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New Testament Study Guide 2023

This document provides guidance for individuals and families to study the New Testament using Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023. It encourages seeking the influence of the Holy Ghost to guide gospel learning. Daily effort and consistency are needed for true conversion. The document provides ideas to improve personal and family scripture study. It also includes additional resources and guidance for teaching children and including music. The overall aim is to deepen conversion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ through gospel learning and living.

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Maria Romero

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)

209 views482 pages

New Testament Study Guide 2023

Uploaded by

Maria Romero

We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.

Available Formats

Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

You are on page 1/ 482

NEW T ESTA M E N T 2 0 2 3

Come, Follow Me—

For Individuals and Families
Living, Learning, and Teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ
NEW TESTAMENT 2023

Come, Follow Me—

For Individuals
and Families
LIVING, LEARNING, AND TEACHING
THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST

Published by
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah
© 2022 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Version: 9/20
17847 081
Printed in the United States of America
Comments and corrections are appreciated. Please send them, including errors, to
[email protected].
Contents
Conversion Is Our Goal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
Using Come, Follow Me—For Individuals
and Families . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
Ideas to Improve Your Personal Scripture Study . . . . . xii
Ideas to Improve Your Family Scripture Study . . . . . . xvii
Additional Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xxiii
Teaching Young Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xxvii
Including Sacred Music in Your Gospel Learning . . . xxx
December 26–January 1: We Are Responsible for
Our Own Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
January 2–8: Matthew 1; Luke 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
January 9–15: Matthew 2; Luke 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
January 16–22: John 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
January 23–29: Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3 . . . . . . . . . 34
January 30–February 5: Matthew 4; Luke 4–5 . . . . . . . 42
February 6–12: John 2–4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
February 13–19: Matthew 5; Luke 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
February 20–26: Matthew 6–7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

February 27–March 5: Matthew 8; Mark 2–4;

Luke 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
March 6–12: Matthew 9–10; Mark 5; Luke 9 . . . . . . . . 83
March 13–19: Matthew 11–12; Luke 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
March 20–26: Matthew 13; Luke 8; 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
March 27–April 2: Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5–6 . . 108
April 3–9: Easter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
April 10–16: Matthew 15–17; Mark 7–9 . . . . . . . . . . . 124
April 17–23: Matthew 18; Luke 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
April 24–30: John 7–10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
May 1–7: Luke 12–17; John 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
May 8–14: Matthew 19–20; Mark 10; Luke 18 . . . . . . 157
May 15–21: Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20;
John 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
May 22–28: Joseph Smith—Matthew 1; Matthew
24–25; Mark 12–13; Luke 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
May 29–June 4: Matthew 26; Mark 14; John 13 . . . . . 183
June 5–11: John 14–17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
June 12–18: Luke 22; John 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
June 19–25: Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23;
John 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208

iv
Contents

June 26–July 2: Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24;

John 20–21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
July 3–9: Acts 1–5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
July 10–16: Acts 6–9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
July 17–23: Acts 10–15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 242
July 24–30: Acts 16–21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250
July 31–August 6: Acts 22–28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258
August 7–13: Romans 1–6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
August 14–20: Romans 7–16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
August 21–27: 1 Corinthians 1–7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283
August 28–September 3: 1 Corinthians 8–13 . . . . . . . 291
September 4–10: 1 Corinthians 14–16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 299
September 11–17: 2 Corinthians 1–7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 308
September 18–24: 2 Corinthians 8–13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316
September 25–October 1: Galatians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324
October 2–8: Ephesians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 332
October 9–15: Philippians; Colossians . . . . . . . . . . . . 340
October 16–22: 1 and 2 Thessalonians . . . . . . . . . . . . 348
October 23–29: 1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon . . 357
October 30–November 5: Hebrews 1–6 . . . . . . . . . . . 366

v
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

November 6–12: Hebrews 7–13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 375

November 13–19: James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 383
November 20–26: 1 and 2 Peter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 391
November 27–December 3: 1–3 John; Jude . . . . . . . . 399
December 4–10: Revelation 1–5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407
December 11–17: Revelation 6–14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 415
December 18–24: Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 423
December 25–31: Revelation 15–22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 432

vi
Conversion Is Our Goal
The aim of all gospel learning and teaching is to deepen
our conversion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ
and help us become more like Them. For this reason,
when we study the gospel, we’re not just looking for
new information; we want to become a “new creature”
(2 Corinthians 5:17). This means relying on Heavenly
Father and Jesus Christ to help us change our hearts, our
views, our actions, and our very natures.

But the kind of gospel learning that strengthens our faith

and leads to the miracle of conversion doesn’t happen all
at once. It extends beyond a classroom into our hearts
and homes. It requires consistent, daily efforts to under-
stand and live the gospel. Gospel learning that leads to
true conversion requires the influence of the Holy Ghost.

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

The Holy Ghost guides us to the truth and bears witness

of that truth (see John 16:13). He enlightens our minds,
quickens our understandings, and touches our hearts
with revelation from God, the source of all truth. The
Holy Ghost purifies our hearts. He inspires in us a desire
to live by truth, and He whispers to us ways to do this.
Truly, “the Holy Ghost . . . shall teach [us] all things”
( John 14:26).

For these reasons, in our efforts to live, learn, and teach

the gospel, we should first and foremost seek the com-
panionship of the Spirit. This goal should govern our
choices and guide our thoughts and actions. We should
seek after whatever invites the influence of the Spirit and
reject whatever drives that influence away—for we know
that if we can be worthy of the presence of the Holy
Ghost, we can also be worthy to live in the presence of
Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

viii
Using Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families

Using Come, Follow Me—For

Individuals and Families

Who Is This Resource For?

This resource is for every individual and family in the
Church. It is designed to help you learn the gospel—
whether on your own or with your family. If you haven’t
studied the gospel regularly in the past, this resource can
help you get started. If you already have a good habit of
gospel study, this resource can help you have more mean-
ingful experiences.

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

How Should I Use This Resource?

Use this resource in any way that is helpful to you. You
may find it helpful as a guide or aid for personal and
family scripture study. You could also use it for home
evening. The outlines highlight important principles
found in the New Testament, suggest study ideas and
activities for individuals and families, and provide places
to record your impressions.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families is not meant

to replace or compete with other good things you are
doing to learn the gospel. Follow the Spirit’s guidance to
determine how to approach your own study of the word
of God.

How Does This Resource Relate to

What Happens at Church?
The outlines in this resource are organized according to
a weekly reading schedule. The Come, Follow Me resources
for Primary, for Sunday School, and for Aaronic
Priesthood quorums and Young Women classes follow
the same schedule. To support your efforts to learn and
live the gospel at home, your teachers at church will give
you opportunities to share your experiences, thoughts,

x
Using Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families

and questions about the scripture passages that you have

been studying at home.

Because Sunday School is taught only twice a month,

Sunday School teachers may choose to skip or combine
outlines to keep up with the weekly schedule. This may
also be necessary (for both Sunday School and Primary)
on weeks when regular Church meetings are not held
because of stake conference or other reasons. During
these weeks you are invited to continue to study the New
Testament at home.

Do I Need to Follow the Schedule?

The schedule will help you read the New Testament
by the end of the year. In addition, following the same
schedule as others can lead to meaningful experiences
at home, at church, and elsewhere. But don’t feel bound
by the schedule or compelled to read every verse; the
schedule is simply a guide to help you pace yourself. The
important thing is that you are learning the gospel indi-
vidually and as a family.

xi
Ideas to Improve Your Personal
Scripture Study
Here are some simple ways to enhance your study of the
word of God in the scriptures.

Look for Truths about Jesus Christ

The scriptures teach us that all things testify of Christ (see
2 Nephi 11:4; Moses 6:63), so consider noting or marking
verses that teach about the Savior and how to follow Him.

Look for Inspiring Words and Phrases

You may find that certain words and phrases in the scrip-
tures impress you, as if they were written specifically for

xii
Ide as to Improve Your Personal Scripture Study

you. They may feel personally relevant and inspire and

motivate you. Consider marking them in your scriptures
or writing them in a study journal.

Look for Gospel Truths

Sometimes gospel truths (often called doctrine or princi-
ples) are stated directly, and sometimes they are implied
through an example or story. Ask yourself, “What eternal
truths are taught in these verses?”

Listen to the Spirit

Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings, even if they
are unrelated to what you are reading. Those impressions
may be the very things that your Heavenly Father wants
you to learn.

Liken the Scriptures to Your Life

Consider how the stories and teachings you are reading
apply to your life. For example, you could ask yourself,
“What experiences have I had that are similar to what I
am reading?” or “How can I follow the example of this
person in the scriptures?”

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

Ask Questions as You Study

As you study the scriptures, questions may come to mind.
These questions might relate to what you are reading or
to your life in general. Ponder these questions and look
for answers as you continue studying the scriptures.

Use Scripture Study Helps

To gain additional insights into the verses you
read, use the footnotes, the Topical Guide, the
Bible Dictionary, the Guide to the Scriptures
(scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and other
study helps.

xiv
Ide as to Improve Your Personal Scripture Study

Consider the Context of

the Scriptures
You can find meaningful insights about a scripture if you
consider its context—the circumstances or setting of the
scripture. For example, knowing the background and
beliefs of the people a prophet spoke to can help you
understand the intent of his words.

Record Your Thoughts and Feelings

There are various ways to record the impressions that
come as you study. For example, you could mark a mean-
ingful word or phrase and record your thoughts as a note
in your scriptures. You could also keep a journal of the
insights, feelings, and impressions you receive.

Study the Words of Latter-day

Prophets and Apostles
Read what latter-day prophets and apostles have
taught about the principles you find in the scriptures
(for example, see conference.ChurchofJesusChrist.org
and Church magazines).

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

Share Insights
Discussing insights from your personal study is not only
a good way to teach others, but it also helps strengthen
your understanding of what you have read.

Live by What You Learn

Scripture study should not only inspire us but also lead
us to change the way we live. Listen to what the Spirit
prompts you to do as you read, and then commit to act
on those promptings.

Elder David A. Bednar said: “We should not expect

the Church as an organization to teach or tell us
everything we need to know and do to become
devoted disciples and endure valiantly to the
end [see Doctrine and Covenants 121:29]. Rather,
our personal responsibility is to learn what we
should learn, to live as we know we should live,
and to become who the Master would have us
become. And our homes are the ultimate setting
for learning, living, and becoming” (“Prepared to
Obtain Every Needful Thing,” Ensign or Liahona,
May 2019, 102).

xvi
Ideas to Improve Your Family
Scripture Study
Regular family scripture study is a powerful way to help
your family feel the influence of the Holy Ghost and
learn the gospel. How much and how long you read
as a family is not as important as being consistent in
your efforts. As you make scripture study an important
part of your family life, you will help your family mem-
bers come closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ
and build their testimonies on the foundation of God’s
word. Consider counseling together about the following
questions:

• How can your family members encourage each other to

study the scriptures individually?

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

• What can your family members do to encourage each

person to share what they are learning?

• How can you emphasize the principles you are learning

in the New Testament in everyday teaching moments?

Remember that the home is the ideal place for gospel

learning. You can learn and teach the gospel at home
in ways that are not possible in a Church class. Be cre-
ative as you think of ways to help your family learn from
the scriptures. Consider some of the following ideas to
enhance your family scripture study.

xviii
Ide as to Improve Your Family Scripture Study

Use Music
Sing songs that reinforce the principles taught in the
scriptures. A suggested hymn or children’s song is listed
in each weekly outline. You might ask family members
questions about words or phrases in the lyrics. In addi-
tion to singing, your family can perform actions that
go with the songs or listen to the songs as background
music while they are doing other activities. For more
ideas, see “Including Sacred Music in Your Gospel
Learning” in this resource.

Share Meaningful Scriptures

Give family members time to share scripture passages that
they have found meaningful during their personal study.

Use Your Own Words

Invite family members to summarize in their own words
what they learn from the scriptures you study.

Apply the Scriptures to Your Life

After reading a scripture passage, ask family members to
share ways the passage applies to their lives.

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

Ask a Question
Invite family members to ask a gospel question, and
then spend time looking for verses that can help answer
the question.

Display a Scripture
Select a verse you find meaningful, and display it where
family members will see it often. Invite other family
members to take turns selecting a scripture to display.

xx
Ide as to Improve Your Family Scripture Study

Make a Scripture List

As a family, choose several verses that you would like to
discuss during the coming week.

Memorize Scriptures
Select a scripture passage that is meaningful to your fam-
ily, and invite family members to memorize it by repeat-
ing it daily or playing a memorization game.

Share Object Lessons

Find objects that relate to the gospel principles in the
scripture passages you are reading as a family. Invite fam-
ily members to talk about how each object relates to the
teachings in the scriptures.

Pick a Topic
Let family members take turns choosing a topic that the
family will study together. Use the Topical Guide, the
Bible Dictionary, or the Guide to the Scriptures
(scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) to find scripture
passages about the topic.

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

Draw a Picture
Read a few verses as a family, and then allow time for
family members to draw something that relates to what
you read. Spend time discussing one another’s drawings.

Act Out a Story

After reading a story, invite family members to act it out.
Afterward, talk about how the story relates to the things
that you are experiencing individually and as a family.

President Russell M. Nelson said: “I promise that

as you diligently work to remodel your home into a
center of gospel learning, over time your Sabbath
days will truly be a delight. Your children will be
excited to learn and to live the Savior’s teachings,
and the influence of the adversary in your life
and in your home will decrease. Changes in your
family will be dramatic and sustaining” (“Becoming
Exemplary Latter-day Saints,” Ensign or Liahona,
Nov. 2018, 113).

xxii
Additional Resources
These resources can be found in the Gospel Library app
and at ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Hymns and Children’s Songbook

Sacred music invites the Spirit, helps us feel the love
of God, and teaches doctrine in a memorable way. In
addition to using the print versions of Hymns and the
Children’s Songbook, you can find video and audio record-
ings of many hymns and children’s songs at music.
ChurchofJesusChrist.org and in the Sacred Music and
Gospel Media apps.

xxiii
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

Seminary and Institute Manuals

Seminary and institute manuals provide historical back-
ground and doctrinal commentary for principles and
accounts found in the scriptures.

Church Magazines
The Friend, For the Strength of Youth, and the Liahona mag-
azines provide stories and activities that can supplement
the principles you are teaching from Come, Follow Me—
For Individuals and Families.

Gospel Topics
In Gospel Topics (topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org), you
can find basic information about a variety of gospel top-
ics, along with links to helpful resources, such as related
general conference addresses, articles, scriptures, and
videos. You can also find Gospel Topics Essays, which
offer in-depth information about doctrinal and historical
issues, as well as answers to a variety of questions about
the Church and its teachings.

xxiv
Additional Resources

New Testament Stories

New Testament Stories can help children learn the doctrine
and stories found in the New Testament. You can also
find videos of these stories in the Gospel Library app
and at GospelMedia.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Scripture Stories Coloring Book—

New Testament
This resource contains fun coloring activity pages
designed to enhance children’s learning from the New
Testament.

Videos and Art

Artwork, videos, and other media can help your
family understand doctrine and visualize stories
related to the scriptures. Visit Gospel Media at
GospelMedia.ChurchofJesusChrist.org to browse the
Church’s collection of media resources. Gospel Media is
also available as a mobile app. Many images that you can
use are found in the Gospel Art Book.

xxv
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

Teaching in the Savior’s Way

Teaching in the Savior’s Way can help you learn about and
apply principles of Christlike teaching.

xxvi
Te aching Young Children

Teaching Young Children

If you have young children in your family, here are some
activities that can help them learn:

• Sing. Hymns and songs from the Children’s Songbook

teach doctrine powerfully. Use the topics index at the
back of the Children’s Songbook to find songs that relate
to the gospel principles you are teaching. Help your
children relate the messages of the songs to their lives.
(See also “Including Sacred Music in Your Gospel
Learning” in this resource.)

• Listen to or act out a story. Young children love stories—

from the scriptures, from your life, from Church history
or your family history, and from Church magazines.
Look for ways to involve them in storytelling. They can
hold pictures or objects, draw pictures of what they are
hearing, act out the story, or even help tell the story.
Help your children recognize the gospel truths in the
stories you share.

• Read a scripture. Young children may not be able to read

very much, but you can still engage them in learning
from the scriptures. You may need to focus on a single

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

verse, key phrase, or word. The children may even be

able to memorize short phrases from the scriptures if
they repeat them a few times. As they hear the word of
God, they will feel the Spirit.

• Look at a picture or watch a video. When you show your

children a picture or video related to a gospel prin-
ciple or scripture story, ask them questions that help
them learn from what they are seeing. For example,
you could ask, “What is happening in this picture or
video? How does it make you feel?” The Gospel Media
app, GospelMedia.ChurchofJesusChrist.org, and
children.ChurchofJesusChrist.org are good places to
look for pictures and videos.

• Create. Children can build, draw, or color something

related to the story or principle they are learning.

• Participate in object lessons. A simple object lesson can

help your children understand a gospel principle that
is difficult to comprehend. When using object lessons,
find ways to let your children participate. They will
learn more from an interactive experience than from
just watching a demonstration.

xxviii
Te aching Young Children

• Role-play. When children role-play a situation they are

likely to encounter in real life, they are better able to
understand how a gospel principle applies to their lives.

• Repeat activities. Young children may need to hear con-

cepts multiple times to understand them. Don’t be
afraid to repeat stories or activities often. For example,
you might share a scripture story several times in differ-
ent ways—by reading from the scriptures, summarizing
in your own words, showing a video, letting your chil-
dren help you tell the story, inviting them to act out the
story, and so on.

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023

Including Sacred Music in Your

Gospel Learning
Singing Primary songs and hymns can bless you and
your family in many ways. These ideas can help you use
sacred music as you strive to learn and live the gospel.

• Learn doctrinal principles. Look for truths taught in the

songs you sing or listen to. This may lead to gospel dis-
cussions about these truths throughout the day. Sing or
listen to Primary songs or hymns that teach about Jesus
Christ and His gospel. Pay attention to ways the Holy
Ghost testifies of the Savior and His teachings.

• Recognize music’s power. Singing or listening to Primary

songs and hymns can be a blessing in times of need.
For instance, singing a song could calm a child at bed-
time, create joy as your family works together, uplift
a neighbor who is sick, or comfort someone who feels
anxious.

• Share experiences. Share personal and family experiences

that relate to the messages of the songs. You can also
share related scripture stories.

xxx
Including Sacred Music in Your Gospel Le arning

• Involve your family. Your family will learn more from

songs if they are actively participating. To involve family
members, you could invite an older child to help teach a
song to younger siblings or invite children to teach the
family a song they learned in Primary. You could also let
family members take turns leading a song.

• Be creative. Use a variety of ways to learn sacred music

as a family. For instance, you could do actions that
go with words and phrases in a song. Or you could
take turns acting out parts of a song while other fam-
ily members try to guess the song. Your family might
enjoy singing songs at different speeds or volumes. The
Gospel Library app and the Gospel for Kids app have
audio recordings and videos that can help you learn the
songs. You could also make playlists of sacred music to
listen to.

For more ideas, see the sections “Using Music to Teach

Doctrine” and “Helping Children Learn and Remember
Primary Songs and Hymns,” found in “Instructions for
Singing Time and the Children’s Sacrament Meeting
Presentation” in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

xxxi
DECEMBER 26–JANUARY 1

We Are Responsible for Our

Own Learning
The purpose of the scriptures is to help you come
unto Christ and become more deeply converted
to His gospel. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals
and Families can help you understand the
scriptures and find in them the spiritual strength
you and your family need. Then, in your Church
classes, you will have opportunities to share
insights and encourage your fellow Saints in their
efforts to follow Christ.

1
December 26 –January 1

“What seek ye?” Jesus asked the disciples of John the

Baptist ( John 1:38). You might ask yourself the same
question—for what you find in the New Testament this
year will greatly depend on what you seek. “Seek, and ye
shall find” is the Savior’s promise (Matthew 7:7). So ask
the questions that come to your mind as you study, and
then seek diligently for answers. In the New Testament
you will read about the powerful spiritual experiences
of disciples of Jesus Christ. As a faithful disciple of
the Savior, you can have your own powerful spiritual
experiences as you accept the Savior’s invitation, found
throughout this sacred volume, “Come, follow me”
(Luke 18:22).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

To truly learn from the Savior, I must accept His
invitation, “Come, follow me.”
The Savior’s invitation, “Come, follow me,” applies to
all—whether we are new on the path of discipleship
or have walked it all our lives. This was His invitation
to a rich young man who was striving to keep the

2
We Are Responsible for Our Own Le arning

commandments (see Matthew 19:16–22; Luke 18:18–23).

What the young man learned—and what we all must
learn—is that being a disciple means giving our whole
souls to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. We progress
in our discipleship as we identify what we lack, make
changes, and seek to more fully follow Them.

Learning from the Savior starts when we strive to

understand what He taught. For example, how does
your understanding of humility deepen as you explore
the following?

• The Savior’s teachings (see Matthew 18:1–5; Luke

18:9–14)

• An example from His life (see John 13:1–15)

However, learning is not complete until we live what the

Savior taught. How can you be more humble?

If you want to learn more, try this activity with another

gospel principle, such as love or forgiveness.

3
December 26 –January 1

I am responsible for my own learning.

Elder David A. Bednar taught: “We should not expect
the Church as an organization to teach or tell us every-
thing we need to know and do to become devoted dis-
ciples and endure valiantly to the end. Rather, our per-
sonal responsibility is to learn what we should learn,
to live as we know we should live, and to become who
the Master would have us become. And our homes are
the ultimate setting for learning, living, and becoming”
(“Prepared to Obtain Every Needful Thing,” Ensign or
Liahona, May 2019, 102).

What does it mean to take responsibility for your own

learning? Look for possible answers in Elder Bednar’s
statement and in the following scriptures: John 7:17;
1 Thessalonians 5:21; James 1:5–6, 22; 2:17; 1 Nephi
10:17–19; 2 Nephi 4:15; Alma 32:27; and Doctrine and
Covenants 18:18; 58:26–28; 88:118. What do you feel
inspired to do to be more active in learning the gospel?

I need to know the truth for myself.

Perhaps you know people who never seem to lose their
faith, no matter what happens in their lives. They may

4
We Are Responsible for Our Own Le arning

remind you of the five wise virgins in the Savior’s par-

able (see Matthew 25:1–13). What you may not see are
their diligent efforts to strengthen their testimonies of
the truth.

How do we gain and nurture our own testimo-

nies? Write down your thoughts as you ponder
the following scriptures: Luke 11:9–13; John 5:39;
7:14–17; Acts 17:10–12; 1 Corinthians 2:9–11; and
Alma 5:45–46. (See also Gospel Topics, “Testimony,”
topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.)

Each of us must gain a testimony for ourselves.

5
December 26 –January 1

What should I do when I have questions?

As you seek spiritual knowledge, questions will come
to your mind. The following principles can help you
address questions in ways that build faith and testimony:

• Seek understanding from God. God is the source of all

truth, and He reveals truth through the Holy Ghost,
the scriptures, and His prophets and apostles.

• Act in faith. If answers don’t come right away, trust

that the Lord will reveal answers when the time is
right. In the meantime, keep living by the truth you
already know.

• Keep an eternal perspective. Try to see things as the Lord

sees them, not as the world does. View your questions
in the context of our Heavenly Father’s plan of
salvation.

6
We Are Responsible for Our Own Le arning

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 13:1–23. To help your family prepare to learn
from the New Testament this year, you could read the
parable of the sower. Your family might enjoy going
outside and looking for the different types of ground
described in the parable. How can we make our hearts
like the “good ground” Jesus described? (Matthew 13:8).

Galatians 5:22–23; Philippians 4:8. President

Russell M. Nelson has invited you to “transform [your]
home into a sanctuary of faith” and to “remodel your
home into a center of gospel learning.” To those who do
these things, he promised: “Your children will be excited
to learn and to live the Savior’s teachings, and the
influence of the adversary in your life and in your home
will decrease. Changes in your family will be dramatic
and sustaining” (“Becoming Exemplary Latter-day
Saints,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 113).

The beginning of the new year is a good time to hold

a family council about making your home “a sanctuary
of faith” and “a center of gospel learning.” What ideas

7
December 26 –January 1

about how to do this come to mind as we read Galatians

5:22–23 and Philippians 4:8? Maybe your family
could set personal and family goals to study the New
Testament this coming year. What can we do to remind
ourselves of our goals?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Teach Me to Walk in the Light,”

Children’s Songbook, 177.

Improving Personal Study

Look for doctrine. A doctrine is an eternal,
unchanging truth. President Boyd K. Packer
declared that “true doctrine, understood, changes
attitudes and behavior” (“Little Children,” Ensign,
Nov. 1986, 17). As you and your family study the
scriptures, look for truths that can help you to live
more like the Savior.

8
Light of the World, by Brent Borup
JANUARY 2–8

Matthew 1; Luke 1
“BE IT UNTO ME ACCORDING TO THY WORD”

As you read and ponder Matthew 1 and Luke 1,

record the spiritual impressions you receive.
What doctrinal truths do you find? What
messages will be of most value to you and your
family? The study ideas in this outline may help
you discover additional insights.

From a mortal perspective, it was impossible. A virgin

could not conceive—nor could a barren woman who was

10
Matthew 1; Luke 1

well past childbearing years. But God had a plan for

the birth of His Son and the birth of John the Baptist,
so both Mary and Elisabeth, against all earthly odds,
became mothers. It can be helpful to remember their
miraculous experiences whenever we face something that
seems impossible. Can we overcome our weaknesses?
Can we touch the heart of an unresponsive family mem-
ber? Gabriel could easily have been speaking to us when
he reminded Mary, “With God nothing shall be impos-
sible” (Luke 1:37). And Mary’s response can also be ours
when God reveals His will: “Be it unto me according to
thy word” (Luke 1:38).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

Who were Matthew and Luke?
Matthew was a Jewish publican, or tax collector, whom
Jesus called as one of His Apostles (see Matthew 10:3;
see also Bible Dictionary, “Publicans”). Matthew wrote
his Gospel mainly to fellow Jews; therefore, he chose to

11
January 2–8

emphasize Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah

that were fulfilled through Jesus’s life and ministry.

Luke was a Gentile (non-Jewish) physician who traveled

with the Apostle Paul. He wrote his Gospel after the
Savior’s death primarily to a non-Jewish audience. He
testified of Jesus Christ as the Savior of both the Gentiles
and the Jews. He recorded eyewitness accounts of
events in the Savior’s life, and he included more stories
involving women compared to the other Gospels.

MATTHEW 1:18–25; LUKE 1:26–35

Jesus Christ was born of a mortal mother and an

immortal Father.
In Matthew 1:18–25 and Luke 1:26–35, notice how
Matthew and Luke described the miracle of Jesus’s birth.
How do their descriptions strengthen your faith in the
Savior? Why is it important to you to know that Jesus
was both the Son of God and the son of Mary?

President Russell M. Nelson explained that the

Atonement of Jesus Christ “required a personal sacrifice

12
Matthew 1; Luke 1

by an immortal being not subject to death. Yet He must

die and take up His own body again. The Savior was the
only one who could accomplish this. From His mother
He inherited power to die. From His Father He obtained
power over death” (“Constancy amid Change,” Ensign,
Nov. 1993, 34).

LUKE 1:5–25, 57–80

God’s blessings come in His own time.

If you find yourself having to wait for a blessing or if
it seems that God isn’t hearing your prayers, the story
of Elisabeth and Zacharias can be a reminder that He
hasn’t forgotten you. As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland prom-
ised: “While we work and wait together for the answers
to some of our prayers, I offer you my apostolic promise
that they are heard and they are answered, though per-
haps not at the time or in the way we wanted. But they
are always answered at the time and in the way an omni-
scient and eternally compassionate parent should answer
them” (“Waiting on the Lord,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov.
2020, 115–16). How did Zacharias and Elisabeth remain
faithful? (see Luke 1:5–25, 57–80). Do you find your-
self waiting for a blessing? What do you feel the Lord
expects of you while you wait?

13
January 2–8

After faithfully waiting, Elisabeth and Zacharias were blessed with a son.

MATTHEW 1:18–25; LUKE 1:26–38

The faithful willingly submit to God’s will.

Like Mary, we sometimes find that God’s plans for our
life are quite different from what we had planned. What
do you learn from Mary about accepting God’s will? In
the following tables, write statements from the angel and
Mary (see Luke 1:26–38), along with the messages that
you find in their statements:

14
Matthew 1; Luke 1

The angel’s words to Mary Message for me

“The Lord is with thee” The Lord is aware of my situa-
(verse 28). tion and struggles.

Mary’s reactions Message for me

It’s OK to ask questions to better

“How shall this be?” (verse 34).
understand God’s will.

As you read about Joseph’s righteous example in

Matthew 1:18–25, what do you learn about accepting
God’s will? What additional insights do you learn from
the experiences of Zacharias and Elisabeth? (see Luke 1).

Mary testified of Jesus Christ’s mission.

Mary’s words in Luke 1:46–55 foretold aspects of the
Savior’s mission. What do you learn about Jesus Christ
from Mary’s statements? You might compare these verses
with Hannah’s words in 1 Samuel 2:1–10 and with Jesus’s
Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3–12. What does the Spirit
teach you as you ponder these verses?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 1:1–17. As your family reads the genealogy
of Jesus, you might discuss your own family history and
share some stories about your ancestors. How does know-
ing about your family history bless your family? For more
family history activities, see FamilySearch.org/discovery.

Matthew 1:20; Luke 1:11–13, 30. Why might the people

in these verses have been fearful? What causes us to feel
fearful? How does God invite us to “fear not”?

16
Matthew 1; Luke 1

Luke 1:37. To help your family build faith that “with

God nothing shall be impossible,” you could search
Luke 1 together and find things God did that might be
considered impossible. What other stories can we share—
from the scriptures or our own lives—in which God did
seemingly impossible things? Searching through the
Gospel Art Book could provide ideas.

Luke 1:46–55. What are some of the “great things” the

Savior has done for us? What could it mean for our souls
to “magnify the Lord”?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “He Sent His Son,” Children’s Songbook,

34–35.

Improving Our Teaching

Apply the scriptures to your life. After reading a
scripture passage, invite family members to apply
it to their lives (see Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 21).
For instance, how can family members apply what
they learn from Matthew 1 and Luke 1 about
responding to the Lord’s call?

17
Blessed Art Thou among Women, by Walter Rane
Let Us Adore Him, by Dana Mario Wood
JANUARY 9–15

Matthew 2; Luke 2
WE HAVE COME TO WORSHIP HIM

As you read Matthew 2 and Luke 2, pay

attention to any spiritual insights you receive.
The study ideas in this outline can help you
identify important and relevant principles in
these chapters.

From the day of His birth, it was clear that Jesus was
no ordinary child. It wasn’t just the new star in the
heavens or the joyous angelic proclamation that made
Jesus’s infancy remarkable. It was also the fact that such
a variety of faithful people—from different nations,

19
January 9 –15

professions, and backgrounds—felt immediately drawn

to Him. Even before He uttered His invitation to “come,
follow me,” they came (Luke 18:22). Not everyone came
to Him, of course. There were many who paid Him no
notice, and a jealous ruler even sought His life. But the
humble, pure, devoted seekers of righteousness saw Him
for who He was—their promised Messiah. Their devo-
tion inspires our own, for the “good tidings of great joy”
brought to the shepherds were for “all people,” and the
“Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” was born that day
unto all of us (see Luke 2:10–11).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

LUKE 2:1–7

Jesus Christ was born in humble circumstances.

Although Jesus Christ had glory with God the Father
“before the world was” ( John 17:5), He was willing
to be born in lowly circumstances and live among us
on earth. As you read Luke 2:1–7, ponder what this
account of His birth teaches you about Him. Try to
identify details or insights in this story that you hadn’t

20
Matthew 2; Luke 2

noticed before. How does noticing these things affect

your feelings toward Him?

MATTHEW 2:1–12; LUKE 2:8–38

There are many witnesses of the birth of Christ.

The birth and infancy of Christ were marked by wit-
nesses and worshippers from many walks of life. As you
explore their stories, what do you learn about ways to
worship and witness of Christ?

What do I learn about worship-

Witness of Christ
ping and witnessing of Christ?
Shepherds (Luke 2:8–20)
Simeon (Luke 2:25–35)
Anna (Luke 2:36–38)
Wise Men (Matthew 2:1–12)

Parents can receive revelation to protect

their families.
Joseph never could have done what he was asked to
do—protect Jesus in His childhood—without heaven’s
help. Like the Wise Men, he received a revelation that
warned him of danger. As you read about Joseph’s
experience in Matthew 2:13–23, think about physical
and spiritual dangers that face us today. Ponder experi-
ences when you have felt God’s guidance in protecting
you and your loved ones. Consider sharing these expe-
riences with others. What can you do to receive such
guidance in the future?

Additionally, you might consider watching the video

“The First Christmas Spirit” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org)
for a depiction of what Joseph may have felt as he faced
the responsibility of caring for the Son of God.

LUKE 2:40–52

Even as a youth, Jesus was focused on doing His

Father’s will.
As a young man, the Savior taught the gospel so pow-
erfully that even the teachers in the temple were aston-
ished at His “understanding and answers” (Luke 2:47).

22
Matthew 2; Luke 2

What do you learn from these verses about the Savior

as a young man? How are young people you know try-
ing to “be about [their] Father’s business”? (Luke 2:49).
How have youth and children helped you gain a deeper
understanding of the gospel? What else do you learn
from the example of Jesus’s childhood in Luke 2:40–52
and in Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:24–26 (in
the Bible appendix)?

What is the Joseph Smith Translation?

Because “many plain and precious” truths were lost
from the Bible over the centuries (1 Nephi 13:28; see also
Moses 1:41), the Lord commanded Joseph Smith to make
an inspired revision of the Bible, known as the Joseph
Smith Translation. Many revisions made by the Prophet
are included in the appendix of the Latter-day Saint edi-
tion of the scriptures. The Latter-day Saint edition of the
King James Version of the Bible also contains footnotes
with the Prophet’s revisions. Joseph Smith’s translation
of Matthew 24, known as Joseph Smith—Matthew, can
be found in the Pearl of Great Price. For more infor-
mation, see “Joseph Smith Translation ( JST)” in the
Bible Dictionary and the Gospel Topics article “Bible,
Inerrancy of” (topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

23
January 9 –15

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Luke 2. Invite family members to select a person
described in Luke 2, read a few verses about that per-
son’s interactions with the Savior, and share something
that they learned that increases their faith in Jesus Christ.
Sing together “Mary’s Lullaby” or “The Nativity Song”
(Children’s Songbook, 44–45, 52–53). What do we learn
from these songs about the Savior’s birth?

Consider how artwork might enhance your discus-

sion about Christ’s birth. (For examples, see Gospel
Art Book or history.ChurchofJesusChrist.org/exhibit/
birth-of-Christ.)

Matthew 2:1–12. What do we learn about seeking and

finding the Savior from the example of the Wise Men?

Luke 2:41–49. What is the “Father’s business”?

(Luke 2:49; see Moses 1:39; General Handbook: Serving
in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1.2,
ChurchofJesusChrist.org). What do we learn about
that business from the story in Luke 2:41–49? Consider

24
Matthew 2; Luke 2

writing down some ways your family can participate in

the Father’s business and placing them in a jar. During
the coming week, as your family looks for ways to help
with Heavenly Father’s work, they can select ideas from
the jar. Plan a time when you will share your experiences.

Luke 2:52. What can we learn from Luke 2:52 about how
Jesus developed in His life? What personal or family
goals can we set to increase “in wisdom and stature, and
in favour with God and man”?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Stars Were Gleaming,” Children’s

Songbook, 37.

Improving Personal Study

Use scripture study helps. To gain additional
insights as you study the scriptures, use resources
like the footnotes, Topical Guide, Bible Dictionary,
Guide to the Scriptures, and other study helps
found at ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

25
The Savior of the World came to earth in humble circumstances.
JANUARY 16–22

John 1
WE HAVE FOUND THE MESSIAH

As you read and ponder John 1, record the im-

pressions you receive. What messages do you find
that will be of most value to you and your family?
What could you share in your Church classes?

Have you ever wondered whether you would have rec-

ognized Jesus of Nazareth as the Son of God if you
had been alive during His mortal ministry? For years,
faithful Israelites, including Andrew, Peter, Philip, and
Nathanael, had waited and prayed for the coming of the
promised Messiah. When they met Him, how did they
know that He was the One they had been seeking? The
27
January 16 –22

same way all of us come to know the Savior—by accept-

ing the invitation to “come and see” for ourselves ( John
1:39). We read about Him in the scriptures. We hear
His doctrine. We observe His way of living. We feel His
Spirit. Along the way, we discover, as Nathanael did, that
the Savior knows us and loves us and wants to prepare us
to receive “greater things” ( John 1:50).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

Who was John?
John was a disciple of John the Baptist and later became
one of the first followers of Jesus Christ and one of His
Twelve Apostles. He wrote the Gospel of John, several
epistles, and the book of Revelation. In his Gospel, he
referred to himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved”
and the “other disciple” ( John 13:23; 20:3). John’s zeal
for preaching the gospel was so strong that he asked
to stay on the earth until the Savior’s Second Coming
so he could bring souls unto Christ (see Doctrine and
Covenants 7:1–6).

Jesus Christ was “in the beginning with God.”

John began his Gospel by describing the work that
Christ performed before He was born: “In the beginning
. . . the Word [ Jesus Christ] was with God.” What do you
learn from verses 1–5 about the Savior and His work?
You can find helpful clarifications in Joseph Smith
Translation, John 1:1–5 (in the Bible appendix). As you
begin your study of the Savior’s life, why is it important
to know about His premortal work?

Jesus Christ is the “true Light,” the Son of God.

John was inspired to seek the Savior because of the testi-
mony of John the Baptist, who declared that he “was sent
to bear witness of . . . the true Light” ( John 1:8–9). John
himself also bore powerful witness of the life and mission
of the Savior.

