Lesson 6: Genesis 6-11; Moses 8

 January 31-February 6
Genesis 6-11; Moses 8
"Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord"

Materials: video, link below, Quote page (printed and cut out), tin foil, markers, cardboard, popsicle sticks
Opening Song: "Follow the prophet" verse 3 (Children's Songbook, 110)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity: Play the video below and sing along to the "Arky, Arky" song. 

Lesson:

 The people of Noah's day had become very wicked. Noah repeatedly had asked the people to repent and the mocked him and did not listen to his council and repent. The Lord said he would destroy the people with a flood. Because Noah and his family were righteous, they were spared from the destruction. Noah built an ark or large boat as commanded by the Lord. What did Noah bring on the ark? Noah, like Adam before him, had stewardship over the animals. The Lord wanted the animals and Noah's family to be safe and sheltered from the storm. 

Noah's ark has been depicted in books, television, movies, and toys. A vast majority of the Earth knows the story. But what can we learn from Noah? 

The scriptures and modern prophets suggest that we can learn from the story by likening the ark to places of spiritual safety. What are places that offer spiritual safety? In 2nd Nephi 9 :7-13, Nephi speaks of the safety we can find in the Atonement of Jesus Christ. His grace is like the ultimate Noah's ark, saving us again and again from our own mistakes. In D&C 115, we read that our stakes and wards can be "refuges from the storm." Lastly, President Nelson has stated that the temple can be a place of spiritual safety as we make and keep sacred covenants ("Becoming Exemplary Latter-day Saints" General Conference, October 2018).

From Noah's story, we can definitely learn to "follow the prophet" as the primary song suggests; we can listen to his council and repent. What is some counsel that President Nelson has given us recently?

Activity: Boats and Quotes

Directions: Before FHE gather the following items: tin foil, popsicle sticks, cardboard, makers, and printed and cut out quotes from below. Using the foil and other items, have each family member create a small boat. Next, place a cut out quote from President Nelson and place it inside the boat. Put the boats into a sink or bathtub filled with water and watch how they float! (Options: make it a contest, you can see which quote gets the least wet when put into the water. You could also load the boats up with small toys like lego mini figures or small animals; whoever can fit the most on their boat before it sinks, wins!)

Optional Activity: If you have a Disney+ account, you can watch Disney's version of Noah's ark in Fantasia 2000, starring Donald and Daisy Duck. 

Bear your testimony. 

Closing Song: "We Thank Thee Oh God For a Prophet" (Hymns, 19)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: Noah's Ark Treat Mix. Remind your family that God promised to never flood the entire earth again. The rainbow is symbolic of this promise. The skittles represent the rainbow; the animals represent the animals on the ark; and the marshmallows represent the rainclouds. 

Mix together in a bowl:

• 4 cups animal crackers
• 15 ounces skittles (share size bag)
• 8 ounces mini marshmallows (half a bag 

Lesson 5: Moses 7

 January 24-30
Moses 7
"The Lord called his people Zion"

Materials: A large paper heart, scissors, markers/coloring crayons, glue, cards below (printed, cut out, and glued together)
Opening Song: "We will sing of Zion" (Hymns, 47)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity: Show your family a  large paper heart. Write the word "Zion" on the heart. What is Zion?

Lesson:

We talked a lot about Zion last year as we studied the Doctrine and Covenants. The people of the early church wanted to build a city of Zion in Missouri and become a Zion people. They wanted to model themselves like the people of Enoch. 

Enoch was a prophet in the book of Genesis and we learn more about him in the book of Moses. Enoch felt he was a weak man and felt overwhelmed with the responsibilities God had given him. But, with help from the Lord and courage, Enoch became a mighty prophet. His people listened to him and he built a city, the city Zion. 

We don't know a lot about the city of Zion itself. We don't know how large it was or how many people it had. We don't know how many buildings there were or if it had parks. But what we do know is that it's people were righteous. 

Activity: Enoch cards

Before FHE, print out both sets of the cards below and paste together so that the Enoch picture is on one side and the words on the other. Set the cards out on the floor or table picture side up. Have your family members take turns choosing a card, reading it, and answering the question on the back. 

