Sunday Lesson: Oct 11th

The lesson this past week begun with us all learning of the importance that each individual is to God. When Pres. Benson was in a stake presidency in Idaho they were trying to select a man to become the Elder's quorum president in a struggling ward. Pres. Benson took a chance on this particular brother. He was not living the gospel as he should, but after a few visits and some accepted challenges, he accepted the call to be the Elder's quorum president. He later became a bishop and said, "I used to think I was happy, but I didn't know what real happiness was." Pres. Benson encourages us to reach out to members of the Church who "live apart from the Church and the influence of the Gospel."

We were able to watch a fun, yet powerful, video about reaching out to those who have strayed.

 

Just like in the video, Pres. Benson teaches us that Latter-day Saints who have strayed need real, heartfelt concern from true and loving shepards. There needs to be personal watchcare. "There must be real, heartfelt concern by a true and loving shepard, not just shallow concern." Pres. Benson pleads that we be heartfelt in our home and visiting teaching. "We urge you to give renewed emphasis to effective priesthood home teaching and effective Relief Society visiting teaching. Home teaching and visiting teaching are inspired programs. They are designed to reach each member of the Church each month, both the active and the less active. Please give home teaching and visiting teaching an increased emphasis."

We are reminded that the principles to activate souls do not change. These principles are:

1) The lost or less active must be found and contacted.

2) Loving concern must be demonstrated. They must feel of our love.

3) They must be taught the gospel. They must feel the power of the Holy Ghost through the teachers.
4) They mjust be included in our fellowship.

5) They must have meaningful Church responsibilities.

The Church "hath need of every member" (D&C 84:110), and every member has need of the gospel, the Church, and all its ordinances.