Study Guide for "Days Never to Be Forgotten"

Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles delivered a profound message during General Conference, reflecting on the pivotal decade from 1820 to 1830 in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He draws parallels between that foundational period and the potential of the upcoming decade (2024-2034) to be equally momentous. Elder Stevenson invites members, especially the rising generation, to embrace opportunities to share the gospel and live their faith, promising that these efforts will lead to "days never to be forgotten."

Before Reading

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

What significant events occurred between 1820 and 1830 in the Church's history?
Why does Elder Stevenson believe the upcoming decade could be as momentous as the founding decade?
How can members of the Church actively participate in making the next decade memorable?
What are the four divinely appointed responsibilities mentioned by Elder Stevenson?
How does the phrase "glad tidings" relate to the gospel of Jesus Christ?

Topics

Recognize the Importance of Our Decade

Elder Stevenson emphasizes the significance of the upcoming decade (2024-2034) as a period of great opportunities for the Church and its members. He highlights events such as temple dedications, the bicentennial of the Church's organization, and the Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, which will provide unique chances to share the gospel and serve others.

May I be so bold as to suggest that this year we have commenced a decade that may prove to be as momentous as any that has followed that unparalleled founding decade almost two centuries ago.

These upcoming moments will provide members of the Church everywhere with increased opportunities to share the glad tidings of the gospel of Jesus Christ through word and deed, a decade never to be forgotten.

What significant events does Elder Stevenson foresee occurring in the next decade?
How does Elder Stevenson suggest these events will impact the Church and its members?
How can you prepare to participate in the upcoming decade's events?
What personal goals can you set to make this decade memorable for you and those around you?

Understand the Meaning of Glad Tidings

Elder Stevenson explains the phrase "glad tidings" as joy and happiness linked with the gospel of Jesus Christ. He highlights its Greek origin, "euangelion," meaning "good news" or "gospel," and stresses that true happiness is found through the gospel and its message of salvation.

Happiness and joy in this life and the next are always linked with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

This message of the glad tidings of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the most important message on earth.

What does the phrase "glad tidings" mean according to Elder Stevenson?
How is joy connected to the gospel of Jesus Christ?
How can you share the "glad tidings" of the gospel in your daily life?
Reflect on a time when you experienced joy through living the gospel. How did it impact you?

Empower the Rising Generation

Elder Stevenson speaks directly to the youth, emphasizing their unique role and potential in the coming decade. He encourages them to live the gospel, serve others, share the gospel, and unite families, assuring them that they have been reserved for this time to build up Zion.

You have the strength and capacity to be disciples of Christ in an unprecedented way.

God has reserved spirits for this dispensation who have the courage and determination to face the world and all the powers of the evil one.

What unique role does Elder Stevenson attribute to the rising generation?
How can the youth prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the next decade?
What personal strengths can you develop to contribute to building Zion?
In what ways can you be a light unto the world as a disciple of Christ?

Fulfill Divinely Appointed Responsibilities

Elder Stevenson outlines four divinely appointed responsibilities for members: living the gospel, caring for those in need, inviting others to receive the gospel, and uniting families for eternity. He emphasizes that these can be accomplished in normal and natural ways, promising unforgettable experiences for those who embrace them.

Prophets of God have taught us this is done through four simple activities, referred to as divinely appointed responsibilities.

I promise you this will be a decade never to be forgotten for you if you embrace these four divinely appointed responsibilities.

What are the four divinely appointed responsibilities mentioned by Elder Stevenson?
Why are these responsibilities important for members of the Church?
How can you incorporate these responsibilities into your daily routine?
Reflect on how fulfilling these responsibilities has brought joy into your life.

Prepare for Unforgettable Experiences

Elder Stevenson concludes by encouraging members to approach the Lord with sincerity and intent, promising that those who do will receive celestial blessings and have experiences "never to be forgotten." He assures members of God's love and the potential for spiritual growth and witness.

As we do so, the Lord will bless us with experiences never to be forgotten.

You will experience days never to be forgotten.

What does Elder Stevenson promise to those who sincerely seek the Lord?
How can members experience "days never to be forgotten"?
What steps can you take to approach the Lord with a sincere heart and real intent?
Journal about a spiritual experience that has been unforgettable for you. How did it strengthen your faith?