Lesson Prepration Guide for "Jesus Christ and Your New Beginning"

In his inspiring talk, "Jesus Christ and Your New Beginning," Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles emphasizes the boundless goodness and mercy of Jesus Christ. He speaks of the Savior's power to offer each of us a fresh start, regardless of our past or present circumstances. Elder Kearon invites us to embrace the new beginnings that Christ offers, illustrating how these opportunities for renewal are central to the gospel and the Father's plan for His children.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin by asking the class to think about a time when they experienced a "new beginning" in their life, whether spiritually, emotionally, or physically.
Share a personal story or testimony about a fresh start you have experienced because of Jesus Christ.
Play a short video clip or share a personal testimony about the power of new beginnings through Christ.
Ask the class to ponder on the phrase "It is finished" and discuss what it means in the context of new beginnings.
Invite someone to share a favorite scripture or hymn that reminds them of new beginnings and discuss its significance.

Topics

Jesus Went About Doing Good

Elder Kearon emphasized that Jesus Christ devoted His entire life to doing good, manifesting His infinite goodness and mercy. The scriptural accounts of His life offer us a glimpse into His compassion, healing, and teachings.

Jesus “went about doing good.” We read that simple report in the book of Acts.

How can we emulate Jesus Christ's example of "going about doing good" in our daily lives?
What are some examples from the scriptures that illustrate Jesus's goodness?
How does focusing on the Savior's goodness influence your perspective on your own challenges?
Why is it important to recognize the goodness in others as well as in ourselves?
How can we ensure that our actions reflect the goodness that Jesus exemplified?

Jesus Christ Offers New Beginnings

Elder Kearon explained that Jesus Christ offers new beginnings to everyone, regardless of their past. His words and actions provide opportunities for forgiveness, healing, and a fresh start.

All of us can have a new beginning through, and because of, Jesus Christ.

What does a "new beginning" mean to you personally?
How has Jesus Christ offered you a new beginning in your life?
Why is it difficult sometimes to accept a new beginning?
In what ways can we help others recognize the new beginnings available to them through Christ?
How can we maintain the spirit of new beginnings in our everyday lives?

The Church of New Beginnings

Elder Kearon highlighted that the Church of Jesus Christ is fundamentally about new beginnings, with baptism symbolizing a rebirth and the sacrament offering continual renewal.

This is the church of new beginnings! This is the church of fresh starts!

What role does baptism play in providing a new beginning?
How can partaking of the sacrament become a meaningful renewal each week?
What are some ways we can support each other in our journeys of new beginnings within the church community?
How does understanding the church as a place of new beginnings affect your participation in church activities?
Why is it important to see the church as a community of fresh starts?

Repentance as a Door to New Beginnings

Elder Kearon discussed how repentance is a joyful process that opens the door to new beginnings, as clarified by President Russell M. Nelson.

Repentance opens the door to our new beginnings, fresh starts, and second chances.

How has your understanding of repentance changed over time?
Why is repentance often misunderstood as a negative process?
What role does joy play in the process of repentance?
How can we better support each other in our repentance journeys?
In what ways can we make repentance a daily practice in our lives?

New Beginnings for Everyone, Every Time

Elder Kearon assured that new beginnings are available to everyone, regardless of their faith or past actions. Jesus Christ's mercy extends to all who seek Him.

New beginnings are at the heart of the Father’s plan! Fresh starts are the mission of the Son!

Why is it important to believe that new beginnings are available to everyone?
How can we overcome feelings of unworthiness to accept a new beginning?
What can we do to help others see that they are never too far gone for a fresh start?
How does Jesus Christ's example of offering new beginnings inspire you?
In what ways can we be instruments in helping others find their new beginnings?

Additional Discussion Questions

How does understanding Jesus as the source of goodness influence your daily actions?
What are some practical ways we can bring about new beginnings in our relationships?
How can we apply the concept of new beginnings to our professional lives?
What role does faith play in accepting and embracing new beginnings?
How can we discern when we need a new beginning in a particular aspect of our lives?
What are some barriers that prevent us from seeking new beginnings, and how can we overcome them?
How does the Atonement of Jesus Christ enable us to have new beginnings?
In what ways can we make the concept of new beginnings more tangible for our children or youth?
How can we ensure that our new beginnings align with God's will for us?
What can we learn from the examples of those in the scriptures who received new beginnings from Christ?