Speeches by Topic | Jesus Christ

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we believe in Jesus Christ. We are Christians, and we believe in the biblical accounts of Jesus’ birth, mortal life and ministry, atoning sacrifice, death, resurrection, and prophesied return. We also believe that, as the Head of His Church, Jesus Christ has revealed himself to prophets in modern as well as ancient times. Jesus Christ was miraculously born to Mary, a virgin, in Bethlehem of Judea. He lived a sinless life and set an example of wisdom, worship, and charity. He taught His gospel, called apostles, organized His Church, and performed miracles. He suffered for the sins of all men and women and was killed by crucifixion. After three days, he rose again from the dead and ascended to heaven. We believe that Jesus Christ is part of the Godhead, which also includes God the Father and the Holy Ghost. The members of the Godhead are separate in being, but united in purpose. Jesus Christ is the literal Son of God. Though we are all God’s spirit children, Jesus Christ is the Firstborn in the spirit and the Only Begotten of the flesh. As such, He was uniquely qualified to be the Savior of all mankind—a role He was called to perform before the Earth was created. We are all children of God, and our purpose on earth is to learn of Him that we may return to live with Him. Because sin makes us unworthy to live in God’s presence, Jesus Christ voluntarily performed a vicarious sacrifice for all sin. As the Son of God and the only sinless individual, He was the only person who could have performed this sacrifice. Called the Atonement, His sacrifice makes it possible for all of us to repent and return to live with God. His resurrection also makes it possible for each of us to be resurrected, meaning that one day we all will have our bodies and spirits reunited in a perfect form, never again subject to death. Jesus Christ not only suffered for our sins, but He also experienced all of the pain, suffering, and trials that we face in our lives. Having experienced our suffering for Himself, He is able to understand, comfort, and strengthen us when we struggle. As members of His Church, we seek to learn more about Him through the scriptures, prophets, and personal revelation. We preach, pray, and perform sacred ordinances in His name. We strive to live the gospel and keep the commandments He taught and to follow the example He set. We look forward to the unknown day that He will return to Earth in glory and reign over all people. We hope to live with Him, as well as with God the Father and our own families, eternally. Though many BYU Speeches bear testimony of Jesus Christ, these addresses specifically center on aspects of His life, Atonement, and role in our lives. We hope that as you read them you too will be able to develop and strengthen your faith in and love for the Savior.

Ruth L. Renlund, wife of Dale G. Renlund

Ruth L. Renlund | December 3, 2019

Perhaps we should reflect on what can and should happen to us as we link ourselves with the name of our Savior. As we do, we too can change.

Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ

Dale G. Renlund | August 26, 2019

Elder Dale G. Renlund reminds the faculty of BYU that their responsibility to help students draw closer to Christ is more than a job—it is a blessing.

David A. Bednar | December 4, 2018

Joy comes from exercising faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, worthily receiving and faithfully honoring sacred ordinances and covenants, and striving to become deeply converted to the Savior and His purposes.

Weatherford T. Clayton | March 14, 2017

Every time we turn more to Christ, we are repenting—we are following Him. When we sincerely pray to the Father, in a very real sense we are repenting. When we read the scriptures and ponder them, we are repenting.

Larry Y. Wilson | December 1, 2015

If we are prepared for His coming—if we are looking for it—that day will be a great time of reunion and rejoicing. Make your choice, brothers and sisters, to use your time in the cause that matters most—the one that leads to the millennial reign of Jesus Christ.

Jennifer Brinkerhoff Platt | March 27, 2015

Christ invites us to come quickly unto Him. His love casts darkness away. We are protected from deception when we choose to walk in His light as we see ourselves as we really are and as we really can be.

Kent F. Richards | March 10, 2015

I suspect that even in Christ’s learning years He developed through a multitude of small choices rather than just through a few monumental decisions.

D. Gordon Smith | June 26, 2012

I have sometimes  thought of the experience of changing my name in relation to my baptism—an ordinance in which I took upon myself the name of Jesus Christ. In both instances  the name was given to me by another, but I was asked to embrace the name as my own. Now each week in taking the sacrament I reaffirm my willingness to take  upon myself the name of Jesus Christ. What is the significance of this representation?

Douglas R. McKinlay | June 19, 2012

The Savior, both in His own recorded words and through the words of His holy prophets, has invited us to come unto Him, to experiment for ourselves on the truthfulness of His gospel, and to claim the attendant blessings.

John P. Hoffman | May 8, 2012

It is my desire that all of us may get to know the Savior better, including his roles as the perfect Prophet, Priest, and King.

Brad Wilcox | July 12, 2011

So grace is not a booster engine that kicks in once our fuel supply is exhausted. Rather, it is our constant energy source. It is not the light at the end of the tunnel but the light that moves us through the tunnel. Grace is not achieved somewhere down the road. It is received right here and right now. It is not a finishing touch; it is the Finisher’s touch.

