Jan 13 2024

The Brass Plates

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Table of Contents

1 Nephi CHAPTER 3 Lehi’s sons return to Jerusalem to obtain the plates of brass—Laban refuses to give the plates up—Nephi exhorts and encourages his brethren—Laban steals their property and attempts to slay them—Laman and Lemuel smite Nephi and Sam and are reproved by an angel. About 600–592 B.C.

1 Nephi CHAPTER 4 Nephi slays Laban at the Lord’s command and then secures the plates of brass by stratagem—Zoram chooses to join Lehi’s family in the wilderness. About 600–592 B.C.

1 Nephi CHAPTER 5 Sariah complains against Lehi—Both rejoice over the return of their sons—They offer sacrifices—The plates of brass contain writings of Moses and the prophets—The plates identify Lehi as a descendant of Joseph—Lehi prophesies concerning his seed and the preservation of the plates. About 600–592 B.C.

Returning to Obtain the Plates of Brass

“Chapter 4: The Brass Plates” (Book of Mormon Stories, 8–12)

Friend February 2008 “Lehi and Nephi Obey God”

Act out the story of Nephi getting the plates, or you can choose a narrator and use the cutouts and give everyone a piece to hold.

Friend January 2020
CFM 2020 Primary

Make this Mini Book Created by Kevin Merrell. Images are from the Scripture Readers. Have the children take turns reading from their books.

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Friend January 2020 “Nephi Gets the Brass Plates”

Friend January 2020

Nephi was Obedient

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “1 Nephi 1-5” You and your children might enjoy role-playing 1 Nephi 3:2–7. Maybe you could pretend to be Lehi and ask your children to return to Jerusalem to get the brass plates. Invite them to respond in their own words as if they were Laman and Lemuel or Nephi. What are some things God has commanded us to do? (see pictures 103–15 in the Gospel Art Book or Mosiah 18:8–10 for ideas). How can we be like Nephi?

What can we learn from 1 Nephi 2:11–13; 3:5–7 about murmuring? What blessings come when we exercise faith?” Review how Laman and Lemuel murmured and talk about what it means to murmur. How does it make people around you feel when you murmur? How does it affect yourself and others when you don’t murmur? (Come Follow Me Kid “I Will Go and Do”)

Ensign January 2020 “Family Study Fun: Courageous Hot Potato” Nephi’s brothers Laman and Lemuel complained that the Lord required hard things (see 1 Nephi 3:5), Nephi said he would “go and do” whatever the Lord commanded (see 1 Nephi 3:7).

Have everyone sit in a circle. Give someone a small, soft object (beanbag, tennis ball, balled-up sock, etc.). Play “Nephi’s Courage” on the Sacred Music app (no. 120 in the Children’s Songbook) while family members pass the object around the circle. Pause the music at a random moment. Whoever is holding the object when the music stops will explain one faithful act they will “go and do” this week.

Discussion: What are some things the Lord has asked us to do that seem hard? How can we be more faithful in our responses to those commandments?

Friend January 2016 “Nephi was Obedient” Goal Card. I can be obedient like Nephi.

Friend January 2016
Friend January 2016

Children’s Songbook, Nephi’s Courage, 120

Verse One Visual Aids and Teaching Ideas

Lord commanded Nephi to go and get the plates
From the wicked Laban inside the city gates.
Laman and Lemuel were both afraid to try.
Nephi was courageous. This was his reply:

“I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.
I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.”

Verse Three Visual Aids and Teaching Ideas

The Lord gives us commandments and asks us to obey.
Sometimes I am tempted to choose another way.
When I’m discouraged, and think I cannot try,
I will be courageous, and I will reply:

“I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.
I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.”

Words and music: Bill N. Hansen Jr., b. 1952, and Lisa T. Hansen, b. 1958.

Nephi is Led by the Lord in Obtaining the Brass Plates

Nephi Didn’t Give Up

Friend January 2020 “A Nephi Attitude” Bennett was tired and thirsty and not enjoying doing the service project. He wanted to go home but there was still a lot left to do. His mom talked to him about how Nephi had hard things to do like getting the plates from Laban, but he didn’t give up. Bennett liked the idea of being like Nephi. Nephi was strong and brave and good. So he kept working. He was proud of what they had accomplished when they were done. He was glad he had gotten rid of the Laman and Lemuel attitude.

Friend January 2020

Friend April 2024 “Louie, Nephi, and the Piano” Louie was struggling with one part of the song he was going to perform. His father reminded him of how Nephi didn’t give up when he went back to get the plates, and tells him, “I think if you keep trying, Heavenly Father will help you like he helped Nephi.” Louie kept practicing and eventually he got it and was able to perform it. He knew he had done all he could, and Heavenly Father helped him.

God will prepare a way for me to do His will.

Friend January 2020 “Family Night Fun”  Sing “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146)

Read 1 Nephi 3:7 together and help your little ones say, “God will help me keep the commandments.” Now it’s your turn to look for the scriptures! Send someone out of the room and hide a Book of Mormon for them to find. When they start searching, say “hot” when they get close and “cold” when they get far away. Take turns hiding and finding the scriptures.

Sing The song “Nephi’s Courage” (Children’s Songbook, 120–21)

The Holy Ghost will lead me as I seek to do the Lord’s will.

1 Nephi 4:6

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “1 Nephi 1-5” After reviewing together in 1 Nephi 3 how Nephi and his brothers tried to get the brass plates, read with your children 1 Nephi 4:6 to find out what Nephi did that allowed him to finally succeed. Then your children could make a list of things that God wants them to do. How can the Holy Ghost help us in these situations?

The Red Crystal

Sariah is Comforted by Lehi

Lehi and His Family Studied the Scriptures

Friend January 2020 “Cover” Image of Lehi reading to his family from the Brass Plates.

Friend January 2020

The Scriptures Are of Great Worth

1 Nephi 3:19–21; 5:19–22

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “1 Nephi 1-5” The scriptures were very important to Lehi’s family. To illustrate this, you could invite your children to help you tell or act out what Nephi and his brothers did to get the brass plates: they traveled a long distance, gave up their gold and silver, and hid in a cave to save their lives. Then you could read 1 Nephi 5:21 and talk about why the scriptures were so valuable to Lehi’s family. Why are they valuable to us? How can we treat the scriptures like a treasure?

Whisper Game
Tell the children they are going to play a game that will show them why Lehi and his family needed a written record of God’s commandments.

Have the children sit in a row. Whisper the following message to the first person in the row, making sure no one else can hear what is being said: “Blessed are they who hear the Lord’s commandments and obey them.”

Have that person whisper what they heard to the person sitting next to them. Have each child pass on the whispered message until the message reaches the child at the end of the row. Have the last person repeat out loud what they think they heard. They probably won’t repeat the message correctly. Tell everyone what the original message was.

Explain that the whisper game shows how easy it would be to mix up the word of God if it isn’t written down.

Brass Plates Code Activity

Hand out a copy of the “Brass Plates Code” to each child. Do not give them the answer key. Tell them they have thirty seconds to figure out what section four of the “Purpose” says. It won’t take them long to figure out there is no possible way to do it out without help.

Explain that just like the task you gave them seemed impossible to accomplish, sometimes Heavenly Father’s commandments may seem difficult to obey. But with God’s help we can accomplish all he asks of us. Direct the children to put the “Brass Plates Code” under their chair for now, and explain that you will provide a way for them to do the coded message later on in the lesson.

• What was the main reason Nephi and his family needed the brass plates? Let the children answer the question. Have them check their answer by giving them the answer key to the “Brass Plates Code”. Inform them they can now fill out section four with the help you promised. Instruct them to fill out the rest of the code later at home to find out the other purposes of the brass plates.

Answers to Purpose:

  • 1. To have a record of the Jews
  • 2. Genealogy of forefathers
  • 3. To preserve their language
  • 4. To preserve religious knowledge

Friend January 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Sharing Treasure: The scriptures are a great treasure (see 1 Nephi 5:21). Draw some gem shapes on paper and cut them out. Ask each person to write a Book of Mormon scripture on the gems. Mix up the gems and take turns choosing one and reading each scripture.

Friend January 2020 ” Coloring Page: Lehi and His Family Studied the Scriptures”

Friend November 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Sharing Treasure”

The scriptures are a great treasure (see 1 Nephi 5:21). Draw some gem shapes on paper and cut them out. Ask each person to write a Book of Mormon scripture on the gems. Mix up the gems and take turns choosing one and reading each scripture.

For younger children: Have a show-and-tell with your little ones’ favorite toys or books. Tell them that they can make the scriptures one of their favorite things by listening to them and learning the stories.

Friend January 2020 “The Book of Mormon Tells of Christ” Song

1. When Lehi listened to the Lord, And his family left their home and riches, His sons returned back home again So they could get the scriptures.

2. So Lehi’s people knew the Lord, As the plates of brass helped them remember. When they obeyed the prophet’s voice, They prospered all together.

Chorus: The Book of Mormon tells of Christ And helps me feel the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father’s voice is calling me, And the scriptures help me hear it.

Additional Resources

Come Follow Me 2020 Primary  “1 Nephi 1-7”

Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Obtaining the Brass Plates”

The Brass Plates by Teaching LDS Children

“Nephi and the Brass Plates” (March 2004 Friend) Crossword puzzle about Nephi and the brass plates.

Friend January 2024 “Connect the Scriptures” Number the sentences below in the order they happened in the story. Then find the matching colors and number the dots. Draw lines from dot to dot in number order to complete the picture.

The Red Crystal

The Red Crystal 2020

https://youtu.be/vEn8p9Yo2WY

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures

Jan 6 2024

Introductory Pages of the Book of Mormon

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Table of Contents

What is the Book of Mormon and Where Did It Come From

The Red Crystal

Title Page of the Book of Mormon

The Title Page was Translated from the Book of Mormon

Title page of the Book of Mormon

The title page of the Book of Mormon was written on the last leaf of a collection of books in the gold plates and is considered to have been written by Moroni. The preface tells us that the contents of the book are a record of the Nephites, Lamanites, and Jaredites. It also tells us that the purpose of the Book of Mormon is to testify of Christ.

Write the following questions on the board and have the children listen for the answers as they watch the below video. The first part is from Moroni 10 and the last part, from 0.58 to the end, are words from the Title Page of the Book of Mormon. Stop the video at the parts that answer the questions and discuss them.

  • Who is the Book of Mormon about?
  • Who was the Book of Mormon written to?
  • Why was the Book of Mormon written?

Purpose of the Book of Mormon

To Bear Testimony of Jesus Christ

The purpose of the Book of Mormon is stated on the title page–to convince all that Jesus is the Christ.

For Younger Children:

Friend January 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” (Let your children look at and hold a copy of the Book of Mormon. Help them point to the subtitle, Another Testament of Jesus Christ) Read the full title of the Book of Mormon, including the subtitle, “Another Testament of Jesus Christ.” Put a picture of the Savior somewhere in the pages of a Book of Mormon. Help your children flip through the book and find the picture. You could do this repeatedly, and every time you find it, help your little ones say, “The Book of Mormon is about Jesus!”

Friend January 2024

Friend January 2020 “Bright Idea: The Book of Mormon is about Jesus”

Invite the children to share stories they know from the Book of Mormon, using pictures 67–86 in the Gospel Art Book or other pictures you have. And/or have everyone draw their favorite Book of Mormon story. Then have each child tell about their picture. Briefly tell them how the Book of Mormon has strengthened your faith in Jesus Christ.

Friend May 2012 “The Story of the Book of Mormon” The below pictures could be used to help the children review and find their favorite Book of Mormon story.

For Older Children:

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Introductory Pages of the Book of Mormon “Let your children look at and hold a copy of the Book of Mormon. Help them point to the subtitle, Another Testament of Jesus Christ. You might also help them find, on the title page, the phrase “Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God, manifesting himself unto all nations.” Help them understand that this means the Book of Mormon teaches us about Jesus Christ.

Friend January 2024 “Another Testament of Jesus Christ”

All of the prophets in the Book of Mormon taught about Jesus.

