Come, Follow Me. Living, Learning, and Teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For Sunday School

Transcription

1 Come, Follow Me Living, Learning, and Teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ For Sunday School

2 Pilot Test for Come, Follow Me: Living, Learning, and Teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for Sunday School Thank you for participating in this pilot test of Come, Follow Me: Living, Learning, and Teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This resource is an effort to improve gospel learning and teaching at home and at church. We hope you will have a wonderful experience using these materials. What is Come, Follow Me? Come, Follow Me is composed of five books: Come, Follow Me for individuals and families at home Come, Follow Me for Sunday School Come, Follow Me for Primary Come, Follow Me for Young Women and Relief Society Come, Follow Me for Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthood quorums Why this test? Under the direction of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the Church is exploring ways to (1) better help your family live and learn the gospel at home and (2) help your experiences at church better support your gospel learning at home. Your participation and feedback as a Sunday School teacher or leader and as a Church member will be very valuable. What materials should I use for the test? As part of this test, you are invited to use the following materials as you prepare to teach on Sundays: 1. Come, Follow Me for individuals and families at home. Each household in your ward or branch has received a copy of this book and has been encouraged to use it for gospel study at home (scripture study, family home evening, and so on). This book contains weekly study outlines that focus on specific chapters in the Book of Mormon and monthly study outlines that focus on single topics. 2. Come, Follow Me for Sunday School. This book contains lessons to be used in both youth and adult Sunday School classes. Each week s lesson in this book is based on the Book of Mormon chapters that class members are studying at home that week in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families. Together, these two books will help you as you teach in Sunday School. They will also strengthen members in their efforts to learn and live the gospel at home. For the period of the test, these two books will replace your current Sunday School manuals, including the existing Come, Follow Me for youth. (The Gospel Principles class for new members, and any optional courses currently being taught during Sunday School, may continue unchanged.) After the test is over, you can return to teaching from the previous materials. How do I share my feedback? At least weekly, please share your experiences, comments, and suggestions. You will remain completely anonymous, and you can comment as often as you would like. Thank you for your help. May the Lord bless you in your efforts to learn and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ. To share your comments, go to lds.org/test/learn.

3 Contents I Am a Teacher in the Church of Jesus Christ...ii Using Come, Follow Me for Sunday School...iii Teaching the Book of Mormon in Sunday School...1 March 28 April 10: He Works in Me to Do His Will (Enos Words of Mormon )... 2 April 11 17: Because I Have Been Given Much, I Too Must Give (Mosiah 1 3) April 18 24: A Mighty Change of Heart (Mosiah 4 6)... 6 April 25 May 1: The Lord Will Deliver Us (Mosiah 7 10 ) May 2 8: Standing as a Testimony of the Truth (Mosiah )...10 May 9 15: We Have Entered into a Covenant with Him (Mosiah )...12 May 16 22: They Were Called the People of God (Mosiah 25 28) May 23 29: Becoming Steadfast and Immovable (Mosiah 29 Alma 4)...16 May 30 June 5: Have I Experienced a Mighty Change of Heart? (Alma 5 7)...18 June 6 12: Go Forth and Prophesy unto This People (Alma 8 12)...20 June 13 19: The Lord Will Grant Me Power (Alma )...22 June 20 26: I Will Make an Instrument of Thee (Alma ) Ideas for Encouraging Personal and Family Study Sample Teaching Plans Published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Salt Lake City, Utah 2016 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America PD i

4 I Am a Teacher in the Church of Jesus Christ I have been called of God to teach His children. I was set apart to this calling by the authority of His holy priesthood. I may not be formally trained to teach in the world s way, but my calling is to teach in the Savior s way. I qualify by living worthily, praying daily, and studying the scriptures. As I do this, God grants me the influence and power of the Holy Spirit. Through that Spirit, He guides me during my preparation and while I am teaching. He reveals to me what I should say and what I should do. I teach only the doctrine of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ as found in the scriptures and the words of latter-day prophets. Pure doctrine invites the Spirit and has the power to change lives. And that is the essence of my calling to change lives, starting with my own. I am never satisfied with simply presenting a good lesson or impressing others with my abilities. My goal is the conversion of those I teach, a goal that extends far beyond our brief time together. So I invite those I teach to participate actively in their own learning. I encourage them to make their individual and family efforts outside of class the primary focus of gospel learning. These acts of faith will invite the Spirit and affect their lives more deeply and permanently than anything I might do. It is normal to feel overwhelmed at times. But I know that God called me, and He will never forsake me. This is, after all, His work, not mine. And as I serve with all my heart, mind, and strength, He enlarges my capaci ties, gifts, and talents. The more I give in His service, the more I am able to give and the more I can bless my family members, friends, and others I am called upon to teach. ii