It might be interesting to make a list of truths that John

included in his opening testimony of Christ (verses 1–18;
see also Joseph Smith Translation, John 1:1–19 [in the

29
January 16 –22

Bible appendix]). Why do you think that John began his

Gospel with these truths? Consider writing your witness
of Jesus Christ—what would you want to share? What
experiences have helped you come to know and follow the
Savior? Who might be blessed by hearing your testimony?

JOHN 1:11–13

Jesus Christ gives us “power to become” the sons

and daughters of God.
Although we are all spirit daughters and sons of God the
Father, when we sin we become estranged, or separated,
from Him. Jesus Christ offers us a way back through
His atoning sacrifice. Ponder what John 1:11–13 teaches
about becoming daughters and sons of God. Consider
also what these scriptures teach about how we receive
this gift: Romans 8:14–18; Mosiah 5:7–9; Doctrine
and Covenants 25:1. What does it mean to you to have
“power to become” a daughter or son of God?

JOHN 1:18

The Father bears record of His Son.

John 1:18 states that no one has seen God. However, the
Joseph Smith Translation of this verse clarifies that “no
man hath seen God at any time, except he hath borne

30
John 1

record of the Son” (see John 1:18, footnote c). Consider

reviewing the following instances in which God the
Father was heard bearing record of the Son: Matthew
3:17; 17:5; 3 Nephi 11:6–7; Joseph Smith—History 1:17.

Why is it a blessing to have these accounts? What do

they teach you about Jesus Christ’s relationship with
His Father?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
John 1:4–10. How might you help your family visualize
what they read about light in these verses? You could let
family members take turns shining a light in a dark room
and sharing how the Savior is the Light of their lives.
Then, as you read John 1:4–10, family members might
have additional insight into John’s testimony of Jesus
Christ, the Light of the World.

John 1:35–36. Why might John the Baptist have called

Jesus “the Lamb of God”? What do we learn about this
title from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s message “Behold
the Lamb of God” or Elder Gerrit W. Gong’s message

31
January 16 –22

“Good Shepherd, Lamb of God”? (Ensign or Liahona,

May 2019, 44–46, 97–101)

John 1:35–46. What were the results of John’s testimony?

What can your family learn from the people described in
these verses about how to share the gospel? See also the
video “Inviting Others to ‘Come and See’”
(ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

John 1:45–51. What did Nathanael do that helped him

gain a testimony of the Savior? Invite family members to
talk about how they have gained their testimonies.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “The Lord Is My Light,” Hymns, no. 89.

Improving Our Teaching

Share object lessons. Invite family members
to find objects that they can use to help them
understand principles found in the scriptures you
are reading as a family. For instance, they might
use a candle to represent the Light of Christ (see
John 1:4).

32
Jehovah Creates the Earth, by Walter Rane
Stained-glass window in Nauvoo Illinois Temple, by Tom Holdman
JANUARY 23–29

Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3

“PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD”

Begin by reading Matthew 3; Mark 1; and

Luke 3. As you pray for the Holy Ghost to help
you understand these chapters, He will give you
insights that are especially for you. Record these
impressions, and make plans to act on them.

Jesus Christ and His gospel can change you. Luke

quoted an ancient prophecy of Isaiah that described the
effect that the Savior’s coming would have: “Every val-
ley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be
brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight,

34
Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3

and the rough ways shall be made smooth” (Luke 3:5; see
also Isaiah 40:4). This is a message for all of us, including
those who think they cannot change. If something as per-
manent as a mountain can be flattened, then surely the
Lord can help us straighten our own crooked paths (see
Luke 3:4–5). As we accept John the Baptist’s invitation to
repent and change, we prepare our minds and hearts to
receive Jesus Christ so that we too can “see the salvation
of God” (Luke 3:6).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

Who was Mark?
Among the authors of the Gospels, we know the least
about Mark. We know that he was a missionary compan-
ion of Paul, Peter, and several other missionaries. Many
biblical scholars believe that Peter directed Mark to
record the events of the Savior’s life. Mark’s Gospel was
likely written before the other three.

MATTHEW 3:1–12; MARK 1:1–8; LUKE 3:2–18

Repentance is a mighty change of mind

and heart.
The mission of John the Baptist was to prepare the hearts
of the people to receive the Savior and become more
like Him. How did he do it? He proclaimed, “Repent
ye” (Matthew 3:2). And he used images such as fruit and
wheat to teach about repentance (see Luke 3:9, 17).

What other images do you find in the accounts of John

the Baptist’s ministry? (see Matthew 3:1–12; Mark 1:1–8;
Luke 3:2–18). Consider marking them in your scriptures
or drawing pictures of them. What do these images teach
about the doctrine and necessity of repentance?

True repentance is “a change of mind, a fresh view about

God, about oneself, and about the world. . . . [It means]
a turning of the heart and will to God” (Bible Dictionary,
“Repentance”). In Luke 3:7–14, what changes did John
invite the people to make to prepare to receive Christ?
How might this counsel apply to you? How can you
show that you have truly repented? (see Luke 3:8).

Oaks, “Cleansed by Repentance,” Ensign or Liahona, May

2019, 91–94.

MATTHEW 3:7; LUKE 3:7

Who were the Pharisees and Sadducees?

The Pharisees were members of a Jewish religious party
who prided themselves on strict observance of the law
of Moses and its rituals. The Sadducees were a wealthy
Jewish class with great religious and political influence;
they did not believe in the doctrine of resurrection.
Both groups had strayed from the original intent of
God’s laws.

MATTHEW 3:11, 13–17; MARK 1:9–11; LUKE 3:15–16, 21–22

Jesus Christ was baptized to “fulfil all

righteousness.”
When you were baptized, you followed the example of
the Savior. Compare what you learn from the accounts
of the Savior’s baptism with what happened during
your baptism.

37
January 23–29

The Savior’s Baptism My Baptism

Who baptized Jesus, and what Who baptized you, and what
authority did he hold? authority did he hold?
Where was Jesus baptized? Where were you baptized?

How was Jesus baptized? How were you baptized?

Why was Jesus baptized? Why were you baptized?

How did Heavenly Father show How did Heavenly Father show
that He was pleased with Jesus? that He was pleased when you
were baptized? How has He
shown His approval since then?

MATTHEW 3:16–17; MARK 1:9–11; LUKE 3:21–22

The members of the Godhead are three

separate beings.
The Bible contains numerous evidences that the mem-
bers of the Godhead are three separate beings. The
accounts of the Savior’s baptism are one example. As you
read these accounts, ponder what you learn about the
godhead. Why are these doctrines important to you?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 3. John the Baptist held the Aaronic
Priesthood. What can we learn from John’s exam-
ple about the purposes of the Aaronic Priesthood?
What blessings do we receive because of the Aaronic
Priesthood? If you have a young man in your family,
you might take time to help him understand how he
can use the Aaronic Priesthood to bless others. (See also
Doctrine and Covenants 13:1; 20:46–60.)

Matthew 3:11–17; Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:21–22. Have

members of your family seen someone be baptized or
confirmed a member of the Church? What did fam-
ily members feel? Perhaps you could teach them about
the symbolism of baptism and confirmation. How is
being baptized and confirmed like a new birth? Why
are we fully immersed in water when we are baptized?
Why do we wear white when we are baptized? Why is
the gift of the Holy Ghost described as a “baptism of
fire”? (Doctrine and Covenants 20:41; see also Bible
Dictionary, “Baptism,” “Holy Ghost”).

39
January 23–29

Matthew 3:17; Mark 1:11; Luke 3:22. When have we felt

that God has been pleased with us? What can we do as a
family to please God?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Baptism,” Children’s Songbook,

100–101.

Improving Personal Study

Ask the Lord for help. The scriptures were given
by revelation, and to truly understand them we
need personal revelation. The Lord has promised,
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you”
(Matthew 7:7).

40
John the Baptist Baptizing Jesus, by Greg K. Olsen
Into the Wilderness, by Eva Koleva Timothy
JANUARY 30–FEBRUARY 5

Matthew 4; Luke 4–5

“THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME”

The Savior used the scriptures both to resist

Satan’s temptations and to testify of His own
divine mission (see Luke 4:1–21). Ponder how the
scriptures can build your faith and your resolve
to resist temptation.

From His youth, Jesus seemed to be aware that He had a

unique, sacred mission. But as Jesus prepared to begin His
earthly ministry, the adversary sought to plant doubt in
the Savior’s mind. “If thou be the Son of God,” Satan said
(Luke 4:3, italics added). But the Savior had communed

42
Matthew 4; Luke 4 –5

with His Father in Heaven. He knew the scriptures, and

He knew who He was. To Him, Satan’s offer—“All this
power will I give thee” (Luke 4:6)—was a hollow one, for
the Savior’s lifelong preparation allowed Him to receive
“the power of the Spirit” (Luke 4:14). So despite tempta-
tion, trials, and rejection, Jesus Christ never wavered from
His appointed work: “I must preach the kingdom of God
. . . for therefore am I sent” (Luke 4:43).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 4:1–2

Communing with God prepares me to serve Him.

To prepare for His mission, Jesus went into the wil-
derness “to be with God” ( Joseph Smith Translation,
Matthew 4:1 [in Matthew 4:1, footnote b]). Think of what
you do to feel close to God. How does this prepare you
for the work He wants you to do?

43
January 30 –February 5

MATTHEW 4:1–11; LUKE 4:1–13

Jesus Christ set the example for me by

resisting temptation.
Sometimes people feel guilty when they are tempted
to sin. But even the Savior, who lived “without sin”
(Hebrews 4:15), was tempted. Jesus Christ knows the
temptations we face and how to help us overcome them
(see Hebrews 2:18; Alma 7:11–12).

As you read Matthew 4:1–11 and Luke 4:1–13, what do

you learn that can help you when you face temptations?
You could organize your thoughts in a table like this one:

Jesus Christ Me
What did Satan tempt Christ What does Satan tempt me
to do? to do?

How did Christ prepare to resist How can I prepare to resist

temptation? temptation?

What additional insights do you gain from the Joseph

Smith Translation of Matthew 4? (see footnotes through-
out Matthew 4).

Jesus Christ is the prophesied Messiah.

If you were asked to describe what Jesus Christ was
sent to earth to do, what would you say? By quoting
one of Isaiah’s prophecies about the Messiah, the Savior
described aspects of His own mission (see Luke 4:18–19;
Isaiah 61:1–2). What do you learn about His mission as
you read these verses?

What are some ways the Savior invites you to participate

in His work?

Although the Jews had been waiting for centuries for

Isaiah’s prophecy to be fulfilled, many did not accept
that Jesus was the Messiah when He declared, “This day

45
January 30 –February 5

is this scripture fulfilled in your ears” (Luke 4:21). As you

read Luke 4:20–30 (see also Mark 6:1–6), try to put your-
self in the place of the people of Nazareth. Is there any-
thing that might prevent you from fully accepting Christ
as your personal Savior?

MATTHEW 4:18–22; LUKE 5:1–11

As I trust in the Lord, He can help me reach my

divine potential.
President Ezra Taft Benson taught, “Men and women
who turn their lives over to God will discover that He
can make a lot more out of their lives than they can”
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson
[2014], 42). Note how this happened to Simon Peter and
his fellow fishermen. Jesus saw something greater in
them than they saw in themselves. He wanted to make
them “fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19; see also Luke
5:10).

As you read Matthew 4:18–22 and Luke 5:1–11, ponder

what Jesus Christ is helping you to become. How have
you felt Him inviting you to follow Him? How can you
show the Lord that you are willing to forsake all things
to follow Him? (see Luke 5:11).
46
Matthew 4; Luke 4 –5

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 4:1–2; Luke 4:1–2. What insights can we gain
from this account about the power of fasting? To help
your family learn about fasting, you might use “Fasting
and Fast Offerings” in Gospel Topics
(topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Family members could
share experiences they have had with fasting. Perhaps
you could prayerfully make plans to fast together for a
specific purpose.

Matthew 4:3–4; Luke 4:3–4. When Satan tempted Christ

to turn a stone to bread, he challenged Christ’s divine
identity by saying, “If thou be the Son of God” (Matthew
4:3, italics added). Why does Satan try to make us doubt
our divine identity—and the Savior’s? How does he try to
do this? (See also Moses 1:10–23.)

Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 4:11. After Jesus

was physically and spiritually tested, His thoughts turned
to the needs of John the Baptist, who was in prison: “And
now Jesus knew that John was cast into prison, and he
sent angels, and, behold, they came and ministered unto
him [ John]” ( Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 4:11
47
January 30 –February 5

[in Matthew 4:11, footnote a). How are we blessed as we

follow Christ’s example of thinking of others?

Luke 4:16–21. Do we know anyone who is broken-

hearted or who needs to be “set at liberty”? (Luke 4:18).
How can we help others receive the Savior’s healing and
deliverance? You might also discuss how performing
temple ordinances helps bring “deliverance to the cap-
tives” (Luke 4:18).

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Come, Follow Me,” Hymns, no. 116.

Improving Our Teaching

Live the gospel of Jesus Christ. “Perhaps the
most important thing you can do [as a parent
or teacher] is to . . . live the gospel with all your
heart. . . . This is the principal way to qualify
for the companionship of the Holy Ghost. You
don’t have to be perfect, just diligently trying—
and seeking forgiveness through the Savior’s
Atonement whenever you stumble” (Teaching in
the Savior’s Way, 13).

48
Christ Calling the Apostles James and John, Edward Armitage (1817–96)/Sheffield Galleries and Museums Trust, UK/©
Museums Sheffield/The Bridgeman Art Library International
FEBRUARY 6–12

John 2–4
“YE MUST BE BORN AGAIN”

As you read John 2–4, the Spirit will teach you

things about your own conversion. Make note
of His promptings. You may find additional
spiritual insights from the study ideas in
this outline.

At a marriage feast in Cana, Christ changed water into

wine—an event John called the “beginning of miracles”
( John 2:11). That’s true in more than one sense. While this
was the first miracle Jesus performed publicly, it can also
symbolize another miraculous beginning—the process of

50
John 2– 4

our hearts being transformed as we become ever more like

our Savior. This miracle of a lifetime begins with the deci-
sion to follow Jesus Christ, to change and live a better life
through Him. This miracle can be so life-changing that
being “born again” is one of the best ways to describe it
( John 3:7). But rebirth is just the beginning of the path of
discipleship. Christ’s words to the Samaritan woman at
the well remind us that if we continue on this path, even-
tually the gospel will become “a well of water” inside us,
“springing up into everlasting life” ( John 4:14).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

JOHN 2:1–11

Jesus Christ’s miracles “manifested forth

his glory.”
As you read about the Savior changing water into wine
in John 2:1–11, you may gain additional insights by con-
sidering the perspectives of the different people who
were there, including Mary, the disciples, and others. If
you had witnessed the events described here, what would
your impressions of Jesus have been? What does this
miracle teach you about Him?

51
February 6 –12

JOHN 3:1–21

I must be born again to enter the kingdom of God.

When Nicodemus came to Jesus in private, he was a
cautious observer. Later, however, he publicly defended
Jesus (see John 7:45–52) and joined the believers at the
Savior’s burial (see John 19:38–40). What teachings
do you find in John 3:1–21 that might have inspired
Nicodemus to follow Jesus and be born again?

The Prophet Joseph Smith taught, “Being born again,

comes by the Spirit of God through ordinances”
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith
[2007], 95). What role did your baptism and confirma-
tion—being “born of water and of the Spirit” ( John
3:5)—play in your being born again? What are you doing
to continue this process of change? (see Alma 5:11–14).

Heavenly Father shows His love for me through

Jesus Christ.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught, “The first great truth
of all eternity is that God loves us with all of His heart,

52
John 2– 4

might, mind, and strength” (“Tomorrow the Lord

Will Do Wonders among You,” Ensign or Liahona, May
2016, 127). How have you felt the love of God through
the gift of His Son?

The sacrament provides a time to reflect on the love of

God and the gift of His Son. What sacrament hymns
help you feel this love? What could you do to make the
sacrament more meaningful?

As you continue to read about the Savior’s teachings and

ministry, ask yourself how the things you read help you
understand and feel God’s love.

JOHN 4:24

Is God a spirit?
Some may be confused by Jesus’s statement that God is
a spirit. The Joseph Smith Translation of this verse pro-
vides an important clarification: “For unto such hath
God promised his Spirit” (in John 4:24, footnote a).
Modern revelation also teaches that God has a body of
flesh and bones (see Doctrine and Covenants 130:22–23;
see also Genesis 5:1–3; Hebrews 1:1–3).

53
February 6 –12

JOHN 4:5–26

Christ offers me His living water.

What might Jesus have meant when He told the Samaritan
woman that whoever drinks the water He offers will never
thirst? How is the gospel like living water?

One of the Savior’s messages to the Samaritan woman

was that how we worship is more important than where
we worship (see John 4:21–24). What are you doing to
“worship the Father in spirit and in truth”? ( John 4:23).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
John 2–4. As your family reads these chapters this week,
pay special attention to how the Savior used everyday
things—birth, wind, water, and food—to teach spiritual
truths. What items in your home can you use to teach
spiritual truths?
54
John 2– 4

As you study these chapters, consider watching videos

together that depict these events: “Jesus Turns Water
into Wine,” “Jesus Cleanses the Temple,” “Jesus Teaches
of Being Born Again,” and “Jesus Teaches a Samaritan
Woman” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

John 2:13–17. What impure influences does your fam-

ily need to keep out of your home so it will be a sacred
place—like the temple? What will you do to keep those
things out?

John 3:1–6. Talk with your family about the miracle of

pregnancy and birth—the process of creating a living,
intelligent being. Jesus taught that we must be reborn
before entering the kingdom of God. Why is rebirth a
good metaphor for the change required of us before we
can enter the kingdom of God? How can we experience
the process of spiritual rebirth?

John 3:16–17. Invite family members to restate these

verses in their own words as if they were explaining
them to a friend. How has Jesus Christ helped us feel
God’s love?

John 4:5–15. What was the Savior teaching us when He

compared His gospel to living water? Maybe your family
could look at some running water and describe the qual-
ities of water. Why do we need to drink water every day?

55
February 6 –12

In what ways is Jesus Christ’s gospel like “a well of water

springing up into everlasting life”? ( John 4:14).

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “God’s Love,” Children’s Songbook, 97.

Improving Personal Study

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. For
example, the Savior likened conversion to rebirth.

56
Living Water, by Simon Dewey
Jesus Preaching Sermon on the Mount, by Gustave Doré
FEBRUARY 13–19

Matthew 5; Luke 6
“BLESSED ARE YE”

Pay attention to impressions you receive as you

read Matthew 5 and Luke 6, and record them in
a study journal or in some other way. This outline
can help you identify some important principles
in these chapters, but be open to others you
discover in your study.

By this point in His ministry, it was clear that Jesus’s

teachings would be unlike what the people of His time
were used to hearing. The poor will receive the kingdom
of God? The meek will inherit the earth? Blessed are the

58
Matthew 5; Luke 6

persecuted? The scribes and Pharisees were not teaching

such things. And yet those who truly understood God’s
law recognized truth in the Savior’s words. “An eye for an
eye” and “hate thine enemy” were lesser laws (Matthew
5:38, 43). But Jesus Christ had come to teach a higher
law (see 3 Nephi 15:2–10), designed to help us one day
become “perfect, even as [our] Father which is in heaven
is perfect” (Matthew 5:48).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 5:1–12; LUKE 6:20–26, 46–49

Lasting happiness comes from living the way

Jesus Christ taught.
Everybody wants to be happy, but not everyone looks
for happiness in the same places. Some search for it in
worldly power and position, others in wealth or in satis-
fying physical appetites. Jesus Christ came to teach the
way to lasting happiness, to teach what it truly means to
be blessed. What do you learn about obtaining lasting
happiness from Matthew 5:1–12 and Luke 6:20–26? How
is this different from the world’s view of happiness?

59
February 13–19

What do these verses, together with Luke 6:46–49, teach

you about being a disciple of Jesus Christ? What do you
feel inspired to do to develop the qualities described in
these verses?

“Ye are the salt of the earth.”

Salt has long been used to preserve, flavor, and purify.
Salt also had religious meaning for the Israelites. It was
associated with the ancient practice of animal sacrifice
under the law of Moses (see Leviticus 2:13; Numbers
18:19). When salt loses its savor, it becomes ineffective, or
“good for nothing” (Matthew 5:13). This happens when
it is mixed with or contaminated by other elements.

Keep this in mind as you ponder Matthew 5:13. How will

you keep your savor as a disciple of Jesus Christ? How
will you fulfill your preserving and purifying work as the
salt of the earth?

MATTHEW 5:17–48; LUKE 6:27–35

The law of Christ supersedes the law of Moses.
The disciples may have been surprised to hear Jesus say
that their righteousness needed to exceed that of the
scribes and Pharisees (see Matthew 5:20), who prided
themselves on how well they kept the law of Moses.

As you read Matthew 5:21–48 and Luke 6:27–35, con-

sider marking both the behaviors required in the law of
Moses (“Ye have heard that . . .”) and what Jesus taught
to elevate these behaviors. Why do you think the Savior’s
way is a higher law?

For example, what did Jesus teach in Matthew 5:27–28

about our responsibility over our thoughts? How can
you gain more control over the thoughts and feelings
that come into your mind and heart? (see Doctrine and
Covenants 121:45).

Does Heavenly Father really expect me to

be perfect?
President Russell M. Nelson taught:

“The term perfect was translated from the Greek teleios,

which means ‘complete.’ . . . The infinitive form of the
verb is teleiono, which means ‘to reach a distant end, to
be fully developed, to consummate, or to finish.’ Please
note that the word does not imply ‘freedom from error’;
it implies ‘achieving a distant objective.’ . . .

“. . . The Lord taught, ‘Ye are not able to abide the pres-
ence of God now . . . ; wherefore, continue in patience
until ye are perfected’ [Doctrine and Covenants 67:13].

“We need not be dismayed if our earnest efforts toward

perfection now seem so arduous and endless. Perfection
is pending. It can come in full only after the Resurrection
and only through the Lord. It awaits all who love him
and keep his commandments” (“Perfection Pending,”
Ensign, Nov. 1995, 86, 88).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 5:1–9. Which principles taught in Matthew
5:1–9 could help your home be a happier place? You
might choose one or two that seem especially important
to your family. For example, what teachings do we find
that can help us be peacemakers? (see Matthew 5:21–25,
38–44). What goals can we set? How will we follow up?

Matthew 5:13. Eat together some food seasoned with

salt and the same food without salt. What difference
do we notice? What does it mean to be “the salt of the
earth”? How can we do this?

Matthew 5:14–16. To help your family understand what

it means to be “the light of the world,” you could explore
some of the sources of light in your home, your neighbor-
hood, and the world. It might be helpful to show what
happens when you hide a light. What did Jesus mean
when He said, “Ye are the light of the world”? (Matthew
5:14). Who has been like a light for our family? How can
we be a light to others? (see 3 Nephi 18:16, 24–25).

63
February 13–19

Matthew 5:43–45. As your family reads the Savior’s

words in these verses, you might talk about who, specifi
cally, you feel you could love, bless, and pray for. How
can we increase our love for them?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Shine On,” Children’s Songbook, 144.

Improving Our Teaching

Be observant. “As you pay attention to what is
happening in your [children’s] lives, you will find
excellent teaching opportunities. . . . Comments
that [they] make or questions they ask can also
lead to teaching moments” (Teaching in the Savior’s
Way, 16).

64
“Ye are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14).
Jesus Teaching the People by the Seashore, by James Tissot
FEBRUARY 20–26

Matthew 6–7
“HE TAUGHT THEM AS ONE HAVING AUTHORITY”

When we read the scriptures with a question in

mind and with a sincere desire to understand
what Heavenly Father wants us to know, we
invite the Holy Ghost to inspire us. As you read
Matthew 6–7, pay attention to these impressions.

The Sermon on the Mount is one of the best-known

discourses in Christianity. The Savior taught with rich
images, such as a city set on a hill, lilies of the field, and
wolves disguised as sheep. But the Sermon on the Mount

66
Matthew 6 –7

is far more than a beautiful speech. The power of the

Savior’s teachings to His disciples can change our lives,
especially when we live by them. Then His words become
more than words; they become a sure foundation for life
that, like the wise man’s house, can withstand the world’s
winds and floods (see Matthew 7:24–25).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 6–7

Living the Savior’s teachings can help me become

like Him.
The Sermon on the Mount contains many gospel princi-
ples. As you study these chapters, ask the Lord what He
wants you to learn.

One principle you might find is the need to prioritize

the things of God over the things of the world. Which of
the Savior’s teachings in Matthew 6–7 help you focus on
heavenly things? What other thoughts or impressions do
you have? What are you inspired to do? Consider record-
ing your impressions. For example:

67
February 20 –26

Matthew 6:1–4 I want to care more about what

God thinks of me than what
others think.

Another principle in Matthew 6–7 is prayer. Take a

moment to evaluate your prayers. How do you feel you
are doing in your efforts to draw closer to God through
prayer? What teachings in Matthew 6–7 inspire you to
improve how you pray? Record the impressions you
receive. For example:
Matthew 6:9 When I pray, I want to treat
Heavenly Father’s name with
reverence.
Matthew 6:10 When I pray, I can express my
desire that the Lord’s will be
done.

You might consider reading the Sermon on the Mount

again, looking for other recurring principles or messages

68
Matthew 6 –7

that are especially applicable to you. Record what you

find in a study journal, along with your thoughts and
impressions.

We can draw closer to God through prayer.

MATTHEW 6:7

What does it mean to use “vain repetitions”

in prayer?
People often understand “vain repetitions” to mean
repeating the same words over and over again. However,
the word vain can describe something that has no value.
Using “vain repetitions” in prayer can mean praying
without sincere, heartfelt feeling (see Alma 31:12–23).

69
February 20 –26

MATTHEW 7:1–5

I can judge righteously.

In Matthew 7:1, the Savior may seem to be saying we
should never judge, but in other scriptures (including
other verses in this chapter), He gives us instructions
about how to judge. If that seems puzzling, the Joseph
Smith Translation of this verse might help: “Judge not
unrighteously, that ye be not judged; but judge righteous
judgment” (in Matthew 7:1, footnote a). What do you find
in Matthew 7:1–5, along with the rest of the chapter, that
helps you know how to “judge righteous judgment”?

I come to know Jesus Christ by doing His will.

The phrase “I never knew you” in Matthew 7:23 was
changed in the Joseph Smith Translation to “Ye never
knew me” (Matthew 7:23, footnote a). How does
this change help you better understand what the
Lord taught in verses 21–22 about doing His will?
How well do you feel you know the Lord? What can
you do to know Him better?

70
Matthew 6 –7

Obeying the Savior’s teachings creates a firm

foundation for my life.
Living the gospel doesn’t remove adversity from our
lives. Both houses in the Savior’s parable in Matthew
7:24–27 experienced the same storm. But one of the
houses was able to withstand it. How has living the
Savior’s teachings created a solid foundation for you?
What do you feel inspired to do to continue building
your “house upon a rock”? (see verse 24).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 6–7. One way to learn from Matthew 6–7 as a
family is to watch the videos “Sermon on the Mount: The
Lord’s Prayer” and “Sermon on the Mount: Treasures

71
February 20 –26

in Heaven” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Family members

could follow along in their scriptures and pause the vid-
eos whenever they hear something they want to discuss.
This activity could span several days, if needed.

Matthew 6:5–13. What can we learn about prayer from

the way the Savior prayed? How can we use His prayer
as a model to improve our personal and family prayers?
(See also Luke 11:1–13.) If you have younger children,
you might practice praying together.

Matthew 6:33. What does it mean to “seek . . . first the

kingdom of God”? How are we doing this individually
and as a family?

Matthew 7:1–5. To visualize the teachings in these

verses, your family could find a mote (a tiny wood frag-
ment) and a beam (a large piece of wood). What does
comparing the two teach us about judging others? If
you’d like to explore this topic further, you could use
some of the resources in “Judging Others” (Gospel
Topics, topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Matthew 7:24–27. To help your family better under-

stand the Savior’s parable of the wise man and the fool-
ish man, you could let them pour water on sand and then
on a rock. How can we build our spiritual foundations
on a rock?

72
Matthew 6 –7

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “The Wise Man and the Foolish Man,”

Children’s Songbook, 281.

Improving Personal Study

Share insights. Discussing principles you learn
from your personal study is not only a good way
to teach others; it also helps strengthen your
own understanding. Try sharing a principle you
learned this week with a family member or in
your Church classes.

73
I Have Prayed for Thee, by Del Parson
FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5

Matthew 8; Mark 2–4; Luke 7

“THY FAITH HATH SAVED THEE”

Be careful not to rush your study of the

scriptures. Take time for prayerful pondering,
even if it means you don’t have time to read every
verse. These moments of pondering often lead to
personal revelation.

One of the clearest messages in the New Testament is

that Jesus Christ is a healer. Accounts of the Savior heal-
ing the sick and afflicted are many—from a woman with
a fever to a widow’s son who had died. Why the emphasis
on physical healing? What messages might there be for
us in these miracles? Certainly one obvious message is
75
February 27–March 5

that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, with power over all
things, including our physical pains and imperfections.
But another meaning is found in His words to the skepti-
cal scribes: “That ye may know that the Son of man hath
power on earth to forgive sins” (Mark 2:10). So when you
read about a blind person or a leper being healed, you
might think of the healing—both spiritual and physical—
that you can receive from the Savior and hear Him say to
you, “Thy faith hath saved thee” (Luke 7:50).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 8; MARK 2–3; LUKE 7

The Savior can heal infirmities and sicknesses.

These few chapters record many instances of miraculous
healings performed by the Savior. As you study these
healings, look for possible messages for you. You might
ask yourself: What does the account teach about faith
in Jesus Christ? What does the account teach about the
Savior? What does God want me to learn from this mira-
cle? Here are some examples, but there are many more:

76
Matthew 8; Mark 2– 4; Luke 7

• A leper (Matthew 8:1–4)

• A centurion’s servant (Matthew 8:5–13; Luke 7:1–10)

• Peter’s mother-in-law (Matthew 8:14–15)

• A man sick with palsy (Mark 2:1–12)

• A man with a withered hand (Mark 3:1–5)

• The son of the widow of Nain (Luke 7:11–16)

MARK 2:15–17; LUKE 7:36–50

Jesus Christ came not to condemn sinners but to

heal them.
As you read in these verses about Jesus’s interactions
with scribes and Pharisees, you might consider whether
you see yourself in these accounts. For example, are
your thoughts and actions ever like those of Simon
the Pharisee? How would you describe the difference
between the way Jesus saw sinners and the way Pharisees

77
February 27–March 5

like Simon saw them? Consider how those who are

weighed down by sin might feel when they are with the
Savior. How do they feel when they are with you?

You might also ponder how you are like the woman
described in Luke 7:36–50. When have you expe-
rienced the tenderness and mercy that the Savior
showed her? What do you learn from her example of
faith, love, and humility?

MATTHEW 8:18–22; MARK 3:31–35

Being a disciple of Jesus Christ means that I put

Him first in my life.
In these verses, Jesus taught that being His disciples
requires us to put Him first in our lives, even if that
sometimes means we must sacrifice other things that we
value. As you study these passages, ponder your own
discipleship. Why must disciples be willing to put the
Savior first? What might you need to give up in order to
put Jesus first? (See also Luke 9:57–62.)

78
Matthew 8; Mark 2– 4; Luke 7

MATTHEW 8:23–27; MARK 4:35–41

Jesus Christ has power to bring peace in the

midst of life’s storms.
Have you ever felt the way Jesus’s disciples did in the
storm at sea—watching the waves of water fill the boat and
questioning, “Master, carest thou not that we perish?”

In Mark 4:35–41, you will find four questions. List each

one, and ponder what it teaches you about facing life’s
challenges with faith in Jesus Christ. How does the
Savior bring peace to the storms of your life?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 8; Mark 2–4; Luke 7. Consider creating a list
of the miracles described in these chapters. Try finding
or drawing pictures of some of them (see the Gospel Art
Book or ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Each family member

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February 27–March 5

could use pictures to tell about one of the miracles and

share what they learn from it. You might share some
examples of miracles you have seen or read about in
our day.

Matthew 8:5–13; Luke 7:1–10. What was it about the

centurion’s faith that impressed Jesus? How can we show
similar faith in Jesus Christ?

Mark 2:1–12. “Chapter 23: The Man Who Could Not

Walk” (in New Testament Stories, 57–58, or the correspond-
ing video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org) could help your
family discuss Mark 2:1–12. (See also the video “Jesus
Forgives Sins and Heals a Man Stricken with Palsy”
on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.) How can we be like the
friends of the man who could not walk? Who has been
that kind of friend to us?

Mark 4:35–41. Could this account help family mem-

bers when they feel afraid? Perhaps they could read
verse 39 and share experiences when the Savior helped
them feel peace.

Children might enjoy pretending they are in a boat in

a stormy sea while someone reads Mark 4:35–38. Then,

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Matthew 8; Mark 2– 4; Luke 7

when someone reads verse 39, they could pretend to be

in a boat in a calm sea. You could also sing together a
song about finding peace in the Savior, such as “Master,
the Tempest Is Raging” (Hymns, no. 105). What phrases
in the song teach us about the peace Jesus offers?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Master, the Tempest Is Raging,”

Hymns, no. 105.

Improving Our Teaching

Be available and accessible. Some of the best
teaching moments start as questions or concerns
in the hearts of family members. Let family
members know through your words and actions
that you are eager to hear them. (See Teaching in
the Savior’s Way, 16.)

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Christ and the Palsied Man, by J. Kirk Richards
MARCH 6–12

Matthew 9–10; Mark 5; Luke 9

“THESE TWELVE JESUS SENT FORTH”

The study ideas in this outline are meant to help

you find personal meaning in the scriptures.
They should not, however, replace personal
revelation you might receive about what passages
to study or how to study them.

Word of Jesus’s healing miracles was spreading quickly.

Multitudes followed Him, hoping for relief from their
sicknesses. But when the Savior looked upon the multi-
tudes, He saw more than their physical ailments. Filled
with compassion, He saw “sheep having no shepherd”
(Matthew 9:36). “The harvest truly is plenteous,”
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March 6 –12

He observed, “but the labourers are few” (Matthew

9:37). So He called twelve Apostles, “gave them power,”
and sent them to teach and minister “to the lost sheep of
the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:1, 6). Today the need
for more laborers to serve Heavenly Father’s children is
just as great. There are still twelve Apostles, but there
are more disciples of Jesus Christ than ever before—
people who can declare to all the world, “The kingdom
of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 10:7).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 9:18–26; MARK 5:22–43

“Be not afraid, only believe.”

When Jairus first asked Jesus to heal his daughter, who
was “at the point of death,” Jairus spoke urgently but
hopefully: “Come and lay thy hands on her, . . . and she
shall live” (Mark 5:23). But as they went, a messenger
told Jairus that it was too late: “Thy daughter is dead:
why troublest thou the Master any further?” (verse 35).
Likewise, it might have seemed too late for the woman
described in Mark 5:25–34, who had suffered with an
ailment for 12 years.

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Matthew 9 –10; Mark 5; Luke 9

As you read these accounts, you might think of things

that need healing in your life or your family—including
things that might seem “at the point of death” or too late
for healing. What impresses you about the expressions of
faith in these accounts? Note also what Jesus says to the
woman and to Jairus. What do you feel He is saying to
you?

Trust in the Lord, by Liz Lemon Swindle

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March 6 –12

MATTHEW 10; LUKE 9:1–6

The Lord gives His servants power to do

His work.
The instructions Jesus gave in Matthew 10 to His
Apostles can apply to us as well, because we all have a
part in the Lord’s work. What power did Christ give His
Apostles to help them fulfill their mission? How can you
access His power in the work you have been called to
do? (see 2 Corinthians 6:1–10; Doctrine and Covenants
121:34–46).

As you read the commission Christ gave to His Apostles,

you might receive impressions about the work the Lord
wants you to do. A chart like the following could help
you organize your thoughts:

Matthew 10 Impressions I receive

The Savior gave His disciples God will give me the power I
power. need to do my work.

When I am in the Lord’s service, He will inspire

me with what to say.
The Lord foresaw that His disciples would be persecuted
and questioned about their faith—something similar to
what disciples today may experience. But He promised
the disciples that they would know by the Spirit what to
say. Have you had experiences when this divine promise
was fulfilled in your life, perhaps when you bore your
testimony, gave a blessing, or had a conversation with
someone? Consider sharing your experiences with a
loved one or recording them in a journal. What do you
feel inspired to do so that you can have such experiences
more often?

What did Jesus mean by “I came not to send

peace, but a sword”?
Elder D. Todd Christofferson taught: “I’m confident
that a number of you have been rejected and ostra-
cized by father and mother, brothers and sisters as you
accepted the gospel of Jesus Christ and entered into His
covenant. In one way or another, your superior love of
Christ has required the sacrifice of relationships that
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March 6 –12

were dear to you, and you have shed many tears. Yet with
your own love undiminished, you hold steady under this
cross, showing yourself unashamed of the Son of God”
(“Finding Your Life,” Ensign, Mar. 2016, 28).

This willingness to lose cherished relationships in order

to follow the Savior comes with a promise that “he that
loseth his life for my sake shall find it” (Matthew 10:39).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Mark 5:22–43. As your family reads this story together,
you might pause to ask family members how they might
feel if they were Jairus, the woman, or other people in
the story. You could also show pictures of the story, such
as those in this outline. How do these pictures depict
the faith of the people in the stories? (See also the vid-
eos “Jesus Raises the Daughter of Jairus” and “Jesus
Heals a Woman of Faith” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.)
You might also consider some challenges your family
faces. How can we apply His words, “Be not afraid, only
believe”? (Mark 5:36).

88
Matthew 9 –10; Mark 5; Luke 9

Matthew 10:39; Luke 9:23–26. What might it mean to

“lose” our life and to “find” it? (Matthew 10:39). Perhaps
family members could share experiences that illustrate
Jesus’s teachings in these verses.

Matthew 10:40. How are you and your family doing

at receiving and following the counsel of modern-day
Apostles? How is our obedience to their counsel bring-
ing us closer to Jesus Christ?

