- What message do you feel the Restoration proclamation has for a person with questions about God, the gospel, or “the salvation of his [or her] soul”?
You might also study Joseph Smith—History 1:5–20 to see what you can learn from Joseph Smith about finding answers to gospel questions.
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| The Desires of My Heart, by Walter Ran |
Beginning a proclamation about the Restoration with a statement of God's love is both powerful and foundational. It establishes that the entire purpose of the Restoration is rooted in God's endless love for His children. As highlighted in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son," this love is the foundation of the plan of salvation. The Restoration signifies God's continuous engagement with humanity, manifesting His desire for all His children to come to know Him and return to His presence.
As we study the proclamation carefully, we notice it emphasizes God's outreach to His children in every nation. This global scope reinforces the message that God’s love is inclusive and universal. The directive found in Matthew 28:19, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations," reflects this mission. The restoration of the gospel, with priesthood authority, sacred ordinances, and revealed truths, is a testament to His love and concern for every individual worldwide.
On a personal level, the Restoration has allowed many to feel God's love more tangibly. Through the Book of Mormon, which bears witness of Jesus Christ and His atonement, individuals feel a personal connection to God's love and teachings. Living prophets provide contemporary guidance and reassurance of God's active role in our lives. Furthermore, the sealing power of the temples, where families can be bound forever, offers peace and assurance of God's eternal plan, emphasizing His love and the eternal nature of family relationships.
In essence, the Restoration of the gospel is a profound manifestation of divine love, offering us the tools, guidance, and hope needed to draw closer to our Heavenly Father and feel His love in our lives continually. It's an invitation to embrace this love, which is uniquely personal and universally available. If there are particular ways the Restoration has helped you feel His love, reflecting on those can deeply enrich your understanding and connection to these principles.
Thought-provoking Questions with Outline for Additional Study.
- What was the initial step that led to the Restoration?
- Consider the account of Joseph Smith's First Vision found in Joseph Smith—History 1:14-20.
- Why is the Restoration considered a fulfillment of biblical prophecy?
- Reflect on prophecies like those in Isaiah 29:14, which mentions a "marvelous work and a wonder."
- How does the Book of Mormon testify of its role in the Restoration?
- Think about the promises and prophecies it contains, such as in the title page and 1 Nephi 13:38-41.
- Why is priesthood authority central to the Restoration?
- Study D&C 13 about the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood and D&C 27:12-13 regarding the Melchizedek Priesthood.
- What role do modern prophets play in the ongoing Restoration?
- Look into Amos 3:7 and D&C 1:38 for insights.
- Why was the Restoration necessary after the original church established by Christ?
- Analyze the concept of the Great Apostasy in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 and Amos 8:11-12.
- How does the Restoration impact our understanding of God's nature and our relationship with Him?
- Consider Joseph Smith—History 1:17 and the nature of God as revealed through the First Vision.
- What do the revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants teach us about the unfolding Restoration?
- Reflect on the ongoing guidance found in revelations like D&C 76.
- In what ways has the Restoration restored clarity to the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
- Study Articles of Faith 1:3 and 2 Nephi 31.
- How does the gathering of Israel relate to the Restoration?
- Look at 3 Nephi 21:1-7 and D&C 110:11