Friend January 2016 “The Book of Mormon Teaches about Jesus Christ” Take turns reading these scriptures. Each talks about a Book of Mormon prophet who taught about Jesus. Match the scripture with the prophet who said it.

Friend January 2016

Invite the children to share stories they know from the Book of Mormon, using pictures 67–86 in the Gospel Art Book or other pictures you have. And/or have everyone draw their favorite Book of Mormon story. Then have each child tell about their picture. Briefly tell them how the Book of Mormon has strengthened your faith in Jesus Christ.

Friend May 2012 “The Story of the Book of Mormon” The below pictures could be used to help the children review the stories and choose their favorite.

Friend January 2020 “The Book of Mormon Tells of Christ” Song. Sing-along Video 

3. The Savior visited their land After He had risen in His glory. He blessed the children just like me; I love to read their story. The Book of Mormon tells of Christ And helps me feel the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father’s voice is calling me, And the scriptures help me hear it.

Friend January 2024 ” Power in the Book of Mormon” President Nelson said, “The Book of Mormon is . . .Another testament of Jesus Christ. Many prophets who wrote it saw Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon includes their testimonies of Him. I invite you to read the Book of Mormon. As you read, I encourage you to mark each verse that speaks of the Savior. You will become closer to Him through this process. And changes, even miracles, will begin to happen. The truths of the Book of Mormon have the power to heal, comfort, strengthen, and cheer our souls.”

President Nelson invited us to look for Jesus Christ’s name as we read the Book of Mormon. Jesus has many names in the scriptures. Here are some you can look for!

The “Introduction” in the Book of Mormon

Introduction

This video provides visuals for a narrated, word for word, “Introduction”.

Introduction
Have the children turn to the “Introduction”. Explain that the “Introduction” provides more detailed information about the origin and the contents of the book.

Worksheet – Instruct the children to fill in the blanks in Section A on the worksheet, using paragraphs one and two of the “Introduction” for reference. After they are done, go over the answers together.

SECTION A: Worksheet Answers – The Book of Mormon is a volume of holy scripture. It is a record of God’s dealings with the ancient inhabitants of the America’s and contains, as does the Bible, the fullness of the everlasting gospel. The book was written by many ancient prophets by the spirit of prophecy and revelation, and was abridged by a prophet-historian named Mormon.

• What does abridged mean? It means that Mormon studied records other prophets had written, and then he took important parts from each of their records and wrote them on the gold plates. The Book of Mormon is named after Mormon because he compiled the record. (Show the picture of “Mormon Abridging the Plates” to the children.)

Now have the children fill in the blanks in section B on the worksheet using paragraph six of the “Introduction” for reference. Go over the answers together after they are done.

SECTION B: Worksheet Answers- Joseph Smith told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on the earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.

• What did Joseph Smith mean when he said the Book of Mormon is the most correct book on the earth? The Book of Mormon is of God. Books produced by men may contain errors in understanding, perception, and translation.

• What did Joseph Smith mean when he said, “A man could get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book”? Abide means to accept or act in accordance with, and precepts are commandments or principles. So, if we accept or act in accordance with God’s will and obey the commandments and principles found in the Book of Mormon, we will grow nearer to God.

The Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion.

• What did Joseph Smith mean when he said the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion? Show the picture of the arch. Explain that the keystone is the central supporting stone at the top of the arch. The stones would fall without the keystone holding them in place. The Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion because it supports and explains doctrines and principles that are necessary for salvation. Another reason it is the keystone is that when we receive a testimony of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon we will know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, that the church of Jesus Christ is restored on the earth again, and that Jesus is the Christ.

The Red Crystal

  • This week’s activity page and the image below can help your children understand these words of Joseph Smith in the introduction to the Book of Mormon: “The Book of Mormon [is] the keystone of our religion.” (A keystone is a wedge-shaped stone at the top of an arch that locks the other stones together.) It might also be fun to build or draw an arch with a keystone at the top. What might happen if the keystone is removed? What would happen if we did not have the Book of Mormon? You might read together the last paragraph of the introduction to find out what else we learn when we accept the truth of the Book of Mormon. How can we make the Book of Mormon the keystone of our faith in Jesus Christ?

Ensign January 2016 Consider using a set of dominoes or gathering items from around your home to use as dominoes. Have family members set them up in a line and then push the first one over. Discuss how the Book of Mormon is central to the message of the Church and how it is like the first domino: once we know for ourselves that the Book of Mormon is true, all of the other truths of the Restoration fall into place, just like the other dominoes.

One dictionary defines keystone as “the central wedge-shaped stone of an arch that locks its parts together.” A secondary definition is “the central supporting element of a whole.”

Book of Mormon Student Manual “The Keystone of Our Religion” “A confirming testimony of the Book of Mormon convinces ‘that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God’ and also spiritually verifies the divine calling of Joseph Smith and that he did see the Father and the Son. With that firmly in place, it logically follows that one can also receive a verification that the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price are true companion scriptures to the Bible and the Book of Mormon.

“All of this confirms the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the divine mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, led by a living prophet enjoying continuous revelation. From these basic verities, an understanding can flow of other saving principles of the fulness of the gospel” (“The Keystone of Our Religion,” Ensign, Jan. 2004, 3–4).

Book of Mormon Student Manual “The Keystone of Our Religion” President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994) testified that the timing of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon shows its significance in the Restoration of the gospel: “Think of that in terms of what it implies. The coming forth of the Book of Mormon preceded the restoration of the priesthood. It was published just a few days before the Church was organized. The Saints were given the Book of Mormon to read before they were given the revelations outlining such great doctrines as the three degrees of glory, celestial marriage, or work for the dead. It came before priesthood quorums and Church organization. Doesn’t this tell us something about how the Lord views this sacred work?” (“The Book of Mormon—Keystone of Our Religion,” Ensign, Nov. 1986, 4).

Reading the Book of Mormon

Read this paragraph from the Introduction to the Book of Mormon:

What are the three things we need to do to gain our own witness of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon? Direct the children to look in paragraph eight in the “Introduction” for the answer. Write the following answers on the board: 1) Read the Book of Mormon.
2) Ponder its message.
3) Ask God if it is true. If we do these things, the Holy Ghost can testify to us that the Book of Mormon is true.

See the post Reading the Book of Mormon for reading charts and additional teaching ideas about Reading the Book of Mormon

“The Testimony of Three Witnesses” “The Testimony of Eight Witnesses”

“The Testimony of Three Witnesses”; “The Testimony of Eight Witnesses”

For Younger Children:

The Red Crystal

This is a super cute idea from Katie Flaniken: for younger kids

My family did this activity yesterday to help illustrate the Testimony of the 3 and 8 Witnesses. I brought out a box that I’d put one of their stuffed toy elephants inside. After we’d read the testimonies, I brought out the box and excitedly told the kids (ages 3 and 4) that I had an elephant in the box. As I’d hoped, they didn’t believe that I had a great big elephant in this little box. So I let grandma look in the box. She bore her “witness” that there was, indeed, an elephant in the box. I asked them again if they believed that there was an elephant in the box now that two of us had seen it. This time they said yes!!

We explained how this was just like the golden plates. We haven’t seen them, but because of the testimonies of these men, we have greater trust that they are indeed real. That’s why we have these testimonies and why they are important.

As expected, the kids were begging to see in the box for themselves. This allowed me to teach about faith and that we believe in things we cannot see. Throughout the rest of the night, each time they asked to see inside the box, I asked them if they still believed that the elephant was inside. They did. So just before bedtime I asked one more time if they believed. Once again they said yes. I explained that sometimes we don’t see evidence of something until after the trial of our faith. And them being patient enough to see inside for themselves was a trial of faith. They laughed when they saw the toy elephant inside.

This simple lesson turned into multiple teaching opportunities for our family and was so easy to prepare.

For Older Children:

Have the children turn the page to “The Testimony of the Witnesses”. Show the picture of “Mormon Abridging the Plates” to the children.

Give them a few seconds to study it. Afterwards put the picture face down on a table. Give each child a paper and a pencil. Ask some of the following questions, and have them write down their answers:

• What was on the shelf and the table behind Mormon?
• What was covering the bench Mormon was sitting on?
• What items were on the table Mormon was working on?
• What was on Mormon’s lap, and was there anything on the floor?
• What colors were Mormon’s clothes, and what decorations did they have on them?
• What was Mormon wearing on his arm, on his head, and on his feet?

Go over the answers together. When several of the children’s answers are the same on any of the questions, ask the children if they think those answers are most likely to be true. Why?

• If a person witnessed an event, would only their testimony about the incident be sufficient in a court of law? No, because they might not remember everything accurately, or they might not be telling the truth.

• Would that person’s version be believed if other witnesses told the same account?

• In 2 Corinthians 13:1 it says, “In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established”. Why do you think this law of witnesses is important? It helps establish truth.

Point out the witness’s page, and tell the children that God chose men to be witnesses of the Book of Mormon to fulfill the law of the witnesses and to testify of his work.

I can be a witness of the Book of Mormon.

  • To help your children understand what it means to be a witness, you could describe to them something you have seen that they haven’t. Then let them do the same for you. This could lead to a conversation about the 11 people who saw the gold plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated. As you read the testimonies together, you could talk about why these witnesses wanted other people to know about their testimonies. Who do we want to tell about the Book of Mormon?

Come Follow Me Primary 2020: Introductory Pages Ask the children to pretend you have never heard of the Book of Mormon before. Invite them to work with a partner to think of ways they could explain to you what it is and where it came from, using details from the introduction. Then let each pair take turns teaching you.

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 9: Witnesses See the Gold Plates,”  Link includes additional stories, activities, and lesson ideas.

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.

The Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith

“The Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith”

The Book of Mormon was given to us by the power of God.

Book of Mormon Stories: Chapter One “How We Got the Book of Mormon” Video and images about the story of Joseph Smith and the golden plates.

Friend February 2017 “Golden Plates to Book of Mormon”

Friend July 1988 “Calendar Cutouts” Read one scripture each day. Match the highlighted scriptures to the correct picture. Ezekiel 37:15-20, 2 Nephi 3:12; 29:8, Psalm 85:11& Mormon 8:16, Moses 7:62 & Isaiah 29:4, 2 Nephi 26:14-17, Ether1:1 & 2:11, Enos 1:15-16, Mormon 5:12-14, Revelation 14:6, 1 Nephi 1:1 & 9:5, Omni 1:8-9, Introduction to Helaman, 3 Nephi 23:4-5, 3 Nephi 23:6-14, Words of Mormon 1:1-2, Mormon 8:1 & Moroni 10:1-2, Joseph Smith History 1:30-35, D&C 27:5 & 128:20, Joseph Smith History 1:44-47, Joseph Smith History 1:48-50, Joseph Smith History 1:51-52, Joseph Smith History 1:53-54, Joseph Smith History 1:59, Joseph Smith History 1:62, Joseph Smith History 1:67 & D&C 3:preface, D&C 25:1&5-6, Isaiah 29:11, Joseph Smith History 1:61 & 63-65, 2 Corinthians 13:1 & D&C 5:4 &11&13, D&C 19:preface & 26 & 34-35, Joseph Smith History 1:60

Friend July 1988

Sing “Book of Mormon Stories” (Children’s Songbook, 118)

Brief Explanation about the Book of Mormon

Brief Explanation about the Book of Mormon

Index

Friend March 1988 “Sharing Time” Learning how to find stories and information in the Book of Mormon. Includes an activity for putting the books in the right order.

image
  1. Have each child make his own Book of Mormon storybook throughout the year as they read. Write title for each book on separate page. Then have children write, in their own words, stories of people they learn about in each book and the lessons they learned from the stories. They could also draw pictures or cut out and paste pictures into their storybook.
  2. Sing “The Books in the Book of Mormon” (More Songs for Children, page 32). Have children arrange titles in correct order before song is completed.

Additional Resources

What does translate mean? Translate means to change from one language to another.

Show the paper with the words “Le Livre De Mormon” written on it. Tell the children that the words are French. The English version of these words is “The Book of Mormon”. Show this paper. Both sets of words mean the same thing, but they are different languages.

