Lesson Prepration Guide for "And Now I See"

In his poignant address, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland explores the profound lessons from the miracle of Jesus healing a man blind from birth, as recorded in the ninth chapter of John. Elder Holland draws parallels between this biblical event and the personal and spiritual insights we can gain today. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing divine truth in seemingly mundane or unexpected ways and bears a powerful witness of the truthfulness of the restored gospel and the Book of Mormon. Through his personal experiences and testimony, Elder Holland invites us to see with spiritual eyes the evidence of God's hand in our lives.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin with a brief overview of the story from John 9 about Jesus healing the blind man and ask class members to share their thoughts on what this miracle signifies.
Invite a class member to read the hymn "Amazing Grace" and discuss how its message relates to Elder Holland's talk.
Start by sharing a personal experience or testimony of a time when you felt spiritually blind and how you gained sight through the gospel.
Ask the class to ponder silently on a moment they felt the Savior's influence in their life, then invite volunteers to share their experiences.
Show a picture of the Pool of Siloam and discuss its significance in the healing of the blind man.

Topics

Jesus Heals the Blind Man

Elder Holland recounted the story from John 9 where Jesus healed a man blind from birth using spit and clay. This miracle demonstrated that God can use simple means to manifest His works.

Whether he be a sinner ... , I know not: [but] one thing I [do] know, ... whereas I was blind, now I see.

What does the story of the blind man teach us about faith and obedience?
Why do you think Jesus used spit and clay to heal the man?
How can we apply the principle of simple means in our lives?
What are some "blind spots" in our spiritual lives that need healing?
How does this story strengthen your testimony of Jesus Christ's power?

God Uses Simple Means to Bless Us

Elder Holland emphasized that God often uses plain and simple means to accomplish His purposes, such as the use of spit and clay in healing the blind man.

These very unlikely ingredients declare that God can bless us by whatever method He chooses.

Can you think of a time when a simple act or object had a profound impact on your life?
Why is it important to recognize God's hand in simple things?
How can we remain open to the ways God chooses to bless us?
What are some modern-day examples of God using simple means?
How can we cultivate gratitude for the "plain and precious" things in our lives?

The Power and Authority of the Priesthood

Elder Holland discussed the divine authority of the priesthood, which is not based on worldly credentials but conferred through a line of authority back to Jesus Christ.

Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority.

What does the priesthood mean to you personally?
How can we honor and sustain those who hold priesthood authority?
Why is it significant that priesthood authority comes from Jesus Christ?
How have you seen the power of the priesthood manifest in your life?
How can we ensure we are worthy to exercise priesthood power?

Vicarious Work for the Dead

Elder Holland highlighted the importance of temple work and vicarious ordinances for the deceased, showing God's universal love and mercy.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has sacred, dedicated houses of the Lord in which merciful, salvific work is being done vicariously every day and night for these deceased.

Why is temple work for the dead important in the plan of salvation?
How does vicarious work for the dead demonstrate God's love?
What role does temple work play in your personal spiritual life?
How can we prioritize temple work amidst our busy lives?
What feelings or experiences have you had while performing temple ordinances?

The Book of Mormon as Evidence of Truth

Elder Holland shared his personal testimony of the Book of Mormon, describing it as a source of light and revelation in his life, despite criticism from unbelievers.

The impact of the Book of Mormon in my life is no less miraculous than was the application of spit and dirt placed on the blind man’s eyes.

How has the Book of Mormon impacted your life?
What role does the Book of Mormon play in your daily spiritual routine?
How can we strengthen our testimony of the Book of Mormon?
What are some challenges you face when sharing the Book of Mormon with others?
How can the Book of Mormon help us navigate the "mists of darkness" in our lives?

Additional Discussion Questions

How can we develop spiritual sight similar to the blind man in the story?
What does it mean to you to be spiritually blind and then to see?
How can we recognize the 'works of God' in our daily lives?
In what ways can we show gratitude for the simple blessings we receive?
How can we prepare ourselves to receive answers to prayers in unexpected ways?
What are some ways we can support and sustain the work of the priesthood?
How can temple work bring us closer to our ancestors?
What steps can we take to increase our understanding of the Book of Mormon?
How can we help others gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon?
What personal experiences can you share that testify of God's love and mercy?