Abstract
The great “plan of happiness” (Alma 42:16) is taught at the beginning of each trimester in
seminary. One of the topics in the Plan that attracts the attention of many students is the Second
Coming of Jesus Christ. The very mention of the Second Coming usually elicits question after
question, such as when will it happen, how will everything occur, etc. The purpose of this
portfolio is to organize the teachings of the standard works and the words of the prophets in such
a way that students can be guided in finding their own answers on how the events will transpire
in the last days and what they can do to personally prepare for His return. Studying the
scriptures and prophets by the power of the Holy Ghost can provide them peace, enlightenment
and a feeling of hope and excitement for the events that are occurring and will continue to in the
future.
This project will help students (and anyone else desiring to study the Second Coming)
with answers to commonly asked questions about this topic, such as “What exactly will happen
during the Second Coming?” These answers come from the standard works and teachings of
latter-day prophets. Just as the saying goes, “Teach a man to fish and feed him for a lifetime,”
the intent is to direct the reader into the words of the Lord Himself on the topic, not to
commentaries and opinions of other men, and to find their own answers. The Lord taught that
“he that feareth me shall be looking forth for the great day of the Lord to come, even for the
signs of the coming of the Son of Man” (Doctrine and Covenants 45:39). As we learn about the
signs and do the things that we need to do to keep our lives in alignment with God’s
commandments, we can live in peace and happiness in these last days, despite the everincreasing wickedness of the world.
1
Table of Contents
Literature Review…………………………………………….……………………………………3
Introduction and Purpose Statement…………………………………………………...………….6
Samples of Work……………………………………………………………………………..……8
Conclusion……………………………………………………………….………………………22
Bibliography……………………………………………………………………………………..24
2
Literature Review
We have been blessed in the last days to have “the heavens opened” (Doctrine and
Covenants 107:19) and to have prophets, seers, and revelators at the head of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints. As members of the Church prayerfully study the gospel, including
the scriptures and the words of modern prophets, they will find answers to their questions
through the power of the Holy Ghost (see Moroni 10:5).
To study the Second Coming, a person must study closely what the Lord’s servants have
taught on the subject. We learn from Amos that “surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he
revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). The Lord made it clear why we
must study the scriptures carefully and strictly give heed to the words of the Brethren, especially
when it comes to learning about the Second Coming: “Search these commandments, for they are
true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled …
Whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servant, it is the same” (Doctrine and
Covenants 1:37-38). The prophets both ancient and modern have taught and prophesied
extensively on this topic and we have an abundance of light and truth to learn from.
In 1973 President Harold B. Lee taught priesthood leaders the correct manner in which
we should study the signs of the last days. He emphasized the importance of staying with the
scriptures and avoiding outside sources when he taught, “Are you priesthood bearers aware of
the fact that we need no such publications to be forewarned, if we were only conversant with
what the scriptures have already spoken to us in plainness.” He then counseled the brethren to
study the scriptures in this order: Matthew 24 (especially the inspired translation of Joseph
Smith-Matthew). Doctrine and Covenants teaches us the signs of the times as outlined by the
Lord. We learn the events, step by step, that will lead up to the Second Coming of the Lord in
3
Doctrine and Covenants 101 and 133, and then conclude with the promises God has made to the
faithful in Doctrine and Covenants 38. President Lee then taught, “Brethren, these are some of
the writings with which you should concern yourselves, rather than commentaries that may come
from those whose information may not be the most reliable and whose motives may be subject to
question. And may I say, parenthetically, most of such writers are not handicapped by having
any authentic information on their writings.” 1 There are numerous books written about the last
days that a person could turn to in an effort to learn about the Lord’s return. But President Lee
