Teachings of Church Leaders 3

This lesson has two parts. The first part will teach you two skills that can help you have a more meaningful experience studying general conference messages.

In the second part of this lesson, you will use the skills you learned to study the general conference talk assigned by your teacher. If a message wasn’t assigned, choose one from the most recent general conference.

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught the following:

There is an important principle that governs the doctrine of the Church. The doctrine is taught by all 15 members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve. It is not hidden in an obscure paragraph of one talk. True principles are taught frequently and by many. Our doctrine is not difficult to find. (“Trial of Your Faith,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2012, 41)

doctrine, study methods

As you study messages from general conference, look for doctrine that is taught frequently. These truths will likely be of the most value as you seek to increase your discipleship of Jesus Christ.

One way to keep track of the doctrine you study is by using tags. Tags can help you keep track of common themes that Church leaders are teaching.

As you study today, try following these steps:

1. Prayerfully study the titles of talks from the most recent general conference, looking for common themes.

2. Select at least two talks with related titles.

3. As you study, tag common themes in each talk.

4. When you are finished, return to your tags to see how the talks supported and complemented each other.

As you continue to tag truths from talks in general conference, it will become easier to identify which truths are being emphasized.

Church leaders have a responsibility to teach doctrine and principles. We have a responsibility to find ways to apply their teachings to our lives. Taking notes is one way to learn and remember inspired ways to apply the truths you learn.

We can practice taking notes by using a truth Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:

If we change our preparation to enter the temple, we will change our experience in the temple, which will transform our lives outside of the temple. (“Covenant Confidence Through Jesus Christ,” Liahona, May 2024, 18)

temple, conversion

To remember how to apply that truth, you might make a note next to it that says something like “I can better prepare to go to the temple by taking time to find my own family names.”

As you study talks from general conference today, take time to ponder how you can apply the teachings you study. Record what you learn in notes. Be as specific as possible. While this may take more time, it will help these truths have a greater impact on your life.