Study 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.

Before Reading

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

What does Elder Bowen say about the existence of miracles and angels in our lives today?
How does Elder Bowen describe the power and importance of the priesthood?
What personal experiences does Elder Bowen share to illustrate these principles?
What are the blessings we receive through the priesthood?
How does Elder Bowen testify of the restoration of the priesthood and its keys?

Topics

Understanding the Restoration and Continuation of Priesthood Keys

Elder Bowen emphasizes the restoration of the ancient keys of the priesthood through the Prophet Joseph Smith and their continuation in the Church today. He testifies of President Russell M. Nelson as the current holder and authorized exerciser of all priesthood keys.

I testify that the ancient keys of the priesthood have been restored.

Those same keys have been passed from prophet to prophet until today.

He is President Russell M. Nelson, prophet and President of the restored Church of Christ in our day: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

What are priesthood keys and why are they important?
How were the priesthood keys restored?
Who is the current holder of all priesthood keys?
How have you seen the influence of priesthood keys in your life or in the Church?
What can you do to better understand and appreciate the importance of priesthood keys?

Receiving Blessings through the Priesthood

Elder Bowen discusses the blessings we receive through the priesthood, including the power of God to help us in our lives, the ability to make sacred promises to God, and the reception of sacred ordinances. He shares personal experiences to illustrate the comfort, direction, and healing power of priesthood blessings.

Through the Savior’s Church, we receive the blessings of the priesthood—including the power of God to help us in our lives.

With hands laid on our heads, we also receive priesthood blessings, including direction, comfort, counsel, healing, and the power to follow Jesus Christ.

Throughout my life I have been blessed by this great power. As it has been revealed in scripture, we refer to it as the power of the holy Melchizedek Priesthood.

What are some of the blessings we receive through the priesthood?
How can priesthood blessings provide direction, comfort, and healing in our lives?
How have you experienced the blessings of the priesthood in your life?
What can you do to more fully appreciate and seek these blessings?

Recognizing the Miracles and Ministrations in Our Lives

Elder Bowen testifies of the ongoing presence of miracles and ministrations in our lives, often as a result of priesthood power. He shares examples from his family history and personal experiences to illustrate this principle.

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

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.

What does Elder Bowen mean when he talks about miracles and ministrations?
How can priesthood power contribute to these experiences?
Can you identify a time when you experienced a miracle or ministration in your life?
How can you seek and expect miracles in your life?

Experiencing the Ministry of Angels

Elder Bowen testifies of the presence of angels, both heavenly and earthly, in our lives. He shares personal experiences where he felt the influence and assistance of angels.

Those who lifted the van off of Emily observed that the van seemed to weigh nothing. I knew that heavenly angels had joined with earthly angels to lift the vehicle off of Emily’s body.

The Lord revealed this truth to His servants: "I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up."

What does Elder Bowen teach about the ministry of angels?
How can both heavenly and earthly angels assist us in our lives?
Have you ever felt the influence or assistance of an angel in your life?
How can you seek and recognize the ministry of angels?

Walking the Path of Covenants

Elder Bowen invites us to walk the path of covenants God has made available to us in order to receive the blessings of the priesthood, including miracles and the ministry of angels. He emphasizes the role of Church members and leaders in assisting us in taking 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.

Members and leaders of the Church who love you will help you take the next step.

What does it mean to walk the path of covenants?
How can walking this path lead to the blessings of the priesthood?
How are you currently walking the path of covenants?
What can you do to better fulfill your covenants and seek the associated blessings?