Table of Contents
- What is a Prophet
- Why Should We Follow the Prophet
- God Gives Us Prophets to Guide and Protect Us.
- There is Spiritual Safety in Following the Lord’s Prophet.
- I will be spiritually safe as I follow the prophet.
- Prophets warn me of danger.
- I will be spiritually safe as I follow the prophet.
- God Can Warn Me of Danger Through His Prophet
- Rejecting the prophets brings spiritual danger.
- God’s word is like a light.
- God’s word helps me follow His path.
- Following the Prophet
- Prophets are Seers and Revelators
- How are Prophets Called
- Revelations from Latter Day Prophets
- The Lord Guides His Church through His Prophet. Prophets Help Us Know the Will of Heavenly Father.
- I Can Sustain Our Prophet.
- We Are Blessed as We Sustain Our Church Leaders.
What is a Prophet
A Prophet Speaks for God
Friend October 2023 “Who Leads the Church?” Lesson ideas
The prophet’s words are God’s words.
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.”
Sing together a song about prophets, such as the last verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Share your testimony that the prophet speaks the word of God.
Friend April 2016 “Following Prophets and Apostles”
Prophets are called to speak the words of the Lord.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Jeremiah 1–3; 7; 16–18; 20” The calling of Jeremiah shows what the Lord asks prophets to do. How can you help the children you teach strengthen their desire to follow the living prophet?
- Show the children a picture of the living prophet, and invite them to share what they know about him.
Friend June 2022 “I Will Follow the Prophet”
- What do prophets do? Read to the children what the Lord said to another prophet, Jeremiah, in Jeremiah 1:7. Invite the children to walk in place when you read “go to all that I shall send thee” and to pretend to speak when you read “whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak.” Share your testimony that prophets do and say what the Lord commands.
- Show pictures of prophets from the scriptures (see the Gospel Art Book, Church magazines, and Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Let the children tell you what they know about these prophets. Briefly tell the children about something each one did to help with God’s work. Bear your testimony that prophets are called of God to speak His words and serve His people.
Friend March 2010 “Follow the Prophet”
Prophets are called to speak the Lord’s word.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Jeremiah 1–3; 7; 16–18; 20” How can you help the children strengthen their faith in and understanding of the role of prophets in God’s kingdom?
- Select a few key verses from Jeremiah 1 that teach important truths about prophets, such as verses 5, 7, 10, and 19. Invite each child to pick one of the verses, read it, and share something he or she learns about prophets from the verse. Invite a few children to share their testimonies of following the prophet.
Verse 5
Foreordination See Gospel Topics: Foreordination
Verse 7 God speaks through his prophets
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.”
Verse 10
Prophets warn the nations, but if they do not heed the prophets words…
Prophets also build and help us grow.
Ensign June 2016 “We Believe in Following the Prophet”
- Show a picture of the living prophet, and sing together a song about prophets, such as “We Listen to a Prophet’s Voice” (Hymns, no. 22).
Verse 1: We listen to a prophet’s voice and hear the Savior too. With love he bids us do the work the Lord would have us do. The Savior calls his chosen seer to preach the word of God, That men might learn to find the path marked by the iron rod.
Verse 2. In ev’ry land, in ev’ry tongue, our prophet will be heard; How swiftly round the world his voice reveals the gospel word! The sacred message that he brings will witness and agree, With ev’ry prophet called of God throughout earth’s history.
- Help the children make a list of things the living prophet has asked us to do. Select a recent conference message from the prophet, and help the children find counsel in his message. How are we following the prophet? Discuss how counsel from the prophets helps us follow Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ better.
October 2022 General Conference. Quotes from Russel M. Nelson
- Show the video “Why Do We Have Prophets?” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and ask the children how they would explain to a friend why it’s a blessing to have a living prophet (see Articles of Faith 1:6, 9). Invite the children to share their feelings about the living prophet.
- “Article of Faith 9” (September 2011 Friend)
Draw pictures of elements from the ninth article of faith.
“Article of Faith 6” (May 2015 Friend) A pastor means a spiritual leader. Bishops are pastors in their wards. Evangelist is another word for patriarch, or a priesthood holder called to give special blessings.
- “Article of Faith 6” (June 2011 Friend)
Fill in the blanks with the correct words from the sixth article of faith, then find the words in the word search
Prophets are messengers of Jesus Christ.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Amos; Obadiah” One of the most important things children can know about prophets is that they are messengers of Jesus Christ. The ideas below can help you teach them this significant truth.’One of the most important things children can know about prophets is that they are messengers of Jesus Christ. The ideas below can help you teach them this significant truth.
- Whisper to one of the children a message for the rest of the class (such as asking the children to stand on one foot or turn around in a circle), and ask him or her to share the message with the other children. Repeat this activity, allowing a few other children to be the messenger. Help them understand how the messenger in this activity is like a prophet, who shares God’s message with us. Share a few examples of recent messages from the living prophet that have helped you grow closer to Jesus Christ.
- Invite a child to stand at the front of the room and pretend to be the prophet Amos. As you share some facts about Amos from Amos 7:14–15, give the child pictures or props to hold that go with each fact, such as pictures of a sheep, a fruit, and the Lord. Explain that Amos was a shepherd whom the Lord called to be His messenger. Then show pictures of the Lord and the living prophet, and explain that the Lord continues to call messengers today. Read Amos 3:7 aloud, and ask the children to point to the appropriate picture when they hear the words “Lord” and “prophets.” Share your testimony that just as in the days of Amos, Jesus Christ speaks to us through His prophets.
- Share a story from a recent Church magazine about the living prophet or about experiences Church members have had when they have followed the prophet’s counsel. (See also “Meet Today’s Prophets and Apostles” at ChurchofJesusChrist.org.)
- Sing or play a recording of a song about prophets, such as “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11), as the children work on this week’s activity page. Point out to the children phrases in the song that teach how prophets lead the way to Jesus Christ.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Amos; Obadiah” Amos 3:7 is a great scripture passage to help the children recognize that when we listen to the prophet, we are listening to a messenger of Jesus Christ.