5 Using Come, Follow Me for Sunday School Creating gospel-learning experiences The home should be the center of gospel learning. As much as it blesses a person to learn from the scriptures in Sunday School, as a Sunday School teacher you bless your class members even more if you help them learn from the scriptures individually and with their families. This book is designed to help you create experiences in Sunday School that build upon, support, and encourage meaningful gospel-learning experiences for your class members outside of class. The best way to prepare to teach from the scriptures is to have your own experiences in the scriptures individually and with your family just as you encourage your class members to learn from the scriptures during the week. Using the lesson outlines Each lesson outline includes the following two sections: Preparing to Teach in Sunday School Before exploring the teaching ideas in the lesson outline, spend some time seeking inspiration from the Spirit about which principles to emphasize from the assigned scriptures and how to teach them. This section invites you to follow this pattern as you organize your thoughts: Encourage sharing. For the first few minutes of class, invite class members to share their insights and experiences, as individuals or as families, with studying the scriptures each week. You may also review what your class discussed last week and ask how it has influenced class members lives. (Remind them not to share anything that is too sacred or too personal.) Teach the doctrine. You and your class members should focus on the doctrinal principles found in the assigned scripture passages. As you do, remember that some principles are stated explicitly, while others are taught through the events described in the scriptures. How do these scriptures help us understand the principles? What additional insights do we gain by understanding the storyline of the verses? What other resources give insight to the principles? What questions might you ask that will help class members understand and live the principles? Encourage learning at home. Preview next week s discussion, and invite class members to study the assigned scripture passages, individually and as families, during the week. Additional Ideas After you have studied the scriptures and prepared your ideas, you can explore the ideas in this section as needed to supplement your own ideas. These additional ideas include: Scripture references and doctrinal principles. Invitations for class members to share what they have learned about the doctrinal principles. Activities to engage learners. Ideas for improving teaching. Stories, object lessons, pictures, videos, or music. iii

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7 Teaching the Book of Mormon in Sunday School As you study and teach the principles of the gospel from the Book of Mormon, you will see the Lord fulfill these promises in your own life and in the lives of those you teach. President Ezra Taft Benson taught: There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path.... When you begin to hunger and thirst after those words, you will find life in greater and greater abundance ( The Book of Mormon Keystone of Our Religion, Ensign, Nov. 1986, 7).

8 MARCH 28 APRIL 10 Enos Words of Mormon He Works in Me to Do His Will PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Enos Words of Mormon, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? How will your invitation to share inspire class members to learn and prepare more at home? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Enos Words of Mormon. Encourage Learning at Home King Benjamin s address changed a generation of the Nephites. Those who did not understand his words fell into unbelief. Invite class members to discover what was so powerful about this message as they read Mosiah 1 3 during the next week. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Focus on true doctrine. President Boyd K. Packer taught, True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior ( Do Not Fear, Ensign or Liahona, May 2004, 79). As we teach, we must focus on the teachings of Jesus Christ if we want to help bring souls unto Him. 2

9 What makes a prayer mighty? TEACHING IDEAS Enos 1 Class members could write on the board words or phrases that stood out to them as they read Enos 1 this week. Why are these phrases meaningful? To help class members understand the story of Enos, you could divide them into small groups and invite each group to study a section of Enos 1. Then these groups could teach the rest of the class about what they read. What do we notice about his prayers in verses 2 4, 9 10, 11 12, and 15 16? Why was Enos praying? What were the results of his prayers? What can we do to make our prayers more meaningful? Class members could make a visual reminder of the things the Spirit taught them and display this reminder where they can see it frequently. If I keep the commandments, I will prosper. Jarom Omni You could divide class members into two groups to share what they learned from their reading this week one group could share what they learned from Jarom and the other from Omni. Invite each group to share what they learned with the class. The moral strength of nations depends on the righteousness of individuals. What do we learn from Jarom and Omni about how righteousness leads to prosperity? How is the world s definition of prosperity different from the Lord s? You could invite class members to ponder a commandment they might be having a hard time keeping. How can we improve? They could write their goals in a journal or elsewhere. I want God to work through me. Words of Mormon As we studied Words of Mormon this week, what did the Spirit teach us? Mormon blessed millions of lives because he followed the Spirit s promptings about the small plates (see Words of Mormon 1:7). Think of ways you can help your class understand that they can also bless others as they seek to be instruments in God s hands by following the promptings of the Holy Ghost. You might wish to review the historical background of this chapter as a class (see Book of Mormon Student Manual [Church Educational System manual, 2009], ). How did God work through Mormon? How has heeding the Spirit and seeking to do God s will helped us bless others? (See the Additional Resource in this outline.) ADDITIONAL RESOURCE When President Thomas S. Monson visited a Samoan village many years ago as an Apostle, he was prompted to personally greet each of the 247 children at the conclusion of a meeting where he spoke. However, he realized he would not have time. He tried to put the thought out of his mind, but he could not. He finally turned to the teacher and said, I would so much like to shake the hand of each boy and each girl. Would this be possible? The teacher smiled and spoke to the children in the Samoan language. They nodded their heads eagerly in approval. The teacher then told Elder Monson that when he had learned that one of the Twelve Apostles was coming to visit them, he told the children that if they would pray sincerely and have faith, the Apostle would visit their village and would be prompted by the Holy Ghost to shake the hand of every child (see Thomas S. Monson, Friend to Friend: Talofa Lava, Friend, May 1972, 12 13). Stake conference, Samoa 3

10 APRIL Mosiah 1 3 Because I Have Been Given Much, I Too Must Give PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Mosiah 1 3, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? How will your invitation to share inspire class members to learn and prepare more at home? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Mosiah 1 3. Encourage Learning at Home Encourage class members to read Mosiah 4 6 during the coming week. Invite them to ponder the mighty change of heart that King Benjamin s people described and consider how their hearts have changed. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Teach clearly and simply. Rather than trying to entertain your class, trust in the virtue of the word of God, which has a more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than... anything else (Alma 31:5). 4

