September 24

How Can I Follow the Savior’s Example in Helping Those in Need?

2 Corinthians 8–13

Counsel Together

Led by a member of the class or quorum presidency; approximately 10–20 minutes

At the beginning of the meeting, repeat together the Young Women Theme or the Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Theme. Then lead a discussion about the work of salvation and exaltation using one or more of the questions below or questions of your own (see General Handbook, 10.2, 11.2). Plan ways to act on what you discuss.

• Live the gospel. What did we discuss last time, and what invitations or assignments were made? What have we done to act on those invitations or assignments?

• Care for those in need. What can we do or say to reach out to those who might feel alone or distant from Heavenly Father?

• Invite all to receive the gospel. What are some ways we can help others feel the love of Jesus Christ?

• Unite families for eternity. What ideas can we share with each other to help strengthen our families?

At the end of the lesson, as appropriate, do the following:

• Testify of the principles taught.

• Remind class or quorum members about the plans and invitations made during the meeting.

Teach the Doctrine

Led by an adult leader or youth; approximately 25–35 minutes

Prepare Yourself Spiritually

What opportunities do you and members of your class or quorum have to serve those in need around you? At a time when the Saints in Jerusalem were suffering and needed help, Paul wrote to the Corinthians to encourage them to give generously, “not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” He promised that as they did this, God would “make all grace abound toward [them]” so that they might “abound to every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:7–8).

Paul also pointed to the example of Jesus Christ, who “though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). The Savior willingly sacrificed the riches of heaven so that He could serve us and make us eternally rich. Think of examples from His life when He reached out to serve those around Him. In addition to reading 2 Corinthians 8–9 as you prepare to teach, consider reading Sister Michelle D. Craig’s message “Eyes to See” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 15–17).

Learn Together

To begin your discussion, ask the class or quorum to make a list of some of the reasons why someone may not serve others in need. What do we learn from Paul’s teachings in 2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:7–8 that inspires us to do more to serve those in need? The following activities can help those you teach better understand how to help care for those around them.

• Several times in the scriptures, the Lord taught how He feels about caring for the poor and needy. Some examples are listed in “Supporting Resources.” One way to review these teachings is to divide your class or quorum into pairs and ask each pair to study some of the scriptures. Ask them to discuss what the passages teach about caring for the poor and needy. Why is caring for the poor and needy so important to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? Invite the youth to plan ways they can individually help those in need.

• Sometimes we get so busy with our own concerns that we fail to recognize the needs of those around us. In her message “Eyes to See,” Sister Michelle D. Craig reviewed the account of God opening the eyes of a young man (see 2 Kings 6:15–17). What do we learn from this account? What can we learn from the other accounts she shared about recognizing others’ needs and reaching out to them? (see also the video “Pray for Eyes to See as He Sees” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Class or quorum members could also share experiences when someone recognized their needs and ministered to them. When have we recognized the needs of others and ministered to them? How do we feel when receiving or giving such ministering?

• Do the members of your class or quorum understand how to fulfill their duty to help care for those in need? Consider discussing together Mosiah 4:16–21 and 18:8–10, as well as the relevant sections of the General Handbook (10.2.2 for Aaronic Priesthood quorums or 11.2.2 for young women). What are we inspired to do as a result of studying these resources? Consider planning ways you can work together to reach out to those in need in your class or quorum, ward, or community. The videos in “Supporting Resources” provide some ideas. For service opportunities in your area, see JustServe.org.

Our Christlike service can bless the lives of those around us.

Act in Faith

Encourage class or quorum members to ponder and record what they will do to act on the impressions they received today. If they would like, they could share their ideas. Invite them to think about how acting on their impressions will strengthen their relationships with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

Supporting Resources

• Matthew 25:31–45; James 1:27; Mosiah 2:17; Alma 34:27–28; Mormon 8:35–39; Doctrine and Covenants 104:14–18 (The importance of caring for the poor and needy)

• Jeffrey R. Holland, “Are We Not All Beggars?,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2014, 40–42

• “Michelle’s Story,” “Caring for the Poor and Needy,” “I Was a Stranger: Love One Another,” “Fast Offerings: Are We Not All Beggars” (videos), ChurchofJesusChrist.org

Teaching in the Savior’s Way

The scriptures and words of latter-day prophets and apostles are the source of the truths we teach. At every opportunity, inspire those you teach to turn to the word of God for guidance, answers to questions, and support.