October 2024 General Conference – Teachings of 15 Prophets and Other Leaders
(Three Groupings in the Order They Spoke)
The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
ELDER NEIL L. ANDERSEN
- Hope is a wonderful gift. Hope helps us to see beyond the trials and struggles to the joy and blessings promised by Heavenly Father, His Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. The temple is a place of hope and strength. Trust in the Lord and His peace will come in the Lord’s time and in the Lord’s way.
ELDER DALE G. RENLUND
- Nitroglycerin and diatomaceous earth are stable and effective only in combination. The combination of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint are necessary for which the Lord can accomplish His purposes. It is through the ordinances and covenants that we grow, gain strength, and become what God wants us to become. God wants us to become holy (like Him) through the grace of Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice. Together, the gospel and the Church are transformative.
PRESIDENT DALLIN H. OAKS
- The Lord’s invitation, “Come follow me” is a necessary continuous practice all our lives. Love the Lord thy God with all they heart, mind and strength and love thy neighbor as myself. Covenants help bind us to Christ. There are permanent, (e.g. tithing) and temporary (e.g., move the latter-day saints from Nauvoo to the intermountain west) commandments. A kite is able to maintain its height because of the string that holds it against the wind. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints holds us fast to the teachings of the Lord, Jesus Christ against the untruths proffered by the world. Contention is a choice, peacemaking is a choice. Avoid contention. Find common ground when dealing with people who with whom you may disagree on some issues. “Blessed are the peacemakers.”
ELDER D. TODD CHRISTOPHERSON
- Enduring conversion is reached when we lay down our weapons of rebellion and follow Jesus Christ. Rebellion can be active or passive. An example of active rebellion followed by repentance and change is W. W. Phelps. Passive rebellion is even more insidious. “I did it my way” or “I did it God’s way.” Motives are important. Speech can be used to edify or be malicious. A career brings both blessings and challenges. Our body is another area that can be joyful or a sign of rebellion. Vanity can be a form of rebellion. Neglect of our body can be a form of rebellion. Burying our weapons of rebellion can lead to great joy.
ELDER PATRICK KEARON
-A life centered on Jesus Christ is a life of joy. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a church of joy. Weekly meetings together to worship together, smile, sing, pray, listen, and help can all bring joy. Reverence is not just silence and stillness. We come to sacrament sometimes with uplifted hearts and sometimes in moments of great suffering. Reflect on the goodness of God in our lives. Welcome to the Church of joy.
ELDER ULISSES SOARES
- We should align our lives with the Lord and His gospel. We need to strive to have the “mind of Christ.” Will it be “my will be done” or “thy will be done?” With the Spirit I can overcome the Adversary and follow God. “He marked the path and led the way and every point defined.” I need to strive to live the covenants I have made. I must live the standards God has set. I must do what is pleasing to the Lord. It takes a courageous and willing heart. I must completely submit myself to God. He knows so much more than I know. He loves me and has my interests and happiness in mind for me.
ELDER GERRIT W. GONG
-Strive to live seven Cs: communion with God, community and compassion with each other, commitment and covenant with God, family, and friends—centered in Jesus Christ. Consecrate myself by striving for holiness to the Lord. Holiness to the Lord in everyday life. Spend time in the temple with loved ones. Holiness to the Lord, The House of the Lord.
ELDER DAVID A. BEDNAR
- The BofM is the keystone of our religion, of our doctrine . . .. The BofM is for us in our day. Neither the Nephites or the Lamanites had the BofM. It is for us. They saw our day and wrote what we need today. It is not a historical record the looks to the past. It looks to the future, our day and beyond. Prosperity, possessions and ease can engender pride and be our spiritual downfall. Pride produces and exaggeration of our self-importance and leads to spiritual blindness. We dare not be boastful. I must walk more circumspectly before God. I must repent and be guided by the Holy Ghost. Apostacy can occur institutionally or individually. The Church will not fail. I must not fail. I must beware of pride. We can all be afflicted by pride. We must rely on Jesus Christ and listen to the Holy Ghost. When pride enters our hearts we forget the Lord and his divine plan for us. Blessed are those who humble themselves without being compelled to be humble.
PRESIDENT JEFFEREY R. HOLLAND
- When the Roman soldiers and priests came to arrest Jesus, Jesus stepped forward and ask, “Whom seek ye?” The replied, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus replied, “I am He.” In response the soldiers and priests all fell back. Why did they fall back? The very presence of the Son of God in all his purity, authority and goodness caused them to retreat. He kept the two great commandments to love God the Father and all people with all his heart, mind, might and strength. He was obedient to His Father in every detail. He showed love, compassion and mercy to those in physical and spiritual need. He taught grace and truth at the same time. During His mortal mission, Jesus taught that there were two great commandments. They have been taught in this conference and will forever be taught: “Love the Lord thy God [and] love thy neighbor as thyself.” The church is the vehicle that delivers us to exaltation.
