If you’re teaching Sunday School this week and diving into Doctrine and Covenants 46–48, you’re in for a powerful lesson about spiritual gifts, the importance of welcoming all to worship, and how the Lord helps His people gather and prepare. To make your lesson more engaging and meaningful, we’ve put together a handful of simple tools—like thoughtful discussion questions, creative object lesson ideas, and personal sharing prompts—that can help spark conversation and bring the doctrine to life. These resources are designed to support you as you teach with confidence, invite the Spirit, and help your class see how these sections apply to their lives today.
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The Savior welcomes all who want to worship in His Church.
Engaging Questions:
- What do you think it means that the Savior “suffereth that they should come unto him” (D&C 46:5)? How does that show His love?
- How have you seen the Church welcome people from different backgrounds or situations?
- What can we do as individuals to help everyone feel included and valued in our wards or branches?
- Have you ever felt especially welcomed or included at church? What made that experience meaningful?
- Why is it important that we not judge those who come to worship, even if they are still learning or struggling (see D&C 46:6)?
- How can we balance being careful and wise with being open and welcoming to all who come to church?
- What does the Savior’s example teach us about how to treat others who are new, different, or returning to church?
- What are some things we say or do—without realizing—that might make someone feel left out? How can we change that?
- How can spiritual gifts (D&C 46:11–26) help us better serve and strengthen all members of the Church, including those who are new or struggling?
- What is one small but powerful thing you can do this week to help someone feel more welcome at church or in your circle of faith?
Object Lessons:
1. The Open Door (Christ Welcomes Everyone)
Materials:
- A door frame or simply gesture to a door (or draw one on a board)
- A sign that says “Welcome All” or “Come Unto Christ”
Lesson Overview:
Talk about how some doors are closed or require a key—but Christ’s Church has an open door for anyone willing to come and worship. The Savior said to “forbid no man from coming unto me.” All are invited to His table, His teachings, and His Church.
Discussion Points:
- How can we help others feel like the door is open to them?
- What can close “doors” in the Church, even unintentionally?
- How does Christ’s invitation make you feel personally?
2. The Puzzle with Missing Pieces (Every Person Belongs)
Materials:
- A simple jigsaw puzzle with one or two pieces removed
Lesson Overview:
Show the completed puzzle with a couple of pieces missing. Explain that every person—no matter their background, questions, or story—has a place in God’s Church. When someone is missing, the picture is incomplete. We are all needed.
Discussion Points:
- How can we make others feel like they belong in the “puzzle” of the Church?
- What does this teach about the diversity of God’s children?
- When have you felt like a missing piece found its place?
3. The Empty Chair (Making Room for Others)
Materials:
- An empty chair placed at the front of the class or group
Lesson Overview:
Point to the empty chair and say, “This chair represents someone who wants to come worship but might wonder, ‘Is there room for me?’” The Savior always makes room. The Church should always have space, love, and welcome for every soul who seeks Him.
Discussion Points:
- Who might be spiritually “standing outside the door” right now?
- How can we better notice and invite the missing?
- What are some ways we can make room in our hearts and wards?
4. The Welcome Table (Christ Invites All to the Feast)
Materials:
- A small table with a sign that says “All Are Welcome”
- Optional: cups, napkins, or treat wrappers for symbolism
Lesson Overview:
Talk about how a table represents gathering, belonging, and nourishment. The gospel is a feast, and Christ’s invitation is extended to all—the poor, the unsure, the returning, the struggling. Our job isn’t to choose who gets to sit—it’s to make the table bigger.
Discussion Points:
- How can we create a more welcoming environment at church?
- Why is it important to see others as equal guests at Christ’s table?
- When have you felt truly welcomed and wanted?
5. The Church Sign: Visitors Welcome (Meaning What We Say)
Materials:
- A photo of a church sign that says “Visitors Welcome”
Lesson Overview:
Show the sign and ask, “Do we mean this in our actions?” Christ welcomed sinners, seekers, and strangers, and He calls us to do the same. Sometimes people feel like they don’t belong because of how they’re treated—not because of doctrine.
Discussion Points:
- How can we ensure our actions match our message?
- What kinds of people might feel unwelcome—and how can we change that?
- How can we be more like the Savior in our inclusiveness?
