Unshaken Saints Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Purpose: Transition from Book of Mormon to the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) study.
• Challenge: Address concerns about D&C being less exciting; it's more than a 'book of rules.'
• Personal Insight: Teacher's favorite scripture is the one currently studying.

Doctrine and Covenants Overview

• Context: Shortest book of scripture, 294 pages.
• Study Approach: Verse-by-verse method previously; new thematic approach planned for this year.
• Content: Weekly verse-by-verse will still be posted; shorter thematic clips to aid study.

Study Plans for the Year

• **Formats: **
  • Long form: Verse-by-verse from previous years.
  • Short form: Thematic clips for daily devotionals.
• New Approach: Thematic study due to non-sequential nature of D&C.
• Goals: Create searchable transcripts, thematic clips for use in various settings.

The Restoration Proclamation (2020)

• Background:
  • Sixth church proclamation.
  • Delivered during COVID-19 at the bicentennial of the First Vision.
• Purpose: Proclaim the restoration to the world, issued by President Nelson.
• Content:
  • God's love and the restoration of His children.
  • Joseph Smith’s role in the restoration.
  • The necessity of the restoration due to apostasy.

Key Proclamation Themes

1. God’s Love for All Nations:

   • Restoring a right relationship with His children.

2. Jesus Christ:

   • Divine birth, life, and atonement.
   • Our Savior and Redeemer.

3. Joseph Smith’s Vision:

   • Young Joseph's quest for truth.
   • First Vision: God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to him.

4. Apostasy:

   • Loss of original Apostles and Christ’s New Testament Church.
   • Need for restoration.

5. Restoration Steps:

   • Inauguration by God and Christ.
   • Restitution of all things.
   • Heavenly messengers instructed Joseph.

6. The Book of Mormon:

   • Translation and significance.
   • Companion to the Bible.
   • Teaches life’s purpose and doctrine of Christ.

7. Continuing Revelation:

   • Restoration continues through revelation.
   • Invitation to know God’s will.
   • Prepare for the Second Coming of Christ.

Conclusion

• Personal Reflection: Importance of the restoration in personal and global contexts.
• Invitation: Proclaim, affirm, and invite others to explore the restoration and its teachings.
• Hope: Engage in restoring and gathering all things in Christ.

Final Thoughts

• Study Focus: This year will focus on the evidence of continuing revelation in D&C.
• Personal Testimony: Declaring the truth of the restored gospel and its impact on personal faith and global unity.