The Family Proclamation—Words from God
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What is the significance of "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" in the Church's teachings?
- How did the proclamation come to be, and what prompted its creation?
- In what ways does the proclamation address contemporary issues regarding family and gender?
- What roles and responsibilities are outlined for parents in the proclamation?
- How can individuals find comfort and guidance in the principles of the proclamation?
Topics
Celebrate the Family Proclamation's Divine Origin
Elder Rasband highlights the divine origin of "The Family: A Proclamation to the World," emphasizing its role in maintaining and strengthening the family as the fundamental unit of society. He recounts the process of its creation by the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles under divine inspiration, addressing societal shifts away from God's laws.
The Family: A Proclamation to the World" was created to "maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.
The proclamation has a divine origin, so we must treat it with the reverence deserving words from God.
- What does Elder Rasband mean by the proclamation having a "divine origin"?
- Why was the proclamation created, according to Elder Rasband?
- How can you show reverence for the family proclamation in your daily life?
- Reflect on how your understanding of family has been influenced by the proclamation.
Understand the Proclamation's Historical Context
Elder Rasband provides historical context for the family proclamation, describing the concerns of the Church leaders about societal trends in 1994 that led to its creation. He recounts the process of its presentation to the First Presidency and its public introduction by President Gordon B. Hinckley.
We could see the efforts of various communities to do away with all standards and limitations on sexual activity. We saw the confusion of genders.
With so much of sophistry that is passed off as truth, with so much of deception concerning standards and values, with so much of allurement and enticement to take on the slow stain of the world, we have felt to warn and forewarn.
- What societal trends were concerning to Church leaders in 1994?
- How did President Hinckley describe the need for the proclamation?
- Consider how societal views on family and gender have changed since 1995. How does the proclamation provide guidance in today's context?
- Reflect on a time when you have felt the need to uphold gospel standards in the face of societal pressure.
Embrace Your Divine Nature and Destiny
Elder Rasband reaffirms the proclamation's teaching that every individual is a beloved spirit child of heavenly parents with a divine nature and destiny. He encourages members to seek understanding of their divine potential and to trust in God's promises.
You are literally spirit children of God. … Make no mistake about it: Your potential is divine.
Turn to Him; pour out your heart to Him; trust Him and His promises.
- What does it mean to have a divine nature and destiny?
- How can individuals seek understanding of their divine potential?
- How can you seek to understand and fulfill your divine potential?
- Write about a time when you felt God's love and guidance in your life.
Live the Principles of Happiness in Family Life
Elder Rasband emphasizes that happiness in family life is achieved through the teachings of Jesus Christ, such as faith, prayer, repentance, and love. He encourages members to strive for these principles, acknowledging that none are perfect but all can do their best.
Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of … Jesus Christ.
Do the very best you can.
- What are the teachings of Jesus Christ that lead to happiness in family life?
- Why is it important to do our best in living these principles?
- Identify one principle of happiness in family life that you can focus on improving.
- Reflect on how living the teachings of Jesus Christ has brought happiness to your family.
Foster Equal Partnerships in Marriage
Elder Rasband discusses the roles of fathers and mothers as outlined in the proclamation, emphasizing the importance of equal partnerships. He shares a personal story about learning to work as equal partners with his wife and encourages others to do the same.
Fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners.
Equal is a word that matters.
- What does the proclamation say about the roles of fathers and mothers?
- How does Elder Rasband describe an equal partnership in marriage?
- Reflect on your role in your family. How can you contribute to an equal partnership?
- Consider how you can support your spouse or family members as equal partners in your shared responsibilities.