11 TEACHING IDEAS Receiving the word of God requires preparation. Mosiah 2:1 9 What impressions did we receive as we read about King Benjamin s people preparing to receive the word of God? What are some ways we can open our hearts to the word of God? Invite class members to search these verses for ways the Nephites prepared to receive counsel from their living prophet. How can we better prepare and show our appreciation for general conference? You might invite several class members ahead of time to share ways they and their families prepare for general conference. How have we been blessed for opening our hearts to God s word? When we serve others, we are serving God. Mosiah 2:17 25 Class members could share verses from the reading this week that inspired them. ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Video Because of Him (LDS.org). This video powerfully testifies of the Savior s influence in our lives and throughout the world. Before showing the video, consider inviting class members to ponder the blessings they have received because of the Savior. After the video, ask them to share their thoughts and feelings. Elder Dale G. Renlund taught: To effectively serve others we must see them... through Heavenly Father s eyes. Only then can we begin to comprehend the true worth of a soul. Only then can we sense the love that Heavenly Father has for all of His children. Only then can we sense the Savior s caring concern for them ( Through God s Eyes, Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 94). What does Elder Renlund s message add to King Benjamin s teachings in these verses? When have we benefited from this kind of service? You might challenge class members to make personal or family plans to serve the needy, including those who have emotional and spiritual needs. You could also sing a hymn as a class about service, such as A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief (Hymns, no. 29), and discuss how it helps us understand King Benjamin s teachings. What have we learned from our efforts to serve others? Jesus Christ came to earth to save and heal us. Mosiah 3:1 20 What doctrinal principles do we find in Mosiah 3? How does this chapter serve as another testament of Jesus Christ in addition to what we know about Him from the Bible? King Benjamin s prophetic message is one of the most specific and descriptive prophecies about the birth, ministry, and atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Which teachings stand out most to us? How have we felt the Savior strengthen, save, and heal us? You could make a chart of these prophecies and find scriptural accounts where these prophecies were fulfilled (consider using footnotes and other study helps). You might leave time in the lesson for class members to bear their testimonies of the Savior. 5

12 APRIL Mosiah 4 6 A Mighty Change of Heart PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Mosiah 4 6, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? How will your invitation to share inspire class members to learn and prepare more at home? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Mosiah 4 6. Encourage Learning at Home What can you share from Mosiah 7 10 to help class members feel excited about this week s reading? IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Nurture a loving atmosphere. Some factors that invite the Spirit are intangible, such as how class members feel about and treat one another. Help establish a loving, respectful classroom environment so that learners feel safe sharing experiences, questions, and testimonies. 6

13 What does it mean to repent? TEACHING IDEAS Mosiah 4:1 13 How can we teach our family members or other loved ones about repentance? What verses and principles in Mosiah 4 might help? King Benjamin wanted his people to understand how to both receive and retain a remission of their sins. What can we learn about repentance from Mosiah 4:10 13? You might assign class members to search this chapter and find principles related to repentance. For example, Mosiah 4:1 2 teaches that in order to repent we must be humble and recognize our need for the Savior. Mosiah 4:2 3 teaches that when we repent, the atoning blood of Jesus Christ makes us clean and worthy of the Holy Ghost. What else do we find in Mosiah 4 that inspires us to repent? What do we learn that can help us retain a remission of our sins throughout our lives? ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Video A Change of Heart (LDS.org). This video depicts the story of Ever Hernandez, a young man in Honduras who experienced a mighty change of heart. After watching the video, invite class members to discuss what they learned. Our change of heart is shown in the way we treat others. Mosiah 4:11 26 On slips of paper, or on the board, class members could write a reference to a passage that they like from King Benjamin s speech. They could select a few passages from the slips to read and discuss as a class. Elder Marvin J. Ashton taught, The best and most clear indicator that we are progressing spiritually and coming unto Christ is the way we treat other people ( The Tongue Can Be a Sharp Sword, Ensign, May 1992, 20). What does King Benjamin teach in Mosiah 4:11 26 that supports this principle? What can we do to help our family members walk in the ways of truth and soberness and to love one another, and to serve one another? (Mosiah 4:15). We could spend a few minutes writing down ways we feel inspired to show more love in our families. I can experience a mighty change of heart. Mosiah 5:2 7 What teachings from Mosiah 5 inspire us to make righteous changes in our lives? Every day we can change our hair or our clothes. But when we are converted, a deeper change must happen a change of heart (see Ezekiel 36:24 28). A change of heart is a change from the feelings, desires, and interests of the natural man to those of a Saint (see Mosiah 3:19). Class members could search Mosiah 5:7 and compare words and phrases that describe King Benjamin s people before and after experiencing a change of heart. What experiences have we had that have helped change our hearts? As part of this activity, class members could watch and discuss the video A Change of Heart (LDS.org). 7

14 APRIL 25 MAY 1 Mosiah 7 10 The Lord Will Deliver Us PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Mosiah 7 10, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? How will your invitation to share inspire class members to learn and prepare more at home? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Mosiah Encourage Learning at Home To encourage class members to read Mosiah 11 17, you might read to them the first paragraph under Introduction in the study outline for those chapters in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Listen to your class members. Listening shows love. It means caring more about another person than about what you want to say. As you listen to class members, you will come to understand them better their needs, their concerns, their desires. 8

