May 30 2022

Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16” We all know what it’s like to make a mistake, feel bad about it, and then repent and resolve to change our ways. But in some cases we forget our earlier resolve, and, when we face temptation, we may find ourselves making the mistake again. This tragic pattern is typical of the Israelites’ experiences described in the book of Judges. Influenced by the beliefs and worship practices of the Canaanites—whom they were supposed to drive out of the land—the Israelites broke their covenants with the Lord and turned away from worshipping Him. As a result, they lost His protection and fell into captivity. And yet each time this happened, the Lord gave them the chance to repent and raised up a deliverer, a military leader called a “judge.” Not all of the judges in the book of Judges were righteous, but some of them exercised great faith in delivering the children of Israel and restoring them to their covenant relationship with the Lord. These stories remind us that no matter what has led us away from Jesus Christ, He is the Redeemer of Israel and is always willing to deliver us and welcome us back to Him.

THE ISRAELITES FORGET THE LORD

Judges CHAPTER 2 An angel rebukes Israel for not serving the Lord—As a pattern of future events, a new generation arises that forsakes the Lord and serves Baal and Ashtaroth—The Lord is angry with the children of Israel and ceases to preserve them—He raises up judges to guide and lead them—The Canaanites are left in the land to test Israel.

Judges CHAPTER 3 The children of Israel intermarry with the Canaanites, worship false gods, and are cursed—Othniel judges the Israelites—They serve Moab and are delivered by Ehud, who slays Eglon.

Always Remember Him

Judges 2:10.

After Joshua died, the next generation of Israelites “knew not the Lord.” Talk with your family about how they know the Lord and “the works which he [has] done” for them. How will you ensure that this knowledge will be preserved for future generations? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16”)

How do we come to know the Lord? Through scripture study, prayer, sacrament, living the commandments. etc.

Friend June 2019 “The Sacrament Reminds Us of Jesus Christ” Ways to prepare for the sacrament before hand, what to do during the sacrament, and remembering Jesus and following him after the sacrament.

New Era March 2008 “How Can I Come to Know Christ?”

Friend November 2017 “Family Night Fun” Ways you can look for blessings every day.

Jesus Christ is my Deliverer.

Judges 3:9

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16” When the Israelites prayed to the Lord, He raised up a deliverer for them. Help the children see that Jesus Christ is the Deliverer whom God has raised up for us.

Judges 3:7–9, 12–15

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

Junior Primary

  1. Explain to the children that when the Israelites stopped keeping God’s commandments, they lost His protection and were defeated by their enemies. Read from Judges 3:9 the phrase “the children of Israel cried unto the Lord.” What did the Israelites do when they needed help? Share an experience when you prayed for help and God answered your prayer.
  2. Read from Judges 3:9 the phrase “the Lord raised up a deliverer,” and invite the children to repeat it with you a few times. Explain that a deliverer is someone who saves us.

Senior Primary

Write the following on the board: “did evil,” “cried unto the Lord,” and “raised up a deliverer.” Invite some of the children to find these phrases in Judges 3:7–9, and invite others to find them in Judges 3:12–15. Explain to the children that over and over in the book of Judges, the Israelites “did evil.” Then, when their enemies attacked, they “cried unto the Lord,” and the Lord “raised up a deliverer” to help them. What do we learn about the Lord from this cycle?

What might lead us to forget the Lord? How can He deliver us? How can we be more consistently faithful to Him.

Both:

  • To emphasize that Jesus Christ is our Deliverer, you could gather several pictures of people, including a picture of Jesus, and place them face down. Let your children take turns flipping over the pictures. When they find the picture of Jesus, sing a song about Him, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35). R. Testify that Jesus Christ is the Deliverer whom God has raised up to save us from sin, trials, sorrow, and death. Tell your children about how He has delivered you.

DEBORAH THE PROPHETESS

Judges CHAPTER 4 Deborah, a prophetess, judges Israel—She and Barak deliver Israel from the Canaanites—Jael, a woman, slays Sisera, the Canaanite.

I can inspire others to have faith in the Lord.

Judges 4:1–15

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

Although many of the Israelites fell away from the Lord, some remained true to Him and were able to help many others return to righteousness. How can you encourage the children to stay true to the Lord no matter what others are doing?

  • You can use “Deborah the Prophetess” in Old Testament Stories, 92–95, to tell your children the story in Judges 4. Share with each other what you admire about Deborah. How did her faith in the Lord bless the people around her? What can we do to help others have more faith in Jesus Christ?

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Deborah the Prophetess”

Read together Judges 4:14, and ask the children to find something Deborah said that showed that her faith in the Lord was strong. Then ask them to read Doctrine and Covenants 84:88 to find a principle that is also in Judges 4:14. Encourage them to share what the Lord’s promise “I will go before your face” means to them.

Friend June 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Deborah and the Palm Tree

Story: Deborah was a righteous leader. She sat under a palm tree and listened to her people (see Judges 4:4–5). She helped them repent and follow God.

Activity: Psalm 92:12 says, “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree.” Make the palm tree on page 36. Talk about ways you can follow God.

Friend June 2022 “Deborah under the Palm Tree” Color the pieces and cut them out along the blue lines. (Do not cut along the top of Deborah’s head—leave her attached to the base.) Fold the tab and then bend the tree base to glue the tab to the other side. Glue or tape the leaves to the top.

  • Sing a song about obeying the commandments, such as “Choose the Right” (Hymns, no. 239) or “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). How can we stand for righteousness and obey the commandments even when others around us do not?

Friend July 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

THE ARMY OF GIDEON

Judges CHAPTER 6 Israel is in bondage to the Midianites—An angel appears to Gideon and calls him to deliver Israel—He overthrows the altar of Baal, the Spirit of the Lord rests upon him, and the Lord gives him a sign to show he is called to deliver Israel.

Judges CHAPTER 7 Gideon’s army is reduced to 300—They frighten the Midianite armies with trumpets and lights—The Midianites fight among themselves, flee, and are defeated by Israel.

Judges CHAPTER 8 Gideon pursues and destroys the Midianites—He frees the children of Israel but refuses their invitation to reign as king over them—Gideon dies, and Israel returns to idolatry.

The Lord can use small things to do great work.

Judges 6:11–16; 7:1–21

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

  • Use Judges 7:4–7, this week’s activity page, or “The Army of Gideon” in Old Testament Stories, 96–99, to teach your children about how the Lord made Israel’s army smaller.

  • Ask the children to imagine that they needed to gather an army together to go to battle. How many people would they want in their army? Using Judges 7:4–7, invite the children to act out how the Lord helped Gideon choose the army that would deliver Israel from the Midianites. Why did the Lord want Gideon’s army to be so small? (see Judges 7:2).

Old Testament Stories “The Army of Gideon”

  • Use this week’s activity page to teach the children about how the Lord made Israel’s army smaller so the Israelites would know that His power had saved them from their enemies. Share examples of small things that do a great work, such as bees gathering nectar to make honey. Bear your testimony that God can help us do a great work, even when we feel small.
  • Invite the children to draw pictures of a sword, shield, trumpet, lamp, and pitcher. Ask the children which of these objects they would take with them into a battle. Then they could read Judges 7:16 to learn what the Lord told Gideon’s army to use. Why would it have taken courage and faith to do this? Read together Judges 7:19–21 to learn how the army used the trumpets and pitchers to defeat the Midianites. What do we learn about the Lord from this story?
Media Library “Gideon’s Army”
  • Read Judges 6:15 to the children, and ask them why Gideon didn’t feel he could do what the Lord wanted. Read verse 16, and ask them who the Lord said would help Gideon. Tell the children about a time when the Lord asked you to do something difficult to serve Him and you felt He was with you.
  • Gideon considered himself poor and insignificant, but God saw him as a “mighty man of valour” (Judges 6:12). Help the children see that even if they feel small, God can work through them to do important things (see Alma 37:6–7).

Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.

See also “The Lord will help me accomplish his will”

  • Display pictures of children or youth doing great things in the service of God (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 19, 23, 90, 102),
Media Library, Old Testament Gospel Art Book

Friend July 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

“Lesson 24: Gideon,” Primary 6: Old Testament 

SAMSON

Judges CHAPTER 13 Israel is in Philistine bondage for forty years—An angel comes to Manoah’s wife and promises a son who will begin to deliver Israel—The angel comes again; he ascends in a flame from the altar—Samson is born, and the Spirit of the Lord moves upon him.

Judges CHAPTER 14 Samson slays a young lion with his bare hands—He marries a Philistine wife, propounds a riddle, is deceived by his wife, and slays thirty Philistines.

Judges CHAPTER 15 Samson burns the grain of the Philistines—They burn his wife and father-in-law—Samson slays a thousand Philistines at Lehi with the jawbone of an ass.

Judges CHAPTER 16 Samson carries away the doors of the gate of Gaza—He loves Delilah, who delivers him to the Philistines—He destroys a building, killing himself and 3,000 others.

Keeping covenants gives me strength.

Judges 13–16

“Lesson 25: Samson,” Primary 6: Old Testament Samson’s mission would require physical strength. The Lord made a covenant with Samson that as long as he obeyed the Lord, he would be physically strong. Samson’s long hair (see Judges 13:5) was a sign of this covenant. When Samson kept his covenants he was blessed with the ability to help his people, but when he broke his covenants he lost both his spiritual and physical strength.

  • Ask for a volunteer to demonstrate how to flex his or her arm muscles. Let the whole class try it to see if they can feel their own muscles. How do muscles help us? Discuss what happens when we exercise our muscles and what happens when we do not use them. Help the children realize that exercise helps us develop strong muscles.
  • Explain that our spirits also need to grow stronger. How can we become stronger spiritually? (By keeping our baptismal covenants, obeying our parents, praying, attending church, reading the scriptures, and so on.)

What happens when people become spiritually weak? (They give in to temptations, they sin, they lose the guidance of the Holy Ghost, and they lose the ability to fulfill their callings and bless others.)

  • Why is it important to become spiritually strong? (So we can avoid temptation, be guided in our decisions by the Holy Ghost, and know good from evil.)

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022

  • Samson’s covenants with the Lord gave him physical strength, just as our covenants give us spiritual strength. Your children might enjoy doing some physical exercises and discussing how those exercises can help make our bodies strong. What can we do to help us become spiritually stronger? For some ideas, the class could read Mosiah 18:8–10; Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79. How does keeping our covenants make our spirits strong? .

Samson lost both his physical strength and his spiritual strength because he violated his covenants with God,

Media Library “Samson Pulls Down the Pillars”

See also Spiritual Strength: Lesson Ideas

Additional Resources

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal

Latter Day Kids “Jesus Delivers Us” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “True Strength” Lesson ideas

May 25 2022

Joshua 1–8; 23–24

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Table of Contents

Joshua Sends Spies to Jericho

Joshua CHAPTER 1 The Lord speaks to Joshua—He is commanded to be of good courage, to meditate upon the law, and to keep the commandments—He prepares Israel to enter Canaan.

Joshua CHAPTER 2 Joshua sends spies to Jericho—They are received and concealed by Rahab—They promise to preserve Rahab and her household.

“Be strong and of a good courage.”

Joshua 1–4; 6

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” After Joshua became the leader of the Israelites, the Lord encouraged him by saying, “Be strong and of a good courage” (Joshua 1:6).

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

  • Here is one way to help your children “be strong and of a good courage” (Joshua 1:6) through Jesus Christ. Invite them to find a phrase that is repeated in Joshua 1:6, 9, and 18, and write it down or memorize it. Help your children think of situations where they might need this message, just as Joshua did. You could also review together some of the stories in Joshua 1–4; 6 (see also “Joshua the Prophet” and “Rahab and the Spies” in Old Testament Stories, 85–91). How did the people in these stories show courage and strength in the Lord?

Old Testament Stories “Joshua the Prophet”

Friend May 2022 “Joshua’s Courage”

Old Testament Stories “Rahab and the Spies”

Friend May 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

For additional teaching resources see Courage.

Studying the scriptures brings me blessings.

Joshua 1:8

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” The Lord told Joshua that if he meditated on the scriptures and followed the counsel in them, he would have success leading the Israelites into the promised land. What can you do to teach the children of the great blessings that come from the scriptures?

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 Reading Joshua 1:8 could inspire your children to read the scriptures on their own. Help them find words in this verse that teach them how and why we should read the scriptures. They could look for the same thing in 1 Nephi 15:23–24; 2 Nephi 31:20; 32:3; Jacob 4:6; Helaman 3:29–30. Ask them to find words and phrases in this verse that teach us about the blessings of studying the scriptures. How can meditating on the scriptures help us have success in the other things we do each day? You could also help them make and carry out a plan to read the scriptures.

The Red Crystal

Give each child a picture or drawing of the sun and the moon. Read to them from Joshua 1:8: “Meditate [on the scriptures] day and night.” Explain that meditate means to think deeply about something. Repeat the phrase several times, and invite the children to hold up the sun when you say “day” and the moon when you say “night.” Let the children repeat the phrase with you.

Friend April 1996 “Ponder, Pray, and Listen”

  • Older Children: Invite the children to write down how much time they spend in an average day on various activities. Then invite them to read Joshua 1:8, looking for something that we all need to do every day and night.

Bright Idea Poster: Elder Richard G. Scott—“Scriptures are like packets of light” (April 2013 Friend)

For additional lesson ideas see Scriptures

The Israelites Cross the River Jordan on Dry Ground

Joshua CHAPTER 3 Joshua leads Israel to the Jordan—The Lord cuts off the water of the Jordan; it stands up as a heap, and Israel passes over on dry ground.

Joshua CHAPTER 4 Joshua places twelve stones to commemorate the crossing of the Jordan—Joshua is magnified before the children of Israel as they cross the Jordan—After the priests bearing the ark pass over, the river returns to its course.

Joshua CHAPTER 5 The inhabitants of Canaan fear Israel—The males of Israel are circumcised—Israel keeps the Passover, eats the fruit of the land, and manna ceases—The captain of the Lord’s host appears to Joshua.

I must be baptized to enter the kingdom of heaven.

Joshua 3–4

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” The story of Joshua leading the Israelites through the Jordan River into the promised land provides an opportunity to teach the children that we must be baptized to enter the kingdom of heaven.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

  • You might use the story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River as a symbol of baptism—giving up our old life in the wilderness and starting a new one in a covenant relationship with God. So as you read together Joshua 3–4 (or “Joshua the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories, 85–89), you could also look at a picture of Jesus being baptized and explain that Jesus was baptized in the same river the Israelites crossed. You could then sing a song such as “Baptism” (Children’s Songbook, 100–101). Share with each other how being baptized is like starting a new life in Jesus Christ’s kingdom.

Remembering our Blessings

Joshua 4

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” After reading what the Lord wanted the Israelites to do with stones from the Jordan River, your family could talk about some of the great things the Lord has done for you. Then you could give each family member a stone and invite them to write or draw on it something the Lord has done for them.

Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Remembrance Rocks

Story: God helped Joshua part the River Jordan so the people could walk across on dry ground. Then God asked Joshua and his people to collect stones from the river to remember how God helped them (see Joshua 4:5–7).

Song: “Where Love Is” (Children’s Songbook, 138–39)

Activity: Find rocks to paint or color. Write the word remember on them. While you decorate them, talk about ways God has helped you.

Faith Precedes the Miracle

Joshua 3

Miracle of the parting of the River Jordan didn’t occur until after the Israelites exercised faith and walked into the river.

Jericho is Destroyed

Joshua CHAPTER 6 Jericho is taken and destroyed—Only Rahab and her household are saved.

Joshua CHAPTER 7 Israel is defeated by the people of Ai—Joshua complains to the Lord—Achan and his household are destroyed because he disobeyed the Lord by taking the spoils of Jericho.

Joshua CHAPTER 8 Joshua uses an ambush, takes Ai, and slays its inhabitants—He builds an altar in Mount Ebal—The words of the law, both blessings and cursings, are read to the people.

Obedience brings God’s power into my life.

Joshua 6–8

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” These chapters deal with battles over the lands of Jericho and Ai. What do you learn about how God can help you and what you need to do to access His power? As you read them, consider how you battle temptation in your own life (for example, see Joshua 7:10–13). What impresses you about the Lord’s instructions for taking Jericho? (see Joshua 6:1–5). Perhaps the account in Joshua 7 will inspire you to determine if “there is an accursed thing” in your life that you need to remove (Joshua 7:13).

Your family might have fun acting out the instructions the Lord gave to the Israelites in order to conquer Jericho. What might the Lord want us to learn from this story?

Old Testament Stories “Joshua the Prophet”

Joshua led the Israelite army to the land of Canaan. They arrived at a city called Jericho. The city was very strong and had high walls. The Lord told Joshua how to conquer Jericho. He said the Israelites should march around Jericho every day for six days. Joshua obeyed the Lord.

Joshua told the priests to carry the ark of the covenant in front of the Israelites. Each day, the army marched around Jericho, and seven priests blew their horns. All the other Israelites were silent.

On the seventh day, the army marched around Jericho seven times. As the priests blew their horns, Joshua told the Israelites to shout. Suddenly Jericho’s walls fell to the ground, and Joshua’s army took the city.

Media Library “Joshua Taking Jericho (The Taking of Jericho)”

Old Testament Coloring Book “The City of Jericho”

Joshua’s Final Words to the Israelites

Joshua CHAPTER 23 Joshua exhorts Israel to be courageous, keep the commandments, love the Lord, and neither marry among nor cleave unto the remnants of the Canaanites who remain in the land—When the children of Israel serve other gods, they will be cursed and dispossessed.

Joshua CHAPTER 24 Joshua recites how the Lord has blessed and led Israel—Joshua and all the people covenant to choose the Lord and serve Him only—Joshua and Eleazar die—The bones of Joseph, taken from Egypt, are buried in Shechem.

I can choose to serve Jesus Christ.

Joshua 24:15

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” Among Joshua’s final words to the Israelites was a plea to “choose … this day whom ye will serve.” Ponder how this counsel could also bless the children you teach.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 Joshua’s final teachings to the Israelites in Joshua 23–24 include important warnings, counsel, and promised blessings. Perhaps you could make a list of what you find. Considering everything the Israelites had been through, why do you think Joshua chose to tell them these things at the end of his life? What do you find that inspires you to “cleave unto the Lord”? (Joshua 23:8).

  • Ask the children to talk about some of the choices they have made today. Read to the children from Joshua 24:15: “Choose you this day whom ye will serve; … but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” How have the children chosen to serve the Lord today? What are some ways we can choose to serve Him every day?
  • Invite the children to suggest situations in which they might have to decide to choose God over other things. Ask them to consider what they would do. Why is it important to “choose … this day” rather than waiting for the situation to arise? How will we be blessed when we make the right choice?

Friend April 2017 “Game Changer” Caleb feels like it is hard to have to make different choices than his friends, but the Holy Ghost comforts him and and helps him.

Friend September 2015 – “To Cheat or not to Cheat” Boy chooses not to cheat on a test

  • Sing a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). How do we feel when we choose to serve Jesus Christ? Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves doing something to serve the Lord. Share a story from your life or from a Church magazine about choosing to serve the Lord.

For additional teachings ideas see “Priorities“

Additional Resources:

Scripture Helps: Old Testament

Lesson 23: Joshua Leads Israel,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 101–5
To help the children choose to serve the Lord

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

Latter Day Kids “Choose You This Day” Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Have Courage and Serve God” Lesson ideas

May 18 2022

Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34

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Table of Contents

Moses’ Farewell

DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 6

Moses proclaims, The Lord our God is one Lord, and, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God—The children of Israel are commanded to teach their children—Moses exhorts them to keep the commandments, testimonies, and statutes of the Lord that they may prosper.

Moses had spent his life preparing the children of Israel to enter that promised land, and the book of Deuteronomy records his final instructions, reminders, exhortations, and pleadings with the Israelites.(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022)

I can love God with all my heart.

Deuteronomy 6:5

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

To help your children understand Deuteronomy 6:5, you could draw a heart, an outline of a body, and a strong arm. Your children could point to the pictures as you read the words “heart,” “soul,” and “might” in the verse. How do we show the Lord that we love Him with all our heart, soul, and might?

Friend May 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

Friend May 2026 “I Can Love God with All My Heart”

    Ensign September “What Does it Mean to Love God with All Your Heart?” As we love someone else with all our hearts, we make them a priority in our lives. We give them our time, energy, talent, and resources.

    Jesus Christ taught: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15)

    I can keep the word of God in my heart.

    Deuteronomy 6:6–15

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

    • Read with your children the Lord’s counsel to the Israelites to put scripture passages where they would see them every day (see Deuteronomy 6:6–9). This might inspire you and your children to think of ways to make sure you don’t “forget the Lord” (verse 12) and to remember what He has done for you.
    • On the board, write words and phrases from Deuteronomy 6:6–9 that indicate when and how the Israelites were to remember the word of God (such as sittest, walkest, liest down, hand, and house). Invite the children to find these words in the verses. What do these words teach about how to make the scriptures part of our everyday lives? Ask the children what they can do to remember the word of God in their daily life.

    Friend July 2020 “Eva’s Scripture Pictures” Eva loves to draw pictures of scripture stories and she puts them on the fridge to help her and her family to remember them.

    • Give each child a piece of paper, and invite them to write down a phrase from Deuteronomy 6 that is meaningful to them. Ask them to share why they chose their phrase. Suggest that they decorate their paper and display it in their home to remember it. Encourage the children to write down and display other phrases they find in the scriptures.

    Friend November 2019 “For Older Kids” Jordan’s Primary teacher told the class that she posts scripture verses on her door so she can always see them and read them every day. Jordan started doing that too, and soon her door was covered in scriptures.

    • You might point out that Deuteronomy 6:13, 16 and 8:3 helped the Savior during an important moment in His life. To see how, read together Matthew 4:1–10. Then you could share with each other some scripture passages that have helped you in times of need.

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTERS 7-8

    Chosen to be a special people

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 7 Israel is to destroy the seven nations of Canaan—Marriages with them are forbidden lest apostasy result—Israel has a mission as a holy and chosen people—The Lord shows mercy unto those who love Him and keep His commandments—He promises to remove sickness from the children of Israel if they obey.

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 8 The Lord tested the children of Israel in the wilderness for forty years—Eating manna taught them that man lives by the word of God—Their clothing did not wear out—The Lord chastened them—If they serve other gods, they will perish.

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 15

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 15 Every seven years, all debts are to be released—The people are admonished to care for the poor—Hebrew servants are to be released and given gifts during the seventh year—The firstling males of herds and flocks are the Lord’s.

    I can joyfully serve those in need.

    Deuteronomy 15:7–11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

    The teachings in Deuteronomy 15:7–11 can help the children you teach understand that helping others involves more than just actions. It should be done with a willing heart.

    • Write who, why, and how on the board. Invite the children to read Deuteronomy 15:7–11 to find out who we should help, why we should help them, and how our hearts should feel about helping. Let them write on the board what they find. Sing a song that reinforces the message in these verses, such as “Have I Done Any Good?” (Hymns, no. 223).

    Friend January 2021 “You Can Help Like Jesus” When Jesus was on the earth, he helped all he saw. Today many people in the world need our help. Each of us can do something to help, even children. About years ago, children helped build the Primary Children’s hospital by collecting pennies. (See more at link)

    Friend November 2019 “Helping Our Brothers and Sisters”

    President Nelson told about some ways people need help in the world today, such as 1 out of 9 people don’t have enough food and many don’t have clean water to drink. The article discusses how the church helps and how we can help people in need. (The article includes photos of the ways people need help, a quote handout idea, and a coloring page.)

    food bank
    Refugees
    • Ask the children to think of someone they could help—especially in their own family. Provide time for them to write down what they will do this week to help that person. If possible, make plans to reach out as a class to someone in need.

    Friend January 2018

    Friend May 2020 “Doing What Jesus Would Do” Care Package Ideas

    See additional ideas at Service

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 18

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 18 How priests are supported—Divination, spiritualism, and the like are abominations—A Prophet (Christ) will arise like unto Moses.

    Prophets teach us about Jesus Christ.

    Deuteronomy 18:15–18

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

    Moses prophesied that Jesus Christ would come and that we should listen to the words Jesus would teach.

    • As you read Deuteronomy 18:18 together, help your children understand that the Prophet like Moses in this verse is Jesus Christ.

    Institute Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Deuteronomy 17–33”

    At least four other scriptures refer to the prophet like unto Moses (see Acts 3:22–23; 1 Nephi 22:21; 3 Nephi 20:23; JS—H 1:40). In each instance these scriptures make it clear that the prophet like unto Moses was the Savior, Jesus Christ. When Jesus visited the Nephites, as recorded in the Book of Mormon, He identified Himself in this way:

    “Behold, I am he of whom Moses spake, saying: A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass that every soul who will not hear that prophet shall be cut off from among the people.” (3 Nephi 20:23.)

    • Maybe you could look at pictures of things Moses did and things Jesus Christ did, and let your children match them (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 15, 16, 38, 39).

    The Red Crystal

    • Show the children a picture of our prophet today, and share something he has taught about the Savior.

    Coming Closer to Christ: President Oaks emphasized increasing humility, studying the scriptures, and serving others as key ways to strengthen personal faith and hear the Savior’s voice.

    The Saving Atonement: He teaches that Jesus has done everything essential for our mortal journey out of love, offering forgiveness and overcoming the challenges of mortality.

    Following His Teachings: He has urged members to embrace the Savior’s command to love one’s enemies, particularly in times of conflict, and to become peacemakers.

    Friend May 2003 Prophets taught about Jesus Christ

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTERS 29-30

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 29 The children of Israel make a covenant with the Lord under which they will be blessed if they are obedient, and cursed if they are disobedient—If they are disobedient, their land will be as brimstone and salt.

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 30 The scattered Israelites will be gathered from all nations when they remember the covenant—Moses places life or death, blessing or cursing, before the people.

    Because of my covenants, I am part of God’s people.

    Deuteronomy 29:12–13; 30:8–10

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

    Talking about Deuteronomy 29:12–13 provides an opportunity for you and your children to talk about covenants Ask the children what a covenant is (if they need help, suggest that they find a definition in “Covenant” in the Guide to the Scriptures [scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org]).

    Draw a two-column chart on the board with these headings: Israelites’ promises and God’s promises. Invite the children to search Deuteronomy 30:8–10 and fill in the chart. (If necessary, help the children understand the meanings of phrases in verse 9.) Testify of blessings that have come to you from keeping your covenants.

    What promises have we made with God? (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 77).
    Invite the children to list on the board the promises we make at baptism and the promises Heavenly Father makes to us. How do these promises connect us with Him? (By keeping our covenants, we can receive heavenly help and strength.)

    Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

    Consider singing together a song about covenants, such as “Standing on the Promises” (Gospel Library).

    For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Covenants” and Resources for Teaching Children “Covenants”

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 34

    Deuteronomy Chapter 34 Moses sees the promised land and is taken by the Lord—Joshua leads Israel—Moses was Israel’s greatest prophet.

    What happened to Moses?

    Deuteronomy 34:5–8

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 Even though Deuteronomy 34:5–8 says that Moses died, latter-day understanding clarifies that he was translated, or changed so that he would not suffer pain or death until being resurrected (see Alma 45:18–19; Bible Dictionary, “Moses”; Guide to the Scriptures, “Translated Beings,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). It was necessary for Moses to be translated because he needed to have a physical body in order to give priesthood keys to Peter, James, and John on the Mount of Transfiguration (see Matthew 17:1–13).

    Additional Resources

    Gathering Israel

    Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Gathering Israel Puzzle

    Story: God loves all His children. He wants them to be gathered together in His Church. Part of gathering Israel is bringing God’s children back to Him (see Deuteronomy 30:3).

    Song: “Israel, Israel, God Is Calling” (Hymns, no. 7)

    Activity: Cut out the puzzle pieces on page 27. Then have someone hide the pieces around the room. Have everyone else search for the pieces. Once all the pieces are gathered, put the puzzle together. Why does God want all of His children to return to Him?

    Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Inspiring Words” Lesson ideas

    Latter Day Kids “Love God with All Thine Heart” Lesson ideas

    May 9 2022

    Numbers 11–14; 20–24; 27

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    Quail is Provided when Israelites Lust for Meat

    Numbers CHAPTER 11 Fire from the Lord consumes the rebels in Israel—Israel murmurs and lusts for meat instead of manna—Moses complains that he cannot bear the burden alone—He is commanded to choose seventy elders to assist him—The Lord promises meat until it becomes loathsome to the Israelites—The seventy elders are chosen, they prophesy, the Lord comes down, and Eldad and Medad prophesy in the camp—Israel is provided with quail—The people lust, a great plague follows, and many die.

    I can be thankful for what God has given me.

    Numbers 11:4–10

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Even though the Lord had done wonderful things for the children of Israel, they often focused instead on what they didn’t have. Help the children learn to be thankful for what God has given them.

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Ask your children if they remember some of the miracles the Lord performed to help the Israelites (see “The Plagues of Egypt” and “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 67–74). Then you could summarize for them Numbers 11:4–10, emphasizing that the Israelites had forgotten their blessings and were complaining. What blessings do we sometimes forget?

    Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Gratitude Game

    Story: Sometimes the Israelites forgot how the Lord had helped them. God wants us to remember to be grateful. It makes us happier too!

    Song: “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29)

    Activity: Play a gratitude game! Mark some sticks with one of three colors. Then take turns choosing a stick. For one color, name a person you are thankful for. For another color, say a place you are thankful for. For the third color, say a thing you are thankful for.

    Friend May 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

    • Sing together a song about gratitude, such as “Count Your Blessings” (Hymns, no. 241). Invite each child to draw pictures of blessings the Lord has given them or their families. Encourage them to think about or look at their picture whenever they are tempted to complain about something they don’t have.
    This video is not produced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints or any of its members, but it has visuals and words to help you sing the song.

    For additional teaching ideas see Gratitude

    Miriam and Aaron Speak Against Moses

    Numbers CHAPTER 12 Aaron and Miriam complain against Moses, the most meek of all men—The Lord promises to speak to Moses mouth to mouth and to reveal to him the similitude of the Lord—Miriam becomes leprous for a week.

    The Lord wants me to follow His prophet.

    Numbers 12

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • To introduce Numbers 12, you could tell your children that the Lord was unhappy with Aaron and Miriam, Moses’s brother and sister. Invite them to read Numbers 12:1–8 to find out why.
    This video is not produced by the church or any of its members, but it carefully follows the scripture account.
    • Consider using the Gospel Art Book to help your children find examples of people in the scriptures who respected the Lord’s prophet and were blessed. How are we blessed when we follow the Lord’s prophet?

    For additional teaching ideas see Prophets: Lesson Ideas

    Israelite Spies Fear the Strength of Canaan

    Numbers CHAPTER 13 Moses sends twelve spies to search the land of Canaan—Ten of them bring an evil report, telling only of the strength of the inhabitants.

    Numbers CHAPTER 14 Israel murmurs and speaks of returning to Egypt—Joshua and Caleb give a good report of Canaan—Moses mediates between Israel and the Lord—The adults of Israel will not enter the promised land—The Lord slays the false spies by a plague—Some rebels try to go alone and are slain by the Amalekites and Canaanites.

    Faith can help me not be afraid.

    Numbers 13:17–33; 14:6–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” When Moses sent 12 men to find out about the promised land, 10 of them came back afraid because of the mighty people who lived there. Two of them, Caleb and Joshua, were not afraid, because they had faith in the Lord.

    • Use pictures or drawings of grapes, honey, giants, and grasshoppers to briefly tell the children about the 12 men Moses sent to explore the promised land (see Numbers 13:17–33). Explain that they found a lot of fruit and other foods (invite the children to pretend to eat the food), but they also were afraid because the people there were large and strong (invite the children to pretend to be afraid). Show a picture of Jesus, and point out that two Israelites, Caleb and Joshua, were not afraid because they had faith in Jesus Christ.
    • Read Numbers 14:9 to the children, and talk about a time when you were afraid but your faith in Jesus Christ helped you have courage. Help the children think of any similar experiences they’ve had.

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24”

    • Two (or more) members of your family could pretend to “spy out” (Numbers 13:17) another part of your home as if it were the promised land. Then they could each give a report based on Numbers 13:27–33 or Numbers 14:6–9. What do we learn about faith from the two different reports in these verses? How can we be more like Caleb and Joshua?

    For additional teaching ideas see Faith: Lesson Ideas

    Moses and the Brass Serpent

    Numbers CHAPTER 20 Miriam dies—Moses smites a rock at Meribah and brings forth water—The king of Edom refuses to let Israel pass peacefully through his land—Aaron dies, and Eleazar becomes the high priest.

    Numbers CHAPTER 21 The children of Israel destroy those Canaanites who fight against them—The Israelites are plagued with fiery serpents—Moses lifts up a serpent of brass to save those who look thereon—Israel defeats the Amorites, destroys the people of Bashan, and occupies their lands.

    I can look to Jesus Christ.

    Numbers 21:6–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24”

    Old Testament Stories “Moses and the Brass Serpent” Images and video

    Just as the children of Israel were healed by looking at the serpent of brass, the children in your class receive salvation by looking to the Savior.

    • How is the brass serpent like Jesus Christ? (see John 3:14–15). Your children might enjoy making a serpent out of paper and write on it some simple things they can do to “look upon the Son of God with faith” (Helaman 8:15).

    The brass serpent represented Christ taking upon Himself the “sins” or, in this case, the venomous consequences of rebellion, allowing for healing.The healing was not in the object itself, but in the deliberate action of looking, which was a required show of faith in God’s plan

    Latter Day Kids “Look to Christ and Live” Lesson ideas

    • Using this week’s activity page, tell the children what happened when “fiery serpents” came into the Israelites’ camp (see Numbers 21:6–9). Help them see how the brass serpent is like Jesus Christ (see John 3:14–15). Then let the children take turns using the picture to tell the story to each other.
    • Ask the children to close their eyes while you place a picture of the Savior somewhere in the room. Then invite the children to open their eyes, find the picture, and look at it. Let them take turns being the one to place the picture. Each time the children find the picture, help them think of something they can do to look to the Savior.

    Jesus Christ has the power to heal me spiritually.

    Numbers 21:4–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Many Israelites died because they did not have faith that the Lord would heal them if they looked at the brass serpent (see Alma 33:18–20).

    Media Library
    • Invite the children to draw pictures of what they read in Numbers 21:4–9. Let them use their pictures to tell the story. Ask each child to choose one of the following scriptures and share what it adds to our understanding of the story: John 3:14–15; 1 Nephi 17:41; Alma 33:18–20; Helaman 8:13–15; Doctrine and Covenants 6:36.
    • Write on the board a question like What can we do to “look upon the Son of God with faith”? (Helaman 8:15). Give each of the children a piece of paper, and invite them to write as many answers to the question as they can think of. Collect the papers, read a few answers aloud, and invite the children to talk about how doing these things can help us when we need the Savior’s healing power.

    Ask how each item helps grow or show faith in Jesus Christ as the family walks the path.

    Children’s Songbook
    Friend October 2016
    Friend October 2016
    Friend November 2018
    Friend November 2018
    Friend July 2015
    Friend July 2015

    Balak Asks Balaam to Curse the Israelites

    Numbers CHAPTER 22 Balak offers money, cattle, and great honors to Balaam to curse Israel—The Lord forbids Balaam to do so—An angel opposes Balaam on the way.

