2 Peter 2 - Teaching

1.    Read 2 Peter 2:1–19. Record the characteristics of false teachers described by Peter. Explain in writing how your list helps you recognize false teachers today.

·         Denying that Christ paid the price for their sins

·         Covetousness

·         Filthy conversation

·         Lust of uncleanness

·         Despise government

·         Presumptuous, self-willed

·         Not afraid to speak evils of dignities

·         Speak evil of the things they don’t understand

·         Count it pleasurable to riot in the daytime

·         Sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you

·         Eyes full of adultery, that cannot cease from sin

·         Forsake the right way

·         Love the wages of unrighteousness

·         Words of vanity allure the lusts of the flesh

·         They promise liberty while they are servants of corruption

As I reviewed these characteristics, I realized that being able to recognize false teachers keeps me aware of the things and teachings I need to avoid in order to keep myself on track with the Lord.  This list is a tool in helping me see the truth behind flashy and salacious headlines or slogans.  Especially in today’s world where the internet provides so much anonymity and “freedom” to people to express their views, without any fear of consequence or harm to others, this is most applicable.  We need to be aware of the tools that Satan and his minions use so that we can protect ourselves from their fiery darts.  The more we are able to detect false teachers, the more we can keep ourselves unspotted from the world. 

2.    Read 2 Peter 2:20–22; Doctrine and Covenants 82:3, 7. In your own words, write a few sentences describing the dangers of returning to the “pollutions of the world.”

These references teach that it is worse to receive knowledge and to then turn away from that knowledge than to be ignorant of the truth.  It’s like with children.  A two-year-old is not held to the same standard as an eight-year-old.  That little two-year-old probably doesn’t know any better.  They don’t know or understand how the world works and why certain actions have specific consequences.  An eight-year-old, however, understands quite a bit more.  They know enough to know how they should behave and what is expected of them.  There is a greater ability to control their actions and emotions.  There is also increased knowledge and understanding.  If a two-year-old takes a toy off a store shelf and tries to leave with it, it’s purely an accident.  That toddler hasn’t learned what stealing is or the difference between right and wrong in that circumstance.  If an eight-year-old does the same, they have the understanding of what right and wrong is.  They understand that stealing is wrong from a completely different perspective. 

When we are given knowledge and truth, we are held to a higher standard of behavior.  If we learn that stealing is wrong and then we turn around and steal something, the consequences will be far greater for us than someone who doesn’t have that knowledge.  I could come up with ten different examples to illustrate this principle.  But what it ultimately comes down to is that intentional sin is very different than ignorant sin.  

"Be Ye Doers of the Word and Not Hearers Only"

1.    Read James 1 and respond in writing to the following items:

·            What words or phrases encourage you to look for direction from God?

In verse 5, we are directed to ask God for direction if we ever “lack wisdom.”  We are also told that God “giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”  Upbraideth is defined as to censure or reproach.  So, for me, it is encouraging to know that I’m not going to be disciplined for having a question or not understanding something and taking it to the Lord.  And not only will He answer us, but He will give to us liberally.  I always think of the scripture that talks about how God will pour out His blessings upon us, that there will not be room enough to receive it. 

·            How did James further define the phrase to “ask in faith”?

James further defines “ask in faith” by adding “nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.”  The imagery of that is pretty powerful.  The wind is something that cannot be seen, only felt; similar to Satan and temptation.  Yet the effects of wind are very much seen, especially in water.  Any body of water can be moved by the wind, even if it’s just a light breeze…there is still a ripple effect on the water.  But if we do not waver, if our faith is strong and build on a solid foundation, it doesn’t matter how strong the wind is blowing.  Our testimony cannot be shaken.

·            How do Matthew 6:24 and 1 Kings 18:21 add to your understanding of James 1:8?

Matthew talks about how it is impossible to hold loyalty to two separate masters.  Our actions will either show love for one and contempt for the other.  There isn’t a way to be balanced or on the fence with who we serve.  1 King makes the comment that if God is who He says He is, we need to act and obey Him, instead of being stuck between two opinions.  These verses add to James 1:8 by explaining why a man who is double minded is unstable.  Trying to juggle between two ways of thinking and acting creates nothing but inconsistency and trouble for an individual. 

·            From James 1:13–15, 19–27, make an outline of how we can better live the gospel of Jesus Christ.