15 TEACHING IDEAS God will deliver us, but He may require us to pass through trials first. Mosiah 7:18 25, 33 As we studied these verses, what connections did we see between Limhi s situation and our own? How can we encourage our family members and friends to trust in the Lord the way Limhi encouraged his people to do so? The hymn Redeemer of Israel (Hymns, no. 6) describes the Lord as a deliverer. What can we learn from this hymn and Mosiah 7 about being delivered from our sins, trials, and challenges? What holds people captive today? What do Ether 12:27 and 2 Corinthians 12:7 10 add to our understanding? How have we been blessed by seeking deliverance from the Lord according to his own will and pleasure (Mosiah 7:33)? Why do we need prophets? Mosiah 8:12 21 As we pondered Ammon s description of prophets, seers, and revelators, what impressions came to mind? How do Ammon s words affect our attitude toward the general conference messages we just received? Ammon s testimony of the importance of prophets, seers, and revelators is quite different from how the world may view the importance and role of our Church leaders. How could his example inform our own efforts to help others understand why we are so thankful for living prophets? How can we, like Ammon, speak boldly about the need for prophets and seers? What did we hear in the recent general conference that we could share with our friends, family, and neighbors to teach them about the need for prophets? What we believe and do can affect our families for generations. Mosiah 10:11 17 What thoughts came to mind as we read Zeniff s description of the Lamanites hatred of the Nephites? How can we overcome this kind of hatred in our world today? ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Counsel from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland We can be reasonably active, meeting-going Latter-day Saints, but if we do not live lives of gospel integrity and convey to our children powerful heartfelt convictions,... then those children may, to our regret but not surprise, turn out not to be visibly active, meeting-going Latter-day Saints or sometimes anything close to it. I met a fine young man... after he had been [searching for] religious faith. His father, he admitted, believed in nothing whatsoever. But his grandfather, he said, was actually a member of [the Church]. But he didn t do much with it, the young man said. He was always pretty cynical about the Church. From a grandfather who is cynical to a son who is agnostic to a grandson who is now looking desperately for what God had already once given his family! (Jeffrey R. Holland, A Prayer for the Children, Ensign or Liahona, May 2003, 86). How might this story help us apply the principles in Mosiah 10:11 17? The beliefs and attitude of the Lamanites were profoundly affected by choices their ancestors made centuries earlier. In some ways, this effect is similar to the way the fall of a single domino affects other dominoes. What other examples can we think of that illustrate this principle? How can someone s lack of faith or commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ affect others? On the other hand, what stories can we share from our own family histories in which one righteous ancestor influenced generations for good? 9

16 MAY 2 8 Mosiah Standing as a Testimony of the Truth PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Mosiah 11 17, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? How will your invitation to share inspire class members to learn and prepare more at home. Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Mosiah Encourage Learning at Home To inspire class members to read Mosiah next week, you could tell them that these chapters may help them evaluate how well they are keeping their baptismal covenants. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Use music. The First Presidency has said, Music has boundless powers for moving [us] toward greater spirituality (Hymns, x). Inspired music invites the Spirit and teaches truth. For example, Handel s Hallelujah Chorus could help class members understand the Savior s divine role. 10

17 TEACHING IDEAS We can testify of the truth even if we have to stand alone. Mosiah 11 13; 17 What impressed us as we read Abinadi s testimony to King Noah s court? What messages do we find in this story that seem relevant to today s world? In what ways does Abinadi remind us of Jesus Christ? We all may have moments when we feel like Abinadi when we seem to be standing alone in defense of truth. Gathering as Saints at church can remind us that we are not alone. How could you use Abinadi s story to encourage class members to remain true to their beliefs in the face of opposition? The video Dare to Stand Alone (LDS.org) provides additional examples and counsel from President Thomas S. Monson that might be especially helpful when teaching youth. How can we help each other and our family members stand for truth and righteousness? When we study God s word, we need to apply our hearts to understanding. Mosiah 12:19 30 What was the attitude of King Noah s priests toward the scriptures and the commandments? How can we avoid this attitude in our own hearts? There is at least one way we can relate to King Noah s priests: we may sometimes find ourselves asking, What meaneth the words which are written? (Mosiah 12:20) especially when it comes to the prophecies of Isaiah. How can you help class members better understand what it means to apply [our] hearts to understanding? For example, to teach what it means to have a soft heart, you might invite class members to try inscribing something on two different surfaces one hard and one soft (like a rock and a lump of clay). What does it mean to have the commandments written in [our] hearts? ADDITIONAL RESOURCE To invite the Spirit into the class, consider inviting class members to sing or listen to a hymn that bears testimony of the Savior and His Atonement. The following examples are available on either lds.org/music or mormontabernaclechoir.org. Come unto Jesus (Hymns, no. 117) I Believe in Christ (no. 134) My Redeemer Lives (no. 135) I Know That My Redeemer Lives (no. 136) Jesus of Nazareth, Savior and King (no. 181) God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son (no. 187) I Stand All Amazed (no. 193) How Great the Wisdom and the Love (no. 195) He Is Risen! (no. 199) Salvation comes through Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Mosiah 13:28 15:11 What did the Spirit teach us as we pondered Isaiah s and Abinadi s testimonies of the Savior and His Atonement? In an attempt to convince a skeptical audience about the coming of the Messiah, Abinadi chose to quote a moving prophecy from Isaiah (see Mosiah 14). What do class members learn about the Savior from this chapter, including the footnotes? To give class members ample opportunities to share their thoughts and testimonies, you might divide the class into small groups and invite them to teach each other from this chapter. You could also read the chapter as a class and invite class members to comment and ask questions as you go. 11