reminds us that these are not necessary when the Lord has already spoken on the subject. We
need not look anywhere else.
With the wealth of knowledge that is available to us, thanks to the increase of
technological advancements, it might be tempting (and easy) to search on the internet what has
been written and said about the events of the last days. President Hinckley shared his personal
preference in terms of studying the scriptures, which we would all be wise to follow: “I do not
concern myself much with reading long commentary volumes designed to enlarge at length upon
that which is found in the scriptures. Rather, I prefer to dwell with the source, tasting of the
unadulterated waters of the foundation of truth … Through reading the scriptures, we can gain
the assurance of the Spirit that which we read has come of God for the enlightenment, blessing,
and joy of His children.” 2
We are blessed to hear the word of the Lord every six months in General Conference.
Those seeking to know “the latest word of the Lord as far as the Saints are concerned” should
study the words of the prophets both at Conference time and in the following months in the
1
2
“Admonitions for the Priesthood of God,” Ensign, Jan. 1973, 106.
“Feasting Upon the Scriptures” Ensign, Dec. 1985, 45.
4
Conference issue of the Ensign magazine. 3 President Benson echoed this truth when he said,
“For the next six months, your conference edition of the Ensign should stand next to your
standard works and be referred to frequently.” 4
As stated before, students can “know the truth of all things” (Moroni 10:5) as they stay
with the pure source of truth from our Heavenly Father: the scriptures and words of the prophets.
President Benson declared, “Always remember, there is no satisfactory substitute for the
scriptures and the words of the living prophets. These should be our original sources. Read and
ponder more what the Lord said, and less about what others have written concerning what the
Lord said.” 5
3
Harold B. Lee, “Ensign, Jan. 1974, 125.
Ensign, May 1988, 24.
5
The Gospel Teacher, 5; as found in Scripture Study-The Power of the Word Teacher Manual, (2001), 11.
4
5
Introduction and purpose statement
If I were to walk into my classroom tomorrow and ask the students what they wanted to
study (setting our lesson for the day aside), I’m guessing the majority of them would respond,
“Tell us about the Second Coming.” This response would be followed by question after question
about when it will happen, what it will be like, do the wicked really burn, along with many other
questions. The girls will most likely be worried that they’re not ready for this event to occur, and
the boys will want to know more about the fire and destruction part!
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is of great interest and importance to youth and
adults alike. It has been prophesied about for ages (see Acts 1:9-11; 3 Nephi 24:2; Doctrine and
Covenants 63:34; Moses 7:65). The Savior Himself prophesied of His Second Coming: “For the
Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every
man according to his works” (Matthew 16:27). The prophets for years have taught that we are
living in the last days. Just a year ago in General Conference, Elder Robert D. Hales began his
address in the general priesthood session with this remark: “Brethren, it is an honor to be with
the holders of the royal priesthood of God. We are living in the last days, in ‘perilous times’” (2
Timothy 3:1).6 Because we live in the last days when wickedness abounds and there is a great
battle for the souls of God’s children, we would be wise to recognize the signs of the times, learn
about the events that will occur when the Savior comes to reign, and prepare diligently to be
ready for that day.
The title of this project is “Five Things Every 9th Grader Should Know About the Second
Coming.” The purpose of this project is to provide a guide for students and teachers as they
study the events of the Second Coming and how to prepare. This portfolio will help them find
answers to their questions and direction from the Standard Works and the words of latter-day
6
“Stand Strong in Holy Places,” Ensign, May 2013.
6
prophets. For example, many times students will ask, “So where can I find a list of what will
happen before the Second Coming?” or “What exactly is going to happen when Jesus returns to
the earth?” As we gain more wisdom and intelligence through study and prayer, the Holy Ghost
can provide specific answers to our questions, bring peace to our hearts concerning these events,
and faith and confidence in the future as we live during the great winding up scenes of this earth.
The five things every 9th grader should consider regarding the Second Coming are:
1) Many signs will precede the Second Coming.