-          Swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath

-          Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word

-          Be doers of the word

-          looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer

-          Bridle our tongue

-          To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

·            Give a few modern examples of how you have recently seen individuals exemplify James 1:22.

There are a few different people that came to mind when reading this question.  A friend followed a prompting to invite a newly baptized couple in our ward to Thanksgiving dinner.  I see sisters in my ward constantly volunteering to bring dinners to families in need.  There is one sister in particular who is always offering her assistance in any capacity needed.  She is usually the first to respond to a need in my ward.  I watch as friends follow direction and counsel they’ve received from church leaders.  I also have seen people close to me never stop trying to be better and to improve how they worship the Lord.

2.    Read the institute student manual commentary for James 1:5–6, “If Any of You Lack Wisdom” (p. 409). Make a list of reasons why Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–1985) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said these verses have “had a greater impact ... upon mankind than any other” scripture.

I struggled to come up with a ‘list’ of reasons from the brief passage in the manual, but what I got out of it is that those verses were what influenced Joseph Smith to ask a very simple question that led to the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  The counsel and truth behind those words is so easily understood.  In the manual, Elder McConkie says that, at some point, every investigator of the church stands where Joseph Smith did.  Each individual must ask the Lord for themselves.  They must each take whatever questions they have to the Lord.  The same can be said of us.  Everyone that wishes to know God, the Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ, must seek truth from the source from which it is given.  There is no other way to know God than to seek Him out.  

Works of Righteousness

We are to remember to entertain strangers, “for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”  And for those “in bonds,” we are given similar counsel to remember them and to have compassion on them.   The overall idea that stood out to me is that no one is above anyone else.  It is our duty to love and care for each other.

About marriage, Paul’s commentary is simple.  “Marriage is honourable in all…” (Heb. 13:4)  Honorable is defined as “deserving of honor; of great renown, illustrious.”  When I really thought about it, Paul’s counsel is not surprising.  Marriage is such a key part of this gospel.  Marriage, for me, is one of the ways I have grown the most and learned the most, both about my Savior and myself.

The warnings given about covetousness are less direct.  Paul says, “Let our conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.  So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Heb. 13:5-6)  So, going with the opposite of that, if we are covetous people, we will not have the Lord on our side to help us.  We will be forsaken and afraid more of man than of God.

“The same yesterday, and to day, and for ever” means that God is unchangeable.  Who He was yesterday is who He will always be in the future.  Our Savior, Jesus Christ, and our Heavenly Father are constant.  They will always be there for us if we make the decision to follow and choose Their divine path.

We are sanctified through the sacrifice of blood by our Savior, Jesus Christ. 

We are to respond to those who rule over us by “[Obeying] them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves…” (Heb. 13:17).  I found this counsel very interesting.  It’s not a new concept.  I knew we are supposed to obey the laws of the land, but this counsel is sometimes hard to swallow in today’s world.  I think this is something I need to work on; having more respect for the leaders of this country.

Paul asked that the people pray for him and the other leaders of the Church.  

2 Timothy 1:1–10. Paul’s Affection for Timothy

There were quite a few parallels in the counsel and expressions given by Paul and Mormon in their letters.  Paul and Mormon both said that they were mindful of the person they were writing to (Timothy and Moroni) in their prayers.  They also each expressed their desire that Heavenly Father would be mindful of them.  In Mormon’s counsel to Moroni, he reminds his son of his duty to serve God and to “labor diligently” among the Lamanites.  Paul doesn’t come outright and say that exact same thing to Timothy.  Rather, Paul reminds Timothy of the priesthood that Timothy holds.  To me, that is Paul telling Timothy to remember why he holds the priesthood…to serve his brothers and sisters and share the gift of that priesthood with all those around him. 

There are two aspects about 2 Timothy 1:5 that stand out to me…first, the great faith that came before Timothy.  Something that I am being reminded of this week is the legacy we leave behind as we go throughout this life and, pertaining to 2 Timothy 1:5, the heritage of faith that we come from.  In my opinion, it doesn’t matter if you are a convert to the church and the only/first member of your family.  There is still a vast and rich heritage of faith that has come before and is there for you to draw strength from.  The testimonies of the pioneers and their immeasurable faith is there for each of us to look back on and learn from and build upon.  

