (See Mark 5:34. It was her faith in Jesus’ power, not the act of touching his garment, that caused her to be healed.)
• How did Jairus show his faith in the Savior? (See Mark 5:22–23.)
What did Jesus say to strengthen Jairus’s faith when Jairus heard that his daughter was dead? (See Mark 5:36.) How can you apply these words in your life?
• Why do you think faith must precede miracles? (See Ether 12:12, 18; Moroni 7:37; and the following quotation.)
Why don’t miracles alone provide a firm foundation for faith?
Brigham Young said: “Miracles, or these extraordinary manifestations of the power of God, are not for the unbeliever; they are to console the Saints, and to strengthen and confirm the faith of those who love, fear, and serve God” (Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [1941], 341).
• Why are the miracles that Jesus performed during his mortal life important to you?
Why is it important to know that he continues to perform miracles today? What are some examples of modern miracles?
Conclusion
We testify that the Savior can heal both spiritual and physical infirmities. I am grateful for all that he has done for us.
Ponder the miracles they have experienced. Recognize and give thanks for miracles in their lives. Here is one idea or suggestion about how to do this for your family - consider a daily gratitude journal for your family.
Additional Study Ideas
1. Old Testament miracles
Explain that miracles were not new to the Jews. Miracles had been performed previously by Old Testament prophets whom the Jews honored. Briefly review the following examples:
a. The prophet Elijah raises a boy from the dead (1 Kings 17:17–24).
b. The prophet Elisha feeds a multitude with a small amount of food (2 Kings 4:42–44).
c. The prophet Elisha heals Naaman, a leper (2 Kings 5:1–19).
• By what power did these prophets perform miracles? (The priesthood, the divine power given to them by Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.)
2. “They that are whole have no need of the physician” (Mark 2:17)
• How did the scribes and Pharisees react when they saw Jesus eating with people they considered sinners? (See Mark 2:15–16.)
What did Jesus tell them? (See Mark 2:17.) What does this mean? In what ways do we all “have … need of the physician”?
What doctrine if understood would help each of us to understand some of the reasons the Savior performed miracles?
Doctrine: Godhead
Principle: Faith
Application - this lesson
Preparation
1. Read, ponder, and pray about the following scriptures:
a. Mark 1:14–15, 21–45. Jesus travels throughout Galilee teaching the gospel, casting out devils, and healing the sick. He casts an unclean spirit out of a man, heals Simon Peter’s mother-in-law, and cleanses a leper.
b. Mark 2:1–12. Jesus forgives a man’s sins and heals the man of palsy.
c. Mark 4:35–41; 5:1–20; Luke 7:11–17. Jesus calms the stormy sea, casts out a legion of devils, and raises the son of the widow of Nain from the dead.
d. Mark 5:21–43. Jesus heals a woman who has an issue of blood and raises Jairus’s daughter from the dead.
2. Additional reading: Matthew 8–9; Luke 4:33–44; 5:12–32; 8:22–56; Alma 7:11–12; Mormon 9:7–20; Moroni 7:27–29, 33–37; Bible Dictionary, “Miracles,” 732–33.
Question!
• What is a miracle? (An extraordinary event caused by divine or spiritual power; see Bible Dictionary, “Miracles,” 732–33.)
• What is one of the Savior’s miracles that you would like to have witnessed?
Why?
This lesson will discuss some of the Savior’s miracles and his reasons for performing them.
Scripture Discussion and Application
Each of the following scriptures apply to daily life. Jesus continues to perform miracles in our lives. Share, as appropriate, miracles they have experienced. (some experiences are too sacred to share. The Holy Ghost can help us know when it is appropriate to share an experience.)
1. Jesus travels through Galilee teaching the gospel and performing miracles.
Read Mark 1:14–15, 21–45.
• As Jesus traveled throughout Galilee teaching the gospel, he performed many miracles, including healing the sick and casting out devils (Mark 1:34, 39).
a. To show love and compassion (see Mark 5:19; see also 3 Nephi 17:6–7).
b. To build and confirm faith (see Matthew 9:27–30).
c. To prove his divinity and power (see Mark 1:27; 2:10–11).
• Why were the people in the synagogue in Capernaum amazed at Jesus’ teachings and his ability to cast out unclean spirits? (See Mark 1:22, 27.)
By what authority did Jesus teach and perform miracles? (By the power of the priesthood, which the scribes did not have.) How do we have access to this power and authority today?
