Shepherding Souls
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What does Elder Stevenson say about the impact of small efforts in ministering?
- How does Elder Stevenson describe the role of a shepherd in a spiritual context?
- What are some challenges and rewards associated with ministering to lost sheep?
- How does Elder Stevenson connect the principles of ministering to the teachings of Jesus Christ?
Topics
Recognize the Power of Small Efforts in Ministering
Elder Stevenson shares a story about Elder Carlos A. Godoy to illustrate how small acts of ministering can have significant, eternal consequences. He emphasizes that Heavenly Father can magnify our simple, daily efforts into something miraculous.
Isn’t it remarkable how such small efforts can have eternal consequences?
Heavenly Father can take our simple, daily efforts and turn them into something miraculous.
- What example does Elder Stevenson use to show the impact of small efforts in ministering?
- How does Heavenly Father magnify our daily efforts in ministering?
- Can you recall a time when a small act of kindness had a significant impact on you or someone else?
- What small, daily efforts can you make to minister to those around you?
Understand the True Spirit of Ministering
Elder Stevenson explains that ministering is more than just being nice; it involves serving as the Savior would, with love and dedication. He highlights that true ministering can have a far-reaching influence for good.
Ministering is more than "just being nice."
Done in the Lord’s way, ministering can have a far-reaching influence for good that ripples throughout all eternity.
- What does Elder Stevenson say about the difference between being nice and true ministering?
- How can ministering in the Lord’s way influence others?
- How can you ensure that your ministering efforts go beyond just being nice?
- What steps can you take to minister as the Savior would?
Emulate the Good Shepherd
Elder Stevenson draws parallels between the Savior as the Good Shepherd and our role in ministering. He emphasizes that just as a shepherd knows and cares for each sheep, we must also know and care for those we minister to.
The Lord Jesus Christ Himself said, "I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, … and I lay down my life for the sheep."
The Lord—our Shepherd—will minister to us. He will restore our souls.
- How does Elder Stevenson describe the Savior’s role as the Good Shepherd?
- What responsibilities do we have as shepherds in ministering to others?
- In what ways can you get to know and care for those you are assigned to minister to?
- How can you seek the Lord’s guidance in your ministering efforts?
Recognize the Importance of Finding Lost Sheep
Elder Stevenson underscores the importance of seeking out and ministering to those who have strayed from the flock. He shares stories of shepherds and sheepdogs who diligently search for and protect lost sheep, drawing a parallel to our spiritual responsibilities.
The sooner they found lost sheep, before the sheep drifted too far from the flock, the less likely the sheep were to be harmed.
Our greatest challenges and our greatest rewards may come as we minister to lost sheep.
- Why is it important to seek out and minister to those who have strayed from the flock?
- What lessons can we learn from the story of the determined dog that stayed with the lost sheep?
- Who in your life might be considered a "lost sheep" and in need of your ministering efforts?
- What actions can you take to help bring someone back to the safety of the flock?
Realize the Eternal Significance of Ministering
Elder Stevenson emphasizes that ministering is of great value to Heavenly Father and is central to His work and glory. He encourages us to see ministering as an eternal endeavor with significant spiritual rewards.
Every soul is precious to our Heavenly Father. His personal invitation to minister is of greatest value and importance to Him, for it is His work and glory.
He does not expect us to perform miracles. He asks only that we bring our brothers and sisters unto Him, for He has the power to redeem souls.
- What does Elder Stevenson say about the eternal significance of ministering?
- How does ministering relate to Heavenly Father’s work and glory?
- How can you view your ministering efforts as part of an eternal work?
- What can you do to bring your brothers and sisters closer to the Savior?
