Beware the Second Temptation
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What is the "second temptation" Elder Whiting refers to?
- How does Elder Whiting relate his personal experience to the concept of hiding from God?
- What scriptural examples does Elder Whiting use to illustrate the impossibility of hiding from God?
- How does Elder Whiting address new converts in his talk?
- What role does the Atonement of Jesus Christ play in overcoming the second temptation?
Topics
Recognize the Second Temptation
Elder Whiting discusses the "second temptation" as the urge to hide from God after committing sin. He explains that while avoiding first temptations is ideal, it is the second temptation that can have more severe consequences. Hiding from God is impossible, and succumbing to this temptation distances individuals from divine help.
This temptation—I will call it the "second temptation"—is the temptation that may bring the greatest consequence if we succumb.
Some might attempt to hide from God because they don’t want to be discovered or exposed, and they feel shame or guilt.
- What is the "second temptation" according to Elder Whiting?
- Why is hiding from God considered a significant temptation?
- Have you ever felt the urge to hide from God? What prompted that feeling?
- What steps can you take to resist the second temptation in your life?
Understand the Role of the Atonement
Elder Whiting emphasizes the importance of the Atonement of Jesus Christ in overcoming spiritual wounds and temptations. He encourages individuals to seek divine help and community support rather than hiding, as the Atonement provides the strength to become more like the Savior.
Through the matchless power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, you can be made whole again.
Instead, avail yourself of the miraculous healing power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
- How does the Atonement of Jesus Christ help us overcome spiritual wounds?
- Why is it important to seek divine help after succumbing to temptation?
- In what ways have you experienced the healing power of the Atonement?
- How can you more fully rely on the Atonement in times of spiritual struggle?
Foster a Culture of Belonging
Elder Whiting calls upon Church members to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all, especially new converts. He highlights the importance of community in sustaining faith and encourages members to embrace and support each other in their spiritual journeys.
As His Saints, each of us must foster a culture of belonging in the Church that is loving, accepting, and encouraging of all who desire to progress along His path.
There is great strength in becoming and remaining part of a supportive community—all stumbling yet progressing while blessed by the love of Jesus Christ.
- Why is fostering a culture of belonging important in the Church?
- How does community support aid in spiritual progression?
- What actions can you take to help foster a culture of belonging in your Church community?
- Reflect on a time when you felt supported by your faith community. How did it impact your spiritual journey?
Overcome the Accuser's Voice
Elder Whiting addresses the adversary's tactics in discouraging new converts by making past lifestyles appear attractive. He reassures converts of their strength and acceptance within the Church and urges them not to heed the adversary's voice.
The accuser, as he is called in the book of Revelation, will tempt you with thoughts that sound like this: "You aren’t strong enough to change your life; you can’t do this; you don’t belong with these people; they will never accept you; you are too weak."
We love you; you can do it; we accept you; and with the Savior, you will have strength to do all.
- What tactics does the adversary use to discourage new converts?
- How can new converts overcome the adversary's voice?
- Have you ever felt discouraged by thoughts similar to those described by Elder Whiting? How did you overcome them?
- How can you support new converts in overcoming the adversary's voice?
Embrace Progression Through Trials
Elder Whiting reflects on the necessity of trials and temptations for spiritual growth. He emphasizes that succumbing to first temptations is part of the mortal experience, but progression comes from seeking divine help and striving to become more like the Savior.
It is His way. It is the only way.
This is the very purpose of our existence—to obtain a weakened and mortal body that is "subject to all manner of infirmities" and that will succumb to, sadly, many first temptations; to progress even when we fall to these temptations; and to seek divine help after doing so.
- Why are trials and temptations necessary for spiritual growth?
- How does seeking divine help facilitate progression?
- Reflect on a trial that helped you grow spiritually. How did it change you?
- What steps can you take to seek divine help more effectively in your life?
