Welcome to October!
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October, Week 1
Day 1
Primary
1. Read Galatians 3.
2. Paul taught the Galatian Saints that when they were baptized they would become “one in Christ Jesus.” No matter what country they came from, what language they spoke, or what religion their fathers had practiced, once they had been baptized they were all eligible to receive the same blessings as literal descendants of Abraham. That means anyone and everyone in the church is able to have these blessings.
3. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Listen to the whole song.
Youth
1. Read Galatians 3.
2. Many of the Galatian Saints were Gentile converts to Christianity and so were not literal descendants of Abraham, to whom all of God’s blessings were promised. Read verse 7 again. What did Paul promise those Gentile converts who were faithful?
3. To be “blessed with faithful Abraham” means to benefit from the covenant God made with Abraham that through him all people could enjoy the blessings of the gospel (see Abraham 2:11). All those who exercise faith in Jesus Christ and enter the gospel covenant will become one in Christ and heirs of God. Why is it important to know that God promises these blessings to everyone who enters the covenant, regardless of his or her circumstances? (You may be interested in this page on patriarchal blessings, where it talks a little bit about tribes in Israel and how we qualify for the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant.)
4. Paul wrote to the Galatian Saints when he learned they were being led astray by false teachings. One of these teachings was that in order to be saved, Gentiles who had accepted the gospel needed to keep the traditions of the law of Moses. Paul called these traditions the “yoke of bondage.” Paul taught that the law of Moses was intended to help the Israelites come unto Jesus Christ and be justified by faith in Him. Elder Paul V. Johnson of the Seventy explained that many people in New Testament times misunderstood the purpose of the law of Moses:
Many Jews, and even Jewish Christians, … had lost sight of the intent and proper position of the law. One reason for this was the unauthorized addition of requirements and traditions around the law that helped obscure its real intent. These additions and traditions were no longer a ‘schoolmaster … unto Christ’ (Galatians 3:24), ‘pointing our souls to him’ (Jacob 4:5), but rather were so burdensome and consuming that many Jews looked ‘beyond the mark’ (Jacob 4:14) and put the perverted law in place of the Lawgiver Himself.
(“Responding Appropriately to Change” [address to Church Educational System religious educators, Feb. 8, 2013], 1, si.lds.org)
5. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Listen to the whole song.
Day 2
Primary
1. Read Galatians 4.
2. The servants of a king and his children will be treated differently. What opportunities does a king’s child have that a servant does not? Why is it important for us to know that we are children of our Heavenly Father?
3. Listen to the song “The Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Read Galatians 4.
2. An heir is someone who is entitled by law to receive the estate, or belongings, of another. According to verse 7, whose heirs can we become? All those who exercise faith in Jesus Christ and enter the gospel covenant will become one in Christ and heirs of God.
3. Why is it important to know that God promises these blessings to everyone who enters the covenant, regardless of his or her circumstances? Heavenly Father’s promises are for anyone who enters into the gospel covenant, as long as they are faithful to the covenants they have made.
4. Read Galatians 4:9. What do you think are the “weak and beggarly” elements of our natures?
5. There are many ways in which we might be weak or beggarly in nature. President Gordon B. Hinckley spoke of how rising above these tendencies can help improve our marriages and families.
It is a scene of great beauty when a young man and a young woman join hands at the altar in a covenant before God that they will honor and love one another. Then how dismal the picture when a few months later, or a few years later, there are offensive remarks, mean and cutting words, raised voices, bitter accusations.
It need not be, my dear brothers and sisters. We can rise above these mean and beggarly elements in our lives (see Gal. 4:9). We can look for and recognize the divine nature in one another, which comes to us as children of our Father in Heaven. We can live together in the God-given pattern of marriage in accomplishing that of which we are capable if we will exercise discipline of self and refrain from trying to discipline our companion.
Day 3
Primary
1. Today read Galatians 5.
2. Imagine you are looking at a tree. Do you know what kind of tree it is? What if you see apples growing on it – what kind of tree would you think it is then? Just as fruit on a tree can help us know what kind of tree it is, fruits of the Spirit can help us know whether we have the Holy Ghost with us. Feelings like fear, anger, and despair are not ones we have when the Spirit is with us. Instead, the Spirit brings feelings like love, joy, and peace.
3. Galatians 5:22-23 is not a Doctrinal Mastery scripture, but you can memorize it if you like.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
4. Listen to the song “I Love to See the Temple.”
Youth
1. Today read Galatians 5.
2. Imagine you are looking at a tree. Do you know what kind of tree it is? Maybe you would, maybe you wouldn’t. What if you see apples growing on it – what kind of tree would you think it is then? Just as fruit on a tree can help us know what kind of tree it is, fruits of the Spirit can help us know whether we have the Holy Ghost with us. Feelings like fear, anger, and despair are not ones we have when the Spirit is with us. Instead, the Spirit brings feelings like love, joy, and peace.
3. Galatians 5:22-23 is not a Doctrinal Mastery scripture, but you can memorize it if you like.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
4. In his talk A Yearning for Home,” President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said,
I testify that when we embark upon or continue the incredible journey that leads to God, our lives will be better.
