President Dallin H. Oaks
President Dallin H. Oaks focuses on what it truly means to follow Christ, emphasizing that it is not a casual endeavor but a lifelong commitment. He explains that following Jesus involves loving God and others, obeying His commandments, and striving to be peacemakers in all aspects of life. President Oaks encourages us to reject contention and to embrace Christlike behavior, using the Savior as our perfect example in everything we do.
Love and Obedience
Loving God and our neighbors is at the heart of following Christ. President Oaks teaches that obedience to God’s commandments is essential to rise above life’s challenges. Like the string guiding a kite, covenants and commandments tether us to the Lord and elevate us to greater heights when honored. He emphasizes that Christ is our ultimate role model, urging us to follow His example diligently.
“If we lose our hold on the string, the kite will not rise higher. It will be carried about by these winds and inevitably crash to the earth.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Matthew 22:37-39: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart…Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”
- 3 Nephi 18:24: “Therefore, hold up your light that it may shine unto the world.”
The Doctrine of Christ
President Oaks explains the core principles of Christ’s doctrine: faith, repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. These commandments are essential and permanent. Temporary commandments, such as specific guidance for Church members in different eras, are given for a time but must be obeyed while in force. He encourages members to consistently live the core doctrines.
“The Lord’s commandments are of two types: permanent, like the doctrine of Christ, and temporary…but to be set aside when the need has passed.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- 3 Nephi 11:32-33: “This is my doctrine…that whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved.”
- Mosiah 3:19: “For the natural man is an enemy to God…and becometh as a child.”
Avoiding Contention
In today’s world of divisive discourse, President Oaks stresses the importance of avoiding contention. He reminds us that contention is not of Christ, who taught that such behavior is of the adversary. Instead, Christ calls us to be peacemakers and to show love and kindness in all our interactions, even amidst disagreement.
“He that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- 3 Nephi 11:29: “He that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil.”
- Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
Christlike Peacemaking
President Oaks challenges us to live by Christ’s commandment to love our enemies and to treat others with kindness, even in conflict. He encourages us to practice the Golden Rule, ensuring that our behavior reflects the Savior’s example of peace and love, while avoiding harsh words or actions.
“Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Matthew 5:44: “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you.”
- Luke 6:31: “And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.”
Calls to Action:
- Love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself.
- Keep your covenants and follow the Savior’s example at all times.
- Practice the core doctrines of faith, repentance, and enduring discipleship.
- Reject contention and strive to be a peacemaker in all communications.
- Show kindness and love to all, even in moments of disagreement.