Engaging Gospel Doctrine (Episode 140)

Lesson 14

“Who Is My Neighbour?”

Hook / This lesson’s reading very well might be the most radical, challenging passage in all of scripture, turning upside down a fundamental element of human nature.
Manual Goal / To help class members humble themselves, forgive others, and show charity for one another.
EGD Goal / That manual goal doesn’t really need any adjustment.
  1. Sunday School
  2. What can we understand about these scriptures without historical context? (Initial discussion)
  3. Review the Reading
  4. Humility and stumbling blocks; hurting “little ones”
  5. Dealing with offenses/interpersonal conflict resolution
  6. Forgiveness (what it does and doesn’t mean)
  7. Parable of the debtor, giving and receiving forgiveness
  8. The two greatest commandments, and how they relate to other commandments (how do they relate to Mormonism)
  9. Mary and Martha
  10. Parable of the Good Samaritan, take 1
  11. Parable of the Good Samaritan, take 2: What does this really mean? (Discuss the Mormon parallel, whether it is accurate)
  12. Conclusion
  13. Scripture Study
  14. Return to the Reading
  15. Study Notes
  16. What is the relationship between these scriptures and Christian/Mormon exclusivity?
  17. Forgiveness
  18. Spending our time on what is worthwhile
  19. Two commandments and Mormonism
  20. The Good Samaritans and insider/outsider tendencies

ElderM. Russell Ballard stated: “We hear disturbing reports of parents or guardians who are so far removed from the Spirit of Christ that they abuse children. Whether this abuse is physical, verbal, or the less evident but equally severe emotional abuse, it is an abomination and a serious offense to God” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1991, 107; or Ensign, May 1991, 80).

Andrew:

if you take "when you are in the service of your fellow beings, you are in the service of your God" (or other scriptures) to the logical conclusion, that really does call into question a lot of the exclusivist demands many religions have

Parable of the Good Apostate:

May I again mention a matter with which I have dealt at length in the past. I speak of the evil and despicable sin of child abuse.

We cannot tolerate it. We will not tolerate it. Anyone who abuses a child may expect Church discipline as well as possible legal action.

Child abuse is an affront toward God. Jesus spoke of the beauty and innocence of children. To anyone who has an inclination that could lead to the abuse of children, I say in the strongest language of which I am capable, discipline yourself. Seek help before you do injury to a child and bring ruin upon yourself.

You men who hold this precious priesthood, bind it to your very souls. Be worthy of it at all times and in all circumstances.

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