This does not mean that our lives will be free from sorrow. We all know of faithful followers of Christ who suffer tragedy and injustice — Jesus Christ Himself suffered more than anyone. Just as God makes the “sun to rise on the evil and on the good,” He also allows adversity to test the just and the unjust. In fact, sometimes it seems that our lives are more difficult because we are trying to live our faith.
No, following the Savior will not remove all of your trials. However, it will remove the barriers between you and the help your Heavenly Father wants to give you. God will be with you. He will direct your steps. He will walk beside you and even carry you when your need is greatest.
You will experience the sublime fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, [and] faith.”
These spiritual fruits are not a product of temporal prosperity, success, or good fortune. They come from following the Savior, and they can be our faithful attendants even in the midst of the darkest storms.
The fires and tumults of mortal life may threaten and frighten, but those who incline their hearts to God will be encircled by His peace. Their joy will not be diminished. They will not be abandoned or forgotten.
Day 4
Primary
1. Today read Galatians 6.
2. Today’s chapter talks about sowing (or planting seeds) and reaping (or harvesting). It says that we will harvest the fruit of the things we plant. When you plant a seed from a packet, you know what you expect to grow. A pumpkin seed cannot grow you a tomato plant, and a carrot seed will not grow watermelons. Like seeds we plant, our actions have consequences. If you are mean to your pet dog, it will not like you. This is the direct result of what you have chosen to do. If you are kind, it will probably like you instead. This is just one example of how what we sow (the actions we choose to do) will determine what we reap later (the consequences that appear).
3. Listen to the song “When He Comes Again.”
Youth
1. Today read Galatians 6.
2. Take a look at verses 1-2. What did Paul teach about how members of the Church should respond to someone who has sinned? What are some ways we can “bear … one another’s burdens”? Paul taught that we should not be arrogant and self-righteous and that every person will “bear his [or her] own burden” (verse 4), or be accountable for his or her choices.
3. When you plant a seed from a packet, you know what you expect to grow. A pumpkin seed cannot grow you a tomato plant, and a carrot seed will not grow watermelons. Read verses 7-8. What did Paul teach about what happens when seeds are planted? (What you sow, or plant, is what you reap, or harvest. This is called the law of the harvest.) How does the law of the harvest relate to the decisions we make? Think about the decisions you make on a daily basis. What seeds are you planting for your future harvest?
4. In his talk “To the Aaronic Priesthood: Preparing for the Decade of Decision.” Elder Robert D. Hales Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said:
Young men, you are the vital strength of the Lord’s army, the stripling warriors of these latter days. “Whatsoever ye sow, that shall ye also reap.” Contemplating the glorious harvest ahead, I invite you to ponder how you will make decisions during the coming decade.
The law of the harvest offers a pattern for making decisions. Prepare the soil through prayer, knowing that you are a son of God. Plant the seeds by counseling with those who will give sound advice; then seek the guidance of the Holy Ghost. Let the seeds of inspiration grow. The budding ideas need tending. They need time to mature. The light of inspiration will bring the spiritual harvest which will come when we ask our Heavenly Father in prayer if we have made a correct decision. As we follow that light, the darkness will vanish and the light will grow “brighter and brighter until the perfect day” — that day when we are in the presence of our Father in Heaven.
Week 2
Day 1
Primary
1. Read Ephesians 1.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery verse in this chapter, Ephesians 1:10.
10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
3. Paul wrote a letter to the Saints at Ephesus. He wrote that Heavenly Father had chosen special spirits before they came to Earth to do His work. Many prophets and disciples were chosen before they came to Earth, but did you know that you were, too? Heavenly Father planned where you would come to Earth and the opportunities you would have. It’s up to you to make good use of what you were given.
4. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Make sure you can sing it through Ephesians.
Youth
1. Read Ephesians 1.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery verse in this chapter, Ephesians 1:10.
10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
3. Paul wrote a letter to the Saints at Ephesus about their foreordination to receive the gospel. He wrote about the “final dispensation,” or the time in which we now live.
4. What does ‘foreordination’ mean?
“In the premortal spirit world, God appointed certain spirits to fulfill specific missions during their mortal lives. This is called foreordination.
Foreordination does not guarantee that individuals will receive certain callings or responsibilities. Such opportunities come in this life as a result of the righteous exercise of agency, just as foreordination came as a result of righteousness in the premortal existence. …
The doctrine of foreordination applies to all members of the Church, not just to the Savior and His prophets. Before the creation of the earth, faithful women were given certain responsibilities and faithful men were foreordained to certain priesthood duties. Although you do not remember that time, you surely agreed to fulfill significant tasks in the service of your Father. As you prove yourself worthy, you will be given opportunities to fulfill the assignments you then received. (True to the Faith: A Gospel Reference [2004], 69–70)
5. “A dispensation of the gospel is a period of time in which the Lord has at least one authorized servant on the earth who bears the holy priesthood and the keys, and who has a divine commission to dispense the gospel to the inhabitants of the earth. When this occurs, the gospel is revealed anew, so that people of that dispensation do not have to depend basically on past dispensations for knowledge of the plan of salvation. There have been many gospel dispensations since the beginning. The Bible suggests at least one dispensation identified with Adam, another with Enoch, another with Noah, and so on with Abraham, Moses, and Jesus with His Apostles in the meridian of time” (Bible Dictionary, “Dispensations”).
