Suggested Lesson Development

Attention Activity

As appropriate, use the following activity or one of your own to begin the lesson.

Ask a class member to come to the front of the class and hold out his or her hands. Place some books or other heavy items in this person’s hands. Continue loading the member’s hands with objects until he or she becomes somewhat burdened. Then ask:

Explain that there are many kinds of loads, or burdens. Some are physical, while others are spiritual or emotional and not as easy to see. Many unseen burdens can exceed our strength to bear them alone, and we become weary. This lesson discusses how the Lord can lighten our burdens and bring us rest.

Scripture Discussion and Application

As you teach the following scripture passages, discuss how they apply to daily life. Encourage class members to share experiences that relate to the scriptural principles.

1. Jesus invites us to take his yoke upon us and learn of him.

Read and discuss Matthew 11:28–30.

If you are using the video presentation “Come unto Me,” show the first part of it now. Stop the video when President Howard W. Hunter has finished speaking.

2. Jesus declares that he is Lord of the Sabbath.

Discuss Matthew 12:1–13 and Luke 13:10–17. Invite class members to read selected verses aloud.

3. Jesus forgives a woman in the house of Simon the Pharisee.

If you are using the video presentation “Come unto Me,“ show the remainder of it now. Then read and discuss selected verses from Luke 7:36–50.

Conclusion

Testify that we can choose to take upon ourselves the burdens of the world or the yoke of Jesus. Testify that Christ’s teachings are true and that we will find rest when we follow him. Encourage class members to learn of Christ and obey his teachings so they can find rest and peace.