Moroni 10

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I can know for myself that the Book of Mormon is true by the Power of the Holy Ghost.

Friend December 2016 “Moroni’s Special Promise” Video can be found here.

Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 54: The Promise of the Book of Mormon” Images and Video

Sing together “The Golden Plates” (Children’s Songbook, 86).

Book of Mormon Coloring Book “Moroni Buried the Gold Plates”

Moroni 10:3–5

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

Show the Book of Mormon, and read Moroni 10:4. Emphasize that we can ask God if the Book of Mormon is true, and He will send the Holy Ghost to testify to us. Help the children understand what a witness from the Spirit feels like. Tell about a time when the Holy Ghost bore witness to you about something. Describe how you felt and how you knew it was the Holy Ghost.

Friend December 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones”

Read Moroni 10:5 together and help your little ones say, “The Holy Ghost helps me know what is true.” Some children mistakenly think the Holy Ghost is a spooky ghost. Explain that the Holy Ghost is a real person, like Heavenly Father and Jesus. He helps us have comforting, warm, happy feelings. You could cuddle up together in a blanket and watch the sing-along video for “The Holy Ghost” at children.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

Write on the board the words Read, Remember, Ponder, and Ask. Invite the children to find these words in Moroni 10:3–4. Sing a song about finding truth, such as “Search, Ponder, and Pray” (Children’s Songbook, 109). Ask the children to look for similarities between these verses and the song “Search, Ponder, and Pray” (Children’s Songbook, 109).

Friend December 2020 “Family Night Fun”

Latter Day Kids “Personal Revelation- Come Follow Me” This link has lesson ideas, videos, and discussion ideas about Moroni’s promise

Friend December 2020 “How I Know” Before bed, Damon’s father reads to the boys about Moroni’s promise and then he tells the boys how he prayed and gained his testimony of the Book of Mormon. That night, Damon prays to know if the Book of Mormon is true and he feels warm and good inside.

Primary Manual 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 44: Moroni and the Book of Mormon Promise” This lesson includes questions and lesson ideas about Moroni and his promise.

See more stories of gaining a testimony of the Book of Mormon here.

Heavenly Father gives me spiritual gifts.

Moroni 10:8–20

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

Moroni described the gifts that God gives to His children when they have faith in Him.

Write the numbers 9 through 16 on separate pieces of paper, and wrap each paper like a gift. Let the children take turns unwrapping the gifts. (or put all the papers in one gift box and let the children take turns picking a paper from the box) As they do, read together verses from Moroni 10:9–16 that correspond with the numbers, and help the children identify each spiritual gift. Explain that these are gifts Heavenly Father gives His children so we can help each other and do His work.

Tell the children about spiritual gifts you have noticed that Heavenly Father has given them, such as the gifts of faith, wisdom, testimony, kindness, and the ability to learn. Let the children talk briefly about favorite gifts they have received.

Ensign December 2020 “Family Study Fun”

Use this activity to talk more about Moroni 10:18 (“every good gift cometh of Christ”).

  1. Ahead of time, wrap a Book of Mormon with many layers of wrapping paper or colored cellophane. Tell your family you’ll share clues about what’s inside this gift.
  2. As you share each clue (for example, “This teaches us about Jesus Christ”), invite a family member to take off a layer of paper and guess what’s inside.
  3. If someone guesses correctly, continue unwrapping and take turns sharing truths about the Book of Mormon.

Discussion: Once the book is unwrapped, end by reading Moroni 10:18 together. What can your family do to share the gift of the gospel with others?

Ensign December 2020 “How Can I Seek Spiritual Gifts”

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

Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “7th Article of Faith: Spiritual Gifts” Match each picture to its spiritual gift.

Jesus Christ wants me to come unto Him.

Moroni 10:32

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

  • Read to the children from Moroni 10:32, “Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him,” and invite the children to repeat the phrase with you. Ask them to close their eyes while you place a picture of Jesus somewhere in the room. Then let them open their eyes, find the picture, and gather around it. Discuss with the children the ways we can come unto Christ (see, for example, Articles of Faith 1:3–4). Repeat this activity, letting the children put the picture somewhere in the classroom.
  • Write on the board a question like What does it mean to come unto Christ? Help the children search Moroni 10:32–33 to find possible answers. Work together to list what Christ wants us to do and what He promises to do for us.
  • Review with the children the Prophet Joseph Smith’s words from the introduction to the Book of Mormon: “A man would get nearer to God by abiding by [the Book of Mormon’s] precepts, than by any other book.”Help the children decorate heart-shaped badges that say “I love God with all my might, mind, and strength” (see Moroni 10:32). How do we show God that we love Him?

Friend May 2019 “Family Night Fun”

  1. Before home evening, put a picture of Jesus on one side of the room. (You could use the picture on page 69 of *CFM.) Then sit on the other side of the room and read “Jesus Blesses the Children” on page FJ4. How can we “come unto Jesus” like in the story?
  2. Have everyone stand up and take turns saying what they can do to come unto Jesus by following Him.
  3. With each idea, take a step toward the picture of Christ. Keep helping each other think of good things until everyone is with Jesus together! Then talk about what it means that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. (See *CFM, page 66.)

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”


13th Article of Faith

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Friend January 1988

Friend January 1987

Friend December 2015

Friend December 2015

Friend December 2021 “Matt and Mandy”

Read Philippians 4:8 together, and help the children think of things that fit the descriptions in the verse (see also Articles of Faith 1:13). Invite the children to draw pictures of these things. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Philippians; Colossians” )

Ask the children to name things that fit the descriptions in Philippians 4:8. Invite them to keep a list this week of anything they notice that fits these descriptions. Encourage them to bring their lists to Primary next week and share what they found. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Philippians; Colossians” )

See also:

LDS Living “FHE: The Thirteenth Article of Faith” Great lesson ideas

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The Admonition of Paul” Lesson ideas


Moroni 7-9

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

Before Moroni concluded the record we know today as the Book of Mormon with his own final words, he shared three messages from his father, Mormon: an address to “the peaceable followers of Christ” (Moroni 7:3) and two letters that Mormon had written to Moroni. Perhaps Moroni included these messages in the Book of Mormon because he foresaw similarities between the perils of his day and ours. When these words were written, the Nephite people as a whole were tumbling headlong into apostasy. Many of them had “lost their love, one towards another” and delighted in “everything save that which is good” (Moroni 9:5, 19). And yet Mormon still found cause for hope—teaching us that hope does not mean ignoring or being naive about the world’s problems; it means having faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, whose power is greater and more everlasting than those problems. It means “lay[ing] hold upon every good thing” (Moroni 7:19). It means letting the Atonement of Jesus Christ “and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind” (Moroni 9:25). And until the glorious day of Christ’s Second Coming, it means never ceasing the “labor [we have] to perform … [to] conquer the enemy of all righteousness” (Moroni 9:6).

Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon “Lesson 42: Moroni and His Writings” (See more lesson and study ideas in the lesson.)

Moroni received a letter from his father when Moroni was first called to the ministry. As part of the letter Mormon expressed his love, appreciation, and concern for his son (see Moroni 8:2–3). Before class have a parent, or an adult relative or friend, of each of the children in your class write a letter of love and appreciation. Give these letters to the children as you explain the love that Mormon had for his son, Moroni. Point out that Moroni valued this letter; he carried it with him as he fled from his enemies. Suggest that the children save their letters as a reminder to continue to do good things which will please their parents and the Lord.

The light of Christ helps me judge between good and evil.

Moroni 7:12–20

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

How can Mormon’s counsel help us make good choices about how we spend our time and who we spend it with? You could invite family members to search your home and “lay hold upon” (Moroni 7:19), or hold on to, things that invite them “to do good, and to love God, and to serve him” (Moroni 7:13). Praise them for the good things they find.

Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 42: Moroni and His Writings,” 

  1. Use the following or similar examples of choices that apply to your class. Have the children use Moroni 7:16 to help them choose good from evil.
    • You are playing ball with your friends when a child who does not play well wants to join your team. Your friends tell you if this person plays on your team you will lose the game. You consider telling the child not to play with you. Ask yourself, “Does this choice invite me to do good and to believe in Jesus Christ?”
    • You are watching a movie that has an immoral scene that lasts only a few seconds. You feel embarrassed to leave the movie. Ask yourself, “Does watching this movie invite me to do good and to believe in Jesus Christ?”
    • You are in a store when the clerk makes a mistake and doesn’t charge you the right amount for the item you are buying. You know that the item costs more than what you were charged, but the clerk made the error. Ask yourself, “Does paying the wrong price invite me to do good and to believe in Jesus Christ?”
    • Your bishop has asked you to read the Book of Mormon every day. Sometimes scripture words are hard for you to understand. Ask yourself, “Does reading the scriptures every day help me to do good and persuade me to believe in Christ?”

If I have faith, I can do whatever God needs me to do.

Moroni 7:33

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

Children who have faith in Jesus Christ and confidence in His power can accomplish great things when they are serving Him.

Possible Activities

  • Read Moroni 7:33, and invite the children to stand up when they hear the word “faith.” Explain that we show our faith in Jesus Christ when we keep His commandments. Help the children make a list on the board of some things Jesus wants them to do, like obeying their parents or telling the truth. Testify that our faith in Jesus Christ can help us keep the commandments.
  • Display a few pictures that show someone from the Book of Mormon (or other books of scripture) accomplishing something important because he or she had faith in Jesus Christ (see, for example, Gospel Art Book, nos. 19707881). Help the children tell the story portrayed in the picture. Tell them that because these people had faith in Jesus Christ, they were given power to do what He needed them to do.

Primary Manual 4: Book of Mormon ““Lesson 43: Moroni Teaches Faith in Jesus Christ”  This lesson includes many more teaching ideas about Faith.

  1. Play the Who Am I? game with the children. Give them the following clues, and have them guess the person you are talking about.
    • I prayed all day and all night, using my faith in Jesus Christ. (Enos.)
    • Because of faith, an angel appeared to my son and the four sons of Mosiah to call them to repentance. (Alma.)
    • I used a special flag to encourage my people to have faith in Jesus Christ and to fight for their liberty and their families. (Captain Moroni.)
    • Because of my faith, I chose to take my family and go with Lehi and his family into the wilderness. (Ishmael.)
    • I had the faith to return to Jerusalem to get the brass plates. (Nephi.)
    • My faith in Jesus Christ let me see his finger and then his whole being. (Brother of Jared.)
    • Our faith in Jesus Christ, taught by our mothers, saved our lives in battle. (2,000 stripling warriors.)
    • My faith in Jesus Christ and my desire to preach his gospel helped me fight off a band of robbers who wanted to kill King Lamoni’s sheep. (Ammon.)
    • Our faith caused the prison to tumble. (Alma and Amulek.)
    • While imprisoned, we were encircled with fire because of our faith. (Nephi and Lehi.)
    • Because of our faith in Jesus Christ, we will not taste of death. (Three Nephites.)
    • We were guided by the Liahona to the promised land according to our faith in Jesus Christ. (Lehi and his family.)

I am blessed when I have faith in Jesus Christ.

Moroni 7:21–22, 25, 33

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

21 And now I come to that faith, of which I said I would speak; and I will tell you the way whereby ye may lay hold on every good thing. 22 and in Christ there should come every good thing. 25 and by every word which proceeded forth out of the mouth of God, men began to exercise faith in Christ; and thus by faith, they did lay hold upon every good thing;

Help the children list on the board some of the “good thing[s]” that we receive through the gospel of Jesus Christ, such as having eternal families, returning to Heavenly Father, and being forgiven of our sins.

Believing in Jesus Christ can give me hope.

Moroni 7:41

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

  • Read and explain Moroni 7:41 to the children, and ask them to raise their hands when they hear something Mormon said we should have hope for. Tell the children about the hope you feel because of Jesus Christ.

Ensign December 2020 ““What is it that ye shall hope for?”

I can have hope in Jesus Christ, even during difficult trials.

Moroni 7:40–419:25–26

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

There are many people in the world who feel that they have no hope. How can you help the children you teach find hope in Jesus Christ?

After describing the wickedness he had seen, Mormon told his son not to grieve. What does it mean to you for Christ to “lift [you] up”? Moroni 9:25–26

  • Fill a clear container with water, and drop two objects into it—one that floats and one that sinks. Compare the floating object to a person who has hope in Christ. Read together Moroni 9:25. How does Christ “lift [us] up” when we face difficult trials? Help the children think of ways they can keep the Savior and His encouraging teachings “in [their] mind forever.”
  • Ask the children to think of someone they know who is having a hard time with something. Invite the children to draw a picture for the person that can remind him or her to have hope in Jesus Christ.

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

“Charity is the pure love of Christ.”

Moroni 7:47

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

Invite the children to share what they think the word “charity” means. Then invite one of the children to read Moroni 7:45. (If some of the words in this verse are hard to understand, help the children look them up in a dictionary.) Ask the children to talk about people they know who are good examples of charity. Why is charity called “the pure love of Christ”? (Moroni 7:47). What does verse 48 teach us about how we can be filled with charity? Encourage each of the children to pray for charity this week and to look for ways to show charity to others.

Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon “Lesson 42: Moroni and His Writings”

  1. Explain the qualities of charity found in Moroni 7:45 using terms the children can understand. You could have the children match Moroni’s descriptions with your explanations.
    • Suffereth long: Is patient
    • Kind: Not cruel or mean, loving
    • Envieth not: Is not jealous
    • Not puffed up: Humble, not proud
    • Seeketh not her own: Is unselfish
    • Not easily provoked: Slow to anger, quick to forgive
    • Thinketh no evil: Is trusting, looks for the good
    • Rejoiceth in truth: Is honest
    • Beareth all things: Is obedient
    • Believeth all things: Is faithful
    • Hopeth all things: Is optimistic, trusting
    • Endureth all things: Is patient, persistent

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

Ask the children to repeat this phrase with you: “Charity is the pure love of Christ” (Moroni 7:47). Help the children think of ways Jesus Christ showed love to others (pictures might help, such as Gospel Art Book,nos. 558384). How has He shown love to us? Who can we show love to as Jesus did? For an example, example, show the video “My Brother Hyrum” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves showing love to someone. Suggest that they put their picture where it will remind them to love others as Jesus does.

Ask the children to write names of people they know on pieces of paper and place them in a small bag or container. Invite them to take their container home, select a name from it every day, and do something that shows love for that person. In a future lesson, invite them to share their experiences serving these people.

Friend December 2020 “Family Night Fun”

Friend December 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones”

Ensign December 2020 “Family Study Fun”

Mormon taught that we “must needs have charity” (Moroni 7:44). Use this activity to talk about what charity means.