Second, it is Timothy’s mother’s and grandmother’s faith that is noted.  Paul didn’t point out Timothy’s father or grandfather.  It was Timothy’s mother and grandmother.  For me, as a mother, this verse hit home.  I am reminded of the Stripling Warriors.  The impact that mothers have on their children is probably the most powerful in this mortal life.  When I went through the temple for the first time, as my mom walked me through the process, she made the comment with a tear in her eye that she was teaching me exactly how her mother had taught her when she went through the temple for the first time.  It’s such a small and simple thing, but the influence of mothers can change the world.  I definitely need to be more mindful of what legacy I’m leaving behind for my children.  I make so many mistakes in raising my children…I’m pretty sure they’re going to need years of therapy because of those mistakes…but I hope and pray that somewhere in the midst of my countless mistakes, I am teaching them about the Savior.  I hope that I am living my testimony every day so that they will never doubt in whom I believe and rely on for strength. 

Paul assured Timothy that “the spirit of fear” does not come from God.  I think that fear is synonymous with doubt, uncertainty, panic, worry, and disbelief.  These thoughts and feelings are tools that Satan uses to slowly (and sometimes not so slowly) eat away at our peace and confidence in the Lord.  In my life, learning that fear is not a tool my Heavenly Father uses to persuade me has been invaluable.  It hasn’t exactly made my life completely easy and free from all fear or worry.  But it has made it more possible for me to recognize that it is Satan trying to tear me down vs Heavenly Father trying to communicate with me.  There is great hope and peace and strength that comes from knowing that God has “…given us the spirit of...power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”  In this life, there are storms and trials of all kinds that we must face.  Knowing the spirit of influence our loving and divine Heavenly Father uses can mean the difference between a life filled with fear and a life filled with joy and hope.

In 2 Timothy 1:15-18, Paul blesses the “house of Onesiphorus” with the Lord’s mercy because the house of Onesiphorus was not ashamed of Paul and “refreshed” him and cared for Paul.  When Paul was in Rome, Onesiphorus made a point of seeking Paul out.  Paul blessed Onesiphorus that he might find mercy in the Lord’s eyes.  As I consider Matt. 25:35-40, for me, I think making a point of serving those around me and taking the opportunities to help that come up, I might someday be worthy of the same blessing that Paul gave. 

After reading Matt. 11:29-30 and Jacob 1:8, the use of “chain” in 2 Tim. 1:16 seems to mean more along the lines of the burden that Paul is carrying.  Initially, I thought that “chain” meant the connection or association of Paul.  But after reading the other scriptures I think it really means more of the yoke or mantle that Paul carries.  This assignment has been really interesting because I’ve had to take a step back and look at how I feel and behave in regards to opportunities to serve and how I act towards those who are called of God to teach and fulfill callings in my ward and stake.  Do I respect and honor the priesthood that the men in my life hold to the best of my ability?  Do I look for the chance to serve in my ward?  Am I doing enough to honor and obey the covenants I have made?

Find Solutions in the Scriptures to Life’s Challenges

For each of the following common challenges, write the counsel from Philippians that you would use to resolve it:

• People sometimes argue and complain over petty matters in church meetings or throughout the week (see Philippians 2:1–8, 14–15).

As we attend church and participate in the activities there, when strife arises, we need to be sure to put those things aside and think of what Christ would do and how He would treat others.  Church, of all places, needs to be a refuge and a place of love and kindness and safety for the members of the congregation.  Philippians 2:2 says we need to “…be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”  We should love each other and let go of petty issues that we can be “of one mind.”

• Many youth feel that their parents’ testimony is sufficient for them. Since they have good parents, they rely on them for all their spiritual strength (see Philippians 2:12–15 and institute student manual commentary for Philippians 2:12, “Work out Your Own Salvation with Fear and Trembling” [pp. 361–62]).

The youth in the church will not always live at home.  There will come a time that they move out and are left to rely on the light of their own testimony as they face adulthood.  In Philippians 2:12, we are counseled, “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”  When it comes to our salvation, we cannot rely on anyone else.  The institute manual says, “The Church does not accept the doctrine that a mere murmured belief in Jesus Christ is all that is necessary…’Work out your salvation’ is an exhortation to demonstrate by activity, by thoughtful, obedient effort the reality of faith…To work out one’s salvation…is to perform daily, hourly, momentarily, if necessary, the immediate task or duty at hand, and to continue happily in such performance as the years come and go…” 

There’s a couple of young women that spend a lot of time at my house and church is something we talk about often.  Through talking with them, and what I remember when I was a teenager, I have seen the importance of having a personal and individual testimony of the living Savior, Jesus Christ.  It is this testimony that will get you through any trial you may face in this life. 

