As you will notice from the first page of the book of Alma, the complete title and the introduction explain that Alma, the son of Alma and often called Alma the Younger, is the prophet for whom this book is named. The book is Mormon’s abridgment of the book of Alma from the large plates of Nephi (see “The Main Sources for the Book of Mormon,” p. 12).
While this book bears Alma’s name, it includes writings of other authors:
Chapters 1–44 are from Alma’s record.
Chapters 45–62 are from the writings of Helaman, one of Alma’s sons.
Chapter 63 is mainly information recorded by Shiblon, another of Alma’s sons.
The book of Alma is the longest in the Book of Mormon, but it covers a period of less than 40 years (about 91–52 B.C.). In this book you will find some of the Book of Mormon’s greatest missionary stories. For example, you will learn about what happened to the four sons of Mosiah, who all chose to go on missions among the Lamanites rather than one of them being named king over the Nephites. You read about their decision in Mosiah 28.
The book of Alma also contains some of the most significant doctrinal teachings in the Book of Mormon. You will read about such principles as:
Priesthood callings before this mortal life.
The power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ to bring the Resurrection to all and salvation to the repentant.
The power of the word is greater than the power of the sword.
The essential relationship between the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement.
How faith in Jesus Christ and repentance help us qualify for mercy through the Atonement and satisfy the demands of justice.
The book of Alma also contains the record of several wars, particularly in chapters 43–62. You will notice that even though these chapters are about terrible wars, they still teach significant and timeless truths that are essential for our day.
Alma was the chief judge of Zarahemla and the leader of the Church. One of his first challenges was to sit in judgment of a man named Nehor who set up a rival church, taught false doctrine, and killed a faithful Nephite. Many people today believe and teach the same false doctrines that Nehor taught. As you read Alma 1, think about what is wrong with Nehor’s doctrine and why Alma said it was dangerous.
Alma 1:12—What Is Priestcraft? What Was Nehor Teaching That Was So Popular?As defined by Nephi, “priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion” (2 Nephi 26:29). According to that definition, what Nehor taught was priestcraft.
Nehor was executed for murdering Gideon, but that did not end the popularity of his teachings. As you continue your study of the Book of Mormon, you will periodically meet people (such as the Amlicites, Amalekites, Amulonites, and Ammonihahites) who followed the teachings of Nehor. |
Do one of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 1.
Correct the DoctrineNehor was guilty of priestcraft and murder.
To help you understand Nehor’s doctrine and the dangers of priestcraft, draw a table in your notebook, like the one shown here.
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In the first column, list the three elements of Nehor’s doctrine from Alma 1:3–4.
In the second column, explain how each false doctrine he taught qualifies as priestcraft as described in 2 Nephi 26:29 (see the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Alma 1:12 for help if needed).
In the third column, correct each false idea with an explanation of what a true priesthood holder would teach.
Is There a Wrong Way to Defend the Truth?In Alma 1:19–20 you read about the persecution the members of the Church faced.
How did some of the members of the Church respond to that persecution? (see vv. 21–22).
What effect did their response to persecution have on the rest of the Church and on themselves? (see vv. 22–24).
How was the response to opposition by those members similar to Nehor’s response found in Alma 1:7–9?
Explain what this chapter teaches us about responding to persecution and why that is the best way.
A Day in the Life of a Nephite TeenagerReview Alma 1:25–33, which describes what life was like in the Church in Alma’s day, and then complete one of the following assignments.
Suppose you were a teenager in Alma’s day. Describe what a typical day might be like for you in that blessed society. Be creative and describe your family, getting ready for school, what you wear, how others treat you and how you treat others, and what your relationship is to nonbelievers.
Compare your community and the one described in Alma 1:25–33. How are they similar? How are they different? What could you do to make yourself and your community more like the one Alma described?
Nehor’s death (see Alma 1) did not end the trouble brought on by his Satan-inspired teachings. In Alma 2–3 you will read about Amlici, a follower of Nehor, who wanted more than starting a rival church for personal gain. As you read these chapters, look for what Amlici really wanted and how Alma and the other Church members met that threat. Notice also how Alma’s discussion of the way the wicked mark themselves can also apply to our day.
Alma 3:6–12—Who Are Lamanites and Who Are Nephites?At this time in the Book of Mormon account, the identity of a Nephite and a Lamanite was not so much a matter of actual bloodline as it was a matter of belief. Those who were “led away by the Lamanites” (Alma 3:10) were called Lamanites regardless of their actual family line. Those who believed in the records of the Nephites and who “believed in the commandments of God” (v. 11) were known as Nephites regardless of their lineage. |
Do activity B and activity A or C as you study Alma 2–3.
Describe the ProblemAmlici was a talented and cunning man. Alma knew that he presented a real threat to the Nephite society.
Study Alma 2:1–4 and describe what Amlici planned to do.
How do verses 5–10 show that Alma’s concerns about Amlici were accurate?
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Amlici |
Find an ApplicationAlma 2:12–38 describes the preparation and the battles that occurred in the war between the Nephites and the Amlicites and Lamanites. As you ponder these events, think of how these battles are like the battles you must fight against wickedness. Respond to the following questions:
How was Amlici’s plan for the Nephites similar to Satan’s plan for you?
Describe at least two things Alma did to defeat Amlici that are like what you could do to defend yourself against Satan’s attacks.
Give a Modern ExampleIn Alma 3, Mormon reminded us of the curse that came upon the Lamanites in the days of Nephi (see 2 Nephi 5:20–25; “Understanding the Scriptures,” section for 2 Nephi 5:20–25, p. 39).
Review Alma 3:4–10 and explain the reason for that curse.
What promise did the Lord make to those who joined with the Lamanites and fought against the Nephites? (see verses 9–17).