6. The Bouquet of Flowers (Unity in Diversity)
Materials:
- A bouquet of different kinds, sizes, and colors of flowers
Lesson Overview:
Explain that the bouquet is beautiful not because all the flowers are the same—but because they are different and brought together in harmony. The Church is strongest when all voices, backgrounds, and experiences are welcomed and valued.
Discussion Points:
- Why is diversity a strength in Christ’s Church?
- How can we better appreciate people who are different from us?
- What does it mean to help someone feel spiritually included?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you felt especially welcomed or included at church. How did that experience help you feel the Savior’s love and belonging in His Church?
- Think of a time when you saw someone new or returning to church be warmly embraced by the congregation. How did that moment reflect Christlike love and the spirit of inclusion?
- Think of a time when you invited someone to church or a gospel activity, and they felt at home. How did that experience remind you that all are welcome in the Savior’s fold?
- Think of a time when you felt different or unsure if you belonged, but someone reached out to you with kindness. How did their actions help you feel accepted and loved in the Lord’s house?
- Think of a time when you tried to include someone who felt left out. How did acting as the Savior’s hands bless both you and the person you welcomed?
- Think of a time when Church meetings or worship helped someone feel healing or peace, even if they weren’t a member or hadn’t come in a while. What did you learn about the Savior’s invitation to all?
- Think of a time when you felt prompted to reach out to someone you hadn’t seen at church in a while. How did that simple gesture open the door for connection and worship?
- Think of a time when someone’s background, appearance, or struggles were different from yours, but you saw them as a beloved child of God. How did that experience help you reflect the Savior’s welcome?
- Think of a time when you were reminded that the Church is not a place for perfect people, but for those striving to come unto Christ. How did that truth help you love and accept others more fully?
- Think of a time when the Spirit testified to you that the Savior knows and loves each person in the congregation. How did that change the way you interact with others at church?
Heavenly Father gives me spiritual gifts to bless others.
Engaging Questions:
- What are some spiritual gifts mentioned in Doctrine and Covenants 46, and which one stands out to you? Why?
- How do you think Heavenly Father decides which spiritual gifts to give to each of His children?
- Have you ever recognized a spiritual gift in yourself or someone else? How was it used to bless others?
- Why do you think we are commanded to “seek earnestly the best gifts” (D&C 46:8)? What does that look like in everyday life?
- What’s the difference between a natural talent and a spiritual gift? Can they be connected?
- How can knowing your spiritual gifts help you better serve in your family, your ward, or your community?
- Have you ever felt blessed by someone else’s spiritual gift? What happened, and how did it strengthen your testimony?
- What can you do if you’re not sure what your spiritual gifts are? How can you discover them?
- Doctrine and Covenants 46:26 says all these gifts come “that all may be profited thereby.” What does that teach you about the purpose of your gifts?
- What is one spiritual gift you’d like to develop more, and how can you use it to bless others this week?
Object Lessons:
1. The Gift Bags (Different Gifts, Same Purpose)
Materials:
- Several gift bags or wrapped boxes, each with a label (e.g., “faith,” “teaching,” “compassion,” “healing,” “discernment”)
- Optional: Place a small item or symbol inside to represent each gift
Lesson Overview:
Show the gift bags and explain that Heavenly Father gives different gifts to different people, but all are meant to bless and serve others. Just like we wouldn’t keep a gift hidden, we should share our spiritual gifts.
Discussion Points:
- Why do you think God gives us different gifts?
- How can you discover and use your spiritual gifts?
- How does sharing your gift bless others?
2. The Toolbox (Many Tools, One Builder)
Materials:
- A toolbox with a variety of tools (or pictures of tools)
Lesson Overview:
Explain that each tool has a unique purpose, and no tool is more important than another. In the Church, each person’s gift helps build the kingdom. Just like a builder needs many tools, the Lord needs all of us and our unique strengths.
Discussion Points:
- How do different spiritual gifts work together?
- What happens if someone withholds their “tool” or gift?
- What gift do you feel prompted to use more right now?
3. The Orchestra (Unity in Variety)
Materials:
- A picture of an orchestra or a clip of one playing
- Optional: use simple instruments or apps with different sounds
Lesson Overview:
Explain that an orchestra needs many instruments, each with its own sound, but when they play together, they create something beautiful. Spiritual gifts work the same way—we need variety to create unity and strength in the Lord’s Church.
