Elder D. Todd Christofferson (Oct. 18): "Firm and Steadfast in the Faith of Christ"

-
The Activity:

  1. Divide the class into smaller groups.
  2. Assign each group a figure from the Book of Mormon who was "firm and steadfast" in their committment to the gospel.  For each figure assigned provide a chapter or two that provideds context for how this person(s) become converted.  Some examples are provided here:
    1. Nephi                                    I Ne. 2-3
    2. Alma the Younger                 Alma 36
    3. King Lamoni & his father     Alma 18-19, 22
    4. Sons of Mosiah                      Alma 17
    5. Enos                                       Enos 1
  3. Ask the class members to work in their groups to creat a list of what this person did to become converted by skimming through the assigned chapters.  The class members can also choose to use any other scriptures to bolster their list.  Point out that none of the records probably contain a complete picture for any one person, but as we combine the lists we can get a full picture.
  4. Give the groups time to create their lists.
  5. Come back together and ask the groups to share what was listed.  As the class members share their lists, create one master list on the board.
  6. When the list is complete-- or feels that way-- point out that all of the items on the list are things that we too can do.
  7. Read the second to last para (32), "I am reminded . . . God each day"
  8. Discuss how this applies to our lives and relates to the list on the board.
  9. Challenge the class members to identify one thing they can do this next week to strengthen their testimonies.
Using the Activity:

So, this activity is a bit different in that the focus is not on the words of the apostle; rather the focus is on finding the principles he taught in the lives of others so that we can replicate them in our lives.  I really try to steer clear of these types of activities because I want to focus on the words of our leaders, but I felt impressed to go this direction this time. 

This activity is valuable for a few reasons.  First, it pushes the class members into the scriptures and to apply Elder Christofferson's words.  Second, I worry sometimes that we classify certain "rock stars" of the gospel that have reached unattainable heights, i.e. the prophets and apostles, the people from the Book of Mormon and Bible, etc.  And yes, they are amazing.  But they also started at the essentially the same place as us and we can do what they did and receive those blessings.  So, this activity stresses that fact and helps us feel more connected to them.  Finally, this activity helps the class members apply the principles in this talk.

As always, I hope this activity helps you.  Let me know how it is going. God bless.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Elder Ronald A. Rasband (Apr. '23): "Hosanna to the Most High God"

-
 Like Elder Stevenson's talk, a quick reading of this talk might appear as if the talk were really about a holiday (Palm Sunday in this case).  However, it is really about so much more.  This is a powerful talk on coming to Christ and being prepared for His coming. The Activity: Make sure that everyone has access to a copy of the talk either digitally or physically. Read par. 24-25 "We, like the . . . Father in Heaven." Discuss this passage briefly as a class. Point out that Elder Rasband mentions four ways to fill our lamps with oil. Divide the class into four groups and assign each group one of the doctrines that Elder Rasband discusses: Prophecy (par. 13-15:  "First, prophecy.  For . . . shall rise again.'") The Gift of the Holy Ghost (par. 16:  "Second, the companionship . . . of all things'") Discipleship (par. 17: "Third, discipleship.  True . . . cried, 'Crucify Him'") The Atonement (par. 18-19:  "Fourth, the Atone
Read more

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell (Oct. '23): "More Than a Hero"

-
 This talk is custom made for today.  All around us we can see people who choose worldly heroes to focus on and follow with little, if any, thought given to Christ and Father.  The results are perilous to us and to society.  This talk in some aspects reminds me of some of Pres. Kimball's teachings ( here , for example).   The Activity: Draw a line down the middle of the board. Read par. 23 "For us on . . . Savior and Redeemer." Ask the class members to consider what would characterize too much trust placed in "the politician, the musician, the athlete, or the vlogger" or anyone. Invite them to share their ideas.  As they do, list them on one side of the board. Invite the class members to look over the list they have created and consider how they can either safeguard against these things or walk back from perilous positions. Allow a moment to think and then discuss. Point out that if this is too much attention placed on people, in what ways could we do the same t
Read more

Elder David A. Bednar (Apr. '23): "Abide in Me, and I in You; Therefore, Walk with Me"

-
 I have mentioned in other places in this blog that I am a newly called Elders Quorum president.  As such, this talk really struck home.  I feel woefully inadequate in fulfilling my calling.  This talk gave me comfort and confidence in moving forward.   The Activity: Explain Enoch's reaction to his calling and share your own experience with receiving a calling that overwhelmed you at first and/or invite some class members to share their experiences like this. Invite the class members to read paragraph 5 ("And the Lord . . . give thee utterance'") silently and ask them to identify 1) what God asks of Enoch and 2) what God promises Enoch.   Allow class members a moment to read the passage. Come back and discuss as a class what they found. Ask them to think about how these same commands and promises could apply to various callings (including those they currently have and/or those talked about at the beginning). Invite the class members to share experiences/testimonies
Read more