    Numbers CHAPTER 23 The Lord commands Balaam to bless Israel—He does so, saying, Who can count the dust of Jacob? and, What hath God wrought!

    Numbers CHAPTER 24 Balaam sees in vision and prophesies of the destiny of Israel—He prophesies of the Messiah: There will come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre will rise out of Israel.

    I can follow God’s will, even if others try to persuade me not to.

    Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “Look and Live” Lesson ideas

    Numbers 22–24

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Balak tried to persuade Balaam to curse the Israelites, but Balaam knew that this was against God’s will. Balaam’s example could help the children when they face pressure to disobey God.

    • Summarize Numbers 22:1–18 for the children, emphasizing how Balaam refused to curse God’s people, even though Balak, the king of Moab, offered him honor and riches. Ask the children to search the following verses for phrases that they feel show Balaam’s determination to follow God: Numbers 22:18; 23:26; 24:13. Invite the children to pick one phrase they like and write it on a card to help them remember to obey the Lord.
    • Talk with the children about situations when friends or others might try to persuade them to do something wrong, as Balak did to Balaam. How did Balaam’s commitment to the Lord help him resist pressure from Balak? Invite the children to practice responding to these situations using words like Balaam’s.
    • “Treehouse” (August 2003 Friend)
      Jordan refuses when his friends try to get him to use a bad word as the password for their club.
    • “The Strength to Choose” (April 2010 Friend) Chris’s friend tries to get him to smoke a cigarette.
    • “Tag, You’re It” (August 2015 Friend and Liahona) Lauren decides to not follow Tami’s plan to be mean to Ally.
    • “Garbage Can Graffiti” (September 2010 Friend) Joe makes a bad decision after he listens to his friend instead of the Holy Ghost.

    Joshua is Set Apart to Lead Isreal

    Numbers Chapter 27 The law of inheritances to sons, daughters, and kinsmen is explained—Moses will see but not enter the promised land—Joshua is called and set apart to lead Israel.

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 13–36: Wilderness Wanderings, Part 2”

    “‘According to the order of God,’ ordination to offices in the priesthood is performed by the laying on of hands. (Alma 6:1; Acts 6:5–6; 1 Tim. 5:22.) Setting apart to positions of presidency, administration, or special responsibility comes in the same way. (Fifth Article of Faith; Num. 27:18–23; Deut. 34:9.)” (McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 438.)

    Additional Resources

    Primary Old Testament Lesson 22: Israel and the Brass Serpent

    Institute: Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 1–12” According to Josephus, when Moses was a general of the Egyptian army in the attack against the Ethiopians, he married an Ethiopian woman as a political alliance to end the war (see Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews, bk. 2, chap. 10, par. 1).

    The ostensible reason for Miriam’s and Aaron’s complaining was that the Ethiopians were non-Israelite descendants of Cush. The real reason for the complaint, however, seems to have been jealousy motivated by Moses’ position as spiritual leader and prophet of Israel. Miriam was the instigator of the attack on Moses’ right to preside and was punished with leprosy. Even if Moses’ wish had been granted and every soul in Israel had received the gift of prophecy (see Numbers 11:29), Moses would still have been the one chosen by the Lord to preside. (See additional information at link and #17-24 Why Did Miriam and Aaron Oppose Moses?)

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 13–36: Wilderness Wanderings, Part 2”

    Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas Snake Bite Game: Each person find a small object to use as their game piece. Roll a die to determine how many spaces to move forward. If someone lands on a “SNAKE BITE!” space, they will automatically be out of the game unless they state something they can do to look to the Savior in their lives. Print up the picture on page 5 below and tape it up on the wall. Have each person write down the ways they’ll look to the Savior on this page.

    The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

    May 3 2022

    Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    Building the Tabernacle

    Exodus CHAPTER 35 Israel is admonished to observe the Sabbath—Free gifts are offered for the tabernacle—The calls and inspiration of certain artisans are confirmed.

    Exodus CHAPTER 36 Wise-hearted men are chosen to work on the tabernacle—Moses restrains the people from donating any more material.

    Exodus CHAPTER 37 Bezaleel makes the ark, the mercy seat, and the cherubims—He makes the table, the vessels, the candlestick, the incense altar, the holy anointing oil, and the sweet incense.

    Exodus CHAPTER 38 Bezaleel and others make the altar of burnt offerings and all things pertaining to the tabernacle—Offerings are made by 603,550 men.

    Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Build a Tabernacle

    Story: The Lord asked Moses and his people to build a tabernacle. A tabernacle is like a temple. The Lord told them to build it like a tent so they could take it with them as they traveled to the promised land. You can read about it in Exodus 39:33–43.

    Song: “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95)

    Activity: Build a tent like the tabernacle. You can use blankets, towels, chairs, and anything else in your home. Then sit in your tent and talk about why temples are important. Or you could make a small tabernacle with blocks or other items.

    God has given me gifts to help with His work.

    Exodus 35:20–29; 36:1

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19”

    • Consider reading with them Exodus 36:1 to find out what the Lord gave Bezaleel and Aholiab to help build the tabernacle. Testify that God has “put” gifts into each of His children. Every one of Heavenly Father’s children has something to contribute to His work. The children you teach may need your help to recognize how they can use their gifts to help in God’s work. You could then talk with your children about what you feel the Lord has given them to help build His kingdom. How can we use these things to bless others?

    Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.

    Friend May 2021 “What Are Your Gifts?” Spiritual gifts are blessings or abilities that God has given to each of His children.

    Friend June 2024 “I Can Serve at Church”

    At the end of this outline is a picture of the Israelites’ wilderness tabernacle. You might want to look at it with your children and ask them what materials would have been needed to build the tabernacle. Then you could read together Exodus 35:20–29 to find out how these materials were provided. How has the Lord invited us to contribute to building His kingdom?

    The Ancient Tabernacle, by Bradley Clark

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19” In Exodus 36:1–7, What do we learn from the way the Israelites responded to the command to build the tabernacle? As a family, you could think of ways the Lord has invited us to participate in His work. How can we follow the Israelites’ example?

    • Tell the children why you want to help with the Lord’s work. Help them think of ways they can participate too. Write their ideas on slips of paper, put them in a container, and invite each child to choose one and act out the action on the slip of paper. Ideas might include:
    • Put away a hymnbook.
    • Pick up trash I see.
    • Help hold up a picture.
    • Help clean the church building.
    • Give talks
    • Give prayers
    • Learn about an ancestor
    • Share something you learned at church with a friend.

    For additional teaching ideas see Church Service

    Tabernacle is Complete and Aaron is Anointed

    Exodus CHAPTER 39 Holy garments are made for Aaron and the priests—The breastplate is made—The tabernacle of the congregation is finished—Moses blesses the people.

    Exodus CHAPTER 40 The tabernacle is reared—Aaron and his sons are washed and anointed and given an everlasting priesthood—The glory of the Lord fills the tabernacle—A cloud covers the tabernacle by day, and fire rests on it by night.

    Moses Calls Aaron to the Ministry, by Harry Anderson

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 4; 16; 19”

    Aaron and his sons received the Aaronic (or Levitical) Priesthood and were appointed as priests. Aaron was further designated as the first high priest, or the presiding officer of the Levitical Priesthood.

    The Lord command Moses to wash, anoint, and clothe Aaron and his sons. The act of washing symbolized being spiritually cleansed. When Moses anointed Aaron and his sons with sacred oil, he set them apart to perform their special duties in the service of God.

    I can feel the Lord’s presence in holy places.

    Exodus 40:17–34

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Exodus 40:17–34 lists things that were part of the Israelites’ tabernacle. Maybe you and your children could find them in these verses and in the picture of the tabernacle at the end of this outline. Talk about how each part of the tabernacle could teach about the Savior or Heavenly Father. For example, the ark of testimony could remind us of God’s commandments, the altar could remind us of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, and so on.

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament The following objects were contained in the ancient tabernacle:

    Altar of sacrifice The altar in the outer courtyard was used for animal sacrifices. Animal sacrifices were symbolic of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. 

    Laver of water Here the priests washed their hands and feet before entering the tabernacle or officiating at the altar of sacrifice. This was a reminder for the Israelites of the need to be clean as they participated in sacred ordinances and prepared to enter the Lord’s presence.

    Table of shewbread The 12 loaves of unleavened bread on the table of shewbread (pronounced showbread) served as a reminder to the Israelites that Jehovah was their continual provider. He is the bread of life.

    Candlestick Light is a symbol of Jesus Christ, who is “the light of the world.” The light from the lamps can also symbolize other sources of light the Lord has blessed us with, including the Holy Ghost and the scriptures. 

    Altar of incense The altar of incense was placed in front of the veil leading to the Holy of Holies. The high priest burned incense each morning and night at this altar. The smoke from the incense represented the prayers of the faithful ascending to God.

    Veil The veil symbolized the “separation between God and man.” Just as the veil of the temple gave the high priest access to the Holy of Holies, it is only through Jesus Christ and His Atonement that we can enter God’s presence.

    Ark of the covenant The mercy seat represented the throne of God. After the Lord gave Moses instructions for creating the ark of the covenant, He promised, “There I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat.”

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19”The Lord commanded the children of Israel to build the tabernacle so He could “dwell among them” (Exodus 25:8). You can help the children learn about the holy places God has given us today to help us feel His presence. The tabernacle not only allowed the children of Israel to have the presence of God with them, but it also taught them things they could do to become more like God.

    • What holy places do we have today that help us feel closer to Jesus Christ? As part of this conversation, you could watch together the video “Temples” (Gospel Library). You could also sing a song like “Holy Places” (Gospel Library). Share with each other how you feel about sacred places like the temple.

    • Complete the activity page with the children. As you do, sing a song with them about the temple, such as “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95).

    Burnt Sacrifice Offerings in Tabernacle

    Leviticus CHAPTER 1 Animals without blemish are sacrificed as an atonement for sins—Burnt offerings are a sweet savor unto the Lord.

    Leviticus CHAPTER 16 How and when Aaron must enter the holy place is explained—Sacrifices are offered to reconcile Israel to God—The scapegoat carries away the sins of the people—The sins of all Israel are forgiven on the Day of Atonement.

    Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, I can be forgiven.

    Leviticus 1:1–4

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    The animal sacrifices described in the Old Testament were meant to teach the children of Israel about forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Consider how reading about these sacrifices could do the same for your children. You could show pictures of Jesus Christ in Gethsemane and on the cross (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 56, 57) as you read with the children Leviticus 1:1–4. Help them find words or phrases that remind them of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19”

    • Show a picture of Jesus Christ visiting the people in the Americas (such as Gospel Art Book, no. 82). Explain that after Jesus Christ was crucified and resurrected, He taught the people in America why they no longer needed to sacrifice animals. Read together 3 Nephi 9:19–20, and ask the children what we are commanded to sacrifice instead. What does it mean to offer a sacrifice of a broken heart and contrite spirit? Suggest that they search “Broken Heart” in Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) for help answering this question. Invite them to ponder how they can offer a broken heart and contrite spirit to the Lord.

    Leviticus CHAPTER 19 Israel is commanded: Be holy, live righteously, love your neighbor, and keep the commandments—The Lord reveals and reaffirms sundry laws and commandments—Enchantments, wizardry, prostitution, and all evil practices are forbidden.

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19” Family members could each find a verse in this chapter that they feel will help them “be holy” (Leviticus 19:2) and share it with the family.

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Old Testament Seminary Student Material “Leviticus

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 4; 16; 19”

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Exodus 25–30; 35–40: The House of the Lord in the Wilderness”

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Leviticus 1–10: A Law of Performances and Ordinances, Part 1: Sacrifices and Offerings”

    Come Follow Me Kid

    The Red Crystal

    Apr 18 2022

    Exodus 19–20; 24; 31–34

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    The Ten Commandments

    Exodus CHAPTER 19 The Lord covenants to make Israel a peculiar treasure, a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation—The people sanctify themselves—The Lord appears on Sinai amid fire, smoke, and earthquakes.

    Exodus CHAPTER 20 The Lord reveals the Ten Commandments—Israel is to bear witness that the Lord has spoken from heaven—The children of Israel are forbidden to make gods of silver or gold—They are to make altars of unhewn stones and sacrifice to the Lord thereon.

    God gives me commandments because He wants me to be happy.

    Exodus 20:3–17

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20”

    • How can you make learning about the Ten Commandments fun for your children? As you read Exodus 20:3–17 together, let your children help you find or draw a picture to represent each of the Ten Commandments. Then your children could take turns choosing a picture and talking about how they can live that commandment. Share with each other how living that commandment brings you happiness.

    Old Testament Coloring Book “The Ten Commandments”

    Lesson 21: The Ten Commandments,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 90–94 Explain that rules are necessary aspects of our lives. Ask the children to name some rules we should follow to be safe, to have good health, to have good relationships with others, or to have eternal life. Point out that rules bring order into our lives and are necessary for us to know how to live happily. Tell the children that in this lesson they will learn about Moses and the children of Israel receiving the Ten Commandments, which are laws given by God to help us know what to do and how to live so we can be happy..

    Notice that all of the Ten Commandments fit under the two great commandments that Jesus Christ gave in Matthew 22:37–40: to love God and to love our neighbors. Write Love God and Love Neighbors on the chalkboard. Let the children take turns reading each commandment from Exodus 20:3–17 or from the chart. Have them write on the chalkboard a few key words from each commandment under the appropriate heading. Discuss specific ways to live these commandments, and challenge the children to choose one specific way to show love for God and to show love for their neighbors this week.

    Liahona April 2022 “Jesus Christ Is Our Savior” Applying the Ten Commandments to Our Lives

    Read the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3–17). God gave these laws to the Israelites to help them grow spiritually and live better lives. The commandments are also found in the Book of Mormon (see Mosiah 13:11–24) and in the Doctrine and Covenants (see 42:18–29; 59). How can the commandments help us today?

    You could also sing a song like “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Help your children find words in the song that teach them why God wants us to keep His commandments.

    • Sing with the children a song about how Heavenly Father blesses us when we obey the commandments, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Invite the children to listen to the words to find out what blessings we can receive when we obey.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” The children will be more likely to keep the commandments if they see them as expressions of God’s love and as opportunities to express their love for Him.

    • Tell the story about Chloe from Sister Carole M. Stephens’s message “If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 118–20). How does the story help us understand why the Lord gives us commandments? How does being obedient show our love for God?
    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20”

    See also Commandments

    Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods Before Me

    It Is Important to Put the Lord First in My Life.

    Exodus 20:1–7

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” The first two of the Ten Commandments the Lord gave the children of Israel were “Thou shalt have no other gods before me,” and “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.” (Ex. 20:3–4.)

    • Read together Exodus 20:1–7, and explain that anything we put before God in our lives can be like the “others gods” and “graven image[s]” mentioned in verses 3–4. Ask the children why Heavenly Father wants us to put Him first. (One possible answer might be: Because he loves us and wants us to be happy. He knows we will be happiest if we live the kind of life he wants us to live and return and live with him again.)

    Ask the children if they can name some things that we might be tempted to put before God in our lives. (Answers may even be good things such as recreational activities. If something is taking a lot of our focus and time and is getting in the way of putting the Lord first, it might be considered idolatry. (The worship of idols is an excessive attachment or devotion to anything.)

    • Ask the children how we can show Heavenly Father that He is more important than anything else in our lives.

    For the Strength of Youth April 2022 “The Best Day”

    • Think of a task that has an important first step, such as washing our hands before we eat or putting on socks before putting on shoes. What could happen if we didn’t do the important things first? How is this like putting Heavenly Father first in our lives? Share your testimony of how putting God first has blessed you, and invite the children to share their testimonies, too.
    • New Era July 2020 “Making Good Use of Your Time” Object Lesson: Pour all the sand into the jar first, then add the larger rocks on top. When you add the sand first, there isn’t enough space for all the larger rocks—just like how when we prioritize other activities over the things Heavenly Father has commanded us to do, we may run out of time for the things that are most important.
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    • Sing a song about Heavenly Father, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29). What do we learn from the song about why it is important to put Heavenly Father first in our lives?

    The Lord wants me to honor my parents.

    Exodus 20:12

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Help your children learn the phrase “Honour thy father and thy mother” (Exodus 20:12). You may want to explain that to “honor” someone can mean to show respect for them or to bring them happiness. What did Jesus do to honor His mortal mother and His Heavenly Father? (see Luke 2:48–51; John 19:26–27). Perhaps your children could take turns acting out things they can do to honor their parents, while the other children guess what they are doing.


    Friend March 2019     “A Lesson From My Parents” Color the pictures and circle the things a parent has taught you. What else can you think of?

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    Friend November 2021 “Jesus Honored His Parents” As He grew up, Jesus obeyed His earthly parents. He loved and cared for them. Even when He was dying on the cross, He asked one of His disciples to take care of His mother. He also honored His Heavenly Father by keeping the commandments.

    New Era March 2017 “20 Wats to Honor Mom and Dad”

    • Invite the children to make a thank-you card for their parents. They could write or draw inside the card something they will do to honor their parents.

    Friend September 2020 “Loving Our Families” Cut out the strips of paper and put them in a bowl. After you do one of the activities, add a link to your chain of hearts.

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    Honoring the Sabbath is a Sign of My Love for the Lord.

    Exodus CHAPTER 3 Artisans are inspired in building and furnishing the tabernacle—Israel is commanded to keep the Lord’s Sabbaths—The death penalty is decreed for Sabbath desecration—Moses receives the stone tablets.

    Exodus 31:13, 16–17

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Your children might enjoy looking at examples of signs—such as road signs or signs on a building. What are the purposes of signs? Your children could then find the word “sign” in Exodus 31:13, 16–17. What did the Lord say is a sign between us and Him? Share with each other some of the ways you and your family try to show your love for the Lord on the Sabbath.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34” The Lord told Moses that when the children of Israel kept the Sabbath day holy, they showed Him that they wanted to be His people.

    • Draw a heart on the board, and ask the children what this symbol can mean. Help them think of other things that can be a sign for love, like a hug or an act of service. Read to them Exodus 31:13. Help them understand that when we keep the Sabbath day holy, it is a sign to the Lord that we love Him.

    Latter Day Kids “The Sabbath Day” Lesson ideas

    • Tell the children about some of the ways you try to show your love for the Lord on the Sabbath. Let them share how they and their families do this. Invite them to use this week’s activity page to share more ideas.
    • Invite the children to take turns explaining why they choose to honor the Sabbath. Videos like “The Sabbath Is for You” or “Upon My Holy Day—Honoring the Sabbath” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org) can help.

    The Sabbath is For You

    Teaching Children the Gospel “Calendar and Chart Activity” Lists of things to do on Sunday with sticker activity

    For additional teaching resources see Sabbath Day and Resources for Teaching Children “Sabbath Day”

    The Golden Calf

    Exodus CHAPTER 32 Aaron makes a golden calf, which Israel worships—Moses serves as a mediator between God and rebellious Israel—Moses breaks the tablets of stone—The Levites slay about 3,000 rebels—Moses pleads and intercedes for the people.

    I will not “turn aside” from God’s ways.

    Exodus 32:1–8, 19–24; 34:6–7

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Consider using “Moses on Mount Sinai” (in Old Testament Stories, 77–82) to help your children learn the story in Exodus 32:1–8, 19–24. Why was it wrong for the Israelites to worship a statue instead of God?

    • It might be fun to create a path on the floor (or find one near your home) to illustrate these words from Exodus 32:8: “They have turned aside quickly out of the way.” While walking on the path, your children could talk about temptations we face to turn away from God. What helps us remain on God’s path—and return to it if we have strayed? (see Exodus 34:6–7).

    Friend Special Issue: Baptism and Confirmation “Walking along the Covenant Path”

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34”

    • Younger Children: Show a picture of Jesus Christ, along with pictures of other things that children might spend time on, such as toys, games, and so on. Ask the children to find the picture that shows what should be most important to us. Share with the children how you are blessed for putting the Lord first in your life—even before other things that are good.
    • Older Children: Help the children think of examples of things people may be tempted to worship instead of the Lord—things that draw our attention away from Him. Then ask them to share examples of things that help them focus on the Savior and worship Him.

    Read together Helaman 7:20–21, and ask the children what they think it means to forget God. Explain that the word forget can also mean “to neglect” or “ignore.” Display a picture of the Savior, and invite the children to draw things they might spend too much time doing that could cause them to forget the Lord. Put their drawings in front of the picture of Jesus. Ask the children to think of things they can do each day to remember Heavenly Father and Jesus. As they share their thoughts, take away the drawings one by one until the picture of the Savior is revealed. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”)

    Friend January 2017 “The Next Level” Max takes a week off from playing games and he learns new things, spends time with his family, serves, and feels the Spirit.

    One message from the account in Exodus 32 is the importance of keeping the first two of the Ten Commandments—do not worship anyone or anything other than the Lord.

    Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Worship the Lord” Lesson ideas

    I Can Stand for Righteousness.

    Exodus 32:1–5, 21–24

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34” When the Israelites told Aaron to make a golden idol, he agreed to do it, even though this was wrong (see Deuteronomy 9:20). Consider how you can encourage the children to stand for righteousness, even when others pressure them not to.

    • Invite the children to read Exodus 32:1–5, 21–24, individually or in pairs, and share what they think Aaron should have done when the Israelites asked him to make a golden calf. How might Aaron have helped the people?
    • Help the children think of situations they might face when other people ask them to do something they know is wrong. Ask the children to share ideas with each other about what to do in those situations.

    Friend April 2019 “What’s on Your Mind” Fill in the the speaking bubbles with what you could say when someone tries to get you to do something that is not right. Try explaining why it’s important to you. Even if others don’t understand your reasons, ask them to be respectful.

    Friend November 2017 “Peer Pressure Problems” Ideas on how to deal with peer pressure to avoid making wrong choices.
    For additional teaching ideas also see Stand for the Right.

    The Lord Talked to Moses Face to Face.

    Exodus CHAPTER 33 The Lord promises to be with Israel and drive out the people of the land—The tabernacle of the congregation is moved away from the camp—The Lord speaks to Moses face to face in the tabernacle—Later, Moses sees the glory of God but not His face.

    Exodus 33:11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34”

    • Tell the children how you feel when you talk with a good friend, and ask them how they feel. Read to them the first sentence of Exodus 33:11. Ask the children how they think the prophet Moses might have felt. Tell the children about times when you have felt close to the Lord, even if you didn’t see Him with your eyes.

    Ensign July 2010 “Jesus Christ, Our Perfect Friend”

    • Sing together a song that expresses how Heavenly Father or Jesus feels about us, such as “Jesus Is Our Loving Friend” (Children’s Songbook, 58). Show pictures of the Savior showing love to others (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 36, 41–43, 46–47). Encourage the children to share how they feel about Heavenly Father and Jesus.

    Exodus CHAPTER 34 Moses hews new tables of stone—He goes up into Mount Sinai for forty days—The Lord proclaims His name and attributes and reveals His law—He makes another covenant with Israel—The skin of Moses’ face shines, and he wears a veil.

    Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Tablets from a Mountain

    Story: God gave commandments to Moses on stone tablets. The Israelites promised to obey them (see Exodus 24:7).

    Song: “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47)

    Activity: You can promise to obey too. Make pretend tablets out of paper. Then draw or write on them ways that you keep the commandments.

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel

    Come Follow Me Kid “All that the Lord Has Spoken We Will Do”

    Come Follow Me Kid “My Presence Shall Go Before Thee”

    The Red Crystal

    Apr 4 2022

    Exodus 14–18

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    Crossing the Red Sea

    Genesis CHAPTER 14 Israel goes out of Egypt—Israel passes through the Red Sea on dry ground—The Lord overthrows the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.

    The Lord can do a “great work” in my life.

    Exodus 14:5–22

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    • Think of ways to share the story of the Israelites crossing the Red Sea in an interesting and memorable way. For example, you or another ward member could dress up like Moses to tell the story from Exodus 14:5, 9–10, 13–16, 19–22. The children could pretend that the chairs or blankets are the Red Sea, and they could follow the person portraying Moses as he makes a path between them. Or the children could pretend to be the water and move to separate sides of the room as Moses divides them. Emphasize that the Lord gave Moses the power to part the sea so the Israelites could be delivered from captivity.

    The Red Crystal This site has a fun reenactment skit. (or you could use the skit below)

    Friend April 2022 “Moses Parts the Red Sea” Script to act out Moses parting the Red Sea.

    • Invite the children to color the activity page as you review with them the story from Exodus 14:5–22. Then they could work together to tell the story using the activity page.

    When the Lord parted the Red Sea, Moses and the Israelites saw how powerful He is. (see also “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 70–74). Then you could share with each other how you have seen God’s power in your lives.

    Old Testament Scripture Stories “The Passover”

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    As you read Exodus 14:1–10, imagine how the Israelites might have felt as they saw Pharaoh’s army closing in. Perhaps you feel that you need a miracle to survive a difficult challenge you are facing.

    Your family members might enjoy trying to “divide” the water in a bowl or a bathtub, as Moses divided the Red Sea. Help them understand that the Red Sea could not be divided without the power of God. How have we seen God’s power in our lives and the lives of our ancestors?

    Friend June 2025 “Presentation Panic” Allyson hated talking in front of people, but she had to do a history presentation. She had practiced it several times, but when she got up to give it her mind went blank from fear. She said a prayer in her mind for help. As soon as she finished, her panic faded away and she was able to give her presentation.

    Friend October 2023 “Timeon’s Priesthood Blessing” Timeon fell and hurt his arm when playing monkeys with his friends at an empty tree hut. He was in a lot of pain, but there were no doctors close enough to visit in the dark. The elders gave him a priesthood blessing. Soon Timeon’s arm didn’t hurt so much. He felt calm and peaceful. He was even able to fall asleep. They were able to go see a doctor in the morning. Timeon was grateful for priesthood power.

    Friend February 2023 “Lost and Found Friends”. School was about to start and Leah was worried about not having a friend. She kept praying for help. Then on the first day of school she found that her best friend was in her class. Heavenly Father had helped her.

    I Can Learn to Always Follow the Spirit.

    Exodus 14:5–22

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    What does Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3 add to our understanding of the story in Exodus 14? Moses knew by revelation how to lead the Israelites across the Red Sea.

    Media Library

    • Consider telling your children about an experience when the Holy Ghost told you something in your mind or heart, and invite them to talk about their experiences. You could also sing a song about the Holy Ghost, such as “Let the Holy Spirit Guide” (Hymns, no. 143).

    Friend March 2020 “Check the Kittens” After everyone has gone to bed, a girl kept having the thought to go and check on their kittens. She acted on the prompting and found that a warming light had fallen over onto the kittens cardboard box and would have caught on fire. The Holy Ghost helped keep their family and kittens safe.

    • Remind the children of the story of Nephi following the Spirit when he went to get the brass plates (see 1 Nephi 4:1–6). Help the children see that Moses also had to follow the Spirit when he led his people across the Red Sea.

    The Lord Provides Manna, Quail, and Water

    Exodus CHAPTER 15 The children of Israel sing the song of Moses—They extol the Lord as a man of war and rejoice in their deliverance from Egypt—The waters of Marah are healed—The Lord promises to free Israel from the diseases of Egypt.

    Exodus CHAPTER 16 Israel murmurs for want of bread and lusts for the fleshpots of Egypt—The Lord rains bread from heaven and sends quail for meat—Israel is given manna each day, except the Sabbath, for forty years.

    The Lord can make bitter things sweet.

    Exodus 15:22–25

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Maybe you and your children could drink something sweet and something bitter while studying Exodus 15:22–25 together. How has the Savior made “bitter” experiences in our lives “sweet”?

    Why is adversity for our good? Adversity can help us become more like Jesus Christ; It can help us to develop empathy, patience, kindness, humility, faith and trust in God, reliance on God, etc. Ask the children if they would like to share how an adversity they suffered was for their gain.

    Jesus is my Living Water, my Bread of Life, and my Rock.

    Exodus 15:23–25; 16:14–15; 17:1–6

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    The Red Crystal Matching activity: One page has scriptures from Exodus, the other page has scriptures that tie it to Jesus. When a match is made, read both scriptures and ask the children how the object taught them about Jesus.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17” Divide the class into pairs or small groups, and assign each group to read one of the following passages: Exodus 15:23–25; 16:14–15; 17:1–6. Ask the children in each group to draw pictures representing what they read in these verses, and then ask other class members to guess what they have drawn. Help the children identify what these stories teach about Jesus Christ. What trials do people have today? How do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ help us with our trials?

    Old Testament Stories “The Israelites in the Wilderness” Video and Illustrations

    Friend April 2022 “Moses and the Manna”

    As you review these stories, ask the children why bread and water were so important to the children of Israel. What would have happened if they hadn’t had these things?

    The accounts of the Lord providing food and water for the Israelites in the wilderness teach us that He can provide for our needs. If we turn to Jesus Christ, He can help us during difficult times in our lives, just as He helped the children of Israel.

    Media Library “The Gathering of the Manna”

    Additional Resources:

    Israelites Prevail in Battle as Moses Hands are Held Up

    Exodus CHAPTER 17 Israel murmurs for want of water—Moses smites a rock in Horeb, and water gushes forth—Aaron and Hur uphold Moses’ hands so that Joshua prevails against Amalek.

    I can help “bear the burden” of doing the Lord’s work.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17” The children of Israel were victorious in the battle against Amalek only when Moses had his hands raised in the air. What can we learn about sustaining our leaders from this story?

    Exodus 17:8–16; 18:13–26

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • As you read Exodus 17:8–16, you could invite a child to hold their hands high in the air. When the child gets tired, other children could help, the way Aaron and Hur helped Moses. What does this story teach about how we can help God’s kingdom be successful? You could also read Exodus 18:13–26 and talk about the heavy responsibilities of people who serve in your ward. What can we do today to help our Church leaders, just as Aaron and Hur helped the prophet Moses?
    Media Library “One Before God”

    Sustaining leaders involves more than just a raised hand—it means that we stand behind them, pray for them, accept assignments and callings from them, hearken to their counsel, and refrain from criticizing them. (Come Follow Me for Aaronic Priesthood “What does it mean to sustain my Church leaders?”)

    Friend October 2004 “I Can Sustain the Prophet” Cut out the strip of pictures on this page and cut them apart. Read each sentence, find the picture/word for the missing word, and glue it in place.

    Friend November 2019 “Dear Student Dictionary” After President Nelson’s special youth devotional, Matthew looked for ways to be a youth-battalion member. He was kind to others and stood up for kids being teased. After President Nelson’s conference talk about calling the church by its correct name, he wrote a letter to a student dictionary that used the name “Mormons”  and explained what the correct name of the church was.

    Jethro Counsels Moses to Delegate

    Exodus CHAPTER 18 Jethro comes to Moses bringing Moses’ wife and sons and offers sacrifices to the Lord—Moses sits in the judgment seat and hears all cases—Jethro counsels Moses to teach the law, to appoint lesser judges, and to delegate power to them.

    I Can Help “Bear the Burden” of Doing the Lord’s Work.

    Exodus 18:13–26

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” Moses learned that trying to lead the children of Israel all by himself was “not good” (Exodus 18:17). Loving and serving one another can help ease the burdens of our leaders.

    • Invite the children to draw many circles on the board to represent members of the ward. Draw a circle labeled bishop. Why would it be a problem if the bishop were the only one helping everyone else? Read together Exodus 18:13–26 to find out what advice Jethro gave when Moses was trying to do everything himself. Ask the children to label other circles to represent other ward leaders and members who help the bishop serve others. How do these other leaders and members make the bishop’s burden lighter? How can we do the same for our ward leaders? for our parents at home?

    Friend December 2019 “Notes for Sister Puckett” Tyler was excited to become a deacon so he could serve and minister like his parents do. (His father takes notes in sacrament for Sister Puckett who is sick, and his mom made taco soup for her.)

    • Help the children make a list of leaders in your ward. As a class, select one and discuss what this person does to accomplish the Lord’s work and what the children can do to help. (Suggestions: Primary leaders, Primary teachers, chorister, librarians)

    Friend December 2018 Match each sentence with a picture. In the blank spot, draw yourself helping at church.

    • I can put away a hymnbook.
    • I can pick up trash I see.
    • I can help hold up a picture.
    • I can sit so reverently!

    Giving Talks, Singing, Playing Instruments

    Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.

    • “Prayer Power” (March 2019 Liahona and Friend)
      Lucy and her family pray for their church leaders.

    Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Bear One Another’s Burdens“

    Activity: Have one person stand and hold their arms out. Put a book in each of their hands. Add more books until they are too heavy to hold up. Then have two people hold the person’s arms up. Is it easier to carry a burden when you have help? How can you help others? How can you ask for help?

    Friend May 2020 “I Will Be Valiant” Song and Sing-along Video.

    The Lord needs valiant servants,

    To do His work in the latter day,

    Who follow the teachings of Jesus

    And serve His people in a loving way.

    I will be His servant

    And keep my cov’nants valiantly.

    I’ll stand for truth. I’ll stand for right.

    The Lord can depend on me.

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 14-18”

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    Come Follow Me Kid

    Mar 28 2022

     Exodus 7–13

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    The Plagues of Egypt

    Exodus CHAPTER 7 Moses is appointed to give the word of the Lord to Pharaoh—The Lord will multiply signs and wonders in Egypt—Aaron’s rod becomes a serpent—The river is turned into blood—The magicians imitate the miracles of Moses and Aaron.

    Exodus CHAPTER 8 The Lord sends plagues of frogs, lice, and flies upon Egypt—Pharaoh hardens his heart.

    Exodus CHAPTER 9 The Lord destroys the cattle of the Egyptians, but not of the Israelites—Boils and blains are sent upon the Egyptians—The Lord sends hail and fire upon the people of Pharaoh, but not upon the people of Israel.

    Exodus CHAPTER 10 The Lord sends a plague of locusts—This is followed by thick darkness in all Egypt for three days—Moses is cast out from the presence of Pharaoh.

    Exodus CHAPTER 11 The departing Israelites are authorized to ask for jewels and gold from their neighbors—The Lord promises to slay the firstborn in every Egyptian home—He puts a difference between the Egyptians and the Israelites.

    The Lord Has Power Over All Things.

    Exodus 7–11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13” The Israelites were in captivity and could not free themselves, but the Lord showed His power and delivered them.

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    The plagues described in Exodus 7–11 showed the Egyptians and the Israelites that the Lord has great power. The Lord will help your children throughout their lives when they have faith in His power. To help them learn from this story, you could give each child a paper divided into 10 sections, and invite them to draw pictures of the plagues described in these verses: Exodus 7:17–18; 8:1–4; 8:16–17; 8:20–22; 9:1–6; 9:8–9; 9:22–23; 10:4–5; 10:21–22; 11:4–7  (You could also give one scripture reference to each child and have them draw pictures of the plague that they read about. They could then show the picture to the class as they tell about the plague.)

    The Red Crystal

    See also “The Plagues of Egypt” in Old Testament Stories, 67–69. Read together Exodus 7:5 and 9:14 to explain why the Lord sent the plagues.

    Old Testament Stories “The Plagues of Egypt” Illustrations and video

    Old Testament Coloring Book “Plagues of Egypt”

    • Share with your children how the Lord has shown you “that there is none like [Him] in all the earth” (Exodus 9:14). Let them share how they know that the Lord is powerful. What do the plagues teach us about God’s power? Why is it important to know about His power?

    The Lord Has Power to Deliver Me.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13” Children face challenges and need the Lord to help them. The story of the ten plagues the Lord sent to free the Israelites can help the children understand that He also has the power to help them.

