This is my General Conference Odyssey post continued, as I continue reviewing the remaining conference talks of April 2018.
This last conference was very powerful and direct. If we are waiting for a brick to fall on our heads to signal the Second Coming of the Lord, this is it. If we aren’t reviewing the talks that were given, may we reconsider and take another look at our assignments.
The first day of conference can be found here. Below is the Priesthood session.
Douglas D. Holmes Aaronic Priesthood Holders
Young boys were told specifically that they have power given to them. Those 12-18-year-old boys can call down the powers of heaven. Just think about that!
Russell M. Nelson Introduction of Changes
Men are now combined into one Elders Quorum. He used the words “we have felt a pressing need to improve the way we care for our members.” These are important words.
D. Todd Christofferson The Elders Quorum
He also said, “We have felt a pressing need to improve the way we care for our members.” What are they telling us? The Brethren have made a dramatic change in church structure, but what is the real change they are asking of us?
Ronald A. Rasband A Royal Army
Are we sensing an urgency in this change? The structure between men and women has been simplified in order to work more in harmony so that the bishops can focus more on the youth. The Brethren are seriously organizing “A Royal Army” that we are all a part of.
Henry B. Eyring Inspired Ministering
The title says it all. This isn’t just ministering. “When we are engaged in service to others, we think less about ourselves, and the Holy Ghost can more readily come to us and help us in our lifelong quest to have the gift of charity.” Action! Service! Ministering! And bring the spirit with you!
Dallin H. Oaks The Powers of the Priesthood
He says it’s time to magnify the powers of the priesthood. What does that mean? How do we go about doing that? What can women do to help?
Russell M. Nelson Ministering with Power and Authority
What is power from God?
How does it work?
Why do we need it?
Our prophet was very specific in teaching us that we must gain God’s power, then use God’s power with proper authority. Both men and women must move forward with the help of the spirit. How are we to use the power and authority of the priesthood to minister to people? This deserves some serious contemplation.
How are Quorums and Relief Society presidencies doing with the ending of this first quarter since the announcement? Are interviews in place? Is your organization in place? The Brethren speak of urgency. Are we moving forward in this work?
As individuals assigned to minister, are we explaining our intent to the brothers and sisters we are ministering to? Are we asking them what they want, what they need? Are we letting the spirit teach us about them?
An army is not casual in its intent. This Army is called to act!