  1. Show the picture of Jesus from page 193 of the Come, Follow Me manual for individuals and families.
  2. Read Moroni 7:45–47 together. As you read, write down on slips of paper phrases that describe charity (for example, “is kind”).
  3. Put the slips of paper around the picture of Christ. Talk about times He acted in those ways.
  4. Now show a picture of your family. Talk about what your family can do to follow Christ’s examples of charity. As each idea is shared, move the corresponding paper from Christ’s picture to your family’s picture.

Discussion: Read and talk about Moroni 7:48. What can your family do to get ready to see the Savior again?

Latter Day Kids “Charity- Come Follow Me” Video and more lesson ideas at link.

Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon “Lesson 42: Moroni and His Writings”

  1. Moroni had the pure love of Christ. Help the children find some of the following examples of Moroni’s charity, or use some of the following examples as you tell the children the story of Moroni.
    • Suffereth long: Moroni lived alone for over thirty-six years patiently keeping the records. (Mormon 8:5.)
    • Kind: Moroni prayed for us, and he loved his brethren. (Ether 12:36, 38.)
    • Envieth not: Moroni saw our day and counseled us to not be envious or proud. (Mormon 8:35–37.)
    • Not puffed up: Moroni was humble because of his weakness in writing. (Ether 12:23–25.)
    • Seeketh not her own: Moroni unselfishly worked and prayed for us that we would have a knowledge of Jesus Christ. (Mormon 9:36Ether 12:41.)
    • Not easily provoked: Moroni forgave his enemies and worked hard to write things that he hoped would be of worth to them. (Moroni 1:4.)
    • Thinketh no evil: Moroni exhorted us to hold to good and touch not evil. (Moroni 10:30.)
    • Rejoiceth in truth: Moroni was honest. (Moroni 10:27.)
    • Beareth all things: Because Moroni would not deny Jesus Christ, he had to wander alone for his safety. (Moroni 1:2–3.)
    • Believeth all things: Moroni encouraged us to believe in Jesus Christ. (Mormon 9:21.) So great was Moroni’s faith that he was able to see Christ face to face. (Ether 12:39.)
    • Hopeth all things: Moroni understood the importance of hope. (Ether 12:32.)
    • Endureth all things: Moroni was faithful to the end. (Moroni 10:34.)

Baptism: Lesson Ideas

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Table of Contents

What is Baptism

Friend May 2024 “What Is Baptism and Confirmation?” Jesus Christ was baptized. After you turn eight, you can be baptized too! When you’re baptized, your whole body goes under the water. This reminds us that sins and bad choices can be washed away because of Jesus Christ. You promise Heavenly Father that you will do your best to follow His commandments.

After baptism comes confirmation. This is when you get the gift of the Holy Ghost. That means the Holy Ghost can always be with you! He can help you follow Jesus’s example.

Why Get Baptized

Friend March 2021 “Matt and Mandy” Matt invites a friend to his baptism. His friend asks why he is getting baptized. Matt explains the fourth article of faith to him.

Following Jesus

For the Strength of Youth January 2023 “Our Promise to Be a Light” One day, as John baptized people in the Jordan River, Jesus Christ came and asked to be baptized. John was surprised. He knew that Jesus always obeyed God’s commandments and did not need to repent. In fact, he thought that Jesus should baptize him (see Matthew 3:14)! Jesus explained that God had commanded all people to be baptized, so He too needed to be baptized to set an example. John agreed and baptized Jesus in the Jordan River.

Friend February 2021 “Feeling Christ’s Love”

Friend February 2019 “Jesus was Baptized”

[unitegallery 2019Febru]

Why was the Savior baptized? 2 Nephi 31: 4-13

  • To Be Obedient to the Father & To be an Example for Us 

7) But notwithstanding he being holy, he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments.

  • To Show us that We Need to Enter the Gate (Baptism) that Leads to the Path Towards Eternal Life

9) And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them

Friend August 2019 “A New Path: Coloring Page” When I am baptized, I choose to walk a new path with Jesus. (See Romans 6:4.)

We Need to Follow His Example and be Baptized

5) And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfil all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water!

10) And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me 

Friend August 2023 “Special Issue: Baptism and Confirmation”

Friend August 2023 “Special Issue: Baptism and Confirmation”

Friend February 2024 “I Can Be Baptized Like Jesus”

Friend August 2023 “Giorgia’s Big Day” When a friend asks Giorgia about the picture of Jesus being baptized, she told her she was going to be baptized soon like Jesus because she wanted to follow him. She invited her friend to her baptism. Her baptism was a special day. She had chosen to follow Jesus. And she wanted to keep following Him every day!

I must be baptized to enter the kingdom of heaven.

CHAPTER 3

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

Joshua 3

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

  • Review some details of the story of the children of Israel crossing the Jordan River to enter the promised land (see “Joshua the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories). Then show a picture of Jesus being baptized, and tell the children that Jesus was baptized in the same river. Invite the children to share other things they know about Jesus’s baptism.
  • Sing a song about baptism with the children, such as “Baptism” (Children’s Songbook, 100–101). Help them identify what this song teaches us about why Jesus was baptized and why we should follow His example. Let the children share their feelings about being baptized. Talk about what the children can do now to prepare to be baptized when they are eight years old.

Friend February 2022 “Jesus Said”

I need to be baptized and confirmed to return to live with Heavenly Father.

John 3:1–10

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “John 2–4” The children you teach are preparing to take important steps to live with Heavenly Father again by being baptized (born of water) and confirmed (born of the Spirit). How can you help them understand the importance of these two ordinances?

What does it mean to be “born again into the kingdom of heaven”?

To have the Spirit of the Lord cause a mighty change in a person’s heart so that he has no more desire to do evil, but rather desires to seek the things of God. (Guide to the Scriptures, “Born Again, Born of God” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) For additional information click on link.

  • Summarize the story of Jesus teaching Nicodemus (see John 3:1–10). Promise the children that when they are baptized, Heavenly Father will give them the gift of the Holy Ghost.
  • Show the children this week’s activity page, and ask them to describe the drawings. Read John 3:5, and testify that we need to be baptized and confirmed to live with Heavenly Father again.
  • Ask the children to talk about what they do to wash their hands. Show the picture Girl Being Baptized (Gospel Art Book, no. 104), and help the children compare washing our hands with water to becoming spiritually clean through baptism.

Cleansed from Sin

Cleansing – Boy learns that through the atonement we can be cleansed of our sins. Friend January 1985  (Story also includes bleach and food coloring object lesson.)

Because of Jesus Christ, I can repent and be clean.

Isaiah 1:2–4, 16–19

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 1–12” Isaiah lived in a time when many of his people had turned away from the Lord. But the Lord promised them that their sins could be forgiven if they repented. He makes this promise to us as well.

  • Ask the children to read Isaiah 1:2–4 and talk about some of the reasons the Lord was not happy with the people of Judah. Then read Isaiah 1:16–19 together to learn what the Lord invited the people to do. As needed, help the children understand difficult words and phrases. To help them visualize verse 18, display something bright red and something pure white. What do we learn about Jesus Christ’s mercy from these verses? Invite the children to share how they feel about Jesus Christ’s gift of forgiveness, and share your feelings as well.

Friend February 1996 “Matt and Mandy”

Gathering Zion (Facebook)

See also: New Era February 2016 “Scarlet, Crimson, Snow, and Wool”

  • Help the children memorize Isaiah 1:18. Write the verse on the board, and invite the children to recite it several times, erasing one word each time until they can recite it from memory. You could also use paper strips with words from the verse written on them. Why is it important to always remember what this verse teaches? Discuss how being baptized and partaking of the sacrament make this promise available to us.

Have a child cover the words below with paper strips after each time the class repeats the scripture.

I can be baptized as Jesus was.

Matthew 3:13–17

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3” How can you use the account of Jesus’s baptism to help the children prepare to be baptized?

  • Summarize the story of the Savior’s baptism (see Matthew 3:13–17; see also “Chapter 10: Jesus Is Baptized,” in New Testament Stories, 26–29, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Explain that Jesus was baptized by immersion by someone who had priesthood authority. Repeat the story several times and invite the children to share the details they remember.

Immersion means a person is “immersed” all the way under water and brought back up. Baptism by immersion is beautifully symbolic, not only of the washing away of sins, but of death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism signifies the end of your old way of life and birth to a life committed to following Jesus Christ.  (Come Unto Christ “Baptism”)

Priesthood Authority

  • What authority did John the Baptist have to baptize? (The Aaronic Priesthood.)
  • What authority must the person who is baptizing us have to baptize? (He must be a priest in the Aaronic Priesthood or hold the Melchizedek Priesthood.)
  • Show a picture of Jesus being baptized and this week’s activity page. Let the children point out similarities between the two pictures. (There’s a picture of Jesus being baptized in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families.)

Red Crystal Lesson Ideas

Latter Day Kids “Jesus was Baptized” Lesson ideas

“Lesson 6: The Baptism of Jesus Christ,” Primary 7: New Testament

Have two children come to the front of the class, face each other, and hold hands above their heads to form an area the other children can walk under. Explain that these children represent a very important gate. Tell the children that this gate is the entrance to the strait and narrow path that leads to eternal life. Have a child read 2 Nephi 31:17. Explain that one of the first steps to eternal life is going through the gate (being baptized). Have the children walk through the gate.

  1. Write the following questions about baptism and their scripture references on the chalkboard or a piece of paper: Why are we baptized? (D&C 49:132 Nephi 31:18.) How are we baptized? (D&C 20:72–74.) By whom are we baptized? (D&C 20:73.) When are we baptized? (D&C 68:27.) Have the children look up the scriptures and discuss the answers.
  2. Write each of the following phrases on a separate piece of paper:
    • For the remission of our sins
    • To become members of the Church
    • So we can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost
    • To be obedient
    • To get on the strait and narrow path
    Have the children pass through the gate used at the beginning of the lesson. As each child goes through, hand him or her one of the papers. Explain that these are reasons why we must be baptized. Discuss with the children how we can keep our baptismal covenants.

Friend February 2023 “Baptism”

Friend February 2019 “Jesus was Baptized”

We Need to Follow His Example and be Baptized

5) And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfill all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water!

10) And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me 

Friend March 2017 “Jesus Was Baptized”

Friend February 2019 “Coloring Page”

Friend Feb 2015
Friend Feb 2015

Sing “When Jesus Christ Was Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 102). Explain that Jesus was baptized to obey Heavenly Father. One day, your little ones can choose to be baptized too! Tell your children about your baptism. Why was it special to you? Friend January 2023

Why was the Savior baptized?

  • To Be Obedient to the Father & To be an Example for Us 

7) But notwithstanding he being holy, he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments.

  • To Show us that We Need to Enter the Gate (Baptism) that Leads to the Path Towards Eternal Life

9) And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them.

New Era April 2014 “The Gate and the Path”

Friend August 2019 “Coloring Page: A New Path” When I am baptized, I choose to walk a new path with Jesus. (See Romans 6:4.)

We Need to Follow His Example and be Baptized

5) And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfil all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water!

10) And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me 

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 31-33” Display the picture in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families, and ask the children to share what they know about Jesus’s baptism (see Matthew 3:13–17). Put the following words in random order on the board: Jesus witnessed unto the Father that He would be obedient unto Him. Invite the children to read 2 Nephi 31:7 as a class and put the words into the correct order.

  • Ask the children what they would say to someone preparing to be baptized, and help them compile their advice onto simple cards they could give to someone. How can we continue to follow the example of Jesus after we are baptized?

New Testament Coloring Book “Jesus’s Baptism”

  • “Baptism” (January 2003 Liahona and Friend)
    Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles tells how Jesus Christ set an example for us by being baptized.
  • “The Baptism of Jesus Christ” (August 1999 Friend)
    The story of the baptism of Jesus Christ. Includes figures to cut out and use to tell the story.
  • “Jesus Is Baptized” (February 2011 Friend)
    A retelling of the story of Jesus Christ’s baptism taken from the New Testament.

Friend February 2015 “Jesus Was Baptized” Scripture jar questions. Link also includes other lesson ideas.

Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “Baptized Like Jesus” Lesson ideas

I can keep my baptismal covenants.

Matthew 3:13–17Mark 1:1–11Luke 3:2–18

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3” Learning about the account of Jesus’s baptism provides a good opportunity to help the children review their baptismal covenants and recommit to keeping them.

  • Invite the children to take turns reading verses from Mark 1:1–11. Discuss why Heavenly Father wants us to be baptized. Why was Jesus baptized, even though He did not need to be cleansed from sin? Help the children find answers to this question in Matthew 3:13–15 and 2 Nephi 31:6–7.

Why was the Savior baptized 2 Nephi 31: 4-13

  • To Be Obedient to the Father & To be an Example for Us 

7) But notwithstanding he being holy, he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments.

  • To Show us that We Need to Enter the Gate (Baptism) that Leads to the Path Towards Eternal Life

9) And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3” When you were baptized, you followed the example of the Savior. Compare what you learn from the accounts of the Savior’s baptism with what happened during your baptism.

The Savior’s BaptismMy Baptism
Who baptized Jesus, and what authority did he hold?Who baptized you, and what authority did he hold?
Where was Jesus baptized?Where were you baptized?
How was Jesus baptized?How were you baptized?
Why was Jesus baptized?Why were you baptized?
How did Heavenly Father show that He was pleased with Jesus?How did Heavenly Father show that He was pleased when you were baptized? How has He shown His approval since then?

Feel sorry for our sins

Have a desire to follow Jesus (keep his commandments)

Have a desire to be baptized

Desire to help others

Willing to be a witness of Jesus Christ (Tell others of Jesus and the gospel)

  • Invite a member of the bishopric to tell the children about the baptismal interview they will have before they are baptized.

Friend August 2019 “Ready to Be Baptized” Trevan’s baptism interview with the bishop was coming up and he was worried that he might not know the answers. The missionaries came for dinner and they talk about baptism and baptismal covenants

  • Sing together a song about baptism, such as “Baptism” (Children’s Songbook, 100–101). Consider asking a child to lead the other children while they sing.
  • Use Matthew 3:11, 16 to teach the children that the Holy Ghost descended on Jesus when He was baptized (a dove appeared as a sign to show that this had happened). Show the picture The Gift of the Holy Ghost (Gospel Art Book, no. 105), and explain that we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost when we are confirmed.

I Can be Baptized When I Am Eight Years Old.

Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”

In Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28, the Lord told Joseph Smith that children should learn to have faith in Jesus Christ, repent, and be baptized when they are eight years old. He also said that they should learn to pray and keep God’s commandments.

Why age 8? Old enough to understand the doctrine of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ and prepared and ready to make sacred covenants.

