Study Guide for "The Lord Is Hastening His Work"

In his General Conference address, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles reflects on the duality of our times, comparing them to Charles Dickens" famous line from "A Tale of Two Cities" about "the best of times" and "the worst of times." Elder Cook emphasizes the positive aspects of our times, focusing on the hastening of the Lord's work and the growth of faith worldwide. He shares historical examples and current statistics to illustrate the rapid growth and spread of the gospel, urging members to embrace new converts and to continue on the covenant path.

Before Reading

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

What historical examples does Elder Cook use to illustrate the hastening of the Lord's work?
How does Elder Cook describe the growth of the Church in recent years?
What responsibilities do current members have towards new converts, according to Elder Cook?
How does Elder Cook suggest members can deepen their gospel knowledge?
What is the significance of the covenant path in Elder Cook's message?

Topics

Recognize the Hastening of the Lord's Work

Elder Cook highlights how the Lord is hastening His work in these times, despite the turbulent conditions of the world. He draws parallels between the historical missionary efforts in the United Kingdom and today's global growth of the Church.

The Lord is truly hastening His work in our time.

These rising numbers are a clear witness that the gospel is touching hearts and changing lives everywhere.

What evidence does Elder Cook provide to show that the Lord's work is being hastened?
How does Elder Cook compare the current times with historical events in the Church?
How can you personally contribute to the hastening of the Lord's work?
In what ways have you noticed the hastening of the Lord's work in your own life or community?

Embrace and Support New Converts

Elder Cook stresses the importance of welcoming and supporting new converts as they join the Church. He references historical examples and provides guidance on how current members can help new members feel included and supported.

Our sacred duty is to accept and welcome new and returning members.

We love you; we need you; the Lord needs you.

What are some ways members can support new converts according to Elder Cook?
Why is it important to make new converts feel like they belong?
Reflect on your experiences with new converts. How can you improve in supporting them?
What actions can you take to ensure new members feel welcomed in your congregation?

Focus on the Covenant Path

Elder Cook underscores the importance of the covenant path for all members, particularly new converts. He explains how covenants provide a framework for living a Christlike life and achieving exaltation.

The gospel makes exaltation possible, which requires the making and keeping of sacred covenants with God.

If you set a goal of worthily receiving each covenant necessary for exaltation, you will be on the path that leads to the celestial kingdom.

What is the covenant path, and why is it important?
How does Elder Cook suggest members focus on their covenants?
What steps can you take to better understand and follow the covenant path?
How have your covenants influenced your daily life and decisions?

Grow in Gospel Knowledge

Elder Cook encourages members to continually grow in their gospel knowledge through regular scripture study and learning from Church curriculum. He emphasizes that gospel knowledge is acquired over time and is not a test of knowledge but a journey of understanding.

Gospel knowledge is a great blessing obtained incrementally over time, but it is not a saving ordinance.

As you ponder what you study, the windows of heaven will open, and you will receive answers to your own questions and direction for your own life.

Why is growing in gospel knowledge important according to Elder Cook?
What resources does Elder Cook mention for increasing gospel knowledge?
How can you make scripture study a more meaningful part of your daily routine?
What gospel topics are you interested in learning more about, and how will you pursue this knowledge?

Rely on the Atonement of Jesus Christ

Elder Cook reminds members that while they strive to live a Christlike life, they will face challenges and feel inadequate at times. He reassures that the Atonement of Jesus Christ allows for daily repentance and provides hope and strength.

All of us feel inadequate as we strive to become like Jesus Christ. His Atonement allows us to repent daily as we fall short.

We live in an imperfect and fallen world, not a celestial world.

How does Elder Cook describe the role of the Atonement in our daily lives?
What does Elder Cook say about the challenges of living a Christlike life?
In what ways have you experienced the power of the Atonement in your life?
How can you better rely on the Atonement to overcome feelings of inadequacy?