2) What exactly will happen during the Second Coming?
3) The Second Coming will be a day of peace and triumph for the righteous.
4) How Can I Prepare for the Second Coming?
5) Where can I learn more about the Second Coming?
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Concept #1: Many signs will precede the Second Coming.
Of all the questions that can be asked about the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, the most
obvious one might be, “When will it happen?” Fortunately, the scriptures have provided us with
an answer! During His ministry, the Savior’s disciples came to Him privately on the Mount of
Olives and said, “Tell us, when shall these things be? And what shall be the sign of thy coming,
and of the end of the world or the destruction of the wicked, which is the end of the world?”
(Matthew 24:3; see footnote b). The Savior then teaches them of the fate of Jerusalem, the
destruction of the temple, and the various signs that will commence in the last days, along with
teaching them the parable of the fig tree (see Matthew 24). As to the exact date of His Coming,
He simply states, “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but
my Father only” (Matthew 24:36). To the Prophet Joseph Smith in 1831 He taught, “But the
hour and the day no man knoweth, neither the angels in heaven, nor shall they know until he
comes” (Doctrine and Covenants 49:7; see also D&C 133:11; Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:40).
Joseph Smith taught, “Jesus Christ never did reveal to any man the precise time that he would
come [see Matthew 24:36; D&C 49:7]. Go and read the Scriptures, and you cannot find
anything that specifies the exact hour he would come; and all that say so are false teachers.” 7
The Savior told of false Christs that will come in the last days to deceive many (see Matthew
24:5). We are seeing this in the days we live in. Over the years many have claimed to be a
prophet and have announced they know when the world will end. As stated in the verses above,
The Master has made it clear that no man knows.
On the contrary, the Savior has taught many times that His next coming will be “as a thief
in the night” (see Doctrine and Covenants 106:4; 49:7; 2 Peter 3:10-14). He exhorted His
disciples to be ready, “for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh” (see Matthew
7
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 253.
8
24:42, 44). This truth makes clear the fact that those who love the Lord must prepare diligently
for His coming, watch for the signs, and be ready. Those who prepare can take comfort in the
promise, “If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear” (Doctrine and Covenants 38:30). The faithful
have been counseled to watch for the signs and prepare. After reminding the Thessalonians that
the Savior would come “as a thief in the night,” Paul encouraged them to look for the signs and
be ready: “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye
are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
Therefore, let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:1-6).
It is interesting to note that footnote “b” in verse 6 shows the Greek meaning of “sober” is
vigilant and circumspect. True followers of Christ will be watchful and prayerful in the last days
as opposed to having the mindset of “eat, drink and merry” (2 Nephi 28:7-9) and “all is well in
Zion” (2 Nephi 28:21).
Jesus Christ has promised His followers that they can know of the signs (see D&C
68:11). All followers will know of the signs, be looking for them, and know that “the hour is
nigh” (see D&C 45:38-39). President Joseph Fielding Smith taught, “Many things have taken
place during the past one hundred and thirty-six years to impress faithful members of the Church
with the fact that the coming of the Lord is near. The gospel has been restored. The Church has
been fully organized. The priesthood has been conferred upon man…Thus the work of the Lord
is advancing, and all these things are sign of the near approach of our Lord.” 8 It is eye-opening
to consider that he made this statement 48 years ago! We are truly in the last days. A few years
later in 1971, President Smith proclaimed, “We are living in the last days; these are the days
8
In Conference Report, Apr. 1966, 12-13.
9
when the signs of the times are being fulfilled. Much that has been promised by the prophets to
precede the Second Coming has already taken place.” 9
So what exactly are the signs of the times? The scriptures are clear and specific as to
what events are to take place before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. There are many signs
described in the scriptures that can cause uneasiness or even fear. Some of these include:

