Study Guide for "With One Accord"

In her General Conference talk titled "With One Accord," Reyna I. Aburto, Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, uses the metaphor of monarch butterflies to illustrate the importance of unity and obedience to divine laws. She emphasizes that just as monarch butterflies navigate their long migrations together, we too can reach our heavenly home by being unified in purpose, love, and works. Her talk provides insights into how we can follow the example of Jesus Christ and His followers to create a more beautiful and fruitful world.

Before Reading

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

What can we learn from the example of monarch butterflies?
How does unity play a role in reaching our heavenly home?
What does it mean to be "with one accord" according to the scriptures?
How can we apply the principles of unity in our daily lives and communities?

Topics

Follow the Example of Monarch Butterflies

Reyna I. Aburto draws a parallel between the journey of monarch butterflies and our spiritual journey. She highlights how these butterflies, despite their fragility, navigate thousands of miles together, demonstrating unity and obedience to divine laws. This metaphor serves as a call for us to be united in our journey back to our heavenly home.

Each butterfly in a kaleidoscope is unique and different, yet these seemingly fragile creatures have been designed by a loving Creator with the ability to survive, travel, multiply, and disseminate life as they go from one flower to the next, spreading pollen.

Like the monarch butterflies, we are on a journey back to our heavenly home, where we will reunite with our Heavenly Parents.

What attributes of monarch butterflies can we emulate in our spiritual journey?
How does the unity of monarch butterflies inspire us to be more unified in our communities?
In what ways can you contribute to the unity of your family or ward?
Reflect on a time when you felt united with others in a common purpose. How did it impact you?

Be One in Purpose, Love, and Works

Aburto emphasizes the importance of being one in purpose, love, and works, following the example of Jesus Christ and His followers. She explains that being unified in these aspects allows us to receive blessings such as the Holy Ghost, miracles, and growth in the Church.

Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of unity with His Father. They are one in purpose, in love, and in works.

The Lord has commanded us, "Be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine."

What does it mean to be one in purpose, love, and works?
How did Jesus Christ and His followers demonstrate unity?
How can you align your will with the will of the Father?
What steps can you take to foster unity in your community?

Draw Closer to Jesus Christ

Aburto encourages us to draw closer to Jesus Christ to understand our purpose better and to have the love of God dwell in our hearts. She explains that as we seek a personal witness of His divine mission, we will be more united and able to minister to each other effectively.

Even though we may not have seen our Savior with our physical eyes, we can know that He lives.

As we draw closer to Him, as we seek to receive a personal witness through the Holy Ghost of His divine mission, we will have a better understanding of our purpose.

How can we draw closer to Jesus Christ?
What are the benefits of having a personal witness of Jesus Christ's divine mission?
What can you do daily to draw closer to Jesus Christ?
Reflect on a moment when you felt the presence of the Savior in your life. How did it influence you?

Minister with Love and Unity

Aburto shares examples of how unity and love can lead to effective ministering. She recounts stories of communities coming together to help those in need, illustrating the power of working "with one accord."

Miracles happen when the children of God work together guided by the Spirit to reach out to others in need.

Members and nonmembers worked together with one purpose.

What does it mean to minister with love and unity?
How can unity enhance our efforts to serve others?
Think of a time when you ministered to someone in need. How did unity play a role in that experience?
How can you encourage unity in your ministering efforts?

Counsel Together Guided by the Holy Ghost

Aburto highlights the importance of counseling together guided by the Holy Ghost to make inspired decisions. She explains that revelation is scattered among us and that by counseling together, we can see more clearly where we are and where we need to be.

When we counsel together guided by the Holy Ghost, we can see where we are and where we need to be.

Revelation is scattered among us, and when we put that revelation together, we can see more.

Why is it important to counsel together guided by the Holy Ghost?
How does collective revelation benefit us?
How can you contribute to inspired decision-making in your family or ward?
Reflect on a time when you felt guided by the Holy Ghost in a group setting. What insights did you gain?