Discussion Points:
- How are your gifts part of the “music” of the Church?
- Why is it important that not everyone has the same strengths?
- How can we support and appreciate others’ gifts?
4. The Lightbulbs (All Shine, but Differently)
Materials:
- A few different types of lightbulbs or flashlights (bright, dim, colored, etc.)
Lesson Overview:
Turn each one on and show that although each shines differently, they all give light. Some gifts are more visible; others are quiet—but all are from God and needed to bring light to His children.
Discussion Points:
- How can we avoid comparing our gifts to others?
- Why are even the “small” or quiet gifts essential?
- How does the Spirit help you recognize your own light?
5. The Puzzle (Each Person Completes the Picture)
Materials:
- A puzzle with each piece labeled with a spiritual gift (or metaphorically described)
Lesson Overview:
Assemble the puzzle with some pieces missing and ask, “Can you see the whole picture?” Explain that when someone withholds their gift (or hides it), the body of Christ is incomplete. We need everyone’s contribution to build Zion.
Discussion Points:
- What happens when we don’t recognize or use our gifts?
- What gift could you offer to help complete someone else’s picture?
- How do we encourage others to use their piece of the puzzle?
6. The Candle and the Match (Gifts Are Meant to Be Shared)
Materials:
- A candle and match/lighter (or battery candle if indoors)
- Optional: multiple candles for others to light from one source
Lesson Overview:
Light one candle and use it to light others. Explain that our gifts, like light, are not diminished when shared—they multiply. Spiritual gifts are meant to lift, bless, and ignite faith in others.
Discussion Points:
- What gift do you feel inspired to share more freely?
- How have others’ gifts blessed your life?
- How can we help each other recognize and develop spiritual gifts?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you recognized a spiritual gift in yourself and used it to help someone else. How did that experience confirm that your gift came from God?
- Think of a time when someone else’s spiritual gift—like teaching, compassion, or discernment—blessed your life. How did that example help you appreciate the variety of gifts in the Church?
- Think of a time when you prayed to understand what your spiritual gifts are. What impressions came, and how have you seen those gifts grow over time?
- Think of a time when you felt the Spirit work through you in a way that surprised you. How did that moment help you recognize a spiritual gift you may not have seen before?
- Think of a time when you felt inspired to develop or share a specific gift, even if it felt small. How did acting on that prompting bless others?
- Think of a time when you served in a calling or assignment and felt guided by the Spirit to meet someone’s needs. How did that show you that spiritual gifts are meant to lift and bless others?
- Think of a time when you felt inadequate, but the Lord helped you succeed by giving you strength beyond your own. How did that help you rely on spiritual gifts?
- Think of a time when someone helped you recognize a gift in yourself. How did their encouragement help you use that gift more intentionally to bless others?
- Think of a time when you were part of a group where each person’s spiritual gifts worked together in harmony. How did that experience help you see the Church as the body of Christ?
- Think of a time when you felt prompted to use your talents or spiritual gifts in a new way. How did following that prompting bring joy and purpose?
The Lord wants His Church to keep a history.
Engaging Questions:
- Why do you think the Lord commanded His Church to keep a record or history? What value does that have today?
- How have you been blessed by reading or hearing stories from Church history or your own family history?
- What are some important spiritual moments or experiences in your life that you want to remember—and why?
- How can recording your personal spiritual experiences strengthen your testimony and the faith of others?
- Doctrine and Covenants 47 called John Whitmer to be the Church historian. Why might that have been an important role even in the early days of the Church?
- What role does history play in helping us see God’s hand in our lives and in the world?
- Have you ever recorded a spiritual prompting, blessing, or answer to prayer? What happened when you looked back on it later?
- What are some simple ways you can begin (or improve) keeping your own personal or family spiritual history?
- How can you help your family, youth group, or ward better remember and share meaningful spiritual experiences?
- What is one spiritual moment from your life that you haven’t written down yet but want to preserve for future generations?
Object Lessons:
1. The Faded Memory (What’s Not Written Is Forgotten)
Materials:
- A whiteboard or chalkboard
- Write a meaningful sentence or testimony, then erase it part by part
Lesson Overview:
As you erase the message, explain how memories fade when they aren’t recorded. The Lord commands His Church to keep a history so the faith and miracles of today aren’t lost tomorrow. History preserves truth.