• An investigator is considering joining the Church, but his family will no longer associate with him if he does (see Philippians 3:7–16; 4:13).

This is a hard one…family is such an important aspect of life and the loss of their association would be devastating.  In a situation like this, one must consider the alternative.  If an individual has developed a testimony of Christ, and denies it, what are the consequences?  I have found that turning away from my faith has led to more devastation and heartache.  Losing your family would be extremely difficult. 

Philippians 3:13 says, “[reach] forth unto those things which are before.”  We must look forward with faith, trusting God to direct our paths.  Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”  If we act on our faith, and rely on Christ, no matter what challenges we face, Christ will always give us the strength to endure, no matter how difficult or impossible they seem.  I have learned that obedience is always the better choice. 

• How is this writing assignment an example of the principle taught in 2 Nephi 32:3? 

2 Nephi 32:3 teaches that we should, “feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.”  This writing assignment is an example of this principle because I was able to find answers to real answers and guidance to difficulties that I or someone I know has faced in this life.  The scriptures contain answers to all of life’s challenges.  As we turn to the words and truths written in the scriptures, we will be blessed to find the answers and peace that we are seeking.  We can and will be guided to do all things that our Father in Heaven would have us do. 

Becoming New Creatures in Christ

1.       Make a list of names, titles, and phrases used by Paul in Colossians 1:13–2:7 to describe the Savior. What did Paul teach that Jesus Christ has done for us? What do these verses teach about the responsibilities we have to receive the blessings of the Lord?

• Delivered us from the power of darkness
• Translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son
• In whom we have redemption through his blood
• The firstborn of every creature
• By him were all things created
• He is before all things
• The head of the body/the church
• The beginning
• The firstborn from the dead
• In him should all fullness dwell
• By him to reconcile all things unto himself
• He can present us holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight
• In whom is hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge
• As we receive Christ, “so walk ye in him” 

Paul teaches that Christ has done everything for us.  He created this world, He suffered all things, died for us, took up His life for us, and, because of Him, we have to chance to be forgiven and to live again with our Heavenly Father.  He can be, literally, everything to us.  Our responsibility to the Lord, in order to receive these wonderful blessings, is to be obedient, to share the gospel and our knowledge of the Savior with those around us.  Through Christ, we are able to find all truth and it is up to us to exercise that gift to seek and find the truths of this world and the world to come.

2.       Write Helaman 5:12 next to Colossians 2:7 in the margin of your scriptures. After reading these two scriptures, write a paragraph explaining what it means to be “rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith.”

After reading these two verses, being “rooted and built up in [Christ] and established in the faith” means that the basis of our faith and our testimony is founded on Christ and His teachings.  For me, that has meant having a personal relationship with the Savior that has been developed through prayer and fasting, reading the scriptures and the words of modern-day prophets, and acting in faith on the promptings and guidance I’ve received and acting on the truths I’ve learned from my reading. 

In Helaman 5:12, he talks about the reason why we build this foundation on Christ: so that “when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds…when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down...because of the rock upon which ye are built…” (Emphasis added).  So, the meaning behind being built on Christ is more than just having a testimony of Him.  To me, it means fully converted to the gospel of Christ.  Having the kind of conversion that is built on and added to as each trial and storm of life rages around you, with you remaining as steadfast and immoveable as possible.  In some ways, I think this kind of conversion involves some moments when we falter a little and then come back to that foundation of Christ. 

3.       Review Colossians 2:8, 18 and the institute student manual commentary for Colossians 2:18-19, “What does Paul Mean by the Worshiping of Angels?” (p. 345). List at least four means of deception Paul warned the Saints about in Colossae. What does 2 Nephi 9:28-29 add to what Paul warned?

Being spoiled through philosophy and vain deceit, after the traditions of men and the rudiments of the world and not after Christ

The beguiling of men mediators for Christ vs our direct line of communication to Christ

False teachers of Christ, who don’t understand what they’re teaching and are vainly puffed up

2 Nephi 9:28-29 goes into more detail about what Paul taught.  It warns against false wisdom and learning, being vain and the frailties of the human mind, being prideful and not accepting of God’s counsel, and supposing that we are know better than God.  In verse 29, it clarifies that learning is a good thing when it is coupled with obedience to God’s teachings.

