Come, Follow Me Daily Study Guide for the week of June 7-13, 2021 covering Doctrine and Covenants 63. For personal and/or family study of the scriptures, geared towards families with teenagers.  

*These are suggested resources that coincide with the Come, Follow Me manual that I have gathered along with my own thoughts and testimony.  

*SCRIPTURE JOURNALS – I strongly suggest having a scripture journal. On occasion it is suggested to write something down in your scripture journal. These are also great for writing down any impressions or “Aha” moments that you might have as you study the scriptures. 

*A free PDF DOWNLOAD of the Study Guide is available at the bottom of this post. You can also add Melanie’s Library to your mobile device home screen by following these instructions, click HERE

*SONGS – For a list of suggested songs for each day of the week, be sure and check out the blog called Music for Latter-day Life by clicking HERE. Suggestion for NON-SINGERS: Instead of singing, listen to the song suggested on Music for Latter-day Life and as you listen, write in our scripture journals how you have seen the hand of the Lord in your life or something you are grateful for. It is a great way to invite the Spirit to your scripture study.    

 

FHE DAY

For additional resources to help you prepare a Family Home Evening that goes along with Come Follow Me, sign up for the Teach Me FHE email group and receive FHE resources delivered right to your inbox every Sunday morning. Sign up at the bottom of this post. 

 

SIGNS COME BY FAITH AND THE WILL OF GOD  

SCRIPTURE 

D&C 63:7-12

See also Matthew 16:1–4; John 12:37; Mormon 9:10–21; Ether 12:12, 18.

SUMMARY

1. Signs or miracles alone do not produce lasting faith. Early in 1831 Ezra Booth, a Methodist minister in Kirtland, decided to be baptized after he saw Joseph Smith miraculously heal the arm of Booth’s friend Elsa Johnson. And yet, within just a few months, Booth lost his faith and became critical of the Prophet. (CFM manual)

2. Ezra Booth is an example of someone who relied on signs rather than faith. After he was baptized, he received the priesthood and was sent on a mission to Missouri. Apparently, he expected to convert many by displaying signs and performing miracles. However, after preaching for a short time and not seeing the results he anticipated, Ezra became disaffected and soon after apostatized. (Institute Teacher’s Manual Doctrine & Covenants)

VIDEOS

1. Faith Precedes the Miracle (0:48), click HERE
2. Face the Future with Faith (1:00), click HERE
3. O Thou of Little Faith, Wherefore Didst Thou Doubt? click HERE

ACTIVITIES

1.STORY (Taken from Come Follow Me Through the Doctrine and Covenants): Ezra Booth was a Methodist preacher from Ohio and was good friends with Elsa and John Johnson. When the three friends heard of Joseph Smith’s arrival in Ohio, they went to visit the Prophet. For the last two years, Elsa had been unable to lift her arm above her head because of rheumatism, which caused significant pain and swelling in her arm and shoulder. The following happened when Joseph visited Ezra and the Johnsons:

During the interview the conversation turned on the subject of supernatural gifts, such as were conferred in the days of the apostles. Some one said, “Here is Mrs. Johnson with a lame arm; has God given any power to man now on the earth to cure her?” A few moments later, when the conversation had turned in another direction, [Joseph] Smith rose, and walking across the room, taking Mrs. Johnson by the hand, said in the most solemn and impressive manner: “Woman, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I command thee to be whole, ” and immediately left the room….Mrs. Johnson at once lifted it [her arm] up with ease, and on her return home the next day she was able to do her washing without difficulty or pain (History of the Church, 1:216n2).

2. STORY: Have somebody share the following story found in the Ensign called Faith Precedes Miracles, click HERE Does anyone in your family have a similar experience to share?

3. OBJECT LESSON: Do You Trust Me? click HERE

QUOTES

NEIL L. ANDERSEN: “At times we thoughtfully wonder why the miracle we have so earnestly prayed for does not happen…Whether in this life or the next, all will be made right.” (What Thinks Christ of Me?)

HOWARD W. HUNTER: “There will always be plenty of miracles if we have eyes to see and ears to hear.” (The God That Doest Wonders)

GOSPEL TOPICS – MIRACLES: “A miracle is an extraordinary event caused by the power of God. Miracles are an important element in the work of Jesus Christ. They include healings, restoring the dead to life, and resurrection. Miracles are a part of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Faith is necessary in order for miracles to be manifested.”