The gold plates were written in an ancient language that needed to be translated into a language others could read.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Introductory Pages of the Book of Mormon”

Show the children an image of characters from the golden plates. Explain that God helped Joseph translate these characters into words we can read and understand.

If someone asked you where the Book of Mormon came from, what would you say? How would you describe God’s involvement in giving us the Book of Mormon?

Introduction to the Book of Mormon Lesson Ideas

Primary 4 “The Book of Mormon, a Gift from a Loving Heavenly Father”

Review Questions:

  • What is the Book of Mormon? Who wrote it? (Introduction, paragraphs 1–2. Ancient prophets in America.)
  • Why is it called the Book of Mormon and not the Book of Moroni or the Book of Joseph Smith? (Introduction, paragraph 2. The prophet Mormon wrote most of what was on the gold plates, quoting and summarizing what other prophets had written.)
  • What is the most important event in the Book of Mormon? Why? (Introduction, paragraph 3. The visit of Jesus Christ to the Nephites.)
  • What did Joseph Smith say about the Book of Mormon? (Introduction, paragraph 6.) (See enrichment activity 3.) How do you think reading and studying the Book of Mormon can help you?
  • Many prophets (Nephi, Mormon, Moroni, Joseph Smith) have gone through great suffering and hardships so we can have the Book of Mormon. What are three things you need to do to know that the Book of Mormon is true? (Introduction, paragraph 8. Read it, ponder its message, ask God if it is true.)
  • What else will we know when we gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon? (Introduction, paragraph 9. That Jesus Christ is the Savior, Joseph Smith is a prophet, and the Church is true.)

The Red Crystal

The Red Crystal 2020

Latter Day Kids “What is a Testimony?” Lesson ideas

Ensign January 2020 “Family Study Fun” A fun activity to help the children listen to the introduction as it is read.

  1. Write the following on index cards, one word per card: Mormon, Lord, Testimony, God, Jesus, Joseph, Plates, Prophet.
  2. Pass out the cards (one or two per person) and instruct family members to lift the card high when they hear the word.
  3. Read the introduction to the Book of Mormon aloud.
Dec 25 2023

Revelation 15–22

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Table of Contents

  • Revelation 15 Exalted Saints praise God in celestial glory forever.
  • Revelation 16 God pours out plagues upon the wicked—The nations assemble for Armageddon—Christ comes, islands flee, and mountains cease.
  • Revelation 17 John is shown that Babylon the great, the mother of harlots and abominations, has become established throughout the earth.
  • Revelation 18 The Saints are called out of Babylon lest they partake of her sins—She falls and is lamented by her supporters.
  • Revelation 19 The marriage supper of the Lamb is made ready—The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy—Christ is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
  • Revelation 20 Satan is bound during the Millennium—The Saints will then live and reign with Christ—The dead stand before God and are judged out of the books according to their works.
  • Revelation 21 Those who overcome will be sons of God—The earth attains its celestial glory.
  • Revelation 22 The Saints will reign in celestial splendor—Christ will come, and men will be judged—Blessed are they who keep His commandments.

I can praise God by singing. (Jr)

Revelation 15:2–4

The Saints John described in Revelation 15:2–4 sang praises to God for His goodness. What songs of praise can help the children express their love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?

As you read aloud parts of Revelation 15:2–4, ask the children to do actions like pretending to play a harp or direct a choir. How do we feel when we sing about Jesus? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

Friend March 2020 “Music for a Better Day” Elizabeth had a terrible day at school. Her dad suggested that good music might help her feel better, and to think about what she was playing while she practiced her piano. The song she was playing was about giving thanks to God. She began to feel more peaceful as she thought about all her blessings. Good music did help her feel better.

Ask the children to share some of their favorite songs about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Sing a few of the songs together, and help the children understand what the songs teach us about Heavenly Father and the Savior. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

Friend December 2015
Friend December 2015

I can prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ by choosing the right. (Jr)

Revelation 19:7

Ask the children if they have ever been to a wedding. What was it like? Why are people happy at a wedding? Display the picture of the Savior’s Second Coming in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families, and read Revelation 19:7. Explain that the “marriage of the Lamb” represents the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Why will we rejoice when the Savior comes again? Help the children compare the joy of a wedding to the joy of the Savior’s return. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

Share with the children why you are looking forward to Jesus’s Second Coming. You could also sing together a song about the Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

“Article of Faith 10” (September 2011 Friend)
The pictures help illustrate what the tenth article of faith means.

Invite the children to share what they do to get ready for church on Sunday. Why do we do these things before we come to church? Why should we prepare for Christ’s Second Coming? On this week’s activity page, let the children draw what they can do to prepare for the Second Coming.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

I can prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ by choosing the right. (Sr)

Revelation 19:7–8

How can you help the children you teach understand that the Second Coming of Jesus Christ will be a joyous event for the righteous?

Read together Revelation 19:7–8, and help the children understand the symbolism in these verses—the marriage is the Savior’s Second Coming, the Lamb is the Savior, and His wife is the Church (or all of us). What things might we do to prepare for the Savior to come again?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

Friend December 2015
Friend December 2015

Review and memorize Articles of Faith 1:10 with the children. Explain that this article of faith describes exciting, glorious events that will happen when Jesus comes again. Display the picture of Jesus’s Second Coming in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families, and invite the children to draw what they think Jesus’s Second Coming will be like. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

A Jubilant Hope

“Article of Faith 10” (September 2011 Friend)
The pictures help illustrate what the tenth article of faith means.

I will be judged by God. (Sr)

Revelation 20:12–13

Write on the board What will Judgment Day be like? Invite the children to look for answers to the question in Revelation 20:12–13 and in “Judgment, the Last” in Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). What has the Savior done so that Judgment Day can be a joyful day? (see Articles of Faith 1:3–4). What can we do so that it is a joyful day for us? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

Bring to class a notebook representing the “book of life” (Revelation 20:12), in which you have written some of the Christlike attributes and good works of the children in your class. Read to the children the things you wrote, and invite them to talk about Christlike qualities they have seen in each other. Share your testimony that Jesus Christ helps us become more like Him and provides a way for us to repent and overcome sin. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

The Red Crystal

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 Suppose an author offered to write a book about your life. What details or experiences would you want included? If you knew that your future actions would also be recorded, how would you approach your life differently? Think about this as you read Revelation 20:12–15. What do you hope will be written about you in the book of life? In your opinion, why is it significant that it is called “the Lamb’s book of life”? (Revelation 21:27).How would you describe the Savior’s role in your book of life?

Topics and Questions “Judgment” Lesson ideas

New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “The Final Judgment” Lesson ideas

For the Strength of Youth December 2023 “The Dead Will Stand before God” Line upon line explanation of Revelation 20:12/

Heavenly Father wants me to live with Him in the celestial kingdom. (Jr)

Revelation 21:1, 3–4, 22–27; 22:1–2

In the last two chapters of Revelation, John used beautiful language to describe the celestial glory that the faithful will enjoy.

Help the children draw the tree described in Revelation 22:2 on the board. Explain that this tree is the tree of life, and its fruit represents the love of God (see 1 Nephi 11:21–22). Give the children pieces of paper shaped like fruit, and invite them to draw on the paper something that helps them feel Heavenly Father’s love. Explain that those who love and obey Heavenly Father will live with Him in the celestial kingdom. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

The Red Crystal

Share with the children some images or details that John used to describe celestial glory (see Revelation 21:1, 3–4, 22–27; 22:1–2), and invite the children to draw pictures of these things. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

Sing together a song that teaches how we can prepare to return to God’s presence, such as “I Will Follow God’s Plan” (Children’s Songbook, 164–65). Invite the children to identify what they can do to live with Heavenly Father again. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

Heavenly Father wants me to live with Him in the celestial kingdom. (Sr)

Revelation 21:1, 3–4, 22–27; 22:1–2, 17

Invite the children to search the following verses for words or phrases that John used to describe celestial glory: Revelation 21:1, 3–4, 22–27; 22:1–2. Let them choose something in these verses that they would like to draw. Then they can talk about their drawings with the class. Encourage them to show their drawings to their families at home. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

For the Strength of Youth July 2021 The Lord has revealed some powerful truths about [the celestial kingdom]. Here are some of the things we know:

  • To live there means to dwell in the presence of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ with a perfect, resurrected body and to live the kind of life They live. This life is “a state of never-ending happiness” (Mosiah 2:41) and a “fulness of joy” (3 Nephi 28:10).
  • It has the greatest glory of any kingdom. Its glory has been likened to the brightness of the sun.
  • The same kinds of relationships we have here will exist there, including family relationships, but they will be “coupled with eternal glory” (Doctrine and Covenants 130:2).
  • It has three degrees. The highest degree is where people live who have been sealed together in eternal marriage and have been true to their covenants (see Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4).

 by Annie Henrie Nader

Read together Revelation 22:17, and explain that the bride who says “Come” is the Church. Who do we, as Church members, want to invite others to “come” to? (see Moroni 10:30–33). What might those around us be “thirsty” for? What are some good ways to invite people to “come”? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 15–22”)

Friend April 2022 “Harriet Meets the Missionaries” Harriet’s father died and she missed him so much and wondered if she would ever see him again. Then the missionaries came and they told them about the plan of salvation and about being with our families again after death.

Friend September 2018 “No Matter What!” Christian’s friend at school feels useless because she made some mistakes in the school work. Christian tells her about the love of Jesus and that she is a child of God, so she is not useless.  His friend wants to know where he learned that, and she asks her parents for permission  to go to church with Christian.

Friend July 2023 “How You Can Be a Missionary”

Additional Resources

Revelations 22

Friend December 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Story:Revelation 22:4 says that followers of Jesus Christ will have “his name [on] their foreheads.” That means that we will choose to remember and follow Him.

The Red Crystal

Dec 12 2023

Revelation 6–14

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Table of Contents

Jesus Christ helps me become clean. (Jr)

Revelation 7:9, 13–14

Show the children some white clothes (or a picture of some) and a picture of Jesus. Read Revelation 7:9, 13–14 to the children, and ask them to point to the picture and clothes every time they hear the word white. Explain that white clothes represent cleanliness and remind us that Jesus Christ can make us clean from our mistakes. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

Friend December 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Pure and Clean”

Story: In a vision, John saw a crowd of people praising Jesus Christ (see Revelation 7:9–10, 13–15). They wore white robes to show that they were clean and pure.

Song: “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” (Hymns, no. 136)

Activity: Find some white objects, like a white rock, a white cloth, or some sugar or salt. Talk about what it means to be pure and clean. How does Jesus Christ help us become clean?

Show the children a piece of white cloth or piece of paper, and let them get it dirty by marking it with a pen or putting dirt on it. Explain that when we disobey the commandments, it can feel like having dirt on our clothes. Show a picture of Jesus in Gethsemane (such as Gospel Art Book, no. 56), put the dirty cloth or paper away, and show them a clean one. Testify that Jesus Christ can help us become clean. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

The Red Crystal

Cover the children (in the picture) with packing tape, or have the entire picture laminated. Teach the scripture, let the students mark the clothing with a dry erase marker. Then have everyone say “..made them white in the blood of the Lamb” and erase it. (Have wet wipes on hand, just incase) Give every student a turn while everyone says the scripture before they erase it. Bear testimony that it is through our Savior that we can repent and become clean again.

