Preparing for the Second Coming of Christ

Recognizing and Understanding the Signs of the Second Coming

Elder Golden discusses how the Nephites and Jews in ancient times failed to recognize and accept the signs of the coming of Christ due to their preconceived notions and beliefs. He warns that similar attitudes can prevent people today from recognizing the signs of the Second Coming.

Tragically, most Nephites rejected those signs because it was “not reasonable that such a being as a Christ [should] come.”

Regrettably, according to the scriptural record, many of the Jews, in like manner, could not accept that a man named Jesus, from the little-regarded province of Galilee, was indeed the long-awaited Messiah.

• Why did the Nephites and Jews fail to recognize the signs of Christ's coming?
• How can preconceived notions and beliefs hinder us from recognizing the signs of the Second Coming?
• How can you ensure that you are open to recognizing the signs of the Second Coming?
• What can you do to increase your understanding of the signs of the Second Coming?

The Role of Prophets in Preparing for the Second Coming

Elder Golden highlights the importance of heeding the counsel of prophets in preparing for the Second Coming. He assures that God will not do anything without revealing it to His prophets.

“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, until he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.”

In this spirit, today’s prophet of the Lord to the world, President Russell M. Nelson, has given us this recent inspiring counsel: “The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of repentance. Because of the Savior’s Atonement, His gospel provides an invitation to keep changing, growing, and becoming more pure. It is a gospel of hope, of healing, and of progress. Thus, the gospel is a message of joy! Our spirits rejoice with every small step forward we take.”

• What is the role of prophets in preparing for the Second Coming?
• What is the significance of President Nelson's counsel in the context of preparing for the Second Coming?
• How can you better heed the counsel of prophets as you prepare for the Second Coming?
• What actions can you take to keep changing, growing, and becoming more pure?

The Importance of Faith and Repentance in Preparing for the Second Coming

Elder Golden emphasizes the need for faith in Jesus Christ and continual repentance in preparation for the Second Coming. He reminds us that the gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of hope, healing, and progress.

The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of repentance. Because of the Savior’s Atonement, His gospel provides an invitation to keep changing, growing, and becoming more pure. It is a gospel of hope, of healing, and of progress. Thus, the gospel is a message of joy! Our spirits rejoice with every small step forward we take.

• Why is faith in Jesus Christ critical in preparing for the Second Coming?
• How does repentance play a role in our preparation for the Second Coming?
• What steps can you take to strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ?
• How can you make repentance an ongoing part of your life?

The State of the World in the Last Days

Elder Golden provides a sobering view of the state of the world in the last days, as described by Apostle Paul. He contrasts this with Alma's statement on how God's work is carried out, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing small and simple things.

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; … Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

“Now ye may suppose that this is foolishness in me; but behold I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise.”

• What does Apostle Paul's description of the last days tell us about the challenges we face in preparing for the Second Coming?
• How does Alma's statement contrast with Paul's description, and what does it teach us about God's work?
• How can you maintain your faith and focus on God amidst the challenges of the last days?
• What small and simple things can you do to contribute to God's work and prepare for the Second Coming?

Staying Faithful and Hopeful Despite Challenges

Elder Golden encourages members to stay faithful and hopeful despite the challenges that may come with the Second Coming. He reminds us of the joy in the gospel and the victory that awaits those who endure faithfully.

“Shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward and not backward. Courage, brethren [and, may I add, sisters]; and on, on to the victory! Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceedingly glad.”

• Why is it important to stay faithful and hopeful despite the challenges that may come with the Second Coming?
• What does Elder Golden's concluding quote suggest about our attitude towards the Second Coming?
• How can you cultivate hope and joy in your life as you prepare for the Second Coming?
• In what ways can you "go forward and not backward" in your spiritual journey?