Seminary: 64 Doctrine of the Family

We are going to take a step back from the story of the Zoramites for a moment.


Recently in a seminary conference we had a discussion about looking at the Book of Mormon through the “family” perspective.

What do you think that means?

Much of the first half of the Book or Mormon focuses on teaching us about the doctrine of the family

What does doctrine mean? (A body of system of teachings relating to a particular subject)

Doctrines of the family include:

1. The Atonement (sacrifice for others, repentance)

a. Our eternal nature

b. Exaltation

c. Grace/Love

d. Repentance / Forgiveness

e. Obedience

f. Change

g. Purchase

2. Creation

a. All things testify of Christ

3. Doctrine of the Fall

a. No family without the fall

b. Agency

The second half of the Book of Mormon focuses on how to protect the family

In what ways do we need to protect our families? Physically and Spiritually

In what ways have we seen the Nephites protect their families spiritually?

• Advise / Council

• Be active in the lives of our family

• Teach proper principles

• What is a principle (truth that you can apply to a behavior)

• Provide safety

Nine keys or principles to teach our children to help protect them (Alma 35-41, Alma 50-52, 3 Nephi 3-4):

1. Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ

2. Importance and proper method of prayer

3. The need for and how to repent

4. Forgiveness

5. Responsibility

6. Love

7. Compassion

8. Work

9. Wholesome Recreation

What is the process for teaching these things?

Process:

Prepare -> Battle -> Reinforce