Sing a song about baptism, such as “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103), and testify that Jesus helps us become clean when we are baptized. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

The gospel can help me overcome temptation.(Sr)

Revelation 9:1–2

Draw pictures of a sun and a dark cloud, and cut them out. Invite the children to read Revelation 9:2 and 1 Nephi 12:17 and write on the dark cloud what the smoke or mists in these verses represent. Place the dark cloud on the board, and invite the children to make a list of temptations children their age face. Then place the sun on the board and ask them to make a list of tools Heavenly Father has given us to overcome the darkness in the world.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

How can we help others who are in the dark spiritually? To help the children think about this question, show part of the video “Choose the Light” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), especially the last half of the video. How can we be like the person who helped the biker in the tunnel?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

I showed faith in Jesus Christ in the premortal life.(Jr)

Revelation 12:7–11

To help the children understand what it means to follow someone’s example, choose one child to be a “leader,” and ask the others to follow him or her by doing whatever he or she does. Then let other children be the leader. Read Revelation 12:7–11 to the children and explain that before we were born, we chose to follow Jesus and not Satan.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

The Red Crystal

Sing together a song about the premortal life, such as “I Lived in Heaven” or “I Will Follow God’s Plan” (Children’s Songbook, 4, 164–65). Ask questions like, “What happened in heaven before we were born?” and “What did we choose to do?” (See also “Introduction: Our Heavenly Father’s Plan” in New Testament Stories, 1–5, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.)(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

I showed faith in Jesus Christ in the premortal life.(Sr)

Revelation 12:7–11

Read together Revelation 12:7–11, and write on the board the words dragon, War in Heaven, cast out, testimony, and Lamb. Ask the children to summarize these verses using the words on the board. What do we learn about Jesus Christ (the Lamb) from these verses? What do we learn about the choices we made in the premortal life?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”vWhat might the phrase “the word of their testimony” mean? How do our testimonies of Jesus Christ help us and others overcome Satan?

Some family members might enjoy drawing pictures of the visions described in Revelation. For example, drawing pictures based on Revelation 12 could lead to discussions about the War in Heaven (see verses 7–11). Pictures based on Revelation 14:6 could lead to discussions about the Restoration of the gospel.

After reading Revelation 14:6 together, consider showing pictures of the angel Moroni and of other angels who helped restore the gospel in our day (see the pictures at the end of this outline). Perhaps family members could take turns holding up one of the pictures and sharing reasons they are thankful that angels came “having the everlasting gospel to preach unto [us].”

On the board, create three columns and label them Before this life, During this life, and Both. Prepare strips of paper that state truths about the premortal life and about mortal life, such as We have bodies, We don’t have bodies, We live in God’s presence, We are at war with Satan, We exercise faith in Jesus Christ, and We follow God’s plan. Let the children take turns picking a paper strip and deciding which column it belongs in. Share your confidence that the children can continue to show faith in Christ.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

The gospel was restored in our day.(Jr)

Revelation 14:6–7

Show the children a picture of Moroni talking to Joseph Smith as you read Revelation 14:6 (see Gospel Art Book, no. 91). Invite the children to point to the angel in the picture. Share with them the account of Moroni’s visit (see “Chapter 3: The Angel Moroni and the Gold Plates,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 13–17, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org).(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 3: The Angel Moroni and the Gold Plates” Images and Video

Invite the children to act out the story of Moroni visiting Joseph Smith (see Joseph Smith—History 1:29–35). Help them name some of the blessings that we enjoy because the gospel of Jesus Christ was restored. Share your testimony of the Restoration.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

Teachers Pay Teachers “The Great Apostasy (Apostasy Cups)”

As part of the Restoration, the gospel will be preached to all the world. (Sr)

Revelation 14:6–7

Ask the children to read Revelation 14:6–7 and to write on the board words or phrases from these verses that are meaningful to them. Ask them to share why they chose those words or phrases. Explain that these verses describe the Restoration of the gospel in our day. Ask them how they can take part in the work of preaching the gospel to the world.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

Invite the children to read Revelation 14:7 and to rephrase in their own words the message the angel had for the world. Or invite them to draw a picture representing the angel’s message. What can we share with others about the gospel of Jesus Christ?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 6–14”)

Friend December 1991 “I Have a Testimony of Jesus Christ” 

Dec 5 2023

Revelation 1–5

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Revelation CHAPTER 1 Christ chooses some as kings and priests unto God—Christ will come again—John sees the risen Lord.

Revelation CHAPTER 2 He who overcomes will gain eternal life, avoid the second death, inherit the celestial kingdom, and rule many kingdoms.

Revelation CHAPTER 3 He who overcomes will retain his name in the book of life, reach godhood, and be with Jesus as He is with the Father.

Revelation CHAPTER 4 John sees the celestial earth, the throne of God, and all created things worshipping the Lord.

Revelation CHAPTER 5 John sees the book sealed with seven seals, and he sees those people redeemed out of every nation—He hears every creature praising God and the Lamb.

I can shine the Savior’s light. (Jr)

Revelation 1:20

Ask the children to name things that give light. Talk with them about the benefits of light, like helping plants grow, allowing us to see, and giving warmth. To understand how Jesus brings us light, they could take turns shining a light at a picture of Jesus Christ as they say, “God is light” (1 John 1:5). Testify that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can bring light into our lives when we try to follow what They say. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Friend December 2016 “A Shining Light”

Friend December 2016

The Red Crystal

The Red Crystal

Prepare the glow sticks before class, with the pictures on them. Have the students pick one out of a bag at a time and talk about how as members of Jesus’s Church, can be like the light. Then they can crack the glow stick and make it shine. They can put it in a vase or cup till later, when all the glow sticks are ignited. Turn out the lights and testify that all those small acts of kindness, made a big impact and chased away the darkness.

Sing a song about being a light to others, such as “Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam” (Children’s Songbook, 60–61). Share ways you have seen the children living the gospel of Jesus Christ and being a light to those around them. Share how being a light to others has helped you feel closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

I can invite Jesus Christ into my life. (Jr)

As you read Revelation 3:20, show the picture of the Savior at the door from this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families. Invite the children to imagine that Jesus was knocking on the door to their homes. Let them talk about what they would do.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Friend December 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Ask someone to go outside and knock on your front door. Help your little ones open the door, greet the person who knocked, and warmly invite them in. Talk about how we can welcome Jesus Christ into our lives when we think about Him.

Invite the children to tell you about times when they waited for someone to visit their home who they were excited to see. What was it like waiting for that person to knock on the door? What if we never let the person inside? Read Revelation 3:20, and let the children take turns holding a picture of Jesus and pretending to knock on a door. The other class members could pretend to open the door. What can we do to let Jesus be near us, even though we can’t see Him?.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Latter Day Kids “Behold, I Stand at the Door, and Knock” Lesson ideas

I can choose to let Jesus Christ be a part of my life. (Sr)

Revelation 3:20

As you read Revelation 3:20, show the picture of the Savior at the door from this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families. To help the children draw meaning from the picture, invite them to work in pairs to answer questions like these: Why do you think Jesus is knocking on the door? Why isn’t there a doorknob on the outside of the door? What does it mean to let Jesus into our lives? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Show the picture of the Savior knocking at the door (see the end of this outline) as your family reads Revelation 3:20. Why does Jesus knock instead of just coming inside? Family members could take turns knocking on a door. Then someone else in the family could suggest a way we can “open the door” to the Savior and let the family member in. How would it feel to have the Savior in our home? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1-5”)

Ask the children to write on the board different ways to “open the door” to Jesus. Some examples might include serving others, reading the scriptures, keeping the covenants we make at baptism, and partaking of the sacrament. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

The Red Crystal

If you want to use this for senior primary, don’t use the children, but instead, write on top of the door, ways to open the door. Like: serving others, reading the scriptures, and partaking of the sacrament. I would have a copy for each kid to write their own goals they want to work on, to let the Savior more into their lives this week.

If I am committed to the Savior’s gospel, I will receive great blessings in heaven. (Sr)

Revelation 3:5, 12–21

What does it mean to you to be “lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot”? Consider ways to help the children be the opposite of lukewarm—to be enthusiastic in their commitment to the Savior and His gospel.

Read together Revelation 3:5, 12, 21, and explain any words that the children might not know. What does it mean to “overcome”? Invite the children to draw one of the blessings promised in these verses and share it with the class.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Overcome: Succeed in dealing with (a problem or difficulty). Such as defeating the sins and temptations of this world.

Read together Revelation 3:15–16. Ask the children to talk about things that are most useful or enjoyable when they are hot (such as soup) or cold (such as ice cream). How can being lukewarm about the Savior prevent us from the blessings promised in verses 5, 12, and 21?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Vector illustration.

After reading these verses, your family could drink something lukewarm that tastes better hot or cold. What does it mean to be lukewarm spiritually? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1-5”

On the board, write lukewarm, along with some synonyms, such as halfhearted, indifferent, or casual. Use these words to help the children understand why the Lord does not want us to be lukewarm. What words can we think of to describe the way He wants us to be? Share why you want to be fully committed to the Savior, and invite the children to share their thoughts as well.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Clipart Library

Jesus Christ is the only one worthy to be my Savior. (Jr)

Revelation 5:1–10

John learned from his vision that only Jesus Christ (represented by a lamb) could be our Savior and fulfill the Father’s plan (represented by the sealed book).

Before class, wrap up a copy of the Gospel Art Book using paper or string. Using a few key phrases from Revelation 5:1–10, describe the vision John saw. Show the children the book, and tell them that the only way to open the book is to find the picture of Jesus that you have hidden in the room. When they find the picture, open the book and share with the children some of the pictures in the book that represent blessings available because of Jesus Christ’s Atonement (such as a temple, baptism, and families). Testify that the Savior is the only one who could make those things possible. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

What can save us from death? A doctor, pharmacist, or scientist? 

Jesus is the only one who can save us from death. He died and was resurrected so we can be resurrected.

Who can save us from our sins? The bishop, a policeman, our parents?

Friend August 2015
Friend August 2015

Jesus paid the price for our sins so that we could be forgiven if we repent.

The Red Crystal

They can all have their own little book that they can pretend to cry and cheer when they open.

Atonement of Jesus Christ As used in the scriptures, to atone is to suffer the penalty for sins, thereby removing the effects of sin from the repentant sinner and allowing him or her to be reconciled to God. Jesus Christ was the only one capable of carrying out the Atonement for all mankind.

Only He could redeem us from our sins. God the Father gave Him this power (see Helaman 5:11). The Savior was able to receive this power and carry out the Atonement because He kept Himself free from sin: “He suffered temptations but gave no heed unto them” (Doctrine and Covenants 20:22). Having lived a perfect, sinless life, He was free from the demands of justice. Because He had the power of redemption and because He had no debt to justice, he could pay the debt for those who repent.

As the only person who has ever lived a completely sinless life, the Savior was a perfect sacrifice, a lamb without blemish.

Summarize the vision described in Revelation 5:1–10, and invite the children to act out how John and others felt during different parts of the vision. For instance, they might pretend to cry when no one could open the book, or they might cheer when the Savior opened it.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Jesus Christ is the only one worthy to be my Savior. (Sr)

Revelation 5:1–10

Invite the children to tell about a time when they needed someone to do something they couldn’t do for themselves. Ask them to read Revelation 5:1–10 and look for what needed to be done that only one person could do (explain that the Lamb is Jesus Christ and the book represents God’s plan). What did Jesus do for us that no one else could do?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

What can save us from death? A doctor, pharmacist, or scientist? 

Jesus died and was resurrected so we can be resurrected.

Who can save us from our sins? The bishop, a policeman, our parents?

Friend August 2015
Friend August 2015

Jesus paid the price for our sins so that we could be forgiven if we repent.

Ask the children to look for a hymn or children’s song that testifies of Jesus Christ (such as “Beautiful Savior,” Children’s Songbook, 62–63). What do the words of the song teach about Jesus Christ? How might this song be like the hymn of praise sung about Jesus Christ in Revelation 5:9–10?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1–5”)

Additional Resources

The Red Crystal

Friend December 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: A Vision of Heaven”

Story: The Apostle John had a vision of heaven. He saw God’s throne with many colors. John also saw people worshipping Heavenly Father and praising Him for creating all things. (See Revelation 4:2–3, 10–11.)

