The "Come, Follow Me" curriculum, utilizing the Living Scriptures, offers a unique approach to gospel study. It moves beyond simple scripture reading to encourage deeper understanding, application, and personal revelation. This approach, emphasizing personal study and thoughtful discussion, fosters a richer relationship with the scriptures and a stronger connection to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. But what exactly makes this method so effective, and how can we maximize its benefits? Let's explore.
What are the Living Scriptures?
The Living Scriptures aren't a separate set of scriptures; instead, they represent a specific approach to engaging with the standard works—the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. The focus is on experiencing the scriptures in a more visual and emotionally engaging way. This often involves using visual aids, like the videos produced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which bring the stories and teachings to life. The emphasis is less on rote memorization and more on understanding the context, feeling the Spirit, and applying the principles to daily life.
How Does "Come, Follow Me" Utilize Living Scriptures?
The "Come, Follow Me" curriculum actively encourages the use of the Living Scriptures—not just the text itself but also accompanying resources like videos, images, music, and even personal reflection prompts. By incorporating these diverse elements, the curriculum aims to:
- Enhance Comprehension: Visual aids and narratives help clarify complex concepts and make the scriptures more relatable.
- Foster Personal Revelation: Engaging with the scriptures through multiple senses opens the door to deeper spiritual insights and personal revelation.
- Encourage Application: By connecting scripture teachings to modern life, the curriculum empowers individuals to apply gospel principles in their daily experiences.
- Promote Family Unity: The emphasis on discussion and shared learning fosters deeper family bonds through shared spiritual experiences.
What are the Benefits of Using Living Scriptures with "Come, Follow Me"?
The combined power of "Come, Follow Me" and the Living Scriptures offers significant benefits:
- Increased Engagement: Moving beyond simply reading text, individuals become actively involved in the learning process, making it more meaningful and memorable.
- Deeper Understanding: Using various media helps illuminate the context, characters, and themes of the scriptures, leading to a more profound understanding.
- Stronger Testimony: Experiencing the scriptures in a more dynamic way strengthens faith and fosters a more powerful personal testimony.
- Improved Application: Connecting scripture teachings to personal experiences encourages application of gospel principles, leading to positive life changes.
How Can I Make the Most of Living Scriptures in My "Come, Follow Me" Study?
Here are some practical tips:
- Utilize Official Church Resources: Take advantage of the videos, images, and other materials provided by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Engage in Family Discussion: Make "Come, Follow Me" a family activity, encouraging open dialogue and sharing of insights.
- Personal Journaling: Record your impressions, insights, and personal revelations as you study.
- Connect to Modern Life: Seek ways to apply the principles learned to your daily challenges and blessings.
What are some examples of Living Scriptures used in Come, Follow Me?
The "Come, Follow Me" curriculum often uses videos depicting events from the scriptures, making them more relatable and engaging. For instance, the videos may show scenes from the life of Christ, enhancing understanding of his teachings and ministry. Other examples include animated portrayals of Book of Mormon events or visual representations of significant doctrinal points. The curriculum doesn't specify which videos to use; rather it encourages the use of any resources that help deepen understanding and application of the scriptures.
Are there any downsides to using Living Scriptures in Come, Follow Me?
While largely beneficial, some potential downsides to consider include:
- Over-reliance on Visuals: It’s crucial to avoid replacing in-depth scripture study with passive consumption of media.
- Technological Barriers: Access to technology and internet connectivity are prerequisites for utilizing many resources.
- Time Commitment: Engaging with various media can increase the time needed for study.
In conclusion, the integration of Living Scriptures into the "Come, Follow Me" curriculum provides a powerful and effective approach to gospel study. By combining visual and auditory elements with thoughtful reflection and discussion, individuals can gain a deeper understanding, a stronger testimony, and a more meaningful relationship with the scriptures. The key is to use these resources wisely, balancing media consumption with personal scripture study and thoughtful reflection.