  • Invite the children to count to eight using their fingers. What is special about being eight years old? Help the children recognize that when they are eight years old, they can be baptized. Using words and phrases found in Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28, share with them some of the things the Lord wants them to learn about before they are eight (see also Articles of Faith 1:4). Help them understand concepts that might not be familiar to them.
  • Sing with the children a song about baptism, such as “Baptism” or “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook,100–101, 103). Ask the children to share how they feel about being baptized and what they can do to prepare.

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Find items around your home that remind you of baptism. A cup of water could remind you of how we are baptized by immersion. A piece of white cloth could remind you of how we wear white. A blanket could remind you of the warm feeling of the Holy Ghost. What else can you think of?

Latter Day Kids “Baptism Symbols” Lesson Ideas and Videos

Preparing for Baptism

I am preparing to be baptized

Friend August 2023 “Steps to the Font” Find your way through the maze to the baptism font. Go through each picture to see what you can do to prepare.

Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 71–74

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 20–22: The Rise of the Church of Christ”

When the Church was organized, the Lord taught His Saints about sacred ordinances, including baptism and the sacrament.

If someone in your family is not yet baptized, these verses could lead to a discussion about how to prepare for baptism (see verse 37) and how baptisms are performed. Family members could share pictures or memories from their baptismal day.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 20–22: The Rise of the Church of Christ”

Show a picture of a child being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, no. 104), and ask the children to point out things they notice. Read or summarize Doctrine and Covenants 20:71–74, and help the children see how the picture matches the instructions in these verses. Testify that we should follow the Savior’s example and be baptized in the way He has commanded.

71 No one can be received into the church of Christ unless he has arrived unto the years of accountability before God, and is capable of repentance.

 See Primary 3 “Lesson 27: The Age of Accountability,” for ideas on how to explain accountability. Includes activities, object lessons, and stories.

Why age 8? Old enough to understand the doctrine of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ and prepared and ready to make sacred covenants.

72 Baptism is to be administered in the following manner unto all those who repent—

73 The person who is called of God and has authority from Jesus Christ to baptize, shall go down into the water with the person who has presented himself or herself for baptism, and shall say, calling him or her by name: Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

  • What authority did John the Baptist have to baptize? (The Aaronic Priesthood.)
  • What authority must the person who is baptizing us have to baptize? (He must be a priest in the Aaronic Priesthood or hold the Melchizedek Priesthood.)

74 Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again out of the water.

Immersion means a person is “immersed” all the way under water and brought back up. Baptism by immersion is beautifully symbolic, not only of the washing away of sins, but of death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism signifies the end of your old way of life and birth to a life committed to following Jesus Christ.  (Come Unto Christ “Baptism”)

37 And again, by way of commandment to the church concerning the manner of baptism—All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, shall be received by baptism into his church.

Sing “When I Am Baptized”

Liahona February 2021 “Helping Children Prepare for Baptism”

Teaching Children the Gospel “Mosiah 18-24: Alma Baptizes at the Waters of Mormon” Lesson, story, and activity ideas about the scripture story, baptism, and baptism covenants

Friend February 2019 “Learning about Baptism” Some things to know about getting baptized.

Friend February 2021 “My Baptism Day” Make a baptism book.

Friend February 2019 “Family Night Fun” Baptism lesson ideas.

Friend February 2015 “Jesus Was Baptized” Scripture jar questions. Link also includes other lesson ideas.

Friend June 2016 “Funstuff: My Baptism Bag” When you’re baptized, you make a covenant, or promise, to always remember Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. You can remember your covenants by making a baptism bag!

Friend June 2016

Friend November 2019 “Conference News” President Nelson announced that anyone who has been baptized can be an official witness at another person’s baptism.

I can prepare to be baptized.

Moroni 6:1–3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

Read phrases from Moroni 6:1–3 that teach who can be baptized. Explain terms the children may not understand. For instance, one meaning of “a broken heart and a contrite spirit” is to feel sorry for our sins (Moroni 6:2). Tell about how you prepared to be baptized, or ask someone who was recently baptized to explain how he or she prepared. Help the children think of ways they can prepare to be baptized someday.

Reading Book of Mormon before Baptism

Friend February 2019 “Ingrid’s Birthday Surprise” Ingrid gets a special present for her seventh birthday from her mom—a Book of Mormon. It was a special gift to help her prepare for her baptism. Ingrid read the entire Book of Mormon that year and prayed for and received a testimony of its truthfulness.

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Friend June 2016 “Jason’s Study Buddy” Jason reads the entire Book of Mormon before his baptism. His testimony grows.

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Friend February 2022 “Goals for Baptism” After hearing about the Children and Youth program, Zoe set a goal to read the Book of Mormon before her baptism. As she read, she wanted to do more good things, so she joined the world wide fast about Covid, and she prayed and fasted for a testimony.

We need to bring forth “fruits worthy of repentance.”

Luke 3:2–14

Come, Follow Me—For Sunday School: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3”

  • In Luke 3:8, John the Baptist taught the people that before they could be baptized, they needed to show “fruits,” or evidence, of their repentance. How can you help class members recognize the evidence of their own repentance? You might ask them to search Luke 3:8–14 and look for what John considered “fruits” of repentance. They could also review Moroni 6:1–3 and Doctrine and Covenants 20:37. You might draw a fruit tree on the board and let class members label the fruit on the tree with the “fruits” of repentance they find. This could also be a good time to talk about what it means to truly repent.

Bishop Interview

Friend August 2019 “Ready to Be Baptized” Trevan’s baptism interview with the bishop was coming up and he was worried that he might not know the answers. The missionaries came for dinner and they taught a lesson about baptism. They reminded Trevan of the covenants he would be making with the acronym “take.” Each letter stands for a baptismal covenant. The missionaries also go over the baptism questions with Trevan, and he realizes he is ready to be baptized. (Also includes a bookmark with the “take” acronym on it.)

Inviting Friends and Family to Baptism

Friend August 2023 “Come to My Baptism!” Making an invitation.

Baptismal Covenants

Taking on the Name of Christ

Friend April 1988 “A Name to Live up to” Jenny is sad that she isn’t named after someone whom she could try to be like–someone who did great deeds–but she is reminded that she took on the name of Jesus when she was baptized.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 18–19: “The Worth of Souls Is Great”

Do your family members’ names have special meaning? Maybe you could talk about why names are important and what it means to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ (see Mosiah 5:7). This could be a good opportunity to help family members prepare to take Christ’s name upon themselves when they are baptized.

Friend April 1988 “A Name to Live up to” Jenny is sad that she isn’t named after someone whom she could try to be like–someone who did great deeds–but she is reminded that she took on the name of Jesus when she was baptized.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 4-6”

Talk to the children about why people put their names on things, such as school assignments, sports jerseys, and so on (see Mosiah 5:14–15). How can we show that we have Christ’s name “written always in [our] hearts”? (Mosiah 5:12).

Being baptized makes us “one in Christ.” (Sr)

Galatians 3:26–28

Invite the children to read Galatians 3:26–28 with this question in mind: What happens when I am baptized? You might want to focus on phrases like “put on Christ” or “one in Christ.” What might these phrases mean? How is “putting on Christ” similar to taking His name upon ourselves? (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:75–79). What can we do to show others that we have taken His name upon ourselves? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians” )

Read together Galatians 3:28, and identify some of the ways people identified themselves when they were baptized in Paul’s day. Help the children name some ways they identify themselves today. What is Paul trying to teach us about how we should see each other when we are baptized? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians” )

Friend February 2021 “Your Baptism Covenant”

Friend February 2019 “Family Night Fun” The baptism covenant is a promise between two individuals: you and Heavenly Father. Here’s a recipe that needs just two ingredients! Bananut Ice Cream

Feel sorry for our sins

Have a desire to follow Jesus (keep his commandments)

Have a desire to be baptized

Desire to help others

Willing to be a witness of Jesus Christ (Tell others of Jesus and the gospel)

  • Invite a member of the bishopric to tell the children about the baptismal interview they will have before they are baptized.
  • Prepare several pairs of cards with matching phrases or pictures that represent our baptismal covenants. Place the cards facedown. Invite the children to take turns turning over two at a time, looking for a match. After a match is made, invite children to share ways they have kept that covenant.

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

Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

  • Share how keeping your baptismal covenants has blessed you.

Come, Follow Me—For Sunday School: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3”

Elder David A. Bednar taught: “The baptismal covenant includes three fundamental commitments: (1) to be willing to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ, (2) to always remember Him, and (3) to keep His commandments. The promised blessing for honoring this covenant is ‘that [we] may always have his Spirit to be with [us]’ [Doctrine and Covenants 20:77]. Thus, baptism is the essential preparation to receive the authorized opportunity for the constant companionship of the third member of the Godhead” (“Always Retain a Remission of Your Sins,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 60). For an example of a young boy keeping his baptismal covenants, see the story at the beginning of Sister Carole M. Stephens’s message “We Have Great Reason to Rejoice” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 115–17).

When I Am Baptized I Promise to Follow Jesus

Friend February 2021 “Bright Idea”

Friend February 2021 “The Savior and Me” Fill out the page and look at it during the sacrament to remember Jesus and the covenant you made.

Friend May 2024 “A Baptism Promise” Keaton wanted to get baptized when he turned eight because he loves Jesus and wants to follow him. He father wasn’t a member, but he thought that was a good reason to get baptized. His grandfather baptized him and his father gave a talk about the promise he would be making to always remember Jesus. He said, “I hope your baptism always reminds you to love God and love others.”

Following and Standing as a Witness of Jesus Christ

Friend June 2021 “Just Like She Imagined” Kvitka was excited to be baptized, but she was sad her friends couldn’t come due to Covid. Her Grandma asks her to be a missionary (be a witness of Jesus Christ) to her aunt and cousin when they come and show them around the meeting house. She felt warm inside when she did and when told them she was getting baptized because she wants to follow Jesus.

Bear One Another’s Burdens

Galatians 6:2

Show a picture of a child being baptized (such as Gospel Art Book, no. 104). Ask the children what the child is doing. Explain that when we are baptized, we make covenants, or promises. Read Galatians 6:2 or Mosiah 18:8 to help the children learn one of the things we promise to do: bear one another’s burdens. Invite the children to draw pictures of ways they can help others who are carrying burdens. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians” )

Friend May 2020 “Ali’s Head Start” Ali learns that when she is baptized she will be covenanting (promising) to bear one another’s burdens, (or in other words, she will be promising to help those who are going through a hard time). Ali decides to get a head start on her covenants when she sees children without hair as she walked through the hospital to go visit a friend. She decides to donate some of her long hair so those children can have wigs. 

Friend August 2023 “My Baptismal Covenant”

Read to the children this phrase from Galatians 6:2: “Bear ye one another’s burdens.” To illustrate what this means, give one of the children something heavy to carry. Then ask for a volunteer to help the child carry the object. Explain to the children that many things can feel like a burden, such as being sick or feeling sad or lonely. What could we do to help a person with this kind of burden? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians”)

The Red Crystal

I’ll Walk With You

Friend September 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Help your little ones say, “Jesus wants me to help those in need.” Tell them that people in need might be those who are sick, hurt, or lonely. Think of what you can do as a family to help others.

Friend January 2024 “You Can Make a Difference” President Susan H. Porter, Primary General President talks about how to keep Baptismal covenants by serving and lifting others.

Who can I help today? Write your ideas on your paper chain!

Comfort Those Who Need Comfort

Heavenly Father comforts me, and I can comfort others. (Jr)

2 Corinthians 1:3–4

Show the children some things that provide comfort, such as a blanket or bandage. Ask the children what comforts them when they are sad or afraid or have other problems. Read 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 with the children, and explain that “tribulation” is another word for really hard problems. Share some ways Heavenly Father has comforted you, and testify that He will comfort the children as well. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

Image by Freepik

The Red Crystal

Friend March 2019 “Missing Mom and Dad” Dylan’s mom and dad were going on a trip, and he was going to stay with his grandparents. He loved staying with his grandparents, but for some reason he was scared about being away from his mom and dad for so long. He decided to pray for help, and he received comforting thoughts and feelings.

Show pictures of people being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–4) while you read 2 Corinthians 1:4 to the children. Explain that when we are baptized, we promise to comfort others. How can we follow Paul’s counsel to “comfort them which are in any trouble”? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

Friend March 2021 “Jesus Comforted Others”

Friend September 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Give each of your little ones a long hug. Help them find words to tell you how it feels to be wrapped in a long, tender hug. Teach them that God loves us and wants to show us how much He cares.

Heavenly Father comforts me, and I can comfort others. (Sr)

We all experience heartache and sorrow, setbacks and obstacles, and discomfort and sickness. When the people of Corinth experienced hardship, Paul wrote to Church members there to offer continued support and counsel. He testified of the comfort and peace available to them through Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (see 2 Corinthians 1:3–4). This lesson can help you to understand some of the ways God provides comfort to His children and to identify ways in which you can share His comfort with others. (New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “2 Corinthians 1; 4”)

2 Corinthians 1:3–4

As you read 2 Corinthians 1:3–4, ask the children to listen for an answer to the question “What does God do for us?” Help the children list ways in which God comforts us. Invite the children to share experiences when they were sad or worried or afraid and God comforted them. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

He gives us thoughts in our mind and feelings in our heart through the Holy Ghost.

  1. A feeling that Heavenly Father and Jesus loves us.
  2. A feeling of comfort when we are sad or lonely
  3. A good feeling when we hear beautiful music or see inspiring art
  4. A peaceful feeling that everything is going to be okay.
  • He also sends people to help and comfort us.
  • God’s words, such as in the Scriptures, can also touch our hearts and help comfort us.

Invite the children to share ways we can keep our baptismal covenant to comfort others (see Mosiah 18:9). Give them time to think of someone they know who needs comfort and make a plan to reach out to that person. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

Friend August 2022 “Jesus Promised Us Comfort”

Making and keeping covenants can help me be more like Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

Zechariah 3:1–7

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Haggai; Zechariah 1–3; 7–14” In a vision, Zechariah saw a high priest named Joshua, who was “clothed with filthy garments” (Zechariah 3:3). An angel gave him clean clothing and explained that this symbolized being cleansed from his sins. You could use this vision to help the children understand the covenants and blessings associated with baptism.

  • Read together Zechariah 3:1–7 and discuss questions like these: What did Joshua’s “filthy garments” represent? How do we become clean from our sins? How do our baptismal covenants help us “walk in [the Lord’s] ways”?
  • A few days before class, invite a child to come prepared to talk about his or her baptism. Review together the covenant we make at baptism (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37). How will keeping our promises help us become more like Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? How does taking the sacrament each week help us keep our baptismal covenants?

Jesus Christ can make my spirit clean.

Zechariah 3:1–7

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Haggai; Zechariah 1–3; 7–14” The high priest Joshua’s dirty clothes, described in Zechariah 3:1–7, symbolize what happens when we sin. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can be made clean, as Joshua was made clean when he received new clothes.

