August 28, 2006

Sunday School Lesson - Lesson 24 The Sabbath Day

Last week I was released from my Sunday School Calling. For the past few months I have listed my lessons under this catagory - Sunday School Lessons - Gospel Principles. I was actually quite surprised that so many of you readers were interested in reading these lessons. For the past few months these entries have had huge amounts of traffic. So, although I won't be posting any more lessons from the manual, I thought I would share a link where you can purchase the lesson manual. It costs $3.00.

I love the Gospel Principles book! It contains a very simple overview of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and outlines the principles and ordinances necessary for salvation. I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and if you would like to learn more about my faith, simply check out these web sites: Here and Here.

Here is the lesson I taught last sunday, it will be the final lesson for this calling, and then I am off to new adventures in Provident Living. Our church has a lay ministry. Nobody is paid and we all pitch in to help teach the sunday school classes, children's classes, and do the myriad tasks associated with running a church. Last week I was called to be the preparedness person in my ward. So I will be doing that calling for the next few months, years, etc...

Here is the lesson from yesterday:

The Sabbath Day

Chapter 24

31110, Gospel Principles, Unit Seven: Perfecting Our Lives, 24: The Sabbath Day, 159

“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8; see also D&C 68:29).

What Is the Sabbath Day?

The word Sabbath comes from the Hebrew word meaning day of rest. The Sabbath day commemorates God’s day of rest after he finished the Creation. We read in the book of Genesis that God created the heavens and the earth in six periods of time, which he called days: “And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it” (Genesis 2:2–3).

The Sabbath day is every seventh day. It is a holy day ordained by God for us to rest from our daily labors and worship him.

Discussion

•     What is the Sabbath day?

The Purpose of the Sabbath Day

Jesus taught that the Sabbath day was made for our benefit (see Mark 2:27). The purpose of the Sabbath is to give us a certain day of the week on which to direct our thoughts and actions toward God. It is not a day merely to rest from work. It is a sacred day to be spent in worship and reverence. As we rest from our usual daily activities, our minds are freed to ponder spiritual matters. On this day we should renew our covenants with the Lord and feed our souls on the things of the Spirit.

Discussion

•     What is the Lord’s purpose for the Sabbath day?

History of the Sabbath

The seventh day was consecrated by God as a Sabbath in the beginning of the earth (see Genesis 2:2–3). Since earliest times, the tradition of a sacred seventh day has been preserved among various peoples of the earth. God renewed a commandment concerning this day to the Israelites, saying, “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8). Keeping the Sabbath day was also a sign that the Israelites were his covenant people (see Exodus 31:12–13, Exodus 31:16; Isaiah 56:1–8; Jeremiah 17:19–27).

However, some Jewish leaders made many unnecessary rules about the Sabbath. They decided how far people could walk, what kind of knots they could tie, and so forth. When certain Jewish leaders criticized Jesus Christ for healing sick people on the Sabbath, Jesus reminded them that the Sabbath was made for the benefit of man.

The Nephites also observed the Sabbath day according to the commandments of God (see Jarom 1:5).

In modern times the Lord has repeated his commandment that we should remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy (see D&C 68:29).

Discussion

•     Have someone tell about the history of the Sabbath using the following scriptures: Genesis 2:2–3; Exodus 20:8; Isaiah 56:1–8; Jarom 1:5; Mark 2:27; Doctrine and Covenants D&C 68:29.

The Lord’s Day

Until the resurrection of Jesus Christ, he and his disciples honored the seventh day as the Sabbath. After his resurrection, Sunday was held sacred as the Lord’s day in remembrance of his resurrection on that day (see Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2). From that time on, his followers appointed the first day as their Sabbath. In both cases there were six days of labor and one for rest and devotion.

The Lord has given us a direct commandment in these days that we, too, should honor Sunday, the Lord’s day, as our Sabbath (see D&C 59:12).

Discussion

•     Why was the Sabbath changed from the seventh day to the first day?

•     What special event does the first day commemorate?

How Do We Keep the Sabbath Day Holy?

The Lord asks us, first, to sanctify the Sabbath day. In a revelation given to Joseph Smith in 1831, the Lord commanded the Saints to go to the house of prayer and offer up their sacraments, rest from their labors, and pay their devotions to the Most High (see D&C 59:9–12).

Second, he asks us to rest from daily work. This means we should perform no labor that would keep us from giving our full attention to spiritual matters. The Lord told the Israelites, “Thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle” (Exodus 20:10). Our prophets have told us that we should not shop, hunt, fish, attend sports events, or participate in similar activities on that day.

Elder Spencer W. Kimball cautioned, however, that if we merely lounge about doing nothing on the Sabbath, we are not keeping the day holy. The Sabbath calls for constructive thoughts and acts. (See The Miracle of Forgiveness, pp. 96–97.)

What kinds of things may we do on the Sabbath? The Lord has told us to prepare only simple foods on that day, keeping the purpose of the Sabbath in mind (see D&C 59:13). The prophet Isaiah suggested that we should turn away from doing our own pleasure and should “call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable” (Isaiah 58:13). We should do righteous things. We keep the Sabbath day holy by—

  1.  Attending Church meetings.

  2.  Reading the scriptures and the words of our Church leaders.

  3.  Visiting the sick, the aged, and our loved ones.

  4.  Listening to uplifting music and singing hymns.

  5.  Praying to our Heavenly Father with praise and thanksgiving.

  6.  Performing Church service that we have been assigned to do.

  7.  Preparing family history records and personal histories.

  8.  Telling faith-promoting stories and bearing our testimony to family members and sharing spiritual experiences with them.

  9.  Writing letters to loved ones.

10.  Fasting with a purpose.

11.  Sharing time with children and others in the home.

In deciding what other activities we should properly engage in on the Sabbath, we should ask ourselves: Will it uplift and inspire me?

There may be times when we are required to work on the Sabbath. We should avoid this whenever possible, but when it is absolutely necessary, we should still maintain the spirit of Sabbath worship in our hearts as much as possible.

Discussion

•     Read Doctrine and Covenants D&C 59:9–13. What things can we do to draw nearer to our Heavenly Father?

Blessings for Observing the Sabbath

If we honor the Sabbath day, we may receive great spiritual and temporal blessings. The Lord has said that if we keep the Sabbath day with thanksgiving and cheerful hearts, we will be full of joy. He has promised:

“The fulness of the earth is yours, … whether for food or for raiment, or for houses, or for barns, or for orchards, or for gardens, or for vineyards;

“Yea, all things which come of the earth, in the season thereof, are made for the benefit and the use of man, both to please the eye and to gladden the heart;

“Yea, for food and for raiment, for taste and for smell, to strengthen the body and to enliven the soul” (D&C 59:16–19).

Discussion

•     Read together Doctrine and Covenants D&C 59:15–19. Discuss some of the blessings that come from keeping the Sabbath day holy.

Additional Scriptures

•     Exodus 31:14–17 (under Mosaic law the Sabbath was kept holy under pain of death)

•     Mosiah 13:16–19; Mosiah 18:23; Exodus 35:1–3 (observe the Sabbath as a holy day)

•     Luke 6:1–11 (lawful to do good on the Sabbath)

•     Luke 13:11–17; John 5:1–18 (Jesus’ example of doing good on the Sabbath)

[picture]

Sunday is a day for worship.

