Study Guide for "Hosanna to the Most High God"

In this talk, Elder Ronald A. Rasband draws parallels between the events of Palm Sunday 2,000 years ago and our lives as disciples of Jesus Christ today. He emphasizes the importance of prophecy, the companionship of the Holy Ghost, discipleship, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He uses his experiences in Ghana to illustrate the devotion and love for the Lord that can be found around the world.

Before Reading

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

How does Elder Rasband relate the events of Palm Sunday to our lives today?
What are the four key doctrines Elder Rasband focuses on in his talk?
How does Elder Rasband use his experiences in Ghana to illustrate his points?
What does Elder Rasband say about the importance of having "oil" in our lamps?

Topics

Understanding the Importance of Prophecy

Elder Rasband emphasizes the importance of prophecy, providing examples from the Old Testament and Jesus Christ's own words predicting His Resurrection.

First, prophecy. For example, Old Testament prophet Zechariah prophesied of Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, even describing He would ride on a donkey.

Jesus foretold His Resurrection as He prepared to enter the city, saying: "Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death..."

Why is prophecy important in our faith?
How did the fulfillment of Zechariah's prophecy strengthen the faith of the people in Jerusalem?
What impact does Jesus's prophecy about His own Resurrection have on our understanding of His divine mission?
How have prophecies strengthened your testimony?
How can understanding prophecies better prepare us for future events?

Recognizing the Companionship of the Holy Ghost

Elder Rasband discusses the role of the Holy Ghost in guiding us and providing peace. He emphasizes that the Holy Ghost helps us know the truth of all things.

Second, the companionship of the Holy Ghost. Joseph Smith taught, "No man can know that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost."

With the gift of the Holy Ghost, we have that same assurance—that we "may always have his Spirit to be with [us]" and "by the power of the Holy Ghost [we] may know the truth of all things."

What role does the Holy Ghost play in our lives?
How does the Holy Ghost help us know the truth of all things?
How have you felt the companionship of the Holy Ghost in your life?
In what ways have you been guided by the Holy Ghost?
How can you better invite the companionship of the Holy Ghost?

Embracing Discipleship

Elder Rasband discusses the concept of discipleship, emphasizing that it requires unfailing commitment, obedience to eternal laws, and love of God. He warns against being fair-weather followers who quickly turn away when trials come.

Third, discipleship. True discipleship is unfailing commitment, obedience to eternal laws, and love of God, first and foremost. Nothing wavering.

But the adulation for many did not last. Some who earlier had shouted, "Hosanna," soon turned and cried, "Crucify him."

What does it mean to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ?
What are the dangers of being a fair-weather follower?
In what ways are you striving to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ?
How can you strengthen your commitment to discipleship, especially during trials?

Appreciating the Atonement of Jesus Christ

Elder Rasband emphasizes the importance of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, reminding us of the events of the last week of Christ's mortal ministry. He challenges us to continually be grateful for this incomparable gift.

Fourth, the Atonement of Jesus Christ. In His final days, following Palm Sunday, He carried out His remarkable Atonement, from the agony of Gethsemane to the mockery of His trial, His torture on the cross, and His burial in a borrowed tomb.

Are we continually grateful for the incomparable Atonement of Jesus Christ? Do we feel its purifying power, right now?

What is the Atonement of Jesus Christ?
Why should we be continually grateful for the Atonement?
How has the Atonement of Jesus Christ impacted your life?
What can you do to better appreciate and utilize the Atonement in your life?

Being Prepared with "Oil" in Our Lamps

Elder Rasband uses the parable of the ten virgins to illustrate the importance of being prepared with "oil" in our lamps. He explains that this "oil" comes from believing and acting on prophecy, hearing and feeling the Holy Ghost, loving the Lord and what He loves, and repenting and seeking the healing of the Atonement.

We, like the ten virgins, have lamps; but do we have oil?

Oil comes from believing and acting on prophecy and the words of living prophets, President Nelson in particular, his counselors, and the Twelve Apostles.

Oil pours into our hearts when our choices show we love the Lord and we love what He loves. Oil comes from repenting and seeking the healing of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

What does the "oil" in our lamps represent?
How can we fill our lamps with "oil"?
How full is your "lamp" right now?
What can you do to ensure that your "lamp" is always full of "oil"?