Simple Is the Doctrine of Jesus Christ
Henry B. Eyring, Second Counselor in the First Presidency
President Eyring encourages teaching the simple doctrine of Jesus Christ for spiritual strength and protection.
Open talk in Gospel LibraryIdeas for Opening the Lesson
- Begin by asking the class to reflect on a time when they felt the power of simple, doctrinal teachings in their life. Invite a few to share their experiences.
- Share a personal story or a story from church history where simple teachings made a significant impact, setting the stage for discussing the power of the doctrine of Jesus Christ.
- Pose a rhetorical question about the challenges of teaching in today's world and how simplicity in doctrine can be a powerful tool, encouraging members to think about their own teaching experiences.
- Invite the class to ponder on the role of the Holy Ghost in teaching and learning the doctrine of Christ. Discuss how simplicity in teaching can enhance the Spirit's influence.
- Play a short video or show an image that depicts a simple act of teaching or learning, and ask the class to identify the elements of simplicity in it.
Topics
Rely on the Power of Doctrine
President Eyring emphasized the power of the doctrine of Jesus Christ to influence and change lives. He recounted how Alma chose to preach the word of God, recognizing its greater power over the sword in leading people to righteousness.
And now, as the preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just—yea, it had … more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else, which had happened unto them.
- Why did Alma choose to rely on the word of God instead of the sword?
- How have you seen the power of doctrine influence your life or the lives of others?
- What are some ways we can better rely on the doctrine of Jesus Christ in our daily challenges?
- How does understanding the power of doctrine change our approach to teaching it?
- Why might we underestimate the power of simple doctrinal teachings?
Teach with Simplicity
President Eyring taught that teaching with simplicity is vital to avoid false doctrine and to ensure that the Holy Ghost can testify of truth. Simple teachings help children and others receive the doctrine before they are overwhelmed by worldly influences.
One of the surest ways to avoid even getting near false doctrine is to choose to be simple in our teaching. Safety is gained by that simplicity, and little is lost.
- What challenges might we face when trying to teach simply?
- How can simplicity in teaching help the Holy Ghost to testify of the truth?
- What are some examples of simple teachings that have had a profound impact on you?
- In what ways can we simplify our teaching to better reach those we love?
- How can we balance simplicity with the depth of doctrine?
The Importance of Sharing Doctrine Early
President Eyring highlighted the importance of teaching the doctrine of Jesus Christ early in life, before opposing influences become too strong. He shared examples from his family history to illustrate the lasting impact of early teachings.
Teaching simply allows us to share the saving doctrine early on, while children remain untouched by the deceiver’s temptations that will later confront them.
- Why is it important to teach the doctrine of Christ early in life?
- What are some ways we can seize opportunities to teach doctrine to children?
- How can early teachings prepare individuals for future challenges?
- What role do parents and family members play in early doctrinal teaching?
- How can we encourage children to remember and cherish these teachings?
Endure in Teaching Despite Challenges
President Eyring encouraged perseverance in teaching the doctrine of Christ, even when results are not immediately visible. He assured that God will support and strengthen those who continue to teach with faith and patience.
If you pray, if you talk to God, and if you plead for His help for your loved one... then I promise you that you will draw closer to Him.
- How can we maintain faith and patience when our efforts to teach don't seem to bear fruit?
- What can we learn from scriptural examples of perseverance in teaching?
- How does prayer support our efforts to teach the doctrine of Christ?
- What are some personal experiences where enduring in teaching has led to eventual positive outcomes?
- What promises does God give to those who endure in teaching His doctrine?
The Eternal Impact of Teaching Doctrine
President Eyring shared the story of his great-grandmother Mary Bommeli to illustrate how teaching the doctrine of Christ can have eternal consequences. Her dedication to teaching influenced generations and exemplified the lasting power of sharing truth.
The record of her words passed true doctrine down through generations yet unborn.
- What impact can teaching the doctrine of Christ have on future generations?
- How does Mary Bommeli's story inspire us to share the gospel despite opposition?
- What are some ways we can ensure our teachings have a lasting impact?
- How can we teach in a way that our words are remembered and cherished?
- What role does faith play in believing that our teaching efforts will have eternal significance?
Additional Discussion Questions
- How can we apply Alma's example of relying on the word of God in our modern lives?
- What are some practical ways to teach the doctrine of Christ in simple terms?
- How does the Holy Ghost assist us in teaching and learning the doctrine of Christ?
- What challenges do we face today that make simple doctrinal teaching more urgent?
- How does teaching the doctrine of Christ help us combat the influence of Satan?
- In what ways can we draw strength from the examples of faithful ancestors in teaching?
- How can we encourage others to embrace the simplicity of the gospel?
- What are the dangers of overcomplicating doctrinal teachings?
- How can we create environments where simple gospel teachings are cherished and shared?
- What role does personal testimony play in teaching the doctrine of Christ?