Jenny Hatch

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 5:25 AM

August 12, 2006

Gospel Principles Lesson 23 - The Sacrament

My lesson this sunday is on The Sacrament:

The Sacrament

Chapter 23

31110, Gospel Principles, Unit Six: The Gospel of Jesus Christ, 23: The Sacrament, 151

Our Savior wants us to remember his great atoning sacrifice and keep his commandments. To help us do this, he has commanded us to meet often and partake of the sacrament.

The sacrament is a holy priesthood ordinance that helps remind us of the Savior’s atonement. During the sacrament, we partake of bread and water. We do this in remembrance of his flesh and his blood, which he gave as a sacrifice for us. As we partake of the sacrament, we renew sacred covenants with our Heavenly Father.

Discussion

•     What is the sacrament?

•     What is the purpose of the sacrament?

Christ Introduced the Sacrament

Shortly before his crucifixion, Jesus gathered his Apostles around him in an upstairs room. He knew he would soon die on the cross. This was the last time he would meet with these beloved men before his death. He wanted them to always remember him so they could be strong and faithful.

To help them remember, he introduced the sacrament. He broke bread into pieces and blessed it. Then he said, “Take, eat; this is in remembrance of my body which I give a ransom for you” (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:22). Next he took a cup of wine, blessed it, and gave it to his Apostles to drink. He said: “Drink ye all of it. For this is in remembrance of my blood … , which is shed for as many as shall believe on my name, for the remission of their sins” (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:23–24; see also Matthew 26:26–28; Mark 14:22–24; Luke 22:15–20).

After his resurrection, Jesus came to the Americas and taught the Nephites the same ordinance (see 3 Nephi 18:1–11). After the Church was restored in the latter days, Jesus once again commanded his people to partake of the sacrament in remembrance of him, saying, “It is expedient that the church meet together often to partake of bread and wine in the remembrance of the Lord Jesus” (D&C 20:75).

Discussion

•     Read Matthew 26:26–28. Ask class members to think about the Lord’s Supper the next time they partake of the sacrament.

How the Sacrament Is Administered

The scriptures explain exactly how the sacrament is to be administered. Members of the Church meet each Sabbath day to worship and partake of the sacrament (see D&C 20:75). The sacrament is administered by those who hold the necessary priesthood authority. A priest or elder breaks bread into pieces, kneels, and blesses it (see D&C 20:76). A deacon or other priesthood holder then passes the sacrament bread to the congregation. Then the priest or elder blesses the water and it too is passed to the members. Jesus gave his disciples wine when he introduced the sacrament. However, in a latter-day revelation he has said that it doesn’t matter what we eat and drink during the sacrament as long as we remember him (see D&C 27:2–3). Today, Latter-day Saints drink water instead of wine.

Jesus has revealed the exact words for both sacrament prayers. We should listen carefully to these beautiful prayers and try to understand what we are promising and what is being promised to us. Here is the prayer that is offered to bless the bread:

“O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those who partake of it, that they may eat in remembrance of the body of thy Son, and witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given them; that they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen” (D&C 20:77).

Here is the prayer that is offered to bless the water:

“O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this wine [water] to the souls of all those who drink of it, that they may do it in remembrance of the blood of thy Son, which was shed for them; that they may witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they do always remember him, that they may have his Spirit to be with them. Amen” (D&C 20:79).

The ordinance of the sacrament is performed very simply and reverently.

Discussion

•     Read the sacrament prayers one sentence at a time. Discuss the meaning of each sentence. Challenge each class member to memorize the prayers.

The Covenants We Renew during the Sacrament

Each time we partake of the sacrament, we renew covenants with the Lord. A covenant is a sacred promise between the Lord and his children. The covenants we make are clearly stated in the sacramental prayers. It is important to know what those covenants are and what they mean.

We covenant to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ. By this we show we are willing to be identified with him and his Church. We promise that we will not bring shame or reproach upon that name.

We covenant to remember Jesus Christ. All our thoughts, feelings, and actions will be influenced by him and his mission.

We promise to keep his commandments.

We take these obligations upon ourselves when we are baptized (see D&C 20:37; Mosiah 18:6–10). Thus, when we partake of the sacrament, we renew the covenants we made when we were baptized. Jesus gave us the pattern for partaking of the sacrament (see 3 Nephi 18:1–12) and said that when we follow this pattern, believing on his name, we will gain a remission of our sins (see Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:24).

The Lord promises that if we keep our covenants, we will always have his Spirit to be with us. A person guided by the Spirit will have the knowledge, faith, power, and righteousness to gain eternal life.

Discussion

•     Refer to D&C 20:77 again. What promises do we make during the sacrament?

Our Attitude When Taking the Sacrament

Before partaking of the sacrament, we are to prepare ourselves spiritually. The Lord emphasizes that no one should partake of the sacrament unworthily. That means we must repent of our sins before taking the sacrament. The scriptures say, “If any have trespassed, let him not partake until he makes reconciliation” (D&C 46:4). The scriptures also say, “Ye shall not suffer any one knowingly to partake of my flesh and blood unworthily, when ye shall minister it; For whoso eateth and drinketh my flesh and blood unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to his soul” (3 Nephi 18:28–29).

During the sacrament service we should dismiss from our minds all worldly thoughts. We should feel prayerful and reverent. We should think of the atonement of our Savior and be grateful for it. We should examine our lives and look for ways to improve. We should also renew our determination to keep the commandments.

We do not need to be perfect before partaking of the sacrament, but we must have the spirit of repentance in our hearts. The attitude with which we partake of the sacrament influences our experience with it. If we partake of the sacrament with a pure heart, we receive the promised blessings of the Lord.

Discussion

•     Ask someone to tell how we should prepare ourselves to partake of the sacrament.

•     What can we think about during the sacrament to help us be more reverent?

Jenny Hatch

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 7:49 PM

July 29, 2006

Gospel Principles Lessons 21 and 22 - Gift of the Holy Ghost and Gifts of the Spirit

Gift of the Holy Ghost

Gifts of the Spirit

I have been blogging so much about other topics this week, I don't have the time to blog my whole sunday school lessons. The links are above. I taught the Holy Ghost lesson last week, and the Gifts of the Spirit lesson will be this week - tomorow.

Enjoy!

Jenny Hatch

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 10:04 PM

July 15, 2006

Sunday School Lesson - Baptism

Here is a link to my lesson for this sunday.

The topic will be Baptism.

Jesus Christ baptized by John the Baptist

Baptism

Chapter 20

31110, Gospel Principles, Unit Six: The Gospel of Jesus Christ, 20: Baptism, 129

Today, as in the days of Jesus, there are certain principles and ordinances of the gospel that we must learn and obey. A principle is a belief or a teaching. An ordinance is a rite or a ceremony. The first two principles of the gospel are faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and repentance. Baptism is the first ordinance of the gospel. One of the instructions the Lord gave his Apostles was, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20).

Discussion

•     How does a principle of the gospel differ from an ordinance of the gospel?

Why Must We Be Baptized?

We Must Be Baptized for the Remission of Our Sins

When we place our faith in Jesus Christ, repent, and are baptized, our sins are forgiven through the atonement of Jesus Christ.

From the scriptures we learn that John the Baptist “did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins” (Mark 1:4). The Apostle Peter taught, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). Following Paul’s conversion, Ananias said to him, “Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins” (Acts 22:16).

We Must Be Baptized to Become Members of the Church of Jesus Christ

“All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized … that … have truly repented of all their sins … shall be received by baptism into his church” (D&C 20:37).

