Study Guide for "The Atoning Love of Jesus Christ"

In his heartfelt address, Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles speaks on the profound and transformative power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He extends hope and healing to those seeking forgiveness for serious sins and comfort to those suffering from the sins of others. Elder Andersen emphasizes the Savior's invitation to come unto Him and the divine gift of forgiveness through faith, honesty, and sincere repentance. He shares personal stories and testimonies that illustrate the Savior's love and the grace available to all who seek it.

Before Reading

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

What is the significance of the Atonement of Jesus Christ according to Elder Andersen?
How does Elder Andersen describe the process of seeking forgiveness and healing?
What role does faith play in receiving the Savior's forgiveness?
How can one restore what has been broken due to sin?
What is Elder Andersen's message to those who have been injured by the sins of others?

Topics

Strengthen Faith in Jesus Christ

Elder Andersen emphasizes the importance of strengthening one's faith in Jesus Christ as a foundation for repentance and forgiveness. He encourages individuals to turn from sin, turn toward God, and yield their hearts to the Savior. Full forgiveness is a divine gift offered through the Savior's grace.

The Savior continuously calls, "Come unto me."

Turning from sin, turning toward God, and strengthening your faith in Jesus Christ are a beautiful beginning.

What does it mean to strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ?
How does faith in Christ lead to forgiveness?
How can you actively work on strengthening your faith in Jesus Christ?
Reflect on a time when your faith in Christ helped you overcome a challenge.

Embrace Honesty in Repentance

Honesty is crucial in the process of repentance. Elder Andersen explains that a sincere desire to return to God involves complete honesty with oneself, God, and those affected by one's actions. He highlights the importance of coming to God with a broken heart and contrite spirit.

Your Heavenly Father rejoices in your resolve to come unto Him with a broken heart and contrite spirit.

Why is honesty important in the process of repentance?
What does it mean to have a contrite spirit?
In what ways can you practice honesty in your daily life?
How does being honest with God and others affect your spiritual growth?

Restore What Is Broken

Elder Andersen discusses the desire to repair what has been broken by serious sins. He shares an example of someone seeking to make restitution beyond financial means, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine guidance to know how to help those affected by one's actions.

Your yearning leads you to want to repair what you have broken.

Restitution isn’t just about money. It’s about humbly dedicating my life to the Lord.

What does it mean to restore what has been broken by sin?
How can seeking the Lord's guidance help in making restitution?
Consider areas in your life where you may need to make restitution. How can you begin this process?
Reflect on how making restitution can bring peace and healing to yourself and others.

Seek Divine Approval by Degrees

Elder Andersen counsels patience as one seeks the Lord’s forgiveness and approval. He explains that the Lord’s blessings and approval may come gradually, and encourages individuals to continue turning to the Savior for guidance and reassurance.

Be patient as the Lord gives you His blessing and approval by degrees.

In the Lord’s time, you will feel His voice telling you, "Let these things trouble you no more."

Why is patience important in seeking the Lord's forgiveness?
How does the Lord's approval come by degrees?
Reflect on a time when you had to be patient while waiting for the Lord's guidance. What did you learn from the experience?
How can you cultivate patience in your spiritual journey?

Find Healing for the Injured and Suffering

Elder Andersen offers comfort to those who have been injured by the serious sins of others. He assures them of the Savior’s love and power to heal, and encourages them to place their trust in Him for comfort and strength.

The Savior knows you and loves you. Reach out to Him. He is your comfort and strength.

He has the power to bring beauty from the ashes of your suffering.

What is the Savior's role in healing those who have been injured by the sins of others?
How can trusting in the Savior bring comfort and peace?
How can you seek the Savior's healing in your own life?
Reflect on a time when you felt the Savior's comfort during a difficult situation.