6. During the dispensation of the fulness of times, all things from former dispensations will be restored. Elder B. H. Roberts of the Seventy said:
This is the dispensation of the fullness of times, and we see running into it, as mighty streams rush into the ocean, all the former dispensations, putting us in touch with them, putting them in touch with us; and we see that God has had but one great purpose in view from the beginning, and that has been the salvation of His children. And now has come the final day, the final dispensation, when truth and light and righteousness must flood the earth. (in Conference Report, Oct. 1904, 73)
7. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Make sure you can sing it through Ephesians.
Day 2
Primary
1. Read Ephesians 2.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in today’s chapter! Ephesians 2:19-20.
19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
3. Are we more like “strangers” or “fellowcitizens” with the people at church? Although we have differences, the Savior helps us be unified and love one another. No matter where people are from, anywhere around the world, members of the church help and care for one another. When people are baptized, they become part of our Church family, or the “household of God.” How can we help someone who is new feel welcome?
4. Listen to the song “The Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Read Ephesians 2.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in today’s chapter! Ephesians 2:19-20.
19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
3. “In Ephesians 2:8–10, Paul discussed the relationship between grace, faith, and good works. Ultimately, salvation comes through the merits of Jesus Christ’s work, not on our own. Paul called followers of Jesus Christ ‘[God’s] workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works’ (Ephesians 2:10). This places emphasis on the Lord’s work rather than on our own and teaches that our ability to perform good works stems from the change that the grace of Jesus Christ causes to take place within us when we turn to Him in faith (see also 1 Corinthians 15:10 and Philippians 2:13)” (New Testament Student Manual [Church Educational System manual, 2014], 425).
4. Elder Bruce R. McConkie of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained:
Salvation in all its forms, kinds, and degrees comes by the grace of God. That is, because of his love, mercy, and condescension, God our Father ordained the plan and system of salvation which would ‘bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.’ (Moses 1:39.) Pursuant to this plan he sent his Only Begotten Son into the world to work out the infinite and eternal atoning sacrifice. …
Men are thus saved by grace alone, in the sense of being resurrected; they are saved by grace coupled with obedience, in the sense of gaining eternal life. The gospel plan is to save men in the celestial kingdom, and hence Paul teaches salvation by grace through faith, through obedience, through accepting Christ, through keeping the commandments. Thus Nephi writes, ‘Be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do’ (2 Ne. 25:23), and Moroni records, ‘Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ.’ (Moro. 10:32.) (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 3 vols. [1965–73], 2:498–99)
5. Paul taught the Saints in Ephesus that all sinners could be saved by God’s grace and that Jews and Gentiles had become one in the household of God. Paul also explained that the Church of Jesus Christ is built upon the foundation of apostles and prophets. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said of the structure of the Church:
In New Testament times, in Book of Mormon times, and in modern times these officers form the foundation stones of the true Church, positioned around and gaining their strength from the chief cornerstone, ‘the rock of our Redeemer, who is [Jesus] Christ, the Son of God’ [Helaman 5:12]. … Such a foundation in Christ was and is always to be a protection in days ‘when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you’. (“Prophets, Seers, and Revelators,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2004, 7)
The phrase “fitly framed together” in Ephesians 2:21 suggests an important lesson about unity in the Church. No two stone blocks that make up a structure are exactly the same, and many are of different sizes and shapes. Yet the blocks are “fitly framed together” to make the structure. Likewise, no two members of the Church are exactly the same, but all are “fitly framed” together to form the Lord’s Church.
Day 3
Primary
1. Today read Ephesians 5.
2. Following the Savior’s example can strengthen our family relationships. Jesus loved us so much he sacrificed himself for our good. How would your family be different if everyone loved each other with a Christlike love?
3. Listen to the song “When He Comes Again.”
Youth
1. Today read Ephesians 5.
2. When we use the Savior’s relationship with the Church as our guide, we can strengthen our family relationships. Ephesians 5:22-33 is a very important passage of scripture that discusses the way families should love each other. What relationship did Paul counsel wives to pattern their relationships with their husbands after? (Paul taught that a wife should “submit” herself to her husband. This can be interpreted as sustaining, supporting, and respecting her husband as she does the Lord. A husband’s divinely appointed role is to preside or watch over the family, just as the Savior watches over and leads His Church.) How will a husband who loves his wife as the Savior loves the Church treat her? (He will “[give] himself” for her, or place her ahead of himself, and “cherish” her.)
3. It is important to note that Paul’s words in Ephesians 5:22–24 were written in the context of the social customs of his era. Prophets and apostles today teach that men are not superior to women and that spouses are meant to be “equal partners” (see “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Even so, you can still find relevant counsel in Ephesians 5:25–33. For example, how does Christ show His love for the Saints? What does this imply about how spouses, as equal partners, should treat each other? What messages do you find for yourself in these verses?
4. President Ezra Taft Benson pointed to the Savior’s example as he counseled husbands on how to lead their families:
We do not find the Savior leading the Church with a harsh or unkind hand. We do not find the Savior treating His Church with disrespect or neglect. We do not find the Savior using force or coercion to accomplish His purposes. Nowhere do we find the Savior doing anything but that which edifies, uplifts, comforts, and exalts the Church. (“To the Fathers in Israel,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 50)
5. President Spencer W. Kimball taught about the influence a husband can have when he loves his family as the Savior loves the Church:
Christ loved the church and its people so much that he voluntarily endured persecution for them, suffered humiliating indignities for them, stoically withstood pain and physical abuse for them, and finally gave his precious life for them.
