Lesson Prepration Guide for "Thou Art the Christ"

In her General Conference talk, Sister Amy A. Wright, First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency, emphasizes the significance of Jesus Christ's teachings and the role they play in shaping our moral compass and spiritual journey. She shares personal experiences and insights on how belief in Christ, belonging to His Church, and striving to become like Him can transform our lives and the lives of our children. Sister Wright invites us to reflect on our discipleship and the profound impact of Jesus Christ's love and teachings in our homes and communities.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin by sharing a personal story or experience where you felt Jesus Christ's influence in your life, similar to how Sister Wright shared her son's experience.
Show a short video clip or slideshow of images depicting scenes from the Sermon on the Mount to set the stage for discussing the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Ask the class to think about a time when they had to stand firm in their beliefs, as Eli did during his law school interview, and be prepared to share their experiences.
Invite a class member to read Matthew 16:16 aloud and discuss the significance of Peter's declaration of faith.
Start with a hymn or a song that focuses on Jesus Christ, such as "I Believe in Christ," to invite the Spirit and set the tone for the lesson.

Topics

Believe in Jesus Christ

Sister Wright emphasized the importance of having faith in Jesus Christ, as demonstrated by Peter's declaration of belief. She explained that faith in Christ is foundational and leads to salvation when centered in Him.

“We believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”

How can we strengthen our belief in Jesus Christ in our daily lives?
What role does faith in Jesus Christ play in your personal spiritual journey?
How can we help children and youth develop a strong belief in Jesus Christ?
Why is it important to have a personal witness of Jesus Christ?
In what ways can we testify of Jesus Christ to those around us?

Belong to Jesus Christ and His Church

Sister Wright discussed the significance of belonging to Jesus Christ and His Church through covenants. She highlighted the responsibility members have to build His kingdom and prepare for His return.

“Because of the covenant they made with God and Jesus Christ, they were "called the children of Christ, his sons, and his daughters."”

What does it mean to you to belong to Jesus Christ and His Church?
How do covenants help us feel a sense of belonging in the Church?
What are some ways we can strengthen our commitment to our covenants?
How can we help others feel like they belong in the Church community?
Why is it important to build the kingdom of God as a member of His Church?

Become Like Jesus Christ

Sister Wright encouraged members to strive to become like Jesus Christ by emulating His attributes and living as lifelong disciples. She emphasized the importance of being doers of the word and not just hearers.

“What manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am.”

What does it mean to you to become like Jesus Christ?
How can we emulate the attributes of Jesus Christ in our daily interactions?
What are some challenges you face in becoming more like Christ?
How can we support each other in our efforts to follow Jesus Christ's example?
In what ways can becoming like Christ change our desires and actions?

Infuse the Light of Jesus Christ

Sister Wright urged members to incorporate the teachings and light of Jesus Christ into every aspect of their lives. She warned against becoming casual in discipleship, which could have detrimental effects on children.

“We need to infuse the Light of Jesus Christ into every corner of our lives.”

How can we ensure that Jesus Christ is the focus of our lives?
What are some practical ways to infuse Christ's light into our homes?
Why is it important not to become casual in our discipleship?
How can we teach children to recognize and follow the light of Christ?
What changes can you make to better reflect Christ's light in your life?

Testify of Jesus Christ's Divine Nature

Sister Wright emphasized the importance of testifying of Jesus Christ's divine nature, mission, and resurrection. She cautioned against reducing Jesus to a simplistic or unknown figure.

“This Jesus should not be a fictional Jesus, or a simplistic Jesus, or a bodiless Jesus, or a casual Jesus, or an unknown Jesus, but a glorified, omnipotent, resurrected, exalted, worshipful, powerful Only Begotten Son of God, who is mighty to save.”

What does it mean to you that Jesus Christ is "mighty to save"?
How can we effectively testify of Jesus Christ's divine nature to others?
Why is it important to have a correct understanding of who Jesus Christ is?
How can our testimonies of Christ influence those around us?
In what ways can we deepen our understanding of Christ's divine mission?

Additional Discussion Questions

How can we help children recognize the Holy Ghost in their lives?
What are some ways to incorporate teachings from the Sermon on the Mount into our daily routines?
How can we support each other in keeping our covenants?
What role does the Holy Ghost play in strengthening our belief in Jesus Christ?
How can we create an environment in our homes that fosters spiritual growth?
What are some examples of Christlike attributes that we can strive to develop?
How can we better prepare for the Savior's return?
What are some ways to involve children in building the kingdom of God?
How can we ensure that our actions align with our beliefs in Jesus Christ?
What can we do to better understand the teachings and character of Jesus Christ?