Song: “I Thank Thee, Dear Father” (Children’s Songbook, 7)

Activity: Draw a picture of John’s vision. Use as many colors as you can! Then talk about ways you can show Heavenly Father you are grateful for His blessings.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Revelation 1-5”

Revelation 1:20.Why did Jesus compare His Church to candlesticks? (see Matthew 5:14–16). Sing a song about how we can be like a light on a candlestick, such as “Shine On” (Children’s Songbook, 144).

emiscrafty.com

  1. Charades/Symbol Sketch-and-Guess – Cut apart the slips below and put in an upside-down pile. Family members take turns choosing a slip from the pile and either acting out or drawing the object while the family guesses what it is. When the family guesses correctly, read aloud the scriptures to learn the symbol’s meaning.
    Since our kids are super young, we won’t stress too much about completely understanding these symbols, but these are some simple points we’ll probably make:
     Satan is mean like a dragon
     Jesus is kind and gentle like a lamb
     Christ’s church and leaders can bring the light of Christ to our lives
     We should try to keep our lives clean and white like the bride’s dress (through Christ’s help)
     The word of God is powerful like a sword and can free us from dangerous things’

Ensign December 2019 “Family Study Fun” To better understand the book of Revelation, we must first understand the symbols.

  1. Write one word per slip of paper: Lamb, candlestick, stars, dragon, bride, sword.
  2. Pass out the papers and take turns drawing the object while the family guesses what it is.
  3. When the family guesses correctly, read aloud the scriptures to learn the symbol’s meaning.

Discussion: Why is a lamb a frequent symbol of Christ? Why are symbols sometimes used in scripture?

Nov 26 2023

1–3 John; Jude

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Table of Contents

1 John CHAPTER 1 The Saints gain fellowship with God by obedience—We must confess our sins to gain forgiveness.

1 John CHAPTER 2 Christ is our Advocate with the Father—We know God by obedience—Love not the world—Anti-Christs will come in the last days.

1 John CHAPTER 3 The sons of God will become like Christ—Love for others is required to gain eternal life—Obedience ensures us an answer to our prayers.

1 John CHAPTER 4 Try the spirits—God is love and dwells in those who love Him.

1 John CHAPTER 5 Saints are born of God through belief in Christ—Water, blood, and the Spirit testify of Christ—Belief in Christ is required in order to gain eternal life.

2 John CHAPTER 1 John rejoices because the children of the elect lady are true and faithful.

3 John CHAPTER 1 John commends Gaius for his help to those who love the truth.

Jude CHAPTER 1 Contend for the faith—Some angels kept not their first estate—Michael disputed about the body of Moses—Enoch prophesied of the Second Coming—Mockers will come in the last days.

Following Jesus brings light to my life. (Jr)

1 John 1:5–7; 2:8–11

Ask the children to name things that give light. Talk with them about the benefits of light, like helping plants grow, allowing us to see, and giving warmth. To understand how Jesus brings us light, they could take turns shining a light at a picture of Jesus Christ as they say, “God is light” (1 John 1:5). Testify that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can bring light into our lives when we try to follow what They say. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Friend January 2023 “Jesus is Our Light” Jesus is the Light of the World because His teachings and example light our way back to Heavenly Father.

Invite the children to take turns holding a picture of a light bulb or candle. As each child holds the picture, help him or her think of a way we can bring the light of Jesus Christ into our lives. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1–3 John; Jude” To help your family ponder John’s teachings, gather in a dark room so family members can experience the difference between walking “in darkness” and walking “in the light.” How does hatred cause us to walk in darkness and stumble? How does loving each other bring light into our lives?

Glow Stick Activity: Crystal from www.theredcrystal.org had a super fun idea to use glow sticks for this.
She says to put a bunch of unactivated glow sticks in a bag or pillow case that isn’t see-through. When a
child mentions something that brings more of the “light of Christ” into our lives, pull it out and let them
activate the glow stick. Then set it on the table in the dark room, until all the glow sticks are on that
same table making a considerable amount of light. Talk about the happiness and hope we can feel in our
lives because of Jesus Christ. The printables from here would be great to attach onto the glow sticks
while discussing specific things that bring more of the light of Christ into our lives:
https://www.theredcrystal.org/post/come-follow-me-december-2-8-god-is-love-1-3-john-jude

I show my love for God when I show love to others. (Jr)

1 John 4:10–11, 20–21

Read 1 John 4:11 to the children, and sing a song about God’s love, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228). Ask a few children to share how they know that Heavenly Father loves them. After each answer, invite the children to hug themselves and say, “God is love, and God loves me.”(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Friend November 2023 “Bright Idea”

Read 1 John 4:21 to the children. Invite them to talk about or act out various ways they could show love toward a friend, such as giving a hug or making a card. How do these things make our friends feel? How does Heavenly Father feel when we do kind things for others?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Friend March 2021 “For Little Friends” Circle the ways you can show kindness!


Friend February 2017 “Sharing Love with Friends” Rentalyn tells how she shares love.

Friend January 2017

I show my love for God when I show love to others. (Sr)

1 John 2:8–11; 4:7–8, 20–21

Ask the children to imagine that someone new has begun attending their school or ward and does not yet know anyone there. How might this person feel? Invite a child to read 1 John 4:7–8. What does this verse suggest about how we should treat this person? Share similar scenarios, or ask the children to think of situations in which they might have opportunities to show love.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Friend February 2023 “How Can I Help Everyone Feel Welcome?”

Friend June 2021 “Be Kind”

Friend September 2020 “Friends By Mail” A family came up with some kindness tips: “If there’s a new kid at school, offer to show them around and introduce them to your other friends. Share things about yourself so they get to know you, and ask questions about them.”

Ask the children to read 1 John 4:7–8, 20–21, and invite them to each write one sentence to summarize what they think is the most important lesson in these verses. After they share their sentences, share a story from your life or from a Friend or Liahona magazine that you feel illustrates what these verses teach (see, for example, “Say Hello to Halim,” Friend, June 2019, 8–9; or Liahona, June 2019, F18–F19). Invite the children to share their own examples. How can we show love to those around us? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Friend June 2019 “Say Hello to Halim! Marcus puts a kind note in the new boy’s bucket to help him feel welcome because it looked like Halim was struggling with moving to a new country and a new school. Marcus’s class has buckets on their desks because their teacher wants them to write kind notes to each other to help fill the imaginary buckets inside of them.

Friend April 2022 “Go Sit by Him” The Holy Ghost tells Sierra to go sit by a boy who had been bullied and was sad and alone. She felt peaceful all day after she listened to the Holy Ghost.

Friend October 2021 “Matt and Mandy” Mandy befriends a girl who is being made fun of because of the religious clothing (hijab) she wears. She shows respect for the girl’s faith and beliefs and invites her to meet her friends.

I show my love for God when I keep His commandments. (Jr)

1 John 2:3–5; 5:3

Read 1 John 5:3, and ask the children to listen for what this verse says about how we can show that we love God. Invite the children to name as many commandments as they can. How do we feel when we obey Heavenly Father’s commandments? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “John 14–17”

Invite the children to draw a picture showing one way they can show Heavenly Father that they love Him. For example, they could draw a picture of themselves keeping one of the commandments.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Sing together a song about obedience, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). How do we feel when we obey? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

I show my love for God when I keep His commandments. (Sr)

1 John 2:3–6; 4:17–18; 5:2–5

Invite the children to list on the board ways they can show God that they love Him. Then read together 1 John 2:5–6; 5:2–5 for additional ideas. How does obeying the commandments show that we love Heavenly Father? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1–3 John; Jude” Are there any commandments that we consider “grievous” or difficult to follow? How does our love for God change the way we feel about His commandments?

Latter Day Kids “If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments” Lesson ideas

Read 1 John 4:17, and explain to the children that to “have boldness in the day of judgment” means having confidence and peace when they stand before God to be judged. What does this verse teach that we need to do to have this confidence? What are some things we can do now to be confident before God? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

The Red Crystal

I can be faithful even when others make fun of me. (Sr)

Jude 1:18–22

Ask children to share times when others made fun of them or someone they know because they did what is right. Invite the children to read Jude 1:18–22 and look for how we can remain faithful when others mock or make fun of us. Write what they find on the board, and discuss ways they can follow this advice. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Summarize Lehi’s dream (see 1 Nephi 8:1–35), asking a few children to read verses from 1 Nephi 8:26–28, 33. Discuss how the people in the great and spacious building were like the mockers Jude talked about. What can we do to not be influenced by those who make fun of us or don’t agree with what we believe? (see 1 Nephi 8:30, 33). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

People in a large building on the other side of the river made fun of those who ate the fruit. Some who had eaten the fruit became ashamed and left the tree.

Additional Resources

3 John 1:4.
What does it mean to “walk in truth”? You might take this opportunity to tell family members how you have seen them walk in truth and talk about the joy this brings you. Family members might enjoy writing about or drawing truths they have learned on paper footprints and using them to make a path your family can walk on together.

Friend November 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones”Measure how tall your little ones are. Teach that as the Savior grew, He made good choices every day. Ask them to name a good choice they made today. Help them say, “I am growing, like Jesus did!”

The Red Crystal

Emiscrafty.com “Download 44: God is Love”

News with Naylors “Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam”

Nov 19 2023

1 and 2 Peter

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Table of Contents

1 Peter CHAPTER 1 The trial of our faith precedes salvation—Christ was foreordained to be the Redeemer.

1 Peter CHAPTER 2 Converts are newborn babes in Christ—He is the chief cornerstone—Saints hold a royal priesthood and are a peculiar people—Saints are in subjection to the laws of man.

1 Peter CHAPTER 3 Husbands and wives should honor each other—Saints should live by gospel standards—Christ preached to the spirits in prison.

1 Peter CHAPTER 4 Peter explains why the gospel is preached to the dead—Saints should speak as the oracles of God—The righteous will be tried and tested in all things.

1 Peter CHAPTER 5 The elders are to feed the flock of God—Humility and godly graces lead to perfection.

2 Peter CHAPTER 1 Peter urges the Saints to make their calling and election sure—Prophecy comes by the power of the Holy Ghost.

2 Peter CHAPTER 2 False teachers among the Saints are damned—Lustful Saints will perish in their own corruption.

2 Peter CHAPTER 3 Some in the latter days will doubt the Second Coming—The elements will melt at the coming of the Lord.

I can be happy even during hard times. (Jr)

1 Peter 1:6–7; 3:14

Help the children think of examples of hard things that Jesus went through, such as being mocked or made fun of. Explain that we will have hard times in our lives. Read 1 Peter 1:6–7; 3:14 together, and share an experience when you faced a “trial of your faith” and the Savior helped you find joy. Or you could share the Prophet Joseph Smith’s prayer in Liberty Jail and the comfort God gave him (see Doctrine and Covenants 121:1–8; 123:17). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Friend November 2023 “The Tryouts” Jared was excited to try out for the regional basketball team. Only a few players get invited to try out for it. But when he found out it was on Sunday his excitement faded. But he knew God was more important than basketball. He said a prayer and afterwards felt a comforting feeling that everything would be okay. Two days later he got an email saying tryouts would be on Saturday instead. He prepared very hard for the tryout and did his best but wasn’t selected. Then, a comforting thought came to him. “Things won’t always work out how I want,” he said. “But Jesus Christ knows exactly how I feel. He’s on my side.”

Em is Crafty “Come Follow Me 2019 – Lesson Plans for young kids: Lesson 43” Popcorn Kernels – Since God and Jesus know and love us, does that mean we’ll never have to go through anything hard in our lives? Set out an uncooked popcorn kernel and ask if this looks good to them. What needs to happen in order to make this kernel even better? (We need to give it some heat). Read/discuss/summarize 1 Peter 1:7 and 1 Peter 5:10-11 and explain that hard things we go through (trials of our faith) are more precious than gold and can help turn us into better people than we would’ve been otherwise. Remind them that God is “the God of all grace,” and He is the one who can change us into better people. Just like heat applied to popcorn kernels can change them into something much better, trials that we go through can turn us into better people if we rely on the Lord. Pop some popcorn to eat while sharing the examples in the following activity.

Brainstorm some things that could be trials of our faith and talk about how we can remain strong and
become better people because of them (getting up to do the primary program in front of everyone, listening to scriptures instead of playing with toys, sharing instead of keeping favorite toy to self, sitting through sacrament quietly, obeying Mom/Dad when don’t want to, being patient instead of getting mad, etc.)

