Purpose
To strengthen class members’ testimonies that they can receive forgiveness, peace, and eternal life because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
Preparation
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Read, ponder, and pray about the following scriptures, which give an account of the Savior’s experience in the Garden of Gethsemane: Matthew 26:36–46; Mark 14:32–42; Luke 22:39–46.
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Additional reading: 2 Nephi 2:5–8; Alma 7:11–14; 34:8–16; 42:1–31; Doctrine and Covenants 19:15–24; Bible Dictionary, “Atonement,” 617; “Gethsemane,” 680.
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If the picture Jesus Praying in Gethsemane (62175; Gospel Art Picture Kit 227) is available, use it during the lesson.
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Invite a few class members to come to class prepared to briefly express their feelings about the Atonement of Jesus Christ by reading a favorite scripture passage about the Atonement or reciting a few lines from a favorite sacrament hymn.
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Suggestion for teaching: The Lord said, “Seek not to declare my word, but seek first to obtain my word” (D&C 11:21). To effectively teach from the scriptures, you should study and ponder them daily. Constantly nourish your testimony of their power and truthfulness. (See Teaching, No Greater Call [36123], pages 14–17.)
Suggested Lesson Development
Additional Teaching Ideas
The following material supplements the suggested lesson outline. You may want to use one or both of these ideas as part of the lesson.
1. Video presentation
The fifth segment of “New Testament Customs,” a selection from New Testament Video Presentations (53914), explains that Gethsemane means “olive press.” If you show this segment, discuss how Gethsemane is an appropriate name for the garden where the Savior bore our sins.
2. “The Mediator”
Elder Boyd K. Packer used a parable to teach about how the Atonement of Jesus Christ frees us from sin as we repent and obey the commandments. You may want to share this parable to help class members understand the need for the Atonement. The parable can be found in the following sources:
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Gospel Principles [06195; 2009], pages 63–65.
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“The Mediator,” a segment of Book of Mormon Video Presentations (53911).
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Conference Report, Apr. 1977, pages 79–80; or Ensign, May 1977, pages 54–55.