    • Ask the children about times when they felt they needed the Lord’s help. How can He help us in these situations? Encourage them to talk about times when they or their family have experienced the Lord’s power in their lives. Bear your testimony that the Lord has the power to help us.

    Friend July 1988 “Power of Prayer” A pioneer father is inspired that something was wrong at home. When he arrives he finds that his daughter has fallen into the fireplace. He gives her a blessing and every promise is fulfilled.

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    Friend April 2006 “Miracles”

    The Lord Can Help Me Have a Soft Heart.

    Exodus 8:28–32; 9:7

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Show the children the bowl of water, rock, and sponge. Ask (or show) what would happen if you poured water onto the sponge, and then ask (or show) what would happen if you poured water onto the rock in the water. Just like the hard rock will not absorb water, a hard heart will not let direction from the Lord or others in. Just like a soft sponge will absorb water, a soft heart is open to the Lord’s direction and receives the word of the Lord. A soft heart is humble and teachable. You could then read together a few verses describing how Pharaoh responded to the plagues sent by the Lord (see Exodus 8:28–32; 9:7). Which of the objects best represents Pharaoh’s heart or attitude?(see Mosiah 3:19). Elder Christopher H. Kim’s message “Harden Not Your Heart” could also help your children understand the difference between a hard heart and a soft one (Liahona, May 2025, 118–20, especially the fifth paragraph).
    • You and your children could make a list of some actions that might show when we have a hard heart (for example, using unkind words or being unwilling to share). How can we show the Lord we want to have soft hearts? (The below hearts could be printed and put on the board and the children could write the lists next to the correct heart.)

    The Red Crystal

    Latter Day Kids “A Soft Heart” Lesson ideas

    The Passover

    Exodus CHAPTER 12 The Lord institutes the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread—Lambs without blemish are slain—Israel is saved by their blood—The firstborn of all Egyptians are slain—Israel is thrust out of Egypt after 430 years—No bones of the paschal lambs are to be broken.

    Exodus CHAPTER 13 The firstborn of man and of beasts are to be sanctified unto the Lord—The Feast of Unleavened Bread is to be kept in the land of Canaan—Moses takes Joseph’s bones out of Egypt—The Lord attends Israel in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

    The Sacrament Helps Me Remember My Deliverance Through Jesus Christ.


    Ask some of the children to read Exodus 11:5–6 to learn about the final plague the Lord sent upon the Egyptians. Ask the other children to read Exodus 12:3, 5–7, 13 to learn about how the children of Israel were saved from that plague.

    Old Testament Scripture Stories “The Passover”

    The sacrament can help me remember Jesus.

    Exodus 12:1–13

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13”

    • The Passover taught the children of Israel that the Lord delivered them from Egypt. The Passover also taught the Israelites about the Savior and the sacrifice He would one day make for us. The Passover is symbolic of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which delivers us from sin and death. The Passover taught the Israelites to look forward to the Savior and His sacrifice for us. As you explore Exodus 12:1–13 together, help your children see connections between the details of the Passover and Jesus Christ’s Atonement (see also “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 70–74). For example, how is Jesus like the lamb described in verse 5?

    Old Testament Seminary Student Material & Old Testament Seminary Teacher Material

    Lamb (Jesus Christ)

    Blood (Atonement of Jesus Christ)

    Bitter herbs (bondage, sin)

    Unleavened bread (repentance, removal of sin)

    Lamb without blemish (Exodus 12:4–6, 46) Jesus Christ, “the Lamb of God” (John 1:36), was perfect and was slain for the sins of the world. 

    Blood of the lamb on the lintel and door posts (Exodus 12:6–7, 12–13) The lamb’s blood needed to be placed around the doors to protect the people inside from the destroying angel.. The Atonement of Jesus Christ can protect us from the power of Satan as we apply the conditions of repentance in our lives.

    Unleavened bread (Exodus 12:8, 15) Leaven, or yeast, causes bread to become moldy. As part of our repentance, we are to rid our lives of anything that can corrupt our spirits.

    Bitter herbs (Exodus 12:8) The bitter herbs reminded the Israelites of their years of bitter bondage in Egypt. The bitter bondage is like the bitterness of our sins.

    Freepik

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 7-13” On the evening before Jesus Christ was crucified, He and His disciples shared a Passover meal together. At the end of this meal, Jesus introduced the ordinance of the sacrament, which He told His disciples to repeat in remembrance of Him. The following day, in similitude of the lamb that was sacrificed as part of the Passover, the Lamb of God was sacrificed on the cross for the sins of the world. His sacrifice ended the need for animal sacrifices.

    Media Library

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Today, we take the sacrament to remember Jesus’s sacrifice. You could show your children a picture of the sacrament and talk about how this ordinance helps us remember Jesus Christ. You might help your children find the word “remember” in the sacrament prayers (see Moroni 4–5).
    Media Library

    Friend June 2023 “A Tiny Piece of Bread” Anahí was excited to take the sacrament at the church building again after Covid was over, but by the time the tray got to her there was only a small crumb left. She picked it up and put it in her mouth, but all day long she worried that it didn’t count because it was only a crumb. But her mom said, “I saw you looking at the little picture of Jesus. What were you thinking about?” Anahi said, “I was thinking about how Jesus loves me. And about the nail prints in His hands and feet. And all He did for us.” Her mom explained, “That’s why we take the bread and water. To remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us.” So the size of the bread doesn’t matter, what matters is how you feel as you remember the Savior.

    • Sing together “The Sacrament” (Children’s Songbook, 72). Or sing together a favorite hymn about the sacrament, and help your children notice the peaceful feeling they have when they think about the Savior. How can we seek that feeling when we take the sacrament?

    Exodus 12:1–42.

    After reading Exodus 12:1–42 together, you could write on pieces of paper things you can do as a family to remember Jesus Christ’s Atonement. Because the lamb’s blood on the door posts (see verse 23) represented the Savior, you could place these papers around a doorway in your home. You could also eat some of the foods from the Passover, such as unleavened bread (crackers or tortillas) or bitter herbs (parsley or horseradish), and discuss how the Passover helps us remember how God delivered His people. For example, the unleavened bread reminded them that there was not time for their bread to rise before they fled from captivity. The bitter herbs reminded them of the bitterness of captivity. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13”)

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Lesson 19: Moses Delivers the Israelites from Bondage,” Primary 6: Old Testament

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 7-13”

    How were Pharaoh’s magicians able to imitate some of the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron?

    President Dallin H. Oaks remarked: “You will remember that the magicians in Pharaoh’s court duplicated some of the miracles Moses produced through the power of God [see Exodus 7–8]. Perhaps these magicians were servants of the devil, using his power, but I think it more likely that they were simply skilled practitioners of magic tricks that they used to reinforce their position in Pharaoh’s court.”

    Although the magicians of Egypt were able to perform some imitations, they were never able to prevent or overcome the plagues the Lord sent. In fact, their imitations of the first two plagues likely made circumstances worse for the people of Egypt. The contrast between the Lord’s priesthood power exercised by Moses and the imitations wrought by the magicians of Egypt illustrates that God’s power is superior to all other forms of power.

    Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

    The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

    Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Know That I Am the Lord” Lesson ideas

    Mar 21 2022

    Exodus 1-6

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    ISRAELITES IN BONDAGE

    Exodus CHAPTER 1 The children of Israel multiply—They are placed in bondage by the Egyptians—Pharaoh seeks to destroy the sons born to Hebrew women.

    MOSES IN EGYPT then MIDIAN

    Exodus CHAPTER 2 Moses is born to Levite parents, is raised by Pharaoh’s daughter, slays an Egyptian in defense of an Israelite, flees to Midian, and marries Zipporah—Israel in bondage cries to the Lord.

    God can work through me to fulfill His purposes.

    Exodus 1–2

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6

    • Moses had a major role in freeing Israel from bondage. But he wouldn’t have been able to accomplish this if his mother, his sister, Pharaoh’s daughter, and other faithful women hadn’t protected and cared for him. Help your children learn about these women in Exodus 1:15–20; Exodus 2:2–10 (see also Numbers 26:59); and Exodus 2:16–21. You could also use this week’s activity page and “Baby Moses” (in Old Testament Stories, 61–63) to tell their stories. How did these women help fulfill God’s plan?

    Old Testament Stories “Baby Moses” Illustrations and video

    Friend March 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

    Lesson 18: The Birth and Calling of Moses,” Primary 6: Old Testament (Page 90-95) Tie the ends of the yarn together. Hand the yarn to a child and tell him or her to hold it up in a circle using only his or her hands. When the child cannot do so, ask another child to help, then another until all the children are helping form the yarn into a circle. (If you have only two or three children in the class, have them make a square or a six-sided figure.)

    Explain that as each person was needed to help make the shape, each of us has a mission to fulfill in the kingdom of God. Tell the children that in this lesson they will learn about the prophet Moses and the mission he was called to perform.

    Explain that there are many important things that Heavenly Father and Jesus need us to do. Ask the children to take turns writing their suggestions on the chalkboard. These may include being a parent, a teacher, a Church leader, or a good example. Emphasize that each of us has at least one mission to perform on earth and that God needs all of us to help build his kingdom.

    • Tell the children about people you admire because of their faithfulness in serving God and those around them, even when they serve in small ways. Invite the children to talk about people they know who have faithfully served God and others. What is our part in God’s work?

    Friend March 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

    Story: When Moses was a baby, his mother hid him in a basket to keep him safe. His sister helped take care of him too. He grew up and became a prophet. (See Exodus 2:1–10.)

    Activity: You can help others too! Go to page 12 to make a paper basket, like the one Moses was in. On pieces of paper, write ways you can serve others (and God). Then put the papers in the basket. When you want to help someone, choose a piece of paper and do what it says.

    Friend March 2022 “Make a Basket for Baby Moses”

    • Sing together a song about service, such as “‘Give,’ Said the Little Stream” (Children’s Songbook, 236). Help the children think of simple things they can do to help others at home, at church, and at school.

    MOSES AND THE BURNING BUSH

    Exodus CHAPTER 3 The Lord appears to Moses at the burning bush—Moses is called to deliver Israel from bondage—The Lord identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and as the Great I AM—He promises to smite Egypt and bring His people out with great wealth.

    Exodus 3:1–5 The Lord asked Moses to remove his shoes at the burning bush as a sign of respect and reverence.

    I can treat holy places with reverence.

    Exodus 3:1–5

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6

    • After reading Exodus 3:1–5 together, ask your children to summarize these verses in their own words (see also “Moses the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories, 64–66). You could also review the beginning of Elder Ulisses Soares’s message “Reverence for Sacred Things” (Liahona, May 2025, 108).

    Old Testament Stories “Moses the Prophet” Story illustrations and Videos

    • How did Moses show reverence in the Lord’s presence? How does the Lord want us to show reverence? You might also ask your children to help you find (or draw) pictures of sacred places or activities where we should be reverent.
    • Activity ideas: Have the children sort these pictures, or the list below the pictures, into places where we should be reverent and where we don’t need to be reverent.
    Friend January 2017
    Friend September 2015
    Friend September 2015
    Friend February 2018

    The Red Crystal

    Talk about how being reverent at appropriate times helps us know Heavenly Father and Jesus better and feel their presence in our lives.

    • Sing together a song about reverence, such as “Reverence Is Love” (Children’s Songbook, 31). As you do, your children could find words or phrases that explain what it means to be reverent. If we were bringing a friend to church for the first time, how would we explain what it means to be reverent?
    Friend October 2016
    Friend October 2016

    For additional teaching ideas see Reverence.

    When the Lord asks me to do something, He will help me do it.

    Exodus 3–4

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6

    • Using the account in Exodus 3; 4:1–17, let your children take turns pretending to be Moses. It might be fun to include objects or simple props, such as a flashlight and a plant to represent the burning bush.
    Gospel Art Picture: “Moses and the Burning Bush”
    • Help your children discover how Moses felt about the assignment the Lord gave him (see Exodus 3:11; 4:1, 10). Maybe you could share with each other times when you had similar feelings. What advice would we share with Moses to help him? Read about how the Lord encouraged Moses in Exodus 3:12; 4:2–9, 11–12. Tell the children how the Savior has helped you fulfill a calling, follow a prompting, or do something else that was hard for you.

    Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.

    • Help the children think of situations when they might be asked to do something that seems hard. Explain that just as Jesus helped Moses, Jesus will also help them. Sing a song about how Jesus helps us, such as “I Will Walk with Jesus” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Testify that the Savior will help us when we are worried or scared.

    Friend June 2020 ” The Only  Bald Deacon” Carlos was losing his hair due to cancer, so he shaved the patchy hair off. He was anxious about people staring at him when he passed the sacrament. He and his family said a prayer together before going in to church, and he felt peaceful and ready. When he got into the chapel he found all the other deacons with shaved their heads too.

    Friend November 2019 “The Primary Talk” Dennis was afraid to give a talk in Primary because he stutters. He prayed, prepared, and practiced but he was still nervous, so he asked his father to give him a blessing. After the blessing he was able to give the talk with only a few stutters, and he knew Heavenly Father helped him.

    Additional Lesson Topic Ideas

    The Lord sees our afflictions and will help as we turn to him.

    Exodus 3:7

    The Lord explained to Moses that He had seen the afflictions of the children of Israel, heard their prayers, and knew their sorrows (see Exodus 3:7).

    1. Assign each person an emotion based on the color they’re wearing most of:
      • Yellow = happy
      • Blue = sad
      • Red = angry
      • Green = calm
      • Orange = scared
      • Other = confused or surprised
    2. Each person will share a specific experience when they’ve felt that emotion.
    3. Can we tell how people are feeling just by their appearance or what they’re wearing?
    4. Who sees all our emotions, including our afflictions and sorrows, even when others might not be able to?
    5. Find scriptures that show how Jesus Christ knows and understands us.

    Discussion: What are some trials we’ve been through? How can we know that the Lord was aware of us through those times?

    Jesus Christ is my Deliverer.

    Jesus Christ is also known as our “Deliverer.” What does it mean to deliver? Talk about how He has power to save us from sin and death. He also had a plan to deliver the Israelites

    One of the central themes in the book of Exodus is that God has power to free His people from oppression. The enslavement of the Israelites as described in Exodus 1 could be seen as a symbol of the captivity we all face because of sin and death (see 2 Nephi 2:26–27; 9:10; Alma 36:28).

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

    The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

    Mar 14 2022

    Genesis 42–50

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    JOSEPH FORGIVES HIS BROTHERS

    Genesis CHAPTER 42 Jacob sends his sons to buy grain in Egypt—They bow before Joseph—He makes harsh accusations against them, imprisons Simeon, and sends them back for Benjamin.

    Genesis CHAPTER 43 Jacob is persuaded to send Benjamin to Egypt—Joseph’s brothers show respect to him—They all eat and drink together.

    Genesis CHAPTER 44 Joseph arranges to stop the return of his brothers to Canaan—Judah offers himself in place of Benjamin for their father’s sake.

    Genesis CHAPTER 45 Joseph makes himself known to his brothers—They rejoice together—Pharaoh invites Jacob and his family to dwell in Egypt and eat the fat of the land.

    I can show love and forgiveness to my family.

    Genesis 42–44; 45:4–15

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50” & Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50”

    It might be fun for your children to reenact the story of Joseph reuniting his family (see Genesis 42–44). Have fun with it—use costumes and props if you’d like. Encourage children to try to understand the emotions and perspectives of the characters.

    Or they could use “Joseph and the Famine” (in Old Testament Stories, 57–60) or pictures in this outline to teach the story to each other. As they do, ask them how they think Joseph might have felt to see his brothers again or how the brothers might have felt when they finally recognized Joseph.

    Old Testament Stories “Joseph and the Famine” Illustrations

    Here are some questions that could help your children learn from the story:

    • What did Joseph do to show love for his family? (see Genesis 45:4–15).
    • Why do you feel Joseph forgave his brothers?
    • How do you think Joseph’s brothers felt when they found out Joseph had forgiven them? Who in your life needs to be forgiven? How can you show love and forgiveness?

    What did Joseph do or say to let his brothers know he forgave them? What can we say or do when others ask us to forgive them? You or your children may want to share an experience when they forgave someone or when someone forgave them. How did they feel? (To give them time to think, share an experience of your own, and testify of the blessings that came from forgiveness.)What do we learn about forgiveness from the Savior’s example? (see Luke 23:33–34).

    Friend August 2021 “Not Invited” Becky isn’t invited to her friend’s birthday party. She feels really left out and sad. She prays to be able to forgive her friend and is able to play together the next day. When Becky has her birthday party she invites her.

    Friend May 2020 “Sister Squabble” Jaide’s little sister borrowed her tennis shoes without asking and accidentally got them muddy. Jaide was so mad that she told her sister,  “I wish you weren’t my sister.” She felt terrible about what she said.  She read a scripture about Jesus forgiving and healing someone and she realized, she needed to forgive and try and fix what she had done to her sister with her words. 

    Joseph’s brothers had done terrible things to him. Yet Joseph forgave them and brought peace to his family.

    Gospel Art Picture: “Joseph Greets His Brothers in Egypt”

    • You could then sing a song such as “Love One Another” (Children’s Songbook, 136) or “Help Me, Dear Father” (Children’s Songbook, 99). (When you sing about forgiving in “Help Me, Dear Father”, invite the children to point to Joseph on the activity page. When you sing about repenting, invite them to point to his brothers.)

    For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Forgiveness” and Resources for Teaching Children “Forgiveness”

    Heavenly Father Sent Jesus Christ to Save Me.

    Genesis 45:5–11

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50”

    The Red Crystal

    Ask your children what it means to save or rescue someone. If any of them have had an experience being saved or rescued from danger, invite them to share. How did Joseph save his brothers? (see Genesis 42:1–3; 45:5–7). Then you could look at a picture of the Savior together and ask your children to talk about how Jesus saves us.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020: 2 Nephi 6-10 Tell the children a story of a person who fell into a pit so deep that he or she could not climb out. A man came along and lifted this person out of the pit. You may want to draw a picture of this story on the board or act it out with the children. Explain that this pit is like death and the man who helped the person is like Jesus Christ, who saved all people from death by giving us the gift of resurrection. Tell the children that this same person fell into another pit. This time the rescuer gave the person a ladder to use in climbing out of the pit. Explain that this pit is like sin and the ladder is the Atonement of Jesus Christ, which allows us to repent and be forgiven of our sins. Read 2 Nephi 9:22–23, and bear your testimony of Jesus Christ and His Atonement.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50” The story of Joseph saving his family from famine can teach us about Jesus Christ, who saves us from sin and death.

      For additional teaching ideas see Jesus Christ: Lesson Ideas

      JACOB GOES TO EGYPT

      Genesis CHAPTER 46 The Lord sends Jacob and his family of seventy souls to Egypt—The descendants of Jacob are named—Joseph meets Jacob.

      Genesis CHAPTER 47 The Israelites settle in Goshen—Jacob blesses Pharaoh—Joseph sells grain to the Egyptians—Pharaoh receives the Egyptians’ cattle and lands—Jacob desires to be buried with his fathers in Canaan.

      JACOB BLESSES HIS CHILDREN

      Genesis CHAPTER 48 Jacob tells of the appearance of God to him in Luz—He adopts Ephraim and Manasseh as his own children—Jacob blesses Joseph—He puts Ephraim before Manasseh—The seed of Ephraim will become a multitude of nations—The children of Israel will come again into the land of their fathers.

      Genesis Chapter 49 Jacob blesses his sons and their seed—Reuben, Simeon, and Levi are chastened—Judah will rule until Shiloh (Christ) comes—Joseph is a fruitful bough by a well—His branches (the Nephites and Lamanites) will run over the wall—The Shepherd and Stone of Israel (Christ) will bless Joseph temporally and spiritually—Jacob chooses to be buried with his fathers in Canaan—He yields up the ghost and is gathered to his people.

      The Lord helps me through priesthood blessings.

      Genesis 48:8–9

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50”

      • You and your children could look at the picture of Jacob blessing his sons at the end of this outline and discuss what is happening (see Genesis 48:8–9). If needed, explain that Jacob, Joseph’s father, wanted to give priesthood blessings to his family. Perhaps you could share with each other any experiences you’ve had receiving help from God through a priesthood blessing. What are some reasons we might ask for a priesthood blessing?
      • Read to the children Genesis 48:8–9. Explain that Israel, also called Jacob, was Joseph’s father and that he wanted to give Joseph’s children a priesthood blessing. If any of the children have received a priesthood blessing, invite them to tell about their experience. Or share an experience of your own.

      Friend February 2016 “You are Special” Emma gets a father’s blessing.

      image
      image

      Jacob blessed his sons and grandsons (see Genesis 48–49). Today we can receive priesthood blessings that give us comfort, healing, guidance, and spiritual strength.

      Friend September 2025 “Gospel Basics: Teach Me about Priesthood Blessings”

      • Help the children think of reasons they might ask for a priesthood blessing. Also help them name priesthood holders they could ask, such as a father, grandfather, or ministering brother.

      JOSPEPH’S PROPHECIES

      Genesis CHAPTER 50 Jacob’s body is embalmed—Joseph buries him in Canaan—Joseph comforts his brothers—The children of Israel multiply—Joseph promises that God will bring Israel out of Egypt into Canaan—Joseph dies in Egypt and is embalmed.

      Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:27–33 (in the Bible appendix)Joseph in Egypt prophesies of Moses freeing Israel from Egyptian bondage; of a branch of Joseph’s descendants being led to a faraway land, where they will be remembered in the covenants of the Lord; of God calling a latter-day prophet named Joseph to join the records of Judah and of Joseph; and of Aaron serving as a spokesman for Moses.

      Heavenly Father Prepared Joseph Smith to be a Prophet in Our Day.

      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50” Thousands of years in advance, Joseph of Egypt saw that the Lord would call Joseph Smith to do a great work in the latter days. Teach the children how the Lord has blessed us through the Prophet Joseph Smith.

      • Give the children descriptive clues about Joseph Smith, and invite them to guess who you are describing. Include clues from Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:27–33 (in the Bible appendix), such as “he taught us about covenants” (see verse 28), “he gave us the word of the Lord” (see verse 30), and “he was named after his father” (see verse 33). After the children guess correctly, invite them to find these clues in the verses. What else do we learn about Joseph Smith from the prophecy of Joseph in Egypt?

      Liahona February 2020 “Meet the Four Josephs” Lehi tells his son Joseph about some of the prophecies that Joseph of Egypt made about Joseph Smith, who was named after his father, Joseph. The article includes the following: What Did Joseph of Egypt Say about Joseph Smith? How Was Joseph Smith Like Joseph of Egypt? How Did Lehi Know about Joseph of Egypt?

      • Show the children pictures that represent important things Joseph Smith did or taught (see, for example, Gospel Art Book, nos. 89–95, 97, 98, 117, 118). Help the children think of blessings we have because of Joseph Smith. For example, how has his work helped us come closer to Jesus Christ?
      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 135-136”

      Additional Resources

      For additional lesson resources see Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games.

      Lesson 17: Joseph Forgives His Brothers,” Primary 6: Old Testament Pages 86–89

      Scripture Helps “Genesis 42-50”

      Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Genesis 37-50”

      Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

      The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

      Mar 7 2022

      Genesis 37–41

      Featured

      Table of Contents

      JOSEPH IS SOLD INTO EGYPT

      Genesis Chapter 37 Jacob loves and favors Joseph, who is hated by his brothers—Joseph dreams that his parents and brothers make obeisance to him—His brothers sell him into Egypt.

      I Can Be Kind to My Family.

      Genesis 37

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41”

      • Reading about the hard feelings in Joseph’s family could prompt a discussion about how we should treat family members. To tell the story of Joseph and his brothers from Genesis 37, you could use the pictures in this outline or in “Joseph’s Inspired Dreams” (in Old Testament Stories, 47–51). Let your children share details they know about the story.

      Old Testament Stories “Joseph’s Inspired Dreams” Illustrations

      Old Testament Study Guide for Home-Study Seminary Students “Unit 7: Day 3, Genesis 33–37” It may help you to understand the following: Sheaves (see Genesis 37:7) are bundles of wheat. To make obeisance (see Genesis 37:7) means to bow down before a superior to show deep respect. To rebuke (see Genesis 37:10) is to reprimand or correct. To observe (see Genesis 37:11), in this context, means to consider and reflect.

      You might ask your children to imagine they were in Joseph’s family. What would they have said or done to be a peacemaker in the family? For example, what does it mean to “speak peaceably” in our family? (verse 4). How is Jesus Christ a peacemaker in God’s family?

      Friend September 2021 “Saying the Nice Things” Jonathon wasn’t looking forward to the weekend because lately there had been more bickering and teasing in the family. He prayed for help figuring out a way to make things better. Then he had an idea for home evening. When he conducted, he started a new thing where whoever conducts says a nice thing about each family member. Everyone felt warm and happy after Jonathon said nice things about them.

      Friend June 2019 “Family Night Fun” Ideas for a FHE lesson on family love. For example: Write on hearts things you love about each other or things you can do to show kindness in your family. Put the hearts around your house to remind you to show love this week. Also, make a strawberry heart shish-ka-bob for the refreshment

      Ensign July 2017 Make a paper doll chain and on each doll write something you love about a family member.

      Friend October 2019 “Family Night Fun” Have each person write their name at the bottom of a paper and draw an outline of their head in the middle. Have everyone pass their paper to the person next to them. Add something to the head—like eyes or hair—to look like the person whose name is on the paper. Then write something nice about them on the page. Keep passing the papers, adding to the pictures and writing nice things, until everyone gets their own paper back. You can strengthen your family by being kind and seeing the best in each other!

      Friend July 2015 – A girl learns that she controls how she reacts to annoying brother.

      • Let the children color this week’s activity page and, in the space provided, draw a picture of a way you can be kind to your family.
      • Sing together a song about loving our families, such as “A Happy Family” (Children’s Songbook, 198). What can we do to help our families be happy?

      I Can Be Happy when Good Things Happen to Others.

      Genesis 37:3–28

      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41” Jealousy led Joseph’s brothers to make terrible choices. Their wrong choices hurt Joseph and broke their father’s heart. This story can help the children choose to be happy when others are blessed by the Lord.

      • Invite the children to review Genesis 37:3–11 and draw pictures of Joseph’s coat and his two dreams. How did Joseph’s brothers feel about Joseph? How could they have responded differently? Discuss why it is important to be happy when good things happen to other people.

      Old Testament Study Guide for Home-Study Seminary Students “Unit 7: Day 3, Genesis 33–37”

      “Lesson 38: Genesis 35–37,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material

      Sometimes a person might feel envious or jealous if a sibling or close friend receives an important award; is selected for an athletic team, band, orchestra, or choir; or performs the best in his or her class on an exam.

      What is the danger of feeling envious or jealous of others who experience good fortune?

      We can learn the following principle from the account of Joseph and his brothers: Choosing to hate or envy others can lead us to commit additional sins.

      Gospel Art Picture: “Joseph Is Sold by His Brothers”

      When others have possessions, talents, or attention that we would like to have, how can we avoid feelings of hatred or envy toward them? (Be happy for them, be glad that God is kind, give them a hug and say kind, glad words to them, pray for a loving heart, etc.)

      • Ask the children to share some situations in which a person might feel jealous of someone else. Sing together a song about showing love to others, such as “Love One Another” (Children’s Songbook, 136–37). Emphasize that Heavenly Father can help us replace feelings of jealousy with feelings of love.

      JOSEPH FLEES POTIPHAR’S WIFE

      Genesis Chapter 39 Joseph, prospered by the Lord, becomes ruler of Potiphar’s house—He resists the advances of Potiphar’s wife, is falsely accused, and is cast into prison—The keeper of the prison commits the prison’s affairs into Joseph’s hands.

      With the Lord’s Help, I Can Flee Temptation.

      Genesis 39:7–12

      Old Testament Stories “Joseph in Egypt” Illustrations

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41”

      • Here’s an object lesson that can help your children follow Joseph’s example of fleeing from Potiphar’s wife: Use two magnets to represent Jesus Christ and Satan. Use a small metal object, like a paper clip, to represent us. Then let your children see how the influence of a magnet on the metal object is stronger when they move the object closer to it. How does Joseph’s experience in Genesis 39:7–12 illustrate this truth?

      What can we do to move away from sin and closer to Jesus? The video “Temptation Fades as We Seek Christ in Every Thought” (Gospel Library) and a song like “I Need Thee Every Hour” (Hymns, no. 98) can help with this discussion.

      As the children you teach face temptations throughout their lives, they can gain strength from Joseph’s example of fleeing temptation.

      • Show a picture of Joseph and Potiphar’s wife (see Gospel Art Book, no. 11), and share the story in Genesis 39:7–12. How did Joseph resist temptation?
      • Help your children think of temptations they might face. Let them role-play how they could “flee” from these temptations.

      Lesson 15: Joseph Was Sold into Egypt,” Primary 6: Old Testament

      1. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know that it is harder to avoid temptation when we allow ourselves to get close to it. Discuss with the children how they could distance themselves from temptation in the following situations:
        1. A plate of your favorite dessert is on the table, ready to be taken to a sick neighbor.
        2. Your parents have warned you not to swim without someone watching. You are alone by the water on a very hot day; perhaps you could just wade up to your knees …
        3. Some of your friends are trying to convince you to try smoking a cigarette. Whenever you are with them, they dare you to take just one puff.
        4. You are troubled by bad thoughts when you read a certain book.You could make a list on the chalkboard of other temptations, such as gossiping, looking at vulgar magazines, using bad language, dressing immodestly, watching inappropriate movies or television shows, telling unclean jokes or stories, listening to improper song lyrics, or using drugs. Discuss strategies for resisting evil, such as removing ourselves from the situation and replacing the temptation with something wholesome. Erase each harmful influence from the chalkboard as it is discussed.

      For additional teaching ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Temptation”

      God Can Help Me when Bad Things Happen.

      Genesis 37:18–28; 39:20–23; 41:38

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41”

      • When your children face hard times, they need to know that the Lord will be with them, as He was with Joseph. Perhaps you could help your children make a list of hard things that happened to Joseph (see Genesis 37:23–28; 39:20; or “Joseph’s Inspired Dreams” and “Joseph in Egypt,” in Old Testament Stories, 47–51, 52–56). After each hardship they find, invite your children to repeat, “The Lord was with Joseph” Genesis 39:1–3, 20–23 . Invite the children to share what they think the phrase “the Lord was with Joseph” means (Genesis 39:2). Invite them to share experiences when they felt that the Lord was with them or their families during a hard time. Share similar experiences from your life.
      • Share pictures of the Savior helping people who were facing challenges (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 40–43). Invite the children to share how the Savior was helping the people. Share your testimony that the Lord can help us when bad things happen to us.

      Friend April 2018 “Trouble in Adventure Forest” When Owen’s feet get burned he learns that Heavenly Father doesn’t always stop bad things from happening, but He helps us get through them.

      Friend March 2022 “Heavenly Father Will Help Me through Hard Times”

      Friend April 2018 “Joseph Trusted God”

      For additional teaching ideas see Adversity and Resources for Teaching Children: Trials

      • Sing a song about the Savior’s loving care for us, such as “Jesus Is Our Loving Friend” (Children’s Songbook, 58). Share an experience when you have felt God’s love during a challenging time. Show a picture of Jesus, and invite the children to share how they feel about Him.

      Flipchart from The Primary Pad can be found here.

      Joseph Interprets Dreams

      Genesis CHAPTER 40 Joseph interprets the dreams of Pharaoh’s chief butler and chief baker—The butler fails to tell Pharaoh about Joseph.

      Genesis CHAPTER 41 Pharaoh dreams of the cattle and the ears of grain—Joseph interprets the dreams as seven years of plenty and seven of famine—He proposes a grain storage program—Pharaoh makes him ruler of all Egypt—Joseph marries Asenath—He gathers grain as the sand upon the seashore—Asenath bears Manasseh and Ephraim—Joseph sells grain to Egyptians and others during the famine.

      God Can Warn Me of Danger.

      Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “Joseph Prepares for Hard Times”

      Genesis 41:15–36, 47–57

      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41” God helped Joseph understand that Pharaoh’s dreams were a warning to prepare for hard times coming in the future. Help the children understand that God can warn them of danger, including spiritual danger.

      • Scatter pictures of food around the room, and invite the children to gather them and “store” them in a container. Use this activity to tell the children about how God warned Pharaoh to prepare for a time when there wouldn’t be food (see Genesis 41:15–36, 47–57). Let the children draw pictures of the things Pharaoh dreamed about and then use their pictures to teach their families at home.
      • Show a picture of the current prophet. Tell the children about teachings or warnings God has given us through him. Explain that we will be blessed and protected as we follow the prophet. Invite the children to act out things they can do to follow the prophet’s counsel.

      Read Genesis 41:53–57, looking for what happened because Pharaoh followed Joseph’s counsel.

      What is a principle we can identify from this account about following the counsel of prophets and inspired leaders?

      Church News “Heed Warnings from President Nelson—a Modern-Day Watchman on the Tower”

      President Nelson’s Warning:

      “In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost,”

      President Nelson’s Teachings:

      • Choose to do the spiritual work required to enjoy the gift of the Holy Ghost and hear the voice of the Spirit more frequently and more clearly.”
      • “I urge you to stretch beyond your current spiritual ability to receive personal revelation.”
      • “I plead with you to increase your spiritual capacity to receive revelation.”
      • Humble yourself before God.
      • Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father.
      • Turn to Him for answers and for comfort.
      • Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart.
      • Listen!
      • Write the thoughts that come to your mind.
      • Record your feelings.
      • Follow through with actions that you are prompted to take.

      Friend October 2017 “A Friendly Primary Visitor” A pilot comes to Primary and acts out flying and what could happen if he didn’t listen to the control tower. He likens the control tower to the prophet.

      Ensign August 2007 “Latter-day Prophets Speak on Preparedness” Quotes by different prophets about preparedness and food storage.

      Friend March 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Preparedness Planning”

      Story: Joseph helped the people in Egypt prepare for hard times. You can read this story on page 8 or in Genesis 41.

      Activity: Make an emergency plan. Talk about ways your family can prepare for emergencies. What can you start today?

      What can we learn about preparing for future emergencies? Discuss what you can do to be better prepared as a family. For ideas, see Gospel Topics, “Emergency Preparedness,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

      Emergency Preparedness FHE Lesson – Preparing for Natural Disasters

      Emergency Preparedness – FHE Lesson LDS Daily

      Additional Teaching Ideas:

      For additional lesson resources see Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games.

      Scripture Helps Old Testament “Genesis 37-41”

      Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel

      “Lesson 14: ” Primary 6: Old Testament “Joseph was Sold into Egypt” Pages 62-66

      Ask the children if they have ever had something small, like a piece of sand, in their eye. How did it feel? Show the children the picture of the oyster and the pearl, or, if available, show a pearl and some sand. Explain that something as beautiful as a pearl can develop from the irritation caused by a small grain of sand inside an oyster shell. Explain that there are things in our lives that can cause irritations, like being hurt, disappointed, mistreated, or misjudged. We can complain, be sad, be angry, or be jealous, or we can have a positive attitude and make the best of the situation.

