Teaching

Choice #2

2 Peter 2

Characteristics of false teachers described by Peter

·      Those who bring in damnable heresies

·      Denying the Lord

·      Bring upon themselves swift destruction

·      Those that lust after wickedness

·      Despise government

How Do These Characteristics Help You Recognize False Teachers Today
People who despise government obviously are those that do not like to follow rules. The Lord has set out a list of "rules" for us, and we are commanded to keep them. If a false teacher goes against rules, you know that they are most likely going to go again'st God.

If a teacher denies the Lord, and his prophets today, you have a good idea that He is not getting the doctrine from the Lord for our day and age. For the most part, a lot of what the Lord and his prophets taught back in biblical times are the same today as they were yesterday. However, there are some new doctrine that prophets receive for today, and they help us get through the difficulties that occur in today's age.

The dangers of returning to the “pollutions of the world.”

In D&C 82, we learn that “he who sins against the greater light shall receive the greater condemnation.” Also, if we have repented of our sins, and if we choose to go back to our old ways of sinning, the former sins return. What I also got out of these scriptures, especially in 2 Peter 2 is once you’ve learned how happy you are when you’re righteous, you can see how awful it feels to be unrighteous. It’s like black and white. The Lord knows we face many challenges while we’re here on the earth, and he blesses us for our efforts for keeping his commandments. However, when we choose not to follow his ways, we are damned.

The Trial Of Our Faith is More Precious Than Gold

Choice #4

1 Peter

We are given trials as a way to test our faith, obedience, and to help us learn and grow from our experiences. When trials come our way, I think we sometimes forget that we have the Lord there to help us, especially when it feels like we are all alone in the situation. I know that whenever I am experiencing a trial, I always think that I can get through it myself, but as time continues to go on, and the trial only gets harder, it seems I remember at the last minute that I can turn to my Lord and Savior for help and guidance. Each time, they help lift the burden off of my shoulders.

Every trial we go through, we learn from it, and it helps make us stronger people. I think the most important thing I learn from every trial is how much I know the Lord does love me. He is always there for me, and I know he will help me get through it. The Lord does not give us these trials because he does not love us. He wants us to rely on Him, and to remember that He is always there for us no matter what.

One of the most important things we can do when we experience a trial is to not go astray. If we stay on His path, and endure these trials, we will be blessed.

Works of Righteousness

Hebrews 13—Choice #3

 

How should we treat strangers and those “in bonds”?

With love and kindness.

How is marriage looked upon?

Marriage is looked upon as honorable, and God will judge those who choose to commit adultery or are not chaste.

What warnings are given about covetousness?

Let all conversations avoid covetousness, so that we may be content with the things that we have. The Lord wants us to turn to Him for help, that is why we may not have all the things we desire on this earth.

What is “the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever”?

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever. He will never change in the way He believes, and will never leave us.

How are we sanctified?

We are sanctified through Christ’s atonement. He shed His own blood and suffered for our sins.

How do we respond to those who rule over us?

We must obey those that rule over us, for they are the ones who will help keep us safe and out of harms way.

Who did Paul ask the people to pray for?

I believe Paul is asking us to pray for the leaders, so that they may be able to do what is best for us.

Entering into the Lord's Rest

Choice #6

Hebrews 3-4

1.    What group of people was refused entrance into the Lord’s rest?

Those that sinned and did not repent, and those with an evil heart of unbelief.

2.    What sins caused them to forfeit this privilege?

Being unbelievers, and having hardened hearts so as not to hear the gospel messages.

3.    How does D&C 84:23-24 help define what is the Lord’s rest?

It defines the “Lord’s rest” as the fullness of His glory. Also, in the Institute Manual, you learn more about the meaning, and describes it as a life of paradise, a state of peace, an a place where we can rest from all our troubles.

4.    What sins did Paul repeatedly warn against so as not to incur the same punishment?

Not to be unbelievers, continually sin, and to not harden your hearts.

5.    How do you think the warnings in Hebrews 3:12-15 apply to us?

We live in a time where there is so much sin that is surrounding us. These warnings apply to us as a way to let us know that if we listen and follow the desires of Christ, and endure to the end, we will be saved. 

6.    List the counsel found in Hebrews 4 that will help a person enter into the rest of the Lord.

If we have faith, an open heart, and always believe, then we will be able to enter into the rest of the Lord.

7.    How do Matthew 7:21-23; John 7:17; James 1:22 help in understanding how the word needs to be “mixed with faith”? (Hebrews 4:2-3).

When we have faith, we are more likely to follow the words of the Lord. If we do what is asked of the Lord, we know and understand His doctrine and what He expects of us.

Be Thou An Example of the Believers

Choice #1

Philipians 1-4

People sometimes argue and complain over petty matters in church meetings or throughout the week? What does Philippians 2:1-9, 14-15 say about it?