"Zion is not just a  city--it is a condition of the heart and spirit. Zion, as the Lord has taught, is 'the pure in heart' (D&C 97:21) So perhaps the best way to build Zion is to start in our own homes" (Come Follow Me For Individuals and Families 2022 The Old Testament, page 19).

Activity: Zion heart/Zion home

Take the heart from the beginning of the lesson and cut it into pieces--one piece per family member and give each piece to a family member. What are some things that we can do in our home to be a more Zion-like people? Discuss with your family things you might do to become more united as a family in heart and mind. Write down or draw a picture of one thing you will do to help the family become more Zion-like on the piece of the heart.

Collect the heart pieces and glue them to a piece of paper. Hang the heart in your home to remind your family what they are focusing on this week. 

Bear your testimony.

Closing Song: "Love at Home" (Hymns, 294)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: Banana Bread Cookies recipe here

Lesson 4: Gen. 5; Mos. 6

 January 17-23
Genesis 5; Moses 6
"Teach these things freely unto your children"

Materials: "Mom's Many Hats" youtube video, a large bag, a picture of Christ, a CTR ring/picture of CTR shield, a picture of a child getting baptized, a picture of a child receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, a picture of child praying
Opening Song: "Teach me to walk in the light" (Children's Songbook, 177)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity: Watch the youtube video "Mom's many hats". What are some of the hats that moms and dads wear? One of the many hats that parents wear is a teacher's hat. Parents have to teach their kids a lot of different things. What did your parents teach you?

Lesson:

Heavenly Father wants parents to love and teach their children. The very first parents were Adam and Eve and Heavenly Father made it clear that He wanted them to teach them important lessons. What kinds of things do you think God wants parents to teach their children? In Moses chapter 6 we read of several things that God wanted Adam and Eve to know and to teach to their children. 

Activity: 

(Before FHE, place the following items in a large bag, a picture of Christ, a CTR ring/picture of CTR shield, a picture of a child getting baptized, a picture of a child receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, a picture of child praying)

Directions: Have your family members take turns pulling the items/pictures out of the bag. As they each take a turn do the corresponding activity below.

Picture of Christ: Heavenly Father wants parents to teach their children to have faith in Jesus Christ. Sing "I'm trying to be like Jesus" (Children's Songbook, 78)

A CTR Ring: Read Moses 6:56. In Moses we read the God wants us to teach children wrong from right--good from evil. Parents are supposed to teach their children to obey God's commandments.

A child getting baptized: Moses 6: 52 reads, "And he also said unto him: if thou wilt turn unto me, and hearken unto my voice, and believe. and repent of all thy transgressions, and be baptized, even in water, in the name of mine Only Begotten Son, who is full of grace and truth. which is Jesus Christ, the only name which shall be given under heaven, whereby salvation shall come unto the children of men..." Parents are supposed to teach children about baptism and encourage them to be baptized. How did you parents help prepare you for baptism?

A child receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost: Read "ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, asking all things in his name, and whatsoever ye shall ask, it shall be given unto you" (Moses 6:52).  Along with baptism, parents are also supposed to teach their kids about the Holy Ghost. Parents can help children identify the Holy Spirit and how it communicates with us. They should teach their children to rely on the guidance of the Holy Ghost. 

A child praying: Read Moses 6:57 "Wherefore teach it unto your children, that all men, everywhere, myst repent, or they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God, for no unclean thing can dwell there, or dwell in his presence..." Repenting is saying sorry to Heavenly Father in prayer for a bad thing you have done and then trying to change your behavior. Why is it important to teach children how to repent? 

As we have talked about the things Heavenly Father wants all parents to teach their children you may have recognized a pattern. We teach our children to choose the right; have faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ; repentance; baptism; and the gift of the Holy Ghost. What does that sound like? The Fourth Article of Faith! So from the beginning of mankind, Adam and Eve down through the generations, parents have been asked to teach their children right from wrong and the first principles and ordinances of the gospel. This is often called "the doctrine of Christ." Each book of scripture, the Bible, The Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price all teach the doctrine of Christ. 

Bear your testimony of the doctrine of christ and how parent's teaching gospel principles has blessed you.

