The Name by Which Ye Are Called
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What does it mean to take upon ourselves the name of Christ?
- How does our true identity as children of God influence our actions and choices?
- What are the implications of being called by the name of Christ in our daily lives?
- How can we prioritize discipleship in an age of competing voices?
- What lessons can we learn from the story of Elder Cuvelier's great-grandfather?
Topics
Understand Our True Identity
Elder Cuvelier emphasizes the importance of understanding our true identity as children of God, children of the covenant, and disciples of Jesus Christ. He highlights that any other designation will ultimately let us down and underscores the eternal significance of the names by which Jesus called His followers.
President Russell M. Nelson taught that if the Lord were speaking to us directly, the first thing He would make sure we understand is our true identity: we are children of God, children of the covenant, and disciples of Jesus Christ.
Jesus called His followers by many names: Disciples. Sons and daughters. Children of the prophets. Sheep. Friends. The light of the world. Saints.
- Why is it important to understand our true identity as children of God?
- What are some of the names by which Jesus called His followers, and what do they signify?
- How does knowing your true identity influence your daily decisions?
- In what ways can you remind yourself of your identity as a disciple of Jesus Christ?
Take Upon Ourselves the Name of Christ
Elder Cuvelier teaches that taking upon ourselves the name of Christ involves making and keeping covenants, always remembering Him, and standing as witnesses of God. It is a lifelong pursuit that requires prioritizing discipleship amidst worldly distractions.
There is no other name given whereby salvation cometh; therefore, I would that ye should take upon you the name of Christ.
What does it mean to be called by the name of Christ? It means making and keeping covenants, always remembering Him, keeping His commandments, and being willing to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things.
- What does it mean to take upon yourself the name of Christ?
- How does taking upon ourselves the name of Christ affect our relationship with God and others?
- Reflect on the covenants you have made. How can you better keep them?
- In what ways can you stand as a witness of God in your community?
Prioritize Discipleship
Elder Cuvelier emphasizes the importance of prioritizing discipleship in a world full of competing voices. He encourages following prophetic counsel and making discipleship a lifelong priority to ensure we are not swayed by worldly titles that yield only temporary value.
Because the journey of discipleship takes time and effort built "line upon line, precept upon precept," it's easy to get caught up in worldly titles.
Following prophetic counsel to make discipleship a priority is both timely and wise, especially in an age of so many competing voices and influences.
- Why is it important to prioritize discipleship in today's world?
- What are the dangers of getting caught up in worldly titles and designations?
- What steps can you take to prioritize discipleship in your daily life?
- How can you discern between worldly influences and divine guidance?
Live the Gospel Through Service
Elder Cuvelier shares a personal family story to illustrate how living the gospel through service can have a profound and lasting impact. He recounts how his great-grandfather's life was changed forever by the selfless actions of a branch president who exemplified Christlike service.
Perhaps the greatest sermons are the ones we never hear but those we see in the quiet, unassuming actions and deeds observed in the lives of ordinary people who, trying to be like Jesus, go about doing good.
Those who take upon themselves the name of Christ recognize, as Joseph Smith said, "A man filled with the love of God, is not content with blessing his family alone, but ranges through the whole world, anxious to bless the whole human race."
- What role does service play in living the gospel?
- How can Christlike service influence the lives of others?
- Reflect on a time when someone served you in a Christlike manner. How did it affect you?
- How can you incorporate more acts of service into your daily routine?
Embrace the Eternal Impact of Discipleship
Elder Cuvelier highlights the eternal impact of discipleship, sharing the story of how a humble branch president's actions led to generations of faithful members. He emphasizes that our discipleship is defined by the ordinances we receive, the covenants we keep, and the love we show.
The seed planted by the branch president has produced countless fruit.
In the end, our identity isn't defined by the world. But our discipleship is defined by the ordinances we receive, the covenants we keep, and the love we show to God and neighbor by simply doing good.
- What is the eternal impact of our discipleship?
- How can our actions influence future generations?
- Consider the legacy you are creating. What changes can you make to ensure it aligns with your discipleship?
- How can you help others recognize their potential impact as disciples of Christ?
