Lesson 46: "Zion -- The Pure in Heart"

Purpose

To help class members understand what the scriptures teach about Zion and to inspire them in their efforts to establish Zion.

Preparation

Prayerfully study the following scriptures and other materials:

• Doctrine and Covenants 57:1–3; 64:33–43; 82:14–15; 97:8–28; 105:1–12; Moses 7:12–19, 61–63, 68–69; Articles of Faith 1:10.
• Our Heritage, pages 37–38, 145–46.
• Review the material for this lesson in the Class Member Study Guide.

To gain a greater understanding of historical events related to the doctrine in this lesson, consider reviewing the following:

• “Newel K. Whitney and the United Firm.”
• “Teachings of Joseph Smith: Preparing for Zion.”
• Additional historical material for this lesson.

Additional Reading:

• Becoming the Pure in Heart - by President Spencer W. Kimball - March 1985
• Come to Zion - by Elder D. Todd Christofferson - October 2008

Discussion and Application 

1. Zion - The word has several meanings.
The word Zion has various meanings in the scriptures. Read the following scripture passages. Identify the meaning of Zion in each passage.

• D&C 97:21. (The pure in heart.)
• D&C 82:14. (The Church and its stakes.)
• Moses 7:19. (The city of Enoch.)
• 2 Samuel 5:6–7; 1 Kings 8:1. (The ancient city of Jerusalem.)
• D&C 45:66–67; 57:1–2; Articles of Faith 1:10. (The New Jerusalem, which will be built in Missouri.)
• Hebrews 12:22–23. (The dwelling place of those who are exalted.)

In the scriptures, Zion can mean the Lord’s people (the pure in heart), a specific place, or both. In this lesson, when we speak of building Zion in our day, we are referring to purifying our hearts so that the places we live can be called Zion.

2. Zion has existed in previous dispensations.
There have been a few times in previous dispensations when Zion has existed among God’s people. The city of Enoch is one example of a people who established Zion. Ask the assigned class member to summarize the events recorded in Moses 7:12–19, 68–69.

• What characterized the Zion of Enoch’s time? (See Moses 7:12–19.)
  • Why was their city called Zion? (See Moses 7:18.) 
  • What does it mean to be “of one heart and one mind”?
• What will happen to the city of Enoch in the Millennium? (See Moses 7:61–63. It will return to the earth and become part of the New Jerusalem.)
  • Why is the account of Enoch and his people important to us today? (In addition to helping us understand the destiny of the city of Enoch, the account can help us understand what we must do to establish Zion.)

3. The Saints of our dispensation have been commanded to establish Zion.
One of the most frequently mentioned subjects in the Doctrine and Covenants is the establishing of Zion in the latter days. There are more than 200 references to Zion in these revelations. Some of these refer to a physical location, some to a condition of the heart, and some to building the Lord’s Church. Even before the Church was formally organized, the Lord directed a number of brethren to “seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion” (D&C 6:6; 11:6; 12:6; 14:6).

For the early Saints, establishing Zion not only meant becoming pure in heart and living in unity. It also meant building the city of Zion, or New Jerusalem. In July 1831, the Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith that the city of Zion should be built in Missouri, with Independence as the center place (D&C 57:1–3). After this revelation, many Saints gathered to Missouri. They prospered for a time, but contentions and divisions soon arose among them. There were also tensions with other settlers in the area. In November 1833, mobs drove the Saints from their homes. A few months later, in July 1834, the Lord revealed that the Saints would have to “wait a little season for the redemption of Zion” (D&C 105:9). (See lessons 12 and 27 for more information about establishing the city of Zion in Missouri.)

• Why were the early Saints unable to build the city of Zion? (See D&C 101:6–8; 105:1–12.) 
• What can we learn from their experience that can help us build Zion today? (To build Zion—whether in a city, in our stakes, or in our homes—we must develop the qualities of a Zion people: pure hearts, unity, and unselfishness.)
  • See Come to Zion - by Elder D. Todd Christofferson - October 2008
    • What three things does Elder Christofferson teach us are required If we would establish Zion in our homes, branches, wards, and stakes?
  • See Becoming the Pure in Heart - by President Spencer W. Kimball - March 1985
    • According to President Kimball, what three fundamental things must we commit ourselves to If we are to “bring again Zion?
• Although the building of the city of Zion was postponed, latter-day prophets have exhorted us to continue our efforts to establish Zion in our hearts, stakes, and homes.
  • President Harold B. Lee said: “The borders of Zion, where the righteous and pure in heart may dwell, must now begin to be enlarged. The stakes of Zion must be strengthened. All this so that Zion may arise and shine by becoming increasingly diligent in carrying out the plan of salvation throughout the world” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1973, 5; or Ensign, July 1973, 3).
• Read D&C 82:14–15. What did the Lord command in these verses? 
• What are some specific things we should do to build Zion? 
• Read the following scriptures and identify what they teach about building Zion.
  • D&C 97:21. (Strive to be pure in heart.)
    • The Lord gave the simplest definition of Zion when He called it “the pure in heart” (D&C 97:21).
      • What can we do to help us become pure in heart? (See Moroni 7:47–48; 10:32.)
  • D&C 38:27. (Become unified.)
    • The people in the city of Enoch were described as “being of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). 
    • Lack of unity was one of the reasons the early Saints were not able to build the city of Zion (D&C 101:6; 105:4).
      • What are some effective ways to increase unity in families? 
      • How can we be more unified in our ward?
  • D&C 64:34–35; 105:3, 5–6. (Be obedient.)
    • In D&C 105, the Lord cited disobedience as one of the reasons the city of Zion was not to be established at that time.
      • In what ways have you or your family been strengthened as a result of obedience to gospel principles? 
      • How has your ward or stake been strengthened by members’ obedience to gospel principles?
  • D&C 105:3. (Care for the poor and afflicted.)
    • The Saints who were trying to establish Zion in Missouri were chastised by the Lord for failing to care for “the poor and afflicted among them” (D&C 105:3).
      • Why is caring for the needy a necessary part of building Zion? 
      • What opportunities do we have to care for those who are in need?
  • D&C 97:10–16. (Build temples and receive the blessings of the temple.)
    • Why are temples important in building Zion? (See D&C 97:13–16; 105:9–12.)
  • D&C 105:10. (Teach one another and learn our duties more perfectly.)
    • What can we do to improve teaching in our families and in formal Church settings? 
    • In what ways might we need to learn our duties more perfectly?
  • D&C 133:8–9. (Preach the gospel to the world.)
    • The Lord directed the elders of the Church to call people out from Babylon (the world) to Zion.
      • In what ways does preaching the gospel strengthen the stakes of Zion?