Closing Song: "The Fourth Article of Faith" (Children's Songbook, 124)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: hot chocolate bombs recipe here

Lesson 3: Gen. 3-4; Mos. 4-5

 January 10-16
Genesis 3-4; Moses 4-5
"The fall of Adam and Eve"

Materials: Adam and Eve Pictures printed, Adam and Eve story (link below)
Opening Song: "Follow the Prophet" verse 1 (Children's Songbook, 110)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity: Write the word "Obedient" on a piece of paper or whiteboard. What does it mean to be obedient? Obedience is choosing to keep rules and commandments. We are obedient to our parents when we clean our room or do chores. We also can be obedient to Heavenly Father as we keep His commandments.

Lesson:

Heavenly Father has asked His children to be obedient from the very beginning. Last week, we learned about the creation of the world. On the 6th day, God created man in His own image. What was this man's name? His name is Adam sometimes called Michael. God also created a woman for Adam; what is her name? Eve. 

Today we are going to learn more about Adam and Eve and their experience in the Garden of Eden. Some of you may be pretty familiar with this story already. Let's see how well you know the story of the Garden of Eden by doing an activity.

Activity:

(Before FHE, print and cut our the pictures below as well as the short story from churchofjesuschrist.org about Adam and Eve. Set the pictures face up in front of your family and give a member of your family the story to read.)

Adam and Eve Story.

Before we read the story of Adam and Eve, try to put the pictures in order. When you are satisfied with their order we will read that story to see if you are right.

When Adam and Eve when in the Garden of Eden, God gave them several commandments. The first was to multiply and replenish the earth (Moses 1:28)--that means Adam and Even were commanded to have children. They were also commanded to have dominion over the living things on the earth, meaning Adam and Eve were supposed to be good stewards over the earth. The last thing that God told Adam and Eve was to not partake of the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. They were told not to eat the fruit because then they would be able to die. (Gen 2:17).

Adam and Eve did there best to keep the commandments God had given them. They gave names to all of the animals and tended to all the living things in the garden. For a time, they did not eat the fruit. But what commandment were they not keeping in the Garden of Eden? They could not multiply and replenish the earth while in the Garden of Eden. 

In The Book of Mormon, we learn that Eve's choice to partake of the fruit was a good thing. It enabled Heavenly Father's Plan to go forth. Because Adam and Eve ate the fruit, they were able to understand right and wrong and have agency. Adam and Eve's choice to take the fruit is called "the fall," but it could be called "the path". Adam and Eve were stuck in the garden and would not be able to progress towards exaltation without first taking the path that was opened by Adam and Eve--the path of mortality. Jesus Christ is like our guide along the path and through His Atonement, we will be able to return to our Heavenly Father.

Watch "The Fall" video.

Bear your testimony of the Fall of Adam and Eve and the Plan of Salvation. 

Closing Song: "Keep the Commandments" (Children's Songbook, 146)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: Caramel Apples

Lesson: 2 Gen. 1-2; Moses 2-3; Abraham 4-5

 January 3-9
2 Genesis 1-2; Moses 2-3; Abraham 4-5
"In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth"

Materials: Art Supplies, labeled paper paper, creation picture, drawings, play dough
Opening Song: "My Heavenly Father Loves Me" (Children's Songbook, 228)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity:

Before FHE, print out the drawings below and put them into a bowl. Have each family member take a picture without showing anyone what it is. Have them sculpt with play dough what is in the drawing and the rest of the family can guess what the item is.

Lesson:

Last week we talked about the talk Moses had with God on the mountain. That chapter acts as an introduction to the Bible because it answers a lot of the questions we have about life and our Heavenly Father's Plan. This week we are going to start at the beginning... or in the beginning.  We are going to talk about the creation.

The creation story is recorded 3 times in scripture; once in Genesis, which is the account that most Judeo-Christians believe. The others are found in the Pearl of Great Price in the books of Moses and Abraham. These accounts compliment and enrich the account found in Genesis. Take turns reading Genesis 1:1. Moses 2:2, and Abraham 4:1-2. 

To learn more about what happened during each of the stages of creation. We are going to do an art activity. 

