This guide is not meant to replace the Come, Follow Me curriculum by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is merely a study tool and a helpful guide to aid in your study as you follow along the church’s curriculum. If there are any questions feel free to reach out to us.
We cover some frequently asked questions, include some criticisms that occur often, as well as the answers to them with some helpful resources from our website and of course, the Church’s website. While we cannot address every question and criticism and cannot provide every resource, we hope what we have included in this guide will be helpful to you.
WEEK 49 (December 1-7)
Weekly Questions
Section 137 reveals that all who have not had the opportunity to hear the gospel in this life will have that chance in the afterlife, a doctrine that has been a source of both comfort and concern. Some critics argue that this teaching might diminish the urgency of missionary work, as it suggests that those who do not hear the gospel in this life will still have a chance after death. However, defenders clarify that this doctrine does not negate the importance of missionary work but rather emphasizes God’s fairness and mercy. Missionary work is still vital because it offers the blessings of the gospel in this life and allows individuals to make choices that develop their relationship with God while in mortality.
Source(s):
In Section 137, the promise that all who have not received the gospel in this life will have an opportunity in the afterlife could raise questions about the necessity of baptism for salvation. Critics may argue that this seems to contradict the Latter-day Saint teaching that baptism is essential for salvation. The response is that while the opportunity for baptism is provided in the spirit world, it remains a requirement for exaltation, and the living have the responsibility to perform baptisms for the dead. This doctrine aligns with the understanding that all people will receive the gospel in the manner and time that is most just and merciful to them.
Source(s):
Section 138 describes the vision of President Joseph F. Smith, where the spirits of the dead have the opportunity to hear the gospel and accept it in the spirit world. Some critics might interpret this to mean that everyone will be saved regardless of their choices in mortality. However, Latter-day Saint doctrine emphasizes that while all will have the chance to hear the gospel and make choices, personal agency remains central. Those who accept the gospel in the afterlife must choose to follow Christ, just as those in mortality must. Salvation is ultimately based on personal acceptance of Christ and His teachings, whether in this life or the next.
Source(s):
WEEK 50 (December 8-14)
Weekly Questions
The Official Declaration 1 (1890) officially ended the practice of polygamy in the LDS Church, which raised questions for critics about consistency with previous doctrines and revelations, especially considering that plural marriage was once considered a commandment of God. Some argue that this shift undermines the idea of unchanging doctrine. However, defenders point out that the LDS Church has always emphasized the principle of ongoing revelation, meaning that God’s will may change over time as needed for His purposes. The Official Declaration 1 represents a revelation in which the Lord directed the Church to cease practicing polygamy, and this change aligns with the belief in a living prophet who receives guidance for the Church in the current context.
Source(s):
Polygamy, Prophets, and Prevarication…Writing the Manifesto
Lesson 155—Official Declaration 1: “The Lord Showed Me by Vision and Revelation”
Official Declaration 2 (1978) granted the priesthood to all worthy males, regardless of race or ethnicity, addressing the previous restriction on men of African descent. Critics have pointed out that this was a dramatic shift from earlier teachings, including some that justified the priesthood ban on the basis of race. Defenders of the Church’s position emphasize the doctrine of ongoing revelation. The change in policy reflects the principle that God can guide His Church through a living prophet to address changing circumstances. The Church also recognizes that past teachings regarding race were wrong and has repudiated any racial prejudice. The doctrine of the priesthood, however, has always been central to Latter-day Saint beliefs, and the decision to extend the priesthood to all worthy men represents a fulfillment of God’s plan and will for all of His children.
Source(s):
The Articles of Faith state that “We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost,” presenting a clear understanding of the Godhead as three distinct persons. Critics sometimes argue that LDS teachings about God’s potential to progress and evolve, as taught in other doctrines, might conflict with the idea of God being eternal and unchanging as presented in traditional Christian theology.
In response, defenders clarify that while God is eternal and perfect, LDS theology holds that even Christ achieved His current highly exalted status as a perfected being through progression (Philipians 2:5-11, D&C 93). This aligns with the idea that humans, too, can progress to become like God through the Grace and Atonement of Jesus Christ. This progressive nature of God in Latter-day Saint theology is not contradictory to the belief in God’s eternal perfection but rather highlights the divine potential of all beings to achieve eternal life and exaltation.
Source(s):
Do We Have the Potential to become Like God?
WEEK 51 (December 15-21)
Week 51
December 15-21
The Family: A Proclamation to the World
“The Family Is Central to the Creator’s Plan”
Weekly Questions
The Proclamation teaches that gender is a divinely assigned characteristic with eternal significance, reflecting the doctrine that all human beings are created in the image of God as His sons and daughters. While acknowledging the doctrinal position, the Church also emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding toward individuals facing questions about gender identity. Church leaders encourage members to minister with Christlike love to all individuals. This perspective balances adherence to doctrine with efforts to support individuals navigating personal challenges.