Display a picture that shows Jesus and other people (the Gospel Art Book has many; so does Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Ask the children to find Jesus in the picture. Testify that if we look to the Savior, He can help us find joy in our lives. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Friend October 2018
Friend December 2018
Friend March 2022

Friend November 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Take your little ones outside. Is it a sunny day? A rainy day? Think of something you can do to enjoy the weather. Teach that we can be happy, no matter how things are around us.

Latter Day Kids “Joy in Every Season” Lesson ideas

I can find joy and peace even during hard times. (Sr)

1 Peter 3:12–17; 4:13–14, 16

The children you teach may have experienced some form of teasing or mocking because of what they believe. These verses can help them during those times.

Summarize a few stories about Jesus being persecuted, or invite the children to read them—see, for example, Matthew 12:9–14 or Luke 22:47–54. Ask the children if they have ever been teased or mocked because they live the teachings of Jesus Christ. How did it make them feel? Then read together 1 Peter 3:12–14; 4:13–14, 16, and ask the children to look for what Peter said about suffering “for righteousness’ sake.” Why can we still be happy when other people mock us for doing what is right? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

New Testament Stories “The Trials of Jesus”

Friend July 2021 “Vaha’i Tonga”Vahai’ was determined to remain faithful, so he said his prayers every night at boarding school. At first the other kids made fun of him, then they started to join him. He invited them to a district conference and 77 of them came. Seven of them wanted to be baptized after the conference.

Share an experience when you found joy or peace during a trial, or share how the Prophet Joseph Smith found peace when he was in Liberty Jail (see Doctrine and Covenants 121:1–8; 123:17). How can we find joy and peace in Christ during our trials? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Heavenly Father wants me to be an example to others. (Jr)

1 Peter 2:9–12

Describe things that stand out from their surroundings, or show pictures of such things. For example, a temple stands out from the buildings around it or a mountain rises above a valley. Explain that when we keep the commandments, we stand out and other people can see our examples. Talk about some “good works” that you have seen the children do. Explain that good works like these “glorify God”—they help others feel more love for God and desire to serve Him. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Newsroom

Clipart Library

A happy smiley stands out from the crowd

Complete the activity page with the children. How are the people they found in the picture glorifying God?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

I can always be ready to share the gospel. (Sr)

Tell about a time when someone asked you a question about the Church, and describe whether you felt prepared to answer. Ask the children to talk about any times when people have asked them questions about the Church. Read together 1 Peter 3:15. How can we follow Peter’s counsel in this verse? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Help the children think of a few questions people might ask about Jesus Christ or His Church. Let the children take turns explaining how they would answer these questions so that they can “be ready always.” The Articles of Faith provide simple truths that the children could use to answer questions about the Church. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Come Follow Me Primary 2020: Introductory Pages Ask the children to pretend you have never heard of the Book of Mormon before. Invite them to work with a partner to think of ways they could explain to you what it is and where it came from, using details from the introduction. Then let each pair take turns teaching you.

Friend February 2016
Friend February 2016

Friend February 2020 “More Important than Basketball” Game: Play this game to practice sharing the gospel! Cut out the squares and crumple them into balls. Set a bowl at the end of a table or desk. Then take turns shooting the balls into the bowl. When a ball lands in the bowl, open the paper and read the question. Practice answering it as if you were talking to someone who wants to learn more about the Church.

Friend April 2017 “Question Corner” If a neighbor asked you why you got to church, what would you say?

Spirits in the spirit world learn about the gospel. (Jr)

1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6

Tell the children about someone you know who has died. Explain that when people die, their spirits leave their bodies and go to the spirit world. Read 1 Peter 3:19 and explain that when Jesus died, he went to visit the spirit world. There, He asked the righteous spirits to teach the gospel to other spirits who had not yet accepted the gospel (see Doctrine and Covenants 138:30).(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Show a picture of a temple. Explain to the children that when they are old enough, they can go to the temple and be baptized for their ancestors who were not baptized while on earth. Help the children fill out a simple family tree (see an example at “Family History Coloring Pages,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org).(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Friend April 2020

Friend July 2023 “My Family Tree”

Spirits in the spirit world learn about the gospel. (Sr)

1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6

Draw on the board a circle with a line through the middle. Write Spirit Paradise on one half of the circle and Spirit Prison on the other half. Invite one of the children to read 1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6 (see 1 Peter 4:6, footnote a, for revisions from the Joseph Smith Translation). Explain that when Jesus died, He went to spirit paradise. He instructed the righteous spirits there to teach the gospel to the spirits in spirit prison. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Seminary Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Seminary Teacher Manual

President Joseph Fielding Smith: “[The Father] is going to give to every man the privilege of hearing the gospel. Not one soul shall be overlooked or forgotten. This being true, what about the countless thousands who have died and never heard of Christ, never had an opportunity of repentance, never met an elder of the Church holding the authority?…The Lord has so arranged his plan…that all who have died without this opportunity shall be given it in the spirit world.”

Invite a parent or an older sibling of one of the children to tell about going to the temple and receiving ordinances for one of their ancestors. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Why Are Mom and Dad Going to the Temple?”(August 2009 Friend)vNoah learns why his mom and dad keep going back to the temple.

Invite the children to fill out a simple family tree (see an example at “Family History Coloring Pages,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Friend July 2023 “My Family Tree”

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter” What can your family do to feel connected to your ancestors? Perhaps you could celebrate deceased ancestors’ birthdays by preparing their favorite meals, looking at pictures, or telling stories from their lives. If possible, you could also plan to receive ordinances for your ancestors in the temple (for help, visit FamilySearch.org).

Additional Resources

The Red Crystal

Nov 13 2023

James

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Table of Contents

James CHAPTER 1 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God—Resist temptation—Be doers of the word—James explains how to recognize pure religion.

James CHAPTER 2 God has chosen the poor of this world who are rich in faith—Salvation is gained by keeping the whole law—Faith without works is dead.

James CHAPTER 3 By governing the tongue, we gain perfection—Heavenly wisdom is pure, peaceable, and full of mercy.

James CHAPTER 4 Wars are born of lusts—The friends of the world are the enemies of God—Sin is failure to walk in the light we have received.

James CHAPTER 5 Misery awaits the wanton rich—Await the Lord’s coming with patience—The elders are to anoint and heal the sick.

I can ask Heavenly Father to help me learn what is true. (Jr)

Help the children repeat the phrase “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5). How do we ask God questions? How does He answer us? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

The Red Crystal

Prayer Images

Little LDS Ideas “Answers to Prayers from Heavenly Father Come in Many Ways” Includes lesson ideas

Show a picture of the First Vision (Gospel Art Book, no. 90), or show the video “Joseph Smith’s First Vision” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Explain how reading James 1:5 prompted Joseph Smith to ask Heavenly Father to help him with a question (see Joseph Smith—History 1:1–20). Share your testimony that God answers prayers, and testify that the children can pray to Him when they have questions. Let the children draw their own pictures of Joseph Smith reading James 1:5 and praying to Heavenly Father. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Friend November 2023 “James Says “Ask of God”

Friend November 2023 “I Can Ask God”

Friend November 2019

Latter Day Kids “If Any of You Lack Wisdom” Lesson ideas

Heavenly Father will help me learn truth if I seek His help.(Sr)

Ask the children to tell you the story of Joseph Smith’s First Vision in their own words (see Joseph Smith—History 1:5–20; see also the video “Joseph Smith’s First Vision” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How did reading James 1:5 help Joseph? Help the children think of other examples of people in the scriptures who received an answer to their prayers, such as Nephi (see 1 Nephi 11:1–6) and the brother of Jared (see Ether 2:18–3:9). What are some things we can ask Heavenly Father in prayer? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Nephi
Brother of Jared

Read with the children Joseph Smith—History 1:10–14. Invite the children to find things Joseph Smith did to receive answers to his questions. How can we follow Joseph’s example when we have questions?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

“Faith without works is dead.”(Sr)

James 1:22–27; 2:14–26

Show the children a flashlight without batteries, a pencil without lead, or something else that is useless or “dead.” Ask the children to read James 2:14–17. How do these objects illustrate the truth in these verses? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Media Library “Faith without Works Doesn’t Work”

Works—deeds, actions, labor, something you do.

“Faith is much more than passive belief. You express your faith through action—by the way you live.” (True to the Faith: A Gospel Reference (2004), 54.)

James says that having faith without works is like telling a poor man to be warmed and clothed without actually giving him something to warm or clothe himself.

Friend November 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Service Shuffle”

Story: The Apostle James taught that we should help those in need (see James 1:27). Who needs your help?

Song: “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198)

Activity: Have a race! Set a start and finish line. Then move to the finish line by sliding your feet forward without lifting them. The winner of the race chooses a simple act of service for the group to do, like sending a kind message to someone or visiting someone who is lonely.

Invite some of the children to quietly read James 1:22–27 and others to read 2:14–18. Then invite them to share what they could do to show that they are doers of the word. For instance, how are they keeping their baptismal covenant? Do they know someone who is sick or lonely who they might visit? How could they serve their families more? You could also remind them of words they might have heard in sacrament meeting today. How can we be doers of these words? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Explain that we show our faith in Jesus Christ by obeying Him. Hide pictures around the room of people doing what Jesus has asked us to do. Let the children take turns finding and describing the pictures. What can we do to follow Jesus?

  • The below images in the circle are some ways we show our faith in Jesus Christ. We obey the commandments, we go to church and take the sacrament, we study his words in the scriptures, we share his gospel with others, we follow his example by helping others, etc.

Latter Day Kids “Live by Faith” Lesson ideas about faith and works.

Em Is Crafty “Come Follow Me 2019 Lesson 42”

Talking About Candy – Set out a bag of candy. Read the descriptions of the candy of the bag. Ask if family members think it sounds like something good. Now that we’ve had a great discussion about this candy, should we put it away and forget about it or do we want to eat it? Compare this to the things we learn about Jesus and His gospel. Hearing about these things is great, but we have to also DO something about what we’ve learned if we want the full joy from it.
 Read/discuss/summarize James 1: 22-25. Emphasize the difference between HEARING what Christ has taught us and DOING what Christ has taught us.
 Discuss: What are some things we’ve HEARD from the prophet and apostles? What have they caused us to
DO differently? What are some things we’ve HEARD from the scriptures? What have they caused us to DO
differently? Remind them that if we believe in (have faith in) things we hear, we internalize them and they
affect our actions.

  1. Picture Quiz of DOERS vs. HEARERS – If we’re hearers of the things Jesus taught, what kinds of things might we DO if
    we actually have faith in Him and His words?
     Show the kids the pictures in the picture quiz below. Read the options for each picture and have them tell
    you which of the options would be the best. Remind them that when we have faith in Christ, we DO things
    the way he taught us to do things. Let them have a piece of candy from the bag in the “Talking About Candy”
    activity for each correct answer they can give.
     Read/summarize/discuss James 2:14-26 and James 4:17.
     Brainstorm times in our lives when we could improve at being better DOERS of the things we’ve learned.
  1. Joseph Smith Was an Example of Being a Doer of the Word – Ask if they remember who Joseph Smith was.
     Share the following quote from Elder David A. Bednar: “Joseph’s questions focused not just on what he needed to know but also on what was to be done!…Joseph went to the grove to ask in faith, and he was determined to act. True faith is focused in and on the Lord Jesus Christ and always leads to righteous action.”
     Talk about some of the things Joseph Smith DID because of his faith. Some examples:
     He read the scriptures and then DID what they told him to do in James 1:5 (ask of God).
     He did what Heavenly Father and Jesus asked him to do (wait for the fullness of the gospel to be
    made known to him).
     He taught people about Heavenly Father and Jesus, even when some people were mean to him.

I can speak with kindness.(Jr)

James 3:1–13

Show pictures of something sweet and something sour. Help the children understand that Heavenly Father asks us to use our tongues to say sweet (or kind) things and not sour (or unkind) things (see James 3:10). Help them think of examples of nice things we can say to others. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Clipart Library

Friend October 2019 “Words Matter” The words we say make a big difference. Trace your finger along the lines to see how the words you say can make others feel. Also, make some kind notes to give to others.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “James”

James 3 includes many images that could inspire memorable object lessons to help your family remember to speak kindly. For example, you could build a fire together and talk about how a small, unkind word can cause a big problem (see verses 5–6). Or you could serve something sour in something that is usually used for sweet food—such as lemon juice in a honey jar. This could lead to a discussion about using sweet and uplifting words (see verses 9–14).