      “Lesson 14: ” Primary 6: Old Testament “Joseph in Egypt” Pages 67-70

      Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

      The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

      Latter Day Kids “Joseph in Egypt” Lesson ideas

      Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The Lord is With Us” Lesson Ideas


      Mar 1 2022

      Genesis 24–27

      Featured

      Table of Contents

      ISAAC AND REBEKAH

      Genesis CHAPTER 24 Abraham commands that Isaac shall not marry a Canaanite—The Lord guides Abraham’s servant in choosing Rebekah as a wife for Isaac—Rebekah is blessed to be the mother of thousands of millions—She marries Isaac.

      I Can Be Kind to Others.

      Genesis 24:10–21

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 24–27”

      To highlight Rebekah’s impressive example of kindness, you could show your children the picture below or this week’s activity page as you summarize the story in Genesis 24:10–21. This could lead to a conversation a.

      Show the picture of Rebekah in this week’s activity page. Point out details in the picture as you summarize the story in Genesis 24:10–21, in which Rebekah showed kindness to the servant of Abraham. Point out that her words and act of kindness were the sign that Rebekah was the one that God wanted to marry Abraham’s son Isaac.

      Your children might enjoy acting out the story. Invite the children to pretend to be the servant arriving with his camels or Rebekah getting water for them. Give them phrases to recite from the scriptures, such as “Let me … drink a little water” (verse 17) and “I will draw water for thy camels also” (verse 19). Why is it important for us to be kind to others?

      Latter Day Kids “Rebekah at the Well” Lesson ideas

      Tell a story about how the Savior showed kindness to someone. Invite some of the children to share their own experiences of showing kindness, or they could tell of acts of kindness they have seen.

      Friend July 2023 “The Making Things Better Club” Josie and Ashlyn start a “Making Things Better Club.” They looked for people to help, like kids that need a friend. Soon Josie was doing it without thinking and realized that it was making her better.

      How can we be kind like Rebekah?

      • Consider singing a song about kindness together, such as “Kindness Begins with Me” (Children’s Songbook, 145). Your children could listen for the word “kindness” (or a similar word) and stand when they hear it.

      Friend April 2018

      JACOB AND ESAU

      Genesis CHAPTER 25 Abraham marries, has descendants, dies, and is buried in the cave of Machpelah—His descendants through Ishmael are listed—Rebekah conceives, and Jacob and Esau struggle in her womb—The Lord reveals their destiny to Rebekah—Esau sells his birthright for a mess of pottage.

      Genesis Chapter 26 The Lord promises Isaac posterity as the stars of heaven in number—In his seed, all nations will be blessed—The Lord prospers Isaac, temporally and spiritually, for Abraham’s sake—Isaac offers sacrifices—Esau marries Hittite wives to the sorrow of his parents.

      Genesis Chapter 27 Rebekah guides Jacob in seeking blessings—Jacob is blessed to have dominion and rule over peoples and nations—Esau hates Jacob and plans to slay him—Rebekah fears that Jacob may marry one of the daughters of Heth.

      Eternal things are more important than worldly things.

      Genesis 25:21–34

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 24–27”

      Old Testament Stories “Jacob and Esau”

      • What things matter eternally to you and your children? Perhaps your children could find pictures or objects that represent things of great spiritual worth (like a temple) and pictures of things that bring only temporary happiness (such as a game, toy, or treat).(Temporary: lasting only a short while, not permanent. Eternal: something that will last forever.) The choices we make show what our values are, or what is most important to us. How can we show the Lord that the things of eternal value are important to us?

      For example: If you had to choose between going on a picnic and being baptized, which would you choose? You are tempted to miss church to watch a sports event or go hunting. You are tempted to buy a toy rather than pay your tithing. Which would give temporary pleasure? Which would make eternal happiness possible?

      The Red Crystal See link for printable activity

      Friend August 2018 “Soccer and Sundays” When we try to live the gospel and put the most important things first, we are blessed! Follow the path of scriptures to help the boy get to church.

      • Sing a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61) with the children. Testify that we are blessed and happy when we choose the right.

      • Tell about a time when you had to sacrifice something good for something else of greater value. Or show the video “Continue in Patience” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How does your story or the story in the video relate to the choice Esau made in Genesis 25:29–34? Help the children think of blessings Heavenly Father wants to give them (such as a stronger testimony, temple blessings, or eternal life with Him). Encourage them to think of things they would be willing to sacrifice in order to receive these valuable blessings.

      • See “What is a birthright” below or the Bible Dictionary if they need help understanding what a birthright is. Invite the children to imagine that Esau asked for our advice about whether he should trade his birthright for the pottage; what would we say to him?

      What is a Birthright?

      “Lesson 33: Genesis 25–27,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material Isaac received more than Abraham’s other children because of Isaac’s birthright. A son who held the birthright not only inherited his father’s lands and possessions, but he also took his father’s position as the spiritual leader of the family and received the “authority to preside” (see Bible Dictionary, “Birthright”). The birthright son was then responsible to provide for the family’s needs. The birthright was often passed from a father to his eldest son. However, righteousness was more important than being the firstborn son. The birthright Isaac received from Abraham also included all the blessings and responsibilities of the Abrahamic covenant.

      The Red Crystal

      GENESIS 28-33 Lesson ideas

      Additional Resources

      See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

      After Isaac learned that he had unknowingly bestowed the blessing on Jacob, he could have revoked the blessing and bestowed it upon Esau. However, he chose not to. Isaac thus confirmed that the blessing was given to the person the Lord intended.

      Lesson 13: Jacob and Esau,” Primary 6: Old Testament (Pages 52–55)

      1. Have a child put a large coin or cardboard circle up to one eye, close the other one, and then slowly move the object away from the eye that is open. Have the child tell what he or she could see with the coin up close and how much more there is to see when the coin is moved away.Explain that the coin could represent an immediate desire, such as hunger, that blinds us to other things around us. Like Esau, sometimes we experience failure or unhappiness because we trade what we want most for what we want at the moment. Present several situations such as the following for the children to discuss:
        • You are tempted to miss church to watch a sports event or go hunting. You are tempted to buy a toy rather than pay your tithing.
        Explain that temptations, like the coin, keep us from seeing the entire picture. Encourage the children not to be blinded by such temptations.

      Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Our Divine Birthright” Lesson ideas

      The Red Crystal

      Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

      Bracelets and Scriptures – The manual suggests, “Your family could look in these verses for attributes
      that made Rebekah a worthy eternal companion for Isaac. Encourage family members to pick
      one of these attributes that they feel they should develop.”

      • Scriptures: Read Genesis 24:15–28, 55–60 and let each person choose one way they want to be more like Rebekah.
      • Bracelet: Write that attribute on a strip of paper and draw specific things you might do if you have that attribute. Tape/staple the strip to make a bracelet. Wear it to remind you of the story of Rebekah. Could also write the attribute on the below jewels and cut them into two strips to make a bracelet.
      Feb 28 2022

      Genesis 28–33

      Featured

      Table of Contents

      Genesis CHAPTER 28 Isaac forbids Jacob to marry a Canaanite—He blesses Jacob and his seed with the blessings of Abraham—Esau marries a daughter of Ishmael—Jacob sees in vision a ladder reaching up into heaven—The Lord promises him seed as the dust of the earth in number—The Lord also promises Jacob that in him and in his seed all the families of the earth will be blessed—Jacob covenants to pay tithes.

      Jacob left his home to escape his angry brother Esau. Jacob’s father blessed him to find and marry a woman who loved the Lord and kept His commandments.

      “Lesson 34: Genesis 28–30,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material According to Genesis 28:1–2, Isaac instructed his son Jacob to marry one of the daughters of Laban and not a Canaanite woman. The Canaanites worshipped idols and engaged in other practices that were offensive to God. A daughter of Canaan would not be worthy to join Jacob in entering into a marriage covenant with the Lord. If Jacob were to marry a daughter of Canaan, he would be marrying out of the covenant.

      When we are married in the temple, we make covenants with the Lord. Marriage in the temple is covenant marriage. If we keep our covenants, we qualify for all the blessings that were promised to Abraham.

      JACOB’S LADDER VISION

      Covenants Help Me Return to Heavenly Father.

      Genesis 28:10–22

      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 &

      As Jacob was traveling to Rebecca’s brother to find a wife, one night he had a dream. Jacob saw a ladder leading up to heaven. The steps on the ladder can represent covenants we make with God, because these covenants help prepare us to return to His presence.

      • As you read Genesis 28:10–22 together, you could use a ladder or a staircase (or a picture like the one at the end of this outline) to talk about how our covenants are like a ladder. Maybe your children could pretend to climb a ladder, and with each step, talk about times when we promise to obey God, such as when we are baptized, take the sacrament, or go to the temple. How do our covenants bring us closer to God?
      Illustration by Shawna Tenney For the Strength of Youth

      Teaching Children the Gospel “Ordinance (and Covenants) Progression Lesson” We must receive the saving ordinances of the gospel and keep the associated covenants in order to return to the presence of the Lord.

        • Explain that the ladder represented a way for Jacob to return to God. What has God given to help us return to Him? (see this week’s activity page). Remind the children of their baptismal covenant. How does living this covenant bring us closer to God?

        When Jacob woke up he said, Surely the Lord is in this place.

        Institute Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Genesis 24–36” “Because he had met the Lord and entered into covenants with him there, Jacob considered the site so sacred that he named the place Bethel, a contraction of Beth-Elohim, which means literally ‘the House of the Lord.’ He said of it: ‘… this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.’ (Gen. 28:17.)

        What places serve as Houses of God on the earth today? Temples are to us what Bethel was to Jacob. Even more, they are also the gates to heaven for all of our unendowed kindred dead.

        Rexburg Idaho Temple—“Holiness to the Lord: The House of the Lord”
        • Show a picture of a temple, and write on the board key phrases from Genesis 28:15–17, such as: “I am with thee,” “The Lord is in this place,” “The house of God,” or “The gate of heaven.” Invite the children to find these phrases. Tell the children about how the temple and temple covenants help you feel close to the Lord.

        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 Cut out the windows with the ordinances that are done inside the temple, and match them with the pictures in the windows of the temple.

        “Genesis 28: Jacob’s Sacred Experience,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide

        1. Draw Your Ladder to Heaven
          1. Draw a ladder in your notebook. Label the rungs or steps with ordinances you must receive and covenants you must make with God in order to obtain eternal life.
          2. Show your drawing to your parents or Church leaders to see if you have left anything out.
          3. Write about what you are doing in your life right now to obtain these covenants or what you are doing to be worthy of the blessings of the covenants you have already entered into.

        Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Climb the Ladder”

        Story: Jacob had a dream about a ladder leading up to heaven. The steps on the ladder represent the steps we take to get closer to God. (See Genesis 28:10–16.)

        Song: “Stand for the Right” (Children’s Songbook, 159)

        Activity: Make a pretend ladder on the ground with chalk or sticks. Take turns saying one thing that we promise Heavenly Father when we get baptized. Each time, move one step forward on the ladder. (See Doctrine and Covenants 20:77and Mosiah 18:8–10.)

        Latter Day Kids “Line Upon Line” Lesson ideas to go with the below video

        “Lesson 34: Genesis 28–30,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material We read in Genesis 28:16–19, 22 that Jacob described the place where he had his dream. The phrases “he was afraid” and “how dreadful is this place” in verse 17 refer to his feelings of reverence and awe. These phrases indicate that Jacob understood the seriousness of entering the presence of God.

        JACOB SERVES SEVEN YEARS FOR RACHEL

        Genesis CHAPTER 29 Jacob meets Rachel at the well—He serves Laban seven years for her—Laban gives to Jacob first Leah then Rachel in marriage—Jacob serves another seven years—Leah bears Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah.

        Genesis CHAPTER 30 Jacob marries Bilhah, and she bears Dan and Naphtali—He marries Zilpah, and she bears Gad and Asher—Leah bears Issachar and Zebulun and a daughter, Dinah—Then Rachel conceives and bears Joseph—Jacob works for Laban for wages of cattle and sheep.

        I Should Always Keep My Promises. I Believe in Being Honest.

        Genesis 29:16–30

        Old Testament Stories “Jacob and His Family” Images

        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 28-33” Jacob agreed to work for Laban for seven years so that he could marry Laban’s daughter Rachel. Jacob kept this agreement, but Laban did not. Consider using this story to teach the children about the importance of keeping our promises. How can you use this story to help the children understand the importance of being honest even when others are dishonest?

        • On the board write What happens when we are dishonest? and What happens when we are honest? Invite the children to find answers by reading “Honesty and Integrity” (in For the Strength of Youth [2011], 19).

        Friend September 2019 “Making Things Right” After shopping, a boy’s mother notices that the cashier didn’t charge them for all their items. She decides to go back and fix it. The boy wonders why they have to go back since it wasn’t their mistake. His mom explains that being honest matters to Heavenly Father and it might matter to someone else. When they get back to the store they find out that the cashier would have had to pay for the mistake.

        Friend September 2018 “Map Champ” During a map game at school, Linda doesn’t hear the teacher because the kids are being too loud. Her teacher trusts her because she doesn’t lie, and the teacher gives her another chance.

        Friend September 2018
        Friend September 2018

        “Lesson 14: Jacob and His Family,” Primary 6: Old Testament 

        Write each of the children’s names on separate slips of paper and place them in a container. Read one of the following situations; then draw a name from the container and ask that child to tell what should be done. Afterward, let that child draw out the next name. If the class is small, replace the names in the container after each use so a child may answer more than one question. You might want to add other examples.

        • You are given too much change at the store.
        • You forgot to do a school assignment. You are tempted to tell the teacher you were ill.
        • You are playing with a friend’s toy when it breaks.
        • You want some money to buy a treat and your mother’s purse is on the table.
        • You used one of your father’s belongings without permission and lost it.
        • Your friend left a toy at your house by mistake. It is something you would really like to have.
        • You are setting out a game to play while your friend goes to get a drink of water. You realize that while she is out of the room you could arrange the game so you would win.
        • You accidentally knock over a breakable object belonging to someone else. Your friend tells you that if it is an accident, you don’t need to admit you did it.

        JACOB AND ESAU RECONCILE

        Genesis CHAPTER 31 The Lord commands Jacob to return to Canaan, and Jacob departs secretly—Laban pursues him; they resolve their differences and make a covenant of peace—Laban blesses his descendants, and he and Jacob part company.

        Genesis CHAPTER 32 Jacob sees angels—He asks God to preserve him from Esau, for whom he prepares presents—He wrestles all night with a messenger of God—Jacob’s name is changed to Israel—He sees God face to face.

        Genesis CHAPTER 33 Jacob and Esau meet and are reconciled—Esau receives Jacob’s presents—Jacob settles in Canaan, where he builds an altar.

        Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ Can Help Me Love My Family.

        Genesis 32:6–11; 33:1–4

        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 28-33”

        • Ask the children what they remember about the relationship between Jacob and Esau (see Genesis 27:41 Explain that after being away for about 20 years, Jacob was going to meet Esau again. Read together Genesis 32:6–11. How did Jacob feel? What did he do to get help? Read together Genesis 33:1–4 to discover how the Lord answered Jacob’s prayer.

        Old Testament Stories “Jacob and His Family” images

        Genesis 32:24–32.

        You might have family members who like to wrestle. Why is “wrestling” a good way to describe seeking blessings from the Lord? What do Enos 1:1–5; Alma 8:9–10 suggest about what it means to “wrestle … before God”? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 28–33”

          Friend September 2021 “Saying the Nice Things” Jonathon wasn’t looking forward to the weekend because lately there had been more bickering and teasing in the family. He prayed for help figuring out a way to make things better. Then he had an idea for home evening. When he conducted, he started a new thing where whoever conducts says a nice thing about each family member. Everyone felt warm and happy after Jonathon said nice things about them.

          Friend May 2019 “What’s on Your Mind” Ideas on how to get along with siblings.

          See additional teaching ideas at Family: Resolving Discord

          Additional Resources

          See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

          Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

          The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

          Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The House of Israel” Lesson ideas

          Feb 13 2022

          Genesis 18–23

          Featured

          Table of Contents

          ABRAHAM & SARAH HAVE A SON, ISAAC

          Genesis CHAPTER 18 Abraham entertains three holy men—They promise that Sarah will have a son—Abraham will command his children to be just—The Lord appears to him—They discuss the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.

          Genesis CHAPTER 21 Sarah bears Isaac—He is circumcised—Hagar and her son are cast out of Abraham’s household—The Lord saves Hagar and Ishmael—Abraham and Abimelech deal honorably with each other.

          I can trust God to keep His promises.

          Genesis 17:15–21; 18:14; 21:1–7

          Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 18–23”

          Even though God had promised that Sarah and Abraham were going to have a son, as they got older it seemed impossible—Abraham was 100 years old, and Sarah was 90 (see Genesis 17:17).

          Write on the chalkboard: Is anything too hard for the Lord? Invite the children to discuss this question. Or write each word from the first sentence of Genesis 18:14 on a separate piece of paper, and give one to each child. Then ask the class to put the words in the correct order.

          Liahona February 2022

          You and your children could then read Genesis 17:15–21; 21:1–7 to find an example of something the Lord did that seemed impossible. Share with your children your faith that the Lord will fulfill His promises, even if they seem impossible or take a long time.

          Abraham and Sarah had a baby boy, just as the Lord promised. They named him Isaac. Genesis 17:9; 21:1–3

          • To learn about Abraham and Sarah’s trust in God’s promises, you and your children could talk about a time when they had to wait for something they really wanted. You could then look at the picture of Sarah and Isaac and talk about the promise God made to her and Abraham. Help your children think of things that God has promised us if we are faithful. Encourage them to be patient and trust that God will keep His promises.

          The below handout is from Rachel’s Booknook

          • With the children, sing a song that testifies of God’s promises, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Help the children identify things that God has promised us if we are faithful.
          This video is going too fast during the second verse and you will need to use the pictures below during that part.

          Additional Teaching Ideas:

          “Lesson 11: Abraham and Isaac,” Primary 6: Old Testament (Pages 35-38) Show the pictures The Crossing of the Red Sea, Daniel in the Lions’ Den, and Three Men in the Fiery Furnace. Briefly explain that the Lord parted the waters of the Red Sea to let Moses and the Israelites escape from the Egyptian army, he protected Daniel from a den of lions, and he kept three young men from being burned when they were cast into a fiery furnace. (Note: Do not teach these stories in detail. Tell the children that they will learn more about these stories later in the year.) Point out that these people trusted in the Lord and had faith that his will would be done. Their faith was rewarded with miracles.

          Friend February 2022 “Abraham and Sarah”

          LOT AND SODOM AND GOMORRAH

          Genesis CHAPTER 19 Lot entertains holy men—The men of Sodom seek to abuse Lot’s guests and are smitten with blindness—Lot is sent out of Sodom—The Lord rains brimstone and fire upon Sodom and Gomorrah—Lot’s daughters preserve his seed in the land.

          I Can Flee Wickedness.

          Genesis 19:15–26

          Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

          • Ask your children about situations in which someone might invite them to do something they know isn’t right. How would we “flee” these situations?

          Come Follow Me Kid

          Friend November 2017 “Peer Pressure Problems” Ideas on how to deal with peer pressure to avoid making wrong choices

          • Summarize Genesis 19:15–26 by explaining that Lot’s family lived in a very wicked city and angels warned them to leave. As you and your children read together verses 15–17, 26, ask them what it might mean for us today to “escape” evil and “look not behind” (verse 17).

          Media Library “Fleeing Sodom and Gomorrah”
            • Display a picture of the Savior, and ask the children to take a step toward it as they share one thing they can do to flee wickedness and come closer to Christ.

            Additional Resources

            “Lesson 28: Genesis 18,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018)

            According to Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 18:3 (in Genesis 18:3, footnote a), the three messengers who visited Abraham were referred to as “My brethren” instead of “My Lord,” indicating that the Lord was not one of the three men. Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 18:23 (in Genesis 18:22, footnote a) clarifies that these three messengers were “holy men … sent forth after the order of God.” In the King James Version of the Bible, the word angels, which was used in reference to these men (see Genesis 19:1), was translated from the Hebrew word malakhim, which can also mean “messengers.”

            Although we do not know the identity of the three messengers, Abraham treated them as if they were presiding authorities of the Lord’s kingdom then on the earth, and their messages were directly from the Lord (see Bruce R. McConkie, Doctrinal New Testament Commentary[1973], 3:235; Sidney B. Sperry, “Abraham’s Three Visitors,” Improvement Era, Aug. 1931, 583, 585).

            ABRAHAM AND ISAAC, SACRIFICE

            Genesis CHAPTER 22 Abraham is commanded to sacrifice Isaac, his son—Both father and son yield to the will of God—Abraham’s seed will be as the stars and the sand in number—In his seed, all nations will be blessed—Rebekah is born to Bethuel.

            Old Testament Stories “Abraham and Isaac” Illustrations

            Abraham Obeyed the Lord.

            Genesis 22:1–14

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

            • Using pictures of Abraham and Isaac and of the Crucifixion (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 9, 57) can help your children compare the story in Genesis 22 with the Savior’s sacrifice. How does the story of Abraham and Isaac remind us of the sacrifice Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ made for us.
            Media Library “Abraham Taking Isaac to Be Sacrificed”

            Scripture Helps Old Testament

            IsaacJesus Christ
            Isaac was Abraham and Sarah’s only son (see Genesis 22:2).Jesus was the Only Begotten Son of the Father (see John 3:16).
            Isaac was to be offered on a mountain in the land of Moriah, which tradition holds was the temple mount in Jerusalem (see Genesis 22:2; 2 Chronicles 3:1).Jesus was crucified on a hill outside of Jerusalem (see Mark 15:22).
            Isaac was to be a burnt offering (see Genesis 22:2).All sacrifices are to be done in similitude of Jesus Christ (see Moses 5:5–7).
            Isaac carried the wood for the sacrifice (see Genesis 22:6).Jesus carried His cross (see John 19:17).
            Abraham said God would provide a lamb (see Genesis 22:8).Jesus was the Lamb offered up for us (see 1 Peter 1:19).
            Isaac was bound and laid upon the altar (see Genesis 22:9).Jesus was nailed to the cross (see Luke 23:33).
            Isaac submitted to the will of his father (see Genesis 22:9).Jesus submitted to the will of His Father (see Luke 22:42).
            Abraham did not withhold his son (see Genesis 22:11).God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son (see John 3:16).

            Can you think of a simple game to play with your children that requires them to follow directions? Maybe the directions could lead to a hidden picture of the Savior. The game could prompt a conversation about things Heavenly Father has commanded us to do so we can live with Him and Jesus Christ again. Consider singing a song such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). This week’s activity page could help as well.

            The Red Crystal

            Additional Resources

            • Show the video “For God So Loved the World” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), or sing together a song about the Savior’s sacrifice, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook,34–35). Invite the children to talk about how Jesus’s sacrifice shows Heavenly Father’s love for us.

            What have we been asked to sacrifice as a family? How have these sacrifices brought us closer to God?

            Additional Resources

            Additional Chapters

            Genesis CHAPTER 20 Abimelech desires Sarah, who is preserved by the Lord—Abraham prays for Abimelech, and the Lord blesses him and his household.

            Genesis CHAPTER 23 Sarah dies and is buried in the cave of Machpelah, which Abraham buys from Ephron the Hittite.

            See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

            Feb 7 2022

            Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2

            Featured

            Table of Contents

            Abraham

            Abraham CHAPTER 1 Abraham seeks the blessings of the patriarchal order—He is persecuted by false priests in Chaldea—Jehovah saves him—The origins and government of Egypt are reviewed.

            Abraham CHAPTER 2 Abraham leaves Ur to go to Canaan—Jehovah appears to him at Haran—All gospel blessings are promised to his seed and through his seed to all—He goes to Canaan and on to Egypt.

            Genesis CHAPTER 12 Abram will become a great nation—He and his seed will bless all the families of the earth—He travels from Haran to the land of Canaan—Because of famine, he goes down into Egypt—Abram and Sarai are tested in Pharaoh’s court.

            Old Testament Scripture Stories “Abraham and Sarah” Illustrations and video

            Jesus Christ will lead me by the hand.

            Abraham 1:18; 2:8

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

            • As you and your children read Abraham 1:18 and 2:8, you could invite them to listen for a part of the body that is mentioned in both verses. Maybe you could play a game in which a child closes their eyes and you lead the child somewhere by the hand. How would it feel to have Jesus Christ lead us by the hand or to have His hand protecting us?

            Gospel Media “He Will Lead Thee”

            Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” Abraham wanted to be righteous even though members of his family were wicked. The Lord said to him, “I will lead thee by my hand” (Abraham 1:18). Just as God promised to help Abraham, He can lead the children you teach when they desire to choose the right. Testify that Jesus leads us by guiding us through His Spirit.

            Friend January 2021 “The Party Problem” Luz felt uneasy about going to a graduation party. It didn’t sound like the kind of party where she’d be able to feel the Holy Ghost. She thought about it, made her choice not to go, and then asked Heavenly Father if that was the right choice. Afterwards she felt a wave of warmth and light and knew she had made the right choice. 

            The Lord Delivers Abraham from Wicked Priests

            Heavenly Father Hears and Answers My Prayers.

            Abraham 1:12–17; Genesis 16:7–11

            God hears me.

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

            • When Abraham’s life was in danger, he called on God. When Hagar was alone in the wilderness, she learned that God heard her. Consider sharing these two stories with your children: “Abraham and Sarah” and “Hagar” in Old Testament Stories, 28–31, 32–33. What do we learn about God from these stories? Then you could share with each other experiences when you felt that God heard you. A song like “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13) could reinforce this principle.
            • Display the picture An Angel Saves Abraham (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and invite the children to share what they know about the story it depicts, found in Abraham 1:12, 15–17. Ask the children to read these verses and share things they learn about prayer.

            President Joseph Fielding Smith, commenting on the human sacrifices that took place during the time of Abraham, wrote: “Abraham was of the [tenth] generation from Noah. Several hundred years had passed since the flood, and people had multiplied and spread over the face of the earth. The civilizations of Egypt, Chaldea, Assyria and the petty nations of Canaan, had been established. In the midst of this scattering the true worship of the Father was nearly lost. Sacrifice instituted in the days of Adam and continued in the practice and teaching of Noah, in the similitude of the great sacrifice of the Son of Man, had become perverted. Instead of offering clean animals, such as the lamb and bullock, the apostate nations had dwindled in unbelief to the extent that human sacrifice was offered to their idol gods” (The Way to Perfection, 85).

            Hagar

            Old Testament Scripture Stories “Hagar”

            Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” Reading about Hagar could be an opportunity to discuss how the Lord helps us when we feel wronged. You might point out that “Ishmael” means “God hears.” When have we felt that the Lord heard and helped us when we felt wronged? (see Genesis 16:11).

            • Invite the children to share experiences when Heavenly Father answered their prayers, and share one of your own experiences.

            Friend October 2018 “Canyon Prayer” Carsen and some family members get lost in a canyon while hiking. Carsen knew that Heavenly Father knew the way out so he suggested they pray. He then receives a prompting on which way to go, and they are able to quickly find their way out.

            See also Teaching Children the Gospel “Prayer”

            Abraham Gives Lot His Choice of Land

            I Can Be a Peacemaker.

            Genesis 13:5–12

            Genesis CHAPTER 13 Abram returns from Egypt—He and Lot part—The Lord will make Abram’s seed as the dust of the earth in number—Abram settles in Hebron.

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” When Abraham’s herdsmen and Lot’s herdsmen disagreed over their grazing land, Abraham proposed a solution that brought peace.

            • Your children might enjoy acting out the story from Genesis 13:5–12, pretending to be Abraham, Lot, and the herdsmen. How can we follow Abraham’s example of being a peacemaker with our family or friends? Try role-playing their answers.

            Latter Day Kids “Abraham and Lot” Lesson ideas to go with the above video

            • Read Matthew 5:9, and explain that Jesus wants us to be peacemakers. Help the children think of what they can do to be peacemakers at home or with friends. Invite them to draw a picture of themselves being a peacemaker. Ask the children to share how they feel when they are peacemakers like Jesus Christ.

            “Cease From Anger” (February 2010 Friend)
            Take this quiz to see how forgiving you are. When we are loving and forgiving, we can be peacemakers.

            For the Strength of Youth January 2023 “Being a Peacemaker: Your New SUPERPOWER”

            Older Kids:

            Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” We all face situations that tempt us to become frustrated and contentious. Consider how the story of Abraham and Lot could help the children be peacemakers in such situations.

            • Write Main Characters, Setting, Problem, and Solution on the board. Invite the children to read Genesis 13:5–12 and identify the parts of the story listed on the board. Help the children think of situations when they could be peacemakers, such as when someone argues or tries to fight. Then invite them to role-play how they could be peacemakers in those situations.
            • Help the children find the topics “Peace” and “Peacemaker” in the Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite each child to select a scripture about peace and share what he or she learns with the class. Help them think of some examples of the Savior being a peacemaker, such as in Luke 22:50–51. How can we follow His example?
            • “Matt and Mandy” (October 1994 Friend)
              Mandy learns to be a peacemaker by watching her mother’s example.

            Bright Idea Poster: “Blessed are the peacemakers”(October 2010 Friend)

            Friend June 2018 “Coloring Page”

            Lesson 10: Abraham and Lot,” Primary 6: Old Testament Pages 39–42 To strengthen each child’s desire to show love to others.

            Additional teaching ideas: Teaching Children the Gospel: Peacemaker and Resources for Teaching Children “Peacemaker”

            Abraham Pays His Tithes

            Genesis CHAPTER 14 Lot is captured in the battles of the kings—He is rescued by Abram—Melchizedek administers bread and wine and blesses Abram—Abram pays tithes—He declines to accept the spoils of conquest.

            What do we learn about Melchizedek from Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:25–40? (in the Bible appendix; see also Alma 13:13–19). How can we “[establish] righteousness” as Melchizedek did? (verse 36). What else about Melchizedek’s ministry inspires us? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

            Friend April 1994 “Melchizedek” Story of Melchizedek

            Media Library “Melchizedek Blesses Abram”

            Liahona February 2022 “Teaching about God’s Promises” Tithing Brings Gratitude

            In Genesis 14:20, we read that Abraham paid tithing. Elder David A. Bednar has taught that spiritual blessings “are poured out through the windows of heaven and into our lives as we honor the law of tithing” (“The Windows of Heaven,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 18).

            1. As a family, discuss the blessings you’ve seen from obeying the law of tithing.
            2. Have one person write the blessings down.
            3. Together, go through the list again and discuss some of the ways these blessings make your life better.

            Elder Bednar also taught that “a subtle but significant blessing we receive [as we honor the law of tithing] is the spiritual gift of gratitude that enables our appreciation for what we have. … A grateful person is rich in contentment” (“The Windows of Heaven,” 18). How has your family seen gratitude as a blessing of paying tithing?

            The Lord Makes Covenants with Abraham

            Genesis CHAPTER 15 Abram desires offspring—The Lord promises him seed in number as the stars—Abram believes the promise—His seed will be strangers in Egypt—Then, after four generations, they will inherit Canaan.

            Genesis CHAPTER 16 Sarai gives Hagar to Abram as his wife—Hagar flees from Sarai—An angel commands Hagar to return and submit herself to Sarai—Hagar bears Ishmael.

            Genesis CHAPTER 17 Abram is commanded to be perfect—He will be a father of many nations—His name is changed to Abraham—The Lord covenants to be a God unto Abraham and his seed forever—Also, the Lord gives Abraham the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession—Circumcision becomes a token of the everlasting covenant between God and Abraham—Sarai’s name is changed to Sarah—She will bear Isaac, with whom the Lord will establish His covenant—Abraham and the men of his house are circumcised.

            Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “Abraham and Sarah”

            God wants me to make Covenants with Him.

            Genesis 13:16; Genesis 15:1–6; 17:1–8; Abraham 2:9–11

            Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

            • Consider showing your children a container of sand, the stars in the night sky, or the picture at the end of this outline. This could help them understand God’s promises in Genesis 13:16; 15:1–6. Talk about how you’ve learned to trust God’s promises, even when they seemed impossible.
            Clipart Library
            • To teach your children about covenants, ask them to tell you about a time when they made a promise or someone made a promise to them.

            Friend April 2021 “Trouble at the Creek” Brian doesn’t keep his promise to his mom to stay away from the creek after the storm. He crosses it on a fallen log and gets his foot stuck. 

            Sometimes keeping our promises helps keep us physically safe, such as in the the story above. Keeping the covenants we make with Heavenly Father can also help keep us safe, spiritually and physically, and help us to become more like our Heavenly Father

            • Share some examples of your own—including covenants you’ve made with God at baptism or in the temple. How have your covenants affected your relationship with God?

            Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.

            • Help the children understand that Abraham and Sarah promised to obey God. Choose a few phrases from Genesis 15:1–6; 17:1–8; Abraham 2:9–11 to share some of the blessings God promised to them. These might include “Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield,” “Thou shalt be a father of many nations,” or “All the families of the earth [shall] be blessed.”

            Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Story: God told the prophet Abraham, “Fear not … I am thy shield” (Genesis 15:1). He told Abraham that He would help and protect him.

            Song: “I Want to Live the Gospel” (Children’s Songbook, 148)

            Activity: Draw or make a shield. Write on your shield ways you can obey God.

            Liahona February 2022 “The Abrahamic Covenant” God promised Abraham that “as many as receive this Gospel shall be … thy seed” (Abraham 2:10). Our covenants at baptism and in the temple allow us access to the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant and make us part of the covenant people of God, as long as we are faithful (see Ezekiel 11:20).

            • To help your children prepare to make a covenant with God when they are baptized, you could use some of the activity ideas suggested in appendix A or appendix B.

            I Can Keep the Covenants I Make with Heavenly Father.

            Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

            Come Follow Me Kid Keeping Promises – Talk about the importance of keeping promises and why it’s important to do what we say we will do.

            • Assign simple tasks, such as: go wash your hands, go find something red, do 5 jumping jacks, etc.
            • With each task, promise to give them some kind of small reward in return (M&M, Skittle, a sticker, high five, etc.).
            • Ask: How would it feel if you didn’t get what you were promised after doing that task?
            • Explain that when we keep our promises, it helps form a relationship of trust with that person.
            • Can we ALWAYS trust God to do what He says He will? Remind them that God always keeps His promises to us

            “Abraham and Sarah Made Covenants” (March 2018 Liahona and Friend)
            Some information and a hero card about Abraham and Sarah. 

                Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2”

                For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Covenants” and Resources for Teaching Children “Covenants”

                Additional Resources

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 Explains more about the Abrahamic Covenant

                Institute: Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel Abraham could validly state that Sarah was his sister. In the Bible the Hebrew words brother and sister are often used for other blood relatives. (See Genesis 14:14, in which Lot, Abraham’s nephew, is called “his brother.”) Because Abraham and Haran, Sarah’s father, were brothers, Sarah was Abraham’s niece and thus could be called sister. The accompanying pedigree chart shows this relationship.

                The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

                Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2: I Will Lead Thee” Lesson Ideas

                Jan 31 2022

                Genesis 6–11; Moses 8

                Featured

                Table of Contents

                Noah

                Genesis CHAPTER 6 The sons of God marry the daughters of men—Men turn to wickedness, the earth is filled with violence, and all flesh is corrupted—The Flood is promised—God establishes His covenant with Noah, who builds an ark to save his family and various living things.

                Genesis CHAPTER 7 Noah’s family and various beasts and fowl enter the ark—The Flood comes, and water covers the whole earth—All other life that breathes is destroyed.

