Study Guide for "The Heart of a Prophet"

In his General Conference talk, "The Heart of a Prophet," Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shares his profound experiences and observations surrounding the recent calling and sustaining of President Russell M. Nelson as the prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Elder Stevenson reflects on the divine process of prophetic succession, the Christlike qualities of President Nelson, and the sacred nature of a solemn assembly. This talk provides deep insights into the continuity of prophetic leadership and the significant role of a prophet in guiding the Church and its members.

Before Reading

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

What are the key stages in the process of calling and sustaining a new prophet in the Church?
How does Elder Stevenson describe the qualities and characteristics of President Russell M. Nelson?
What is the significance of a solemn assembly in the context of the Church?
How does the concept of a Christlike heart manifest in the life and ministry of President Nelson?

Topics

Understand the Passing of a Prophet

Elder Stevenson begins by discussing the passing of President Thomas S. Monson and the feelings of loss that accompany the departure of a beloved prophet. He emphasizes the continuity of leadership in the Church, quoting President Spencer W. Kimball to illustrate how the work of the Lord is unceasing and the Church is never without guidance.

The hallmark of his life, like the Savior’s, will be his individual concern in reaching out to the poor, the sick—even all individuals—worldwide.

As one star sinks behind the horizon, another comes into the picture, and death spawns life.

What emotions are typically felt by members of the Church when a prophet passes away?
How does the Church ensure continuity of leadership after a prophet's passing?
How have you found comfort and hope in the process of prophetic succession?
In what ways can you honor the legacy of past prophets in your daily life?

Recognize the Apostolic Interregnum

Elder Stevenson explains the period known as the "apostolic interregnum," which is the time between the death of a prophet and the reorganization of the First Presidency. During this period, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, under the direction of the quorum president, holds the keys to administer the Church.

There is always a head in the Church, and if the Presidency of the Church are removed by death or other cause, then the next head of the Church is the Twelve Apostles, until a presidency is again organized.

What is the role of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles during the apostolic interregnum?
How is the new First Presidency reorganized?
What have you learned about the importance of apostolic leadership during times of transition?
How can you sustain and support the leaders of the Church in your personal prayers and actions?

Witness the Calling of a New Prophet

Elder Stevenson describes the sacred process of calling a new prophet. This includes the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles gathering in a spirit of fasting and prayer to sustain the new First Presidency and the new prophet, President Russell M. Nelson. The process is marked by unity, unanimity, and an outpouring of the Spirit.

I offer to you my absolute witness that the will of the Lord, for which we fervently prayed, was powerfully manifest in the activities and events of that day.

What steps are involved in the calling and sustaining of a new prophet?
How does the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ensure unity and unanimity in this process?
Reflect on a time when you felt the Spirit confirm the calling of a Church leader. How did that experience strengthen your testimony?
How can you prepare yourself spiritually to sustain and follow the prophet?

Participate in a Solemn Assembly

Elder Stevenson elaborates on the significance of a solemn assembly, a sacred and reverent occasion where members of the Church gather to sustain the new prophet and First Presidency. He quotes Elder David B. Haight to emphasize the spiritual preparation and the outpouring of the Spirit that accompany such events.

A solemn assembly, as the name implies, denotes a sacred, sober, and reverent occasion when the Saints assemble under the direction of the First Presidency.

What is a solemn assembly, and why is it significant in the Church?
How do members of the Church prepare for and participate in a solemn assembly?
How can you create a sense of reverence and sacredness in your personal worship?
What can you do to spiritually prepare for future solemn assemblies or other significant Church events?

Emulate the Christlike Heart of President Nelson

Elder Stevenson highlights the Christlike qualities of President Russell M. Nelson, describing his genuine love, concern for others, and exceptional way of teaching and offering correction. He shares personal experiences and observations that illustrate how President Nelson embodies a Christlike heart in his ministry and interactions.

He is the embodiment of a Christlike heart and an example to us all.

From him we learn that in any circumstance we find ourselves, our conduct and hearts can be in accordance with the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

What are some of the Christlike qualities demonstrated by President Nelson?
How does President Nelson's approach to teaching and leadership reflect the Savior's example?
In what ways can you develop a more Christlike heart in your interactions with others?
Reflect on a time when you received correction in a positive and uplifting manner. How did that experience influence your personal growth?