Steven L. Taylor | June 22, 2010

As we make and keep these sacred covenants with the Lord, He will keep His promises to us. Our lives will be built on that sure foundation, and there will be no need to fear.

Barbara A. Heise | March 2, 2010

We don’t have to be perfect—after all we can do, the Savior does the rest. When we repent we choose to be changed, to be spiritually stronger, and to come closer to the Savior.

Bruce D. Porter | December 9, 2008

Whatever it may be that binds us, whatever sins, circumstances, or past events hold each of us captive, the Lord Jesus Christ, the great Immanuel, has come to set us free. He proclaims liberty to the captives—freedom from the bonds of death and the prison of sin, ignorance, pride, and error.

Earl C. Tingey | June 5, 2007

We do not change. If it was wrong in Old Testament days, it is wrong today. If it was wrong in New Testament days, it is wrong today. All this because we have living prophets who “stand in holy places, and [are not] moved.”

Neil J. Anderson | May 8, 2007

As we desire to respond to the Savior’s invitation to come, we will have to leave behind our weaknesses and our sins.

Thomas B. Griffith | March 14, 2006

His suffering proves His love, but it does more. It is the means He uses to get us to “repent and come unto him.” When we come to have some sense of what Christ has done for us—and, in particular, what He has suffered for us—our natural reaction as children of God is to want to show our gratitude and love by giving our lives to Him, by obeying Him.

D. Todd Christofferson | January 31, 2006

It is because of the Atonement of Christ that we can recover from bad choices and be justified under the law as if we had not sinned.

Gordon B. Lindsay | July 26, 2005

Loving the Lord with our mind implies pondering and thinking about spiritual issues. With the instruction to “always remember Him,” the Lord does not want some form of general, always-sort-of-in-the-back-of-the-mind kind of remembering. God the Father expects that we frequently have full mental attention and specific thoughts of His Son.

Ronald E. Terry | June 7, 2005

The Book of Mormon does testify of Christ and His healing influence. I am grateful for the authors and the preservers of the plates who made it possible for us to read these marvelous accounts of the Lord extending the arms of His love to those in need. It was written for our day when we need similar applications of His mercy.

Russell M. Nelson - President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Russell M. Nelson | December 10, 2002

Jesus descended below all things in order to rise above all things. He expects us to follow His example. Yoked with Him, we can rise above all challenges, no matter how difficult they may be.

Merrill J. Bateman - BYU President - and Marilyn S. Bateman

Merrill J. and Marilyn S. Bateman | January 8, 2002

Can you sense the blessings that await if you drink deeply of Christ’s living water? Will you set aside a few minutes each day to read from the scriptures and then ponder the meaning of the verses read?

Jeffrey D. Keith | October 9, 2001

My dear brothers and sisters, I am delighted to be here today to share a few thoughts with you. I appreciate the music that was so inspiring and the prayer to invoke the Lord’s Spirit here today. Three weeks ago today, President Bateman centered his devotional talk around a scripture counseling us to “search diligently in the light of Christ” and to “lay hold upon every good thing” (Moroni 7:19).…

Merrill J. and Marilyn S. Bateman | January 16, 2001

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we are blessed through modern revelation to know more about Christ and His purposes than any other people on earth.

H. David Burton | January 9, 2000

In this address, H. David Burton testifies that what the world needs most is the living water of Christ's doctrine, love, and example.

Marilyn S. Bateman | January 5, 1999

If we are one in unity with Christ, as well as friends, family, and church members, we will have the strength to withstand the winds of adversity.

Russell M. Nelson | August 18, 1998

Russell M. Nelson shares his testimony of the mission and ministry of Jesus Christ, who exemplified the virtues of love, knowledge, and worship.

Merrill J. Bateman | September 9, 1997

The Savior performed the Atonement for each of us, one by one. We can develop n individual relationship with Him through prayer, study, and loving others.

Gary L. Bunker | March 1, 1994

When Nephi saw in vision the condescension of both the Father and the Son in offering the Son as the Lamb of God, he could only describe the love in superlative phrases as “beauty . . . exceeding of all beauty; . . . the whiteness of the driven snow. . . . Precious above all. . . . The most desirable above all things. . . . And the most joyous to the soul” (1 Nephi 11:8–9, 22–23). That…

L. Tom Perry | February 11, 1992

In his youth, Jesus increased in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man. He provides an example of mental, physical, spiritual, and social growth.

Russell M. Nelson | February 2, 1992

Russell M. Nelson shares his apostolic testimony of Jesus Christ as Master, Creator, Advocate, Savior, Judge, Exemplar, and more.