What did the Amlicites do to fulfill that promise themselves?
How do people “mark themselves” as unbelievers today?
The Lord promised the Nephites many times that if they would keep the commandments they would prosper in the land (for example, see Mosiah 1:7). In Alma 2–3 you read how the faithful Nephites were saved from the Amlicite-Lamanite threat by calling upon the Lord for strength. The Lord blessed them and they were delivered.
In Alma 4, there is no external enemy, no wars or contentions, but in a very real way the situation was more desperate than when the Lamanites were invading. What was the source of that danger? President George Q. Cannon, who was a counselor in the First Presidency, taught: “We are to be tried in all things, and sooner or later we must be tested by prosperity and plenty. Many people who remained faithful Latter-day Saints while they were poor may be unable to stand when they are rich. Riches [have] a very corrupting effect upon the human heart, and it requires a very pure people to be as honest, virtuous, humble and upright when surrounded by luxury and wealth as when they are in poor and destitute circumstances” (Gospel Truth, ed. Jerreld L. Newquist, 2 vols. [1957, 1974], 2:319).
As you study Alma 4, look for how President Cannon’s statement applies to those Nephites, and to us!
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Do activity A as you study Alma 4.
Compare Two Time PeriodsThere are interesting similarities and important differences between the descriptions of the Church in Alma 1 and Alma 4. In the second year of the reign of the judges, the Church and its members prospered (see Alma 1:31), while just six years later the Church “began to fail in its progress” (Alma 4:9–10).
Draw a chart in your notebook similar to the one shown here. Study the verses listed for each column and describe how each of the topics relate to the Church during each time period. For example, how prosperous were the members and what effect did that prosperity have on them? (see Alma 1:29–31; 4:6–8).
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Persecution |
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Equality and charity |
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Pride |
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Peace |
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Prosperity |
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Compare the two lists and summarize the reasons the Church began to fail given in Alma 4.
Think about your own life in those same areas. What are some ways you could increase your level of righteousness and thus help the Church progress?
Have you ever heard anyone say something such as “You don’t have to be perfect to go to heaven; God will let you in as long as you avoid the really bad stuff”? Perhaps you know people who do not say that but who live as though they believe it to be true. What would you say to such a person? How good must we be to return to live with God? What will God’s mercy do for us, and how do we obtain that mercy? Alma 5 is a good place to find answers to such questions.
Alma gave up his position as chief judge to dedicate his time to building up the Church (see Alma 4:11–20). He began in the city of Zarahemla. Alma 5 is similar to a general conference talk from the prophet Alma. The message he gave is one of the most important in the Book of Mormon. As you read what he said, think about how it applies to you.
Alma 5:9—Are You Saved?
Elder Dallin H. Oaks, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said: “As Latter-day Saints use the words saved and salvation, there are at least six different meanings. According to some of these, our salvation is assured—we are already saved. In others, salvation must be spoken of as a future event . . . or as conditioned upon a future event. . . . But in all of these meanings, or kinds of salvation, salvation is in and through Jesus Christ” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 76; or Ensign, May 1998, 55). The following are summaries of the six different meanings of which Elder Oaks spoke:
Alma 5:7–14—What Is This Mighty Change of Heart?If we search a few of the scriptures that describe this change, we learn that some of the characteristics shown by those who have experienced this mighty change include the following:
Elder Merrill J. Bateman, a member of the Seventy, taught how a person obtains this mighty change: “Changes in the heart and soul occur as a result of planting and nourishing the seed [see Alma 32:28]. Scripture study, prayer, obedience, and service are key elements in building faith in Christ” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1992, 38; or Ensign, Nov. 1992, 28). King Benjamin and Alma both demonstrated the power of the preaching of the word of God in bringing about the mighty change (see Mosiah 4:1–3; 5:1–2; Alma 5:7, 11–13). Speaking of the power of the scriptures, particularly the Book of Mormon, to change lives, President Ezra Taft Benson declared: “It is not just that the Book of Mormon teaches us truth, though it indeed does that. It is not just that the Book of Mormon bears testimony of Christ, though it indeed does that, too. But there is something more. There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path. The scriptures are called ‘the words of life’ (D&C 84:85), and nowhere is that more true than it is of the Book of Mormon. When you begin to hunger and thirst after those words, you will find life in greater and greater abundance” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1986, 6; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, 7). |
Do activity A and one other activity (B–D) as you study Alma 5.
Write a LetterImagine you have a friend who does not take religion and the gospel very seriously. His or her attitude is that we really do not have to be all that good to be saved. Your friend believes that God knows our weaknesses and will save us anyway; we just ought to avoid the really big sins. You really love your friend and want him or her to understand and find happiness. Write a letter to this friend, explaining what is incorrect about his or her ideas concerning the Atonement. Use the truths Alma taught in Alma 5:10–42 to help you teach your friend. Be sure to explain the following points in your letter:
What does the word saved mean?
What does it mean to experience the “mighty change” and be “born of God”? How may this principle help to change a person?
What can we do to experience that mighty change?
What is necessary to have our hearts changed and to be born of God?
What will become of us if we do not change?
Explain the Judgment DayAlma described the judgment day, when we will all come before God to be judged.
Using the information in Alma 5:16–25, compare the feelings of the unrepentant and the repentant.
Doctrine and Covenants 76:5–10 gives more information about how the repentant and the righteous will be blessed. Study those verses and compare what the Lord offers those who follow Him with what the devil offers his followers. Which would you rather have? Why? How would you feel if the Lord spoke those words in Alma 5:16 to you?
Compare to Modern TimesAlma knew that the Church members in his time faced difficult challenges. Search Alma 5:26–35, 52–62 and list two challenges that Alma mentioned that are also challenges in our day. Using what you learned from Alma, explain what we can do to overcome them.