18 MAY 9 15 Mosiah We Have Entered into a Covenant with Him PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Mosiah 18 24, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? How will your invitation to share inspire class members to learn and prepare more at home? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Mosiah Encourage Learning at Home Encourage class members to read Mosiah during the week. Invite them to look for what they can learn from Alma and his people about responding to opposition. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Turn to the Savior. In your efforts to live and teach more like the Savior, you will fall short at times. As this happens, turn to the Savior. Draw strength from Him and the power available through His Atonement. You will increase your ability to have His Spirit with you. 12

19 TEACHING IDEAS When we are baptized, we covenant to serve the Lord. Mosiah 18:1 16 As we read these verses, what thoughts did we have about our efforts to keep our covenants? How might we improve in keeping these covenants? As Alma s followers prepared to be baptized, Alma taught them that coming into the fold of God required a covenant not only to follow God but also to care for His children (Mosiah 18:8). How have we been blessed as other followers of Christ have comforted us or helped us bear our burdens? What do we learn from these experiences that can help us keep our covenants? How have we been blessed by keeping our baptismal covenants? We can live in unity as God s people. Mosiah 18:17 31 As we studied this passage, what impressed us about the specific ways Alma s people lived in unity as the Church of Christ? These verses describe the commandments Alma gave the members of the Church to help them live the gospel, such as having their hearts knit together in unity and in love (verse 21), honoring the Sabbath day (see verse 25), and impart[ing] of their substance to the needy (verse 28). One way to help your class members identify and apply these commandments is to invite them to form small groups, identify several commandments in Mosiah 18:17 31, and discuss the blessings they have seen Church members receive from following these commandments. You could also search the LDS Media Library (LDS.org) or recent general conference talks for examples of Saints being blessed by living these commandments. ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Counsel from Elder David A. Bednar The unique burdens in each of our lives help us to rely upon the merits, mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah (see 2 Nephi 2:8). I testify and promise the Savior will help us to bear up our burdens with ease (see Mosiah 24:15). As we are yoked with Him through sacred covenants and receive the enabling power of His Atonement in our lives, we increasingly will seek to understand and live according to His will. We also will pray for the strength to learn from, change, or accept our circumstances rather than praying relentlessly for God to change our circumstances according to our will. We will become agents who act rather than objects that are acted upon (see 2 Nephi 2:14) (David A. Bednar, Bear Up Their Burdens with Ease, Ensign and Liahona, May 2014, 90). The Lord can make our burdens light. Mosiah 23:21 24; 24:8 17 What did we learn from these verses about how God will make our burdens light? What experiences have helped us learn this truth? How can you help your class members develop trust in God s promise to ease our burdens and visit us in our afflictions? (see Mosiah 24:14). You could invite class members to relate the story of Alma s people and their release from bondage, or you could read it together as a class. You could also read Matthew 11:28 30 and demonstrate what a yoke does it harnesses two animals who work together to pull a heavy load. A picture of a yoke might help, and so could the explanation in the Additional Resource in this outline. What does this analogy teach us about Christ and how He will help us? 13

20 MAY Mosiah They Were Called the People of God PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Mosiah 25 28, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Mosiah Encourage Learning at Home Do your class members wonder how they can make a difference in their homes and communities? Encourage them to read Mosiah 29 Alma 4 to learn from the example of Mosiah, Alma, and their people. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Emulate the Savior s life. The Savior s way of teaching came from who He was and the power of the Spirit that He carried with Him (Luke 4:14). The key to teaching as the Savior taught is to strive to live as the Savior lived. 14

21 TEACHING IDEAS We are different, but we are one in the gospel. Mosiah 25:18 24 As we read these verses at home, what insights do we gain from these verses about how we can be united as Saints locally and around the world? The Church is made up of people from all over the world. Even our own ward includes people with different backgrounds, perspectives, and interests. And yet the Lord expects us to be unified as we learn and live the same gospel truths. What helped the Church members at the time of Alma to become unified? What can we do as a ward to make sure that all ward members and visitors feel loved and welcome? The Apostle Paul s words in Ephesians 4:1 15 and the video Unity of the Faith (biblevideos.lds.org) might also help with this discussion. Just as we seek the Lord s forgiveness, we should strive to forgive others. Mosiah 26:29 32 How have we been blessed, as individuals and as families, by repentance and forgiveness? In our personal and family study, what did these verses teach us about repentance and forgiveness? The Lord taught Alma that as often as the people repented, the Lord would forgive them. But he also taught that we must forgive others (see also D&C 64:10). How can we open our hearts to forgive those who have sinned against us especially when we have experienced deep heartache or loss because of their choices? To help class members share ideas, you could show the video Forgiveness: My Burden Was Made Light (LDS.org) or share the teachings from President James E. Faust in Additional Resource. I must choose to change. Mosiah 27 As we read this chapter at home, what did we learn about the role of personal agency in changing for the better? ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Counsel from President James E. Faust Most of us need time to work through pain and loss. We can find all manner of reasons for postponing forgiveness. One of these reasons is waiting for the wrongdoers to repent before we forgive them. Yet such a delay causes us to forfeit the peace and happiness that could be ours. The folly of rehashing long-past hurts does not bring happiness We need to recognize and acknowledge angry feelings. It will take humility to do this, but if we will get on our knees and ask Heavenly Father for a feeling of forgiveness, He will help us. The Lord requires us to forgive all men [D&C 64:10] for our own good because hatred retards spiritual growth [Orson F. Whitney, Gospel Themes (1914), 144]. Only as we rid ourselves of hatred and bitterness can the Lord put comfort into our hearts (James E. Faust, The Healing Power of Forgiveness, Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2007, 68 69). What can we do now to prepare to forgive others when they hurt us? Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah made an incredible transformation from enemies of the Church to instruments in God s hands. Even though for most of us conversion is not as dramatic as Alma s experience, what can we learn about conversion from this chapter? How can we help others become converted? What fruits of conversion do we find in verses 23 29? You might invite several ward members ahead of time to share their conversion stories. What objects or examples can class members share that demonstrate the concept of transformation? How do these examples of transformation and Alma s experience help us understand repentance? 15