Luke 9:61–62. What does it mean to look back after

putting our hand to the plow? Why would this attitude
make us not fit for the kingdom of God?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “When Faith Endures,” Hymns, no. 128.

Improving Personal Study

Listen to the Spirit. As you study, pay attention
to your thoughts and feelings (see Doctrine and
Covenants 8:2–3), even if they seem unrelated to
what you are reading. Those impressions may be
the very things God wants you to know and do.

89
Talitha Cumi, by Eva Koleva Timothy
Be Not Afraid, by Michael Malm
MARCH 13–19

Matthew 11–12; Luke 11

“I WILL GIVE YOU REST”

President Dallin H. Oaks taught: “The

scriptures, which are the revelations of the
past, cannot be understood without openness
to the revelations of the present. . . . A study
of the scriptures enables men and women to
receive revelations” (“Scripture Reading and
Revelation,” Ensign, Jan. 1995, 7).

In many ways, the Pharisees and scribes had made wor-

shipping Jehovah burdensome. They often emphasized
strict rules over eternal truths. Rules about the Sabbath

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March 13–19

day, which was meant to be a day of rest, were themselves

a heavy burden.

And then, Jehovah Himself came among His people. He

taught them that the true purpose of religion is not to
create burdens but to relieve them. He taught that God
gives us commandments, including the one to honor the
Sabbath, not to oppress us but to bless us. Yes, the way to
God is strait and narrow, but the Lord came to announce
that we need not walk it alone. “Come unto me,” He
pleaded. His invitation, to all who feel “heavy laden” for
any reason, is to stand beside Him, to bind ourselves to
Him, and to let Him share our burdens. His promise is
“Ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Compared to the alter-
natives—trying to carry on alone or relying on mortal
solutions—His “yoke is easy, and [His] burden is light.”
(Matthew 11:28–30.)

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 11:28–30

Jesus Christ will give me rest as I rely on Him.

We all carry burdens—some resulting from our own sins
and mistakes, some caused by the choices of others, and
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Matthew 11–12; Luke 11

some that are nobody’s fault but are simply part of life
on earth. Regardless of the reasons for our struggles,
Jesus pleads with us to come unto Him so He can help
us bear our burdens and find relief (see also Mosiah 24).
Elder David A. Bednar taught, “Making and keeping
sacred covenants yokes us to and with the Lord Jesus
Christ” (“Bear Up Their Burdens with Ease,” Ensign or
Liahona, May 2014, 88). With this in mind, ponder ques-
tions like the following to better understand the Savior’s
words in these verses: How do my covenants yoke me to
and with the Savior? What do I need to do to come unto
Christ? In what sense is the Savior’s yoke easy and His
burden light?

What other questions come to your mind as you read?

Record them, and search for answers this week in the
scriptures and the words of the prophets. You may find
answers to some of your questions in Elder David A.
Bednar’s message referenced above.

The Disciples Eat Wheat on the Sabbath, by James Tissot

MATTHEW 12:1–13

“Do well on the sabbath days.”

The teachings of the Pharisees differed from the Savior’s
in many ways, but especially in how to honor the
Sabbath day. As you read Matthew 12:1–13, you might
consider how well your attitudes and actions regarding
the Sabbath align with the Savior’s teachings. To do this,
you could ponder statements like these:

• “I will have mercy, and not sacrifice” (verse 7; see

Hosea 6:6).

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Matthew 11–12; Luke 11

• “The Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day”

(verse 8).

• “It is lawful to do well on the sabbath days” (verse 12).

How might these teachings influence the way you

approach the Sabbath?

MATTHEW 12:34–37; LUKE 11:33–44

My words and actions reflect what is in my heart.

One of the Savior’s main criticisms of the Pharisees was
that they tried to appear righteous but their intentions
were not pure. As you study the Savior’s warnings to the
Pharisees in Matthew 12:34–37 and Luke 11:33–44, pon-
der the connection between our hearts and our actions.
What does the phrase “good treasure of the heart” mean
to you? (Matthew 12:35). How do our words justify or
condemn us? (see Matthew 12:37). What might it mean
for your eye to be “single”? (Luke 11:34). Ponder how
you can become “full of light” (Luke 11:36) through the
Savior’s power.

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 11:28–30. You can help your family visualize
the Savior’s teachings in these verses by having them take
turns trying to pull something heavy, first by themselves
and then with help. What are some of the burdens we
carry? What does it mean to take Christ’s yoke upon our-
selves? The picture at the end of this outline could help
you explain what a yoke is.

Matthew 12:10–13. As you read about Jesus healing a

man on the Sabbath, your family could talk about how
we are “restored whole” by the Savior. How can the
Sabbath be a day of healing for us?

Inspired by the Savior’s example in these verses, your

family could make a list of ways you can “do well on the
sabbath” (verse 12). Be sure to include opportunities to
serve others. It could be helpful to keep your list and
refer to it on future Sundays.

Luke 11:33–36. Ponder how you might teach your family

what it means to be “full of light” (verses 34, 36). Would
an object lesson help? You could also discuss ways to

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Matthew 11–12; Luke 11

bring the Savior’s light into our lives, our home, and the
world. For ideas, see the video “The Light That Shineth
in Darkness,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Luke 11:37–44. Perhaps your family could discuss these

verses while washing dishes together. You could talk
about why it would be a bad idea to wash only the out-
sides of things like bowls and cups. You could then relate
this to the need to be righteous not just in our outward
deeds but also in our inward thoughts and feelings.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “How Gentle God’s Commands,”

Hymns, no. 125.

Improving Personal Study

Be consistent. You may have days when studying
the scriptures seems more difficult or less
impactful than you hoped. Don’t give up. Elder
David A. Bednar taught, “Our consistency in doing
seemingly small things can lead to significant
spiritual results” (“More Diligent and Concerned at
Home,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 20).

97
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls”
(Matthew 11:29). Photograph © iStockphoto.com/wbritten
MARCH 20–26

Matthew 13; Luke 8; 13

“WHO HATH EARS TO HEAR, LET HIM HEAR”

As you read Matthew 13 and Luke 8; 13, think

about how you will prepare yourself to “hear”
and appreciate the Savior’s teachings in these
parables. What will you do to apply these
teachings in your life?

Some of the Savior’s most memorable teachings were in

the form of simple stories called parables. These were
more than just interesting anecdotes about ordinary
objects or events. They contained profound truths about
the kingdom of God for those who were spiritually

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March 20 –26

prepared. One of the first parables recorded in the New

Testament—the parable of the sower (see Matthew 13:3–
23)—invites us to examine our readiness to receive God’s
word. “For whosoever receiveth,” Jesus declared, “to
him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance”
( Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 13:10 [in Matthew
13:12, footnote a]). So as we prepare to study the Savior’s
parables—or any of His teachings—a good place to start
is to examine our hearts and determine whether we are
giving the word of God “good ground” (Matthew 13:8)
in which to grow, blossom, flourish, and produce fruit
that will bless us and our families in abundance.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 13:3–23; LUKE 8:4–15; 13:6–9

My heart must be prepared to receive the word

of God.
Why is it that sometimes our hearts are receptive to
truth, while at other times we’re tempted to resist it?
Reading the parable of the sower can provide a good

100
Matthew 13; Luke 8; 13

opportunity to think about how well you receive truth

from the Lord. It might be helpful to match verses
3–8 of Matthew 13 with the interpretations provided
in verses 18–23. What can you do to cultivate “good
ground” in yourself? What might be some “thorns” that
keep you from truly hearing and following God’s word?
How can you overcome these “thorns”?

Your study of this parable could also influence how you

read the parable in Luke 13:6–9. What is the “fruit” that
the Lord seeks from us? How do we nourish our ground
so we will “bear fruit”?

MATTHEW 13:24–35, 44–52; LUKE 13:18–21

Jesus’s parables help me understand the growth

and destiny of His Church.
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that the parables
in Matthew 13 describe the growth and destiny of the
Church in the latter days. You might review the Prophet’s
words in Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith

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March 20 –26

(2007), 293–303, as you consider what the following para-

bles teach you about the Lord’s Church:

• The wheat and the tares (13:24–30, 36–43)

• The mustard seed (13:31–32)

• The leaven (13:33)

• The hidden treasure and the pearl of great price

(13:44–46)

• The net (13:47–50)

• The householder (13:52)

After pondering these parables, what do you feel inspired

to do to participate more fully in the work of Christ’s lat-
ter-day Church?

The gospel of Jesus Christ is a “pearl of great price” (Matthew 13:46).

MATTHEW 13:24–30, 36–43

The righteous must grow among the wicked until

the end of the world.
One way to analyze this parable is to draw a picture of it
and label it with the interpretations in Matthew 13:36–43
and Doctrine and Covenants 86:1–7. A tare is a “poi-
sonous weed, which, until it comes into ear, is similar in
appearance to wheat” (Bible Dictionary, “Tares”). What
truths in this parable inspire you to remain faithful in
spite of the wickedness in the world?

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March 20 –26

LUKE 8:1–3

In what ways did “certain women” minister to

the Savior?
“Female disciples traveled with Jesus and the Twelve,
learning from [ Jesus] spiritually and serving Him tem-
porally. . . . In addition to receiving Jesus’s minister-
ing—the glad tidings of His gospel and the blessings of
His healing power—these women ministered to Him,
imparting their substance and devotion” (Daughters in My
Kingdom [2017], 4). Women who followed the Savior also
bore powerful testimony of Him (see Linda K. Burton,
“Certain Women,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 12–15).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 13. As your family members read the Savior’s
parables, they might enjoy thinking of their own par-
ables that teach the same truths about the kingdom of
heaven (the Church), using objects or situations that are
familiar to them.

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Matthew 13; Luke 8; 13

Matthew 13:3–23; Luke 8:4–15. After reading the par-

able of the sower together, your family might discuss
questions like these: What can make our “ground” (our
hearts) “stony” or “choke” the word? How can we make
sure our ground is good and fruitful?

If you have younger children in your family, it could be

fun to invite family members to act out different ways to
prepare our hearts to hear the word of God while other
family members guess what they are doing.

Matthew 13:13–16. How can you help your family mem-

bers understand the importance of willingly receiving
Christ’s word? To demonstrate “ears [that] are dull of
hearing,” you might cover a family member’s ears while
you quietly read Matthew 13:13–16. How much did that
family member understand from the verses? What are
ways that we can open our eyes, ears, and hearts to the
word of God?

Matthew 13:44–46. What do the two men in these par-

ables have in common? Are there additional things we
should be doing as individuals and as a family to put the
kingdom of God first in our lives?

Luke 13:11–17. Have family members had experi-

ences that caused them to feel that they could not “lift

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March 20 –26

[themselves] up”? Do we know someone else who feels

this way? How can we help? How does the Savior “loose”
us from our infirmities?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “We Are Sowing,” Hymns, no. 216.

Improving Our Teaching

Memorize a scripture. Select a scripture passage
that is particularly meaningful to your family,
and invite family members to memorize it. Elder
Richard G. Scott taught, “A memorized scripture
becomes an enduring friend that is not weakened
with the passage of time” (“The Power of Scripture,”
Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 6).

106
Parable of the Sower, by George Soper
MARCH 27–APRIL 2

Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5–6

“BE NOT AFRAID”

As you read Matthew 14; Mark 6; and John 5–6,

look for truths that are meaningful to you. You
might ask yourself questions such as “How do the
accounts in these chapters relate to me?” “What
messages do I find for my life?” or “What would
I like to share with my family or with others?”

What could have inspired Peter to leave the safety of his

boat in the middle of the Sea of Galilee during a boister-
ous storm? What led him to believe that if Jesus could
walk on water, he could too? We can’t know for certain,
but perhaps Peter understood that the Son of God came
108
Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5– 6

not just to do wonderful things for the people but to

empower people like Peter to do wonderful things too.
Jesus’s invitation, after all, was “Come, follow me” (Luke
18:22). Peter had accepted this invitation once, and he was
willing to accept it again, even if it meant facing his fears
and doing something that seemed impossible. Perhaps the
Lord will not ask us to step out of a boat in the middle of
a storm or contribute our meager supply of bread when
thousands need to eat, but He may ask us to accept direc-
tions even when we don’t fully understand them. Whatever
His invitations to us may be, they may sometimes seem
surprising or even frightening. But miracles can happen if
we, like Peter, will set aside our fears, our doubts, and our
limited understanding and follow Him in faith.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

JOHN 5:16–47

Jesus Christ honors His Father.

The relationship between Heavenly Father and each of
His children is meant to be a sacred one. In these verses,
Jesus Christ gave us an inspiring model to follow in our
relationship with Heavenly Father. Read John 5:16–47,

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March 27–April 2

and mark or note each instance of the word Father. How

does the Son honor the Father, and how can you follow
His example? What do you learn about how the Father
feels about the Son? What are you inspired to do to
strengthen your relationship with your Heavenly Father?

MATTHEW 14:15–21; MARK 6:33–44; JOHN 6:5–14

The Savior can magnify my humble offerings to

accomplish His purposes.
Have you ever felt inadequate to meet all the needs you
see around you—in your home, in your relationships,

110
Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5– 6

or in society? Jesus’s disciples must have felt inadequate

when He asked them to feed over five thousand hun-
gry people when there were only five loaves of bread
and two fish available. As you read about the miracle
that happened next, ponder how God might use your
humble offerings of service to bless those around you.
How has He magnified your efforts as you have served
Him? Consider this statement from Sister Michelle D.
Craig: “You and I can give what we have to Christ, and
He will multiply our efforts. What you have to offer is
more than enough—even with your human frailties and
weaknesses—if you rely on the grace of God” (“Divine
Discontent,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 54).

MATTHEW 14:22–33; MARK 6:45–52; JOHN 6:15–21

Jesus Christ invites me to set aside my fears and

doubts and exercise faith in Him.
Picture in your mind the details of the scene described
in Matthew 14:22–33; Mark 6:45–52; and John 6:15–21.
Imagine how Peter and the other disciples may have felt.
What do you learn about discipleship from the Savior’s
words and actions in these verses? What do you learn
from the words and actions of Peter? (See also 1 Nephi
3:7.) What is the Lord inviting you to do that might be
like stepping out of the boat? What do you find in these

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March 27–April 2

verses that gives you courage to exercise your faith in

Jesus Christ?

JOHN 6:22–71

As a disciple of Jesus Christ, I must be willing to

believe and accept the truth, even when it is hard
to do.
When Jesus referred to Himself as the “bread of life”
( John 6:48), many found this to be a “hard saying” ( John
6:60). How can Peter’s words in John 6:68–69 help you
during times when the Savior’s doctrine seems hard to
accept or live by? What impresses you about Peter’s testi-
mony? What are some “words of eternal life” ( John 6:68)
that help you stay committed to following the Savior?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 14:15–21. Consider how you might help your
family imagine how much bread and fish it would take

112
Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5– 6

to feed five thousand people. What does the miracle in

Matthew 14:15–21 teach us about the Savior? Consider
sharing an experience when you felt you didn’t have
enough to offer and the Savior multiplied your efforts.

Matthew 14:22–33. Your family might enjoy reenacting

the story in these verses. Why would the disciples have
been scared? Why was Peter able to overcome his fear
and leave the boat? How did he show faith even when he
began to sink? How are we sometimes like Peter?

John 5:1–16. Invite family members to note instances of

the phrase “made whole” in these verses. In what ways
can Jesus Christ make people whole? When and how has
He made us whole?

John 6:28–58. Give each family member a piece of bread

to eat, and discuss the benefits we receive from bread and
other healthy foods. Then search these verses together,
looking for why Jesus Christ called Himself the “bread of
life” ( John 6:35). What might it mean to “eat” the bread
of life? (see D. Todd Christofferson, “The Living Bread
Which Came Down from Heaven,” Ensign or Liahona,
Nov. 2017, 36–39).

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March 27–April 2

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “How Great the Wisdom and the

Love,” Hymns, no. 195.

Improving Personal Study

Seek your own spiritual insights. In your
personal and family study, do not limit yourself to
the scripture passages addressed in these outlines.
The Lord likely has messages for you in these
chapters that are not covered here. Prayerfully
seek them.

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Against the Wind, by Liz Lemon Swindle
APRIL 3–9

Easter
“O GRAVE, WHERE IS THY VICTORY?”

As you read the testimonies of the Savior’s

Resurrection in this outline, make note of the
feelings and impressions that come to you from
the Holy Ghost.

During the last week of the Savior’s life, many Jews

around Him were participating in the traditions of
Passover. They prepared meals, sang songs, and gathered
together to remember the deliverance of the house of
Israel from slavery to the Egyptians. Families listened to
the story of the destroying angel passing over the homes

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Easter

of their ancestors who had marked their doors with

lamb’s blood. Amid all these celebrations so rich with the
symbolism of deliverance, relatively few were aware that
Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, was about to deliver them
from the slavery of sin and death—through His suffering,
His death, and His Resurrection. Even so, there were
those who recognized Jesus as their promised Messiah,
their eternal Deliverer. From that time onward, disciples
of Jesus Christ have borne witness to all the world “that
Christ died for our sins . . . ; and that he was buried, and
that he rose again the third day” (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 21–28

Jesus Christ delivers me from sin and death,

strengthens me in my weaknesses, and comforts
me in my trials.
One way to focus on the blessings of the Savior’s
Atonement this week is to spend time each day reading
about the last week of Jesus’s life (a possible reading
schedule follows). What do you find in these chapters
that helps you feel the Savior’s love? Ponder what these

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April 3–9

chapters teach you about how He can deliver you from

sin, death, trials, and weaknesses. How are you exercising
faith in His power of deliverance?

• Sunday: Triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matthew

21:6–11)

• Monday: Cleansing the temple (Matthew 21:12–16)

• Tuesday: Teaching in Jerusalem (Matthew 21–23)

• Wednesday: Continued teaching (Matthew 24–25)

• Thursday: The Passover and Christ’s suffering in the

Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26)

• Friday: Trial, Crucifixion, and burial (Matthew 27:1–61)

• Saturday: Christ’s body lies in the tomb (Matthew

27:62–66) while He ministers in the spirit world
(Doctrine and Covenants 138)

• Sunday: Jesus Christ’s Resurrection and appearance to

His disciples (Matthew 28:1–10)

MATTHEW 28:1–10; LUKE 24:13–35; JOHN 20:19–29;

1 CORINTHIANS 15:1–8, 55

Many witnesses testify of the Resurrection of

Jesus Christ.
Imagine what it would have been like for the disciples
to watch Jesus being mocked, mistreated, and cruci-
fied. They had witnessed His power, felt the truth of His
teachings, and had faith that He was the Son of God.
Witnessing His death must have caused His disciples to
feel grief and confusion. But soon they became witnesses
of the great miracle of His Resurrection.

What can you learn from the accounts of those who wit-
nessed the Resurrected Savior? Mark or note each per-
son’s experience in Matthew 28:1–10; Luke 24:13–35;
John 20:19–29; and 1 Corinthians 15:1–8, 55. (Other
witnesses of the resurrected Christ can be found in
3 Nephi 11; Mormon 1:15; Ether 12:38–39; Doctrine
and Covenants 76:19–24; 110:1–10; and Joseph
Smith—History 1:15–17.) What impresses you about
the testimonies of these witnesses? After the Savior’s
Resurrection, others were resurrected and appeared to
many (see Matthew 27:52–53; 3 Nephi 23:9). How does
your faith in the Savior and the promise of resurrection
influence the way you live?

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April 3–9

Jesus Christ gives me hope and joy.

What words or phrases in 1 Peter 1:3–11 give you hope
because of Jesus Christ? When have you felt that hope?

Elder Gerrit W. Gong testified that the Resurrection

“gives hope to those who have lost limbs; those who
have lost ability to see, hear, or walk; or those thought
lost to relentless disease, mental illness, or other dimin-
ished capacity. He finds us. He makes us whole. . . .
[Also,] because ‘God himself atoneth for the sins of the
world’ [Alma 42:15], . . . He can, with mercy, succor us
according to our infirmities. . . . We repent and do all
we can. He encircles us eternally ‘in the arms of his love’
[2 Nephi 1:15]” (“Hosanna and Hallelujah—The Living
Jesus Christ: The Heart of Restoration and Easter,”
Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 54).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
ComeuntoChrist.org. Easter.ComeuntoChrist.org
contains a timeline and description of what happened on
each day of the last week of the Savior’s life. Each day of
the week, your family could review these descriptions to
see what the Savior did that day, or you could read about
His last week in the scriptures as a family (see a suggested
list in “Ideas for Personal Scripture Study” above).

Hymns and Children’s Songbook. Consider singing

songs together about the Savior’s Atonement and
Resurrection during this week, including some that are
less familiar to you. (See the topics index of Hymns or
Children’s Songbook, under topics such as “Atonement,”
“Easter,” or “Resurrection.”) To help family members
learn the songs, you could show pictures that go with
the words.

“Jesus Christ” collection in Gospel Library. The Gospel

Library collection titled “Jesus Christ” includes videos,
artwork, and music that can help your family celebrate
the Savior’s Resurrection this Easter.

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April 3–9

“The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles.”

As a family, read “The Living Christ: The Testimony of
the Apostles” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite each
family member to pick an Easter message from this tes-
timony to share with others. For example, you might
create posters to display on social media, on your front
door, or in your home.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Jesus Has Risen,” Children’s

Songbook, 70.

Improving Personal Study

Set manageable goals. Spending even a few
minutes a day studying the scriptures can bless
your life. Commit to studying each day, find a way
to remind yourself of your commitment, and do
your best to follow through. If you forget, don’t give
up. Just start again.

122
Gethsemane, by Adam Abram
The Transfiguration, by Carl Heinrich Bloch
APRIL 10–16

Matthew 15–17; Mark 7–9

“THOU ART THE CHRIST”

Reading the scriptures invites the Holy

Ghost into your life. One of the Holy Ghost’s
important missions is to testify of Jesus Christ.
As you read the scriptures this week, pay
attention to spiritual feelings that strengthen
your testimony of the Savior.

Isn’t it strange that the Pharisees and Sadducees would

demand that Jesus show them “a sign from heaven”?
Weren’t His many well-known miracles enough? What
about His powerful teachings or the multiple ways He had

124
Matthew 15–17; Mark 7–9

fulfilled ancient prophecies? Their demand was prompted

not by a lack of signs but by an unwillingness to “discern
the signs” and accept them. (See Matthew 16:1–4.)

Peter, like the Pharisees and Sadducees, witnessed the

Savior’s miracles and heard His teachings. But Peter’s
definitive testimony, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the
living God,” did not come through his physical senses—
his “flesh and blood.” His testimony was revealed to him
by our “Father which is in heaven.” Revelation is the rock
upon which the Savior built His Church then and now—
revelation from heaven to His servants. And this is the
rock upon which we can build our discipleship—revela-
tion that Jesus is the Christ and that His servants hold
“the keys of the kingdom.” When we are built upon this
foundation, “the gates of hell shall not prevail against
[us]” (Matthew 16:15–19).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 16:13–17

A testimony of Jesus Christ comes by revelation.

If Jesus Christ asked people today, “Whom do men say
that I the Son of Man am?” what might they say?
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April 10 –16

How would you respond if Jesus asked you, “Whom say

ye that I am?” (See Matthew 16:13–15.)

Ponder your testimony of the Savior and how you

received it. What do you learn from Matthew 16:15–17
that could strengthen it? If you would like to learn more
about testimony and personal revelation, explore these
scriptures: John 15:26; 2 Nephi 31:17–18; Alma 5:45–48;
and Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3.

MATTHEW 16:13–19; 17:1–9; MARK 9:2–9

“The keys of the kingdom of heaven” are on the

earth today.
The “keys of the kingdom of heaven” that the Savior
promised to give Peter are priesthood keys (Matthew
16:19). What are priesthood keys? Why do we need
them? Ponder these questions as you read about the
Savior’s promise in Matthew 16:13–19 and its fulfillment
in Matthew 17:1–9; Mark 9:2–9 (see also Joseph Smith
Translation, Mark 9:3 [in Mark 9:4, footnote a]).

Other resources to help you learn about priesthood

keys include Doctrine and Covenants 65:2; 107:18–20;

126
Matthew 15–17; Mark 7–9

110:11–16; 128:9–11; “Keys of the Priesthood” in Guide

to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org);
and Elder Gary E. Stevenson’s message “Where Are
the Keys and Authority of the Priesthood?,” (Ensign
or Liahona, May 2016, 29–32). While studying these
resources, consider making a list of what you learn about
priesthood keys and the blessings that come from them.
Why do you think a key is a good symbol for the right to
direct priesthood service?

MATTHEW 17:14–21; MARK 9:14–29

When seeking greater faith, I can start with the

faith I have.
The father mentioned in Matthew 17 and Mark 9 had
reasons to feel uncertain that Jesus could heal his son.
He had asked Jesus’s disciples to heal his son, and they
could not. But when he asked the Savior for a miracle, he
chose to express faith. “Lord, I believe,” he said. Then, in
acknowledgment that his faith was not perfect, he added,
“Help thou mine unbelief.”

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April 10 –16

What does the Spirit teach you as you read about this
miracle? How has Heavenly Father helped you increase
your faith? What can you do to build upon the faith you
already have? Perhaps you could compile a list of scrip-
tures, conference messages, or experiences that have
strengthened your faith.

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 15:7–9; Mark 7:6–7. What is the difference
between honoring God with our lips, or words, and hon-
oring Him with our hearts?

Matthew 15:17–20; Mark 7:18–23. Why are we care-

ful about what we put into our mouths? Based on what
Jesus taught in these verses, why should we be even more
careful about what comes out of our mouths—and out of
our hearts? How can we keep our hearts pure?

128
Matthew 15–17; Mark 7–9

Matthew 16:15–17. How does God reveal to us

that Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God”?
(verse 16). How can we prepare ourselves to receive this
revelation from Him?

Matthew 16:13–19; 17:1–9. To teach children about

priesthood keys, you could tell Elder Gary E. Stevenson’s
story about getting locked out of his car (see the video
“Where Are the Keys?” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
You could let your children use keys to open the house,
the car, or other locks. Consider showing a picture of the
President of the Church and testifying that he holds all
the priesthood keys, just as Peter did.

Matthew 17:20. Prophets with faith in Jesus Christ have

moved literal mountains (see Jacob 4:6; Moses 7:13).
But usually, that isn’t the miracle we need. President
M. Russell Ballard taught: “If we have faith as small
as a mustard seed, the Lord can help us remove the
mountains of discouragement and doubt in the tasks
ahead of us as we serve with God’s children, including
family members, Church members, and those who are
not yet members of the Church” (“Precious Gifts from
God,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 10). What are some
mountains in our lives that need to be moved? How can

129
April 10 –16

we show faith in God’s power to help us remove these

mountains?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “I Believe in Christ,” Hymns, no. 134.

Improving Our Teaching

Gather together often. President Henry B. Eyring
taught: “Never miss a chance to gather children
together to learn of the doctrine of Jesus Christ.
Such moments are so rare in comparison with
the efforts of the enemy” (“The Power of Teaching
Doctrine,” Ensign, May 1999, 74).

130
Master, I Have Brought unto Thee My Son, by Walter Rane
The Good Samaritan, by Dan Burr
APRIL 17–23

Matthew 18; Luke 10
“WHAT SHALL I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?”

As you prayerfully read and ponder Matthew 18

and Luke 10, pay attention to the quiet
promptings of the Holy Ghost. He will tell you
how these teachings and stories apply to you.
Record the impressions you receive.

When you ask the Lord a question, you might receive

an answer you did not expect. Who is my neighbor?
Anyone who needs your help and love. Who is the great-
est in the kingdom of heaven? A child. Is it enough to
forgive an offender seven times? No, you should forgive

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Matthew 18; Luke 10

seventy times seven. (See Luke 10:29–37; Matthew 18:4,

21–22.) Unexpected answers from the Lord can invite us
to change the way we think, feel, and act. If you are seek-
ing the Lord’s will because you really want to learn from
Him, the Lord will teach you how to live in a way that
leads to eternal life with Him.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 18:21–35

I must forgive others if I am to receive

forgiveness from the Lord.
Peter’s suggestion that he could forgive someone seven
times might seem very generous, but Jesus taught a higher
law. His response, “I say not unto thee, Until seven times:
but, Until seventy times seven” (verse 22), was teach-
ing not about numbers but rather about developing a
Christlike attitude of forgiveness. As you read the para-
ble of the unmerciful servant, ponder the times when you
have felt God’s mercy and compassion. Is there someone
who needs to feel mercy and compassion from you?

Elder David E. Sorensen gave this important caution:

“Although we must forgive a neighbor who injures
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April 17–23

us, we should still work constructively to prevent that

injury from being repeated. . . . Forgiveness does not
require us to accept or tolerate evil. . . . But as we fight
against sin, we must not allow hatred or anger to con-
trol our thoughts or actions” (“Forgiveness Will Change
Bitterness to Love,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2003, 12).

LUKE 10:1–20

Who are the Seventy?

Following a pattern established in Old Testament
times (see Exodus 24:1; Numbers 11:16), Jesus Christ
“appointed other seventy,” in addition to His Twelve
Apostles, to witness of Him, preach His gospel, and
assist Him in His work. This pattern continues in the
restored Church. Seventies are called to assist the
Twelve in their mission as special witnesses of Jesus
Christ to all the world.

To obtain eternal life, I must love God and love

my neighbor as myself.
It is helpful to remember that the parable of the good
Samaritan was Jesus’s way of answering two questions:

134
Matthew 18; Luke 10

“What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” and “Who is my

neighbour?” (Luke 10:25, 29). As you read this parable,
keep these questions in mind. What answers do you find?

By Jesus’s day, the animosity between the Jews and

Samaritans had lasted for centuries. The Samaritans were
descendants of Jews living in Samaria who had inter-
married with Gentiles. The Jews felt that the Samaritans
had become corrupted by their association with Gentiles
and had apostatized. Jews would travel miles out of their
way to avoid passing through Samaria. (See also Luke
9:52–54; 17:11–18; John 4:9; 8:48.)

Why do you think the Savior chose a Samaritan, some-

one who was hated by the Jews, as an example of com-
passion and loving one’s neighbor? What does this
parable inspire you to do?

We choose “that good part” by making daily

choices that lead to eternal life.
In Luke 10:38–42, Jesus gently invited Martha to think
differently about the way she was spending her time.

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April 17–23

After quoting these verses, Sister Carol F. McConkie

taught: “If we would be holy, we must learn to sit at the
feet of the Holy One of Israel and give time to holiness.
Do we set aside the phone, the never-ending to-do list,
and the cares of worldliness? Prayer, study, and heeding
the word of God invite His cleansing and healing love
into our souls. Let us take time to be holy, that we may
be filled with His sacred and sanctifying Spirit” (“The
Beauty of Holiness,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 11).
You may want to examine how you spend your time—
even on good things. Is there something more “needful”
(verse 42) that deserves more of your attention?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 18:1–11. Why would Jesus want us to become
like a little child? What attributes do children have
that we can develop to become more Christlike? (see
Mosiah 3:19).

136
Matthew 18; Luke 10

Jesus wants His disciples to become like little children.

Matthew 18:15. How can we apply the counsel in

Matthew 18:15 to our family interactions? How would
doing this bless our family?

Matthew 18:21–35. What does this parable teach us

about Jesus Christ? What does it teach us about how to
treat others?

Luke 10:25–37. Family members may enjoy wearing

costumes and acting out this parable. How are we some-
times like the different people in the parable? How is the
Savior like the good Samaritan? How can we be like the
good Samaritan?

You might consider singing together a hymn or chil-

dren’s song that supports the truths in this parable.

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April 17–23

One example is “Lord, I Would Follow Thee” (Hymns,

no. 220), but there are many others. Family members
might enjoy finding a hymn or song and explaining how
it relates to the parable.

Luke 10:38–42. Is it ever difficult to fit spiritual things

into your family’s schedule? The story of Mary and
Martha could inspire a family council or home evening
about how to do this better. As a family, you could make
a list of ways to choose “that good part” (Luke 10:42).

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Jesus Said Love Everyone,” Children’s

Songbook, 61.

Improving Our Teaching

Nurture a loving atmosphere. The way family
members feel about and treat each other can
profoundly influence the spirit of your home.
Help all family members do their part to establish
a loving, respectful home so that everyone will
feel safe sharing experiences, questions, and
testimonies. (See Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 15.)

138
Christ in the Home of Mary and Martha, by Walter Rane
Neither Do I Condemn Thee, by Eva Koleva Timothy
APRIL 24–30

John 7–10
“I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD”

As you read John 7–10, you may receive

impressions from the Holy Ghost about the
doctrinal principles in these chapters. Recording
your impressions can help you make a plan to act
on them.

Although Jesus Christ came to bring “peace [and] good

will toward men” (Luke 2:14), there was “a division
among the people because of him” ( John 7:43). People
who witnessed the same events came to very different
conclusions about who Jesus was. Some concluded,

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John 7–10

“He is a good man,” while others said, “He deceiveth

the people” ( John 7:12). When He healed a blind man
on the Sabbath, some insisted, “This man is not of God,
because he keepeth not the sabbath day,” while others
asked, “How can a man that is a sinner do such mira-
cles?” ( John 9:16). Yet despite all the confusion, those
who searched for truth recognized the power in His
words, for “never man spake like this man” ( John 7:46).
When the Jews asked Jesus to “tell us plainly” whether
he was the Christ, He revealed a principle that can help
us distinguish truth from error: “My sheep hear my
voice,” He said, “and I know them, and they follow me”
( John 10:24, 27).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

JOHN 7:14–17

As I live the truths taught by Jesus Christ, I will

come to know they are true.
The Jews marveled that Jesus knew so much, since He
was not learned (see verse 15)—at least, not in ways they
were familiar with. In Jesus’s response, He taught a

141
April 24 –30

different way of knowing truth that is available to every-

one, regardless of education or background. According
to John 7:14–17, how can you come to know that the
doctrine Jesus taught is true? How has this process
helped you develop your testimony of the gospel?

JOHN 8:2–11

The Savior’s mercy is available to all.

When speaking about the Savior’s interaction with
the woman taken in adultery, Elder Dale G. Renlund
said: “Surely, the Savior did not condone adultery. But
He also did not condemn the woman. He encouraged
her to reform her life. She was motivated to change
because of His compassion and mercy. The Joseph Smith
Translation of the Bible attests to her resultant disciple-
ship: ‘And the woman glorified God from that hour, and
believed on his name’ [see John 8:11, footnote c]” (“Our
Good Shepherd,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 30).

When have you felt like the woman, receiving mercy

instead of condemnation from the Savior? When have
you been like the scribes and Pharisees, accusing or judg-
ing others even when you are not without sin? (see John
8:7). What else can you learn from the way the Savior
interacted with the scribes and Pharisees and the woman

142
John 7–10

caught in adultery? What do you learn about the Savior’s

forgiveness as you read these verses?

If we have faith, God can manifest Himself in our

afflictions.
What does John 9:1–3 teach you about the challenges
and afflictions of life? As you read John 9, ponder how
the “works of God [were] made manifest” in the life of
the man born blind. How have they been made manifest
in your life—including in your afflictions?

JOHN 10:1–30

Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd.

Even if you aren’t familiar with sheep and shepherding,
reading John 10, where the Savior says, “I am the good
shepherd,” can teach you important truths about Him.
To find these truths, look for phrases that describe what
a good shepherd is like and then consider how those
phrases apply to the Savior. Below are some examples:

• Verse 3: “He calleth his own sheep by name, and

leadeth them.”
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April 24 –30

• Verse 11: He “giveth his life for the sheep.”

• Verse 16: “There shall be one fold, and one shepherd.”

Here are some additional questions to help you pon-

der this chapter: How is Jesus like a door? (see verses
7–9). How has He given you “life . . . more abundantly”?
(verse 10). When have you felt that He knows you per-
sonally? (see verse 14). How do you recognize the Good
Shepherd’s voice? (see verse 27).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
John 7:24. To help your family understand Jesus’s teach-
ing in John 7:24, you might show them something that
looks one way on the outside but is different on the
inside. Or family members could share experiences that
taught them not to judge by outward appearances. You
could also list qualities of each family member that aren’t

144
John 7–10

visible to the eye (see also 1 Samuel 16:7; Thomas S.

Monson, “See Others as They May Become,” Ensign or
Liahona, Nov. 2012, 68–71).

John 8:31–36. What does it mean to be a “servant of

sin”? (see also Moroni 7:11). What truths taught by Jesus
can make us free?

Jesus Healing the Blind, by Carl Heinrich Bloch

John 9. How could you help your family visualize the

account of Jesus healing the blind man in John 9? You
could act out the story together or show the video “Jesus
Heals a Man Born Blind” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Pause the story occasionally so that family members can
read the corresponding verses from John 9. Invite them

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April 24 –30

to note any lessons they learn from the account, such as

what it means to become converted to the gospel of Jesus
Christ.

John 10:1–18, 27–29. To involve family members in

learning from the parable of the good shepherd, ask each
of them to draw a picture of one of the following: a thief,
a door, a shepherd, a hireling (a hired worker), a wolf,
and a sheep. Invite them to read John 10:1–18, 27–29,
and then discuss as a family what the Savior taught
about the things they drew.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “The Lord Is My Shepherd,”

Hymns, no. 108.

Improving Personal Study

Look for inspiring words and phrases. As you
read, the Spirit may bring certain words or phrases
to your attention that inspire and motivate you or
seem to be written just for you. Consider making
note of any words or phrases that inspire you in
John 7–10.

146
Lost No More, by Greg K. Olsen
The Prodigal Son, by Liz Lemon Swindle
MAY 1–7

Luke 12–17; John 11

“REJOICE WITH ME; FOR I HAVE FOUND MY SHEEP WHICH
WAS LOST”

As you read Luke 12–17 and John 11, prayerfully

seek what Heavenly Father wants you to know
and do. Your study of these chapters can open
your heart to messages meant just for you.

