In his talk “The Message of the Restoration” Elder L Tom Perry speaks about the events that lead to the restoration of the gospel on the earth today. He opens the talk by sharing the story of a young deacon’s president who was able to help activate his entire quorum. Elder Perry speaks of the strength of this young man, and how he will be a successful missionary. He goes on to say that each missionary and member needs to have a strong testimony and understanding of the restoration of the gospel
Elder Perry then speaks about the first vision. The first vision is the vent that began the restoration of the gospel. Elder Perry emphasized that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ both appeared to Joseph Smith. He points out that it is one of the reasons that first Article of Faith emphasizes this fact as well.
Elder Perry goes on to speak about the Book of Mormon. He speaks about the miraculous translation of the Book of Mormon. Elder Perry points out that the Book of Mormon was another witness or testament of the church being restored to the earth.
Elder Perry then speaks about the restoration of the Priesthood to the world. He shares the account of the Aaronic Priesthood being restored by John the Baptist. He then mentions that the Melchizedek Priesthood was restored a short time later.
The last thing that Elder Perry mentions is the official organization of the church to the earth. He speaks of the many blessings that the church has brought to the earth. He also addresses the uniqueness of our message. He challenges us to pray for an understanding of the message. Additionally he encourages us to share it with others.
This is a wonderful talk. It outlines the basics, and is a good talk to refer people to that may have questions about the gospel. You may also advice them to go to www.mormon.org which can help answer any questions that they may have. I hope that you will take the time to read this talk and to strengthen your testimony of the restoration of the gospel.
Related Articles:
General Conference: “The Things of Which I Know”
General Conference: “Do You Know?”
General Conference: “A Lesson from the Book of Mormon”
General Conference: “It’s True, Isn’t It? Then Nothing Else Matters”