A general apostasy, or falling away from the truth (see 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4; Isaiah
29:10, 13).

Wickedness will spread throughout the earth (see 2 Timothy 3:1-7; Matthew 24:37-39;
Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:30)

Physical calamities will occur (see Revelation 6:12-13; 8:7-13; 16:1-16; D&C 45:26,
33, 40-42; 88:87; Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:29, 32-33).

There will be widespread wars and rumors of wars (see Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:28;
Ezekiel 38-39; D&C 45:26; Revelation 9:1-19).

The love of men shall wax cold (see D&C 45:27).

All things shall be in commotion and fear shall come upon all people (see D&C 88:91).

Earthquakes, disease, famines, great storms, lightning and thunder (see D&C 88:90;
Matthew 24:7).

Hailstorms will destroy crops (see D&C 29:16).

The earth will be filled with war (see Matthew 24:6-7).

The time before the Second Coming will be a time of trouble such as the earth has
never known (see Daniel 12:1).
9
”The Last Days,” Ensign, July 1971, 32-33.
10
In 1830, the Prophet Joseph Smith prophesied, “Be not discouraged when we tell you of
perilous times, for they must shortly come, for the sword, famine, and pestilences are
approaching. There shall be great destructions upon the face of this land, for ye need not
suppose that one jot or tittle of the prophecies of all the holy prophets shall fail, and there are
many that remain to be fulfilled yet. The Lord hath said that a short work will he make of it, and
the righteous shall be saved if it be as by fire [see Roman 9:28; 1 Nephi 22:17].” 10 Many of
these signs are being fulfilled and will become more severe before the Lord returns to this earth.
There are also many wonderful signs that the Lord has given us to look forward to. Some
of these include:

The restoration of the Gospel (see D&C 45:28; Revelation 14:6-7; Acts 3:19-21; Daniel
2:4).

The coming forth of the Book of Mormon (see 3 Nephi 21; Isaiah 29:4-18; Ezekiel
37:16-20).

The Gospel will be preached to all the world (see Matthew 24:14; Joseph Smith—
Matthew 1:31).

The coming of Elijah to restore the sealing power (see Malachi 4:5-6; D&C 2).

Lehi’s descendants will become a great people. In other words, the Lamanites will
become a righteous and respected people (see D&C 49:24).

Scattered Israel would be gathered home (see Articles of Faith 1:10; Jeremiah 16:14-16;
Amos 9:8-15; 2 Nephi 25:15-17; Jeremiah 31:6-14; 1 Nephi 22:11-12).

Babylon (the great and abominable church) will fall (see Revelation 18:1-18; D7C 29:21;
1 Nephi 22:23; D&C 88:94, 105).
10
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 252.
11

Zion will be established, the building of the New Jerusalem (see Moses 7:62-64; D&C
45:64-71; 3 Nephi 20:18; 21:23-25; Articles of Faith 1:10).