Write a Key Word SummaryAlma shared his testimony in Alma 5:37–52. List what you think are five important words or phrases in his testimony. Explain your reasons for selecting each word or phrase.
After strengthening the Church in Zarahemla, Alma moved on to the city of Gideon. He found the members of the Church there more faithful than those in Zarahemla had been. Therefore, his message to the Saints in Gideon was not so much a call to repentance as it was one of instruction and encouragement. Notice what Alma taught in Alma 6–7 about the mission of the Savior and what we must do to be cleansed by His Atonement.
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Alma |
Alma 7:11–13—How Can the Atonement of Jesus Christ Help Me?Many Christians understand that by His suffering in Gethsemane and on the cross the Savior paid for our sins. In Alma 7:11–13, the prophet Alma explained that the Atonement does that and much more. Alma testified that the Savior came to earth to take upon Himself every kind of suffering that is a part of this mortal experience.
Elder John H. Groberg, a member of the Seventy, said: “I testify that no one has or ever will experience any set of circumstances, be they disappointments, betrayal, pain, persecution, suffering, or whatever, that cannot and is not swallowed up in the Savior! You can feel no hurt, emotional or physical, that He has not already felt. There is no combination of human emotions or physical illness or suffering that cannot find refuge in the Savior’s sacrifice for us. He knows how to help us. He wants to help us. Please let him” (“Trust the Lord” [CES fireside for young adults, May 1, 1994], 6). |
Do activity B and activity A or C as you study Alma 6–7.
Summarize the Covenant of BaptismA covenant is an agreement, promise, or contract between two people or groups. Compare Alma 7:15–16 and Doctrine and Covenants 20:77 and write a summary of what we promise Heavenly Father and what He promises us when we make the covenant of baptism (see Mosiah 18 for additional help).
Apply the Atonement to Our DayIn Alma 7:9–16, Alma shared his testimony about the life and mission of Jesus Christ.
Search verses 11–13 and list four different challenges we might face in this life that the life and Atonement of Jesus Christ help us with (see also the information in the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Alma 7:11–13).
For each of the following situations, identify which of the four challenges it illustrates and explain how turning to Jesus Christ would help that person:
Melinda is 12 years old. Last month an automobile accident left her legs paralyzed.
Juan had made some bad choices and done things he is now ashamed of. He feels depressed and worthless.
Michael is 45 years old. He has a wife and children. He just found out he has cancer and the doctors say he has no more than one year to live. He is sad, confused, and even a little angry.
Emma has just been called as the president of her Laurel class. She has never had a calling like this before. She loves the gospel and really wants to do a good job, but she feels very frightened and inadequate.
Illustrate the ScriptureStudy Alma 7:19–21 and draw a picture of an important gospel principle you find described there. Title your drawing with a phrase that explains what it represents.
Missionary work requires great effort and can be discouraging at times. When President Gordon B. Hinckley was a young missionary in England, he felt very discouraged. “[He] wrote his father that he wasn’t getting anywhere with missionary work, and that he couldn’t see the point in wasting his time and his father’s money. Responding as both father and stake president, Bryant Hinckley sent a reply that was brief and to the point: ‘Dear Gordon, I have your recent letter. I have only one suggestion: forget yourself and go to work’” (Sheri L. Dew, Go Forward with Faith: The Biography of Gordon B. Hinckley [1996], 64).
Alma became discouraged while preaching in Ammonihah. As you read of his experience, look for how the Lord encouraged and strengthened him so that he would continue his labors.
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Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 8.
Write an ArticleCompare Alma’s experiences in the land of Melek (see Alma 8:3–6) and in Ammonihah (see vv. 7–13). If you were a newspaper reporter assigned to write an article about Alma’s visit to each place, what would you write? Be sure to include how he was treated and why you think he was treated that way.
Summarize What Was SaidAn angel spoke to both Alma and Amulek.
Summarize what the angel said to Alma (see Alma 8:14–17) and to Amulek (see Alma 8:20; 10:7).
How might what the angel said encourage missionaries today?
Write a Letter HomeImagine you are Alma or Amulek writing a letter to your family. Study Alma 8:21–32 and write a note home about what is happening in the mission to Ammonihah.
The hard-hearted people of Ammonihah were angry with and shouted insults at Alma and Amulek. Later, these two faithful missionaries were thrown into prison. If you were faced with this kind of opposition, how would you react? As you read Alma 9, imagine that you are there with Alma. What kind of courage would be needed to face those people? What could you say that would best help them? Alma’s and Amulek’s teachings to the people of Ammonihah are found in chapters 9–14.
Alma 9:26–27—The Healing Process of Repentance
President James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, said: “All of us have made wrong turns along the way. I believe the kind and merciful God, whose children we are, will judge us as lightly as He can for the wrongs that we have done and give us the maximum blessing for the good that we do. Alma’s sublime utterance [in Alma 9:26] seems to me an affirmation of this” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1996, 75; or Ensign, Nov. 1996, 53). |
Do activities A and B or activity C as you study Alma 9.
What Can We Learn from History?Count the times Alma used the phrases “do ye not remember” and “have ye forgotten” in Alma 9:7–14.
List the examples he used from Nephite and Lamanite history to show the necessity of repentance.
Write your ideas about how each of these examples would help the people in Ammonihah to repent.
In what ways do his examples help you have a greater desire to repent?
Take an InventoryAlma lists the many blessings the Nephites experienced in Alma 9:18–22.
Make two columns in your notebook. In one column list the temporal (physical) blessings the Nephites were given and in the other column list the spiritual blessings they received.
Read Alma’s warning in Alma 9:23–24. How does his warning apply to Doctrine and Covenants 82:3? Why?
Make a PosterCreate a poster that represents the doctrines taught in Alma 9:25–30. Design the poster in a way that you could use it in a class to help other students better understand Alma’s teachings about Jesus Christ.