• According to Mark 1:41, what was one reason Jesus healed the leper? Point out that Jesus performed many miracles that directly blessed just one person.
What do these incidents demonstrate about how Jesus feels about us individually? How has he shown love and compassion for you?
• How can we show Christlike love and compassion for those around us? How have other people shown Christlike love and compassion for you?
2. Jesus forgives a man’s sins and heals the man of palsy.
Read Mark 2:1–12.
• Whose faith contributed to the healing of the man who was sick with palsy? (See Mark 2:3, 5.)
How did these people demonstrate their faith? (See Mark 2:1–4.)
How can we exercise faith in behalf of others? How has the faith of others helped you or someone you know?
• What did some of the scribes think when Jesus told the man with palsy that his sins were forgiven? (See Mark 2:5–7.)
How did Jesus respond to these scribes? (See Mark 2:8–11.)
It was a miracle for the man to be healed of palsy and it was also a miracle for him to be forgiven of his sins. This miracle is available to each of us as we repent.
• What greater healing power might be symbolized by the Savior’s physical healings? (See Isaiah 53:5; 2 Nephi 25:13; 3 Nephi 9:13.)
How has Jesus’ healing power blessed you spiritually?
How can we seek spiritual healing?
3. Jesus calms the sea, casts out devils, and raises the son of the widow of Nain from the dead.
Read Mark 4:35–41; 5:1–20 and Luke 7:11–17.
• The physical aspects of the Savior’s miracles often symbolized spiritual truths. What spiritual truths can we learn from the following miracles?
a. Mark 4:35–41. Jesus calmed the sea. (He can bring us peace.)
b. Mark 5:1–20. Jesus cast out a legion of devils. (He can cast Satan and his influence out of our lives.)
c. Luke 7:11–17. Jesus raised a young man from the dead. (Because of his Atonement, we will rise from the dead in the Resurrection.)
What are other miracles the Savior performed and the spiritual truths that we can learn from those miracles?
• What other insights have you gained from studying these three miracles?
4. Jesus heals a woman with an issue of blood and raises Jairus’s daughter from the dead.
Read Mark 5:21–43.
• How did the woman with an issue of blood show her faith? (See Mark 5:25–29.)
What was the cause of her healing? (See Mark 5:34. It was her faith in Jesus’ power, not the act of touching his garment, that caused her to be healed.)
• How did Jairus show his faith in the Savior? (See Mark 5:22–23.)
What did Jesus say to strengthen Jairus’s faith when Jairus heard that his daughter was dead? (See Mark 5:36.) How can you apply these words in your life?
• Why do you think faith must precede miracles? (See Ether 12:12, 18; Moroni 7:37; and the following quotation.)
Why don’t miracles alone provide a firm foundation for faith?
Brigham Young said: “Miracles, or these extraordinary manifestations of the power of God, are not for the unbeliever; they are to console the Saints, and to strengthen and confirm the faith of those who love, fear, and serve God” (Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [1941], 341).
• Why are the miracles that Jesus performed during his mortal life important to you?
Why is it important to know that he continues to perform miracles today? What are some examples of modern miracles?
Conclusion
We testify that the Savior can heal both spiritual and physical infirmities. I am grateful for all that he has done for us.
Ponder the miracles they have experienced. Recognize and give thanks for miracles in their lives. Here is one idea or suggestion about how to do this for your family - consider a daily gratitude journal for your family.
Additional Study Ideas
1. Old Testament miracles
Explain that miracles were not new to the Jews. Miracles had been performed previously by Old Testament prophets whom the Jews honored. Briefly review the following examples:
a. The prophet Elijah raises a boy from the dead (1 Kings 17:17–24).
b. The prophet Elisha feeds a multitude with a small amount of food (2 Kings 4:42–44).
c. The prophet Elisha heals Naaman, a leper (2 Kings 5:1–19).
• By what power did these prophets perform miracles? (The priesthood, the divine power given to them by Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.)
2. “They that are whole have no need of the physician” (Mark 2:17)
• How did the scribes and Pharisees react when they saw Jesus eating with people they considered sinners? (See Mark 2:15–16.)
What did Jesus tell them? (See Mark 2:17.) What does this mean? In what ways do we all “have … need of the physician”?
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Have you been born again?
Lesson 5 “Born Again” New Testament (Feb 6, 2011) Sherwood Hills Ward
Purpose: To help class members understand that to receive everlasting life, we must be “born again” and continue to follow the Savior.
