Lesson Prepration Guide for "Simplicity in Christ"

In his General Conference address, Elder Michael Cziesla of the Seventy shares his personal experiences and insights on finding joy and strength in the simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Through stories from his mission, family life, and the example of his grandmother, he emphasizes the importance of focusing on the "plain and precious things" of the gospel and how this focus can lead to true discipleship and enduring joy.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Share a personal experience where simplicity in your faith led to a profound spiritual moment. Encourage class members to think of similar experiences.
Begin with a discussion on what members think of when they hear "the simplicity that is in Christ." How does it apply to their daily lives?
Show a picture or video clip of a simple act of service and ask how such acts relate to the gospel's simplicity.
Start with a hymn that emphasizes simplicity and faith, such as "Come, Come, Ye Saints," and discuss its message.
Ask the class to reflect quietly on a time when focusing on simple gospel principles helped them through a challenge.

Topics

Embrace Simplicity in Christ

Elder Cziesla emphasized the importance of focusing on the simplicity of Christ's teachings amid a complex world. He explained that the gospel's core principles are straightforward and accessible to all, providing a path to spiritual strength and joy.

The doctrine of Christ and the law of the gospel are so simple that even little children can understand them.

What does "the simplicity that is in Christ" mean to you personally?
How can focusing on simple gospel principles help us in times of confusion?
Why might we sometimes find it challenging to follow Christ's simple teachings?
How can we apply the simplicity of Christ's teachings in our daily lives?
What are some simple gospel principles that have brought you peace and joy?

Prioritize People Over Processes

Elder Cziesla taught that by embracing simplicity, we can prioritize eternal relationships over processes. This approach helps us focus on what truly matters in God's work of salvation and exaltation.

Applying the simplicity that is in Christ makes us prioritize people over processes and eternal relationships over short-term behaviors.

How can we ensure that we prioritize people over processes in our church service?
What are some ways we can focus on eternal relationships in our family life?
How does prioritizing people help us to better follow Christ's example?
Can you share an experience where prioritizing relationships over tasks made a difference?
What are some potential challenges in prioritizing people over processes, and how can we overcome them?

Witness Strength in Small and Simple Things

Through the story of his grandmother, Elder Cziesla illustrated how consistent small and simple acts of faith can lead to great spiritual outcomes and blessings, even in challenging circumstances.

I have learned through my own experience that the small and simple things of the gospel and faithfully focusing on Christ lead us to true joy, bring about mighty miracles, and grant us confidence that all promised blessings will come to pass.

What small and simple things have strengthened your faith?
Why do you think small acts of faith can lead to mighty miracles?
How can we be more consistent in doing small and simple things in our spiritual lives?
Can you share a personal story where small acts of faith led to significant blessings?
What can we learn from Oma Cziesla's example about enduring faith?

Focus on Pure Truth and Revelation

Elder Cziesla encouraged members to focus on pure truth, doctrine, and revelation to navigate life's uncertainties. He reminded us to ask, "What would the Lord Jesus Christ have me do?" to find guidance.

President Nelson reminded us to focus on "pure truth, pure doctrine, and pure revelation" as we seek to follow the Savior.

How can focusing on pure truth and revelation guide us in our decisions?
What does it mean to you to seek pure doctrine in your life?
In what ways can asking "What would the Lord Jesus Christ have me do?" provide direction?
How can we better recognize and act upon revelation in our daily lives?
Can you share an experience where focusing on pure truth helped you find clarity?

Experience Joy Through Discipleship

Elder Cziesla shared that true joy comes from being a disciple of Christ, regardless of life's circumstances. This joy is rooted in focusing on Christ and His gospel message.

The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.

What does it mean to find joy in discipleship?
How can we maintain joy in Christ amidst life's challenges?
What are some ways to keep Christ as the focus of our lives?
How has being a disciple of Christ brought you joy?
What changes can we make to experience more joy in our discipleship?

Additional Discussion Questions

How can we apply the principle of simplicity in our church callings?
What role does faith play in simplifying our spiritual journey?
How can we help others embrace the simplicity in Christ?
What are some distractions that prevent us from focusing on simple gospel truths?
How can we simplify our lives to better focus on Christ?
What daily habits can help us stay aligned with simple gospel principles?
How can we teach children about the simplicity of Christ's teachings?
What lessons can we learn from Elder Cziesla's mission experience regarding simplicity?
How does the story of Oma Cziesla inspire you to focus on small and simple things?
What are some ways we can demonstrate our trust in the Lord's simplicity?