When the husband is ready to treat his household in that manner, not only the wife but all the family will respond to his leadership. (“Home: The Place to Save Society,” Ensign, Jan. 1975, 5)
Day 4*
Primary
1. Read Ephesians 6.
2. Why is armor important in a battle? This chapter talks about the Armor of God, or the spiritual armor we put on to protect ourselves in the spiritual battles we face every day. How can we put on our spiritual armor?
3. Print the armor of God page. Dress up the children in the Armor of God.
4. Listen to the song “I Love to See the Temple.”
Youth
1. Read Ephesians 6.
2.
Satan is waging war against the members of the Church who have testimonies and are trying to keep the commandments.
(President Ezra Taft Benson)
3. In what ways does Satan wage war against the youth of the Church? Read Ephesians 6:10–13. What did Paul say the Saints in his day were fighting against? (Wiles refers to tricks or stratagems that are used to deceive or ensnare.) What did Paul tell the Saints in his day to put on so that they could withstand these evils? If we put on the whole armor of God, we will be able to withstand evil.
4. Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles told us how we put on and strengthen the armor of God.
I like to think of this spiritual armor not as a solid piece of metal molded to fit the body but more like chain mail. Chain mail consists of dozens of tiny pieces of steel fastened together to allow the user greater flexibility without losing protection. I say that because it has been my experience that there is not one great and grand thing we can do to arm ourselves spiritually. True spiritual power lies in numerous smaller acts woven together in a fabric of spiritual fortification that protects and shields from all evil. (“Be Strong in the Lord,” Ensign, July 2004, 8)
5. What do you do to put on and strengthen the armor of God each day? How has this helped you to withstand evil, temptation, or deception?
Week 3
Day 1
Primary
1. Today read Philippians 2.
2. Paul told the Saints that they should be united and take care of each other, and to do their work without murmurings and disputings (arguments). How can we take this teaching and apply it in our life? What change do you think you would see in your family if you worked together instead of fighting and complaining?
3. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Be sure you can sing it through Philippians.
Youth
1. Today read Philippians 2.
2. Paul wrote his epistles to the Philippians and Colossians while he was a prisoner in Rome. But these letters don’t have the tone you might expect from someone in prison. Paul spoke more about joy, rejoicing, and thanksgiving than he did about afflictions and trials.
3. President Russell M. Nelson said that when he focused his scripture study on verses about Jesus Christ, it had such an impact on him that he felt like “a different man!” (“Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 39). Consider following his example as you read Philippians and Colossians (see especially Philippians 2:5–11; Colossians 1:12–23). What do you learn about the Savior? How can these truths help you become “a different man” or woman?
3. Study this statement by President Henry B. Eyring:
And what does it mean to walk with the Lord? It means to do what He does, to serve the way He serves. He sacrificed His own comforts to bless those in need, so that’s what we try to do. He seemed to take particular notice of people who were overlooked and even shunned by society, so we should try to do that too. He testified boldly yet lovingly of the true doctrine He received from His Father, even if it was unpopular, and so must we. He said to all, “Come unto me” ( Matthew 11:28), and we say to all, “Come unto Him.”
(Henry B. Eyring, “Walk With Me,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 84)
4. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Be sure you can sing it through Philippians.
Day 2
Primary
1. Read Philippians 4.
2. Read the 13th Article of Faith.
3. We are supposed to “seek after” good things. “Seek” means to go and search for. What are some good things in our life, and how can we “seek after” them? When we make choices of what to do with our time, how can we make sure we are “seeking” good things?
4. Listen to the song “I Love to See the Temple.”
Youth
1. Read Philippians 4.
2. In Paul’s epistle to Church members in Philippi, he commended the Church members’ faithfulness and taught them about the eternal rewards that are available to those who sacrifice for and are faithful to Jesus Christ. Paul counseled the Saints to stand firm in faithfulness to the Lord, rejoice in the Lord, and let their gentleness be evident to others.
3. Read Philippians 4:6. What did Paul counsel the Saints to do instead of worry? As faithful followers of Jesus Christ, if we pray with supplication and thanksgiving, then God will bless us with His peace.
4. Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke of additional ways God’s peace can help us:
Because He respects your agency, Father in Heaven will never force you to pray to Him. But as you exercise that agency and include Him in every aspect of your daily life, your heart will begin to fill with peace, buoyant peace. That peace will focus an eternal light on your struggles. It will help you to manage those challenges from an eternal perspective.
(“Make the Exercise of Faith Your First Priority,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2014, 93)
5.Read the 13th Article of Faith.
6. Paul admonished the Saints to ‘think on’ (to give careful, continuing thought to) things that are true, just, pure, lovely, and of good report (Philippians 4:8). When the Prophet Joseph Smith … cited this ‘admonition of Paul’ in the thirteenth article of faith, he changed ‘think on these things’ to the more active ‘seek after these things.’ Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (1917–2008) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles discussed the admonition to ‘seek after these things’:
The word seek means to go in search of, try to discover, try to acquire. It requires an active, assertive approach to life. … It is the opposite of passively waiting for something good to come to us, with no effort on our part.