The Proclamation outlines the doctrinal teaching that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and central to His eternal plan for the progression and exaltation of His children. This principle is rooted in the belief that procreative power and eternal family relationships are fundamental aspects of God’s plan. While the Church holds this position, it also affirms the dignity and worth of all individuals and opposes discrimination or unkindness toward those with differing beliefs or lifestyles.
Plural marriage in Section 132 is a challenging topic, especially since the Church disavowed the practice in 1890. Critics argue that the revelation’s inclusion creates tension with contemporary teachings. However, defenders note that plural marriage was a specific commandment given for a period and was later revoked. They emphasize that the principle of revelation allows God to command and rescind practices according to His purposes, as seen in other scriptural precedents.
Sources:
Plural marriage as a requirement for exaltation
The Church of Jesus Christ and plural marriage today
Plural Marriage in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The commandment to multiply and replenish the earth is presented as part of God’s eternal plan, emphasizing the sanctity of life and the divine role of parenthood. The Church teaches that decisions regarding family size are personal and should be guided by prayer and inspiration. Leaders acknowledge the challenges of modern life but maintain that welcoming children into families fulfills both divine and earthly purposes. This doctrine encourages faith in God’s plan while respecting personal circumstances.
Source(s):
Come, Follow Me Week 51 – The Family: A Proclamation to the World
The Family: A Proclamation to the World
Is the document “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” official doctrine?
Anger Without A Cause? – President Oaks and a False Narrative
Book Review: A Refuge from the Storm: The Priesthood, the Family, the Church
What Matters Most Is What Lasts Longest
Strengthening the Family:
As Equal Partners
Marriage Is Essential to His Eternal Plan
WEEK 52 (December 22-28)
Today’s Assignment
Today’s Assignment
Today’s Assignment
Today’s Assignment
Merry Christmas!
Today’s Assignment
Today’s Assignment
Today’s Assignment
The Living Christ is an important document produced by the leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) in 2000, which offers a testimony of the divinity of Jesus Christ and His role in the salvation of humanity. While the document itself is widely respected by members of the Church, various questions or criticisms have been raised by both members and critics. Below are some of the most common questions and criticisms:
Weekly Questions
Critics may interpret the use of “Living” as a focus on Christ’s continuing role in the present, as opposed to an emphasis on His past life and resurrection. However, for members of the LDS Church, the title emphasizes Christ’s ongoing relationship with humanity through the Holy Ghost and the living reality of His Atonement, rather than just a historical figure.The title “The Living Christ” is a deliberate and meaningful choice, and while critics may interpret the use of “Living” as focusing on Christ’s continuing role in the present, it has a much deeper significance for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
For traditional Christians, titles like “The Christ” or “The Divine Son of God” might emphasize Christ’s eternal divinity and His role in the past—particularly His incarnation, life, and Atonement. However, in the context of the LDS faith, the title “The Living Christ” was chosen to emphasize not only Christ’s historical life, death, and Resurrection but also His ongoing, active involvement in the lives of believers today.
The Living Reality of Christ’s Atonement
The word “Living” in the title underscores the belief that Jesus Christ is not just a historical figure who lived 2,000 years ago, but a living presence that continues to impact and guide the lives of Latter-day Saints. For members of the LDS Church, Christ’s Atonement is seen as not just an event in the past but a continuing and active force in the present. The living Christ is present through the Holy Ghost, whom He sent after His Resurrection, and whom all Christians believe brings the power of the Atonement into the lives of individuals today.
Christ’s Ongoing Role in the Lives of Believers
The title also reflects the essential truth in LDS doctrine that Christ is active in the world through the Holy Ghost, and His influence is ongoing, not limited to past events. This belief aligns with the doctrine of the continual, personal guidance of Christ in the lives of His followers, through personal revelation, spiritual inspiration, and the sanctifying power of the Holy Ghost. In this sense, Christ’s role is not confined to a particular moment in time but extends across all generations, offering personal salvation and guidance to individuals.
Latter-day Saints do not simply revere a Christ who has “come and gone” but worship a living Savior who continues to intercede for them in the present and who will return at the end of time to reign as King. This ongoing relationship is foundational to their faith and central to their understanding of what it means to be a Christian.
The Importance of the Resurrection
The Resurrection is key to this concept of the Living Christ. Unlike many other religious traditions that view resurrection as a one-time event, Latter-day Saints understand the Resurrection as part of a dynamic, eternal process that empowers believers to overcome death and sin. Christ’s victory over death continues to have an eternal impact on the world, and He is seen as a living presence among His followers, guiding and healing them.