                Genesis CHAPTER 8 The Flood ceases—Noah sends forth a dove, which returns with an olive leaf—He releases all living things from the ark—He offers sacrifices—Seedtime, harvest, and seasons are ensured.

                Moses CHAPTER 8 Methuselah prophesies—Noah and his sons preach the gospel—Great wickedness prevails—The call to repentance is unheeded—God decrees the destruction of all flesh by the Flood.

                Old Testament Stories “Noah and His Family” Images and video

                There is Spiritual Safety in Following the Lord’s Prophet.

                Following the Lord’s prophet will bless me and my family.

                Genesis 6:14–22; 7–8; Moses 8:16–24

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”

                • Most children love the story of Noah and the ark. Consider giving your children opportunities to share what they know about it. To help them, you could use the pictures in this outline, “Noah and His Family” in Old Testament Stories (22–25), and the third verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Your children might enjoy acting out parts of the story—for example, by pretending to use a tool to build the ark or walking like animals entering the ark.

                You could use the below pictures or help the children choose verses from Genesis 6:14–22; 7–8 that they could depict in a drawing, and have them take turns using their drawings to teach them the story of Noah. Ask the children to share what they learn from the story.

                Friend March 2018 “Noah”

                These cutouts are from old Primary manuals.

                • Help the children understand that Noah was a prophet and that his family was saved from the Flood because they followed him. Ask the children if they know who our prophet is today. Show a picture of him, and help the children repeat his name.

                • As you talk about Noah together, help your children see how blessed we are to have a prophet of God today. Help your children search Moses 8:16, 19–20, 23–24to find things Noah taught that the Lord’s prophets still teach today. How are we blessed when we obey these teachings?

                The Red Crystal

                Here is an ark puzzle they can write the things that prophets teach today on the back before they put it together.

                • How are these teachings like the ark that Noah built?

                Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                Have each person draw themselves obeying something specific that the prophet has taught us to do.
                Place their pictures in the ark below while reminding them that it will bring safety and peace to their lives.

                The Red Crystal

                Additional Noah’s Ark Resources

                Latter Day Kids “Noah’s Ark” Lesson ideas to go with below video

                See also Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas and Old Testament: Activities & Games

                For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Prophets” and Resources for Teaching Children “Prophets”

                We Need to Remember Our Covenants.

                Genesis CHAPTER 9 Noah and his sons are commanded to multiply and fill the earth—They are given dominion over all forms of life—The death penalty is decreed for murder—God will not again destroy the earth by a flood—Canaan is cursed; Shem and Japheth are blessed.

                Genesis 9:15–17

                God will keep His promises to me.

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                • Your children might enjoy drawing or coloring a rainbow while you talk about what it represents (see Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 9:21–25 [in the Bible appendix]). What did God want Noah and his family to think of whenever they saw a rainbow?

                Clipart Library

                • You could also show your children something you have that reminds you of something important in your life, such as a wedding ring, a picture, or a journal. Let your children share their own examples. This could lead to a conversation about things that help us remember our covenants, such as the sacrament, which helps us remember our baptismal covenant to follow Jesus Christ (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:75–79).

                Friend February 2025 “Covenants with God” Decorate this shield to remind you of the covenants you have made or will make! As we keep our covenants, Heavenly Father protects us, and we can stay close to Him.

                For the Strength of Youth February 2026 “A Necklace with a Promise” After a temple open house Megan’ grandfather gave her a necklace with a chandelier crystal to remind her of the temple. He asked her to promise she would go to the temple someday. Every time she wore her crystal necklace she would think of the temple and how she wanted to go inside. (The article suggests making their own reminder and gives some ideas.)

                Illustration by David Comerón

                Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”

                It is important for children to know that God keeps His promises, especially as they prepare to make covenants with Him when they are baptized.

                • Talk with the children about some of God’s promises—for example, that we can return to Heavenly Father if we follow Jesus Christ or that God will send the Holy Ghost to comfort us. Bear your testimony that God always keeps His promises.

                Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

                Friend March 2018

                • Use pictures to tell the children about covenants we make with God, such as pictures of a child being baptized, the sacrament, and a temple (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 104, 108, 120).

                For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Covenants” and Resources for Teaching Children “Covenants”

                Genesis CHAPTER 10 The descendants of Noah are Japheth, whose descendants are Gentiles; Ham, whose descendants include the Canaanites; and Shem, of whom came Peleg (in whose days the earth was divided).

                Tower of Babel

                Genesis CHAPTER 11 All men speak the same language—They build the Tower of Babel—The Lord confounds their language and scatters them over all the earth—The generations of Shem include Abram, whose wife is Sarai—Abram leaves Ur and settles in Haran.

                Following Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven.

                Genesis 11:1–9

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”

                Tell the story of the Tower of Babel in your own words, or read the story found in “The Tower of Babel” (in Old Testament Stories). Encourage the children to help you by sharing what they know about the story.

                Old Testament Stories “The Tower of Babel” Illustrations and video

                • Let the children build a tower out of blocks or other objects. Then show the children a picture of the Savior, and ask them which is the way to return to Heavenly Father—building a tower or following Jesus Christ? Help the children understand that following the Savior is the only way back to our Heavenly Father. Invite the children to tell about things they can do to follow the Savior.

                Friend August 2023 “I Can Follow Jesus Christ”

                Friend December 2016

                • In addition to reading the story of the tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1–9, you and your children could read Helaman 6:28. According to this verse, why did the people of Babel build the tower? Why was building this tower the wrong way to reach heaven? Invite the children to search 2 Nephi 31:20–21 and Helaman 3:28 to find the right way to reach heaven. What advice would we give to the people of Babel?
                • While people today might not try to build towers in order to reach heaven, many try to find peace and happiness by following paths other than the one Jesus Christ has established. How might you use the story of the Tower of Babel to teach this principle?

                See also Resources for Teaching Children “Plan of Salvation”

                See also Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas and Old Testament: Activities & Games

                Additional Resources

                Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                The Red Crystal “Come Follow Me- for Primary. Jan. 31–Feb. 6, Genesis 6–11; Moses 8” Free LDS primary lesson helps

                Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Follow the Prophet” Lesson ides

                Jan 24 2022

                Moses 7

                Featured

                Table of Contents

                Moses 7 Enoch continued preaching repentance. The Lord protected His people from their enemies. Enoch established the city of Zion on the principles of righteousness. He saw a vision of the earth’s history from his own day to the Millennium. He saw the influence of the adversary and watched God weep for the suffering of His children. Enoch also foresaw the coming of the Savior, the eventual Restoration of the gospel, the gathering of Israel, and the return of the city of Zion upon the earth. Enoch and his city were translated. (Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Moses 7”)

                Friend February 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

                Activity: The Lord helped Enoch teach the gospel. Teach the gospel like Enoch by sharing your testimony! Say a prayer to receive help from Heavenly Father. Write or draw something you believe. Then share your testimony with someone you love.

                God wants us to be “of one heart and one mind.”

                Moses 7:18–21, 62–63, 68–69

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                • To help your children learn about Enoch and Zion, you could use “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories (19–21) or the second verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Then you could ask your children to help you retell the story in their own words. The pictures of Enoch in this outline might help.

                Old Testament Stories “Enoch the Prophet” Images, story, and video

                • Here’s one way to help your children understand what it means to be of “one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18): Make a paper heart and cut it into pieces, enough for each child to have one. Let them write their name on their piece and work together to put the heart together. As they do, you might talk about things you love about each child.

                The Red Crystal

                • Help your children count how many times the word “Zion” appears in Moses 7:18–21, 62–63, 68–69. Each time they find the word, help them discover what the verse says about Zion (see also Guide to the Scriptures, “Zion,” Gospel Library). How can we be more like the people described in these verses?

                Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

                • Ask the children to look for words that describe Enoch’s people, also known as Zion, as they read Moses 7:18. Write these words as headings at the top of the board, and invite the children to write, under each heading, things they can do to be more like Enoch’s people. After they share, ask the children how they can make their homes more like Zion. They might find some ideas in 4 Nephi 1:15–18.

                The Red Crystal

                Moses 7:18

                Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

                • Help the children think of actions related to the phrase “one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). Explain that this phrase means that the people of Enoch loved and were kind to each other. Invite them to use this week’s activity page to draw a way they can show love.

                Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Building Love

                Story: Enoch and his people built a city called Zion. The people in Zion were righteous and “were of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). That means they loved and cared for each other. They didn’t fight or hurt each other.

                Song: “Love at Home” (Hymns, no. 294)

                Activity: Read Moses 7:19–21. Then build a city with blocks, stones, or sticks. As you build, talk about how you can make your family more like Zion. You can send pictures of your finished city to the Friend!

                Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

                • Sing a song about loving one another, such as “Love at Home” (Hymns, no. 294). Bring pictures that illustrate key phrases in the song to help the children learn the words. Ask the children to share ways they can show love to each other in Primary and in their homes. Then let them act out their ideas.

                Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 16: The Saints Gather to Kirtland, Ohio,” 

                Read Doctrine and Covenants 38:24-25  What does it mean to esteem someone as yourself? We need to value others as much as we value ourselves. Have the children tell what different parts of the body does. Explain that each part of the body is important and needed. Just like our body parts are united, we need to be united as people [and help, support, and take care of each other.]

                The Redwood trees are joined together as one.

                “The giant redwood trees that grow in northern California [USA] … have a very shallow root system. But when they are surrounded by other redwood trees, the strongest, fiercest wind cannot blow them over. The roots of the giant redwood trees intertwine and strengthen each other. When a storm comes, they actually hold each other up” (Conference Report, Oct. 1994, p. 103; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, p. 78).

                Sing “We Are Different” (Children’s Songbook,140–41, 263).

                1. I know you, and you know me. We are as diff’rent as the sun and the sea I know you, and you know me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.

                2. I help you, and you help me. We learn from problems, and we’re starting to see. I help you, and you help me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.

                3. I love you, and you love me We reach together for the best we can be I love you, and you love me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.

                Heavenly Father wants me to choose to follow Him.

                Moses 7:28–33

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                • To introduce Moses 7:32–33 to your children, you might talk to them about a choice they had to make recently. Then you could read the verses together to find out what Heavenly Father wants us to choose. What choices can we make to show that we choose Him? Perhaps your children could take turns acting out one of these choices while the others guess what the action represents.

                The Red Crystal

                Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

                • Help the children think of things that make Heavenly Father happy. Read Moses 7:28 with the children, and explain that Heavenly Father was sad because the people were very wicked (see verses 32–33).
                • Invite the children to play a game in which they act out things they can do that make Heavenly Father happy. Ask the other children to guess what they are doing. Share with each of the children something you have seen them do that makes Heavenly Father happy.

                Jesus Christ Will Come Again in the Last Days.

                Moses 7:59–67

                Jesus will come back to earth.

                Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

                • In Moses 7:59, Enoch asks the Lord a question. Invite your children to find it, and then ask them to find the answer in verse 60. You might also talk with them about a time when they were expecting someone special to visit or return home. Ask them how they felt and what they did to prepare for the visit? What are some ways we can prepare for Jesus to come again?

                Friend November 2021 “Jesus Will Come Again” 

                • Consider showing pictures of times when the Savior appeared to people (such as Gospel Art Book, nos. 60, 82, 83, and 84). What are the people doing in the pictures? How might the people have felt when they met Jesus?

                The Red Crystal

                • You could also sing a song about the Savior’s Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83), and ask the children what they think it will be like when Jesus comes again. Let the children share how they feel about seeing Jesus when He comes again.

                Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

                As your family reads Moses 7:59–67, try marking or noting things the Lord tells Enoch about the last days—for example, that God will “gather out [His] elect” (verse 62) and that there will be “great tribulations among the wicked” (verse 66). How can we have faith and hope despite the wickedness in the last days? As part of this discussion, consider reading these words from Elder Ronald A. Rasband: “Take heart, brothers and sisters. Yes, we live in perilous times, but as we stay on the covenant path, we need not fear. I bless you that as you do so, you will not be troubled by the times in which we live or the troubles that come your way. I bless you to choose to stand in holy places and be not moved. I bless you to believe in the promises of Jesus Christ, that He lives and that He is watching over us, caring for us and standing by us” (“Be Not Troubled,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 21).

                For additional Second Coming Resources see here.

                Additional Resources

                Old Testament Stories and Lesson Ideas

                Pearl of Great Price Lesson, Stories, & Activities

                Old Testament: Activities and Games

                Primary 6 Manual: Old Testament “Enoch and a Zion People” (Page 27)

                Liahona January 2022 “Old Testament Art: Enoch and the City of Zion” Illustration by Justin Kunz

                  Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                  The Red Crystal

                  Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Building Zion” Lesson ideas

                  Scripture Explorers “The City of Zion”

                  Latter Day Kids “Building Zion” Lesson ideas to go with the below video

                  Jan 17 2022

                   Genesis 5; Moses 6

                  Featured

                  Table of Contents

                  Genesis Chapter 5 The generations of Adam are Adam, Seth, Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch (who walked with God), Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah (who begat Shem, Ham, and Japheth).

                  Moses Chapter 6 Adam’s seed keep a book of remembrance—His righteous posterity preach repentance—God reveals Himself to Enoch—Enoch preaches the gospel—The plan of salvation was revealed to Adam—He received baptism and the priesthood.

                  Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve’s Family” Images and Video

                  Book of Remembrance

                  Genesis 5; Moses 6:5–25, 46.

                  Old Testament Stories: Adam and Eve’s Family

                  Adam and Eve’s family kept a book of remembrance. They wrote their family history in the book. They wrote about how the Lord helped them.

                  Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6” Reading about the “book of remembrance” that Adam and Eve’s family kept may inspire your family to make your own book of remembrance. Discuss as a family what you would like to include. Maybe you have photos, stories, or documents from your family history. You might choose to include things that are happening in your family now. What will future generations find valuable? You could also discuss how the phrases “by the spirit of inspiration” (Moses 6:5) and “the pattern given by the finger of God” (Moses 6:46) could guide your efforts. Consider saving information from your book of remembrance on FamilySearch.org.

                  Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “Adam’s Book of Remembrance”

                  Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Family Testimony Book”

                  Story: Adam and Eve’s family made a “book of remembrance” (Moses 6:5). They wrote about Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father’s plan. This book was the beginning of the scriptures.

                  Song: “Love Is Spoken Here” (Children’s Songbook, 190–91)

                  Activity: You can make a book of remembrance too! Ask everyone in your family to write down their testimony of Jesus Christ. Then attach the pages together to make a book.

                  Come Follow Me Kid

                  God Can Help Me Do Hard Things.

                  Moses 6:26–34

                  Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

                  • Ask the children to share a time when they were asked to do something that was hard or scary for them. Share the story of, or read together, Enoch’s call to be a prophet, found in Moses 6:27, 31–34 (see also “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories).

                  • When Enoch was called to preach the gospel, he worried that he would fail. But God helped him do great things. Why did Enoch feel that he couldn’t preach the gospel? (see Moses 6:31). How did God help Enoch? (see Moses 6:32–34; 7:13).

                  Liahona January 2022 “Who Was Enoch”

                  Enoch was not the only prophet who felt inadequate when the Lord called him. Read about Moses’s and Jeremiah’s reactions in Exodus 4:10–12 and Jeremiah 1:4–9.

                  • Your children might enjoy sharing or acting out other examples of when God helped people do difficult things—for example, Noah building the ark, David fighting Goliath, Ammon defending the king’s flocks, or Samuel the Lamanite preaching. (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 7, 19, 78, 81). You could also share an experience of your own and let your children talk about how God helps them do hard things.
                  • Invite the children to name some difficult things that children their age sometimes do (such as completing an assignment for school, being kind to someone who is unkind, or telling the truth when they have made a mistake). Help the children find phrases in Moses 6:32–34 that can help them. Ask the children to share a time when God helped them do something difficult. Share your own experiences too.

                  Friend August 2020 “Maddy’s Courage” Maddy didn’t want to start school because she was afraid. Her mom reminded her of sometimes we have to do brave and hard things, such as Daniel facing the lions, or Nephi crossing the ocean, or Esther talking to the king. And just like Heavenly Father helped all of those people, He would help her too.

                  New Era December 2020 “Not Ice-olated” Object lesson that demonstrates that with the Lord’s help, we can lift even the heaviest, slipperiest burdens.

                  The Gospel Teaches Me How to Return to Heavenly Father.

                  Moses 6:50–62

                  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

                    Faith in Christ, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost prepare me to return to God.

                    Adam and Enoch taught their people the first principles and ordinances of the gospel: faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (see also Articles of Faith 1:4).

                    Moses 6:50–62

                    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                    • God taught Adam what we need to do to return to Him—have faith in Jesus Christ, repent, be baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Help your children find these principles in Moses 6:52, 57. Then you could help them write a short talk about one of the principles. Each talk could include a scripture from Moses 6, an experience, and a testimony. Let them share their talks with each other.

                    Come Follow Me Kid

                    • You could also display pictures that represent the first principles of the gospel (see the fourth article of faith). Place them in a line leading to a picture of Jesus Christ. As you read Moses 6:52, your children could stand next to the correct picture when they hear the words the picture represents.

                    Friend April 2011 link includes discussion info.

                    Friend April 2011
                    • Your children might enjoy singing songs that teach the principles in Moses 6:52, such as “Faith,” “When I Am Baptized,” and “The Holy Ghost” (Children’s Songbook, 96–97, 103, 105). Help them find these principles in Moses 6:52.

                    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

                    • What does it mean to be “born again into the kingdom of heaven”? (Moses 6:59) (To have the Spirit of the Lord cause a mighty change in a person’s heart so that he has no more desire to do evil, but rather desires to seek the things of God. (Guide to the Scriptures, “Born Again, Born of God” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) For additional information click on link.)
                    • What can we do to continue to be born again throughout our lives?

                    Coloring Pages

                    Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “4th Article of Faith”

                    Friend March 2000
                    Friend March 2000 Link includes some sharing time and music time ideas.

                    Heavenly Father Wants Parents to Teach Their Children.

                    Moses 6:57–58

                    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

                    From the time of Adam and Eve, parents have been commanded to teach their children the gospel. How can you encourage the children to listen to and follow the righteous teachings of their parents?

                    • To encourage your children to support their parents in their role as gospel teachers, consider asking a child to read Moses 6:58 and identify the commandment God gave to parents. Then you could show a picture of Adam and Eve teaching their children (like the one at the end of this outline) and let your children talk about what they see in the picture. Your children could draw pictures of their families reading the scriptures together, praying together, or playing together. Ask the children what they can do to support their parents when they teach them the gospel.

                      Friend March 2019 “A Lesson From My Parents” Color the pictures and circle the things a parent or other family member has taught you. What else can you think of?

                      Coloring Page: “Adam and Eve Teach Their Children” (Feb. 2010 Friend)

                      Latter Day Kids “Teach These Things” Lesson ideas to go with the below video.

                      Additional Resources

                      All things bear record of Christ

                      Moses 6:63.

                      What are some of the things that “bear record of [Christ]”? (see also 2 Nephi 11:4). Consider inviting family members to share something that they see “in the heavens above” or “on the earth” that helps them learn about Jesus Christ. For example, how do trees, rocks, or the sun remind us of the Savior? What do the titles “living water” and “bread of life” teach us about Him? (John 4:10–14; 6:35). (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6” )

                      How did Adam become a “son of God”?

                      Moses 6:64–68

                      Enoch taught that after Adam was baptized, “the Spirit of God descended upon him, and thus he was born of the Spirit, and became quickened in the inner man.” After this sacred experience, Adam heard a voice from heaven saying, “Behold, thou art one in me, a son of God; and thus may all become my sons.”

                      The title “son of God” now had two different meanings for Adam. Not only was he a literal spirit son of God created in His image, but Adam was also a son of God because he had been born again through Jesus Christ. Those who experience spiritual rebirth and receive the ordinances of the Savior’s gospel are also sometimes referred to as “children of Christ.” (Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Genesis 5, Moses 6: How does the Fall affect us?”)

                      All people must repent and be baptized.

                      Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Genesis 5, Moses 6: How does the Fall affect us?”

                      Enoch taught that Adam asked God why all people must repent and be baptized. In response, God taught Adam important truths that clarified how the Fall would impact the posterity of Adam and Eve.

                      First, God made it clear not only that Adam and Eve were forgiven for their transgression in the Garden of Eden, but also that the consequences of their sins would not be passed down to their children. The Prophet Joseph Smith reiterated this truth when he taught, “We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.”

                      God also taught Adam that his posterity would be “conceived in sin” (or “born into a world of sin”). As mortal people living in a fallen world, we commit sin, which makes us unclean and separates us from God. While this experience gives us opportunity to “prize the good” after we “taste the bitter,” we also must be cleansed from our sins through Jesus Christ, for “no unclean thing can dwell” in God’s presence.

                      God commanded Adam to teach his children to repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Ghost so they could be sanctified from their sins through Jesus Christ. God declared, “This is the plan of salvation unto all men, through the blood of mine Only Begotten.”

                      Primary 6 Manual: Old Testament “Adam and Eve Lived the Gospel of Jesus Christ” (Page 23) Lesson ideas

                      Primary 6 Manual: Old Testament “Enoch and a Zion People” (Page 27)

                      Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                      The Red Crystal

                      Jan 9 2022

                      Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5

                      Featured

                      Table of Contents

                      The Fall of Adam and Eve was Part of God’s Plan.

                      Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve” Images and video

                      Friend February 2018 “Adam and Eve”

                      Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5”

                      The Garden of Eden was beautiful. But Adam and Eve needed something more than beautiful surroundings. They needed—and we all need—an opportunity to grow. Leaving the Garden of Eden was the necessary first step toward returning to God and eventually becoming like Him.

                      Old Testament Seminary Student Material

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5” If Adam and Eve had stayed in the Garden of Eden, they would not have had children and would not have progressed to become like Heavenly Father. We are grateful for their choice to partake of the fruit because this choice made possible our mortal life and our opportunity for eternal life.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • To help your children better understand the Fall of Adam and Eve, you could copy the pictures from “Adam and Eve” (in Old Testament Stories, 13–16) and cut them out. Then you could work together to put the pictures in order as you discuss the experiences of Adam and Eve. As you do, talk about why it was important, in Heavenly Father’s plan, for Adam and Eve to leave the Garden of Eden.

                      Friend January 2026 “Adam and Eve”

                      • Invite the children to work together to tell the story of the Fall of Adam and Eve in their own words. Share verses from Genesis 3 to help them.

                      Jesus Christ Saves Us from the Fall.

                      Genesis 3; Moses 4; Moses 5:4–15

                      Moses 5:4–15

                      Media Library: Similitude By Walter Rane

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5”

                      • Write two titles on the board: Because of Fall of Adam and Eve,(I…) and Because of Jesus Christ, (I…) Help the children identify the consequences of the Fall as you read together Moses 4:23-25; 6:48; Romans 5:12; 2 Nephi 2:22–23. Let them write what they learn under the first title. Then help them identify how Jesus Christ overcame sin and death as you read together Moses 5:8–11, 14–15; 6:59; Alma 11:42. Let them write what they learn under the second title. Why are we thankful for Jesus Christ? Your children can feel gratitude for the Atonement of Jesus Christ as they understand how He overcomes the effects of the Fall.

                      Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament   Page 13

                      Ideas for under the title “Because of Fall of Adam and Eve” could include the following:

                        • We could choose to be born on the earth.
                        • We know good from evil.
                        • We became separated from Heavenly Father.
                        • We will someday die.

                      Ideas for under the title “Because of Jesus Christ” could include the following:

                        • We will live again after we die
                        • We can return to Heavenly Father if we will repent.
                        • We have a perfect example to follow.
                      • Show a video about the Savior’s Atonement, such as “Because of Him” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite the children to share how they feel about Jesus Christ.

                      Friend January 2026 “The Plan of Happiness and You!”

                      I Can Choose the Right

                      Moses 4:1–4

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • Consider a simple object lesson to introduce the principle of agency: invite your children to color this week’s activity page, but give them only one color to use. Why would it be better to have choices? You could then read together Moses 4:1–4 and talk about why God wants us to be able to choose between right and wrong. How do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ help us make good choices?

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 1-5” Make a booklet about the ways we are like Adam and Eve, such as we have agency

                      Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Good Choices Toss” Activity: Sit in a circle and toss a ball around. When you catch the ball, tell about a good choice you made this week.

                      • Help your children think of and draw pictures of good choices they can make to follow Jesus Christ. Or you could sing together a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). You might tell each other about a time when you made a good choice and talk about how you felt afterward.

                      I Can Pray to Heavenly Father.

                      Moses 5:4, 8

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • When Adam and Eve had to leave the Garden of Eden, they couldn’t be with Heavenly Father anymore. Read Moses 5:4, 8 with your children, and help them find what Adam and Eve did to feel near to Him and hear Him.
                      Friend February 2017
                      • Explain that we pray to Heavenly Father in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ (see Moses 5:8). What are some things we can say to Heavenly Father in our prayers?

                      Friend January 2025 “Teach Me About Prayer”

                      Friend April 2024 “The Miracle of Prayer” 

                      Friend January 2021 “Talking to My Heavenly Father” Action Rhyme

                      • Sing with the children a song about prayer, such as “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13).

                      Additional Resources

                      Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament  Place the picture of Adam and Eve next to the one of God the Father and Jesus Christ. Explain that when Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, they could walk and talk with Heavenly Father and Jesus. To help the children understand why the result of Adam and Eve’s choice is known as the Fall, take the picture of Adam and Eve and move it down below the picture of God the Father and Jesus Christ as you tell of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit. Adam and Eve “fell” or were removed from the presence of God. Explain that because Adam and Eve could no longer freely associate with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, this is referred to as the Fall. Adam and Eve’s separation from Heavenly Father and Jesus began mortal life on earth.

                      Lesson 5: Adam and Eve and Their Family Offered Sacrifices,” Primary 6: Old Testament , Page 18–22 To help the children want to always remember Jesus Christ.

                      Lesson 6: Adam and Eve Lived the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Primary 6: Old Testament, Pages 23–26 To help the children understand that the gospel of Jesus Christ is eternal and is based on truths that will help us gain exaltation.

                      Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament   Ask the children to think of opposites—such as happy and sad, hot and cold, hard and soft, smooth and rough, heavy and light, high and low, or fast and slow—to illustrate the importance of opposition (see 2 Nephi 2:11, 15). Let the children describe their experiences with opposites. To help them get started, you might use the following examples: After someone has been sick, they can better appreciate feeling well. Or without darkness, you cannot recognize light, which is why you cannot see the stars during the day. To illustrate this second example, you might bring a flashlight and show how its light is barely noticeable in a well-lit room, but the light is much brighter when you darken the room.

                      Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                      The Red Crystal

                      Article of Faith 2

                      Memorizing Tip: Adam and Eve were the first two people to live on the earth, and Article of Faith 2 is about Adam.

                      To transgress means to break a law or commandment. In the Garden of Eden, God told Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, but they ate it anyway. We are each responsible for our own decisions. We can’t be punished for someone else’s sins.  (Friend Jan 2015)

                      Friend Feb 2011

                      Friend Feb 2011

                      See also Teaching Children the Gospel “2nd Article of Faith”

                      Adam and Eve’s Family

                      Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve’s Family” Images and Video

                      Friend February 2018 ”Adam and Eve Taught their Family” Link also includes info about Adam and Eve and how we can be like them.

                      Coloring Page: “Adam and Eve Teach Their Children” (Feb. 2010 Friend)

                      Gospel Media “Adam and Eve Teaching Their Children”

                      Cain and Able Gospel Media

                      Agency

                      • In the preexistence Satan had a plan to destroy the freedoms and agency of the people who came to earth. What did Satan hope to gain from implementing his plan? (Glory and power for himself)

                      (Possible activity to demonstrate life without agency) • What would life be like without agency? To help the children imagine what it might be like to live under Lucifer’s plan, tell them that for the next few minutes they must do exactly what you say and nothing else (make sure they know they cannot talk). Have them stand and remain standing perfectly still for a few seconds. Then tell each child where to sit. (Do not sit friends near each other.) Tell the children they must sit erect, feet flat to the floor, looking straight ahead, not moving or speaking. Have them hold the position until you tell them otherwise. After about thirty seconds, let them stand again and sit where they want. (Walk in His Ways pg 62)

                      Latter Day Kids “Free to Choose” Lesson ideas

                      Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures” Free to Choose” Lesson ideas

                      Jan 5 2022

                      Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5

                      Featured

                      Table of Contents

                      Jesus Christ Created the Earth Under the Direction of Heavenly Father.

                      Genesis 1:1–25; Moses 2:1–25; Abraham 4:1–25

                      Friend November 1996 “For Little Friends: Window Picture” (Print the picture of the earth and the picture of Jesus back to back.) Show the picture of the earth and ask who created it. Have the children hold it up to a light or window to check their answer or find the answer. Explain that the earth was created by Jesus under the direction of Heavenly Father. Question: Why did Heavenly Father want the earth created? (See Abraham 3:24-26 – For us to gain a body and be tried and tested to see if we would learn to exercise control over our bodies and keep the commandments.)

                      1of3
                      2of3
                      3of3

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5”

                      • Help the children think of times when they made something by following another person’s directions. For example, maybe they have made a recipe with a parent or sibling guiding them. Write Who created the earth? on the board, and invite the children to find the answer in Moses 2:1. Testify that Jesus Christ created the earth under the direction of Heavenly Father.
                      Friend January 2026

                      The Pearl of Great Price Student Manual

                      • The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that to “create … does not mean to create out of nothing; it means to organize, the same as a man would organize materials and build a ship.”1 The Hebrew word for “create” means to shape, fashion, organize, and form (see Genesis 1:1; Abraham 3:24).
                      • “The Earth, After It Was Formed, Was Empty and Desolate”The Prophet Joseph Smith indicated that the translation “without form, and void” (see Genesis 1:2 and Moses 2:2) should read “empty and desolate” (see Abraham 4:2;

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • Your children might also look at pictures of things Jesus created (see “The Creation of the Earth” in Old Testament Stories, 8–12). Then you and your children could talk about how you feel about Jesus Christ after reading about the Creation.

                      Old Testament Stories “The Creation of the Earth” Images and Video

                      Creation Lesson for Little Ones – Teaching the creation story using flannel figures.

                      President Russell M. Nelson explained that “the physical Creation itself was staged through ordered periods of time,” not calendar days. Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–85) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught that a day in the Creation accounts “is a specified time period; it is an age, an eon, a division of eternity; it is the time between two identifiable events. And each day, of whatever length, has the duration needed for its purposes. …

                      • How will you make learning about the Creation fun for your children? You could take them on a search outside for the kinds of things that were made during each period of Creation.

                      Or:

                      1. Each person [could] take a turn acting out a day or part of the Creation. The rest of the family members guess the day or the part of Creation that was chosen. (Liahona January 2022 “God’s Plan Is for You: Come, Follow Me Family Fun” )
                      2. Assign each child verses in Moses 2 related to one of the days of creation, and ask him or her to draw a picture of the things Heavenly Father and Jesus created on that day. Ask the children to hold their pictures and stand in the order of the days of Creation, and then invite each child to teach the rest of the children what happened on the day they were assigned. What do we learn about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ from the story of the Creation? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” )
                      3. You [could ]show pictures of things created in each period and invite family members to put the pictures in order after reading one of the accounts of the Creation together. What do these creations teach us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5”)

                       Friend March 2002 “For Little Friends”  Place the correct picture and label on the chart according to which “day” it took place in the creation (one square will get two pictures). Check your answers in Genesis 1:1-27, and move pieces to their correct position as needed (Visuals: Black and white game board. Note: Color cardstock can be used for the game boards.)

                      • Consider singing a song together about our beautiful world, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29). Maybe your children could add to the song other things God has created that help them feel His love.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5”

                      • Share your testimony that Jesus Christ made these things because He and Heavenly Father love us.

                      For additional teaching resources see Creation

                      Gratitude for the Earth

                      One way to approach the Creation story is to invite your family to find how many times in Genesis 1 or Moses 2 God calls the things that he made “good.” What does this suggest about how we should treat God’s creations—including ourselves? What do we learn from the way these events are worded in Abraham 4?

                      Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Thankful Memory Game

                      Activity: Now play a game! The first person says, “I am thankful for …” and then says something Heavenly Father and Jesus created. The next person repeats it and then adds something new. Keep going around in a circle as long as you can.

                      Liahona January 2022 “God’s Plan Is for You: Come, Follow Me Family Fun”

                      Stewards over the Earth: Moses 2:28 explains that humankind was given dominion over all living things. President Russell M. Nelson said, “We should care for the earth, be wise stewards over it, and preserve it for future generations” (“The Creation,” Liahona, July 2000, 104).

                      Discussion: In what ways do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ take care of us? How can we follow Their examples as we take care of the living things around us? In what ways can our actions show our gratitude for God’s creations? (Submitted by Mitzi Schoneman)

                      Friend February 2018 “Caring for the Earth”

                      See more ideas at Taking Care of the Earth

                      Additional Creation Resources

                      Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” While there’s a lot we don’t know about exactly how the world was created, ponder what you learn about the Creation from what God has revealed in Genesis 1:1–25; Moses 2:1–25; and Abraham 4:1–25. What do you notice in these accounts that is similar? What do you notice that is different?

                      Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The Creation” Lesson ideas

                      Latter Day Kids “The Creation” Lesson ideas

                      I Was Created in God’s Image.

                      Genesis 1:26–27; Moses 2:26–27; Abraham 4:26–27

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • Your children can develop a sense of reverence and respect for their own and others’ bodies as they learn that we were all created in God’s image. To help them understand what this means, you could let your children look at their image in a mirror or picture while you read Moses 2:26–27 to them.
                      • You could also show them how baby animals are often in the “likeness” of their parents (see the picture in this outline, for example). This could lead to a conversation about why it’s important to you to know that you are created in your Heavenly Father’s image.
                      Image by kamchatka on Freepik
                      Image by freepik
                      Image by freepik

                      • You and your children might enjoy drawing a human body and cutting the drawings into puzzles. As your children put their puzzles together, they could talk about ways they can show Heavenly Father that they are thankful for their bodies. (or invite the children to choose a part of the body and write next to it why they are thankful for it.) Express your gratitude for your body, and testify that we were created in God’s image.

                      The Red Crystal

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; braham 4–5”

                      • Help the children repeat “I, God, created man in mine own image” several times (Moses 2:27).

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”

                      • [Using the picture below, invite the children] to point to His eyes, mouth, and other parts of His body. Then invite them to stand and point to those same parts of their own bodies. Read from Doctrine and Covenants 130:22: “The Father has a body of flesh and bones … ; the Son also.” Testify that our bodies are like Heavenly Father’s and Jesus’s bodies.
                      Friend August 2016
                      Friend August 2016

                      Friend November 2020 “Like Him”

                      LessonPix “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” Song idea. Print the pictures, cut them apart into cards, and then use them to sing the song. To make the song more interesting, have the children mix up the pictures on the top two rows and/or the bottom two rows and then have them do the actions and sing the words in their mixed up order.

                      Head Shoulders Knees & Toes

                      Visual support to sing Head Shoulders Knees & Toes.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” The world will give children many false messages about their bodies. The doctrine in Moses 2:26–27 is powerful motivation to respect and care for our bodies.

                      • Read together Moses 2:26–27. What do these verses teach us about our bodies? Show the video “God’s Greatest Creation” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), or play the game “Your Body Is a Temple” (Friend, Aug. 2019, 24–25). You could also read together related quotations from President Russell M. Nelson’s message “Your Body: A Magnificent Gift to Cherish” (New Era, Aug. 2019, 2–7) that will help the children feel gratitude to Heavenly Father for their bodies.

