Lesson 31: Firm in the Faith of Christ

Purpose

To help class members see how the Nephites' attitudes and actions in times of war can serve as a pattern for dealing with our earthly conflicts and the battle against Satan.

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 43-52
• Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom - Elder Robert D. Hales
• War and Peace - Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley

Questions to Ponder:

1. The Nephites fight to defend their families and their liberty.

• Why did the Nephites fight against the Lamanites? (See Alma 43:3–4, 9–11, 45–47; 48:14.) Under what circumstances does the Lord approve of people going to war?

  President Charles W. Penrose, who was a member of the First Presidency, said: "It is not right for us to engage in the shedding of human blood, for vengeance or retaliation. But when the Lord commands or inspires his servants to counsel the sons and daughters of Israel to lend their aid in the work of righteous warfare, that is different. … We are to arise in our might and in our strength and go forth to victory; not with a desire to shed blood, not with the desire to destroy our fellow creatures, but in self defense and because we do want to maintain and hand down to our posterity those sacred principles of liberty that have been revealed from on high" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1917, 21).

  Elder David O. McKay said: "There are … two conditions which may justify a truly Christian man to enter—mind you, I say enter, not begin—a war: (1) An attempt to dominate and to deprive another of his free agency, and, (2) Loyalty to his country. Possibly there is a third, [namely], Defense of a weak nation that is being unjustly crushed by a strong, ruthless one" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1942, 72).

• When Moroni confronted Zerahemnah, to what did he attribute the Nephites' success in battle? (See Alma 44:3–4.) How had the Nephites demonstrated their faith in Christ? (See Alma 43:23, 49–50.)
   
• What can we do in our families and communities to help preserve the freedoms the Nephites cherished?
   
• How might understanding and applying these principles today help bring about greater peace in the world? How can we apply these principles in dealing with conflict in our personal lives?
   
  1. Fight only for righteous reasons, such as self-defense (Alma 43:8–10, 29–30, 45–47; 48:14).
      
  2. Have no hate toward your enemies; seek their best interests as well as your own (Alma 43:53–54;44:1–2, 6).
      
  3. Live righteously and trust in God (Alma 44:3–4;48:15, 19–20).
      
  4. Follow righteous and wise leaders (Alma 43:16–19; 48:11–13, 17–19; see also D&C 98:10).

2. Captain Moroni raises the "title of liberty" to inspire the people.

• How was Amalickiah able to persuade others to follow him? (See Alma 46:1–7, 10.) What was the motive of the people who supported him? (See Alma 46:4–5.) What can we learn from the account of Amalickiah and his followers? (See Alma 46:8–9.)
   
• Why did Moroni create the title of liberty? (See Alma 46:11–13, 18–20.) How did the people respond to the title of liberty? (See Alma 46:21–22.) How does making and keeping covenants affect our lives?

3. Amalickiah becomes king of the Lamanites and incites them to battle.

• What did Amalickiah do when he failed to become king over the Nephites? (See Alma 46:33; 47:1, 4.  Alma 47:1–35)
   
• Some of the strongest opponents of the Nephites had once been Nephites themselves, including the Amalekites (Alma 24:29–30; 43:6–7), the Zoramites (Alma 30:59; 31:8–11; 43:4), Amalickiah (Alma 46:1–7), Morianton (Alma 50:26, 35), and Amalickiah's brother Ammoron (Alma 52:3). Why do those who have left the Church often fight so strongly against it? (See Mosiah 2:36–37; Alma 47:35–36.)
   
• Contrast Amalickiah and Moroni (Alma 48:1–17, Alma 46:9), How can just as one wicked person cause much wickedness among the people or one righteous person, like Moroni, inspire much righteousness?  How can we encourage and support righteous leaders? How can each of us inspire righteousness among others?

4. War continues between the Nephites and the Lamanites.

• How can the accounts of war in the Book of Mormon apply to our fight against the influence of Satan? (Some examples are given below, can you think of others?)
   
  1. The Nephites built walls to protect their cities from the Lamanites' attacks (Alma 48:7–9; 49:2–4, 13, 18). What defenses can protect us from Satan's influence?
      
  2. The Nephites continually strengthened their defenses (Alma 50:1–6). Why must we continually strengthen our defenses against Satan?
      
  3. The Nephites kept the commandments of God and followed their Church leaders (Alma 44:3–4;49:30; 50:20–22). How do the commandments of God and the counsel of our Church leaders help us fight wickedness?
      
  4. The Nephites thanked God for protecting them in battle (Alma 45:1; 49:28). How can gratitude to the Lord protect us against Satan?
      
  5. Contention caused the Nephites to fight among themselves and allowed the Lamanites to gain power over them (Alma 51:2–7, 12–23; 53:8–9). How does contention allow Satan to gain power over us? How can unity and support from other people help us as we fight against wickedness?
      
  6. The righteous Nephites were prosperous and happy even in times of war (Alma 49:30; 50:23). How can we find peace and happiness even during times of terrible wickedness?

Lesson 31: Firm in the Faith of Christ

Purpose

To help class members see how the Nephites' attitudes and actions in times of war can serve as a pattern for dealing with our earthly conflicts and the battle against Satan.

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 43-52
• Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom - Elder Robert D. Hales
• War and Peace - Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley

Questions to Ponder:

1. The Nephites fight to defend their families and their liberty.

• Why did the Nephites fight against the Lamanites? (See Alma 43:3–4, 9–11, 45–47; 48:14.) Under what circumstances does the Lord approve of people going to war?

