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According to King Benjamin, what obligations do parents have to their children? (See Mosiah 4:14–15.) What conditions in the world today make King Benjamin’s counsel to parents especially important? Why is it so important that parents teach the gospel to their children?
President Gordon B. Hinckley said, “The health of any society, the happiness of its people, their prosperity, and their peace all find their roots in the teaching of children by fathers and mothers” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1993, 79; or Ensign, Nov. 1993, 60).
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How can we teach children to love and serve one another? (Teachers of youth may want to discuss how class members’ examples can influence younger children.)
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King Benjamin also instructed his people to care for the needy (Mosiah 4:16). According to King Benjamin, why do some people refuse to help the needy? (See Mosiah 4:17, 22.) Why do we have “great cause to repent” if we have this attitude? (See Mosiah 4:18–23.) In what sense are we all beggars? (See Mosiah 4:19–20.)
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Why is charitable service an important characteristic of members of Christ’s Church?
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How can we follow Heavenly Father’s example as we give to the needy? (See Mosiah 4:16, 20–21.) How can we ensure that when we give to the needy, we give the right assistance in the right way?
You may want to explain that there is no single right approach to helping the needy. We should remember the principles taught by King Benjamin and seek the guidance of the Spirit in each situation. You may also want to point out that the Lord has established ways in which we can help the needy. When we give fast offerings or donate money, goods, time, or other service to the Church, we can be confident that our contributions are being used wisely.
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What counsel did King Benjamin give to the poor who could not impart of their substance? (See Mosiah 4:24–25.) How can we develop a generous heart regardless of our financial situation?
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Why do you think serving others helps us retain a remission of our sins? (See Mosiah 4:26.)
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Have a class member read Mosiah 4:27 aloud. What does it mean to do all things “in wisdom and order”? How can you be helped by this counsel?
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King Benjamin taught his people that to avoid sin and maintain their commitment to God, they must watch their thoughts, words, and deeds (Mosiah 4:29–30). How are our thoughts, words, and deeds related? How will our words and deeds be affected when we watch our thoughts?