In most situations, 99 out of 100 would be considered

excellent—but not when such numbers stand for beloved
children of God (see Doctrine and Covenants 18:10).
In that case, even one soul merits a thorough, desper-
ate search “until [we] find it” (Luke 15:4), as the Savior

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Luke 12–17; John 11

taught in the parable of the lost sheep. Then the rejoic-

ing can begin, for “joy shall be in heaven over one sin-
ner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just
persons, which need no repentance” (Luke 15:7). If that
seems unfair, it’s helpful to remember that, in truth, there
are none who “need no repentance.” We all need rescu-
ing. And we all can participate in the rescue, rejoicing
together over every soul who is saved (see Doctrine and
Covenants 18:15–16).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

LUKE 12; 14–16

I am blessed as I set my heart on eternal things.

Why would God say “Thou fool” to a hardworking, suc-
cessful man who had built great barns and filled them
with the fruits of his labors? (see Luke 12:16–21). In
these chapters in Luke, the Savior teaches several para-
bles that can help us lift our sights beyond the worldly to
the eternal. Some of these parables are listed here. How
would you summarize the message of each? What do you
think the Lord is telling you?

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May 1–7

• The foolish rich man (Luke 12:13–21)

• The great supper (Luke 14:12–24)

• The prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32)

• The unjust steward (Luke 16:1–12)

• The rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31)

Heavenly Father rejoices when those who are

lost are found.
As you read the parables Jesus taught in Luke 15, what
do you learn about how Heavenly Father feels about
those who have sinned or are otherwise “lost”? How
should a spiritual leader—or any of us—feel toward
them? Consider how the Pharisees and scribes would
have answered these questions (see Luke 15:1–2). Jesus’s
response can be found in three parables in Luke 15. As
you read, think about what Jesus was teaching the scribes
and Pharisees with these parables.

150
Luke 12–17; John 11

You might also consider making a list of similarities and

differences between the parables. For example, you could
identify what was lost in each parable and why it was
lost, how it was found, and how people reacted when it
was found. What messages did Jesus have for those who
are “lost”—including those who don’t think they are lost?
What messages did He have for people who seek those
who are lost?

The Lost Piece of Silver, by James Tissot

151
May 1–7

LUKE 16:1–12

What was Christ teaching in the parable of the

unjust steward?
Elder James E. Talmage explained one lesson we can
learn from the parable: “Be diligent; for the day in which
you can use your earthly riches will soon pass. Take a
lesson from even the dishonest and the evil; if they are so
prudent as to provide for the only future they think of,
how much more should you, who believe in an eternal
future, provide therefor! If you have not learned wisdom
and prudence in the use of ‘unrighteous mammon,’ how
can you be trusted with the more enduring riches?” (Jesus
the Christ [1916], 464). What other lessons do you find in
this parable?

LUKE 17:11–19

Gratitude for my blessings will bring me closer

to God.
If you had been one of the ten lepers, do you think you
would have returned to thank the Savior? What addi-
tional blessings did the thankful leper receive because he
gave thanks?

You might also ponder the Savior’s words, “Thy faith hath
made thee whole” (verse 19). In your opinion, how are

152
Luke 12–17; John 11

gratitude and faith related? How do both help us become

whole? The video “President Russell M. Nelson on the
Healing Power of Gratitude” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org)
can help you ponder these questions.

Jesus Christ is the Resurrection and the Life.

The miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead was a power-
ful and irrefutable testimony that Jesus was truly the Son
of God and the promised Messiah. What words, phrases,
or details in John 11:1–46 strengthen your faith that Jesus
Christ is “the resurrection, and the life”? What does it
mean to you that Jesus is “the resurrection, and the life”?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Luke 15:1–10. Do your family members understand what
it feels like to lose something—or to be lost? Talking
about their experiences could start a discussion about

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May 1–7

the parables of the lost sheep and lost coin. Or you could
play a game in which someone hides and other family
members try to find him or her. How does this activity
help us understand these parables?

Luke 15:11–32. How can we be like the father in this

story when we have loved ones who are lost? What can
we learn from the older son’s experience that can help us
be more Christlike? In what ways is the father in this par-
able like our Heavenly Father?

Luke 17:11–19. To help family members apply the

account of the ten lepers, you could invite them to leave
secret notes of gratitude for each other. You could also
sing together “Count Your Blessings” (Hymns, no. 241)
and count the blessings your family has received.

John 11:1–46. Family members could watch

the video “Lazarus Is Raised from the Dead”
(ChurchofJesusChrist.org) and share their testimonies
of Jesus Christ.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd,”

Hymns, no. 221.

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Luke 12–17; John 11

Improving Our Teaching

Use stories and examples to teach gospel
principles. The Savior often taught about gospel
principles by using stories and parables. Think of
examples and stories from your own life that can
make a gospel principle come alive for your family
(see Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 22).

155
Where Are the Nine, by Liz Lemon Swindle
MAY 8–14

Matthew 19–20; Mark 10;

Luke 18
“WHAT LACK I YET?”

Read and ponder Matthew 19–20; Mark 10; and

Luke 18, paying attention to the promptings you
receive. Make note of those promptings, and
determine how you will act on them.

If you had the opportunity to ask the Savior a question,

what would it be? When a certain rich young man met
the Savior for the first time, he asked, “What good thing
shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” (Matthew 19:16).
The Savior’s response showed both appreciation for the

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May 8–14

good things the young man had already done and loving
encouragement to do more. When we ponder the possi-
bility of eternal life, we may similarly wonder if there’s
more we should be doing. When we ask, in our own way,
“What lack I yet?” (Matthew 19:20), the Lord can give us
answers that are just as personal as His response to the
rich young man. Whatever the Lord asks us to do, acting
on His answer will always require that we trust Him more
than our own righteousness (see Luke 18:9–14) and that
we “receive the kingdom of God as a little child” (Luke
18:17; see also 3 Nephi 9:22).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 19:3–9; MARK 10:2–12

Marriage between a man and a woman is

ordained of God.
This interchange between the Savior and the Pharisees
is one of the few recorded instances in which the
Savior taught specifically about marriage. After
reading Matthew 19:3–9 and Mark 10:2–12, make

158
Matthew 19 –20; Mark 10; Luke 18

a list of several statements that you feel summarize

the Lord’s views on marriage. Then study some of
the resources found in “Marriage” (Gospel Topics,
topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and add more state-
ments to your list. How does your knowledge of the
Father’s plan of salvation affect the way you think and
feel about marriage?

MATTHEW 19:3–9; MARK 10:2–12

Did Jesus teach that divorce is never acceptable

or that divorced people should not remarry?
In an address on divorce, President Dallin H. Oaks
taught that Heavenly Father intends for the marriage
relationship to be eternal. However, God also under-
stands that divorce is sometimes necessary. President
Oaks explained that the Lord “permits divorced persons
to marry again without the stain of immorality specified
in the higher law. Unless a divorced member has commit-
ted serious transgressions, he or she can become eligible
for a temple recommend under the same worthiness stan-
dards that apply to other members” (“Divorce,” Ensign or
Liahona, May 2007, 70).

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May 8–14

MATTHEW 19:16–22; MARK 10:17–22; LUKE 18:18–23

If I ask the Lord, He will teach me what I need to

do to inherit eternal life.
The account of the rich young man can give pause
even to the faithful, lifelong disciple. As you read Mark
10:17–22, what evidence do you find of the young man’s
faithfulness and sincerity? How did the Lord feel toward
this young man?

This account may prompt you to ask, “What lack I yet?”

(Matthew 19:20). How does the Lord help us make up
for what we lack? (see Ether 12:27). What can we do to
prepare ourselves to accept His correction and help as we
seek to improve?

Everyone can receive the blessing of eternal life,

no matter when they accept the gospel.
Can you relate to the experience of any of the laborers
in the vineyard? What lessons do you find for yourself

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Matthew 19 –20; Mark 10; Luke 18

in this passage? Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s message “The

Laborers in the Vineyard” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2012,
31–33) might help you see new ways to apply this parable.
What additional promptings does the Spirit give to you?

I should trust God’s mercy, not my own

righteousness.
How would you summarize the differences between the
two prayers in this parable? Ponder what you feel you
should do to be more like the publican in this story and
less like the Pharisee.

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Mark 10:13–16; Luke 18:15–17. To help family mem-
bers ponder the account in these verses, you could sing
together a related song, such as “I Think When I Read
That Sweet Story” (Children’s Songbook, 56). What might
it have been like to be among the children Jesus blessed?
What might it mean to “receive the kingdom of God as a
little child”? (Mark 10:15).

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May 8–14

Mark 10:23–27. What is the difference between having

riches and trusting in riches? (see Mark 10:23–24). As
you read verse 27, you may want to point out the Joseph
Smith Translation: “With men that trust in riches, it is
impossible; but not impossible with men who trust in God
and leave all for my sake, for with such all these things are
possible” ( Joseph Smith Translation, Mark 10:26 [in
Mark 10:27, footnote a]). As a family, how are we show-
ing that we trust God more than material things?

Matthew 20:1–16. To illustrate the principles in

Matthew 20:1–16, you might set up a simple competi-
tion, such as a short race. After everyone has completed
the competition, award everyone the same prize, starting
with the person who finished last and ending with the
person who finished first. What does this teach us about
who receives the blessings of eternal life in Heavenly
Father’s plan?

Matthew 20:25–28; Mark 10:42–45. What is the mean-

ing of the phrase “whosoever will be chief among you,
let him be your servant”? (Matthew 20:27). How did
Jesus Christ exemplify this principle? How can we follow
His example in our family, our ward or branch, and our
neighborhood?

162
Matthew 19 –20; Mark 10; Luke 18

Luke 18:1–14. What do we learn about prayer from the

two parables in these verses?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Dearest Children, God Is Near You,”

Hymns, no. 96.

Improving Personal Study

Find a time that works for you. It is often easiest
to learn when you can study the scriptures without
being interrupted. Find a time that works for you,
and do your best to consistently study at that time
each day.

163
Christ and the Rich Young Ruler, by Heinrich Hofmann
Zacchaeus in the Sycamore Tree, by James Tissot
MAY 15–21

Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke

19–20; John 12
“BEHOLD, THY KING COMETH”

Before reading the ideas in this outline, read

Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20; and
John 12. Record impressions that you could
share with your family or in your Church classes.

The Savior was hungry after traveling from Bethany

to Jerusalem, and a fig tree in the distance looked like
a source of food. But as Jesus approached the tree,
He found that it bore no fruit (see Matthew 21:17–20;
Mark 11:12–14, 20). In a way, the fig tree was like the

165
May 15–21

hypocritical religious leaders in Jerusalem: their empty

teachings and outward demonstrations of holiness gave
no spiritual nourishment. The Pharisees and scribes
appeared to keep many commandments yet missed the
two greatest commandments: to love God and to love thy
neighbor as thyself (see Matthew 22:34–40; 23:23).

In contrast, many people had begun to recognize good

fruit in Jesus’s teachings. When He arrived at Jerusalem,
they welcomed Him with branches cut from trees to pave
His path, rejoicing that at long last, as ancient prophecy
said, “Thy King cometh” (Zechariah 9:9). As you read
this week, think about the fruits of the Savior’s teachings
and atoning sacrifice in your life and how you can bring
“forth much fruit” ( John 12:24).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

LUKE 19:1–10

The Lord judges not by the outward appearance

but by the desires of the heart.
In Jesus’s day, many people assumed that the publi-
cans, or tax collectors, were dishonest and stole from the

166
Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19 –20; John 12

people. So because Zacchaeus, the chief publican, was

wealthy, he may have been even more suspect. But Jesus
looked on Zacchaeus’s heart. What does Luke 19:1–10
reveal about Zacchaeus’s heart? You might make note of
the words in these verses that describe what Zacchaeus
did to show his devotion to the Savior. What are the
desires of your heart? What are you doing to seek the
Savior, as Zacchaeus did?

MATTHEW 23; LUKE 20:45–47

Jesus condemns hypocrisy.

The Savior’s interaction with the scribes and Pharisees
forms an interesting contrast to his interaction with
Zacchaeus. As President Dieter F. Uchtdorf explained,
“[ Jesus] rose up in righteous anger against hypocrites
like the scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees—those who
tried to appear righteous in order to win the praise,
influence, and wealth of the world, all the while oppress-
ing the people they should have been blessing” (“On
Being Genuine,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 81).

In Matthew 23, the Savior used several metaphors to

describe hypocrisy. Consider marking or listing these
metaphors and noting what they teach about hypocrisy.

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May 15–21

What is the difference between hypocrisy and the human

weaknesses we all deal with as we try to live the gospel?
What are you inspired to do differently because of the
Savior’s teachings?

MATTHEW 21:1–11; MARK 11:1–11; LUKE 19:29–44; JOHN

12:1–8, 12–16

Jesus Christ is my King.

When Jesus arrived at Jerusalem just days before He
accomplished His Atonement, those who recognized Him
as their King showed their devotion by anointing Him,
putting clothes and palm branches along His path into
Jerusalem, and shouting praises. Consider how the fol-
lowing resources can deepen your understanding of these
events, which began the last week of the Savior’s life.

• An ancient example of anointing a king: 2 Kings 9:1–6, 13

• An ancient prophecy of the triumphal entry:

Zechariah 9:9

• The meaning of the word hosanna: “Hosanna” in Guide

to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org)

168
Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19 –20; John 12

• Prophecies about how the Savior will come again:

Revelation 7:9–12

How can you honor and receive the Savior as your Lord
and King?

The two great commandments are to love God

and love others as myself.
If you ever feel overwhelmed as you strive to fol-
low Jesus Christ, the Savior’s words to the lawyer in
Matthew 22 can help you simplify and focus your disci-
pleship. Here’s one way to do this: Make a list of several
of the Lord’s commandments. How does each item on
your list connect to the two great commandments? How
would focusing on the two great commandments help
you keep the others?

169
May 15–21

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 21:12–14. How do Jesus’s words and actions in
Matthew 21:12–14 show how He felt about the temple?
How do we show how we feel about the temple? What
can we “cast out” (verse 12) of our lives to make our
home more like the temple? Consider singing a song
about the temple, such as “I Love to See the Temple”
(Children’s Songbook, 95).

Matthew 21:28–32. What lessons from the parable

of the man with two sons might help your family? For
instance, you could use the story to discuss the impor-
tance of sincere obedience and repentance. Perhaps your
family could write a script to dramatize the parable and
take turns acting out different roles.

Matthew 22:15–22; Luke 20:21–26. Children might

enjoy making pretend coins with Jesus’s “image and
superscription” on them. They could write on the
backs of the coins some of the “things that are God’s”
(Matthew 22:21) that we can give Him. You might also

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Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19 –20; John 12

talk about what it means to have the Savior’s “image

and superscription” on us (Matthew 22:20; see also
Mosiah 5:8; Alma 5:14).

John 12:1–8. How did Mary show her love for the
Savior? How do we show our love for Him?

Washing Jesus’s Feet, by Brian Call

John 12:42–43. What social consequences sometimes dis-

courage us from expressing or defending our belief in
Christ? For examples of people who would not give in
to social pressure, see Daniel 1:3–20; 3; 6; John 7:45–53;
9:1–38; and Mosiah 17:1–4. How can we show respect to
others as they express or defend their religious beliefs?

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May 15–21

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Rejoice, the Lord Is King!,” Hymns,

no. 66.

Improving Our Teaching

Use art to engage family members. “The
Gospel Art Book and the Gospel Media Library on
ChurchofJesusChrist.org contain many images
and videos that can help [your family] visualize
concepts or events” (Teaching in the Savior’s
Way, 22).

172
Triumphal Entry, by Walter Rane
The Second Coming, by Harry Anderson
MAY 22–28

Joseph Smith—Matthew 1;
Matthew 24–25; Mark 12–13;
Luke 21
“THE SON OF MAN SHALL COME”

As you read Joseph Smith—Matthew 1; Matthew

24–25; Mark 12–13; and Luke 21, you might ask,
“What messages do these chapters have for me?
for my family? for my calling?”

Jesus’s disciples must have found His prophecy startling:

the mighty temple of Jerusalem, the spiritual and cul-
tural center of the Jewish people, would be destroyed so

174
Joseph Smith—Matthew 1; Matthew 24 –25; Mark 12–13; Luke 21

utterly that “there [would] not be left . . . one stone upon
another.” Naturally the disciples wanted to know more.
“When shall these things be?” they asked. “And what
is the sign of thy coming?” ( Joseph Smith—Matthew
1:2–4). The Savior’s answers revealed that the great
destruction coming to Jerusalem—a prophecy fulfilled in
AD 70—would be relatively small compared to the signs
of His coming in the last days. Things that seem even
more stable than the temple in Jerusalem will prove to
be temporary—the sun, the moon, the stars, the nations,
and the sea. Even “the powers of heaven shall be shaken”
( Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:33). If we are spiritually
aware, this commotion can teach us to put our trust in
something truly permanent. As Jesus promised, “Heaven
and earth shall pass away; yet my words shall not pass
away. . . . And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be
deceived” ( Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:35, 37).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

What is Joseph Smith—Matthew?
Joseph Smith—Matthew, located in the Pearl of Great
Price, is the Joseph Smith Translation of the last verse

175
May 22–28

of Matthew 23 and all of Matthew 24. Joseph Smith’s

inspired revisions restore precious truths that had been
lost. Verses 12–21 refer to the destruction of Jerusalem
anciently; verses 21–55 contain prophecies about the
last days.

JOSEPH SMITH—MATTHEW 1:21–37; MARK 13:21–37; LUKE

21:25–38

Prophecies about the Savior’s Second Coming

can help me face the future with faith.
It can be unsettling to read about the events leading up
to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. But when Jesus
prophesied of these events, He told His disciples to “be
not troubled” ( Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:23). How can
you “be not troubled” as you hear about earthquakes,
wars, deceptions, and famines? Think about this ques-
tion as you read these verses. Mark or note any reassur-
ing counsel you find.

JOSEPH SMITH—MATTHEW 1:26–27, 38–55; MATTHEW

25:1–13; LUKE 21:29–36

I must always be ready for the Savior’s

Second Coming.
God has not revealed “the day nor the hour wherein the
Son of man cometh” (Matthew 25:13). But He does not
want that day to come upon us “unawares” (Luke 21:34),
so He has given us counsel about how to prepare.

As you read these verses, identify the parables and other

comparisons the Savior used to teach us to always be pre-
pared for His Second Coming. What do you learn from
them? What are you inspired to do?

You might also consider how the Savior wants you to

help prepare the world for His Second Coming. What
do you feel it means to be ready to receive the Savior
when He comes? Elder D. Todd Christofferson’s message
“Preparing for the Lord’s Return” (Ensign or Liahona,
May 2019, 81–84) could help you ponder this.

Heavenly Father expects me to use His

gifts wisely.
In the Savior’s parable, a “talent” referred to money.
But the parable of the talents can prompt us to ponder
how we are using any of our blessings, not just money.
After reading this parable, you might make a list of
some of the blessings and responsibilities that Heavenly
Father has entrusted to you. What does He expect you
to do with these blessings? How can you use these gifts
more wisely?

MATTHEW 25:31–46

When I serve others, I am serving God.

If you wonder how the Lord will judge your life, read
the parable of the sheep and the goats. Why do you
think caring for those in need would help prepare you to
“inherit the kingdom” of God?

How is this parable similar to the other two in

Matthew 25? What messages do the three have in
common?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Joseph Smith—Matthew. To help your family explore
this chapter, invite them to look for the Savior’s teach-
ings about how we can prepare for His Second Coming
(see, for example, verses 22–23, 29–30, 37, 46–48). What
can we do to follow this counsel? Your family might
enjoy singing “When He Comes Again” (Children’s
Songbook, 82–83) and drawing pictures of what they
imagine the Savior’s Second Coming will be like.

Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:22, 37. What does it mean

to treasure up the word of God? How can we do this per-
sonally and as a family? How will doing so help us avoid
being deceived?

Matthew 25:1–13. You could use the picture of the ten

virgins that accompanies this outline to discuss Matthew
25:1–13. What details do we see in the picture that are
described in these verses?

You might cut paper in the shape of drops of oil and

hide the drops around your home. You could attach

179
May 22–28

the drops to objects like the scriptures or a picture of

the temple. When family members find the drops, you
could discuss how these things help us prepare for the
Second Coming.

Mark 12:38–44; Luke 21:1–4. What do these verses teach

about how the Savior views our offerings? Show your
family how to pay tithing and fast offerings to the Lord.
How do these offerings help build God’s kingdom?
What are some other ways we can offer “all that [we
have]” to the Lord? (Mark 12:44).

Widow’s Mite, by Sandra Rast

180
Joseph Smith—Matthew 1; Matthew 24 –25; Mark 12–13; Luke 21

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “When He Comes Again,” Children’s

Songbook, 82–83.

Improving Personal Study

Prepare your surroundings. “Our surroundings
can profoundly affect our ability to learn and feel
truth” (Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 15). Try to find
a place to study the scriptures that will invite the
influence of the Holy Ghost. Uplifting music and
pictures can also invite the Spirit.

181
Five of Them Were Wise, by Walter Rane
In Remembrance of Me, by Walter Rane
MAY 29–JUNE 4

Matthew 26; Mark 14; John 13

“IN REMEMBRANCE”

As you read about the events described in

Matthew 26; Mark 14; and John 13, pay attention
to any impressions you receive, especially those
impressions that deepen your faith in Jesus
Christ and your commitment to Him.

The day before He died, Jesus gave His disciples some-

thing to remember Him by. He “took bread, and blessed
it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said,
Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave
thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; for
this is my blood” (Matthew 26:26–28).
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May 29 –June 4

That happened about 2,000 years ago, in a place most

of us will never see, in a language few of us can under-
stand. But now, every Sunday in our own meeting places,
priesthood holders, authorized to act in the name of
Jesus Christ, do what He once did. They take bread and
water, bless it, and give it to each of us, His disciples. It’s
a simple act—can there be anything simpler, more fun-
damental, than eating bread and drinking water? But
that bread and water are sacred to us because they help
us remember Him. They’re our way of saying, “I’ll never
forget Him”—not just, “I’ll never forget what I’ve read
about His teachings and His life.” Rather, we are saying,
“I’ll never forget what He did for me.” “I’ll never forget
how He rescued me when I cried out for help.” And “I’ll
never forget His commitment to me and my commitment
to Him—the covenant we have made.”

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 26:6–13; MARK 14:3–9

“She is come . . . to anoint my body to the burying.”

With a humble act of worship, the woman described in
these verses showed that she knew who Jesus was and

184
Matthew 26; Mark 14; John 13

what He was about to do (see Matthew 26:12). Why do

you think her actions were so meaningful to the Savior?
(see verse 13). What impresses you about the woman and
her faith? Ponder how you can follow her example.

MATTHEW 26:20–22; MARK 14:17–19

“Lord, is it I?”
What do you learn about the disciples from their ques-
tion to the Lord in these verses? Why do you think they
asked it? Consider how you might ask the Lord, “Is it I?”

MATTHEW 26:26–29; MARK 14:22–25

The sacrament is an opportunity to remember

the Savior.
When the Savior introduced the sacrament to His
disciples, what thoughts and feelings do you imag-
ine they would have had? Think about this as you
read about their experience in Matthew 26:26–29 and
Mark 14:22–25. Why do you think Jesus chose this
way for us to remember Him? You might also ponder

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May 29 –June 4

experiences you have had during the sacrament. Is

there anything you could do to make your experience
more sacred and meaningful?

After reading and pondering these verses, you might

write down some things you feel inspired to remem-
ber about the Savior. You could review these things the
next time you take the sacrament. You could also review
them at other times, as a way to “always remember him”
(Moroni 4:3).

The Savior is our example of humbly

serving others.
In Jesus’s time, washing another person’s feet was a task
for servants, not leaders. But Jesus wanted His disciples
to think differently about what it means to lead and to
serve. What messages do you find in the Savior’s words
and actions in John 13:1–17? In your culture, washing
others’ feet may not be a customary way to serve. But

186
Matthew 26; Mark 14; John 13

consider what you can do to follow the Savior’s example

of humble service.

It might also be interesting to notice the things that Jesus

knew and felt during this sacred time with His Apostles
(see verses 1 and 3). What do these insights help you
understand about the Savior?

My love for others is a sign that I am a true

disciple of Jesus Christ.
Earlier, Jesus had given a commandment to “love thy
neighbour as thyself” (Matthew 22:39). Now He gave “a
new commandment.” What do you think it means to love
others as Jesus loves you? (see John 13:34).

You might also ponder how other people know that you
are a disciple of Jesus Christ. How can you make sure
that love is your defining characteristic as a Christian?

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May 29 –June 4

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 26:26–29; Mark 14:22–25. What is your fam-
ily’s experience like during the sacrament each week?
Reading about the first sacrament could inspire a discus-
sion about the importance of the sacrament and ways to
improve your experience. Consider displaying the pic-
ture Passing the Sacrament (Gospel Art Book, no. 108) and
sharing ideas about what you can do before, during, and
after the sacrament.

Matthew 26:30. Consider singing a hymn, as Jesus and

His Apostles did—perhaps a sacrament hymn. How might
singing a hymn have been a blessing to Jesus and His
Apostles at that time? How are hymns a blessing to us?

John 13:1–17. You may want to show your family the

picture at the end of this outline as you read these verses.
What truths did the Savior teach by His actions? What
details in the picture help us understand these truths?
Perhaps family members could share how living by these
truths has brought them happiness (see John 13:17).

188
Matthew 26; Mark 14; John 13

John 13:34–35. After reading these verses, you might

talk together about how other people know that you are
disciples of Jesus Christ. How does the Savior want His
followers to be known? You could ask family members to
talk about people whose love for others shows that they
are true disciples of Jesus Christ. You might also discuss
ways you could show more love as a family.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Love One Another,” Children’s

Songbook, 136.

Improving Personal Study

Ponder. The scriptures have spiritual meanings
that we may miss if we read too casually, as we
would other reading material. Don’t be in a hurry
to finish a chapter. Take time to think deeply about
what you are reading.

189
Greatest in the Kingdom, by J. Kirk Richards
The Last Supper, by William Henry Margetson
JUNE 5–11

John 14–17
“CONTINUE YE IN MY LOVE”

As you read the Savior’s teachings in John 14–17,

the Holy Ghost will help you identify messages
for you. Record the impressions you receive.

Today we call it the “Last Supper,” but we don’t know

if Jesus’s disciples fully realized, when they gathered for
the annual Passover feast, that this would be their last
meal with their Master before His death. Jesus, however,
“knew that his hour was come” ( John 13:1). He would
soon face the suffering of Gethsemane, the betrayal and
denial of His closest friends, and an agonizing death on

191
June 5–11

the cross. Yet even with all of this looming before Him,
Jesus’s focus was not on Himself but on His disciples.
What would they need to know in the days and years
ahead? Jesus’s tender teachings in John 14–17 reveal how
He feels about His disciples, then and now. Among the
many comforting truths He shared was the reassurance
that, in one sense, He will never leave us. “If ye keep my
commandments,” He promised, “ye shall abide in my
love” ( John 15:10).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

JOHN 14–15

I show my love for Jesus Christ by keeping His

commandments.
As you read John 14–15, you might note or mark each
use of the word love. You may notice the word command-
ments repeated frequently in association with the word
love in these chapters. What do you learn about the rela-
tionship between love and commandments from the
Savior’s teachings? What other words and phrases do
you find associated with love in these chapters?

192
John 14 –17

Ponder how the Savior’s love has influenced you.

The Last Supper, by Clark Kelley Price

JOHN 14–16

The Holy Ghost helps me fulfill my purpose as a

disciple of Jesus Christ.
It must have been heartbreaking for the disciples to hear
that their time with the Savior was almost over. They
might also have worried about how they would get along
without Him. As you read John 14–16, look for what the
Savior said to reassure them. In particular, notice what
He taught them about the Holy Ghost. What do you

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June 5–11

learn about the Holy Ghost from the Savior’s words in

the following verses?

• John 14:16–17, 26

• John 15:26

• John 16:7–11

• John 16:12–15

Why did the disciples need this kind of help from the
Holy Ghost? How has the Holy Ghost fulfilled these
roles for you? Consider what you can do so that His
influence will be stronger in your life.

As I abide in Christ, I will bring forth good fruit.

What do you think it means to “abide in [Christ]”?
( John 15:4). What is your “fruit” that shows that you are
attached to the vine, which represents Jesus Christ?

194
John 14 –17

JOHN 17

Jesus Christ intercedes for His disciples.

Jesus’s words recorded in John 17 are known as the
Intercessory Prayer. In this prayer, Jesus prayed for His
Apostles and “them also which shall believe on [Him]
through their word” ( John 17:20). That means He was
praying for you. What did Jesus request from His Father
in behalf of you and all other believers? What does that
teach you about His feelings for you?

This prayer also teaches profound, eternal truths. What

truths do you find? As you read this chapter, consider
recording what you learn about the following:

• Prayer

• The Savior’s relationship with His Father

• The Savior’s relationship with His disciples

• How disciples are to be different from the world

• Other truths that stand out to you

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June 5–11

JOHN 17:11, 21–23

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are

perfectly united.
In His prayer in John 17, Jesus emphasized His unity
with the Father. In what ways are the Father and the
Son “one”? ( John 17:11, 21–23). Note that the Savior
prayed that His disciples may be one “even as”—or in
the same way that—He and His Father are one ( John
17:22). What does that mean for you? Think about your
relationships—for example, with your spouse or other
family members, with ward members, and with fellow
Christians. How can you work toward the kind of unity
that Jesus has with the Father?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
John 14:5–6. Family members may enjoy taking turns
leading your family on a walk along a path. How is Jesus
“the way”? Where does He lead us?

John 14:26–27. How is Jesus’s peace different from the

kind “the world giveth”? Family members could share
ways they have found peace and comfort through the
Holy Ghost.

John 15:1–8. It might be fun to read these verses outside

next to a vine, a tree, or another plant. What happens to
a branch when it is removed from the plant? You could
talk about how we are like branches and what it means to
“abide” in the Savior and “bear fruit.”

John 15:17–27; 16:1–7. Why do you think Jesus Christ

warned His disciples of persecution? How are disciples
of Christ persecuted today? How can the Savior’s coun-
sel in these verses help us when we face persecution?

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June 5–11

John 16:33. How has Jesus Christ overcome the world?

How has His Atonement brought us peace and good
cheer? (see also Doctrine and Covenants 68:6).

John 17:21–23. What would help your family learn how

to be more united like Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father?
Maybe you could talk about a favorite sports team and
how they work together toward a common goal. Or you
could listen to a choir or orchestra and discuss how the
musicians unite to create beautiful music.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “The Holy Ghost,” Children’s

Songbook, 105.

Improving Our Teaching

Use audio recordings. As you teach your
family the scriptures, consider listening to
the audio version of the scriptures, found on
ChurchofJesusChrist.org or in the Gospel Library
app. Listening to John 14–17 can be particularly
powerful because these chapters contain so many
of the Savior’s words.

198
Jesus taught, “I am the vine, ye are the branches” (John 15:5).
Gethsemane Grove, by Derek Hegsted
JUNE 12–18

Luke 22; John 18
“NOT MY WILL, BUT THINE, BE DONE”

Take your time reading Luke 22 and John 18

this week. Ponder and pray about what you read.
Doing this can give the Spirit opportunity to
bear witness to your heart that the scriptures
are true.

There were only three mortal witnesses to Jesus Christ’s

suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane—and they slept
through much of it. In that garden and later on the cross,
Jesus took upon Himself the sins, pains, and sufferings
of every person who ever lived, although almost no one

200
Luke 22; John 18

alive at that time knew what was happening. Eternity’s

most important events often pass without much worldly
attention. But God the Father knew. He heard the
pleading of His faithful Son: “Father, if thou be willing,
remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but
thine, be done. And there appeared an angel unto him
from heaven, strengthening him” (Luke 22:42–43). While
we were not there to witness this act of selflessness and
submission, we are witnesses of the Atonement of Jesus
Christ. Every time we repent and receive forgiveness of
our sins, every time we feel the Savior’s strengthening
power, we can testify of the reality of what happened in
the Garden of Gethsemane.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

LUKE 22:31–34, 54–62; JOHN 18:17–27

Conversion is an ongoing process.

Think about the experiences Peter had with the Savior—
the miracles he witnessed and the doctrine he learned.
Why then would the Savior say to Peter, “When thou art
converted, strengthen thy brethren”? (Luke 22:32; ital-
ics added). As you ponder this, it might help to consider

201
June 12–18

what Elder David A. Bednar taught about the difference

between having a testimony and being truly converted
(see “Converted unto the Lord,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov.
2012, 106–9).

As you read about Peter’s experiences in Luke 22:31–34,

54–62 (see also John 18:17–27), think about your own
conversion. Have you ever felt so committed that, like
Peter, you were “ready to go with [the Savior], both into
prison, and to death”? (Luke 22:33). Why do those feel-
ings sometimes fade? There are daily opportunities to
either deny or witness of the Savior; what will you do to
be a daily witness of Him? What other lessons do you
learn from Peter’s experience?

As you continue reading the New Testament, watch for

evidence of Peter’s ongoing conversion. Also note ways
he accepted the Lord’s charge to “strengthen thy breth-
ren” (Luke 22:32; see Acts 3–4).

The Savior suffered for me in Gethsemane.

President Russell M. Nelson invited us to “invest time
in learning about the Savior and His atoning sacrifice”

202
Luke 22; John 18

(“Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives,”

Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 40).

Consider what you will do to accept President Nelson’s

invitation. You might start by prayerfully pondering the
Savior’s suffering in Gethsemane, as described in these
verses, and writing impressions and questions that come
to mind.

For an even deeper study of the Savior and His

Atonement, try searching other scriptures for answers to
questions like these:

• Why was the Savior’s Atonement necessary? (See

2 Nephi 2:5–10, 17–26; 9:5–26; Alma 34:8–16; 42:9–26.)

• What did the Savior experience as He suffered? (See

Isaiah 53:3–5; Mosiah 3:7; Alma 7:11–13; Doctrine and
Covenants 19:16–19.)

• How does Christ’s suffering affect my life? (See John

10:10–11; Hebrews 4:14–16; 1 John 1:7; Alma 34:31;
Moroni 10:32–33; Dallin H. Oaks, “Strengthened by
the Atonement of Jesus Christ,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov.
2015, 61–64.)

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June 12–18

• Other questions I have:

As you learn about what happened in Gethsemane, it

might be interesting to know that Gethsemane was a
garden of olive trees and included an olive press, used to
crush olives and extract oil used for lighting and food as
well as healing (see Luke 10:34). How might the process
of extracting olive oil symbolize what the Savior did for
us in Gethsemane? For some ideas, see Elder D. Todd
Christofferson’s message “Abide in My Love” (Ensign or
Liahona, Nov. 2016, 50–51).

The Savior’s “kingdom is not of this world.”

As a political leader, Pontius Pilate was familiar with the
power and kingdoms of this world. But Jesus spoke of a
much different kind of kingdom. Thinking back on what
you’ve read about the Savior’s life, what evidence do
you see that His “kingdom is not of this world”? ( John
18:36). Why is it important for you to know this? What
else stands out to you about Jesus’s words to Pilate?

204
Luke 22; John 18

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Luke 22:31–32. How might Peter have felt to know that
Jesus had prayed for him and his faith? Who can we pray
for, “that [their] faith fail not”? (verse 32).

Luke 22:39–46. Learning about the Savior’s suffering in

Gethsemane can be a sacred experience for your family.
Consider what you can do to create a reverent and wor-
shipful spirit as you study Luke 22:39–46. You might play
or sing together some of your family’s favorite hymns
or children’s songs about the Savior. You could look at
related artwork or watch a video like “The Savior Suffers
in Gethsemane” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). As you read
the verses, family members could share passages that are
especially meaningful to them—perhaps a passage that
helps them feel the Savior’s love (see also Matthew 26:36–
46; Mark 14:32–42). You might also invite them to share
their testimonies of Jesus Christ and His Atonement.

Luke 22:42. Family members could share experiences

when they learned to say, “Not my will, but thine,
be done.”

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June 12–18

Luke 22:50–51; John 18:10–11. What do we learn about

Jesus from these verses?

John 18:37–38. How would we answer Pilate’s question

“What is truth?” (verse 38). For some ideas, see John
8:32; Doctrine and Covenants 84:45; 93:23–28; and “Oh
Say, What Is Truth?,” Hymns, no. 272.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “I Stand All Amazed,” Hymns, no. 193.

Improving Personal Study

Study the words of latter-day prophets and
apostles. Read what latter-day prophets and
apostles have taught about the truths you find in
the scriptures. For instance, in the most recent
general conference issue of the Liahona, you
could search the topic index for “Atonement” (see
Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 21).

206
Not My Will, but Thine, by Walter Rane
Ecce Homo, by Antonio Ciseri
JUNE 19–25

Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23;

John 19
“IT IS FINISHED”

Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; and John 19

include descriptions of the final hours of the
Savior’s mortal life. Seek to feel His love for you
as you study about His sacrifice and death.

In every word and deed, Jesus Christ exemplified

pure love—what the Apostle Paul called charity (see
1 Corinthians 13). At no time was this more evident than
during the final hours of the Savior’s mortal life. His

208
Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19

dignified silence in the face of false accusations demon-

strated that He “is not easily provoked” (1 Corinthians
13:5). His willingness to submit to scourging, mocking,
and crucifixion—while restraining His power to end
His torments—showed that He “suffereth long” and
“beareth all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4, 7). His compas-
sion toward His mother and His mercy toward His cru-
cifiers—even during His own incomparable suffering—
revealed that He “seeketh not [His] own” (1 Corinthians
13:5). In His final moments on earth, Jesus was doing
what He had done throughout His mortal ministry—
teaching us by showing us. Indeed, charity is “the pure
love of Christ” (Moroni 7:47).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 27; MARK 15; LUKE 23; JOHN 19

Jesus Christ’s willingness to suffer shows His love

for the Father and for all of us.
Although the Savior had power to call down “legions of
angels” (Matthew 26:53), He voluntarily chose to endure
unjust trials, cruel mocking, and unimaginable physical

209
June 19 –25

pain. Why did He do it? “Because of his loving kind-

ness,” Nephi testified, “and his long-suffering towards
the children of men” (1 Nephi 19:9).

