The Savior's Instructions about the Holy Ghost

Make a list of what the Savior taught about (1) what the Holy Ghost does and (2) what disciples must do to receive the Holy Ghost:

• John 14:15-17: (1) Abides in us (2) Love the Lord and keep His commandments
• John 14:26-27: (1) Teaches us all things and brings all things to our remembrance (2) Have peace in the Lord
• John 15:26-27: (1) Testify of the Savior (2) Bear witness of the Savior
• John 16:7-8: (1) Reprove the world of sin, righteousness and judgement
  
• John 16:13-14: (1) Guide you to all truth, speaks whatever he hears, and show us all things to come. (2) Glorify the Lord
• New Testament Student Manual, "The Holy Ghost Brings Man to His Fullest Potential": (1) "Quickens all intellectual faculties, increases, enlarges, expands and purifies all the natural passions and affections; and adapts them, by the gift of wisdom, to their lawful use. It inspires, develops, cultivates, and matures all the fine-toned sympathies, joys, tastes, kindred feelings and affection of our natures. It inspires virtue, kindness, goodness, tenderness, gentleness and charity. It develops beauty of person, form and features. It tends to health, vigor, animation and social feeling. It invigorates all the faculties of the physical and intellectual man. It strengthens, and gives tone to the nerves...it is...marrow in the bone, joy in the heart, light to the eyes, music to the ears, and life to the whole being.
• New Testament Student Manual, "As a Messenger of the Godhead, the Holy Ghost Teaches Faithful Members": (1) "Instruct and enlighten the minds of those who, through their faithfulness have obeyed the commandments of the Father and the Son. He bears witness of the truth, quickens the minds of those who have made covenant and reveals to them them mysteries of the kingdom of God.
• Bible Dictionary, "Holy Ghost": (1) "a convincing witness that the gospel is true. It gives one a testimony of Jesus Christ and of his work and the work of his servants upon the earth...acts as a cleansing agent to purify a person and sanctify him from all sin...When a person speaks by the power of the Holy Ghost that same power carries a conviction of the truth into the heart of the hearer. The Holy Ghost knows all things and can lead one to know of future events." (2) "The gift can come only after proper and authorized baptism, and is conferred by the laying on of hands. The gift of the Holy Ghost is the right to have, whenever one is worthy, the companionship of the Holy Ghost."

Describe how the Holy Ghost helped the Apostles fulfill their missions after the Savior's death and resurrection.
They were able to have the Holy Ghost with them to guide their thoughts, words and actions. They used the Holy Ghost to continue preaching and baptizing those who believed in the word of Jesus Christ.

Write about a time when the Holy Ghost blessed you in one of the ways listed above. Give an example of how the Holy Ghost has inspired you.
I have been blessed with the Holy Ghost many times and often many times that I don't truly recognize it. Throughout my life I have always felt very close to the Spirit and the Spirit typically touches me in ways that are very emotional. Whether it is in a song or listening to the words of the Lord I have been able to recognize truth spoken to me by the Holy Ghost.
When we started out family, I often wondered how I was going to know what to do whenever my child needed something since they don't come with instruction manuals. I then read this from the Prophet Joseph Smith, "If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates." Knowing that if I live the gospel and rely on the Lord, I will not be left alone to raise the children that I have. There have been countless times that I have had ideas come to my mind that weren't my own that have helped me with numerous things. Right now it is mainly to help me with my children, but during difficult times when I am in need of something it usually doesn't take very long for an idea to come to me and I know that those ideas come from the Holy Ghost.

The Three Parable of Preparation

Matthew 25: The Three Parables of Preparation
1. The Parable of the Ten Virgins. Read from Matthew 25:1-13 and New Testament Student Manual "What is the meaning of the parable of the Ten Virgins?"

• Who does the bridegroom represent? The Master, Jesus Christ
• Who did President Harold B. Lee say the virgins represent? Those who were professed believers in Christ or connected with the Church and the events.
  
• What does the wedding represent? The second coming of Jesus Christ
  
• Why did the bridegroom come at "midnight," while the wedding guests "slumbered and slept"? How does this apply to our waiting for the Savior's Second Coming? The bridegroom came at night because he wanted only those who were ready and willing to prepare to come. Same applies to the second coming, we must prepare ourselves efficiently for the Savior. If we make spiritual things an after thought, then we won't fool the Lord into thinking that we have fully prepared.
  