- Help the children memorize all or part of Amos 3:7. For example, give them a few minutes to read the verse several times while you write every other word of the verse on the board. Invite the children to close their scriptures and say the verse out loud together, using the clues on the board. Then erase a few words at a time until the children can repeat the entire verse without any clues. What does this verse teach us about prophets? How has our living prophet helped us know what the Savior wants us to do?
- Write several questions about prophets on strips of paper, such as the following: Why do we have prophets? What do prophets do? Why do you follow the prophet? What do prophets teach about? Ask the children to get into pairs, and have one child from each pair pick a question and ask his or her partner to answer it. If children need help answering a question, they can look in “Prophet” in Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). After the partner answers the question, the children can switch roles and choose another question.
- Share with the children several facts about an Old Testament prophet they have learned about this year (such as Noah, Moses, or Isaiah). Ask them to guess which prophet you are describing. Repeat this for other prophets.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Amos; Obadiah” You might review several recent messages from the President of the Church and discuss what the Lord is revealing to your family through him. Why is it important to have a prophet leading the Church? How have we come to know he is a true prophet? What are we doing to follow his counsel?
Friend October 2023 “Listening to the Prophet” Francesco likened conference to the fruit and vegetable truck who advertise what they have over a loud speaker as they drive by. He said, “Jesus uses the prophet to share His words, just like Ramón uses the loudspeaker. That way everyone in the world can hear Him!” Francesco was excited to hear the prophets words at conference. He wanted to follow Jesus Christ. And he could do that by following the prophet!
Prophets Lead Like Jesus
Prophets teach us about Jesus Christ.
How priests are supported—Divination, spiritualism, and the like are abominations—A Prophet (Christ) will arise like unto Moses.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34” Moses prophesied that Jesus Christ would come and that we should listen to the words Jesus would teach.
- Help one of the children read Deuteronomy 18:18, and tell the children that the Prophet like Moses that God would raise up 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.)
- To help the children see ways in which Moses and Jesus are similar, bring pictures of things Moses did and things Jesus Christ did, and let the children match them. For instance, you could bring pictures of Moses and Jesus ordaining others and teaching (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 15, 16, 38, 39).
- Show the children a picture of our prophet today, and share something he has taught about the Savior. Invite the children to draw a picture of the prophet to share with their families.
“Imagine how quickly the devastating conflicts throughout the world — and those in our individual lives — would be resolved if we all chose to follow Jesus Christ and heed His teachings,” said President Nelson. Conference October 2021
Our focus must be riveted on the Savior and His gospel. It is mentally rigorous to strive to look unto Him in every thought. But when we do, our doubts and fears flee.
When you reach up for the Lord’s power in your life with the same intensity that a drowning person has when grasping and gasping for air, power from Jesus Christ will be yours. When the Savior knows you truly want to reach up to Him—when He can feel that the greatest desire of your heart is to draw His power into your life—you will be led by the Holy Ghost to know exactly what you should do. President Russell M. Nelson “Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives”
Friend May 2003 Article tells of prophets that taught of Jesus Christ
For the Strength of Youth December 2022 “Your Promised Messiah”
Prophets teach us about Jesus Christ.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Haggai; Zechariah 1–3; 7–14” Like other Old Testament prophets, Zechariah prophesied of Jesus Christ. What can the prophecies in Zechariah 2:10; 9:9; 14:3–9 teach the children about Him?
- Display a picture of Jesus Christ entering Jerusalem on a donkey (see Gospel Art Book, no. 50). Tell the children that many years before Jesus came to earth, Zechariah prophesied that Jesus Christ would ride a donkey into Jerusalem before He died for us. As you read Zechariah 9:9, ask the children to point to people in the picture who “rejoice greatly” and also point to the “King.” Who is the King? Ask the children to share why they are thankful for Jesus.
- Read to the children some of the prophecies Zechariah made about the Savior’s Second Coming, such as those in Zechariah 2:10; 14:9. Ask the children to draw pictures of what they think it will be like when Jesus comes again, or sing together a song about the Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83).
Zechariah 9:9–11; 11:12; 13:6–7
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Haggai; Zechariah 1–3; 7–14”What can the children learn from Zechariah’s prophecies about Jesus Christ?
- Divide the children into pairs. Give each pair one of the following prophecies from Zechariah, along with the New Testament verses describing its fulfillment: Zechariah 9:9 and Matthew 21:5–9; Zechariah 9:11 and 1 Peter 3:18–19; Zechariah 11:12 and Matthew 26:14–16; Zechariah 13:7 and Matthew 26:31. Ask each pair to share with the class what they learned about Jesus Christ from their verses and why they are grateful for Him.
- Display pictures 50, 60, and 64 from the Gospel Art Book. Write the following scripture references on the board, and invite the children to match the references to the pictures: Zechariah 9:9; 13:6; 13:7. Invite the children to share their feelings about Jesus Christ.
Prophets testify of Jesus Christ.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Helaman 7-12”
- Help your children search Helaman 8:13–23 to find names of prophets who taught about Jesus Christ. Maybe they can pass around a picture of Jesus each time they find one. What has our living prophet taught about the Savior?
- You could also sing together a song about prophets, such as “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Maybe you and your children could pick a key phrase from the song and write one word from the phrase on each of several paper footprints. Then you could lay the footprints on the floor leading to a picture of the Savior, and your children could follow the footprints toward the picture. How has following the prophet led us to Jesus Christ?
Friend August 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Many people in the scriptures taught and testified of Jesus Christ (see Helaman 8:16–20). You can start building your testimony of Him too! A testimony is something you believe or know is true about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Write down your testimony and practice sharing it with your family or friends.
For younger children: Ask your little ones what they love about Jesus Christ. Then share your testimony of the Savior with them.
Lesson 31: Samuel the Lamanite
Isaiah’s teachings point me to Jesus Christ.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 13–14; 24–30; 35” Isaiah’s teachings can point the children you teach to the Savior and help them remember the things He has done for them.