“And he bearing his cross went forth into . . . Golgotha” (John 19:17).

You might begin your study of the Savior’s final hours

by reading 1 Nephi 19:9. Where in Matthew 27; Mark 15;
Luke 23; and John 19 do you find examples of each thing
that Nephi said Jesus would suffer?

• “[They] judge him to be a thing of naught”

• “They scourge him”

• “They smite him”

210
Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19

• “They spit upon him”

Which passages help you feel the Savior’s “loving kind-

ness” toward you? What other thoughts and feelings do
you have as you read these accounts? Consider writing
them down or sharing them with someone.

MATTHEW 27:27–49, 54; MARK 15:16–32; LUKE 23:11,

35–39; JOHN 19:1–5

Mocking cannot change the truth.

While Jesus had endured mocking throughout His min-
istry, it grew more intense during His scourging and
Crucifixion. But this mocking could not change the
truth: Jesus is the Son of God. As you read about the
humiliation Jesus endured, think about the opposition
and mocking His work faces today. What insights do you
gain about enduring opposition? What impresses you
about the centurion’s words in Matthew 27:54?

211
June 19 –25

MATTHEW 27:46; MARK 15:34

Jesus Christ suffered alone so I don’t have to.

During one of His most poignant moments on the cross,
Jesus, who had always relied on His Heavenly Father,
suddenly felt forsaken. Reading about this might lead
you to think about times when you’ve felt distant from
God. You might ponder how the Savior’s sacrifice on the
cross makes it possible for you to overcome that distance.
As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland testified, “Because Jesus
walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone, we do not
have to do so. . . . Trumpeted from the summit of Calvary
is the truth that we will never be left alone nor unaided,
even if sometimes we may feel that we are” (“None Were
with Him,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2009, 88). Consider
how the Savior can help you overcome loneliness as you
read the rest of Elder Holland’s message.

LUKE 23:34

The Savior is our example of forgiveness.

How do you feel when you read the Savior’s words in
Luke 23:34? (see the insight provided by the Joseph Smith
Translation in footnote c). Referring to the Savior’s words,
President Henry B. Eyring taught: “We must forgive and
bear no malice toward those who offend us. The Savior set

212
Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19

the example from the cross. . . . We do not know the hearts
of those who offend us” (“That We May Be One,” Ensign,
May 1998, 68). How can this verse help you if you have
trouble forgiving someone?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19. To help your
family learn about the events described in these chap-
ters, you could share with them “Chapter 52: The Trials
of Jesus” and “Chapter 53: Jesus Is Crucified” (in New
Testament Stories, 133–38, or the corresponding videos on
ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Or you could watch together
videos depicting these events: “Jesus Is Condemned
before Pilate” and “Jesus Is Scourged and Crucified”
(ChurchofJesusChrist.org). You might invite children
to retell the stories in their own words. Family members
could share how they feel toward the Savior because of
what He suffered for us.

Matthew 27:11–26; Mark 15:1–15; Luke 23:12–25; John

19:1–16. Why did Pilate deliver Jesus to be crucified,

213
June 19 –25

even though he knew Jesus was innocent? What lessons

do we learn from Pilate’s experience about standing up
for what we know is right? It might be helpful for your
family to role-play scenarios that allow them to practice
standing up for what is right.

Matthew 27:46; Luke 23:34, 43, 46; John 19:26–28, 30.

Perhaps you could assign each family member to read one
or more of the statements the Savior made on the cross,
found in these verses. Ask them to share what they learn
from these statements about the Savior and His mission.

Mark 15:39. How has reading about the Crucifixion

strengthened your testimony that Jesus is the “Son
of God”?

John 19:25–27. What do we learn from these verses

about how we can love and support family members?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Upon the Cross of Calvary,”

Hymns, no. 184.

214
Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19

Improving Our Teaching

Emulate the Savior’s life. “It is helpful to study
the ways the Savior taught—the methods He used
and the things He said. But the Savior’s power to
teach and lift others came from the way He lived
and the kind of person He was. The more diligently
you strive to live like Jesus Christ, the more you will
be able to teach like Him” (Teaching in the Savior’s
Way, 13).

215
Christ on the Cross, by Carl Heinrich Bloch
Feed My Sheep, by Kamille Corry
JUNE 26–JULY 2

Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24;

John 20–21
“HE IS RISEN”

Prayerfully read Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24;

and John 20–21, reflecting on the joy you have
because of the Resurrection of Christ. Who
might be blessed by hearing your testimony of
this event?

To many observers, the death of Jesus of Nazareth may

have seemed like an ironic end to a remarkable life.
Wasn’t this the man who raised Lazarus from the dead?
Hadn’t He withstood the murderous threats from the

217
June 26 –July 2

Pharisees time after time? He had demonstrated power

to heal blindness, leprosy, and palsy. The very winds
and the seas obeyed Him. And yet here He was, hang-
ing from a cross, declaring, “It is finished” ( John 19:30).
There may have been some sincere surprise in the mock-
ing words “He saved others; himself he cannot save”
(Matthew 27:42). But we know that Jesus’s death was
not the end of the story. We know that the silence of the
tomb was temporary and that Christ’s saving work was
just beginning. He is found today not “among the dead”
but among the living (Luke 24:5). His teachings would
not be silenced, for His loyal disciples would preach
the gospel in “all nations,” trusting His promise that He
would be “with [them] alway, even unto the end of the
world” (Matthew 28:19–20).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 28; MARK 16; LUKE 24; JOHN 20

Jesus Christ was resurrected.

In these passages, you will read about one of the most
important events in the history of humankind: the
Resurrection of Jesus Christ. As you read, put yourself

218
Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20 –21

in the place of the people who witnessed the events

surrounding the Resurrection. What do you learn from
their experiences?

How do you feel as you read about the Savior’s

Resurrection? Consider how it has affected you—your
outlook on life, your relationships, your faith in Christ,
and your faith in other gospel truths.

I can invite the Savior to “abide with [me].”

As you read the experience of the two traveling disciples
who met the resurrected Savior, look for parallels to your
experiences as a follower of Christ. How can you walk
with Him today and invite Him to “tarry” a little lon-
ger? (Luke 24:29). How do you recognize His presence
in your life? In what ways has the Holy Ghost testified of
the divinity of Jesus Christ to you?

LUKE 24:36–43; JOHN 20

Resurrection is the permanent reuniting of the

spirit with the body.
The accounts of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ can
help you understand what it means to be resurrected.
For example, what truths do you find in Luke 24:36–43
and John 20 about resurrected bodies? You could also
explore other scriptures about resurrection, such as
1 Corinthians 15:35–44; Philippians 3:20–21; 3 Nephi
11:13–15; Doctrine and Covenants 88:27–31; 110:2–3;
130:1, 22.

JOHN 20:19–29

“Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet

have believed.”
Some people feel like Thomas, who said, “Except I shall
see . . . , I will not believe” ( John 20:25). In your opin-
ion, why can believing without seeing be a blessing?
(see John 20:29). Ponder how you have been blessed for
believing in things you could not see. What helps you
have faith in the Savior even when you cannot see Him?
How can you continue to strengthen your faith in “things
which are not seen, which are true”? (see Alma 32:16–21;

220
Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20 –21

Ether 12:6). Consider recording in a journal experiences

that have helped you believe in Jesus Christ, or share
them with someone you know.

JOHN 21:1–17

The Savior invites me to feed His sheep.

It might be interesting to compare the Savior’s inter-
action with His Apostles in John 21 to the first time
He commanded them to let down their fishing nets,
recorded in Luke 5:1–11. What similarities and differ-
ences do you find? What insights about discipleship do
you find?

Consider how the Savior’s words to Peter in John 21:15–

17 might apply to you. Is there anything holding you
back from ministering to the Lord’s sheep? What would
your response be if the Lord asked you, “Lovest thou
me?” Ponder how you can show your love for the Lord.

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Luke 24:5–6. President Thomas S. Monson said of Luke
24:5–6, “No words in Christendom mean more to me”
(“He Is Risen!,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2010, 89). What
do these words mean to you and your family?

Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20–21. As your

family reads these chapters, notice the people who
interacted with Jesus in each account. For example,
what impresses you about the people who visited the
Savior’s tomb? What do you learn from the words or
actions of the Apostles or from the disciples on the
road to Emmaus?

Consider singing together “Did Jesus Really Live

Again?” (Children’s Songbook, 64). Talk about someone
your family knows who has died, and discuss how the
truths in this song bring comfort.

Matthew 28:16–20; Mark 16:14–20; Luke 24:44–53. In

these verses, what was Jesus asking His Apostles to do?
How can we help accomplish this work? Family members

222
Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20 –21

could share experiences when they felt “the Lord work-

ing with them” to accomplish His purposes (Mark 16:20).

John 21:15–17. Consider reading these verses while eat-

ing together. This could add some meaning to the Savior’s
words “feed my sheep.” Based on what Jesus taught about
sheep in the New Testament (see, for example, Matthew
9:35–36; 10:5–6; 25:31–46; Luke 15:4–7; John 10:1–16),
why is feeding sheep a good way to describe serving
God’s children? What does this analogy teach about how
Heavenly Father and Jesus feel about us?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Did Jesus Really Live Again?,”

Children’s Songbook, 64.

Improving Personal Study

Use music to invite the Spirit and learn
doctrine. Listening to or singing hymns such as
“He Is Risen!” (Hymns, no. 199) can invite the Spirit
and help you learn about the Savior’s Resurrection.

223
The Resurrected Christ, by Walter Rane
Day of Pentecost, by Sidney King
JULY 3–9

Acts 1–5
“YE SHALL BE WITNESSES UNTO ME”

As you study Acts 1–5, the Holy Ghost can

inspire you to find truths that are relevant for
your life. Take note of verses that impress you,
and look for opportunities to share what you
are learning.

Have you ever wondered what Peter might have been

thinking and feeling when he, with the other Apostles,
“looked steadfastly toward heaven” as Jesus ascended to

225
July 3–9

His Father? (Acts 1:10). The Church that was founded

by the Son of God was now in Peter’s care. The task of
leading the effort to “teach all nations” now rested on
him (Matthew 28:19). But if he felt inadequate or afraid,
we don’t find any evidence of that in the book of Acts.
What we do find are examples of fearless testimony and
conversion, miraculous healings, spiritual manifestations,
and significant growth for the Church. This was still the
Savior’s Church, still led by Him. In fact, the book Acts
of the Apostles could also be called the Acts of Jesus
Christ through His Apostles. Guided by an outpouring
of the Spirit, Peter was no longer the unlearned fish-
erman Jesus found on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.
Nor was he the distraught man who only weeks earlier
was weeping bitterly because he had denied that he even
knew Jesus of Nazareth.

In the book of Acts, you will read powerful declarations

about Jesus Christ and His gospel. You will also see how
that gospel can change people—including you—into the
valiant disciples God knows they can be.

226
Acts 1–5

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

ACTS 1:1–8, 15–26; 2:1–42; 4:1–13, 31–33

Jesus Christ directs His Church through the

Holy Ghost.
The book of Acts records the Apostles’ efforts to
establish the Church of Jesus Christ after the Savior’s
Ascension. Although Jesus Christ was no longer on the
earth, He directed the Church by revelation through the
Holy Ghost. Consider how the Holy Ghost guided the
new leaders of Christ’s Church as you review the follow-
ing passages: Acts 1:1–8, 15–26; 2:1–42; 4:1–13, 31–33.

As members of Christ’s Church today, we each have a

responsibility to participate in the work of salvation and
exaltation—to live the gospel of Jesus Christ, care for
those in need, invite others to come unto Christ, and
unite families for eternity (see General Handbook, 1.2).
What do you learn from these early Apostles about how
you can rely on the Holy Ghost to guide your efforts?

ACTS 2:36–47; 3:12–21

The principles and ordinances of the gospel help

me come unto Christ.
Have you ever felt “pricked in [your] heart,” like the
Jews on the day of Pentecost? (Acts 2:37). Maybe you
did something you regret, or maybe you simply want to
change your life. What should you do when you have
these feelings? Peter’s counsel to the Jews is found in
Acts 2:38. Note how the first principles and ordinances
of the gospel (including faith, repentance, baptism, and
the gift of the Holy Ghost—or what is sometimes referred
to as the doctrine of Christ) affected these converts, as
recorded in Acts 2:37–47.

You may already have been baptized and received the

gift of the Holy Ghost, so how do you continue to apply
the doctrine of Christ? Consider these words from Elder
Dale G. Renlund: “We may be perfected by repeatedly
. . . exercising faith in [Christ], repenting, partaking of
the sacrament to renew the covenants and blessings of
baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost as a constant
companion to a greater degree. As we do so, we become
more like Christ and are able to endure to the end, with
all that that entails” (“Latter-day Saints Keep on Trying,”
Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 56).

228
Acts 1–5

ACTS 3:19–21

What are “the times of refreshing” and “the times

of restitution of all things”?
“The times of refreshing” refers to the Millennium, when
Jesus Christ will return to the earth. “The times of resti-
tution of all things” refers to the Restoration of the gos-
pel, which prepares the world for the Millennium.

ACTS 3; 4:1–31; 5:12–42

Disciples of Jesus Christ are given power to

perform miracles in His name.
The lame man was hoping to receive money from those
who came to the temple. But the Lord’s servants offered
him much more. As you read Acts 3; 4:1–31 and 5:12–42,
consider how the miracle that followed affected these
people:

• The lame man

• Peter and John

• The witnesses at the temple

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July 3–9

• The high priests and rulers

• Other Saints

Such as I Have I Give Thee, by Walter Rane

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Acts 1:21–26. Reading Acts 1:21–26 can help your family
discuss the blessings that come from having Apostles on
the earth today. Family members could share how they

230
Acts 1–5

have gained a witness that today’s apostles and prophets

are called by God. Why is having this witness important?

Acts 2:37. What could the phrase “pricked in their heart”

mean? When have we felt something similar? Why is it
important to say “What shall we do?” when we have such
feelings?

Acts 3:1–10. Your family might enjoy acting out the

account in these verses. Or you could watch the video
“Peter and John Heal a Man Crippled Since Birth”
(ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How was the man at the
temple blessed differently than he was expecting? How
have we seen Heavenly Father’s blessings come to us in
unexpected ways?

Acts 3:12–26; 4:1–21; 5:12–42. What impresses you

about the faithfulness of Peter and John? (see also the
video “Peter Preaches and Is Arrested” on
ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How can we be bold in our
testimonies of Jesus Christ? Consider helping younger
children practice sharing their testimonies.

Acts 4:31–5:4. How can we help our family, ward, or

community become more like what is described in Acts
4:31–37? What does it mean to be “of one heart and of
one soul”? In what ways do we sometimes “[keep] back
part” of our contribution? Why is doing that like

231
July 3–9

“[lying] unto God”? (Acts 5:2, 4). How does dishonesty

affect us spiritually?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Let the Holy Spirit Guide,”

Hymns, no. 143.

Improving Our Teaching

Pick a topic. Let family members take turns
choosing a topic from Acts 1–5 to study together.

232
The Ascension, by Harry Anderson
Conversion on the Way to Damascus, by Michelangelo Merisi da
Caravaggio
JULY 10–16

Acts 6–9
“WHAT WILT THOU HAVE ME TO DO?”

Begin by reading Acts 6–9. The suggestions in

this outline can help you identify some of the
important principles in these chapters, though
you may find others in your own study.

If anyone seemed like an unlikely candidate for conver-

sion, it was probably Saul—a Pharisee who had a reputa-
tion for persecuting Christians. So when the Lord told a
disciple named Ananias to seek out Saul and offer him a
blessing, Ananias was understandably hesitant. “Lord,”
he said, “I have heard by many of this man, how much

234
Acts 6 –9

evil he hath done to thy saints” (Acts 9:13). But the Lord
knew Saul’s heart and his potential, and He had a mis-
sion in mind for Saul: “He is a chosen vessel unto me, to
bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the
children of Israel” (Acts 9:15). So Ananias obeyed, and
when he found this former persecutor, he called him
“Brother Saul” (Acts 9:17). If Saul could change so com-
pletely and Ananias could welcome him so freely, then
should we ever consider anyone an unlikely candidate for
change—including ourselves?

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

ACTS 6–8

My heart needs to be “right in the sight of God.”

A growing church meant a growing need for disciples
to serve in the kingdom. According to Acts 6:1–5, what
qualities were the Twelve Apostles looking for in those
who would serve with them? As you read Acts 6–8, note
how these qualities, and others, were demonstrated in
people like Stephen and Philip. What was lacking in

235
July 10 –16

Simon, and what can we learn from him about being

willing to change?

Is there anything you feel inspired to change to

ensure that your heart is “right in the sight of God”?
(Acts 8:21–22). How might making this change bless you
as you serve God?

ACTS 6–7

Resisting the Holy Ghost can lead to rejecting the

Savior and His servants.
The Jewish leaders were responsible for preparing the
people for the coming of the Messiah. And yet they failed
to recognize the Messiah and rejected Him. How did this
happen? Part of the answer may be found in Stephen’s
words: “Ye do always resist the Holy Ghost” (Acts 7:51).
What do you think it means to resist the Holy Ghost?
Why does resisting the Holy Ghost lead to rejecting the
Savior and His servants?

As you read Acts 6–7, look for other messages that

Stephen taught the Jews. What attitudes was he warning
against? Do you detect any similar attitudes in yourself?
What do Stephen’s words teach you about the conse-
quences of resisting the Holy Ghost? How can you be

236
Acts 6 –9

more sensitive and responsive to the promptings of the

Holy Ghost in your life?

The Holy Ghost will help me guide others to

Jesus Christ.
What do you learn about sharing the gospel from the
account in Acts 8:26–39? How did the Holy Ghost help
Philip? How is sharing the gospel with others like being
a guide? (see Acts 8:31).

Elder Ulisses Soares said that this account “is a reminder

of the divine mandate we all have to seek to learn and
to teach one another the gospel of Jesus Christ. . . . We
are sometimes like the Ethiopian—we need the help of
a faithful and inspired teacher; and we are sometimes
like Philip—we need to teach and strengthen others in
their conversion” (“How Can I Understand?,” Ensign or
Liahona, May 2019, 6). Consider reading the rest of Elder
Soares’s message and pondering how the Holy Ghost can
help you be a better learner and teacher of the gospel.

237
July 10 –16

ACTS 9

When I submit to the Lord’s will, I can become an

instrument in His hands.
Saul’s conversion seems very sudden; he went quickly
from imprisoning Christians to preaching about Christ
in the synagogues. As you read his story, ponder why he
was so willing to change. (To read Saul’s own description
of his conversion, see Acts 22:1–16 and 26:9–18. Note
that in these accounts, Saul goes by the name of Paul [see
Acts 13:9].)

While it’s true that Saul’s experience is unusual—for

most people, conversion is a much longer process—is
there anything you can learn from Saul about conver-
sion? What do you learn from the way Ananias and the
other disciples reacted to Saul’s conversion? What will
you do to apply these lessons in your life? You might
begin by asking in prayer, as Saul did, “What wilt thou
have me to do?”

As you read Acts 9:36–42, consider how Tabitha was an

instrument in God’s hands. What inspires you about her
example?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Acts 6:8; 7:51–60. Compare the accounts of Stephen in
Acts 6:8 and Acts 7:51–60 to the accounts of the Savior
in Luke 23:1–46. How did Stephen follow the Savior’s
example?

Acts 7:51–60. How did the Holy Ghost bless Stephen

when he was being persecuted? When have we received
strength from the Holy Ghost during difficult times?

Acts 9:5. A prick was a sharp spear used to drive ani-

mals. Often the animals would kick back when pricked,
which would cause the spear to sink even further into
the animal’s flesh. How might this analogy sometimes
apply to us? What can we do to better accept correction
from the Lord?

Acts 9:32–43. Consider inviting your family members

to draw pictures of the stories in Acts 9:32–43. What do
we learn about true discipleship from these stories? How
can someone who is “full of good works,” as Tabitha
was, help others believe in the Lord? (see Acts 9:36;
“Chapter 60: Peter Brings Tabitha Back to Life,” in New

239
July 10 –16

Testament Stories, 156–57, or the corresponding video on

ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go,”

Hymns, no. 270.

Improving Personal Study

Liken the scriptures to your life. As you read,
consider how the stories and teachings in the
scriptures apply in your life. For example, what
opportunities do you have to serve others, as
Tabitha did in Acts 9:36–39?

240
“And they stoned Stephen, and he, calling upon God, said, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” (Joseph Smith Translation,
Acts 7:59 [in Acts 7:59, footnote c]).
JULY 17–23

Acts 10–15
“THE WORD OF GOD GREW AND MULTIPLIED”

Read Acts 10–15 carefully, allowing time for the

Spirit to prompt you with thoughts and feelings.
What is there for you to learn in these chapters?

During His mortal ministry, Jesus Christ often chal-

lenged people’s long-held traditions and beliefs. This
didn’t stop after He ascended into heaven, as He con-
tinued to guide His Church by revelation. For example,
during Jesus’s life His disciples preached the gospel
only to fellow Jews. But soon after the Savior died and
Peter became the leader of the Church on earth, Jesus
Christ revealed to Peter that the time was right for the
242
Acts 10 –15

gospel to be preached to non-Jews. The idea of sharing

the gospel with Gentiles doesn’t seem surprising today,
so what’s the lesson in this account for us? Perhaps one
lesson is that in both the ancient and modern Church,
a loving Savior guides His chosen leaders (see Amos
3:7; Doctrine and Covenants 1:38). Continuing revela-
tion is a vital sign of the true and living Church of Jesus
Christ. Like Peter, we must be willing to accept contin-
uing revelation and live “by every word of God” (Luke
4:4), including “all that [He] has revealed, all that He
does now reveal,” and the “many great and important
things” He will yet reveal “pertaining to the Kingdom
of God” (Articles of Faith 1:9).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

ACTS 10

“God is no respecter of persons.”

For generations, the Jews had believed that being of “the
seed of Abraham,” or a literal descendant of Abraham,
meant that a person was accepted and chosen by God
(see Luke 3:8). They considered anyone else an “unclean”
Gentile who was not accepted by God. In Acts 10, what

243
July 17–23

did the Lord teach Peter about who “is accepted with
him”? (Acts 10:35). What evidence do you find in this
chapter that Cornelius’s life was acceptable to the Lord?
Ponder what is meant by the statement “God is no
respecter of persons” (verse 34; see also 1 Nephi 17:35).
Why is it important to you to know this truth?

Like the Jews who looked down on those who were not
of the seed of Abraham, do you ever catch yourself mak-
ing unkind or uninformed assumptions about someone
who is different from you? How can you overcome this
tendency? It might be interesting to try a simple activity
for the next few days: Whenever you interact with some-
one, try to think to yourself, “This person is a child of
God.” As you do this, what changes do you notice in the
way you think about and interact with others?

Heavenly Father teaches me line upon line

through revelation.
When Peter saw the vision described in Acts 10, he strug-
gled at first to understand it and “doubted in himself
244
Acts 10 –15

what [it] should mean” (verse 17). Yet the Lord gave

Peter greater understanding as Peter sought it. As you
read Acts 10, 11, and 15, notice how Peter’s understand-
ing of his vision deepened over time. How have you
sought and received greater understanding from God
when you had questions?

Acts 10, 11, and 15 recount instances in which the Lord

directed His servants through revelation. It might help to
record what you learn about revelation as you read these
chapters. In what ways does the Spirit speak to you?

I am a Christian because I believe in and follow

Jesus Christ.
What is significant about a person being called a
Christian? (see Acts 11:26). What does it mean to you to
be known as a Christian? Consider the significance of
names. For instance, what does your family name mean
to you? Why is the name of the Church important to
245
July 17–23

you? (see Doctrine and Covenants 115:4). What does

it mean to you to take upon yourself the name of Jesus
Christ by covenant? (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:77).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Acts 10:17, 20. Have we ever had spiritual experiences
and later doubted what we felt or learned? What advice
can we give each other that might help us overcome our
doubts? (See Neil L. Andersen, “Spiritually Defining
Memories,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 18–22.)

Acts 10:34–35. How can you teach your family that

“God is no respecter of persons”? (Acts 10:34). Perhaps
you could display pictures of people from different
backgrounds and cultures while your family reads these
verses. How should the truths in these verses influence
our actions? (see, for example, “I’ll Walk with You”
[Children’s Songbook, 140–41]).

246
Acts 10 –15

Acts 12:1–17. Your family could act out the account of

Peter being cast into prison and members of the Church
gathering together and praying for him. When have
we been blessed by prayer? Is there someone we feel
inspired to pray for, such as a Church leader or loved
one? What does it mean to pray “without ceasing”? (Acts
12:5; see also Alma 34:27).

Peter Delivered from Prison, by A. L. Noakes

Acts 14. As you read this chapter together, some family

members could make note of blessings that came to the
disciples and the Church. Other family members could
note opposition or trials disciples experienced. Why
does God allow difficult things to happen to righteous
people?

247
July 17–23

Acts 15:1–21. These verses describe a disagreement in

the Church about whether converts needed to keep the
law of Moses, including circumcision. What did the
Apostles do about this disagreement? What can we learn
from this example about how Church leaders direct the
work of the Church?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “I’ll Walk with You,” Children’s Songbook,

140–41.

Improving Our Teaching

Draw a picture. Pictures can help family members
visualize scriptural teachings and stories. You could
invite family members to draw pictures of what you
read, such as Peter’s vision in Acts 10.

248
The experiences of Peter and Cornelius demonstrate that “God is no respecter of persons” (Acts 10:34).
JULY 24–30

Acts 16–21
“THE LORD HAD CALLED US FOR TO PREACH THE
GOSPEL”

As you read about Paul’s efforts to preach the

gospel, the Spirit may prompt you with thoughts
or feelings. Write these promptings down, and
make plans to act on them.

Among the Lord’s final words to His Apostles was the

commandment “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe
all things whatsoever I have commanded you” (Matthew
28:19–20). While the Apostles didn’t quite make it to all
250
Acts 16 –21

nations, Acts 16–21 does show that Paul and his compan-
ions did make remarkable progress in establishing the
Church. They taught, baptized, and conferred the gift of
the Holy Ghost. They performed miracles, even raising a
man from the dead, and foretold the Great Apostasy (Acts
20:7–12, 28–31). And the work they started continues
with living Apostles today, along with devoted disciples
like you, who are helping fulfill the Savior’s commission
in ways Paul never could have imagined. Perhaps you are
aware of people who do not know their Heavenly Father
or His gospel. Perhaps you have felt that your “spirit was
stirred in [you]” to share with them what you know about
Him (Acts 17:16). If you follow Paul’s example of humility
and boldness in sharing the gospel, you may find someone
“whose heart the Lord [has] opened” (Acts 16:14).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

ACTS 16–21

The Spirit will guide me in my efforts to share

the gospel.
The Prophet Joseph Smith declared, “No man can
preach the Gospel without the Holy Ghost” (Teachings of

251
July 24 –30

Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 332). As you

read Acts 16–21, consider why the Prophet’s statement is
true. Note instances in which the Spirit aided Paul and
his companions. What blessings came as they followed
the Spirit? When have you felt the Spirit prompting you
in your efforts to share the gospel?

ACTS 16–21

I can declare the gospel in all circumstances.

Being thrown in prison for preaching the gospel might
seem like an understandable reason to stop preaching.
But to Paul and Silas, it became an opportunity to con-
vert a jailer (see Acts 16:16–34). Throughout Acts 16–21,
look for other examples of Paul’s willingness to share his
witness with everyone. Why do you think he was so bold
and fearless? What do you learn from Paul’s example?

There are many more messages about sharing the gospel

in Acts 16–21. As you study these chapters, look for some
that are especially applicable to you.

Each of us is a child of God.

ACTS 17:16–34

“We are the offspring of God.”

In Athens, Paul found people with diverse opinions and
religious views. They were always seeking “to hear some
new thing,” and what Paul had to offer was definitely
new to them (see Acts 17:19–21). They worshipped many
gods, including one they called “the unknown God”
(Acts 17:23), but they believed that gods were powers
or forces, not living, personal beings, and certainly not
our Father. Ponder what Paul said to help them come
to know God. What does it mean to you to be the “off-
spring of God”? (Acts 17:29). In your opinion, how is
being a child of God different from being just one of His

253
July 24 –30

creations? How does understanding this truth influence

how you see yourself and others?

If you had stood beside Paul as he was testifying, what

would you have told the ancient Greeks about our
Heavenly Father? Do you know someone who could ben-
efit from hearing your testimony?

See also Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:2; “We Are the Offspring
of God” (video), ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Acts 16–21. To deepen your family’s understanding of
Acts 16–21, you could study the map at the end of this
outline, looking for the cities where Paul preached the
gospel in these chapters. What resources do we have
today to help bring the gospel to all nations?

To inspire your family to share the gospel, you could

show one or more of the videos in the “Sharing the
Gospel” section of the Gospel Library.

254
Acts 16 –21

Acts 17:10–12; 18:24–28. How can we be more like the

Saints in these verses? What might it mean to “[receive]
the word with all readiness of mind”? (Acts 17:11). What
can we do to be “mighty in the scriptures”? (Acts 18:24).

Acts 19:1–7. These verses can help your family have a

discussion about the importance of being baptized and
confirmed. To better understand the truths in Acts 19:1–
7, you could discuss some things that are useless with-
out something else, such as a cell phone without a bat-
tery. Or you could share this teaching from the Prophet
Joseph Smith: “Baptism by water is but half a baptism,
and is good for nothing without the other half—that
is, the baptism of the Holy Ghost” (Teachings: Joseph
Smith, 95). Why is baptism “good for nothing” without
receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost? (see 3 Nephi 27:19–
20; Moses 6:59–61).

Acts 19:18–20. As you read Acts 19:18–20, notice the

value of the possessions that the people were willing to
give up in order to embrace the gospel (see verse 19). Are
there worldly possessions or activities we need to give up
in order to receive heavenly blessings?

Acts 20:32–35. When has your family experienced

Christ’s teaching that “it is more blessed to give than
to receive”? (Acts 20:35). Is there someone who could

255
July 24 –30

benefit from service, time, or gifts that your family could

give? As a family, discuss some ideas and make a plan to
serve someone. How do we feel when we serve others?
Why is it more blessed to give than to receive?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “I Am a Child of God,” Children’s

Songbook, 2–3.

Improving Personal Study

Record impressions. “When you record spiritual
impressions, you show the Lord that you value His
direction, and He will bless you with more frequent
revelation” (Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 12; see also
page 30).

256
The missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul.
JULY 31–AUGUST 6

Acts 22–28
“A MINISTER AND A WITNESS”

Impressions from the Holy Ghost are often

quiet and sometimes fleeting. Recording your
impressions allows you to reflect on them more
deeply. As you read Acts 22–28, write down the
thoughts and feelings that come to you, and take
time to ponder them.

“When we are on the Lord’s errand,” President

Thomas S. Monson promised, “we are entitled to
the Lord’s help” (“To Learn, to Do, to Be,” Ensign or
Liahona, Nov. 2008, 62). We are not entitled, however,
to a smooth road and an endless stream of successes.
258
Acts 22–28

For proof of this, we need look no further than Paul the

Apostle. His errand from the Savior was “to bear my
name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of
Israel” (Acts 9:15). In chapters 22–28 of Acts, we see Paul
fulfilling this errand and facing great opposition—chains,
imprisonment, physical abuse, a shipwreck, and even a
snake attack. But we also see that Jesus “stood by him,
and said, Be of good cheer, Paul” (Acts 23:11). Paul’s
experiences are an inspiring reminder that the Lord’s
call to “declare [His] gospel with the sound of rejoicing”
comes with this promise: “Lift up your hearts and be
glad, for I am in your midst” (Doctrine and Covenants
29:4–5; see also Matthew 28:19–20).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

ACTS 22:1–21; 26:1–29

Disciples of Jesus Christ share their

testimonies boldly.
When Paul delivered the powerful testimonies recorded
in Acts 22 and 26, he was being held prisoner by Roman
soldiers. The people he spoke to had the power to con-
demn him to death. Yet he chose to boldly bear witness of

259
July 31–August 6

Jesus Christ and “the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19) he had

received. What inspires you about his words? Consider
the opportunities you have to share your testimony. For
example, do your friends know how you feel about Jesus
Christ? Or when was the last time you told your family
how you gained your testimony of the gospel?

When young Joseph Smith was ridiculed for telling

about his First Vision, he was inspired by the way Paul
testified of his vision (see Joseph Smith—History 1:24–
25). How would you summarize what Joseph Smith
learned from Paul? What do you learn from these two
witnesses of Jesus Christ?

ACTS 23:10–11; 27:13–25, 40–44

The Lord stands by those who strive to

serve Him.
As Paul’s ministry clearly shows, difficulties in our lives
are not a sign that God disapproves of us or the work we
are doing. In fact, sometimes it is during the difficulties
that we feel His support most strongly. It might be inter-
esting to review what you’ve read recently about Paul’s
ministry and list some of the things he endured (see, for
example, Acts 14:19–20; 16:19–27; 21:31–34; 23:10–11;
260
Acts 22–28

27:13–25, 40–44). How did the Lord stand by him? How

has He stood by you?

ACTS 24:24–27; 26:1–3, 24–29; 27

There is safety and peace in heeding the words of

God’s servants.
Throughout his ministry, Paul bore powerful testimony
of Jesus Christ and His gospel. Many people accepted his
witness, but not everyone did. As you read Acts 24:24–27
and Acts 26:1–3, 24–29, look for words and phrases that
show how the following Roman rulers in Judea reacted
to Paul’s teachings:

• Felix

• Festus

• King Agrippa

While sailing to Rome to be tried by Caesar, Paul proph-

esied that “hurt and much damage” would come to the
ship and its passengers (Acts 27:10). Read chapter 27 to
find out how Paul’s shipmates reacted to his warnings.
Do you find any lessons for yourself in their experience?

Have you ever reacted like any of these people when you
heard the teachings of Church leaders? What are some

261
July 31–August 6

possible consequences of reacting in these ways? What

do you learn from these accounts about heeding the
counsel of the Lord through His servants?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Acts 24:16. Before his conversion, Paul had a long his-
tory of offenses toward God. But because he was will-
ing to repent, he was able to say, “Herein do I exercise
myself, to have always a conscience void of offence
toward God, and toward men” (see also Doctrine and
Covenants 135:4–5). How can we rid our conscience of
offenses toward God and others?

Acts 26:16–18. In these verses, what did the Lord

call Paul to do? What opportunities do we have to do
similar things?

262
Acts 22–28

Acts 28:1–9. Does anyone in your family like snakes?

You may want to ask that person or another family mem-
ber to tell the stories found in Acts 28:1–9. Your chil-
dren might enjoy drawing a picture of these stories or
acting them out. What lessons can we learn from these
accounts? One might be that the Lord fulfills His prom-
ises to His servants. For example, you could compare the
promises made in Mark 16:18 with their fulfillments in
Paul’s experiences. You could also find in a recent gen-
eral conference address a promise made by one of the
Lord’s servants—perhaps one that is meaningful to your
family—and display it in your home. How can we show
our faith that this promise will be fulfilled?

God protected Paul when a venomous snake bit him.

263
July 31–August 6

Acts 28:22–24. Like the Church in Paul’s day (called a

“sect” in verse 22), the Church today is often “spoken
against.” When people spoke against the Savior and His
Church, how did Paul respond? What can we learn from
Paul’s experience?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “My Redeemer Lives,” Hymns, no. 135.

Improving Our Teaching

Focus on principles that will bless your family.
As you study the scriptures, ask yourself, “What do
I find here that will be especially meaningful to my
family?” (See Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 17.)

264
Paul before King Agrippa. Valiant in the Testimony of Jesus Christ, by Daniel A. Lewis
AUGUST 7–13

Romans 1–6
“THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION”

Recording promptings will help you remember

what the Spirit is teaching you. Consider also
recording how you feel about these promptings.

By the time Paul wrote his epistle to Roman Church

members, who were a diverse group of Jews and
Gentiles, the Church of Jesus Christ had grown far
beyond a small band of believers from Galilee. About
20 years after the Savior’s Resurrection, there were con-
gregations of Christians almost everywhere the Apostles

266
Romans 1– 6

could reasonably travel—including Rome, the capital

of a powerful empire. Still, compared to the vastness of
the Roman empire, the Church was small and often the
object of persecution. In such conditions, some might
feel “ashamed of the gospel of Christ”—but, of course,
not Paul. He knew and testified that true power, “the
power of God unto salvation,” is found in the gospel of
Jesus Christ (Romans 1:16).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

What are the Epistles, and how are
they organized?
The Epistles are letters written by Church leaders to
Saints in various parts of the world. The Apostle Paul
wrote most of the epistles in the New Testament—start-
ing with Romans and ending with Hebrews. His epistles
are organized by length, except for Hebrews (see Bible
Dictionary, “Pauline Epistles”). Although Romans is the
first epistle in the New Testament, it was actually written
near the end of Paul’s missionary journeys.

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August 7–13

ROMANS 1–6

“The just shall live by faith.”

The following definitions may help you better under-
stand the Epistle to the Romans:

The law. When Paul wrote of “the law,” he was referring

to the law of Moses. The word “works” in Paul’s writ-
ings referred to outward actions associated with the law
of Moses. Consider how the law of Moses and the works
required under it are different from “the law of faith”
described in Romans 3:23–31.

Circumcision, uncircumcision. Anciently, circumcision

was a token or symbol of the covenant God made with
Abraham. Paul used the term “circumcision” to refer to
Jews (the covenant people) and “uncircumcision” to refer
to Gentiles. Ponder what Romans 2:25–29 teaches about
what it really means to be God’s covenant people. Note
that circumcision is no longer a token of God’s covenant
with His people (see Acts 15:23–29).

Justification, justify, justified. These terms refer to the

remission, or pardoning, of sin. When we are justified,
we are forgiven, declared guiltless, and freed from eter-
nal punishment for our sins. When you see these terms,
notice what Paul taught about what makes justification
possible (see also Guide to the Scriptures, “Justification,

268
Romans 1– 6

Justify,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org; D. Todd

Christofferson, “Justification and Sanctification,” Ensign,
June 2001, 18–25). In Romans, words like “righteous”
and “righteousness” can be seen as synonyms for words
like “just” and “justification.”