We Must Be Baptized before We Can Receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost

The Lord said, “If thou wilt turn unto me, and … repent of all thy transgressions [sins], and be baptized, even in water, in the name of mine Only Begotten Son, … ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Moses 6:52).

We Must Be Baptized to Show Obedience

Jesus Christ was without sin, yet he was baptized. He said his baptism was necessary “to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). The prophet Nephi explained that the Lord told him, “Follow me, and do the things which ye have seen me do … with full purpose of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no deception before God, but with real intent, repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, by baptism” (2 Nephi 31:12–13).

We Must Be Baptized to Enter the Celestial Kingdom

Jesus said, “Whoso believeth in me, and is baptized … shall inherit the kingdom of God. And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned” (3 Nephi 11:33–34). Baptism is the gateway through which we enter the celestial kingdom.

Discussion

•     Discuss some of the reasons why we need to be baptized.

How Should We Be Baptized?

There is only one correct mode of baptism. Jesus revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith that a person having the proper priesthood authority to baptize “shall go down into the water with the person who has presented himself or herself for baptism. … Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again out of the water” (D&C 20:73–74). Immersion is necessary. The Apostle Paul taught that being immersed in water and coming out again is symbolic of death and resurrection. Our sins are washed away when we are baptized. After baptism we start a new life. Paul said:

“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?

“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

“For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection” (Romans 6:3–5).

Baptism by immersion by a person having the proper authority is the only acceptable way of being baptized.

Discussion

•     Read Doctrine and Covenants D&C 20:73–74. Why is authority to perform a baptism important?

•     Why does the Apostle Paul liken our baptism to the burial of the Savior?

Who Should Be Baptized?

Every person who has reached eight years of age and is accountable (responsible) for his or her actions should be baptized. Some churches teach that little children should be baptized. This is not in keeping with the teachings of the Savior. When Jesus spoke of little children, he said, “Of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14).

The prophet Mormon said that it is mockery before God to baptize little children because they are not capable of sinning. Likewise, baptism is not required of people who are mentally incapable of knowing right and wrong (see Moroni 8:9–22).

All other people are to be baptized. We must receive the ordinance of baptism and remain true to the covenants we make at that time.

Discussion

•     Read Moroni 8:11–20. Why do we not baptize little children?

We Make Covenants When We Are Baptized

Many scriptures teach about baptism. In one of these scriptures, the prophet Alma taught that faith and repentance are steps that prepare us for baptism. He taught that when we are baptized we make a covenant with the Lord. We promise to do certain things, and God promises to bless us in return.

Alma explained that we must want to be called the people of God. We must be willing to help and comfort each other. We must stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things and in all places. As we do these things and are baptized, God will forgive our sins. Alma told the people who believed his teachings about the gospel:

“Behold, here are the waters of Mormon. … And now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, … what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?” (Mosiah 18:8–10). The people clapped their hands for joy and said it was their desire to be baptized. Alma baptized them in the Waters of Mormon. (See Mosiah 18:7–17.)

Alma taught that when we are baptized we make covenants with the Lord to—

1.  Come into the fold of God.

2.  Bear one another’s burdens.

3.  Stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all places.

4.  Serve God and keep his commandments.

When we are baptized and keep the covenants of baptism, the Lord promises to—

1.  Forgive our sins.

2.  Pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon us.

3.  Give us daily guidance and the help of the Holy Ghost.

4.  Let us come forth in the First Resurrection.

5.  Give us eternal life.

Discussion

•     Review the baptismal covenants. List and discuss the promises we make and those made by our Heavenly Father. How can we help each other keep these covenants?

Baptism Gives Us a New Beginning

With baptism we begin a new way of life. That is why we call it a rebirth. Jesus said that unless we are born of the water and of the spirit, we cannot enter the kingdom of God (see John 3:3–5). This principle was explained clearly to Adam:

“Inasmuch as ye were born into the world by water, and blood, and the spirit, which I have made, and so became of dust a living soul, even so ye must be born again into the kingdom of heaven, of water, and of the Spirit, and be cleansed by blood, even the blood of mine Only Begotten” (Moses 6:59).

The Apostle Paul said that after our baptism we should begin a new life: “We are buried with him by baptism; … even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). One of the great blessings of baptism is that it provides us with a new start on our way toward our eternal goal.

Discussion

•     Invite class members to think about their own baptism. How was baptism a new beginning for you?

Additional Scriptures

•     2 Nephi 31:4–7 (purpose and necessity of baptism)

•     3 Nephi 11:21–27 (how to perform a baptism)

•     Acts 2:38–39 (be baptized for the remission of sins)

•     D&C 20:71–72 (baptism is not required of little children; baptism is required of all who repent)

•     Alma 7:14, Alma 7:15–16 (baptism is cleansing, entering into a covenant of eternal life)

[picture]

Alma baptized in the waters of Mormon.

[picture]

We must be baptized by immersion for the remission of our sins.

I also found this great Seminary Video on the Book of Mormon on you tube.

Here is the link.

And for the lighter side of Mormonism, check out this you tube video of a stake Dance Festival, clips to the tune Mormon Rap.

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 1:04 PM

July 1, 2006

Sunday School Lesson - Repentance

Here is the text of the lesson I will teach in the morning to my sunday school class. I teach from the Gospel Principles lesson manual and the class is usually made of of new converts and people who are investigating The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Last week we had two investigators, one new member, and six missionaries attend class and it was a good discussion. I'm hoping for a similar class tomorrow.

Jenny Hatch

Repentance

Chapter 19

31110, Gospel Principles, Unit Six: The Gospel of Jesus Christ, 19: Repentance, 122

Faith in Jesus Christ naturally leads to repentance. There has been the need for repentance in the world from the time of Adam to the present day. The Lord instructed Adam, “Wherefore teach it unto your children, that all men, everywhere, must repent, or they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God, for no unclean thing can dwell there, or dwell in his presence” (Moses 6:57).

We All Need to Repent

We come to earth for the purpose of growing and progressing. This is a lifelong process. During this time we all sin. We all have need to repent. Sometimes we sin because of ignorance, sometimes because of our weaknesses, and sometimes because of willful disobedience. In the Bible we read that “there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not” (Ecclesiastes 7:20) and that “if we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).

What is sin? The Apostle James said, “To him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). Another Apostle described sin as “all unrighteousness” (1 John 5:17).

That is why the Lord said “all men, everywhere, must repent” (Moses 6:57). Except for Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect life, everyone who has lived upon the earth has sinned. Our Heavenly Father in his great love has provided us this opportunity to repent of our sins.

Discussion

•     Why do all people need to repent?

What Is Repentance?

Repentance is the way provided for us to become free from our sins and receive forgiveness for them. Sins slow our spiritual progression and can even stop it. Repentance makes it possible for us to grow and develop spiritually again.

The privilege of repenting is made possible through the atonement of Jesus Christ. In a way we do not fully understand, Jesus paid for our sins. President Joseph Fielding Smith said of this:

“I have suffered pain, you have suffered pain, and sometimes it has been quite severe; but I cannot comprehend pain … that would cause the blood, like sweat, to come out upon the body. It was something terrible, something terrific. …

“There was no man ever born into this world that could have stood under the weight of the load that was upon the Son of God, when he was carrying my sins and yours and making it possible that we might escape from our sins” (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:130–31).

