His Concern for Others

His Concern for Others

Matthew 26:36–27:50; John 19:26–30

1. Read Luke 23:43; Alma 40:11–15; and the first two paragraphs of the institute student manual Points to Ponder, “His Concern for Others” (p. 186). Write a detailed paragraph describing the “paradise” the Savior told the thief he would be going to.

When the Savior told the thief on the cross that he would be in "paradise" with Him, he was talking about being in the spirit world. There the man would be able to be taught the gospel and make a choice for himself if he wanted to follow the Lord. We know that the spirit world consist of two places, one is called paradise and the other is called spirit prison. Paradise is a place of peace and rest. Those who enter paradise are in a state of happiness, where they rest from all their troubles cares, and sorrows.

2.  Read and cross-reference Luke 23:43 with 1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6; and Doctrine and Covenants 138:29–34. Explain in writing how the Savior made it possible for the wicked and disobedient to hear and receive the gospel.

Chris went to the spirit world and organized His force and appointed messengers to go and teach the message of the gospel to those in spirit prison. All who will repent and except this message can't have liberty.  Vicarious work can be preformed for them and they can because liberated.

3.  Briefly review Matthew 26:36–27:50 and John 19:26–27. Make a list of individuals Jesus Christ showed compassion toward during His last hours of mortality. Write a sentence for each one, describing what He said or did to demonstrate compassion toward them.

All mankind- He was exceedingly sorrowful even unto death for the pains of the world. He suffered for all mankind. 

Peter, James, John- He had compassion on them because try were tired and encourage them to sleep after they fail to stay awake with Him three times. 

Judas- Jesus called him Friend, when he came with the crowd to betray him.

The multitude who came for Jesus- Jesus did not resist His arrest. He went with them willingly. 

Chief priests, elders and council- These men sought false witness against Christ. But it says Jesus held His peace. 

Pilate- When Pilate asked Christ if He were the King of the Jews, Christ responded affirmatively testifying to the truthfulness of his question. 

The Soldiers- Jesus held His peace as He was mocked, hit, whipped, and spit upon by the soldiers. 

Mary- Jesus said "women" (or lady in our modern English) "behold thy son." He wanted His mother to be taken care of while he was gone.

4.  Read each of the scripture references below and write a short statement that describes how each scripture reveals a quality of Jesus Christ’s character and His divine nature:

o   Matthew 27:46- He always had God with Him

o   Luke 23:34- His quality was forgiving others and praying to the Father to forgive His persecutors as well. 

o   Luke 23:43- The Savior showed compassion to the sinner. 

o   Luke 23:46 He trusted in Heavenly Father by giving His spirit to Him.

o   John 19:26–27- Jesus  Christ loved His mom, he cared for the elderly. 

o   John 19:28 Jesus wanted to take care of all His responsibilities. Only after His mother was taken care of did He say His work was done. 

o   John 19:30 He bowed His head on reverence to Heavenly Father before He came Home to see Him. 

The Savior’s Instructions about the Holy Ghost

John 14:15–17, 26–27; 15:26–27; 16:7–8, 13–14

 

1. As you study the following verses, make a list of what the Savior taught about (1) what the Holy Ghost does and (2) what disciples must do to receive the Holy Ghost:

o John 14:15–17 Another name for the Holy Ghost is called "Comforter". He can abide with us forever. He is also called the Spirit of truth. He can dwell with in us.

o John 14:26–27 Heavenly Father has sent the Holy Ghost. He will teach us all things. He will bring all things to your remembrance. We should not let our hearts be troubled nor afraid because we have the Holy Ghost.  

o John 15:26–27 The Holy Ghost testifies of the Savior. 

o John 16:7–8 The Savior has to be away for the Holy Ghost to come. The Holy Ghost reproves the world of sin, and of righteousness. 

o John 16:13–14 The Spirit will guide us to all truth. He will show us things to come. 