  • Let the children pass around a dirty shirt, and read Zechariah 3:3. Then pass around a clean shirt, and read verse 4. Talk with the children about how making wrong choices is like becoming dirty spiritually, but the Savior can make us clean again. How do we feel when we are clean? Share your testimony that because Jesus Christ suffered and died for us, we will be clean from our sins as we repent.
  • If possible, show the children a picture of someone they know dressed in white at his or her baptism (or see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103104). Why do we wear white at our baptisms? Sing a song about baptism, such as “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103). Invite the children to draw themselves being baptized and share how they feel about being baptized someday.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Haggai; Zechariah 1–3; 7–14”As you read these verses, you could show your family some dirty clothes. How might Joshua have felt when he stood before the angel in dirty clothes? How is sin like dirty clothes? What does Zechariah 3:1–7 teach us about forgiveness? You could then clean the clothes together and talk about the cleansing power of the Savior’s Atonement.

Friend December 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Story: In a vision, Zechariah saw a man wearing dirty clothes. An angel came to the man and gave him clean clothes. (See Zechariah 3:3–5.) Putting on clean clothes can remind us of repenting. When we make a wrong choice, we can repent and be clean again.

Song: “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79)

Activity: Talk about how repenting can lighten your load. Then do the activity on page 12. How do you feel when you repent?

Being baptized is like becoming a new person. (Represents death of old sinful person and rebirth)

Romans 6:1–11

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Romans 1-6” The children you teach are preparing for baptism. What can they learn about baptism from Romans 6?

Invite the children to repeat the phrase “Walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Tell the children what this means to you. For example, you might share memories about the day you were baptized and talk about how your baptism has helped you become more like Jesus Christ. Use this week’s activity page to teach the children that baptism helps us become a new person.

Friend February 2020

Fighting with siblings/ Sharing with siblings

Doing chores when asked/ Complaining about chores

Getting angry after losing a game/ Choosing to congratulate the winner

Choosing to make fun of someone/ Choosing to be kind

Friend Jan 2015

If any of the children have attended a baptism, ask them to share their experience. Or show a picture of someone being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 35103–4). Help the children understand that at baptism we make promises to become like Jesus. Invite them to draw pictures of themselves being baptized and share what they can do to prepare for their baptisms.

Sing with the children a song about baptism, such as “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103). What do we learn about baptism from this song?

Being baptized is like becoming a new person. (Represents death of old sinful person and rebirth)

Romans 6:1–11

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Romans 1-6” Paul taught that baptism symbolizes the death and Resurrection of Christ. It also symbolizes being raised up to “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). We renew our commitment to walk in newness of life every time we partake of the sacrament.

Invite a child to read Romans 6:3–6. What did Paul say baptism is “in the likeness of”?

  • New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “Romans 6” Yielding ourselves to God is not easy. But Jesus Christ promises that as we let our old, sinful selves die, He will give us new life, changing our natures to become more like Him. Paul taught that through the ordinance of baptism, we can receive the Savior’s transforming power to help us “walk in newness of life” ( Romans 6:4).

Discuss how baptism symbolizes death and resurrection. It may help to display a picture of a baptism or show a video like “The Baptism of Jesus” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Why are death and resurrection good symbols of what happens when we are baptized?

Read together the sacrament prayers (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79). Remind the children that when we take the sacrament, we renew the commitment to follow Jesus Christ that we made when we were baptized. How does the sacrament help us “walk in newness of life”?

Invite the children to draw pictures that show what it means to them to “walk in newness of life.” The children could hang these pictures in their rooms to help them remember to make good choices.

Repentance is Part of Keeping Baptismal Covenants

Friend March 2023 “Keeping His Promise” Happiness was excited to make his baptismal covenants. After his baptism he felt so good inside! He wanted to feel this clean and happy forever. He never wanted to make a wrong choice again. But a few days later he told a lie to his father and felt bad felt bad for breaking his baptismal promise. He told his father what he had done. He father forgave him and told him, “When you were baptized, you didn’t promise to be perfect. You promised to try hard to follow Jesus. When we repent, Heavenly Father forgives us. Then we can be just as clean as we were the day we were baptized. Repenting is part of keeping your baptism promise.”

Clean Again

Friend May 2024 “Margo and Paolo” Margo said some mean things to her friend and feels terrible. She wants to be baptized again to become clean again. Her mom explains she doesn’t need to do that. She can repent and be forgiven, and when she takes the sacrament she can promise to do better.

Baptism Covenants

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

Friend December 2021 “Elder Soares Speaks to ChildrenVideo Cartoon about keeping baptismal covenants

Friend May 2020 “Ali’s Head Start” Ali learns that when she is baptized she will be covenanting (promising) to bear one another’s burdens, (or in other words, she will be promising to help those who are going through a hard time). Ali decides to get a head start on her covenants when she sees children without hair as she walked through the hospital to go visit a friend. She decides to donate some of her long hair so those children can have wigs. 

Friend February 2019 “Promise to Try” Tatsuki‘s teacher came to his house to talk to him about his upcoming baptism. He became concened when he learned about the covenants he would be making. He didn’t think he would be like Jesus every day. Then his mom reminded him of the kind things he had done and told him that he was following Jesus by doing those things. He also learned that he could repent and be forgiven if he made mistakes. He was then happy that he could be baptized and try to be like Jesus.

[unitegallery 2019Feb]

How to Remember Baptismal Covenants

Friend August 2022 “Friends by Mail” My parents gave me a white blanket for my baptism like in the story “Wrapped Up in Love” (February 2021). It helps me remember my baptism covenants. (Includes photo)

Keeping Baptismal Covenants

Friend August 2023 “My Baptismal Covenant”

Baptism Concerns

Melissa’s Baptism – Girl is upset because her nonmember father isn’t coming to her baptism. Friend March 1984

Friend June 2016 “Who will Baptize Me” Margo thinks her baptism won’t be special because her father can’t baptize her, but she learns that isn’t true.

Friend June 2016

Friend August 2019 “A New Path: Coloring Page” When I am baptized, I choose to walk a new path with Jesus. (See Romans 6:4.)

Baptism Day

Friend August 2023 “My Baptism and Confirmation”

 Friend July 2015 Journaling about your baptism

Friend February 2022 “Find It” What did you like best when you got baptized? Or what are you looking forward to the most? Find the hidden items below.

Children can be Witnesses at Baptisms

Friend November 2019 “Conference News” President Nelson announced that anyone who has been baptized can be an official witness at another person’s baptism.

Friend February 2021 “Show and Tell” I was a witness at my cousin’s baptism. This experience was very powerful and special for me. I know we should follow Jesus’s example and be baptized. Liberty H. (right), age 9, Georgia, USA (Link includes photo)

Confirmation

Friend August 2023 “Confirmation and the Gift of the Holy Ghost”

Friend August 2023 “Connect the Dots” After you’re baptized, you’re confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You also receive the gift of the Holy Ghost to guide and comfort you. Connect the dots to finish the picture.

Friend July 2023 “A Member of Jesus Christ’s Church”


Jesus: Second Coming

Posted on

Jesus Christ Will Come Again & Will Reign on the Earth.

Doctrine and Covenants 133:19–25, 46–52

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 133-134

In section 133, the Lord describes His Second Coming and invites His people to prepare for this glorious event. How can you help the children look forward to the Savior’s return?Possible Activities

  • Hide a picture of the Savior’s Second Coming behind a cloth, as if the cloth were a curtain (you could use the image in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families or Gospel Art Book, no. 66). Invite the children to take turns moving the “curtain” aside and pretending they are looking out a window. Ask them to share how they would feel if they looked out the window and saw Jesus coming down from heaven. Read the phrase “go ye out to meet him” (verse 19), and help the children repeat the phrase.
  • Under each child’s chair, hide a picture depicting something we can do to prepare for Jesus Christ’s Second Coming (such as read the scriptures, share the gospel, or serve our families). Let the children find the pictures, and talk about how doing these things helps us get ready to meet the Savior when He returns.
  • Sing together a song about the Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83). Share your love for the Savior and your feelings about His return to the earth. Invite the children to share their feelings too.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson said, “It is supremely important to prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ” (“Preparing for the Lord’s Return,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 81). How will you help the children understand how they can participate in this critical work?

  • Display the picture from this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families, and invite the children to make a list of things they know about Jesus Christ’s Second Coming. Then, using Doctrine and Covenants 133:19–25, 46–52, invite them to add things to their list. Share your testimony that the Second Coming will be a joyful day for the righteous.
  • To help the children understand verse 19, talk to them about how a bride might prepare for her wedding (perhaps someone who was recently married could help with this conversation). How are we like a bride preparing “for the coming of the Bridegroom,” Jesus Christ? If you think it would be helpful, review with the children the parable of the ten virgins (see Matthew 25:1–13). Why is it important to prepare for the Savior’s Second Coming? What can we do now to prepare

Come, Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Prepare Ye” Lesson ideas

Friend November 2021 “Jesus Will Come Again” Read each scripture about what His Second Coming will be like. Then color in part of the picture.

Friend November 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Ask your little ones to cheer and clap. Talk about how Jesus’s Second Coming will be a joyful event. Help your little ones say, “Jesus will come again!”

  • Read to the children some of the prophecies Zechariah made about the Savior’s Second Coming, such as those in Zechariah 2:1014:9. Ask the children to draw pictures of what they think it will be like when Jesus comes again, or sing together a song about the Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83).

Additional Teaching Resources: Teaching Children the Gospel “Jesus: Second Coming” and Resources by Topic “Second Coming”

Friend October 2019 “The Living Christ” Second Coming of Jesus Christ

Friend December 2020 “Bright Idea”

Doctrine and Covenants 106:4-5

 4 And again, verily I say unto you, the coming of the Lord draweth nigh, and it overtaketh the world as a thief in the night—

Therefore, gird up your loins, that you may be the children of light, and that day shall not overtake you as a thief.

Joel 2:12–13.

To help your family talk about Joel 2:12–13, you could place a picture of the Savior on one side of a room and the word sin on the opposite side. Invite family members to take turns facing the sign and then turning toward the Savior as they share things that can help us turn to Him “with all [our] heart.” Encourage family members to think about all aspects of their lives, including activities, work, school, and relationships. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Hosea 1–6; 10–14 Joel”

Adam-ondi-Ahman

SECTION 116

Revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet, near Wight’s Ferry, at a place called Spring Hill, Daviess County, Missouri, May 19, 1838.

Spring Hill is named by the Lord aAdam-ondi-Ahman, because, said he, it is the place where bAdam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of Days shall sit, as spoken of by Daniel the prophet.

Church History Topics “Adam-ondi-Ahman” Two years after the Kirtland Temple dedication, while searching for lands the Saints could settle in Daviess County, Missouri, Joseph Smith and a group of Church leaders found a beautiful spot near the Grand River with abundant water, wild game, and grass-covered prairies. Speaking of a prominent knoll in the area called Spring Hill, the Lord in a revelation explained that He had named it “Adam-ondi-Ahman” because “it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people.”2

The Saints rejoiced at this news, and soon families began moving to the area. They patterned their settlement after the plat of Zion (Joseph Smith’s urban plan for Independence, Missouri) and identified a location for a temple.3 Leaders organized the Adam-ondi-Ahman Stake in 1838, one of the first in the Church.4 As many as two hundred homes were built, but the settlement at Adam-ondi-Ahman lasted only a few months. Violence soon erupted between the Latter-day Saints and other Missourians in the fall of 1838, and the Saints at Adam-ondi-Ahman were forced to abandon their homes.

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 30: Adam-ondi-Ahman,”  See lesson link for additional teaching ideas.

According to Joseph Smith, Adam-ondi-Ahman is where God talked with Adam and the place where Adam offered up sacrifices to the Lord. At Adam-ondi-Ahman, Adam called his family together before he died so he could bless them (see D&C 107:53–56).

Adam-ondi-Ahman will also be an important place in the future: near the time of Christ’s second coming, Adam will come again to Adam-ondi-Ahman and hold a great council. All the prophets who have held keys of priesthood authority upon the earth will come to this council to give a report of their work to Adam. Jesus Christ will then come to Adam-ondi-Ahman, and Adam will return the priesthood keys to him. Christ will then return to earth to begin the Millennium, the thousand years when Christ will live on and reign over the earth.

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 30: Adam-ondi-Ahman,”  See lesson link for additional teaching ideas.

According to Joseph Smith, Adam-ondi-Ahman is where God talked with Adam and the place where Adam offered up sacrifices to the Lord. At Adam-ondi-Ahman, Adam called his family together before he died so he could bless them (see D&C 107:53–56).

Adam-ondi-Ahman will also be an important place in the future: near the time of Christ’s second coming, Adam will come again to Adam-ondi-Ahman and hold a great council. All the prophets who have held keys of priesthood authority upon the earth will come to this council to give a report of their work to Adam. Jesus Christ will then come to Adam-ondi-Ahman, and Adam will return the priesthood keys to him. Christ will then return to earth to begin the Millennium, the thousand years when Christ will live on and reign over the earth.

Signs of the Second Coming

Have each child look up one or more of the following scriptures and identify which drawing represents the sign mentioned in the scripture:

D&C 29:14

D&C 29:16

D&C 29:18

D&C 45:26–27

D&C 45:32

D&C 45:33

Assure the children that if we are trying to live the gospel, we do not need to fear the Second Coming. We will be protected so that we can do the things Heavenly Father wants us to do for him, and we can look forward to being with Jesus Christ again.

Teaching Children the Gospel “Lesson 32: Signs in America of Jesus Christ’s Birth” Just like Jesus Christ’s birth, the second coming will be preceded by signs and wonders. We can be like the faithful Nephites and prepare for his coming.

Doctrine and Covenants 45

Christ revealed signs of His coming as given on the Mount of Olives; 24–38, The gospel will be restored, the times of the Gentiles will be fulfilled, and a desolating sickness will cover the land; 39–47, Signs, wonders, and the Resurrection are to attend the Second Coming; 48–53, Christ will stand on the Mount of Olives, and the Jews will see the wounds in His hands and feet; 54–59, The Lord will reign during the Millennium; 60–62,The Prophet is instructed to begin the translation of the New Testament, through which important information will be made known; 63–75, The Saints are commanded to gather and build the New Jerusalem, to which people from all nations will come.

Doctrine and Covenants 45:32

32 But my disciples shall astand in holy places, and shall not be moved;

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 “1 and 2 Thessalonians” )

Latter Day Kids “Preparing for the Second Coming” Lesson ideas

Signs of the Savior’s Second Coming can help us face the future with faith.

Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:21–37, 38–55

“Come, Follow Me—For Sunday School: New Testament 2023

  • Signs of the Savior’s Second Coming may be difficult for some class members to understand. It might help them to work in groups and identify signs they find in Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:21–37. It might also help them better understand the importance of these signs if they compare them to road signs. Why are road signs important? How are the signs of the Second Coming like road signs? How are they different? You might even give each group pieces of paper in the shape of road signs and invite them to write on each paper a sign that will precede the Second Coming. Let them share what they found, and invite the class to discuss evidence of these signs in the world today.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 It can be unsettling to read about the events leading up to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. But when Jesus prophesied of these events, He told His disciples to “be not troubled” (Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:23). How can you “be not troubled” as you hear about earthquakes, wars, deceptions, and famines? Think about this question as you read these verses. Mark or note any reassuring counsel you find.

See also Gospel Topics, “Second Coming of Jesus Christ,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

You could also see “ Signs of the Times ” in the Guide to the Scriptures, available on scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Living the gospel provides safety from the spiritual dangers of the last days.

We are living in “the last days” that Paul spoke of, and the “perilous times” have come (2 Timothy 3:1). As you read 2 Timothy 3, write down the perils of the last days that are mentioned (see also 1 Timothy 4:1–3):

Can you think of examples of these perils in the world around you—or in your own life? How do these perils, like the people described in verse 6, “creep into [your house], and lead [you] captive”? What counsel do you find in 2 Timothy 3, and elsewhere in these epistles, that could keep you and your family safe from these spiritual dangers? (see, for example, 1 Timothy 1:3–112 Timothy 2:15–16Titus 2:1–8).

Jesus Christ will gather His people before He comes again.

Doctrine and Covenants 29:1–8

We are gathered by the Savior when we accept and follow His teachings.

Watch the Video “Chicks and Hens”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 29: “Jesus Christ Will Gather His People”

After reading Doctrine and Covenants 29:1–2, act out the analogy of Christ gathering His people “as a hen gathereth her chickens.” One child could pretend to be the hen and choose a corner of the room to stand in. When he or she “clucks,” have all the children gather around him or her. Children could take turns being the hen. Hold up a picture of the Savior and invite the children to gather to Him. Share with the children how Jesus helps us when we gather to Him.

What did the Lord say we must do to be gathered by Him?

Ensign October 2020 “Family Study Fun” Paper Name Gathering Game

 

We “gather Israel” when we help other people learn about the gospel. Jesus taught about this gathering in 3 Nephi 20–22.

  1. Give each person a piece of paper and ask them to write down any name that comes to mind.
  2. Everyone should close their eyes while one person hides the papers.
  3. Read 3 Nephi 20:18 and 39–40 out loud. How can you help other people learn about Jesus?
  4. While listening to a song about Jesus, invite everyone to help find the names and put them by a picture of the Savior.

Discussion: How does it make you feel to know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know each person by name?

Friend February 1986 Ways to be a missionary

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 29: “Jesus Christ Will Gather His People”

  • One way to get the children excited about the gathering is to share the story of someone who joined the Church. For example, who introduced your family to the Church? Consider asking children in advance to find out about the first member of the Church in their families and share his or her story with the class.
  • Invite the children to make a list of ways they can help people gather to the Savior. For example, they could invite friends or family members to a Primary activity or to a home evening with their families.
  • The tenth article of faith talks about the gathering of Israel. Do any of the children have this article of faith memorized? If they do, invite them to recite it for the class. If not, help them set a goal to memorize it.

See Resources by Topic: Second Coming for additional teaching ideas also see Missionary for ideas on how the children can help with the gathering.

Come Follow Me: New Testament “Before Jesus comes again, the gospel will be preached in all the world.” Lesson ideas

Parable of the Wheat and Tares

Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43, 47–48

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 13; Luke 8; 13” Some of Jesus’s parables teach that at the last day, God will separate the wicked from the righteous. How can you use the parables to inspire the children to choose the right?

Let the children act out the parable of the wheat and the tares (see Matthew 13:24–30). Explain that the wheat represents people who make righteous choices, and the tares (harmful weeds) represent people who do not. One day, Heavenly Father will gather the righteous people to live with Him.

Latter Day Kids “The Parable of the Sower” Lesson ideas

Give the children some examples of right and wrong choices. Ask the children to say “wheat choice” when you describe a right choice and “tare choice” when you describe a wrong choice.

Fighting with siblings/ Sharing with siblings

Doing chores when asked/ Complaining about chores

Getting angry after losing a game/ Choosing to congratulate the winner

Choosing to tell the truth about breaking something/ Choosing to lie so you don’t get into trouble.

Choosing to make fun of someone/ Choosing to be kind

Friend Jan 2015

Friend February 2020

Bring pictures of stalks of wheat, and let the children draw on the pictures some ways they can be righteous.

Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 13; Luke 8; 13”

Invite the children to draw different scenes from the parable of the wheat and the tares, found in Matthew 13:24–30, and share their drawings with the class. Ask them to label their drawings using the interpretation of the parable found in Matthew 13:36–43. You may need to explain that tares are harmful weeds.

Lesson 17: The Parables of the Sower and the Wheat and Tares,” Primary 7: New Testament 

SowerJesus Christ and his Apostles
Good seed (wheat)Followers of Jesus
FieldWorld
EnemySatan
Tares (weeds)Followers of Satan
ReapersAngels
HarvestJesus’ second coming

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 13; Luke 8; 13” The righteous must grow among the wicked until the end of the world. One way to analyze this parable is to draw a picture of it and label it with the interpretations in Matthew 13:36–43 and Doctrine and Covenants 86:1–7. A tare is a “poisonous weed, which, until it comes into ear, is similar in appearance to wheat” (Bible Dictionary, “Tares”). What truths in this parable inspire you to remain faithful in spite of the wickedness in the world?

If possible, display a picture of wheat and tares. Explain that the wheat and tares will grow together until the harvest (the end of the world). This teaches us that we live with both good and evil around us, and we must be careful to choose the right.

 Ask the children to share how they can tell the difference between good and evil.

12 Wherefore, all things which are good cometh of God; and that which is evil cometh of the devil; for the devil is an enemy unto God, and fighteth against him continually, and inviteth and enticeth to sin, and to do that which is evil continually.

13 But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.

16 For behold, the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil; wherefore, I show unto you the way to judge; for every thing which inviteth to do good, and to persuade to believe in Christ, is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ; wherefore ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of God.

17 But whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do evil, and believe not in Christ, and deny him, and serve not God, then ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of the devil; for after this manner doth the devil work, for he persuadeth no man to do good, no, not one; neither do his angels; neither do they who subject themselves unto him.

Moroni 7 

When a choice needs to be made, ask yourself, “Does it persaudeth men to do evil (from the devil) or does it inviteth to do good (from God).”

Read the situations below and ask the children to tell you what kind of reactions and thoughts would be from God, and what kind of reactions and thoughts would be from Satan.

  •  Your friends have invited you to a movie. When you get there, you realize that it is not a good, wholesome one. Your friends decide to see it anyway.
  • Someone wants you to try drugs, smoke, or drink alcoholic beverages, saying that using such things will make you feel good.
  • Some of your friends won’t include you if you don’t swear with them.
  • Someone tells you some gossip about a friend and suggests you pass it on.
  • You break the cookie jar while getting some cookies. Your mother asks you what happened.
  • Your friends invite you to go to the circus on Sunday after your church meetings are over.
  • You don’t know an answer on a test at school. You promised your parents that you would try to get a good grade.
  • You’re very tired and get into bed before remembering to pray.
  • Your brother is being mean and teasing you.

I Can Help Prepare the World to Receive Jesus Christ

Doctrine and Covenants 65

The mission of the Church—God’s kingdom on earth—is to prepare the world for the return of the Savior. The children you teach are an important part of this mission. What can you do to help them participate?

Ponder ways you can “make known [God’s] wonderful works among the people” (verse 4).

I can seek the Lord.

Hosea 10:12

Hosea 10:12 uses the images of sowing, reaping, time, and rain to invite us to seek the Lord. As you read this verse, what creative ideas come to mind that could inspire the children to seek Him?

  • Read Hosea 10:12 to the children, and invite them to do simple actions to help them understand the verse, such as pretending to plant seeds, pick vegetables from a plant, or stand in the rain. Or show pictures of seeds, plants, and rain. Help the children compare planting a seed and reaping good food to living righteously and receiving the Lord’s blessings. Testify of the blessings the Lord has rained upon you as you have tried to seek Him.

Print and cut out the below visual aids.

Friend September 2016
Friend September 2016

Latter Day Kids “Law of the Harvest”

  • Draw a clock on the board, and ask the children to share ways we can seek the Lord at different times of the day. Invite the children to repeat with you the phrase “It is time to seek the Lord” (Hosea 10:12). Help them understand that it is always time to seek the Lord. Share what you do to remember Him all the time.

Printable clock with movable arms

Children might enjoy drawing a clock and planning ways they can seek the Lord at different times throughout the day.

Friend February 2012 Some images of times to remember the Lord

The Holy Ghost can guide me.

Joel Chapter 1 Call a solemn assembly and gather to the house of the Lord, for the day of the Lord is at hand.

Joel CHAPTER 2 War and desolation will precede the Second Coming—The sun and the moon will be darkened—The Lord will pour out His Spirit upon all flesh—There will be dreams and visions.

Joel Chapter 3 All nations will be at war—Multitudes will stand in the valley of decision as the Second Coming draws near—The Lord will dwell in Zion.

Joel 2:28

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Hosea 1–6; 10–14, Joel” As you teach about Joel’s prophecy in Joel 2:28, consider how you can help the children prepare to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost after they are baptized.

  • Read Joel 2:28 to the children, and explain that the words “all flesh” mean everyone, including “sons” and “daughters” like them. Invite the children to draw pictures of the people referred to in this verse (sons and daughters, old and young men, old and young women), including themselves. Explain that one way Heavenly Father pours out His Spirit is by giving us the gift of the Holy Ghost when we are baptized.

What could it mean for the Spirit to be “poured out” upon us? Maybe you could demonstrate this by pouring a liquid and then contrasting it with a drip or a trickle.

  • Invite the children to share what they know about the Holy Ghost. Help them understand that the Holy Ghost can teach us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and can help us to know what is true (see John 14:26Doctrine and Covenants 42:17). Share experiences to help the children understand the ways the Spirit can help us.

Friend June 2019 “The Holy Ghost is…”  The Holy Ghost is a member of the Godhead, a gift that comes with baptism, and a promise from Heavenly Father. He is a comforter, warning, teacher, messenger, friend.

Joel 2:28–29

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Hosea 1–6; 10–14, Joel” Many of the children you teach have likely been baptized and received the gift of the Holy Ghost. How can you use these scriptures to help them understand the power and blessings that come from hearing the voice of the Spirit?

  • Invite the children to read together Joel 2:28–29, inserting each other’s names in place of the phrases “your sons” and “your daughters.” Write on the board a sentence like The Holy Ghost can … and invite the children to take turns completing the sentence. Encourage them to include things they learn from John 14:16Moroni 10:5Doctrine and Covenants 42:17, and other scriptures.
  • Place an object in a bowl, and let the children take turns pouring water over it. Explain that the object represents us, and the water represents the Holy Ghost. When we are baptized, we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, which is one way the Lord fulfills His promise to “pour out [His] spirit.” What must we do to receive the Holy Ghost? Invite the children to share times when they have felt the influence of the Spirit.

What could it mean for the Spirit to be “poured out” upon us? Maybe you could demonstrate this by pouring a liquid and then contrasting it with a drip or a trickle.

Friend February 2018 “Funstuff: The Holy Ghost” Fill in the blank with some things you can do to feel the Holy Ghost.

Jesus Christ will come again.

Doctrine and Covenants 45:37–38

Doctrine and Covenants 45:44–45

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 45”

When the Saints in Kirtland, Ohio, heard the revelation found in Doctrine and Covenants 45, which speaks of the last days and the Savior’s Second Coming, they received it with joy. Consider how you will help the children prepare joyfully for the Second Coming.

  • Help the children think about how they feel when they know that someone special is coming to visit them, like a grandparent or a friend. How do they prepare for the visit? Show a picture of the Savior, and read part or all of Doctrine and Covenants 45:44–45. Tell the children how you feel about the Savior coming again, and let them share their feelings.
  • Sing a song about the Savior’s Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83). Use the song to discuss ways we can prepare for Jesus to come again, such as by doing God’s will and letting our light shine for others.

It can be frightening for children to read about the wars, wickedness, and destruction that are prophesied to occur before the Savior’s Second Coming. How can you help them look forward with joy to this promised day?

  • Ask the children how they know when a new season is near. What signs do they look for? Explain that just as there are signs of a new season, there are signs of the Second Coming. Read together Doctrine and Covenants 45:37–38. What did Jesus say that the signs of His Second Coming would be like? To help the children discover the signs we should be looking for, assign each child (or group of children) to read a few verses from Doctrine and Covenants 45 that describe these signs. Verses 26–27, 31–33, 40–42 could be used, for example. Let the children share what they found. Which of these signs are being fulfilled today?
  • On separate pieces of paper, write some of the promises regarding future events that you found in your study of section 45. Some examples of these promises can be found in verses 44–45, 51–52, 55, 58–59, 66–71. List on the board the verses where the promises are found. Give the children the papers, and ask them to use their scriptures to match the verses on the board to the promises. Discuss what these promises mean, and invite the children to share which promises help them feel excited about the Savior’s Second Coming.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 45”

35 And I said unto them: Be not troubled, for, when all these things shall come to pass, ye may know that the promises which have been made unto you shall be fulfilled.

As you study Doctrine and Covenants 45:11–75, consider focusing not just on the troubling events that are prophesied but also on the blessings the Lord promises (for example, the promises in verses 54–59 about the Savior’s millennial reign). You could do this by creating lists or by labeling or marking the verses. What do you find that helps you “be not troubled” about the last days?

How can you help family members understand what it means to watch for the Savior’s Second Coming? Maybe you could think of an event that you are anticipating and share ways that you are “watching” for that event. Or you could bake something together and watch for signs that it is ready to eat. What are we doing to watch for the Savior’s Second Coming?Doctrine and Covenants 45:55.

Zion is a place of safety for the Saints of God.

Doctrine and Covenants 45:11–15, 66–71

The Saints in Joseph Smith’s time were eager to build Zion, the New Jerusalem, as described in the Book of Mormon (see Ether 13:2–9) and in Joseph Smith’s inspired revision of the Bible (see Moses 7:62–64). What do you learn about Zion—both the ancient city of Enoch’s day and the latter-day city—from Doctrine and Covenants 45:11–15, 66–71?

Today the command to establish Zion refers to establishing God’s kingdom wherever we live—wherever the children of God gather to the safety of His “everlasting covenant” (verse 9). What can you do to help build Zion where you are?

