Lesson Prepration Guide for "Miracles, Angels, and Priesthood Power"

In his talk, Elder Shayne M. Bowen of the Seventy testifies of the ongoing existence of miracles, the presence of angels, and the power of the priesthood in our lives. Using personal experiences and stories from his family history, he illustrates how these divine principles and powers have influenced his life and the lives of others. He emphasizes the importance of priesthood keys, the blessings they bring, and their role in the restoration and ongoing leadership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin the lesson by asking class members to share a time they experienced or witnessed a miracle in their life.
Start by reading the scripture Moroni 7:37, which talks about God being a God of miracles, and ask class members for their thoughts.
Ask the class to share their thoughts on the existence of angels and miracles in our day.
Invite class members to discuss their understanding of priesthood power and how it has been a blessing in their lives.

Topics

Restoration of Priesthood Keys and Their Continuation

Elder Bowen testifies of the restoration of the priesthood keys and their continuation from prophet to prophet. He emphasizes the importance of these keys in leading the Savior’s Church and in the administration of sacred ordinances.

I testify that the ancient keys of the priesthood have been restored. Peter, James, and John and other ancient prophets appeared as resurrected beings, bestowing upon the Prophet Joseph Smith what the Lord described as “the keys of my kingdom, and a dispensation of the gospel.”

Why is it important that priesthood keys have been restored?
How does the existence of priesthood keys impact the operation of the Church?
What are some of the blessings we receive through the restored priesthood keys?
How can we better appreciate and utilize the blessings of the priesthood in our lives?
Can you share a personal experience where priesthood keys were utilized for your benefit?

The Power of the Holy Ghost and Patriarchal Blessings

Elder Bowen shares a personal experience of how the Holy Ghost comforted him in a time of distress and how his patriarchal blessing provided assurance and peace. He emphasizes the role of the priesthood in bestowing these blessings.

As I prayed, alone, behind bars, the Holy Ghost immediately came to me and comforted me. He brought to my mind a very special passage from my patriarchal blessing, which is another blessing of the priesthood.

What are some ways the Holy Ghost can comfort us in times of distress?
How can our patriarchal blessings provide guidance and assurance in our lives?
How does the priesthood play a role in these blessings?
Can you share an experience where your patriarchal blessing provided guidance or comfort?
How can we better utilize the guidance of the Holy Ghost and our patriarchal blessings in our lives?

Miracles and Ministrations through Priesthood Power

Elder Bowen testifies of miracles and ministrations that occur as a result of priesthood power. He shares personal family experiences to illustrate how God fulfills His promises, sometimes immediately and sometimes gradually.

I testify that miracles and ministrations are continually occurring in our lives, often as a direct result of priesthood power.

How have you seen miracles or ministrations occur in your life through priesthood power?
Why do you think some priesthood blessings are fulfilled immediately and others gradually?
How can we better recognize the miracles and ministrations in our lives?
Can you share a personal experience where a priesthood blessing was fulfilled in your life?
How can our faith in priesthood power influence our perception of miracles?

Seeking and Expecting Miracles

Elder Bowen encourages us to seek and expect miracles. He shares a personal experience of a miraculous event in his family, attributing the miracle to the power of the priesthood.

President Russell M. Nelson has taught us to seek and expect miracles. I testify that because the priesthood has been restored, the power and authority of God are upon the earth.

How can we cultivate an attitude of seeking and expecting miracles?
Why is it important to attribute miracles to the power of the priesthood?
Can you share a personal experience where you sought and received a miracle?
How can we help others to seek and expect miracles in their lives?
How does our faith in the restored priesthood affect our expectation of miracles?

The Blessings of Walking the Path of Covenants

Elder Bowen invites us to walk the path of covenants to receive the blessings of the priesthood, including miracles and the ministry of angels. He emphasizes the role of Church members and leaders in helping us take the next step.

If you desire the blessings of the priesthood, including miracles and the ministry of angels, I invite you to walk the path of covenants God has made available to each of us.

What does it mean to walk the path of covenants?
How does walking the path of covenants lead to the blessings of the priesthood?
Can you share a personal experience where keeping a covenant led to a blessing?
How can we help others to walk the path of covenants?
How can we better honor our covenants to receive the blessings of the priesthood?

Additional Discussion Questions

How can we strengthen our faith in the restored priesthood?
How does the priesthood power influence our daily lives?
What can we do to better understand the significance of our patriarchal blessings?
How can we support others in their journey of walking the path of covenants?
What can we do to seek and recognize miracles in our lives?
How does understanding the restoration of priesthood keys strengthen your testimony?
How does the Holy Ghost support us in our journey of faith?
How can we better prepare ourselves to receive the blessings of the priesthood?
In what ways can we help others recognize the miracles in their lives?
How does our understanding of priesthood power influence our actions and decisions?