Becoming a Disciple of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ according to Elder Hales?
- How does Elder Hales describe the process of developing Christlike attributes?
- What are some of the key characteristics of a true disciple mentioned in the talk?
- How does Elder Hales differentiate between selective obedience and genuine discipleship?
- Why is charity considered the defining characteristic of a disciple of Christ?
Topics
Understanding True Discipleship
Elder Hales explains that true discipleship goes beyond merely following Christ; it involves integrating His attributes into our very being. This transformation is akin to weaving a spiritual tapestry, where each Christlike characteristic strengthens and influences others.
A disciple strives to become as He is by keeping His commandments in mortality, much the same as an apprentice seeks to become like his or her master.
Disciples live so that the characteristics of Christ are woven into the fiber of their beings, as into a spiritual tapestry.
- What does Elder Hales mean by describing discipleship as a "state of being"?
- How does the analogy of a spiritual tapestry help us understand the process of becoming a disciple?
- How can you integrate the attributes of Christ into your daily life?
- Reflect on a time when you felt you were truly living as a disciple of Christ. What attributes were you embodying?
Faith as the Foundation of Discipleship
Elder Hales emphasizes that faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of discipleship. This faith is measured by our obedience and virtuous living, which activate the power of faith and lead to the development of other Christlike attributes.
We measure our faith by what it leads us to do—by our obedience.
Faith is a catalyst. Without works, without virtuous living, our faith is without power to activate discipleship.
- How does Elder Hales define the role of faith in discipleship?
- Why is obedience essential to the power of faith?
- In what ways can you strengthen your faith through obedience?
- Think of a recent challenge you faced. How did your faith and obedience help you navigate it?
The Interconnectedness of Christlike Attributes
Elder Hales teaches that Christlike attributes are not isolated traits but are interconnected. Developing one attribute, such as virtue, inherently strengthens others, like knowledge and temperance, creating a holistic approach to discipleship.
The attributes of the Savior, as we perceive them, are not a script to be followed or list to be checked off.
As one characteristic becomes strong, so do many more.
- What does Elder Hales mean by the interconnectedness of Christlike attributes?
- How can focusing on one Christlike attribute help develop others?
- Choose one Christlike attribute to focus on this week. How will you work on developing it?
- Reflect on how developing one attribute has influenced other areas of your discipleship.
The Importance of Charity
Charity, or the pure love of Christ, is highlighted by Elder Hales as the defining characteristic of a disciple. He underscores that without charity, other spiritual gifts and actions are meaningless.
This love is the defining characteristic of a disciple of Christ.
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
- Why is charity considered the greatest of all Christlike attributes?
- How does charity influence our other spiritual gifts and actions?
- How can you show more charity in your interactions with others?
- Reflect on a time when you felt the pure love of Christ. How did it change you?
Avoiding Selective Obedience
Elder Hales warns against selective obedience, where individuals pick and choose which commandments to follow. True discipleship requires wholehearted commitment to all of Christ's teachings.
They draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.
We cannot be a disciple on just one point of doctrine or another.
- What is selective obedience, and why is it problematic?
- How does Elder Hales suggest we avoid selective obedience?
- Are there any commandments you find yourself selectively obeying? How can you improve?
- Reflect on the importance of wholehearted commitment in your discipleship. What changes can you make to be more fully committed?