4.       Review Colossians 3 and make a list of what we should “put on” and “put off” or “mortify.” Make a chart like the following one and place your findings in the corresponding column:

Things We Should Seek After or “Put On”

Things We Should “Mortify” or “Put Off”

Affection on things above  The “new man,” which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Christ Bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering Forebearing one another, forgiving one another Charity, which is the bond of perfectness Let the peace of God rule in your hearts Let the word of Christ dwell in you in wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs Let every action be done in the name of the Lord

Not thing on the earth Fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness Anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth Lying and the natural man

5.       Review Colossians 3:15-21 and identify in writing several ideas that would help families live in greater harmony. Then answer the following questions in writing:

·         What specific counsel did Paul give to children, parents, husbands, and wives?

• Wives, submit to your husbands
• Husbands, love your wives
• Children, obey your parents
• Fathers, provoke not your children to anger
• Obey in singleness of heart, fearing God

·         What did Paul teach about the importance of hymns?

Paul teaches that they are extremely important and should be part of our teaching and admonishing of the gospel.  In my experience, there is a very special spirit that accompanies the music in this church. 

Romans 6. Baptism

1.    Review Romans 6:1–13 and answer the following questions in writing: 

v  What must be done with sin before baptism can occur?

We must put sin away and repent before we can be baptized.

v  What events from Christ’s life are symbolized in baptism?

Christ’s resurrection is symbolized in baptism.  The action of being buried in the water symbolizes his death.  The action of being lifted out of the water, clean from sin, is a representation of Christ being resurrected, to die no more.

v  Considering this symbolism, why couldn’t someone be baptized by sprinkling?

It is the immersion in the water that symbolizes our sins being washed away.  It is our old self, our sinful self, which is crucified as we are buried in the water.  As we come up out of the water, we rise as new beings.  Alive in the spirit of Christ, being washed clean from our sinful life before.  A sprinkling would not be enough because there is only a small part of our body that is “washed.”  Symbolically, there would always be some part of our sinful self leftover because the entire body of sin was not washed away.

v  What do these verses teach us about how we can maintain the “newness of life”?

These verses teach us that we should never let sin or physical lusts take over our physical bodies.  We need “…to be dead indeed unto sin…” (Rom. 6:11).  We are to be “…instruments of righteousness unto God” (Rom. 6:13).  The “newness of life” that is talked about in verse 4 is maintained by obedience and righteous living.  By living our lives as Christ would.

v  According to Mosiah 3:19, what part of us would ideally die at baptism?

Ideally, it is the “natural man” that would die at baptism.  Goodness.  As I sit here and think about that, my heart is overwhelmed with the image.  What if this did actually happen?  What if the natural man part of us literally died when we get baptized?  I can’t even accurately imagine what our wards would be like, let alone what the world would be like.  All I know, is that this world would be a beautiful place to live if the natural man actually died when we got baptized. 

2.    Study Romans 6:14–23. Write a paragraph that describes how we know whose servant we are. Then write a statement identifying the true source of freedom.

We know who servants we are based on our actions and who we obey.  Are we slaves to sin and carnal lusts?  Or are we servants of righteousness?  Do our actions lead to goodness, light, and life?  Or do they lead to misery, addictions, and, ultimately, death?  “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness” (Rom. 6:16)? 

True freedom comes from our Father in Heaven and none else.  When we obey His laws, we are made free from sin and the consequences thereof.  We do not become slave to addiction or vices that would otherwise destroy us.  Our bodies are kept free from harmful substances and we are stronger, more physically capable, and clean.  

2 Corinthians 2:1–11. Forgiveness

The people of Corinth were commanded to forgive and comfort and confirm their love towards those that caused grief (2 Cor. 2:7-8).  This was a very eye-opening way of phrasing how we should treat people that have hurt us or sinned against us.  Not only did they need to forgive, but they were commanded to comfort and confirm their love towards those who had made a mistake.  It made me think of how the Savior handles forgiveness, in my experience.  When I’ve made a mistake, whether it be bigger or small, there’s usually been something wrong with me.  Either I’m tired so my patience is worn thin and I’m quick to snap at my daughter or I’m not maintaining my spiritual duties like I should be and I don’t have the spiritual capacity to handle a specific trial or issue that is facing me as well as I should.  There is almost always a reason behind why I sin towards another person. 