We should be likeminded and be as one, like Christ is one with the Father. Heavenly Father gives us guidance through leaders in the church who are called by Him, and Him alone. These leaders are inspired and given revelation from the Father regarding what is best for the members of the ward. If we murmur about the petty matter in church meetings, we are murmuring to God and I feel it shows that we do not care.

Many youth feel that their parents’ testimony is sufficient for them. Since they have good parents, they rely on them for all their spiritual strength. (Philippians 2:12-15 and the Institute Student Manual)

Our salvation relies solely on our testimonies. We cannot just believe that Jesus is the Christ. We must take action, and show that we believe and have faith. We have been told many times that in order to have a testimony we must act upon it. We may “borrow” our parents’ testimony, but it is up to us to gain our own testimonies. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Philippians 2:12. We can gain a testimony by attending church, reading the scriptures and asking the Father if it is true, and bearing your testimony of the gospel. Sometimes you may think you may not have a testimony, but if you bear it, you may come to find that you indeed have one.

An investigator is considering joining the Church, but his family will no longer associate with him if he does. (Philippians 3;7-16; 4:13)

I have never been in a situation like this, but know a couple people who have/or are in this situation. It’s sad to see that families will disown children over religion, however, if we follow the Lord, he will bless us and help us overcome the struggles we are facing. In Philippians 4:13 it says, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Christ will strengthen us when we follow His will.

How is this writing assignment an example of the principle taught in 2 Nephi 32:3?

We have answers to questions right in front of us, if we seek them out. Scriptures contain all the answers we need to know, all we need to do is study them, and ask the Lord for help as we search these answers. “The words of Christ will tell you all things that ye should do.” (2 Nephi 32:3)

Live As Saints Should Live Romans 12-16

Choice #1

Review Romans 13:11 an look for what is “nearer.” Read Ezekiel 3:20; D&C 14:7; and explain in writing what we must continue doing to work out our salvation.

The word “nearer” in Romans 13:11 refers to the Second Coming. It is important that we keep the commandments, repent, and endure to the end if we want to receive eternal life.

In Romans 12-13 Paul gave much counsel that leads to salvation. Read each of the following verses and list what Paul taught would help lead to salvation.

·      Romans 12:1—present our bodies; stay worthy

·      Romans 12:2—do not give into the pressures of the world

·      Romans 12:9—Stay away from evil, and cleave to good

·      Romans 12:13—serve others

·      Romans 12:16—do not judge others; “be of the same mind one toward another”

·      Romans 12:21—overcome evil with good

·      Romans 13:1—powers are ordained by God

·      Romans 13:3—do good

·      Romans 13:8—love one another

·      Romans 13:9—keep the commandments

Review Romans 14:1-13; 15:1-3. Then write answers to the following questions:

·      What cautions did Paul give about judging?

It is not our responsibility to judge others, therefore we shouldn’t judge. It is the Lord who has the ability to do so.

·      People may have different opinions and practices, but what is most important to remember?

Not to judge them for their practices, and respect them. I know I would not want to be judge for what I believe in.

·      What additional insight comes from reading D&C 38:25-27?

What I took from it is that we should all see others as equals, as we are all equally loved by our Father in Heaven. Therefore, we shouldn’t judge others for what they have or what they don’t have.

Review Romans 15:25-26, 31; 16:2, 15. Write the term Paul frequently used to refer to members of the Church in his day.

He referred to them as saints. Maybe this has no relevance, but it also makes me realize that today, we are known as “latter-day saints.” We are in the last days until Jesus comes again.

Baptism - Romans 6

What must be done with sin before baptism can occur?

We must repent of our sins, and choose to live righteously. It is important to remember that when we repent of our sins, we promise not to repeat them again.

What events from Christ’s life are symbolized in baptism?

Baptism is like unto death, as we are buried under water, it represents Christ’s death, and as we are raised out of the water, it represents Christ when he was raised from the dead. Baptism is a symbolism of a new life, as our sins are washed away and we are clean.

Considering this symbolism, why couldn’t someone be baptized by sprinkling?

Sprinkling doesn’t represent the symbolism of Christ’s death. You need to be emerged from the water in order to be baptized and cleansed from sin.

What do these verses teach us about how we can maintain the “newness of life”?

We can maintain the “newness of life” by choosing to live righteously and serving God.

According to Mosiah 3:19, what part of us would ideally die at baptism?

The natural man

Romans 6:14-23

We are the servants of either righteousness or sin, depending upon the life we choose to live. When we choose to live unworthily, we become the servants of Satan, as we continue to follow his ways. We become trapped as we sin continuously, and forget what is good from evil. If we choose to live righteously, we are the servants of God, and we will be blessed for our efforts. Heavenly Father loves us so much, He gives us so many opportunities to repent and return to Him again. If we live righteously, we will be free from sin.