4. The scriptures include glorious promises about the future of Zion.
In the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord speaks of many blessings that will come to Zion in the last days. For some examples of these blessings, read D&C 97:18–25 and identify specific blessings promised to Zion. See also the following list.

• Zion will spread and become glorious and great (D&C 97:18).
• Zion will be honored by the nations of the earth (D&C 97:19).
• The Lord will be Zion’s salvation (D&C 97:20).
• Zion will rejoice (D&C 97:21).
• Zion will escape the Lord’s vengeance (D&C 97:22–25).
  • What must we do to enjoy these blessings? (See D&C 97:25.)
  • How do you feel as you consider the future of Zion?
• The Prophet Joseph Smith taught: “The building up of Zion is a cause that has interested the people of God in every age; it is a theme upon which prophets, priests and kings have dwelt with peculiar delight; they have looked forward with joyful anticipation to the day in which we live; and fired with heavenly and joyful anticipations they have sung and written and prophesied of this our day; … we are the favored people that God has [chosen] to bring about the Latter-day glory” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 231).

Conclusion
President Gordon B. Hinckley stated:

“I see a wonderful future in a very uncertain world. If we will cling to our values, if we will build on our inheritance, if we will walk in obedience before the Lord, if we will simply live the gospel, we will be blessed in a magnificent and wonderful way. We will be looked upon as a peculiar people who have found the key to a peculiar happiness.

“‘And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord … : for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem’ (Isaiah 2:3).

“Great has been our past, wonderful is our present, glorious can be our future” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1997, 94; or Ensign, Nov. 1997, 69).

Lesson 45: “The Family Is Ordained of God”

Purpose

To help class members understand the eternal importance of the family and to inspire them to strengthen their families.

Preparation

Prayerfully study:

• "The Family: A Proclamation to the World"
• The Plan and The Proclamation - Elder Dallin H. Oaks
• Isaiah 54:13
• 1 Nephi 1:1
• Mosiah 4:14–15
• D&C 68:25
• D&C 93:40

Discussion and Application

 

1. The family is central to God's plan.

"The Family: A Proclamation to the World" was presented by President Gordon B. Hinckley at the general Relief Society meeting in September 1995. Since that time, it has been reprinted in many languages for Church members and others throughout the world. It has also been presented to government leaders in many lands.

Read the title, subtitle, and first two paragraphs of the proclamation.

• What is happening in our own families, communities, and nation that suggests a need for this counsel and warning from God's prophets?
  President Gordon B. Hinckley taught: "Why do we have this proclamation on the family now? Because the family is under attack. All across the world families are falling apart. The place to begin to improve society is in the home. Children do, for the most part, what they are taught. We are trying to make the world better by making the family stronger" ("Inspirational Thoughts," Ensign,Aug. 1997, 5).
• The proclamation states that marriage and family are "ordained of God" and "central to [His] plan for the eternal destiny of His children." Why is the family central to God's plan for the eternal destiny of His children? (See D&C 131:1–4; 1 Corinthians 11:11.)
• The proclamation states that we are all spirit children of God, created in His image (see also Genesis 1:26–27). What does this doctrine teach about our potential? How does the knowledge that you are a member of Heavenly Father's family affect the way you feel about earthly families? How can this doctrine strengthen us?

2. Sacred ordinances make it possible for families to be together eternally.

Read the third paragraph of the proclamation.

• What does this paragraph teach about the purpose of mortal life? How can our earthly experience help us in our eternal progression?
• What is necessary for a marriage and family to be eternal?
• How can we strengthen our commitment to keep our temple covenants? In what ways can parents help children prepare to enter the temple?
• How should the promise that we can live eternally with our families affect the way we treat family members now?

3. The power to create mortal life is sacred.

Read the fourth and fifth paragraphs of the proclamation.

• What has God commanded regarding the use of the power to create mortal life? Why is obedience to this commandment important?
  Elder Henry B. Eyring of the Quorum of the Twelve taught:
  "Children are the inheritance of the Lord to us in this life and also in eternity. Eternal life is not only to have forever our descendants from this life. It is also to have eternal increase. …
  "We can understand why our Heavenly Father commands us to reverence life and to cherish the powers that produce it as sacred. If we do not have those reverential feelings in this life, how could our Father give them to us in the eternities?" ("The Family," Ensign, Feb. 1998, 15).
  Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve taught: "The body is an essential part of the soul. … We declare that one who uses the God-given body of another without divine sanction abuses the very soul of that individual, abuses the central purpose and processes of life. … In sexual transgression the soul is at stake—the body and the spirit" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1998, 99–100; or Ensign, Nov. 1998, 76).
• What can parents do to help children understand the importance of moral cleanliness?

4. Parents have a sacred duty to care for each other and teach their children.

Read the sixth paragraph of the proclamation.

• What can married couples do to strengthen their love for each other?
  President Gordon B. Hinckley taught: "When you are married, be fiercely loyal one to another. Selfishness is the great destroyer of happy family life. If you will make your first concern the comfort, the well-being, and the happiness of your companion, sublimating any personal concern to that loftier goal, you will be happy, and your marriage will go on throughout eternity" ("Excerpts from Recent Addresses of President Gordon B. Hinckley," Ensign, Dec. 1995, 67).
• How are children blessed when they have parents who love and care for each other?
• What are parents responsible to teach their children? (See Mosiah 4:14–15; D&C 68:25–28; 93:40.) What are some effective ways to teach these principles to children? How have you benefited from your parents' teachings?
• What are some settings in which parents have an opportunity to teach their children?
• What is the role of the Church in teaching children? (See the following quotation.) How can parents work together with the Church to teach their children?
  President Spencer W. Kimball said: "It is the responsibility of the parents to teach their children. The Sunday School, the Primary, [Mutual,] and other organizations of the Church play a secondary role" (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 332).

5. Successful marriages and families are based on righteous principles.

Read the seventh paragraph of the proclamation.

• The proclamation teaches that "happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ." How have the teachings of Christ brought happiness into your home?
• The proclamation states that "successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities." Which of these principles have been especially important in your marriage and family? What effective ways have you found for teaching these principles in your family?
• According to the proclamation, what are the primary responsibilities of fathers? What does it mean to "preside … in love and righteousness"? (See D&C 121:41–46.)
• How can boys and young men prepare themselves now to provide for their families? What can parents do to encourage youth to gain a formal education and learn practical skills?
• What primary responsibility does the proclamation describe for mothers? How can young women prepare themselves now to fulfill this responsibility?
  President Gordon B. Hinckley taught:
  "If there is to be a return to old and sacred values, it must begin in the home. It is here that truth is learned, that integrity is cultivated, that self-discipline is instilled, and that love is nurtured. …
  "Sisters, guard your children. … Nothing is more precious to you as mothers, absolutely nothing. Your children are the most valuable thing you will have in time or all eternity. You will be fortunate indeed if, as you grow old and look at those you brought into the world, you find in them uprightness of life, virtue in living, and integrity in their behavior" ("Walking in the Light of the Lord," Ensign, Nov. 1998, 99).
• How can fathers help nurture their children? Why is it important for parents to help each other as equal partners?