Friend September 2022 “Isaiah Teaches about Jesus Christ”
- Write the following scripture references on separate pieces of paper: Isaiah 14:3; Isaiah 25:8; Isaiah 28:16; Matthew 11:28–30; 1 Corinthians 15:53–57; Helaman 5:12. Give the papers to the children, and invite them to write on the papers the truths they learn from the verses and work together to match the verses that teach similar truths. According to these verses, what great things has the Lord done for us?
- Ask the children to choose a phrase from Isaiah 14:3; 25:8; or 28:16 that reminds them of Jesus Christ. Invite them to write the phrase on a piece of paper and draw a picture of the Savior that they can display in their homes.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 13–14; 24–30; 35”
Has your family ever experienced the blessing of a safe shelter during a storm or of shade on a hot summer day? (see verse 4). Talk about this as you read these verses and other descriptions of the Lord found in Isaiah 25:4–9. How is the Lord like these things?
Showing pictures of the Savior in Gethsemane, on the cross, and after His Resurrection can help your family see connections between these verses and Jesus Christ (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 56, 57, 58, 59). Invite your family to share why they “rejoice in his salvation” (Isaiah 25:9).
Friend September 2022 “Scripture Match-up”
Why Should We Follow the Prophet
Friend November 2022 “Jesus Said”
Friend November 2022 “Bright Idea”
God Gives Us Prophets to Guide and Protect Us.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Genesis 6:14–22; 7–8; Moses 8:16–30
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”
Children are growing up in a wicked world, similar in some ways to the world during Noah’s time. Noah’s experience can give them confidence that they can find spiritual safety as they follow the prophet.
- In your own words, tell the story of Noah and the ark (see “Noah and His Family” in Old Testament Stories; see also “Follow the Prophet,” Children’s Songbook, 110–11, verse 3). Help the children act out parts of the story—for example, by pretending to use a tool to build the ark or walking like animals entering the ark.
- Read to the children Moses 8:19–20, emphasizing what the Lord commanded Noah to do. 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.
- Bring to class pictures or objects that represent teachings of the current prophet, such as the scriptures or a picture of a temple. Let the children take turns selecting an item and telling what they know about it. Explain to them what the item represents. Encourage them to draw a picture of themselves obeying what the prophet has taught. Bear your testimony about the blessings of following the prophet.
- Help the children choose verses from Genesis 6:14–22; 7–8that they could depict in a drawing. Use their drawings to teach them the story of Noah. Ask the children to share what they learn from the story.
- Show a picture of Noah (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 7–8) and the current prophet. Help the children search Moses 8:16, 19–20, 23–24 to find things Noah taught that our Church leaders still teach today. How are we blessed when we obey these teachings?
- Share something that the current prophet has recently taught. Ask the children to write something the prophet has taught on strips of paper, and help them arrange the strips into the shape of an ark. How are these teachings like the ark that Noah built?
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”
When Jesus Christ taught how we should watch for His Second Coming, He said, “As it was in the days of Noah, so it shall be also at the coming of the Son of Man” (Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:41). In addition, phrases that describe Noah’s day, like “corrupt” and “filled with violence,” could just as easily be describing our time (Genesis 6:12–13; Moses 8:28).
Noah was one of God’s great prophets. He was ordained and sent forth to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, he walked and talked with God, and he was chosen to reestablish God’s children on the earth after the Flood
As you read about Noah’s day, you might notice similarities to our day. For example:
- Moses 8:18, 20–21, 23–24 (rejection of God’s servants)
- Moses 8:21 (complacency and worldliness)
- Moses 8:22 (evil imaginations and thoughts)
- Moses 8:28 (corruption and violence)
What are prophets teaching today about the gospel of Jesus Christ that could keep you safe in today’s world? As you read about Noah’s experiences, what inspires you to follow the Lord’s prophets today?
How might you use the story of Noah’s ark to teach your family how following the prophet can keep us spiritually safe? Maybe your family could work together to build a simple toy boat out of paper or blocks. As you read Genesis 6–7, you could compare the safety provided by the boat to the safety we find in following the prophet. You may want to discuss recent counsel from the prophet and write his words of counsel on your boat. What else has God given us that might be compared to the ark that saved Noah’s family? (Atonement, scriptures, church, Holy Ghost, etc.)
What does it mean for the Lord’s Spirit to “strive” with us? (see 1 Nephi 7:14; Doctrine and Covenants 1:33). When have we experienced the Spirit striving with us?
Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “Noah Preaches the Gospel” Find 7 happy people who did listen
Friend February 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”
Liahona February 2022 “Noah’s Ark” For 120 years, Noah repeatedly “called upon the children of men that they should repent; but they hearkened not. … Despite “the longsuffering of God … in the days of Noah, … [only] eight souls were saved” (1 Peter 3:20).
Lesson 8: Noah and the Flood,” Primary 6: Old Testament(1996), 31–33 Purpose: To strengthen each child’s desire to listen to and follow the counsel of the living prophet.
Friend March 2018 “Noah”
These cutouts are from old Primary manuals.
Larger PDF version of the October 2002 Friend activity and story visual aid “Noah’s Ark”
Friend September 2018 Dot to dot.
Friend May 1986 Read the story of Noah’s Ark, and fill in the missing words. Place the words in the ark, noting that the last letter of each filled-in word is the first letter of the next one.
Coloring Page: “Noah Sends the Dove” (March 2010 Friend)
Latter Day Kids “Noah’s Ark” Lesson ideas to go with below video
Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Follow the Prophet” Lesson ides
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For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Prophets” and Resources for Teaching Children “Prophets”
Help the children understand how the Lord’s prophets can help us find safety from the storms of life.
- Show the children pictures of ancient prophets, and tell them how these prophets warned the people in their day. (For ideas, see “Follow the Prophet,” Children’s Songbook,110–11.)
- Why should we listen to God’s prophets? Show a picture of the current prophet, and share some things he has taught or warned us about recently. Help the children think of ways we can follow the prophet. Share your testimony of the truths taught in Doctrine and Covenants 90:5. (Note that “oracles” means revelations or the prophets who receive them.)
