Russell M. Nelson
In this powerful talk, President Russell M. Nelson speaks of the critical importance of preparing for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes how temple work, covenant keeping, and discipleship are central to this preparation. He shares personal experiences of faith and divine intervention, calling on all to devote themselves to Christ, promising that peace and joy will come as we fully commit to following the Savior. The talk concludes with a bold witness of the Second Coming and an invitation to make our discipleship the highest priority in our lives.
The Importance of Temples
President Nelson emphasizes the significance of temple work in preparing for the Second Coming. He explains that the construction of temples worldwide is hastening, following the Lord’s instructions. Temples are essential in gathering Israel on both sides of the veil and in providing spiritual strength to face the challenges of the world.
“The blessings of the temple help to gather Israel on both sides of the veil… These blessings also help to prepare a people who will help prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Malachi 3:1: “Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple.”
- D&C 109:22: “And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them.”
Discipleship in a Distracting World
He teaches that in a world filled with distractions, we must prioritize our discipleship. Worshipping regularly in the temple helps focus on Jesus Christ and provides the strength to follow Him. President Nelson highlights the peace and love that flow from keeping temple covenants, which align us with the Savior’s teachings and prepare us for His return.
“Now is the time for us to make our discipleship our highest priority. In a world filled with dizzying distractions, how can we do this? Regular worship in the temple will help us.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Luke 10:41-42: “Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
- Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Finding Christ in the Temple
President Nelson assures listeners that every sincere seeker of Christ will find Him in the temple. He shares his personal testimony of the peace and answers that come through temple worship. Through sacred covenants, we come to know the Savior and experience His strengthening power and love, which provide refuge from the storms of life.
“Here is my promise to you: Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find Him in the temple.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Psalm 27:4: “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple.”
- Isaiah 2:3: “And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths.”
The Savior’s Infinite Atonement
President Nelson shares his deep testimony of the Savior’s Atonement, reminding us that it is personal and infinite. He explains that through repentance and covenant-keeping, the Atonement brings healing and lightens our burdens. He offers hope to all who are weighed down by sin or sorrow, promising that the Savior will help lift those burdens.
“Jesus Christ took upon Himself your sins, your pains, your heartaches, and your infirmities. You do not have to bear them alone.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Isaiah 53:4: “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.”
- Alma 7:11-12: “And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind… that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people.”
Preparing for the Second Coming
In the concluding section, President Nelson urges us to prepare for the Second Coming by helping to gather Israel and living as true disciples of Christ. He reaffirms the reality of Christ’s return and encourages all to testify of Him, live righteously, and rejoice in the hope of His glorious appearance.
“Now is the time for you and for me to prepare for the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- D&C 45:44: “And then shall they see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.”
- Revelation 1:7: “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him.”
Calls to Action:
- Make your discipleship your highest priority.
- Regular worship in the temple will help us prepare for the Second Coming.
- Devote time each week for the rest of your life to increase your understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
- Talk of Christ, testify of Christ, have faith in Christ, and rejoice in Christ.
- Come unto Christ and offer your whole soul to Him.