6. Strengthening families is everyone's responsibility.

The proclamation concludes by warning of the serious consequences of family disintegration and by calling upon all people to strengthen the family. Read the final two paragraphs of the proclamation.

• What are some of the things you have done that have helped bring greater strength and unity in your family?
• What can we do as individuals and families to promote stronger families in our own communities?
  President Gordon B. Hinckley told a gathering of mayors and other public officials: "To you men and women of great influence, you who preside in the cities of the nation, to you I say that it will cost far less to reform our schools, to teach the virtues of good citizenship, than it will to go on building and maintaining costly jails and prisons. … But there is another institution of even greater importance than the schools. It is the home. I believe that no nation can rise higher than the strength of its families" ("U.S. Conference of Mayors," Ensign, Nov. 1998, 109).
• Why must families be strong in order for nations to survive?

Lesson 44: “Being Good Citizens"

Purpose

To encourage Church members to be good citizens by participating in government, obeying the law, and strengthening the community.

Preparation

Prayerfully study the following scriptures and other materials:

• Doctrine and Covenants 58:21–22, 26–28; 98:4–10; 134; Articles of Faith 1:12.
• Our Heritage, pages 133–34, focusing on Elder Ezra Taft Benson's service as Secretary of Agriculture for the United States of America.
• Review the material for this lesson in the Class Member Study Guide.

To gain a greater understanding of historical events related to the doctrine in this lesson, consider reviewing the following:

• "Of Governments and Laws."
• "Ministry of Ezra Taft Benson: A Latter-day Saint in Washington, D.C."
• Additional historical material for this lesson.

Discussion and Application

 

1. Participating in government

In August 1835, a general assembly of the Church at Kirtland, Ohio, unanimously approved a declaration of beliefs about government. This declaration is recorded in D&C 134.

• What are the purposes of civil governments? (See D&C 134:1, 6–8, 11.)
  • "For the good and safety of society" (D&C 134:1).
  • "For the protection of the innocent and the punishment of the guilty" (D&C 134:6).
  • "For the protection of all citizens in the free exercise of their religious belief" (D&C 134:7).
  • "For redress of all wrongs and grievances" (D&C 134:11).
• What can we do as citizens to help fulfill these purposes of government?
• Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve: "As Church members, we live under the banner of many different flags. How important it is that we understand our place and our position in the lands in which we live! We should be familiar with the history, heritage, and laws of the lands that govern us. In those countries that allow us the right to participate in the affairs of government, we should use our free agency and be actively engaged in supporting and defending the principles of truth, right, and freedom" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 87; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 72).
  • How can we support and defend truth, right, and freedom through our participation in government?
• Doctrine and Covenants 134 teaches that we should seek for and uphold leaders who "administer the law in equity and justice" (verse 3). 
  • What other qualities should we look for when choosing leaders? (See, for example, D&C 98:10.) 
  • How can we prepare ourselves to choose leaders wisely?

As we participate in government and political processes, we should do so with the understanding that "the Church is politically neutral. It does not endorse political parties, platforms, or candidates. Candidates should not imply that they are endorsed by the Church or its leaders. Church leaders and members should avoid any statements or conduct that might be interpreted as Church endorsement of political parties or candidates" (Church Handbook of Instructions, Book 2: Priesthood and Auxiliary Leaders [1998], 325).

2. Obeying the laws of the land

• What is our responsibility regarding the laws of the land? (See D&C 58:21–22; 98:4–6; 134:5–6; Articles of Faith 1:12.) 
  • How can parents, teachers, and leaders teach children to obey the laws of the land?
• How should we treat law-enforcement officers and other civil officers? (See D&C 134:3, 6.) 
  • How can we show our appreciation for their efforts?
• What relationship should exist between religion and civil governments? (See D&C 134:4, 9. These verses teach that government should not impose laws upon religion unless religious exercise infringes upon the rights and liberties of others.) 
  • How can religion strengthen government?

3. Strengthening the community

From the Church Handbook of Instructions: "Members should do their civic duty by supporting measures that strengthen society morally, economically, and culturally. Members are urged to be actively engaged in worthy causes to improve their communities and make them wholesome places in which to live and rear families" (Book 2, page 325).

• What are some ways we can strengthen our community?

Serve others

• Why is it important that Church members serve in their communities?
• What are some community service projects that you or other Church members have participated in? 
  • How did you become aware of the need? 
  • What did the group do to make the project successful?
• What are some individual, informal ways that you or other Church members have given community service?
• What opportunities for service exist in our community today? 
  • How can we become more aware of opportunities for community service?
• In what ways does community service benefit the community? 
• What are some of the ways we are blessed when we serve?

Serve in elected or appointed public service positions
From the First Presidency to Church members: "We strongly urge men and women to be willing to serve on school boards, city and county councils and commissions, state legislatures, and other high offices of either election or appointment" (First Presidency letter, 15 Jan. 1998).

• What are some examples of public service positions in our community? 
• How are people in such positions able to bring about good in a community?

Support worthy causes or activities

• Read D&C 58:27. 
• How can we become "anxiously engaged" in good causes in the community?

Reflect upon the following account of a Latter-day Saint who made a significant contribution to her community and nation by supporting a worthy cause:
"While Dolina Smith was serving as Young Women president in the Toronto Ontario Stake in 1986, she asked an expert to speak at a fireside about the growing problem of pornography. Later she became involved with a nationwide group called Canadians for Decency, which mobilizes thousands of anti-pornography Canadians to contact their elected officials as specific concerns about pornography arise. …
"… In 1990 her involvement increased when she was named chairperson of Canadians for Decency. In this new role she has given numerous presentations before the provincial and federal governing bodies that make and change pornography laws. She has also spoken to many groups of citizens who work with local governments to clamp down on the spread of pornography in their communities" (Donald S. Conkey, "Together We Can Make a Difference," Ensign, Feb. 1996, 68).

• What are some worthy causes we can support in the community? 
• How can we appropriately fight evil influences in our community?
• What are some challenges to serving in the community? 
• How can we overcome these challenges? 

Conclusion

From Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve: "In the Church, we often state the couplet, 'Be in the world but not of the world.' … Perhaps we should state the couplet … as two separate admonitions. First, 'Be in the world.' Be involved; be informed. Try to be understanding and tolerant and to appreciate diversity. Make meaningful contributions to society through service and involvement. Second, 'Be not of the world.' Do not follow wrong paths or bend to accommodate or accept what is not right. …
"Members of the Church need to influence more than we are influenced. We should work to stem the tide of sin and evil instead of passively being swept along by it. We each need to help solve the problem rather than avoid or ignore it" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1989, 100–101; or Ensign, May 1989, 80).