When I go to repent, the Savior offers mercy and comfort as I work to rectify my wrongs.  He offers love and patience and guidance as I work to change myself, through His redeeming and enabling power.  This commandment that Paul gave the people of Corinth is what will further enable them to become more like Christ as they act and obey it.  Any opportunity we have to become more like Christ, we need to take and give our all to it.  Our hearts and lives will be blessed beyond measure as we love, forgive, and comfort as the Savior would.  As we forgive, we can, in turn, be forgiven by our Father in Heaven.  The danger of us not forgiving others is that we will not be forgiven.

Forgiving is a blessing in our lives.  We do not have to carry around a burden of anger, bitterness, or hate.  As we forgive, we will be blessed with the lightest yolk of peace, harmony, joy, and mercy.  Forgiveness is a gift the Lord has given us.  And we need to use it and exercise it to its fullest measure. 

Being Influential for Good in the Lives of Others

Paul’s position in the church was an apostle.  The corresponding responsibility of this position is to teach the gospel.  In 1 Corinthians 9:1, Paul asked, “….are not ye my work in the Lord?”  In verse 16, Paul taught that it was his duty to teach the gospel.  These two things teach us quite a bit about how we, in today’s world, should approach teaching the gospel. 

Teaching and sharing the message of joy and good news that is the gospel of Christ is our work.  As members of the church, it is our job.  It is our duty to share that message with anyone and everyone we meet.  While every single member of the church is not a full-time, set apart missionary, we are given the call to be a member missionary.  Every single person we come in contact with is deserving of the opportunity to learn of Christ.  No one should be left out.  Our loving Father in Heaven wants his home to be complete and it is our duty, our privilege, to be part of bringing our spirit brothers and sisters home.

In 1 Corinthians 9:20-23, Paul goes into more detail about how we can and should accomplish this task of teaching those around us.  He says, in verse 22, “…I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.”  What he means here is that he adapted himself to his surroundings.  He made a point of fitting in with whatever group of people he was teaching.  If he was teaching Jews, he behaved like the Jews.  If he was with those that are weak, he became weak.  What I love about his comment in verse 22 is that he is recognizing that he won’t be able to convert every person he teaches.  But he still is willing to make the sacrifices to adapt and change his behavior and persona in order to “save some.”  The number does not matter to him.  If he can be the means of saving “some,” that is enough for him.  It shows the great love for people that Paul had.  His desire to save anyone he could displays a very sweet and powerful love.

Elder Bruce R. McConkie clarifies Paul’s actions.  He states, “Paul here says he made himself all things to all men in an effort to get them to accept the gospel message; that is, he adapted himself to the conditions and circumstances of all classes of people, as a means of getting them to pay attention to his teachings and testimony. And then, lest any suppose this included the acceptance of their false doctrines or practices, or that it in any way involved a compro­mise between the gospel and false systems of worship, he hastened to add that he and all men must obey the gospel law to be saved” (New Testament Institute Manual).

We are not expected, as members of the church, to succumb to whatever sins or vices those we are teaching have.  We need to keep ourselves obedient to the Lord’s commandments.  However, in my experience, we are asked to be empathetic and loving and gentle to those we teach.  First, we need to love.  When we learn to love as Christ does, we are then able to understand the people we are teaching.  Their point of view matters.  Their background is part of what defines them, so it, too, matters.  Who they are matters.  If we can understand them, we are able to better relate to them.  If we can relate to them, we are even better equipped to help them find the strength and ability, through Christ, to overcome their challenges and use the gift of the atonement.

As we go forward and teach the gospel, it is important for us to remember that we, first, need to love those that we teach.  The sense of kindness and love that we feel and show towards the people we meet will be felt.  Our efforts will be magnified as we serve and teach in a spirit of love and offer understanding to everyone we meet. 

1 Thessalonians 3–5; 2 Thessalonians 3:1–6, 11. Counsel for Members

• Read 1 Thessalonians 3:12–13; 4:1–12; 5:1–22; 2 Thessalonians 3:1–6, 11.Then compile a list of attributes Paul counseled members to improve.

