Centering Everything on the Cross: A Reminder for the Journey

Brothers and sisters, as we continue to press forward in the work, whether we are preparing for a mission, serving as returned missionaries, or simply trying to keep the cogs turning in our daily lives as disciples, it’s easy for the sheer scope of the gospel to feel overwhelming. We talk about the Father, the covenants, the plan—and all of it is magnificent. But sometimes, in the rush of missionary discussions or while deep in a study group, we risk letting our focus drift to the periphery.

I was recently reflecting on a talk by Elder McConkie, and it struck me with the force of a revelation. He said it so clearly: “I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.”

It’s a powerful anchor point. It reminds us that while understanding the Father’s role, the nature of the plan, and the covenants we keep is vital, the absolute center, the linchpin that holds everything together, is the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He is the focus, the message, the reality we testify of.

The Spirit’s Guidance: Keeping Our Eyes Fixed

What did I take away from listening to this address? I realized that when we seek the Spirit—when we ask Him to guide our words and our understanding—the Spirit naturally draws us back to the Cross. Elder McConkie quoted the Doctrine and Covenants, Nephi, and Joseph Smith himself, and every thread led back to the necessity of believing in Christ and being reconciled to God through Him. It’s a beautiful pattern, isn't it?

“All of these things, as far as we are now concerned, center in the Lord Jesus Christ.”

This isn't just for missionaries speaking to investigators; this is for us, the rogue disciples, in our homes, in our social scripture study groups, and even when we're just reading our morning scriptures. When we feel that pull to over-analyze a doctrine or get bogged down in theological minutiae, I encourage you to pause and ask yourself: *How does this relate back to Christ’s sacrifice?*

A Bite-Sized Skill for Your Next Discussion

If you are currently preparing for mission discussions, here is a small skill I want to pass along. When an investigator asks a complex question—maybe about the nature of God, or the mechanics of eternal progression—instead of giving a multi-layered answer immediately, try this: Acknowledge the depth of the question, and then gently pivot back to the central theme. You might say, “That is a profound question that touches on the whole plan. Ultimately, the key to understanding that truth is found in the Atonement—it’s how we are made capable of understanding it.” This keeps the conversation elevated and Christ-centered.

Deeper Dives: HolyPlaces and LivingBook

If this concept resonates with you, I highly recommend diving deeper into the foundational texts. If you are looking for structured study, check out the Book Club options in HolyPlaces. If you prefer the deep dive into scripture context, spend some time in the LivingBook, paying close attention to the related panel features when studying passages about the Atonement. Sometimes the *social scripture study* feed will highlight connections you never would have seen on your own.

We are all disciples, and we are all missionaries, no matter where we are. Let’s commit today to keep Jesus Christ, and Him crucified, at the very heart of everything we say and everything we learn. Keep the testimonies flowing!

If you need help wrestling with a difficult doctrinal question before a talk, don't forget to tap into Davee. He’s ready to walk you through the hard questions an investigator might ask, using his AI Investigator role to help you prepare a Spirit-filled answer.