22 MAY Mosiah 29 Alma 4 Becoming Steadfast and Immovable PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Mosiah 29 Alma 4, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Mosiah 29 Alma 4. Encourage Learning at Home Encourage class members to evaluate their own lives as they read Alma s questions in Alma 5 7 next week. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Refer to official Church resources. The best sources for answers to gospel questions are the scriptures, the words of living prophets, and other official Church publications. For example, the Church has published essays to help answer difficult questions (see lds.org/topics). 16

23 TEACHING IDEAS We have a duty to be responsible citizens. Mosiah 29:1 34; Alma 2:1 7 You might invite class members to discuss parallels they found between our day and the events and conditions of Mosiah 29 Alma 4. To help class members understand why King Mosiah wanted to establish a new form of government, you could ask two volunteers to each draw an image on the board one representing a wicked king and the other representing a righteous judge. Class members might search Mosiah 29 and write characteristics of these two leaders on the board near the corresponding image. Why did King Mosiah feel a system of judges would be better than a king? You could also discuss the importance of the voice of the people in Alma 2:1 7. What can we learn from Mosiah s counsel that can help us learn how to protect and defend religious liberty? We can recognize and resist false teachers. Alma 1:1 16, Several days before class, invite a class member to complete the family home evening activity about protecting ourselves against false doctrine in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families. Invite this class member to share his or her family s experience with the class. How can you help class members understand the importance of resisting false teachers? The hymn Help Me Teach with Inspiration (Hymns, no. 281) lists the desires of a righteous gospel teacher. Class members could sing or read this hymn and discuss how these desires are different from those of Nehor and his followers (see Alma 1:1 7, 16 17). What did the people of the Church do to withstand the persecution of the nonbelievers in Alma 1:19 31? How can we follow their example? What is priestcraft? (see 2 Nephi 26:29). What can we learn from the contrasts found in Alma 1 between priestcraft and pure Christian service? ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Counsel from Elder Robert D. Hales As we face increased pressure to bow to secular standards, forfeit our religious liberties, and compromise our agency, consider what the Book of Mormon teaches about our responsibilities. In the book of Alma we read of Amlici, a very cunning and wicked man who sought to be king over the people and deprive them of their rights and privileges, which was alarming to the people of the church. They were taught by King Mosiah to raise their voices for what they felt was right.... As disciples of Jesus Christ we have a responsibility to work together with like-minded believers, to raise our voices for what is right.... We are all invited, in our capacity as citizens, to share our personal witness with conviction and love (Robert D. Hales, Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom, Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 112). How does this statement from Elder Hales help us liken the account in Alma 2 to our day? Pride can cause the Church to fail in its progress. Alma 4:6 15 You might provide a few minutes for class members to form pairs and share ideas that help make their scripture study more effective. Invite a few pairs to share their ideas. To help class members understand what it means to be lifted up in the pride of [one s] eyes, you might discuss the consequences that resulted from the Nephites prideful behavior, described in Alma 4:6 15. Which of these consequences of sin do we see today in the world around us? What can we do to avoid these consequences ourselves? 17

24 MAY 30 JUNE 5 Alma 5 7 Have I Experienced a Mighty Change of Heart? PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Alma 5 7, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Alma 5 7. Encourage Learning at Home To encourage class members to read Alma 8 12, you might share with them that these chapters tell the story of men who were once apathetic and even antagonistic toward the Church but then heard preaching of Alma and later became courageous defenders of the faith. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Learn to recognize revelation. Revelation often comes line upon line (2 Nephi 28:30), not all at once. As you ponder God s word, ideas and impressions will come daily. Pay attention to these impressions, which can come as you travel to work, do household chores, or interact with family and friends. 18