Bishop H. David Burton, then First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric, taught: “Alma and Amulek listened to the angel. They responded to the call to missionary service, and they preached repentance. They stood tall in the face of adversity and imprisonment. They are heroes whose lives are worthy of emulation” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1993, 60; or Ensign, May 1993, 47). As you read of Amulek’s conversion and testimony, consider how his knowledge of Jesus Christ helped him during that difficult time. What qualities did Amulek have that you would like to emulate?
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Amulek |
Alma 10:22–23—“The Prayers of the Righteous”President Spencer W. Kimball, then Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said: “Many voices of seducing spirits advocate carnal pleasures and unrestrained physical satisfactions. Our world is now much the same as it was in the days of the Nephite prophet who said: ‘. . . if it were not for the prayers of the righteous . . . ye would even now be visited with utter destruction. . . .’ (Al. 10:22.) Of course, there are many many upright and faithful who live all the commandments and whose lives and prayers keep the world from destruction” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1971, 7; or Ensign, June 1971, 16).
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Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 10.
Interview a New ConvertTalk with a recent convert to the Church about his or her conversion and testimony. Compare this convert’s experience with Amulek’s in Alma 10:1–11. Answer the following questions:
How were their experiences similar?
How did their experiences differ?
How is Alma 10:8 similar to 1 Nephi 3:7?
Make a Word ListAs you read Alma 10:12–32, list the words that describe the lawyers and judges in Ammonihah.
Why do you think those learned, rich, and influential people were so concerned with Alma and Amulek’s words?
ExplainIn Alma 10:22–23, Amulek taught an important doctrine. Study those verses and answer the following questions:
What protected the city of Ammonihah from destruction?
What are some examples that show how this principle is true today?
What comfort and reassurance does this principle give you?
Would you deny your testimony for a large sum of money? In Alma 11, Zeezrom, a wicked lawyer, challenged the teachings of Alma and Amulek. Look for how much money he offered Amulek to deny the existence of God. Also note how Amulek confounded Zeezrom.
Alma 11:5–19—The Nephite Monetary SystemThe following chart will help you better understand the Nephite monetary system during the reign of the judges. Note that a judge’s daily wage at that time was the equivalent of a senine of gold (see Alma 11:3).
Alma 11:38–39—How Is Jesus Christ Also the “Eternal Father”?See the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Mosiah 15:1–7 (p. 84). |
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Do activities A and B as you study Alma 11.
Do the MathematicsRead Alma 11:1–19 and solve the following mathematical problems:
How many measures of grain could a Nephite judge buy with his daily wage? (see vv. 3, 7).
How many days’ wages was an onti of silver worth? (see vv. 11–13).
How many days’ wages did Zeezrom offer Amulek if he would deny his testimony? (see v. 22).
How much money would you guess Zeezrom’s bribe would be worth today?
Why do you think information on the Nephite money system is important?
Helpful Missionary ScripturesMissionaries are asked many questions. Write which verses from Alma 11:36–46 you would use to answer each of the following questions:
What will I look like when I am resurrected?
How many people who live on the earth will be resurrected?
What am I required to do in order to enter into heaven?
After I am resurrected, will I ever die again?
You may have many opportunities during your life to share the gospel with others and to teach those who are not members of the Church. Alma 11 is a record of Amulek’s experience with Zeezrom. Alma 12 is a record of Alma teaching Zeezrom and the people round about. As you read chapter 12, think about how missionaries today might use these teachings or doctrines during their discussions.
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Zeezrom |
Alma 12:9–10—How Can I Come to “Know the Mysteries of God”?Modern revelation clarifies that we progress step by step. We receive more light and truth as we keep God’s commandments and live true to the light and truth we already have. (See D&C 84:44–47; 93:20, 27–28.) Alma 12:16–18, 32—What Is the Second Death?Elder Boyd K. Packer, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, explained: “The Atonement was absolutely essential for men to cleanse themselves from sin and overcome the second death, which is the spiritual death, which is separation from our Father in Heaven. For the scriptures tell us, seven times they tell us, that no unclean thing may enter the presence of God” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1988, 82; or Ensign, May 1988, 70; see also number 5 in the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Alma 5:9, p. 101). |
Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 12.
Define a TermRead Alma 12:6 and list three phrases that identify Satan’s intentions.
For each phrase you listed, write down one method Satan uses to drag youth down today.
Study Alma 12:9–11 and write a definition for the term “chains of hell.”
Write a TalkImagine being assigned to speak in sacrament meeting on the subject “The Final Judgment.” Write a short talk using Alma 12:12–18 as your reference. Use at least two quotations from those verses.
An Upward Fall
Read Alma 12:19–27 and answer the following questions:
What happened when Adam partook of the forbidden fruit?
What would have happened if Adam had partaken of the tree of life after he had partaken of the forbidden fruit? (see v. 23).
Why is a “probationary state” necessary before our resurrection and judgment? (see Alma 42:4–5).
Priesthood is the authority of God delegated to man to minister for the salvation of His children. Heavenly Father chose men in the premortal life who He knew would be able to help Him in mortality. How did He know whom to select? Alma explained this and helped us understand the great responsibility that rests upon those who receive the priesthood. After reading Alma 13 you will be able to explain why the priesthood is important and what the Lord expects of those who hold this power.
Alma 13:1–18—“The Holy Order of God”The phrase “holy order of God,” or a form of it, appears often in Alma 13. It refers to the Melchizedek Priesthood. Before Melchizedek’s day that priesthood “was called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God. “But out of respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme Being, to avoid the too frequent repetition of his name, they, the church, in ancient days, called that priesthood after Melchizedek, or the Melchizedek Priesthood” (D&C 107:3–4). |
Do activity A and activity B or C as you study Alma 13.