2. Add to your list above as you study the following resources:

o Institute student manual Points to Ponder, “The Holy Ghost Brings Man to

His Fullest Potential” (p. 168) Inspires, develops cultivates and matures all the fine-toned sympathies, joys, tastes, kindred feelings and affections of our nature. It invigorates all the faculties of the physical and intellectual man. In the presence of such persons with the Holy Spirit, one feels to enjoy the light of their countenances and the genial rays of a sunbeam.

o Institute student manual Points to Ponder, “As a Messenger of the Godhead,
the Holy Ghost Teaches Faithful Members” (p. 168) He is in likeness of the Father and the Son. His mission is to instruct and enlighten the minds of those who, through their faithfulness have obeyed the commandments of the Father and the Son. He bears witness of the truth, quickens the minds of those who have made covenant and reveals to them the mysteries of the kingdom of God.  

o Bible Dictionary, “Holy Ghost” (p. 704) The gift of the Holy Ghost is the right to have whenever one is worthy, the companionship of the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost knows all things. 

3. Review your list of what the Holy Ghost does. Then write responses to the following tasks:

o Describe how the Holy Ghost helped the Apostles fulfill their missions after

the Savior’s death and resurrection. They were able to teach with the power of the Holy Ghost. They had truths brought back to their remembrance. 

o Write a paragraph about a time when the Holy Ghost blessed you in one of
the ways you listed above. Give an example of how the Holy Ghost has inspired you.

I know the Holy Ghost told me to go back to school. At first I did not really understand why because I did not like any of the online degree options. However I felt the spirit strongly about it and so I followed. Now with time I have had more spiritual experiences as to why I am back in school and what the Lord expects me to do with my degree. I am grateful for the Holy Ghost and that I am able to learn line upon line. That truth has been reviled to me just as the scriptures teach. I know God lives and He has a plan for me. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. 

The Savior’s Suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane

Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46; John 18:1-2

1.  Review Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46, making a list of words and phrases that describe the Savior’s suffering. Include in your list clarifications provided in the footnotes.

“began to be sorrowful and very heavy.” (Matthew 26:37)
“My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death:” (Matthew 26:38)
“and fell on his face” (Matthew 26:39)
“if it be possible, let this cup pass from me:” (Matthew 26:39)
“betrayed into the hands of sinners.” (Matthew 26:45)
“sore amazed, and to be very heavy” (Mark 14:33)
“exceeding sorrowful unto death:” (Mark 14:34)
“fell on the ground” (Mark 14:35)
“Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: (Mark 14:35) 
“the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.” (Mark 14:41)
“remove this cup from me:” (Luke 22:42)
“appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.” (Luke 22:43)
“being in an agony” (Luke 22:4)
“and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” (Luke 22:44)

2.  Write additional insights about the Savior’s suffering in Gethsemane found in the following resources:

                         Mosiah 3:7; Alma 7:11-13; Doctrine and Covenants 19:16-19

     He suffered “…more than any man can suffer” ; “blood cometh from every pore” ; “so great shall be his anguish” (Mosiah 3:7)

     “suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind;” , “he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.” (Alma 7:11) ; “And he will take upon him death”, “he will take upon him their infirmities” , “filled with mercy” , “that he may know…how to succor his people according to their infirmities.” (Alma 7:12) ; “take upon him the sins of his people” , “he might blot out their transgressions” (Alma 7:13)

      “…suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent;” (D&C 19:16) ; “…if they would not repent they must suffer even as I;” (D&C 19:17) ; “…suffering caused…God…to tremble because of pain and to bleed at every pore,” “-and would that…might not drink the bitter cup and shrink- (D&C 19:18) ; “and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of me.” (D&C 19:19)

      The institute student manual commentary, “To What Extent Was the Atonement Completed in the Garden of Gethsemane?” (p. 173)

      He lived until the Atonement was completed in its entirety. He finished his mission here on this earth to it fullness. He glorified the God.

      The institute student manual commentary for Luke 22:44, “And Being in an Agony, He Prayed More Earnestly” (pp.173-74)

      Christ not only suffered for our sins and the effects they cause us but he suffered the law of punishment for those sins.

      The institute student manual commentary for Luke 22:44, “And His Sweat Was As It Were Great Drops of Blood Falling Down to the Ground” (p. 174)

      The Savior suffered metal and physical pain that no man could bare to suffer. But was more painful them those was spiritual pain. He suffered and triumphed over all the sins of the world from Adam until then end of the world.