Lesson 43: “Take upon You My Whole Armor”

Purpose

To help class members put on the full armor of God to protect them in the battle against evil.

Preparation

• Read The Following Scriptures: 
   
  • D&C 76:25–29
  • Moses 4:3-4
  • D&C 76:29
  • D&C 27:15–18
  • D&C 42:22–24; 59:6; 63:16
  • D&C 121:45–46
  • D&C 42:21; 51:9; 97:8
  • D&C 63:60–62; 136:21
  • D&C 52:16; 136:24; 
  • Ephesians 4:29
  • Romans 13:12
  • Ephesians 6:11–17
  • 2 Nephi 1:23
  • D&C 27:15–18

Discussion and Application 

1. Put on the whole armor of God.

• Read D&C 76:25–28 and Moses 4:3. Who were the leaders of the two forces involved in the War in Heaven, and what were their objectives? How are we involved in a similar conflict on the earth today? (See D&C 76:29; Moses 4:4.)
• The Lord has not left us unprotected in the battle against evil. Read D&C 27:15–18. What is the Lord's armor described in these verses?
• What can we do to put on the "whole armor" of God? How have you felt added protection from temptation as you have prayed? studied the scriptures? kept the Sabbath day holy? gone to the temple? honored the priesthood?
• What might be the consequences of wearing only part of the Lord's armor or neglecting to wear it for even a brief time?

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve warned that Satan "seeks to find any chink in the armor of each person. He knows our weaknesses and knows how to exploit them if we allow him to do so. We can defend ourselves against his attacks and deceptions only by understanding the commandments and by fortifying ourselves each day through praying, studying the scriptures, and following the counsel of the Lord's anointed" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1988, 44; or Ensign, Nov. 1988, 35).

This lesson will focus on three areas in which Satan is trying to exploit weaknesses in our armor today: chastity, honesty, and language.

2. Live the law of chastity.

• What is the Lord's law of chastity? (See D&C 42:22–24; 59:6; 63:16; and the following quotations.)
  
  The First Presidency stated: "The Lord's law of moral conduct is abstinence outside of lawful marriage and fidelity within marriage. Sexual relations are proper only between husband and wife appropriately expressed within the bonds of marriage. Any other sexual contact, including fornication, adultery, and homosexual and lesbian behavior, is sinful" (First Presidency letter, 14 Nov. 1991).
  
  Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve taught: "Any sexual intimacy outside of the bonds of marriage—I mean any intentional contact with the sacred, private parts of another's body, with or without clothing—is a sin and is forbidden by God. It is also a transgression to intentionally stimulate these emotions within your own body" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1994, 51; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, 38).
  
  
• What are some consequences of violating the law of chastity? How does a person's violation of the law of chastity affect others?
  
  Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin taught: "One of the most pervasive deceptions in recent years is the notion that immorality is normal and acceptable and has no negative consequences. In truth, immorality is the underlying cause of much suffering and many other problems that are prevalent today, including rampant disease, abortion, broken families, families without fathers, and mothers who themselves are children" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1994, 100; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, 76).
  
  
• How are we blessed as we live the law of chastity? (See D&C 121:45–46) How might our obedience to the law of chastity affect others?
  
  
• How does Satan tempt people to violate the law of chastity? How do people try to rationalize violating this law?
  
  President Gordon B. Hinckley warned: "You must not fool around with the Internet to find pornographic material. You must not dial a long-distance telephone number to listen to filth. You must not rent videos with pornography of any kind. This salacious stuff simply is not for you. Stay away from pornography as you would avoid a serious disease. It is destructive. It can become habitual, and those who indulge in it get so they cannot leave it alone. It is addictive" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 66–67; or Ensign, May 1998, 49).
  
  
• How can we protect ourselves from temptations to violate the law of chastity? What can we do in our homes to avoid immoral influences?
  
  
• The law of chastity includes purity of thought as well as action. How are we affected spiritually when our thoughts are unclean? (See D&C 63:16.) How can we dismiss unclean thoughts from our minds?
  
  Elder Boyd K. Packer of the Quorum of the Twelve counseled us to evict unworthy thoughts from our minds by putting "something edifying in their place" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1977, 90; or Ensign,Nov. 1977, 60). Discuss how to follow this counsel. Suggestions include praying for strength, singing a favorite hymn or reciting a favorite scripture in our minds, or thinking about our love for family members.

3. Be honest.

• What does it mean to be honest?
  
  President James E. Faust taught: "Honesty is more than not lying. It is truth telling, truth speaking, truth living, and truth loving" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1996, 57; or Ensign,Nov. 1996, 41).
  
  
• Read D&C 42:21, 51:9, and D&C 97:8. Why is it important to be honest in all aspects of our lives? What are the consequences of being dishonest? How are we blessed as we are honest?
  
  
• What are some ways we are tempted to be dishonest? How can giving in to small temptations to be dishonest make us more vulnerable to other temptations? How can we overcome temptations to be dishonest?
  
  
• What does it mean to be honest with the Lord?
  
  
• What does it mean to be honest with ourselves?
  
  
• How can we effectively teach honesty in our homes?

4. Use language that reverences God and is edifying.

• Read D&C 63:60–62 and D&C 136:21. What is the Lord's commandment concerning how we use His name? What are some ways that people take the Lord's name in vain?
  
  
• In addition to taking the Lord's name in vain, what other kinds of language should we avoid?
  
  President Hinckley said: "Don't swear. Don't profane. Avoid so-called dirty jokes. Stay away from conversation that is sprinkled with foul and filthy words. You will be happier if you do so, and your example will give strength to others" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 59; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 48).
  
  
• What are some consequences of using bad language?
  
  Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve said, "Profanity and vulgarity … are sins that separate us from God and cripple our spiritual defenses by causing the Holy Ghost to withdraw from us" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1986, 69; or Ensign, May 1986, 52).
  
  
• How does Satan tempt people to use profane, vulgar, or obscene language? How can we overcome temptations to use bad language?
  
  
• Why is learning to control our words essential to our spiritual growth? How can controlling our words help us stay away from other temptations?
  
  
• How should we respond when we are around people who use bad language or when bad language is used in movies, television, or books?
  
  
• How can parents teach children not to use bad language?
  
  
• What kind of language would the Lord like us to use? (See D&C 52:16; 136:24; Ephesians 4:29.) In what ways can our words edify others? How can we encourage others to use language that reverences God and is edifying?