Explain What It MeansAs you read Alma 13:1–6, summarize the message in your own words.
Interview a Priesthood HolderRead Alma 13:7–13 with someone who holds the Melchizedek Priesthood. Ask the following questions and write his responses:
In your opinion, what is the most important doctrine taught in these verses?
Why do you think it is a privilege to hold the Melchizedek Priesthood?
What do you think it would be like if all priesthood holders matched the description in verse 12?
Introduce a Church LeaderYou have been asked to introduce Melchizedek as a fireside speaker. Use Alma 13:14–19 to gather some facts to use in your introduction. Write down what you would say to introduce this great man.
It often takes courage to follow the teachings of the Lord’s servants. The challenges faced by the humble in Alma 14, however, are truly remarkable. You may be surprised at how much new converts and other righteous people must endure for their faith. Make special note of how Amulek felt about what he saw and of Alma’s strength and wisdom. In addition, try to imagine what the wicked thought when they saw what eventually happened to Alma and Amulek.
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Alma 14:8–11—Why Does the Lord Allow the Righteous to Suffer?
Many of us might feel like Amulek when he saw the suffering of righteous, humble people. Alma, however, helped him (and us) understand that Heavenly Father has a greater vision of what seems like tragedy to mortal men and women. Elder Spencer W. Kimball, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, explained: “We find many people critical when a righteous person is killed, a young father or mother is taken from a family, or when violent deaths occur. Some become bitter when oft-repeated prayers seem unanswered. Some lose faith and turn sour when solemn administrations by holy men seem to be ignored. . . . But if all the sick were healed, if all the righteous were protected and the wicked destroyed, the whole program of the Father would be annulled and the basic principle of the gospel, free agency, would be ended. . . . “Should all prayers be immediately answered according to our selfish desires and our limited understanding, then there would be little or no suffering, sorrow, disappointment, or even death; and if these were not, there would also be an absence of joy, success, resurrection, eternal life, and godhood” (“Tragedy or Destiny,” Improvement Era, Mar. 1966, 180, 210; see also Alma 60:13; D&C 98:13). |
Do activity A or B as you study Alma 14.
Explain the PrinciplesStudy Alma 14:8–11; 60:13; and the quotation from Elder Kimball found in the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Alma 14:8–11, and then explain why you believe Alma and Amulek did not use priesthood power to save the righteous who were being killed. Note particularly the direction Alma followed from the Spirit.
What insight does the statement from Elder Kimball provide to explain why Alma and Amulek had to wait so long before they were given the power to deliver themselves from prison? (see Alma 14:26–29).
Unanswered QuestionsAfter forcing Alma and Amulek to watch the burning of faithful believers, the wicked judges of Ammonihah asked them many questions, seven of which are recorded in Alma 14:14–21.
Find those questions and write them in your notebook, and then write the answer you think Alma and Amulek might have given had they thought it was right to answer.
Review Alma 14:2–5 and then read 3 Nephi 14:6 and Matthew 27:11–14 and explain why you think they refused to answer the questions of the wicked judges.
Is it necessary to answer every person who mocks you for your beliefs or who criticizes the Lord’s work? Why or why not?
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| © 1991 Gary L. Kapp |
As you learned in Alma 14, the wicked people of Ammonihah drove out some of those people who believed Alma’s message, including Zeezrom, and burned the others in a fire. Alma 15 tells us where those believers went and what happened to Zeezrom and Amulek, who lost all they had in Ammonihah. Notice also what this chapter teaches us about the effects of guilt and the power of the Atonement.
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Do one of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 15.
What Might He Have Said?Review Alma 15:1–4, and then write a message expressing what you think Zeezrom would have wanted to say to Alma and Amulek.
Write a Journal EntryWrite a journal entry as if you were either Zeezrom or Alma telling about the experience described in Alma 15:5–12.
Give a Modern ExampleFrom Alma 15:16, list what Amulek sacrificed in order to serve the Lord.
Write a description of someone you know who, like Amulek, was willing to sacrifice to serve a mission.
Alma warned the wicked people of Ammonihah that they would be destroyed if they did not repent (see Alma 8:16–17; 9:4). Alma 16 tells how that prophecy was fulfilled. Ironically, the rest of the land was enjoying great blessings from the Lord as the Church grew under Alma’s teaching and leadership. As you read this chapter, think about what Mormon wanted us to learn by contrasting the story of Ammonihah with the description of the blessings that came to the righteous.
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Do one of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 16.
Draw a MapIn your notebook, draw a simplified version of the map of the Book of Mormon lands found on page 203. Label the map with the places mentioned in Alma 16:1–8. Then, with arrows and explanations, show what happened in verses 1–8.
What lesson do you think Mormon wanted us to learn from this story?
Imagine Yourself in This StoryReview what life was like in Zarahemla after “the establishment of the church became general throughout the land” (Alma 16:15; see vv. 15–21). Describe two things you would have liked most about living there then.
Describe the BenefitsSearch Alma 16 and describe at least three benefits that would come to your community if everyone lived the gospel.
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Ammon, Aaron, Omner, Himni |
In Mosiah 28, the four sons of King Mosiah desired to serve a mission rather than one of them serve as king. Alma 17 begins the account of their missions to the Lamanites, showing wonderful examples of what it means to be a missionary. As you read the next few chapters, pay special attention to what you learn about the preparation, actions, and teachings of successful missionaries. Remember, you do not have to be a full-time missionary to begin applying what you learn.
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Do activity A or B as you study Alma 17.
Identify the PatternMake a simple diagram, like the one below, in your notebook. Then search Alma 17:2–3 and list in the boxes the pattern the sons of Mosiah followed for obtaining spiritual power.
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Which of those spiritual blessings would you especially like to receive? What will you have to do to receive it?