3.  Read Matthew 26:36 and the institute student manual commentary for Matthew 26:36, “Then Cometh Jesus … unto a Place Called Gethsemane” (pp. 172-73). Write a paragraph about how the meaning of Gethsemane adds insight to what the Savior experienced there.

      Gethsemane means “oil press.” Olive oil is created by a heavy wait pressing the fruit until a red like oil oozes out. This is in similitude to the Saviors experience the garden as well. With the heavy wait from the sins of the world, pressing Him down until red drops of blood ran from every pore.  Indeed He experienced the oil press of sin through his suffering our sins in the garden so fittingly named Gethsemane.

4.  Write response to each of the following questions, looking for lessons you can apply to your own life from the example of the Savior in Gethsemane:

     

      What were the Savior’s disciples doing while He was praying? What had the Lord taught the Apostles in Matthew 26:41? What does His example teach about how to be obedient even when “the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak?” How does Doctrine and Covenants 10:5 apply to this verse?

      They were sleeping. He told them to, “watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation.” (Matt 26:41) If we pray always we will be able to “escape the hands of Satan.” (D&C 10:5)

      Read Mosiah 15:7; 3 Nephi 11:11; Doctrine and Covenants 19:19. Write the phrases from these verses that describe what motivated the Savior to “drink the bitter cup.”

      Mosiah 15:7 “Will of the Son being swallowed up in the will of the Father.”  He did God’s will which was his will also.

      3 Nephi 11:11 “Gloried the Father” ; “Suffered the will of the Father” suffered the completely and fully according to God’s desire therefore not frustrating the plan.

      Doctrine and Covenants 19:19 “Glory be unto the Father” He knew who God was. “Finished my Preparation” He knew His mission and fulfilled it.

      Write your thoughts about the Savior’s use of the word nevertheless in Matthew 26:39; Mark 14:36; Luke 22:42. In each of these accounts, what did the Savior initially ask for? What did He say next, using the word nevertheless? What does it require to submit one’s will to the Father in this way, no matter how painful or difficult the outcome might be? When have you followed the “nevertheless” pattern the Savior exemplified in these verses by submitting to Heavenly Father’s will even though it was very difficult?

      The Savior initially asked to “remove this cup from me.” He asked if there was another way. However He said nevertheless “not my will but thine be done.”

      It requires a lot of faith to trust the Lord as to want He wants for you. We must love Him enough to do His will and not our own.

      I am trying to do the nevertheless attitude every day especially now with the trail of not having children, living in a foreign country so far from home and another personal problem brought on in my life by a loved one.

      According to Luke 22:44, as the Savior’s agony became more intense, how did His prayer change? Do you feel more like praying or less like praying when you are suffering? When has it made a difference in your suffering to have turned to the Lord with more earnest prayer?

     He prayed more earnestly. I feel more like praying when I am suffering however when I am sinning I feel like not praying. My pride takes over.

      Reflect on what you have learned about the Savior’s suffering in Gethsemane. Write a paragraph about lessons you can apply to your own life from the example of the Savior in Gethsemane.

      I have learned that the Savior really does love me. I must love God’s children with the same love the Savior has for us. For He is the perfect example. Jesus Christ suffered the will of the Father. Can I expect anything less if I want to return to God? No I must submit to His will and be willing to drink from my bitter cup. However unlike the Savior who suffered alone; I do have a Savior that drake from the bitter cup of all mankind and as so doing can succor me in my needs. That is one more testimony that He really does love us. This knowledge makes me reverence Him more and stand at awe.  

The Institution of the Sacrament

Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-20 

 1. The Savior instituted the Sacrament the night before He was crucified, near the time of the Passover celebration. Many centuries earlier, the feast of the Passover had been instituted to help the children of Israel remember when the destroying angel “passed over” their houses and delivered them from Egyptian bondage (see Exodus 12:21-28; 13:14-15). The blood of the unblemished Passover lamb that saved ancient Israel was a symbol of the blood of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who redeemed all mankind. Review Matthew 26:26-29 and Luke 22:14-20. Then read the institute student manual introduction to chapter 23 (p. 160) and the commentary for “What Is the Relationship Between the Sacrament and the Atonement?” (pp. 161-62). Write responses to the following questions:

What was the relationship between the Passover and the Atonement of Jesus Christ?

