Study Guide for "Called to the Work"

In his talk "Called to the Work," Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addresses the principles surrounding missionary service in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He emphasizes the distinction between being called to serve as a missionary and being assigned to labor in a specific location. Elder Bednar provides insights into the divine nature of missionary calls and assignments, the importance of preparation for missionary service, and the spiritual growth that comes from fulfilling one's duty in the Lord's work. His message brings clarity, understanding, and comfort to those who may have felt burdened by misunderstandings regarding their missionary service.

Before Reading

Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:

What is the distinction between being called to serve and being assigned to labor?
How does revelation play a role in missionary calls and assignments?
What are the key components of preparing for a call to the work?
How can understanding these principles alleviate concerns and guilt about missionary service?
What promises does Elder Bednar extend to those who prepare diligently for their missionary service?

Topics

Understand the Call to Serve and Assignment to Labor

Elder Bednar explains the difference between being called to serve as a missionary and being assigned to labor in a specific location. He emphasizes that the call to serve comes from God through the President of the Church, while the assignment to labor is given through the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

You are hereby called to serve as a missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You are assigned to labor in the ______ Mission.

If ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work.

What is the difference between being called to serve and being assigned to labor?
Who authorizes and directs the assignments to specific missions?
How does understanding this distinction impact your perspective on missionary service?
Can you recall a time when you felt divinely guided in your assignments or responsibilities?

Overcome Misunderstanding about Missionary Assignments

Elder Bednar addresses common misunderstandings about missionary assignments, particularly the concern and guilt felt by those reassigned to different fields of labor. He reassures that such reassignments are also inspired and guided by revelation.

The things you helped me learn today have lifted a burden from my shoulders that I have carried for more than 30 years.

Wherefore, go ye and preach my gospel, whether to the north or to the south, to the east or to the west, it mattereth not, for ye cannot go amiss.

Why might a missionary be reassigned to a different field of labor?
How does revelation guide both initial assignments and reassignments?
Have you ever felt burdened by a misunderstanding regarding your service or assignments? How can you seek clarity and comfort?
In what ways can you support and reassure others who may feel concerned about their assignments?

Prepare for a Call to the Work

Elder Bednar outlines the essential steps of preparation for missionary service, emphasizing the importance of priesthood, temple, and mission. He highlights personal worthiness and the need to honor priesthood and temple covenants as foundational to effective missionary work.

Priesthood, temple, mission.

Personal worthiness is the single most important requirement for receiving the higher priesthood.

Be worthy. Stay worthy.

What are the three interrelated words that define the pattern of preparation for missionary service?
Why is personal worthiness crucial in preparing for missionary service?
How are you currently preparing for your call to the work? What steps can you take to improve your preparation?
Reflect on your experiences with priesthood and temple service. How have these experiences strengthened you spiritually?

Balance Emphasis on Priesthood, Temple, and Mission

Elder Bednar encourages balanced emphasis on priesthood, temple, and mission in both homes and church settings. He stresses that all three elements are vital in creating a strong foundation for a lifetime of spiritual growth and service.

In our homes and at church, we should give balanced emphasis to all three elements of the Lord’s pattern of preparation and progression for faithful sons of God: priesthood, temple, mission.

Why is it important to balance emphasis on priesthood, temple, and mission?
How do these three elements interact to strengthen a young missionary?
How can you ensure that you are giving balanced emphasis to priesthood, temple, and mission in your life?
What specific actions can you take to strengthen your foundation in each of these areas?

Promise and Testimony of Revelation and Service

Elder Bednar concludes with a promise that the spiritual gift of revelation will attend those called to the work and assigned to labor. He bears testimony of the divine nature of missionary service and the blessings that come from being engaged in the Lord’s work.

I promise that the spiritual gift of revelation will attend your call to the work of proclaiming the gospel and your assignment to a specific field or fields of labor.

Joyfully, I witness that our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, live.

What promise does Elder Bednar extend to those called to the work?
How does Elder Bednar testify of the divine nature of missionary service?
How have you experienced the spiritual gift of revelation in your life?
What steps can you take to strengthen your witness of the Lord’s living reality and love for His work?