Repentance sometimes requires great courage, much strength, many tears, unceasing prayers, and untiring efforts to live the commandments of the Lord.

Discussion

•     What does the word repentance mean to you?

How Do We Repent?

Elder Spencer W. Kimball declared: “There is no royal road to repentance, no privileged path to forgiveness. Every man must follow the same course whether he be rich or poor, educated or untrained, tall or short, prince or pauper, king or commoner. … There is only one way. It is a long road spiked with thorns and briars and pitfalls and problems” (The Miracle of Forgiveness, p. 149).

Discussion

•     Why must we repent of our sins?

We Must Recognize Our Sins

The first step of repentance is to admit to ourselves that we have sinned. If we do not admit this, we cannot repent.

Alma counseled his son Corianton, who had been unfaithful in his missionary calling and had committed serious sins: “Let your sins trouble you, with that trouble which shall bring you down unto repentance. … Do not endeavor to excuse yourself in the least point” (Alma 42:29–30). The scriptures advise us further not to justify our sinful practices (see Luke 16:15–16).

We cannot hide any act of our lives from ourselves or from the Lord.

We Must Feel Sorrow for Our Sins

In addition to recognizing our sins, we must feel sincere sorrow for what we have done. We must feel that our sins are terrible. We must want to unload and abandon them. The scriptures tell us, “All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and … have truly repented of all their sins … shall be received by baptism into his church” (D&C 20:37).

We Must Forsake Our Sins

Our sincere sorrow should lead us to forsake (stop) our sins. If we have stolen something, we will steal no more. If we have lied, we will lie no more. If we have committed adultery, we will stop. The Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith, “By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them” (D&C 58:43).

We Must Confess Our Sins

Confessing our sins is very important. The Lord has commanded us to confess our sins. Confession relieves a heavy burden from the sinner. The Lord has promised, “I, the Lord, forgive sins, and am merciful unto those who confess their sins with humble hearts” (D&C 61:2).

We must confess all our sins to the Lord. In addition, we must confess serious sins, such as adultery, fornication, and robbery, which might affect our standing in the Church, to the proper priesthood authority. If we have sinned against another person, we should confess to the person we have injured. Some less serious sins involve no one but ourselves and the Lord. These may be confessed privately to the Lord.

We Must Make Restitution

Part of repentance is to make restitution. This means that as much as possible we must make right any wrong that we have done. For example, a thief should give back what he has stolen. A liar should make the truth known. A gossip who has slandered the character of a person should work to restore the good name of the person he has harmed. As we do these things, God will not mention our sins to us when we are judged (see Ezekiel 33:15–16).

We Must Forgive Others

A vital part of repentance is to forgive those who have sinned against us. The Lord will not forgive us unless our hearts are fully cleansed of all hate, bitterness, and bad feelings against other people (see 3 Nephi 13:14–15). “Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin” (D&C 64:9).

We Must Keep the Commandments of God

To make our repentance complete we must keep the commandments of the Lord (see D&C 1:32). We are not fully repentant if we do not pay tithes or keep the Sabbath day holy or obey the Word of Wisdom. We are not repentant if we do not sustain the authorities of the Church and do not love the Lord and our fellowmen. If we do not pray and are unkind to others, we are surely not repentant. When we repent, our life changes.

Elder Kimball said: “Repentance means not only to convict yourselves of the horror of the sin, but to confess it, abandon it, and restore to all who have been damaged to the total extent possible; then spend the balance of your lives trying to live the commandments of the Lord so he can eventually pardon you and cleanse you” (The Miracle of Forgiveness, p. 200).

Discussion

•     Discuss the steps of repentance.

How Repentance Helps Us

As we repent, the atonement of Jesus Christ becomes fully effective in our lives, and the Lord forgives our sins. We become free from the bondage of our sins, and we find joy.

Alma recounted his experience of repenting from his sinful past:

“My soul was harrowed up [troubled] to the greatest degree and racked with all my sins.

“Yea, I did remember all my sins and iniquities, for which I was tormented with the pains of hell; yea, I saw that I had rebelled against my God, and that I had not kept his holy commandments.

“… So great had been my iniquities, that the very thought of coming into the presence of my God did rack my soul with inexpressible horror.

“… It came to pass that as I was … harrowed up by the memory of my many sins, behold, I remembered also to have heard my father prophesy … concerning the coming of one Jesus Christ, a Son of God, to atone for the sins of the world.

“Now, as my mind caught hold upon this thought, I cried within my heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have mercy on me. …

“And now, behold, when I thought this, I could remember my pains no more. …

“And oh, what joy, and what marvelous light I did behold; yea, my soul was filled with joy as exceeding as was my pain!

“… There can be nothing so exquisite and sweet as was my joy” (Alma 36:12–14, Alma 36:17–21).

Discussion

•     Read Alma 36:10–28. Discuss the agony Alma suffered while remembering his sins; discuss also his repentance and how forgiveness brought him joy.

When Should We Repent?

The prophets have declared that “this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God” (Alma 34:32). We should repent now, every day. When we get up in the morning, we should examine ourselves to see whether the Spirit of God is with us. At night before we go to sleep, we should review our acts and words of the day and ask the Lord to show us the things for which we need to repent. By repenting every day and having the Lord forgive our sins, we will experience the daily process of becoming perfect. As with Alma, our happiness and joy can be sweet and exquisite.

Discussion

•     Discuss how difficult it is to learn something new all at once. By contrast, discuss how easy it is to practice each day until we gain mastery. How is this like repentance?

Additional Scriptures

•     Matthew 9:10–13; Luke 13:3; Ezekiel 18:30 (repent or perish)

•     2 Corinthians 7:9–10 (godly sorrow)

•     Mosiah 4:10–12 (steps to repentance)

•     Isaiah 1:18; Mosiah 26:28–32 (repentance brings forgiveness)

•     D&C 58:42 (sins remembered no more)

•     2 Nephi 9:23 (repentance necessary to salvation)

•     2 Nephi 2:21 (repent while in the flesh)

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 7:06 PM

June 29, 2006

Sunday School Lessons from the past few weeks

These past few months have been a time of decision making for our family.

We decided not to sell our home.

We are getting our basement finished.

We bought a Puppy named Sammy.

I had a wonderful break from Blogging and have spent some quality time organizing and preparing our home for a team of workers to come in and finish our basement. We had to get all of our food storage out of the basement, and all of us are now sleeping on hundreds of pounds of food in the form of boxes with six #10 cans in them. Our bed is up on three layers of boxes and I almost have to jump to get into bed.

I plan to gradually get back to blogging, it is still going to be a somewhat chaotic and disorganized summer with six weeks of construction to live through plus all of the various activities and plans we have made for summer.

Here are links to all of the sunday school lessons I have taught since starting my blogging break for those of you who would like to read them...

Priesthood Organization

The Lords Covenant People

The Church of Jesus Christ in former times

The Church of Jesus Christ Today

Faith in Jesus Christ

It's nice to be back!

Jenny Hatch

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 8:13 AM

Sunday School Lessons from the past few weeks

These past few months have been a time of decision making for our family.

We decided not to sell our home.

We are getting our basement finished.

We bought a Puppy named Sammy.

I had a wonderful break from Blogging and have spent some quality time organizing and preparing our home for a team of workers to come in and finish our basement. We had to get all of our food storage out of the basement, and all of us are now sleeping on hundreds of pounds of food in the form of boxes with six #10 cans in them. Our bed is up on three layers of boxes and I almost have to jump to get into bed.