Apply the ScripturesConsider the following situation: Elder Brown and Elder Wilson are the first missionaries assigned to a small, isolated town. The mayor of the town found out that the elders had arrived and sent a message to them that they were not welcome in his town. In their morning gospel study the elders read Alma 17. They both felt that they should apply what they learned to their modern situation.
Write an ending to this story that includes what you think these two elders might do to apply the principles they learned in Alma 17. Try to include as many principles of effective missionary work as possible.
At the end of your story, list the principles they applied and the verses in which you found each principle.
A successful missionary experience often depends on how the gospel message is first introduced. How would you begin to teach the gospel to a king? As you read Alma 18, look for more examples of how to effectively teach the gospel to others—in both what to teach and how to teach it.
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© 1995 Gary L. Kapp |
Alma 18:36–43—The Power of the Doctrines of the GospelWhere do you start when you have an opportunity to teach the gospel to someone who does not even know about God? Notice that Ammon began by answering King Lamoni’s questions about the nature of God (see Alma 18:18–28) and then taught him about the Creation (see vv. 28–36), the Fall, including the fallen behavior of his ancestors (see vv. 36–38), and the Atonement, or “plan of redemption” (v. 39). Ammon’s choice of what to teach and in what order to teach it was inspired and had a profound effect on King Lamoni (see vv. 42–43). Elder Russell M. Nelson, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, helped us understand why these doctrines are so essential: “As it is central to the plan, we should try to comprehend the meaning of the Atonement. Before we can comprehend it, though, we must understand the fall of Adam. And before we can fully appreciate the Fall, we must first comprehend the Creation. These three events—the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement—are three preeminent pillars of God’s plan, and they are doctrinally interrelated” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1993, 45; or Ensign, Nov. 1993, 33). |
Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 18.
Compare the Scriptures to a Modern ExampleRead the following story told by Elder Robert E. Wells, who was a member of the Seventy. How is this story similar to Ammon’s experience as found in Alma 17–18?
“Two elders met and taught a professor. . . . His mind was not open to their message, but the man had to go to the hospital for surgery. While he was recuperating in the hospital, his yard and garden suffered. The two missionaries felt impressed to use their preparation day to mow his lawn, trim the hedge, and weed the flowers.
“The wife told her husband what they had done. He sent for the elders to come to the hospital, and with tears in his eyes he said, ‘Never in my entire adult life has anyone ever gone out of his way to do anything for me.’
“His demeanor changed. He listened to the missionary discussions. Previously skeptical, he now paid rapt attention and visibly became more meek and humble. He prayed for the first time since he was a child, and he received a testimony and was baptized” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1985, 36; or Ensign, Nov. 1985, 28).
What kinds of service can you give to your family, neighborhood, and community at this time of your life?
A Plan for Teaching the GospelAmmon introduced the gospel to the king step-by-step.
Draw a diagram in your notebook like the one shown here and fill in each step with a summary of what Ammon taught the Lamanite king in Alma 18:24–40.
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Explain why you think Ammon chose to teach those doctrines in that order (see the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Alma 18:36–43 for help, if needed).
Principles of Sharing the GospelWrite three important principles you learned from Alma 17–18 about sharing the gospel that you think can be used by all Church members—not just full-time missionaries.
Alma 19 records some remarkable spiritual experiences. They may seem even more remarkable if you reread the description in Alma 17:14–15 of the kind of people Ammon was working among. Pay special attention to what Mormon wanted us to learn from these experiences, as recorded at the end of Alma 19.
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© 1966 Ronald K. Crosby |
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Do activities A and B as you study Alma 19.
The Process of ConversionAlma 19 teaches much about the process of conversion. Answer the following questions to help you discover this process:
From Alma 19:6, 33, what do you think are the most important words and phrases that describe the conversion of King Lamoni and his servants? Why do you think each word or phrase you chose is important?
According to Alma 19:16–17, how was Abish converted?
According to Alma 19:29–35, how did other Lamanites become converted?
Why do you think some were not converted?
Think about which words, phrases, or experience in Alma 19 are most like your own process of conversion.
What Is the Moral of the Story?In Alma 19:36, the prophet-historian Mormon explained what he wanted us to learn from Ammon’s experiences.
In your own words, explain what Mormon said the lesson is and list at least two events from Alma 17–19 that illustrate that principle.
What difference does that principle make in your life?
Not all of the sons of Mosiah had the same kind of missionary success that Ammon did. In Alma 20 you will read how Ammon’s brother, Aaron, and his companions ended up in prison. You will also read how Ammon won their release in a sword fight with Lamoni’s father! What began as a very dangerous situation ended as another great missionary opportunity.
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Do one of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 20.
Interview a MissionaryReview Alma 20:1–5 and explain how Ammon knew that his brethren were in prison.
Interview someone in your stake or mission district who has served or is currently serving a mission and ask him or her to share with you an experience when they were guided by the Spirit. Summarize that experience in your notebook.
Finish the Sentences
Ammon spoke boldly to King Lamoni’s angry father. Below are phrases that summarize what he said and how King Lamoni’s father responded. Write the phrases in your notebook and finish them with your own words, using what you learned from Alma 20:17–27. After each completed phrase, indicate who the speaker was.
Don’t kill your son. But if you do, it is better that . . .
If you die, then . . .
I know that if I killed my son . . .
Let my brothers out of prison . . .
If you will spare my life . . .
Because you love my son . . .
A Change of HeartUse direct quotations from Alma 20 to answer questions 1 and 2. Answer question 3 in your own words.
How did King Lamoni’s father feel about Ammon when they first met?
Why did he change his mind?
What lesson does this teach us about dealing with those who oppose the truth?
