Study Guide for "The Family-Centered Gospel of Jesus Christ"

In his profound address, President Dallin H. Oaks emphasizes the centrality of the family within the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He explores the eternal significance of family relationships, the role of temples in the eternal plan, and the challenges faced by modern families. President Oaks also shares personal experiences and teachings that highlight the enduring power of family bonds and the divine purpose of marriage and childbearing.

Before Reading

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

What is the significance of the family in the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
How do temples play a crucial role in the concept of eternal families?
What challenges do modern families face in maintaining family-centered lives?
How can parents and grandparents effectively teach eternal values to their children?
What role does the Savior, Jesus Christ, play as a model for family life?

Topics

Emphasize the Family's Central Role in the Gospel

President Oaks underscores the doctrine that the family is central to God's plan for the eternal destiny of His children. The gospel was first taught in the council of an eternal family and aims to exalt God's children in eternal families.

The family is ordained of God and is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

The gospel of Jesus Christ is the plan of our Heavenly Father for the benefit of His spirit children.

Why is the family considered central to the Creator’s plan?
How does the gospel aim to exalt God's children in eternal families?
How can you prioritize family in your daily life?
Reflect on a time when your family played a central role in your spiritual growth.

Recognize the Role of Temples in Eternal Families

Temples are vital for enabling eternal family relationships. The ordinances performed there are essential for returning to the presence of Heavenly Father as families.

The ordinances received there enable us to return as eternal families to the presence of our Heavenly Father.

What ordinances are performed in temples that are crucial for eternal families?
How do temple ordinances contribute to the eternal nature of families?
How can you prepare to participate in temple ordinances?
What experiences have you had in the temple that strengthened your understanding of eternal families?

Address Challenges to Family-Centered Living

Modern society presents challenges to maintaining family-centered lives, such as declining marriage and birth rates. President Oaks encourages Latter-day Saints to uphold the values and practices that strengthen families.

Exaltation is a family affair. Only through the saving ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ can families be exalted.

What are some societal trends that challenge family-centered living?
Why is it important for Latter-day Saints to uphold family values despite societal trends?
What steps can you take to ensure your family remains a central focus in your life?
Reflect on how societal trends have impacted your family and what you can do to counteract them.

Teach and Exemplify Eternal Values in Families

Parents and grandparents have a sacred responsibility to teach children eternal values. The family setting is ideal for learning important life lessons and gospel principles.

Parents, single or married—and others, like grandparents, who fill that role for children—are the master teachers.

The family circle is the ideal place to demonstrate and learn eternal values.

What eternal values should be taught within the family?
How can parents effectively teach these values to their children?
How can you be a better example of eternal values to your family?
Consider ways you can incorporate teaching moments in your daily family interactions.

Follow the Savior as the Ultimate Role Model

Jesus Christ is the ultimate example for families. By following His teachings and self-sacrifice, families can combat selfishness and individualism and strengthen their bonds.

Our Savior, Jesus Christ, is our ultimate role model.

Following Christ and giving ourselves in service to one another is the best remedy for the selfishness and individualism that now seem to be so common.

How does following the Savior's example benefit families?
What aspects of Christ's life are most applicable to family relationships?
In what ways can you follow the Savior's example more closely in your family?
Reflect on a time when following Christ's teachings brought peace or unity to your family.