Seek to Understand Those You Teach

Focus on People, Not Lessons

Focus on People, Not Lessons

Elder Dallin H. Oaks once taught that a true gospel teacher, like the Savior, “will concentrate entirely on those being taught.” That means our focus is not on showing how much we know or getting through every bullet point on the outline. It’s on people—their hearts, their needs, and their relationship with the Savior. When we teach this way, we step out of the way so our students can see Him more clearly.

Seek to Understand Those You Teach

The gospel is for everyone, but no two people are the same. Every learner brings a unique story, with experiences, challenges, and hopes that shape the way they hear and feel truth. As teachers, we honor that individuality when we try to understand the people in front of us.

Here are a few ways you might do that:

• Ask simple, genuine questions. “What stood out to you in your scripture study this week?” can reveal a lot about what’s on someone’s mind.

• Listen with love. Sometimes the Spirit teaches us more in the pauses than in the words.

• Notice what students do. Do they light up at certain topics? Do they go quiet at others? Those are clues to what matters to them.

• Pray by name. Ask Heavenly Father to help you see each person as He does. Often, impressions come about what they most need.

• Learn beyond the classroom. Take interest in their talents, hobbies, or goals. A sincere, “How did your game go?” or “How’s your job going?” can open hearts in ways a lesson outline never could.

The more we understand those we teach, the more we can help them connect the gospel to their own lives.

A Scriptural Example

Think about the Savior’s interaction with Peter in John 21:1–17. Jesus didn’t give Peter a generic sermon. He understood Peter’s past, his personality, and even his recent discouragement. So He gave Peter exactly what he needed: reassurance of His love and a personal invitation to “feed my sheep.” That moment changed Peter’s life and his ministry.

Questions to Ponder

• Who among those I teach do I need to understand better?

• What could I do this week to better connect with that person?

• How might deeper understanding change the way I teach—and the way my students feel the Savior’s love?