Alma 21–26 is the record of the missionary labors of Aaron, Muloki, and their brethren. Their experience was much different from Ammon’s. As you read Alma 21, watch for how it was different and why. You may be surprised at who caused them the most trouble.
Alma 21:3—Who Were the Amalekites and the People of Amulon?The Amalekites were Nephite apostates. This is the first time the Book of Mormon mentions them. The people of Amulon were descendants of King Noah’s wicked priests who abandoned their families, fled into the wilderness, married Lamanite women, and became part of the Lamanite society (see Mosiah 23:31–35). Alma 21:4—The Order of the NehorsFor information on the “order of the Nehors” see the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Alma 1:12 (pp. 97–98). |
Do activity A or B as you study Alma 21.
Write a LetterAfter reading Alma 21, in your notebook write a letter to your family as if you were Aaron and briefly describe your experiences.
Your Favorite ScriptureReview Alma 21:9. Assume you wanted to “open the scriptures” to a friend concerning the Savior. What Book of Mormon scripture that you have studied so far would you share? Why?
Missionaries are commissioned to teach the gospel. However, that assignment entails many challenges. A missionary must ask: What do I teach? How can I help people feel the Spirit? How do I respond to their questions? Look for positive examples of gospel teaching as you read about Aaron teaching King Lamoni’s father. Compare how and what he taught to Ammon’s experience in Alma 18:22–40.
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Lamoni’s Father |
Alma 22:12–14—To Understand the Atonement We Must First Understand the Doctrines of the Creation and the Fall of AdamElder Bruce R. McConkie, who was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, wrote, “The Father’s eternal plan called for the creation, for the fall, and for the atonement, all woven together into one united whole” (A New Witness for the Articles of Faith [1985], 82). President Ezra Taft Benson helped us understand this further: “The Book of Mormon Saints knew that the plan of redemption must start with the account of the fall of Adam. . . . “Just as a man does not really desire food until he is hungry, so he does not desire the salvation of Christ until he knows why he needs Christ.
“No one adequately and properly knows why he needs Christ until he understands and accepts the doctrine of the Fall and its effect upon all mankind. And no other book in the world explains this vital doctrine nearly as well as the Book of Mormon. . . . “Are we accepting and teaching what the revelations tell us about the Creation, Adam and the fall of man, and redemption from that fall through the atonement of Christ? . . . “Do we understand and are we effective in teaching and preaching the Atonement? What personal meaning does the Lord’s suffering in Gethsemane and on Calvary have for each of us? “What does redemption from the Fall mean to us?” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1987, 106–7; or Ensign, May 1987, 85). |
Do activities A and B as you study Alma 22.
Identify Key WordsReview Alma 22:5–11 and list five key words that represent the major ideas in this passage.
Circle the word you think is most important and explain why you picked it.
Why do you think missionaries begin by teaching basic gospel principles?
Answer the QuestionAccording to Alma 22:12–14, what three essential doctrines did Aaron teach the king? (see the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Alma 22:12–14 for help, if needed).
After learning those doctrines, the king asked two important questions (see v. 15). Write those two questions in your own words.
Using Alma 22:15–18 as a pattern, write your response if a friend asked you those questions.
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Do you know anyone who was converted to the Lord and His gospel through missionary work? How did they change when they accepted the gospel? In what ways has studying the Book of Mormon influenced your life? As you read Alma 23, notice how the gospel message changed the people Ammon taught. Look for the covenant they made and consider how it would affect their future.
Alma 23:17—What Does the Name Anti-Nephi-Lehi Mean?The name Anti-Nephi-Lehi may mean that the new converts desired to become like Nephi and Lehi and may have chosen a new name that reflected their righteous desires. Studies show that in some languages there is a common root corresponding to the word anti that means “in the face of” or “facing,” like you would face a mirror. It may have a meaning similar to the word imitation. In this light the name Anti-Nephi-Lehies might refer to those who desire to imitate what the descendants of Nephi and Lehi taught (see Daniel H. Ludlow, A Companion to Your Study of the Book of Mormon [1976], 210). |
Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 23.
A True ConversionRead Alma 23:6–13 and answer the following questions:
What did the Lamanites who were baptized do that showed they were converted to the Lord?
Why do you think those Lamanites “never did fall away” (v. 6)?
What weapons of rebellion against God should people “lay down” today?
Teaching the Gospel
Study Alma 23:4–6 and answer the following questions:
What did Aaron and his brothers use as a primary source for teaching?
What power assisted them in their teaching?
What phrases describe how effective their teaching was?
What experiences have strengthened your testimony?
Explain Who and WhyReview Alma 23:6–13, 16–18. Explain who the people were who had taken upon themselves the name Anti-Nephi-Lehi and why they were so faithful in keeping the commandments.
Think of the covenants you made at baptism and how important those covenants are. Would you be willing to give up your life rather than break your covenants? The Anti-Nephi-Lehies valued their covenants more than their lives. As you read about their commitment, think about the courage required to keep your covenants in today’s world.
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Do activities A and B as you study Alma 24.
True or False?
Write the following statements in your notebook. Using Alma 24:11–19, indicate which statements are correct by writing true at the end of the sentence. Rewrite the false statements to make them true.
The people felt that they were the most lost of all mankind because of the killing they had done prior to their conversion (see v. 11).
The Anti-Nephi-Lehies were sure they could be forgiven if they went again to battle (see vv. 12–13).
The people disarmed themselves because they feared going to war and being killed (see v. 16).
Rather than killing and stealing, these converts decided to be fed and taken care of by the Nephites (see v. 18).
Their conversion was so strong that they were willing to die rather than sin (see v. 19).
Create a Historical MarkerRead Alma 24:17–26. Imagine that a historical marker was placed on the site where those events took place. Make a sketch of what you would like the marker to look like and what you think should be written on it.