I plan to gradually get back to blogging, it is still going to be a somewhat chaotic and disorganized summer with six weeks of construction to live through plus all of the various activities and plans we have made for summer.

Here are links to all of the sunday school lessons I have taught since starting my blogging break for those of you who would like to read them...

Priesthood Organization

The Lords Covenant People

The Church of Jesus Christ in former times

The Church of Jesus Christ Today

Faith in Jesus Christ

It's nice to be back!

Jenny Hatch

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 8:13 AM

April 15, 2006

Sunday School Lesson - The Priesthood

The Priesthood

Chapter 13

What Is the Priesthood?

31110, Gospel Principles, Unit Five: The Church of Jesus Christ, 13: The Priesthood, What Is the Priesthood?, 81

The priesthood is the power and authority of God. By his priesthood power the heavens and the earth were created. By this power the universe is kept in perfect order. Through this power he accomplishes his work and glory, which is “to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).

Our Heavenly Father shares his priesthood power with worthy male members of the Church. The priesthood enables them to act in God’s name for the salvation of the human family. Through it they can be authorized to preach the gospel, administer the ordinances of salvation, and govern God’s kingdom on earth.

Why Do We Need the Priesthood on the Earth?

We must have priesthood authority to act in the name of God when performing the sacred ordinances of the gospel, such as baptism, confirmation, administration of the sacrament, and temple marriage. If a man does not have the priesthood, even though he may be sincere, the Lord will not recognize ordinances he performs (see Matthew 7:21–23). These important ordinances must be performed on the earth by men holding the priesthood.

Men need the priesthood to preside in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to direct the work of the Church in all parts of the world. When Christ lived on the earth, he chose his Apostles and ordained them so that they could lead his Church. He gave them the power and authority of the priesthood to act in his name. (See Mark 3:13–15; John 15:16.)

Another reason the priesthood is needed on the earth is so we can understand the will of the Lord and carry out his purposes. God reveals his will to his authorized priesthood representative on the earth, the prophet. The prophet, who is President of the Church, serves as the spokesman for God to all members of the Church and all people on the earth.

Discussion

•     Name some things that can be done only by men who hold the priesthood. Discuss the need for priesthood authority.

How Do Men Receive the Priesthood?

The Lord has prepared an orderly way for his priesthood to be given to his sons on the earth. A worthy male member of the Church receives the priesthood “by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof” (Articles of Faith 1:5).

This is the same way men received the priesthood long ago, even in the days of Moses: “And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron” (Hebrews 5:4). Aaron received the priesthood from Moses, his priesthood leader (see Exodus 28:1). Only those who hold the priesthood can ordain others.

Men cannot buy and sell the power and authority of the priesthood. Nor can they take this authority upon themselves. In the New Testament we read of a man named Simon who lived when Christ’s Apostles presided over the Church. Simon became converted and was baptized into the Church. Because he was a skillful magician, the people believed he had the power of God. But Simon did not have the priesthood, and he knew it.

Simon knew that the Apostles and the other priesthood leaders of the Church had the true power of God. He saw them use their priesthood to do the Lord’s work, and he wanted this power for himself. He offered to buy the priesthood. (See Acts 8:9–19.) But Peter, the chief Apostle, said, “Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money” (Acts 8:20).

Discussion

•     Have someone read or quote the fifth article of faith. [Articles of Faith 1:5]

•     Who is given the priesthood? How is it given?

•     Who may ordain a worthy male member of the Church to the priesthood?

How Do Men Properly Use the Priesthood?

The priesthood should be used to bless the lives of our Heavenly Father’s children here on earth. Priesthood holders should preside in love and kindness. They should not force their families and others to obey them. The Lord has told us that the power of the priesthood cannot be controlled except in righteousness (see D&C 121:36). When we try to use the priesthood to gain wealth or fame or for any other selfish purpose, “behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man” (D&C 121:37).

When a man uses the priesthood “by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned” (D&C 121:41), he can do many wonderful things for his family and others. He can baptize and confirm, administer the sacrament, and bless the sick. He can give priesthood blessings to his family members to encourage and protect them when they have special needs. He can also help other families with these ordinances and blessings when asked to do so.

Men use priesthood authority to preside in the Church in such callings as branch president, bishop, quorum president, or stake and mission leader. Women who hold positions in the Church as officers and teachers work under the direction of the priesthood.

Discussion

•     Read Doctrine and Covenants D&C 121:34–40. How should the priesthood not be used?

•     Read Doctrine and Covenants D&C 121:41–44. How should the priesthood be used?

What Blessings Come When We Use the Priesthood Properly?

The Lord has promised great blessings to righteous priesthood holders who use the priesthood to bless others:

“Then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven.

“The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and thy scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth; and thy dominion shall be an everlasting dominion, and without compulsory means it shall flow unto thee forever and ever” (D&C 121:45–46).

A great latter-day prophet, David O. McKay, promised every man who uses the priesthood in righteousness that he “will find his life sweetened, his discernment sharpened to decide quickly between right and wrong, his feelings tender and compassionate, yet his spirit strong and valiant in defense of right; he will find the priesthood a neverfailing source of happiness—a well of living water springing up unto eternal life” (“Priesthood,” Instructor, Oct. 1968, p. 378).

Discussion

•     What are some of the blessings you have received through the priesthood?

•     What are some of the blessings you can receive through the priesthood?

Additional Scriptures

•     D&C 107 (revelation on priesthood)

•     D&C 20:38–67 (duties of the priesthood explained)

[picture]

Moses conferred the priesthood on Aaron by the laying on of hands.

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 11:13 PM

March 26, 2006

Sunday School Lesson - The Atonement of Jesus Christ

I'm really excited about teaching this lesson this morning. I believe it is the most important lesson I will be teaching all year. The Atonement of Jesus Christ was the most important event that has ever taken place on this earth, and is the key to the salvation of all of mankind.

Jenny Hatch

The Atonement

Chapter 12

31110, Gospel Principles, Unit Four: Jesus Christ as Our Savior, 12: The Atonement, 71

Jesus Christ “came into the world … to be crucified for the world, and to bear the sins of the world, and to sanctify the world, and to cleanse it from all unrighteousness; that through him all might be saved” (D&C 76:41–42). The great sacrifice he made to pay for our sins and overcome death is called the Atonement. It is the most important event that has ever occurred in the history of mankind: “For it is expedient that an atonement should be made; for according to the great plan of the Eternal God there must be an atonement made, or else all mankind must unavoidably perish; … yea, all are fallen and are lost, and must perish except it be through the atonement” (Alma 34:9).

Discussion

•     Why did Jesus come to the earth?

The Atonement Was Necessary for Our Salvation

The fall of Adam brought two kinds of death into the world: physical death and spiritual death. Physical death is separation of the body and spirit. Spiritual death is separation from God. If these two kinds of death had not been overcome by Jesus’ atonement, two consequences would have resulted: our bodies and our spirits would have been separated forever, and we could not have lived again with our Heavenly Father.

But our wise Heavenly Father prepared a wonderful, merciful plan to save us from physical and spiritual death. He planned for a Savior to come to earth to ransom (redeem) us from our sins and from death. Because of our sins and the weakness of our mortal bodies, we could not ransom ourselves (see Alma 34:10–12). The one who would be our Savior would need to be sinless and to have power over death.

