Lesson Prepration Guide for "Right Before Our Eyes"

In his General Conference talk, Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles reflects on the rapid progress of the Lord's work in our time. He emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy and the expansion of the Church across the globe. Elder Rasband invites members to recognize the "majesty of this moment" and to actively participate in the hastening of the Lord's work through temple worship, missionary service, and education. He encourages us to give equal time to the Lord in our daily lives, fostering spiritual growth and resilience against the adversary's increasing assaults.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin with a short video clip or slideshow showcasing the growth of the Church worldwide, focusing on new temples, missions, and educational opportunities.
Share a personal experience or story from your life where you witnessed the hastening of the Lord's work.
Invite a class member to share their testimony or experience related to participating in temple work or missionary service.
Start with a moment of reflection by asking the class to think about how they have seen the Church grow or change in their lifetime.
Read a scripture about the hastening of the Lord's work and discuss its relevance today.

Topics

Witnessing the Hastening of the Lord's Work

Elder Rasband emphasized that the Lord is hastening His work, which is evident in the rapid growth of the Church, the building of temples, and the increase in missionary work. He encouraged members to recognize and participate in this divine acceleration.

Do you see what is happening right before our eyes? I pray that we will not miss the majesty of this moment! The Lord is indeed hastening His work.

How have you personally witnessed the hastening of the Lord's work in your life or community?
What does it mean to you to be part of the Lord's hastening work?
In what ways can we actively participate in the Lord's hastening work?
Why do you think it is important to recognize the "majesty of this moment" as described by President Nelson?
How can acknowledging the hastening of the Lord's work strengthen our faith and testimony?

The Growth and Influence of the Church

Elder Rasband highlighted the fulfillment of Joseph Smith's prophecy about the Church's growth, noting the increase in members, temples, and educational opportunities. This growth is a testament to the Church's influence and the dedication of its members.

This Church will fill North and South America—it will fill the world.

What are some ways the Church's influence has grown in your area?
How does the growth of the Church fulfill ancient and modern prophecies?
What role do you think temples play in the Church's increasing influence?
In what ways can we contribute to the Church's growth and influence?
How does the Church's growth impact your personal faith journey?

The Importance of Temple Worship

Elder Rasband stressed the significance of temple worship in hastening our holiness. With more temples being built, members have greater opportunities to receive the highest blessings and make sacred covenants with God.

The temple opens the way to the highest blessings our Father in Heaven has for each one of us.

What blessings have you received from regular temple attendance?
Why is temple worship crucial in the Lord's hastening work?
How can we make temple worship a priority in our lives?
What are some ways to prepare ourselves for temple covenants?
How does temple worship strengthen our relationship with God?

Missionary Work and Gathering Israel

Elder Rasband shared inspiring examples of missionary work hastening the gathering of Israel, with record numbers of missionaries serving and new missions being established. This work brings souls to Jesus Christ and His gospel.

Missionary work brought over 308,000 new members into the Church.

How can we support the missionaries in our area?
What experiences have you had with missionary work that strengthened your testimony?
Why is missionary work essential in the hastening of the Lord's work?
How can we become more involved in missionary efforts?
What are some ways to share the gospel with friends and family?

Educational Opportunities and Spiritual Growth

Elder Rasband emphasized the Church's focus on education, with increasing enrollment in seminaries, institutes, and BYU–Pathway Worldwide. Education strengthens members spiritually and temporally, preparing them to withstand the adversary.

The Lord commanded ... "seek learning, even by study and also by faith."

How has your participation in Church education programs impacted your spiritual growth?
Why is education a priority in the Church?
What role does education play in preparing us for challenges from the adversary?
How can we balance secular and spiritual education in our lives?
In what ways can we encourage others to pursue educational opportunities?

Additional Discussion Questions

What does it mean to be an eyewitness of prophecy fulfillment?
How can we maintain enthusiasm for the Lord's work in our daily lives?
What are some ways to recognize the adversary's attacks and defend against them?
How can we help those who struggle with faith challenges find answers in Christ?
What does it mean to 'give the Lord equal time' in our lives?
How can we help others see the majesty of this moment in the Church's history?
What are some practical ways to let God prevail in our lives?
How can we better support the youth in their spiritual education?
What are the benefits of being part of a global Church community?
How can we use our talents and resources to assist in the Lord's hastening work?