The relationship of the Passover the Atonement is that the Passover reminded the Jews of that one day the Lord would deliver men form their sins.

• What is the relationship between the Sacrament and the Atonement of Jesus Christ?

The relationship between the Sacrament and the Atonement is that the Savior came and fulfilled His mortal mission and no more would blood be spilt in representation of the deliverance of man form sin.

• How does John 4:13-14; 6:48-53 add to an understanding of the symbolism of bread and water?

The Savior and His Atonement is the only way we can live again. And the only way we can overcome our sins. He is the life. Without Him and His Atonement we would never be able to live again for we would die in our sins and not be able to return to God. Nor with without the resurrections would we be able to rise again.  He is the “Way.” 

• Considering the Savior’s instructions in Luke 22:19 and 3 Nephi 18:7, why do you think we are commanded to partake of the Sacrament weekly? How does Mosiah 5:13 apply to this idea?

We are to partake of the sacrament weekly so that we may always remember Him. If we always remember Him we will have His Spirit to be with us. We will make different choices. We will be more humble. More loving. Mosiah reminds us that we must always have Him in our thoughts.

2. Carefully look at the additions and corrections in the Joseph Smith Translation of Matthew 26:26, 28 (see Matthew 26:26 footnote b, and Matthew 26:28 footnote a). Write responses to the following questions and tasks:

• What important truths do we gain from these verses of the Joseph Smith Translation?

It is in remembrance of Christ body.

• What does ransom mean? How does properly participating in the ordinance of the Sacrament ransom us? (See JST, Matthew 26:26)

Ransom means a sum required to release a prisoner. As we properly participate in the ordinance of the Sacrament we are forgiven of our sin because the Savior take our sins upon Him. That is why going to church every Sunday.  

• Make a list of what you want to remember about the Savior the next time you partake of the Sacrament.

His love for me; even a sinner.

His suffering in the garden for all our sins.

His commitment to do the Father’s will.

His Resurrection thus overcoming death.

His power to create worlds with out end.

He suffered alone and has no one to give His pain to like we do.

His plea to God by calling Him Father.

Preparing for the Savior's Second Coming

Mark 13; Luke 21:5–38

1. Review Mark 13:5, 9, 23, 33, 35, 37 and identify the words take heed and watch in each verse. List at least three things from this chapter that believers could watch for in order to be prepared to meet the Lord.

·         And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars,… (Mark 13:7)

·         For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows. (Mark 13:8)

·         And the gospel must first be published among all nations. (Mark 13:10)

·         Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. (Mark 13:12)

·         For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. (Mark 13:22)

·         But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light (Mark 13:24)

·         And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. (Mark 13:25)

2. Explain in writing any other additional truths that are taught in the following references about how to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
• Doctrine and Covenants 87:8

“Wherefore stand he is holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come;” We need to be in the temple often, at church when we are supposed to be there. In our home with our families, teaching the gospel in our visits.

• Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:32

“And again shall the abominations of desolation” happen again. Which means That is, Jerusalem again will be under attack.  

• Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:37 

“…treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived…” We must study the scriptures, conference talk, Ensigns, Listen to church music, go to the Temple often so we can “treasure” Gods words.  

• Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:46–50

“Watch” for the Lord to come and don’t let “the thief” come in and “brake up” you house.

• Doctrine and Covenants 33:17

“…be faithful, praying always, having your lamps trimmed and burning.” We should be continually preparing ourselves for the Lord.

• Doctrine and Covenants 45:56–57

…they that are wise and received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide…shall abide the day.” We must always be adding oil to our lamps.  

Temporal Marriage and the Resurrection

Matthew 22:23–33

1. Read Matthew 22:23; Acts 23:6–8. Write a definition for what the Sadducees believed about the Resurrection. What does this indicate about the sincerity of the question the Sadducees asked the Savior in Matthew 22:24–28?