When the end comes, there will be no more death (see 1 Corinthians 15:22-28).
In Matthew 24:32-33, the Savior taught the parable of the fig tree. When a fig tree is
producing leaves, we can tell that the coming of summer is close. In the same way, when we
observe the signs of the last days that He has given us, we can tell that His coming is near.
These signs are given to us by the Lord to help us. A person might think that the world is
becoming more and more out of control as the years go by. On the contrary, these signs signify
that the Lord is in charge. He counseled us to “be not troubled, for, when all these things [the
signs] shall come to pass, ye may know that the promises which have been made unto you shall
be fulfilled” (D&C 45:35). One of the main concerns students have is that they’ll be destroyed
when the Lord comes again. Just the opposite is true: they will “abide the day” and be given the
earth to inherit. The Lord will live in the midst of the righteous as their King, and His glory will
be upon everyone (see D&C 45:57-59).
In summary, the True to the Faith booklet offers this counsel and reassurance: “Do not
concern yourself with the exact timing of the Savior’s Second Coming. Instead, live so that you
will be prepared whenever He comes. As you observe the calamities of these last days,
remember that the righteous need not fear the Second Coming or the signs that precede it (see
D&C 45:35; emphasis added). 11
Concept #2: What exactly will happen during the Second Coming?
We were discussing the 2nd Coming in class a short time ago and out of the blue a student
raised their hand and asked, “So are we all gonna burn during the Second Coming?” He was
11
True to the Faith-A Gospel Reference (Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2004), 161.
12
dead serious. We can learn much from the scriptures and prophets on how the events of this
great day will transpire. Just as watching for the signs of the last days can bring us hope,
learning about the events of the Savior’s coming can provide us with peace of mind and
confidence as we live righteously and prepare.
In the April 2004 General Conference, Elder Dallin H. Oaks summarized four
truths about the Second Coming that we know will occur. He stated, “The scriptures are rich in
references to the Second Coming, an event eagerly awaited by the righteous and dreaded or
denied by the wicked. The faithful of all ages have pondered the sequence and meaning of the
many events prophesied to precede and follow this hinge point of history. Four matters are
indisputable to Latter-day Saints: (1) The Savior will return to the earth in power and great glory
to reign personally during a millennium of righteousness and peace. (2) At the time of His
coming there will be a destruction of the wicked and a resurrection of the righteous. (3) No one
knows the time of His coming, but (4) the faithful are taught to study the signs of it and to be
prepared for it. 12
The first chapter of Acts gives us insight as to how the Jesus will return to the earth. The
Savior ministered for forty days after His resurrection. Verse 9 tells us that He was “taken up;
and a cloud received Him out of their sight.” As His disciples looked into heaven, two men in
white apparel said, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus,
which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go
into heaven (Acts 1:11). The first time Jesus came to this earth, He came in the most humble of
circumstances. At the time of His second appearance, He will come in power and great glory.
Yes, there will be burning, but it is the wicked that will be affected. We learn in Doctrine and
12
“Preparation for the Second Coming,” Ensign, May 2004.
13
Covenants that “every corruptible thing…shall be consumed” (see verse 24). This includes men,
women, beasts, fowls, and fish- the earth will literally be cleansed by fire. Why? So that “[the
Lord’s] knowledge and glory may dwell upon all the earth” (see D&C 101:25, emphasis added;
see also D&C 64:23-24; Malachi 3:2-3; 4:1).
Another promise that the righteous can take comfort in is the fact that they’ll be “caught
up” to meet the Lord as He descends: “And the saints that are upon the earth, who are alive, shall
be quickened and caught up to meet him. And they who have slept in their graves shall come
forth, for their graves shall be opened; and they also shall be caught up to meet him in the midst
of the pillar of heaven” (see D&C 101:96-97). This comforting truth that the Lord will gather
His people is taught throughout the scriptures, such as in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Doctrine and
Covenants 76:102; 84:100; and 101:31. At this time, the righteous shall be divided from the
wicked (see Matthew 25:31-46). The Savior prophesied that at this time of judgment, the wicked
“will be gathered and burned in the fire” and “the righteous [shall] shine forth as the sun in the
kingdom of their Father” (see Matthew 13:40-43; see D&C 133:41-51 for more on the
destruction of the wicked). Those who have qualified to come forth in the resurrection of the just
will rise from their graves at Christ’s coming. Doctrine and Covenants 88:98 teaches that “they
are Christ’s, the first fruits, they who shall descend with him first.”
We shouldn’t wrongfully assume that everyone who is a member of the Church will be
saved and all else will be burned. In General Conference way back in 1935, Charles A. Callis
taught, “Now brethren and sisters, the great day of the Lord is coming. It is going to be a terrible
day. The wicked are going to be destroyed, and when I say the wicked I do not mean everybody
outside the Mormon Church. There will be countless millions of people not of this Church
spared because they are not ripe in iniquity and to them we will preach the everlasting Gospel
14
and bring them unto Christ.” 13 This teaching also gives us insight into what a major focus of the
Millennium will be: missionary work.