  President Charles W. Penrose, who was a member of the First Presidency, said: "It is not right for us to engage in the shedding of human blood, for vengeance or retaliation. But when the Lord commands or inspires his servants to counsel the sons and daughters of Israel to lend their aid in the work of righteous warfare, that is different. … We are to arise in our might and in our strength and go forth to victory; not with a desire to shed blood, not with the desire to destroy our fellow creatures, but in self defense and because we do want to maintain and hand down to our posterity those sacred principles of liberty that have been revealed from on high" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1917, 21).

  Elder David O. McKay said: "There are … two conditions which may justify a truly Christian man to enter—mind you, I say enter, not begin—a war: (1) An attempt to dominate and to deprive another of his free agency, and, (2) Loyalty to his country. Possibly there is a third, [namely], Defense of a weak nation that is being unjustly crushed by a strong, ruthless one" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1942, 72).

• When Moroni confronted Zerahemnah, to what did he attribute the Nephites' success in battle? (See Alma 44:3–4.) How had the Nephites demonstrated their faith in Christ? (See Alma 43:23, 49–50.)
   
• What can we do in our families and communities to help preserve the freedoms the Nephites cherished?
   
• How might understanding and applying these principles today help bring about greater peace in the world? How can we apply these principles in dealing with conflict in our personal lives?
   
  1. Fight only for righteous reasons, such as self-defense (Alma 43:8–10, 29–30, 45–47; 48:14).
      
  2. Have no hate toward your enemies; seek their best interests as well as your own (Alma 43:53–54;44:1–2, 6).
      
  3. Live righteously and trust in God (Alma 44:3–4;48:15, 19–20).
      
  4. Follow righteous and wise leaders (Alma 43:16–19; 48:11–13, 17–19; see also D&C 98:10).

2. Captain Moroni raises the "title of liberty" to inspire the people.

• How was Amalickiah able to persuade others to follow him? (See Alma 46:1–7, 10.) What was the motive of the people who supported him? (See Alma 46:4–5.) What can we learn from the account of Amalickiah and his followers? (See Alma 46:8–9.)
   
• Why did Moroni create the title of liberty? (See Alma 46:11–13, 18–20.) How did the people respond to the title of liberty? (See Alma 46:21–22.) How does making and keeping covenants affect our lives?

3. Amalickiah becomes king of the Lamanites and incites them to battle.

• What did Amalickiah do when he failed to become king over the Nephites? (See Alma 46:33; 47:1, 4.  Alma 47:1–35)
   
• Some of the strongest opponents of the Nephites had once been Nephites themselves, including the Amalekites (Alma 24:29–30; 43:6–7), the Zoramites (Alma 30:59; 31:8–11; 43:4), Amalickiah (Alma 46:1–7), Morianton (Alma 50:26, 35), and Amalickiah's brother Ammoron (Alma 52:3). Why do those who have left the Church often fight so strongly against it? (See Mosiah 2:36–37; Alma 47:35–36.)
   
• Contrast Amalickiah and Moroni (Alma 48:1–17, Alma 46:9), How can just as one wicked person cause much wickedness among the people or one righteous person, like Moroni, inspire much righteousness?  How can we encourage and support righteous leaders? How can each of us inspire righteousness among others?

4. War continues between the Nephites and the Lamanites.

• How can the accounts of war in the Book of Mormon apply to our fight against the influence of Satan? (Some examples are given below, can you think of others?)
   
  1. The Nephites built walls to protect their cities from the Lamanites' attacks (Alma 48:7–9; 49:2–4, 13, 18). What defenses can protect us from Satan's influence?
      
  2. The Nephites continually strengthened their defenses (Alma 50:1–6). Why must we continually strengthen our defenses against Satan?
      
  3. The Nephites kept the commandments of God and followed their Church leaders (Alma 44:3–4;49:30; 50:20–22). How do the commandments of God and the counsel of our Church leaders help us fight wickedness?
      
  4. The Nephites thanked God for protecting them in battle (Alma 45:1; 49:28). How can gratitude to the Lord protect us against Satan?
      
  5. Contention caused the Nephites to fight among themselves and allowed the Lamanites to gain power over them (Alma 51:2–7, 12–23; 53:8–9). How does contention allow Satan to gain power over us? How can unity and support from other people help us as we fight against wickedness?
      
  6. The righteous Nephites were prosperous and happy even in times of war (Alma 49:30; 50:23). How can we find peace and happiness even during times of terrible wickedness?

Lesson 31: Firm in the Faith of Christ

Purpose

To help class members see how the Nephites' attitudes and actions in times of war can serve as a pattern for dealing with our earthly conflicts and the battle against Satan.

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 43-52
• Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom - Elder Robert D. Hales
• War and Peace - Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley

Questions to Ponder:

1. The Nephites fight to defend their families and their liberty.

• Why did the Nephites fight against the Lamanites? (See Alma 43:3–4, 9–11, 45–47; 48:14.) Under what circumstances does the Lord approve of people going to war?

  President Charles W. Penrose, who was a member of the First Presidency, said: "It is not right for us to engage in the shedding of human blood, for vengeance or retaliation. But when the Lord commands or inspires his servants to counsel the sons and daughters of Israel to lend their aid in the work of righteous warfare, that is different. … We are to arise in our might and in our strength and go forth to victory; not with a desire to shed blood, not with the desire to destroy our fellow creatures, but in self defense and because we do want to maintain and hand down to our posterity those sacred principles of liberty that have been revealed from on high" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1917, 21).

  Elder David O. McKay said: "There are … two conditions which may justify a truly Christian man to enter—mind you, I say enter, not begin—a war: (1) An attempt to dominate and to deprive another of his free agency, and, (2) Loyalty to his country. Possibly there is a third, [namely], Defense of a weak nation that is being unjustly crushed by a strong, ruthless one" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1942, 72).