The Sadducees do not believe in a Resurrection. Their question was only meant to trick the Savior and the Savior knew this. Their question was not sincere at all.

2. Some people have misinterpreted the Savior’s answer in Matthew 22:30 to mean that there is no eternal marriage. Does Matthew 22:30 say that no marriages will exist after the Resurrection, or that no marriages will be performed after the Resurrection? What difference does this make?

It says that marriage will not be performed after the Resurrection not that is will not exist. There is a big difference between the two. We will still be married but the opportunity to do this is in this life.

• Find the rest of Elder James E. Talmage’s statement in the institute student manual commentary for Matthew 22:23–33, “Is There to Be Marriage in the Resurrected State?” (p. 148): “In the resurrection there will be no marrying nor giving in marriage; for all questions of marital status must be _settled before that time__.” 

• Read Doctrine and Covenants 132:15–16. Write two to three sentences describing how these verses about temporal marriage help us understand what the Lord taught in Matthew 22:30.

These scriptures coincide perfectly with the verses in Matthew 22:23-33. They say that if a man and a women are married but not by God word or by Him then when they leave this world they will be angels. It is very straight forward in verse 16 it reads, “Therefore, when they are out of the world they neither marry nor are given in marriage; but are appointed angels in heaven…” (D&C 132:16).

• Learn more about the difference between temporal and eternal marriage by studying “Marriage, Marry” in Guide to the Scriptures. Highlight your scriptures and make a list of additional insights you learn.

Husband and wife are heirs together of the grace of life: 1 Peter 3:7 

Marriage is honorable Hebrew 13:4 

What God has joined together, let not man put asunder: Matthew 19:6 

I really liked these scripture it shows we are equal partners and must honor each other. 

Parables and Accounts That Teach Eternal Truths

Luke 16:1–12, 19–31; 17:11–19; 18:1–14

Study the following parables and accounts along with the accompanying commentary from the institute student manual. Describe in writing what you feel is the major principle the Lord wants us to understand from each of the parables:

·         Luke 16:1–12, the parable of the unjust steward. “The Children of This World Are in Their Generation Wiser Than the Children of Light” (p. 124).

We should learn from the haste of what people do for temporal things and do likewise in reference to acting with haste and preparation towards spiritual matters and our eternal destiny.

·         Luke 16:19–31, the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. “What Do We Learn About the Spirit World from the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus?” (pp. 124–25).

We must be helpful to those in need and give of our substance.  We must listen to our prophets and leaders and change. God will be just in the end.

·         Luke 17:11–19, the ten lepers. “Why Were the Ten Lepers to Show Themselves to the Priests?” and “Were There Not Ten Cleansed?” (p. 130). See also the Bible Dictionary, “Leprosy” (p. 724).

We must be sincere and always give thanks for the blessings we receive from our Father in Heaven. If we are true and diligent in doing so Christ can make us whole in whatever we lack.

·         Luke 18:1–8, the parable of the unjust judge. “Why Did the Lord Give the Parable of the Unjust Judge?” (p. 131).

The Lord expects us to be persistent in our crys to Him. We must not become discouraged or tired of something (especially righteous things or desires.)

·         Luke 18:9–14, the parable of the Pharisee and the publican. “Why Did the Lord Give the Parable of the Pharisee and Publican?” (p. 131).

We must be humble before the Lord and admit our wrongs and sins to Him. We must never think we are better than anyone else; for we are all sinners and all need Christ’s atonement. 

Being a Disciple of Jesus Christ

1. Read Luke 10:38–42; 11:1–13; 12:13–40; 13:23–24; 14:16–33 and the institute student manual commentary for Luke 11:5–13, “The Parable of the Friend at Midnight” (p. 115). Make a list of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and what the Savior taught about counting the costs of following Him.