The Second Coming will usher in the Millennial reign of Jesus Christ on the earth
(Article of Faith 10; see also D&C 29:11; 43:29-30). The righteous will then live with Christ a
thousand years while the wicked will have to wait for the time of their resurrection until after the
Millennium (see Revelation 20:4-5; D&C 88:85-98; 133). The Savior will be both King of
heaven and earth. When He comes “every ear shall hear it, and every knee shall bow, and every
tongue shall confess” that He is the Christ (D&C 88:104). All people will acknowledge Him as
Lord of lords” and “King of kings” (Revelation 17:14). This will be a wonderful time of peace
throughout the earth (Isaiah 2:4; 11:6-7; D&C 101:26). To learn more about the Savior’s 1,000year reign see: Isaiah 9:6; Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 11:15 and 1 Nephi 22:24-26.
Concept #3: The Second Coming will be a day of peace and triumph for the righteous.
Over my years of teaching, it seems that the feeling among students associated with the
Second Coming is more often fear than faith. While it is true that this will be the “great and
dreadful day of the Lord” (Malachi 4:5), the righteous have much to look forward to. President
Ezra Taft Benson said, “[The Savior’s] coming will be both glorious and terrible, depending on
the spiritual condition of those who remain.” 14 If we are doing everything we can to prepare and
be ready for the Lord to come, I believe we will look forward to this day with great optimism. In
fact, I believe we should pray for it to come soon so that wickedness will be conquered and
righteousness prevail. I love what Elder M. Russell Ballard taught when he said, “The
prophecies of the last days lead me to believe that the intensity of the battle for the souls of men
will increase and the risks will become greater as we draw closer to the Second Coming of the
13
14
In Conference Report, Apr. 1935, 18.
“Prepare Yourself for the Great Day of the Lord,” New Era, May 1982, 49.
15
Lord. Preparing ourselves and our families for the challenges of the coming years will require us
to replace fear with faith.” 15 Satan would have us dread this last great day. On the contrary, the
Lord would have us be full of faith and joy in anticipation of His Coming.
So what exactly do the faithful have to look forward to? Once again, the scriptures
contain the answers. After revealing Himself in power and great glory, the Savior will “dwell in
righteousness with men on earth a thousand years, and the wicked shall not stand” (D&C 29:11).
Not only will the Lord dwell with us, He will be our King and our Lawgiver (D&C 45:59).
Sometimes students say they don’t want the Second Coming to occur in their lifetime because
then they won’t be able to get married and have families. Not true! The righteous will be given
the earth as an inheritance and their children will grow up without sin because Satan will be
bound (see D&C 45:59). What a great condition to experience family life and raise children in!
At the time of His Coming there will be a new heaven and a new earth” for the righteous to dwell
in (see 2 Peter 3:13). One of my favorite verses on this subject is found in Doctrine and
Covenants 133:52: “And now the year of my redeemed is come; and they shall mention the
loving kindness of their Lord, and all that he has bestowed upon them according to his goodness,
and according to his loving kindness, forever and ever” (emphasis added).
The righteous can take courage and comfort in this counsel from the Prophet Joseph
Smith: “Comfort one another, even as ye also do, for perilous times are at hand … Yea, lift up
your heads and rejoice, for your redemption draweth nigh. We are the most favored people that
ever have been from the foundation of the world, if we remain faithful in keeping the
commandments of God.” 16 Perhaps the greatest counsel we have is these three simple words
from the Savior Himself: “Be not troubled” (D&C 45:35).
15
16
“Duties, Rewards, and Risks,” Ensign, Nov. 1989, 34.
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 255.
16
Concept #4: How Can I Prepare for the Second Coming?
Once we understand the signs of the times and the events that will occur in the last days
preceding the Second Coming of the Master, the next question we should ask ourselves is, “So
what can I do, starting today, to be ready for that great event? What can I do so that I can look
forward to that day with faith and not fear?” The prophets, both ancient and modern, have given
us plenty of “homework” to do to prepare.
Elder Neal A. Maxwell encouraged the Saints in this way: “All members of the church
need to accept the reality of Christ’s return in majesty and power before that event occurs; for, as
C.S. Lewis put it, it will do men little good to kneel down when it is no longer possible to stand
up, for when the ‘Author of the play comes on the stage, the play is over!’” 17 The faithful will
watch for the signs and prepare accordingly (see 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6). They will “[take] the
Holy Spirit for their guide” to avoid being deceived (D&C 45:57). They will watch, pray and be
accounted worthy at that day (Luke 21:34-36). Peter exhorted the saints to “be diligent that ye
may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless” (2 Peter 3:14). There are many
“small and simple things” (Alma 37:6) that can be done to prepare. Many of these are what are
commonly known as the “Primary answers,” but they’re also the correct answers. This list
includes things such as daily, constant prayer (D&C 10:5), feasting upon the words of Christ (2
Nephi 32:3, 5) and “treasuring his words” (D&C 43:34), following the prophet (D&C 1:37-38),
paying a full-tithe (D&C 64:23), regular church attendance (Moroni 6:5-6), keeping the Sabbath
Day holy (D&C 59:9-11) and standing in holy places (D&C 45:32).
President Ezra Taft Benson described a pattern for preparation found in the Book of
Mormon that we can learn from. He said, “In the Book of Mormon we find a pattern for
