Study Guide for "Trusting the Doctrine of Christ"

In his talk, Elder Evan A. Schmutz discusses the importance of trusting in the doctrine of Christ and how it can deeply influence our lives. He emphasizes the power of faith, repentance, prayer, and the atonement of Jesus Christ. He also shares a powerful story of a couple who, despite their serious health challenges, find hope and peace in the doctrine of Christ.

Before Reading

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

What does it mean to trust in the doctrine of Christ?
How does Elder Schmutz suggest we can deepen our conversion to the Lord?
What changes might occur in our lives if we fully trust the doctrine of Christ?
What is the story of Travis and Kacie, and how does it relate to the doctrine of Christ?
What is the relationship between suffering and becoming perfected in Christ?

Topics

Understanding the Doctrine of Christ

Elder Schmutz emphasizes the importance of understanding the doctrine of Christ. He refers to Nephi's writings and President Nelson's teachings to underline its significance. The doctrine of Christ encompasses faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end.

Nephi’s treatise on the doctrine of Christ is a treasure to those who feast upon it.

More than anything else, we want our missionaries … to have the doctrine of Christ engraved in their hearts—rooted … in the marrow of their bones.

What are the key elements of the doctrine of Christ?
Why is the doctrine of Christ significant for our spiritual journey?
How can you better engrave the doctrine of Christ in your heart?
What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of the doctrine of Christ?

Living the Doctrine of Christ

Elder Schmutz discusses how trusting in the doctrine of Christ can influence the way we live our lives. He suggests that such trust leads to lifelong study of Christ's teachings, sincere and regular prayer, and the limiting of worldly distractions.

If we trust the doctrine of Christ, we will trust Christ enough to live by His every word.

If we trust the doctrine of Christ, we will approach our Heavenly Father every day in humble, secret prayer.

If we trust the doctrine of Christ, we will set aside the shiny things of the world so that we can focus on the Redeemer of the world.

How does trusting in the doctrine of Christ influence our daily actions?
What are some ways we can show our trust in the doctrine of Christ?
What changes can you make in your daily routine to better live the doctrine of Christ?
How can you improve your prayer life to deepen your trust in the doctrine of Christ?

Experiencing Joy through Repentance

Elder Schmutz talks about the joy of sincere repentance and how it allows us to access the Atonement of Christ. He emphasizes that repentance not only cleanses us from sin but also strengthens us.

Sincere repentance will become a joyful part of our lives—both to be forgiven for sin and to be changed in the image of Christ.

When the Savior forgives, He “does more than cleanse [us] from sin. He also gives [us] new strength.”

Why is repentance a joyful part of our lives?
How does repentance give us new strength?
How has repentance brought joy into your life?
In what ways have you felt strengthened through repentance?

Finding Strength in Christ

Elder Schmutz shares a story of a couple, Travis and Kacie, who despite their serious health challenges, find strength, hope, and peace in the doctrine of Christ. Their trust in Christ and His promises helps them face their trials with optimism and peace.

Travis and Kacie trust the doctrine of Christ and the promise that God “shall consecrate [their] afflictions for [their] gain.”

In God’s perfect plan, suffering with faith in Christ is linked to our becoming perfected in Christ.

How did Travis and Kacie find strength in the doctrine of Christ?
What is the link between suffering with faith in Christ and becoming perfected in Christ?
How has the doctrine of Christ helped you in your trials?
How can you better trust in Christ and His promises during challenging times?

Building Our Lives on the Doctrine of Christ

Elder Schmutz concludes by inviting us to build our lives upon the doctrine of Christ. He testifies that trusting the doctrine of Christ and coming unto Him leads to eternal life.

With all my heart, I invite you to trust the doctrine of Christ and build your lives upon the rock of the Redeemer.

When we have built our houses on the foundation of a covenantal relationship with Christ, we are trusting the doctrine of Christ, and as we come unto Him, we have His promise of eternal life.

What does it mean to build our lives upon the doctrine of Christ?
How does trusting the doctrine of Christ lead to eternal life?
What steps can you take to build your life more firmly on the doctrine of Christ?
How can you strengthen your covenantal relationship with Christ?