Increase and abound in love toward all men

Your hearts unblameable in holiness before God

Walk and to please God

Abstain from fornication, for your sanctification: the law of chastity

Control physical appetites – know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour

That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter

God hath…called us unto…holiness

Taught of God to love one another; and do it toward all men

Study to be quiet

Do your own business

Work with your own hands that ye may walk honestly toward them that are without and that ye may have lack of nothing

Watch and be sober

Put on the breastplate of faith and love and the helmet of “the hope of salvation”

Comfort yourselves together

Edify one another

Know them which labor among you – esteem them very highly in love

Be at peace among yourselves

Warn them that are unruly, comfort the feeble minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men

See that none render evil for evil unto any man

Ever follow that which is good

Rejoice evermore

Pray without ceasing

In every thing give thanks

Quench not the Spirit

Despise not prophesyings

Prove all things; hold fast to that which is good

Abstain from all appearance of evil

Pray that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified

Withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly

No gossiping

• Select three attributes from your list and write plans of how you want to improve in each area.

“Know them which labor among you – esteem them very highly in love.”

                This is a quality I want to work on with my family…my husband in particular.  My plan to improve is to daily look for the good things my family is doing in their individual work.  Before I go to bed each night, I’m going to write down at least three things for my husband and daughter that they’ve done well in their work.  I am usually a very complimentary person, but, with my family, I struggle a little more because there are more frustrations and opportunities for discord.  But I want to change that.  So, each day, I’ll make a list of at least three things I’ve noticed and that I appreciate about them.

“Rejoice evermore.”

                I know during times of trial, I don’t always have an optimistic attitude.  And, lately, with school, I’ve been struggling more to keep my head above water, so this is definitely a quality I want to improve on.  I find I’ve been letting myself get bogged down with the amount of work I have to do between kids, a household to clean, a husband, school, and church stuff to handle. In order to improve on this quality, I don’t know that I can really create a specific plan to improve other than trying to intentionally looking for the silver lining in each situation and challenge I face.  I will pray for the ability to see the good and to have a sunny outlook on life.

“In every thing give thanks.”

                With this, I plan to improve by saying ‘gratitude prayers’ more often.  I will focus on the blessings in my life vs what I still “need.”  I plan to make an intentional decision to choose to give thanks, even when in the midst of trials.  Along with the first quality, I will make a point of expressing my gratitude for my family, in particular, and for those around me. 

Paul's Second Mission

The four cities where Paul taught on his second mission and later wrote epistles to:
1. Philippi
2. Thessalonica
3. Corinth
4. Ephesus


The map is a little tricky to see, but Paul's second journey was quite the trek.  (His journey is the purple.) :)

In Acts 16:6-10 and 18:9-11, the Holy Ghost directs Paul in a few different ways.  First, in Acts 16:6, it says that they “…were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia.”  In verse 7, Paul and his group were planning to go to Bithynia, but “…the Spirit suffered them not.” In Acts 16:9, Paul was given a vision and again, in Acts 18:9-10, Paul was given another vision, but the second one was different.  In the first vision Paul was given, it was of a man.  In the second vision, it was the Lord, speaking directly to Paul.  But, no matter what, the Lord, through the power of the Holy Ghost directed the path of His servant’s feet. 

I’ll be perfectly honest here…I’m not very good at recognizing the promptings of the Holy Ghost.  So, I can’t think of any super awesome experiences when my missionary efforts in my personal life were directed clearly by the Holy Spirit.  But, I do know that there have been times when I was able to take a leap of faith and talk to a friend about the gospel and the Spirit blessed me with the words I needed to speak, or the right moment to bring up talking about church.  I need to work on being more sensitive to the promptings of the Spirit.  I usually realize after the fact that I received a prompting…after I’ve already brushed an idea off, thinking I can get to it later and the opportunity is missed. 

Paul was able to teach the gospel so effectively because he quickly obeyed promptings (Acts 16:10), he willingly taught anyone who listened (Acts 16:13-14), he worked miracles and stood by his faith when questioned, beaten, and abused (Acts 16:16-24), Paul was obedient to the Lord in all things and praised the Lord (Acts 16:25-26), he never hesitated to teach a willing heart (Acts 16:30-33).