preparing for the Second Coming. A major portion of the book centers on the few decades just
17
“Q&A,” New Era, Jan. 1971, 9.
17
prior to Christ’s coming to America. By careful study of that time period, we can determine why
some were destroyed in the terrible judgments that preceded His coming and what brought others
to stand at the temple in the land of Bountiful and thrust their hands into the wounds of His
hands and feet.” 18 He also encouraged us to read and discuss with our families the teachings
found in 3 Nephi and then apply its teachings. He testified, “The record of the Nephite history
just prior to the Savior’s visit reveals many parallels to our own day as we anticipate the
Savior’s Second Coming…” 19 The Book of Mormon is one of the greatest gifts God has given
us as we live in the last days of the earth’s history.
I have always loved how Brigham Young taught and how blunt he often was. There
wasn’t much gray area in his mind- it was all black and white. This is what he had to say to
members of the Church in regards to their preparation for the Savior: “Are you prepared for the
day of vengeance to come, when the Lord will consume the wicked by the brightness of His
coming? No? Then do not be too anxious for the Lord to hasten His work. Let our anxiety be
centered upon this one thing, the sanctification of our own hearts, the purifying of our own
affections, the preparing of ourselves for the approach of events that are hastening upon us. This
should be our concern, this should be our study, this should be our daily prayer…Seek to have
the Spirit of Christ, that we may wait patiently for the time of the Lord, and prepare ourselves for
the times that are coming. This is our duty.” 20
Ten years ago in General Conference, Elder Robert D. Hales emphasized the importance
of keeping our eyes on the living prophet and following his counsel. He also asked a question
that causes self-reflection on how seriously we heed the words of the Brethren. He taught,
18
“The Book of Mormon-Keystone of Our Religion,” Ensign, Nov. 1986.
“The Savior’s Visit to America,” Ensign, May 1987.
20
Journal of Discourses, 9:3.
19
18
“…there are still prophecies to be fulfilled! In this and other conferences, we hear living
prophets prophesy and testify of Christ’s Second Coming. They also witness of the signs and
wonders all about us, telling us that Christ will surely come again. Are we choosing to believe
their words? Or despite their witnesses and warnings, are we waiting for evidence—are we
‘walking in darkness at noonday (D&C 95:6),’ refusing to see by the light of modern prophecy,
and denying that the Light of the World will return to rule and reign among us?” 21 As we do
everything in our power to stay on the strait and narrow path” (1 Nephi 8:20), we can do just as
the Savior tells us and “fear not” (D&C 35:27). We are in His hands and we will be preserved
and prospered. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland recently reminded us that when Christ comes again, we,
as members of His Church, need to be acceptable to Him: “When Christ comes, the members of
His Church must look and act like members of His Church are supposed to look and act if we are
to be acceptable to Him. We must be doing His work, and we must be living His teachings. He
must recognize us quickly and easily as truly being His disciples. As President J. Reuben Clark
Jr. (1871–1961), former First Counselor in the First Presidency, once advised: our faith must not
be difficult to detect.” 22
Concept #5: Where can I learn more about the Second Coming?
President Harold B. Lee once gave the brethren of the priesthood the “more sure word of
prophesy” and some very strong counsel on how to go about studying about the signs of the last
days. He provided us this with outline: “There are among us many loose writings predicting the
calamities which are about to overtake us. Some of these have been publicized as though they
were necessary to wake up the world to the horrors about to overtake us. Many of these are from
sources upon which there cannot be unquestioned reliance. Are you priesthood bearers aware of
21
22
“Finding Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ,” Ensign, Nov. 2004.
“Preparing for the Second Coming,” Ensign, Dec. 2013.
19
the fact that we need no such publications to be forewarned, if we were only conversant with
what the scriptures have already spoken to us in plainness? Let me give you the sure word of
prophecy on which you should rely for your guide instead of these strange sources which may
have great political implications. Read the 24th chapter of Matthew—particularly that inspired
version as contained in the Pearl of Great Price (Joseph Smith—Matthew). Then read the 45th
section of the Doctrine and Covenants where the Lord, not man, has documented the signs of
the times. Now turn to section 101 and section 133 of the Doctrine and Covenants and hear
the step-by-step recounting of events leading up to the coming of the Savior.
Finally, turn to the promises the Lord makes to those who keep the commandments when these
judgments descend upon the wicked, as set forth in the Doctrine and Covenants, section 38.
Brethren, these are some of the writings with which you should concern yourselves, rather
than commentaries that may come from those whose information may not be the most reliable
and whose motives may be subject to question. And may I say, parenthetically, most of such
writers are not handicapped by having any authentic information on their writings.” 23
Since the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was restored in 1830, prophets and
apostles have taught repeatedly about the Second Coming. Thanks to modern-day technology,
these teachings are readily available to those who wish to seek out the words of the Brethren.
Following is a list of talks and articles from the last ten years that a person who desires to
increase their knowledge and testimony of the Second Coming of Christ can look to.
23