Discussion

•     Compare our earthly bodies to a hand with a glove on it. Take off the glove. Explain that this is like physical death—the spirit (the hand) and the body (the glove) are separated.

Be not Afraid

by artist, Greg Olsen

Christ Was the Only One Who Could Atone for Our Sins

There are several reasons why Jesus Christ was the only person who could be our Savior. One reason is that Heavenly Father chose him to be the Savior. He was the Only Begotten Son of God and thus had power over death. Jesus explained: “I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again” (John 10:17–18).

Jesus also qualified to be our Savior because he is the only person who has ever lived on the earth who did not sin. This made him a worthy sacrifice to pay for the sins of others.

Discussion

•     Have class members discuss the reasons why Jesus was the only one who could atone for our sins.

Christ Suffered and Died to Atone for Our Sins

The Savior atoned for our sins by suffering in Gethsemane and by giving his life on the cross. It is impossible for us to fully understand how he suffered for all of our sins. In the Garden of Gethsemane, the weight of our sins caused him to feel such agony and heartbreak that he bled from every pore (see D&C 19:18–19). Later, as he hung upon the cross, Jesus suffered painful death by one of the most cruel methods known to man.

How Jesus loves us, to suffer such spiritual and physical agony for our sake! How great the love of Heavenly Father that he would send his Only Begotten Son to suffer and die for the rest of his children. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

Discussion

•     Ask class members to imagine themselves in the Garden of Gethsemane as witnesses of the suffering of Jesus Christ. Have someone read the account in Luke 22:39–44.

The Atonement and Resurrection Bring Resurrection to All

On the third day after his crucifixion, Christ took up his body again and became the first person to be resurrected. When his friends went to seek him, the angels who guarded his tomb told them, “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said” (Matthew 28:6). His spirit had reentered his body, never to be separated again.

Christ thus overcame physical death. Because of his atonement, everyone born on this earth will be resurrected (see 1 Corinthians 15:21–22). Just as Jesus was resurrected, our spirits will be reunited with our bodies, “that they can die no more … , never to be divided” (Alma 11:45). This condition is called immortality. All people who have ever lived will be resurrected, “both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, both the wicked and the righteous” (Alma 11:44).

Discussion

•     Refer again to the hand and glove. Explain that because Jesus Christ atoned for our sins, all people will someday be resurrected. (Put the glove on your hand.) Our bodies and our spirits will reunite.

The Atonement Makes It Possible for Those Who Have Faith in Christ to Be Saved from Their Sins

The Savior’s atonement makes it possible for us to overcome spiritual death. Although all people will be resurrected with a body of flesh and bone, only those who accept the Atonement will be saved from spiritual death.

We accept Christ’s atonement by placing our faith in him. Through this faith, we repent of our sins, are baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, and obey his commandments. We become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. We are forgiven and cleansed from sin and prepared to return and live forever with our Heavenly Father.

The Savior tells us, “For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer … even as I” (D&C 19:16–17). Christ did his part to atone for our sins. To make his atonement fully effective in our lives, we must strive to obey him and repent of our sins.

Elder Boyd K. Packer of the Council of the Twelve gave the following illustration to show how Christ’s atonement makes it possible to be saved from sin if we do our part.

“Let me tell you a story—a parable.

“There once was a man who wanted something very much. It seemed more important than anything else in his life. In order for him to have his desire, he incurred a great debt.

“He had been warned about going into that much debt, and particularly about his creditor. But it seemed so important for him to do what he wanted to and to have what he wanted right now. He was sure he could pay for it later.

“So he signed a contract. He would pay it off some time along the way. He didn’t worry too much about it, for the due date seemed such a long time away. He had what he wanted now, and that was what seemed important.

“The creditor was always somewhere in the back of his mind, and he made token payments now and again, thinking somehow that the day of reckoning really would never come.

“But as it always does, the day came, and the contract fell due. The debt had not been fully paid. His creditor appeared and demanded payment in full.

“Only then did he realize that his creditor not only had the power to repossess all that he owned, but the power to cast him into prison as well.

“ ‘I cannot pay you, for I have not the power to do so,’ he confessed.

“ ‘Then,’ said the creditor, ‘we will exercise the contract, take your possessions and you shall go to prison. You agreed to that. It was your choice. You signed the contract, and now it must be enforced.’

“ ‘Can you not extend the time or forgive the debt?’ the debtor begged. ‘Arrange some way for me to keep what I have and not go to prison. Surely you believe in mercy? Will you not show mercy?’

“The creditor replied, ‘Mercy is always so one-sided. It would serve only you. If I show mercy to you, it will leave me unpaid. It is justice I demand. Do you believe in justice?’

“ ‘I believed in justice when I signed the contract,’ the debtor said. ‘It was on my side then, for I thought it would protect me. I did not need mercy then, nor think I should need it ever. Justice, I thought, would serve both of us equally as well.’

“ ‘It is justice that demands that you pay the contract or suffer the penalty,’ the creditor replied. ‘That is the law. You have agreed to it and that is the way it must be. Mercy cannot rob justice.’

“There they were: One meting out justice, the other pleading for mercy. Neither could prevail except at the expense of the other.

“ ‘If you do not forgive the debt there will be no mercy,’ the debtor pleaded.

“ ‘If I do, there will be no justice,’ was the reply.

“Both laws, it seemed, could not be served. They are two eternal ideals that appear to contradict one another. Is there no way for justice to be fully served, and mercy also?

“There is a way! The law of justice can be fully satisfied and mercy can be fully extended—but it takes someone else. And so it happened this time.

“The debtor had a friend. He came to help. He knew the debtor well. He knew him to be shortsighted. He thought him foolish to have gotten himself into such a predicament. Nevertheless, he wanted to help because he loved him. He stepped between them, faced the creditor, and made this offer.

“ ‘I will pay the debt if you will free the debtor from his contract so that he may keep his possessions and not go to prison.’

“As the creditor was pondering the offer, the mediator added, ‘You demanded justice. Though he cannot pay you, I will do so. You will have been justly dealt with and can ask no more. It would not be just.’

“And so the creditor agreed.

“The mediator turned then to the debtor. ‘If I pay your debt, will you accept me as your creditor?’

“ ‘Oh yes, yes,’ cried the debtor. ‘You saved me from prison and show mercy to me.’

“ ‘Then,’ said the benefactor, ‘you will pay the debt to me and I will set the terms. It will not be easy, but it will be possible. I will provide a way. You need not go to prison.’

“And so it was that the creditor was paid in full. He had been justly dealt with. No contract had been broken.

“The debtor, in turn, had been extended mercy. Both laws stood fulfilled. Because there was a mediator, justice had claimed its full share, and mercy was satisfied” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1977, pp. 79–80; or Ensign, May 1977, pp. 54–55).

Our sins are our spiritual debts. Without Jesus Christ, who is our Savior and Mediator, we would all pay for our sins by suffering spiritual death. But because of him, if we will keep his terms, which are to repent and keep his commandments, we may return to live with our Heavenly Father.

It is wonderful that Christ has provided us a way to be healed from our sins. He said:

“Behold, I have come unto the world … to save the world from sin.

“Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for such I have laid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore repent, and come unto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved” (3 Nephi 9:21–22).

Discussion

•     Read Acts 2:38. What must we do to show that we accept the Atonement?