                      Friend August 2019 “Your Body is a Temple” Activity comparing how the body is like a temple.

                      For the Strength of Youth “Your Body: A Priceless Gift”

                      Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are Creators. They can transform us into the beautiful creations we were meant to be. That’s part of what it means to be created in God’s image, after His likeness (see Genesis 1:26). We have the potential to become like Him: exalted, glorified, celestial beings.

                      For additional teaching ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Body” and Resources for Teaching Children “Body”

                      The Sabbath Day is Holy.

                      Genesis 2:2–3; Moses 3:2–3; Abraham 5:2–3

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • As you read Moses 3:2–3, ask your children to listen for what God did on the seventh day.
                      • Help your children find or draw pictures of things they can do on Sunday to make it a holy day and different from other days. Share with each other why it is important to you to keep the Sabbath day holy.

                      Or,

                      • Give the children a few minutes to write a list of as many things as they can think of that they can do to make the Sabbath a holy day. Invite the children to share their lists, and encourage them to add to their lists as others share suggestions they didn’t think of. Suggest that the children take the lists home with them and refer to them when they need ideas of good things to do on the Sabbath.
                      • Or do the below sorting activity:

                      Teaching Children the Gospel “Sabbath Day: Lesson Item 4” Sort the activity ideas onto days of the week or Sunday

                      • Children may have to explain to their friends why they treat Sunday different from other days.  Help your children role-play explaining to a friend why they choose to do things on Sunday that honor Heavenly Father and Jesus. Suggest that they use Genesis 2:2–3 in their explanations. How does keeping the Sabbath day holy show our love and respect for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?

                      Friend October 2015  “The Sabbath is a Delight”

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” Children who develop a habit of keeping the Sabbath day holy when they are young are more likely to keep this commandment when life becomes busier and more demanding.

                      • A few days before class, invite one of the children and his or her parents to come prepared to share things they do in their family to keep the Sabbath day holy. Invite the other children to share what their families do.

                      For additional teaching ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Sabbath Day” and Resources for Teaching Children “Sabbath Day”

                      Additional Resources

                      Scripture Helps Old Testament

                      Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                      The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

                      Jan 1 2022

                      Moses 1; Abraham 3

                      Featured

                      Table of Contents

                      Moses 1 God reveals Himself to Moses—Moses is transfigured—He is confronted by Satan—Moses sees many inhabited worlds—Worlds without number were created by the Son—God’s work and glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.

                      Abraham 3 Abraham learns about the sun, moon, and stars by means of the Urim and Thummim—The Lord reveals to him the eternal nature of spirits—He learns of pre-earth life, foreordination, the Creation, the choosing of a Redeemer, and the second estate of man.

                      I Lived with Heavenly Father Before I Was Born.

                      I lived as a spirit before I was born on earth.

                      The term intelligences can be used to describe the spirit children of God. It can also describe “the spirit element that existed before we were begotten as spirit children.” Elder D. Todd Christofferson taught, “Prophets have revealed that we first existed as intelligences and that we were given form, or spirit bodies, by God, thus becoming His spirit children—sons and daughters of heavenly parents.” Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Moses 1; Abraham 3”

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      Abraham 3:22–28

                      • Knowing about our premortal life can inspire your children to make choices based on eternal truths. To help them learn about it, you could give them some key words and phrases to find in Abraham 3:22–28, like “before the world was,” “spirits,” “make an earth,” and “prove.” What do these verses teach us about why Heavenly Father sent us to earth?

                      New Testament Stories “Our Heavenly Father’s Plan”

                      Friend January 2022 “Before We Came to Earth”

                      • A song like “I Will Follow God’s Plan” (Children’s Songbook, 164–65) could reinforce what Abraham 3 teaches. Maybe you could invite your children to draw pictures that go with the words.

                      Friend January 2012 “Agency Is the Gift to Choose for Ourselves”

                      Friend April 2019 “What’s on Your Mind”

                      I Am a Child of God.

                      Moses 1:1–4, 6, 12

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • After you read together God’s message to Moses in Moses 1:4, consider letting your children look at their reflection in a mirror and giving themselves a similar message: “I am a child of God.” Then they could give the same message to each other: “You are a child of God.”

                      The Red Crystal

                      • You might even find pictures of a variety of people and invite your children to point to each one and say, “This is a child of God.”

                      Friend August 2024 “We Are All Children of God”

                      Friend September 2020 “Everyone is Important” We’re all daughters and sons of our heavenly parents—not all the same, but all equally important, needed, valuable, and loved!

                      • Share with each other why you are glad to know you are children of God. How does this knowledge change the way you treat yourselves and others?

                      Friend May 2021 “A Birthday Crown” Wyatt wonders if he is special because he gets to wear a birthday crown on his birthday. His father tells him he is special because he is a child of God and that everyone else is too. When a girl was afraid to go down the slide, Wyatt remembered that everyone is special to Heavenly Father and he encouraged her and praised her.

                      • You and your children could compare God’s message to Moses in Moses 1:4 with Satan’s message in verse 12. How can you help your children distinguish between God’s messages to them and Satan’s?

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3”

                      • Sing “I Am a Child of God” (Children’s Songbook, 2–3) with the children. Let them color this week’s activity page, and use it to review the truths this song teaches.

                      Additional Lesson Ideas

                      Primary 1 (Sunbeams) “Lesson One: I Am a Child of God”

                      We lived in Heaven: (Click on the below picture. Print the picture, or show it on an electronic device.) Explain that before we were born on earth we lived in heaven with Heavenly Father.

                      Friend April 2015

                      We were spirits there. A spirit is what is inside of us that makes us alive. When we were spirits, we didn’t have flesh and bones like our bodies have now, but we looked the same.

                      (Use these puppets to demonstrate what it means to be a spirit. See here for assembly instructions.) 

                      Show the first picture again and explain that Heavenly Father is the father of our spirits, and we are his spirit children

                      Sing: I Am a Child of God. Tell the children they are going to sing the song “I Am a Child of God.” Explain that God is another name for Heavenly Father. (I like the Red Headed Hostess visual aids for the first verse of this song, but it does cost money. Jolly Jen has a flip chart that would work too, or you could use the below visual s from the Nursery Manual. Also see churchofjesuschrist.org/study for the music)

                      Who is a child of God?  Toss a beanbag or soft object to a child as you say the words “I know a child of God named_____ .” Have the child say his or her own name and give the beanbag back to you. Repeat the activity until everyone has had a turn.

                      Print and cut out this activity. Show the pictures one at a time and ask the following:

                      • Is a policeman a child of God?
                      • Is a grandmother or grandfather
                      • Is a bishop
                      • Is a soldier
                      • Is a mailman or missionaries
                      • Is a mom or dad
                      • Is someone who doesn’t go to our church
                      • Is someone who lives in a different country or culture

                      Have the children take turns posting each picture under the title “Child of God.” The title can be written on the board or in a file folder or display board.  You can also bring up people they know such as a neighbor.

                      Help the children understand that everyone is a child of God even though we may be different in age, hair color, what we do, where we live, skin color, or the church we attend, we are all children of God.

                      We can be like Heavenly Father 

                      (Print and cut out these images pdf.) Use the following questions with the images. They could also be made into a matching game.

                      • What is a baby dog called?
                      • What will that puppy grow up to be?
                      • What is a baby chicken called?
                      • What will that chick grow up to be?

                      Explain that just as animals grow up to be like their parents, we will grow up to be like our parents.

                      Friend January 2017 “Kylie’s Parents” Kylie is like her earthly parents, and she is also like her Heavenly Parents. PDF version

                      Heavenly Father is the father of our spirits, so we can grow to be like him. Heavenly Father is loving, good, and kind. When we are loving, good, and kind, we are being like Heavenly Father.  We should try to become more like Heavenly Father every day.

                      Have children tell or act out ways they can be loving, good, or kind.

                      (The images for the activity “Who is a Child of God?” are from the Friend magazine. Soldier 6/16, Bishop 1/16, etc.The images for the animals are from Pixabay: Free Images)

                      See also Child of God

                      Heavenly Father Wants Me to Live with Him Again.

                      Moses 1:39

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3”

                      • Show the children pictures of some of Heavenly Father’s many creations. Read Moses 1:30, and explain that Moses asked God about the purpose of these creations. Help the children search in verse 39 to find God’s answer. Teach them that Heavenly Father’s work is to help us gain eternal life, which means becoming like Him and living with Him again.

                      Latter day Kids Lesson ideas

                      • Invite a parent to come to class and talk about how he or she feels when a child returns home after being away (for example, at school or on a mission), or share feelings you’ve had during these experiences. Use this example to teach the children how much Heavenly Father wants us to return to Him.

                      Latter Day Kids “This is My Work and My Glory” Lesson ideas

                      See also Resources for Teaching Children “Plan of Salvation / Plan of Happiness”

                      I Can Resist Satan’s Temptations.

                      Moses 1:12–26

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

                      • Summarize Moses’s experience in Moses 1:12–26 in your own words, or ask one of the children to do so (see also the video “I Am a Son of God” [ChurchofJesusChrist.org]). Invite the children to search these verses (verses 13, 15, 18, 20–22, 26) to learn how Moses was able to overcome Satan. (Remember you are a son or daughter of God, listen to the Spirit, think of Jesus, and pray for strength.)
                      • It might be fun for them to act out things they can do to resist temptation (such as praying, walking away, or asking for help). Or bring a box of tools (or pictures of tools), and help them label each tool with a way we can resist temptation (such as praying, singing a hymn, reading the scriptures, or serving others). Let each child pick a tool and talk about a situation when the action written on that tool’s label could help us resist temptation. Read together verses 25–26, and testify that God will help us when we face temptation.
                      Friend April 2015

                      Moses 1:18.

                      What advice can we share to help each other “judge between” God and Satan? (See also Moroni 7:12–18; Doctrine and Covenants 50:23–24.)

                      13 But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.

                      17 But whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do evil, and believe not in Christ, and deny him, and serve not God, then ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of the devil; for after this manner doth the devil work, for he persuadeth no man to do good, no, not one; neither do his angels; neither do they who subject themselves unto him.

                      Heavenly Father has a work for me to do.

                      Moses 1:6, 39

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3”

                      • As you read Moses 1:6 with your children, you might talk to them about the “work” God had for Moses. Consider using the Gospel Art Book, nos. 13–16, or Old Testament Stories, pages 64–84, to help your children see what Moses accomplished with Heavenly Father’s help. What is the work God has for us to do? (see, for example, Doctrine and Covenants 11:20).

                      The Red Crystal

                      God’s appointment of certain spirits to fulfill specific missions on earth is called foreordination.

                      Topics and Questions, “Foreordination,” Gospel Library.

                      “Foreordination does not guarantee that individuals will receive certain callings or responsibilities. Such opportunities come in this life as a result of the righteous exercise of agency, just as foreordination came as a result of righteousness in the premortal existence. …

                      “The doctrine of foreordination applies to all members of the Church, not just to the Savior and His prophets. Before the creation of the earth, faithful women were given certain responsibilities and faithful men were foreordained to certain priesthood duties. As people prove themselves worthy, they will be given opportunities to fulfill the assignments they then receive.”

                      Lesson 1: Heavenly Father’s Plan for Us,” Primary 6: Old Testament 

                      Read and discuss Abraham 3:23 with the children. What kinds of things might we have been chosen to do on earth? Explain that we are free to choose what we will do in this life, but each of us has been foreordained to do an important work on the earth.

                      Heavenly Father Has a Work for Me

                      Additional Resources

                      Plan of Salvation Teaching Children the Gospel

                      Lesson 1: Heavenly Father’s Plan for Us,” Primary 6: Old Testament Page 1

                      Lesson 2: Jesus Christ Was Chosen to Be Our Savior,” Primary 6: Old Testament Page 6

                      Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

                      Scripture Helps

                      Click to see more.

                      Come Follow Me for Living Scriptures “I Am a Child of God” Lesson ideas

                      Old Testament Scripture Stories “About the Old Testament” Images and Video

                      Friend January 2022 “I Can Read the Old Testament”

                      The Red Crystal

                      Dec 28 2025

                      Introduction to the Old Testament

                      Posted on by

                      Table of Contents

                      Tell the children that this year they will be studying the gospel mostly from the Old Testament and Pearl of Great Price. Show the children a copy of each of these books, or if they have their own set of scriptures, have them locate each of these books. Explain that the Old Testament is the history of God’s dealings with his people from the creation of the earth until about four hundred years before Jesus Christ was born. The Pearl of Great Price contains sacred writings by several prophets, including two Old Testament prophets, Moses and Abraham. They tell about our premortal life, the early history of the world, Heavenly Father’s plan for us, and the restoration of the gospel. Lesson 1: Heavenly Father’s Plan for Us,” Primary 6: Old Testament pg 1

                      I can learn of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • The words and culture of the Old Testament may be difficult for children to understand, but you can help them see Jesus Christ in symbols and stories. Perhaps you and your children could look at the image below, The Prophet Isaiah Foretells Christ’s Birth. Let your children point out details they see. Draw their attention, in particular, to the baby Jesus. Then you could read with them what Isaiah wrote about the Savior’s birth in Isaiah 7:14; 9:6. Share with your children how you feel about looking for the Savior in the Old Testament this year.

                      You and your children could also read Psalm 23 or Isaiah 53:3–9 and find words that remind you of Jesus Christ. What do these words teach us about His life and Atonement?

                      Friend January 2026 “Scripture Hide and Seek” You can learn about Jesus Christ in the Old Testament! Cut out the cards and have one person hide them around the room. Then search for the hidden cards. When you find one, look up the scripture and read it together.

                      Red Crystal Distribute the pieces with scriptures for students to look up. Then let them match them to the pictures on the page. The scriptures’ shapes will go over the top of the pictures that they feel match.

                      Heavenly Father wants to make covenants with me.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • Covenants are a major theme in the Old Testament. To introduce this theme to your children, you could talk with them about promises they make and keep with family or friends and why keeping these promises is important. You could then look at a picture of a baptism and talk about the promise, or covenant, we make with God when we are baptized (see Mosiah 18:10, 13). You could also show a picture of the temple and share your feelings about the covenants we make there.
                      Media Library “Boy Being Baptized”

                      The below handout is from Rachel’s Booknook

                      Friend February 2021 “Your Baptism Covenant”

                      Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.

                      Friend December 2023 “Preparing for More Covenants”

                      Keeping the covenants we make with Heavenly Father can also help keep us safe, spiritually and physically, and help us to become more like our Heavenly Father.

                      • This week’s activity page could help your children be excited to make and keep covenants with Heavenly Father. You could also sing a song about making covenants, like “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103).

                      See more teaching ideas at Covenants

                      Jesus Christ is Jehovah in the Old Testament.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

                      • Do your children know anyone who goes by different names in different settings? Perhaps a parent or teacher is addressed differently at work, at home, and at church. Talk about those names; then read Exodus 6:3 together and invite your children to find the names Jesus Christ was known by before He was born (see also the Joseph Smith Translation in footnote c).

                      3 And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob.  I am the Lord God Almighty; the Lord Jehovah. And was not my name known unto them?

                      POLICEMAN
                      FATHER
                      FOOTBALL PLAYER
                      PROPHET

                      The Red Crystal

                      Additional Resources

                      The Red Crystal Reading Chart

                      Jun 1 2025

                      6th Article of Faith

                      Posted on by

                      Friend May 2025 “Articles of Faith” What this means: When Jesus Christ lived on the earth, He organized His Church. He called apostles, prophets, teachers, missionaries, and others. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is organized now in the same way as it was back then!

                      Friend May 2021 “Matt and Mandy” The Coopers learn the sixth article of faith.

                      Friend June 1987

                      Friend June 1987
                      Feb 2 2025

                      Doctrine and Covenants 6–9

                      Posted on by

                      Table of Contents

                    • Oliver Tries Translating
                    • Additional Resources

                      • Doctrine & Covenants Section 6 Revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet and Oliver Cowdery, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, April 1829. Oliver Cowdery began his labors as scribe in the translation of the Book of Mormon, April 7, 1829. He had already received a divine manifestation of the truth of the Prophet’s testimony respecting the plates on which was engraved the Book of Mormon record. The Prophet inquired of the Lord through the Urim and Thummim and received this response.

                      Doctrine & Covenants Section 7 Revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet and Oliver Cowdery, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, April 1829, when they inquired through the Urim and Thummim as to whether John, the beloved disciple, tarried in the flesh or had died. The revelation is a translated version of the record made on parchment by John and hidden up by himself. 1–3, John the Beloved will live until the Lord comes; 4–8, Peter, James, and John hold gospel keys.

                      Doctrine & Covenants Section 8 Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to Oliver Cowdery, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, April 1829. In the course of the translation of the Book of Mormon, Oliver, who continued to serve as scribe, writing at the Prophet’s dictation, desired to be endowed with the gift of translation. The Lord responded to his supplication by granting this revelation.

                      Doctrine & Covenants Section 9 Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to Oliver Cowdery, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, April 1829. Oliver is admonished to be patient and is urged to be content to write, for the time being, at the dictation of the translator, rather than to attempt to translate.

                      Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 7: Joseph Smith Translates the Gold Plates,”  

                      • Because of the lost 116 pages of manuscript, the angel Moroni took the gold plates and the Urim and Thummim away from Joseph Smith for a time (see lesson 6). After Joseph repented, these items were returned. As Joseph continued the translation, he found that he did not have time to take care of his family and farm and still translate as fast as he wanted to. The work of translation was also slowed because Joseph had no scribe to write for him as he translated. Martin Harris was no longer allowed to be Joseph’s scribe. Emma sometimes served as scribe, but she had other work to do also. Joseph knew that the translation was not going as fast as it needed to, so he prayed and asked Heavenly Father for help.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 6–9: “This Is the Spirit of Revelation””

                      • In the fall of 1828, a young schoolteacher named Oliver Cowdery took a teaching job in Manchester, New York, and stayed with the family of Lucy and Joseph Smith Sr. Oliver had heard about their son Joseph, who was now living in Harmony, Pennsylvania, and Oliver, who considered himself a seeker of truth, wanted to know more. The Smiths described visits from angels, an ancient record, and the gift to translate by the power of God. Oliver was fascinated. Could it be true? Lucy and Joseph Sr. gave him advice that applies to anyone seeking truth: pray and ask the Lord. Oliver did, and the Lord answered, speaking peace and reassurance to Oliver’s mind.
                      • In spring 1829 Oliver Cowdery traveled to Harmony and volunteered to be Joseph Smith’s scribe as he translated the Book of Mormon.

                      For the Strength of Youth January 2021 “An Answer for Oliver”

                      Heavenly Father speaks to me through the Holy Ghost.

                      Doctrine and Covenants 6:5, 15–16, 22–23; 8:2; 9:7–9

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 6-9

                      • The truths Oliver Cowdery learned about personal revelation can help your children as they develop their ability to recognize the Holy Ghost. You could use “Chapter 5: Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery” (in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 22–25, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library) to teach them about Oliver and what he learned. Share with each other your favorite parts of the story. As you do, emphasize things the Lord taught Oliver about how to hear God’s voice, and read relevant verses, such as Doctrine and Covenants 6:23 or 9:7–9.

                      Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 5: Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery” Video and Images

                      The Holy Ghost speaks to my mind and my heart.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 6-9 & CFM Primary 2021

                      • Invite the children to touch their heads and their chests as you read the words “mind” and “heart” in Doctrine and Covenants 8:2. Help them understand that Heavenly Father speaks to us through the Holy Ghost, who gives us thoughts and feelings.

                      Feelings in Our Heart

                      Friend March 2020

                      Thoughts in Our Mind

                      Friend May 2024 “Listening to the Holy Ghost” At FHE Warner’s mom taught that often the Holy Ghost speaks by giving you a thought in your mind.

                      “When she said that, I was so surprised. Just earlier, I had prayed and asked my Heavenly Father to help me hear the Holy Ghost. All my life I’d had thoughts that guided me to choose the right. Now I knew that those thoughts came from the Holy Ghost!

                      Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Oliver Received Answers from the Lord”

                      Sing together a song about the Holy Ghost, such as “The Holy Ghost” (Children’s Songbook, 105). What does the song teach about how the Spirit speaks to us?

                      Oliver Tries Translating

                      Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 7: Joseph Smith Translates the Gold Plates,”  

                      • With Oliver assisting, the translation of the Book of Mormon went faster. After working as scribe for some time, Oliver wanted to translate. He was given permission to translate but failed when he tried. Oliver thought that the ability to translate would be given to him by merely asking Heavenly Father for it, but he learned that it required great mental and spiritual effort. The ability to translate had to come through the inspiration of the Holy Ghost

                      Friend February 2025 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Flashlight Fun”

                      • God can give us answers to our questions through the Holy Ghost (see Doctrine and Covenants 6:23). Sometimes we need to really focus to understand the message. Get a flashlight and turn off the lights in a room. One person uses the flashlight to draw a picture or letters on the wall. The others try to guess what it is. How is the flashlight like the Holy Ghost?

                      Write on the board How does the Holy Ghost speak to us? Invite the children to search in Doctrine and Covenants 6:15–16, 22–23; 8:2; 9:7–9 for answers to the question.

                      1. Study the problem or question in your mind. Think about how you could solve the problem or answer the question.
                      2. Decide what you think you should do.
                      3. Ask Heavenly Father if your decision is right.
                      4. Listen with your heart and mind. If your decision is right, the Holy Ghost will give you a good feeling about it. If your decision is wrong, you will not feel good about it, and you need to make a different choice.

                      Friend January 2021 “The Party Problem” Luz felt uneasy about going to a graduation party. It didn’t sound like the kind of party where she’d be able to feel the Holy Ghost. She thought about it, made her choice not to go, and then asked Heavenly Father if that was the right choice. Afterwards she felt a wave of warmth and light and knew she had made the right choice.

                      Latter Day Kids “The Holy Ghost” Lesson, song, and activity ideas

                      Riches of Eternal Life

                      Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 6–9: “This Is the Spirit of Revelation””

                      Doctrine and Covenants 6: 7, 13

                      • How can you help your family understand that real “riches” are found in eternal life? (verse 7). You could invite family members to make pretend money and write or draw on it some of the many blessings your family has received because of the restored gospel.

                      Liahona February 2025 ” Treasures in Heaven”

                      Because of Jesus Christ, I can “fear not.”

                      Doctrine and Covenants 6:34

                      Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 6–9: “This Is the Spirit of Revelation”

                      • Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery had many reasons to be afraid—persecution and poverty were just some of the challenges they faced. The Lord’s message to Joseph and Oliver can also encourage the children when they feel afraid.

                      Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 6-9

                      • The Lord told Joseph and Oliver, “Fear not, little flock” (Doctrine and Covenants 6:34). You might invite your children to repeat that phrase with you several times. They might also enjoy pretending to be a flock of frightened sheep. What might sheep be afraid of?
                      Friend June 2015
                      Friend June 2015
                      • Then you and your children could look at a picture of the Savior as a shepherd (there’s one at the end of this outline) and talk about how He watches over us like a shepherd watches over His sheep.

                        Sing together a song about the Savior, such as “Little Lambs So White and Fair” (Children’s Songbook, 58)

                        Help the children think of ways that they can “look unto,” or remember, the Savior during the coming week (see also this week’s activity page).

                        Come Follow Me Kid “D&C 6-9”

                        Each person will write their name on a sheep. Take turns sharing something that makes us fearful. Either
                        write/draw those fears on the back of the sheep or just share them out loud. After sharing, that person will place their sheep on the “I Will Encircle Thee in the Arms of My Love” picture of Jesus Christ. He loves us and can help us with our fears. Remind them that we are part of His flock. Every one of us is important to Him, and He wants to take care of us.

                        Color the outline of one of these people to look like yourself. Glue it onto the “I Will Encircle Thee in the Arms of My Love” page.

                        “Jesus Is My True Light”

                        “Fear not to do good.”

                        Doctrine and Covenants 6:33–37

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 6–9: “This Is the Spirit of Revelation”

                        The children you teach may at times feel afraid to stand for the right. Doctrine and Covenants 6:33–37 can inspire them to be courageous, even in difficult circumstances.

                        Consider playing or singing a song about finding courage in Christ, such as “Dare to Do Right” (Children’s Songbook, 158) or “Let Us All Press On” (Hymns, no. 243). What does the song teach about how the Savior helps us not be afraid? Ask the children to find in the song some reasons why we should “fear not” (verse 36).

                        Come Follow Me Kid “D&C 6-9” Cut apart the following strips and spread them out far enough in a room so that the kids will need to hop from one strip to another. Make sure to keep them in the correct order. Have them stand by the first one and help them say the top line out loud. Explain what it means. Then have them jump to the next one and do the same thing until they’ve jumped on each of them, said them out loud, and discussed them one at a time. Then have them start back at the beginning and practice saying the phrases from D&C 6:33 in order while hopping from strip to strip again. Try going a little faster each time. Repeat as many times as wanted/needed.

                        For the Strength of Youth February 2021 “Fear Not” A line-by-line explanation for the words in D&C 6:33-37

                        I can look to Jesus Christ in every thought.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 6:36

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 6-9

                        • After reading together Doctrine and Covenants 6:36, you and your children could make drawings to help you remember to “look unto [Jesus Christ] in every thought.” Share with each other your drawings, and help your children think of places they could put them so they will see them often.

                        Friend August 2020 “Let God Prevail!” President Russel M. Nelson tells what it means to let God prevail in our lives.

                        I can ask in faith.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 8:10

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 6–9: “This Is the Spirit of Revelation”

                        • Write on the board Without_______  you can do nothing; therefore ask in ________ . Invite the children to try to think of a word that fits in both blanks. Then read together Doctrine and Covenants 8:10 to find the answer. What are some things we can do if we have faith?

                        Additional Resources

                        Saints, 1:58–64

                        Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints “Gospel Media: Days of Harmony” Video of Oliver Cowdery’s experience as Joseph Smith’s scribe during the translation of the Book of Mormon

                        Click to see more

                        Emma Smith

                        Emma Smith

                        “When my husband was translating the Book of Mormon, I wrote a part of it, as he dictated each sentence, word for word, and when he came to proper names he could not pronounce, or long words, he spelled them out, and while I was writing them, if I made any mistake in spelling, he would stop me and correct my spelling although it was impossible for him to see how I was writing them down at the time. Even the word Sarah he could not pronounce at first, but had to spell it, and I would pronounce it for him.”4

                        “The plates often lay on the table without any attempt at concealment, wrapped in a small linen tablecloth, which I had given him to fold them in. I once felt of the plates, as they thus lay on the table, tracing their outline and shape. They seemed to be pliable like thick paper, and would rustle with a metallic sound when the edges were moved by the thumb, as one does sometimes thumb the edges of a book. …

                        “My belief is that the Book of Mormon is of divine authenticity—I have not the slightest doubt of it. I am satisfied that no man could have dictated the writing of the manuscripts unless he was inspired; for, when acting as his scribe, [Joseph] would dictate to me hour after hour; and when returning after meals, or after interruptions, he would at once begin where he had left off, without either seeing the manuscript or having any portion of it read to him. This was a usual thing for him to do. It would have been improbable that a learned man could do this; and, for one so ignorant and unlearned as he was, it was simply impossible.”5

                        The Red Crystal

                        Jan 26 2025

                        Doctrine and Covenants 3–5

                        Posted on by

                        Table of Contents

                        Doctrine and Covenants Section 3 Revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, July 1828, relating to the loss of 116 pages of manuscript translated from the first part of the Book of Mormon, which was called the book of Lehi. The Prophet had reluctantly allowed these pages to pass from his custody to that of Martin Harris, who had served for a brief period as scribe in the translation of the Book of Mormon. The revelation was given through the Urim and Thummim. (See section 10.)

                        Doctrine and Covenants Section 4 Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to his father, Joseph Smith Sr., at Harmony, Pennsylvania, February 1829.Harris. 1–4, Valiant service saves the Lord’s ministers; 5–6, Godly attributes qualify them for the ministry; 7, The things of God must be sought after.

                        Doctrine and Covenants Section 5 Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, March 1829, at the request of Martin Harris. 1–10, This generation will receive the Lord’s word through Joseph Smith; 11–18, Three witnesses will testify of the Book of Mormon; 19–20, The word of the Lord will be verified as in previous times; 21–35, Martin Harris may repent and be one of the witnesses.

                        Translating the Gold Plates

                        Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 6: Joseph Smith Begins to Translate the Gold Plates” Lesson includes the story of the lost 116 pages, questions ideas, activity ideas, etc.

                        Once Joseph and Emma Smith were settled in Harmony, Pennsylvania, Joseph began to translate the gold plates. At first Joseph spent a lot of time becoming familiar with the plates and the language in which they were written.

                        Display the page “Book of Mormon Titles.” Ask the children if they can read any of the words or characters. Help the children identify each language.

                        Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Translation of the Book of Mormon”

                        Discuss the many languages used throughout the world, and explain that the word translate means to change writing or speech from one language to another.

                        • What was the language of the writings on the gold plates? (Reformed Egyptian.)

                        Explain that usually translators need to understand both of the languages they work with. Joseph Smith, however, had had very little schooling and could not speak or read languages other than English. The reformed Egyptian characters on the plates were very strange to him. As he studied and prayed, the Urim and Thummim helped him understand the characters on the plates. Joseph learned that the process of translation requires faith, hard work, worthiness, patience, and obedience.

                        Martin Harris and the Lost 116 Pages

                        Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine and Covenants 3”

                        Martin Harris was a respected citizen of Palmyra and successful farmer who was one of only a few people in the area who believed Joseph Smith. Though almost twice his age, Martin was Joseph’s friend and gave him money so he could move to Harmony, Pennsylvania, to translate the Book of Mormon undisturbed. Martin also sacrificed to travel there himself and serve as scribe. As Joseph read out loud from the plates, Martin Harris wrote down the words Joseph read. 

                        Martin’s wife, Lucy, was not supportive of his involvement with the Book of Mormon translation. Martin asked Joseph if he could show the first 116 pages of the translation to Lucy as evidence of their work. Joseph prayed about it twice and each time was told not to allow Martin to take the pages.

                        Joseph prayed a third time, and the Lord gave permission with strict conditions. Martin took the pages to Palmyra to show them to his wife.

                        • Why do you think Joseph did not follow through with the first two responses he received from the Lord?

                        The day after Martin left, Emma Smith gave birth to her and Joseph’s first child, a son. Tragically, the infant lived only a few hours, and it seemed Emma might die too. Thankfully, Emma’s health started improving after a couple weeks. Though Joseph did not want to leave her side, Emma urged him to travel to Palmyra and inquire about the manuscript.

                        When Joseph arrived at his parents’ home, they invited Martin to join them for breakfast. Martin didn’t come for more than four hours. When he finally arrived and sat down, he mournfully exclaimed, “I have lost my soul!” He had not followed the strict guidelines and had lost the manuscript.

                        “Oh, my God, my God. All is lost!” Joseph said. “Must I return to my wife with such a tale? And how shall I appear before the Lord?”

                        After Joseph returned to Harmony, Moroni appeared and took the plates from him. (See Saints, 1:50–54.)

                        Shortly after this experience, the Lord spoke to Joseph Smith, chastising him and giving him words of comfort.

                        Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 4: Martin Harris and the Lost Pages” Video and Images

                        Below Video: An elderly Martin Harris tells a young man the story of the lost manuscript

                        Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 6: Joseph Smith Begins to Translate the Gold Plates”
                        Explain that even though Martin Harris lost the 116 pages of translation, he repented and went on to make important contributions to the Church. He was not permitted to assist Joseph further in the translation of the gold plates, but later he sold part of his farm to help pay for the printing of the Book of Mormon. He was one of the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon and testified of the truthfulness of the book throughout his life. Show the children “The Testimony of Three Witnesses,” printed at the front of the Book of Mormon.

                        Explain that the Lord told Joseph that Satan had influenced some wicked people
                        to take the pages. These people intended to change the words so people would
                        not believe the Book of Mormon (see D&C 10:10–19). Joseph was told not to
                        retranslate the first portion of the plates (see D&C 10:30–31). Because the Lord
                        knows all things, he knew that this incident would happen. He had therefore
                        commanded the ancient prophet Mormon to write a similar account of what
                        was included in the 116 pages in another part of the gold plates (see Words
                        of Mormon 1:3–7). Joseph translated this part instead of retranslating the lost
                        part (see D&C 10:38–42). Joseph learned that Satan and wicked people could
                        not stop Heavenly Father’s work (see D&C 3:1; 10:43).

                        I can choose the right when others try to get me to do wrong.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 3:5–10; 5:21–22

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 3-5” & CFM Primary 2021

                        • To start a discussion about learning to trust Heavenly Father, you might want to review the story of the lost manuscript pages (see Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 18–21). Give the children time to think about a situation where a friend might try to get them to do something wrong. Invite them to find a passage in Doctrine and Covenants 3:5–8; 5:21–22 that could help them during those situations. Role-play a few examples.

                        Friend April 2019 “What’s on Your Mind” Fill in the the speaking bubbles with what you could say when someone tries to get you to do something that is not right. Try explaining why it’s important to you. Even if others don’t understand your reasons, ask them to be respectful.

                        1. Cole’s friends ask him if he will share his answers from a homework assignment they did not do.
                        2. See more situations at Come Follow Me Kid

                        Friend April 2015 “Courage and Clubs” Kate chooses not to join her friend’s club because the requirement to join is to say a bad word.

                        See more peer pressure stories at Choices: Stories

                        I should care more about pleasing God than pleasing others.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 3–5: “My Work Shall Go Forth”

                        Read these words from Doctrine and Covenants 3:8: “He would have extended his arm and supported you.” Invite the children to stand and extend their arms as you read the phrase again. Share with them some ways the Lord may extend His arm to help them when others try to get them to do wrong things. Let them take turns extending their arms as they tell about other ways the Lord extends His arm to help us.

                        Come Follow Me Kid

                        Help From God Activity – If we’re faithful against pressures to disobey God, how will He help us? Read D&C 3:7-8 and listen for what He’ll do for us (He’ll extend His arm and support us against all the fiery darts of the adversary, and He’ll be with us in every time of trouble).

                        • Talk about what some of the “fiery darts of the adversary” could be. How does Satan try to attack us? Take turns throwing something soft at family members (Nerf gun darts, crumpled papers that say some of the ways Satan tries to attack us, etc.). Whoever is throwing will share something Satan might do to try to attack us with temptations.
                        • Another person will stretch out their arms and block the attacks toward that person. Relate this to how God will protect us and strengthen us if we’re faithful to Him.

                        Friend August 2020 “Choosing the Channel” Camille’s best friend told her about a TV show, but it had some bad words in it so she turned it off. Camille was afraid to tell her friend that she didn’t watch it. They were best friends that did everything together and liked the same things. She was afraid they wouldn’t be friends anymore. She prayed for help, and her friend was understanding and said they could find a show they both liked. 

                        When we fear God more than man, He will support us during times of trouble (see Doctrine and Covenants 3:7–8).