Grace. Grace is “divine . . . help or strength, given

through the bounteous mercy and love of Jesus Christ.”
Through grace, all people will be resurrected and receive
immortality. In addition, “grace is an enabling power
that allows men and women to lay hold on eternal life
and exaltation after they have expended their own best
efforts.” We do not earn grace through our efforts; rather,
it is grace that gives us “strength and assistance to do
good works that [we] otherwise would not be able to
maintain” (Bible Dictionary, “Grace”; see also 2 Nephi
25:23; Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Gift of Grace,” Ensign or
Liahona, May 2015, 107–10; Brad Wilcox, “His Grace Is
Sufficient,” Ensign, Sept. 2013, 35–37; or Liahona, Sept.
2013, 43–45). As you read Romans, record what you
learn about the Savior’s grace.

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August 7–13

ROMANS 2:17–29

My actions should reflect and increase

my conversion.
Some of the Jewish Christians in Rome apparently still
believed that the rites and rituals of the law of Moses
brought salvation. This may seem like a problem that
doesn’t apply anymore since we don’t live by the law
of Moses. But as you read Paul’s writings, especially
Romans 2:17–29, think about your own efforts to live the
gospel. Are your outward performances, such as taking
the sacrament or attending the temple, deepening your
conversion and strengthening your faith in Christ? (see
Alma 25:15–16). Is there something you should change
so that your outward actions are leading to a change
of heart?

Through Jesus Christ, I can be forgiven of my sins.

Some people may feel discouraged at Paul’s bold dec-
laration that “there is none righteous, no, not one”
(Romans 3:10). But there are also hopeful messages
in Romans. Look for them in chapters 3 and 5, and

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Romans 1– 6

consider why remembering that “all have sinned, and

come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23) is an
important step toward learning to “rejoice in hope”
through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:2).

ROMANS 6

Jesus Christ invites me to “walk in newness

of life.”
Paul taught that the gospel of Jesus Christ should change
the way we live. What statements in Romans 6 describe
how following the Savior has helped you “walk in new-
ness of life”? (verse 4).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Romans 1:16–17. How can we show that we are “not
ashamed of the gospel of Christ”?

Romans 3:23–28. As you read these verses, you might

discuss the difference between “earning” God’s grace,
which we can never do, and receiving it, which we

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August 7–13

must do. When have we felt God’s grace? How can we

receive it more completely?

Romans 5:3–5. What tribulations have we experienced?

How have these tribulations helped us to develop
patience, experience, and hope?

Romans 6:3–6. What did Paul say in these verses about

the symbolism of baptism? Perhaps your family could
plan to attend an upcoming baptism. Or someone in
your family could share pictures or memories from his or
her baptism. How does making and keeping our baptis-
mal covenants help us “walk in newness of life”?

Baptism symbolizes beginning a new life as a disciple of Christ.

272
Romans 1– 6

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “When I Am Baptized,” Children’s

Songbook, 103.

Improving Personal Study

Ask questions as you study. As you study
the scriptures, questions may come to mind.
Ponder these questions and look for answers.
For example, in Romans 1–6 you could look for
answers to the question “What is grace?”

273
Be Not Afraid, by Greg K. Olsen
AUGUST 14–20

Romans 7–16
“OVERCOME EVIL WITH GOOD”

Only a few of the gospel principles in Romans

7–16 can be included in this outline, so don’t
limit yourself to what is addressed here. Pay
attention to the inspiration you receive as
you study.

As he opened his epistle to the Romans, Paul greeted

Church members by calling them “beloved of God”
who were “called to be saints.” He remarked that their
“faith [was] spoken of throughout the whole world”
(Romans 1:7–8). Even though Paul spent much of his

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August 14 –20

epistle correcting false ideas and flawed behaviors, it

seems he also wanted to assure these new Christian
converts that they truly were Saints who were beloved
of God. His tender counsel blesses all of us who strug-
gle to feel God’s love and for whom becoming a Saint
may feel out of reach. With humble empathy, Paul
acknowledged that he had felt like a “wretched man”
at times (Romans 7:24), but the gospel of Jesus Christ
had given him power to overcome sin (see Joseph Smith
Translation, Romans 7:22–27 [in the Bible appendix]).
With that power, the Savior’s redeeming power, we can
“overcome evil”—both evil in the world and evil in our-
selves—“with good” (Romans 12:21).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

ROMANS 7–8

Those who follow the Spirit can become

“joint-heirs with Christ.”
Even after entering into “newness of life” through
the ordinance of baptism (Romans 6:4), perhaps you
have felt some of the inner conflict Paul described in
Romans 7—the “warring” between the natural man and

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Romans 7–16

your righteous desires (Romans 7:23). But Paul also

spoke of hope in Romans 8:23–25. What reasons for this
hope do you find in chapter 8? You might also look for
blessings that come from having “the Spirit of God dwell
in you” (Romans 8:9). How can you seek the companion-
ship of the Holy Ghost more fully in your life?

ROMANS 8:16–39

The gift of eternal glory far outweighs my trials

on earth.
Just a few years after Paul wrote this epistle, the Saints in
Rome suffered horrific persecutions. What do you find
in Romans 8:16–39 that might have helped these Saints
when persecution came? How might these words apply
to you and the trials you currently face?

Look for connections between these verses and this coun-

sel from Sister Linda S. Reeves: “I do not know why we
have the many trials that we have, but it is my personal
feeling that the reward is so great, so eternal and everlast-
ing, so joyful and beyond our understanding that in that
day of reward, we may feel to say to our merciful, loving
Father, ‘Was that all that was required?’ I believe that
if we could daily remember and recognize the depth of
that love our Heavenly Father and our Savior have for us,
we would be willing to do anything to be back in Their

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August 14 –20

presence again, surrounded by Their love eternally. What

will it matter . . . what we suffered here if, in the end, those
trials are the very things which qualify us for eternal life
and exaltation in the kingdom of God with our Father and
Savior?” (“Worthy of Our Promised Blessings,” Ensign or
Liahona, Nov. 2015, 11). Decide what you will do to “daily
remember and recognize” God’s love for you.

ROMANS 8:29–30; 9–11

What did Paul mean by “predestinate,” “election,”

and “foreknow”?
Paul used the terms “predestinate,” “election,” and
“foreknow” to teach that before this life, God chose
some of His children to be part of Israel, His covenant
people. This meant they would receive special blessings
and responsibilities so they could bless all the people
of the world (see Guide to the Scriptures, “Election,”
scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). However, Paul
emphasized in Romans 9–11 that all of God’s children
can become His covenant people, and we all receive
eternal life the same way—through faith in Jesus Christ
and obedience to His commandments.

Paul invites me to become a true Saint and

follower of Jesus Christ.
The last five chapters of Romans contain dozens of spe-
cific instructions about living as Saints. One way to study
these instructions is to look for topics that are repeated.
How would you summarize Paul’s counsel?

You may not be able to apply all of this counsel at once,

but the Spirit can help you find one or two principles you
could start working on today. Share your desires with your
Heavenly Father in prayer, and ask for His help.

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Romans 8:31–39. What do we find in Romans 8:31–39
that teaches how Heavenly Father and Jesus feel about
us? When have we felt God’s love?

To illustrate verses 38–39, family members could find

examples of things that, like us and God’s love, cannot
be separated.

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August 14 –20

Elder Wilford W. Andersen taught, “The music of the gospel is [a] joyful spiritual feeling.”

Romans 9:31–32. Elder Wilford W. Andersen’s message

“The Music of the Gospel” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2015,
54–56; see also the video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org) can
help illustrate what Paul teaches about the law, works,
and faith. After discussing his talk, your family could try
to dance with and without music. How can faith help us
experience the joy of the gospel?

Romans 10:17. Label several glasses of water with

sources of the word of God (like the scriptures, personal
revelation, and general conference). Discuss how the
word of God increases our faith as you pour each glass
into a container labeled “Faith.”

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Romans 7–16

Romans 12. What does it mean to make ourselves “a liv-

ing sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God”? (verse 1).

Romans 14:13–21. Your family might benefit from

studying Paul’s counsel about judging and arguing over
personal preferences. Perhaps you could discuss appro-
priate ways to respond when other people, including
family members, make choices that differ from yours.
How can we “follow after the things which make for
peace”? (verse 19).

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “I Feel My Savior’s Love,” Children’s

Songbook, 74–75.

Improving Our Teaching

Let children express their creativity. “When
you invite children to create something related to a
gospel principle, you help them better understand
the principle. . . . Allow them to build, draw, color,
write, and create” (Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 25).

281
Abide with Me, by Del Parson
Corinth, Southern Greece, the Forum and Civic Center, painting by
Balage Balogh/www.ArchaeologyIllustrated.com
AUGUST 21–27

1 Corinthians 1–7
“BE PERFECTLY JOINED TOGETHER”

Record your impressions while you read

1 Corinthians 1–7. These impressions may
include promptings to study an idea further,
to share with others something you learn, or to
make changes in your life.

During the months that Paul spent in Corinth, “many

of the Corinthians hearing [him] believed, and were
baptized” (Acts 18:8). So it must have been heart-
breaking for Paul to hear, just a few years later, that
there were “divisions” and “contentions” among the

283
August 21–27

Corinthian Saints and that in his absence they began

to heed the “wisdom of this world” (1 Corinthians
1:10–11, 20). In response, Paul wrote the letter we now
call 1 Corinthians. It is full of profound doctrine, and
yet at the same time, Paul seemed disappointed that
the Saints were not ready to receive all the doctrine he
wanted to give them. “I, brethren, could not speak unto
you as unto spiritual,” he lamented, “for ye are yet car-
nal” (1 Corinthians 3:1–3). As we prepare to read Paul’s
words, it might be helpful to examine our own readi-
ness to receive truth—including our willingness to heed
the Spirit and strive for unity within our families, with
our fellow Saints, and with God.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

1 CORINTHIANS 1:10–17; 3:1–11

The members of Christ’s Church strive to

be united.
We don’t know all the details about the lack of unity
among the Corinthian Saints, but we do know about lack
of unity in our own relationships. Think of a relationship

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1 Corinthians 1–7

in your life that could benefit from more unity; then look
for what Paul taught in 1 Corinthians 1:10–17; 3:1–11
about lack of unity among the Corinthian Saints. What
insights can you gain about how to develop greater unity
with others?

To accomplish God’s work, I need the wisdom

of God.
While it’s good—even encouraged—to seek wisdom
wherever we can find it (see 2 Nephi 9:29; Doctrine and
Covenants 88:118), Paul gave some strongly worded
warnings about flawed human wisdom, which he called
“the wisdom of this world.” As you read 1 Corinthians
1:17–25, ponder what this phrase might mean. What do
you think Paul meant by the “wisdom of God”? Why do
we need God’s wisdom to accomplish God’s work?

In your efforts to fulfill your responsibilities in accom-

plishing God’s work, have you ever experienced the
“fear, and . . . much trembling” that Paul felt when he
taught the Corinthian Saints? (1 Corinthians 2:3).

285
August 21–27

What do you find in 1 Corinthians 2:1–5 that gives you

courage? Consider how you can show that you trust the
“power of God” more than “the wisdom of men.”

I need the Holy Ghost in order to understand the

things of God.
If you wanted to learn more about something like
automotive mechanics or medieval architecture, how
would you do it? According to 1 Corinthians 2:9–16,
how is learning “the things of God” different from
learning the “things of a man”? Why must we have the
Holy Ghost in order to understand the things of God?
After reading these verses, what do you feel you should
do to understand spiritual things more fully? How
could Paul’s words help someone who is struggling
with his or her testimony?

1 CORINTHIANS 6:13–20

My body is sacred.
Most people in Corinth felt that sexual immorality was
acceptable and that their bodies were made primar-
ily for pleasure. In other words, Corinth was not that

286
1 Corinthians 1–7

different from the world today. What did Paul teach in

1 Corinthians 6:13–20 that could help you explain to
others why you want to live a chaste life?

Like Paul, Sister Wendy W. Nelson encouraged Saints

to be chaste; see her message “Love and Marriage”
(worldwide devotional for young adults, Jan. 8, 2017,
broadcasts.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). According to
Sister Nelson, what blessings come from living the Lord’s
standards concerning love and intimacy?

1 CORINTHIANS 7:29–33

Did Paul teach that it is better to be unmarried

than married?
Several verses in 1 Corinthians 7 seem to suggest
that while marriage is acceptable, remaining sin-
gle and abstaining completely from sexual relations
is preferred. However, Joseph Smith Translation,
1 Corinthians 7:29–33 (in the Bible appendix) helps us
understand that Paul was referring to those called to be
full-time missionaries, observing that they were able to
serve God better if they remained single during their
missions. The Lord has taught through His servants,
including Paul, that marriage is part of His eternal plan
and necessary for exaltation (see 1 Corinthians 11:11;
Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4).

287
August 21–27

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
1 Corinthians 1:10–17; 3:1–11. As your family members
read these verses, invite them to find an insight that can
help them be more unified.

1 Corinthians 3:1–2. Maybe you could read these verses

while eating milk and meat. You could compare the way
babies grow into adults with the way we grow spiritually.

1 Corinthians 3:4–9. Paul compared his missionary

efforts to planting seeds. What does his comparison
teach us about sharing the gospel?

1 Corinthians 6:19–20. Comparing our bodies to

temples, as Paul did, can be an effective way to teach
about the sacredness of our bodies. Perhaps you could
show pictures of temples, such as those that accompany
this outline. Why are temples sacred? How are our bod-
ies like temples? What can we do to treat our bodies like
temples? (See also the August 2020 special edition of the
Ensign or Liahona about sexuality.)

288
1 Corinthians 1–7

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “The Lord Gave Me a Temple,”

Children’s Songbook, 153.

Improving Personal Study

Be patient with yourself. Paul taught that milk
comes before meat when we are learning the
gospel (see 1 Corinthians 3:1–2). If you find that
some doctrines are difficult to understand now, be
patient. Trust that answers will come as you have
faith and diligently study.

289
Paul compared our bodies to the sacredness of the temple. Clockwise from upper left: Curitiba Brazil Temple, Mexico
City Mexico Temple, Tokyo Japan Temple, Accra Ghana Temple.
AUGUST 28–SEPTEMBER 3

1 Corinthians 8–13
“YE ARE THE BODY OF CHRIST”

As you prayerfully read 1 Corinthians 8–13, the

Holy Ghost may speak to you in subtle ways (see
1 Kings 19:11–12). Recording these impressions
will help you recall the feelings and thoughts you
had during your study.

In Paul’s time, Corinth was a wealthy trade center with

residents from all over the Roman Empire. With so many
different cultures and religions in the city, Church mem-
bers in Corinth struggled to maintain unity, so Paul
sought to help them find unity in their belief in Christ.

291
August 28–September 3

This unity was to be more than just peaceful coexis-

tence; Paul wasn’t asking them merely to tolerate each
other’s differences. Rather, he taught that when you join
the Church of Jesus Christ, you are “baptized into one
body,” and every body part is needed (1 Corinthians
12:13). When one member is lost, it’s like losing a limb,
and the body is weaker as a result. When one member
suffers, we should all feel it and do our part to relieve it.
In this kind of unity, differences are not just acknowl-
edged but cherished, because without members of
diverse gifts and abilities, the body would be limited. So
whether you feel like you’ve always been at home in the
Church or find yourself wondering if you truly belong,
Paul’s message to you is that unity is not sameness. You
need your fellow Saints, and your fellow Saints need you.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

1 CORINTHIANS 10:1–13

God provides a way to escape temptation.

Spiritual experiences, even miraculous ones, do not
exempt us from temptations that are “common to man”

292
1 Corinthians 8–13

(1 Corinthians 10:13). That may be one reason Paul

wrote about how the Israelites in Moses’s day struggled
with temptation, even though they witnessed mighty
miracles (see Exodus 13:21; 14:13–31). As you read
1 Corinthians 10:1–13, what warnings in the Israelites’
experiences seem applicable to you? What kinds of
“escape” from temptation has Heavenly Father provided
for you? (see also Alma 13:27–30; 3 Nephi 18:18–19).

1 CORINTHIANS 10:16–17; 11:16–30

The sacrament unifies us as members of

Christ’s Church.
Although the sacrament involves a personal commit-
ment between you and the Lord, it is also an experience
you share with others. We almost always partake of the
sacrament together, as a body of Saints. Read what Paul
taught about the sacrament, and think about how this
sacred ordinance can help “many” become “one” in
Christ (1 Corinthians 10:17). How does partaking of the
sacrament help you feel closer to Christ and other believ-
ers? How do these verses influence your feelings about
the sacrament and the way you prepare for it?

293
August 28–September 3

1 CORINTHIANS 11:11

In God’s plan, men and women need each other.

In 1 Corinthians 11:4–15, Paul referred to cultural cus-
toms that we do not follow today. However, Paul also
taught an important truth that applies eternally, found in
verse 11. What do you think this verse means, and why is
it important? Elder David A. Bednar taught, “The man
and the woman are intended to learn from, strengthen,
bless, and complete each other” (“We Believe in Being
Chaste,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 42). How should
this truth influence a marriage? How should it affect the
way we serve in the Church?

Spiritual gifts are given to benefit all of Heavenly

Father’s children.
The list of spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12–13 is not
exhaustive. But it is a good place to start as you iden-
tify and ponder the spiritual gifts Heavenly Father has
given you. The article “Spiritual Gifts” in Gospel Topics
(topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) may help you under-
stand these gifts better. As you read Paul’s list of gifts, you

294
1 Corinthians 8–13

might add some you have noticed in others, in yourself,

or in people in the scriptures. If you have a patriarchal
blessing, it may mention some of your spiritual gifts. How
do these gifts help you bless others? Consider how you
can seek “earnestly the best gifts” (1 Corinthians 12:31).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
1 Corinthians 9:24–27. Since Paul compared living the
gospel to running a race, you could have a family race
to illustrate his point. Award a crown to everyone who
finishes the race, and discuss how all who are diligent in
following Jesus Christ in this life will win the “incorrupt-
ible” prize (1 Corinthians 9:25; see also 2 Timothy 4:7–8).
What does a runner do to prepare for a race? What can
we do to prepare to return to Heavenly Father?

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August 28–September 3

Paul compared living the gospel to running a race.

1 Corinthians 12:1–11. After reading these verses

together, consider giving everyone a piece of paper with
the name of another family member at the top. Ask
everyone to list the spiritual gifts they notice that per-
son has. You could then pass the papers in a circle until
everyone has had a chance to write about each family
member’s gifts.

1 Corinthians 12:3. Why is the Holy Ghost necessary to

gain a testimony of Jesus Christ? What can we do to invite
the Holy Ghost to strengthen our testimonies of Him?

1 Corinthians 12:12–27. Paul’s analogy of a body could

be a memorable way to discuss family unity. For example,
family members could try drawing a body made only of

296
1 Corinthians 8–13

eyes or ears (see verse 17). What do these verses suggest

about how we should treat each other as family members?

1 Corinthians 13:4–8. Paul’s definition of charity might

make an inspiring motto for your family. You could assign
each family member to study a phrase in verses 4–8 and
teach the rest of the family what it means using defini-
tions, examples, and personal experiences. How is the
Savior an example of these attributes? You could also
make posters together for each of these phrases and dis-
play them throughout your house. Be creative!

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Love Is Spoken Here,” Children’s

Songbook, 190–91.

Improving Our Teaching

Display a scripture. Display a verse you find
meaningful in a place where family members will
see it often. Invite other family members to take
turns selecting a scripture to display.

297
“The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many are one bread, and one
body” (1 Corinthians 10:16–17).
SEPTEMBER 4–10

1 Corinthians 14–16
“GOD IS NOT THE AUTHOR OF CONFUSION, BUT
OF PEACE”

Record your impressions while you read

1 Corinthians 14–16. Pray about what the Spirit
has taught you, and ask Heavenly Father if there
is more He would like you to learn.

Because the Church and its doctrines were relatively new

in Corinth, it’s understandable that Corinthian Saints
encountered confusion. Paul had previously taught them
the fundamental truth of the gospel: “That Christ died
for our sins . . . and that he was buried, and that he rose

299
September 4 –10

again the third day” (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). But some

members soon began teaching that “there is no resurrec-
tion of the dead” (1 Corinthians 15:12). Paul implored
them to “keep in memory” the truths they had been
taught (1 Corinthians 15:2). When we encounter conflict-
ing opinions about gospel truths, it is good to remember
that “God is not the author of confusion, but of peace”
(1 Corinthians 14:33). Listening to the Lord’s appointed
servants and holding to the simple truths they repeatedly
teach can help us find peace and “stand fast in the faith”
(1 Corinthians 16:13).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

1 CORINTHIANS 14

I can seek the gift of prophecy.

What is the gift of prophecy? Is it the ability to predict
the future? Is it just for prophets? Or can anyone receive
this gift?

Ponder these questions as you study 1 Corinthians

14:3, 31, 39–40. You could also read Revelation 19:10
and “Prophecy, Prophesy” in Guide to the Scriptures

300
1 Corinthians 14 –16

(scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Based on what you

learn, how would you define the gift of prophecy? What
might Paul have meant when he invited the Corinthians
to “covet to prophesy”? (1 Corinthians 14:39). How can
you accept this invitation?

How does the statement about women in these

verses apply today?
In Paul’s day, there were different expectations about
how women participated in society, including in church
meetings. Whatever the teachings in 1 Corinthians
14:34–35 meant in Paul’s day, they shouldn’t be under-
stood to mean that women cannot speak and lead
in the Church today (see Joseph Smith Translation,
1 Corinthians 14:34 [in 1 Corinthians 14:34, footnote b]).
President Russell M. Nelson said to the women of the
Church today: “We . . . need your strength, your conver-
sion, your conviction, your ability to lead, your wisdom,
and your voices. The kingdom of God is not and cannot
be complete without women who make sacred covenants
and then keep them, women who can speak with the

301
September 4 –10

power and authority of God!” (“A Plea to My Sisters,”

Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 96).

1 CORINTHIANS 15:1–34, 53–58

Jesus Christ gained victory over death.

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is so fundamental to
Christianity, one might say that without it there is no
Christianity—to use Paul’s words, “then is our preach-
ing vain, and your faith is also vain” (1 Corinthians
15:14). Yet some of the Corinthian Saints were teach-
ing that there would be “no resurrection of the dead”
(1 Corinthians 15:12). As you read Paul’s response
in 1 Corinthians 15, take a moment to ponder how
your life would be different if you did not believe in
the Resurrection (see 2 Nephi 9:6–19; Alma 40:19–23;
Doctrine and Covenants 93:33–34). What does the
phrase “If Christ be not raised, your faith is vain” mean
to you? (verse 17).

It is also worth noting that Paul referred to baptism for

the dead as evidence for the reality of the resurrection
(see 1 Corinthians 15:29). How has temple and family
history work strengthened your faith in the doctrine of
resurrection?

Resurrected bodies are different from

mortal bodies.
Have you ever wondered what a resurrected body is
like? According to 1 Corinthians 15:35, some of the
Corinthians wondered the same thing. Read Paul’s
answer in verses 36–54, and note words and phrases that
describe the differences between mortal bodies and res-
urrected bodies. As you do, you might compare verses
40–42 with Doctrine and Covenants 76:50–112. What
does this revelation to the Prophet Joseph Smith add to
your understanding? (see also Joseph Smith Translation,
1 Corinthians 15:40 [in 1 Corinthians 15:40, footnote a]).
Why are these truths valuable to you?

“There is one glory of the sun” (1 Corinthians 15:41).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
1 Corinthians 15:29. We learn from verse 29 that
ancient Christians participated in baptisms for the
dead, just as we do today. How would we explain
to others why we are baptized for our ancestors?
(see “What Are Baptisms for the Dead?” [video],
ChurchofJesusChrist.org). What are we doing as a
family to provide temple ordinances for our deceased
ancestors who need them? You can find more resources

304
1 Corinthians 14 –16

on this topic in the Gospel Topics article “Baptisms

for the Dead” (topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) and at
FamilySearch.org.

1 Corinthians 15:35–54. What objects or pictures could

you show to help your family understand some of the
terms Paul used to describe how mortal bodies are dif-
ferent from resurrected bodies? For instance, to demon-
strate the difference between corruptible and incorruptible
(see verses 52–54) you could show metal that has rusted
and metal that doesn’t rust. Or you could contrast some-
thing weak with something powerful (see verse 43).

1 Corinthians 15:55–57. A discussion about these verses

can be especially meaningful if your family knows some-
one who has passed away. Family members could bear
testimony of how Jesus Christ takes away “the sting of
death” (verse 56).

1 Corinthians 16:13. To help your family members relate

to this verse, you could draw a circle on the ground and
instruct a family member to “stand fast” inside it with his
or her eyes closed. Then others could try to push or pull
him or her from the circle. What difference does it make
when the person in the circle has his or her eyes open and
can “watch”? What can we do to “stand strong” when we

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are tempted to make bad choices? (see also “Stay in the

Boat and Hold On!” [video], ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “He Is Risen!,” Hymns, no. 199.

Improving Personal Study

Look for patterns. In the scriptures we find
patterns that show how the Lord does His work.
What patterns do you find in 1 Corinthians 14 that
help us understand how to edify one another?

2 Corinthians 1–7
“BE YE RECONCILED TO GOD”

As you study Paul’s letters to the Corinthians,

write down some of the gospel principles you
discover and ponder how you can apply them in
your life.

Sometimes, being a Church leader means having to say

some difficult things. This was true in Paul’s day just as
it is today. Apparently a previous letter from Paul to the
Corinthian Saints included chastening and caused hurt
feelings. In the letter that became 2 Corinthians, he tried
to explain what had motivated his harsh words: “Out of

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2 Corinthians 1–7

much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you with

many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye
might know the love which I have more abundantly unto
you” (2 Corinthians 2:4). When you’re on the receiving
end of some correction from a leader, it definitely helps
to know that it is inspired by Christlike love. And even
in those cases where it is not, if we’re willing to see oth-
ers with the kind of love Paul felt, it’s easier to respond
appropriately to any offenses. As Elder Jeffrey R.
Holland counseled, “Be kind regarding human frailty—
your own as well as that of those who serve with you
in a Church led by volunteer, mortal men and women.
Except in the case of His only perfect Begotten Son,
imperfect people are all God has ever had to work with”
(“Lord, I Believe,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 94).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

2 CORINTHIANS 1:3–7; 4:6–10, 17–18; 7:4–7

My trials can be a blessing.

Given everything Paul faced during his life, it’s not
surprising that he wrote a lot about the purposes and

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September 11–17

blessings of tribulation. As you read 2 Corinthians 1:3–7;

4:6–10, 17–18; 7:4–7, think about ways your trials can
be a blessing. For example, you might ponder how God
“comforteth [you] in all [your] tribulation” and how you
can, in turn, “comfort them which are in any trouble”
(2 Corinthians 1:4). Or you might focus on how the light
of Jesus Christ “hath shined” in your heart, even when
you were “troubled” and “perplexed” (2 Corinthians
4:6, 8).

Forgiveness is a blessing I can both give

and receive.
We don’t know much about the man Paul referred to in
2 Corinthians 2:5–11—only that he had transgressed (see
verses 5–6) and that Paul wanted the Saints to forgive
him (see verses 7–8). Why do we sometimes fail to “con-
firm [our] love toward” a loved one who has offended
us? (verse 8). How does withholding forgiveness harm
others and ourselves? (see verses 7, 10–11). How does

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2 Corinthians 1–7

withholding forgiveness give “Satan . . . an advantage of

us”? (verse 11).

Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I can be

reconciled to God.
As much as anyone, Paul knew what it was like to
become “a new creature” (2 Corinthians 5:17). He went
from being a persecutor of the Christians to a fearless
defender of Christ. As you read 2 Corinthians 5:14–21,
think about questions like these: What does it mean to
reconcile? What does it mean to be reconciled to God?
Ponder what might be separating you from God. What
do you need to do to be more completely reconciled with
Him? How does the Savior make that possible?

You might also ponder what it means to be “ambassadors

for Christ” in “the ministry of reconciliation” (verses
18, 20). What insights do you gain from Elder Jeffrey R.
Holland’s message “The Ministry of Reconciliation”?
(Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 77–79).

Godly sorrow leads to repentance.

We don’t usually think of sorrow as a good thing, but
Paul spoke of “godly sorrow” (2 Corinthians 7:10) as an
important part of repentance. Consider what you learn
about godly sorrow from the following: 2 Corinthians
7:8–11; Alma 36:16–21; Mormon 2:11–15; and Sister
Michelle D. Craig’s message “Divine Discontent” (Ensign
or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 52–55). When have you felt godly
sorrow, and what effect did it have in your life?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
2 Corinthians 3:1–3. Have members of your family ever
asked someone to write a letter of recommendation for
them, such as for a job or school application? Ask them
to talk about this experience. Paul taught that the lives
of the Saints were like letters of recommendation for the
gospel of Jesus Christ, “written not with ink, but with
the Spirit of the living God.” As you read 2 Corinthians
3:1–3 together, discuss how our examples are like letters

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2 Corinthians 1–7

that can be “known and read of all men,” demonstrating

the truth and worth of the gospel. Perhaps each family
member could write a letter or “epistle” explaining how
another family member has been a good example of a
disciple of Jesus Christ. They could read their letters
to the family and give them to the family member they
wrote about. Why is it important to understand that our
lives are “epistle[s] of Christ”?

2 Corinthians 5:6–7. What does it mean to “walk by

faith, not by sight”? What are we doing to show that we
believe in the Savior even though we can’t see Him?

2 Corinthians 5:17. Can your family think of or find

examples in nature of things that go through remarkable
transformations and become new creatures? (see the pic-
ture at the end of this outline). How can the gospel of
Jesus Christ change us?

2 Corinthians 6:1–10. According to 2 Corinthians 6:1–

10, what does it mean to be “ministers of God”? (verse 4).
What qualities does a minister of God have?

2 Corinthians 6:14–18. How can we follow Paul’s coun-

sel to “come out from among [the unrighteous], and be
ye separate,” while also loving those around us?

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September 11–17

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Help Me, Dear Father,” Children’s

Songbook, 99.

Improving Our Teaching

Share object lessons. Some gospel concepts,
such as the Atonement, can be difficult to
understand. Consider using pictures or objects
that can help your family understand the principles
you discover in the scriptures.

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When we are converted to the gospel of Christ, our transformation is so profound that Paul described it as becoming
a “new creature” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
SEPTEMBER 18–24

2 Corinthians 8–13
“GOD LOVETH A CHEERFUL GIVER”

Recording spiritual impressions will help you

remember what you learn during scripture study.
You might write in a study journal, make notes
in the margins of your scriptures, add notes
in your Gospel Library app, or make an audio
recording of your thoughts.

What would you do if you heard that a congregation of

Saints in another area was struggling in poverty? This
was the situation that Paul described to the Corinthian
Saints in 2 Corinthians 8–9. He hoped to persuade the

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2 Corinthians 8–13

Corinthian Saints to donate some of their abundance

to Saints in need. But beyond a request for donations,
Paul’s words also contain profound truths about giving:
“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let
him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth
a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). In our day, there are
still Saints throughout the world who are in need of help.
Sometimes the most we can do for them is to fast and
donate fast offerings. In other cases, our giving can be
more direct and personal. Whatever forms our sacrifices
take, it’s worth examining our motivations for giving.
Are our sacrifices expressions of love? After all, it’s love
that makes a giver cheerful.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

2 CORINTHIANS 8:1–15; 9:5–15

I can cheerfully share what I have to bless the

poor and needy.
There are so many people in need all over the world.
How can we possibly make a difference? Elder Jeffrey R.
Holland offered this counsel: “Rich or poor, we are to ‘do

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September 18–24

what we can’ when others are in need [see Mark 14:6, 8].

. . . [God] will help you and guide you in compassionate
acts of discipleship if you are conscientiously wanting
and praying and looking for ways to keep a command-
ment He has given us again and again” (“Are We Not All
Beggars?,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2014, 41).

Read 2 Corinthians 8:1–15; 9:6–15, making note of prin-

ciples Paul taught about caring for the poor and needy.
What inspires you about Paul’s counsel? You might pray
for guidance about what you can do to bless someone in
need. Be sure to record any impressions you receive and
act on them.

2 CORINTHIANS 11:1–6, 13–15; 13:5–9

“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith.”

Today, as in Paul’s day, there are those who seek to
lead us away “from the simplicity that is in Christ”
(2 Corinthians 11:3). For that reason, it’s crucial to do
what Paul suggested: “Examine yourselves, whether ye

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2 Corinthians 8–13

be in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5). You could start this

process by thinking about what it means to “be in the
faith.” How do you know if you are in the faith? Look for
opportunities you have to examine yourself.

As part of your examination, you might also ponder the

phrase “the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Corinthians
11:3). How have you found simplicity in Christ and
His gospel? How might your mind “be corrupted from
[that] simplicity”? What helpful counsel do you find in
2 Corinthians 11:1–6, 13–15?

Consider also this counsel from President Dieter F.

Uchtdorf: “If you ever think that the gospel isn’t work-
ing so well for you, I invite you to step back, look at your
life from a higher plane, and simplify your approach to
discipleship. Focus on the basic doctrines, principles,
and applications of the gospel. I promise that God will
guide and bless you on your path to a fulfilling life, and
the gospel will definitely work better for you” (“It Works
Wonderfully!,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 22).

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September 18–24

2 CORINTHIANS 12:5–10

The Savior’s grace is sufficient to help me find

strength in my weakness.
We don’t know what Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was, but
we all have our own thorns that we wish God would
remove from our lives. Think about your thorns as you
read 2 Corinthians 12:5–10, and ponder what you learn
about Jesus Christ in these verses. What did Paul teach
in these verses about trials and weakness? What does it
mean to you that God’s “grace is sufficient” for you?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
2 Corinthians 8–9. What do we find in these chapters
that inspires us to reach out to the poor and others in
need? This might be a good time to plan an act of service
as a family for someone in need.

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2 Corinthians 8–13

2 Corinthians 9:6–7. Does your family know someone

who could be described as “a cheerful giver”? How can
we make our service to others more cheerful? Younger
family members could make badges that say “I am a
cheerful giver.” You could award the badges to family
members whenever you see them serving one
another cheerfully.

2 Corinthians 10:3–7. How could you teach your fam-

ily about our “warfare” against wickedness? Would your
family enjoy building a wall or a fort with chairs and
blankets? This could lead to a discussion about how to
cast down things that lead us away from God and how to
“[bring] into captivity every thought to the obedience of
Christ.” What are the spiritual “weapons” we use to con-
trol our thoughts? (see Ephesians 6:11–18).

2 Corinthians 11:3. What can your family do to focus

more on “the simplicity that is in Christ”?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “‘Give,’ Said the Little Stream,”

Children’s Songbook, 236.

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September 18–24

Improving Personal Study

Record impressions. Elder Richard G. Scott
said: “Knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge
available in time of need. . . . [Recording spiritual
direction] enhances the likelihood of your receiving
further light” (“Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge,”
Ensign, Nov. 1993, 88; see also Teaching in the
Savior’s Way, 12, 30).

322
“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a
cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
The resurrected Savior visited Paul in prison (see Acts 23:11). Jesus Christ can free
us from the “yoke of bondage” (Galatians 5:1).

SEPTEMBER 25–OCTOBER 1

Galatians
“WALK IN THE SPIRIT”

As you read Galatians, record the impressions

you receive. Doing so will help you remember
and ponder them in the future.

The gospel of Jesus Christ offers freedom from spiri-

tual bondage. But sometimes people who have experi-
enced the freedom of the gospel turn away from it and
“desire again to be in bondage” (Galatians 4:9). This is
what some Galatian Saints were doing—they were turn-
ing away from the liberty Christ had offered them (see
Galatians 1:6). Paul’s Epistle to the Galatians, then, was

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Galatians

an urgent call to come back to “the liberty wherewith

Christ hath made us free” (Galatians 5:1). This call is
one we also need to hear and heed because while cir-
cumstances change, the struggle between freedom and
bondage is constant. As Paul taught, it’s not enough to
be “called unto liberty” (Galatians 5:13); we must also
“stand fast” in it (Galatians 5:1) by relying on Christ.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

GALATIANS 1–5

The law of Christ makes me free.

Paul wrote to the Galatian Saints when he learned they
were being led astray by false teachings (see Galatians
1:6–9). One of these teachings was that in order to be
saved, Gentiles who had accepted the gospel needed
to be circumcised and to keep other traditions of the
law of Moses (see Galatians 2). Paul called these tra-
ditions the “yoke of bondage” (Galatians 5:1). As you
read Paul’s counsel to the Galatians, look for principles
that can help you understand what true freedom is. You
could also ponder what false traditions or other yokes of

325
September 25– October 1

bondage might exist in your life. Is there anything that is

preventing you from experiencing the freedom that the
gospel offers? How have Christ and His gospel “made
[you] free”? (Galatians 5:1).

I am an heir to the blessings promised

to Abraham.
Some of the Galatian Saints were concerned that
because they were not literal descendants (“seed”) of
Abraham, they would not receive the blessings prom-
ised to Abraham, including exaltation. According to
Galatians 3:7–9, 13–14, 27–29, what qualifies a person
to be the “seed of Abraham”?

To learn about the blessings promised to Abraham

and the blessings that we can inherit as his
seed, see Gospel Topics, “Abrahamic Covenant”
(topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Why are the blessings
promised to Abraham important to you?

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Galatians

GALATIANS 3:6–25

Abraham had the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Prophet Joseph Smith explained: “We cannot
believe that the ancients in all ages were so ignorant of
the system of heaven as many suppose, since all that
were ever saved, were saved through the power of this
great plan of redemption, as much so before the com-
ing of Christ as since. . . . Abraham offered sacrifice,
and notwithstanding this, had the Gospel preached to
him” (“The Elders of the Church in Kirtland to Their
Brethren Abroad,” The Evening and the Morning Star, Mar.
1834, 143, JosephSmithPapers.org). Why do you think it
was important for the Saints in Paul’s time to know that
Abraham and other ancient prophets had the gospel of
Jesus Christ? Why is it important to you to know this?
(See Helaman 8:13–20; Moses 5:58–59; 6:50–66.)

