Study Guide for "Ministering with the Power and Authority of God"

In his address, President Russell M. Nelson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasizes the significance of understanding and utilizing the power and authority of the priesthood in ministering to others. He shares personal experiences and insights to illustrate the profound impact that priesthood service can have on individuals and families. President Nelson calls on all members, especially those who hold the priesthood, to rise up and fulfill their divine responsibilities with faith, love, and dedication.

Before Reading

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

What does President Nelson say about the importance of how we serve in the Church?
How does President Nelson describe the role of women in utilizing priesthood power?
What concerns does President Nelson express regarding the understanding of priesthood power and authority?
What personal experience does President Nelson share to illustrate the power of ministering one-on-one?
How does President Nelson inspire members to rise up and fulfill their priesthood duties?

Topics

Serve Faithfully in Any Calling

President Nelson emphasizes that the Lord cares more about how we serve rather than where we serve. He expresses gratitude for the devotion and selfless service of Church members, highlighting that each calling, regardless of its nature, is equally important in the eyes of the Lord.

It really doesn’t matter where one serves. What the Lord cares about is how one serves.

What does President Nelson say is more important than the location of our service?
How does President Nelson express his gratitude for the service of Church members?
How can you ensure that you are serving faithfully in your current calling?
What actions can you take to improve how you serve in your calling?

Understand and Utilize Priesthood Power

President Nelson discusses the importance of understanding the power and authority of the priesthood. He shares concerns about members who do not fully grasp the privileges and responsibilities that come with the priesthood, and provides examples of missed opportunities to use priesthood power to bless others.

Too many of our brothers and sisters do not fully understand the concept of priesthood power and authority.

With his priesthood authority and power, he could have blessed his infant, but he did not. I thought, "What a missed opportunity!"

What concerns does President Nelson express about the understanding of priesthood power?
What examples does President Nelson provide to illustrate missed opportunities to use priesthood power?
How can you better understand the power and authority of the priesthood?
What steps can you take to ensure you do not miss opportunities to use priesthood power to bless others?

Minister with Love and Personal Connection

President Nelson shares a personal experience from his time as a resident surgeon, where he ministered to a less-active member of the Church. Through genuine interest and friendship, he was able to help the man return to full activity and eventually hold significant Church leadership positions. This story illustrates the power of ministering one-on-one with love and patience.

I gazed about the room with wonderment and said, "Brother Cox, I have always wanted to learn more about amateur radio work. Would you be willing to teach me about it?"

That was the beginning of what became a wonderful friendship.

What approach did President Nelson take to minister to Brother Cox?
What was the outcome of President Nelson's ministering efforts with Brother Cox?
How can you show genuine interest in those you are assigned to minister to?
What can you do to build strong, loving relationships with those you minister to?

Bless Others with Priesthood Power

President Nelson encourages priesthood holders to use their authority to bless others, emphasizing the assurance from the Lord that blessings given in His name will be honored. He calls on leaders to ensure that all members understand how to give priesthood blessings and to inspire them to live righteously.

We hold the holy priesthood of God! We have His authority to bless His people.

Whomsoever you bless I will bless.

What privilege do priesthood holders have according to President Nelson?
How does President Nelson suggest leaders ensure members understand how to give priesthood blessings?
How can you prepare yourself to give priesthood blessings?
What can you do to ensure you are living righteously and worthily to use priesthood power?

Rise Up and Fulfill Your Priesthood Duties

President Nelson calls on all priesthood holders to rise up and fulfill their divine responsibilities. He emphasizes the importance of preparing the world for the Second Coming of the Lord and inspires members to see their duties as part of God's mighty army.

Tonight I invite you literally to rise up with me in our great eternal brotherhood.

Think of your duty as God’s mighty army to help prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord.

What invitation does President Nelson extend to priesthood holders?
How does President Nelson inspire members to see their duties in the Church?
What steps can you take to rise up and fulfill your priesthood duties?
How can you contribute to preparing the world for the Second Coming of the Lord?