•     Read Doctrine and Covenants D&C 19:16–17. What is the penalty for those who do not accept the atonement of the Savior?

Additional Scriptures

•     Alma 34:9–16 (Atonement necessary; sacrifice of God)

•     Romans 5:12–17 (by one came death, by one came life)

•     Helaman 14:15–18 (purpose of Jesus’ death)

•     Articles of Faith 1:3 (all may be saved)

•     1 Peter 1:18–20 (Jesus was foreordained)

•     Matthew 16:21 (Jesus’ sacrifice was necessary)

•     Luke 22:39–46 (Jesus’ suffering in the Garden)

•     1 John 1:7 (Jesus cleanses from sin)

•     2 Nephi 9:21–22 (the Savior suffered for all people)

•     Mosiah 16:6–8 (resurrection possible only through Jesus)

•     Alma 11:40–45; Mormon 9:12–14 (all to be resurrected)

•     Isaiah 1:18 (sins shall be made white)

•     1 Corinthians 15:40–44 (description of the Resurrection)

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 6:36 AM

March 18, 2006

The Life of Christ - Sunday School Lesson #11

My lesson for sunday is titled The Life of Christ.

Jenny Hatch

By artist
Carl Heinrich Bloch

The Life of Christ

Chapter 11

31110, Gospel Principles, Unit Four: Jesus Christ as Our Savior, 11: The Life of Christ, 61

Every person who comes to earth depends on Jesus Christ to fulfill the promise He made in heaven to be our Savior. Without him, the plan of salvation would have failed. Because his mission was necessary, all of the prophets from Adam to Christ testified that he would come (see Acts 10:43). All of the prophets since Christ have testified that he did come. All of us need to study the life of the Savior and follow him faithfully throughout our lives. We each need to have a personal relationship with him.

The Life of Christ Was Predicted Long before His Birth

An angel told Adam that the Savior’s name would be Jesus Christ (see Moses 6:51–52). Enoch saw that Jesus would die upon the cross and be resurrected (see Moses 7:55–56). Noah and Moses also testified of him (see Moses 8:23–24). About eight hundred years before the Savior was born on the earth, Isaiah foresaw his life. When Isaiah saw the grief and sorrow that the Savior would suffer to pay the price for our sins, he exclaimed:

“He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. …

“Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows. …

“He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities. …

“He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter” (Isaiah 53:3–7).

Nephi also saw a vision of the Savior’s future birth and mission. He saw a beautiful virgin, and an angel explained, “Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh” (1 Nephi 11:18). Then Nephi saw the virgin holding a child in her arms. The angel declared, “Behold the lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father!” (1 Nephi 11:21).

About 124 years before Jesus was born, King Benjamin, another Nephite prophet and king, also foresaw the Savior’s life:

“For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, causing the lame to walk, the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear, and curing all manner of diseases.

“And he shall cast out devils, or the evil spirits which dwell in the hearts of the children of men.

“And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people.

“And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary” (Mosiah 3:5–8).

He Was the Only Begotten of the Father

The story of the birth and life of the Savior is found in the New Testament in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. From their accounts we learn that Jesus was born of a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to marry Joseph when an angel of the Lord appeared to her. The angel told her that she was to be the mother of the Son of God. She asked him how this was possible (see Luke 1:34). He told her, “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God” (Luke 1:35). Thus, God the Father became the literal father of Jesus Christ.

Jesus is the only person on earth to be born of a mortal mother and an immortal father. That is why he is called the Only Begotten Son. From his mother he inherited mortality and was subject to hunger, thirst, fatigue, pain, and death. He inherited divine powers from his Father. No one could take the Savior’s life from him unless He willed it. He had power to lay it down and power to take up his body again after dying. (See John 10:17–18.)

Discussion

•     Read Luke 1:34–35. Why was Jesus Christ known as the Only Begotten of the Father?

•     What did he inherit from his Father?

•     What did he inherit from his mother?

He Led a Perfect Life

From his youth, Jesus obeyed all that was required of him by our Heavenly Father. Under the guidance of Mary and Joseph, Jesus grew much as other children grow. He loved and obeyed the truth. Luke tells us, “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him” (Luke 2:40).

By the time he was twelve years old, Jesus knew he had been sent to do the will of his Father. He went with his parents to Jerusalem. When his parents were returning home, they discovered that he was not with their group. They went back to Jerusalem to look for him. “After three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers” (Luke 2:46–47).

Joseph and Mary were relieved to find him but unhappy that he had treated them so. Mary said: “Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? Behold, thy father [Joseph] and I have sought thee sorrowing.” Jesus answered her gently, reminding her that Joseph was only a stepfather: “Wist ye not that I must be about my [Heavenly] Father’s business?” (Luke 2:48–49).

In order to fulfill his mission, Jesus was to do the will of his Father in Heaven. “I do nothing of myself,” he declared, “but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. … I do always those things that please him” (John 8:28–29).

When Jesus was thirty years old, he came to his cousin John to be baptized in the Jordan River. John was reluctant to baptize Jesus because he knew that Jesus had never sinned. Jesus asked John to baptize him in order “to fulfil all righteousness.” John did baptize the Savior, immersing him completely in the water. When Jesus was baptized, his Father spoke from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” The Holy Ghost descended, as shown by the sign of the dove. (See Matthew 3:13–17.)

Soon after Jesus’ baptism, Satan came to him to tempt him. He wanted Jesus to fail his mission. If Satan could get him to commit just one sin, then Jesus would not be worthy to be our Savior, and the plan would fail. In this way Satan could make us as miserable as he is. We would never be able to return to our Heavenly Father.

Satan’s temptations came after Jesus had been fasting for forty days. Jesus firmly resisted all these temptations, then commanded Satan to leave. When Satan was gone, angels came and ministered to Jesus. (See Matthew 4:1–11.)

He Taught Us How to Love and Serve One Another

After being tempted by Satan, Jesus began his public ministry. He came to earth not only to die for us but also to teach us how to live. He taught that there are two great commandments: first, to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength; and second, to love others as we love ourselves (see Matthew 22:36–39). His life is an example of how we should obey these two commandments. If we love God, we will trust and obey him, as Jesus did. If we love others, we will help them meet their physical and spiritual needs.

Jesus spent his life serving others. He cured them of diseases. He made the blind see, the deaf hear, and the lame walk. Once when he was healing the sick, it became late and the people were hungry. Instead of sending them away, he blessed five loaves of bread and two fish and miraculously was able to feed a multitude of five thousand people. (See Matthew 14:14–21.) He taught that whenever we find people hungry, cold, naked, or lonely, we should help them all we can. When we help others, we are serving the Lord. (See Matthew 25:35–46.)

Jesus loved others with all his heart. Often his heart was so full of compassion that he wept. He loved little children, the elderly, and the humble, simple people who had faith in him. He loved those who had sinned, and with great compassion he taught them to repent and be baptized. He taught, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).

Jesus even loved those who sinned against him and were unrepentant. At the end of his life, as he hung on the cross, he prayed to the Father for the soldiers who had crucified him, pleading, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). He taught, “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12).

Discussion

•     Read Matthew 22:36–40. What are some ways we can show the Lord that we love him?

•     Read Matthew 5:48. Is it possible to become perfect in aspects of our own daily lives (such as paying debts, keeping the Sabbath day holy, fasting, keeping the Word of Wisdom)?