We can fill our lives with good, leaving no room for anything else. We have so much good from which to choose that we need never partake of evil. …
If we seek things that are virtuous and lovely, we surely will find them. Conversely, if we seek for evil, we will find that also.
(“Seeking the Good,” Ensign, May 1992, 86)” (New Testament Student Manual [Church Educational System manual, 2014], 437–38)
Day 3
Primary
1. Read Colossians 1.
2. Satan tries to weaken our faith through temptations and false doctrines. How can we strengthen our faith in the Savior so that we are “not moved away from the hope of the gospel”? (Colossians 1:23).
3. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Be sure you can sing it through Colossians.
4. Listen to the song “When He Comes Again.”
Youth
1. Read Colossians 1.
2. Paul wrote an epistle to the Church members in Colossae (referred to as Colossians) after learning about influences and false teachings there that threatened to uproot them from their faith in Jesus Christ. Paul acknowledged their faithfulness and explained that the gospel brings forth fruit, or blessings, in the lives of those who accept and live it. Paul then taught them about Jesus Christ. What did Paul teach about Jesus Christ? Jesus Christ is the Redeemer, the firstborn of Heavenly Father’s spirit children, the Creator of all things, the head of the Church, and the first to be resurrected.
3. Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained that Jesus Christ is the Creator and has governing power over all His creations:
Under the direction and according to the plan of God the Father, Jesus Christ is the Creator, the source of the light and life of all things. Through modern revelation we have the testimony of John, who bore record that Jesus Christ is ‘the light and the Redeemer of the world, the Spirit of truth, who came into the world, because the world was made by him, and in him was the life of men and the light of men.
‘The worlds were made by him; men were made by him; all things were made by him, and through him, and of him.’ (D&C 93:9–10) (“The Light and Life of the World,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 63; see also John 1:1–3; Hebrews 1:2; D&C 76:24; Moses 1:33)
4. Read Colossians 1:23. What is required to be reconciled to God? What does it mean for us to “continue in the faith grounded and settled”? (To remain steadfast in our faith in Jesus Christ.) We can be reconciled to God through the Atonement of Jesus Christ if we continue to be grounded and settled in our faith.
Day 4
Primary
1. Read Colossians 2.
2. What would happen to a tree if a storm came and the tree did not have strong roots? Faith in the Savior helps us be like a tree with strong roots. Then we can withstand spiritual “storms,” like temptations and hard times.
3. Watch the video “Spiritual Whirlwinds.”
4. Listen to the song “The Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Read Colossians 2.
2. If a severe windstorm came, which of these trees would be more likely to fall? Why?
3. Read the following statement by Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Look for the whirlwinds we need to beware of.
More concerning than the prophesied earthquakes and wars [of the last days] are the spiritual whirlwinds that can uproot you from your spiritual foundations and land your spirit in places you never imagined possible, sometimes with your barely noticing that you have been moved. (“Spiritual Whirlwinds,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 18)
4. What are some examples of spiritual whirlwinds that can uproot or separate us from our faith in Jesus Christ? Why can these spiritual whirlwinds be more troubling than physical challenges, such as earthquakes or wars?
5. What were the spiritual whirlwinds that threatened to uproot the Colossian Saints? (There were several philosophies and traditions being taught by some who were trying to diminish the importance of Jesus Christ.) Why would believing false teachings, including teachings that diminish the importance of Jesus Christ, make it easy for someone to be spiritually uprooted?
6. Read Colossians 2:5–7. Look for the counsel Paul gave to help the Saints avoid being led astray by worldly philosophies and traditions. By being rooted and built up in Jesus Christ, we can avoid being led astray by worldly philosophies and traditions.
Week 4
Day 1
Primary
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 3.
2. Paul told the saints to “increase and abound in love one toward another.” What can we do in our life to increase in love to those around us? Why is important that we remember we are supposed to love one another? Remember a time that you did not treat someone with love. How could we treat them with love instead?
3. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Be sure you can sing it through 2 Thessalonians.
Youth
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 3.
2. The Apostle Paul wanted to strengthen the faith of Thessalonian Church members. One way Paul tried to strengthen the faith of Thessalonian Church members was to help them better understand how to prepare for the Second Coming. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:11–13. What did Paul hope the Lord would do for the Saints to prepare them for His Second Coming?
3. Paul also told the saints to “increase and abound in love one toward another.” Ministering is one way that we do this in the latter-day church. As we minister to others in love, we can help them become better followers of Jesus Christ.
4. President Jean B. Bingham, Relief Society General President, shared some ideas for how to minister as Jesus Christ did.
Sometimes we think we have to do something grand and heroic to “count” as serving our neighbors. Yet simple acts of service can have profound effects on others — as well as on ourselves. What did the Savior do? Through His supernal gifts of the Atonement and Resurrection … “none other has had so profound an influence [on] all who have lived and who will yet live upon the earth” [“The Living Christ,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org]. But He also smiled at, talked with, walked with, listened to, made time for, encouraged, taught, fed, and forgave. He served family and friends, neighbors and strangers alike, and He invited acquaintances and loved ones to enjoy the rich blessings of His gospel. Those “simple” acts of service and love provide a template for our ministering today.
