Lecture Notes: Importance of Preparation for the Second Coming

Key Themes

• Preparation and Fearlessness: The promise that preparation eliminates fear, a principle learned through the Boy Scout motto "Be Prepared."
• The Second Coming of the Lord: Discussed as an event of supreme personal and global importance.

Latter-day Saints Beliefs

1. Return of the Savior: He will return in power and glory, reign for a millennium of peace.
2. Destruction and Resurrection: Destruction of the wicked and resurrection of the righteous at His coming.
3. Unknown Timing: Exact time is unknown but signs should be studied.
4. Preparation through Signs: Importance of being prepared by observing signs.

Signs of the Second Coming

• Scriptural References: Rich in references to the Second Coming.
• Parable of the Fig Tree: Used to illustrate the recognition of signs.
• Prophecies: Include restored gospel, false prophets, wars, earthquakes, pestilence, wickedness.
• Natural Disasters and Spiritual Commotion: Increasing frequency of earthquakes, floods, hurricanes as signs. Spiritual decay is evident.

Spiritual and Temporal Preparation

• Parable of the Ten Virgins: Emphasizes the necessity of readiness. Half were prepared, half were not.
• Modern Revelation: Encourages preparedness through testimonies and spiritual readiness.

Challenges and Solutions

• Commotion and Fear: Prophesied that peace will be taken from Earth, with spiritual decay leading to societal commotion.
• Moral and Spiritual Decay: Attack on marriage, family, and divine values.
• Call to Action: Encouragement to live by covenants, remain steadfast in faith, and fulfill duties.

Conclusion

• Faith in the Future: Despite challenges, trust in divine promises for those who keep commandments.
• Final Victory Assured: Assurance that the faithful will prevail.
• Call to Prepare: Urges continual readiness for the coming of the bridegroom, emphasizing faithfulness and preparedness.

Personal Reflection

• Self-Assessment: Encourages self-reflection on personal readiness for eternal life and fulfillment of covenants.
• Duty and Faithfulness: Importance of standing in holy places and attending duties faithfully.

Closing Testimony

• Affirmation of Belief in Jesus Christ: Declares faith in His promised return and the importance of being prepared to meet Him.