• When Moroni confronted Zerahemnah, to what did he attribute the Nephites' success in battle? (See Alma 44:3–4.) How had the Nephites demonstrated their faith in Christ? (See Alma 43:23, 49–50.)
   
• What can we do in our families and communities to help preserve the freedoms the Nephites cherished?
   
• How might understanding and applying these principles today help bring about greater peace in the world? How can we apply these principles in dealing with conflict in our personal lives?
   
  1. Fight only for righteous reasons, such as self-defense (Alma 43:8–10, 29–30, 45–47; 48:14).
      
  2. Have no hate toward your enemies; seek their best interests as well as your own (Alma 43:53–54;44:1–2, 6).
      
  3. Live righteously and trust in God (Alma 44:3–4;48:15, 19–20).
      
  4. Follow righteous and wise leaders (Alma 43:16–19; 48:11–13, 17–19; see also D&C 98:10).

2. Captain Moroni raises the "title of liberty" to inspire the people.

• How was Amalickiah able to persuade others to follow him? (See Alma 46:1–7, 10.) What was the motive of the people who supported him? (See Alma 46:4–5.) What can we learn from the account of Amalickiah and his followers? (See Alma 46:8–9.)
   
• Why did Moroni create the title of liberty? (See Alma 46:11–13, 18–20.) How did the people respond to the title of liberty? (See Alma 46:21–22.) How does making and keeping covenants affect our lives?

3. Amalickiah becomes king of the Lamanites and incites them to battle.

• What did Amalickiah do when he failed to become king over the Nephites? (See Alma 46:33; 47:1, 4.  Alma 47:1–35)
   
• Some of the strongest opponents of the Nephites had once been Nephites themselves, including the Amalekites (Alma 24:29–30; 43:6–7), the Zoramites (Alma 30:59; 31:8–11; 43:4), Amalickiah (Alma 46:1–7), Morianton (Alma 50:26, 35), and Amalickiah's brother Ammoron (Alma 52:3). Why do those who have left the Church often fight so strongly against it? (See Mosiah 2:36–37; Alma 47:35–36.)
   
• Contrast Amalickiah and Moroni (Alma 48:1–17, Alma 46:9), How can just as one wicked person cause much wickedness among the people or one righteous person, like Moroni, inspire much righteousness?  How can we encourage and support righteous leaders? How can each of us inspire righteousness among others?

4. War continues between the Nephites and the Lamanites.

• How can the accounts of war in the Book of Mormon apply to our fight against the influence of Satan? (Some examples are given below, can you think of others?)
   
  1. The Nephites built walls to protect their cities from the Lamanites' attacks (Alma 48:7–9; 49:2–4, 13, 18). What defenses can protect us from Satan's influence?
      
  2. The Nephites continually strengthened their defenses (Alma 50:1–6). Why must we continually strengthen our defenses against Satan?
      
  3. The Nephites kept the commandments of God and followed their Church leaders (Alma 44:3–4;49:30; 50:20–22). How do the commandments of God and the counsel of our Church leaders help us fight wickedness?
      
  4. The Nephites thanked God for protecting them in battle (Alma 45:1; 49:28). How can gratitude to the Lord protect us against Satan?
      
  5. Contention caused the Nephites to fight among themselves and allowed the Lamanites to gain power over them (Alma 51:2–7, 12–23; 53:8–9). How does contention allow Satan to gain power over us? How can unity and support from other people help us as we fight against wickedness?
      
  6. The righteous Nephites were prosperous and happy even in times of war (Alma 49:30; 50:23). How can we find peace and happiness even during times of terrible wickedness?

Lesson 31: Firm in the Faith of Christ

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 43-52
• Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom - Elder Robert D. Hales
• War and Peace - Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley

Questions to Ponder:

1. The Nephites fight to defend their families and their liberty.

• Why did the Nephites fight against the Lamanites? (See Alma 43:3–4, 9–11, 45–47; 48:14.) Under what circumstances does the Lord approve of people going to war?

  President Charles W. Penrose, who was a member of the First Presidency, said: "It is not right for us to engage in the shedding of human blood, for vengeance or retaliation. But when the Lord commands or inspires his servants to counsel the sons and daughters of Israel to lend their aid in the work of righteous warfare, that is different. … We are to arise in our might and in our strength and go forth to victory; not with a desire to shed blood, not with the desire to destroy our fellow creatures, but in self defense and because we do want to maintain and hand down to our posterity those sacred principles of liberty that have been revealed from on high" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1917, 21).

  Elder David O. McKay said: "There are … two conditions which may justify a truly Christian man to enter—mind you, I say enter, not begin—a war: (1) An attempt to dominate and to deprive another of his free agency, and, (2) Loyalty to his country. Possibly there is a third, [namely], Defense of a weak nation that is being unjustly crushed by a strong, ruthless one" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1942, 72).

• When Moroni confronted Zerahemnah, to what did he attribute the Nephites' success in battle? (See Alma 44:3–4.) How had the Nephites demonstrated their faith in Christ? (See Alma 43:23, 49–50.)
   
• What can we do in our families and communities to help preserve the freedoms the Nephites cherished?
   
• How might understanding and applying these principles today help bring about greater peace in the world? How can we apply these principles in dealing with conflict in our personal lives?
   
  1. Fight only for righteous reasons, such as self-defense (Alma 43:8–10, 29–30, 45–47; 48:14).
      
  2. Have no hate toward your enemies; seek their best interests as well as your own (Alma 43:53–54;44:1–2, 6).
      
  3. Live righteously and trust in God (Alma 44:3–4;48:15, 19–20).
      
  4. Follow righteous and wise leaders (Alma 43:16–19; 48:11–13, 17–19; see also D&C 98:10).

2. Captain Moroni raises the "title of liberty" to inspire the people.

• How was Amalickiah able to persuade others to follow him? (See Alma 46:1–7, 10.) What was the motive of the people who supported him? (See Alma 46:4–5.) What can we learn from the account of Amalickiah and his followers? (See Alma 46:8–9.)
   
