Class Video Below Study Notes
Summary
This class discussion is led by Elder Nathan Reed about the concept of service, primarily derived from King Benjamin’s speech in the Book of Mormon. Nathan emphasizes that the discipline and practice of service are essential in the lives of believers and that serving one another is akin to serving God Himself. A key scripture referenced highlights that when individuals serve their fellow beings, they are ultimately serving God. Throughout the discussion, various anecdotes and insights are shared by participants about how they practice service in their lives, ranging from prayer and emotional support to physical acts of kindness and community involvement. The need for discernment in service, especially in teaching about the Lord and offering emotional support, is also addressed, pointing out that one doesn’t always know another’s needs without understanding them personally.
Highlights
- Service is Divine: When serving others, believers are serving God, emphasizing a spiritual dimension to acts of kindness.
- Scripture Foundation: King Benjamin’s speech serves as the primary scriptural backing for discussions around service.
- Community Engagement: Participants shared diverse ways of serving, ranging from coaching youth sports to simply offering prayers and emotional support.
- Active Participation: Nathan encourages discussion and interaction in the classroom, promoting a collective understanding of service.
- Attitude of Giving: The importance of having the right attitude when giving or helping others is highlighted; it should be about the needs of others.
- Spiritual Teaching: Teaching about the Lord is framed as one of the highest forms of service, promoting spiritual growth in the community.
- Practical Application: The discussion motivates participants to engage in service activities over the next two weeks and reflect on their impacts.
Key Insights
- Serving is Selfless: The act of service is not only beneficial to the recipient but also fosters growth within the giver. Engaging in service can transform one’s outlook on life, instill purpose, and align an individual with their spiritual calling.
- Diversity in Service: There are numerous ways to serve—be it through prayer, teaching, emotional support, or physical labor. This underscores that service does not have to be grand but can be meaningful in everyday interactions.
- Building Community: Service creates tighter bonds within the community as individuals get more connected to one another. This was evident as participants shared personal examples of how acts of kindness shaped their relationships with one another and with God.
- Discernment in Helping: It is essential to discern when and how to help others to avoid enabling harmful behaviors while still holding a compassionate stance. This reflection highlights the complexity of service and the responsibility it entails.
- Encouraging Engagement: Establishing opportunities within the church or community allows individuals to approach service in a manner that respects their own limits and resources while still making impactful contributions.
- Empowerment Through Support: Offering emotional support and being present for people can be life-changing; small gestures often carry significant weight and lead to deeper connections.
- Spiritual Growth: Engaging in acts of service invites divine presence and guidance, enhancing spiritual experiences and aligning individuals closer to their faith. This reflects the reciprocal nature of serving others—where the act of giving results in the giver receiving blessings in return.
In conclusion, the conversation emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of service, highlighting its spiritual significance, the layers of interaction it brings, and the fostering of community through deliberate and thoughtful actions. Nathan’s approach seeks to instill a personal responsibility towards service, linking it to spiritual wellbeing and broader societal impacts.
The Disciplines Class - Service - Part 1
April 27th, 2025 with Elder Nathan Reed
2025 2nd Quarter Theme: Living in Community
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