Julie asked me earlier in the week to host the discussion for lesson 8, and I agreed and then spaced it. I spent a couple days feeling sorry for myself and a day worrying about a talk in sacrament and then realized that I needed to get this done. So, sorry for the delay.
Lesson 8 is about the Restoration of the Priesthood.
The priesthood is one of the main themes in the Doctrine and Covenants. Through the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Lord gave many revelations that add greatly to our understanding of the keys, offices, organization, ordinances, duties, and blessings of the priesthood. These revelations provide guidance in using the priesthood to move forward God’s work on the earth.
What is priesthood? The priesthood is the eternal power and authority of God. It is the power by which He created and governs the heavens and the earth. It is also the power by which He redeems and exalts His children. He gives a portion of His priesthood power and authority to worthy male members of the Church so they can preach the gospel, administer the ordinances of salvation, and govern His kingdom on earth.
What are some ways in which priesthood holders act on behalf of God to bless His children? See D&C 20:38–55; 107:8–12, 23, 35.
And now for some discussion questions:
How have you been blessed through the service of priesthood holders?
What influence has the priesthood had on you?
How have you seen the power of the priesthood manifested in your life?
How has the priesthood blessed and strengthened your family?
How can you make the influence and power of the priesthood more effective in your life and for your family?
Tomorrow: The difference in the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthood.
3 comments:
Growing up we didn't have the priesthood in our home. My dad is a baptized member, but has never been active. The priesthood influences that we had growing up were teachers at church and the occasional home teacher. My first real "encounters" with the priesthood were as a young woman.
I've seen the power of the priesthood in action in my home as an adult when my husband has been able to give my kids blessings. As a young woman, I was able to have a blessing and be healed.
First, a thought on the scripture in Doc & Cov 20:38-55 -- I hope these are the things the young men are discussing in their quorums because they are huge responsibilities!
Second, Amanda, I loved your questions. They really caused me to stop and think about how much I do or don't appreciate priesthood power in my home. I couldn't think of a specific experience off the top of my head to share. BUT as I pondered more and took a bit of time to pray, I realized two distinct blessings I have received as a result of the priesthood for which I am so so grateful:
Being sealed in the temple to Stanton and in turn having 4 children sealed to us. If it weren't for the priesthood, I would not have that incredible gift in my life.
The other is my Patriachal Blessing. Once earlier in the month I had a prompting to read it, but I didn't know where it was off hand, so I dismissed the thought. Here it is again.
Knowing God gave scripture just for me through the mouth of a humble priesthood servant is so neat.
My husbands family has a tough line of work. they are all professional cowboys. Every time they get hurt, they immediately get a blessing. nobody has been permanently damaged, even though they should have been. well, my FIL has a metal plate is his face, but I digress. DH's grandfather is a patriarch and a sealer. What a blessing to be able to go to the temple as a family and have the whole room full of brother and sister Taylors--just us. I appreciate thier guidance and counsel and to be part of thier family so I can increase my testimony.
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