Works of Righteousness

Paul concluded his epistle to the Hebrews with some brief teachings and statements of counsel. Read Hebrews 13 and find statements about the following questions:

• How should we treat strangers and those “in bonds”?
We need to remember to be kind to them and show them love. (Verses 1-3)

• How is marriage looked upon?
Marriage is honorable and sacred. The Lord holds it in the highest regards. (Verse 4)

• What warnings are given about covetousness?
We should not talk about coveting other people’s things and we need to be happy and content with the things that we have. (Verse 5)

• What is “the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever”?
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Just like Christ the gospel is everlasting and true. (Verse 8)

• How are we sanctified?
We are sanctified through the blood of Jesus Christ. I believe that this means through the atonement where Christ suffered for our sins. (Verse 12)

• How do we respond to those who rule over us?
We should submit ourselves to those that rule over us and obey their will. We must have joy and not grief because grief is not profitable to us. (Verse 17)

• Who did Paul ask the people to pray for?
Paul asked that the people pray for them. I think that it is a very humble thing for him to do because he was able to recognize that love and support can go a long ways. (Verse 18)

Find Solutions in the Scriptures to Life’s Challenges

·        People sometimes argue and complain over petty matters in church meetings or throughout the week (see Philippians 2:1–8, 14–15).

I think that Philippians 2:2 really sums up the answer for this one. It says, “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” I think that it is important to avoid petty matters and contention because bringing them up and causing tension is not going to get you anywhere. It is better to be filled with joy and like minded.

·        Many youth feel that their parents’ testimony is sufficient for them. Since they have good parents, they rely on them for all their spiritual strength (see Philippians 2:12–15 and institute student manual commentary for Philippians 2:12, “Work out Your Own Salvation with Fear and Trembling” [pp. 361–62]).

In verse 12 of Philippians 2 it talks about working out our own salvation. I think that it is important to establish yourself on your parents testimony so that you have one to start out with, but it is your responsibility to learn and grow a testimony for yourself. We cannot make our way into heaven by tagging along with someone else, we need to have an established testimony for ourself.

·        An investigator is considering joining the Church, but his family will no longer associate with him if he does (see Philippians 3:7–16; 4:13).

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” This is one of the best scriptures that we could tell and investigator that is considering joining the Church, but is afraid of the consequences from family. If they have a testimony of Christ, then they can have the knowledge that they can get through anything with the help and strength of Christ. Their family might abandon them, but they are not alone.

·        How is this writing assignment an example of the principle taught in 2 Nephi 32:3? 

This is a great example because is 2 Nephi 32:3 it says that “the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.” If we read the scriptures and we pray then we will be able to find the answers that we seek and then we can know of the truthfulness of the gospel.

Live as Saints Should Live

1.    Review Romans 13:11 and look for what is “nearer.” Read Ezekiel 3:20; Doctrine and Covenants 14:7; and explain in writing what we must continue doing to work out our salvation.

We need to do what we can to work towards salvation. If we stay righteous and worthy and follow the right path.

2.    In Romans 12-13 Paul gave much counsel that leads to salvation. Read each of the following verses and list what Paul taught would help lead to salvation:

o       Romans 12:1- Sacrifice and service.

o       Romans 12:2- Renewing of the mind.

o       Romans 12:9- Cleave to the good.

o       Romans 12:13- Give hospitality.

o       Romans 12:16- See others as equals.

o       Romans 12:21- Overcome evil with good.

o       Romans 13:1- Be subject to the power of God.

o       Romans 13:3- Do that which is good.

o       Romans 13:8- Love one another.

o       Romans 13:9- Keep the commandments.

3.    Review Romans 14:1-13; 15:1-3. Then write answers to the following questions:

o       What cautions did Paul give about judging?

Don't judge one another. God is the only one that has the power and the wisdom to make those kinds of decisions.

o       People may have different opinions and practices, but what is most important to remember?

We all have our own opinions and it’s important to remember to value the differences of others. We are all God’s children and we are all equal.

o       What additional insight comes from reading Doctrine and Covenants 38:25-27?

Treat those around us with love and with kindness. Do unto others what you would like to be done to yourself.

4.    Review Romans 15:25-26, 31; 16:2, 15. Write the term Paul frequently used to refer to members of the Church in his day.

They were referred to as Saints.