Neal A. Maxwell | March 31, 1991

Everything about the gospel is held together by the Savior Jesus Christ. His Atonement exemplifies all of the divine attributes we are seeking.

Stephen E. Robinson | May 29, 1990

Many of us are trying to save ourselves, holding the Atonement of Jesus Christ at arm’s distance and saying, “When I’ve done it, when I’ve perfected myself, when I’ve made myself worthy, then I’ll be worthy of the Atonement.

Neal A. Maxwell | February 4, 1990

This address will attempt to “survey the wondrous cross” by focusing on the Christology in the book of Mosiah, using not only the words of King Benjamin, Mosiah, Abinadi, and Alma the Younger, but scriptures that lie in the suburbs of Mosiah and other related scriptures. The final focus will be on the requirements for our becoming what King Benjamin called “the children of Christ,” which is my text (Mosiah…

James M. Paramore | August 22, 1989

If we look to and study the life of Jesus Christ, we can come to know how we can become a leader in our families, church callings, and secular settings.

Marvin J. Ashton | June 5, 1988

Lessons from the experience with the woman taken in adultery shows how Christ was the master teacher, full of love, compassion, and testimony.

Bruce R. McConkie | January 6, 1985

To us mortals, the infinite wisdom and power of God may always be, in part, a mystery. However, there are many things about His nature that we can know.

Robert J. Matthews | December 4, 1984

In living the gospel, we must understand why a Savior is necessary for our physical and spiritual salvation. He is the greatest gift ever given.

John H. Groberg | June 3, 1984

To all those who ask the plaintive question “Is there any hope for me?” the answer is a resounding “Yes! Yes! Yes! There is always hope.” Reverberating through all eternity, all creation exults: “In Christ there is always hope.” I know whereof I speak.

J. Richard Clarke | March 27, 1984

We all sin, but we don't have to live with those burdens forever. Through repentance, we can be made clean through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Ezra Taft Benson - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Ezra Taft Benson | October 1, 1983

Our characters are defined by our thoughts, which become actions, then habits. "What would Jesus do?" is a thought that can safely guide us home.

David B. Haight | January 29, 1983

Our Church, faith, and gospel have Jesus Christ for their foundation. The scriptures and the lives and witnesses of latter-day prophets testify of Him.

Theodore M. Burton | October 26, 1982

What Is It to Be “Born Again”? One day, as I was traveling on a plane to New England, I entered into a conversation with a young stewardess sitting in the seat next to me. Most members of our Church know how to steer a conversation toward the gospel, and, before long, we were talking about religion. She told me that she had recently been converted from her former manner…

Truman G. Madsen | May 9, 1982

Drawing parallels between the olive press and the events in Gethsemane, Truman G. Madsen invites us all to reflect on the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Bruce R. McConkie | March 2, 1982

True and saving worship is found only among those who know the truth about God and the Godhead and who understand the true relationship men should have with each member of that Eternal Presidency.

J. Richard Clarke | December 6, 1981

We are responsible to learn of and become witnesses of Jesus Christ. As we do, we positively and profoundly influence our posterity and those around us.

Ivan J. Barrett | August 2, 1981

As we seek to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, we need to understand Him better. Ivan J. Barrett offers insights into the life and character of Jesus Christ.

Ardeth G. Kapp | May 5, 1981

As we strive to take His name upon us and honor our sacrament covenants every day of the week, we will draw closer to Christ and serve and love as He does.

Vaughn J. Featherstone | August 26, 1979

Walking in the steps of the Savior is not easy, but it will bring you experiences and growth that you will be forever grateful for.

James E. Faust | March 13, 1979

I testify that He lives, that He loves us, that this is His holy work. I testify that His are the words of eternal life. I testify that through this Church His work and His glory—to bring about the immortality and eternal life of the faithful and the obedient—is being accomplished.

Ezra Taft Benson | March 4, 1979

We follow a perfect leader—not just one who tells us to do what he thinks we should do, but the only one who can say that we should be as He is in everything. In the Book of Mormon, the Lord asked the question, “What manner of men ought ye to be?” And then He answered by saying, “Verily I say unto you, even as I am.”

Bruce R. McConkie | September 3, 1978

Joseph Smith's most important contribution as a revealer and the Prophet of the Restoration is his testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ.

G. Homer Durham | March 7, 1978

The Christ of the Book of Mormon offers Christianity a clearer picture of the Savior, His plan for us, and His doctrine.

Marion G. Romney | February 5, 1978

Jesus Christ was and is uniquely qualified to be our Redeemer because of His pre-mortal foreordination, His mortal perfection, and His eternal atonement.

Mark E. Petersen | December 13, 1977

Christ is not only the miraculous baby of Bethlehem, or even the atoning Savior of Gethsemane. He is also our creator, the source of our existence.

