Lesson Prepration Guide for "“I Am He”"

In his profound General Conference address, "I Am He," President Jeffrey R. Holland, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, invites us to reflect deeply on the life and mission of Jesus Christ. He paints a vivid picture of the Savior's final days and emphasizes the divine attributes and unwavering obedience of Jesus. President Holland urges us to embrace the true teachings of Christ and His love, which is characterized by grace, truth, and complete obedience to the will of the Father. This talk is a powerful reminder of the Savior's atoning sacrifice and His role as the Redeemer of the world.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin the lesson by playing a hymn that focuses on Jesus Christ, such as "I Know That My Redeemer Lives," and invite class members to share their feelings about the Savior.
Share a personal experience or a story about a time when you felt the presence of Christ in your life.
Invite a class member to read the scriptural account of Jesus's arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane and discuss the power of His declaration, "I am he."
Start with a quote from President Holland's talk and ask class members to reflect silently on what the Savior means to them.
Use a picture of Christ and ask class members to share what characteristics of Christ they see in the picture and how those characteristics influence their lives.

Topics

Christ's Declaration of Divinity

President Holland discussed the powerful moment when Jesus declared "I am he" to the soldiers, emphasizing His divine nature and authority. This declaration demonstrated that even without physical weapons, Christ's presence and voice held immense power.

As soon … as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.

What does Jesus's declaration "I am he" teach us about His divine authority?
How can we recognize and feel the presence of Christ in our own lives?
Why do you think the soldiers fell back when Jesus declared "I am he"?
In what ways can we declare our faith in Christ in our daily actions?
How does understanding Christ's divine authority strengthen your testimony?

Understanding Christ's Love and Commandments

President Holland emphasized the importance of understanding Christ's true love, which includes keeping His commandments. He warned against simplifying or trivializing Christ's teachings and highlighted the necessity of love being intertwined with obedience.

If ye love me, keep my commandments.

What does it mean to love Christ by keeping His commandments?
How can we avoid simplifying or trivializing Christ's teachings in our lives?
What are some ways we can show Christlike love to others?
Why is it important to understand the connection between love and obedience?
How can we strengthen our commitment to follow Christ's commandments?

Christ's Obedience and Sacrifice

President Holland highlighted Christ's obedience to the will of His Father, even during times of suffering and loneliness. Christ's unwavering loyalty to God's will is a model for us to follow, especially in challenging times.

I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me.

What can we learn from Christ's obedience to the Father's will?
How can we apply Christ's example of obedience in our own lives?
Why is it important to remain loyal to God's will during difficult times?
In what ways can we find strength in Christ's example of sacrifice?
How can understanding Christ's suffering help us in our personal trials?

Facing Opposition with Faith

President Holland reminded us that opposition is a part of life, even for the most faithful. He encouraged staying the course with the Church and the gospel, recognizing that opposition can strengthen our faith and commitment.

Remember that there is a force in the universe determined to oppose every good thing you try to do.

How can we stay faithful when facing opposition in our lives?
What role does opposition play in strengthening our faith?
How can we support each other in the Church when we face challenges?
Why is it important to stay committed to the gospel despite opposition?
In what ways have you experienced growth through opposition?

The Church as a Vehicle for Exaltation

President Holland testified of the Church as the vehicle for our exaltation, teaching true principles and ordinances. He affirmed the prophetic guidance of Church leaders and the importance of remaining faithful to the Church's teachings.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the vehicle God has provided for our exaltation.

How does the Church help us progress towards exaltation?
What are the fundamental principles and ordinances taught by the Church?
Why is prophetic guidance important in our journey of faith?
How can we strengthen our commitment to the Church and its teachings?
In what ways can participating in Church activities enhance our spiritual growth?

Additional Discussion Questions

What does the phrase 'Prince of Peace' mean to you in relation to Christ?
How can we cultivate a personal relationship with the Savior?
What are some ways we can better understand Christ's teachings in our daily study?
How does Christ's example of love and obedience influence your interactions with others?
What role does the Atonement play in helping us overcome personal challenges?
How can we support each other in living the two great commandments?
What are some practical ways to show love to our neighbors as Christ taught?
How can we ensure we are not 'cutting class' in our spiritual education?
What experiences have strengthened your testimony of Christ's divinity?
How can we prepare for the 'final exam' of our faith journey?