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PONDER & DISCUSS

1. Referring to Ezra Booth losing his faith after witnesses a miracle: How could this be, considering the miracle he’d witnessed? Ponder this as you read Doctrine and Covenants 63:7–12. (CFM manual)
2. Why [might] some people receive signs “for the good of men unto [God’s] glory” (verse 12) and others receive them “unto … condemnation” (verse 11). (CFM manual)
3. Based on what you’ve read, how do you think the Lord wants you to think and feel about signs? (CFM manual)
4. The story of Ezra Booth leaving the Church despite witnessing Elsa Johnson’s healing might prompt a discussion about miracles. Maybe your family members could talk about miracles that have strengthened their faith, including experiences from your family or your family history. How did they exercise the faith needed to receive these miracles? (CFM manual)
5. Why is it important to remember that signs come according to God’s will rather than our will? (Institute Teacher’s Manual)

CONFERENCE TALKS

1. FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE: Miracles of Faith by President Monson
2. Has the Day of Miracles Ceased? by Elder Donald L. Hallstrom, click HERE

 

CHASTITY MEANS KEEPING MY THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS PURE

SCRIPTURE

D&C 63:13-23

See also Doctrine and Covenants 121:45

SUMMARY

Most people would acknowledge that adultery is wrong. But in Doctrine and Covenants 63:13–19, the Savior made it clear that lustful thoughts also have grave spiritual consequences. (CFM manual)

VIDEOS

1. Watch Your Step (2:35), click HERE
2. Chastity: What are the Limits? (3:59), click HERE
3. True Confidence – Standards: Sexual Purity and Modesty (3:58), click HERE
4. Saints Unscripted: Mormon Chastity: Sex, Porn & Masturbation (11:30), click HERE

ACTIVITIES

1. Review the many helpful resources for families regarding pornography at AddressingPornography.ChurchofJesusChrist.org

2. D&C 63:23 How can you help your family understand how the “mysteries of [the] kingdom,” or truths of the gospel, are like a “well of living water”? For instance, you might travel to a nearby spring or river (or show a video or picture of one). How are gospel truths like water? (CFM manual) *I’ve included an image of water below that you can use*

QUOTES

ELDER JEFFREY R. HOLLAND: “Why is lust such a deadly sin? Well, in addition to the completely Spirit-destroying impact it has upon our souls, I think it is a sin because it defiles the highest and holiest relationship God gives us in mortality—the love that a man and a woman have for each other and the desire that couple has to bring children into a family intended to be forever” (“Place No More for the Enemy of My Soul,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2010, 44).

SCOTT SORENSEN: “Why does lust disconnect us from heaven?…Lust does not necessarily have to do with people; it can also deal with things. After all, Nephi said, ‘Laban saw our property, and that it was exceedingly great, he did lust after it, insomuch that he thrust us out, and sent his servants to slay us, that he might obtain our property’ (1 Nephi 3:25). There is something about lust that clouds our judgement and causes us to treat people as ‘less than.’ Laban was willing to kill four people in exchange for shiny things. ‘What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?’ (Matthew 16:26)”

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PONDER & DISCUSS

1. What consequences does the Lord mention that will come to those who do not repent of unchaste thoughts and actions? (CFM manual)
2. Note the blessings the Savior promises in verses 20 and 23 to those who are faithful. What blessings have come into your life from obeying the law of chastity? (CFM manual)
3. How can we protect ourselves from unworthy influences, including pornography? (CFM manual)
4. How does the Savior help you remain or become pure? (CFM manual)

CONFERENCE TALKS

1. Place No More for the Enemy of My Soul by Elder Holland
2. Linda S. Reeves, “Worthy of Our Promised Blessings,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 9–11.

 

A WARNING VOICE & THAT WHICH COMETH FROM ABOVE IS SACRED

SCRIPTURE

D&C 63:37, 57-64

SUMMARY

In this revelation the Lord tells the righteous that they are to be a voice of warning and He also warns those who use the name of the Lord without authority are declared to be under condemnation.

VIDEOS

1. Teachings of Joseph Fielding Smith: A Voice of Warning (1:33), click HERE *This was also included in the FHE email. If you haven’t already used it, you could use it in today’s lesson. It is a great example of one giving a voice of warning.
2. Beware How We Take the Lord’s Name (0:53), click HERE

ACTIVITIES

1. TAKEN FROM SCRIPTURE STUDY FOR LATTER-DAY SAINT FAMILIES: Ask a family member to say the word “stop” three times, using the tone of voice he or she would use under the following three circumstances.

1. You wanted a family member to not change a television channel you are watching.
2. You saw a man taking a woman’s purse and running away down the street
3. You saw a younger family member dashing into the street after a ball, not realizing a car was approaching.

Then ask these questions:

1. In which of these circumstances is a warning voice needed?
2. How does a warning voice compare to a teaching or asking voice?

READ: D&C 63:37 and ask family members to mark the phrase “lift a warning voice.” Ask:

1. To whom are the righteous to lift a warning voice?
2. Why is it important to warn the inhabitants of the earth?
3. What tone should we use when we give this warning?
4. What is a kind and loving way we can warn our neighbors and friends?