I. Jesus teaches Nicodemus that all must be born of water and the Spirit to enter into the kingdom of God.
Reading 1
John 3:
1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named aNicodemus, a bruler of the Jews:
2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these amiracles that thou doest, except bGod be with him.
3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be aborn bagain, he cannot csee the kingdom of God.
What does it mean to be born again?
Reading 2
“The final point I wish to make about the process of repentance is that we must be careful, as we seek to become more and more godlike, that we do not become discouraged and lose hope. Becoming Christ-like is a lifetime pursuit and very often involves growth and change that is slow, almost imperceptible. The scriptures record remarkable accounts of men whose lives changed dramatically, in an instant, as it were: Alma the Younger, Paul on the road to Damascus, Enos praying far into the night, King Lamoni. Such astonishing examples of the power to change even those steeped in sin give confidence that the Atonement can reach even those deepest in despair.
But we must be cautious as we discuss these remarkable examples. Though they are real and powerful, they are the exception more than the rule. For every Paul, for every Enos, and for every King Lamoni, there are hundreds and thousands of people who find the process of repentance much more subtle, much more imperceptible. Day by day they move closer to the Lord, little realizing they are building a godlike life. They live quiet lives of goodness, service, and commitment. They are like the Lamanites, who the Lord said “were baptized with fire and with the Holy Ghost, and they knew it not.” (Elder McConkie, Jesus Christ and Him Crucified, BYU Devotional 1976)
Elder McConkie also taught that Church members are not born again by the mere fact of baptism alone.
Besides being baptized and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, what else is necessary in becoming born again?
Reading 3
John 3:
15 T hat whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
16 For aGod so bloved the cworld, that he dgave his eonly begotten fSon, that whosoever gbelieveth in him should not perish, but have heverlasting ilife.
Reading 4
Mosiah 5
2 And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty achange in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do bevil, but to do good continually.
Reading 5
Mosiah 27
25 And the Lord said unto me: Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be aborn again; yea, bborn of God, cchanged from their carnal and dfallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his esons and daughters;
Reading 6
Mosiah 5
7 And now, because of the covenant which ye have made ye shall be called the achildren of Christ, his sons, and his daughters; for behold, this day he hath spiritually begotten you; for ye say that your hearts are bchanged through faith on his name; therefore, ye are cborn of him and have become his dsons and his daughters.
Reading 7
Mosiah 27
26 And thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in anowise inherit the kingdom of God.
Reading 8
Alma 5
19 I say unto you, can ye look up to God at that day with a pure heart and clean hands? I say unto you, can you look up, having the aimage of God engraven upon your countenances?
Reading 9
Alma 5
21 I say unto you, ye will know at that day that ye cannot be asaved; for there can no man be saved except his bgarments are washed white; yea, his garments must be cpurified until they are cleansed from all stain, through the blood of him of whom it has been spoken by our fathers, who should come to redeem his people from their sins.
What can we do to continue this process throughout our lives because of the fact this does not happen in an instant?
How can we overcome discouragement or setbacks in our spiritual progress?
What changes have you observed in yourself or someone else during the process of becoming born again?
The Savior used concepts of light and darkness to teach Nicodemus.
Reading 10
John 3
16 For aGod so bloved the cworld, that he dgave his eonly begotten fSon, that whosoever gbelieveth in him should not perish, but have heverlasting ilife.
17 For God asent not his Son into the world to bcondemn the world; but that the world through him might be csaved.
18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that abelieveth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the bname of the only begotten Son of God.c
19 And this is the condemnation, that alight is come into the world, and men loved bdarkness rather than light, because their cdeeds were evil.
20 For every one that doeth aevil bhateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
21 But he that adoeth btruth cometh to the clight, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
Believers do outward things such as the Zoramites did in Alma 31. They attend meetings, say public prayers, bathe, and wear nice clothes. But this is not enough. They must also do the inward things – look for ways to share the gospel, forgive readily, repent quickly, serve gladly, do home and visiting teaching because they want to bless the lives of those they visit, accept and magnify callings, rejoice in temple service and in genealogical work, etc.
Why are unbelievers condemned already?
Why do some choose darkness over light? How can we maintain the ability to love the light and shun darkness?
II. Jesus teaches a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well.
- "After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized them." (John 3:22)
- According to this verse, Jesus went out and ministered to the people of Judea following his sojourn in Jerusalem.
