Study Guide for "Remembering the Sheep"

In his General Conference talk, "Remembering the Sheep," Elder William K. Jackson of the Seventy emphasizes the importance of ministering in the Lord's way by focusing on individuals, remembering them by name, and ensuring that each member of the flock is accounted for. Drawing on examples from the scriptures and personal experiences, Elder Jackson illustrates how the principle of "counting and accounting" can transform our efforts to minister and lead others back to Christ.

Before Reading

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

What does Elder Jackson emphasize as the key to effective ministering?
How does the principle of "counting and accounting" apply to ministering?
What examples does Elder Jackson use to illustrate effective shepherding?
How can Church tools assist in remembering and ministering to individuals?
What lesson did Elder Jackson learn from a stake president about leadership and ministering?

Topics

Embrace the Role of the Undershepherd

Elder Jackson emphasizes the responsibility of members to act as undershepherds, following Christ's example to know and love each member of the flock. This involves recognizing and remembering each individual, especially those who may be struggling or have wandered.

Christ is the Good Shepherd. Each one of the flock is precious to Him.

He expects us to do the same as His undershepherds.

What qualities does Christ exemplify as the Good Shepherd?
How can we follow Christ's example in our ministering efforts?
How can you improve your efforts to remember and minister to individuals in your stewardship?
Reflect on a time when you felt the impact of being remembered or ministered to by someone else.

Utilize the Principle of Counting and Accounting

The principle of counting and accounting involves keeping track of individuals by name, ensuring that none are forgotten. Elder Jackson shares various examples where this principle led to successful ministering efforts.

For Moroni, it was all about people—names!

We can learn to count and account.

How did Moroni practice the principle of counting and accounting?
What are the benefits of applying this principle in ministering?
What tools or methods can you use to keep track of those you minister to?
Consider how you can implement the principle of counting and accounting in your current calling or ministering assignment.

Leverage Church Tools for Effective Ministering

Elder Jackson highlights the various tools provided by the Church, such as the Quarterly Report and the Action and Interview List, that help members remember and minister to individuals effectively.

The Church supplies us with reports and tools to do just that—to remember.

These tools help us to remember people.

What Church tools are mentioned by Elder Jackson as helpful for ministering?
How can these tools assist in keeping track of individuals" needs?
How have you used Church tools in your ministering efforts?
What additional steps can you take to utilize these tools more effectively?

Focus on Individuals in Church Councils

Elder Jackson shares experiences where Church councils focused on individuals by name, leading to meaningful ministering efforts. He contrasts these with less effective meetings that focus solely on programs.

I contrasted that with a branch council meeting in Lahore, Pakistan... all they talked about were people. Names.

The principle of counting and accounting works. It is the Lord’s way.

What is the difference between focusing on individuals versus programs in Church councils?
How does focusing on names enhance ministering efforts?
Reflect on a Church council meeting you have attended. How can you help shift the focus more towards individuals?
What steps can you take to ensure that individuals are remembered and discussed in your Church councils?

Learn from Exemplary Leadership Examples

Elder Jackson shares stories of leaders who effectively ministered by focusing on individuals. These examples illustrate the power of leadership that prioritizes personal connection and accountability.

This young man walked out of that interview having learned one of his greatest lessons on leadership and ministering.

Miracles in the lives of real people will result.

What leadership qualities are exemplified in the stories shared by Elder Jackson?
How did these leaders prioritize individuals in their ministering efforts?
What leadership principles can you adopt from the examples shared by Elder Jackson?
Consider how you can apply these leadership principles in your own ministering efforts.