- Talk about how you “receive the oracles [revelations or prophets] of God.” How can we show that they are not “a light thing” to us?
Friend September 2015 – ” How Can I Stay Safe….in Life” – Air traffic controller guides plane through fog. Prophets guide us.
Friend April 2016 “Following Prophets and Apostles”
Prophets are like watchmen who warn us of danger.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezekiel 1–3; 33–34; 36–37; 47” Ezekiel was like a watchman, warning the Israelites of dangers they could not see. Help the children see how our prophets today are like watchmen.
- Read to the children what the Lord told Ezekiel in Ezekiel 3:17. Invite them to do actions that go with the words, like pointing to their eyes, ears, and mouth when you read the words “watchman,” “hear,” and “mouth.”
- Lead the children on a hike around the room. Warn them about pretend dangers on the trail, like rivers to jump over, branches to duck under, or animals to avoid. Let other children take turns being the leader. Talk about how our prophet warns us of dangers we cannot see.
- Show a picture of the current prophet while you sing together a song about prophets, such as the last verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Tell the children how the prophet is like a watchman for you.
Latter Day Kids “Prophets are Like Watchman” Lesson ideas
To illustrate these verses, one family member could pretend to be a “watchman” by looking out a window and telling the rest of the family what is happening outside. How is our living prophet like a watchman for us?
I will be spiritually safe as I follow the prophet.
Helaman 7-12 Nephi Prophecies
Book of Mormon Stories “The Murder of the Chief Judge” Images and Video
Nephi Prays for His People Video
Nephi Prophesies Death of Chief Judge Video
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”
- Invite the children to make a list on the board of things a prophet does (see “Prophet,” Guide to the Scriptures, scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Help them search Helaman 7:1–2, 27–29; 8:22–23; and 10:3–4, 6–7 to see how Nephi did some of the things in their list. When have we seen our prophet today do these things? Bear your testimony of the living prophet. To illustrate the importance of prophets, show the first minute of the video “Watchman on the Tower” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”
- Read together Helaman 11:3–7 (or review “Chapter 39: Nephi Receives Great Power,” Book of Mormon Stories,108–10, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Ask the children to listen for what happened to the people who did not listen to the prophet. What can happen when we do not listen to the prophet? How are we blessed when we follow Him? Share something that our prophet has taught, and encourage the children to follow his teachings.
Book of Mormon Stories: Nephi Receives Great Power Images and Video
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.
Friend September 2015 – ” How Can I Stay Safe….in Life” – Air traffic controller guides plane through fog. Prophets guide us.
Friend August 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Helaman 11:18 together and help your little ones say, “I will listen to the prophets and apostles.” Watch a short video of testimonies of the prophet and apostles at http://bit.ly/333rMkn. Teach your children the name of each person who speaks. When you see the prophet, help your children cup their hands around their ears to listen extra closely to what he has to say.
Lesson 2 – Lehi and his Family Leave Jerusalem
Prophets warn me of danger.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 22-28” Consider how the account of Paul’s shipwreck can teach the children that prophets see physical and spiritual danger that we can’t see.
Invite the children to pretend they are on a ship that is being wrecked in a storm. Read Paul’s warning to the people, found in Acts 27:9–10, and share the story of the shipwreck that happened because they didn’t listen to his warning (see Acts 27:11, 39–44). Show a picture of the President of the Church, and bear your testimony that he can warn us of spiritual dangers.
Place several pictures or objects around the room that represent things prophets have taught us to do to be more like Jesus, such as loving others or being baptized. As a class, walk around the room, stopping at each picture or object to talk about how following the prophet’s teachings helps to keep us safe.
- “Sharing Time: Blessings Come When We Follow the Prophet” (June 2001 Liahona and Friend) An illustrated matching game that pairs prophets with their teachings.
- The pictures below match each of the prophets words in the activity above.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 22-28” Children can listen to the messages of living prophets and recognize their warnings. How can you help the children learn how to heed those warnings?
- New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “Acts 27-28” Complete the following activity by first reading the information at the top of each square. Then read the accompanying verses in Acts 27. Summarize the account in the center of each box by either drawing a simple picture or writing a summary of Paul’s words and actions. Be sure to also include the reaction of the people to Paul’s counsel.
| Roman soldiers brought Paul and other prisoners onto a ship of almost 300 people. Their voyage was slow, difficult, and dangerous because it was late in the fall, when violent storms occurred frequently.Read Acts 27:9–13. | During a terrible storm, attempts were made to repair the ship and lighten the cargo.Read Acts 27:20–26. |
| After 14 days of the terrible storm, they attempted a perilous approach to land. The sailors dropped anchor and wanted to abandon the ship because they thought it would be dashed against the rocks.Read Acts 27:30–36. | After lightening the ship even further, they tried to land the ship.Read Acts 27:41–44. |
Cut a piece of paper shaped like a ship into puzzle pieces. Invite the children to write Paul’s warnings in Acts 27:9–11 on the pieces and put the puzzle together.
Why didn’t the people listen to Paul? (see verse 11). Invite the children to read verses 18–20 and 40–44 to find out what happened as a result. (Explain that because the people followed Paul’s later counsel to stay on the ship, no one died in the shipwreck; see verses 30–32.) What can we learn from this experience about following the prophet?
Bring a recent conference message by the President of the Church and share with the children any warnings or counsel he gave. Invite the children to think of ways they can follow the prophet.
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.
Show the video “Blessed and Happy Are Those Who Keep the Commandments of God” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How are prophets like the man with the binoculars?
I will be spiritually safe as I follow the prophet.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”
Invite the children to make a list on the board of things a prophet does (see “Prophet,” Guide to the Scriptures, scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Help them search Helaman 7:1–2, 27–29; 8:22–23; and 10:3–4, 6–7 to see how Nephi did some of the things in their list. When have we seen our prophet today do these things? Bear your testimony of the living prophet. To illustrate the importance of prophets, show the first minute of the video “Watchman on the Tower” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”
Ask the children to listen for what happened to the people who did not listen to the prophet. What can happen when we do not listen to the prophet? How are we blessed when we follow Him? Share something that our prophet has taught, and encourage the children to follow his teachings.
