Watch or read President Nelson’s address at: What Is True? (churchofjesuschrist.org)

President Nelson began his remarks by focusing on two positive things – the success of FSY this Summer and the increasing number of temples in the world. He then moved onto a more sombre topic – abuse.

Abuse constitutes the influence of the adversary. It is a grievous sin. As President of the Church, I affirm the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ on this issue. Let me be perfectly clear: any kind of abuse of women, children, or anyone is an abomination to the Lord. He grieves and I grieve whenever anyone is harmed. He mourns and we all mourn for each person who has fallen victim to abuse of any kind. Those who perpetrate these hideous acts are not only accountable to the laws of man but will also face the wrath of Almighty God.

These are strong words and rightly so. He invites us to do two things:

1. Study the Church’s resources at abuse.ChurchofJesusChrist.org
2. Be alert to anyone who shows signs of being abused and then act promptly to protect them.

This may be a topic that could be sensitively addressed in priesthood quorums, Relief Society lessons and stake, ward and family councils. What are our duties as members? What action should we take if we suspect abuse?

The adversary has other disturbing tactics. Among them are his efforts to blur the line between what is true and what is not true. The flood of information available at our fingertips, ironically, makes it increasingly difficult to determine what is true.

What example have you seen of Satan blurring the lines between what is true and what is not true?

How can we protect ourselves from these tactics?

How can we protect our families?

Dear brothers and sisters, God is the source of all truth. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints embraces all truth that God conveys to His children, whether learned in a scientific laboratory or received by direct revelation from Him.

What is the difference between information and truth?

Why should we be cautious about the sources we use in our search for truth?

What are the sources of truth that we can trust? (Suggestions: prayer, the witness of the Holy Ghost, the living prophets, the scriptures, the temple.)

NB: Passages in italics are direct quotes from President Nelson’s address.