Discussion Points:
- What might be lost if we don’t record spiritual events?
- How has reading others’ stories (scripture, journals) blessed your faith?
2. The Family Photo Album (Preserving Stories for the Future)
Materials:
- A photo album or digital slideshow
Lesson Overview:
Flip through the album and ask, “What if we had no pictures or stories of these people?” Like family albums, Church records help future generations connect to the past. Keeping a history ensures the Lord’s work is remembered and honored.
Discussion Points:
- How do family stories strengthen identity?
- Why is it important to pass on both Church and personal history?
3. The Puzzle with Missing Pieces (Incomplete Story = Incomplete Understanding)
Materials:
- A puzzle with some pieces removed
Lesson Overview:
Assemble the puzzle with the missing pieces, then ask how it feels to not see the full picture. Without history, we can’t fully understand the growth, sacrifices, and revelations that shaped the Church. God wants the whole picture recorded.
Discussion Points:
- What insights have you gained from reading Church or pioneer history?
- How does your own story fit into the bigger picture?
4. The Time Capsule (Preserving Moments for the Future)
Materials:
- A box labeled “time capsule”
- Include symbolic items: scripture, journal page, photo, sacrament cup, etc.
Lesson Overview:
Explain that time capsules capture the spirit of a moment for future people to learn from. Church history is like a spiritual time capsule. The Lord wants His people to record the present for the benefit of the future.
Discussion Points:
- If you made a time capsule of your faith today, what would you include?
- Why is it important to tell and record your testimony now?
5. The Written vs. Verbal Story (Words Fade, Records Remain)
Materials:
- Verbally tell a short personal story, then ask someone to repeat it
- Then read a written version of the same story
Lesson Overview:
Compare how details shift or are forgotten when not written down. The Church’s command to keep a history ensures that the Lord’s guidance, miracles, and teachings remain accurate and accessible over generations.
Discussion Points:
- How do written records protect against distortion or forgetfulness?
- What testimony or experience should you write down this week?
6. The Chain of Testimony (Linking Generations)
Materials:
- Paper strips to form a paper chain
- Write down short testimonies or spiritual events on each link
Lesson Overview:
As you form the chain, explain that each link represents a recorded moment of faith. When we keep history—personal or collective—we connect our story to those who came before and those who will follow.
Discussion Points:
- What spiritual stories have impacted your life?
- How will your record bless future Saints?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you read a journal entry, talk, or story from Church history that strengthened your faith. How did that recorded moment bless your testimony?
- Think of a time when you wrote down a spiritual experience or personal revelation. How did recording it help you recognize the Lord’s hand in your life?
- Think of a time when you shared a personal story with your family or class and felt the Spirit testify of its truth. How did that experience show you the power of preserving and sharing our history?
- Think of a time when you learned something meaningful about your ancestors’ faith or Church service. How did their recorded experiences inspire you to stay strong?
- Think of a time when you looked back on a written memory—yours or someone else’s—and saw how God had answered prayers over time. How did that deepen your gratitude?
- Think of a time when keeping a personal or family history helped you feel more connected to your purpose. How did writing things down help you see the bigger picture?
- Think of a time when you felt prompted to share your testimony or life story. How did doing so strengthen others—and you?
- Think of a time when you used photos, journals, or documents to teach someone about faith or family. How did that shared history bring the Spirit into your conversation?
- Think of a time when Church records or mission journals helped preserve important details about growth, miracles, or service. How did that documentation inspire you?
- Think of a time when you realized that your experiences—big or small—matter in the Lord’s unfolding story. How did that motivate you to record your spiritual journey?
The Holy Ghost can direct me as I fulfill my calling.
Engaging Questions:
- Have you ever felt the Holy Ghost guide you while serving in a Church calling? What was that like?
- What do you think it means to “conduct all meetings as [we] are directed and guided by the Holy Spirit” (D&C 46:2)?
- Why is it important to seek the Holy Ghost in your calling, even if you feel confident or experienced?
- What helps you recognize the difference between your own ideas and promptings from the Holy Ghost?
- Have you ever changed your approach in a calling because of a prompting from the Spirit? What happened?
- What role does prayer play in helping you receive inspiration in your Church service?
- How can you invite the Holy Ghost more intentionally into your preparation for lessons, talks, or service?
- How does the Spirit help us meet the needs of individuals, even when we don’t know exactly what they’re going through?