Activity:

Before FHE, label 6 pieces of paper with the 6 days of creation, 1 day of creation/paper. Set out art supplies. Pass out the 6 pieces of paper to your family (if your have a small family, family members can do two; larger families can work in teams.) Have your family illustrate what God created on the day indicated on each paper. When finished, have family members take turns sharing their art starting with day 1. 

Day 1: God created day/light and night/dark. 

Day 2: God created the sky and the ocean.

Day 3: God created the land, plants, and trees.

Day 4: God created the sun, moon, and stars.

Day 5: God created birds and fish.

Day 6: God created animals and man.

We what God did in the first 6 days to created the earth. What did God do on the 7th day? Read Moses 3:2-3. God rested on the 7th day and he made it holy. How do we commemorate this? Every seven days, we also rest from our labor. We keep the sabbath day holy by attending church and by making Sundays a special day where we can concentrate on the Savior and His gospel. 

Why do you think it is important for us to learn about the creation? What is so significant knowing the Jesus Christ created the earth under the direction of Heavenly Father? Read the following paragraph from the Come Follow Me For Individuals and Families 2022 manual:

"Because the world around us is so beautiful and majestic, it is hard to imagine the earth when it was “without form, and void,” “empty and desolate” (Genesis 1:2; Abraham 4:2). One thing the Creation story teaches us is that God can make something magnificent out of something unorganized. That’s helpful to remember when life seems chaotic. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are Creators, and Their creative work with us is not finished. They can make light shine in dark moments in our lives. They can form solid ground in the midst of life’s stormy seas. They can command the elements, and if we obey Their word like the elements did, They can transform us into the beautiful creations we were meant to be. That’s part of what it means to be created in God’s image, after His likeness (see Genesis 1:26). We have the potential to become like Him: exalted, glorified, celestial beings."

Learning about the creation reminds us of Christ's power and influence. It reminds us that God is ultimately in control and that Heavenly Father's Plan is coming true fruition. Our knowledge of the creation helps to keep us humble and grateful for all that we have been given. As we study and learn about the creation, we keep in mind the big picture of God's plan for his children. It puts our lives and trials into perspective. 

Bear your testimony of the creation. 

Closing Song: "All things bright and beautiful" (Children's Songbook, 231)

Closing Prayer: 

Refreshment: Creation Snack Mix recipe here

Lesson 1: Moses 1; Abraham 3

December 27- Jan 2
Moses 1; Abraham 3
"This is my work and my glory"

Materials: a mirror with a crown (see below), whiteboard and marker, scene pages printed out.
Opening Song: "I know my Father lives" (Children's Songbook, 5)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity: Before FHE, cut out a crown shape out of some gold paper. Tape the crown to the mirror so that a person looking at their reflection will see a crown on his or her head. Tell your family that the person in the image has a divine destiny. 

Lesson:

Ask a family member, "Who are you?" For millions of years mankind has sought to answers questions like Who am I? Why am I here? and Who is God? What is God's purpose? (Write these questions on the whiteboard). This week we are going to learn answers to these questions as we study sections of the books of Moses and Abraham. These books were revealed and translated by Joseph Smith and included in the Pearl of Great Price. 

In the first chapter of Moses, Moses describes an experience he has conversing with God and Satan. To learn more about what happened we are going to perform a short scene. 

______________________________________________________________________

Activity: Moses 1 Scene

Directions: Print out scene below. Cast 4 people to act as narrator, Moses, God, and Satan. 

Scene: Moses is on a high mountain when God appears to him. Moses is temporarily transfigured so he can endures God's presence. They speak face to face.

God: Behold, I am the Lord God, Almighty. I am endless without beginning or end. You are my son. Look and I will show you some of what I have created. But not everything, because my works and my words never end. To see all that I have created you must become more than a mortal man. (Looks at Moses lovingly) I have a work for you Moses. Your life is patterned like mine Only Begotten. He is the Savior full of grace and truth. Moses I want to show you the world you are in.

God shows Moses the world upon which he was created. Moses sees the world and the ends thereof and also the people who are and were created for the earth. 

Moses: (in wonder) Wow!

