Refuge in Times of Peril

Lesson 33

Sections 87, 90

Theme

By giving heed to the oracles of God, the Saints will be preserved through the temporal and spiritual perils that face them.

Theme Analysis

1. The Doctrine and Covenants clearly teaches that we will face temporal and spiritual perils.

   1. There will be man-made destruction, acts of selfishness, and passion for power.

   2. There will be wickedness among the inhabitants of the world and among rebellious members of the Church.

   3. There will be calamities of nature: famine, fire, earthquake, and disease.

   4. The peoples of the world could escape such perils if they would repent, but the scriptures teach that most people will not do so.

2. Refuge from the storms to come can be found through righteousness and faith.

   1. The gospel will be taken in their own tongue to every people who will hear the voice of warning.

   2. Individual and national repentance is proper preparation for times of peril.

   3. The living oracles of God raise the trumpet with a certain sound, telling us how to prepare.

   4. The Doctrine and Covenants gives many modern warnings for the Saints and for the world.

Study Sources

Student Manual

Sections 87, 90; Enrichment F, “‛As If from Mine Own Mouth’: The Role of Prophets in the Church”

Use material from Historical Background and Notes and Commentary to teach each revelation in its historical context.

Standard Works

• D&C 87, 90. Keeping in mind the theme of this lesson, read and ponder these sections. Refer to Some Suggestions for Presentation for other references.

Some Suggestions for Presentation

(Ideas Other Teachers Have Used)

The End of All Nations (Discussion)

It is suggested that the instructor begin discussion of each concept by challenging the students with a question and letting them respond briefly with their spontaneous impressions. Avoid identifying which responses are correct and which are not, thus encouraging a climate of free exchange. Then read the scriptures and references and discuss the prophetic promises of the Lord.

Challenge	Discussion/Discovery
Will the “remnant” (including the Lamanites) ever prove a threat to the security of other peoples?	D&C 87:5–6; 3 Nephi 20:13–20 Daniel H. Wells said, “To what extent the Indians will have power over the nation, is not stated in this revelation; but … they will have power in a great measure over the whole nation” (Doxey, Latter-day Prophets, 3:139). President Joseph fielding Smith reminds us that the righteous of Israel are of the remnant also (see Church News, 10 Oct. 1970, p. 11; D&C 52:2).
Will we witness world peace in our immediate future?	D&C 87:7; 45:22–26, 63
What hope for love and regard for our fellowmen will we see because of the political and social efforts of men?	D&C 45:27
What can yet be expected of the calamities of nature?	D&C 87:6–7; 29:14–20; Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 3:14–20 Wickedness is at the root of destruction.
Will the Saints escape the trials and destruction?	D&C 59:a–2; 63:49 (those establishing Zion) D&C 63:53–54; 45:45–47, 49–50, 56–59; 29:17–21; 88:94, 96; Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 3:34–35, 37 (trials ahead)
Where will the only safety for the Saints be found?	D&C 90:4–5, 10–11, 24; 124:10, 45–46, 142–43; 28:6–7; 21:1, 4–6; 43:3–7; 58:8; 112:20
What are the messages we should now be heeding?	Read the prophet’s messages from the last four general conferences. Note the great unity of the messages and the fact that they are directed toward making the Saints become of one heart and of one mind (to become a Zion people). Note the message of President Spencer W. Kimball: “In addition to being serious about your scholarship, do not be unduly fearful about conditions in the world. Be noticing. Be aware. Be of good cheer, but also be about your Father’s business. The Lord has promised us again and again that he will watch over his people and lead them along.” (Brigham Young University Speeches of the Year [Provo, 9 Sept. 1980], forthcoming.)