Go and Do Likewise
James E. Evanson, of the Seventy
Elder Evanson exhorts members to follow Christ's example by serving others, highlighting service missionaries' impactful roles.
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What example from the Savior's life does Elder Evanson begin his talk with?
- How does Elder Evanson describe the role of service in sharing the gospel?
- What are some modern-day examples of service missionaries mentioned in the talk?
- How does service allow individuals to minister regardless of their circumstances?
- What impact does service have on the lives of those who serve and those who are served?
Topics
Service Opens Hearts to the Gospel
Elder Evanson highlights how service can soften hearts and open individuals to the gospel message. By serving others, like Ammon in the Book of Mormon, we can create opportunities to share the gospel and bring others to Christ.
Because of his service to the king, Ammon was granted an opportunity to "speak boldly, ... and tell [King Lamoni] ... by what power" he had performed his service.
Like Ammon and Sister Bevan, as we serve others, we "show forth good examples unto them" and they desire to know the "reason of the hope that is in [us]."
- What role did service play in Ammon's missionary efforts?
- How did Sister Bevan's service lead to a family learning about the gospel?
- How can you incorporate more service into your daily life to open opportunities for sharing the gospel?
- Reflect on a time when service helped you connect with someone on a deeper level. How did this experience influence your testimony?
Service Enables Universal Ministry
Elder Evanson discusses how service allows everyone, regardless of their circumstances, to minister to others. He shares examples of service missionaries who, despite personal challenges, find ways to contribute meaningfully.
Service missions changed the definition of the word able. Now every worthy young man and woman who desires to serve a full-time mission for the Lord can do so, with very few exceptions.
You don’t need to have a service assignment or wear a name tag to do good. Every act of service is recognized by the Savior.
- How does Elder Holgado's story demonstrate the ability to serve despite personal limitations?
- What does Elder Evanson say about the recognition of service by the Savior?
- In what ways can you serve others in your current circumstances?
- Consider how you can minister to others without a formal assignment. What are some small acts of service you can perform this week?
Service Brings Christ's Power into Our Lives
The talk emphasizes that service invites the power of Christ into our lives, helping us overcome personal challenges and bringing joy and spiritual strength to our families.
Willingness to serve and strengthen others stands as a symbol of one’s readiness to be healed by the redemptive power of the Savior.
This missionary believes that Christ saved his life and blessed his family through service.
- How did service help the young missionary overcome personal challenges?
- What does President Nelson say about the willingness to serve?
- Reflect on a time when serving others brought you closer to Christ. How did this experience impact your faith?
- How can you incorporate service into your family life to bring more of Christ's power into your home?
Service Missionaries: Consecrated Disciples
Elder Evanson highlights the crucial role of service missionaries in the gathering of Israel, emphasizing that their contributions are vital and transformative.
If teaching missionaries are the Lord’s mouth, then service missionaries are the Lord’s hands, and you are not second-class missionaries.
You service missionaries gather Israel in so many ways, and your service changes lives.
- What is the significance of service missionaries in the work of gathering Israel?
- How does Elder Evanson describe the impact of service missionaries?
- How can you support service missionaries in your area?
- Consider how you can be a "hand" in the Lord's work. What specific actions can you take to serve others?
Service as the Lifeblood of Discipleship
Service is portrayed as a fundamental aspect of discipleship that transforms individuals and communities, aligning us with Christ’s example and preparing us for eternal life.
Through service we change hearts—and the world.
As we give service in Christ’s name to the one, we become increasingly holy and worthy of the gift of eternal life.
- Why does Elder Evanson describe service as the lifeblood of discipleship?
- What does President Nelson say about the impact of covenant people in the world?
- In what ways can you make service a more integral part of your discipleship?
- Reflect on how serving others has helped you grow spiritually. How can you continue to develop this aspect of your faith?
