To the Friends and Investigators of the Church
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What motivated Elder Costa to meet with the missionaries initially?
- How did Elder Costa describe his first experience attending a Church meeting?
- What role did reading the Book of Mormon play in Elder Costa's conversion?
- How did Elder Costa's perspective on repentance change through his journey?
- What invitation does Elder Costa extend to friends and investigators of the Church?
Topics
Meeting the Missionaries with an Open Heart
Elder Costa shares how his initial encounter with the missionaries was driven by his love for a girl named Renee. Although his heart was initially closed to the new religion, he eventually came to understand the sacrifices missionaries make and the importance of taking their message seriously.
Once you meet the missionaries, please take them seriously; they are giving up important years of their lives just for you.
- What was Elder Costa's initial reason for meeting with the missionaries?
- How did Elder Costa's understanding of the missionaries" sacrifices change over time?
- Have you met with missionaries before? How did you approach those meetings?
- What sacrifices have you observed missionaries making in your area? How can you show appreciation for their efforts?
Finding Peace and Joy in Church Attendance
Elder Costa describes his first experience attending a Church meeting and how, despite feeling confused by unfamiliar terms, he felt peace and joy. He emphasizes the importance of remembering the spiritual feelings experienced during church meetings as they come from God.
If you are confused, don’t worry—remember the feelings you have experienced; they come from God.
- What were Elder Costa's initial impressions during his first Church meeting?
- What advice does Elder Costa give to those who feel confused during their first church meetings?
- What spiritual feelings have you experienced during church meetings?
- How can you focus on and remember the feelings of peace and joy you experience at church?
Gaining a Testimony through the Book of Mormon
Elder Costa recounts how reading the Book of Mormon was crucial in his journey to gaining a testimony. He emphasizes the importance of reading, pondering, and praying to know if the Book of Mormon is true.
When you receive these things—the Book of Mormon—and you are exhorted to read and ask God if they are true, please just do it!
- Why did Elder Costa initially feel he had not received a confirmation of the gospel's truthfulness?
- What steps did Renee encourage Elder Costa to take to gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon?
- Have you read the Book of Mormon? What was your experience?
- How can you incorporate regular reading and pondering of the Book of Mormon into your daily routine?
Experiencing the Power of Repentance
Elder Costa shares his transformative experience with repentance, guided by a missionary who helped him read Alma 42 with his name inserted into the verses. This personalized approach helped him understand the need for repentance and the positive impact it has on one's life.
Experience repentance; nothing draws you closer to the Lord Jesus Christ than a desire to change.
- How did Elder Costa's perspective on repentance change through his journey?
- What specific experience helped Elder Costa understand the importance of repentance?
- How do you view repentance? Have you experienced its positive impact in your life?
- What steps can you take to make repentance a regular part of your spiritual practice?
Embracing Baptism and Its Eternal Blessings
Elder Costa invites friends and investigators of the Church to be baptized, sharing the profound impact it has had on his life and the lives of his family. He testifies of the joy and blessings that come from baptism and living the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Go and be baptized! It is the best thing you will ever do. It will change not only your life but also the lives of your children and grandchildren.
- What invitation does Elder Costa extend to friends and investigators of the Church?
- How has baptism impacted Elder Costa's life and the lives of his family?
- What are your thoughts and feelings about baptism?
- How can you prepare yourself or help others prepare for baptism?
