Gospel Principles
Unit 7: Perfecting Our Lives
Chapter 33: Missionary Work
Concept 4: Missionary Work Is Important
"This is our first interest as a Church--to save and exalt the souls of the children of men" (Ezra Taft Benson, in Conference Report, Apr. 1974, p. 151; or Ensign, May 1974, p. 104 Missionary Work: A Major Responsibility). Missionary work is necessary in order to give the people of the world an opportunity to hear and accept the gospel. They need to learn the truth, turn to God, and receive forgiveness from their sins.
Many of our brothers and sisters on earth are blinded by false teachings and "are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it" (D&C 123:12). Through missionary work we can bring them the truth.
The Lord has commanded, "labor ye in my vineyard for the last time for the last time call upon the inhabitants of the earth." (D&C 43:28). As we teach the gospel to our brothers and sisters, we are preparing the way for the second coming of the Savior (D&C 34:6 "To lift up your voice as with the sound of a trump, both long and loud, and cry repentance unto a crooked and perverse generation, preparing the way of the Lord for his second coming.").
Discussion
Why is it important for each person to hear and understand the gospel?"