Give each child a simple drawing of a person speaking. Invite the children to hold it up when you say something nice that we can do with our words (such as telling the truth, giving compliments, and offering to help someone) and put it down when you say something that we shouldn’t do with our tongues (such as telling lies, calling other people names, and refusing to obey a parent).(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Friend June 2023 “I Can Follow Jesus by Using Good Words”

Activity Time: Match the good words with the picture. How can you use good words?

Reinforce the message of James 3:1–13 by singing together a song about being kind, such as “Kindness Begins with Me” (Children’s Songbook, 145).(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Em Is Crafty “Come Follow Me 2019 Lesson 42”

TOOTHPASTE WORDS: The words we speak have the power to hurt or bless others. Get a small tube of
toothpaste. Let family members take turns squeezing some of it out onto a plate until it’s empty. Challenge them to get the toothpaste back into the tube. Help them see that once it’s been squeezed out, you can’t put it back in. Similarly, words are hard to take back. Once we speak hurtful words to or about someone, we can’t take them back. Are the words we’re saying words that would hurt or lift others? How can we be better at blessing others with our words?

I can speak with kindness.(Sr)

James 3:1–13

Is there someone in the ward, perhaps one of the children you teach, who has worked with horses or knows something about boats? You could invite him or her to provide insights about James’s teachings in James 3:3–4 about using kind words. Or provide some of your own insights. What do we learn about controlling our tongues from these examples?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Clipart Library Gemi Clipart

Invite the children to read James 3:1–13 and to draw a picture of something they find that teaches about controlling our tongues. Give them time to share their pictures and what they learned. Sing together a song about using kind words, such as “Let Us Oft Speak Kind Words” (Hymns, no. 232). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

  • “Bugs and Brothers.” In this Friend story, Lacey learns that she doesn’t have to be angry at her brother Zach.
  • “The Right Reply.” Emily wants to write a mean reply when her friend sends her a mean email, but then she thinks of what Jesus would do and responds kindly. (From the Friend.)

After reviewing James 3:1–13 together, review the standards for language in For the Strength of Youth ([booklet, 2022], 12). Help the children set a goal to improve the way they speak to others, and encourage them to ask Heavenly Father to help them with this goal. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Children and Youth Development: Goals and Activities

Goal Ideas

  • Make a list of kind, positive things you could say to those around you. Post this list where you can see it every day as a reminder.
  • Look for examples in the scriptures of how the Savior spoke to those around Him. How did His words teach, lift, and help others? Write in your journal the impressions you receive about how you can follow the Savior’s example.
  • Your thoughts affect your words. Do you have unkind thoughts about someone? Every time you have an unkind thought about someone, think of something positive about the person instead. You’ll be more likely to speak kindly, and you might even find a new friend!
  • How do you and your friends talk about others? Set an example of using kind words. For example, if your friends start gossiping about someone, find a kind way to stand up for that person or change the subject. You could even ask your friends to join you in your goal to speak kindly about others.

Or So She Says

Em Is Crafty “Come Follow Me 2019 Lesson 42”

TOOTHPASTE WORDS: The words we speak have the power to hurt or bless others. Get a small tube of
toothpaste. Let family members take turns squeezing some of it out onto a plate until it’s empty. Challenge them to get the toothpaste back into the tube. Help them see that once it’s been squeezed out, you can’t put it back in. Similarly, words are hard to take back. Once we speak hurtful words to or about someone, we can’t take them back. Are the words we’re saying words that would hurt or lift others? How can we be better at blessing others with our words?

Receiving God’s blessings requires patience. (Jr)

James 5:7–11

Help the children think of times when they have had to wait for something that they really wanted. Share an experience when you had to wait. Explain that waiting for something we want without complaining is called being patient. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Summarize James 5:7 in your own words, and show a picture of a seed or seedling. Why do we need patience when we grow plants? What would happen if we tried to pull on the seedling to make it grow faster? You might also talk with the children about what it means to be patient with others and ourselves. Testify that God can help us learn to be patient. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Friend June 2019 “Weak Things Stronger” Parker gets frustrated with himself when he doesn’t succeed at something he is trying to do like playing the piano or dirt biking. His moms shows him a scripture about Jesus helping him with his weaknesses. She also reminds him that it takes time to learn, grow, and get better.

Friend June 2019
Friend June 2019

Share the story of Job, who is mentioned in James 5:11 as an example of patience (see “Job,” in Old Testament Stories, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How was Job blessed for being patient? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Additional Resources

The Red Crystal

Nov 6 2023

Hebrews 7–13

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Table of Contents

Hebrews CHAPTER 7 The Melchizedek Priesthood brings exaltation and administers the gospel—It is received with an oath and covenant—The superiority of the Melchizedek Priesthood over the Aaronic Priesthood is explained—Salvation comes through the intercession of Christ.

Hebrews CHAPTER 8 Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin—God promised to make a new covenant with Israel.

Hebrews CHAPTER 9 The Mosaic ordinances prefigured Christ’s ministry—Christ is the Mediator of the new covenant.

Hebrews CHAPTER 10 We are sanctified by the shedding of the blood of Christ—The superiority of His sacrifice is explained—Those who fall from grace through willful sin are damned—The just will live by faith.

Hebrews CHAPTER 11 By faith we understand the word and work of God—The faith of the ancients was centered in Christ—By faith, men subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, and worked miracles.

Hebrews CHAPTER 12 Whom the Lord loves He chastens—God is the Father of spirits—To see God, follow peace and holiness—Exalted Saints belong to the Church of the Firstborn.

Hebrews CHAPTER 13 Marriage is honorable—Christ is the same everlastingly—Paul explains how the Saints are to offer acceptable sacrifices.

The priesthood can help us in many ways. (Jr)

Hebrews 7:1–6

Briefly explain who Abraham was, and then use Hebrews 7:1–6 to teach that Abraham paid tithing to Melchizedek (see also Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:36–40 [in the Bible appendix]). Explain that Melchizedek held the priesthood, which is God’s power, and Melchizedek used it to bless Abraham. The children may enjoy acting out the story with simple props, like a crown and a tithing envelope. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

Invite an Aaronic and a Melchizedek Priesthood holder to visit the class and tell the children how they have used the priesthood to bless others. Then show the children pictures of different priesthood ordinances (for examples, see pictures 103–8 in the Gospel Art Book). Help the children determine which priesthood is required for each ordinance and give that picture to the appropriate priesthood holder to hold. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

Church leaders follow the Savior. (Sr)

Hebrews 7:1–4

Those who are called to serve in the Lord’s Church are to be faithful and serve others as He did.

Help the children list things they know about the two great leaders Abraham and Melchizedek. They can find help in Hebrews 7:1–4; Abraham 1:1–2; and Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:25–40 (in the Bible appendix). What Christlike qualities did these men have that helped them honor the priesthood? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13“)

Friend April 1994 “Melchizedek” Story of Melchizedek

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Abraham and Sarah”

Ask the children to read Hebrews 7:1–2 and look for the titles used to describe Melchizedek. How do these titles remind us of Jesus Christ? Help them think of ways in which Jesus was a “King of peace.” Invite them to talk about other priesthood holders who are also an example of following the Savior. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

New Era July 2015 “Jesus Christ—Our Prince of Peace” Russel M. Nelson explains how Jesus is the prince of peace

Friend October 2023 “Cover”

Joseph Smith Translation, Hebrews 7:3, 21: Those who are ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood “are made like unto the Son of God” and are “[priests] forever.”

Share an experience in which your faith in the Savior was strengthened because of the service of a righteous priesthood holder. Help the children think of ways the priesthood has blessed them. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

  • Friend August 2021 “The Power of a Priesthood Blessing” Heavenly Father’s priesthood power blesses our lives in many ways. The cards below show some of the blessings we can all have because of the priesthood. Cut them out and put them face down. Then take turns choosing one and telling how it has helped you or will help you someday!

Faith is believing in things we cannot see.(Jr)

Hebrews 11:1–32

Display a picture of Jesus. Place around the room several objects to represent “evidences” that He is real even though we can’t see Him (such as the scriptures, a picture of the First Vision, and a picture of the earth). Invite the children to locate the items, and then share with them how each item helps us have faith that Jesus lives. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

Bring a paper fan, and let the children take turns feeling the fan blow air across their faces. Teach them that we can’t see air, but we can feel it. Similarly, we can’t see Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, but we can feel Their love and have faith that They are real. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

Autodesk Instructables: Easy Paper Fan

The Red Crystal

Share the stories of one or more people mentioned in Hebrews 11:4–32. You can also find stories about these people in Old Testament Stories. What did these people do to show they had faith in something they couldn’t see? Share some blessings you have received because of your faith. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

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Latter Day Kids “Faith is the Evidence of Things Not Seen” Lesson ideas

Heavenly Father rewards those who have faith.(Sr)

Invite the children to make a list on the board of the things they learn about faith in Hebrews 11:1–3, 6. Give each of the children the name of someone mentioned in Hebrews 11, and invite them to read the verses associated with that person. Ask them to share clues about the person so that the other children can guess who it is. How did these people show faith, and how did Heavenly Father reward them? (For pictures of these people, see the Old Testament section of the Gospel Art Book.)(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

Come Follow Me 2019 #41

 Matching Game: Cut apart the squares and turn upside-down. Take turns finding matches. As each
match is found, read and discuss the scripture references and what that person was able to do through
faith. When you get to the one that says “ME,” talk about many of the things we have done/can do
because of faith.


The Red Crystal

After reading about some of the faithful examples in Hebrews 11, ask the children to write about a person they know who showed faith. Invite several children to share their examples with the class. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

  • “Lead Me, Guide Me” (July 2010 Liahona and Friend)

    A brother and sister have faith that the Lord will help them find their way home in an unfamiliar country.

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will help us and never leave us. (Jr)

Hebrews 13:5–6

Review some New Testament stories the children have learned this year in which the Savior helped others, such as when He healed the man with palsy (see Luke 5:18–26) or fed the 5,000 (see Matthew 14:15–21). Help the children learn the phrase “The Lord is my helper” (Hebrews 13:6). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

“Friend August 2013 “Friend August 2013 “Jesus Heals a Sick Man” By Margo Mae

Friend July 2017 “Jesus Fed Many People”

Invite the children to draw a picture of a time when someone comforted them when they were afraid. Read Hebrews 13:5–6 to them, and testify that Heavenly Father will help us and never leave us. Help the children cut out paper hearts large enough to cover the drawings. What are some things that help us feel closer to Heavenly Father? Write some of these things on the hearts. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

Friend December 2021 “Carrying Spotty” Abbie got a new puppy. She helped him feel safe when he was scared. She carried him when he was tired. In Primary, Abbie learned that Jesus suffered for us and took upon him our sorrows. He can carry us through our trials. She realized that Jesus helps her kind of like she helps her puppy. He helped her feel safe when she was afraid of the dark. He helped her feel stronger when she was worried.

Print the below hearts onto pink or red paper, one page per child.

Teach the children a song about how Heavenly Father and Jesus love and help us, such as “Tell Me, Dear Lord” (Children’s Songbook, 176). How can we know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are near us? Talk about a time when you felt “the Lord [was your] helper.” (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

The Lord chastens those He loves. (Sr)

Hebrews 12:5–11

These verses can help the children understand that Heavenly Father, their parents, and others correct them because they love them and want them to learn from their mistakes.

Read together Hebrews 12:5–11, and ask the children to find reasons why Heavenly Father chastens us (corrects or disciplines us). What does this teach us about why earthly parents also correct their children? How should we respond to loving correction? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

We are his sons and daughters and he loves us and wants what is best for us.

