“Ye Are My Friends”
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What does Elder Buckner identify as the key example for unity and love?
- How does the Savior define His relationship with His followers?
- What experiences does Elder Buckner share to illustrate the importance of unity?
- How can we develop a sense of belonging within the Church?
- What invitation does Elder Buckner extend to those who feel they do not belong?
Topics
Recognize Jesus Christ as the Great Unifier
Elder Buckner emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of unity, love, and belonging. In a world filled with division, Christ's teachings and example provide a path to higher and holier relationships.
I testify that He is the great unifier.
The Savior pled, "Be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine."
- Why is Jesus Christ referred to as the great unifier?
- How does the Savior's example help us overcome division?
- In what ways can you strive to be a unifier in your community?
- Reflect on a time when you felt united with others through Christ. What made that experience meaningful?
Embrace the Savior’s Friendship
Elder Buckner highlights the sacred relationship the Savior offers by calling us His friends. This divine friendship is meant to elevate and exalt us, fostering unity and belonging among God's children.
Ye are they whom my Father hath given me; ye are my friends.
Ye are my friends as a clarion call to build higher and holier relationships.
- What does it mean to be called a friend by the Savior?
- How can understanding this friendship change our interactions with others?
- How can you deepen your friendship with the Savior?
- Consider your relationships. How can you emulate the Savior's friendship in them?
Cultivate Unity Among Diverse Groups
Through personal experiences, Elder Buckner illustrates how different groups can come together in unity, focusing on commonalities rather than differences. This unity is essential for overcoming challenges and fostering community.
Instead of focusing on our differences, we saw what we had in common.
There is always much more that unites us than divides us.
- How did Elder Buckner and other leaders find unity during the pandemic?
- What role does diversity play in building a unified community?
- Identify a group or community you belong to. How can you help foster unity within it?
- Reflect on a time when you overcame differences to achieve a common goal. What did you learn?
Foster a Sense of Belonging
Elder Buckner teaches that true belonging comes from being one with Christ. He shares examples of how welcoming and inviting others can create a powerful sense of belonging within the Church and community.
The essence of truly belonging is to be one with Christ.
Visitors Welcome is not enough. Do we warmly welcome all who come through the doors?
- What does it mean to truly belong in the Church?
- How can we ensure that everyone feels welcome and invited?
- What actions can you take to help others feel they belong?
- Reflect on how you can improve your efforts to welcome newcomers in your congregation.
Live Your Faith Daily
Elder Buckner emphasizes that living our faith involves more than attending church on Sundays. It requires daily actions that reflect Christ's teachings, allowing others to see Him through us.
We must live our life so that the world does not see us but sees Him through us.
Simply sitting in a pew on Sunday doesn’t make you a good Christian.
- How can living your faith daily make a difference in the lives of others?
- Why is it important to reflect Christ in our daily interactions?
- Identify specific ways you can live your faith outside of church meetings.
- Reflect on a recent experience where you felt you truly lived your faith. What impact did it have?
