Lecture Notes: As a Little Child

Introduction

• Context: Jesus intensified training of His Apostles in the last year of His mortal life.
• Objective: To press more teachings into the hearts of His Apostles.

Lessons from Jesus

• Dispute Among Apostles:
  • Jesus witnessed an argument among the Twelve.
  • Questioned them about their dispute and observed their embarrassment.
  • Perceived their pride and called a child to teach humility.
• Teaching:
  • "Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven."
  • "Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

Insights on Child-like Qualities

• Historical Reference:
  • King Benjamin's sermon on the humility of children and becoming as a child through Christ’s atonement.
• Infantile Traits:
  • Some traits like aggression are discouraged (e.g., story of the biting grandson).
• Virtues of Children:
  • Purity, innocence, humility, and how these could benefit adults.
  • Jesus’s actions in the Book of Mormon towards children highlight their importance.

Contrast with Worldly Pride

• Spiritual Despair:
  • Worldly pride and vain imaginations contrast with child-like humility.
  • Examples from scripture about pride (e.g., Zoramites and great and spacious building in Lehi's vision).
• Child-like Prayer:
  • Sweetness and purity in a child's prayer compared to superficial adult experiences.

Christianity in Modern Life

• Elder Richard L. Evans Quote:
  • Many profess Christianity but do not live by its teachings.
  • Suggestion for society to esteem Jesus sincerely, beyond superficial respect.

Story of Easton Darrin Jolley

• Personal Example of Humility:
  • Easton, suffering from Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy, displayed exceptional courage and humility.
  • Despite physical challenges, he wanted to pass the sacrament unaided for his father, the bishop, symbolizing his faith and love.
  • His determination and humility exemplify the teaching "Whosoever shall humble himself as this little child..."

Conclusion and Testimony

• Beautiful Image of Children:
  • Children signify the kingdom of God on earth.
• Testimonies:
  • Witness of Joseph Smith’s visions and Russell M. Nelson’s role as prophet.
  • Affirmation of the Book of Mormon and its importance.
  • Personal testament to the power of priesthood and prayer through Christ.
• Final Witness:
  • In the name of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His loyalty and humility.