Elder Richard G. Scott on the doctrine of the Atonement of Jesus Christ

Elder Richard G. Scott (1928-2015) served as a Seventy from 1977-1988, when he was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles.  He passed away in September 2015 at the age of 86.

"To be effective and to do as Christ has done (see John 13:15), concentrate on this basic principle of the gospel: the Atonement of Jesus Christ makes possible our becoming more like our Father in Heaven so that we can live together eternally in our family units.

"There is no doctrine more fundamental to our work than the Atonement of Jesus Christ. At every appropriate opportunity, testify of the Savior and of the power of His Atoning sacrifice. Use scriptures that teach of Him and why He is the perfect pattern for everyone in life. You will need to study diligently. Do not become so absorbed with trivial things that you miss learning the doctrine and teachings of the Lord. With a solid, personal doctrinal foundation, you will be a powerful source for sharing vital truths with others who desperately need them.

"We best serve our Father in Heaven by righteously influencing others and serving them. The greatest example who ever walked the earth is our Savior, Jesus Christ. His mortal ministry was filled with teaching, serving, and loving others. He sat down with individuals who were judged to be unworthy of His companionship. He loved each of them. He discerned their needs and taught them His gospel. He invites us to follow His perfect example.

"I know that His gospel is the path to peace and happiness in this life. May we remember to do as He has done by sharing our love, trust, and knowledge of truth with others who have not yet embraced the brilliant light of the gospel."

- Richard G. Scott, "I Have Given You an Example," General Conference April 2014
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Elder Scott reminds us of the true foundation and essence of the gospel message: the Atonement of Jesus Christ, which "makes possible our becoming more like our Father in Heaven so that we can live together eternally in our family units." We should be willing and eager to share this great, eternal truth at every opportunity:

Our personal study and preparation are critical. If we focus instead on "trivial things" instead of strengthening our understanding and faith through the scriptures, we will not be prepared to share the message with power. And then, as we strive to teach and testify to others, we should remember the Savior's example; His life was "filled with teaching, serving, and loving others." We can only teach effectively as we also love and serve.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2019)