- What can we do when we feel stuck or uncertain in our callings, and how can the Holy Ghost help us move forward?
- What is one thing you can do this week to invite the Spirit more fully into your current calling or area of service?
Object Lessons:
1. The Whisper Game (Listening Closely for Guidance)
Materials:
- No materials needed
- Have someone whisper a short message to the first person in a line, who passes it on
Lesson Overview:
By the time the message reaches the end, it’s often unclear or distorted. Then say it clearly to contrast. Point out that the Holy Ghost doesn’t shout—He speaks in quiet impressions, so we must learn to listen closely and act carefully in our callings.
Discussion Points:
- How can we become more spiritually “tuned in”?
- What helps you discern between your own thoughts and a prompting?
2. The Compass or GPS (Direction from Above)
Materials:
- A compass or phone GPS
Lesson Overview:
Show how a compass or GPS helps you stay on course, even when the path is unclear. The Holy Ghost acts like a spiritual compass, helping you make inspired decisions in your calling—even when you’re unsure what to do next.
Discussion Points:
- When have you felt the Holy Ghost guide your service?
- What “course corrections” has the Spirit helped you make?
3. The Flashlight in the Dark (Light for the Next Step)
Materials:
- A flashlight and a darkened area (or simulate)
Lesson Overview:
Turn on the flashlight to show that it doesn’t light the entire room—just the next few steps. The Holy Ghost often works the same way: He gives us just enough light to act in faith, not the full picture. As we move forward in our calling, more light comes.
Discussion Points:
- What has the Holy Ghost helped you see clearly in your service?
- How does acting in faith help you receive more light?
4. The Earbuds (Tuning Out Distractions)
Materials:
- A pair of earbuds or headphones
- Play soft music while people talk
Lesson Overview:
Illustrate how putting in earbuds helps tune out distractions so you can focus. The Holy Ghost works best when we quiet the noise in our lives—social media, stress, comparison—and make space for the Spirit to inspire and confirm our actions in callings.
Discussion Points:
- What “noise” in life can distract us from promptings?
- How do you make room to hear the Holy Ghost?
5. The Puzzle Box Lid (Seeing the Big Picture)
Materials:
- A puzzle with the box lid showing the completed picture
Lesson Overview:
Trying to assemble a puzzle without the box image is confusing. But the Holy Ghost, like the box lid, helps you see how your calling fits into the bigger picture of God’s work. He reminds you of purpose and perspective.
Discussion Points:
- How has the Holy Ghost helped you understand your role in the Church?
- What can you do to keep that “big picture” view during hard moments?
6. The Helper Analogy (Promptings to Lift Others)
Materials:
- A simple object passed between two people, or an example of giving help without being asked
Lesson Overview:
Demonstrate a moment where someone steps in to quietly help without being told. The Holy Ghost often gives us nudges or ideas to serve someone in our calling. He can help us know who to reach out to, what to say, or when to act.
Discussion Points:
- When have you had a spiritual nudge to help someone in your calling?
- How can we better recognize promptings during regular service?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you felt guided by the Holy Ghost while preparing a lesson or talk. How did that spiritual direction bless those you were serving?
- Think of a time when you received a prompting during a meeting, class, or visit. How did following that prompting make a difference?
- Think of a time when you weren’t sure how to fulfill a responsibility in your calling, but the Lord helped you through the Spirit. What did you learn from that experience?
- Think of a time when you prayed for help in your calling and felt an idea or impression come to you. How did acting on that impression bring about a positive outcome?
- Think of a time when the Holy Ghost helped you know how to minister to someone in need. How did you feel as you followed that prompting?
- Think of a time when something you hadn’t planned to say or do in your calling turned out to be exactly what was needed. How did that increase your trust in the Spirit?
- Think of a time when you felt overwhelmed in your calling but received comfort or clarity through the Holy Ghost. How did that reassurance help you move forward?
- Think of a time when someone you were serving told you that your words or actions were just what they needed. How did that confirm the Spirit’s role in your service?
- Think of a time when you felt joy knowing the Lord was working through you in your calling. What helped you recognize that it was the Holy Ghost guiding you?
- Think of a time when the Spirit helped you adapt or change something in your calling that turned out to be a great blessing. What did you learn from being flexible and listening to the Holy Ghost?
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