Sat at Jesus feet and heard his words. (Luke 10:39)

Chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away, (Luke 10:42)

Ask and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you (Luke 11:9)

Beware of covetousness (Luke 12:15)

Rich of God (Luke 12:21)

Seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Luke 12:31)

Give alms (Luke 12:33)

Strive to enter in at the strait gate. (Luke 13:24)

Lord it is done as thou hast commanded (Luke 14:22)

Doth not bear his cross, and come after me cannot be my disciple (Luke 14:27)

Sitteth not down first [or plan] (Luke 14:28)

2. Identify one of the teachings from your list that you would like to apply more fully in your life. Write a paragraph about how you could apply that teaching and what difference you believe it would make in your life.

“And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:27)

I would like to work on this teaching of bearing my cross because it would show to the Lord that I will be humble and do His will. If He wants me to struggle with the problems I am facing even though they may be hard it is for a purpose and will one day help me to either help another or will teach me traits that I must have before I can enter into His presence. I will have a better attitude about the trials I am facing and I will look upon them with an eternal perspective.

3. Read Luke 14:33; Omni 1:26; Mosiah 2:34; Matthew 13:44–46. Explain in writing what is ultimately required to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

We must be willing to give all to the Lord. All we have; our time, energy, and talents to the work of the Salvation. 

The Healing of the Man Born Blind

1. Create a chart with three columns and label them “Pharisees,” “Blind Man,” and “Parents.” Record words or phrases from John 9:13–38 under each category that show the spiritual blindness or spiritual sight of the Pharisees, the blind man, and the parents.

Pharisees Spiritually Blind

             "this man is not of God because he keepeth not the sabbath day" (John 9:16)
             "Did not believe concerning him" (John 9:18)
             "How doth he now see?" (John 9:19)
             "Give God the praise: we know this man is a sinner" (John 9:24)
             "Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses disciples" (John 9:28)
             "As far this fellow we know not from whence he is" (John 9:29)

Pharisees Spiritual Sight

            "How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles" (John 9:16)
            "We know God spake unto Moses" (John 9:29)

Blind Man Spiritually Blind  

            "A man that is called Jesus." (John 9:11)

Blind Man Spiritual Sight 

          "He is a prophet" (John 9:17)
          "Wherefore would ye hear it again? Will ye also be his disciples?" (John 9:27)
          "If this man were not of God he could do nothing." (John 9:33)
          "Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? (John 9:36)
          "And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him." (John 9:38) 

Parents Spiritually Blind

          "But by what means he now seeth we know not" (John 9:21)
          "They feared the Jews; for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess 
            he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue." (John 9:22)

2. Physical blindness is often thought of as a difficult handicap in this life. Similarly, how can spiritual blindness be a handicap? 
    
Spiritual blindness is a handicap because it can cripple the soul. It can paralyze the heart until it is unable to feel, see or hear the words of God. Pride sets in and vicious cycle begins which continues until one can become so lost that the hope of coming back becomes smaller and smaller. It's quite painful to watch and yet very real.  

3. How did the healed man’s testimony grow as he continued to share it? (Notice the terms he used to refer to the Savior in John 9:11, 17, 33, 38.)

In verse 11 he calls Him "...a man named Jesus," then in 17 he refers to Jesus as a prophet. In John 9:33 the blind man says, "If this man were not of God, he could do nothing." Implying He was set from God. Then in verse 38 is where he professes his belief in the Savior saying, "Lord, I believe." The passage ends with, "And he worshipped him" (John 9:38).

4. How has your testimony grown as you have shared it?

(John 9:38). My Testimony becomes stronger when I bare it because the spirit is able to re-manifest the truthfulness of the words in which I am sharing. Which in turn deepens my conviction. Studying and learning the principles and putting them into practice also strengthens my testimony which is my favorite way of sharing my testimony; by example.

Walking on the Sea

 

 Matthew 14:22–33

Today I chose to write about the miracle of Jesus walking on the Sea. But also the miracle of Peter walking as well. What a beautiful story it is and the beautiful comforting words for all of us who will, are, or have walked through stormy seas.  

1.        Review Matthew 14:22–33. Identify in writing what the reaction of the Apostles was when they first saw the Savior walking on the water toward them.

The reaction of the Apostles when they first saw the Savior walking on the water was fear. They thought He was a spirit. The scriptures say, “they cried out for fear.