Forgiveness

What were the people of Corinth commanded to do “if any caused grief”?

They were commanded to forgive them and comfort them, like the Father forgives all men. If we do not forgive those who trespass against us, then why would our Heavenly Father forgive us? Heavenly Father is the only one who can decide who He will forgive.

What are the blessings we will receive if we forgive?

The Father will forgive us for the sins we have made. Aside from what the scriptures say, I also feel another blessing we will receive if we forgive is peace of mind.

What is the danger in failing to forgive?

Our Heavenly Father will not forgive us if we choose not to forgive those who have trespassed against us. Also, in 2 Corinthians 2:11 it says “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” If we do not forgive, we are slowly falling into Satan’s grasp.

Avoiding Sin

1 Corinthians 5

In a way, Paul uses the word “fornication” similar to the way we use it today. In today’s terms we use it as sexual intercourse between unmarried people. But Paul used the word as porneia (the root word for our pornography), and meant any extramarital intercourse. Corinth is also pretty similar to the morality we have today, if not worse. There are more people breaking the law of chastity, and at a younger age. Pornography has become more accessible and has become an addiction to some. Prostitutes are still around, and people continue to break their marital vows by adultery.

In order to be protected against sin, Paul suggested the saints to keep away from those that were committing the sins. Just like in today’s time, we are asked to choose friends wisely so that we won’t be peer pressured into doing things that goes against our values and beliefs. Christ put it in a very interesting way in Matthew 5:29-30. If you cut off that which is evil, you will have a greater chance of not being dragged down to “hell” with those that do evil.

Counsel For Members

1 Thessalonians 3:12-13; 4:1-12; 5:1-22; 2 Thessalonians 3:1-6, 11

Attributes Paul counseled the members to improve on:

·      Love all men

·      Live a chaste life

·      Be honest in your doings

·      Be patient

·      Give thanks to the Lord

·      Pray

·      Avoid all evil and temptation

·      Have faith

Where I need to improve on:

·      Loving one another

I always struggle with this one. I can improve on this by not judging others and providing service.

·      Being patient

Learn to be forgiving and just practice being patient.

·      Avoiding temptation

I know we all struggle with this as well, but by being faithful and obedient to God’s commandments, and diligently studying the scriptures and praying, I can have a better chance of avoiding temptation.

Paul's First Mission: Acts 13-14

1.    Paul started his mission in the city of Damascus, preaching the Jews of the city. He continued his mission and taught in cities such as Antioch, Lystra, Derbe, and Perga.

2.    A missionary who is discouraged should:

·      Fast

·      Pray

·      Have faith in Christ and the Holy Ghost

1.    Barnabus was Paul’s missionary companion on his first mission. Barnabus was a Jew (Levite), who was from the island of Cyprus, and his surname was Joses or Joseph. He was called “a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith” (Acts 11:24), and was chosen with Paul to take the relief funds to the poor of Judea. Barnabus was a hard worker that supported himself rather than continually asking the church for support. The Lord sends out two missionaries so that each one can be a witness for the other. Although I have never been on a mission, I have heard some stories of companions being an influence on the other.

2.    Paul had healed a crippled man, and those who had seen this miracle gave them praise and thought they were Gods.

3.    There came another set of Jews and stoned Paul because they saw him as the chief preacher, and stoned him until they thought he was dead. They thought stoning him would scare Barnabus enough to leave.

Acts 2

Briefly describe the meaning of the day of Pentecost.

Pentecost literally means “fiftieth,” in this case, it was fifty days or seven weeks following the Passover feats that faithful Jews observed as a holiday celebration.

List two or three of Peter’s teachings on this day.

1.     Peter taught about the Second Coming and the signs that will come about when Christ will come again.

2.     Those that follow Christ will be saved.

3.     Repent and be baptized, so that they would be able to receive the Holy Ghost.

In what ways did Peter fulfill his role as a special witness of Jesus Christ?

Peter testified of Christ and taught the things the people needed to learn of Christ and what they needed to do in order to be saved. It was (and still is) important that we knew of the Savior and what is expected of us. Peter taught the people, and they heard what was being said.

What gifts of the Spirit were made manifest on the day of Pentecost?

Those preaching were able to speak in tongues, so that the people they were teaching were able to understand the gospel principles being taught. Those that were young would be able to see visions and old men would be able to dream dreams.

How did the people respond to what occurred on this day?

The people gladly received his word and were baptized, and continued to follow the Prophet’s teachings.

