Study Guide for "Behold the Lamb of God"

In his talk, "Behold the Lamb of God," Elder Jeffrey R. Holland discusses the significance of the sacrament and the importance of reverence during sacrament meetings. He emphasizes the symbolism of Jesus Christ as the "Lamb of God" and connects it to the history of sacrificial offerings in the scriptures. Elder Holland also encourages members to show more respect and love to others, particularly during the sacrament, as a way to remember Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice.

Before Reading

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

What is the significance of referring to Jesus Christ as the "Lamb of God"?
How does Elder Holland connect the history of sacrificial offerings to the sacrament?
What does Elder Holland suggest about the importance of reverence during sacrament meetings?
How can we "always remember Him" according to Elder Holland?
What is the role of the sacrament in our weekly worship?

Topics

Understanding Jesus Christ as the "Lamb of God"

Elder Holland discusses the significance of referring to Jesus Christ as the "Lamb of God". He explains how this title connects to the history of sacrificial offerings in the scriptures, symbolizing the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

John chose the earliest and perhaps most commonly recognized image in the religious tradition of his people. He used the figure of a sacrificial lamb offered in atonement for the sins and sorrows of a fallen world and all the fallen people in it.

Why did John the Baptist refer to Jesus Christ as the "Lamb of God"?
What does the "Lamb of God" symbolize?
How can understanding Jesus Christ as the "Lamb of God" deepen your appreciation of His atonement?
What can you do to remember this symbolism during the sacrament?

Reverence during Sacrament Meetings

Elder Holland emphasizes the importance of maintaining reverence during sacrament meetings. He encourages members to arrive early, dress appropriately, reduce noise, and focus on the sacredness of the sacrament.

We are to remember in as personal a way as possible that Christ died from a heart broken by shouldering entirely alone the sins and sorrows of the whole human family.

We ought to restore that tradition of Sabbath dress and grooming when and where we can.

We make an apostolic plea for the reduction of clamor in the sanctuary of our buildings.

Why is reverence important during sacrament meetings?
What suggestions does Elder Holland give to maintain reverence?
How can you improve your reverence during sacrament meetings?
What changes can you make to better focus on the sacrament?

Remembering Jesus Christ through the Sacrament

Elder Holland discusses the role of the sacrament in remembering Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice. He encourages members to reflect on their own sins and the suffering of others during this sacred ordinance.

By commandment, we gather for the most universally received ordinance in the Church.

We do have our own sins and shortcomings to resolve; that’s why we’re there.

What is the purpose of the sacrament according to Elder Holland?
How can the sacrament help us remember Jesus Christ and His atonement?
How can you make your sacrament experience more meaningful?
What can you do to better remember Jesus Christ during the sacrament?

Showing Love and Compassion to Others

Elder Holland encourages members to show more love and compassion to others, particularly during sacrament meetings. He suggests that this can be a way to "always remember Him".

Might we silently take note of that and offer our little crust of comfort and our tiny cup of compassion—might we dedicate it to them?

One way to "always remember him" would be to join the Great Physician in His never-ending task of lifting the load from those who are burdened and relieving the pain of those who are distraught.

How does Elder Holland suggest we can "always remember Him"?
Why is it important to show love and compassion to others?
How can you show more love and compassion to others during sacrament meetings?
What specific actions can you take to "always remember Him" in this way?

Connecting the History of Sacrificial Offerings to the Sacrament

Elder Holland explains how the sacrament connects to the history of sacrificial offerings in the scriptures. He discusses how these offerings symbolized the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ and how the sacrament serves a similar purpose today.

By offering their own little symbolic lambs in mortality, Adam and his posterity were expressing their understanding of and their dependence upon the atoning sacrifice of Jesus the Anointed One.

There would still be an offering, it would still involve a sacrifice, but it would be with symbolism much deeper, much more introspective and personal than the bloodletting of a firstborn lamb.

How does Elder Holland connect the history of sacrificial offerings to the sacrament?
What is the symbolism behind these sacrificial offerings and the sacrament?
How can understanding this connection deepen your appreciation of the sacrament?
What can you do to remember this symbolism during the sacrament?