Sacred Scriptures—the Foundations of Faith

Recognize the Power of Sacred Scriptures

Elder Cook discusses the irreplaceable role of the Holy Bible and the Book of Mormon in providing divine guidance and instruction. He emphasizes that these sacred texts are crucial for personal and familial spiritual growth and resilience against adversarial influences.

Books: The Original Handheld Device.

We treasure these books for their profound role in documenting God’s direction to ancient prophets and people and the guidance they provide for our own personal lives.

• The scriptures document God's direction to ancient prophets.
• They provide doctrinal direction for individuals and families.
• They are powerful in giving instruction, correction, comfort, and consolation.

• Reflect on a time when reading the scriptures provided you with comfort or guidance.
• Consider how the scriptures have played a role in your family's spiritual growth.
• Think about a moment when a scripture verse helped you make a difficult decision.

Embrace the Role of Scriptures in Conversion

Elder Cook shares examples of how the scriptures have been pivotal in the conversion process for individuals and families, highlighting the enduring impact of the Book of Mormon in fostering faith and testimony.

The scriptures, combined with spiritual inspiration from the Holy Spirit, continue to be the primary source that facilitates the conversion of those who have broken hearts and contrite spirits and desire to follow Jesus Christ.

• New converts have been the lifeblood of the Church.
• The Book of Mormon is crucial in the conversion process.
• Reading and praying about the Book of Mormon can confirm its truth.

• Recall a conversion story you have witnessed or been part of.
• Think about how the Book of Mormon has strengthened your testimony.
• Share an experience where you felt the Spirit while reading the scriptures.

Understand the Complementary Nature of the Bible and the Book of Mormon

Elder Cook explains how the Bible and the Book of Mormon together provide a comprehensive understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ, particularly in their teachings about the Atonement.

In many significant respects, the Book of Mormon provides fundamental doctrine that enhances and builds upon the Bible.

• The Bible and the Book of Mormon are complementary.
• The Book of Mormon is explicit about the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
• Both scriptures are essential for understanding the gospel.

• Consider how understanding both the Bible and the Book of Mormon has deepened your faith.
• Share a time when a teaching from one of these scriptures clarified a gospel principle for you.
• Reflect on how the Atonement has been explained to you through these sacred texts.

Utilize Technology Wisely in Gospel Study

Elder Cook acknowledges the benefits and risks of modern technology in accessing gospel materials, urging members to use digital resources wisely and avoid content that could undermine faith.

While the internet provides many blessings, unfortunately, it has also been used to create doubt and undermine faith in precious gospel principles.

• The internet is a powerful tool for gospel study.
• Be intentional about what you view online.
• Avoid content that destroys faith and impairs eternal progression.

• Reflect on how you use technology to enhance your scripture study.
• Share an experience where you encountered faith-affirming content online.
• Consider how you can be more intentional about your digital media consumption.

Return to the Covenant Path through Scriptures and Prophetic Guidance

Elder Cook urges those who have strayed from the covenant path to return to the scriptures and prophetic teachings, emphasizing their role in spiritual renewal and progression.

My counsel for those who have in any way deviated from the covenant path is to return to the sacred scriptures, prophetic guidance, religious observance in the home, and the music of faith.

• The scriptures are a major way to return to the covenant path.
• Prophetic guidance is essential for spiritual renewal.
• Every soul is precious, and the Lord needs you.

• Think about a time when returning to the scriptures helped you realign with the covenant path.
• Share how prophetic counsel has guided you in times of spiritual struggle.
• Reflect on the importance of the scriptures in your daily spiritual practices.