• What did five of the virgins do that was foolish? How might a Church member today make the same error as the foolish virgins? What would the consequences be? The five foolish virgins didn't bring enough oil for this lamps to endure the journey to the wedding. Once it was time to go to the wedding, they didn't have oil to light their ways. So they had to leave and go get more and by the time they came back it was too late to go into the wedding. A church member today may feel those promptings for the spirit to do better and change the way they do things day to day with reading their scripture, prayer, etc but they simply push it aside saying, "I will start tomorrow". The consequences will be that day after day will go by without doing those spiritual things that are needed to prepare us for the Saviors coming. Once they realize the time is upon them, it will be too late to adequately prepare.
  
• What should we learn from the actions of the five wise virgins? We can never prepared too much. Following the commandments and living the gospel will help in getting you prepared for the second coming and that it's never not worth the time. Coming to know our Savior is something that should always be a priority.
  
• Keeping in mind that the oil in the parable represents spiritual preparation for the Second Coming, what are some ways we can add "oil" to our "lamps"? What does Doctrine and Covenants 45:56-57 teach about ways to add oil to our lamps? There are numerous ways to add "oil" to our "lamps". Scripture studying, praying, family home evening, temple and church attendance and preparing to be taught during those services. In Doctrine and Covenants we learn that a way to add oil to our lamps is to take the Spirit to be our guide.
  

2. The Parable of the Talents. Read in Matthew 25:14-30 and New Testament student manual "An Explanation for the Parable of the Entrusted Talents"

• Although a talent was a sum of money in New Testament times is can also represent all that the Lord has given us. List the rewards each of the three men received in the parable of the talents and explain why each man received that reward. What mattered more than the number of talents or gifts each received? To the first and second servant, were made a ruler over many things and had the joy of the Lord with him because they multiplied the talents that were given to them. And the last had his talents taken from him and cast into outer darkness because he did nothing with the talents that were given to him. It mattered more to them that they did as the Lord instructed then the reward that they would receive.
  
• What reason did the third man give for hiding his talent? He was afraid.
  
• What teachings in 2 Timothy 1:7; Proverbs 3:5-6; Doctrine and Covenants 3:7-8; 6:33-37 can help us overcome our fears and to develop and use the talents given to us from the Lord? We must put our Trust in our Heavenly Fathers and know that He has a clear understanding of what we are capable of. When we put our trust in Him, He will lead us to where we are suppose to go. Despite the men of the world and Satan's desire to get us to do things contrary to the Lords way, when we can remain faithful unto the Lord we will be supported against the adversary.
  
• Outline a plan whereby you can better develop and use two of the gifts the Lord has given to you. I hope to learn and become a better teacher to my Primary kids. Learn in which ways to best teach them for their understanding and how to create a loving relationship with each of them to build a trusting and respecting relationship.
  

3. The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats. Read Matthew 25:31-46 and Mosiah 2:17, write responses to the following questions:

• What difference does the way we treat others make to the Lord? There is a need to treat others as our Heavenly Father would treat them. Regardless of the circumstances how we treat others is essential to the Lord. They way we treat others tells Heavenly Father to whom we follow. If we do things as he would do then we are doing thing unto Him but if we aren't then we aren't following Him.
  
• List six actions found in Matthew 25:35-36 that permitted "the sheep" to receive their reward at the King's right hand. What are some spiritual or physical needs people have around you that are similar to those listed in the parable?
  

1. Hungered and gave meat
2. Thirsty and gave drink
3. Stranger and took him in
4. Naked and clothed him
5. Sick and visited him
6. In prison and came unto him

People today still have these very literal needs but some also need friends and someone to be able to turn to in the hard times that will be there for them in any circumstance.

• How will following the principles of this parable about preparation for the Second Coming help someone prepare for that event? If we follow the principles in this parable we will be prepared for the second coming because we will have been following the ways of Christ and doing things as he would have done. When we are the service of our fellow men, we are in the service of our Lord. We can come to now the Lord and ourselves as we serve those who are around us.
  

Preparing for the Savior's Second Coming

Identify the words that "take heed" and "watch" in each of the following verses. Then list three things from this chapter that believers could watch for in order to be prepared to meet the Lord.