He Organized the Only True Church

Jesus wanted his gospel taught to people all over the earth, so he chose twelve Apostles to testify of him. They were the original leaders of his Church. They received the authority to act in his name and do the works they had seen him do. Those who received authority from them were also able to teach, baptize, and perform other ordinances in his name. After his death, they continued to do his work until the people became so wicked that they killed the Apostles.

Discussion

•     Why did Jesus choose the Twelve Apostles?

•     Read Mark 3:14–15. For what purpose were the Apostles ordained?

He Redeemed Us from Our Sins and Saved Us from Death

When his work of teaching and blessing the people was finished, Jesus prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for all the sins of mankind. He had been condemned to die because he had testified to the people that he was the Son of God.

The night before his crucifixion, he went to a garden called Gethsemane. There he knelt and prayed. Soon he was weighed down by deep sorrow and wept as he prayed. Latter-day Apostle Orson F. Whitney was permitted to see the Savior’s suffering in a vision. Seeing the Savior weep, he said: “I was so moved at the sight that I also wept, out of pure sympathy. My whole heart went out to Him; I loved Him with all my soul, and longed to be with Him as I longed for nothing else” (in Bryant Hinckley, The Faith of Our Pioneer Fathers, p. 211). Jesus “went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt” (Matthew 26:39).

In a modern revelation the Savior described how great his suffering was, saying it caused him “to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit” (D&C 19:18). The awful anguish of taking upon himself every sin that any human being has ever committed went through the Savior’s body. No mortal person can comprehend just how great this burden was. No other person could have endured such agony of body and spirit. “He descended below all things … that he might be in all things and through all things, the light of truth” (D&C 88:6).

But his suffering was not yet complete. The following day, Jesus was beaten, humiliated, and spit upon. He was required to carry his own cross up the hill; then he was lifted up and nailed to it. He was tortured in one of the cruelest ways men have ever devised. After nine hours on the cross, he cried out in agony, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34). In Jesus’ bitterest hour, the Father had withdrawn his spirit from him so Jesus could finish suffering the penalty for the sins of all mankind that Jesus might have complete victory over the forces of sin and death.

When the Savior knew that his sacrifice had been accepted by the Father, he exclaimed in a loud voice, “It is finished” (John 19:30). “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” (Luke 23:46). He bowed his head and voluntarily gave up his spirit. The Savior was dead. A violent earthquake shook the earth.

Some friends took the Savior’s body to a tomb, where it lay for three days. During this time his spirit went and organized the missionary work to other spirits who needed to receive his gospel (see 1 Peter 3:18–20; D&C 138). On the third day, a Sunday, he returned to his body and took it up again. He was the first to overcome death. The prophecy had been fulfilled “that he must rise again from the dead” (John 20:9).

Shortly after his resurrection, the Savior appeared to the Nephites and established his Church in the Americas. He taught the people and blessed them. This moving account is found in 3 Nephi 11 through 28.

Discussion

•     How do you feel as you ponder the Savior’s sacrifice for us?

What Does the Savior’s Life Mean for Us?

Jesus taught: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:13–14). He willingly and humbly went through the sorrow in Gethsemane and the suffering on the cross.

The Savior will have died in vain for our sins if we do not come unto him, repent of our sins, and love him with all our hearts. He said:

“And this is the gospel which I have given unto you—that I came into the world to do the will of my Father, because my Father sent me.

“And my Father sent me that I might be lifted up upon the cross; and after that I had been lifted up upon the cross, that I might draw all men unto me … that they may be judged according to their works. …

“For the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do; …

“Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am” (3 Nephi 27:13–15, 3 Nephi 27:21, 3 Nephi 27:27; italics added).

Discussion

•     Imagine that you had a large debt but could not pay it. How would you feel about a person who offered to pay the debt for you? Compare this to the sacrifice of Jesus.

Additional Scriptures

•     2 Nephi 25:12 (the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh)

•     Moses 6:57 (Jesus Christ named as the Only Begotten)

•     Matthew, Mark, Luke, John (life and teachings of Jesus Christ)

•     Matthew 10:1–8; Luke 9:1–2 (Apostles ordained with power and authority)

•     Matthew 26–28; Mark 14–16; Luke 22–24 (Jesus in the Garden; betrayed, crucified, and resurrected)

Posted by Jenny Hatch at 6:53 PM

March 11, 2006

Gospel Principles Lesson 10 Scriptures

Here is my lesson for sunday. I love the scriptures! I have read all four standard works completely through, and I have read the Book of Mormon 23 times. Certain verses and chapters I have read hundreds of times, and I have memorized scores of verses. I love the poetry of the King James version of the Bible, and I feel sorry for those who are learning bible language with a "Modern" twist.

Check out this story to learn more about how the Bible came to be: How we Got the Bible

The story of the translation and publication of the Book of Mormon has a similar compelling narative.

Here is the lesson on the scriptures:

Jenny Hatch

Scriptures

Chapter 10

31110, Gospel Principles, Unit Three: Communication between God and Man, 10: Scriptures, 52

When the Lord’s servants speak or write under the influence of the Holy Ghost, their words become scripture (see D&C 68:4). From the beginning, the Lord has commanded his prophets to keep a record of his revelations and his dealings with his children. He said: “I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in the north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they shall write the words which I speak unto them; for out of the books which shall be written I will judge the world, every man according to their works, according to that which is written” (2 Nephi 29:11).

What Scriptures Do We Have Today?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints accepts four books as scripture: the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. These books are called the standard works of the Church. The inspired words of our living prophets are also accepted as scripture.

The Bible is a collection of sacred writings containing God’s revelations to man. These writings cover many centuries, from the time of Adam through the time when the Apostles of Jesus Christ lived. They were written by many prophets who lived at various times in the history of the world.

The Bible is divided into two sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. Many prophecies in the Old Testament foretell the coming of a Savior and Redeemer. The New Testament tells of the life of that Savior and Redeemer, who is Jesus Christ. It also tells of the establishing of his Church in that day. “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly” (Articles of Faith 1:8).

The Book of Mormon is a sacred record of some of the people who lived on the American continents between about 2,000 B.C. and A.D. 400. It contains the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ (see D&C 20:9; D&C 42:12; D&C 135:3). The Book of Mormon tells of the visit Jesus Christ made to the people in the Americas soon after his resurrection.

Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon into English through the gift and power of God. He said that it is “the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book” (History of the Church, 4:461).

President Ezra Taft Benson helped us understand how the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion. He said:

“There are three ways in which the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion. It is the keystone in our witness of Christ. It is the keystone of our doctrine. It is the keystone of testimony.

“The Book of Mormon is the keystone in our witness of Jesus Christ, who is Himself the cornerstone of everything we do. It bears witness of His reality with power and clarity. …

“[It] broadens our understandings of the doctrines of salvation. The Book of Mormon … was written for our day. In [it] we find a pattern for preparing for the Second Coming. …

“The Book of Mormon teaches us truth [and] bears testimony of Jesus Christ. … But there is something more. There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path. The scriptures are called ‘the words of life,’ and nowhere is that more true than it is of the Book of Mormon. … ‘Every Latter-day Saint should make the study of this book a lifetime pursuit’ ” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1986, pp. 4–7; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, pp. 5–7).

The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of modern revelations. In section 1 of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord reveals that the book is published to the inhabitants of the earth to prepare them for his coming:

“Wherefore the voice of the Lord is unto the ends of the