5. The armor of God includes weapons that we can wield

While serving in the Quorum of the Twelve, Elder Harold B. Lee explained that the armor of God includes not only defensive protections but also weapons that we can actively wield:

"[The] armoured man hold[s] in his hand a shield and in his other hand a sword. … That shield was the shield of faith and the sword was the sword of the spirit which is the Word of God. I can't think of any more powerful weapons than faith and a knowledge of the scriptures in … which are contained the Word of God. One so armoured and one so prepared with those weapons is prepared to go out against the enemy" ("Feet Shod with the Preparation of the Gospel of Peace," Brigham Young University Speeches of the Year [9 Nov. 1954], 7).

Lesson 42: “Continuing Revelation to Latter-day Prophets”

Purpose

To show class members that the Lord continues to guide the Church through revelation to latter-day prophets, seers, and revelators.

 

Preparation

• Prayerfully study the following scriptures and other materials:
  • Doctrine and Covenants 1:38; 68:1–4; 84:109–10; 107:25, 34, 93–98; 132:8.
  • Official Declaration 2 (pages 293–94 in the Doctrine and Covenants).
  • Our Heritage, pages 117–19, 125–27.
• Review the material for this lesson in the Class Member Study Guide.
• To gain a greater understanding of historical events related to the doctrine in this lesson, consider reviewing the following:
  • "Witnessing the Faithfulness."
  • "Race and the Priesthood."
  • "Ministry of David O. McKay: Church Correlation."
  • "Ministry of Harold B. Lee: The Purposes of Priesthood Correlation."
  • Additional historical material for this lesson.

Discussion and Application

Read D&C 1:38 and D&C 68:1–4. Members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are latter-day prophets, seers, and revelators. They continue to receive revelation to guide the Church. Their direction is:

"the will of the Lord,
… the mind of the Lord,
… the word of the Lord,
… the voice of the Lord,
and the power of God unto salvation" (D&C 68:4). 

1. Church correlation

Review Our Heritage, beginning with the last paragraph on page 117 and including all of page 118. Church correlation was initiated and continues to operate today by revelation from the Lord to His prophets.

The purpose of Church correlation is to preserve "the right way of God" (Jacob 7:7). Ultimately it is intended to help accomplish the mission of the Church, which is to invite all people to "come unto Christ, and be perfected in him" (Moroni 10:32; see also D&C 20:59).

The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve oversee correlation in the Church. Correlation includes:

• Maintaining purity of doctrine.
• Emphasizing the importance of the family and the home.
• Placing all the work of the Church under priesthood direction.
• Establishing proper relationships among the organizations of the Church.
• Achieving unity and order in the Church.
• Ensuring simplicity of Church programs and materials.

Elder Bruce R. McConkie of the Quorum of the Twelve said that correlation is a process "in which we take all the programs of the Church, bring them to one focal point, wrap them in one package, operate them as one program, involve all members of the Church in the operation—and do it all under priesthood direction" (Let Every Man Learn His Duty [pamphlet, 1976], 2).

How does the Church's correlation efforts bless our lives.


Importance of the family
The correlation effort has emphasized the importance of the family in many ways. One is the establishment of the family home evening program. Parents are to hold a weekly family home evening to teach and strengthen their families. Monday evenings are reserved for family home evening throughout the Church and should be kept free from Church meetings and activities.

• How has family home evening influenced your life? 
• What have you done to make family home evenings successful?

The correlation effort has also emphasized the importance of the family by clarifying the role of the organizations, programs, and activities of the Church in relation to the family. The Church Handbook of Instructions states:

"The most important place for gospel teaching and leadership is in the family and the home (see Mosiah 4:14–15; D&C 68:25–28). … Quorums, auxiliaries, programs, and activities in the Church should strengthen and support the family. They should enhance gospel-centered family activities, not compete with them" (Book 2: Priesthood and Auxiliary Leaders [1998], 299).

• Why is it important to understand that Church auxiliaries, programs, and activities exist to support the family? 
• How have Church organizations and activities strengthened you and your family?

The correlation effort also emphasizes that Church programs and activities should not make unnecessary demands on the effort, time, or other resources of Church members.


Operation of Church auxiliaries

One important role of correlation is to unify and coordinate the auxiliary organizations of the Church—the Relief Society, Young Men, Young Women, Primary, and Sunday School. For many years these organizations were somewhat independent. At the general Church level, some had their own magazines, funding, and conferences. As they grew, they became increasingly complex and often had unnecessary duplication in their programs and materials.

Through the process of correlation, such complexity and duplication have been reduced. Through correlation, there has also been an emphasis on auxiliary organizations functioning under the direction of priesthood leaders. For example, in a ward these organizations all function under the direction of the bishopric.

• Why is it important to unify and coordinate the efforts of the auxiliary organizations in the ward? 
• How have you seen these organizations be able to work more effectively by coordinating their efforts?

Preparation of Church publications
Church publications, such as lesson manuals and Church magazines, are produced to help members learn and live the gospel of Jesus Christ. The correlation process helps ensure that these materials are scripture-based, doctrinally accurate, and appropriate for the intended audience. All Church publications are planned, prepared, reviewed, and implemented under the direction of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve.

One result of correlation in Church publications is that adult and youth Gospel Doctrine classes and most Primary classes study the same book of scripture during the year. This can encourage and facilitate discussion of the scriptures in the home.

• How can lessons taught at church support parents' efforts to teach their children at home?

Home teaching
Read D&C 20:53–55. Explain that home visits by priesthood holders have been part of the Church since the time of the Prophet Joseph Smith. As part of the correlation effort, these visits were reemphasized in the 1960s and called home teaching. Home teaching continues to be a vital responsibility of teachers, priests, and Melchizedek Priesthood holders.

• What are the purposes of home teaching? 
• What experiences have shown you the importance of home teaching?

Read D&C 84:109–10 and D&C 132:8.

• In what ways does Church correlation help us fulfill these words?
• What can we do individually and in our Church callings to apply the principles of Church correlation?
  

 

2. Revelation extending the blessings of the priesthood to every worthy male member of the Church

Explain that in June 1978, President Spencer W. Kimball announced a revelation that extended the blessings of the priesthood to every worthy male member of the Church. Review the account of this revelation from Our Heritage, pages 125–27.

• Read Official Declaration 2. How has this revelation been a blessing to the Church?
• What can we learn from the process President Kimball went through before receiving this revelation? (See Our Heritage, page 126.)

 

3. Publication of new Latter-day Saint editions of the scriptures

In 1979, after years of careful work under the direction of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve, the Church published a Latter-day Saint edition of the Bible. This edition of the Bible has the same text as the King James Version, but it includes special study aids, such as the Topical Guide, the Bible Dictionary, and footnotes referring to passages in other books of scripture and to excerpts from Joseph Smith's translation of the Bible.

In 1981, the Church published a new edition of the triple combination (the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price in a single volume), with expanded footnotes and index entries.