Sing together a song about prophets, such as “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110). Pick a key phrase from the song, and write one word from the phrase on each of several paper footprints. Lay the footprints on the floor leading to a picture of the Savior. Invite the children to follow the path of the footprints, and help them read the words.
Friend August 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Helaman 11:18 together and help your little ones say, “I will listen to the prophets and apostles.” Watch a short video of testimonies of the prophet and apostles at http://bit.ly/333rMkn. Teach your children the name of each person who speaks. When you see the prophet, help your children cup their hands around their ears to listen extra closely to what he has to say.
God Can Warn Me of Danger Through His Prophet
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.
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.
Rejecting the prophets brings spiritual danger.
Being king of the Jaredites was, historically, a dangerous position. This was especially true for Coriantumr, as many “mighty men … sought to destroy him” (Ether 13:15–16). In Ether 13:15–22, notice what Coriantumr did to protect himself and what the prophet Ether counseled him to do instead. As you read the rest of the book of Ether, ponder the consequences of rejecting the prophets. What happens to people when “the Spirit of the Lord [ceases] striving with them”? (Ether 15:19).
Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 41: The Jaredites Reject the Prophets,”
- What would happen if you chose to stick a pin in a fully inflated balloon?
- What would happen if your family chose to stop watering a plant in your home?
- What would happen if you chose to stay up late and not get enough sleep?
Explain to the children that all their choices have consequences. Consequences are what happen as a result of the choices we make. The scriptures and our prophets teach us the consequences of our choices because Heavenly Father wants us to make good choices. This lesson is about the Jaredites and the prophet Ether. Ether told the Jaredites that if they chose not to repent, the consequences would be that all of the people would be destroyed.
- Before class, write the letters to the word obedience on separate pieces of paper, and hide them around the classroom. Explain to the children that you have hidden some letters. Give specific directions for finding each letter. When all the letters have been located, put them on the floor or chalkboard to form the word obedience. Ask how they were able to find all the letters. Teach the children that Heavenly Father wants us to choose to obey. Learning to obey is one of the main reasons we are here on earth. Heavenly Father wants us to use our agency and choose to obey the counsel of the leaders of the Church. Ask the children what they think is the most important thing they can do to be happy. Refer again to the letters that spell obedience. Point out that Heavenly Father tells us in the scriptures and through his Church leaders what he wants us to do. When we use our agency to be obedient and do what he says, he will help us find happiness.,”
God’s word is like a light.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 The children you teach are on the path back to Heavenly Father. The word of God can help keep them on that path now and throughout their lives.
- Show pictures of the things mentioned in Psalm 119:105, and invite the children to put the pictures in order as you read the verse. Ask the children to repeat phrases from the verse with you as you point to the pictures.
Latter Day Kids “A Light Unto My Path” Lesson ideas
- Invite the children to talk about what it feels like to be in the dark. What are things that are hard to do in the dark? You might invite a child to try to do something with their eyes closed, like drawing a picture. Why are these things easier to do when there is light? Help the children understand how the word of God, as found in the scriptures and the words of living prophets, lights our way back to Heavenly Father.
We are Blessed When We Follow the Prophet
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 13-16”
- Share in your own words the account in Alma 16:1–8. Emphasize that because Zoram and the Nephite armies followed the prophet Alma, the Nephites were able to rescue their friends who were being held as prisoners by the Lamanites. Share an experience when you were blessed because you followed the prophet.
- Show a picture of the President of the Church, and share a few things he has taught us to do. Help the children think of ways they can follow Jesus by doing what His prophet teaches us.
Friend November 2022 “Bright Idea”
- Show pictures of prophets (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 6–9, 14, 18, 26–27) as you sing with the children a song about prophets, such as “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Emphasize phrases in the song that teach why we should follow the prophet.
Enoch was a prophet; he taught what was good. People in his city did just what they should. When they were so righteous that there was no sin, Heav’nly Father took them up to live with him.
Noah was a prophet called to preach the word, tried to cry repentance, but nobody heard. They were busy sinning—Noah preached in vain. They wished they had listened when they saw the rain.
Moses was a prophet sent to Israel. He would lead them to the promised land to dwell. They were slow to follow, or so it appears. They were in the wilderness for forty years.
Follow the prophet, follow the prophet, Follow the prophet; don’t go astray. Follow the prophet, follow the prophet, Follow the prophet; he knows the way.
- What had Alma previously prophesied would happen to the people of Ammonihah if they did not repent? (God would “utterly destroy [them] from off the face of the earth” [Alma 9:12].)
- What happened to the people of Ammonihah? Alma 16:1–3
Friend June 2020 “My Family Night Fun” Game: Follow the Leader
Elijah & the Widow
Friend September 2018 “Elijah and the Widow” The widow was blessed for listening to the prophet.
Zoram and Alma
Zoram was captain of the Nephite army. He asked the prophet how to rescue some people who had been captured. Because he listened to the prophet Alma, he was able to rescue the people! (See Alma 16:2–8.)
God’s word helps me follow His path.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 Although the world may seem dark at times, God’s word can illuminate our path and help us return to Him.
- Draw on the board a picture of a light (such as a lamp) and a picture of the scriptures. Invite the children to read Psalm 119:105. How does light help us? How does the word of God help us? Ask the children to write their answers on the board next to the pictures. How is the word of God like a light? How does it help us stay on the path that leads back to Heavenly Father?
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 Perhaps your family could create a path and walk along it in the dark, using a light to illuminate the way ahead. As you walk, you could ask questions like “What in our lives is like this darkness?” or “How is the word of God like a light?” Singing a song about God’s light, such as “Teach Me to Walk in the Light” (Children’s Songbook, 177), can help you reinforce the principle taught in Psalm 119:105.
- Divide the children into pairs, and give each pair one of the following scripture passages: Psalm 119:47–48; Psalm 119:105; 1 Nephi 11:25; 2 Nephi 31:20. Invite them to read the passages and look for what Heavenly Father has given us to help us stay on the path back to Him. Invite the children to ponder and share what they feel inspired to do because of what they have learned.
