Study Guide for "The Times of Restitution of All Things"

In his talk, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles commemorates the 195th anniversary of the organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He reflects on the foundational events that led to the restoration of the Church and highlights the significance of the First Vision, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, the restoration of the priesthood, and the organization of the Church. Elder Bednar emphasizes the ongoing impact of these events in the dispensation of the fulness of times and invites all to seek their own witness of the Restoration.

Before Reading

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

What significant event does Elder Bednar commemorate in this talk?
How did the First Vision contribute to the Restoration of the gospel?
What is the significance of the Book of Mormon in the restored Church?
How was priesthood authority restored to the earth?
What role does The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints play in the dispensation of the fulness of times?

Topics

Witness the First Vision

The First Vision was a pivotal event in the restoration of the gospel, where God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith, answering his prayer and initiating the "restitution of all things." This vision revealed the nature of the Godhead and set Joseph on a path to restore the doctrine, authority, covenants, and ordinances of Christ's ancient Church.

I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air.

This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!

The visitation of the Father and the Son to Joseph Smith was the initiating event in the grand "restoration of all things spoken by the mouth of all the holy prophets since the world began."

What did Joseph Smith learn about the Godhead from the First Vision?
Why is the First Vision considered the initiating event of the Restoration?
How can you apply the principle of seeking personal revelation as demonstrated by Joseph Smith?
In what ways have you felt the influence of the First Vision in your own life?

Embrace the Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon, translated by Joseph Smith through the gift and power of God, is a companion scripture to the Bible that testifies of Jesus Christ and restores lost truths. It plays a crucial role in the restored Church by teaching life's purpose and the doctrine of Christ.

The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, confirms the truthfulness of the Bible, and restores plain and precious truths that were lost from the Bible.

This sacred text includes an account of the personal ministry of Jesus Christ among people in the Western Hemisphere soon after His Resurrection.

What role does the Book of Mormon play in the Restoration?
How does the Book of Mormon complement the Bible?
How can you deepen your study of the Book of Mormon to enhance your understanding of the gospel?
What experiences have strengthened your testimony of the Book of Mormon as the word of God?

Understand Priesthood Restoration

The restoration of priesthood authority was essential for the reestablishment of Christ's Church. Through divine visitations, Joseph Smith received priesthood keys from ancient prophets and apostles, enabling the administration of ordinances and the gathering of Israel.

Priesthood authority allows God’s servants to "represent [Him] and act in His name."

Moses committed the keys of the gathering of Israel. Elias committed the dispensation of the gospel of Abraham. Elijah committed the keys of the sealing power.

What is the significance of priesthood keys in the restored Church?
How were priesthood authority and keys restored to Joseph Smith?
How can you honor and uphold the priesthood in your life?
Reflect on a time when you witnessed the power of the priesthood in action.

Celebrate the Church's Organization

The formal organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints marked the culmination of preparatory events, including the First Vision, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and the restoration of the priesthood. The Church is anchored in the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ and serves as the instrument for gathering Israel.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints … is Christ’s New Testament Church restored.

Jesus Christ has once again called Apostles and has given them priesthood authority.

What were the necessary prerequisites for the organization of the Church?
How does the Church serve as the instrument for gathering Israel?
In what ways can you contribute to the growth and strength of the Church?
How has being a member of the Church impacted your life and spiritual growth?

Participate in the Dispensation of the Fulness of Times

The current dispensation is characterized by the fulfillment of ancient prophecies and the gathering of all things in Christ. The restored Church plays a crucial role in preparing the world for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ by uniting dispensations, keys, powers, and glories.

The Savior’s restored Church is being established throughout the world and is the instrument by which God will "gather together in one all things in Christ."

In this greatest and last of all gospel dispensations, "a whole and complete and perfect union, and welding together of dispensations, and keys, and powers, and glories should take place."

What is the significance of the dispensation of the fulness of times?
How does the restored Church contribute to the fulfillment of ancient prophecies?
How can you actively participate in the Lord's work during this dispensation?
Reflect on how understanding the dispensation of the fulness of times has influenced your perspective on the gospel.