THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST TODAY--Relief Society Lesson, Sunday, September 19, 2010

Introduction
Ali Threet introduced her lesson by explaining that circumstances had led her to focus strongly on her lesson on Sunday instead of just reviewing her prepared lesson as she had done in the past. She stated it made a significiant difference in the spirit she felt in her home and it was a great blessing to her and her family to think and talk about the gospel on Sunday. She encouraged the class to experiment and think of religious matters before attending Church and see if it makes a difference in their Church meetings.

The Church of Jesus Christ Was Taken from the Earth
Because of wickedness and apostasy from the doctrines of Christ's church after His death, God withheld any and all direct revelation to men on earth. During that time, men established their own religions and there became great confusion and contention over religion. Although men sought the word of the Lord, they were unable to find it.

New Revelation from God
For many years people lived in spiritual darkness then a "marvellous work" occurred when the gospel was again restored to the earth through a young boy. Once again, God opened communication with man. Many things were revealed. Joseph Smith learned that man was made in the image of God. God guided him in every step as he restored the true gospel of Christ to the earth. Great knowledge was poured out from Heaven and the progress made on earth in the form great inventions and improvements have been enormous. That progress and communication has never stopped. God continues to this day to reveal His desires to man through His chosen prophets.

God's Authority was Restored to Earth
Through heavenly messengers God's authority was once again given to man on earth. Those holding the Holy Priesthood of God have the authority to direct the Lord's kingdom on earth.

Christ's Church Was Again Organized
When Joseph Smith organized the Church of Jesus Christ, only the framework was establised. As the Church grew, the organization grew to include the same offices that existed when Christ was on the earth (See Article of Faith 1:6). In addition, the growth of the Church has required that districts, stakes, wards and branches be developed. All local leaders of the Church receive direction from the Living Prophet and the Council of the Twelve Apostles.

Important Truths Restored
The Church today teaches the same principles and performs the same ordinances as were performed in the days of Christ. Along with the great truths revealed in the Book of Mormon, some additional truths revealed are:
1. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are real beings with tangible bodies of flesh and bone.
2. The Holy Ghost is a spirit.
3. We had a premotal life and will have a postmortal life.
4. Priesthood authority is necessary in order to administer in any ordinances of the gospel.
5. Adam is not responsible for our sins.
6. Children need not be baptized until they become accountable for their actions.
7. There are degrees of glory in the hereafter and our actions on earth determines the glory of heaven we will receive.
8. Family relationships can be eternal and saving ordinances are required for salvation.
9. The Church will never again be taken from the earth and the mission of the Church is to take the truth to every person on the earth.