See also Gospel Topics, “Zion,” topics. ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Reading 1 Nephi 22:26 and Revelation 20:1–3 can help your family understand how Satan “shall be bound” during the Millennium. How can we bind Satan in our lives?

The Millennium

As you discuss with the children what life on earth will be like during the Millennium, explain the following points from Doctrine and Covenants 101:22–34 (you may want to have the children look up the verses in their own scriptures):

  • Everyone will be able to see the Savior (v. 23).
  • All the wicked will be destroyed (v. 24).
  • People and animals will live in peace (v. 26).
  • Satan will not have power to tempt anyone (v. 28).
  • There will be neither sorrow nor death (v. 29).
  • A person will grow old, then be changed suddenly from mortal to immortal life (vv. 30–31).
  • The Lord will reveal all things about the earth and heaven, including how the earth was created and what will become of it (vv. 32–34).

The Millennium will be a time of peace and joy.

Isaiah 65:17–25

Isaiah saw a time when God’s people will have peace and joy. This prophecy will be fulfilled when Jesus Christ returns to earth and reigns for a thousand years—an era called the Millennium.

  • Isaiah 65:17–25 describes what the earth will be like when the Savior comes again. Divide the children into small groups, giving each group a few of these verses to read. After a few minutes, make a list together on the board of how life will be different in the “new earth” described in these verses (verse 17). Why will this be a time to be “glad and rejoice for ever”? (verse 18).
Friend March 2013 Cover
  • Before class, prepare word strips with words and phrases from the tenth article of faith. Invite one of the children to recite the article of faith, and ask the children to put the word strips in order. Help the children understand what this article of faith teaches us about the Millennium.

Friend September 2015

In the Old Testament, the prophet Jacob (or Israel) had 12 sons. Their families, or tribes, were scattered across the earth. Heavenly Father wants all of them to come back together and learn the gospel.

Zion is a name for those who love God and for the place where they live. The New Jerusalem is the city that faithful people will build before Jesus returns to earth. When Jesus returns, He will be our King. The earth will be beautiful and clean again, like a paradise (or paradisiacal).

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

Ensign March 2021 “What will happen in the Millennium?”

Jesus Christ brings peace and joy.

2 Nephi 21:6–9

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “2 Nephi 20-25” What does 2 Nephi 21:6–9 teach about what can happen when everyone follows the Savior? (see also 4 Nephi 1:15–18). How can we make our home more like this? Your children might enjoy looking at pictures of the animals mentioned in verses 6–7—animals that are usually enemies but will not hurt each other when Jesus comes again (see this week’s activity page). Your children could also draw pictures of themselves and these animals living peacefully with Jesus.

Friend October 2019 “The Living Christ: Second Coming of Jesus Christ” Draw a line to each animal pair that the scriptures say will get along when Jesus returns to the earth.

The Millennium will be a time of peace and joy.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 11-25” Show the children pictures of animals mentioned in 2 Nephi 21:6–7, and ask the children to name the animals. Explain that these animals are usually enemies, but Isaiah taught that after Jesus Christ comes again, there will be a time of peace, called the Millennium, when animals will not hurt each other. How can we follow the example of these animals in the way we treat each other?

Additional Resources

Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 45

Teaching Children the Gospel “Jesus: Second Coming”

Resources by Topic “Second Coming”

Helping to Prepare for the Second Coming

Friend April 2020 “Helping with the Restoration” In 1820, Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith. The Restoration of the gospel began that day 200 years ago. It continues today! Here are four ways you can help with the Restoration and prepare for the time when Jesus will return:

Songs about the Second Coming

  • When He Comes Again

Preparing for the Second Coming


Jesus Birth: Lesson Ideas

Posted on

Prophets Foretold the Birth of Jesus Christ

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 2; Luke 2” Prophets and believers had been looking forward to the Savior’s birth for centuries. Understanding this truth can help the children gain a deeper appreciation for the Savior’s life and mission.

Ask the children to talk about things they look forward to, such as a birthday or holiday. Have the children read Helaman 14:2–5 to find something prophets were looking forward to.

Friend December 2018 “Prophecies of Jesus Christ” Match the prophecies with the picture.

Invite the children to draw a picture of something from Matthew 2:1–12 or Luke 2:1–21 and share why they are grateful Jesus was born.

Ensign December 2020 “What do Book of Mormon prophets teach us about Christmas?”

Friend December 2018 “Prophecies of Jesus Christ” Match the prophecies with the picture.

Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon ““Lesson 46: The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ (Christmas)”

Jesus Christ’s Birth: Prophets Foretold the Birth of Jesus Christ Mobile

Come Follow Me for Primary: Book of Mormon “Christmas” Jesus was born to be my Savior

Angels Appear to Mary and Joseph

Matthew 1:18–25Luke 1:26–38

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 1; Luke 1” Mary and Joseph were each visited by an angel who announced the birth of Jesus Christ. These experiences can help the children see how important Christ’s birth was.

  • Invite a child’s parents to come to class dressed up as Mary and Joseph. Ask them to share the experiences recorded in Matthew 1:18–25 and Luke 1:26–38.
  • Tell the stories of angels appearing to Mary and Joseph, as recorded in these verses. (See also “Chapter 2: Mary and the Angel” and “Chapter 4: Joseph and the Angel,” in New Testament Stories, 8–9, 12, or the corresponding videos on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.) You could show the picture in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families. Invite the children to repeat the stories back to you.

With God nothing is impossible.

Matthew 1:18–25Luke 1:5–37

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 1; Luke 1” The births of Jesus and John the Baptist were possible only through the power of God. Learning about these miracles can strengthen the children’s faith that God has the power to work miracles in their lives.

  • As you and the children review Matthew 1:18–25 and Luke 1:5–37, ask the children questions like “What would you say if you were Mary?” or “How would you feel if you were Zacharias?”

Latter Day Kids “Nothing Shall Be Impossible” Lesson ideas

  • In simple terms, tell the stories described in Matthew 1:18–25 and Luke 1:5–37. Ask the children to raise their hands when they hear something that might seem impossible without God’s power. What other stories can the children share in which God did something that seemed impossible?
  • Help the children memorize Luke 1:37. To do this, you could write the verse on the board and invite the children to recite it several times. After each time, erase one word.

Friend January 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: A Nativity Story”

Story: Elisabeth and Zacharias wanted to have a baby, but Elisabeth was too old. One day, an angel told Zacharias that they would have a son! Their son was John the Baptist. Elisabeth and Zacharias learned that with God, nothing is impossible. (See Luke 1:11–14, 37.)

Song: “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook,12–13)

Activity: Try this “impossible” task! First, bend your middle finger under. Then put your hand down on a table, palm down. Now try to lift your ring finger. Then ask someone else to lift it for you. How has Heavenly Father helped you do something that did not seem possible?

Liahona January 2023 “Families and the Light of the World: Come, Follow Me Family Fun”

Doing Hard Things with God’s Help

Like Mary and her cousin Elisabeth in the New Testament (see Luke 1:5–55), sometimes we are asked to do hard things and may wonder if we can.

  1. Set an empty container, such as a bucket or a box, at one end of the room.
  2. Give each family member a feather.
  3. Starting on the opposite end of the room from the container, have each family member try to get their feather into the container by blowing it to keep it in the air as they cross the room.
  4. To make it more challenging, allow only 30 seconds, and use a straw to blow air on the feather. Continue to decrease the allotted time until the activity becomes impossible.

Discussion: Keeping in mind that some challenges may not be resolved in this life, share an experience that strengthened your testimony that “the things which are impossible with men are possible with God” (Luke 18:27) What small steps can you take each day to achieve tasks in your life that seem impossible?

For the Strength of Youth January 2023 “The Ultimate Miracle” Stories about ancient miracles and modern miracles and the ultimate miracle of the atonement

Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Matthew 1:21–25Luke 1:30–35, 46–47

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 1; Luke 1” Jesus Christ is the Son of Heavenly Father and Mary. What can you do to help the children learn more about Him?

Tell the children that the angel told Mary that her baby would be called the Son of God (see Luke 1:35). Help the children repeat the phrase “Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”

  • Younger children:Help the children understand who Jesus’s parents were by inviting them to draw pictures of their own parents. As they do this, tell them that Jesus had parents too—Mary and Heavenly Father. In addition, Joseph was asked to protect and take care of Jesus while He lived on earth. (See Red Crystal for an activity page for this part)
  • Older Children: Ask the children to read Luke 1:30–35, looking for answers to these questions: “Who is Jesus’s mother?” and “Who is Jesus’s Father?” Help them understand that Jesus Christ is the only person who had a mortal mother, Mary, and an immortal Father, Heavenly Father (see also 1 Nephi 11:18–21).

Share your testimony that because Jesus was the Son of God, He could die for our sins and come back to life. Show pictures of Jesus’s Crucifixion and Resurrection (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 57, 59).

President Russell M. Nelson explained that the Atonement of Jesus Christ “required a personal sacrifice by an immortal being not subject to death. Yet He must die and take up His own body again. The Savior was the only one who could accomplish this. From His mother He inherited power to die. From His Father He obtained power over death” (“Constancy amid Change,” Ensign, Nov. 1993, 34).

  • As you read these verses, invite the children to search for names or titles of Jesus Christ. What do these names mean, and what do they teach us about Jesus?
  • Share your testimony of Jesus Christ, and invite the children to share their testimonies as well.

Mary and Joseph Travel to Bethlehem

Jesus is Born

Luke 2:1–14

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 2; Luke 2” Jesus left His home with Heavenly Father to be born on earth so He could be our Savior. How can you help the children remember the story of Christ’s birth?

  • As you read the story of Christ’s birth, invite the children to act out the story themselves, or use this week’s activity page to review the story. (See also “Chapter 5: Jesus Christ Is Born,” in New Testament Stories, 13–15, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.)
  • If you have one, bring a Nativity set, and invite the children to set the pieces in appropriate places as you tell them the story of Jesus Christ’s birth. You could also show a picture of the Nativity (see, for example, this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Point to different people in the Nativity, and invite the children to share what they know about each person.

Friend December 2004 “The Christmas Story”  Flannel board figures

Latter Day Kids “The Birth of Jesus Christ (The Nativity Story)” Lesson ideas

  • Sing together the children’s favorite songs about Jesus’s birth. As you do, look for opportunities to bear your testimony of the Savior. Invite the children to share why they love Jesus.

The First Christmas Spirit (movie) A depiction of what Joseph may have felt as he faced the responsibility of caring for the Son of God.

Witnesses of Jesus Birth

“Lesson 5: The Childhood of Jesus Christ,” Primary 7: New Testament  Lesson discusses the witnesses of Jesus birth

Liahona January 2023 “How Can I Be a Witness of Jesus Christ?” How each witness responded to Jesus’s birth. (Includes scripture reference and paintings of the witnesses.)

Shepherds

New Testament Coloring Book “Jesus’s Birth”

Wiseman Seek Jesus

I can give good gifts to Jesus.

Matthew 2:1–12

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 2; Luke 2” The Wise Men gave Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. How can you use this story to teach the children that they can give gifts to Jesus too—gifts like love, service, and obedience?

Friend January 2023 “Gifts for Jesus”

Latter Day Kids “Gifts for Jesus” Lesson ideas

  • Gift wrap pictures or objects that represent gifts we can give to Jesus. Invite the children to help you open the gifts, and discuss how we give these gifts to the Savior
  • Help each child draw or write a list of gifts they can give Jesus, such as “being a good friend” or “praying.” Invite the children to share their lists with the class and choose one “gift” they will give Jesus today.

Friend December 2017 “Family Night Fun” Make these cute gift boxes, and write a gift you want to give Jesus, like being kind, and put it in your gift box to remember!

Friend December 2017 “Dear Friends” One reason we give Christmas presents is to remember the gift of Heavenly Father and His Son. They love us so much. And we can show how much we love Them by being kind to others. You are a gift to the world too. Your life is a blessing to those around you.

Friend December 2015
Friend December 2015 Gifts of love

Light: Sign of Jesus Birth

Friend December 2019 “The Light of the World” Light is one of the most beautiful symbols of the birth of Jesus Christ. When Jesus was born, He brought light to a darkened world. (See more at link)

For the Strength of Youth December 2022

Samuel and the Star

Friend December 2020 “Samuel and the Star”

Friend December 2020 “I Can Play It: Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus” Printed song and Sing-Along Video

Friend December 2016 “Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus”  video

Friend December 2020 “Family Night Fun”

A new star appeared when Jesus Christ was born.

3 Nephi 1:4–15, 19–21

Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 32: Signs in America of Jesus Christ’s Birth”  Tell the children that you are going to give them some clues about an event that took place many years ago. Ask them to raise their hands when they know what event the clues are describing.

  • Angel
  • Shepherd’s staff
  • Donkey
  • Star
  • Manger
  • Baby

Come Follow Me for Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7: “Lift Up Your Head and Be of Good Cheer”

Before class, place a star on the wall. Invite the children to look for something on the wall that usually isn’t there. Tell the children that the Nephites saw a new star in the sky when Jesus was born.

Show the children a picture of the Savior’s birth Help the children understand that the Nephites were far away from where Jesus was born, but they knew He was born because of the signs they saw. Testify that even though we did not see the Savior’s birth, the Holy Ghost can help us know that the stories about it in the scriptures are true.

Friend September 2020 “Family Night Fun”

Friend December 1988

Friend December 1988

Presentation at the Temple

The Christ Child is Presented at the Temple video

New Testament Scripture Stories “Presentation at the Temple”

Jesus was Born to be the Savior

“He Is the Gift”

Come follow Me for Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon “Christmas” To help your family focus on the gift Heavenly Father gave us by sending His Son, you could wrap a picture of Jesus Christ like a Christmas present. Family members could talk about favorite Christmas gifts they have received or hope to receive. Then they could unwrap the picture of Christ and discuss how He has been a precious gift for us. The video “He Is the Gift” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org) could help you discuss how you can discover, embrace, and share the gift of the Savior as a family this Christmas.

Friend December 2017 “For Parents of Little Ones” Ideas for helping little ones see that Jesus the reason for the Christmas season.

Friend December 2022 “Jesus Said”

Rejoicing His Birth

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Christmas Christmas is a time to celebrate not only Jesus’s birth but also His life and mission as Savior of the world. How can you help the children feel joy and gratitude for Jesus Christ’s Atonement?

  • Ask the children to think of something that they are looking forward to. Explain that faithful people in Old Testament times looked forward to Jesus Christ’s birth. Read Isaiah 25:9 to the children, and have them repeat the phrase “We have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” Share with them why you are glad and rejoice that Christ was born. Invite the children to share their feelings about the Savior.

