Lesson 42

“Pure Religion”

“Lesson 42: ‘Pure Religion’” New Testament Class Member Study Guide (1997), 24–25


  • What counsel did James give to those who “lack wisdom”? (See James 1:5–6.) How was the Prophet Joseph Smith influenced by this counsel? (See Joseph Smith—History 1:11–13.) What experiences have you had with receiving answers to prayer?

  • James taught that we should be “swift to hear, slow to speak” (James 1:19). What experiences in your life have confirmed the wisdom of his counsel?

  • What did James emphasize that we should do to live a pure religion? (See James 1:27.) Why do you think visiting and helping people in need is part of pure religion? What can you do to stay “unspotted from the world”?

Suggestion for Family Discussion

James said that part of practicing “pure religion” is keeping ourselves “unspotted from the world” (James 1:27). Discuss how this teaching can affect our daily decisions. In your discussion you may want to refer to the pamphlet For the Strength of Youth (34285), which contains counsel from the First Presidency on how to keep ourselves “unspotted from the world.”

Scripture Chain: Receiving Answers to Prayer

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