Elder Gary E. Stevenson on keeping the Gospel simple

Elder Gary E. Stevenson (born August 5, 1955) was called as a Seventy in 2008, then as Presiding Bishop in 2012. He was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in October 2015.

"It has been said that the gospel of Jesus Christ is 'simply beautiful and beautifully simple' (Elder Matthew Cowley). The world is not. It is complicated, complex, and filled with turmoil and strife. We are blessed as we exercise care not to allow complexity, so common in the world, to enter into the way we receive and practice the gospel.

"President Dallin H. Oaks observed: 'We are taught many small and simple things in the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need to be reminded that in total and over a significant period of time, those seemingly small things bring to pass great things.' (General Conference April 2018.) Jesus Christ Himself describes that His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matt 11:30). We should all strive to keep the gospel simple—in our lives, in our families, in our classes and quorums, and in our wards and stakes."

- Gary E. Stevenson, "Simply Beautiful—Beautifully Simple," General Conference October 2021, Saturday afternoon

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Elder Stevenson's remarks focused on two overarching principles: we all have "divinely appointed responsibilities" in being a part of Heavenly Father's work of salvation and exaltation; and in achieving or fulfilling those responsibilities, we must remember to keep the Gospel, and our lives, simple and focused on the things that matter most.

They key is discovering HOW to keep things simple! I think it follows when we prioritize carefully, choosing the things that matter most, and remembering not to complicate and elaborate on the fundamental principles. Elder Stevenson gave some wonderful examples in his message on how members have been able to do that.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)