Micro-Training # 22

Illustrate

Understanding the context and content of the scriptures and the words of the prophets prepares teachers and students to recognize the messages of the inspired authors. The context and content clarify and illustrate gospel doctrine and principles recorded in the experiences and teachings of others.

Context is (1) the passages of scripture that precede or follow a verse or series of verses or (2) the circumstances that surround or give background to a particular scriptural passage, event, or story. The context is a means to understand the content of the scriptures. It provides background information that clarifies and brings a depth of understanding to the stories, teachings, doctrine, and principles in the scriptural text. Each scripture writer wrote as he was directed by the Holy Ghost, yet the writings were clothed in the imagery and culture of the writer. To understand their writings, teachers and students should mentally “step into their world” as much as possible to see things as the writer saw them.

The content is the story line, people, events, sermons, and inspired explanations that make up the scriptural text. The content of the scriptures gives life and relevance to the doctrine and principles that are found in the scripture block. Coming to know the people described in the scriptures can inspire and encourage students to meet the challenges they face and to live with faith. The sermons that have so carefully been preserved in the holy scriptures are another very important part of the content.

With all the information that could be learned and taught, teachers should use wisdom in determining how much actual time is devoted to context and content and how much time to spend studying the doctrine and principles of the gospel. Teachers should provide sufficient context and content to help students understand the eternal truths found in the scriptural text, but not overemphasize such background and details to the degree that they become the core of the lesson.

Learning how to identify gospel doctrine and principles found in the scriptures takes thoughtful effort and practice. As principles and doctrine are identified, it is important that they are clearly and simply stated. A knowledge, understanding, and testimony of the doctrine and principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ will provide students with direction and sufficient strength to make choices that are consistent with Heavenly Father’s will.

A doctrine is a fundamental, unchanging truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Such truths as Heavenly Father has a body of flesh and bones, baptism is necessary to enter the kingdom of God, and all men will be resurrected are examples of doctrine.

A principle is an enduring truth or rule individuals can adopt to guide them in making decisions. Gospel principles are universal and help people apply the doctrine of the gospel to everyday living.

When students see the relevance of what they are studying in the scripture block to their own situations and circumstances, they are generally more motivated to learn and apply gospel teachings. They are also able to see how the scriptures provide answers and direction that can guide them in real-life situations.

Some gospel doctrine and principles are easier to identify because they are stated overtly. Such stated principles are often prefaced by phrases such as “thus we see,” “therefore,” “wherefore,” or “behold,” indicating that the scriptural author may be summarizing his message or drawing a conclusion. Many principles are not stated directly by the scriptural writer but are instead implied. Implied principles may come from an entire book of scripture, a chapter, or a single verse and may be couched in the scriptural story line, events, or parables. Identifying implied principles includes recognizing the truths being illustrated in a scriptural account and stating them clearly and succinctly. This often requires time and careful thought.

Sometimes in class, doctrine and principles will be pointed out by the teacher. Other times the teacher will guide, encourage, and allow students to discover them for themselves. Teachers should diligently help students acquire the ability to identify doctrine and principles on their own.

As you teach, rather than simply imparting information, help the youth discover gospel truths for themselves in the scriptures and the words of the prophets. When they have questions, sometimes it is better to teach them how to find answers themselves, rather than answering the questions right away.

Quote from our Church leaders:

Invitation to act

Ponder the following questions:

• How do you identify eternal truths in the scriptures or words of prophets?

• How are those truths blessing your life?

• What are some ways you can help learners recognize and understand truths that will be meaningful to them and bring them closer to God?

To practice your skills on this subject, you can do the following exercises:

• Skill: Create student self-evaluations that help them recognize their current understanding and abilities about scripture study skills.

• Skill: Consider assessment questions to carefully choose media, personal stories, and object lessons.