It seems to me that Paul was able to see when someone was willing to learn about the gospel.  He was blessed to know that one was ready for the blessing of baptism.  And so, he taught.  He didn’t make excuses for why he was too busy or too tired or too stressed about his own circumstances.  (He was beaten and thrown in jail, for goodness sake!!  But he still taught.)  He simply opened his mouth and spoke the truthfulness of the gospel of Christ.  What I learn from his example is that there is no reason for me to ever be afraid to share the gospel.  I need to be so converted to the gospel that it is the essence of who I am, in everything I do. 

The jailer is an example of a true convert because once he heard the truth, he wanted his family to receive it.  Which they did, with open and willing hearts, and were then immediately baptized.  He had such faith.  Faith that quickly turned to action.  In Mosiah 4:9-10, we learn that merely believing is the foundation of everything.  This principle of faith is what we build on in this gospel.  There was a blessing I received about 6 years ago.  In it, was said, “…faith, on earth we call it trust…”  Trust.  It is such a simple and basic idea, but it cannot be done halfheartedly.  We either trust our Savior, Jesus Christ, or we don’t.  We either believe or we don’t.  This isn’t an on-the-fence kind of gospel.  We need to be on the Lord’s side with nothing, not even a little toe, on the opposing side.

I need to more fully commit to obedience to the teachings of this gospel.  I need to get better at praying daily and truly studying my scriptures each day so I can be ready to share the gospel to anyone I meet.  As a member missionary, I still need to be willing and actively trying share the message of the Savior.  Like Paul, I need to make sure I am doing what I need to always have the Spirit with me.  

The Martyrdom of Stephen

Stephen’s death struck a chord with me.  This is a man “full of faith and of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 6:5).  He testified of Christ and didn’t shy away from calling people to repentance when it was needed.  His last words were bold and powerful, yet he showed incredible mercy towards the people who killed him.  He began by calling the crowd out on their attitude towards God and His prophets. He even talked about their fathers and that they behaved similarly to the prophets.  He says, “Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? And they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One…” (Acts 7:52). 

In verse 54, it says, “…they were cut to the heart…” by Stephen’s words.  In spite of how wicked these people had become, Stephen’s speech effected their hearts.  They felt the truthfulness of his words.  Instead of changing their ways and listening to Stephen, “…they gnashed on him with their teeth” (Acts 7:54). 

In that moment, Stephen did not falter.  He “…looked up steadfastly into heaven” (Acts 7:55).  Because he looked up, instead of reacting in anger to the crowd, he saw “…the Son of man standing on the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56).  Here, we learn that the Godhead is made up of distinct and separate beings.  The crowd throws Stephen out of the city and stones him.  Again, in that moment, Stephen does not curse this angry mob.  Instead, he kneels down and “…cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge” (Acts 7:60).  He asked the Lord to forgive the people who were killing him.  And with that, he falls asleep and dies. 

Not for a second did Stephen’s faith falter or fail him.  He did not question Heavenly Father or curse Him or the crowd inflicting such pain on him.  Instead, he was forgiving and steadfast until the end. 

For me, that is what I take away from this chapter.  His undying faith and commitment to be obedient to his Father in Heaven, regardless of what was happening to or around him.  Which is similar to Abinadi.  

Abinadi and Stephen both looked to God and asked Him to receive their spirits.  They both testified of the wickedness of the people.  They each suffered death at the hands of others.  They were both faithful to Heavenly Father until the end, no matter how much pain they suffered.  And, in both stories, there was an individual who walked away from watching them die and turned their lives around and became obedient followers of Christ: Alma from Abinadi’s teachings, and Saul, who later becomes Paul, from Stephen’s.

Their faith and dedication to the Lord is what I want to emulate in my life.  I will likely never have to face an entire angry mob and preach repentance to them.  I will also probably never face being killed because of what I believe in.  But I can dedicate my life to my Father in Heaven and my Savior, Jesus Christ.  I can be faithful in studying the scriptures and praying without ceasing.  I can serve willingly and to the best of my ability in church callings, without grumbling or complaining.  And I can teach my children about the Savior.  I can give my Savior my very best in being obedient to His teachings.  Even though I’ll never be perfect and will need to use the atonement many times every day in this life, I can still give my Savior my heart.  I will choose, every, single day, to be a little more Christ like than I was the day before.  I will choose right over wrong, good over evil, light over dark.  I will choose to follow the Savior.  Every day.