• Mark 13:5- "Take heed lest any man deceive you"
• Mark 13:9- "take heed to yourselves...ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them."
• Mark 13:23- "take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things."
• Mark 13:33- "Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is."
• Mark 13:35- "Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh".
• Mark 13:37- "And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch."

Some things to watch for:

1. False Christs and false prophets (Mark 13:22)
2. When the sun shall be darkened, the moon give no light, the stars fall, and the power of heaven shaken. (Mark 13:24-25)
3. When the gospel is published among all nations. (Mark 13:10)
4. Nation rising against nation...kingdom against kingdom...earthquakes...famines. (Mark 13:8)

Additional truths that are taught in the following references about how to prepare for the 2nd coming of Jesus Christ.

1. Doctrine and Covenants 87:8: This scripture talks about standing in holy places and not moving from those places. There are more holy places then just temples or churches. If they Spirit can dwell there, it can be a be a holy place. It is essential that we make all of the places that we dwell in holy places so that we can be prepared for His coming. We don't know when He will come, so we need to always be prepared.
2. Joseph Smith-Matthew 1:32: This scripture talks about the prophecy given by Daniel that an abomination of desolation.
3. Joseph Smith-Matthew 1:37: The elect from all over the world will be gathered together.
4. Joseph Smith-Matthew 1:46-50: This scripture talks about being watchful at all times in order to be ready for the Savior. We need to be able to discern when Satan is trying to sneak in order to overcome those things that will lead us away from being watchful.
5. Doctrine and Covenants 33:17: This is how we are watchful by reading our scriptures, praying at all time, and being faithful. When we can do these things it helps us to be prepared for the Savior.
6. Doctrine and Covenants 45:56-57: This scripture reminds me of those who won't be deceived, "the elect, according to the covenant...that have an unshakable testimony of the Gospel." (New Testament Student Manual) These are the one who will be ready for the Savior and it will be because of what they have done to prepare.
   

Jesus was Rejected by the Jewish Leaders

Make a comparison of how the Jewish leaders of Jesus' day were like each of the following:

• The fig tree in Matthew 21:17-20: The Jewish leaders weren't able to accept Christ and let His words take root within themselves for the proper growth to happen. Personal application: Has there been times when I haven't fully accepted the Lord and His words when they were clearly given for my benefit? (Ways I am not fully accepting His words: not adequately preparing for Sunday, listening and apply talks given in General Conference, or inviting the Spirit to guide me throughout the day)
• The second son in Matthew 21:28-32: The Jewish leaders are like the second son because they claim to follow the Lord and do His will but there actions or words say different. They aren't living according to how He would want us to. They may appear to do things outwardly but inwardly aren't the same. It's better become converted and repent of our old ways then to claim that we are living righteously when we aren't.
• The husbandmen in Matthew 21:33-41: This is the Jewish leaders who rejected or harmed the prophets that came before Christ to prepare the way for Him. They were prideful and couldn't accept what they prophets were preaching. Even when Christ himself came, they still weren't able to accept Him despite seeing the Gospel and His way played out in front of them.
• The wedding guests and the man without the wedding garment in Matthew 22:1-14: The Jewish leaders have too much pride to accept Jesus Christ and His ways. Despite the many chances that they had to come unto Him and repent of their ways they refused. They eventually ran out of chances and were sent away. The man without the wedding garment tried to pretend like he belonged there, but they were able to find him. The same is for us. We can't pretend to live the gospel and trick Christ into believing that we are following Him. He knows our hearts.
  

Earthly and Heavenly Rewards

Matthew 19:16-30

1. What indications can you find that suggest why the young man decided not to follow the Savior?

Even though the young man had kept all the commandments of God he was asked to sell all that he had and give it to the poor. If he gave up all that he had, he was promised that he would have "treasure in heaven." Someone who was obedient to this promise ultimately would have been happy, but this young man "went away sorrowful."

2. How does Matthew 6: 19-24 help explain his choice?

The Savior teaches his disciples stating that "it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, then for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God." Meaning, earthly possessions are hard to give up for some--they would rather have their stuff, then have eternal blessings.

3. What blessings did the Savior promise to those who make sacrifices to follow Him?

Eternal life and many eternal blessings "an hundred fold." (verse 29) They will be eternal blessings, not temporary ones like earthly possessions are.