GALATIANS 5:13–26; 6:7–10

If I “walk in the Spirit,” I will receive the “fruit of

the Spirit.”
Studying these verses can help you evaluate how fully
you are walking in the Spirit. Are you experiencing the

327
September 25– October 1

fruit of the Spirit mentioned in verses 22–23? What other

fruit, or results, of spiritual living have you noticed?
Ponder what you need to do to cultivate this fruit more
fully. How might cultivating this fruit improve the
important relationships in your life?

If you are trying to walk in the Spirit but your efforts

don’t seem to be bearing the promised fruit, read
Galatians 6:7–10. What message do you feel the Lord has
for you in these verses?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Galatians 3:11. What does it mean to “live by faith”?
How are we living by faith as a family?

Galatians 4:1–7. You might introduce Galatians 4 by dis-

cussing the differences between a king’s servants and his
children. What opportunities or potential does a king’s
child have that a servant does not? Think about this as

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Galatians

you read together verses 1–7. What do these verses teach

about our relationship with Heavenly Father?

Galatians 5:16–26. Consider discussing the difference

between the “works of the flesh” and the “fruit of the
Spirit.” To add some fun to your discussion, your fam-
ily could label different fruits with words Paul used to
describe the fruit of the Spirit. Then each family member
could select one, define it, and talk about someone who
exemplifies that fruit. This could lead to a discussion
about ways your family could invite the Spirit into your
home and cultivate this fruit. After the discussion, you
could enjoy a fruit salad together.

Galatians 6:1–2. There may be times when someone in

your family is “overtaken in a fault.” What counsel do
you find in Galatians 6:1–2 about what to do in such
a situation?

Galatians 6:7–10. If your family has ever planted some-

thing together, you could use that experience to illustrate
the principle “whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he
also reap” (verse 7). Or you could ask family members
about their favorite fruits or vegetables and talk about
what it takes to grow a plant that produces that food.
(See the picture at the end of this outline.) You could

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September 25– October 1

talk about the blessings your family hopes to receive and

how to “reap” those blessings.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Teach Me to Walk in the Light,”

Children’s Songbook, 177.

Improving Our Teaching

Help your family liken the scriptures to
themselves. Nephi said, “I did liken all scriptures
unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning”
(1 Nephi 19:23). To help your family do this, you
could invite them to ponder times when they
have experienced the fruit of the Spirit described
in Galatians 5:22–23. (See Teaching in the Savior’s
Way, 21.)

330
Paul taught that when we walk in the Spirit, we will experience the “fruit of the Spirit” in our lives.
OCTOBER 2–8

Ephesians
“FOR THE PERFECTING OF THE SAINTS”

Do you see any connections between the

messages in general conference and Paul’s Epistle
to the Ephesians?

When the gospel began to spread in Ephesus, it caused

“no small stir” (Acts 19:23) among the Ephesians. Local
craftsmen who produced shrines to a pagan goddess
saw Christianity as a threat to their livelihood, and
soon “they were full of wrath, . . . and the whole city
was filled with confusion” (see Acts 19:27–29). Imagine
being a new convert to the gospel in such a setting.
Many Ephesians did accept and live the gospel amid
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Ephesians

this “uproar” (Acts 19:40), and Paul assured them that

“Christ . . . is our peace” (Ephesians 2:13–14). These
words, along with his invitation to “let all bitterness, and
wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put
away” (Ephesians 4:31), seem as timely and comforting
now as they were then. For the Ephesians, as for each of
us, the strength to face adversity comes “in the Lord, and
in the power of his might” (see Ephesians 6:10–13).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

EPHESIANS 1:4–11, 17–19

God chose, or foreordained, me to fulfill certain

responsibilities on earth.
Paul spoke of the Saints being “predestinated” by God
and “chosen . . . before the foundation of the world” to
be His people. However, as President Henry B. Eyring
has noted, this does not mean “that God must have
determined in advance which of His children He would
save and made the gospel available to them, while those
who never heard the gospel simply were not ‘chosen.’
. . . God’s plan is much more loving and just than that.
Our Heavenly Father is anxious to gather and bless all

333
October 2–8

of His family” (“Gathering the Family of God,” Ensign

or Liahona, May 2017, 20–21). All of God’s children can
accept the gospel and its ordinances because of the work
performed for the dead in holy temples.

Although no one is predestined to be saved or not saved,

modern revelation teaches that some of God’s children
were chosen, or “foreordained,” in the premortal world
to fulfill certain responsibilities in accomplishing God’s
purposes on earth. As you read Ephesians 1 and Gospel
Topics, “Foreordination” (topics.ChurchofJesusChrist
.org), ponder how this truth applies to you.

EPHESIANS 1:10

God will “gather together in one all things

in Christ.”
Why do you think our day is called “the dispensation
of the fulness of times”? What might it mean to “gather
together in one all things in Christ”? As you ponder
these phrases, read the following scriptures: Ephesians
4:13; 2 Nephi 30:7–8; Doctrine and Covenants 110:11–16;
112:30–32; 128:18–21. You may feel inspired to write
your own explanations of these phrases.

EPHESIANS 2:19–22; 3:1–7; 4:11–16

The Church is founded on apostles and prophets,

and Jesus Christ is the chief cornerstone.
According to Ephesians 2:19–22; 3:1–7; 4:11–16, why
do we have prophets and apostles? Think about the
messages from prophets and apostles you heard during
general conference. How do their teachings fulfill the
purposes Paul described? For example, how have these
teachings helped you not be “carried about with every
wind of doctrine”?

How is Jesus Christ like a cornerstone for the Church?

How is He like a cornerstone for your life?

Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Church.

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October 2–8

EPHESIANS 5:21–6:4

Following the Savior’s example can strengthen

my family relationships.
As you read Ephesians 5:21–6:4, think about how the
counsel in these verses could strengthen your family
relationships.

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 part-
ners, should treat each other? What messages do you
find for yourself in these verses?

EPHESIANS 6:10–18

The armor of God will help protect me from evil.

As you read Ephesians 6:10–18, consider why Paul named
each piece of armor the way he did. What does the “whole

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Ephesians

armour of God” protect you from? What can you do to

more fully put on each piece of armor every day?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Ephesians 1:10. To teach about this verse, Elder
David A. Bednar used the example of a rope (see “Gather
Together in One All Things in Christ”). Consider show-
ing family members a rope and letting them hold and
examine it while you share parts of Elder Bednar’s mes-
sage. How is God gathering all things together in Christ?
How are we blessed because of this gathering?

Ephesians 2:4–10; 3:14–21. Invite family members to

share experiences in which they have felt the love and
mercy of God and Jesus Christ described in these verses.

Ephesians 2:12–19. Your family might enjoy building

walls out of pillows or other objects you have at home
and then knocking them down. While Paul referred
to the “wall” between Gentiles and Jews, what kinds

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October 2–8

of walls separate people today? How has Jesus Christ

“broken down” these walls? How does He “reconcile [us]
unto God”? (verse 16).

Ephesians 6:10–18. Your family could make their own

“armour of God” using household items. The video
“The Armour of God” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org) can
help family members visualize this armor, and they can
find simple explanations in “The Whole Armor of God”
(Friend, June 2016, 24–25). How does each piece of armor
protect us spiritually? What can we do to help each other
“put on the whole armour of God” (Ephesians 6:11)
every day?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Hope of Israel,” Hymns, no. 259.

Improving Personal Study

Let the Spirit guide your study. Be sensitive to
the Spirit as He guides you toward the things you
need to learn each day, even if this leads you to
study a topic that you hadn’t originally planned.

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Putting on the armor of God can protect us spiritually.
OCTOBER 9–15

Philippians; Colossians
“I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHICH
STRENGTHENETH ME”

When was the last time you read the spiritual

impressions you have recorded during your study
of the New Testament? It might be helpful to
review the promptings you’ve been receiving.

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 thanksgiv-
ing than he did about afflictions and trials: “Christ is

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Philippians; Colossians

preached,” he said, “and I therein do rejoice, yea, and

will rejoice” (Philippians 1:18). And “though I be absent
in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and
beholding . . . the steadfastness of your faith in Christ”
(Colossians 2:5). Certainly, “the peace of God” that Paul
experienced in his difficult circumstances “passeth all
understanding” (Philippians 4:7), but it was nonethe-
less a reality. In our own trials, we can feel this same
peace and “rejoice in the Lord alway” (Philippians 4:4).
We can, as Paul did, rely completely upon Jesus Christ,
“in whom we have redemption” (Colossians 1:14). We
can say, as did Paul, “I can do all things through Christ
which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13; see also
Colossians 1:11).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

PHILIPPIANS 2:5–11; COLOSSIANS 1:12–23

My faith is founded on Jesus Christ.

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,”

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October 9 –15

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?

PHILIPPIANS 2:12–13

Do we “work out [our] own salvation”?

Some people use the phrase “work out your own salva-
tion” (Philippians 2:12) to support the idea that we are
saved only by our own efforts. Others use Paul’s teaching
“by grace are ye saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8) to
claim that no works are required for salvation. However,
the scriptures, including the writings of Paul, clearly
teach the need for both the grace of Jesus Christ and per-
sonal effort in order to receive salvation. And even in our
best efforts to work out our salvation, “it is God which
worketh in you” (Philippians 2:13; see also Philippians
1:6; 2 Nephi 25:23; Bible Dictionary, “Grace”).

PHILIPPIANS 3:4–14

The gospel of Jesus Christ is worth every sacrifice.

Paul gave up much when he converted to the gospel
of Jesus Christ, including the influential place he held
in Jewish society as a Pharisee. In Philippians 3:4–14,

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Philippians; Colossians

look for what Paul gained because he was willing to

make sacrifices for the gospel. How did he feel about
his sacrifices?

Then consider your own discipleship. What have you

sacrificed for the gospel of Jesus Christ? What have you
received? Are there any additional sacrifices you feel
you need to make to become a more dedicated disciple
of the Savior?

I can find joy in Christ, regardless of my

circumstances.
Paul’s life is a vivid illustration of the truth expressed
by President Russell M. Nelson: “When the focus of our
lives is on . . . Jesus Christ and His gospel, we can feel joy
regardless of what is happening—or not happening—in
our lives. Joy comes from and because of Him” (“Joy and
Spiritual Survival,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2016, 82).

As you read Philippians—particularly chapter 4—

search for statements that can help you find joy in any

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October 9 –15

circumstance of your life. When have you experienced

“the peace of God” during a challenging time? (verse 7).
When have you found strength “through Christ” to do
hard things? (verse 13). Why do you think it is important
to “be content” in all circumstances? (verse 11). How can
practicing the attributes in verse 8 help you find joy in
your circumstances?

See Alma 33:23; Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Grateful in Any

Circumstances,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 70–77.

COLOSSIANS 3:1–17

Disciples of Jesus Christ become “new” as they

live His gospel.
How can you tell that Jesus Christ is helping you
become a “new man [or woman]”? One way to ponder
this is to explore Colossians 3:1–17 and make a list of
the attitudes, attributes, and actions of the “old man”
and another list of the attitudes, attributes, and actions
of the “new man.”

Record your thoughts about how the Savior is changing

you, so that you can review them in the future and pon-
der how you are progressing.

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Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Philippians. Your family may notice the words joy or
rejoice repeated often in Philippians. Each time you come
across one of these words, you could stop and discuss
what Paul taught about how to find joy.

Philippians 2:14–16. How can we “shine as lights in the

world”?

Philippians 4:8. Family members could identify things

to “think on” that fit the descriptions in this verse (see
also Articles of Faith 1:13). How would your family be
blessed by following Paul’s counsel?

Colossians 1:23; 2:7. Perhaps your family could read

these verses while sitting around a tree or looking at
a picture of a tree (such as the one that accompanies
this outline). What does it mean to be “grounded”
and “rooted” in Christ? How can we help each other
strengthen our spiritual roots?

Colossians 2:2–3. Your family might enjoy filling a

“treasure chest” with things that represent the “riches”

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and “treasures of wisdom and knowledge” you find in

the gospel.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Rejoice, the Lord Is King!,”

Hymns, no. 66.

Improving Our Teaching

Live your testimony. “You teach what you are,”
Elder Neal A. Maxwell taught. “Your traits will be
more remembered . . . than a particular truth
in a particular lesson” (in Teaching in the Savior’s
Way, 13).

346
Paul taught that our faith should be “rooted” in Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:7).
OCTOBER 16–22

1 and 2 Thessalonians
“PERFECT THAT WHICH IS LACKING IN YOUR FAITH”

If we do not record the impressions we receive

from the Spirit, we might forget them. What
does the Spirit prompt you to record as you read
1 and 2 Thessalonians?

In Thessalonica, Paul and Silas were accused of hav-

ing “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). Their
preaching angered certain leaders among the Jews, and
these leaders stirred the people into an uproar (see Acts

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1 and 2 Thessalonians

17:1–10). As a result, Paul and Silas were advised to leave

Thessalonica. Paul worried about the new Thessalonian
converts and the persecution they were facing, but he
was unable to return to visit them. “When I could no
longer forbear,” he wrote, “I sent to know your faith.” In
response, Paul’s assistant Timothy, who had been serv-
ing in Thessalonica, “brought us good tidings of your
faith and charity” (1 Thessalonians 3:5–6). In fact, the
Thessalonian Saints were known as examples “to all that
believe” (1 Thessalonians 1:7), and news of their faith
spread to cities abroad. Imagine Paul’s joy and relief
to hear that his work among them “was not in vain”
(1 Thessalonians 2:1). But Paul knew that faithfulness
in the past is not sufficient for spiritual survival in the
future, and he was wary of the influence of false teachers
among the Saints (see 2 Thessalonians 2:2–3). His mes-
sage to them, and to us, is to continue to “perfect that
which is lacking in [our] faith” and to “increase more and
more” in love (see 1 Thessalonians 3:10; 4:10).

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October 16 –22

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

1 THESSALONIANS 1–2

Disciples of Christ serve others with sincerity

and love.
In 1 Thessalonians, Paul’s words reveal both the concern
and the joy of someone who has given himself wholly
to serving God’s children. Especially in the first two
chapters of 1 Thessalonians, you will find words and
phrases that describe the attitudes and actions of a dis-
ciple of the Lord. For example, what do you learn from
1 Thessalonians 1:5–8; 2:1–13 about serving the Lord?

Think about your own opportunities to serve God

and His children. What do you find in these chapters
that inspires you to improve your service? Consider
asking yourself questions based on what you find,
such as “Am I an example of the things I know?” (see
1 Thessalonians 1:7).

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1 and 2 Thessalonians

1 THESSALONIANS 3:7–13; 4:1–12

“Increase and abound in love.”

Paul rejoiced in the faithfulness of the Thessalonian
Saints (see 1 Thessalonians 3:7–9). But he also wanted
them to “abound more and more” in that faithfulness
(1 Thessalonians 4:1). As you read 1 Thessalonians
3:7–13; 4:1–12, ponder ways you can “increase more and
more” spiritually (1 Thessalonians 4:10). For example,
notice that Paul used words like “holiness” and “sancti-
fication.” What do you learn from Paul’s writings about
the meanings of these words? How can the Savior help
you become more holy and sanctified?

1 THESSALONIANS 4:16 –18; 5:1–10; 2 THESSALONIANS

1:4 –10

If I am faithful and watchful, I will be prepared for

the Savior’s Second Coming.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:1–10, Paul used several metaphors
to teach about the time when Jesus will return to the
earth. As you study these metaphors, consider writing
down the impressions that come to you about the Second
Coming of Jesus Christ:

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October 16 –22

• “A thief in the night”:

• “Travail upon a woman with child”:

• Other metaphors you find:

What additional truths do you learn from

1 Thessalonians 4:16–18; 5:1–10; 2 Thessalonians
1:4–10? What are you prompted to do to watch and
prepare for the Savior’s coming?

An apostasy, or falling away from truth, was

prophesied to precede the Second Coming.
Amid increasing persecutions, many Thessalonian Saints
believed the Savior’s Second Coming must be near.
But Paul knew that before Jesus returned to earth there
would be an apostasy—a rebellion or “falling away” from
the truth (see 2 Thessalonians 2:1–4). You could deepen
your understanding of the Great Apostasy—and your
appreciation for the Restoration—by pondering some of
the following:

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1 and 2 Thessalonians

• Scriptures that foretold the Apostasy: Isaiah 24:5; Amos

8:11–12; Matthew 24:4–14; 2 Timothy 4:3–4

• Scriptures that show the Apostasy was already beginning in

Paul’s time: Acts 20:28–30; Galatians 1:6–7; 1 Timothy
1:5–7

• Observations about the Great Apostasy by Christian

reformers:

Martin Luther: “I have sought nothing beyond reform-

ing the Church in conformity with the Holy Scriptures.
. . . I simply say that Christianity has ceased to exist
among those who should have preserved it” (in E. G.
Schweibert, Luther and His Times: The Reformation from a
New Perspective [1950], 590).

Roger Williams: “The apostasy . . . hath so far corrupted

all that there can be no recovery out of that apostasy till
Christ send forth new apostles to plant churches anew”
(in Philip Schaff, The Creeds of Christendom [1877], 851).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
1 Thessalonians 3:9–13. What impresses you about the
feelings Paul had for his friends? How can we “increase
and abound in love one toward another”? (verse 12).

1 Thessalonians 4:13–18. What phrases in these verses

about the Resurrection give you comfort?

1 Thessalonians 5:14–25. As you review Paul’s coun-

sel in 1 Thessalonians 5:14–25, invite each family mem-
ber to find a phrase that the family could focus on.
Find creative ways to display these phrases in your
home as a reminder. For example, each person might
find or draw pictures that illustrate or reinforce the
phrase he or she chose.

2 Thessalonians 3:13. Do we ever feel “weary in well

doing”—overwhelmed, perhaps, with the demands of
discipleship? What helps us when we feel this way? (See
Galatians 6:9; Doctrine and Covenants 64:33.) How can
we support each other when this happens?

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1 and 2 Thessalonians

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus,” Children’s

Songbook, 78–79.

Improving Personal Study

Seek revelation daily. “Revelation often comes
‘line upon line’ (2 Nephi 28:30), not all at once. . . .
Don’t think of [gospel study] as something you
make time for but as something you are always
doing” (Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 12).

355
Resurrected Christ, by Robert T. Barrett
OCTOBER 23–29

1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon

“BE THOU AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIEVERS”

Sometimes it’s helpful to approach your scripture

study with one or more questions in mind. Invite
the Spirit to guide you to answers as you study,
and record any inspiration you receive.

In the epistles Paul wrote to Timothy, Titus, and

Philemon, we get a glimpse into the heart of a servant
of the Lord. Unlike Paul’s other epistles to entire con-
gregations, these were written to individuals—Paul’s
close friends and associates in God’s work—and read-
ing them is like listening in on a conversation. We see
Paul encouraging Timothy and Titus, two leaders of
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October 23–29

congregations, in their Church service. We see him

entreating his friend Philemon to reconcile with a fellow
Saint and treat him like a brother in the gospel. Paul’s
words were not addressed to us directly, and he may
never have expected that so many people would one
day read them. Yet we find in these epistles counsel and
encouragement for us, whatever our personal ministry
in the service of Christ might be.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

Who were Timothy and Titus?
Timothy and Titus had served with Paul on some of his
missionary journeys. During their service, they earned
Paul’s respect and trust. Timothy was later called as a
Church leader in Ephesus, and Titus was called as a
leader in Crete. In these epistles, Paul gave Timothy and
Titus instruction and encouragement regarding their
responsibilities, which included preaching the gospel
and calling men to serve as bishops.

“Be thou an example of the believers.”

Timothy was relatively young, but Paul knew that he
could be a great Church leader despite his youth. What
counsel did Paul give to Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:10–16?
How can this counsel help you lead others to the Savior
and His gospel?

“God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of

power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
2 Timothy is believed to be the last epistle Paul wrote,
and it seems that he knew his time on earth was short
(see 2 Timothy 4:6–8). How might Timothy have felt,
knowing that he might soon be without his trusted men-
tor and leader? What did Paul say to encourage him?
You might also read with your own challenges and fears
in mind. What messages of hope and encouragement
does the Lord have for you in 2 Timothy?

Living the gospel provides safety from the

spiritual dangers of the last days.
We are living in “the last days” that Paul spoke of, and
the “perilous times” have come (2 Timothy 3:1). As you
read 2 Timothy 3, write down the perils of the last days
that are mentioned (see also 1 Timothy 4:1–3):

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1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon

Can you think of examples of these perils in the world

around you—or in your own life? How do these perils,
like the people described in verse 6, “creep into [your
house], and lead [you] captive”? What counsel do you
find in 2 Timothy 3, and elsewhere in these epistles, that
could keep you and your family safe from these spiritual
dangers? (see, for example, 1 Timothy 1:3–11; 2 Timothy
2:15–16; Titus 2:1–8).

Who was Philemon?

Philemon was a Christian who had been converted to
the gospel by Paul. Philemon owned a slave named
Onesimus, who apparently escaped to Rome. There
Onesimus met Paul and converted to the gospel. Paul
sent Onesimus back to Philemon with a letter encourag-
ing Philemon to receive Onesimus “not now as a servant,
but above a servant, a brother beloved” (Philemon 1:16).

PHILEMON

Disciples of Jesus Christ treat one another like

brothers and sisters.
As you read Paul’s epistle to Philemon, ponder how you
might apply his counsel to your relationships with oth-
ers. Below are some questions you could consider:

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October 23–29

• Verses 1–7: What do words like “fellowlabourer” and

“fellowsoldier” suggest to you about relationships
among Saints? When have you felt “refreshed by” a
brother or sister in Christ?

• Verses 8–16: What does it mean to “enjoin” and

“beseech”? Why did Paul choose to beseech Philemon
rather than enjoin him? What did Paul hope would be
accomplished by sending Onesimus back to Philemon?

• Verse 16: What does it mean to be “a brother [or sister]

beloved . . . in the Lord”? Do you know someone who
you need to receive in this way?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
1 Timothy 2:9–10. What does it mean to “adorn [our-
selves] . . . with good works”? What are some good works
our family could do this week? You might sing together
a song about doing good, such as “Have I Done Any
Good?” (Hymns, no. 223).

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1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon

1 Timothy 4:12. To help your family members desire to

be “an example of the believers,” consider inviting them
to draw pictures of people who have been good examples
to them. How have these people inspired us to follow
Jesus Christ? President Thomas S. Monson’s message
“Be an Example and a Light” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov.
2015, 86–88) can give some ideas on how to be an exam-
ple to others.

1 Timothy 6:7–12. Why do you think “the love of money

is the root of all evil”? What are the dangers of focusing
our lives on money or possessions? How can we be con-
tent with the blessings we have?

2 Timothy 3:14–17. According to these verses, what

blessings come to those who know and study the scrip-
tures? Perhaps family members could share scriptures
they have found to be especially “profitable.”

Philemon 1:17–21. What was Paul willing to do for

Onesimus? How is this similar to what the Savior will-
ingly did for us? (see also 1 Timothy 2:5–6; Doctrine and
Covenants 45:3–5). How can we follow the examples of
Paul and the Savior?

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October 23–29

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Shine On,” Children’s Songbook, 144.

Improving Our Teaching

Teach clear and simple doctrine. The gospel
is beautiful in its simplicity (see Doctrine
and Covenants 133:57). Rather than trying to
entertain your family with lessons requiring much
preparation, strive to teach pure and simple
doctrine (see 1 Timothy 1:3–7).

364
“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” (2 Timothy 3:15).
Balm of Gilead, by Annie Henrie
OCTOBER 30–NOVEMBER 5

Hebrews 1–6
JESUS CHRIST, “THE AUTHOR OF ETERNAL SALVATION”

Recording spiritual impressions helps you

recognize what the Holy Ghost wants to teach
you. Acting on your impressions demonstrates
your faith that those promptings are real.

Each of us has to give up something in order to accept

the gospel of Jesus Christ—bad habits, incorrect beliefs,
unwholesome associations, or something else. For
Gentiles in the early Christian Church, conversion often

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Hebrews 1– 6

meant abandoning false gods. For the Hebrews (or

Jews), conversion proved to be, if not more difficult, a
little more complicated. After all, their cherished beliefs
and traditions were rooted in the worship of the true
God and the teachings of His prophets, extending back
thousands of years. Yet the Apostles taught that the law
of Moses had been fulfilled in Jesus Christ and that a
higher law was now the standard for believers. Would
accepting Christianity mean that the Hebrews must give
up their earlier beliefs and history? The Epistle to the
Hebrews sought to help settle such questions by teach-
ing that the law of Moses, the prophets, and the ordi-
nances are all important, but Jesus Christ is greater (see
Hebrews 1:1–4; 3:1–6; 7:23–28). In fact, all these things
point to and testify of Christ as the Son of God and the
promised Messiah the Jews had been waiting for.

Conversion, in those early days and today, means making

Jesus Christ the center of our worship and our lives. It
means holding fast to truth and letting go of that which
distracts us from Him, for He is the “author of eternal
salvation unto all them that obey him” (Hebrews 5:9).

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October 30 –November 5

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

Who wrote the Epistle to the Hebrews?
Some scholars have questioned whether Paul wrote the
Epistle to the Hebrews. The literary style of Hebrews
is somewhat different from Paul’s other letters, and the
earliest versions of the text did not name an author.
However, because the ideas expressed in Hebrews are
consistent with Paul’s other teachings, Latter-day Saints,
in keeping with Christian tradition, have generally
accepted that Paul was at least involved in writing this
epistle.

Jesus Christ is “the express image” of

Heavenly Father.
Many Jews found it difficult to accept Jesus Christ as the
Son of God. Notice how the Epistle to the Hebrews testi-
fies of Him. For example, as you read the first five chap-
ters, you might make a list of Jesus Christ’s titles, roles,

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Hebrews 1– 6

attributes, and works that you find mentioned. What do

these things teach you about the Savior? What do they
teach you about Heavenly Father?

What does the following statement from Elder Jeffrey R.

Holland add to your understanding of the teachings in
these chapters? “Jesus . . . came to improve man’s view
of God and to plead with them to love their Heavenly
Father as He has always and will always love them. . . . So
feeding the hungry, healing the sick, rebuking hypocrisy,
pleading for faith—this was Christ showing us the way of
the Father” (“The Grandeur of God,” Ensign or Liahona,
Nov. 2003, 72).

HEBREWS 2:9–18; 4:12–16; 5:7–8

Jesus Christ suffered all things so that He can

understand and help me when I suffer.
Do you feel that you can “come boldly unto the throne
of grace” and seek mercy? (Hebrews 4:16). One message
of the Epistle to the Hebrews is that despite our sins
and weaknesses, God is approachable and His grace
is attainable. What do you find in Hebrews 2:9–18;
4:12–16; 5:7–8 that strengthens your confidence that
Jesus Christ will help you with your mortal challenges?

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October 30 –November 5

Consider recording in a journal your thoughts and feel-

ings about what the Savior has done for you.

God’s blessings are available to those who

“harden not [their] hearts.”
By retelling the story of the ancient Israelites, Paul
hoped to persuade the Jews to avoid the mistake their
ancestors made—rejecting God’s blessings because of
unbelief. (You can read the story Paul alluded to in
Numbers 14:1–12, 26–35.)

Consider how Hebrews 3:7–4:11 might apply to you. To

do this, you might ponder questions like these:

• How did the Israelites provoke the Lord? (see Hebrews

3:8–11). What are the consequences of having a hard
heart?

• When have I allowed my heart to become hardened?

Are there any blessings God wants to give me that I am
not receiving because of a lack of faith?

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Hebrews 1– 6

• What can I do to develop a soft and contrite heart? (see

Ether 4:15; Proverbs 3:5–6; Alma 5:14–15).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Hebrews 1:8–9. In what ways has Jesus shown that
He loves righteousness and hates iniquity? If we have
unrighteous desires, what can we do to change them?

Hebrews 2:1–4. Can you think of an object lesson to

help your family understand what it means to keep a
firm hold on the gospel truths “which we have heard”?
You might illustrate this with an object that is hard to
hold onto. How are our efforts to maintain our testimony
like catching and holding this object? How can we make
sure “the things which we have heard” do not “slip” away
from us? (verse 1).

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October 30 –November 5

Hebrews 2:9–10. To explore the phrase “captain of their

salvation,” you could begin by discussing what a captain
does. What does salvation mean? How is Jesus Christ like
a captain for us and our salvation?

Hebrews 5:1–5. These verses can help you have a discus-

sion about what it means to be called of God by someone
who has authority. What can we learn from the example
of Jesus Christ about receiving and fulfilling callings?

“No man taketh this honourunto himself, but he that is calledof God, as w
asAaron”
(Hebrews 5:4). Moses Calls Aaron to the Ministry, by Harry Anderson

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

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Hebrews 1– 6

Suggested hymn: “I Need Thee Every Hour,”

Hymns, no. 98.

Improving Personal Study

Try different approaches. Instead of always
studying the scriptures in the same way, consider
various study ideas. For some ideas, see “Ideas
to Improve Your Personal Scripture Study” at the
beginning of this resource.

373
Light of the World, by Walter Rane
Melchizedek Blesses Abram, by Walter Rane. Gift of the artist
NOVEMBER 6–12

Hebrews 7–13
“AN HIGH PRIEST OF GOOD THINGS TO COME”

As you read Hebrews 7–13, you may receive

impressions through the Holy Ghost. Consider
ways you can record them; for example, you
could record them in this outline, in the margins
of your scriptures, or in a notebook or journal.

Even faithful Saints at times suffer “reproaches and

afflictions” that can shake their confidence (see Hebrews
10:32–38). Paul knew that Jewish converts to Christianity
were experiencing severe persecution because of their
new faith. To encourage them to stay true to their tes-
timonies, he reminded them of the long tradition of
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November 6 –12

faithful believers from their own history: Abel, Enoch,

Noah, Abraham, Sara, Joseph, Moses—“a cloud of wit-
nesses” that God’s promises are real and worth waiting
for (see Hebrews 11; 12:1). This tradition is yours too.
It’s a heritage of faith shared by all those who look “unto
Jesus [as] the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews
12:2). Because of Him, whenever adversity makes us
want to “draw back,” we can instead “draw near with a
true heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22, 38).
For us, as for the ancient Saints, Jesus Christ is our “high
priest of good things to come” (Hebrews 9:11).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

HEBREWS 7

The Melchizedek Priesthood points me to

Jesus Christ.
For centuries, the Jews had exercised the Levitical
Priesthood, also known as the Aaronic Priesthood. But
with the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ came the
restoration of the greater Melchizedek Priesthood, which
offered even greater blessings. What do you learn about

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Hebrews 7–13

the Melchizedek Priesthood from Hebrews 7? Keeping in

mind that the purpose of this epistle—like all scripture—
is to build faith in Jesus Christ, you might note passages
that testify of Him.

Here are some examples of other truths you might find:

• Joseph Smith Translation, Hebrews 7:3, 21: Those

who are ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood “are
made like unto the Son of God” and are “[priests]
forever.”

• Hebrews 7:11: The Levitical Priesthood does not offer

“perfection” and was therefore superseded by the
Melchizedek (see Doctrine and Covenants 84:18–22).

• Hebrews 7:20–21: The Melchizedek Priesthood is

received through an “oath and covenant” (see Doctrine
and Covenants 84:33–44).

What blessings have you received from the Melchizedek

Priesthood and “the ordinances thereof”? (Doctrine and
Covenants 84:20). How has the Melchizedek Priesthood
helped you come unto Christ?

Guide to the Scriptures, “Melchizedek,”

scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org; Russell M. Nelson,
“Spiritual Treasures,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2019,
76–79; Dallin H. Oaks, “The Melchizedek Priesthood
and the Keys,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 69–72.

HEBREWS 9; 10:1–22

Ancient and modern ordinances point to

Jesus Christ.
The original Hebrew readers of this epistle would have
been very familiar with the ancient tabernacle and the
ordinances Paul described. But some did not fully recog-
nize that the purpose of these ordinances was to point to
the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

In biblical times, on a yearly holiday called the Day of

Atonement, a high priest entered the holiest place (or
Holy of Holies) in the Jerusalem temple and sacrificed a
goat or lamb to atone for the sins of Israel.

As you read Paul’s description of these ordinances, look

for symbols and teachings that help you better under-
stand the Savior’s atoning mission.

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Hebrews 7–13

The ordinances we participate in today are different from

those in Paul’s time, but their purpose is the same. How
do today’s ordinances testify to you of Jesus Christ?

To learn more about ancient Jewish ceremonies and

their symbolism, see the videos “The Tabernacle” and
“Sacrifice and Sacrament” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

HEBREWS 11

Faith requires trusting in God’s promises.

If someone asked you to define faith, what would you
say? Sister Anne C. Pingree drew on language from
Hebrews 11 to give this definition of faith: “The spiritual
ability to be persuaded of promises that are seen ‘afar
off’ but that may not be attained in this life” (“Seeing the
Promises Afar Off,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2003, 14).

Consider developing your own definition of faith as you

ponder the ideas in Hebrews 11. What do the examples
of the people mentioned in this chapter teach you about
faith? (See also Ether 12:6–22.)

What promises do you see “afar off”? How can you show
the Lord that you are “persuaded of them, and [have]
embraced them”? (Hebrews 11:13).

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November 6 –12

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Hebrews 10:32–36. You might invite family members to
share spiritual experiences when they felt “illuminated”
with truth. How can these experiences help us “cast
not away therefore [our] confidence” in times of trial or
doubt?

Hebrews 11. How can you help your family mem-

bers learn from the faithful examples mentioned in
Hebrews 11? It might be fun to act out the stories of
some of these examples. You can review some of these
stories in Old Testament Stories. Or perhaps your family
could discuss the examples of other faithful people you
know—including ancestors, Church leaders, and mem-
bers of your community. You could also sing a song
about faith, such as “Faith” (Children’s Songbook, 96–97).

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Hebrews 7–13

Hebrews 12:2. According to this verse, why was Jesus

willing to endure the pain and suffering of the cross?
What does this teach us about how we can endure our
trials? President Russell M. Nelson gave some helpful
insights on this verse in his message “Joy and Spiritual
Survival” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2016, 81–84).

Hebrews 12:5–11. Why does the Lord chasten and cor-

rect us? What do we notice in these verses about the way
the Lord sees chastisement? How do these verses affect
the way we give or receive chastisement?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Faith,” Children’s Songbook, 96–97.

Improving Our Teaching

Use music to invite the Spirit and learn
doctrine. The First Presidency said, “Music has
boundless powers for moving [us] toward greater
spirituality” (“First Presidency Preface,” Hymns, x).
Perhaps a song about faith, such as “True to the
Faith” (Hymns, no. 254), would supplement a family
discussion from Hebrews 11.

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The symbols and ordinances of the ancient temple taught about the role of Jesus Christ.
NOVEMBER 13–19

James
“BE YE DOERS OF THE WORD, AND NOT HEARERS ONLY”

As you read the Epistle of James, pay attention

to phrases that stand out to you. How are you
prompted to be a “doer” of these words?
(James 1:22).

Sometimes just one verse of scripture can change the

world. James 1:5 seems like a simple bit of counsel—if
you need wisdom, ask God. But when 14-year-old Joseph
Smith read that verse, “it seemed to enter with great force
into every feeling of [his] heart” ( Joseph Smith—History
1:12). Thus inspired, Joseph acted on James’s admonition
and sought wisdom from God through prayer. And God
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November 13–19

did indeed give liberally, giving Joseph one of the most

remarkable heavenly visitations in human history—the
First Vision. This vision changed the course of Joseph’s
life and led to the Restoration of the Church of Jesus
Christ on the earth. All of us are blessed today because
Joseph Smith read and acted on James 1:5.

What will you find as you study the Epistle of James?

Perhaps a verse or two will change you or someone you
love. You may find guidance as you seek to fulfill your
mission in life. You may find encouragement to speak
kindly or to be more patient. You may feel prompted to
make your actions align better with your faith. Whatever
inspires you, let these words “enter . . . into every feeling
of [your] heart.” And then, when you “receive with meek-
ness the . . . word,” as James wrote, be a doer of the word,
not a hearer only (see James 1:21–22).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

Who was James?
It is generally believed that the author of the Epistle of
James was a son of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, and

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James

therefore the half brother of the Savior. James is men-

tioned in Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3; Acts 12:17; 15:13;
21:18; and Galatians 1:19; 2:9. It appears from these
scriptures that James was a Church leader in Jerusalem
and had been called as an Apostle (see Galatians 1:19).

JAMES 1:2–4; 5:7–11

Patient endurance leads to perfection.

After reading James 1:2–4; 5:7–11, what would you say
was James’s main message about patience? It might help
to ponder what Elder Jeremy R. Jaggi’s family learned
about patience from these verses (see “Let Patience Have
Her Perfect Work, and Count It All Joy!,” Ensign or
Liahona, Nov. 2020, 99–101). What is the “perfect work”
of patience? ( James 1:4). How can you show the Lord
that you are willing to be patient?

JAMES 1:3–8, 21–25; 2:14–26; 4:17

Faith requires action.

How do you know if you have faith in Jesus Christ? How
do your works demonstrate your faith in God? Think
about these questions as you study James’s teachings
about faith. It might be interesting to also read about
Abraham and Rahab, two examples James mentioned

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November 13–19

(see Genesis 22:1–12; Joshua 2). How did they show that

they had faith in God?

Reading James 1:3–8, 21–25; 2:14–26; 4:17 may help you

think of ways you could be a better doer of the word.
Record any impressions you receive, and make plans to
act on them.

The words I speak have the power to hurt or

bless others.
Among the rich imagery James used throughout his epis-
tle, some of his most vivid language is found in his coun-
sel about language. Consider making a list of all the ways
James described the tongue or mouth. What does each
comparison or image suggest about the words we speak?
Think of something you can do to bless someone with
your words (see Doctrine and Covenants 108:7).

