The Disciplines – Class 14

Class Video Below Study Notes

Summary

This class focuses on the doctrine and practice of charity, primarily through a Christian lens, emphasizing its spiritual significance beyond mere acts of giving. Aubree Wilson reflects on the simplicity yet depth of charity as described both in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, particularly 1 Corinthians 13 and Moroni 7. Charity is presented not just as an external action but as a transformative, enduring love rooted in Christ’s pure love—a love greater than faith and hope combined. The class discussion contrasts the worldly, transactional view of charity with a divine, unconditional love that sacrifices without seeking recognition or reward. Various personal testimonies and scriptural examples—like the woman who anointed Jesus’s feet—illustrate how charity is demonstrated through humility, patience, kindness, forgiveness, and devotion, even under hardship or shame. Aubree encourages introspection regarding how individuals embody charity in daily life, the obstacles that hinder it (e.g., pride, distraction, lack of genuine love), and the necessity of praying for charity as an ongoing spiritual gift. Ultimately, charity is shown as essential to salvation, a mark of true discipleship, and a vital, empowering force in community and personal growth.

Highlights

1. Charity is defined as the pure, unconditional love of Christ, essential for salvation.
2. 1 Corinthians 13 and Moroni 7 provide key scriptural foundations emphasizing charity’s enduring, transformative nature.
3. The world view sees charity mostly as giving from abundance, often motivated by recognition or duty.
4. The spiritual view of charity is a deep, sacrificial love that transforms both giver and receiver.
5. Charity must be rooted in love, not pride, duty, or desire for praise.
6. Personal stories illustrate charity in action: forgiveness, kindness, humility, service without recognition.
7. Charity is a continuous discipline requiring prayer, self-reflection, and intentional action.

 

Key Insights

1. Charity as the Greatest Spiritual Gift: The class repeatedly highlights that charity surpasses all spiritual gifts, such as prophecy, tongues, or faith. In 1 Corinthians 13:13, Paul asserts that “faith, hope, charity… the greatest of these is charity.” This elevates charity as the fundamental essence of Christian life, without which other gifts become meaningless or “sounding brass.” Being filled with charity changes the core of who we are, making it a necessary goal for spiritual maturity and salvation.
2. Charity vs. Worldly Giving: Aubree draws a distinct line between the worldly perception of charity—often a transactional or public act motivated by kindness, duty, or social approval—and the biblical view, which emphasizes charity as selfless, sacrificial love independent of recognition or personal gain. Charity from the heart, even when it costs everything, is qualitatively different from giving merely from abundance. This insight urges believers to examine their motives and seek a transformation that moves beyond superficial generosity.
3. Charity as Action Rooted in Love: Charity is not merely an abstract emotion but is demonstrated through patient, kind, humble, and enduring actions. The example of the sinful woman who anointed Jesus’s feet with costly oil and tears (Luke 7) embodies this active, sacrificial charity. Her love, shown despite potential shame and judgment, teaches that genuine charity often requires vulnerability and defiance of social norms, motivated by gratitude and devotion.
4. Self-Examination and Prayer: Aubree encourages constant reflection on one’s personal progress in cultivating charity—evaluating patience, kindness, humility, forgiveness, and hope—and to make these areas the focus of prayer. Recognizing times when charity is lacking is crucial in combatting influences that lead astray (e.g., pride, frustration, distractions). Prayer with “all the energy of heart” is the way to be filled with this divine love, reinforcing charity as both a gift and a discipline.
5. The Transformative Power of Charity: Charity is transformative by nature, affecting both the giver and the receiver. When charity “possesses” a person, it aligns them more closely with Christ, making their faith tangible and visible, even if hidden from worldly eyes. This transformation helps believers endure trials, forgive wrongs, hope unwaveringly, and serve others selflessly, creating a ripple effect that builds a more compassionate, supportive community.
6. Challenges and Obstacles to Charity: Aubree openly acknowledges the human struggle in practicing charity perfectly—such as wanting recognition, feeling justified in judgment, or being distracted by life’s practical demands. Sharing personal experiences of both failure and growth adds authenticity and relatability. Recognizing these challenges is vital so that believers do not become complacent but remain vigilant against complacency or resentment.
7. Charity Is Essential to Salvation and Divine Fellowship: According to Moroni 7, charity is not merely a nice-to-have virtue but essential for salvation: “who so is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with them.” This underscores charity as a divine attribute that makes one “a son of God” and prepares them to behold Christ. Therefore, cultivating charity is a spiritual imperative linked directly to eternal destiny and fellowship with God.

Additional Reflections

The testimonies shared among the class participants highlight real-life expressions of charity, such as forgiving difficult individuals, giving food to the hungry, sharing resources spontaneously, and enduring relational strains with kindness and humility. These stories ground the scriptural ideals in lived experience, reinforcing that charity is not idealistic but practical and accessible. Aubree also calls everyone to “see that you do them” (King Benjamin) when belief aligns with action—a critical reminder that faith must be lived out through charity.

This teaching emphasizes charity’s dual role as both a personal virtue and a communal necessity. It transforms individuals into Christlike beings and fosters a community bonded by genuine love, forgiveness, and support. The contrast with the world’s view sharpens the call for authenticity and spiritual depth, encouraging believers to check their motives and strive for charity as a way of life, not just occasional good deeds.

In conclusion, charity is portrayed as the foundational discipline for Christian discipleship that requires effort, humility, constant prayer, and willingness to embody Christ’s love in all circumstances. It is through charity that believers truly reflect God’s character and ensure their works are meaningful and enduring.

The Disciplines Class  - Charity - Part 1

May 18th, 2025 with Aubree Wilson
2025 2nd Quarter Theme: Living in Community

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