• Read Ezekiel 37:15–19. Explain that "the stick of Judah" is the Bible and "the stick of Ephraim" is the Book of Mormon. How do the new editions of the scriptures help the Bible and Book of Mormon become "one in [your] hand"?
  
  Many footnotes in the Bible refer to scriptures in the Book of Mormon, and many footnotes in the Book of Mormon refer to scriptures in the Bible. Elder Boyd K. Packer of the Quorum of the Twelve observed: "The stick or record of Judah—the Old Testament and the New Testament—and the stick or record of Ephraim—the Book of Mormon, which is another testament of Jesus Christ—are now woven together in such a way that as you pore over one you are drawn to the other; as you learn from one you are enlightened by the other. They are indeed one in our hands" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1982, 75; or Ensign, Nov. 1982, 53).

Reflect upon the various study aids in the Latter-day Saint editions of the scriptures. Then reflect on the following questions:

• In what ways have you used the study aids in the scriptures? 
• How have these resources helped you in your scripture study? 
• In what ways do you think the Church has been blessed because of the Latter-day Saint editions of the scriptures?
  
  Soon after these scriptures were printed, Elder Boyd K. Packer prophesied: "With the passing of years, these scriptures will produce successive generations of faithful Christians who know the Lord Jesus Christ and are disposed to obey His will. … The revelations will be opened to them as to no other [generation] in the history of the world. Into their hands now are placed the sticks of Joseph and of Judah. They will develop a gospel scholarship beyond that which their forebears could achieve. They will have the testimony that Jesus is the Christ and be competent to proclaim Him and to defend Him" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1982, 75; or Ensign, Nov. 1982, 53).
  
  In the April 1995 general conference, President Gordon B. Hinckley made an observation that shows that Elder Packer's words are being fulfilled: "I look back to my own youth. Neither young men nor young women were doing much scripture reading at that time. What a marvelous change has been wrought. A new generation is arising who are familiar with the word of the Lord" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1995, 117; or Ensign, May 1995, 87).

 

4. Additional Quorums of the Seventy

As the Church has grown, the Lord has revealed how general Church administration should change to meet the needs of members all over the world. These changes have been especially evident in the organization of additional Quorums of the Seventy.

• Read D&C 107:25, 34. What are the responsibilities of the Seventy?

For many years there were only seven General Authorities of the Church who served as Seventies. They made up the First Council of the Seventy. In 1975, others were called; they served in the First Quorum of the Seventy. Further expansion came in 1989, when a Second Quorum of the Seventy was added.

In April 1995, President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the calling of new local officers, called Area Authorities, who would serve for a period of about six years. (See Conference Report, Apr. 1995, 71–72; or Ensign, May 1995, 52.)

In 1997, President Hinckley announced that Area Authorities would be ordained Seventies and would form the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Quorums of the Seventy. Unlike Seventies who serve as General Authorities, Area Authority Seventies serve in the areas in which they live and continue in their present employment. (See Conference Report, Apr. 1997, 4–5; or Ensign, May 1997, 5–6.)

• Read D&C 107:93–97. How does creation of additional Quorums of the Seventy comply with the instructions in this revelation?
• How do you think the calling of Area Authority Seventies will help the Church as it grows?
  
  Concerning the creation of additional Quorums of the Seventy, President Hinckley said: "With these respective quorums in place, we have established a pattern under which the Church may grow to any size with an organization of Area Presidencies and Area Authority Seventies, chosen and working across the world according to need. Now, the Lord is watching over His kingdom. He is inspiring its leadership to care for its ever growing membership" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1997, 5; or Ensign, May 1997, 6).

Lesson 41: “Every Member a Missionary”

Purpose

To inspire class members to participate in taking the gospel to all the world and to strengthen new converts.

Preparation

• Prayerfully study the following scriptures and other materials:
  • Doctrine and Covenants 1:4–5, 30; 65; 88:81;109:72–74.
• To gain a greater understanding of historical events related to the doctrine in this lesson, consider reviewing the following:
  • "Teachings of David O. McKay: Every Member a Missionary": This two-minute video introduces President McKay's slogan, "Every member a missionary." 
  • "Yoga Missionary": This excerpt describes one member's strategy for sharing the gospel in Communist-era Czechoslovakia.
• Read the following from Our Heritage:
  • Missionary work under the administration of President David O. McKay (pages 116–17).
  • President Spencer W. Kimball's address to the regional representatives of the Church (first two paragraphs on page 125).

Discussion and Application

1. The Church is coming forth out of obscurity.

This year's course of study has shown how the Church began as a small group of people who were little known. The Church has now grown to include members in almost every country of the world. This dramatic increase in membership and visibility would have been difficult to comprehend during the Church's early days of struggle, persecution, and poverty. But the Lord revealed the marvelous destiny of His Church through the Prophet Joseph Smith.

Read the following scriptures and discuss what each teaches about the destiny of the Church.

1. D&C 1:30.
2. D&C 65:1–6. 
3. D&C 109:72–74.

The Prophet Joseph Smith declared, "No unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished, and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done" (History of the Church, 4:540).

• In what ways is the Church coming out of obscurity throughout the world?

2. Latter-day prophets have challenged us to take the gospel to all the world.

One important way the Church moves forward throughout the world is through the missionary efforts of each member. Latter-day prophets have challenged us to make greater efforts to share the gospel as member missionaries and as full-time missionaries.

President David O. McKay became well known for his saying "Every member a missionary." Read Our Heritage, pages 116–17

Later, President Spencer W. Kimball called on Church members to lengthen their stride in missionary service. He asked Church members to pray that the doors of nations would be opened to the preaching of the gospel and to increase the number of prepared missionaries so we could enter those doors.

Read President Kimball's address to the regional representatives (Our Heritage, page 125, first two paragraphs). President Kimball's vision of how missionary work would move across the earth is now coming to pass.

President Gordon B. Hinckley taught that each of us has a responsibility to bring to pass this vision of the gospel filling the earth:

"Now, what of the future? What of the years that lie ahead? It looks promising indeed. People are beginning to see us for what we are and for the values we espouse. …

"If we will go forward, never losing sight of our goal, speaking ill of no one, living the great principles we know to be true, this cause will roll on in majesty and power to fill the earth. Doors now closed to the preaching of the gospel will be opened. The Almighty, if necessary, may have to shake the nations to humble them and cause them to listen to the servants of the living God. Whatever is needed will come to pass.

"The key to the great challenges facing us and to the success of the work will be the faith of all who call themselves Latter-day Saints" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1997, 92; or Ensign, Nov. 1997, 68).

• How are these prophecies of the gospel filling the earth being fulfilled?

3. "Every member a missionary."

• Read D&C 1:4–5 and D&C 88:81. What do these passages teach about our responsibility to share the gospel?
• What can each of us do to assist in missionary work? 