25 TEACHING IDEAS The gospel of Jesus Christ can cause a mighty change in us. Alma 5:14, 26 As we studied Alma 5 this week, which of Alma s questions did we feel were helpful in evaluating our own conversion? Alma s teachings imply that it is not enough just to belong to the Church; the gospel must cause a mighty change in us (Alma 5:14). How has the gospel changed us? How have gospel truths have made a difference in our families lives? How do we keep the process of conversion going so that, having felt a change of heart, we can still feel so now? (Alma 5:26). I don t need to see an angel to have a testimony. Alma 5:44 51 What impressed us about Alma s testimony? Heavenly Father wants each of us to know the truth for ourselves. But not everyone will see an angel as Alma did (see Mosiah 27:10 17). What do we learn from Alma s words about the true source of a testimony? What experiences could class members share about how they gained their testimonies? What do we learn from Alma s words in these verses about what it means to bear testimony? The Savior knows how to help me personally. Alma 7:10 13 What experiences have confirmed to us the truths taught in these verses? Alma taught that because the Savior took upon Himself our sins, pains, sicknesses, and infirmities, He knows how to help us. Elder Dallin H. Oaks similarly testified, Our Savior has revealed that He descended below all things (D&C 88:6).... We might even say that having descended beneath it all, He is perfectly positioned to lift us and give us the strength we need to endure our afflictions. We have only to ask ( Strengthened by the Atonement of Jesus Christ, Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 64). How could you help class members visualize this truth? For example, you could demonstrate that it is easier to lift a heavy object when you lift from below. You could also show the video The Savior Suffers in Gethsemane (biblevideos.lds.org). It may also help to invite the class to consider what other things the Savior suffered during His life (see the Additional Resource in this outline). ADDITIONAL RESOURCE What did Christ suffer? Consider the following afflictions that Jesus Christ experienced: Poverty and homelessness (see Luke 9:58) Hunger, thirst, and fatigue (see Matthew 4:2; John 19:28; Mosiah 3:7) Temptation (see Matthew 4:1 10) Death of a loved one (see Matthew 14:10 13) Abandonment by His friends (see Matthew 26:56) Mocking (see Matthew 27:29 31, 39 44) Intense physical pain (see Luke 22:39 44) What other afflictions did the Savior experience during his life? What does His willingness to experience these afflictions teach us about Him? (see 1 Nephi 19:9). 19

26 JUNE 6 12 Alma 8 12 Go Forth and Prophesy unto This People PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Alma 8 12, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Alma Encourage Learning at Home To encourage class members to read Alma during the week, you might point out that these chapters contain a moving story of disciples who trusted in the Lord even as they faced excruciating trials and persecution. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Follow up. When you follow up on invitations to act, you show learners that you care about how the gospel is blessing them. You give them a chance to share their experiences, which strengthens their commitment and allows them to support one another in living the gospel. 20

27 TEACHING IDEAS Our efforts to share the gospel require persistence and patience. Alma 8 As we read this chapter at home, what insights did we have about why persistence and patience are essential when striving to share the gospel? Even though Alma was weighed down with sorrow because the people of Ammonihah had rejected his message (Alma 8:14), he was willing to return to the city to continue preaching the gospel after an angel commanded him to do so. How did Alma s patience and persistence allow him to bless others? How was he blessed? Consider asking class members to share how the persistence and patience of others have helped them better live the gospel in their own lives. In the Resurrection, our bodies will be restored to their perfect forms. Alma 11:42 46 In our personal and family study, what verses from Alma 11:42 46 have we found especially meaningful? Why are those verses meaningful to us? Amulek s teachings about the Resurrection were simple, yet they carried such power that the people he spoke to were astonished. How can you help class members learn from Amulek s example? You might invite the class to form small groups and role-play how they would respond to a friend who is wondering what happens after death. Which of Amulek s teachings could they use to answer this friend s questions? What other scriptures could they use? (for example, see Job 19:26; Luke 24:39; 1 Corinthians 15:1 22; Alma 40:6 14). If we do not harden our hearts, we can receive more of the word of God. Alma 12:9 13 What does it mean to harden [our] hearts? How have our efforts to soften our hearts helped us better understand God s word? How have we been blessed in this process? ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Counsel from Elder Michael T. Ringwood Willingness to believe in the word of God comes from a softness of heart. It comes from having a heart that is sensitive to the Holy Ghost. It comes from having a heart that can love. It comes from having a heart that will make and keep sacred covenants. It comes from a soft heart that can feel the power of the Atonement of Christ.... Many of us have... a legacy of faith from ancestors who had soft hearts and found it easy to believe the word of God. Some of these were like my great-great-grandfather Ephraim K. Hanks, who, when he found out his older brother had gone off with the Mormons, was determined to bring him back home. Not surprisingly, Ephraim moved to Nauvoo and was baptized soon after he heard his brother bear testimony of... the restored gospel (Michael T. Ringwood, An Easiness and Willingness to Believe, Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, ). What gospel truths have we been blessed to understand as we have softened our hearts? Alma taught that when we harden our hearts, we receive the lesser portion of God s word (Alma 12:10). What scripture passages could we share as a class that illustrate this principle? What personal experiences can we share? How can we soften our hearts so that we can continue to learn more from God? (See also the Additional Resource in this outline.) 21

28 JUNE Alma The Lord Will Grant Me Power PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Alma 13 16, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Alma Encourage Learning at Home To inspire class members to read Alma 17 22, you could let them know that these chapters contain the account of two valiant women whose examples of courage and faith blessed generations. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Look for symbols. The scriptures often use objects, events, or actions to represent spiritual truths. These symbols can enrich your understanding of the doctrine being taught. As learners study the Book of Mormon, encourage them to look for symbols, too. 22