God leaves Moses and Moses falls to the earth. Moses is worn out and tired after talking with God.

Moses: Now I know that man is nothing compared to all of God's creations. My eyes have now seen God--not my natural eyes, but my spiritual eyes. I was transfigured in order to withstand His glory. 

After Moses had said these words Satan came unto him.

Satan: Moses, son of man, worship me!

Moses: Who are you? For I am a son of God, patterned after the Only Begotten. Where is your glory? Why should I worship you? I had to be transfigured to be in God's presence but not with you. Blessed be the name of my God for I can still feel His Spirit! You don't have glory but darkness. I can judge between you and God, and God said serve Him. Get thee hence Satan! Don't deceive me. For God said unto me, 'thou art after the similitude of mine Only Begotten. He gave me commandments, and I will not stop calling to Him in prayer. I can judge between Him and you. Depart hence Satan!

Satan: (angrily) Arggh! (commanding) I am the Only Begotten, worship me!

Moses begins to fear as he see the bitterness of hell. He falls to his knees praying.

Moses: God give me strength. (He stands.) Depart from me Satan, for I only worship one God--the God of glory. 

Satan begins to tremble with fear. The earth shakes. Moses appears mighty.

Moses: In the name of the Only Begotten, depart hence, Satan.   

Satan: (throwing a temper tantrum) Argh! 

Satan leaves. Moses looks up to heaven and feels the Spirit. He sees God again.

God: Blessed are you Moses. I have chosen you and you will be stronger than many waters for they shall obey your commands. I am with you, even until the end of your life. For you will deliver my people out of bondage. 

God shows Moses all the earth and all of the souls on the earth. He sees many lands and peoples.

Moses: (in wonder) What is the purpose of all this? How did you make all of this?

God: For my own purpose have I created them. I have created worlds without number through my Son, my Only Begotten. I created the first man called Adam. I have created many worlds that have passed away and worlds that are. 

Moses: Be merciful and tell me more about this earth, its people, and the heavens and then I will be content. 

God: The heavens are many. This earth shall pass away and another shall come, for there is no end to my work. For my work and my glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. And now Moses, my son, write down my words. They will be put in book which will be read by all that believe. 

Moses does as God commands and writes about God in the Books of Moses, Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. 

_____________________________________________________________________

Refer back to the whiteboard from the beginning of the lesson. Did we answer all these questions in the play? What lessons can we learn from Moses interactions with God and Satan? How does Moses feel towards God? Moses is humbled by being in God's presence and he is eager to learn from God and keep His commandments.

How does Moses react to Satan's presence? Moses recognizes Satan's lies and deceit. He tells him to go away.

In the first chapter of Moses, we get a glimpse of how Heavenly Father feels about each of us. He calls Moses, my son, multiple times. He explains Christ's role as our Savior and that He has a plan for each of us. Heavenly Father's purposes is to enable us to have immortality and eternal life. 

Satan on the other hand does the opposite. He calls Moses a "son of man" and demands Moses worship him. He tries to deceive Moses and acts out in anger when he does not get his way. 

We are all like Moses, each of us is a child of God with a divine destiny. We can each have a special relationship with our Father in Heaven. We each have the potential to inherit eternal life. Tonight for our closing song, we will sing, "I am a Child of God." As we sing, think about the words and how they relate to what we learned tonight. 

Bear your testimony. 

Closing Song: "I am a child of God" (Hymns, 301)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: New Years Pretzel Sparklers

Lesson 5: D&C 6-9

 January 25-31
D&C 6-9
"This is the spirit of revelation"

Materials: Slips of letter papers printed and cut with letters written on the back; 1 flashlight and 3 other objects that give off light; scripture slips printed, cut out and taped to objects. 
Opening Song: "Lead Kindly Light" (Hymnal, 72)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity:

Hold up a flashlight. What is this? Why do we need it? What enables it to work? Light has many meanings in the church like the light of Christ. Today we are going to talk about light in reference to knowledge from the Lord. What is it called when you receive knowledge from the Lord? It's called personal revelation. 

