Identifying Gospel Truths in the Scriptures

Define

Explain that the scriptures are a repository of eternal truth. We sometimes call these eternal truths doctrine or gospel principles. The Lord’s doctrine and principles have the power to change our lives (see Alma 31:5).

Some truths are easier to identify because they are stated in the scriptures. These stated truths are sometimes prefaced with words or phrases signaling that a truth is going to be taught, such as “thus we see,” “remember,” “therefore,” “wherefore,” or “behold.”

Other truths are not directly stated but are implied or illustrated in scripture accounts, events, and parables. You can identify implied or illustrated truths by asking yourself questions such as the following:

• What is the moral or point of this story? Why did the writer include it?

• What can I learn from the people in this story?

• Can I see a cause-and-effect relationship in the account that applies to people today?

Model

Example 1: Stated Truths

Read Helaman 5:9 together, and identify a truth like the following: The only way we can be saved is through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. Also explain that the word remember in this verse signals that a truth is about to be taught.

Example 2: Implied or Illustrated Truths

Summarize Matthew 20:1–15, and share the following truths that could be identified from the parable of the laborers in the vineyard: Everyone can receive the blessings of eternal life regardless of when they receive the gospel. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are kind, generous, and fair with all of Their children. We should be happy for the good fortune of others rather than envious.

Practice

Invite students to practice identifying gospel truths in a scripture passage you are studying in class. Or you could choose from the scripture passages listed below. Invite students to share doctrine and principles they find.

Additional passages for practice:

• Genesis 39:7–9

• Matthew 18:23–35

• Alma 41:10

• Doctrine and Covenants 58:26–27

Invite and Follow Up

Encourage students to use this skill of identifying gospel truths in the scriptures during their personal study. For the next several weeks, consider beginning class by inviting students to share truths they identified during their personal study.

As you continue to follow up on and practice this skill, consider teaching students additional skills that might help them identify truths. One such skill is to look up truths that modern prophets and apostles have identified from a scripture passage.

Other skill trainings included in this material can also help students better identify truths, such as “Looking for Cause-and-Effect Relationships in the Scriptures” and “Understanding the Scriptures in Context.”