The Savior's Instructions about the Holy Ghost

The Savior’s Instructions About the Holy Ghost

Listed below is what the Holy Ghost does, and what we must do in order to receive the Holy Ghost:

We need to keep the commandments for the Holy Ghost to be with us (John 14:15-17)

The Holy Ghost is given as a comforter, and is there to teach and remind us of the things we learn of the Father and Jesus Christ (John 14:26-27)

He will bear witness and testify of Christ (John 15:26-27)

The Holy Ghost is there to guide us of all truth, and glorifies the Father (John 16:13-14)

The Holy Ghost is there to uplift us, it tends to health and vigor, strengthens and gives tone to the nerves, and as stated in the Student Manual, the Holy Ghost gives “Life to the whole beings.” (Institute New Testament Student Manual “The Holy Ghost Brings to Man His Fullest Potential”)

Through our obedience in keeping the commandments, The Holy Ghost’s mission is to instruct and enlighten our minds. He also reveals the mysteries of the kingdom of God, and is a special messenger of the Father and the Son. (Institute New Testament Student Manual “As a Messenger of the Godhead, the Holy Ghost teaches Faithful Members”)

He is there to act as a cleansing agent to purify a person and sanctify him from all sin. (Bible Dictionary)

Experience with the Holy Ghost:

I know I have had many experiences with the Holy Ghost. It is the warmest feeling a person can have. I remember on my delivery day, going into the surgery room to have my C-section, I was nervous as heck. I remember saying a quick little prayer and asking Heavenly Father for the surgery to go well, but most importantly to be comforted. I remember right after I said that prayer, a feeling of comfort and excitement came over me as I thought to myself, I’m going to be a Mother, and how grateful I was for this opportunity. I know that the Holy Ghost was with me at that moment, and I desperately needed it. I know that the Lord hears and answers our prayers, and the gift of the Holy Ghost is one of the greatest blessings I am grateful for.

Three Parables of Preparation

The Parable of the Ten Virgins

Who does the bridegroom represent?

Jesus Christ

Who did President Harold B. Lee say the virgins represent?

The virgins were professed believers in Christ, because they were expectantly waiting for the coming of Christ, or they were connected with the Church and the events that were to become known with reference to it.

What does the wedding represent?

It represents the Second Coming of Christ

Why did the bridegroom come at “midnight,” while the wedding guests “slumbered and slept”? How does this apply to our waiting for the Savior’s Second Coming?

Nobody knows when Christ is coming again, not even the Savior himself. Only the Father knows, that is why we must be prepared at all times.

What did five of the virgins do that was foolish? (see Matthew 25:3) How might a Church member today make the same error as the foolish virgins? What would the consequences be?

The 5 foolish virgins did not take any oil with them. This represents those who are not prepared for the second coming, and those who are not prepared will be deceived by false prophets, and will be cast down to hell.

What should we learn from the actions of the five wise virgins?

To always have a strong testimony in the gospel of Christ. If we do we will not be deceived by false prophets and be saved.

Keeping in mind that the oil in the parable represents spiritual preparation for the Second Coming, what are some ways we can add “oil: to our “lamps”? What does D&C 45:56-57 teach about ways to add oil to our lamps?

If we continue to follow what has been taught in our primary days (attend church meetings, reading the scriptures, prayer, studying conference talks) this will help add the “oil to our lamps.” Those that do add oil to our lamps have the Holy Ghost with them as their guide and will not be deceived.

The Parable of the Talents

Although a talent was a sum of money in New Testament times, it can also represent all that the Lord has given us. List the rewards each of the three men received in the parable of the talents and explain why each man received that reward. What mattered more than the number of talents or gifts each received?

The servant who received five talents received eternal life, and became ruler. The same reward was given to the servant with two talents. The servant with one talent got his talent taken away and was sent to outer darkness. What mattered more was whether or not each man developed and used their talent to serve others.

What reason did the third man give for hiding his talent?

He was afraid to share his talent, and feared man more than the Lord.

What teachings in 2 Timothy 1:7; Proverbs 3:5-6; D&C 3:7-8; 6:33-37 can help us overcome our fears to develop and use the talents give to us from the Lord?

We are told not to fear man for serving the Lord. If we are need of help, we shouldn’t be afraid to ask for it, for he is always there to help us. If we do not fear man and serve others, we will be blessed with eternal life.

The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats

What difference does the way we treat others make to the Lord?

It makes a great deal of difference, for if we do what is asked and serve those around us, we will have eternal life. But if we do not do what is asked, and are unwilling to serve, he will be sent to “everlasting punishment” (Matthew 25:45).

List the six actions found in Matthew 25:35-36 that permitted “the sheep
to receive their reward at the King’s right hand. What are some spiritual or physical needs people have around you that are similar to those listed in the parable?

• Hungered-he was fed
• Thirsty-they gave him drink
• Stranger-took him in
• Naked-he was clothed
• Sick-they visited him
• Prison-they came unto him.

Feeding the homeless, and visiting the sick are the most common needs people need. There are homeless shelters that help provide for the poor, and when others are sick, people visit them and see if they are need of anything. The Relief Society is one of the ways I can think of that help those who need it.