Lesson Prepration Guide for "Sustaining of General Authorities, Area Seventies, and General Officers"

In this talk, Elder Henry B. Eyring, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, conducts the sustaining of the General Authorities, Area Seventies, and General Officers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This process is a key part of General Conference, where members of the Church have the opportunity to express their support for those called to lead and serve.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin by asking the class to share their understanding of what it means to sustain a church leader. Encourage them to think about how they have shown support for leaders in the past.
Share a brief history of the practice of sustaining church leaders in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This can set the stage for understanding the importance of this practice.
Invite a few class members to reflect on a time when they felt uplifted or inspired by a church leader's guidance. Discuss how sustaining leaders can enhance our spiritual growth.
Start with a prayer and a moment of silence, inviting the Spirit to guide the discussion on the importance of sustaining church leaders.
Play a short video or share a story about a moment when sustaining leaders made a significant impact on someone's life. Use this as a springboard for discussion.

Topics

Sustain Church Leaders as Prophets, Seers, and Revelators

Elder Eyring proposed that the members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles be sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators. This practice emphasizes the belief that these leaders are divinely appointed to guide the Church.

It is proposed that we sustain members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators.

What does it mean to you to sustain someone as a prophet, seer, and revelator?
Why is it important for us to publicly sustain our church leaders?
How can sustaining leaders strengthen your faith and testimony?
In what ways have you seen the influence of prophets, seers, and revelators in your life?
How can we better prepare ourselves to follow the guidance of church leaders?

Participate in the Sustaining Vote

Elder Eyring invited church members to express their support for church leaders through a sustaining vote. This action is a collective expression of faith and unity within the Church.

Those in favor, please signify. Any opposed may manifest it.

Why do you think the Church asks for a sustaining vote from its members?
How does participating in a sustaining vote help build unity in the Church?
What feelings or thoughts do you have when you participate in a sustaining vote?
Have you ever had a significant experience related to sustaining church leaders?
How can we support those who may have concerns about sustaining a leader?

Acknowledge Changes to Area Seventies

Elder Eyring announced the sustaining of two new Area Seventies, highlighting the ongoing development and organization of Church leadership worldwide.

The following Area Seventies were sustained during a leadership session held as part of general conference: Bhanu K. Hiranandani and Fernando Vivas.

What is the role of an Area Seventy in the Church?
How does the appointment of new leaders reflect the growth of the Church?
Why is it important for us to be aware of changes in church leadership?
How can we support new leaders as they begin their service?
What impact does the leadership of Area Seventies have on members around the world?

Express Gratitude for Church Leadership

Elder Eyring thanked the members for their sustaining vote, acknowledging the collective support and trust placed in Church leadership.

Thank you, brothers and sisters, for your sustaining vote on behalf of the leadership of the Church.

Why is expressing gratitude for church leaders important?
How can gratitude for leaders influence our interactions with them?
What are some ways we can show appreciation for the service of our leaders?
How does gratitude enhance our ability to follow leaders" counsel?
In what ways does gratitude for leadership affect our own service in the Church?

Understand the Process of Sustaining Leaders

The talk outlined the process of sustaining leaders, emphasizing its role in Church governance and the members" role in affirming their support.

Please express your support in the usual way. If there are those who oppose any of the proposals, we ask that you contact your stake president.

What does the process of sustaining leaders teach us about Church governance?
Why is it important for members to have a voice in sustaining leaders?
How can we approach the process of sustaining with a prayerful heart?
What should we do if we have questions or concerns about sustaining a leader?
How does understanding this process help us appreciate the organization of the Church?

Additional Discussion Questions

How does the practice of sustaining leaders reflect the principles of agency and accountability?
What personal experiences have strengthened your testimony of following church leaders?
How can we prepare ourselves spiritually to sustain and support our leaders?
In what ways can we teach our families about the importance of sustaining church leaders?
How does the sustaining of leaders influence the global Church community?
What role does prayer play in sustaining and following church leaders?
How can we help others understand the significance of sustaining votes in the Church?
What are some ways we can actively support our leaders beyond the sustaining vote?
How does sustaining leaders relate to our covenants?
In what ways can sustaining church leaders impact our personal discipleship?