Friend December 2022 “Jesus Said”

  • Sing together a song about Jesus’s birth, such as “Away in a Manger” (Children’s Songbook, 42–43) or “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” (Hymns, no. 209). Help the children discover phrases in these songs that teach us about our Savior and the blessings we have because of Him.

Liahona January 2023 “How Can I Be a Witness of Jesus Christ?” How each witness responded to Jesus’s birth. (Includes scripture reference and paintings of the witnesses.)

Jesus Christ is my Savior and Redeemer.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Christmas As we celebrate Jesus Christ’s birth, we can also rejoice in His life and atoning sacrifice. How might you use scriptures from the Old Testament to help the children build their faith in their Savior and Redeemer?

  • Read together Isaiah 7:14; then invite the children to share what they know about Christ’s birth. Or show the video “The Nativity” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and invite each child to choose a person from the video and share how that person may have felt. Share your testimony about the Savior, and invite the children to do the same.
  • To help the children better understand Jesus Christ’s role as our Savior, invite them to read Isaiah 25:8–953:3–5; and Hosea 13:14. What do these scriptures teach us about how the Lord saves us? How can we “rejoice in his salvation”? (Isaiah 25:9).
  • Sing a song together about Jesus Christ’s love for us, such as “Away in a Manger” (Children’s Songbook, 42–43) or “I Stand All Amazed” (Hymns, no. 193). Invite the children to share phrases that help them feel the Savior’s love.

“The Christ Child: A Nativity Story”

Latter Day Kids “The Birth of Jesus Christ (The Nativity Story)” Lesson ideas

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Christmas” Help the children focus on the Savior Jesus Christ as the reason we celebrate Christmas. You can do this using scriptures from the Old Testament that testify of Him.

  • Display a picture of the nativity (such as Gospel Art Book, no. 30, or one of the pictures in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Read Isaiah 9:6, giving each child a turn to point to the baby Jesus when they hear the phrase “a child is born.” Share your testimony that prophets in the Old Testament knew that Jesus would be born.
  • Invite each child to say his or her name, and point out that in addition to our names, we can be called other things, like sister or brother or friend. Invite the children to think of other examples. Read Isaiah 9:6 to the children, emphasizing the names that refer to Jesus Christ: “Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Help the children understand what these names tell us about Jesus.

New Era December 2009 “Unto Us a Child Is Born” Explanation for each of the names for Jesus in Isaiah 9:6

  • Give each child a paper star, and invite the children to hold their stars up when you read the following phrase from Numbers 24:17: “there shall come a Star out of Jacob.” Invite the children to share how Jesus is like a bright star that shines to all the world. Sing together a song about the star that appeared when Jesus was born, such as “Stars Were Gleaming” (Children’s Songbook, 37) or “The First Noel” (Hymns, no. 213). (Jesus is our source of light to guide us in the paths we should follow.)

Little LDS Ideas

Heavenly Father Sent His Son as a Gift to Us.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Christmas” Giving and receiving gifts is a traditional part of Christmas for many people. This tradition should help us remember God’s “matchless gift of His divine Son” (“The Living Christ”).

  • Ask the children to tell about gifts they have given or received. Read to them the last sentence of “The Living Christ,” and invite them to listen for the gift God has given us. (If needed, help them understand that “matchless” means “better than any other.”) Why is the Son of God, Jesus Christ, the best gift?
  • Sing together a song about Jesus Christ, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35). Help the children pick a phrase from the song that they would like to draw (such as “newborn babe” or “walk with men”). As they draw, ask the children to tell you how they feel about what Jesus has done for them. Share your feelings as well.

Friend December 2021 “Bright Idea”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Christmas” Christmas is such a joyful season because of the hope that Jesus Christ brought to the world through His teachings, example, and atoning sacrifice.

  • Invite each child to draw a Christmas tree, or draw one on the board. Invite the children to decorate the tree with words or phrases from “The Living Christ” that describe a gift the Savior has given us (such as “light,” “life,” and “hope”). Let them talk about why they chose those words or phrases.
  • Help the children find Christmas hymns that tell of the light, life, and hope that the Savior’s birth brought to the world—for example, “O Little Town of Bethlehem” or “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” (Hymns, nos. 208–9). Sing the hymns together, and let the children share how Jesus has brought light, life, and hope into their lives.
  • Ask some of the children to read about the shepherds in Luke 2:8–20. Ask others to read about Simeon in Luke 2:25–33. Invite them to share with each other how the shepherds and Simeon felt about finding out that Jesus was born. Why did they feel this way? Why does His birth bring us “great joy”?

Friend December 2019 “The Living Christ” Like light shining through a window, the Savior brings light and hope to a world that sometimes seems dark. Color this stained-glass window, then visit ComeUntoChrist.org/Christmas to learn how you can share Christ’s light!

Symbols of Christmas

Friend December 2022 “The Symbols of Christmas”

  • Show the children a few Christmas decorations (or pictures of some), such as a star, lights, or a gift. Ask the children how each of these things might remind us of the Savior. Explain that the scriptures often use symbols to teach us about Jesus Christ. Invite the children to look in one or more of the following verses for something that could symbolize Jesus Christ: Genesis 22:8Exodus 17:6Psalms 18:227:1 (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families for additional examples). How is Jesus like a lamb, water, rock, a fortress, or light?

Friend December 1985 “The Answer Tree” A grandma put answers to her grandchild’s questions about Jesus onto tree ornaments. (activity idea)

Star

Friend December 1987 “Christmas Stars” Jody wants to be like the Christmas   star and lead people to Jesus by being a good example.

Friend December 2022 “The Nativity Star” Cayden’s family has a tradition of acting out the story of Jesus’s birth. Cayden wants to be the star that led the wisemen to Bethlehem because he wants to help people find Jesus like the star did.

Gifts

Friend December 2021 “The First Christmas Gift” An 11 year old’s father told her about the very first Christmas gift. It was when Heavenly Father gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Savior. Heavenly Father knew that His Son would suffer on earth, but He still gave Jesus to the world. And Jesus willingly gave Himself so that we could have eternal life.

Friend December 2019 “The Christmas Coins” Three people from the neighborhood were singing songs and collecting money to help sick children at the hospital. Janelle’s mother didn’t have any money, so Janelle gave all her coins to the singers. Afterwards she realized she had given away the money she was saving to buy her mom a gift. Janelle’s mom said she gave her the best gift by doing what Jesus would do, helping someone who needed help.

Friend December 2016 “You can’t Wrap a Horse” A family talks about gifts–gifts that can’t be wrapped like service and the gift of our Savior from Heavenly Father.

Come Follow Me Christmas Lessons

Old Testament

Old Testament Come Follow Me Lesson 2022

New Testament

New Testament Come Follow Me Lesson 2023

Book of Mormon

3 Nephi 1:4–15, 19–21

Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 32: Signs in America of Jesus Christ’s Birth”  Tell the children that you are going to give them some clues about an event that took place many years ago. Ask them to raise their hands when they know what event the clues are describing.

  • Angel
  • Shepherd’s staff
  • Donkey
  • Star
  • Manger
  • Baby

Come Follow Me for Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7: “Lift Up Your Head and Be of Good Cheer”

Before class, place a star on the wall. Invite the children to look for something on the wall that usually isn’t there. Tell the children that the Nephites saw a new star in the sky when Jesus was born.

Show the children a picture of the Savior’s birth Help the children understand that the Nephites were far away from where Jesus was born, but they knew He was born because of the signs they saw. Testify that even though we did not see the Savior’s birth, the Holy Ghost can help us know that the stories about it in the scriptures are true.

Friend September 2020 “Family Night Fun”

Friend December 1988

Friend December 1988

Lesson 32: Signs in America of Jesus Christ’s Birth

Jesus Christ came to earth as a baby.

Matthew 2:1–12Luke 2:1–14

Children love the story of Jesus Christ’s birth. What doctrinal truths do you see in this story that you feel the children should understand?

  • Read Luke 2:1–14 to the children, or describe the events in these verses by referring to “Chapter 5:Jesus Christ Is Born” (in New Testament Stories, 13–15, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite the children to draw pictures of these events and use the pictures to tell the story themselves. Why are we happy that Jesus was born?
  • Ask the children to tell you the story of the Wise Men following the star to find Jesus. If they need to be reminded of the story, see Matthew 2:1–12 or “Chapter 7: The Wise Men” (in New Testament Stories, 18, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Hide a picture of Jesus in the room. Draw or cut out a paper star and hold it in the air. Invite the children to pretend to be wise men carrying gifts, and lead them around the room to find Jesus. Help the children think of some gifts that we can give to Jesus.
  • Sing a few Christmas hymns or songs with the children (see Hymns, nos. 201–14; Children’s Songbook, 34–54). Ask them to share something each song teaches that they feel is important to know.

John 3:16

Jesus Christ made it possible for me to live with Heavenly Father again someday.

Do the children you teach understand why Jesus Christ came to earth? Take time to ponder what the Savior has done for you personally and how you can help the children understand what He has done for them.

  • Bring a wrapped gift or box to class with a picture of Jesus Christ inside. Attach a tag with “John 3:16” written on it, and tell the children that this is a clue about what the gift is. Read John 3:16 with the children, and invite them to guess what the gift is and open it. Why did God send us His Son?
  • Help the children finish this sentence: “Jesus Christ came to earth to .” Then show pictures related to the Savior’s atoning sacrifice, death, and Resurrection (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 56–59), and briefly tell about these events. You could also sing a song about why Jesus came to earth, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35). Bear your testimony of Jesus Christ and what He has done for you.

Jesus Christ came to earth as a baby.

Matthew 1:18–252:1–12Luke 1:26–382:1–20

How can you help the children focus on Jesus Christ at Christmas?

  • Invite one of the children to read about some of the events related to the Savior’s birth (see Matthew 1:18–252:1–12Luke 1:26–382:1–20). Ask the other children to take turns drawing pictures on the board of what the scriptures are describing. What do these stories teach us about Jesus Christ?
  • Invite the children to write on several slips of paper things they could do to help them focus on the Savior during the Christmas season. (They could get ideas from the video “Good Tidings of Great Joy: The Birth of Jesus Christ” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.) Invite them to share what they wrote. Encourage the children to take the slips home and do with their families the suggestions they wrote on the slips.
  • Sing Christmas songs about the Savior (see Children’s Songbook, 34–54; Hymns, nos. 201–14), and invite the children to share a favorite line or phrase from the songs.

Jesus Christ made it possible for me to live with Heavenly Father again someday.

John 3:16

How can you help the children review what they have learned this year and understand why they need Jesus Christ in their lives?

  • Label one piece of paper Who is Jesus Christ? and another Why did He come to earth? and attach them to different walls of the classroom. Invite each child to read one of the following scriptures: Matthew 16:15–16John 3:161 Nephi 10:4Mosiah 3:8Alma 7:10–133 Nephi 27:14–15. Ask the children to look for answers, in the scriptures they read, to the two questions on the walls. Invite them to write down their answers and attach them to the wall next to the appropriate question. How can we show our gratitude for what Jesus Christ has done for us?
  • Invite the children to list on the board all of the names or titles of Jesus that they can think of (see Bible Dictionary, “Christ, names of”). What do these names teach us about Jesus Christ and His mission? Why do we need Jesus Christ in our lives? To help answer this question, show the video “Why We Need a Savior—A Christmas Message about Our Savior Jesus Christ” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Christmas: Crafts

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Nativity

Friend December 2018 “Bright Idea”  Make a nativity rock picture. Friend December 2019 “Friends by Mail”

Friend December 2020 “Food and Fun: Nativity Edition!”

Star

Friend December 2018 “An All Star Christmas” Make stars ornaments out of craft sticks and  orange peels.

Gifts and Ornaments

Friend December 2020 “Food and Fun: Nativity Edition!”

Friend December 2021 “Dear Friends” My brothers and I made salt-dough ornaments (Dec. 2020) and secretly gave some to our neighbors. It made us happy to love our neighbors like Jesus taught.

Mary F., age 10, Illinois, USA


Christmas: Lesson Ideas

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Focus on Jesus’s Birth

As a family, think of ways to stay focused on Jesus this Christmas.

Friend December 2018 “For Parents of Little Ones” Ways to help teach little ones the true meaning of  Christmas—the celebration of Jesus’s birth.

Friend December 2021 “Bright Idea”

Christmas Peace and Light

For the Strength of Youth December 2023 “6 Ways to Feel the Peace of Christ’s Light This Christmas Christmastime can get a little busy and stressful. Sometimes all that stress makes it hard to remember why we really celebrate Christmas. Put the two below pictures together, back to back. Shine a light behind the page to reveal six ways to focus on the Savior’s light and find more peace this Christmas.

Christmas Service Ideas

Friend December 2017 “Show and Tell” For the #LightTheWorld project, each member of our family wrote down on a light bulb what we did each day. (Click on Link for more ideas.)

Friend December 2021 “Show and Tell” Christmas cards for homeless, Giving tree (Click on link for photos)

We made 50 Christmas cards for people without homes who were staying in a temporary shelter in our town. We wanted to make sure they knew they were loved at Christmas. Jude and Oliver G., ages 4 and 8, California, USA

We set up a “giving tree” outside our house. We invited neighbors to do a good deed and then hang an ornament on the tree. Neighbors were happy to see so many good deeds happening. We are planning to make this a Christmas tradition! Kip, Annabelle, Hayes, and Dawson F., ages 2, 8, 4, and 6, Florida, USA

Friend December 2022 “For Older Kids” We used some of our Christmas gift money to help people in need. (Ridge and Blaike G., ages 9 and 13, Arizona, USA)

Gratitude for Gifts

Friend December 2017 “Family Night Fun” List the best gifts you’ve been given from friends and family and from Heavenly Father.

Gifts for Jesus

Friend December 2020 “Gifts of Love for Jesus” Heavenly Father gave us His Son, Jesus Christ. And Jesus gave His life for us so we can live with Him again. You may want to give a gift to Jesus. What gifts can you give Him?

We can give a gift to Jesus by serving others. Write on each person the name of someone you can serve.

Friend December 2017 “Family Night Fun” Make these cute gift boxes, and write a gift you want to give Jesus, like being kind, and put it in your gift box to remember!

Friend December 2017 “Dear Friends” One reason we give Christmas presents is to remember the gift of Heavenly Father and His Son. They love us so much. And we can show how much we love Them by being kind to others. You are a gift to the world too. Your life is a blessing to those around you.

Friend December 2015
Friend December 2015 Gifts of love

Help Others Come Unto Jesus

Friend December 2022 “Bright Idea”

Family Christmas

Ensign December 2017 Sample some foreign traditions. Wherever your ancestors come from, they probably had different Christmas traditions than you do now. Discover some traditional foods, games, or other activities from your ancestors’ homelands and try them out with your family.

