Elder Adilson de Paula Parrella
Elder Adilson de Paula Parrella delivers a compelling talk on bearing witness of Jesus Christ through both our words and actions. He emphasizes the importance of taking upon ourselves the name of Christ and how it involves declaring and witnessing to others that Jesus is the Christ. Through two heartwarming examples and a lesson on using the correct name of the Church, he illustrates how members can effectively testify of Christ, ultimately reinforcing our commitment to the Savior.
Taking the Name of Christ
Elder Parrella underscores the significance of taking upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ, reminding us of our covenant at baptism. He quotes the Savior’s words, “whoso taketh upon him my name, and endureth to the end, the same shall be saved at the last day,” highlighting the enduring nature of this commitment.
Taking the Savior’s name upon us includes declaring and witnessing to others—through our actions and our words—that Jesus is the Christ.
Scriptural references for further study:
- 3 Nephi 27:5: Have they not read the scriptures, which say ye must take upon you the name of Christ, which is my name?
- 3 Nephi 27:6: And whoso taketh upon him my name, and endureth to the end, the same shall be saved at the last day.
Testifying Through Words and Actions
Elder Parrella discusses how members of the Church can witness of Christ through their words and actions. He shares a moving experience in Spain where a non-member attended Church meetings because members consistently spoke of Jesus Christ. This example demonstrates the power of sharing one’s testimony.
Clearly, members of the Church in that unit in Spain talked, taught, and testified of Christ in their meetings.
Scriptural references for further study:
- Matthew 5:16: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
- 1 Peter 3:15: But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.
A Christlike Example
Elder Parrella shares the story of Virgil Atkinson, a Church member whose Christlike living served as a powerful testimony to his friends. He demonstrates that living one’s beliefs and values can be a compelling way to bear witness of Jesus Christ to others.
He just lives what he believes.
Scriptural references for further study:
- 1 Timothy 4:12: Let no man despise thy youth, but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
- Matthew 5:14: Ye are the light of the world.
Using the Correct Name of the Church
Elder Parrella highlights the importance of using the correct name of the Church as directed by President Russell M. Nelson. He shares his personal journey in adopting the new name and how it provides opportunities to speak the name of Jesus Christ and bear testimony of Him.
Speaking the full name of the Church with intent gave me valuable opportunities to speak the name of Jesus Christ and in fact bear testimony of the Savior by declaring His name in the name of His Church.
Scriptural references for further study:
- Doctrine and Covenants 115:4: For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Calls to Action:
- Take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ and bear testimony through your words and actions.
- Share your testimony of Christ in Church meetings and create an environment centered on Jesus Christ.
- Follow the prophet’s counsel to use the correct name of the Church, emphasizing the name of Jesus Christ.