Some Important Principles, Doctrines, and Events
- •
The works of darkness began on earth with Cain and his descendants who loved Satan more than God (see Moses 5:55–57; see also Moses 5:13, 15, 28, 51; see also Helaman 6:26–30; Ether 8:15–16).
- •
The preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ began on earth with Adam and Eve and their descendants who loved God (see Moses 5:58; see also Moses 5:4–12, 14–15; 1 Nephi 12:18; 2 Nephi 11:4).
- •
The gospel was preached by angels, by God’s own voice, by the gift of the Holy Ghost, and by Adam himself (see Moses 5:58; 6:1; see also Alma 12:26–33).
- •
The ordinances of the gospel began on earth with Adam and Eve. These ordinances are holy and designed to confirm mankind’s covenant relationship with God (see Moses 5:59; see also Mosiah 13:30; Alma 13:16; D&C 84:19–21; 124:39–40).
Suggestions for Teaching
Moses 5:55–58. And Thus It Began
Tell students that in Moses 5:55, 58there are summary statements about how the “works of darkness” and the gospel began to spread among the people of the earth.Have students find verses in Moses 5that give details about these beginnings. Ask students why they think the stories of Adam and Eve, of Cain and Abel, and of Lamech and Irad are included in the book of Moses. Use Moses 5:51, 55–59and 2 Nephi 26:20–33to compare the works of darkness with the works of God.
Moses 5:58. The Preaching of the Gospel
Read Moses 5:58and ask students to define “the gospel.” Invite students to study 3 Nephi 27:9–22and Doctrine and Covenants 76:40–42and then list the elements that comprise the gospel of Jesus Christ. Ask: In what ways is the gospel preached in Moses 5:58; 6:1? Invite students to find and share scriptures that contain examples of the gospel being preached by holy angels, by the voice of God, by the Holy Ghost, by prophets, and in other ways.
Moses 5:59. Gospel Ordinances
Ask students to list the gospel ordinances they have received. What is symbolically taught or “confirmed” by the gospel ordinances? (see Romans 6:3–9; Jacob 4:5; Alma 13:16; D&C 20:68–79; 76:50–60). Tell students that Elder Boyd K. Packer, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said, “Good conduct without the ordinances of the gospel will neither redeem nor exalt mankind; covenants and the ordinances are essential” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1985, 105; or Ensign,Nov. 1985, 82).
