The Prophet's Address to the Priesthood

In this past Priesthood Session of General Conference, President Monson addressed what has been referred to as the largest brotherhood in the world. The Prophet's audience is identified through his word usage, specifically how he doesn't define certain terms that his assumed audience would already know.


General Conference attracts a very specific audience, about 6 million people around the world. Such is shown in this talk by President Monson referencing the Doctrine and Covenants and other scriptures unique to our churchThe Priesthood session, but not explaining what they are. Had Presdient Monson been speaking to a group of people that does not share our beliefs, some time would likely need to be spent to explain what these "new" scriptures mean to us. Similarly, Presidnet Monson quotes the scripture reference James 1:5. In our church, such a verse does not require a reference because it is the most well-known thanks to Joseph Smith's history. Had he been addressing another group of Christians, he would probably given the reference, not insinuating a lack of knowledge, but a way to prove they are actual words from the Bible and allow listeners to look up the reference at a later time.

Out of 6 million members, the Priesthood General Conference session is meant for all boys and men from 12 years of age and up. He makes three points that, if done regularly, will "lead us to safety." In his talk, President Monson speaks of the dangers and temptations of this world. His audience is one that understands this fact already, even worries about it enough to seek enlightment from the Prophets and Apostles. The audience wants to figure out what it is that must be done to combat these dangers. That is why conference is held and people attned conference.

The three suggestions are first read off in list form and then expounded upon. This reflects a couple of things about the audience. Giving a short list is a way of making sure everyone understands the point of the talk. President Monson probably understands that there are anxious adolescents in the crowd that may allow their thoughts to wander throughout the session. Spelling out the point of a talk makes sure that those who don't pay attention the whole time still understand what the Prophet, and therefore the Lord, wants them to hear.

The next implication is that President Monson's could be a note-taking congregation. Creating a list and writing notes about the items in that list is a common form of note-taking whether in lecture or in a session of General Conference. His short, concise, but still entertaining and profound sentences make it easier for the note taker to write down main ideas and keywords that will bring back to memory what the Prophet was saying.

The first two of his points are "study diligently" and "pray fervently." President Monson shows that he knows his audience already studies and prays, but he wants them to know that not just studying and praying is sufficient. One must study with diligence, exercising some effort. One must pray fervently, with passion and with purpose.

To illustrate his point on the power of fervent prayer, President Monson tells a story about two missionaries finding a woman who eventually got baptized. They found her old "tracting record" and decided to contact her. Anyone outside of the church, and many who have not served missions, would not know what a tracting record is, but since there was no explanation or definition, it is to be understood that many of those present at the session have served a mission, are preparing for a mission, or are familiar with missionary-related terms.

The Prophet knows his audience.