ELDER GARY E. STEPHENSON
-My dear brothers and sisters, the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in this dispensation is resplendent with divine experiences that demonstrate how the Lord has guided His Church. Beginning with the Prophet Joseph Smith’s experience in the Sacred Grove in the spring of 1820, when he saw God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, and continuing until April 6, 1830, that decade is unlike any other. Surely, the monumental events that will occur during the next 10 years will be amazing and glorious. 1. Keep the commandments. 2. Serve others. 3. Spread the gospel. 4. Make covenants for self and others in the temple.
PRESIDENT HENRY B. EYRING
- Satan is constantly trying to destroy all and to make all miserable. We need to plead for God’s help. Repentance is necessary. Like Alma, teaching the word of God, the doctrine of Christ will bless ourselves and others. The foundation doctrines are faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. Teach true doctrine without private interpretation. Be simple in teaching. Teach our children and youth. Teach basic doctrinal truths. Don’t give in to doubts if some don’t listen to your teaching. Keep teaching.
ELDER DIETER F. UCHTDORF
- The things I learned in my youth about the fundamental principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ have been my firm foundation throughout my life. Faith is not faith if never tested. Nourish your roots. Have eternal perspective. It is important to discern what is eternal and what is not. The fundamental principles of the gospel are the testimony of Jesus and His atoning sacrifice. Other fundamentals are the doctrine of Christ, justice, and mercy. These are like to the roots of a tree. Sometimes we confuse the branches with the roots. Focus on the roots. We must nourish our testimony of the fundamentals of the gospel: faith in Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice, the gospel of Jesus Christ and His Church.
ELDER RONALD A. RASBAND
-As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we should uphold the teachings of the gospel, the word of the Lord taught through His prophets, His servants. We should help and strengthen one another. We can receive personal revelation to guide us personally and help others. We build temples to honor the Lord and receive covenants for ourselves or for others who have passed away. Construction of temple may not change your life, but the principles and ordinances found in the temple surely will.
ELDER QUINTIN L. COOK
No handheld device will never be as helpful as revelation from God. Scriptures will lead us to God and Jesus Christ and give us strength to resist the adversary. Through study and prayer we can learn to receive personal revelation. All who have backed away from the Church are welcomed to come back.
PRESIDENT RUSSELL M. NELSON
- Use the messages of this conference as a litmus test for what is truth. Announced 17 new temples. Why so many temples. God has asked us to, to bless people on both sides of the veil, and to help gather Israel. When the Savior comes there will be two centers, Jerusalem and the new Jerusalem. Can you see what is happening? Prepare now for the Second Coming of the Lord, Jesus Christ! (He repeated this seven times.) Talk, testify, rejoice, and come unto Christ, this is the key to a life of joy. I have learned that the most crucial question we each must answer is this: To whom or to what will I give my life? My decision to follow Jesus Christ is the most important decision I have ever made. That decision has given me purpose and direction. It has also helped me weather the storms of life. Please listen to this promise of Jesus Christ to you: “I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.” I urge you to devote time each week—for the rest of your life—to increase your understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Come unto Christ and “offer your whole [soul]” to Him. This is the secret to a life of joy! I bear my solemn witness that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. I am His disciple. I am honored to be His servant. At His Second Coming, “the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.” That day will be filled with joy for the righteous! Through the power of the sacred priesthood keys I hold, I declare this truth to you and to all the world! In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Sister Leaders
SISTER EMILY BELLE FREEMAN
The covenants in partaking the sacrament. The power is in the covenant, not in the person delivering the ordinance. I must keep the covenant to receive the blessings. D&C 25. From a daughter of God to elect lady to a queen. Live up to your privileges. Understand and enter into the ordinances and covenants available today. In the ordinances of the Priesthood, the power of godliness is manifest.
SISTER KRISTIN YEE
Painting a portrait of Jesus. Applied varnish too soon. Ruined part of the painting. Prayed and worked through the night. The changes made the painting better. We can make our lives better as we repent. Thank God for our Savior. He holds the power of redemption and resurrection. “Will you not now return unto me and repent . . ..” We cannot fathom the depths of his mercy and love. He descended below all things to raise us from our sins. It takes work, sincerity of heart, and humility. Be convinced of our sins. Don’t defend ourselves from the healing He offers. Leave weapons of war and anything that would keep us from God. Repentance is the pathway to purity, and purity brings power.” Come and find rest in Him the loves you most. He can heal broken and fractured relationships.
SISTER TRACY L. BROWNING
How do we respond when we are at the limit of our understanding? Even without a complete understanding we can be faithful, learn more, and grow spiritually. Ask, seek, and find. Answers will come line upon line. Obedience often precedes understanding. We do not know any truth independents of God. Example of the story of Naman who eventually did what the prophet asked him to do to be cleansed of leprosy. Trust in the Lord.
General Authority Seventies and Other General Leaders
ELDER CARL HIRST
Feeling the full love of God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ is essential. [I need to manifest my love to my children and grandchildren to help them feel God’s infinite love for them.] Broken people, perfect love from God. The House of the Lord is the home of our most sacred covenants. Being loved is not the same as feeling loved. Nature can be a place of feeling God’s love. In the midst of a trial is a place where we can feel God’s love.