• Why did Moroni create the title of liberty? (See Alma 46:11–13, 18–20.) How did the people respond to the title of liberty? (See Alma 46:21–22.) How does making and keeping covenants affect our lives?

3. Amalickiah becomes king of the Lamanites and incites them to battle.

• What did Amalickiah do when he failed to become king over the Nephites? (See Alma 46:33; 47:1, 4.  Alma 47:1–35)
   
• Some of the strongest opponents of the Nephites had once been Nephites themselves, including the Amalekites (Alma 24:29–30; 43:6–7), the Zoramites (Alma 30:59; 31:8–11; 43:4), Amalickiah (Alma 46:1–7), Morianton (Alma 50:26, 35), and Amalickiah's brother Ammoron (Alma 52:3). Why do those who have left the Church often fight so strongly against it? (See Mosiah 2:36–37; Alma 47:35–36.)
   
• Contrast Amalickiah and Moroni (Alma 48:1–17, Alma 46:9), How can just as one wicked person cause much wickedness among the people or one righteous person, like Moroni, inspire much righteousness?  How can we encourage and support righteous leaders? How can each of us inspire righteousness among others?

4. War continues between the Nephites and the Lamanites.

• How can the accounts of war in the Book of Mormon apply to our fight against the influence of Satan? (Some examples are given below, can you think of others?)
   
  1. The Nephites built walls to protect their cities from the Lamanites' attacks (Alma 48:7–9; 49:2–4, 13, 18). What defenses can protect us from Satan's influence?
      
  2. The Nephites continually strengthened their defenses (Alma 50:1–6). Why must we continually strengthen our defenses against Satan?
      
  3. The Nephites kept the commandments of God and followed their Church leaders (Alma 44:3–4;49:30; 50:20–22). How do the commandments of God and the counsel of our Church leaders help us fight wickedness?
      
  4. The Nephites thanked God for protecting them in battle (Alma 45:1; 49:28). How can gratitude to the Lord protect us against Satan?
      
  5. Contention caused the Nephites to fight among themselves and allowed the Lamanites to gain power over them (Alma 51:2–7, 12–23; 53:8–9). How does contention allow Satan to gain power over us? How can unity and support from other people help us as we fight against wickedness?
      
  6. The righteous Nephites were prosperous and happy even in times of war (Alma 49:30; 50:23). How can we find peace and happiness even during times of terrible wickedness?

Lesson 30: The Great Plan of Happiness

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 40-42
• Where Justice, Love and Mercy Meet - Jeffrey R. Holland
• The Resurrection of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Christofferson
• The Great Plan of Happiness - Dallin H. Oaks

Questions to Ponder:

1. Alma teaches Corianton about death and resurrection.

• How did Alma decide which subjects he should talk to Corianton about? (See Alma 40:1; see also Alma 41:1; 42:1.) How do you think Alma was able to "perceive" Corianton's concerns? How can we better perceive the needs of those we teach?
   
• What happens to our spirits between death and resurrection? (See Alma 40:11–13.) How did Alma describe paradise and spirit prison?
   
• Alma said that at an appointed time, we will be resurrected (Alma 40:21). What does it mean to be resurrected? (See Alma 40:21, 23.) Who will be resurrected? (See Alma 40:5; see also Alma 11:42–44.)
   
• Alma mentioned several things that he did not know about death and resurrection (Alma 40:2–5, 8, 19–21). What can we learn of the fact that Alma testified of the doctrine of resurrection even though he did not know all the details about it?
  

2. Alma teaches that after we are resurrected, the righteous will be restored to happiness and the wicked will be restored to misery.

• Alma referred to resurrection as a restoration because the spirit and body are reunited and the body is restored to its "perfect frame" (Alma 40:23;41:2). What further restoration will take place when we are resurrected and "judged according to [our] works"? (See Alma 41:3–6. ) What does it mean to be restored unto good or evil?
   
• In what sense are we "[our] own judges"? (See Alma 41:7–8.)
   
• Alma explained that Corianton could not be restored from sin to happiness because "wickedness never was happiness" (Alma 41:10). Why can't wickedness bring happiness? (See Alma 41:10–13; Helaman 13:38.) How would you respond to the argument that some people seem to find happiness in activities that are against the commandments?
   
• What did Alma say that Corianton needed to do to have good restored to him? (See Alma 41:14–15.) What experiences have shown you the truth of the statement that "that which ye do send out shall return unto you again"?
  

3. Alma teaches Corianton about justice and mercy.

• What would happen to us if we were subjected only to justice? (See Alma 42:14.) What is required to satisfy the demands of justice so we can return to dwell in Heavenly Father's presence? (See Alma 42:15.)
   
• How did the Atonement of Jesus Christ "appease the demands of justice"? (See Mosiah 15:7–9. He subjected Himself to death and took upon Himself the sins of all mankind.)
   
• Alma testified that "mercy cometh because of the atonement" (Alma 42:23). What must we do to be able to receive the fulness of God's mercy? (See Alma 42:13, 23, 27, 29–30; see also Alma 41:14; D&C 19:15–18.)