Divine chastening has at least three purposes: (1) to persuade us to repent, (2) to refine and sanctify us, and (3) at times to redirect our course in life to what God knows is a better path. …

… If we are open to it, needed correction will come in many forms and from many sources. It may come in the course of our prayers as God speaks to our mind and heart through the Holy Ghost [see Doctrine and Covenants 8:2]. It may come in the form of prayers that are answered no or differently than we had expected. Chastening may come as we study the scriptures and are reminded of deficiencies, disobedience, or simply matters neglected.

(D. Todd Christofferson, “As Many as I Love, I Rebuke and Chasten,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011, 98, 100)

Share examples of people in the scriptures who were chastened by the Lord and repented (for example, see 1 Nephi 16:25–27; Ether 2:13–15). How are they good examples of the principles in Hebrews 12:5–11? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

25 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came unto my father; and he was truly achastened because of his murmuring against the Lord, insomuch that he was brought down into the depths of sorrow.

Lehi is Chastened

One day while Nephi was hunting, his steel bow broke. The families could not get food without it. Nephi’s brothers were angry with him and the Lord.

They were all very tired and hungry. Some of them were sad and complained. They were scared that they would starve. Even Lehi complained to the Lord.

Nephi made a new bow and an arrow out of wood. He had faith that the Lord would help him find food.

Nephi asked Lehi where to go to hunt. Lehi was sorry that he had complained. He repented and asked the Lord for help. The Lord told Lehi to look at the Liahona. A message was written on it. The families learned that the Liahona only worked when they had faith in the Lord and obeyed the commandments.

The Lord sometimes changed the message on the Liahona to help them during their travels. The Liahona helped Nephi know where to hunt. He brought back food to eat, and they were all happy. They repented and thanked the Lord.

The Brother of Jared is Chastened

After reading Hebrews 12:5–11, invite the children to write down a few things they will try to remember when they are corrected for their mistakes. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

Additional Resources

The Red Crystal

Oct 29 2023

Hebrews 1–6

Posted on by

Table of Contents

Hebrews CHAPTER 1 The Son is in the express image of the person of the Father—Christ is the Only Begotten Son and thus above the angels.

Hebrews CHAPTER 2 Jesus came to suffer death and save men—He came to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

Hebrews CHAPTER 3 Christ is the Apostle and High Priest of our profession—Jesus, being the Son, is more than a servant—Now is the time and the day of our salvation.

Hebrews CHAPTER 4 The gospel was offered to ancient Israel—Saints enter into the rest of the Lord—Though tempted in all points, Jesus was without sin.

Hebrews CHAPTER 5 For a man to hold the priesthood, he must be called of God as was Aaron—Christ was a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek—Jesus Christ is the Author of eternal salvation.

Hebrews CHAPTER 6 Let us go on to perfection—The sons of perdition crucify Christ anew—God swears with an oath that the faithful will be saved.

I believe in Jesus Christ. (Jr)

Hebrews 1:1–10; 2:8–10, 17–18

Find some truths about Jesus Christ in Hebrews 1:1–10; 2:8–10, 17–18, and write them on strips of paper. Hide the papers around the room, and invite the children to find them. Help the children read the truths written on the papers, and talk about what these truths mean. If necessary, explain that Jesus is called the Son of God because Heavenly Father is the father of both His spirit and His body. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal

The Red Crystal

Hold up a picture of the Savior, and share why you are thankful for Him. Let each child take a turn holding the picture and sharing why he or she is thankful for Jesus Christ. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal
After they have found the pictures above and discussed them, they can add them to the matching faded pictures next to the picture of Jesus. Have them hold up this picture and say why he or she is thankful for Jesus Christ

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“

Friend November 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Jesus Christ is Our Guide”

Story: Jesus Christ is “the captain of [our] salvation” (Hebrews 2:10). A captain guides a ship on the sea. Jesus can also guide us to heaven so we can live with Him someday!

Song: “I Need Thee Every Hour” (Hymns, no. 98)

Activity: Draw a picture of a boat on the waves. Then write or talk about ways you can follow Jesus Christ. How does He guide you in your life?

Friend October 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones”

Pretend you’re sailing a ship together. How will you know where to go? Talk about how Jesus Christ is like a captain (see Hebrews 2:10). When we believe in Him, He can guide us safely through life.

I believe in Jesus Christ. (Sr)

Hebrews 1:1–10; 2:8–10, 17–18

Assign each child a few verses in Hebrews 1:1–10; 2:8–10, 17–18, and invite the children to search in those verses for truths about Jesus Christ. Let them share or write on the board what they find. What else do we know about Jesus Christ? The children might find some ideas in songs such as “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” (Hymns, no. 136) or “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal

The Red Crystal
After they have found the pictures and discussed them, they can add them to the matching faded pictures next to the picture of Jesus. Have them hold up this picture and say why he or she is thankful for Jesus Christ

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“

Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves with their parents. Ask them to share what they have in common with their parents. Explain that when Hebrews 1:3 says that Jesus Christ is “the express image of [God’s] person,” it means that Jesus and Heavenly Father have the same qualities and attributes. Talk with the children about how following Jesus Christ brings us closer to Heavenly Father. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

Ensign July 2019 “Family Study Fun”

  1. Pass out paper to each family member and instruct them to list on the paper the traits they’ve inherited from their parents, such as physical traits or personality traits. Discuss how these traits help you and your family members know who their parents are.
  2. Next, have each family member list traits they inherited from Heavenly Father.

Explain that Jesus Christ is “the express image of [God’s] person,” it means that Jesus and Heavenly Father have the [exact]same qualities and attributes. When we follow Jesus we can come closer to God and we can develop more of His divine traits.

The Red Crystal

Heavenly Father wants us to “harden not [our] hearts.” (Jr)

Hebrews 3:8

Hebrews 3 describes the Israelites hardening their hearts and rejecting the Lord’s blessings. This can be a warning to all of us not to harden our hearts.

Bring to class something absorbent (like a sponge or a washcloth) and something hard (like a rock). Invite the children to touch the objects and describe how the objects feel. Put a few drops of water on each object, and point out that water soaks into the absorbent object better than into the rock. Explain that our hearts need to be soft and not hard so that we can accept Heavenly Father’s truths and His love [into our hearts]. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal Sorting mat. Have pieces of soft fabric, cotton balls, soft feathers, sponges, tissues, etc, in a pile. In the same pile have small sticks, dice, small rocks, small pieces of sand paper, etc. Have the children sort through the pile and place them on the sorting map according to where they should go. Hard things in hard heart side, soft things in soft heart side.

Cut a heart shape out of a soft material, such as cloth, and a harder material, such as cardboard. Discuss with the children the difference between having a soft heart and having a hard heart. Share some examples from the scriptures of people who had soft hearts or hard hearts, such as Nephi, Laman, and Lemuel (1 Nephi 2:16–19); Paul (Acts 9:1–22); or Joseph Smith (Joseph Smith—History 1:11–20). As you share each example, invite the children to point to the soft heart or the hard heart. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

Laman and Lemuel
Nephi
Saul/Paul
Joseph Smith

Latter Day Kids “A Soft Heart” Lesson ideas This site has a great object lesson about a marble and a plate and a blanket. The marble bounces of the plate but the blanket catches the marble. See more at link.

To receive Heavenly Father’s guidance and blessings, we must “harden not [our] hearts.” (Sr)

Hebrews 3:7–19

In Hebrews 3, the story of the Israelites in the wilderness is used to teach the importance of not hardening our hearts.

Ask the children to think of things that are hard and soft. (If possible, bring some examples to show them.) Read together Hebrews 3:8. What does it mean to have a hard heart? Why does God want us to have soft hearts? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal Sorting mat. Have pieces of soft fabric, cotton balls, soft feathers, sponges, tissues, etc, in a pile. In the same pile have small sticks, dice, small rocks, small pieces of sand paper, etc. Have the children sort through the pile and place them on the sorting map according to where they should go. Hard things in hard heart side, soft things in soft heart side.

In your own words, share the story of the Israelites hardening their hearts against the Lord in the wilderness (see Numbers 14:1–12; Hebrews 3:7–19). Let the children act out the story. What will happen if we harden our hearts against the Lord and His gospel? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal Has an acting script and face masks to use for the different people such as Moses below.

Invite the children to read Matthew 13:15; Hebrews 3:15; Mosiah 11:29; and Moses 6:27. Ask them to draw on the board the body parts mentioned in these verses. What does it mean to have spiritually dull ears, blind eyes, and hard hearts? How can we make sure that our ears, eyes, and hearts are ready to recognize the voice of the Spirit? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

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Priesthood holders are called of God. (Jr)

Hebrews 5:4

Hebrews 5:4 is an important verse because it clarifies that priesthood holders must be called by God. The same is true of anyone who is called to serve in the Lord’s Church.

Read Hebrews 5:4 to the children. Ask a priesthood holder to explain what the priesthood is. He could also share how he serves others as he fulfills his duties. Also ask a sister in the ward to share her experience being set apart to a calling in the Church. Encourage her to share how the Lord blessed her with the power to fulfill her calling. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

Help the children memorize phrases from the fifth article of faith. Bear your testimony that people who are called to do God’s work are called by God through revelation.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

  • “Article of Faith 5” (May 2011 Friend) Number pictures relating to how a person receives a calling in the right order.

Priesthood holders are called of God. (Jr)

Hebrews 5:1–4

Hebrews 5 provides an opportunity to discuss what priesthood is—the power and authority to act in God’s name—and how it is received.

Show the picture Moses Gives Aaron the Priesthood (Gospel Art Book, no. 15) while a child reads Hebrews 5:4. Explain that the Aaronic Priesthood was named after Aaron. Help the children think of duties Aaronic Priesthood holders perform (such as baptizing, blessing and passing the sacrament, and inviting others to come unto Christ; see Doctrine and Covenants 20:46–48, 59). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

Media Library

Help the children think about different ways in which people receive authority. For example, how does a teacher, doctor, or political leader receive authority? How does God give His authority? Invite the children to think about this question as they read Hebrews 5:4 and the fifth article of faith. Help the children think of people in the ward who have authority from God—including priesthood holders, as well as men and women who have been set apart to serve in specific callings.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

  • “Article of Faith 5” (May 2011 Friend) Number pictures relating to how a person receives a calling in the right order.

Additional Resources

Keep a Firm Hold on the Gospel

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families “Hebrews 1-6”

Hebrews 2:1–4.

Can you think of an object lesson to help your family understand what it means to keep a firm hold on the gospel truths “which we have heard”? You might illustrate this with an object that is hard to hold onto. (Maybe an oily object) How are our efforts to maintain our testimony like catching and holding this object? How can we make sure “the things which we have heard” do not “slip” away from us? (verse 1).

Come Follow Me 2019 – Lesson Plans for young kids “Download #40”

Not Letting Truths Slip from Us Penny Game- Read/discuss/summarize Hebrews 2:1. How can we give more
“earnest heed to the things which we have heard” and make sure we don’t let them “slip” away from us?
Remind them that we need to CONTINUALLY read scriptures, pray, listen at church, etc.
 Set out a pile of pennies in a cup. Tell them that these represent gospel truths that are valuable to us.
Family members take turns naming one specific thing they’ve learned about Jesus and His gospel or one
thing they can do to deepen their faith. For each thing they can think of, they can grab another penny.
Continue until pennies are gone or nobody can think of anything else.
 Now that they have these pennies, would they want to take good care of them so they don’t get lost?
Have them show you how they could keep a firm hold on these pennies in their hands so they don’t slip
away.
 Take turns letting family members try to steal pennies away from each other.
 Discuss what would happen if we lost our “firm holds” on the pennies (we’d lose them).
 Compare this to the things we learn about Jesus and His gospel. What can we do to keep a “firm hold”
on the valuable truths we’ve learned? Why is it important to not lose our testimonies of Jesus? How can
our testimony help us in life? How does Satan try to take our testimonies away from us?
 Share and discuss the following quote from President Russell M. Nelson:
“Because the evil one is ever at work, our vigilance cannot be relaxed – not even for a moment…Night
and day, at home or away, we must shun sin and ‘hold fast that which is good’.”

The Red Crystal

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures