Lesson Prepration Guide for "Nourish the Roots, and the Branches Will Grow"

In his General Conference talk, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf reflects on his 75-year journey of faith since being baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He shares cherished memories from his childhood in Zwickau, Germany, and emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between eternal truths and temporal matters. Elder Uchtdorf teaches that nurturing the core principles of the gospel, particularly faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, is essential for spiritual growth and resilience in the face of life's challenges.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin with a story from your own life about a place or experience that was spiritually significant, and relate it to Elder Uchtdorf's experience in Zwickau.
Show a picture of a tree and discuss what parts are visible and invisible, leading into a discussion about roots and branches.
Ask the class to think about a time when they felt their faith was most nourished and share briefly with a neighbor.
Start with a hymn that focuses on Jesus Christ and discuss how music can strengthen our testimonies.
Discuss the concept of milestones in life and invite class members to share significant spiritual milestones.

Topics

Reflect on Spiritual Milestones

Elder Uchtdorf reflected on his baptism and early spiritual experiences in Zwickau, Germany, which have been foundational in his life. He emphasized the importance of spiritual milestones in shaping our journey of discipleship.

The year 2024 is something of a milestone year for me. It marks 75 years since I was baptized and confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Zwickau, Germany.

What are some of your spiritual milestones, and how have they shaped your faith?
How can reflecting on past spiritual experiences strengthen our current faith?
What role do places and people play in our spiritual journey?
How can we create meaningful spiritual milestones for ourselves and our families?
In what ways can we help others recognize and celebrate their spiritual milestones?

Understand What Is Eternal

Elder Uchtdorf taught that distinguishing between what is eternal and what is temporary is essential for spiritual growth. Eternal truths provide a firm foundation, while temporary things may pass away.

One of the most important things we can learn in this life is the difference between what is eternal and what is not.

How can we better distinguish between eternal truths and temporary things in our lives?
Why is it important to focus on eternal principles?
How do eternal truths influence our daily decisions and relationships?
What are some examples of eternal truths that have impacted your life?
How can understanding eternal truths help us through difficult times?

Nourish the Roots of Faith

Elder Uchtdorf emphasized the importance of focusing on the core principles of faith, particularly the Atonement of Jesus Christ, as the root of our testimony. He warned against mistaking peripheral issues for foundational truths.

If you want to nourish a tree, you don’t splash water on the branches. You water the roots.

What are the core principles of our faith, and how can we focus on them?
How can we ensure that our testimonies are rooted in Christ?
What are some ways we might mistake branches for roots in our spiritual lives?
How can focusing on the Atonement of Jesus Christ strengthen our testimonies?
What practices help you nourish the roots of your faith?

Build Faith Through Personal Commitment

Elder Uchtdorf highlighted the importance of personal commitment to Jesus Christ and His gospel, independent of traditions or others" actions. He encouraged members to develop a faith that endures trials and uncertainties.

Faith is strong when it has deep roots in personal experience, personal commitment to Jesus Christ, independent of what our traditions are or what others may say or do.

How can we develop a personal commitment to Jesus Christ?
What challenges have you faced that tested your faith, and how did you respond?
How can we support others in building their personal faith?
What role do traditions play in our faith, and how can we balance them with personal commitment?
How can we strengthen our faith to endure trials and uncertainties?

The Journey of Faith Requires Patience

Elder Uchtdorf taught that faith requires ongoing effort, patience, and diligence. He encouraged members to continually nourish their testimonies and trust in the Lord’s timing.

A testimony is not something that you build once and it stands forever. It’s more like a tree that you nourish constantly.

Why is patience important in the journey of faith?
What are some ways we can continually nourish our testimonies?
How can we trust in the Lord’s timing when blessings are delayed?
What have you learned from experiences that required patience in your spiritual journey?
How can we encourage others to persist in their faith despite challenges?

Additional Discussion Questions

What does it mean to you to be part of God’s covenant people?
How can we maintain a strong testimony when physical places or symbols from our past are no longer present?
In what ways can we focus on Jesus Christ during our Church meetings and temple worship?
How can we help others distinguish between core doctrines and cultural practices?
What are some practical ways to deepen our roots in Christ?
How can we respond to skepticism or doubt in a way that strengthens our faith?
What experiences have helped you recognize the eternal nature of gospel truths?
How can we balance our hopes and expectations with trust in the Lord’s plan?
What role does service play in nourishing the roots of our faith?
How can we apply Elder Uchtdorf’s teachings to our personal scripture study and prayer?