(Jean B. Bingham, “Ministering as the Savior Does,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 104)
5. What if you’re not sure how to minister to others? Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles pointed out:
A person with a good heart can help someone fix a tire, take a roommate to the doctor, have lunch with someone who is sad, or smile and say hello to brighten a day.
But a follower of the first commandment [who loves God with all his heart] will naturally add to these important acts of service, [by] encouraging the person who is doing well in keeping the commandments and sharing wise counsel to strengthen the faith of someone who is slipping or who needs help in moving back onto the path he once traveled.
(Neil L. Andersen, “A Holier Approach to Ministering” [Brigham Young University devotional, Apr. 10, 2018], 3, speeches.byu.edu)
Day 2
Primary
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 5.
2. We don’t know when the Savior will return to the earth. But we can be watching for Him and preparing for His coming. Imagine that the Savior will be visiting your home sometime today. How can we prepare for His visit? What are things we can do to prepare ourselves for the day Jesus Christ returns? We can repent, forgive, improve our relationships with our family, follow the prophet, seek to have the Holy Ghost’s influence, and keep our covenants. Choose one thing you can do to prepare to receive the Savior at His Coming.
3. Listen to the song “When He Comes Again.”
Youth
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 5.
2. What are the two analogies Paul used to describe the timing of the Second Coming? (“A thief in the night” [verse 2] and “a woman with child” having labor pains [verse 3].)
3. Elder Bruce R. McConkie of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught the following concerning the analogy of a woman in labor: “She does not know the hour or the minute of the child’s arrival, but she does know the approximate time” (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 3:54). Based on this analogy, we might also consider how trials preceding the Second Coming are similar to labor pains. But just as the arrival of a baby is wonderful, so will the Second Coming be wonderful to the righteous.
4. Read 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6. Why will faithful Saints not be surprised by the Second Coming? If we are faithful and watch for the signs preceding the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, then we will be prepared when He comes again.
5. Read the following statement by President Joseph Fielding Smith. Look for how we can prepare for the Second Coming:
The earth is full of calamity, of trouble. The hearts of men are failing them. We see the signs as we see the fig tree putting forth her leaves; and knowing this time is near, it behooves me and it behooves you, and all men upon the face of the earth, to pay heed to the words of Christ, to his apostles and watch, for we know not the day nor the hour.” (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 3:52–53)
According to President Smith, how can we prepare for the Second Coming?
6. “Toward the end of 1 Thessalonians, Paul gave several items of practical counsel on how to prepare for the Lord’s coming (see 1 Thessalonians 5:6–23). As part of his counsel, Paul asked the Saints to ‘quench not the Spirit’ (1 Thessalonians 5:19). To quench the Spirit means to extinguish or stifle the influence of the Holy Ghost in one’s own life (see also Ephesians 4:30–31). Elder David A. Bednar [of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles] pointed out that to fully enjoy the companionship of the Spirit, we must avoid activities that will drive the Spirit from us:
‘If something we think, see, hear, or do distances us from the Holy Ghost, then we should stop thinking, seeing, hearing, or doing that thing. If that which is intended to entertain, for example, alienates us from the Holy Spirit, then certainly that type of entertainment is not for us. Because the Spirit cannot abide that which is vulgar, crude, or immodest, then clearly such things are not for us. Because we estrange the Spirit of the Lord when we engage in activities we know we should shun, then such things definitely are not for us.
‘… As we become ever more immersed in the Spirit of the Lord, we should strive to recognize impressions when they come and the influences or events that cause us to withdraw ourselves from the Holy Ghost’ (‘That We May Always Have His Spirit to Be with Us,’ Ensign or Liahona, May 2006, 30). (New Testament Student Manual [Church Educational System manual, 2014], 451)
Day 3
Primary
1. Today read 2 Thessalonians 2.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in today’s chapter, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3.
1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,
2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
There is also a song you can listen to for this scripture.
3. Before “the day of Christ,” which means the Second Coming, “a falling away” would happen. This means the Great Apostasy, which occurred after the deaths of the Savior’s Apostles. Once all of the Apostles were dead, there was no one left on earth with all the priesthood keys and the full truth of the Gospel was lost. It was not until many years later that the Church would be restored with the help of Joseph Smith, bringing the truth and the keys of the priesthood back to the earth.
4. Listen to the song “The Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Today read 2 Thessalonians 2.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in today’s chapter, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3.
1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,
2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
There is also a song you can listen to for this scripture.
3. Paul taught the Saints in Thessalonica that eventually the wickedness of the people would result in a falling away from the gospel. This “falling away” described by Paul is called the Great Apostasy, which occurred after the death of Jesus Christ’s Apostles. This Great Apostasy is different from personal apostasy, which is when individuals rebel or fall away from truth. How do Paul’s words show God’s care and concern for the Thessalonian Saints?
4. President M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained why periods of apostasy take place.
Our Heavenly Father loves all of His children, and He wants them all to have the blessings of the gospel in their lives. Spiritual light is not lost because God turns His back on His children. Rather, spiritual darkness results when His children turn their collective backs on Him. It is a natural consequence of bad choices made by individuals, communities, countries, and entire civilizations.
(M. Russell Ballard, “Learning the Lessons of the Past,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2009, 32)
5. President Russell M. Nelson taught:
Our living God is a loving God! He wants His children to know Him and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent! And He wants His children to gain immortality and eternal life!