The Lord has sent His prophets to serve as His messengers and make known His will. Sometimes they predict future events. Alma 25 shows in amazing detail the fulfillment of some of the martyred prophet Abinadi’s prophecies. As you read, reflect on the messages of today’s prophet and why greater happiness comes when we follow his counsel.
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Do activity B and then activity A or C as you study Alma 25.
Check the FootnoteThe footnote for Alma 25:2 gives insight as to why the people in the land of Ammonihah were destroyed. Read the verses listed in the footnote and write a summary of what happened in Ammonihah and why.
How Was Prophecy Fulfilled?Abinadi prophesied concerning his accusers and their descendants as he was being burned to death. Read Abinadi’s final words in Mosiah 17:14–19 and list a brief summary of each element of his prophecy.
Search Alma 25:4–12 to identify which events fulfilled Abinadi’s words. Place the verse number next to the prophecy on your list.
Discuss with your parents, teacher, or some other adult Church member some of the prophetic words of latter-day prophets that have been fulfilled. Write down what you learn.
Find Key IdeasMany of the Lamanites joined the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi and accepted the law of Moses. Find the phrases in Alma 25:15–16 that explain why the law of Moses was an important part of the gospel at that time, and then summarize in one sentence why you feel that law was helpful for the Nephites.
Full-time missionaries often return home with great enthusiasm. When faithful missionaries return, how do they usually speak regarding their mission experience, the people they taught, and the Lord? As you read Alma 26, imagine you were present when Ammon reflected on his mission. Does he seem boastful or humble? To whom did he give the credit for his success? What can you learn about gratitude from his example?
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Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 26.
Complete the ChartAmmon used descriptive words to illustrate his ideas in Alma 26:3–7. Copy and complete the following chart:
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Alma 26 |
Ammon’s Words |
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“The darkest abyss” |
A most sinful condition |
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“Instruments in the hands of God” |
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“The field was ripe” |
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Worked sharing the gospel and experienced success |
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Converts brought into the Church |
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Stand firm in the faith during temptation |
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“The Lord of the harvest” |
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Answer in Your Own WordsReview Alma 26:10 and find what Aaron thought Ammon was doing.
Read Alma 26:11–16 and summarize what you feel Ammon actually said and did.
Record examples from your life when you received help from the Lord.
Write a LetterRead Doctrine and Covenants 18:13–16 and list the promises the Lord made to those who share the gospel. Find the descriptions in Alma 26:1–4, 13–14, 35 that are similar to those promises, and next to each promise you listed write the verse number in which it appears.
Write a letter to a missionary you know, or talk with a returned missionary, and cite the verses from Alma 26 you most enjoyed. Ask him or her to send you a brief description of the greatest joy found while serving the Lord.
The fact that many Lamanites were converted to the Lord and sacrificed their lives rather than take up their swords again showed their marvelous commitment to Him. As you read in Alma 24, note that the actions of those devoted and repentant Lamanites helped bring about the conversion of even more Lamanites. Not everyone was touched by their actions, however. Other Lamanites (and Nephites who had dissented) continued to try to destroy the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. In Alma 27 you will learn what the Lord said about that situation. As you read, think about the decision the Nephites made. How would you have voted? Why? In what ways might their example apply today?
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Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 27.
What Was the Plan?The following chart will help follow the problem Alma faced and the plan he decided to carry out. Copy the chart in your notebook, and then use the information in Alma 27:1–12 to help you complete it.
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What Are the Qualifications?According to Alma 27:18, who experiences the greatest joy and happiness?
Who will never know whether the teaching of Alma 27:18 is true or not? Who will surely not know?
Using the helps available in your scriptures, find two other qualifications for experiencing great joy and happiness.
Identify Words and PhrasesList the words and phrases from Alma 27:27–30 that distinguish the Anti-Nephi-Lehies, who were the people of Ammon.
Which of those would you especially like to be known by? Why?
Allowing the people of Ammon to live in the land where the Nephites lived seemed right and proper. But what if the cost of such a decision involved losing a father or a brother in a battle defending them? Alma 28 shows us how committed the Nephites were to helping those in need and doing what they knew the Lord wanted them to. Pay special attention to the last verses of the chapter, in which Mormon reminded us that much of the suffering and sorrow we read about in Alma 28 did not have to happen. He identified the real cause of that and other “inequalities”—in other words, why some events occur that are not really fair or just. He also reminded us of what can prevent such events from occurring.
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Do activity A as you study Alma 28.
State the MoralIn Alma 28:13, Mormon wrote the first of two “and thus we see” statements. He then explained a lesson that can be learned from the events described. In your own words, summarize the lesson he taught and explain how it relates to the events mentioned in the chapter. In Alma 28:14 two additional “and thus we see” statements are given. You may want to mark them in your scriptures.
Serving an honorable mission provides many valuable experiences and opportunities for spiritual growth. It brings a feeling that fills the heart with joy. As you read Alma 29, try to sense the joy Alma felt as he thought of the blessings that came to him and others because of his participation in the Lord’s work. Missionaries today can feel the same kind of joy as they bless others with their service. Notice also the effect Alma’s joy had on his desires.
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Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Alma 29.
Give Some CounselUsing what you learn in Alma 29, write a letter of counsel that could be given to a young man on his way to the mission field. Include at least two ideas from Alma 29 about the attitudes of a great missionary.
Notice an Important WordThe word remember appears several times in Alma 29:10–13. You may want to highlight it each time it occurs.
What did Alma remember? Why did he remember those things?
What do you remember when you desire to increase your feelings of spirituality?
Define a WordAccording to Alma 29:13–17, how would Alma define success in being one of the Lord’s servants—such as a missionary? (See Alma 8:15 for what the angel told Alma earlier in his life that would give him reason to rejoice even in his seeming unsuccessful efforts.)