2. COME FOLLOW ME MANUAL: Have everyone get something that is very valuable to them. Have them show everyone and share why that item is very valuable to them. You may also show your family a precious family treasure. Then discuss how we treat these items differently than other things that aren’t as valuable to us. What does Doctrine and Covenants 63:58–64 teach us about what we can do to reverence sacred things?

QUOTES

1. EMILY BELLE FREEMAN (Taken from Don’t Miss This): “I am intrigued by what it means to take the Lord’s name in vain. Sometimes we use this phrase as a lesson on swearing, but I think there is a greater lesson here – a lesson on authority, intention, and care. The Greek word for ‘name’ is onoma, which can also mean ‘authority.’ So, when we read the phrase take my name upon you, we could change it to read take my authority upon you. Consider some situations when you might do that. Every Sunday, when we take the sacrament, we covenant that we are willing to take the name of the Son, to always remember Him and keep His commandments. Our taking of the bread is symbolic of our accepting this covenant, but do we accept it in vain? Is our promise hollow or lacking substance or worth? Are we planning on doing something with that name? With that authority? How committed are we to taking the name of Jesus Christ?”

2. ROBERT L. MILLET: “The increase of profanity and vulgarity in music, books, television, and movies serves as a commentary on our times. It seems likely that people’s inhumanity to people is related to their neglect of sacred matters, that the growing harshness, crudeness, and insensitivity in society are correlated directly with denying, defying, or ignoring God. When we love the Lord, cherish his word, and humbly bow beneath his rod, we seek always to act and speak with deferential reverence toward Deity. On the other hand, one who knows not God and finds no personal value in worship or devotion cannot understand the true, deep meaning of holy and holiness. Such a person may have no sense of restraint in regard to speech, no hesitation to drag the sacred out of its context and thrust it into the profane.”

3. CASEY PAUL GRIFFITHS: “Near the end of the revelation the Lord warns the disciples to take care with sacred things, particularly the name of the Savior. A later revelation informed the Saints that the original name of the Melchizedek Priesthood, ‘the holy priesthood after the Order of the Son of God,’ was changed in common use out of ‘respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme Being, [and] to avoid too frequent repetition of the name’ (D&C 107:3–4).

“If we are to avoid frequent repetition of the Lord’s name, then why did the Savior give His name to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and then lead the prophets to insist on the use of the correct name? In these verses the Lord warns specifically against those who lack authority using His name in vain (D&C 63:62)…Certainly His name has meaning when taken as an identifier of the Lord’s true Church, or when used in any ordinances of the gospel. However, when His name is used in vain by people without authority, by people who take it upon themselves without serious commitment, or by people who use it as a profanity, these people come under the Lord’s condemnation.”

4. TAYLOR HALVERSON: We should be far more respectful when we invoke the name of God. We should not use God’s name in anger, as an exclamation point, in surprise or pain. We should use the name of God, the creator of all things, in reverence, awe, in joyful adoration, in thanks and gratitude, in prayer and in blessings. But is avoiding using God’s name out of context really what Exodus 20:7 — “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain” — is all about?

I think there is something far more significant meant by this verse than simply avoiding the use of God’s name as an expletive…This commandment may mean more than avoiding saying God’s name flippantly. God expects us to be fully intentional when we make covenants in his name. Do we truly intend to keep each covenant? Do we make the covenant in a meaningful way? Or are we just going through the motions without real intent, without purposeful change to leave behind our sins?

IMAGES

Mormon Message (churchofjesuschrist.org)

PONDER & DISCUSS

1. Discuss ways that you can be a voice of warning or how you can share the gospel with others.
2. What are some ways that a person might misuse the name of the Lord?
3. How is the Savior’s name important?
4. Why should we take His name upon us? 

CONFERENCE TALKS

1. The Voice of Warning by Elder Christofferson, click HERE
2. A Voice of Warning by President Eyring, click HERE

 

GENERAL CONFERENCE DAY

Study a recent General Conference talk. A great way to study a conference talk is to read along as you listen and highlight the parts that stand out to you. Then after the talk, review and discuss what you have highlighted.    

THIS WEEK’S TALK: Essential Conversations by Joy D. Jones, click HERE

 

 

CATCH UP DAYS

Do one of the days that you missed OR any of the additional resources listed.

Yours Truly,

P.S. For more Come, Follow Me resources, check out my post Your Ultimate Guide to Come, Follow Me. It lists over 100 Come, Follow Me resources that are available online starting with the church’s resources at the top. You can find it by clicking HERE. 

P.P.S. Sign up here for the Teach Me FHE email group and receive FHE resources delivered right to your inbox every Sunday morning. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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