For this glorious purpose, our missionaries teach of the Restoration. They know that some 2,000 years ago, the Lord established His Church. After His Crucifixion and the death of His Apostles, men changed the Church and its doctrine. Then, after generations of spiritual darkness, and as predicted by previous prophets, Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ restored the Church, its doctrine, and its priesthood authority. Because of that Restoration, knowledge and essential ordinances for salvation and exaltation are again available to all people. Ultimately, that exaltation allows each of us to dwell with our families in the presence of God and Jesus Christ forever!
– Russell M. Nelson, “Catch the Wave,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 46
Day 4
Primary
1. Read 2 Thessalonians 3.
2. Heavenly Father wants us to work! Working is a blessing, not a punishment. What would happen if we never learned to work hard? Think of a time you worked hard on a task, a project, or a goal. How did you feel about yourself when you finished? What helps us keep going when work feels hard?
3. Listen to the song “I Love to See the Temple.”
Youth
1. Read 2 Thessalonians 3.
2. At the time Paul wrote his Second Epistle to the Thessalonians, Church members regularly held a feast in conjunction with partaking of the sacrament. However, some members in Thessalonica would attend the feast to eat but refused to help provide or prepare the food for the meal. What problems might have resulted from this situation?
3. In 2 Thessalonians 3:1–9 Paul commended the Saints who were faithful and warned them about associating with those who were “disorderly,” or undisciplined (verse 6). Paul also wrote that he and his companions had set an example of temporal self-reliance by working to support themselves.
4. Read 2 Thessalonians 3:10–13. What did Paul tell the Saints to do about those who refused to work? What does it mean to “be not weary in well doing”?
5. Read the following statement from For the Strength of Youth. How we can strive to be self-reliant?
One of the blessings of work is developing self-reliance. When you are self-reliant, you use the blessings and abilities God has given you to care for yourself and your family and to find solutions for your own problems. Self-reliance does not mean that you must be able to do all things on your own. To be truly self-reliant, you must learn how to work with others and turn to the Lord for His help and strength.
Remember that God has a great work for you to do. He will bless you in your efforts to accomplish that work. (For the Strength of Youth [booklet, 2011], 41)
Week 5
Day 1
Primary
1. Read 1 Timothy 4.
2. Timothy was young for a Church leader, but Paul wanted him to know that he could still be an example. We can be examples, too! What is a situation in which you have set a good example for others? How can being aware of the example we are setting help us to be better?
3. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Be sure you can sing it through Philemon since we will cover those books this week.
Youth
1. Read 1 Timothy 4.
2. Paul wrote to Timothy, a priesthood leader in Ephesus, and counseled him to ensure that true doctrine was taught. He counseled Timothy to be an example of the believers.
3. Imagine that some paperclips were scattered on a table, and then a magnet was set on the table and moved through and around the paperclips. If each paperclip represents a person, what might the magnet represent? Consider how you have been like the magnet and influenced others.
4. Read 1 Timothy 4:12. What do you think it means to be an “example of the believers”? In what ways did Paul counsel Timothy to be an example of the believers?
5. Read 1 Timothy 4:13-16. What specific advice did Paul give Timothy to help him achieve this?
6. If someone were to follow you around for a week, what evidence would they see that you are striving to follow Jesus Christ?
Day 2
Primary
1. Today read 2 Timothy 3.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in this chapter, 2 Timothy 3:15-17.
15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
3. Heavenly Father gave us scriptures to help us know truth from error. As we study the scriptures and pray, we can learn what Heavenly Father wants us to know and gain a testimony of their truthfulness.
4. Listen to the song “The Church of Jesus Christ.”
Youth
1. Today read 2 Timothy 3.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in this chapter, 2 Timothy 3:15-17.
15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
3. As part of his Second Epistle to Timothy, Paul prophesied of conditions in his day and ours. Read 2 Timothy 3:1. How did Paul describe the times we live in?
4. Despite the seriousness of these perilous times, we can find help and protection. Read 2 Timothy 3:14–15. What did Paul teach that could help us turn away from these perils?
5. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said:
In moments of fear or doubt or troubling times, hold the ground you have already won. … When those moments come and issues surface, the resolution of which is not immediately forthcoming, hold fast to what you already know and stand strong until additional knowledge comes. (“Lord, I Believe,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 93–94)
6. If we continue in the truths we have learned from trusted sources and in the scriptures, we can overcome the spiritual peril of the last days. We can learn doctrine and receive correction and instruction that will help us grow toward perfection.
7. Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said:
Don’t yield to Satan’s lie that you don’t have time to study the scriptures. Choose to take time to study them. Feasting on the word of God each day is more important than sleep, school, work, television shows, video games, or social media. You may need to reorganize your priorities to provide time for the study of the word of God. If so, do it!
… As you dedicate time every day, personally and with your family, to the study of God’s word, peace will prevail in your life. (“Make the Exercise of Faith Your First Priority,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2014, 93)
Day 3
Primary
1. Read Titus 1.
2. Paul taught Timothy and Titus about the importance of bishops. Bishops are called of God and have many jobs in the church, such as helping children and youth in the ward, accepting tithing and fast offerings, extending callings, interviewing members, and helping those in need. Sometimes our Bishop needs help from us to take care of everyone in our ward. What are some ways we can help our Bishop?
