Lesson Prepration Guide for "Taking on the Name of Jesus Christ"

In his insightful talk, Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explores the profound implications of taking upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ. Through a compelling analogy involving Dr. Craig H. Selzman and the prestigious professorship named after President Russell M. Nelson, Elder Renlund illustrates how this sacred commitment can transform our lives. He outlines five key parallels—identification, remembrance, emulation, alignment, and empowerment—that guide us in becoming more like the Savior. This talk invites us to deepen our discipleship and align our lives with Christ's mission, ultimately accessing greater divine power and blessings.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin by asking class members about a time when they felt inspired to improve themselves because of someone they admire. Discuss how role models can influence our behavior.
Share a brief story or experience where taking on a new responsibility or role changed your perspective or actions. Ask class members to share similar experiences.
Start with a short video clip or quote about the importance of names and what they represent. Discuss how names can influence identity and behavior.
Invite a class member to share a personal experience where they felt empowered by their faith in Jesus Christ. Use this as a segue into discussing how taking on His name can empower us.
Pose a reflective question: "What does it mean to you personally to take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ?" Allow a few minutes for silent reflection before starting the lesson.

Topics

Identify with Jesus Christ

Elder Renlund explained that taking upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ involves linking our identity with His. We become known as Christians and stand unapologetically as His followers.

When we take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ, we link our name with His. We identify with Him. We gladly become known as Christian.

What does it mean to you to identify with Jesus Christ?
How does identifying with Christ influence your daily decisions?
In what ways can we show that we are Christians in our communities?
What challenges do you face in standing up as a follower of Christ?
How can we strengthen our identity as Christians in our families and workplaces?

Remember Jesus Christ

Elder Renlund emphasized the importance of remembering Jesus Christ, particularly through partaking of the sacrament. This remembrance helps us acknowledge His sacrifice and grace.

As we partake of the sacrament, we do so in remembrance of the price He paid to redeem us.

How does the sacrament help you remember Jesus Christ throughout the week?
What are some ways you can keep Christ at the forefront of your mind each day?
How can we teach our children the importance of remembering Christ?
Why is it important to remember Christ's sacrifice and grace in our lives?
How does remembering Christ help us in times of trial?

Emulate Jesus Christ

Elder Renlund discussed the need to emulate Jesus Christ by striving to possess His attributes such as charity, integrity, and patience. Emulating Christ leads to personal transformation.

The more we identify with and remember Jesus Christ, the more we want to be like Him.

What attributes of Jesus Christ do you most want to develop in your life?
How does focusing on Christ help you change for the better?
What are some practical ways to emulate Christ in your daily interactions?
How does developing Christlike attributes affect your relationships with others?
Can you share an experience where you felt you successfully emulated Christ?

Align with Christ's Purposes

Elder Renlund taught that aligning our goals with Christ's involves joining Him in His work, such as ministering to others and sharing His gospel.

We join Him in His work when we "love, share, and invite."

What does it mean to align your goals with Christ's purposes?
How can we better join Christ in His work in our communities?
What are some ways to minister to those who are vulnerable or in need?
How can aligning with Christ's purposes bring joy and fulfillment?
What changes might you need to make to better align with Christ's work?

Receive Empowerment through Christ

Elder Renlund explained that taking upon ourselves the name of Christ empowers us with God's power, enabling us to fulfill our mission and withstand trials.

As we make additional covenants with God, we take upon ourselves more fully the name of Jesus Christ. Consequently, God blesses us with more of His power.

How have you felt empowered by taking on the name of Jesus Christ?
In what ways does God's power help you face life's challenges?
How can we access more of God's power in our lives?
What role do covenants play in receiving empowerment from God?
Can you share a time when you felt strengthened by your faith in Christ?

Additional Discussion Questions

What does it mean to you personally to take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ?
How can we more effectively remember Christ in our daily lives?
What are some challenges you face in trying to emulate Christ?
How can we help others in our community feel the love of Christ?
In what ways can we improve our efforts to align our lives with Christ's teachings?
What impact does taking on Christ's name have on your identity?
How does remembering Christ's sacrifice influence your actions and decisions?
What practical steps can we take to develop more Christlike attributes?
How can we support each other in our efforts to join Christ in His work?
What blessings have you experienced from aligning your life with Christ's purposes?