                        The fear of God means the love of God or respect for Him and His law. …

                        Friend January 2021 “Come Follow Me“

                        Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 6: Joseph Smith Begins to Translate the Gold Plates” Write the following on the chalkboard: “When the Lord commands, do it.” Explain that Joseph Smith learned from his mistakes and challenges. Even though he faced despair when the 116 pages were lost, he learned the importance of obedience, repentance, and accepting the will of Heavenly Father. He learned to listen to the promptings of the Spirit and grew in his ability to use the Urim and Thummim. Later in life he was able to say, “I made this my rule: When the Lord commands, do it” (History of the Church, 2:170).

                        The Lord invites me to help with His work.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 4

                        Though he had not yet associated himself with any organized religion, Joseph Smith Sr. believed what his son shared about his heavenly visions and supported him in his translation of the Book of Mormon. Joseph Sr. wanted to serve God but did not know what to do. In February 1829, he and his wife visited Joseph Jr. in Harmony, Pennsylvania. During that visit, the Prophet Joseph received Doctrine and Covenants 4 in answer to his father’s question. (Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine & Covenants 4”)

                        Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery”

                        Joseph and Emma Smith lived on a little farm near Harmony, Pennsylvania. Joseph’s father came to visit them. They were happy to see him. Joseph’s father was a good man.

                        Jesus gave Joseph a revelation for his father. The revelation told how people could help Jesus. They should love Jesus. They should work hard to teach the gospel. They should love and help other people.

                        People who want to help Jesus should also pray and have faith. Jesus said people who help Him will be blessed.

                        Joseph’s father went home and tried to do the things Jesus had told him to do. He shared the gospel with many of his family members.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 3-5”

                        1. Each verse in Doctrine and Covenants 4 contains precious truths that can help your children learn about serving God. Here are some ideas to help them discover these truths:

                        1. You could read together Doctrine and Covenants 4:1 and show pictures that depict God’s “marvelous” latter-day work (such as missionaries, temples, and the Book of Mormon).

                        Blessings of the gospel Activity: Read the clues below (not the answer) and let the children pick which picture it is describing.

                        • Prophet: Because of this blessing of the gospel we have the privilege to hear Gods words and direction about current issues and challenges we face. This gift is God’s living spokesman.
                        • Book of Mormon: Because of this blessing of the gospel we know the purpose of life. We also know what we need to do to gain eternal salvation and how to live happy lives.  
                        • Temples: This blessing of the gospel allows us the opportunity to receive saving ordinances for ourselves and our dead. We can also be sealed to our family so that we can be with them forever.
                        • Priesthood: Because of this blessing of the gospel we can receive healing blessings for the sick, blessings of comfort and guidance, and have authority to act in Gods name and perform saving ordinances, such as baptism.
                        • Baptism Because this blessing of the gospel, when performed by proper priesthood authority, we can receive a remission of our sins and enter into the gate that leads to eternal life.
                        • Holy Ghost Because of this blessing of the gospel we can receive personal revelation and guidance throughout our lives. We can also receive comfort during difficult times.

                        2. Your children could think of actions or draw pictures depicting the phrase “serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength” (Doctrine and Covenants 4:2).

                        (It might help to explain that our heart refers to our feelings and love and our mind refers to our thoughts.)

                        Friend June 2021 “One Peach at a Time” When Sister Eubanks was a child she went to a church farm to help pick peaches. Pretty soon she and her sister didn’t want to do it anymore because the peach fuzz was making their arms itch. Their mother explained that the peaches would be going to feed families who needed food. After that they stopped worrying about their itchy arms because they were helping to feed families who needed food! (They had a willing heart and mind.)

                        Friend September 2013 “I Will Serve God with All My Heart, Might, Mind, and Strength” Article includes a story of a child serving with her heart. It also describes what it means to serve with each of the following: heart, mind, and strength.

                        (Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine & Covenants 4”)

                        Imagine someone doing one of the following acts of service for you:

                        • Talking to you to see how you are doing
                        • Helping you with a task you have to do
                        • Praying for you

                        How might it affect you if they served in the following ways? Why?

                        • Wholeheartedly or half-heartedly
                        • Patiently or impatiently
                        • Motivated by love for you or by something else

                        Friend December 2018 Match each sentence with a picture. In the blank spot, draw yourself helping at church.

                        Friend February 2025 “Come, Follow Me Activities” We can follow Jesus Christ with all our hearts (see Doctrine and Covenants 4:2). Cut out 10 small paper hearts. On each heart, write one way you can follow the Savior. Place the hearts overlapping each other in a circle and glue in place to make a wreath.

                        For younger children: Cut out a heart for your child to color. As they color, tell them how you try to follow Jesus Christ with all your heart.

                        Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine & Covenants 4”

                        What blessings do these verses contain for those who serve God with all their heart, might, mind, and strength?

                        • May stand blameless before God at the last day. Vs 2
                        • Bringeth salvation to his soul. Vs 4

                        After teaching about the blessings of serving God with all our heart, might, mind, and strength, the Lord listed multiple attributes that can help us as we serve. Jesus Christ possesses each of these attributes and invites us to develop them in our own lives. As we do so, we become more like Him and can serve as He serves.

                        3. Bring tools (or pictures of tools) that someone might use to work in a field. How do these tools help us? Then your children could find things in Doctrine and Covenants 4:5–6 that are like tools for doing God’s work.

                        Clipart library

                        Come Follow Me Kid The Lord’s Worker Hat – Talk about different jobs and what qualifies people to do those jobs (bakers need to know how to combine ingredients, mailmen need to know how to drive and where the different envelopes and packages go, etc.). What do people need to know about and be able to do if their job is to be a grocery store clerk? Doctor? Garbage man? Etc. The manual says, “Section 4 is often applied to full-time missionaries. However, it’s interesting to note that this revelation was given originally to Joseph Smith Sr., who wasn’t being called on a mission but still had ‘desires to serve God’ (verse 3). One way to read this section is to imagine it as a job description for someone who wants to do the Lord’s work. What are the qualifications? Why are these skills or characteristics necessary?”

                        • Hat: Give them a “The Lord’s Worker” hat (on pages 3, 4, and 5 below) and tell them that the Lord has said He’s doing a “marvelous” work right now and we get to be his working helpers! While putting the hat together, discuss specific things we might to do to help the Lord with His work (be kind to others, stand up for what’s right, etc.).
                        • What if our job was to do the Lord’s work? What kinds of things would we need to know? What would we need to be able to do? What kind of people should we be?
                        • Stars: Glue the “job description” stars (on page 5 below) onto the hat while discussing each. Explain that we’re not expected to have all of these characteristics automatically. They take time to develop and improve. The student manual says, “The Lord does not require a person to be physically gifted or intellectually brilliant to help with His work. He asks that the person strive to develop Christlike attributes.”
                        • Put the hat on and take turns sharing ways you can be a worker for the Lord at home, school, and with friends.

                        (In verse 4, the Lord compares wheat that is ready to harvest to people who are ready to receive the gospel. A sickle is a tool for harvesting.)

                        Church News

                        Ensign August 2015 “Thrust in Your Sickle”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 3–5: “My Work .

                        Latter Day Kids “The Field is White” Includes lesson, song and activity ideas.

                        “I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162)

                        I can be a witness that the Book of Mormon is true.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 5:1–7, 11, 16, 23–24

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 3-5”

                        • To teach your children about witnesses, you could ask them to imagine that a friend told them they saw a cat walking on its front legs. Would they believe it? What if another friend said the same thing? Talk about what a “witness” is and why witnesses are important.
                        • You could then help your children search Doctrine and Covenants 5:1–3, 7, 11 for answers to questions like these:

                        1)What did Martin Harris want to know?

                        Lucy Harris, the wife of Martin Harris, was upset about the time and money her husband was dedicating to the publication of the Book of Mormon. She filed a legal complaint against Joseph Smith and gathered several people who were willing to testify that he had lied about the existence of the plates. Martin was warned that if he did not join them in testifying against Joseph, Martin could also be sent to prison. Though Martin had previously been a scribe for Joseph, had shown characters from the plates to scholars to verify their antiquity, and had lost 116 pages of the original manuscript, Martin still sought a further witness of the reality of the gold plates. He traveled to Joseph Smith’s home, where Joseph inquired of the Lord and received the revelation in Doctrine and Covenants 5. Although Martin was not allowed to see the gold plates at that time, this revelation strengthened him in a way that enabled him to bear powerful testimony of the Prophet. (Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine & Covenants 5”)

                        2) Who could Joseph Smith show the gold plates to?

                        3 That you should not show them except to those persons to whom I commanded you;

                        11 And in addition to your testimony, the testimony of three of my servants, whom I shall call and ordain, unto whom I will show these things, and they shall go forth with my words that are given through you.

                        3) Why would seeing the plates probably not convince someone the Book of Mormon is true?

                        7 Behold, if they will not believe my words, they would not believe you, my servant Joseph, if it were possible that you should show them all these things which I have committed unto you.

                        “There is no other way to gain a testimony but through the witness of the Holy Ghost. You can rely on nothing else. … We have numerous scriptural examples of how pointless a physical manifestation can be without the accompanying receipt of the witness of the Holy Ghost. Conversion comes not by physical manifestations from heaven.” (Glenn L. Pace, “The Elusive Balance,” New Era, Mar. 1989, 49)

                        Martin Harris was promised that he could be one of the witnesses of the gold plates if he was faithful [and humbled himself]. We won’t see the plates like Martin did, but we can receive a spiritual witness of the Book of Mormon.

                        Friend June 2016 “Jason’s Study Buddy” Jason reads the entire Book of Mormon before his baptism. His testimony grows.

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                        image
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                        4) What can we do to be witnesses of the Book of Mormon? (see Doctrine and Covenants 5:16; Moroni 10:3–5).

                        Friend August 2020 “Matt and Mandy” Mandy shares with her friend a time when she prayed about the Book of Mormon and felt it was true. She also shared that she is still praying and reading to help her faith grow stronger. 

                        Have the children think of ways they can be witnesses of the Book of Mormon and its teachings. List their answers on the chalkboard. Have the children dramatize what they could do to be witnesses in particular situations, such as when someone asks them what their church believes or what the Book of Mormon says.

                        We have received the word of God through Joseph Smith.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 5:10

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 3–5: “My Work Shall Go Forth”

                        Hide a picture of Joseph Smith somewhere in the room (see Gospel Art Book, no. 87). Read Doctrine and Covenants 5:10 “But this generation shall have my word through you,” and invite the children to look for the picture to find out who the word “you” is referring to. Show the children copies of the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants. Explain that God gave us these scriptures through Joseph Smith.

                        Additional Resources

                        Jan 19 2025

                        Doctrine and Covenants 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27–65

                        Posted on by

                        Table of Contents

                        Joseph Smith History 27-65 Moroni appears to Joseph Smith—Joseph’s name is to be known for good and evil among all nations—Moroni tells him of the Book of Mormon and of the coming judgments of the Lord and quotes many scriptures—The hiding place of the gold plates is revealed—Moroni continues to instruct the Prophet.(Verses 21–26.) Joseph Smith marries Emma Hale—He receives the gold plates from Moroni and translates some of the characters—Martin Harris shows the characters and translation to Professor Anthon, who says, “I cannot read a sealed book.” (Verses 55–65.)

                        Doctrine and Covenants 2 An extract from Joseph Smith’s history relating the words of the angel Moroni to Joseph Smith the Prophet, while in the house of the Prophet’s father at Manchester, New York, on the evening of September 21, 1823. Moroni was the last of a long line of historians who had made the record that is now before the world as the Book of Mormon. (Compare Malachi 4:5–6; also sections 27:9; 110:13–16; and 128:18.)

                        The Angel Moroni Visits Joseph Smith

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 & Doctrine and Covenants Stories “The Angel Moroni Visits Joseph Smith”

                        It had been three years since God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to Joseph Smith in the grove, but Joseph hadn’t received any additional revelations since then. He began to wonder about his standing before the Lord. Like all of us, he had made mistakes, and he felt condemned by them.

                        One night, after everyone was asleep, Joseph decided to pray. God had answered his prayers before, and Joseph knew He would answer them again.

                        While Joseph was praying, light filled the room. Joseph saw an angel standing in the air by his bed. The angel said that his name was Moroni. God had sent him. He said God had forgiven Joseph and had a work for him to do.

                        I can repent and be forgiven.

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:28–29

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025

                        • We all sometimes feel “condemned for [our] weakness and imperfections,” as Joseph Smith did. You and your children could study Joseph Smith—History 1:29 together, looking for what Joseph did when he felt that way. What can we learn from his example that can help us when we make mistakes? Why is it important to know that Joseph was called by God even though he was not perfect?

                        What does it mean to know your “standing before [God]”? (Joseph Smith—History 1:29).

                        • Why is it important to think about our “standing before [God]”?

                        Friend April 2023 “Repentance” What is repentance and how is it possible. Also, the steps of repentance.

                        Joseph Smith was called by God to do an important work.

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:27–54

                        Moroni said there was a book made of gold pages or plates. It was buried in a hill near Joseph’s home. The book was about people who lived in the Americas long ago. They knew about Jesus Christ and His gospel. Moroni said God would help Joseph translate the book so people could read it.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27–65:

                        Read with the children Joseph Smith—History 1:33–35, and ask them to listen for what Moroni wanted Joseph to know about the work Joseph was called to do. How we are blessed as a result. For example, how have we been blessed because Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon? How has his work helped us come closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? Invite the children to read the Book of Mormon regularly.

                        Draw students’ attention to Moroni’s prophecy about Joseph Smith’s name in Joseph Smith History—1:33. Why do you think there is so much opposition to the Prophet Joseph Smith? You could point out that Satan always opposes truth.

                        What are ways you can help fulfill Moroni’s prophecy to speak good of Joseph Smith?

                        Why do you think Moroni appeared to Joseph four times (three times during the night and once the next morning), giving him the same message each time?

                        Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27–65:

                        You could ask a family member to read aloud part or all of Moroni’s message from Joseph Smith—History 1:33–42 four times (because Moroni repeated this message four times). Between each reading, ask the other family members to share what they remember from his message, without looking at the scriptures. Why might the Lord repeat important messages several times? What are some other ways the Lord teaches us through repetition?

                        (Another option would be to have some items covered on a tray that are related to Moroni’s message. Uncover the tray for a short time and then recover it. See if the children can remember what was on the tray. Do this three more times and see if they remember more each time. Afterwards, use the items on the tray to teach about the words Moroni spoke.)

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27–65

                        Display a picture of Moroni visiting Joseph Smith (see Gospel Art Book, no. 91). Ask the children to point out things they notice in the picture. Summarize the account of Moroni’s visits to Joseph.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 and CFM Primary 2021

                        Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 3: The Angel Moroni and the Gold Plates” Images and Video

                        • Or, invite the children to act out or draw pictures of events from Joseph Smith—History 1:30–54, such as Moroni appearing to Joseph (verses 30–47), Joseph talking to his father (verses 48–50), and Joseph finding the plates (verses 51–54). What do we learn from this account about the work Joseph was called to do?
                        • Let the kids have fun showing how the angel came back twice more while Joseph was in bed, and then showing Joseph going back to Hill Cumorah each year.

                        “Receiving the Gold Plates” (June 2008 Liahona and May 2008 Friend)
                        An illustrated retelling of the story of Joseph Smith receiving the plates from Moroni.

                        Friend May 2008

                        Friend January 2021 “Getting the Gold Plates” Coloring Page

                        Sing or say the words to “An Angel Came to Joseph Smith”(Children’s Songbook, p. 86)

                        *Link to additional resources about Joseph Receives the Gold Plates

                        God has a work for me to do.

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:27–33

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025

                        It’s one thing to believe that God had a work for Joseph Smith to do—we can look back on his life and clearly see what he accomplished. But have you ever considered that God has a work for you too?

                        Elder Gary E. Stevenson taught: “As we come unto Christ and help others do the same, we participate in God’s work of salvation and exaltation.

                        God will prepare me to work in His kingdom.

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:48–60

                        Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 4: Joseph Smith Prepares to Receive the Gold Plates”

                        Tell the children that you would like them to help you prepare some things for the lesson. Give some of the children blank wordstrips and pens or pencils, and have them write the following words on the wordstrips: Joseph Smith, prayer, light, Moroni, message, four times. Have another child display the picture of Moroni appearing to Joseph Smith. Thank the children for helping you prepare.

                        • Why is it important that we prepare for certain events, such as taking a test in school or giving a talk in Primary? What happens when we do not prepare? Using the wordstrips and the appropriate pictures, have the children help you review what they learned in lesson 3 about Moroni’s visits to Joseph Smith. Remind the children that Joseph was not allowed to take the plates the first time
                          he saw them. Explain that Joseph had a great work to do, but he needed to be better prepared in order to do it.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025

                        Joseph was only 17 years old when he first saw the gold plates. They weren’t entrusted to his care, however, until four years later. Read Joseph Smith—History 1:48–60, looking for what happened in Joseph’s life during that time. How do you think these events prepared him for the work God called him to do? What experiences have you had that have prepared you to serve God and others? What are you currently experiencing that can help you prepare for future service?

                        Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 4: Joseph Smith Prepares to Receive the Gold Plates”

                        What have Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ given us to help us prepare to
                        serve them? (Answers may include scriptures, parents, prophets, teachers,
                        the gift of the Holy Ghost, and Primary.) Write the children’s answers to this
                        question under the heading Heavenly Father helps me prepare by:.

                        • What is our responsibility to help prepare ourselves? Using the items
                          listed on the chalkboard, discuss with the children what each of us needs
                          to do with the things that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have given us
                          (for example: scriptures—study them daily; parents—follow their counsel).
                          Summarize their answers under the heading I can prepare myself by:.
                        • What are we preparing to do? (Serve Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ
                          and others, in positions such as teacher, missionary, or parent.) How does
                          this preparation help us now? How will it help us in the future? Help the
                          children realize their responsibility to prepare themselves now to serve (See more at lesson link.)

                        Joseph and Emma

                        Saints volume 1 “Chapter 4 “Be Watchful”

                        Heavenly Father wants families to be sealed in the temple.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 2

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2

                        Moroni told Joseph Smith that Elijah would come to “reveal … the Priesthood” (verse 1). This refers to the sealing power of the priesthood that allows families to be united eternally and enables us to receive ordinances for our ancestors in the temple.

                        Display a picture of a temple, and help the children name some of the things we do in temples. Explain that baptisms for the dead, eternal marriage, and sealing families in the temple are all possible because of the priesthood keys Elijah restored.

                        “Temple Tour”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025

                        • Perhaps you and your children would enjoy looking at some pictures of your family, possibly including a picture of your family at a temple (or see Gospel Art Book, no. 120).
                        • You could then read Doctrine and Covenants 2 and share with each other your thoughts about why we have temples and why Heavenly Father wants families to be together forever.
                        • Consider singing together “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188). What does this song say we can do to be with our family forever?

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2

                        • Ask the children to read or listen to the prophecy in Doctrine and Covenants 2:1. Ask them to look for who the Lord would send in the last days and what this person would reveal. Display a picture of Elijah in the Kirtland Temple (see Gospel Art Book, no. 95), and talk about how this prophecy was fulfilled 13 years after Moroni’s visit (see Doctrine and Covenants 110:13–15).
                        • Explain that Elijah restored priesthood keys that allow families to be sealed together eternally. Show some objects that could help the children understand what it means to seal something, such as a can of food or a plastic storage bag with a zipper lock. How do these objects help us understand what it means for a family to be sealed?

                        Latter Day Kids “Come Follow Me: A Welding Link: (The Sealing Power)” Videos, songs, activities, and lesson ideas.

                        • Friend April 2020 “Alonso’s Forever Family” Alonso learned that because of Jesus’s resurrection people who have died will live again. He also learned about being sealed to his family. His parents had both died and he was living with his grandma. He couldn’t wait to go to the temple and be sealed to his parents. He saved any money he got so he and his grandma could make the trip to the temple. He was so grateful that  families can be together forever

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27–65

                        Learning about my ancestors can bring me joy

                        Doctrine and Covenants 2

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025

                        • Children can become excited about and feel the joy of family history. To help them, you could share stories or pictures of your ancestors. Talk with your children about what life was like for their ancestors when they were children. Your children could also enjoy some of the family history activities on FamilySearch.org/discovery.

                        Friend July 2018 “Find the people in your family tree who were pioneers, such as the first person to join the church or the first to graduate from college.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27–65

                        • How have you felt your heart turn toward your ancestors? Think of ways you can experience such feelings more often. Perhaps you could ask a relative to share a story with you about one of your ancestors—even better, you could record it. Or you could invite [a family member] to learn about an ancestor and to share what they learn with the rest of the family.
                        “5 Ways to Do Family History”
                        • Maybe you could identify a deceased ancestor who never received gospel ordinances and then have a family member perform that work in the temple.

                        Friend August 2018 “Temple Tracker” Some of your ancestors might need ordinances done for them in the temple. Use the chart below to keep track.

                        Why does the Lord want us to learn about our family members and perform temple ordinances for them?

                        Most of Heavenly Father’s children don’t know about His plan. They don’t know about Jesus Christ. They don’t know they can be baptized or sealed to their families. Heavenly Father wants us to help gather His children so they can come home to Him. And you can help, starting with your ancestors. (Friend October 2022 “Gathering Heavenly Father’s Children”)

                        Friend January 2021 “Come Follow Me” When we turn our hearts to our families, we remember them and do temple work for them.

                        Cut out paper hearts. Write a family member’s name on each one. Take turns holding up the hearts and sharing stories about each person. You could ask your parents to tell stories about their parents or grandparents.

                        How are we blessed when we participate in family history and temple work?

                        Friend January 2025 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

                        • When we learn more about our ancestors, we feel closer to them and to Heavenly Father (see Doctrine and Covenants 2). Ask a family member to tell you a story from their life or from the life of one of your ancestors. Then recreate the story as a play or drawing!

                        For younger children: To teach your little ones about family history, teach them the name of someone in your family that they didn’t know before.

                        Gospel Media: Hearts of the Children Sing-along video

                        Additional Family History Resources

                        Martin Harris Visits Professor Anthon

                        Replica of gold plate and ancient Egyptian type writing from article in Church News

                        Teach the children about Martin Harris’s experiences with Professor Anthon and Dr. Mitchell, as recorded in Joseph Smith—History 1:62–65. Help the children understand that these events fulfilled a prophecy made by the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 29:11–12; see also 2 Nephi 27:15–20) thousands of years before Joseph Smith’s time. (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History: Lesson 5)

                        Church History Topics “Martin Harris’s Consultations with Scholars” This article tells the story and has pictures of Martin Harris and Professor Anthon.

                        • What did Professor Anthon say when Martin Harris first showed him a copy of some of the Book of Mormon writings? (JS—H 1:64.) Why do you think Professor Anthon tore up the certificate when he learned that an angel had shown Joseph Smith where to find the gold plates? (JS—H 1:65.

                        Additional Resources

                        Review Ideas

                        Friend December 2015 Beginning at the star, draw lines from dot to dot as instructed in the answers to the following questions.

                        Friend December 2015
                        1. After reading the Book of Matthew, Joseph Smith decided to pray about which church to join. (See JS—H 1:11.)
                          • True: Move right three dots
                          • False: Move left three dots
                        2. Joseph Smith was instructed to join any church he wanted to. (See JS—H 1:19.)
                          • True: Move up one dot
                          • False: Move diagonally down and left two dots
                        3. Joseph Smith was fourteen years old when he received the First Vision. (See JS—H 1:23.)
                          • True: Move down two dots
                          • False: Move left two dots
                        4. Joseph Smith received a strong testimony of the reality and divinity of Heavenly Father and Jesus, which he never denied. (See JS—H 1:25.)
                          • True: Move right three dots
                          • False: Move down two dots
                        5. Joseph Smith had forgotten to say his prayers the night Moroni first appeared to him. (See JS—H 1:29–30.)
                          • True: Move down and right one dot
                          • False: Move diagonally up and right two dots
                        6. Joseph Smith’s room was very dark while Moroni was there. (See JS—H 1:32.)
                          • True: Move down two dots
                          • False: Move up two dots
                        7. Moroni told Joseph Smith that he, Moroni, had been sent by Noah to teach Joseph. (See JS—H 1:33.)
                          • True: Move down one dot
                          • False: Move diagonally down and left two dots
                        8. Moroni told Joseph Smith about certain gold plates that contained the gospel. (See JS—H 1:34.)
                          • True: Move down two dots
                          • False: Move up two dots
                        9. Moroni quoted prophecies from the Old Testament. (See JS—H 1:36–40.)
                          • True: Move up two dots
                          • False: Move diagonally down and left two dots
                        10. The Book of Mormon was translated from the gold plates. (See JS—H 1:66–67.)
                          • True: Move left three dots
                          • False: Move right one dot.

                        Answers:

                        Friend December 1988 “Do You Know” Joseph is visited by Moroni. Story and question.

                        On the way home Joseph passed out. When he came to, Moroni was there calling his name. The angel repeated what he’d told Joseph the night before; he also told Joseph to do something then. What did Moroni tell Joseph to do? Do you know?

                        A. Joseph was to tell his father everything that Moroni had told him.

                        B. Joseph was to go home to bed until he felt strong enough to work with his father again.

                        C. Joseph was to go immediately to where the gold plates were hidden and dig them up.

                        D. Joseph was to get his five brothers to help him get the gold plates and translate them.

                        Answer:

                        The Red Crystal

                        Jan 12 2025

                        Joseph Smith History 1:1-26

                        Posted on by

                        Table of Contents

                        Joseph Smith—History Chapter 1 Joseph Smith tells of his ancestry, family members, and their early abodes—An unusual excitement about religion prevails in western New York—He determines to seek wisdom as directed by James—The Father and the Son appear, and Joseph is called to his prophetic ministry. (Verses 1–20.)

                        Joseph Smith’s Childhood

                        Joseph Smith was prepared to be a prophet of God.

                        The home life and nurture provided by Joseph Smith’s parents and siblings shaped much of Joseph’s early prophetic work. His attention to prayer and Bible study owed much to his parents’ religious commitments. (Church History Topics: Joseph Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith Family)

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:3–14

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26”

                        • Learning about Joseph Smith’s youth could help your children relate to him as they learn from his experiences. Maybe they could hold a picture of Joseph Smith and share what they know about him. If needed, you might add some facts about him from Joseph Smith—History 1:3–14 (see also “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 6–8, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library). What did Joseph experience that helped prepare him to become a prophet? What might God be preparing us to do?

                        Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family” Images and Video

                        Friend January 2017 “The Smith Family”

                        Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

                        Joseph Smith was born in 1805 in the state of Vermont in the United States of America. He was the fourth of nine children. When Joseph was ten years old, he and his family moved to the state of New York, settling near the town of Palmyra (point out this area on the map). The Smith family was poor, and all the members of the family had to work hard to provide food and other necessities for the family. The family had moved many times before settling near Palmyra, where they found farmland on which crops would grow well.

                        Joseph did not have much opportunity to attend school, so he learned only the basics of reading, writing, and simple arithmetic. Joseph’s mother said that he seemed just like other boys his age until the time of his vision. She said he was quiet and well-mannered and liked to study and think about important things. He was a tall, athletic, cheerful boy who seldom got angry.

                        Friend February 2008 “An Operation on Joseph’s Leg”

                        Latter Day Kids “”My Servant Joseph” Lesson, story, and song ideas

                        See more about Joseph Smith’s childhood here

                        Joseph Smith’s First Vision

                        Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

                        Ask a child to leave the room for a moment. Show the two containers to the rest of the class without letting them see inside. Divide the class into two groups and give each a container. Tell the children in each group that when the child who left the room returns, they are to try to persuade him or her to choose their container. Invite the child to return to the room and choose one of the containers. Ask the child who chose the container questions such as the following:

                        • Why did you choose that container?
                        • How did you feel when others were trying to tell you what to do?

                        Explain that when Joseph Smith was fourteen years old, he was confused about a choice he needed to make. He was trying to decide which church he should join. Other people tried to help him choose a church, but he only became more confused. He felt that he needed more information to make a wise decision: he wanted to know which church was true. Joseph’s situation was similar to that of the child who had to choose between the two containers. Everyone wanted him to choose their church, but he did not know which church was the right choice.

                        Why was Joseph confused about which church he should join? (JS—H 1:5–10.)

                        New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”

                        God can answer my questions through the scriptures.

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:10–13

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

                        • Consider showing your children a variety of books, (like an encyclopedia or a cookbook), and help them think of questions these books could answer. Then show them a copy of the scriptures. What questions can these books answer? Then you could read together Joseph Smith—History 1:10–11 to find out what questions Joseph Smith had and what answers he found in the scriptures.
                        • Your children might be able to find words in verse 12 that describe how reading James 1:5 affected Joseph. Then you could share experiences with each other in which a passage of scripture had a powerful influence on you.

                        Friend November 2023 “James Says “Ask of God”

                        New Era January 2017 “Line upon Line: James 1:5–6”

                        Come Follow Me Kid Hop from one scripture line to another and read it out loud and then discuss what it means. For memorizing the scripture have them do it again and say the phrases, and maybe a little faster each time.

                        Heavenly Father hears and answers my prayers.

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:10–19

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

                        To start a discussion about how we communicate with Heavenly Father, perhaps you and your children could ask each other questions using various communication methods, like a text message, a phone call, or a handwritten note.

                        How do we ask questions to Heavenly Father? How do we show Him that we love and honor Him in our prayers? Read together Joseph Smith—History 1:16–19 and discuss how Heavenly Father answered Joseph Smith’s prayer. You and your children could then share experiences when you asked God for help and received an answer.

                        New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”

                        Friend January 2025 “Coloring Page: Heavenly Father Hears and Answers My Prayers”

                        Friend January 2025 “My Own Sacred Grove” I Can Play It

                        Joseph Smith saw Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:17–19

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

                        • Young children might enjoy standing with outstretched arms pretending to be trees in the Sacred Grove while you tell them about the First Vision. Ask the children to sway as if being blown by the wind while you talk about Joseph praying. Then ask them to stand very still and quiet when you tell them Heavenly Father and Jesus appeared to Joseph.

                        Gospel Art Picture: “The First Vision”

                        • Older children might enjoy using one or more of the pictures in this outline to tell you what they know about the First Vision. Encourage them to refer to Joseph Smith—History 1:14–17 and to share their thoughts and feelings about Joseph’s experience (see also “Chapter 2: Joseph Smith’s First Vision,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 9–12, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library).

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

                        • To review the account of the First Vision, write summaries of each verse from Joseph Smith—History 1:14–19 on separate slips of paper. Place the papers in a container, and invite the children to choose them one by one and place them on the board in the correct order.

                        Invite the children to color this week’s activity page and use it to tell the story of the First Vision.

                        Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

                        I can remain true to what I know, even if others reject me.

                        Joseph Smith—History 1:21–26

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

                        • Read together Joseph’s testimony in Joseph Smith—History 1:25. Ask the children to look for words and phrases that show Joseph’s faith. How can we remain faithful to God and our testimonies when other people disagree with us?

                        Friend November 2019 “Jesus is Real” Everyone at Ismay’s table at school were excitedly talking about Christmas and their favorite traditions such as going to a church service. Suddenly Charlotte spoke up and said, “Jesus isn’t even real.” Ismay was sad to hear this and she quietly bore her testimony to Charlotte that Jesus was real, and that she felt it in her heart. She was glad she had spoken up and planted a seed about Jesus.

                        Additional Resources

                        More resources about the First Vision can be found here

                        The Red Crystal

                        Jan 5 2025

                        Doctrine & Covenants 1

                        Posted on by

                        Table of Contents

                        Doctrine and Covenants “Section 1” Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, on November 1, 1831, during a special conference of elders of the Church, held at Hiram, Ohio. Many revelations had been received from the Lord prior to this time, and the compilation of these for publication in book form was one of the principal subjects passed upon at the conference. This section constitutes the Lord’s preface to the doctrines, covenants, and commandments given in this dispensation.

                        The Doctrine and Covenants

                        Reading Charts

                        Friend January 2021 “Hear Him” Doctrine and Covenants reading chart

                        Friend January 2017
                        Friend January 2017

                        About the Doctrine and Covenants

                        Doctrine and Covenants Scripture Stories “Chapter 23: The Doctrine and Covenants: August–November 1831” Images and Video

                        Friend March 2021 “Getting to Know the Doctrine and Covenants” Jesus gave Joseph Smith special messages, called revelations, to help set up His Church. These messages were written down so people could remember them. Then Church leaders put these messages together in a book. That’s how we got the Doctrine and Covenants! (Match each scripture to the special message taught in the Doctrine and Covenants.)

                        For the Strength of Youth January 2021 “The Doctrine and Covenants: An Overview”

                        Friend January 1989 Information about the Doctrine & Covenants

                        Ensign January 2021 “Prophets and Revelation: Family Study Fun” President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994) taught, “Virtually every page of … the Doctrine and Covenants … teaches about the Master.”1 Doctrine and Covenants teaches us of Christ.

                        Finding Christ Activity

                        1. Set a timer for two minutes.
                        2. Family members will quickly look through the beginning of the Doctrine and Covenants to count the number of references they can find to Christ. Start in the introduction and end with section 9.
                        3. After the time is up, give additional time for each person to choose one of these verses that is especially meaningful to them. Take turns sharing.

                        Ensign January 2021 “Prophets and Revelation: Family Study Fun The Doctrine and Covenants accompanies the Bible and the Book of Mormon in teaching us of Christ and His revelations to us. The introduction to the Doctrine and Covenants explains that we can hear “the tender but firm voice of the Lord Jesus Christ” in the revelations contained in this book.

                        1,2,3, He Speaks to Me Activity

                        1. Secretly assign each family member a number: (1) Bible, (2) Book of Mormon, or (3) Doctrine and Covenants.
                        2. Each person will find a meaningful verse in that book which has the “tender and firm voice” of the Lord teaching or explaining principles to us.
                        3. Without revealing scripture references, take turns sharing verses out loud. Others will hold up either 1, 2, or 3 fingers to guess which book of scriptures each verse came from.

                        Discussion: How do scriptures from ancient times work together with modern revelations found in the Doctrine and Covenants to help us learn more of Christ and hear His voice?

                        Title Page

                        “This title which the Lord gave when they got out this edition—let me refer to the title page: ‘The Doctrine and Covenants of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’—is very significant and tells the story of what this book actually is. It contains the doctrine of the Church; it contains the covenants the Lord will make with the Church, if we are willing to receive them.” (Joseph Fielding Smith Doctrines of Salvation, volume 3, page 198)

                        For the Strength of Youth January 2021 “Hear, Hearken, and Heed” “The very first word in the Doctrine and Covenants is hearken (see Doctrine and Covenants 1:1). It means “to listen with the intent to obey.” To hearken means to “hear Him”—to hear what the Savior says and then to heed His counsel. Where can we go to hear Him? We can go to the scriptures. We also hear Him more clearly as we refine our ability to recognize the whisperings of the Holy Ghost. And, finally, we hear Him as we heed the words of prophets, seers, and revelators.”(President Russell M. Nelson)

                        Doctrine and Covenants 1

                        Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine and Covenants 1”

                        • Prior to the printing of the Book of Commandments, which later became part of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Prophet Joseph Smith petitioned the Lord for a preface to the book. In response, the Lord revealed what is now Doctrine and Covenants section 1 as an introduction of the revelations to the world. This lesson can help students understand why the Lord gives warnings to the world.