Decorate your Christmas tree to reflect your family tree. Create ornaments that represent the ancestors. Place names and pictures (if available) of these ancestors among the tree’s decorations. (See link for more ideas.)

Light the World

Christmas Service

Friend December 2023 “Lighting the World Together” Dallin H. Oaks “As followers of Jesus Christ, we should be the friendliest of all people. We should serve those around us and those not of our faith. We should also notice the good done by others. Jesus Christ’s light guides all of us to help those in need.”

Symbols of Christmas

Clipart Library

Friend December 2022 “The Symbols of Christmas”

  • Show the children a few Christmas decorations (or pictures of some), such as a star, lights, or a gift. Ask the children how each of these things might remind us of the Savior. Explain that the scriptures often use symbols to teach us about Jesus Christ. Invite the children to look in one or more of the following verses for something that could symbolize Jesus Christ: Genesis 22:8Exodus 17:6Psalms 18:227:1 (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families for additional examples). How is Jesus like a lamb, water, rock, a fortress, or light?

Friend December 1985 “The Answer Tree” A grandma put answers to her grandchild’s questions about Jesus onto tree ornaments. (activity idea)

Christmas Lights

For the Strength of Youth December 2022 “Christmas Light” Our Christmas celebrations help remind us that Jesus Christ is our true Light.

Star

  • Give each child a paper star, and invite the children to hold their stars up when you read the following phrase from Numbers 24:17: “there shall come a Star out of Jacob.” Invite the children to share how Jesus is like a bright star that shines to all the world. Sing together a song about the star that appeared when Jesus was born, such as “Stars Were Gleaming” (Children’s Songbook, 37) or “The First Noel” (Hymns, no. 213). (Jesus is our source of light to guide us in the paths we should follow.)

Little LDS Ideas

Friend December 1987 “Christmas Stars” Jody wants to be like the Christmas   star and lead people to Jesus by being a good example.

Friend December 2022 “The Nativity Star” Cayden’s family has a tradition of acting out the story of Jesus’s birth. Cayden wants to be the star that led the wisemen to Bethlehem because he wants to help people find Jesus like the star did.

Gifts

Friend December 2021 “The First Christmas Gift” An 11 year old’s father told her about the very first Christmas gift. It was when Heavenly Father gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Savior. Heavenly Father knew that His Son would suffer on earth, but He still gave Jesus to the world. And Jesus willingly gave Himself so that we could have eternal life.

Friend December 2019 “The Christmas Coins” Three people from the neighborhood were singing songs and collecting money to help sick children at the hospital. Janelle’s mother didn’t have any money, so Janelle gave all her coins to the singers. Afterwards she realized she had given away the money she was saving to buy her mom a gift. Janelle’s mom said she gave her the best gift by doing what Jesus would do, helping someone who needed help.

Friend December 2016 “You can’t Wrap a Horse” A family talks about gifts–gifts that can’t be wrapped like service and the gift of our Savior from Heavenly Father.

The Scriptures Teach of Jesus Birth

The Old Testament Teaches of Jesus Birth

Christmas: Old Testament

Christmas New Testament

What I Like About Christmas

Friend December 2023 “Following Jesus Together” Children’s Christmas crafts, art, and favorite things about Christmas


Moroni 1-6

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Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 53: Moroni and His Teachings” Story Images and Video

Friend December 2020Moroni Saved the Scriptures for Us.” Video

Ordinances

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

Because of the Great Apostasy, many people today are confused about religion, including how ordinances must be performed—and even whether they are needed at all. Moroni had seen our times (see Mormon 8:35). This may be why he gave clarifying details about the sacrament, baptism, conferring the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the blessings of gathering with fellow believers to “keep [each other] in the right way.

Ensign December 2020 “Family Study Fun

Moving with Moroni: Moroni wrote about several ordinances (or sacred acts performed by someone with priesthood authority). Use this activity to review the scriptures below.

  1. Write the following on four sheets of paper and scatter them around the room:
  2. Ask someone to start and stop a Church song while people walk from paper to paper.
  3. When the music stops, everyone goes to the nearest paper. Whoever touches a paper last should read the scripture and say one reason that ordinance is important. Then start and stop the music for the next round.
  4. Keep playing until all four ordinances have been discussed.

Discussion: What can we do to treat these ordinances as sacred? How do these ordinances bless our family?

I take the sacrament to show that I will always remember Jesus Christ.

Moroni 4–5

Friend December 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

Sing a song that helps the children think about Jesus, such as “Reverently, Quietly” (Children’s Songbook, 26). Ask the children to practice sitting reverently like they would during the sacrament.

  • Write phrases from Moroni 4:3 and 5:2 on separate strips of paper, and ask the children to put the phrases in the correct order. According to these verses, why is the sacrament important?
  • Invite the children to imagine that a friend is coming to sacrament meeting for the first time. How would they explain to their friend what the sacrament is and why we partake of it? Encourage them to use Moroni 4:3 and 5:2 in their explanations.
  • Invite the children to share things their families do during the sacrament to be reverent and think about Jesus Christ. What other ideas do they have? Invite them to pick one of these ideas and set a goal to spend more time thinking of the Savior during the sacrament.

Friend December 2020 “Family Night Fun”

I can prepare to be baptized.

Moroni 6:1–3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

Read phrases from Moroni 6:1–3 that teach who can be baptized. Explain terms the children may not understand. For instance, one meaning of “a broken heart and a contrite spirit” is to feel sorry for our sins (Moroni 6:2). Tell about how you prepared to be baptized, or ask someone who was recently baptized to explain how he or she prepared. Help the children think of ways they can prepare to be baptized someday.

I am blessed when I go to church.

Moroni 6:4–6, 9

Member of the Church of Jesus Christ

Latter Day Kids “Meet Together Oft- Come Follow Me” Video and Lesson Ideas.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

  • Ask the children why they like going to church, and help them name some of the things we do at church. Read to them some of these things from Moroni 6:4–6, 9, and invite them to act out or draw pictures of themselves doing some of these things (such as praying, preaching, singing, and partaking of the sacrament).
  • Help the children sing a song about attending church, such as “When I Go to Church” (Children’s Songbook, 157). Tell the children why you love going to church and how it has blessed you.

We go to church to take the sacrament and support each other.

Moroni 6:4–6, 9

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

Write Why do we come to church? on the board, and ask the children to write possible answers. Invite them to find additional answers in Moroni 6:4–6, 9 and add them to their list on the board. Invite the children to share how they have been blessed for attending church.

Show pictures or examples of nourishing foods. Why is it important to nourish our bodies? Read together Moroni 6:4, and ask the children what they think the phrase “nourished by the good word of God” means. How does the word of God nourish us? How can we help spiritually nourish each other at church?

The Holy Ghost is a sacred gift.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

The Holy Ghost is mentioned several times in Moroni 2–6. Use these chapters to help the children understand how the Holy Ghost can help them.

Moroni 2–6


Ether 12-15

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Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 52: The Destruction of the Jaredites” Pictures and video

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 12–15: “By Faith All Things Are Fulfilled”

Faith is believing in things we cannot see.

Ether 12:6–22

Explain that the prophet Ether tried to teach the Jaredites “great and marvelous things,” but they didn’t believe what he said. Invite the children to read Ether 12:5 to find out why they didn’t believe. What are some things Heavenly Father wants us to believe even though we don’t see them? Read together Ether 12:6.

Moroni shared several examples of people who accomplished great things because of their faith.

  • Show pictures that depict the examples of faith in Ether 12:13–15, 20–21 (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 7885, and this week’s activity page). Let the children tell you what they see in the pictures and what they know about the stories. Talk with the children about how these individuals showed faith and what happened because of their faith.
  • Play a guessing game with the children. Give them clues about the faithful people described in Ether 12:13–15, 19–20 until the children can guess who they are. Then let the children play the game again by taking turns giving clues about the same people (or other faithful people) while the rest of the class guesses. Share what you admire about the faith of these people.
  • Show one of the children a picture without letting the other children see, and ask the child to describe the picture to the rest of the class. As time allows, let other children take turns doing the same with different pictures. Then invite them to read Ether 12:6 and find this phrase: “Faith is things which are hoped for and not seen.” How do we show faith in Jesus Christ when we cannot see Him?
  • Ask the children to read this phrase in Ether 12:6: “Ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.” Help the children understand that when we obey a commandment, we can know it is true. Ask them to think of gospel principles that God wants us to have a testimony of, such as paying tithing, keeping the Sabbath day holy, or living the Word of Wisdom. Then write on the board In order to gain a testimony of , I must . Share how you have exercised faith in order to gain your testimony of these and other gospel truths.

Latter Day Kids “Faith is Like Planting a Seed- Come Follow Me” Lesson ideas and video

Hope is like an anchor to my soul.

Ether 12:4, 32

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 12–15: “By Faith All Things Are Fulfilled”

Share with the children the definition of hope found in “Hope” (Guide to the Scriptures, scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). According to this definition and Ether 12:4, 32, what should we hope for? (see also Moroni 7:40–42). Help the children think of other words for hope, along with words that mean the opposite of hope. Share with them some gospel truths that give you hope, and invite them to do the same.

  • Show (or draw on the board) a picture of a boat and an anchor. Why do boats need anchors? What would happen to a boat that did not have an anchor? Read together Ether 12:4, and ask the children how hope is like an anchor. Invite the children to draw their own pictures of a boat and anchor so they can teach their families about hope.

Jesus Christ can help me be strong.

Ether 12:23–27

Friend November 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones Read Ether 12:27 and help your little ones say, “Jesus Christ can help me be strong.” Invite your children to try doing something physically hard, like moving a chair or lifting a heavy book. Then help them successfully complete the challenge. Show them a picture of Jesus and explain that Jesus can help us do hard things and make weak things strong.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 12–15: “By Faith All Things Are Fulfilled”

As children get older, they become more aware of their weaknesses. Use these verses to teach them how the Savior can make “weak things become strong” (Ether 12:27).

  • Describe for the children a task that would require a lot of physical strength to accomplish. Invite them to share examples of things they aren’t strong enough to do now. How could we become strong enough to accomplish these tasks? Explain that we also have spiritual work to do, but we sometimes feel spiritually weak. Moroni felt this way about his writings on the plates (Ether 12:23–25). Read Ether 12:27 to the children. What did the Lord promise those who feel weak?
  • Share an experience in which the Savior helped you or someone you know do something that was hard. Testify to the children that if they seek His help, Jesus can help them be strong, even when they feel weak.
  • Invite the children to draw a picture of something weak and something strong. Then invite them to add to their drawing some words and phrases from Ether 12:23–29 that teach them about how the Savior can help us turn our weakness into strength. Encourage the children to think about a weakness they might have and then seek the Savior’s help to become strong.

Why does the Lord give us weakness? What is our part in making “weak things become strong”? What is the Savior’s part?

Weak Things Stronger.” In this Friend article, Parker learns that he doesn’t have to be perfect and that the Savior is there to help him.

Rejecting the prophets brings spiritual danger.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 12–15: “By Faith All Things Are Fulfilled”

Being king of the Jaredites was, historically, a dangerous position. This was especially true for Coriantumr, as many “mighty men … sought to destroy him” (Ether 13:15–16). In Ether 13:15–22, notice what Coriantumr did to protect himself and what the prophet Ether counseled him to do instead. As you read the rest of the book of Ether, ponder the consequences of rejecting the prophets. What happens to people when “the Spirit of the Lord [ceases] striving with them”? (Ether 15:19).

Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 41: The Jaredites Reject the Prophets,” 

  • What would happen if you chose to stick a pin in a fully inflated balloon?
  • What would happen if your family chose to stop watering a plant in your home?
  • What would happen if you chose to stay up late and not get enough sleep?

Explain to the children that all their choices have consequences. Consequences are what happen as a result of the choices we make. The scriptures and our prophets teach us the consequences of our choices because Heavenly Father wants us to make good choices. This lesson is about the Jaredites and the prophet Ether. Ether told the Jaredites that if they chose not to repent, the consequences would be that all of the people would be destroyed.

  1. Before class, write the letters to the word obedience on separate pieces of paper, and hide them around the classroom. Explain to the children that you have hidden some letters. Give specific directions for finding each letter. When all the letters have been located, put them on the floor or chalkboard to form the word obedience. Ask how they were able to find all the letters. Teach the children that Heavenly Father wants us to choose to obey. Learning to obey is one of the main reasons we are here on earth. Heavenly Father wants us to use our agency and choose to obey the counsel of the leaders of the Church. Ask the children what they think is the most important thing they can do to be happy. Refer again to the letters that spell obedience. Point out that Heavenly Father tells us in the scriptures and through his Church leaders what he wants us to do. When we use our agency to be obedient and do what he says, he will help us find happiness.
  2. Make the following wordstrips: Righteousness, Blessings, Prosperity, Pride, Wickedness, Suffering or destruction, Humility, Repentance. Explain that throughout history when people have been righteous, Heavenly Father has blessed them with prosperity. Unfortunately this prosperity can lead to pride and wickedness and sometimes complete destruction.Explain that this is what happened to the Jaredites. At first they were a righteous people and were blessed and prospered. (Draw a large circle on the chalkboard, and have the children put up the wordstrips “Righteousness,” “Blessings,” and “Prosperity” in the proper places on the circle [see the following illustration].) Then the Jaredites became proud and rejected the prophets. The people became so wicked that they were entirely destroyed. (Have the children put up the wordstrips “Pride,” “Wickedness,” and “Suffering or destruction” in the proper places on the circle.) Explain that if the Jaredites had humbled themselves and repented before they were destroyed, they could have returned to enjoying the blessings of righteous living. (Have the children put up the wordstrips “Humility” and “Repentance” in the proper places on the circle.) Help the children understand that this cycle often happens in our personal lives as well as in the history of nations.Cycle of HistoryRighteousnessBlessingsProsperityPrideWickednessSuffering or destructionHumilityRepentance
  3. Have the children make their own copies of the cycle of history to take home and share with their families. The children could make their cycles more personal by including such things as “listening to the prophets,” “obeying my parents,” “praying daily,” “expressing gratitude,” “serving others,” and so on.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 12–15: “By Faith All Things Are Fulfilled”

Ether 12:41

Is there a fun way you could teach your children to “seek … Jesus”? One way might be to hide a picture of Jesus and invite your family members to “seek” and find the picture. How do we seek Jesus, and how are we blessed when we find Him?

It might be interesting for your family members to compare the experience of Ether with the experiences of Mormon and Moroni (see Mormon 68:1–10). How are they similar? How was the Nephites’ path to destruction similar to the Jaredites’ path? (compare Ether 15:19 with Moroni 8:28). What truths do we learn that can help us avoid what happened to them?