Lesson 30: The Great Plan of Happiness

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 40-42
• Where Justice, Love and Mercy Meet - Jeffrey R. Holland
• The Resurrection of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Christofferson
• The Great Plan of Happiness - Dallin H. Oaks

Questions to Ponder:

1. Alma teaches Corianton about death and resurrection.

• How did Alma decide which subjects he should talk to Corianton about? (See Alma 40:1; see also Alma 41:1; 42:1.) How do you think Alma was able to "perceive" Corianton's concerns? How can we better perceive the needs of those we teach?
   
• What happens to our spirits between death and resurrection? (See Alma 40:11–13.) How did Alma describe paradise and spirit prison?
   
• Alma said that at an appointed time, we will be resurrected (Alma 40:21). What does it mean to be resurrected? (See Alma 40:21, 23.) Who will be resurrected? (See Alma 40:5; see also Alma 11:42–44.)
   
• Alma mentioned several things that he did not know about death and resurrection (Alma 40:2–5, 8, 19–21). What can we learn of the fact that Alma testified of the doctrine of resurrection even though he did not know all the details about it?

2. Alma teaches that after we are resurrected, the righteous will be restored to happiness and the wicked will be restored to misery.

• Alma referred to resurrection as a restoration because the spirit and body are reunited and the body is restored to its "perfect frame" (Alma 40:23;41:2). What further restoration will take place when we are resurrected and "judged according to [our] works"? (See Alma 41:3–6. ) What does it mean to be restored unto good or evil?
   
• In what sense are we "[our] own judges"? (See Alma 41:7–8.)
   
• Alma explained that Corianton could not be restored from sin to happiness because "wickedness never was happiness" (Alma 41:10). Why can't wickedness bring happiness? (See Alma 41:10–13; Helaman 13:38.) How would you respond to the argument that some people seem to find happiness in activities that are against the commandments?
   
• What did Alma say that Corianton needed to do to have good restored to him? (See Alma 41:14–15.) What experiences have shown you the truth of the statement that "that which ye do send out shall return unto you again"?

3. Alma teaches Corianton about justice and mercy.

• What would happen to us if we were subjected only to justice? (See Alma 42:14.) What is required to satisfy the demands of justice so we can return to dwell in Heavenly Father's presence? (See Alma 42:15.)
   
• How did the Atonement of Jesus Christ "appease the demands of justice"? (See Mosiah 15:7–9. He subjected Himself to death and took upon Himself the sins of all mankind.)
   
• Alma testified that "mercy cometh because of the atonement" (Alma 42:23). What must we do to be able to receive the fulness of God's mercy? (See Alma 42:13, 23, 27, 29–30; see also Alma 41:14; D&C 19:15–18.)

Lesson 30: The Great Plan of Happiness

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 40-42
• Where Justice, Love and Mercy Meet - Jeffrey R. Holland
• The Resurrection of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Christofferson
• The Great Plan of Happiness - Dallin H. Oaks

Questions to Ponder:

1. Alma teaches Corianton about death and resurrection.

• How did Alma decide which subjects he should talk to Corianton about? (See Alma 40:1; see also Alma 41:1; 42:1.) How do you think Alma was able to "perceive" Corianton's concerns? How can we better perceive the needs of those we teach?
   
• What happens to our spirits between death and resurrection? (See Alma 40:11–13.) How did Alma describe paradise and spirit prison?
   
• Alma said that at an appointed time, we will be resurrected (Alma 40:21). What does it mean to be resurrected? (See Alma 40:21, 23.) Who will be resurrected? (See Alma 40:5; see also Alma 11:42–44.)
   
• Alma mentioned several things that he did not know about death and resurrection (Alma 40:2–5, 8, 19–21). What can we learn of the fact that Alma testified of the doctrine of resurrection even though he did not know all the details about it?

2. Alma teaches that after we are resurrected, the righteous will be restored to happiness and the wicked will be restored to misery.

• Alma referred to resurrection as a restoration because the spirit and body are reunited and the body is restored to its "perfect frame" (Alma 40:23;41:2). What further restoration will take place when we are resurrected and "judged according to [our] works"? (See Alma 41:3–6. ) What does it mean to be restored unto good or evil?
   
• In what sense are we "[our] own judges"? (See Alma 41:7–8.)
   
• Alma explained that Corianton could not be restored from sin to happiness because "wickedness never was happiness" (Alma 41:10). Why can't wickedness bring happiness? (See Alma 41:10–13; Helaman 13:38.) How would you respond to the argument that some people seem to find happiness in activities that are against the commandments?
   
• What did Alma say that Corianton needed to do to have good restored to him? (See Alma 41:14–15.) What experiences have shown you the truth of the statement that "that which ye do send out shall return unto you again"?

3. Alma teaches Corianton about justice and mercy.

• What would happen to us if we were subjected only to justice? (See Alma 42:14.) What is required to satisfy the demands of justice so we can return to dwell in Heavenly Father's presence? (See Alma 42:15.)
   
• How did the Atonement of Jesus Christ "appease the demands of justice"? (See Mosiah 15:7–9. He subjected Himself to death and took upon Himself the sins of all mankind.)
   
• Alma testified that "mercy cometh because of the atonement" (Alma 42:23). What must we do to be able to receive the fulness of God's mercy? (See Alma 42:13, 23, 27, 29–30; see also Alma 41:14; D&C 19:15–18.)

Lesson 29: Give Ear to My Words

Purpose:
To teach class members Alma’s counsel for remaining faithful in the gospel and to help parents understand how to teach and counsel both righteous and unrighteous children.

Reading:

Alma 36-39

For the Strength of Youth: Dating, Dress and Appearance, Entertainment and Media, Music and Dancing, Physical and Emotional Health, Repentance, Sexual Purity

Overview:

a. Alma 36–37. Alma recounts his conversion and bears his testimony to his son Helaman. He instructs Helaman to preserve the sacred records.

b. Alma 38. Alma praises his son Shiblon for his faithfulness and encourages him to continue in righteousness, enduring to the end.

c. Alma 39. Alma admonishes his son Corianton for immoral actions and counsels Corianton about the consequences of such sin.

Questions to Ponder:

a. 

• Alma 36 contains Alma’s testimony as expressed to his son Helaman (see especially verses 3–5 and 26–28). Why is it important for children to hear their parents bear their testimonies? In what ways have your parents’ testimonies influenced your life?
• As part of his testimony, Alma told Helaman of his conversion (Alma 36:6–24; see also Alma 38:7–9, where Alma tells his son Shiblon of his conversion, and lesson 20, which discusses Alma’s conversion in greater detail). Why do you think Alma shared his conversion story with his sons? How have you benefited from hearing about how other people have become converted?
• Many times Alma encouraged Helaman to follow his example and charged him to; “Ye should do as I have done” (Alma 36:2), “I beseech of thee that thou wilt hear my words and learn of me” (Alma 36:3), “Ye also ought to retain in remembrance, as I have done” (Alma 36:29), “Ye ought to know as I do know” (Alma 36:30).  Why is it important for parents to set a righteous example for their children?
• How did Alma emphasize to Helaman the importance of keeping the records? (See Alma 37:1–2, 6–12.) In what ways was keeping the records a “small and simple thing” that would bring about “great things”? (Alma 37:6–7). What “great things” will the scriptures do for us if we study them diligently? (See Alma 37:8–10.)
• What did Alma tell Helaman to teach the people? (See Alma 37:32–34.) How can parents, teachers, and other adults help young people today “learn wisdom in [their] youth”? (Alma 37:35).
• How has your life been affected as you have endeavored to follow the counsel given in Alma 37:36–37? How can we better heed this counsel?
• What comparisons did Alma make between the word of God and the Liahona? (See Alma 37:38–45.) What must we do so that the word of God becomes a Liahona for each of us?
• Alma counseled Helaman, “Do not let us be slothful because of the easiness of the way” (Alma 37:46; see also Numbers 21:5–9; 1 Nephi 17:41). In what sense is the way to eternal life easy? Why is the easiness of the way a stumbling block to some people? How can we keep our focus on simple, saving faith in Christ? How do we “look to God and live”? (Alma 37:47).

b. 

• What qualities in Shiblon brought great joy to his father? (See Alma 38:2–4.) Why is it important for parents to recognize and praise their children for their good qualities and righteous living?
• How has putting your trust in God helped you in times of trial or affliction? (See Alma 38:5)
• Even though Shiblon was faithful, Alma concluded his words to his son with an admonition (Alma 38:10–15). Why is it important for even the righteous to receive counsel and warning? How can we learn to receive such counsel and warning in humility?
• Alma counseled Shiblon to continue teaching the word of God, being “diligent and temperate,” using “boldness, but not overbearance” (Alma 38:10, 12.) How can we follow this counsel as we share our beliefs with others?
• Alma warned Shiblon not to boast of his own wisdom or strength (Alma 38:11). How can pride in our own wisdom or strength lead to greater sins? How can we overcome such pride? (See Alma 38:13–14. We can “acknowledge [our] unworthiness before God at all times.”)
• Alma counseled Shiblon to “bridle all [his] passions” (Alma 38:12). What does it mean to bridle our passions? Why must we bridle our passions in order to “be filled with love”?

c. 

• What sins had Corianton committed? (See Alma 39:2–3.) Why is sexual immorality such a grievous sin?
  • Elder Boyd K. Packer taught:
  • “There was provided in our bodies—and this is sacred—a power of creation, a light, so to speak, that has the power to kindle other lights. This gift was to be used only within the sacred bonds of marriage. Through the exercise of this power of creation, a mortal body may be conceived, a spirit enter into it, and a new soul born into this life.
  • “This power is good. It can create and sustain family life, and it is in family life that we find the fountains of happiness. …
  • “The power of creation—or may we say procreation—is not just an incidental part of the plan: it is essential to it. Without it the plan could not proceed. The misuse of it may disrupt the plan.
  • “Much of the happiness that may come to you in this life will depend on how you use this sacred power of creation. … If [Satan] can entice you to use this power prematurely, to use it too soon, or to misuse it in any way, you may well lose your opportunities for eternal progression. …
  • “Protect and guard your gift. Your actual happiness is at stake. Eternal family life … can be achieved because our Heavenly Father has bestowed this choicest gift of all upon you—this power of creation. It is the very key to happiness” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1972, 136–39; or Ensign, July 1972, 111–13).
• Why did Alma feel it necessary to discuss Corianton’s sin with him? (See Alma 39:7–8, 12–13.) What can parents learn from Alma about how to counsel children who have made mistakes or committed sin?
  • Alma reminded Corianton of what led to Corianton’s sin (Alma 39:2–4).
  • He explained the consequences of Corianton’s sin (Alma 39:7–9, 11).
  • He taught Corianton how to repent and avoid the sin in the future (Alma 39:9–14).
  • He taught Corianton about God’s love and forgiveness (Alma 39:15–19).
• What actions or attitudes in Corianton led to his sin? (See Alma 39:2–3.) What can we do to strengthen ourselves against Satan’s enticements to be immoral? (See Alma 39:4, 13; D&C 121:45.)
• How did Corianton’s sinfulness influence others? (See Alma 39:11, 13.) Why do you think Corianton’s actions had more influence on the Zoramites than Alma’s words did? Why is it important for Church members to set good examples? How have you been blessed by people who set good examples? Consider how your actions might influence others’ opinions of the Church.
• What counsel did Alma give to Corianton on how to repent of his sin and avoid such sins in the future? (See Alma 39:9–14).
  • “Go no more after the lusts of your eyes” (Alma 39:9). How can the things we choose to look at or pay attention to influence our determination to stay morally clean?
  • “Take it upon you to counsel with your elder brothers” (Alma 39:10). How can counseling with righteous family members or friends help strengthen our resistance to temptation?
  • “Suffer not yourself to be led away by any vain or foolish thing” (Alma 39:11). What are some vain or foolish things that Satan uses to try to lead us away?
  • “Turn to the Lord with all your mind, might, and strength” (Alma 39:13). How can we turn to the Lord for help when we face temptation?
  • “Acknowledge your faults and that wrong which ye have done” (Alma 39:13). Why is acknowledging that we have done wrong an essential part of repentance?
  • “Seek not after riches nor the vain things of this world” (Alma 39:14). How can seeking riches or “the vain things of this world” tempt us to sin?
• What did Alma teach Corianton about Christ? (See Alma 39:15–19). How can understanding these things help us when we are tempted to sin?

