Simplicity in Christ
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Topics
Embrace the Simplicity in Christ
Elder Cziesla discusses how focusing on the simplicity of Christ's gospel can guide us through life's complexities. He emphasizes that the doctrine of Christ is accessible to all, including children, and that following the covenant path brings joy and spiritual blessings.
The doctrine of Christ and the law of the gospel are so simple that even little children can understand them.
President Nelson described this journey so beautifully as the "covenant path" and the process of becoming a "devout disciple of Jesus Christ."Key Points:
- The gospel's simplicity is not indicative of ease but requires effort and change.
- Following Christ involves putting off the natural man and becoming like a child.
- Applying simple gospel principles helps navigate life's challenges.
- Reflect on a time when focusing on simple gospel principles helped you overcome a complex situation.
- Share an experience where you felt the power of the covenant path in your life.
- Discuss how applying the simplicity of Christ's teachings has brought peace to your family.
Focus on Pure Doctrine and Revelation
Elder Cziesla highlights the importance of seeking pure truth, doctrine, and revelation as we strive to follow Christ. By regularly asking what the Lord would have us do, we can find direction and strength in our daily lives.
President Nelson reminded us to focus on "pure truth, pure doctrine, and pure revelation" as we seek to follow the Savior.
Following His example provides a safe path through uncertainty and a loving, guiding hand to hold from day to day.Key Points:
- Regularly seeking the Lord's guidance through prayer and revelation provides profound direction.
- Pure doctrine helps prioritize eternal relationships over temporary concerns.
- Applying simple gospel principles helps in making decisions and finding peace.
- Share a moment when seeking the Lord's guidance brought clarity to a difficult decision.
- Describe how focusing on pure doctrine has influenced your spiritual growth.
- Reflect on a time when you felt guided by revelation in your daily life.
Learn from Oma Cziesla's Example
Elder Cziesla shares the inspiring story of his grandmother, Oma Cziesla, who remained faithful to the gospel despite challenging circumstances. Her example illustrates the impact of small and simple acts of faith.
Oma continued to pray, read the scriptures, and sing the songs of Zion.
As I stand here today in general conference and talk about my Oma, her determination to keep her covenants and trust in the Lord fills my heart with humility and gratitude.Key Points:
- Oma Cziesla maintained her faith through simple acts of devotion, even without regular church attendance.
- Her example demonstrates the power of a home-centered, gospel-focused life.
- Her perseverance led to her family's eventual return to the Church.
- Reflect on a family member whose faith has inspired you.
- Share an experience where small acts of faith had a significant impact.
- Discuss how you have maintained your faith in challenging circumstances.
The Power of Small and Simple Things
Elder Cziesla emphasizes that small and simple gospel practices lead to joy, miracles, and confidence in promised blessings. He encourages us to focus on what we can do and trust in the Lord's timing.
It is in that simplicity that [we] will find … peace, joy, and happiness.
Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don’t come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come.Key Points:
- Simple acts like prayer, fasting, and scripture study provide strength and peace.
- The gospel "works wonderfully" even in challenging circumstances.
- Trusting in the Lord's timing brings confidence and hope.
- Share a time when a small act of faith brought about a significant change.
- Reflect on how daily gospel practices have strengthened your testimony.
- Discuss a miracle in your life that resulted from simple gospel living.
Prioritize What Matters Most
Elder Cziesla encourages prioritizing people over processes and eternal relationships over short-term behaviors. By focusing on the things that matter most, we can lay the foundation for great work in God's kingdom.
Applying the simplicity that is in Christ makes us prioritize people over processes and eternal relationships over short-term behaviors.
Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.Key Points:
- Focusing on eternal relationships helps us prioritize what truly matters.
- Small acts of service and kindness lay the foundation for great work.
- Avoid getting caught up in managing ministering and focus on genuine connections.
- Reflect on a time when focusing on relationships brought peace to your life.
- Share an experience where prioritizing eternal principles guided your decisions.
- Discuss how small acts of service have strengthened your relationships.
