Study Guide for "Our Good Shepherd"

In his General Conference talk, "Our Good Shepherd," Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles delves into the compassionate nature of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between sin and the sinner, portraying Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd who lovingly cares for His flock despite their imperfections. Elder Renlund draws on scriptural metaphors and literary examples to illustrate how understanding the Savior’s compassion can inspire us to repent, emulate Him, and extend similar compassion to others.

Before Reading

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

How does Elder Renlund describe the character of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?
Why is it important to distinguish between sin and the sinner?
How does the Savior react to our metaphorical diseases—our sins?
What lessons can we learn from the Savior’s interaction with the woman caught in adultery?
How should we treat others who sin, according to Elder Renlund?

Topics

Recognize the Compassion of Jesus Christ

Elder Renlund emphasizes that recognizing the compassion of Jesus Christ is essential for understanding the character of our Heavenly Father. Jesus Christ, as the Good Shepherd, views our sins as conditions needing treatment rather than reasons for rejection. This compassion motivates us to repent and become more like Him.

The Savior’s compassion in the face of our imperfections draws us toward Him and motivates us in our repeated struggles to repent and emulate Him.

As the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ views disease in His sheep as a condition that needs treatment, care, and compassion.

How does Elder Renlund describe the Savior’s reaction to our sins?
What metaphor does Elder Renlund use to explain the Savior’s compassion?
Why is it important to understand the Savior’s compassion for us?
How can you apply the Savior’s compassion in your daily interactions?
Reflect on a time when you felt the Savior’s compassion. How did it impact your desire to repent?
In what ways can you show more compassion to those around you who are struggling with sin?

Emulate the Savior’s Compassion

Elder Renlund encourages us to emulate the Savior’s compassion by treating others with kindness and understanding, regardless of their sins or outward characteristics. He highlights the importance of not being judgmental or self-righteous but instead lifting and edifying others.

In our lifelong quest to follow Jesus Christ, His example of kindness to those who sin is particularly instructive.

We, who are sinners, must, like the Savior, reach out to others with compassion and love.

What example did the Savior set in treating others with compassion?
Why is it important not to be judgmental or self-righteous?
How can emulating the Savior’s compassion help us in our relationships with others?
What steps can you take to be more compassionate towards others, especially those who are struggling with sin?
How can you avoid being judgmental or self-righteous in your interactions?
Reflect on a situation where you showed compassion to someone. How did it affect your relationship with that person?

Understand the Savior’s Role in Our Repentance

Elder Renlund discusses the Savior’s role in our repentance, emphasizing that He came to save us from our sins, not in our sins. The Savior’s compassion and mercy draw us toward Him and motivate us to change and abide by the conditions of repentance.

The Savior came to earth to save us from our sins and, importantly, will not save us in our sins.

Through His Atonement, we are no longer satisfied with our sinful state.

What does it mean that the Savior saves us from our sins, not in our sins?
How does the Savior’s compassion motivate us to repent?
What are the conditions of repentance that we must abide by?
How can you better understand and apply the conditions of repentance in your life?
Reflect on a time when you experienced the Savior’s mercy. How did it motivate you to change?
What steps can you take to ensure you are being saved from your sins rather than in your sins?

Avoid Persecution and Bigotry

Elder Renlund warns against persecution and bigotry, encouraging members to respect others’ opinions and avoid treating others as they have been treated. He emphasizes the importance of genuine conversion, which brings meekness, lowliness of heart, and unfeigned love for others.

We must guard against bigotry that raises its ugly voice toward those who hold different opinions.

For us to ask for respect, we must be respectful.

What forms can persecution and bigotry take?
Why is it important to respect others’ opinions?
How does genuine conversion influence our treatment of others?
Reflect on a time when you felt persecuted or treated unfairly. How did it affect you?
What can you do to ensure you are being respectful and avoiding bigotry in your interactions?
How can you cultivate genuine conversion in your life to bring meekness and unfeigned love for others?

Follow the Example of the Good Shepherd

Elder Renlund concludes by urging members to follow the example of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, by showing respect to all and hatred toward none. He testifies of the Savior’s love and care for us and encourages us to mirror that love in our interactions with others.

Our Good Shepherd is unchanging and feels the same way today about sin and sinners as He did when He walked the earth.

As His disciples, let us fully mirror His love and love one another so openly and completely that no one feels abandoned, alone, or hopeless.

How does the Good Shepherd view sin and sinners?
What does Elder Renlund encourage us to do as disciples of Jesus Christ?
How can we mirror the Savior’s love in our interactions with others?
What steps can you take to follow the example of the Good Shepherd in your daily life?
Reflect on a time when you felt the Savior’s love and care. How can you extend that love to others?
How can you ensure that no one around you feels abandoned, alone, or hopeless?