Prepare to serve full-time missions

• How can we prepare ourselves to serve full-time missions? Why is it important that we prepare ourselves before we are called?
  
  President Spencer W. Kimball said: "When I ask for more missionaries, I am not asking for more testimony-barren or unworthy missionaries. I am asking that we start earlier and train our missionaries better in every branch and every ward in the world. … Young people [should] understand that it is a great privilege to go on a mission and that they must be physically well, mentally well, spiritually well, and that 'the Lord cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance' [D&C 1:31]" ("When the World Will Be Converted," Ensign, Oct. 1974, 7).
  • How can parents and other adults help young people prepare to be full-time missionaries?
    
• What challenges do youth face as they prepare to serve full-time missions? How can they overcome these challenges? What challenges do older members face as they prepare to serve full-time missions? How can they overcome these challenges?

Serve full-time missions

• Who should serve full-time missions?
  
  Elder David B. Haight of the Quorum of the Twelve counseled: "The goal of every physically able couple in the Church, just as it is for every nineteen-year-old young man in the Church, should be to serve a mission. No finer example can be given, no finer testimony can be borne by parents to children or grandchildren, than through missionary service in their mature years" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1987, 73; or Ensign, May 1987, 61).

Support full-time missionaries

• How can we support missionaries who are now serving?
  
  President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "My brethren and sisters, we can let the missionaries try to do it alone, or we can help them. If they do it alone, they will knock on doors day after day and the harvest will be meager. Or as members we can assist them in finding and teaching investigators" ("Find the Lambs, Feed the Sheep," Ensign, May 1999, 107).

Share the gospel throughout our lives

• Why is it important for us to share the gospel with others throughout our lives? What experiences have you had in sharing the gospel with others?
• Why are we sometimes afraid to share the gospel? How can we overcome these fears?
• Were any of you influenced to join the Church because of the example and friendshipping of a Church member? How did the actions of this Church member affect you?
• What are some ways we can share the gospel with others as part of our daily lives?

President Spencer W. Kimball said: "It seems to me that the Lord chose his words when he said [that the gospel must go to] 'every nation,' 'every land,' 'uttermost bounds of the earth,' 'every tongue,' 'every people,' 'every soul,' 'all the world,' 'many lands.' Surely there is significance in these words! … I wonder if we are doing all we can. Are we complacent in our approach to teaching all the world? … Are we prepared to lengthen our stride? To enlarge our vision?" (Ensign, Oct. 1974, 5).

• In what ways can each of us lengthen our stride as we seek to share the gospel in our daily lives?

President Kimball also said: "Our great need, and our great calling, is to bring to the people of this world the candle of understanding to light their way out of obscurity and darkness and into the joy, peace, and truths of the gospel. I believe we must not weary in our well-doing. I believe it is time again to ask ourselves the question, what can I do to help take the gospel to others and to the inhabitants of the world?" ("Are We Doing All We Can?" Ensign, Feb. 1983, 5).

President Hinckley requested that each priesthood leader accept the responsibility and set the example for finding and friendshipping investigators. He asked that this subject be discussed occasionally in sacrament meetings. He also asked that priesthood, Relief Society, Young Women, Primary, ward council, and stake council meetings be used to plan how to find and friendship investigators. (Ensign, May 1999, 107.)

4. Nurturing new converts is our continuing responsibility.

"Any investigator worthy of baptism becomes a convert worthy of saving" (Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign, May 1999, 109). Each year, hundreds of thousands of converts are brought into the Church. These new members need to be nurtured and strengthened by all of us.

• Why is it sometimes difficult for new converts to stay active in the Church?
  
  President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "It is not an easy thing to become a member of this Church. In most cases it involves setting aside old habits, leaving old friends and associations, and stepping into a new society which is different and somewhat demanding" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1997, 66; or Ensign, May 1997, 47).
  
• What can new converts do to strengthen themselves? What can other members do to strengthen new converts? How have you seen members do this effectively?
  
• President Hinckley taught that "every convert needs three things:
  • "1. A friend in the Church to whom he can constantly turn, who will walk beside him, who will answer his questions, who will understand his problems.
  • "2. An assignment. Activity is the genius of this Church. It is the process by which we grow. Faith and love for the Lord are like the muscle of my arm. If I use them, they grow stronger. If I put them in a sling, they become weaker. Every convert deserves a responsibility. …
  • "3. Every convert must be 'nourished by the good word of God' (Moro. 6:4). It is imperative that he or she become affiliated with a priesthood quorum or the Relief Society, the Young Women, the Young Men, the Sunday School, or the Primary. He or she must be encouraged to come to sacrament meeting" (Ensign,May 1999, 108).

Lesson 39: “The Hearts of the Children Shall Turn to Their Fathers”

Purpose

To help class members understand the need to seek out their ancestors and receive priesthood ordinances in their behalf.

Preparation

• Prayerfully study the following scriptures and other materials:
  • Doctrine and Covenants 2; 110:13–16; 138;Joseph Smith—History 1:37–39.
  • Our Heritage, pages 98–99, 101–2, 105–7.
• Review the material for this lesson in the Class Member Study Guide 
• To gain a greater understanding of historical events related to the doctrine in this lesson, consider reviewing the following:
  • "Susa Young Gates and the Vision of the Redemption of the Dead": This article gives context for the vision that has been canonized as Doctrine and Covenants 138. 
  • "Glad Tidings: The History of Baptisms for the Dead": This seven-minute video discusses how Alvin Smith's death helped shape the questions that led to revelation on baptism for the dead.
  • "Ministry of Wilford Woodruff: The Work of the Temple": This two-minute video highlights Wilford Woodruff's teachings on redeeming the dead. 
  • "Ministry of Joseph F. Smith: A Vision of the Redemption of the Dead": This three-minute video introduces the vision recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 138. 

Discussion and Application 

1. Elijah: "The keys of this dispensation are committed into your hands."

Read D&C 2; 110:13–16; 138:47–48; Joseph Smith—History 1:37–39. 

• When the angel Moroni came to Joseph Smith, he said that Elijah would "plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers" (D&C 2:2;Joseph Smith—History 1:39). In this prophecy, the word fathers refers to our ancestors. What promises were made to our ancestors?
  
  President Joseph Fielding Smith taught: "What was the promise made to the fathers that was to be fulfilled in the latter days by the turning of the hearts of the children to their fathers? It was the promise of the Lord made through Enoch, Isaiah, and the prophets, to the nations of the earth, that the time should come when the dead should be redeemed" (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 2:154).
  
  Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve said, "God made those promises to the ancient patriarchs—Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and so forth—and we undoubtedly made them to our own lineal fathers and mothers, those who came to earth before the gospel was restored but whom we promised to provide its saving ordinances" (Christ and the New Covenant [1997], 297).
• On 3 April 1836 in the Kirtland Temple, the prophet Elijah appeared to the Prophet Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. What was Elijah's purpose in visiting Joseph and Oliver? (See D&C 110:13–16; see also D&C 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:38–39.)
• Read Joseph Smith—History 1:37–39 and D&C 138:47–48. Why would the earth be "utterly wasted at [the Lord's] coming" if we did not have the sealing power?
  
  Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught that without the sealing power, "no family ties would exist in the eternities, and indeed the family of man would have been left in eternity with 'neither root [ancestors] nor branch [descendants].' Inasmuch as … a sealed, united, celestially saved family of God is the ultimate purpose of mortality, any failure here would have been a curse indeed, rendering the entire plan of salvation 'utterly wasted'" (Christ and the New Covenant, 297–98).

2. President Wilford Woodruff: "Somebody has got to redeem them."

President Woodruff was devoted to the work of redeeming the dead and sealing families for eternity. During his ministry, many members of the Church served genealogical missions, and in 1894 the First Presidency directed the organization of a genealogical society (Our Heritage, page 101). 

According to Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve, "events of that historic year [1894] established family history research and temple service as one work in the Church" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1994, 114; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, 85).

The urgency of temple work for the dead

Read the story about Bishop Henry Ballard and his daughter from Our Heritage, pages 98–99.

For a period of time, President Woodruff served as president of the temple in St. George, Utah. It was in that temple that endowments for the dead were performed for the first time in this dispensation (see Doctrines of Salvation, 2:171). While serving there, President Woodruff was visited by the spirits of many "eminent men" who had died. 

Read the following account by President Woodruff:

"The spirits of the dead gathered around me, wanting to know why we did not redeem them. Said they, 'You have had the use of the Endowment House for a number of years, and yet nothing has ever been done for us. We laid the foundation of the government you now enjoy, and we … remained true to it and were faithful to God.' These were the signers of the Declaration of Independence [of the United States of America], and they waited on me for two days and two nights. … I straightway went into the baptismal font and called upon Brother McAllister to baptize me for the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and fifty other eminent men, making one hundred in all, including John Wesley, Columbus, and others" (The Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, sel. G. Homer Durham [1946], 160–61).

• What can we learn from these two stories?
  
  While serving in the Quorum of the Twelve, Elder Wilford Woodruff taught: "For the last eighteen hundred years, the people that have lived and passed away never heard the voice of an inspired man, never heard a Gospel sermon, until they entered the spirit-world. Somebody has got to redeem them, by performing such ordinances for them in the flesh as they cannot attend to themselves in the spirit, and in order that this work may be done, we must have Temples in which to do it" (in Journal of Discourses, 19:228–29).

The need for us to be sealed to our parents and ancestors

Read the revelation that President Woodruff received about tracing our family histories and sealing children to their parents (Our Heritage, page 101).

• What does this revelation teach about families? How does the revelation help fulfill the prophecy about turning the hearts of the children to their fathers?

3. President Joseph F. Smith: "The eyes of my understanding were opened."

Read the following statement by President Woodruff:

"President [Brigham] Young, who followed President Joseph Smith, … laid the foundation of [the Salt Lake Temple], as well as others in the mountains of Israel. What for? That we might carry out these principles of redemption for the dead. He accomplished all that God required at his hands. But he did not receive all the revelations that belong to this work; neither did President [John] Taylor, nor has Wilford Woodruff" (The Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, 153–54).

President Smith, the sixth President of the Church, received a revelation that helped the work of redeeming the dead continue to move forward. On 4 October 1918, just weeks before his death, he said in general conference:

"I have been undergoing a siege of very serious illness for the last five months. … I have not lived alone these five months. I have dwelt in the spirit of prayer, of supplication, of faith and of determination; and I have had my communication with the Spirit of the Lord continuously" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1918, 2).

The day before President Smith made this statement, he had received a revelation that would expand the Saints' understanding of the redemption of the dead. This revelation is now section 138 of the Doctrine and Covenants. It is a record of the Savior's visit to the spirit world while His body was in the tomb.

• What was President Smith doing when he received the vision of the redemption of the dead? (See D&C 138:1–11. Read 1 Peter 3 and 1 Peter 4)
• Read D&C 138:12–19. Whom did the Savior visit in the spirit world?
  The Savior went to the spirits who:
  1. "Had been faithful in the testimony of Jesus while they lived in mortality" (D&C 138:12).
  2. "Had offered sacrifice in the similitude of the great sacrifice of the Son of God" (D&C 138:13).
  3. "Had suffered tribulation in their Redeemer's name" (D&C 138:13).
  4. "Had departed the mortal life, firm in the hope of a glorious resurrection, through the grace of God the Father and his Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ" (D&C 138:14).
  5. "Were filled with joy and gladness, and were rejoicing together because the day of their deliverance was at hand" (D&C 138:15).
• To whom did the Savior not go? (See D&C 138:20–21.) What did the Savior do so the gospel could be preached to "those who had died in their sins, without a knowledge of the truth"? (See D&C 138:27–37.) Who preaches the gospel in the spirit world today? (See D&C 138:57.)
• Read D&C 138:22–24, 57–59. What are the differences between those in the spirit world who have been faithful in the testimony of Jesus and those who have not? What do these verses teach about the importance of teaching the gospel in the spirit world? How do these verses make you feel about your responsibility to provide priesthood ordinances for the dead?
  What experiences and feelings have you had as you have provided ordinances for the dead?

4. President Gordon B. Hinckley: "We are determined … to take the temples to the people."

Read President Joseph F. Smith's prophecy that the time would come when the land would "be dotted with temples" (Our Heritage, page 106).

President Hinckley is another prophet who has expanded our understanding of temple work. When he became President of the Church in 1995, there were 47 temples in operation. About two and one-half years later, he made the following announcement:

"There are many areas of the Church that are remote, where the membership is small and not likely to grow very much in the near future. Are those who live in these places to be denied forever the blessings of the temple ordinances? While visiting such an area a few months ago, we prayerfully pondered this question. The answer, we believe, came bright and clear.

"We will construct small temples in some of these areas, buildings with all of the facilities to administer all of the ordinances. They would be built to temple standards, which are much higher than meetinghouse standards. They would accommodate baptisms for the dead, the endowment service, sealings, and all other ordinances to be had in the Lord's house for both the living and the dead. …

"… We are determined … to take the temples to the people and afford them every opportunity for the very precious blessings that come of temple worship" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1997, 68–69; or Ensign, Nov. 1997, 49–50).

In April 1998, President Hinckley announced a goal to have 100 temples in operation by the end of the century (see Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 115; or Ensign, May 1998, 88).

• How has the increase in temple construction affected you? How has it affected others you know? How will the accelerated building of temples affect those who have died without receiving the gospel?