                        Through His prophets, the Lord warns me of spiritual danger.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 1:4, 37–39

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Doctrine and Covenants 1” & 2021

                        • To start a discussion about warnings from the Lord, you could talk about warnings we receive from other people about dangers we cannot see. Some examples might include a slippery floor, a coming storm, or an approaching car. Maybe you and your children could look at examples of warning signs and compare these warnings to the warnings the Lord gives us. Testify that He warns us because He loves us and wants us to be safe (see also this week’s activity page).
                        • According to Doctrine and Covenants 1:4, 37–39, how does the Lord warn us? What has He warned us about recently? Perhaps you could watch or read parts of recent general conference messages and look for examples of God’s “voice of warning.” Talk about how you are following the prophet’s counsel.

                        The Red Crystal

                        • Let the children hold pictures of warning signs—such as traffic hazards, bad weather, or poison—and talk about how they warn us of danger. Or tell a story about a time when you obeyed a warning. Compare these warnings to the warnings the Lord gives us through His prophets.

                        Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine and Covenants 1”

                        Imagine that a friend is making a decision that will lead to negative consequences. (Invite students to share realistic examples of what this decision could be. Some examples might be lying to parents, breaking the Word of Wisdom, cheating in school, or leaving the Church.)

                        • Why would you want to warn your friend about this decision?

                        The Savior also gives a “voice of warning” (Doctrine and Covenants 1:4). Ponder the following questions:

                        • Why might the Savior warn us?
                        • What does this teach you about Him?

                        Latter Day Kids “The Voice of Warning” See link for more lesson ideas and questions to ask after watching the video.

                        • Sing together a song about prophets, such as the last verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 111). Share your testimony that the prophet speaks the word of God.

                        The Lord knew the challenges we would face. The Restoration helps me face the challenges of the latter days.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 1:15–17

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Doctrine and Covenants 1” & CFM Primary 2021

                        • To encourage discussion about Doctrine and Covenants 1:17, you and your children could imagine you are preparing for a trip. What would you pack? If you knew ahead of time that it would rain or that your car or bus would get a flat tire, how would that affect the way you prepared for the trip?

                        The Red Crystal

                        • Help the children think of some of the problems in the world today. Review Doctrine and Covenants 1:15–16 with them, and help them identify some of the problems that the Lord prophesied would occur.
                        • Invite them to discover in verses 17 and 30 what the Lord has done to help us face the challenges of our time. If necessary, explain that a “calamity” is a disaster or terrible thing.) How do God’s commandments help us deal with the challenges of our time?

                        The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord’s “true and living church.”

                        Doctrine and Covenants 1:30

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Doctrine and Covenants 1”

                        • What does it mean to say that the Church is “true and living”? To get your children thinking about this question, perhaps you could show them living and nonliving things—such as a live plant and a dead plant. How do we know something is living? Then you could read Doctrine and Covenants 1:30 and talk about what it might mean for the Church to be “true and living.”

                        Clipart Library

                        Liahona January 2025 “The Restored Church of Jesus Christ: Come, Follow Me
                         Family Fun”                         If possible, have your children help you pick a leaf or small branch from a tree or vegetation nearby. Discuss what will happen to it now that it’s not connected to the tree. Why will the leaf or branch die? Read John 15:4, where the Savior compares Himself to a vine and His followers to the branches. How else might the Church of Jesus Christ be considered a living church?

                        The Church is guided by Jesus Christ, who reveals His will in our day to living prophets and other inspired leaders. Continuing revelation from the Savior allows the Church to be aligned with heaven and also to grow and progress—to be both a true and a living church. All living things grow and change. (Topics and Questions “The Only True and Living Church”)

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 1: “Hearken, O Ye People”

                        • Display a picture, such as a painting of the Savior, and ask the children to describe it with the lights in the room turned off. Use this activity to help the children see that for many people, the Savior’s true Church is in “obscurity” and “darkness.” How can we help others learn about the Church?

                        For the Strength of Youth January 2021 “To the Point” The Lord Himself said to Joseph Smith that this Church is “the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth.(Doctrine and Covenants 1:30). This statement certainly does not mean that we’re better than anyone else. But it does mean that this is Jesus Christ’s Church. He leads it, He restored it, and He gave it His authority. Because of this, there are certain things that only this Church can offer, such as prophets and apostles, temple ordinances and covenants, and the Book of Mormon. We’re grateful for these things, and we want to share them with others out of genuine love—not because we want to “be right” or “grow the Church.”

                        While we can boldly and confidently testify of the Church, we should never be arrogant toward others or disrespect their beliefs. The Prophet Joseph Smith once said, “We don’t ask any people to throw away any good they have got; we only ask them to come and get more” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 155).

                        The Lord called Joseph Smith to be a prophet.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 1:17, 29

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Doctrine and Covenants 1”

                        • To learn about the role of Joseph Smith in restoring the Savior’s gospel, you and your children could look at a picture of the Savior and a picture of Joseph Smith (see the pictures in this outline) and talk about what the Savior gave us through Joseph Smith. Your children could look for examples in Doctrine and Covenants 1:17, 29. Tell your children how you know that God “called upon my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., and spake unto him from heaven” (verse 17).

                        The prophet’s words are God’s words.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 1:38

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 1: “Hearken, O Ye People”

                        The children you teach may have heard the President of the Church speak, but they may not realize that his words come from God.

                        Play a simple game by giving instructions to one child and asking him or her to repeat the instructions for the other children. Help them see that following the child’s instructions is the same as following your instructions and that following the prophet is the same as following the Lord. Read to them the last line of Doctrine and Covenants 1:38: “Whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.”

                        Friend November 2024 “What Are Prophets?”

                        The word of the Lord lasts forever.

                        Doctrine and Covenants 1:37–38

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 1: “Hearken, O Ye People”

                        • Help the children compare things that are temporary, like a bubble or a snowflake, with things that seem permanent, like a mountain or the sun. Ask them to find in verses 37–38 something that the Lord said is permanent. Why is it a blessing to know that God’s word “shall not pass away”?
                        • Help the children understand that the “voice of my servants” includes the voices of our apostles and prophets. Help the children find “prophecies and promises” in a recent general conference address by one of the Lord’s servants. Bear your testimony that these words are inspired by the Lord and “shall all be fulfilled.”

                        Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Doctrine, Covenants, and Commandments”

                        Additional Resources

                        Come Follow Me Kid “Hearken O Ye People!” See more lesson ideas at link

                        Dec 29 2024

                        The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

                        Posted on by

                        Table of Contents

                        The Restoration

                        Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “The Great Apostasy” Jesus Christ established His Church during His mortal ministry. Following His death and Resurrection, the Savior commissioned His Apostles to guide the Church with His priesthood authority and keys. Due to intense persecution and the death of the Apostles, people were left without divine direction from living prophets. Jesus Christ’s teachings and doctrine were altered, resulting in a period called the Great Apostasy. This lesson can help students understand the need for a restoration of Jesus Christ’s true Church in the latter days.

                        Restoration Proclamation

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ” How do you commemorate the 200th anniversary of an event that changed the world? That’s the question the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles pondered as April 2020 approached, marking 200 years since Joseph Smith’s First Vision. “We wondered if a monument should be erected,” President Russell M. Nelson recalled. “But as we considered the unique historic and international impact of that First Vision, we felt impressed to create a monument not of granite or stone but of words … , not to be carved in ‘tables of stone’ but rather to be etched in the ‘fleshy tables’ of our hearts [2 Corinthians 3:3]” (“Hear Him,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 90).

                        The monument of words they created is titled “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: A Bicentennial Proclamation to the World.” It’s a monument not just to the First Vision but also to everything Jesus Christ has done—and is still doing—since then. The Restoration of His gospel started when one person turned to God and heard Him. It continues that same way: one heart, one sacred experience at a time—including yours.

                        “We solemnly proclaim.”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”

                        • As you read parts of the Restoration proclamation with your children (or watch the video of President Nelson reading it), help them find sentences that begin with phrases like “we proclaim,” “we declare,” or “we testify.” What truths are our prophets and apostles declaring? Perhaps you and your children could share your own testimonies of some of these same truths.

                        Cranial Hiccups “Memorize the Restoration Proclamation” Flipchart or cards with pictures to go with each part of the Restoration Proclamation.

                        “Joseph Smith … had questions.”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”

                        • It might be interesting to your children to explore some of the questions Joseph Smith had that led to the Restoration of the Savior’s gospel. Help them find some examples in Joseph Smith—History 1:10, 29, 68. How are we blessed today because God answered Joseph Smith’s questions?

                        New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”

                        • You might also give your children a chance to talk about questions they have. What do we learn from Joseph Smith about how to find answers? (see Joseph Smith—History 1:8–17; see also verses 3 and 4 of “This Is My Beloved Son,” Children’s Songbook, 76).

                        Friend November 2019

                        Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Joseph Smith Prayed for Answers”

                        Friend April 2020 “Heavenly Father Hears My Prayers”

                        Friend November 2023 “I Can Ask God”

                        “Heavenly messengers came to instruct Joseph.”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”

                        • Who were the “heavenly messengers [who] came to instruct Joseph”? Your children might enjoy looking for pictures of them in the Gospel Art Book (see nos. 91, 93, 94, 95). How did each of these messengers help “re-establish the Church of Jesus Christ”? The scriptures suggested in this week’s activity page can help your children answer this question.

                        Jesus Christ has restored His Church.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”

                        • How might you help your children understand what it means for the Savior’s Church to be restored? Maybe they could build a simple tower with blocks or cups and “restore,” or rebuild, it. Or, if your children have ever had to replace something because it was lost or damaged, you could compare that experience to the Savior restoring His Church. Help them find specific things mentioned in the Restoration proclamation that the Savior restored.

                        Friend December 2015 “The Restoration Puzzle” Story about how to teach restoration using a puzzle.

                        Friend December 2015

                        Friend January 2025 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Puzzle Restoration

                        To restore something means to put it back together. Read “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: A Bicentennial Proclamation to the World” in Gospel Library to learn more about how the Church was restored. Then play a restoration game! Find or draw a picture and cut it into puzzle pieces. Trade puzzles with a family member and restore each other’s pictures. Why was it important that Joseph Smith restored Jesus Christ’s gospel?

                        “Jesus Christ Restored His Church in the Latter Days” (April 2013 Liahona and Friend)
                        Create a gospel treasure box with gold coins representing truths that were restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith.

                        Friend April 1988 Restored Blessings

                        Friend April 1988
                        Friend April 1988 Restored Blessings

                        “The heavens are open.”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”

                        • To illustrate what the phrase “the heavens are open” means, maybe you could share a message with your children, first behind a closed door and then through an open door. Let them take turns sharing a message too. What messages does Jesus Christ have for us? What experiences have helped us know that the heavens are open to us?
                        Media Library “First Vision Movie Still”

                        Additional Resources

                        See additional resources about the restoration here

                        Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Introduction: Before the Doctrine and Covenants” Story, images and video. The last part is about the apostasy and restoration.

                        The Red Crystal

                        Dec 17 2024

                        Moroni 10

                        Posted on by

                        Table of Contents

                        Moroni Chapter 10 A testimony of the Book of Mormon comes by the power of the Holy Ghost—The gifts of the Spirit are dispensed to the faithful—Spiritual gifts always accompany faith—Moroni’s words speak from the dust—Come unto Christ, be perfected in Him, and sanctify your souls. About A.D. 421.

                        Gold Plates/ Book of Mormon

                        Moroni Burying Plates Video – Explain that we’re studying the last chapter of the Book of Mormon today!
                        This chapter has Moroni’s last words that he wrote before he buried the golden plates. (Come Follow Me Kid– more lesson ideas at link)

                        Friend December 2020 “Moroni Saved the Scriptures for Us.” Video

                        Friend December 2016 “Moroni’s Special Promise” Video can be found here.

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                        Sing together “The Golden Plates” (Children’s Songbook, 86).

                        The Red Crystal

                        Ensign December 2020 “Family Study Fun”

                        Use this activity to talk more about Moroni 10:18 (“every good gift cometh of Christ”).

                        1. Ahead of time, wrap a Book of Mormon with many layers of wrapping paper or colored cellophane. Tell your family you’ll share clues about what’s inside this gift.
                        2. As you share each clue (for example, “This teaches us about Jesus Christ”), invite a family member to take off a layer of paper and guess what’s inside.
                        3. If someone guesses correctly, continue unwrapping and take turns sharing truths about the Book of Mormon.

                        Discussion: Once the book is unwrapped, end by reading Moroni 10:18 together. What can your family do to share the gift of the gospel with others?

                        I can know for myself that the Book of Mormon is true.

                        Moroni 10:3–4

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 10”

                        • How can you help your children accept Moroni’s invitation to ask God if the Book of Mormon is true? Consider giving them slips of paper with the words Read, Remember, Ponder, and Ask written on them. Your children could find these words in Moroni 10:3–4. What should we read, remember, ponder, and ask to gain or strengthen our testimonies of the Book of Mormon? Your children could also look for similarities between these verses and the song “Search, Ponder, and Pray” (Children’s Songbook, 109)

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 10”

                        • Your children could use the picture at the end of this outline to talk about Moroni burying the gold plates (see also “Chapter 54: The Promise of the Book of Mormon,” Book of Mormon Stories, 156). Younger children may enjoy pretending to be Moroni writing on the plates and burying them. Share with each other your testimonies of the Book of Mormon.

                        Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 54: The Promise of the Book of Mormon” Images and Video

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

                        • Show a picture of Moroni burying the golden plates (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families), and ask the children to describe what they see. Invite them to point to the plates, and explain that on these plates were written the words that we now read in the Book of Mormon. Sing together “The Golden Plates” (Children’s Songbook, 86).
                        • Help the children remember some of the experiences you have had together learning from the Book of Mormon. Share your feelings about the Book of Mormon, including how you have gained or strengthened your testimony that it is true. Invite the children to share their feelings and testimonies.

                        Friend December 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Act It Out!”

                        The Book of Mormon is full of stories that teach us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and the people who follow Them (see Moroni 10:3–4). Take turns acting out your favorite Book of Mormon stories! See if your family can guess what the story is.

                        Friend December 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones”

                        • Read Moroni 10:5 together and help your little ones say, “The Holy Ghost helps me know what is true.” Some children mistakenly think the Holy Ghost is a spooky ghost. Explain that the Holy Ghost is a real person, like Heavenly Father and Jesus. He helps us have comforting, warm, happy feelings. Families: You could cuddle up together in a blanket and watch the sing-along video for “The Holy Ghost” at children.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

                        • Show the Book of Mormon, and read Moroni 10:4. Emphasize that we can ask God if the Book of Mormon is true, and He will send the Holy Ghost to testify to us. Help the children understand what a witness from the Spirit feels like. Tell about a time when the Holy Ghost bore witness to you about something. Describe how you felt and how you knew it was the Holy Ghost.
                        • Help the children learn from the following scriptures about how the Spirit speaks to us: John 14:26–27; Doctrine and Covenants 6:15, 23; 8:2–3; 9:7–9; 11:12–14.

                        1. A feeling that Jesus loves us and that the gospel is true
                        2. A comforting feeling
                        3. A happy feeling
                        4. A good feeling
                        5. A peaceful feeling

                        Friend December 2020 “How I Know” Before bed, Damon’s father reads to the boys about Moroni’s promise and then he tells the boys how he prayed and gained his testimony of the Book of Mormon. That night, Damon prays to know if the Book of Mormon is true and he feels warm and good inside.

                        Friend December 2020 “Family Night Fun”

                        Latter Day Kids “Personal Revelation- Come Follow Me” This link has lesson ideas, videos, and discussion ideas about Moroni’s promise

                        Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon “Lesson 44 Moroni and the Book of Mormon Promise”This lesson includes questions and lesson ideas about Moroni and his promise.

                        See more stories of gaining a testimony of the Book of Mormon here.

                        Heavenly Father gives me spiritual gifts.

                        Friend December 2024 “Spiritual Gifts”

                        Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024)

                        • Spiritual gifts can be defined as “blessings or abilities given by God to His children through the power of the Holy Ghost. Gifts of the Spirit are given to bless and benefit those who love the Lord and seek to keep His commandments. (See Doctrine and Covenants 46:9.)” (Gospel Topics, “Spiritual Gifts,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

                        President George Q. Cannon (1827–1901) of the First Presidency shared one way we can seek after spiritual gifts:

                        If any of us are imperfect, it is our duty to pray for the gift that will make us perfect. … No man ought to say, “Oh, I cannot help this; it is my nature.” He is not justified in it, for the reason that God has promised … to give gifts that will eradicate [our weaknesses]. (George Q. Cannon, “Seeking Spiritual Gifts,” Ensign or Liahona, Apr. 2016, 80

                        Moroni 10:8–19

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 10”

                        • To teach your children about spiritual gifts, you could write the numbers 9 through 16 on separate pieces of paper and wrap each paper like a gift. Your children could take turns unwrapping the gifts, reading verses from Moroni 10:9–16 that correspond with the numbers, and identifying each spiritual gift. You could talk about how Heavenly Father wants us to use these gifts to bless His children.

                        The Red Crystal has black and white copies that the children could fill out.

                        • Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024) It may be helpful to know that teaching “the word of wisdom” (verse 9) could refer to the ability to help others use good judgment or apply their knowledge; teaching the “word of knowledge” (verse 10) could refer to the ability to help others come to a knowledge of God and His laws; and “all kinds of tongues” (verse 15) could refer to the ability to speak in foreign or unknown languages.

                        Easy, Peasy, and Fun “Printable Gift Box”

                        Semigloss Design “Gift Card Holder Template – Free Printable Template”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 10”

                        • You could also help your children notice the gifts that Heavenly Father has given them. (Explain that these are gifts Heavenly Father gives His children so we can help each other and do His work.)

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him” Moroni described the gifts that God gives to His children when they have faith in Him..

                        • Tell the children about spiritual gifts you have noticed that Heavenly Father has given them, such as the gifts of faith, wisdom, testimony, kindness, and the ability to learn. Let the children talk briefly about favorite gifts they have received.

                        Friend June 2021 “Matt and Mandy” In FHE the family discusses the seventh article of faith about gifts of the spirit.

                        Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–85) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught that “spiritual gifts are endless in number and infinite in variety” (A New Witness for the Articles of Faith
                         [1985], 371).

                        Share with them some additional spiritual gifts mentioned by Elder Marvin J. Ashton: “The gift of asking; the gift of listening; … the gift of avoiding contention; … the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; … the gift of caring for others; … the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony” (“There Are Many Gifts,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20). Invite the children to talk about the spiritual gifts they see in each other. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )

                        Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.

                        Jesus Christ wants me to come unto Him.

                        Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024)

                        • In the title page of the Book of Mormon, Moroni declared that the Book of Mormon was written to convince us that “Jesus is the Christ.”
                        • We were sent to earth to learn and grow so that we can gain eternal life. To help us, Heavenly Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ. He has also called prophets to teach and testify of Jesus Christ. In the final verses of the Book of Mormon, Moroni invited all to follow the Savior. This lesson can help you “come unto Christ, and be perfected in him” (Moroni 10:32).

                        Moroni 10:32–33

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 10” & 2020

                        • Do your children know what it means to “come unto Christ”? Maybe you could read Moroni 10:32 and invite them to repeat the phrase with you. (“Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him”) They could then close their eyes while you place a picture of Jesus somewhere in the room. Then let them open their eyes, find the picture, gather around it, and talk about ways that we can come unto Christ.
                        Media Library

                        Friend May 2019 “Family Night Fun”

                        1. Before home evening, put a picture of Jesus on one side of the room.
                        2. Have everyone stand up and take turns saying what they can do to come unto Jesus by following Him.
                        3. With each idea, take a step toward the picture of Christ. Keep helping each other think of good things until everyone is with Jesus together!
                        Friend May 2019

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 10” & 2020

                        • Write on the board a question like What does it mean to come unto Christ? Help the children search Moroni 10:32–33 to find possible answers. Work together to list what Christ wants us to do and what He promises to do for us. (see also Articles of Faith 1:3–4)

                        32 Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can in nowise deny the power of God.

                        33 And again, if ye by the grace of God are perfect in Christ, and deny not his power, then are ye sanctified in Christ by the grace of God, through the shedding of the blood of Christ, which is in the covenant of the Father unto the remission of your sins, that ye become holy, without spot.

                        • Maybe your children would enjoy making and decorating heart-shaped badges that say “I love God with all my might, mind, and strength” (see Moroni 10:32). As they do, talk with them about how we show God that we love Him.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

                        • Review with the children the Prophet Joseph Smith’s words from the introduction to the Book of Mormon: “A man would get nearer to God by abiding by [the Book of Mormon’s] precepts, than by any other book.” Bear your testimony about how this has happened in your life.

                        Additional Resources

                        Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020

                        • Read this chapter together, looking for every time Moroni used the word exhort. List or mark what Moroni is exhorting—or strongly encouraging—us to do. What can we do to follow his exhortations?

                        Media Library “Moroni Hides the Plates in the Hill Cumorah (Moroni Burying the Plates)”

                        Book of Mormon Coloring Book “Moroni Buried the Gold Plates”

                        Friend December 2024 “Moroni Buries the Plates”

                        Dec 9 2024

                        Moroni 7-9

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                        Table of Contents

                        Moroni Chapter 7 An invitation is given to enter into the rest of the Lord—Pray with real intent—The Spirit of Christ enables men to know good from evil—Satan persuades men to deny Christ and do evil—The prophets manifest the coming of Christ—By faith, miracles are wrought and angels minister—Men should hope for eternal life and cleave unto charity. About A.D. 401–21.

                        Moroni Chapter 8 The baptism of little children is an evil abomination—Little children are alive in Christ because of the Atonement—Faith, repentance, meekness and lowliness of heart, receiving the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end lead to salvation. About A.D. 401–21.

                        Moroni Chapter 9 Both the Nephites and the Lamanites are depraved and degenerate—They torture and murder each other—Mormon prays that grace and goodness may rest upon Moroni forever. About A.D. 401.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 7-9”

                        • Before Moroni concluded the record we know today as the Book of Mormon with his own final words, he shared three messages from his father, Mormon: an address to “the peaceable followers of Christ” (Moroni 7:3) and two letters that Mormon had written to Moroni. Perhaps Moroni included these messages in the Book of Mormon because he foresaw similarities between the perils of his day and ours.

                        Moroni 7

                        The light of Christ helps me judge between good and evil.

                        Moroni 7:12–20

                        Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        • Many people wonder, “How can I know if an impression comes from God or from my own thoughts?” or “With so much deception today, how can I know what is right or wrong?” Mormon’s words in Moroni 7 give us several principles we can use to answer these questions. Look for them especially in verses 12–20.
                        • How can Mormon’s counsel help us make good choices about how we spend our time and who we spend it with? You could invite family members to search your home and “lay hold upon” (Moroni 7:19), or hold on to, things that invite them “to do good, and to love God, and to serve him” (Moroni 7:13). Praise them for the good things they find.

                        Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 42: Moroni and His Writings,” 

                        1. Use the following or similar examples of choices that apply to your class. Have the children use Moroni 7:16 to help them choose good from evil.
                          • You are playing ball with your friends when a child who does not play well wants to join your team. Your friends tell you if this person plays on your team you will lose the game. You consider telling the child not to play with you. Ask yourself, “Does this choice invite me to do good and to believe in Jesus Christ?”
                          • You are watching a movie that has an immoral scene that lasts only a few seconds. You feel embarrassed to leave the movie. Ask yourself, “Does watching this movie invite me to do good and to believe in Jesus Christ?”
                          • You are in a store when the clerk makes a mistake and doesn’t charge you the right amount for the item you are buying. You know that the item costs more than what you were charged, but the clerk made the error. Ask yourself, “Does paying the wrong price invite me to do good and to believe in Jesus Christ?”
                          • Your bishop has asked you to read the Book of Mormon every day. Sometimes scripture words are hard for you to understand. Ask yourself, “Does reading the scriptures every day help me to do good and persuade me to believe in Christ?”

                        Friend February 2020

                        Ensign September 2016 Circle ways you can choose the right.

                        If I have faith in Jesus Christ, I can do whatever He needs me to do.

                        Moroni 7:33

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        • Mormon wanted the people to know that miracles did not stop when the Savior’s earthly ministry ended. As long as we have faith in Jesus Christ, we can, with His help, do anything He needs us to do—including miraculous things.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 7-9”

                        • Consider looking at a few pictures together that show someone from the scriptures accomplishing something important (see, for example, Gospel Art Book, nos. 19, 70, 78, 81). How did having faith in Christ make a difference in these examples? You and your children could then read Moroni 7:33, looking for what we can do when we have faith in Jesus Christ. You could also share experiences with each other when God blessed you with power to do His will.
                        Gospel Art Book “David Slays Goliath”
                        Media Library “Ammon Defends the Flocks of King Lamoni”
                        Gospel Art Picture: “Nephi Subdues Rebellious Brothers”
                        Gospel Art Picture: “Book of Mormon: Samuel the Lamanite on the Wall”

                        Primary Manual 4: Book of Mormon ““Lesson 43: Moroni Teaches Faith in Jesus Christ” 

                        1. Play the Who Am I? game with the children. Give them the following clues, and have them guess the person you are talking about.
                          • I prayed all day and all night, using my faith in Jesus Christ. (Enos.)
                          • Because of faith, an angel appeared to my son and the four sons of Mosiah to call them to repentance. (Alma.)
                          • I used a special flag to encourage my people to have faith in Jesus Christ and to fight for their liberty and their families. (Captain Moroni.)
                          • Because of my faith, I chose to take my family and go with Lehi and his family into the wilderness. (Ishmael.)
                          • I had the faith to return to Jerusalem to get the brass plates. (Nephi.)
                          • My faith in Jesus Christ let me see his finger and then his whole being. (Brother of Jared.)
                          • Our faith in Jesus Christ, taught by our mothers, saved our lives in battle. (2,000 stripling warriors.)
                          • My faith in Jesus Christ and my desire to preach his gospel helped me fight off a band of robbers who wanted to kill King Lamoni’s sheep. (Ammon.)
                          • Our faith caused the prison to tumble. (Alma and Amulek.)
                          • While imprisoned, we were encircled with fire because of our faith. (Nephi and Lehi.)
                          • Because of our faith in Jesus Christ, we will not taste of death. (Three Nephites.)
                          • We were guided by the Liahona to the promised land according to our faith in Jesus Christ. (Lehi and his family.)

                        I am blessed when I have faith in Jesus Christ.

                        Moroni 7:21–22, 25, 33

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        • Help the children list on the board some of the “good thing[s]” that we receive through the gospel of Jesus Christ, such as having eternal families, returning to Heavenly Father, and being forgiven of our sins. Then invite the children to read Moroni 7:21–22 and 25, looking for how we can receive all of these good things. How can we show our faith in Jesus Christ and His promises?

                        21 And now I come to that faith, of which I said I would speak; and I will tell you the way whereby ye may lay hold on every good thing. 22 and in Christ there should come every good thing. 25 and by every word which proceeded forth out of the mouth of God, men began to exercise faith in Christ; and thus by faith, they did lay hold upon every good thing;

                        • Read Moroni 7:33, and invite the children to stand up when they hear the word “faith.” Explain that we show our faith in Jesus Christ when we keep His commandments. Help the children make a list on the board of some things Jesus wants them to do, like obeying their parents or telling the truth. Testify that our faith in Jesus Christ can help us keep the commandments.

                        Believing in Jesus Christ can give me hope.

                        Moroni 7:41

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 7-9”

                        • As you read Moroni 7:41 to your children, perhaps they could raise their hands when they hear something Mormon said we should hope for. Tell them about the hope you feel because of Jesus Christ.

                        One truth we can learn from Mormon is if we exercise faith in Jesus Christ, we can have hope through His Atonement to be raised to eternal life.

                        • You and your children could also think of someone who may be having a hard time with something. Maybe your children could draw a picture for the person that can remind him or her to have hope in Jesus Christ.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        Ensign December 2020 ““What is it that ye shall hope for?”

                        I can have hope in Jesus Christ, even during difficult trials.

                        Moroni 7:40–41; 9:25–26

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        After describing the wickedness he had seen, Mormon told his son not to grieve. What does it mean to you for Christ to “lift [you] up”? Moroni 9:25–26

                        • Help the children list a few problems that might make people feel discouraged or hopeless. Invite the children to read Moroni 7:40–41 and 9:25–26, looking for something that might help someone who feels discouraged. Tell them how Jesus Christ and His gospel have helped you during difficult times.
                        • Invite the children to write a message to someone who feels discouraged to help him or her find hope in Christ, as Mormon did for his son in Moroni 9:25–26. Encourage the children to use words and phrases from these verses in their messages.

                        New Era December 2020 “Not Ice-olated” Object lesson that demonstrates that with the Lord’s help, we can lift even the heaviest, slipperiest burdens.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 7-9”

                        • To teach your children about hope in Jesus Christ, you could fill a clear container with water and drop two objects into it—one that floats and one that sinks. As you read together Moroni 7:40–41 and 9:25–26, your children could look for what hope does for us. Then they could compare the floating object to a person who has hope in Christ. How does He “lift [us] up” when we face difficult trials? Help your children think of ways they can keep the Savior and His encouraging teachings “in [their] mind forever.”

                        “Charity is the pure love of Christ.”

                        Book of Mormon Scripture Stories “Moroni the Prophet”

                        Life was hard for Moroni, but he stayed faithful. He wrote down what Mormon taught about charity, the pure love of Christ. Mormon said people should pray to God with all the energy of their hearts to get this love. He said God gives charity to those who truly follow Jesus.

                        Moroni loved the Lamanites even though some of them had killed everyone he knew and wanted to kill him. He wrote many things on the metal plates to help Lamanites in the future. He hoped they would read the record someday and believe in Jesus again.

                        “Moroni 7:45–48

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        • Invite the children to share what they think the word “charity” means. Then invite one of the children to read Moroni 7:45. (If some of the words in this verse are hard to understand, help the children look them up in a dictionary.)

                        Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon “Lesson 42: Moroni and His Writings”

                        1. Explain the qualities of charity found in Moroni 7:45 using terms the children can understand. You could have the children match Moroni’s descriptions with your explanations.
                          • Suffereth long: Is patient
                          • Kind: Not cruel or mean, loving
                          • Envieth not: Is not jealous
                          • Not puffed up: Humble, not proud
                          • Seeketh not her own: Is unselfish
                          • Not easily provoked: Slow to anger, quick to forgive
                          • Thinketh no evil: Is trusting, looks for the good
                          • Rejoiceth in truth: Is honest
                          • Beareth all things: Is obedient
                          • Believeth all things: Is faithful
                          • Hopeth all things: Is optimistic, trusting
                          • Endureth all things: Is patient, persistent

                        The Red Crystal

                        Ensign December 2020 “Family Study Fun”

                        Mormon taught that we “must needs have charity” (Moroni 7:44). Use this activity to talk about what charity means.

                        1. Show the picture of Jesus from page 193 of the Come, Follow Me manual for individuals and families.
                        2. Read Moroni 7:45–47 together. As you read, write down on slips of paper phrases that describe charity (for example, “is kind”).
                        3. Put the slips of paper around the picture of Christ. Talk about times He acted in those ways.
                        4. Now show a picture of your family. Talk about what your family can do to follow Christ’s examples of charity. As each idea is shared, move the corresponding paper from Christ’s picture to your family’s picture.

                        Discussion: Read and talk about Moroni 7:48. What can your family do to get ready to see the Savior again?

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        • Ask the children to talk about people they know who are good examples of charity. Why is charity called “the pure love of Christ”? (Moroni 7:47). What does verse 48 teach us about how we can be filled with charity? Encourage each of the children to pray for charity this week and to look for ways to show charity to others.
                        • Ask the children to write names of people they know on pieces of paper and place them in a small bag or container. Invite them to take their container home, select a name from it every day, and do something that shows love for that person. In a future lesson, invite them to share their experiences serving these people.

                        Friend December 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Secret Service”

                        Jesus wants us to love each other (see Moroni 7:45–48). Have each family member write their name on a piece of paper and put it in a bowl. Then pick a name and secretly serve that person the next day to show your love. At the end of the day, guess who served you!

                        Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Moroni 7-9”

                        • How can you inspire your children to seek and develop the pure love of Christ in their lives? Perhaps you could help them think of ways that Jesus showed charity (see, for example, Luke 23:34; John 8:1–11; Ether 12:33–34). How can we follow His example?

                        The Red Crystal

                        • A song about love, such as “Love One Another” (Children’s Songbook, 136), may start a discussion about what charity is. You could read or summarize Moroni 7:47 and invite your children to draw pictures of themselves showing love to someone. Suggest that they put their picture where it will remind them to love others as Jesus does.

                        Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

                        • Ask the children to repeat this phrase with you: “Charity is the pure love of Christ” (Moroni 7:47). Who can we show love to as Jesus did? For an example, example, show the video “My Brother Hyrum” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

                        For younger children: Ask your child to draw a picture for someone they love.

                        Friend December 2020 “Family Night Fun” Read “I Can Give a Little Too” on page FJ8. Then do a service project of your own! Decorate a box or jar to collect some coins. Use the money to help someone in need.

                        Friend December 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones”

                        Latter Day Kids “Charity- Come Follow Me” Video and more lesson ideas at link.

                        Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon “Lesson 42: Moroni and His Writings”

                        1. Moroni had the pure love of Christ. Help the children find some of the following examples of Moroni’s charity, or use some of the following examples as you tell the children the story of Moroni.
                          • Suffereth long: Moroni lived alone for over thirty-six years patiently keeping the records. (Mormon 8:5.)
                          • Kind: Moroni prayed for us, and he loved his brethren. (Ether 12:36, 38.)
                          • Envieth not: Moroni saw our day and counseled us to not be envious or proud. (Mormon 8:35–37.)
                          • Not puffed up: Moroni was humble because of his weakness in writing. (Ether 12:23–25.)
                          • Seeketh not her own: Moroni unselfishly worked and prayed for us that we would have a knowledge of Jesus Christ. (Mormon 9:36; Ether 12:41.)
                          • Not easily provoked: Moroni forgave his enemies and worked hard to write things that he hoped would be of worth to them. (Moroni 1:4.)
                          • Thinketh no evil: Moroni exhorted us to hold to good and touch not evil. (Moroni 10:30.)
                          • Rejoiceth in truth: Moroni was honest. (Moroni 10:27.)
                          • Beareth all things: Because Moroni would not deny Jesus Christ, he had to wander alone for his safety. (Moroni 1:2–3.)
                          • Believeth all things: Moroni encouraged us to believe in Jesus Christ. (Mormon 9:21.) So great was Moroni’s faith that he was able to see Christ face to face. (Ether 12:39.)
                          • Hopeth all things: Moroni understood the importance of hope. (Ether 12:32.)
                          • Endureth all things: Moroni was faithful to the end. (Moroni 10:34.)

                        Moroni 8

                        Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon “Lesson 42: Moroni and His Writings” (See more lesson and study ideas in the lesson.)

                        • Moroni received a letter from his father when Moroni was first called to the ministry. As part of the letter Mormon expressed his love, appreciation, and concern for his son (see Moroni 8:2–3). Before class have a parent, or an adult relative or friend, of each of the children in your class write a letter of love and appreciation. Give these letters to the children as you explain the love that Mormon had for his son, Moroni. Point out that Moroni valued this letter; he carried it with him as he fled from his enemies. Suggest that the children save their letters as a reminder to continue to do good things which will please their parents and the Lord.

                        Additional Resources

                        The Red Crystal

                        The Cozy Red Cottage

                        line upon line come follow me “Good Gifts”