Teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Lesson 3: Teach and Testify by the Spirit

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Introduce the Principle

The Lord described the importance of teaching by the Spirit when He said, “The Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach” (Doctrine and Covenants 42:14). We learn the truths of the gospel and gain a testimony by the power of the Holy Ghost (see Moroni 10:5 and 2 Nephi 33:1). As a leader, it will be important for you to teach and testify to others by the Spirit.

Teaching and testifying by the Spirit requires living worthily, praying fervently, and learning to recognize and follow courageously the Spirit’s guidance (see Doctrine and Covenants 43:15–16). When you are spiritually prepared, the Spirit will guide you in what you say. Your testimony will be most powerful when it is expressed as a brief, heartfelt conviction about the principles or doctrines you are teaching.

Learn Together

  • Think of a time when you felt the Spirit and your testimony was strengthened. What were the circumstances (people and setting)? What did you learn? How did you feel?
  • Read 2 Nephi 1:27. What can we learn from Nephi about teaching by the Spirit?
  • As class leaders, what can you do to “lead out” in teaching and testifying by the Spirit?

Live What We Are Learning

In your Sunday lessons, at Mutual, seminary, or at school, pay attention to impressions from the Holy Ghost and have the courage to follow those promptings to teach or testify by the Spirit.

With your class presidency, discuss how testifying can give you courage to “stand for truth and righteousness.” Find opportunities to testify to your class members during the coming weeks.

Resources

  • Inspirational Messages, “Voice of the Spirit” — What worldly “static” distracts you from hearing the voice of the Spirit? What will you do to invite the voice of the Spirit into your life more regularly? Why is it important as a leader to hear the voice of the Spirit?
  • Come, Follow Me, “Invite Us to Testify” — As you watch this video, think about the young women in your class and how they will be impacted by your testimony of the Savior and His gospel.