- According to Elder McConkie (The Mortal Messiah, volume 1):
- This ministry in Judea lasted until December (9 months).
- He ministered to towns and cities throughout Judea:
- The mission: To preach the gospel and baptize souls.
- "He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee. And he must needs go through Samaria. Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour." (John 4:3-6)
- The village Sychar appears to be about half way between Jerusalem and Galilee.
- Why did Jesus go through Samaria? The route through Samaria was more dangerous and robber-infested. It was the Jewish custom to take the long way around through Perea. The Samaritans were hated for their customs and traditions.
- Some suggest that Jesus avoided Perea, where Antipas governed, due to the recent imprisonment of John the Baptist.
- More likely is the fact the Jesus chose to preach the gospel and testify of his divinity to these people, who were part Israelite.
- Review John 4:6-26.
- HOW DID THE SAMARITAN WOMAN'S UNDERSTANDING OF THE SAVIOR CHANGE WHILE SHE SPOKE WITH HIM?
- WHAT CAUSED THIS CHANGE? (He taught at her level of understanding.)
Reading
Robert J. Matthews: "Sitting at a well where people came to draw water and utilizing this setting to make a comparison between earthly water and the 'living water,' Jesus taught the woman that he was the Messiah. He said that if someone drank the water drawn from the well, that person would thirst again; but a person who drank the water He had to give would never thirst again. The woman doubted he could provide such water, because he had neither rope nor bucket and the well was deep. She also asked him if he thought he was greater than Jacob himself, who gave them the well. The whole episode compares secular things to spiritual. The woman was engrossed in the worldly things-the flesh, the natural water, the rope, the bucket. She could hardly grasp the idea of the 'living water,' and even when she began to believe, her response was that she would like some of that special kind of water so that she would never have to come again to the well to draw. She was still thinking in physical terms. It took some time before she could appreciate that the 'living water' Jesus could give would be like a flowing well 'springing up unto everlasting life'." (A Bible! A Bible!, p 225)
- He showed compassion.
- She stood in the Light and the Spirit bore witness.
WHAT DID JESUS MEAN BY THE LIVING WATER?
Elder Bruce R. McConkie: "Living water is the words of eternal life, the message of salvation, the truths about God and his kingdom; it is the doctrines of the gospel. Those who thirst are invited to come unto Christ and drink. Where there are prophets of God, there will be found rivers of living water, wells filled with eternal truths, springs bubbling forth their life-giving draughts that save from spiritual death." (Mortal Messiah, 1:497)
The Master used a wonderful comparison when he spoke of living water.
- How important is water to life?
- What did parts of Utah look like before water was used to irrigate the valleys?
- The gospel is "living water" to a thirsty soul.
- There are a lot of thirsty souls out there.
- What does this say about our responsibility towards sharing the gospel?
HOW CAN WE ASSURE OURSELVES CONSTANT ACCESS TO THIS "LIVING WATER"?
§ Go to the "WELL" frequently.
§ Attend church meetings and conferences.
§ Study the scriptures.
§ Get on your knees and speak to the source of living water.
- "The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? Then they went out of the city, and came unto him....
"And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did. So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them: and he abode there two days. And many more believed because of his own word; And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world." (John 4:28-30, 39-42)
Jesus' introduction to the Samaritans of Sychar came through a woman who had five different husbands during the course of her life and was living with a man to whom she was not married.
WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM THIS ABOUT THE LORD?
WHAT DOES THIS INCIDENT TEACH US ABOUT SHARING THE GOSPEL WITH OTHER PEOPLE?
- READ JOHN 4:31-36. Those that do the work of the Lord will receive wages.
WHAT DID THE LORD TEACH ABOUT MISSIONARY WORK?
- It is the will of the Father.
- The fields of the Lord were ripe for the harvest.
- He that works in the fields and reaps is gathering fruit unto eternal life.
"And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father! And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!" (D&C 18:15-16)
HOW HAVE YOU BEEN BLESSED WHEN YOU HAVE SHARED THE GOSPEL WITH OTHERS?
CONCLUSION
Consider prayerfully the commandment to be born again – to put on spiritual robes that accompany believing and obeying. Ponder the steps of spiritual rebirth and do a self-check about whether you are within the process we have discussed this day.
Compare this to your thirst for living water, your longing for a mighty change of heart. We must pay the price to drink from the Eternal Well and invite others to come drink with us.
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