JAMES 2:1–9

As a disciple of Jesus Christ, I should love all

people, regardless of their circumstances.
James warned the Saints specifically against favoring the
rich and despising the poor, but his warning can apply
to any biases or prejudices we may have toward others.
As you prayerfully study James 2:1–9, search your own
heart and listen for the Holy Ghost’s promptings. It
might help to replace phrases in these verses, such as “a
poor man in vile raiment” (verse 2), with other words or
phrases that describe someone you might be tempted to
judge unfairly. Do you sense any changes you need to
make in the way you treat or think of others?

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November 13–19

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
James 1:5. After reading James 1:5, your family could
summarize the account of the First Vision (see Joseph
Smith—History 1:8–20) or watch the video “Ask of God:
Joseph Smith’s First Vision” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Invite family members to share their testimonies of the
Prophet Joseph Smith and experiences when Heavenly
Father answered their prayers.

James 1:26–27. Consider watching the video “True

Christianity” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Then read
James’s definition of “pure religion” in James 1:26–27,
and discuss ways your family can make your practice of
religion more pure.

James 3. James 3 includes many images that could

inspire memorable object lessons to help your family
remember to speak kindly. For example, you could build
a fire together and talk about how a small, unkind word
can cause a big problem (see verses 5–6). Or you could
serve something sour in something that is usually used
for sweet food—such as lemon juice in a honey jar. This

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James

could lead to a discussion about using sweet and uplift-

ing words (see verses 9–14).

James 4:5–8. Why should we “draw nigh to God”

( James 4:8) when we face temptation?

James 5:14–16. President Dallin H. Oaks taught that

“parents should encourage more priesthood blessings in
the family” (“The Powers of the Priesthood,” Ensign or
Liahona, May 2018, 67). Perhaps reading James 5:14–16
and sharing experiences about receiving a priesthood
blessing could encourage family members to ask for a
blessing when they are sick or need spiritual strength.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Have I Done Any Good?,” Hymns,

no. 223.

Improving Personal Study

Act on what you learn. As you study, listen to
promptings from the Spirit about how you can
apply what you are learning to your life. Commit to
follow these promptings and live the gospel more
fully. (See Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 35.)

389
James’s admonition to “ask of God” (James 1:5) inspired Joseph Smith to seek wisdom from God. Photograph by
Christina Smith.
Christ Preaching in the Spirit World, by Robert T. Barrett
NOVEMBER 20–26

1 and 2 Peter
“REJOICE WITH JOY UNSPEAKABLE AND FULL OF GLORY”

As you read the Epistles of Peter, you may receive

spiritual impressions. Promptly record them
while you are “yet in the Spirit” (Doctrine and
Covenants 76:80) so you can accurately capture
what God teaches you.

Shortly after His Resurrection, the Savior made a proph-

ecy that must have been troubling to Peter. He foretold
that Peter would be martyred for his faith, being carried
“whither [he] wouldest not . . . , signifying by what death
he should glorify God” ( John 21:18–19). Years later,

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November 20 –26

when Peter wrote his epistles, he knew that his prophe-

sied martyrdom was near: “Shortly I must put off this my
tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed
me” (2 Peter 1:14). And yet Peter’s words were not filled
with fear or pessimism. Instead, he taught the Saints to
“greatly rejoice,” even though they were “in heaviness
through manifold temptations.” He counseled them to
remember that “the trial of [their] faith” would lead to
“praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus
Christ” and to “the salvation of [their] souls” (1 Peter
1:6–7, 9). Peter’s faith must have been comforting to
those early Saints, as it is encouraging to Saints today,
who are also “partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when
his glory shall be revealed, [we] may be glad also with
exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:13).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

1 PETER 1:3–9; 2:19–24; 3:14–17; 4:12–19

I can find joy during times of trial and suffering.

The period after Christ’s Crucifixion wasn’t an easy time
to be a Christian, and Peter’s first epistle acknowledges
that. In the first four chapters, you’ll notice words and

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1 and 2 Pe ter

phrases describing hardship: heaviness, temptations, grief,

fiery trial, and sufferings (see 1 Peter 1:6; 2:19; 4:12–13).
But you’ll also notice words that seem joyful—you may
want to make a list of what you find. For example, as you
read 1 Peter 1:3–9; 2:19–24; 3:14–17; and 4:12–19, what
gives you hope that you can find joy even amid difficult
circumstances?

You might also read President Russell M. Nelson’s mes-

sage “Joy and Spiritual Survival” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov.
2016, 81–84) and look for similarities between what Peter
taught and what President Nelson taught. What is it
about the plan of salvation and the gospel of Jesus Christ
that gives you joy?

1 PETER 3:18–20; 4:1–6

The gospel is preached to the dead so they can

be judged justly.
One day each person will stand at the judgment bar and
“give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and
the dead” (1 Peter 4:5). How can God judge all people
fairly when their opportunities to understand and live
the gospel are so different? Notice how the doctrine that

393
November 20 –26

Peter taught in 1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6 helps answer this

question. How do these verses strengthen your faith in
God’s fairness and justice?

To explore this doctrine further, study Doctrine and

Covenants 138, a revelation President Joseph F. Smith
received as he pondered these writings of Peter. What
additional truths did President Smith learn?

Through the power of Jesus Christ, I can develop

my divine nature.
Do you ever feel that becoming like Jesus Christ
and developing His attributes is not possible? Elder
Robert D. Hales offered this encouraging thought about
how we can develop Christlike attributes: “The attributes
of the Savior . . . are interwoven characteristics, added
one to another, which develop in us in interactive ways.
In other words, we cannot obtain one Christlike charac-
teristic without also obtaining and influencing others.
As one characteristic becomes strong, so do many more”
(“Becoming a Disciple of Our Lord Jesus Christ,” Ensign
or Liahona, May 2017, 46).

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1 and 2 Pe ter

Each Christlike quality we develop helps us weave a spiritual tapestry of discipleship.

As you read 2 Peter 1:1–11, ponder the attributes “of the

divine nature” listed these verses. In your experience,
how are they “interwoven,” as Elder Hales described?
How do they build on each other? What else do you
learn from these verses about the process of becoming
more Christlike?

You might also ponder the “exceeding great and precious

promises” God gives His Saints—including you (2 Peter
1:4). Elder David A. Bednar’s message “Exceeding Great
and Precious Promises” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017,
90–93) can help you understand what those promises are
and how to receive them.

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November 20 –26

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
1 Peter 2:5–10. As you read these verses with your fam-
ily, consider using rocks to help family members visual-
ize Peter’s teachings that the Savior is our “chief corner
stone.” How are we like the “lively [living] stones” that
God is using to build His kingdom? What do we learn
from Peter about the Savior and our role in His king-
dom? What is Peter’s message to your family?

1 Peter 3:8–17. How can we “be ready always to give an

answer” to those who ask us about our faith? Your fam-
ily might enjoy role-playing situations in which someone
approaches them with a question about the gospel.

1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6. What can your family do to feel

connected to your ancestors? Perhaps you could cele-
brate deceased ancestors’ birthdays by preparing their
favorite meals, looking at pictures, or telling stories from
their lives. If possible, you could also plan to receive
ordinances for your ancestors in the temple (for help,
visit FamilySearch.org).

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1 and 2 Pe ter

2 Peter 1:16–21. In these verses, Peter reminded the

Saints of his experience on the Mount of Transfiguration
(see also Matthew 17:1–9). What do we learn from
these verses about the teachings of prophets? (see also
Doctrine and Covenants 1:38). What gives us confidence
to follow our living prophet today?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Family History—I Am Doing It,”

Children’s Songbook, 94.

Improving Our Teaching

“Be ready always.” Informal teaching moments at
home can come and go quickly, so it’s important to
take advantage of them when they arise. How can
you strive to “be ready always” to teach your family
members gospel truths and share “the hope that
is in you” (1 Peter 3:15) when teaching moments
arise? (See Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 16.)

397
Even though Peter faced much persecution and opposition, he remained steadfast in his testimony of Christ.
Perfect Love, by Del Parson
NOVEMBER 27–DECEMBER 3

1–3 John; Jude
“GOD IS LOVE”

As you read the Epistles of John and Jude, seek

inspiration about how you can show your love to
God. Record these impressions and act on them.

When John and Jude wrote their epistles, corrupt doc-

trine had already started leading many Saints into apos-
tasy. Some false teachers were even questioning whether
Jesus Christ had actually appeared “in the flesh” (see,
for example, 1 John 4:1–3; 2 John 1:7). What could a
Church leader do in such a situation? The Apostle John
responded by sharing his personal witness of the Savior:

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November 27–December 3

“This is the testimony which we give of that which was

from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have
seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our
hands have handled, of the Word of life” ( Joseph Smith
Translation, 1 John 1:1 [in 1 John 1:1, footnote a]). And
then John taught about love: God’s love for us and the
love we should have for Him and all His children. After
all, John was a witness of that, too. He had personally
experienced the Savior’s love (see John 13:23; 20:2), and
he wanted the Saints to feel that same love. John’s tes-
timony and teachings on love are just as needed today,
when faith in Jesus Christ is questioned and false teach-
ings abound. Reading John’s epistles can help us face
today’s adversities with courage, for “there is no fear in
love; but perfect love casteth out fear” (1 John 4:18).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

1 JOHN; 2 JOHN

God is light, and God is love.

If you were to choose one or two words to describe God,
what would they be? In his epistles, John often used the
words “light” and “love” (see, for example, 1 John 1:5;

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1–3 John; Jude

2:8–11; 3:16, 23–24; 4:7–21). As you read the first two

epistles of John, ponder the experiences John had with
the Savior’s light and love. For example, consider what
John learned from Jesus’s teachings in John 3:16–17;
12:35–36, 46; 15:9–14; 19:25–27. Do you see any similar-
ities between these teachings and what 1 John teaches
about the light and love of God? What experiences have
taught you that God is light and love?

1 JOHN 2–4; 2 JOHN

“If we love one another, God dwelleth in us.”

You will also find words like “abide” and “dwell”
repeated throughout John’s epistles. Look for these
words, especially as you read 1 John 2–4 and 2 John.
What do you think it means to “abide” or “dwell” in God
and His doctrine? (see 2 John 1:9). What does it mean to
you to have God “abide” or “dwell” in you?

1 JOHN 2:24–3:3

I can become like Jesus Christ.

Does the goal of becoming Christlike ever seem too lofty
to you? Consider John’s encouraging counsel: “Little
children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we
may have confidence . . . [and] we shall be like him”
(1 John 2:28; 3:2). What do you find in 1 John 2:24–3:3

401
November 27–December 3

that gives you confidence and comfort as a disciple of

Jesus Christ? As you study John’s epistles, look for other
principles or counsel that can help you in your effort to
become more Christlike.

Has “no man . . . seen God at any time”?

Joseph Smith Translation, 1 John 4:12 clarifies that “no
man hath seen God at any time, except them who believe”
(in 1 John 4:12, footnote a; see also John 6:46; 3 John
1:11). The scriptures record several instances when God
the Father has manifested Himself to faithful individuals,
including John himself (see Revelation 4; see also Acts
7:55–56; 1 Nephi 1:8; Doctrine and Covenants 76:23;
Joseph Smith—History 1:16–17).

1 JOHN 5

As I exercise faith in Jesus Christ and am born

again, I can overcome the world.
As you read 1 John 5, look for what we must do to
overcome the world and gain eternal life. What might

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1–3 John; Jude

overcoming the world look like in your life? You could

also find answers and insights in Elder Neil L. Andersen’s
message “Overcoming the World” (Ensign or Liahona,
May 2017, 58–62).

JUDE 1

“[Build] up yourselves on your most holy faith.”

What does Jude 1:10–19 teach you about those who fight
against God and His work? What do you learn from
verses 20–25 about how to keep your faith in Jesus Christ
strong?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
1 John 2:8–11. To help your family ponder John’s teach-
ings, gather in a dark room so family members can expe-
rience the difference between walking “in darkness” and
walking “in the light.” How does hatred cause us to walk
in darkness and stumble? How does loving each other
bring light into our lives?

403
November 27–December 3

1 John 3:21–22. What in these verses increases the “con-

fidence” that we have in God and in our ability to receive
answers to our prayers?

Keeping God’s commandments helps us overcome the world.

1 John 5:2–3. Are there any commandments that we

consider “grievous” or difficult to follow? How does
our love for God change the way we feel about His
commandments?

3 John 1:4. What does it mean to “walk in truth”? You

might take this opportunity to tell family members how
you have seen them walk in truth and talk about the
joy this brings you. Family members might enjoy writ-
ing about or drawing truths they have learned on paper

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1–3 John; Jude

footprints and using them to make a path your family

can walk on together.

Jude 1:3–4. Are there any spiritual dangers that have

“crept in” to our lives and family? ( Jude 1:4). How can
we follow Jude’s admonition to “earnestly contend for
the faith” and resist these dangers? ( Jude 1:3). What can
we do to ensure that “peace, and love, be multiplied” in
our family? ( Jude 1:2).

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Where Love Is,” Children’s Songbook,

138–39.

Improving Personal Study

Find God’s love. President M. Russell Ballard
taught, “[The] gospel is a gospel of love—love for
God and love for one another” (“God’s Love for His
Children,” Ensign, May 1988, 59). As you read the
scriptures, make note of evidences of God’s love.

405
Walk with Me, by Greg K. Olsen
DECEMBER 4–10

Revelation 1–5
“GLORY, AND POWER, BE UNTO . . .
THE LAMB FOR EVER”

Consider writing down questions you have about

what you read in Revelation. You can then search
for answers to your questions or discuss them
with a family member or in Church classes.

Have you ever struggled to express to others what you

felt during a powerful spiritual experience? Everyday
language can feel inadequate to describe spiritual feel-
ings and impressions. Perhaps this is why John used
such rich symbolism and imagery to describe his majes-
tic revelation. He could have simply stated that he saw
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December 4 –10

Jesus Christ, but to help us understand his experience,

he described the Savior using words like these: “His eyes
were as a flame of fire,” “out of his mouth went a sharp
twoedged sword,” and “his countenance was as the sun
shineth in his strength” (Revelation 1:14–16). As you
read the book of Revelation, try to discover the messages
John wanted you to learn and feel, even if you don’t
understand the meaning behind every symbol. Why
might he have compared Church congregations to can-
dlesticks, Satan to a dragon, and Jesus Christ to a lamb?
Ultimately, you don’t have to understand every sym-
bol in Revelation to understand its important themes,
including its most prominent theme: Jesus Christ and
His followers will triumph over the kingdoms of men
and of Satan.

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

John’s vision teaches about Heavenly Father’s
plan to save His children.
The book of Revelation can be hard to understand, but
don’t get discouraged. John’s promise may inspire you
to keep trying: “Blessed are they who read, and they who

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Re velation 1–5

hear and understand the words of this prophecy, and keep

those things which are written therein, for the time of
the coming of the Lord draweth nigh” ( Joseph Smith
Translation, Revelation 1:3 [in the Bible appendix],
emphasis added).

One way to study Revelation is to look for connections to

the plan of salvation. This general overview may help you:

• Chapters 5 and 12 describe events in the premortal life.

• Chapters 6–11, 13–14, 16–19 describe mortal life and

events in the history of the earth.

• Chapters 2–3, 15, 20–22 describe the Final Judgment

and the glory that awaits the faithful.

As you read, ask yourself, “What does this teach me

about God’s plan? What has God done to help me over-
come evil and return to Him? What are His promises to
the faithful?”

It might also be helpful to know that Doctrine and

Covenants 77 explains some of the symbols used in
Revelation. In addition, the Joseph Smith Translation
clarifies several passages in Revelation, so check the foot-
notes and the Bible appendix regularly.

Jesus Christ is the Living Son of the Living God.

The first chapter of Revelation describes Jesus Christ’s
appearance to John in a vision. Perhaps you could make
a list of everything this chapter says about Jesus Christ,
including who He is, what He does for us, and what He
is like.

Some things you learn will come from symbols. Ponder

what the Lord might be trying to teach you about
Himself through these symbols. For example, notice
that the Savior calls Himself “the beginning and the
ending” and “the first and the last.” Why do you think
these titles are significant? What do these titles teach
you about the Savior?

REVELATION 2–3

Jesus Christ knows me personally and will help

me overcome my challenges.
The Savior’s words in Revelation 2–3 reveal that He
understood the successes and struggles unique to each
branch of the Church in John’s day. He praised the
efforts of the Saints and also warned them of things they
needed to change. What do you learn from the Savior’s
praise and warnings?

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Re velation 1–5

The Savior also understands your successes and strug-

gles, and He wants to help you. Note the frequent prom-
ises He offers to those who overcome. What impresses
you about these promises? What might the Lord want
you to overcome? What can you do to receive His help?

REVELATION 4–5

Only Jesus Christ could make Heavenly Father’s

plan possible.
What do you learn about Heavenly Father from
Revelation 4 and about Jesus Christ from Revelation 5?
Consider what it must have been like when we all
realized that Jesus Christ (the “Lamb”) would make
Heavenly Father’s plan possible (the Savior could “open
the book, and . . . loose the seven seals” [Revelation 5:5]).
Why could Jesus Christ alone do this? How can you
show your faith in Him as your Savior?

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Revelation 1:20. Why did Jesus compare His Church to
candlesticks? (see Matthew 5:14–16). Sing a song about
how we can be like a light on a candlestick, such as
“Shine On” (Children’s Songbook, 144).

Revelation 2–3. Pretend John was asked to give a mes-

sage to your family like the ones he gave to the churches
during his time. What would he say is going well? How
might you improve?

Revelation 3:15–16. After reading these verses, your

family could drink something lukewarm that tastes
better hot or cold. What does it mean to be lukewarm
spiritually?

Revelation 3:20. Show the picture of the Savior knock-

ing at the door (see the end of this outline) as your fam-
ily reads Revelation 3:20. Why does Jesus knock instead
of just coming inside? Family members could take turns
knocking on a door. Then someone else in the fam-
ily could suggest a way we can “open the door” to the

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Re velation 1–5

Savior and let the family member in. How would it feel
to have the Savior in our home?

Revelation 4:10–11. What does it mean to worship

Heavenly Father? What do we know about Him that
makes us want to worship Him?

Revelation 5:6, 12–13. Why is Jesus Christ called the

“Lamb”? What does this title teach us about Him?

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested hymn: “Jesus, Once of Humble Birth,”

Hymns, no. 196.

Improving Our Teaching

Encourage questions. Questions are an indication
that family members are ready to learn and give
insight into how they are responding to what
they’re being taught. Teach your family how to
find answers in the scriptures. (See Teaching in the
Savior’s Way, 25–26.)

413
Let Him In, by Greg K. Olsen
Composite art by Eric Johnson: The Grand Council, by Robert T.
Barrett; star cluster courtesy of European Space Agency
DECEMBER 11–17

Revelation 6–14
“THEY OVERCAME . . . BY THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB”

President Boyd K. Packer counseled: “If the

language of the scriptures at first seems strange
to you, keep reading. Soon you will come to
recognize the beauty and power found on those
pages” (“The Key to Spiritual Protection,”
Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 27).

Imagine a woman “travailing in birth, and pained to be

delivered.” Now imagine “a great red dragon, having
seven heads and ten horns” hovering over the woman,
poised to “devour her child as soon as it was born”

415
December 11–17

(Revelation 12:2–4). To understand these verses of John’s

revelation, remember that these images represent the
Church and kingdom of God and the peril they would
face. For the Saints who experienced intense persecution
in John’s day, victory over evil may not have seemed
likely. This victory can also be hard to foresee in a day
like ours, when the adversary is at “war with the saints”
and has “power . . . over all kindreds, and tongues,
and nations” (Revelation 13:7). But the end of John’s
revelation gloriously shows that good will prevail over
evil. Babylon will fall. And the Saints will come “out of
great tribulation” with robes of white—not because their
robes were never stained but because the Saints will
“have washed their robes, and made them white in the
blood of the Lamb” (Revelation 7:14).

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

REVELATION 6–11

John saw many events of earth’s history,

especially those of the latter days.
In these chapters you will read about a book with seven
seals. If you wonder what that means, you aren’t alone.

416
Re velation 6 –14

The Prophet Joseph Smith did too. The Lord revealed

to Joseph that this book and its seals represent the story
of the earth’s “temporal existence,” with each seal repre-
senting a thousand years (see Doctrine and Covenants
77:6–7). You might be interested to know that the events
of the first four seals are summarized in John’s vision
in only eight verses (Revelation 6:1–8). The next three
verses describe the fifth seal (verses 9–11). The events
of the last two seals take up most of the rest of the book
of Revelation. In other words, the main focus of John’s
vision is the last days—our days. As you read, ponder
why it is valuable to know what John wrote about the
latter days.

As you read about the events John prophesied of, con-

sider the following suggestions and questions:

• Read Revelation 7 with the work of gathering Israel

in mind. What thoughts do you have about this work?
(see also Doctrine and Covenants 77:8–11). What do
you learn from verses 13–17 about Jesus Christ and
those who come to Him?

• What do chapters 8; 9; and 11 teach you about

the events of the last days? (see also Doctrine and
Covenants 77:12–13, 15). How can we prepare
spiritually for these events?

417
December 11–17

• Revelation 10 tells of a book that an angel gives to John

and commands him to eat. What might this symbolize?
(see Doctrine and Covenants 77:14).

REVELATION 12–13

The War in Heaven continues on earth.

We don’t know a lot about the War in Heaven, but there
is a vivid though brief description of it in Revelation
12:7–11. As you read these verses, picture yourself as part
of that premortal conflict. What do you learn about how
Satan is overcome? (see verse 11).

The war that started in heaven continues on earth, as

Satan persists to “make war with [those who] have the
testimony of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 12:17). What do
you learn from Revelation 13 about how he is waging
that war today? How do “the blood of the Lamb” and
“the word of [your] testimony” (Revelation 12:11) con-
tinue to help you in this war?

“I saw another angel . . . having the

everlasting gospel.”
One fulfillment of the prophecy in these verses occurred
when Moroni appeared to Joseph Smith and led him to
the records that he translated and published as the Book
of Mormon. This book contains the “everlasting gospel”
that we are charged with preaching unto “every nation,
and kindred, and tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6).

To learn about other angels who have participated

in restoring the everlasting gospel, see Doctrine and
Covenants 13; 27:5–13; 110:11–16; 128:20–21.

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Revelation 7:9, 13–15. What can these verses teach
us about why we wear white for baptismal and temple
ordinances?
419
December 11–17

Revelation 7:14–17. Consider inviting family members

to share their feelings about the Lord’s promises in these
verses. How can His promises help us when we are in
“great tribulation”? (verse 14).

Revelation 12:7–11; 14:6. Some family members

might enjoy drawing pictures of the visions described
in Revelation. For example, drawing pictures based
on Revelation 12 could lead to discussions about the
War in Heaven (see verses 7–11). Pictures based on
Revelation 14:6 could lead to discussions about the
Restoration of the gospel.

After reading Revelation 14:6 together, consider showing

pictures of the angel Moroni and of other angels who
helped restore the gospel in our day (see the pictures at
the end of this outline). Perhaps family members could
take turns holding up one of the pictures and sharing
reasons they are thankful that angels came “having the
everlasting gospel to preach unto [us].”

Revelation 12:11. What might the phrase “the word of

their testimony” mean? How do our testimonies of Jesus
Christ help us and others overcome Satan?

Revelation 13:11–14. What thoughts do your family

members have about the deceiving beast? How do we
detect and avoid deceptions we see in the world today?

420
Re velation 6 –14

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “I Will Be Valiant,” Children’s

Songbook, 162.

Improving Personal Study

Immerse yourself in the scriptures. President
Russell M. Nelson taught, “Daily immersion in
the word of God is crucial for spiritual survival,
especially in these days of increasing upheaval”
(“Hear Him,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 89). What
does “immersion in the word of God” mean to you?

421
Moroni Delivering the Golden Plates, by Gary L. Kapp; Upon You My Fellow Servants, by Linda Curley Christensen and Michael T.
Malm (John the Baptist confers the Aaronic Priesthood on Joseph Smith); Keys of the Kingdom, by Linda Curley Christensen and
Michael T. Malm (Peter, James, and John confer the Melchizedek Priesthood on Joseph Smith; Vision in the Kirtland Temple, by
Gary E. Smith (Moses, Elias, and Elijah appear to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery).
Little Lamb, by Jenedy Paige
DECEMBER 18–24

Christmas
“GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY”

Consider how pondering the Savior’s birth and

mission can help bring a spirit of peace and
sacredness to the Christmas season.

Why does the birth of a baby bring such great joy?

Perhaps because a new baby can be a symbol of hope.
There’s something about a brand-new life full of

423
December 18–24

possibilities that invites us to ponder what life might

hold for that child and what wonderful things he or she
will accomplish. Never has this been truer than at the
birth of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Never has there
been more hope placed in a child, and never has there
been one born with so much promise.

When an angel invited shepherds to seek a newborn

child in a manger, he also gave them a message about
that child. It was a message of hope—that this baby had
come to earth to fulfill a sacred mission. The shepherds
made their message “known abroad . . . and all they that
heard it wondered at those things which were told them
by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and
pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:17–19). Perhaps it
would be good to follow Mary’s example this Christmas:
to ponder in your heart the things you have learned
about the Savior this year. How did He fulfill His mis-
sion of redemption in the accounts you have read? And
more important, how has His mission changed your life?
Then you might feel inspired to follow the example of
the shepherds: how will you make it “known abroad”
what Jesus Christ has done for you?

424
Christmas

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

MATTHEW 1:18–25; 2:1–12; LUKE 1:26–38; 2:1–20

Jesus Christ condescended to be born among us

on earth.
Even if you have read or heard the story of the birth
of Jesus Christ many times before, study it this time
with this thought in mind: “Christmas is not only a
celebration of how Jesus came into the world but also
of knowing who He is—our Lord and Savior, Jesus
Christ—and of why He came” (Craig C. Christensen,
“The Fulness of the Story of Christmas” [First
Presidency Christmas devotional, Dec. 4, 2016],
broadcasts.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

What do you know about who Jesus Christ was before

He was born? (see, for example, John 17:5; Mosiah 3:5;
Doctrine and Covenants 76:13–14, 20–24; Moses 4:2).
How does this knowledge affect the way you feel when
you read about His birth?

425
December 18–24

What do you know about why Jesus Christ came to

earth? (see, for example, Luke 4:16–21; John 3:16–17;
3 Nephi 27:13–16; Doctrine and Covenants 20:20–28).
How does this knowledge affect the way you feel about
the Savior? How does it affect the way you live?

1 CORINTHIANS 15:21–26; COLOSSIANS 1:12–22; 1 PETER

2:21–25

Jesus Christ fulfilled His mission and made it

possible for me to inherit eternal life.
Although the story of Christ’s birth was surrounded
by miraculous events, His would be just another birth
if it weren’t for the great work that He accomplished
later in His life. As President Gordon B. Hinckley put
it, “The babe Jesus of Bethlehem would be but another
baby without the redeeming Christ of Gethsemane and
Calvary, and the triumphant fact of the Resurrection”
(“The Wondrous and True Story of Christmas,” Ensign,
Dec. 2000, 5).

426
Christmas

Gethsemane, by J. Kirk Richards

Evidence of the Savior’s divine mission and His powerful

love for others is found throughout the New Testament.
Which passages or accounts come to your mind?
You might look back through this resource or your
study journal and review some of the impressions you
recorded. You could also read 1 Corinthians 15:21–26;
Colossians 1:12–22; 1 Peter 2:21–25 and ponder how the
Savior and His work have blessed your life. What do you
feel inspired to change in your life? How will you draw
on the Savior’s power?

427
December 18–24

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Matthew 1:18–25; 2:1–12; Luke 1:26–38; 2:1–20. How
can you celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with your
family? Here are a few ideas, or you can come up with
your own:

• Read or act out parts of the Nativity story together.

• Watch the video “The Christ Child”

(ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

• Explore some of the resources in the “Jesus Christ”

collection in the Gospel Library, especially in the
section titled “His Birth (Christmas).”

• Watch a First Presidency Christmas devotional

(broadcasts.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

428
Christmas

• Sing Christmas hymns together, or choose neighbors

or friends to visit and sing to them (see Hymns, nos.
201–14).

• Perform an act of service.

• Ask family members to look for details in the Nativity

story that give them ideas for ornaments or decorations
they could make to remind them of Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:21–26; Colossians 1:12–22; 1 Peter

2:21–25. Why are we grateful that Jesus Christ was born?
What gifts has He given us? How can we show Him our
gratitude? Your family could sing a song that teaches
about His mission, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s
Songbook, 34–35).

“The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles.”

If you want to help your family focus on the Savior at
Christmastime, perhaps you could spend some time
reading and studying together “The Living Christ: The
Testimony of the Apostles” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Maybe you could memorize passages from “The Living
Christ” or look for descriptions of the Savior’s life in the
New Testament that support statements in it. You could

429
December 18–24

also invite each family member to write his or her own

testimony of Jesus Christ and, if so prompted, read it to
the family.

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “Once within a Lowly Stable,” Children’s

Songbook, 41.

Improving Personal Study

Look for Jesus Christ. The scriptures teach us
that all things testify of Jesus Christ (see Moses
6:62–63), so we should look for Him in all things. As
you read the scriptures, consider noting or marking
verses that teach you about Him. Take time in the
days leading up to Christmas to look for things
around you that testify of Jesus Christ.

430
The Nativity, by Brian Call
The City Eternal, by Keith Larson
DECEMBER 25–31

Revelation 15–22
“HE THAT OVERCOMETH SHALL INHERIT ALL THINGS”

Sometimes the biggest obstacle to learning is

our assumption that we don’t need to learn—that
we already know. As you read the scriptures,
be open to new insights that the Lord wants to
give you.

As you may recall, the book of Revelation begins with

the Savior declaring Himself to be “the beginning and
the ending” (Revelation 1:8). Fittingly, it ends with
similar words: “I am . . . the beginning and the end”

432
Re velation 15–22

(Revelation 22:13). But what does that mean? The

beginning and the end of what? The book of Revelation
powerfully testifies that Jesus Christ is the beginning
and end of everything—of the great, sweeping drama of
human existence and salvation. He is “the Lamb slain
from the foundation of the world” (Revelation 13:8).
And He is the King of kings who brings an end to
wickedness, sorrow, and even death itself and ushers in
“a new heaven and a new earth” (Revelation 21:1).

Yet before this new heaven and new earth arrive, there
is much for us to overcome: plagues, wars, rampant
wickedness—all of which Revelation vividly describes.
But Jesus Christ is with us during this part too. He is
the “bright and morning star” that shines in the dark
sky as a promise that dawn is coming soon (Revelation
22:16). And it is coming soon. He is coming. Even as He
invites us, “Come unto me” (Matthew 11:28), He also
comes to us. “I come quickly,” He declares. And with
hope and faith that has been purified in the fires of lat-
ter-day adversity, we answer, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus”
(Revelation 22:20).

433
December 25–31

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

REVELATION 16–18; 21–22

The Lord invites me to flee Babylon and inherit

“the holy city.”
After witnessing the destruction and perils of the last
days, John saw a future day that can be summed up in
the Lord’s declaration “Behold, I make all things new”
(Revelation 21:5). One way to understand what that
means is to contrast John’s description of Babylon, the
symbol of worldliness and wickedness (see Revelation
16–18), with his description of the new Jerusalem, sym-
bolic of celestial glory in God’s presence (see Revelation
21–22). The chart below might help you:

Babylon New Jerusalem

Revelation 16:3–6 Revelation 21:6; 22:1–2, 17
Revelation 16:10; 18:23 Revelation 21:23–24; 22:5
Revelation 17:1–5 Revelation 21:2
Revelation 18:11, 15 Revelation 21:4
Revelation 18:12–14 Revelation 21:18–21; 22:1–2

What other differences do you see?

434
Re velation 15–22

You might also ponder what it means for you to “come

out of” Babylon (Revelation 18:4). What do you find in
Revelation 21–22 that inspires you to do so?

The Last Judgement, by John Scott

REVELATION 20:12–15; 21:1–4

All of God’s children will be judged out of the

book of life.
Suppose an author offered to write a book about your life.
What details or experiences would you want included? If
you knew that your future actions would also be recorded,
how would you approach your life differently? Think
about this as you read Revelation 20:12–15. What do you
hope will be written about you in the book of life? How

435
December 25–31

would you describe the Savior’s role in your book of life?

In your opinion, why is it significant that it is called “the
Lamb’s book of life”? (Revelation 21:27).

If the thought of standing before God to be judged is

uncomfortable for you, consider reading Revelation
21:1–4. Referring to these verses, Elder Dieter F.
Uchtdorf has said:

“That Day of Judgment will be a day of mercy and

love—a day when broken hearts are healed, when tears
of grief are replaced with tears of gratitude, when
all will be made right. Yes, there will be deep sor-
row because of sin. Yes, there will be regrets and even
anguish because of our mistakes, our foolishness, and
our stubbornness that caused us to miss opportunities
for a much greater future.

“But I have confidence that we will not only be satisfied

with the judgment of God; we will also be astonished
and overwhelmed by His infinite grace, mercy, gener-
osity, and love for us, His children” (“O How Great the
Plan of Our God!,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2016, 21).

How do these truths affect the way you view the Final
Judgment? What do these truths inspire you to change in
your life?

Do these verses mean that there cannot be any

additional scripture besides the Bible?
Some people have cited Revelation 22:18–19 as a rea-
son to reject the Book of Mormon and other latter-day
scripture. You can find an answer to this objection in
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s message “My Words . . . Never
Cease” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2008, 91–94).

Ideas for Family Scripture Study and

Home Evening
Revelation 15:2–4. As your family discusses these verses,
which refer to “the song of Moses” and “the song of the
Lamb,” you might read the song of Moses in Exodus
15:1–19, along with other songs mentioned in the scrip-
tures, like Doctrine and Covenants 84:98–102. Why might
those who get “the victory over the beast” (Revelation
15:2) feel like singing songs like these? Perhaps your fam-
ily could sing a hymn or children’s song of praise.

437
December 25–31

Revelation 19:7–9. Perhaps you could look at wed-

ding pictures from your family history or talk about a
time when your family attended a wedding celebration.
Why is a marriage a good comparison for the Lord’s cov-
enant with His Church? (See also Matthew 22:1–14.)

Revelation 20:2–3. How does 1 Nephi 22:26 help us

understand what it may mean for Satan to be “bound”?

Revelation 22:1–4. What might it mean to have the

Savior’s name “in [our] foreheads”? (Revelation 22:4; see
also Exodus 28:36–38; Mosiah 5:7–9; Alma 5:14; Moroni
4:3; Doctrine and Covenants 109:22; David A. Bednar,
“Honorably Hold a Name and Standing,” Ensign or
Liahona, May 2009, 97–100).

For more ideas for teaching children, see this week’s out-
line in Come, Follow Me—For Primary.

Suggested song: “When He Comes Again,” Children’s

Songbook, 82–83.

438
Re velation 15–22

Improving Our Teaching

Follow up on invitations to act. “When you
follow up on an invitation to act, you show [your
family members] that you care about them and
how the gospel is blessing their lives. You also give
them opportunities to share their experiences”
(Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 35).

439
Christ in red robes sitting upon a white horse.

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New Testament Study Guide 2023

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New Testament Study Guide 2023

Uploaded by

NEW T ESTA M E N T 2 0 2 3

Come, Follow Me—

Come, Follow Me—

February 27–March 5: Matthew 8; Mark 2–4;

June 26–July 2: Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24;

November 6–12: Hebrews 7–13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 375

But the kind of gospel learning that strengthens our faith

The Holy Ghost guides us to the truth and bears witness

For these reasons, in our efforts to live, learn, and teach

Using Come, Follow Me—For

Who Is This Resource For?

How Should I Use This Resource?

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families is not meant

How Does This Resource Relate to

and questions about the scripture passages that you have

Because Sunday School is taught only twice a month,

Do I Need to Follow the Schedule?

Look for Truths about Jesus Christ

Look for Inspiring Words and Phrases

you. They may feel personally relevant and inspire and

Look for Gospel Truths

Listen to the Spirit

Liken the Scriptures to Your Life

Ask Questions as You Study

Use Scripture Study Helps

Consider the Context of

Record Your Thoughts and Feelings

Study the Words of Latter-day

Live by What You Learn

Elder David A. Bednar said: “We should not expect

• How can your family members encourage each other to

• What can your family members do to encourage each

• How can you emphasize the principles you are learning

Remember that the home is the ideal place for gospel

Share Meaningful Scriptures

Use Your Own Words

Apply the Scriptures to Your Life

Make a Scripture List

Share Object Lessons

Act Out a Story

President Russell M. Nelson said: “I promise that

Hymns and Children’s Songbook

Seminary and Institute Manuals

New Testament Stories

Scripture Stories Coloring Book—

Videos and Art

Teaching in the Savior’s Way

Teaching Young Children

• Sing. Hymns and songs from the Children’s Songbook

• Listen to or act out a story. Young children love stories—

• Read a scripture. Young children may not be able to read

verse, key phrase, or word. The children may even be

• Look at a picture or watch a video. When you show your

• Create. Children can build, draw, or color something

• Participate in object lessons. A simple object lesson can

• Role-play. When children role-play a situation they are

• Repeat activities. Young children may need to hear con-

Including Sacred Music in Your

• Learn doctrinal principles. Look for truths taught in the

• Recognize music’s power. Singing or listening to Primary

• Share experiences. Share personal and family experiences

• Involve your family. Your family will learn more from

• Be creative. Use a variety of ways to learn sacred music

For more ideas, see the sections “Using Music to Teach

We Are Responsible for Our

“What seek ye?” Jesus asked the disciples of John the

Ideas for Personal Scripture Study

commandments (see Matthew 19:16–22; Luke 18:18–23).

Learning from the Savior starts when we strive to

• The Savior’s teachings (see Matthew 18:1–5; Luke

• An example from His life (see John 13:1–15)

However, learning is not complete until we live what the

If you want to learn more, try this activity with another

I am responsible for my own learning.

What does it mean to take responsibility for your own

I need to know the truth for myself.

• An example from His life (see John 13:1–15)