Lesson:

Read the following excerpt from the Come Follow Me for Individuals and Families 2021 Manual: "In spring 1829 Oliver Cowdery traveled to Harmony and volunteered to be Joseph Smith’s scribe as he translated the Book of Mormon. Oliver now had a close view of the revelatory process of translation. The experience thrilled him, and he wondered if he could also be blessed with a gift to translate. The Lord allowed him to attempt to translate, but receiving revelation was new for Oliver, and his attempt did not go well. He still had a lot to learn, and Doctrine and Covenants 6, 8, and 9 show that the Lord was willing to teach him" (page 19).

While on earth it is necessary for us to receive personal revelation just like Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. We need personal revelation to receive a witness of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon, gain our own testimonies of the gospel, and to receive guidance in our callings and personal decisions. 

Share a time when you received a personal revelation. What did you do before receiving it to prepare you? How did know you had received a personal revelation? 

Before you can receive any revelation from God you have to be ready. This means you have to be prepared and be worthy. Before Joseph Smith received the first vision, he had already searched the scriptures and designed a place and time to pray. He humbled himself and asked God his question with an earnest heart. Heavenly Father gave Oliver Cowdery counsel to do something similar. 

Activity: Before revelation letters- Print and cut out each of the strips below and write the first letter on the back. Have each family member take turns choosing and reading each slip. 

K- Keep the Commandments. We have to be worthy to receive personal revelation by keeping the commandments. If you feel like you're having a hard time receiving answers, ask yourself if their is anything you need to repent for? (D&C 6:6)

Z- Seek for the cause of Zion. We should be seeking for revelation to help aid in God's kingdom. (D&C 6:6)

W- Seek for Wisdom. We should ask for revelation out of a need for added knowledge and not for material gain or riches. (D&C 6:6)

F- Faith. We need to have faith in Heavenly Father and His son, Jesus Christ in order to receive personal revelation. (D&C 8:1)

H-Honest Heart. We need to be sincere when we ask God for answers. (D&C 8:1)

B- Believing. We have to truly believe that revelation will come--that you will receive guidance.  (D&C 8:1)

P- Ponder. We have to ponder everything we have studied, felt, and heard. When the Lord does reveal things to us we have to study it out in our minds. (D&C 9:7-8)

Now that we know what we have to have before we receive revelation the next thing to do would be to ask of God. How do we ask God something? We can pray. We can also study out the topic using the scriptures and other gospel resources. Once we have done those things, the Lord will give us personal revelation through the Holy Ghost. But how can we recognize that revelation?

Activity: The Light of Revelation- Before FHE, have prepared 4 objects that give light like flashlights, candles, lightbulbs, lamps, etc. Print and cut the 4 strips below and tape each to one of the items you've gathered. Have each family member take turns picking an item and reading about how one might receive revelation. 

6:15 Behold, thou knowest that thou hast inquired of me and I did enlighten thy ^amind; and now I tell thee these things that thou mayest know that thou hast been ^benlightened by the ^cSpirit of truth;

6:23 Did I not speak ^apeace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater ^bwitness can you have than from God?

8:2 Yea, behold, I will ^atell you in your mind and in your ^bheart, by the ^cHoly Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.

8:8 But, behold, I say unto you, that you must ^astudy it out in your ^bmind; then you must ^cask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your ^dbosom shall ^eburn within you; therefore, you shall ^ffeel that it is right.
9 But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a ^astupor of thought that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong; therefore, you cannot write that which is ^bsacred save it be given you from me.

Heavenly Father will give you personal revelation through the power of the Holy Ghost by enlightening your mind, bringing peace to your mind, dwelling in your heart, and by giving you a warm feeling in your heart when you ask if you are right. Often, knowing how to identify the Spirit speaking to you is half the battle. Have you ever had any of these happen to you? Ask you family member to share experiences how they received revelation. 

Russel M. Nelson chose personal revelation as one of his topics during his first General Conference as president of the church. He said, "I urge you to stretch beyond your current spiritual ability to receive personal revelation, for the Lord has promised that “if thou shalt [seek], thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries and peaceable things—that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal...My beloved brothers and sisters, I plead with you to increase your spiritual capacity to receive revelation. Let this Easter Sunday be a defining moment in your life. Choose to do the spiritual work required to enjoy the gift of the Holy Ghost and hear the voice of the Spirit more frequently and more clearly." ("Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives," April 2018). 