29 TEACHING IDEAS Priesthood leaders were prepared from the foundation of the world. Alma 13:1 20 As class members read this chapter, what verses reminded them of priesthood leaders they know? Invite class members to search portions of these verses in small groups, looking for things they learn about high priests. Invite each group to share what they learn with the class. How do these verses help us see our priesthood leaders differently? How do these verses help us understand our own callings better? If we trust in the Lord, He will help us endure our trials. Alma 14 Consider writing a favorite quote on the board from a General Authority or Church leader about how the Lord can deliver us. Invite class members to share how the quote on the board helps them understand what they learned in this chapter. Alma and Amulek were miraculously freed from prison, but they also witnessed other disciples facing great trials, such as the innocent people who were burned to death. Why does a merciful God sometimes allows bad things to happen to good people? How could this chapter help us answer this question? Invite class members to discuss this question in pairs. Despite the challenges that the people in these chapters faced, what does this account teach us about our own trials? How do these chapters give us hope? Why should we follow the prophets? Alma 16:1 12 Class members could share experiences when they have been blessed for following the prophet. How did following the prophet protect the Nephites in this chapter? Alma pleaded with the people of Ammonihah, warning them that they needed to repent or they would be utterly destroyed (see Alma 9:9 15). Because he was a true prophet, all his words were fulfilled. Alma s guidance also protected the righteous Nephites as they fought the Lamanites. What examples of Alma s prophecies being fulfilled do class members find in these verses? How have we seen the words of the prophets fulfilled in our day? What can we do to heed their words? ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Continuous Revelation through Living Prophets, chapter 7 of Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Howard W. Hunter (2015), How do the teachings of President Hunter in this chapter help us understand the teachings about prophets and priesthood leaders in Alma 13 16? 23

30 JUNE Alma I Will Make an Instrument of Thee PREPARING TO TEACH IN SUNDAY SCHOOL My Spiritual Impressions Before you read any other lesson materials, study Alma 17 22, and record the spiritual impressions you receive. These impressions will help you create an inspired teaching plan (see the sample teaching plan in this resource). You might also use additional ideas such as those in this lesson outline, in Come, Follow Me for individuals and families, or in Church magazines. Invite Sharing How can you encourage class members to share insights and experiences they had as they studied these scriptures individually and with their family? Teach the Doctrine Consider what additional verses, quotations from Church leaders, experiences, questions, and other materials you might use to teach the doctrine taught in Alma Encourage Learning at Home Remind class members that this is the last week they will use the test curriculum and that next Sunday they will use the Church s standard 2016 curriculum. However, emphasize that they can continue to apply the patterns of learning, living, and teaching the gospel that they ve learned during the test. IMPROVING OUR TEACHING Look for Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon contains nearly 4,000 references to Jesus Christ. As you ponder the word of God, consider noting or marking verses that teach about the Savior and are especially meaningful to you. Encourage the learners in your class to do the same. 24

31 TEACHING IDEAS When we are serving as instruments in God s hands, we can be confident in doing His work. Alma 17:1 16 Consider inviting class members to share verses from this week s reading that they found personally significant. You might invite someone to bring an instrument or a tool to class (like a sewing needle or thermometer) and explain to class members how the instrument helps them. How can understanding that we can be instruments in God s hands help us be more confident in sharing the gospel? How did the sons of Mosiah prepare themselves to become instruments in God s hands? (see Alma 17:2 3). What other scriptures help us understand what it means to be an instrument? (see, for example, Isaiah 49:1 3; Alma 29:9 10). How can this understanding help us be better missionaries? Through Christlike service, we can prepare others to receive the gospel. Alma 17:19 39; 18:1 11 You might provide a few minutes for class members to pair up and share ideas of things they do to make their scripture study effective. Invite a few pairs to share. What was the result of Ammon s service to King Lamoni? (see Alma 18:1 11). Like Ammon, we can serve others in ways that open the door to sharing the gospel. This service can be as simple as expressing love and concern for others in need (see President Henry B. Eyring s statement in Additional Resources ). To help the class understand the power of Christlike service in missionary work, you could invite them to share experiences in which they or someone they know was brought closer to God through another s service. How did this service affect them? ADDITIONAL RESOURCE Video Because I Have Been Given Much (LDS.org). In this video, a young woman feels impressed to invite a friend to learn more about the gospel. The friend sees the joy the gospel brings to the members of the Church and feels their love. What impressions came to class members as they watched? What are they inspired to do? Counsel from President Henry B. Eyring Those we meet will feel the love that springs from our long practice in keeping a covenant to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort [Mosiah 18:9].... And when they find our concern sincere, the Holy Spirit can more easily touch them to allow us to teach and to testify, as it did for Ammon (Henry B. Eyring, Witnesses for God, Ensign, Nov. 1996, 32). We can teach the gospel with power and authority of God. Alma 18:14 40; Alma 22:1 18 As class members read about the missionary experiences of Ammon and Aaron in these passages, what did they find that applies to their missionary efforts? Ammon and Aaron taught with power and authority of God (Alma 17:3). What can we learn from the ways they taught the gospel? You could invite class members to study Alma 18:14 40 and 22:4 18, looking for principles of gospel teaching that they can learn from the ways Ammon and Aaron taught (for example, rely on the Spirit, ask questions, and teach doctrine). Ask class members to report what they find, and list their answers on the board. How can we apply these same principles when we teach the gospel in our homes, to our friends, or in our callings? 25