- See God’s Word is Like a Light for additional teaching ideas.
- Sing together a song about following God’s path, such as “I Will Walk with Jesus” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). What do we learn from this song about how to stay on the right path?
For the Strength of Youth “A Lamp to Our Feet” (See more at link)
Following the Prophet
Friend June 2022 “I Will Follow the Prophet”
The Lord wants me to follow His prophet.
Miriam and Aaron Speak Against Moses
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.
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?)
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24”
Numbers 12 contains some valuable lessons that can help the children when they hear people saying unkind things about the Lord’s prophet or other Church leaders.
- Tell the children that on one occasion, the Lord was unhappy with Aaron and Miriam, Moses’s brother and sister. Invite them to read Numbers 12:1–2 to find out why. According to verses 5–8, how did the Lord feel about Aaron and Miriam speaking against His prophet?
- Help the children think of examples of people in the scriptures who did follow the prophet and were blessed (for example, see Genesis 7:7; 1 Nephi 3:7). What are some of the things our living prophet has taught us? How are we blessed when we follow his teachings?
- “Sharing Time: Blessings Come When We Follow the Prophet” (June 2001 Liahona and Friend)
An illustrated matching game that pairs prophets with their teachings.
What Did the Prophet Teach at General Conference?
‘Start Today to Increase Your Faith’ April 2021 Conference
President Nelson gave five suggestions to increase faith:
- Study the gospel.
- Choose to believe.
- Act in faith.
- Partake of sacred ordinances.
- Ask God to help you.
“Your growing faith in Him will move mountains — not the mountains of rock that beautify the earth — but the mountains of misery in your lives,” he said. “Your flourishing faith will help you turn challenges into unparalleled growth and opportunity.”
What the Prophet Taught at the April 2022 General Conference
Five Ways to Maintain Positive Spiritual Momentum
The prophet’s Sunday morning address outlined five ways that Latter-day Saints can maintain positive spiritual momentum:
- Get on the covenant path and stay there.
- Discover the joy of daily repentance.
- Learn about God and how He works.
- Seek and expect miracles.
- End conflict in your personal life.
I am blessed when I follow the prophet.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 6–11: “That Evil May Be Done Away”
The book of Ether clearly shows that when the Jaredites followed the prophets they were blessed, and when they rejected the prophets their lives were harder.
- Show a picture of the living prophet, and ask the children what they know about him. What does a prophet do? Explain that the Jaredites had prophets too, and whenever they followed the prophet, they were blessed and happy (see Ether 7:24–27). How can we follow the prophet?
- Sing together a song about prophets, such as “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11; see also Gospel Art Book, nos. 4–27, 67–87). Talk with the children about things the prophets have taught us to do (for example, reading our scriptures daily, keeping the Sabbath day holy, or serving others), and invite them to act out obeying that counsel when you say “Follow the prophet!”
- Write on the board Commandments and Blessings. Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 21:4–6, looking for the commandments the Lord gave and the blessings He promised. Invite them to write on the board what they find.
- Show a picture of the current prophet, and invite the children to share something they learned or heard from him recently.
- What does it mean to receive the prophet’s words in patience? in faith? When have we received the blessings promised in verse 6?
Make paper footprints, and draw on them pictures of things that prophets have counseled us to do. Place these footprints in a path around the room, and describe the pictures. Let the children take turns acting as a prophet and guiding the other children in following these footprints.Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 7-10”
Friend May 2020 “Alma Followed the Prophet” Coloring page and question: What’s one way you can follow the prophet?
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 13–16: Glad Tidings of Great Joy” Show a picture of the living prophet speaking in general conference. Tell the children that God tells the prophet what to say to us, just as He told Samuel what to say to the Nephites. Talk together about things the prophet has said that have been inspiring to you or the children.
Read aloud Helaman 16:1 and 5, and ask the children to stand up when they hear something the people did when they believed Samuel’s words. Then read verses 2 and 6, and ask the children to sit down when they hear something the people did when they did not believe. How can we show that we believe the words of the living prophet?
Ensign September 2020 “Family Study Fun: Go Forth”
Read Helaman 16:1–3 together. Those who believed Samuel “went forth” to do what he taught. Talk about how we should follow our Church leaders today.
- Invite each family member to find a quote from general conference. (Perhaps browse “Inspirational Picture Quotes” at ChurchofJesusChrist.org/media-library/images.)
- Take turns standing on a chair or stool, like Samuel on the wall, and reading these quotes to the group.
- After each quote, talk about what your family can do to “go forth” and do what was taught.
Discussion: What could we do to get ready for general conference next month? What would help us listen to and act on the teachings of our Church leaders?
I can choose to do what God commands through His prophet.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “2 Kings 2-7” Naaman had a hard time obeying when the prophet Elisha told him how to be cured of leprosy. Ponder how you can help the children understand the blessings that come from being obedient.
- Tell the story of Naaman (see 2 Kings 5:9–14; “Elisha Heals Naaman” in Old Testament Stories; see also the picture of Naaman in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Emphasize that at first Naaman did not want to wash in the Jordan River, even though Elisha told him that this would heal his disease. Tell about a time when you weren’t sure you wanted to do the right thing, and help the children think of their own examples. Then share how Naaman was blessed when he made the right choice.
- Read 2 Kings 5:13 to the children, and explain that Naaman’s servants helped him decide to obey the prophet Elisha. Help the children think of ways they could help their friends or family members listen to and obey the prophet.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “2 Kings 2-7” Naaman wanted to be healed of leprosy, but he wasn’t expecting the simple instruction Elisha gave him: “Go and wash in Jordan seven times” (2 Kings 5:10). Consider how you could use this story to teach the children about faith in Jesus Christ, humility, and obedience.
- Write faith, humility, and obedience on the board, and ask the children what these words mean (see True to the Faith, 54–56, 86–87, 108–9). Invite the children to read 2 Kings 5:9–14. You could also show parts of the video “Naaman and Elisha” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How did Naaman show faith in the Lord, humility, and obedience? Why is it important for us to have these qualities?