Rex D. Pinegar | May 10, 1977

We all have a divine potential to become like Christ, but to become like Him, we must develop a relationship with Him by praying, repenting, and obeying.

Vaughn J. Featherstone | October 12, 1976

I would like, for a few moments with you this morning, to suggest what I think the man of Christ is—his integrity, his selflessness, his courage.

Bruce R. McConkie | September 5, 1976

The gospel that we believe and preach is that of the original apostles—the gospel of Jesus Christ and Him crucified. That truth can change lives.

Bruce R. McConkie | December 2, 1975

Elder McConkie offers his testimony of Christ's divine parentage. We, too, can testify of his identity as the Son of God; we can "declare his generation."

George W. Pace | July 15, 1975

Brother and sisters, this is a delightful experience for me today. I don’t know when I’ve been more terrified and frightened. I feel a little like the cowboy who rode into town and shot up the place and jumped on his horse and rode off in all directions. But I hope with all my heart that I might have that presence of mind and that presence of Spirit which will…

Vaughn J. Featherstone | March 30, 1975

Like the prophets and people of the scriptures, you can have a personal experience with the Savior. He will tarry with you, as He did with them.

Ezra Taft Benson | December 10, 1974

Jesus Christ gave us the gifts of the Church, prophets, scriptures, our nation, and even His life. What can we give to Him? What are His expectations?

Hugh B. Brown | December 15, 1970

Get to know your Shepherd, who can forgive you of your sins and teach you the truth. Evaluate your commitment to the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Bruce R. McConkie | December 16, 1969

Christ’s mortal birth, life, and atoning sacrifice are evidence of the condescension of God and His incredible love for us.

Hugh B. Brown | May 31, 1968

Whatever undertakings may demand of you and of your attention, I tell you, young men and young women, you cannot make a better resolution today than this: “I am going to keep close to the Lord. I am going to understand Him better, and, understanding Him, I will understand myself and will try to put my life into harmony with His.”

Marion G. Romney | May 9, 1967

Jesus Christ was subject to pain, testing, and temptation. His very ability to sin is what makes his sinlessness so inspiring. He is our greatest exemplar.

Joseph Fielding Smith - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Joseph Fielding Smith | March 21, 1967

The calamities signaling the second coming and the judgments of the Lord are here for us to study in the scriptures. We need not fear if we are prepared.

Elray L. Christiansen | August 9, 1966

Jesus Christ is the best friend we have—but do we treat Him like the friend He is? Are we loyal to Him? Do we live the principles He taught?

William J. Critchlow | June 14, 1966

The trial of Jesus did not end 2,000 years ago when He stood before those who would condemn Him—it continues today in each of our hearts.

Truman G. Madsen | November 16, 1965

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

Gordon B. Hinckley - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Gordon B. Hinckley | October 26, 1965

By whose standards do we make the small decisions on which big consequences hinge? By the standards of the state (Caesar), the masses (circus), or Christ?

Mark E. Petersen | September 28, 1965

It is your calling to be a witness, an example, and, in short, an exponent of Christ in a world that is moving further and further away from Him.

Spencer W. Kimball | January 16, 1963

Let us not forget to be humble, to remember where our blessings, gifts, and accomplishments really come from. Humility will bring us closer to Christ.

Boyd K. Packer | December 12, 1962

Gifts, traditions, lights—these are wonderful aspects of Christmas, but don't let them overshadow the true focus, our Savior Jesus Christ.

Gordon B. Hinckley | January 3, 1962

The Lord has commanded us to "be not faithless, but believing." Faith in Jesus Christ can help us overcome any challenge or obstacle in life.

Gordon B. Hinckley | December 14, 1960

This Christmas season, ask yourselves, "How does my testimony of Jesus Christ influence my beliefs, my actions, and the way I treat others?"

Hugh B. Brown | December 9, 1959

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." Take the time to get to know the Savior, your Redeemer and Friend, and to emulate his love and example.

Harold B. Lee - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Harold B. Lee | December 10, 1958

We don't all have the opportunity to travel and walk where Jesus walked. We can, however, do our best to walk as He walked.

J. Reuben Clark | May 22, 1956

J Reuben Clark shares his deep and abiding testimony that Jesus Christ is our Creator and Redeemer—a testimony we all need to seek.

Joseph Fielding Smith | January 25, 1955

The atonement of Jesus Christ saves us from the effects of the Fall and from our own transgressions. Understanding it gives us hope to repent and improve.

J. Reuben Clark | December 11, 1951

Elder Clark shares his testimony of the magnificence, love, and mission of each member of the Godhead: our Father, our Savior, and the Holy Spirit.

Alma Sonne | April 11, 1950

History readily accounts for prominent historical figures, but often skips over the Savior. Accounting for the Lord means learning from his teachings.