Bear your testimony of the truth of President Nelson's words and of personal revelation. 

Closing Song: "The Lord is My Light" (Hymnal, 89)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: Andes Mint Fudge recipe here 

Lesson 4: D&C 3-5

 January 18-24 
Doctrine and Covenants 3-5
"My Work Shall Go Forth" 

Materials: coloring page, cards below printed, cut, and pasted together.
Opening Song: "Called to serve" (Hymnal, 249)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity:

Have your family color a picture featuring gardening like the one below. What are the children in this picture doing? They are working hard on a garden, helping good things to grow. 

 

Lesson:

The Lord values hard work--he values effort and service. He wants us all serve him and aide him in his work. What is Heavenly Father's work? Read Moses 1:39. He wants all of his children to receive eternal life or exaltation. How can we help him do this?

Joseph Smith's father Joseph Smith Sr. desired to serve God. He wanted to help Heavenly Father in his work any way he could so, a revelation was given to him in February of 1829--Section 4 of the D&C.

Activity: Harvest Cards

Directions print and cut out the cards below. Glue each card with a scripture to the back of one of the picture cards. Place the around the room or on the floor. Have each family member take turns picking a card and leading the discussion questions on the back. 

Our download from Google Docs here. 

D&C 4 is often applied to full time missionaries--it's sort of their credo. However, it really applies to every member of the church. As a member you have been called to take Christ's name upon you and be an example to others. We must use our heart, might, mind, and strength to help us and try to embody the qualities listed in Section 4. 

Ponder which of the Christlike qualities you should work on in order to better qualify you to do His work. Tonight, say a prayer for guidance to work on that attribute and for missionary/teaching opportunities to be presented to you. 

Closing Song: "We'll Bring the World His Truth" (Children's Songbook, 172)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: "Every Minion a Missionary" Twinkies link here

Lesson 3: D&C 2; JSH 1:27-65

 January 11-17

D&C 2; Joseph Smith History 1:27-65

"The Hearts of the Children Shall Turn to their Fathers"

Materials: video clips below, picture of Elijah, familysearch family tree
Opening Song: "True to the Faith" (Hymnal, 254)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity:

Have a family member read D&C 2. Then have them read it 3  more times. If I were to tell you to go get something and then I were to tell you that same thing 3 more times, do you think it's important? 

Lesson:

Something very similar happened to Joseph Smith. Three years after the first vision, he was still living on his parents farm in New York. One night he was praying when he was visited by an angel. Does anyone remember the angel's name that came to see Joseph? It was Moroni, the last surviving Nephite who buried the plates that came to Joseph Smith. 

Activity: 

Watch the short clip below from "Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration" 

What did Moroni tell Joseph about? He told Joseph about the gold plates which would later become the Book of Mormon, but that wasn't all of Moroni's message. Moroni also quoted several scriptures to Joseph Smith including sections of Malachi, Isaiah, and Joel from the Old Testament as well as the Book of Acts from the New Testament. 

Read JSH 1:37. Moroni is quoting Malachi talking about judgment day after the Second Coming. 

Read JSH 1:38 Moroni tells Joseph Smith that the Priesthood will be revealed to him by Elijah. Who is Elijah? Elijah was an Old Testament prophet. The Lord promised in the Bible that Elijah would come to earth again before the second coming of Christ. President Henry B. Eyring said: “It is important to know why the Lord promised to send Elijah. Elijah was a great prophet with great power given him by God. He held the greatest power God gives to His children: he held the sealing power, the power to bind on earth and have it bound in heaven” (“Hearts Bound Together,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2005, 78). Elijah holds the keys to the sealing power, this power can only be accessed in the temple. 

Read JSH 1:39 The promise the Moroni is quoting is the promise of the Abrahamic covenant. To better explain the Abrahamic covenant, watch the following clip from Pres. Nelson which is cited in the Come Follow Me Manual. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/come-follow-me-for-individuals-and-families-doctrine-and-covenants-2021/03?lang=eng The blessings of the Abrahamic covenant can be found in the temple. 

