Study Guide for "Simple Is the Doctrine of Jesus Christ"

In his General Conference talk, President Henry B. Eyring addresses the challenges faced by families as they strive to teach and uphold the simple yet profound doctrines of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the power of these doctrines to bring about repentance and righteousness, drawing on scriptural examples and personal stories to illustrate their impact. President Eyring encourages members to teach these principles with simplicity and faith, trusting in the Holy Ghost to guide and support them in their efforts.

Before Reading

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

What does President Eyring suggest is more powerful than physical weapons in the battle against wickedness?
How does President Eyring describe the doctrine of Jesus Christ?
Why is simplicity important in teaching the doctrine of Jesus Christ?
What role does the Holy Ghost play in teaching true doctrine?
How did Mary Bommeli's faith and teaching impact her family and others?

Topics

Rely on the Power of the Word of God

President Eyring emphasizes the power of the word of God, as taught by Alma in the Book of Mormon, to lead people to righteousness. He highlights that preaching the word has a more powerful effect on people's minds than physical force, and that the doctrine of Jesus Christ is central to this transformative power.

The preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just.

The word of God is the doctrine taught by Jesus Christ and by His prophets.

What did Alma believe was more effective than the sword in leading people to righteousness?
How is the doctrine of Jesus Christ described in the talk?
How can you rely more on the power of the word of God in your personal life?
In what ways can you share the doctrine of Jesus Christ with those around you?

Teach the Doctrine Simply

President Eyring advises teaching the doctrine of Jesus Christ with simplicity to ensure clarity and avoid false interpretations. He stresses that simple teaching allows the Holy Ghost to testify of truth and helps children learn foundational principles early, before they are influenced by opposing forces.

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.

Why does President Eyring emphasize simplicity in teaching the doctrine of Jesus Christ?
How can simple teaching help children in their spiritual development?
What steps can you take to simplify your teaching of gospel principles?
Reflect on a time when simple teaching helped you understand a gospel principle more clearly.

Trust the Holy Ghost in Teaching

The talk highlights the importance of trusting the Holy Ghost to guide us in teaching true doctrine. President Eyring warns against the temptation to speculate or go beyond the teachings of Christ, emphasizing that the Holy Ghost will confirm truth when we teach with caution and simplicity.

The Holy Ghost will reveal the spirit of truth only as we are cautious and careful not to go beyond teaching true doctrine.

What role does the Holy Ghost play in teaching true doctrine?
Why is it important to avoid speculation in teaching gospel principles?
How can you better invite the Holy Ghost into your teaching efforts?
Consider a teaching experience where you felt guided by the Holy Ghost. What made that experience effective?

Persevere in Teaching Despite Challenges

President Eyring acknowledges that teaching the doctrine of Jesus Christ may not always yield immediate results, but he encourages persistence and faith. He shares the story of Mary Bommeli, whose dedication to teaching the gospel influenced generations, illustrating the long-term impact of faithful teaching.

As we do our best to teach those we love about the doctrine of Jesus Christ, some may still not respond.

Her teaching the doctrine of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ had caused her to be cast into jail. And her declaring the doctrine of repentance to the judge got her cast out of jail.

What challenges might you face when teaching the doctrine of Jesus Christ?
How did Mary Bommeli's teaching impact her family and others?
What helps you to remain persistent in teaching gospel principles despite challenges?
Reflect on someone whose faith and teaching have had a lasting impact on you. How can you emulate their example?

Seek Divine Help Through Prayer

The talk encourages turning to God for support in teaching and living the doctrine of Jesus Christ. President Eyring advises praying for patience, gentleness, and strength, and promises that doing so will draw us closer to God and help us support our loved ones spiritually.

If you pray, if you talk to God, and if you plead for His help for your loved one, and if you thank Him not only for help but for the patience and gentleness that come from not receiving all you desire right away or perhaps ever, then I promise you that you will draw closer to Him.

Why is prayer important in teaching the doctrine of Jesus Christ?
What are the promised blessings of seeking divine help through prayer?
In what ways can you improve your personal prayers to seek guidance in teaching the gospel?
Reflect on a time when prayer helped you overcome a challenge in teaching or living the gospel.