Introduction
See the introduction to section 14 (p. 43).
Some Important Gospel Principles to Look For
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Declaring repentance can help God’s children return to Him (see D&C 15:4–6; 16:4–6; see also Alma 29:1–2, 9–10; D&C 11:9).
Additional Resources
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Church History in the Fulness of Times: Religion 341–43, pp. 56–58.
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Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual: Religion 324–325, p. 31.
Suggestions for Teaching
Doctrine and Covenants 15:4–6; 16:4–6. Declaring repentance can help God’s children return to Him.
Write the following sentence on the board, leaving the first word blank: “Repentance is a great blessing, but you should never make yourself sick just so you can try out the remedy” (M. Russell Ballard, in Conference Report, Oct. 1990, 46; or Ensign, Nov. 1990, 36). Invite students to supply the missing word, and write it in the blank. Ask: Why is this message important for people today?
Have students read Doctrine and Covenants 15:6 and identify what the Lord said is of most worth to us. Share the following statement by Elder Orson F. Whitney, who was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve:
“The obligation of saving souls rests upon every man and woman in this Church … and they cannot get out from under this responsibility on the plea that it belongs only to such and such persons. Did not the Lord say … , ‘Behold, it is a day of warning, and not of many words: Therefore, let every soul that is warned, warn its neighbor?’” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1913, 99; see D&C 63:58; 88:81).
Have students read Doctrine and Covenants 15–16 and discuss the following questions:
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Why do you think preaching repentance is so important?
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Who has the responsibility to preach repentance?
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What can we learn of this revelation from the fact that the Lord used the same words twice?
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What blessing is promised to those who “declare repentance”? (v. 6).
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Read Alma 29:1–2, 9–10. What additional blessings come from declaring repentance?
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