Beyond the Checklist Mentality

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Checklists can provide a sense of accomplishment but can also lead to a superficial approach to spirituality. The danger lies in focusing solely on completing tasks, like studying scriptures or praying, without understanding their deeper significance. Many individuals, especially young people, fall into a 'checklist mentality,' where they perform religious duties out of obligation rather than genuine connection. This mindset prevents them from experiencing the true purpose and power behind these practices. To transform these routines into meaningful experiences, it is crucial to grasp the underlying reasons for these actions, facilitating a deeper relationship with God. Discipleship should focus on relational rather than transactional interactions with faith—emphasizing connection with the divine through prayer, scripture study, and worship. Engaging in these activities should help deepen one's relationship with God, moving beyond mere box-checking to a transformative spiritual journey.

In his October 2021 general conference talk President Ballard expressed, “We must always remember that our true happiness depends upon our relationship with God, with Jesus Christ, and with each other.” How do we build and shape these relationships? In this episode assistant professor of Church history and doctrine Brian Mead discusses his article “The Important Role of Relationships in Our Heavenly Father’s Plan of Salvation.” Dr. Mead defines doctrinal and relational approaches to the Plan of Salvation and examines how they strengthen our understanding of eternal relationships. Further, he addresses how using a relational approach to teach the Plan of Salvation aids in answering a number of why questions: Why do we need a mortal experience? Why must we repent? Why do we need a Savior? Such an approach builds upon our personal understanding and connections to our Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, family, and others.

Publications:

· “The Important Role of Relationships in Our Heavenly Father’s Plan of Salvation” (Religious Educator, 23.3, 2022)

Click here to learn more about Brian Mead