Conclusion
Alma taught Corianton how to repent and return to faithfulness, and he gave counsel to Helaman and Shiblon on how to remain faithful. Each of us can apply Alma’s counsel in our lives. As parents we can follow  Alma’s example in teaching and counseling our children. Review “For the Strength of Youth” with your family and with individual children on a regular basis.

Lesson 28 - The Word is in Christ Unto Salvation

Purpose:
Help class members understand that hearing and acting on the Word of God is the key to developing and retaining faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His Church.

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 32-35
• Seeds of Faith - Elaine Shaw Sorenson
• Prayer - Pres. Ezra Taft Benson

Questions to Ponder:

1. Alma teaches the humble Zoramites to exercise faith and give place in their hearts for the word of God.

As Alma was preaching, a great multitude of Zoramites approached him. Why did Alma have great joy when these Zoramites came to him? (See Alma 32:6–8.) What had happened to prepare these people to hear the word of God? (See Alma 32:2–5.)

Why was it a blessing to these Zoramites that they had been compelled to be humble? (See Alma 32:12–13.) Why is it better to humble ourselves than to be compelled to be humble? (See Alma 32:14–16.) How can the word of God lead us to humble ourselves?

What did Alma teach the Zoramites about what it means to have faith? (See Alma 32:17–18, 21.) What did Alma say is the first thing we need to do to develop faith in God? (See Alma 32:22.) In what ways may we receive God's word? (See Alma 17:2; 32:23;D&C 1:38; 18:33–36.)

What did Alma encourage his listeners to do so they could know that his words were true? (See Alma 32:26–27.) What does it mean to "awake and arouse [our] faculties"? How can we "experiment" on the word of God? (See John 7:17.) What experiences have you had as you have experimented on the word?

2. Alma teaches the people to nourish the word of God in their hearts.

Comparing the word of God to a seed, Alma counseled the Zoramites to "give place, that a seed may be planted" in their hearts (Alma 32:28). What must we do to "give place" in our hearts for the word of God?

According to Alma, what do people begin to experience when the word of God has been planted in their hearts? (See Alma 32:28–31, 33–35.) What do you think it means to feel the word "swell within [our] breasts"? How do the scriptures enlarge our souls, enlighten our understanding, and expand our minds? (See Alma 37:8–9.) In what ways has the word of God been delicious to you?

What must we continue to do as the word of God begins to grow in our hearts? (See Alma 32:37.) How can we "nourish [the word] with great care"? (See Alma 32:41.) What do you think it means for the word to "get root" in our hearts and grow? (Alma 32:37).

What will happen if we neglect the word and do not nourish it after it has begun to grow in our hearts? (See Alma 32:38–40.) What might we do that would cause our ground, or our hearts, to be barren?

Toward the end of his discourse, Alma compared the word to a tree that has grown from a seed (Alma 32:37). What tree did he refer to? (See Alma 32:40–42.)

Who does the Tree of Life Represent? What is the fruit of the tree of life? (See Alma 32:41; 33:23; 1 Nephi 15:36; D&C 14:7.) How does the Word of God lead us to and build faith in Jesus Christ?

3. Alma cites prophets' testimonies of Jesus Christ and exhorts the people to plant the word of God in their hearts.

What teaching of Zenos did Alma relate to the Zoramites? (See Alma 33:3–11.) What was Alma's purpose in citing Zenos's teaching about prayer? (See Alma 33:11–14.)

Alma told the Zoramites that the prophet Zenock had also testified of Christ (See Alma 33:15). What did Zenock teach? (See Alma 33:16.) Why was this an important teaching to relate to the Zoramites? (See Alma 31:12, 16–17.)

Alma spoke of a brass serpent that Moses made and raised in the wilderness (See Alma 33:19; Numbers 21:9). How was the serpent a type, or symbol, of Jesus Christ? (See Alma 33:19; John 3:14–16; Helaman 8:13–15.) What does Alma's account of the brass serpent teach about exercising faith in Jesus Christ? (See Alma 33:20–23; Alma 37:46)

4. Amulek testifies of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He commands the people to pray and exercise faith unto repentance.

Alma and Amulek perceived that the people still questioned whether they should believe in Christ (Alma 34:2–5). How did Amulek answer this question? (See Alma 34:6–8.) How can we receive such a strong testimony of Christ? How have the scriptures, prophets, and other witnesses of Christ strengthened your testimony of Him?

Why would "all mankind … perish" without the Atonement of Jesus Christ? (See Alma 34:8–9; Alma 22:14) Why was Jesus the only one who could atone for the sins of the world and save us from the effects of the Fall? (See Alma 34:10–12.) What is the meaning of Amulek's teaching that the Atonement is an "infinite and eternal sacrifice"? (See Alma 34:14–16.)

