D&C 45: Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to the Church, at Kirtland, Ohio, March 7, 1831. Prefacing the record of this revelation, Joseph Smith’s history states that “at this age of the Church … many false reports … and foolish stories, were published … and circulated, … to prevent people from investigating the work, or embracing the faith. … But to the joy of the Saints, … I received the following.”

Signs and Wonders

Doctrine & Covenants 45 | April 26-May 2

In section 45, Joseph Smith receives a revelation about the signs that will appear before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. There will be some terrible things like wars, earthquakes, sickness, and sin, but there will also be really great things, like the gospel spreading around the world, temples being built, and hope through Jesus Christ. We are promised that we need not fear if we are prepared.

In this section we are reminded of the parable of the ten virgins. Ten virgins were waiting for the bridegroom to arrive so the wedding could begin. Five of the virgins were wise and had plenty of oil for their lamps. Five were foolish and weren’t prepared and didn’t have enough oil. When the bridegroom came later than expected, only the five who were wise were able to attend. In this parable, the ten virgins represent the members of the church and the oil represents our spiritual preparation. The wedding represents the Savior’s Second Coming. It’s important for us to prepare ourselves spiritually for the Second Coming of the Savior. If we are prepared, we can look forward to His coming with joy.

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Scripture

Doctrine and Covenants 45:56–57

“And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins. For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, that they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day.”

What are some of the signs that will appear before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ?
Have some of these signs already happened?
How can we be spiritually prepared for the Second Coming?

Quote

“It’s all in the holy scriptures, and of all the great events of the history of the world, as far as the prophets have foretold, the greatest is the preparation for the coming of the Savior in the latter days, when He will come in power and great glory, with all the holy angels, as King of kings and Lord of lords.” LeGrand Richards

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Activity

The Oil of Preparedness

Take turns telling what we can do to prepare for the Second Coming; then put an oil drop into the lamp. With each drop of oil, raise the flame slightly. When all the oil drops are in the lamp, the flame should be full.

Treat

“The Sun” Treats (Lemon Chiffon Cream Tarts)

These bright and tasty “sun treats” (Lemon Chiffon Cream Tarts) will remind your family to look forward without fear to that bright and glorious day when the “Son of Man” returns.