4. Based on the Savior's response to Peter, write a paragraph that could help you put the Lord first in your life.

For me, riches do not make me happy. Do they make things easier, of course, but you can't bring your money or possessions with you into the next life. I know the Savior loves me and that if I am obedient to all that He asks of me I can return to live with Him forever. The Savior loves unconditionally, our possessions only offer temporary happiness in our live--to me having unconditional love far outweighs any happiness an object brings. Knowing the eternal happiness I can have helps me make choices in my life to put the Lord first.


Parable in Matthew 20:1-16 about what rewards come to those who serve in the Lord's kingdom

The hour the laborers How much the man Hours How much they were
were hired agreed to pay worked actually paid

Early morning a penny a day 12 a penny
3rd hour whatsoever is right 9 a penny
6th hour whatsoever is right 6 a penny
9th hour whatsoever is right 3 a penny
11th hour whatsoever is right 1 a penny

5. What do we learn from this parable about serving in the Lord's kingdom?

That no matter how long or short you serve in the Lord's vineyard the end result is the same for all the laborers. There is not a minimum or maximum amount of hours required of the Lord. He just requires for us to serve diligently and with our whole hearts.

6. What message of comfort can this parable have for converts to the Church?

That they don't have to play a catch up game with those who have been in the church their whole lives. The Lord doesn't require quantity, but quality and effort.

7. What would you tell someone who feels it is unfair for each of the laborers to be paid equally?

I would say to them that though it visually appears to be unbalanced or unfair this would be how the world views life--who did more than the next. Heavenly Father judges us as individuals. This life isn't a race to see who can "one-up" the next person or who has done more service or giving than the next. Heavenly Father see us for what we do as individuals with the trials and challenges put in our paths.

Being a Disciple of Jesus Christ

What it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ:

· Chose to always follow Him. (Luke 10:38-42)

· Be an example of Him. (Luke 11:1-13)

· Teaching His ways. (Luke 11:1-13)

· Love others and be willing to give. (Luke 11:1-13)

· Need to be in tune with Heavenly Father’s will. (Luke 11:1-13)

· The Lord will provide the things for you, when you are doing His will and have faith in Him. (Luke 12:13-40; 23-24)

· Seek to do His will first. (Luke 12:13-40)

· Always be ready to Him to come. (Luke 12:13-40)

· Seek the kingdom of God before anything else. (Luke 12:13-40)

In what why could I be a better disciple of Christ and what difference would it make in my life.

One teaching that I can more fully apply is to be in tune with Heavenly Father’s will. I need to do better at being consistent in my personal morning prayers and my scripture study. I do really well for a week and then I loose focus. I know that when I am able to do these things at times it can be the difference between a really good day and a bad one. When I am able to spiritually create my days, I feel more prompted from the Spirit in all things and I need this the most. I need the daily guidance and I hope to be lead more fully by it.

Explain in writing what is ultimately required to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

To be a disciple of Christ we need to be willing to sacrifice all for Him. We need to commit our entire self to His ways and strive to be like Him. Seek after Him through our actions and our prayers. We need to know what His words are and how they can be applied within our lives. Living in accordance to His will requires us to sacrifice some “worldly things” but to have the things that the Lord can give to us is greater then any treasure that you could have on earth. Being a disciple of Christ requires faith, love and charity and we must constantly be striving to do those things.

The Savior Healed a Young Man

1. Review Matthew 17: 14-21 and list three things the Savior said were needed for the disciples to heal the man.
1) Faith
2) Prayer
3) Fasting

2. Read each of the following references. Next to the reference, write what it teaches about what is needed for miracles to happen.
a) 3 Nephi 18:20 - You need to ASK Heavenly Father and BELIEVE that He can/will grant it to you
b) Doctrine and Covenants 50:29 - We need to be sinless and to ASK in the name of Jesus Christ
c) Doctrine and Covenants 42:48 - Have FAITH to be healed and not on your deathbed

It is important to remember that in order to be healed we first need to ask but that isn't all. We must have faith to believe that Heavenly Father can heal us. This is something that I am trying to teach my 4 year old (on a basic level of course). For example, he got a splinter in his hand. He is a very sensitive kid, so he wanted it to come out but didn't want to feel the pain of taking it out. I suggested that maybe he say a little prayer about it to ask Heavenly Father to help me take it out quickly. He said the prayer and quickly said, "But it's still in there mom!"
I'm grateful for those little teaching moments that allow my son to learn not only to prayer for things that he is in need of but also to believe that Heavenly Father can help him.