ELDER DAVID P. HOMER
Trust God first. God establishes what is right and what is wrong. There is eternal truth. Popularity has nothing to do with truth. [I must align myself with God’s plan for me.] If we heed God commandments we will receive more. If we don’t, we will soon know nothing of God. [I can trust God because He wants the very best for me.] “All things are possible to him that believeth.” “I believe. Help Thou my unbelief.” God can bring ultimate peace and hope. God’s ways are better than mine.
ELDER GREGARIO CASILLAS
Jesus Christ knows and understands us. God sent us here so that we can reach our full potential. Our potential is divine. Become a disciple of Jesus Christ and follow the whisperings of the Spirit. We can offer words of love and acts of kindness to all around us. As often as we repent, God will forgive us. God gives us strength to keep trying. Jesus Christ is my Savior and the Savior of all.
ELDER JOSE’ TEIXERIA
Examples of dedication of committed faithful Latter-day Saints. There is strength in our unity, love, and unwavering faith. Like salt losing in savor, we can lose or dedication and discipleship. Meaningful service to others can keep our savor strong. 1. Keep the House of the Lord a central focus. 2. Service to others. 3. Accepting callings to serve. 4. Using digital means in a way to promote the gospel.
ELDER JUAN PABLO VILLAR
Think celestial even when our lives face challenges. We may feel powerless, but don’t forget who has real power: Jesus Christ. He can reach us where we are as we are. Jesus Christ is a flawless example of goodness and service to others. We can receive inspiration as to what kind of help is needed as we serve others.
ELDER DAVID BACKNER
Jesus said, “Ye are my friends.” The Savior watches over us and is there for us as we reach for Him. Develop higher and holier ways of worshiping God and blessing others. Example of a New York City group of religious leaders who came together to pray and then work together when Covid-19 struck. Become one. Become one with God and Jesus Christ. Become one with one another. Welcome all. The Church is a place of recovery, healing, togetherness, and worship. Be one to all others. You belong. Come back.
ELDER D. MARTIN GOURY
Trough repentance we can change and become clean. My wife cleans her hearing aids every day so she can hear clearly throughout the day. We can and should repent every day. Put off the natural man through repentance. Daily repentance opens the door to inspiration from the Holy Ghost every day. The Holy Ghost can be our constant companion. He can guide us every day.
ELDER CALVELCANTE
When you are in the service of our fellow beings, you only in the service of our God. God knows us and available to us through all of life’s challenges. Are there members who are forgotten in our ward. What can I do to help them to grow?
ELDER KYLE S. MCKAY
“The Man Who Communed with Jehovah.” Powerful testimony of Joseph Smith and the restoration of the gospel. “I never told you I was perfect; but there is no error in the revelations which I have taught.” “The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it.”
ELDER JORGE ALVARADO
We sometimes feel inadequacy and unworthiness, but God is forgiving and loving and continues to bless and help us. All can come unto Christ through repentance. A woman wrapped a BofM to give to a friend. She was robed and her purse with the BofM taken. Later she received a letter asking for forgiveness. The thief read the BofM and sought out the Church.
ELDER BROOK PL HALES
Mortality works because of the atonement of Jesus Christ. All will be well if we keep the commandments. Trials are part of the growth process. He proves us. Gave examples of trials in his own life and in his mother’s life.
ELDER TODD BUDGE
Failing to nourish our spirits can lead to spiritual death. We dare not be too busy to make time for the Lord. Quiet time is needed. Faith requires mental exertion. Meditation needed. Meditate on the words of Christ. The Japanese word for holly meditation is “mooee.” We don’t need more time, we need to use our time that is ours more thoughtfully. In prayer I need to talk less and simply be with God more. Christ sought quiet time, alone time during his earthly ministry. My own motion my add to my own commotion.
ELDER BRADLEY R. WILCOX
- Why must Latter-day Saints be and act differently than others? When we make and keep covenants, we become children of Christ and heirs to His blessings and responsibilities. We become joint heirs with Christ. Our birthright is evidence of God’s trust in us. Compensatory blessings help us shoulder the responsibilities. Youth of the noble birthright. 2 Nephi 2:6God offers us his trust if we can choose to be different than the world. Don't let the world change you when you were born to change the world.
ELDER TAKASHI WADA
The words of Christ and the Holy Ghost have helped me to deal with the challenges of life. I first prayed about the truthfulness of the gospel when I overheard the missionaries praying for me. That they were interested in me and my welfare. I felt I must be important and that led me to study a pray about the truthfulness of the gospel.
ELDER RUBEN V. ALLIAUD
Our understanding of the nature of God differs from other Christian Church. We are children of God and we are His spirit children. This is not metaphorical but literal. Our ability to deter Satan starts with understanding that we are children of God. In us is the capacity of become like Him through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His grace is sufficient.
ELDER I. RAMON RIGBO
The Nigeria winning of the Gold in soccer. They ran out of money and suffered some, but they focused on winning. When the focus of our lives is on Jesus Christ we can meet the challenges of this life and experience joy. Trust Jesus with your child who has backed away from the Church. God knows how to bring them back Him and His Church.