“Face the Future with Faith and Hope,” Elder M. Russell Ballard, Ensign, Jan. 2014

“The Lord Will Return to Earth in Glory,” Ensign, Dec. 2013, 8
“Admonitions for the Priesthood of God,” Ensign, Jan. 1973.
20

“Preparing for the Second Coming,” Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, New Era, Dec. 2013, 2

“Preparing the World for the Second Coming,” Elder Andersen, April 2011 General
Conference

“Commandments, Calamities, and the Second Coming,” Ensign, Dec. 2010

“The Parable of the Ten Virgins,” Ensign, Mar. 2009

“What Joseph Taught: The Second Coming,” New Era, Dec. 2008

“Becoming an Instrument in the Hands of God by Preparing for the Second Coming of
Our Lord, Liahona, Oct. 2007

“Lay Up in Store,” Elder Keith B. McMullin, April 2007 General Conference

“Q&A: How Do I Prepare for the Second Coming?” New Era, May 2006

“Preparations for the Restoration and the Second Coming: “My Hand Shall Be Over
Thee,” Elder Robert D. Hales, October 2005 General Conference

“Messages from the Doctrine and Covenants: Finding Hope in the Second Coming,”
Ensign, June 2005

“Who’s On the Lord’s Side? Who?” Elder Robert C. Oaks, April 2005 General
Conference

“Preparation for the Second Coming,” Elder Dallin H. Oaks, April 2004 General
Conference
21
Conclusion
We live in the most wonderful and exciting time in the history of the world. Elder Jeffrey
R. Holland confirmed this truth: We are making our appearance on the stage of mortality in the
greatest dispensation of the gospel ever given to mankind, and we need to make the most of it. I
love a line from the Prophet Joseph Smith saying that earlier prophets, priests, and kings ‘have
looked forward with joyful anticipation to the day in which we live; and fired with heavenly and
joyful anticipations they have sung and written and prophesied of this our day” (History of the
Church, 4:609–10). Note this similar affirmation from President Wilford Woodruff: ‘The eyes
of God and all the holy prophets are watching us. This is the great dispensation that has been
spoken of ever since the world began.’” 24
I love the words of the hymn Jesus, Once of Humble Birth: “Jesus, once of humble birth,
now in glory comes to earth. Once he suffered grief and pain; now he comes on earth to reign.
Now he comes on earth to reign … Once he groaned in blood and tears; now in glory he appears.
Once rejected by his own, now their King he shall be known. Now their King he shall be
known” (see Hymns, no. 196, verses 1, 3). To me, this hymn perfectly summarizes the contrast
between the Savior’s first humble appearance in mortality and His Second Coming in glory and
majesty.
As exciting as these days are, there is much wickedness in the world, which will steadily
increase until the Savior returns and ushers in the 1,000 years of peace. The faithful will study
the signs of the last days, become knowledgeable of the events are to take place, and will prepare
diligently to become worthy of the Lord’s presence in celestial glory. The Lord has provided us
24
“Preparing for the Second Coming,” Ensign, Dec. 2013.
22
with much knowledge concerning these events, both in the scriptures and the words of His
servants, the prophets. Those who are wise will study the signs and prepare, taking “the Holy
Spirit as their guide” (Doctrine and Covenants 45:57).
23
Bibliography
Brigham Young, in Journal of Discourses (London: Latter-day Saints Book Depot, 1854-86),
9:3.
Church Educational System, Doctrines of the Gospel Student Manual (Religion 430-431) (Salt
Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2000).
Gospel Principles, (Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2009).
Joseph Smith, in Teachings of President of the Church: Joseph Smith (Salt Lake City: The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2007).
Parley P. Pratt, “Jesus Once of Humble Birth,” Hymns (Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saint, 1985), no. 196.
True to the Faith: A Gospel Reference, (Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, 2004).
24