2.        What did Peter’s response indicate about him?

It shows that Peter had a lot of Faith in the Savior. That He knew that he would be safe. He already had a testimony that the Savior was the Son of God, the great Jehovah.

3.        According to Matthew 14:30, why did Peter begin to sink?

His Faith started to falter when he took his eyes off the Savior and started to look instead to the “boisterous” wind. This made him afraid and showed his human weaknesses (Matt 14:30).

4.        What did Peter do when he began to sink? What word in the verses describes the expediency or the timing when Jesus responded to Peter’s request?

Verse 30 says, “he cried, saying, Lord, save me.” He knew only Christ was able to save him in is deepest time of need. Jesus responded to Peter the scripture says “immediately.” He “Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him” (Matt 14:31).

5.        Read Doctrine and Covenants 88:67. Write a paragraph describing what principle from this verse relates to what Peter did to successfully walk on the water. How can this same principle be applied to your life to assist you in walking over the storms of life?

This scripture in Doctrine and Covenants says, “And if your eye be singe to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things.” Peter was able to walk on water because his eyes were single to the glory of Christ. However he also started to sink because he took looked somewhere else. If he would have continued to gaze that the Lord, maybe he would not have started to sink. We can learn a lot from this story and relate it to our own lives. We all have storms and will need to face them. But it is how we face them that will decide if we sink or walk with the Lord. He is the way. If we have our “eye single to our Saviors glory” we will be safe. However if we start to fail the beautiful words in the scripture Matthew 14:30, can indeed be our plea, “Lord, save me.” and the comforting phrase of Matthew 14:31, “immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him.”  The Lord will save us from the storms of this life. We must trust in this promise. 

The Lord Often Taught with Parable

Matthew 13: 24-48 

1.        In the Bible Dictionary read the first three paragraphs under the entry “Parables” (pp. 740-41). In your own words, write a definition of a parable.

 A parable is a story that teaches a lesson. In the case of the Saviors parables they revealed the mysteries or secrets to the Kingdom of God.

2.  Read the following parables: parable of the tares (Matthew 13:24-30); parables of the mustard seed and the leaven (Matthew 13:31-33); parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price (Matthew 13:44-46); parable of the gospel net (Matthew 13:47-50). Next to each of the following questions write the name of the parable that best answers that question.

·             What describes the future growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

(Matthew 13:31-33)

·                     Why does the Church send out so many missionaries?

(Matthew 13:47-50)

·                     How do you explain the remarkable growth of the Church, considering that it is fairly new compared to most world religions and started small in the American frontier?

(Matthew 13:31-33)

·                     Why are some members of the Church willing to sacrifice so much worldly wealth and recognition in order to maintain membership in the Church?

(Matthew 13:44-46)

·                     Why do some Church members choose to leave the Church?

(Matthew 13:24-30)

3.    Write answers to the following questions:

•        Considering the parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price (see Matthew 13:44-46), what sacrifices would you be willing to make to obtain the treasure of the gospel? What sacrifices have you or those you know already made for the gospel?

       I feel like moving to Mexico was a large sacrifice. I don’t get to see my family very often. I struggle learning the language and fitting in with the cultural. I am unable to get good health care which as stopped our progress in having children. Because infertility treatments are unavailable to us. Which makes me questions Gods plan for us. But I know I am supposed to be here so if I don’t have the opportunity to have children in this life then I know it is according to Gods plan. It’s hard to say that because I feel like I am obeying one commandment which is preventing me to obey another.

•                What does the net represent in the parable of the net cast into the sea? (See Matthew 13:47). What does it mean to be gathered into the net? What is represented by the action of gathering the good into vessels and casting the bad away? (See Matthew 13:48-50).

I think the net represents our missionary force or the word of God catching the fish who are receptive to the word. Gathering into the net means gathering those who will come. Gathering into the stakes of Zion. Gathering the elect. Gathering in the good and casting out the bad means bringing in those who what to learn and know God. Those who don’t cast themselves away. But we must never stop casting out the net because we never know when a fish might be ready.