Lesson Prepration Guide for "Praise to the Man"

In this talk, President M. Russell Ballard shares his deep love and admiration for the Prophet Joseph Smith. His words inspire gratitude for the Prophet's courage and divine calling, as well as for the Restoration of the Gospel and the blessings that have come from it. President Ballard also emphasizes the importance of supporting and sustaining our prophets, just as Joseph Smith's family did.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin the lesson by singing the hymn "Praise to the Man" together. Discuss the significance of the hymn's lyrics in relation to Joseph Smith.
Start with a brief recap of the First Vision, emphasizing the courage and faith of Joseph Smith as a young boy.
Invite a class member to share their favorite story or teaching from Joseph Smith and discuss its significance.

Topics

Recognizing the Importance of Joseph Smith's Role

President Ballard emphasized the pivotal role that Joseph Smith played in the Restoration of the gospel. He expressed gratitude for Joseph Smith's courage to pray for guidance, leading to the First Vision and the subsequent unfolding of the Restoration.

Because Jesus, our Savior and our Redeemer, spoke to the boy Joseph and opened up this dispensation of time that we now live in, we sing, "Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah!"

What are some ways we can show our gratitude for Joseph Smith's role in the Restoration?
How does understanding Joseph Smith's role enhance our appreciation for the gospel?
What are some lessons we can learn from Joseph Smith's courage and faith?
How can we apply the example of Joseph Smith's prayerful seeking in our own lives?
What impact has the Restoration had on your personal life?

Understanding Our Purpose Through the Restoration

President Ballard pointed out that through the Restoration, we gain a clear understanding of the purpose of life and our identity as children of God.

We have an understanding of the purpose of life, of who we are. We know who God is; we know who the Savior is, because we have Joseph, who went into a grove of trees as a boy, seeking forgiveness for his sins.

How has the Restoration helped you understand your purpose in life?
How can we better internalize and live according to the truths restored through Joseph Smith?
In what ways does knowing our divine identity influence our decisions and actions?
How can we help others understand their divine identity and purpose?
What are some ways we can deepen our understanding of these restored truths?

Appreciating the Book of Mormon

President Ballard highlighted the Book of Mormon as a priceless gift and another testament of Jesus Christ, made available to us through the efforts of Joseph Smith.

We have the Book of Mormon. What a marvelous and wonderful gift the Book of Mormon is to the membership of the Church. It is another witness, another testament that Jesus is the Christ. We have it because Joseph was worthy to go get the plates, was inspired by heaven to translate them by the gift and power of God and to give the book to the world.

How has the Book of Mormon strengthened your testimony of Jesus Christ?
What are some ways we can express our gratitude for the Book of Mormon?
How can the Book of Mormon help us in our daily lives?
How can we share the teachings of the Book of Mormon with others?
In what ways has the Book of Mormon brought you closer to God?

Honoring Joseph Smith's Family

President Ballard expressed gratitude for Joseph Smith's family, particularly his mother, who believed and supported him in his prophetic calling.

I would like to pay tribute this morning to his mother. I’ve always thought how wonderful it was that when Joseph came home from that experience in the Sacred Grove and told his mother what had happened, Lucy Mack Smith believed him.

How did the support of Joseph Smith's family influence his work and the Restoration?
How can we follow the example of Lucy Mack Smith in supporting our family members in their spiritual journeys?
What are some ways we can strengthen faith within our own families?
How does the example of the Smith family inspire you?
What can we learn from the faith and courage of Joseph Smith's family?

Testifying of Jesus Christ

President Ballard bore a powerful testimony of Jesus Christ, affirming His role as our Savior, Redeemer, and best friend.

I leave you my witness and testimony that I know that Jesus is the Christ. He is our Savior, our Redeemer. He is our best friend.

How has your understanding of Jesus Christ's role been influenced by the teachings of Joseph Smith?
How can we strengthen our personal testimony of Jesus Christ?
In what ways can we follow President Ballard's example in bearing testimony of Jesus Christ?
How has your relationship with Jesus Christ influenced your life?
What can we do to cultivate a closer relationship with Jesus Christ?

Additional Discussion Questions

How can we better honor Joseph Smith and his contributions to the Restoration?
What are some practical ways we can apply the teachings of Joseph Smith in our daily lives?
How can we share our testimony of Joseph Smith and the Restoration with others?
In what ways has the Restoration influenced your understanding of God's plan for His children?
How can we help our families gain a stronger testimony of the Restoration?
How has the Book of Mormon influenced your understanding of Jesus Christ?
What can we learn from Joseph Smith's perseverance in the face of adversity?
How has your life been blessed by the restored gospel?
How can we follow Joseph Smith's example of seeking divine guidance through prayer?
How can the teachings of Joseph Smith help us to become more Christlike?