Thus, the title emphasizes Christ’s eternal nature and continuing presence, which is essential in the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It draws attention to the present reality of Christ’s role in the world, focusing on His ongoing influence and the eternal blessings He offers.
While critics might view the title “The Living Christ” as too focused on the present rather than on Christ’s past life and eternal nature, it is important to recognize that for Latter-day Saints, the title encompasses both Christ’s past mission of redemption and His present role as the Living Christ who continues to guide and influence His followers.
In short, “The Living Christ” is not meant to exclude the eternal and divine aspects of Christ, but rather to highlight that Christ is living and actively engaged with His followers today, through His Atonement, the Holy Ghost, and personal revelation.
Source(s):
Latter-day Saints and the symbol of the cross
Holding Up the Light of Christ: Sustaining Leaders and Each Other
The Living Christ November 2019
Excerpts from “The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles”
In The Living Christ, Christ is recognized as the Savior who atoned for all of humanity’s sins. The LDS Church teaches that Christ’s Atonement includes His suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane, His death on the cross, and His Resurrection, which differ from traditional Christian views by emphasizing a more expansive concept of the Atonement—extending beyond the crucifixion to encompass all of Christ’s suffering.
The LDS Church’s teachings about Christ’s Atonement, as highlighted in The Living Christ, emphasize a more expansive view than many traditional Christian doctrines. The Atonement is described as including Christ’s suffering in Gethsemane, His death on the cross, and His Resurrection (see 3 Nephi 27:13-14 and Mosiah 3:7-11). These elements collectively serve to overcome not only sin but also all physical and spiritual consequences of the Fall, providing the means for humanity to return to God’s presence and receive eternal life.
Some distinctions in LDS teachings include:
- Gethsemane as a Central Event: LDS doctrine uniquely emphasizes Christ’s suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He took upon Himself the pains, infirmities, and sins of all humanity, as described in Alma 7:11-13 and other scriptures. This aspect highlights Christ’s intimate understanding of human suffering and His capacity to offer individualized succor to those in need.
- The Infinite and Eternal Scope: The Atonement is considered “infinite” in both scope and effect, encompassing all sin, weakness, and suffering experienced by humanity across time. It is seen as essential for both the living and the dead, aligning with the Church’s focus on vicarious ordinances and universal redemption.
- Integration of Crucifixion and Resurrection: While traditional Christianity often focuses on the crucifixion, the LDS perspective includes all aspects of Christ’s mission, viewing His Resurrection as central to overcoming physical death and enabling the eternal progression of humanity.
Sources:
Latter-day Saints and the symbol of the cross
Holding Up the Light of Christ: Sustaining Leaders and Each Other
What Church Leaders Are Saying about the Atonement of Jesus Christ
“Only Begotten” emphasizes the literal, physical birth of Jesus Christ as the Son of God in a way that is distinct from other humans, who are spirit children of God. This is a central tenet in LDS theology, but it differs from mainstream Christian interpretations, which typically view the phrase as referring to His unique divine sonship rather than a literal, physical relationship with God the Father.
The phrase “Only Begotten Son of God in the flesh,” as used in LDS doctrine and The Living Christ, emphasizes Jesus Christ’s unique divine sonship and physical birth as the literal Son of God the Father. This teaching underscores that while all humans are spirit children of God, Jesus Christ is uniquely the Only Begotten in the flesh. This distinction highlights His role in the divine plan and His ability to fulfill the Atonement because of His dual heritage—being both mortal and divine.
- Literal Divine Sonship: Jesus is considered the literal offspring of God the Father and Mary. This teaching is rooted in scriptural interpretations such as Luke 1:35, where Jesus is declared the “Son of the Highest.” This is further supported by Nephi’s vision of Christ’s birth in The Book of Mormon (1 Nephi 11:14-22), which confirms His divine and mortal parentage.
- Purpose of Dual Heritage: LDS teachings explain that Jesus inherited the ability to die from His mortal mother, Mary, and the power to overcome death from His divine Father. This combination enabled Him to fulfill the unique mission of the Atonement, which includes His suffering, death, and Resurrection (Doctrine and Covenants 76:22-24).
- Relation to Humanity: Unlike traditional Christian interpretations that emphasize Jesus’ unique divine essence, LDS doctrine views the phrase as reflecting both His literal relationship with God and His shared humanity with all of us. It ties His mission closely to our potential as children of God (Moses 1:39).
Sources:
Question: Do Mormons believe that Mary was still a virgin when Jesus was born?
The Mormon understanding of Satan/Relationship to God
Bethany Blankley and the “Mormon Question”
Chapter 4: Jesus Christ, the Son of God
Jesus Christ Is the Only Begotten Son of God
