Study Guide for "No One Sits Alone"

In his insightful talk, "No One Sits Alone," Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explores the profound concept of gospel culture and the importance of creating a sense of belonging within the Church. He draws on personal experiences and scriptural allegories to illustrate how members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can foster an environment where everyone feels included, loved, and valued. Elder Gong emphasizes the need for genuine connection and the role of covenant belonging in Jesus Christ, urging us to embrace a gospel culture that transcends worldly traditions and practices.

Before Reading

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

What does Elder Gong use as a metaphor to discuss gospel culture?
How does Elder Gong relate the allegory of the olive tree to Church membership today?
What is the significance of the phrase "no one sits alone" in a Church context?
How does Elder Gong suggest we can create a sense of belonging in our congregations?
What role do covenants play in fostering a gospel culture according to Elder Gong?

Topics

Distinguish Gospel Culture

Elder Gong uses the metaphor of fortune cookies to illustrate the concept of distinguishing gospel culture from other cultural practices. He explains how gospel culture is unique and can be identified by comparing practices in different cultural settings. The fulfillment of prophecies, such as those in the Book of Mormon and New Testament, opens new opportunities to learn and embrace gospel culture.

Fortune cookies are a fun, simple example. But the same principle of comparing practices in different cultural settings can help us distinguish gospel culture.

How does Elder Gong use fortune cookies to explain gospel culture?
What opportunities does Elder Gong suggest are available to learn gospel culture?
In what ways can you compare cultural practices in your life to better understand gospel culture?
How can you apply the principles of gospel culture in your daily interactions?

Gather All Nations in Christ

Elder Gong discusses the gathering of God's children as prophesied in the scriptures, emphasizing that all are invited to the Lord's supper. He highlights the diversity within the Church and the importance of making room for everyone, regardless of their background, in the Lord's restored Church.

All nations shall be invited unto a supper of the house of the Lord.

In every nation he that feareth [the Lord], and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

What does Elder Gong say about the diversity of Church members?
How does the parable of the great supper relate to the gathering of nations?
How can you contribute to making your Church congregation more inclusive?
What steps can you take to ensure everyone feels invited and welcomed at Church?

Ensure No One Sits Alone

Elder Gong stresses the importance of ensuring no one sits alone, both physically and emotionally, in Church settings. He shares a poignant story of a young deacon who felt alienated and emphasizes the need for genuine friendship and inclusion. He encourages members to reach out and make everyone feel valued.

A journey of gospel friendship and love begins with a first hello and no one sitting alone.

In His restored Church, we are all better when no one sits alone.

What story does Elder Gong share to illustrate the impact of feeling alone at Church?
How does Elder Gong suggest we can prevent others from feeling alone?
Reflect on a time you felt alone at Church. How can you help others avoid that feeling?
What actions can you take this week to ensure no one sits alone in your congregation?

Embrace Covenant Belonging

Elder Gong explains that covenant belonging in Jesus Christ ensures no one sits alone in the household of faith. He discusses the role of covenants in creating a sense of belonging and how they help us transcend worldly culture. He shares personal experiences of individuals finding hope and forgiveness through covenant relationships.

God doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; … that he may draw all men [and women] unto him.

Covenant belonging deepens as we come to each other and to the Lord in His inn.

What is the significance of covenant belonging according to Elder Gong?
How do covenants help us feel a sense of belonging in the Church?
How can you deepen your covenant relationship with Jesus Christ?
Reflect on your personal experiences of covenant belonging. How have they influenced your faith journey?

Cultivate a Gospel Culture

Elder Gong highlights the importance of cultivating a gospel culture that includes values and practices unique to Latter-day Saints. He discusses the need to put off worldly traditions that contradict gospel principles and embrace a culture of honesty, integrity, and obedience to commandments.

There is a unique gospel culture, a set of values and expectations and practices common to all [the] members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

All are blessed when we define our cultural identity, as President Russell M. Nelson taught, as a child of God, a child of the covenant, a disciple of Jesus Christ.

What are the key elements of gospel culture according to Elder Gong?
How does gospel culture differ from worldly culture?
What aspects of your personal culture align with gospel culture, and what changes might you need to make?
How can you help others understand and embrace gospel culture in your community?