“Handout 8: Message to Young Adults,” Answering My Gospel Questions Teacher Material (2022)

“Message to Young Adults,” Answering My Gospel Questions Teacher Material

Handout 8

Message to Young Adults

Handout 8: Message to Young Adults

Answering My Gospel Questions—Handouts

President M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared:

As we begin to consider some of your questions, it is important to remember that I am a General Authority, but that does not make me an authority in general! …

I worry sometimes that members expect too much from Church leaders and teachers—expecting them to be experts in subjects well beyond their duties and responsibilities. The Lord called the apostles and prophets to invite others to come unto Christ—not to obtain advanced degrees in ancient history, biblical studies, and other fields that may be useful in answering all the questions we may have about scriptures, history, and the Church. Our primary duty is to build up the Church, teach the doctrine of Christ, and help those in need of help. …

I close with three suggestions about seeking answers to gospel questions.

First, while searching, studying, and praying for answers, please remember that you have to be living right to get the answers you seek. …

Second, my dear young friends, please take time to “be still, and know that I am God” [Psalm 46:10]. Most all of our concerns in life are answered in the quiet times of thinking, praying, and reaching out to Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ for guidance, peace, and joy as we strive to live the gospel.

And finally, please keep focused on what is really essential. Don’t look beyond the mark. Trust Heavenly Father. He has given us His eternal plan, so “stay in the boat and hold on!” [M. Russell Ballard, “Stay in the Boat and Hold On!,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2014, 89–92]. We love you and we need you now and in the years to come. (“Questions and Answers” [Brigham Young University devotional, Nov. 14, 2017], speeches.byu.edu)

Discussion Questions

What is the primary duty of Church leaders? What problems can we create for ourselves when we expect Church leaders to be experts on all topics?
Why is it so important to strive to live the gospel as you seek answers to your questions?
What does it mean for you to “be still”? (Psalm 46:10). How has learning to “be still” helped you hear the voice of the Lord and find answers?
How might a young adult look beyond the mark when seeking answers to gospel questions? Why is it spiritually dangerous to look beyond the mark?