Study Guide for "The Plan and the Proclamation"

In his General Conference talk, "The Plan and the Proclamation," Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles discusses the importance of understanding and adhering to God's plan of salvation. He highlights the significance of "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" as a guide for Latter-day Saints in navigating contemporary challenges to family and societal values. Elder Oaks emphasizes the eternal truths contained in the proclamation and encourages members to live by these principles to attain exaltation.

Before Reading

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

What does Elder Oaks say about the relationship between the world and the teachings of Jesus Christ?
How does Elder Oaks describe the importance of the family in God's plan?
What challenges does Elder Oaks identify for Latter-day Saints in today's world?
How was "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" developed and why is it significant?

Topics

Forsake the World to Follow God

Elder Oaks emphasizes the scriptural teachings that warn against conforming to the world and its values. He explains that the pursuit of worldly things can lead one away from the path of eternal life and exaltation.

"For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Matthew 16:26)

"We must be vigilant in a world which has moved so far from that which is spiritual." - President Thomas S. Monson

What does it mean to "forsake the world" according to Elder Oaks?
Why is it important to reject worldly values and focus on spiritual growth?
In what ways can you forsake worldly values in your daily life?
How can you strengthen your commitment to spiritual growth and eternal life?

Understanding God's Plan of Salvation

Elder Oaks explains the unique worldview that Latter-day Saints have due to their understanding of God's plan of salvation. This perspective helps them see the importance of God's commandments and the role of Jesus Christ's Atonement.

Our Savior’s Atonement reclaims us from death and, subject to our repentance, saves us from sin.

Those who strive for exaltation must make personal choices in family life according to the Lord’s way whenever that differs from the world’s way.

How does understanding God's plan of salvation influence the way Latter-day Saints live their lives?
What is the role of Jesus Christ's Atonement in God's plan?
How does your understanding of God's plan shape your daily decisions and actions?
In what ways can you better align your life with God's commandments and teachings?

The Family Proclamation as a Guide

Elder Oaks discusses "The Family: A Proclamation to the World," highlighting its role in guiding Latter-day Saints in their family life and preparation for eternal life and exaltation. He contrasts the proclamation's teachings with contemporary societal trends.

The family proclamation defines the kind of family relationships where the most important part of our eternal development can occur.

I testify that the proclamation on the family is a statement of eternal truth, the will of the Lord for His children who seek eternal life.

What are the key teachings of "The Family: A Proclamation to the World"?
Why is the family central to God's plan for the eternal destiny of His children?
How can you implement the teachings of the family proclamation in your own family life?
What steps can you take to strengthen your family relationships according to the principles outlined in the proclamation?

Challenges and Conflicts in Following God's Plan

Elder Oaks acknowledges the challenges and misunderstandings that Latter-day Saints may face when striving to live according to God's plan. He encourages members to remain steadfast and choose the Lord's way despite opposition.

"Fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings." (Isaiah 51:7)

Those who do understand are always commanded to choose the Lord’s way instead of the world’s way.

What are some of the challenges Latter-day Saints may face when following God's plan?
How can members remain steadfast in their faith despite opposition and misunderstandings?
Reflect on a time when you faced opposition for your beliefs. How did you handle it?
What strategies can you use to strengthen your resolve to follow God's plan in the face of challenges?

The Development and Significance of the Family Proclamation

Elder Oaks describes the revelatory process that led to the creation of "The Family: A Proclamation to the World." He emphasizes its significance as a statement of eternal truth and a guide for Latter-day Saints.

The inspiration identifying the need for a proclamation on the family came to the leadership of the Church over 23 years ago.

We all learned “line upon line, precept upon precept,” as the Lord has promised (D&C 98:12).

How was "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" developed?
Why is the family proclamation considered a statement of eternal truth?
How can you use the family proclamation as a guide in your own life?
What steps can you take to better understand and teach the principles of the family proclamation?