How do you think Amulek's counsel in Alma 34:17–29 helped the Zoramites, who had believed that they could worship only in synagogues and only once a week? What can we learn from this counsel?

What did Amulek command the people to do after they had received so many witnesses of the Savior? (See Alma 34:30–31;Alma 34:15–17, in which the phrase "faith unto repentance" appears four times.) Why is faith in Christ an essential part of repentance?

Amulek warned against procrastinating, or delaying, the day of our repentance (Alma 34:31–36). Why do people sometimes procrastinate repentance? How can the counsel in Alma 34:32 affect the way we live each day?

Lesson 27: All Things Denote There Is a God

Purpose: 
To help class members learn how to recognize and refute false teachings and stay true to their testimonies of Jesus Christ.

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 30-31
• Bible Dictionary, “Antichrist,”

Overview:

1. Alma 30:1–18. Korihor, an anti-Christ, leads away the hearts of many in Zarahemla by preaching that “there should be no Christ” and that “whatsoever a man did was no crime.”
    
2. Alma 30:19–60. Korihor attempts to preach in the lands of Jershon and Gideon. The people refuse to listen, and they take him before their leaders. Korihor is then taken before Alma, who bears testimony of Christ’s coming and the existence of God. Korihor demands a sign and is struck dumb.
    
3. Alma 31. Alma leads a mission to reclaim the apostate Zoramites, who have adopted false beliefs and a prideful form of worship.

Questions to Ponder:
a. 

• What were some of the false teachings Korihor spread among the people of Zarahemla? (see Alma 30:12–18)
• Why would these teachings lead people to sin? 
• In what ways are our daily choices influenced by our knowledge of Jesus Christ, the Atonement, and life after death?

b. 

• What did the people of Ammon do when Korihor tried to spread his false teachings among them? (See Alma 30:19–21.) 
  • How did their actions demonstrate that they were “more wise” than the Nephites in Zarahemla?
  • How can we be wise and use discernment in similar situations?
• What false accusations did Korihor make against the Church leaders? (See Alma 30:23–24, 27–28, 31.) 
  • Why do you think he did this? 
  • How does obeying our Church leaders actually help make us free rather than bring us into bondage, as Korihor claimed?
• How did Alma respond to Korihor’s accusations against Church leaders? (See Alma 30:32–35) 
  • How can knowing the truth help us when we are confronted with false teachings?
• How did Alma respond to Korihor’s claim that there is no God? (See Alma 30:39) 
  • How are we blessed when we bear testimony of Jesus Christ?
• What was Alma able to discern about Korihor? (See Alma 30:42) 
  • How can we discern between true and false teachings? (See Moroni 10:5)
• When Korihor asked for a sign of God’s existence, what signs did Alma put forth as evidence that God lives? (See Alma 30:44) 
  • How have these evidences helped strengthen your faith?
• Even after Alma’s testimony, Korihor continued to demand to be shown a sign (Alma 30:45)
  • What sign did Korihor receive? (See Alma 30:49–50) 
  • Why was this sign given? (See Alma 30:47) 
• After Korihor acknowledged that he had been deceived, what did he say was the reason he had followed the devil? (See Alma 30:53)
• What finally happened to Korihor? (See Alma 30:54–56, 58–59) 
• Why do you think Mormon included the account of Korihor in his abridgment of the plates? 
  • What does this account teach us about the fate of those who pervert the ways of the Lord? (See Alma 30:60)

c. 

• Why did Alma decide to go on a mission to reclaim the Zoramites? (See Alma 31:1–6) 
  • Why did Alma believe that he and his brethren should preach the word of God? (See Alma 31:5.) 
  • How have you seen the word of God bring about change in people’s lives?
• The Zoramites had been members of the Church, but they had “fallen into great errors” (Alma 31:8–9) 
  • Why did they fall into apostasy? (See Alma 31:9–11) 
  • What can we do to guard against individual apostasy?
• What did Alma and his brethren learn about the Zoramites’ manner of worship? (See Alma 31:12–23) 
  • How did Alma and his brethren respond when they witnessed this false worship? (See Alma 31:19, 24)
• Compare and contntrast the prayers of the Zoramites and Alma’s Prayer? (SeeAlma 31:15-18) and (Alma 31:30-35)
  • How was Alma’s prayer different from the Zoramites’ prayer?
• What attitudes of the Zoramites were the greatest barriers to their having faith in Christ? (See Alma 31:24–29) 
  • How does pride affect our worship? (See Alma 15:17; 34:38; D&C 59:21) 
  • Why is pride an obstacle to salvation?
• Alma’s “heart was grieved” because of the Zoramites’ wickedness. He prayed earnestly that he and his brethren might bring them “again unto … Christ” (Alma 31:24, 34) 
  • What responsibility do we have today to help those who have strayed from the teachings of Jesus Christ? (See 3 Nephi 18:32) 
  • How can prayer help us when we serve a mission or as we perform our various callings?
• How were Alma and his brethren blessed? (See Alma 31:38) 
  • How will the Lord help us if we pray in faith for that which is right?

Conclusion

The philosophies of Korihor and the Zoramites are prevalent today. From the classroom to the workplace, in the media, in books, and sometimes in the home, there are those who preach the false doctrines of Korihor to “interrupt [our] rejoicings” (Alma 30:22). Also, like the Zoramites, many today set their hearts on “the vain things of the world” (Alma 31:27). We all need to fortify ourselves through diligent study of the Book of Mormon, daily prayer, and continued obedience to the commandments of God.