The second part of verse 29 talks about turning the hearts of children to their fathers. This means that in the latter days, before the second coming, people on earth will remember their ancestors. Peoples hearts and minds will try to remember and learn about the grandparents and the people that have come before them. 

How is this happening in the world today? With access to the internet, family history work has boomed around the globe. People from all different faiths are learning more about their heritage. There are websites like ancestry.com and familysearch; there is even DNA testing kits like 23 and Me that will tell you where your lineage comes from. Televison shows even feature celebrates finding out about specific ancestors of their family tree. 

All of this is a fullfillment of the prophesy of Malachi that Moroni quoted. Why is this important? It all points back to the sealing power of the temple. As more people learn about their family history, temple work will continue to go forth for the dead. People who have passed away can receive their ordinances vicariously in the temple. 

Activity: Show your family your family tree on familysearch and talk about one of your ancestors. 

Moroni repeated this message to Joseph Smith 4 times. Obviously this was important. He wanted Joseph to understand the importance of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. He also wanted to impress the importance of ancient prophecies about the events leading up to the second coming of Christ. Joseph Smith played a key role in the fulfillment of many ancient prophecies. 

Closing Song: "The Hearts of the Children" (Children's Songbook, 92)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: Blizzard Cookies recipe here 

Lesson 2: Joseph Smith History 1: 1-26

 January 4-10
Joseph Smith History 1: 1-26
"I saw a pillar of light" 

Materials: picture of Joseph Smith, first vision video, print outs cut and taped to the wall (see below)
Opening Song: "Joseph Smith's First Prayer" (Hymnal, 26)
Opening Prayer:

Attention Activity:

Show a picture of Joseph Smith like the one below. Who is this? Ask a young family member to tell about Joseph Smith. 

Lesson:

Joseph Smith was the first of the latter-day prophets. Through the guidance of the Lord, he restored Christ's church. This week we will be learning about Joseph Smith's first vision. 

Activity: 

Have the print outs below cut out into 5 pieces of paper. Tape each paper face down around the room. Watch a video of the first vision. Before the video starts ask your family, "What gospel truths do we learn from the first vision?" 

"Ask of God: Joseph Smith's First Vision" (6:36)

or "Joseph Smith's First Vision" (4:15)

After the video, ask family members to come up and chose a paper. Read the gospel truths and discuss how the first vision demonstrates each of these gospel principles. There are discussion points listed below. If your family has thought of any others ask them to share.

Satan is Real- Joseph Smith felt Satan's influence in the sacred grove. Satan does not want us to pray. Satan not only tempts us, but is also responsible for feelings of darkness and despair. Have you ever noticed Satan trying to influence you?

Prayer Works- Joseph prayed vocally in the sacred grove. Why is praying out load important? Joseph's vision is a testament that God does answer our prayers. What is a time when he has answered your prayers?

Answers lie in scripture- Read James 1:5 together.  How did studying the sciprtures help Joseph? Studying the scriptures not only increases our knowledge but can also answer specific questions about things happening in our own lives. When has reading the scriptures provided you with an answer you needed?

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are 2 separate beings- Not only did Heavenly Father and Jesus have bodies of flesh and bone just like you and me, but they were two separate people. This was and still isn't a widely known truth. Most christians think of them as 1 person. But Heavenly Father introduces the Savior to Joseph Smith and then Jesus speaks. Why is this knowledge so important?

God called Joseph Smith to restore His church- Joseph Smith was a young, relatively poor boy from upstate New York. Why do you think Joseph was called as the Lord's chosen prophet of the restoration? As a teenage boy, Joseph was old enough to understand the gravity and importance of the Truth. But he was not so set in his own ways and ideas that he was still meek and teachable. As the years went on and Joseph gained more recognition, he always stayed humble and grounded to gospel principles. As we learn more about Joseph this year try to make a list in your journal about Joseph's attributes. 

Bear your testimony of the first vision and encourage your family to pray to gain their own testimony of the First Vision. 

Closing Song: "Praise to the Man" (Hymnal, 27)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: S'mores popcorn balls recipe here