Study Guide for "Worship"

In his General Conference address, Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explores the profound concept of worship. Drawing from scriptural examples and teachings, he outlines the actions, attitudes, exclusivity, and emulation involved in true worship. Elder Christofferson invites us to consider how our worship can transform us and deepen our relationship with God.

Before Reading

Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:

What are the key actions that constitute worship according to Elder Christofferson?
How does Elder Christofferson describe the attitudes and feelings inherent in worship?
What does Elder Christofferson say about the exclusivity of our worship?
How does emulating the Father and the Son play a role in our worship?
What are some scriptural examples Elder Christofferson uses to illustrate true worship?

Topics

Engage in Worshipful Actions

Elder Christofferson emphasizes the importance of gathering in sacred spaces for worship and engaging in acts of devotion, such as prayer, singing hymns, and partaking of the sacrament. He highlights the transformative power of intentional worship and the significance of Sabbath observance as a sign of our devotion to God.

We come together to worship. There is a significant difference between the two. To attend means to be present at. But to worship is to intentionally praise and adore our God in a way that transforms us!

How do we hallow the Sabbath day? ... When I had to make a decision whether or not an activity was appropriate for the Sabbath, I simply asked myself, "What sign do I want to give to God?"

What are the key actions mentioned by Elder Christofferson that constitute worship?
How does observing the Sabbath serve as a sign of our worship to God?
In what ways can you improve your Sabbath observance to better reflect your devotion to God?
How can you make your participation in church services more intentional and worshipful?

Cultivate Worshipful Attitudes

True worship involves loving God and yielding our will to Him. Elder Christofferson explains that worship is infused with joy when it is accompanied by gratitude and a broken heart and contrite spirit. He cites Jesus Christ's example of submission to the Father's will as the ultimate form of worship.

True worship means loving God and yielding our will to Him—the most precious gift we can offer.

Worship is striving to follow this perfect example. We will not attain perfection in this course overnight, but if each day we "offer for a sacrifice unto [Him] a broken heart and a contrite spirit," He will again baptize us with His Spirit and fill us with His grace.

What does Elder Christofferson say about the role of gratitude in worship?
How does Jesus Christ's submission to the Father's will exemplify true worship?
In what ways can you express more gratitude in your daily worship?
How can you better align your will with God's in your personal worship?

Prioritize Exclusive Worship

Elder Christofferson warns against idolatry and emphasizes that our worship should be exclusively directed to God and Jesus Christ. He uses the example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego to illustrate unwavering devotion to God, even in the face of adversity.

Whatever takes precedence over worship of the Father and the Son becomes an idol.

The object of our worship is exclusively "the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom [He] hast sent."

Why does Elder Christofferson emphasize the exclusivity of our worship?
How does the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego illustrate exclusive worship?
What modern "idols" might be diverting your attention from worshipping God?
How can you ensure that your worship remains exclusively focused on God and Jesus Christ?

Emulate the Father and the Son

Elder Christofferson teaches that true worship involves emulating the attributes of the Father and the Son. By following the covenant path and participating in priesthood ordinances, we draw upon divine power to refine and purify ourselves, becoming more like Christ.

Ultimately, how we live may be the best, most genuine form of worship.

As we walk the covenant path, the sanctifying "power of godliness is manifest" in us.

What role does emulation of the Father and the Son play in true worship?
How does participation in priesthood ordinances contribute to our worship?
What attributes of the Father and the Son can you strive to emulate in your daily life?
How can you more fully engage with the covenant path to enhance your worship?

Experience Transformative Worship

True worship transforms us as we engage in acts of devotion and strive to emulate divine character. Elder Christofferson highlights that worship is not merely an obligation but a joyful journey that deepens our relationship with God and brings us closer to His divine nature.

True worship is transformative.

May we receive the Holy Spirit and yield our hearts to God, have no other gods before Him, and as disciples of Jesus Christ, emulate His character in our own lives.

How does Elder Christofferson describe the transformative power of worship?
What are the outcomes of engaging in true worship according to Elder Christofferson?
In what ways has your worship transformed you personally?
How can you invite more transformative experiences into your worship practices?