3. Listen to the song “I Love to See the Temple.”
Youth
1. Read Titus 1.
2. Imagine you are wrestling with an important issue in your life. Perhaps it is a decision about your future, a challenge you are facing, or a bad habit you are struggling to change. Where do you turn for guidance when you are wrestling with important issues? Who do you talk to and why? Read the following statement by Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
You precious young people … are at the threshold of the most important decisions you will make in your lives. Please counsel with both your parents and your bishop about important choices that are ahead of you. Allow the bishop to be your friend and counselor.
(Quentin L. Cook, “Bishops—Shepherds over the Lord’s Flock,” Liahona, May 2021, 60)
3. Do you think of your bishop as a friend and counselor? When you face an important decision, or when you need spiritual help, how likely are you to seek counsel from your bishop? Why? How could turning to your bishop for guidance help you?
4. Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught about the primary responsibilities of a bishop:
The bishop has five principal responsibilities in presiding over a ward:
1. He is the presiding high priest in the ward.
2. He is president of the Aaronic Priesthood.
3. He is a common judge.
4. He coordinates the work of salvation and exaltation, including caring for those in need.
5. And he oversees records, finances, and the use of the meetinghouse.
In his role as presiding high priest, the bishop is the ward’s “spiritual leader.” He is a “faithful disciple of Jesus Christ.” …
The bishop has a paramount role in serving as a shepherd to guide the rising generation, including young single adults, to Jesus Christ.
(Quentin L. Cook, “Bishops—Shepherds over the Lord’s Flock,” Liahona, May 2021, 58)
5. The Lord has also called bishops and branch presidents to help and guide us through the repentance process, especially if we have committed serious sins. Elder C. Scott Grow of the Seventy taught:
By ordination and righteous living, the bishop is entitled to revelation from the Holy Ghost regarding the members of his ward, including you.
The bishop can help you through the repentance process in ways your parents or other leaders are unable to provide. …
… As a servant of the Lord, he will be kind and understanding as he listens to you. He will then help you through the repentance process. He is the Lord’s messenger of mercy to help you become clean through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
(C. Scott Grow, “Why and What Do I Need to Confess to My Bishop?” New Era, Oct. 2013, 28–29)
Day 4
Primary
1. Read Philemon 1.
2. Paul was in prison when he wrote a letter to Philemon. Philemon had a servant, or slave, named Onesimus who had run away and may have stolen something from Philemon. Slavery was not viewed as evil within the New Testament Judeo-Christian culture and was supported by Roman law. Punishments for runaway slaves included being severely beaten, branded on the forehead, or even killed. After running away, Onesimus had encountered the Apostle Paul. Paul asked Philemon not to punish Onesimus, but treat him like a friend and a brother. Disciples of Jesus Christ extend mercy and forgiveness to others.
3. Listen to the song “When He Comes Again.”
Youth
1. Read Philemon 1.
2. Paul was in prison when he wrote to Philemon, who was probably a Greek convert to the Church. Why did Paul praise Philemon? (1 Philemon 4-7).
3. Philemon had a servant, or slave, named Onesimus who had run away and may have stolen something from Philemon (see Philemon 1:18). Slavery was not viewed as evil within the New Testament Judeo-Christian culture and was supported by Roman law. Punishments for runaway slaves included being severely beaten, branded on the forehead, or even killed. After running away, Onesimus had encountered the Apostle Paul.
4. Read Philemon 1:8-12. What was Paul asking Philemon to do? If you had been in Philemon’s position, what might you have thought or felt when you received Paul’s request? Paul wanted to keep Onesimus with him so that Onesimus could assist him, but Paul did not want to do so without Philemon’s consent. Why might viewing Onesimus as a “brother beloved” have been difficult for Philemon?
5. Read the following statement by President Spencer W. Kimball. How can this influence the way we treat one another?
I have always been uplifted by reading the short epistle of Paul to Philemon; it teaches us a principle and a spirit concerning gospel brotherhood. …
It is an inspiration and joy to see this same spirit at work throughout the Church, to see the Saints embrace and help and assist and pray for those who daily enter the kingdom of our Lord. Continue to reach out to each other — and the many more who will enter the Church. Welcome them and love and fellowship them.
Sadly, there have been occasional incidents where some among us have not done so, accounts of some who have rejected those whom the Lord has accepted by baptism. If the Lord was ‘not ashamed to call them brethren’ (Heb. 2:11), let us, therefore, … take our brothers and sisters by the hand and lift them up into our circles of concern and love. (“Always a Convert Church: Some Lessons to Learn and Apply This Year,” Ensign, Sept. 1975, 4)
6. Paul was asking Philemon to receive Onesimus in the same way that Philemon would receive Paul. In following this instruction, Philemon would forgo the severe punishments that runaway slaves normally received. What responsibility do all disciples of Jesus Christ have toward those who offend or wrong them? Disciples of Jesus Christ extend mercy and forgiveness to others. Extending mercy and forgiveness to those who have wronged us does not necessarily mean allowing them to avoid the consequences of their actions, nor does it mean immediately restoring our trust in them. Instead, it means that we show compassion toward others and let go of any resentment, anger, or hurt we may be harboring.
Continue to November!