- Ask the children to tell about a time when a friend helped them choose the right. Also share an experience of your own. Read together 2 Kings 5:10–13 to learn how Naaman’s servants helped him choose to obey the prophet. What can we do to help each other follow our prophet today?
- Invite the children to complete the activity page and share with a family member or friend something they learned from the story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5:1–15.
“Lesson 35: Naaman Is Healed,” Primary 6: Old Testament To strengthen each child’s desire to obey righteous leaders.
Friend July 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Naaman and the Miracle”
Story: Naaman had a sickness called leprosy. The prophet Elisha told him to wash seven times in the Jordan River to be healed. At first, Naaman didn’t want to. But when Naaman did what Elisha said, he was healed! (See 2 Kings 5.)
Song: “Quickly I’ll Obey” (Children’s Songbook, 197)
Activity: Make or draw a pretend river using rocks, sticks, chalk, or blankets. Then jump on your river seven times. Talk about how doing simple things God asks us to do can help us.
For the Strength of Youth July 2022 “Some Great Thing”
Friend July 1990 “Elisha and Naaman”
Old Testament Coloring Book “Elisha and Naaman”
Latter Day Kids “Elisha Heals Naaman-Obedience” Lesson ideas
Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Trust in God and His Prophet” Lesson ideas
“Lesson 35: Naaman Is Healed,” Primary 6: Old Testament To strengthen each child’s desire to obey righteous leaders.
Prophets are Seers and Revelators
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Mosiah 7-10”
- One way to teach about seers is to compare them to things that help us see better, like glasses, binoculars, or a microscope. [Show the children how to hold their hands up to their eyes as if they were looking through glasses or binoculars. Read Mosiah 8:17, ask the children to put on their “glasses” each time they hear the word “seer.”] (see also Moses 6:35–36). Talk with them about things that the Lord helps prophets “see” that we can’t. What have our prophets or seers, such as Joseph Smith, revealed to us?
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 7-10” Show the children pictures of tools that help us see things we couldn’t otherwise see, such as binoculars, a telescope, or a microscope. How are these tools like a seer? (see Moses 6:35–36). What can seers see that we do not? Explain that God has given us prophets and that one of the roles of a prophet is to be a “seer” because he can “see” things to come. Share some examples of things that prophets have seen and revealed to us (including the scriptures), or share an example of when a prophet was acting as a seer (such as 1 Nephi 11:20–21).
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Mosiah 7-10”
- After reading Mosiah 8:16–18 with your children, you could help them think of ways to complete a sentence like A seer is like a … who helps us … . For example, a seer is like a traffic sign who points us to Jesus.
- Ask the children to review Mosiah 8:16–18 to learn what a seer is. Write this sentence on the board: A seer is like . Help the children think of ways to complete the sentence to explain why a seer is a blessing to us—for example, a seer is like a lifeguard, who warns us of danger.(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 7-10”)
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 7-10”
Show a short clip of a recent conference message from the President of the Church (or show a picture of him and read something he has taught). Bear your testimony that he is a prophet, seer, and revelator.
Friend May 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities”Ammon taught that prophets can see things to come (see Mosiah 8:16–17). Turn to page 2 to read President Nelson’s message from general conference. What did he teach us? Draw a picture about it.
In our day, “the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve are sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators” (Bible Dictionary, “Seer”). You might show pictures of our living prophets, seers, and revelators. You might show pictures of our living prophets, seers, and revelators and ask your family what they know about them. How are we following them?
Media Library “First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles”
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Mosiah 7-10”
You could also make paper footprints and invite your children to draw pictures on them of things that prophets, seers, and revelators have counseled us to do. Place the footprints in a path around the room, and let your children walk on these footprints. How can a seer be “a great benefit” to us? (see Mosiah 8:17–18).
For younger children: Sing “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11) with your kids. Every time you sing the word prophet, point to a picture of the prophet.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 7-10”
- Pick a phrase from Mosiah 8:16–17, and write it on the board, replacing each word with a made-up symbol. Give the children a list of the symbols and the words they represent, and let them decode or “translate” the phrase as seers do. What are some other ways that prophets, seers, and revelators are “a great benefit” to us? (Mosiah 8:18).
- Display the picture in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families, and ask the children to describe what they see. Explain that the Prophet Joseph Smith was a seer. What evidence do we have that Joseph Smith was a seer? The Lord gave him tools called the Urim and Thummim and a seer stone to use in translating the Book of Mormon.
How are Prophets Called
Revelations from Latter Day Prophets
OFFICIAL DECLARATION 1
The Bible and the Book of Mormon teach that monogamy is God’s standard for marriage unless He declares otherwise (see 2 Samuel 12:7–8 and Jacob 2:27, 30). Following a revelation to Joseph Smith, the practice of plural marriage was instituted among Church members in the early 1840s (see section 132). From the 1860s to the 1880s, the United States government passed laws to make this religious practice illegal. These laws were eventually upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. After receiving revelation, President Wilford Woodruff issued the following Manifesto, which was accepted by the Church as authoritative and binding on October 6, 1890. This led to the end of the practice of plural marriage in the Church.
OFFICIAL DECLARATION 2
The Book of Mormon teaches that “all are alike unto God,” including “black and white, bond and free, male and female” (2 Nephi 26:33). Throughout the history of the Church, people of every race and ethnicity in many countries have been baptized and have lived as faithful members of the Church. During Joseph Smith’s lifetime, a few black male members of the Church were ordained to the priesthood. Early in its history, Church leaders stopped conferring the priesthood on black males of African descent. Church records offer no clear insights into the origins of this practice. Church leaders believed that a revelation from God was needed to alter this practice and prayerfully sought guidance. The revelation came to Church President Spencer W. Kimball and was affirmed to other Church leaders in the Salt Lake Temple on June 1, 1978. The revelation removed all restrictions with regard to race that once applied to the priesthood.
The Lord Guides His Church through His Prophet. Prophets Help Us Know the Will of Heavenly Father.
