And We Talk of Christ
Gary E. Stevenson, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Elder Stevenson emphasizes the importance of centering our lives on Jesus Christ and celebrating His Resurrection.
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Topics
Embrace the Light of Christ
Elder Stevenson shares a personal story about how a small picture of the Savior changed the demeanor of a customs officer, illustrating the profound impact of the Light of Christ in connecting people.
This small picture of the Savior connected the hearts of two otherwise disconnected strangers.
It transformed the impersonal to personal, capturing the beauty, the miracle, and the reality of the Light of Jesus Christ.Key Points:
- A simple image of Christ can change interactions and attitudes.
- The Light of Christ can connect people in unexpected ways.
- Reflect on a time when you felt the Light of Christ in a difficult situation.
- Share an experience where a simple act of faith changed someone's perspective.
- Consider how you can carry the Light of Christ with you in daily interactions.
Proclaim Christ's Role in Our Lives
Elder Stevenson emphasizes the importance of speaking, teaching, and testifying of Jesus Christ as central to our faith and identity as members of His Church.
We talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, [and] we prophesy of Christ.
We teach that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.Key Points:
- Christ is the cornerstone of our faith and Church.
- We are commanded to hear Him and come unto Christ.
- Through Christ's Atonement, we can be forgiven and return to God.
- Describe a moment when you felt prompted to speak about Christ.
- How has teaching about Christ strengthened your testimony?
- Share a time when you felt joy in Christ's teachings.
Focus on Christ-Centered Traditions
Elder Stevenson discusses recent Church initiatives to center our worship and traditions on Jesus Christ, including changes to how we celebrate Easter.
We have been encouraged to move to a higher and holier celebration of Easter.
Adding an intentional spiritual dimension that focuses on Jesus Christ and His Atonement to our celebration has brought a sweet balance.Key Points:
- The Church has made adjustments to focus more on Christ.
- Easter should be a season of remembrance, not just a day.
- Christ-centered celebrations can enhance our spiritual experiences.
- How have you made your Easter celebrations more Christ-centered?
- What traditions have you found help your family focus on the Savior?
- Describe a spiritual experience during a Church holiday.
Celebrate the Resurrection
Elder Stevenson reaffirms the literal Resurrection of Jesus Christ as a cornerstone of our faith and highlights the importance of celebrating this event.
The Resurrection means that all who have ever lived will be resurrected, and the Resurrection is literal.
Jesus Christ broke the bands of death for every living soul.Key Points:
- The Resurrection is a literal event, central to our beliefs.
- It represents the victory over death and the promise of eternal life.
- Celebrating the Resurrection strengthens our faith in Christ's power.
- Share your thoughts on the significance of the Resurrection.
- How does the promise of resurrection impact your daily life?
- Reflect on a time when the doctrine of resurrection brought you comfort.
Strengthen Bonds with Christ
Elder Stevenson concludes with a testimony that intentional commemoration of Easter strengthens our relationship with Jesus Christ.
All who accept the invitations from our living prophet and his counselors to more intentionally commemorate the holy events that Easter represents will find that their bond with Jesus Christ grows ever stronger.
He is risen and that He lives.Key Points:
- Commemorating Easter helps us grow closer to Christ.
- Intentional actions and traditions can deepen our faith.
- Our testimony of the living Christ is vital to our spiritual growth.
- How has your testimony of the Resurrection grown over time?
- Describe a family tradition that helps you feel closer to Christ.
- What steps can you take to strengthen your bond with the Savior?