Articles of Faith 1:9; Official Declarations 1 and 2
As members of the Church are confronted with a variety of challenges, we can find peace in knowing that Heavenly Father is willing to provide revelation to guide us. Help the children you teach strengthen their faith that God guides the Church through a living prophet.
“We believe that [God] will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God” (Articles of Faith 1:9),
- Show a set of scriptures and a picture of the living prophet (or a recent conference issue of the Ensign or Liahona). Help the children determine which item relates to the phrase “all that God has revealed” and which item relates to the phrase “all that He does now reveal” (Articles of Faith 1:9).
- Turn off the lights, and place a picture of Jesus Christ on the board. Shine a flashlight on the image to illustrate how the prophet, like the flashlight, helps us see the Savior more clearly.
- Find simple directions to make something, such as food or a toy. Follow the instructions with the children, and explain that through the prophet, Heavenly Father gives us instructions to help us return to live with Him. What are some things the prophet has taught us so that we can return to God?
“The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place, and so He will any other man who attempts to lead the children of men astray from the oracles of God and from their duty.” (Wilford Woodruff, Official Declaration 1)
Official Declarations 1 and 2 are excellent examples of how prophets receive and act on revelation from God. How can you help the children increase their faith that God directs His Church by revelation?
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 August 2021 “Matt and Mandy”
- “Article of Faith 9” (September 2011 Friend)
Draw pictures of elements from the ninth article of faith.
Scripture Story Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price Ninth Article of Faith
Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Priesthood for All Worthy Men”
Ensign June 2016 “We Believe in Following the Prophet”
See also Teaching Children the Gospel: Prophets and Resources for Teaching Children: Prophets
Prophets teach about Jesus Christ.
In Doctrine and Covenants 20, we read how God inspired Joseph Smith to organize the Church of Jesus Christ on earth. Doctrine and Covenants 20:11 tells us that “God does inspire men and call them to his holy work in this age and generation, as well as in generations of old.”
- Display a picture of Christ.
- Split the family into a “before” group and an “after” group.
- The family members in each group will find words of a prophet who testified of Christ either before His life on earth or after.
- Take turns sharing what you each found. Others will guess if it belongs to the “before” or “after” group.
- After sharing, people in the “before” group will stand to the left of Christ’s picture. The “after” people will stand to the right.
- Explain that both groups are important.
Discussion: Read Doctrine and Covenants 20:21–29. How does this modern testimony of Christ help us feel closer to Him? What other testimonies of Christ can be found in sections 20–29 of the Doctrine and Covenants?
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 13–16: Glad Tidings of Great Joy”
Help the children build a small wall with blocks or books. Using a small toy or doll to represent Samuel, let the children take turns helping “Samuel” climb the wall to teach the people about Jesus Christ.
Hide pictures around the room that represent the signs that Samuel prophesied of in Helaman 14:2–7 and 20–25. Read a phrase that describes one of the signs, and ask the children to find the picture of that sign.
Read together Helaman 14:11–12, and ask the children to listen for why Samuel prophesied about these signs.
The purpose of Samuel’s message was to testify of Jesus Christ and invite the people to repent and come unto Him. Our prophets today have the same role.
Display a picture of the Savior, and ask a child to represent the prophet and lead the other children around the room while they sing a few verses of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11) or another song about prophets. Then ask the child representing the prophet to lead the children to the picture of the Savior. Testify that if we follow the prophet, he will lead us to Jesus Christ. Share some things our prophet has taught about Jesus recently. How can we follow his counsel?
Sing together “Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus”
Friend December 2016 “Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus” video
Only the Prophet Receives Revelation for the Whole Church
Invite the children to imagine that someone stands up in testimony meeting and tells the ward that he has received a revelation for the Church (for example, that we should no longer drink milk or that we should start holding sacrament meetings on Tuesdays instead of Sundays). He says that we should listen to what he says instead of the prophet. What would be wrong with that? Help the children search Doctrine and Covenants 43:1–7 to find out how the Lord gives commandments to His Church.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 41–44”)
Doctrine and Covenants 28:1–7, 15
In August 1830, Hiram Page, one of the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon, claimed to have received two revelations about the future location and organization of Zion using a black seer stone. These revelations contradicted previous revelations given to Joseph Smith, but many members believed them.
Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 14: The Prophet and Revelations for the Church”
Why is it important to know that only the living prophet can receive revelation for the whole Church? How does this protect us from deception?
Doctrine and Covenants 28:1–7, 15 can help the children understand that everyone can be guided by the Holy Ghost, but revelation for the Church will always be given through the prophet.
Ask the children to play “follow the leader”—one child could stand at the front of the room, and the rest of the children could imitate whatever he or she does. This could lead into a discussion about why we follow the prophet. You could show a picture of Jesus Christ and emphasize that we follow the prophet because he follows the Savior and speaks the Savior’s words.
For additional ideas about prophets, see the following resources:
- Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 15: The Prophet Receives Revelation for the Church” Lesson includes stories, activities, and question ideas.
- Teaching Children the Gospel “Prophets”
- Resources by Topic “Prophets”
I Can Sustain Our Prophet.
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.
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?
- Invite three children to stand at the front of the room and represent Moses, Aaron, and Hur while you tell the story from Exodus 17:8–16. What can we do today to help our prophet, just as Aaron and Hur helped the prophet Moses?
- Display a picture of the living prophet, and ask the children who he is. Help the children remember some of the things that the prophet has taught us recently. Ask the children to share some of the ways they are following the prophet.
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 2001 “Sustaining the Prophet”
[The prophet] speaks to us at least three times during general conference—at the beginning of conference (Saturday morning), at the end of conference (Sunday afternoon), and, usually, during the Sunday morning session. Listen to what he says, then write down counsel he gives us and examples he uses from scriptures, his own life, and Church history.
Write down ways you will sustain him by obeying his counsel from the Lord.
Choose symbols that illustrate his counsel and how you will obey it, and glue them next to what you have written for steps 2 and 3. If he talks about something for which you find no symbol, draw one of your own.
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.
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