Lesson 40: “Then Will I Gather Them In”

Purpose:

To help class members understand the latter-day work of gathering Israel and establishing Zion.

Reading:

3 Nephi 16, 20, and 21

Additional reading: 

3 Nephi 29–30; 

Mormon 5:9–24; 

Articles of Faith 1:10; 

Bible Dictionary, “Gentile,” 679–80; “Israel,” 708.

The Gathering of Scattered Israel - Russell M. Nelson

Come to Zion - Elder D. Todd Christofferson

Overview:

These chapters contain part of the resurrected Savior’s teachings to the Nephites. 

In these chapters, the Lord teaches and prophesies of the Restoration of the gospel and the gathering of the house of Israel in the last days.

Questions to Ponder:

1. The Savior prophesies of the scattering of the house of Israel.

• What is the house of Israel?
• Why was Israel scattered? (See 3 Nephi 16:4).

2. The Savior prophesies of the spiritual gathering of the house of Israel.

• Who are the Gentiles? (See Bible Dictionary, “Gentile,” 679).
• What do the Gentiles have to do with the scattering and gathering of Israel?  (See 3 Nephi 16:7–9 and 21:1–5).
• What is the gathering of Israel?  (See 3 Nephi 16:4, 12; 20:10–13). 
• President Spencer W. Kimball explained: “The ‘gathering of Israel’ is effected when the people of the faraway countries accept the gospel and remain in their native lands. The gathering of Israel for Mexicans is in Mexico; in Scandinavia, for those of the northern countries; the gathering place for the Germans is in Germany; and the Polynesians, in the islands; for the Brazilians, in Brazil; for the Argentines, in Argentina” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1975, 4; or Ensign, May 1975, 4).
• What sign has been given to show that the latter-day gathering of Israel has begun?  (See 3 Nephi 21:2–7 and 29:1–2).
• How have the “sayings” and “works” of the Nephites come forth to the Gentiles? 
• What are some roles that the Book of Mormon plays in the gathering of Israel? (Compare 3 Nephi 16:4, 12 and 20:10–13 with 1 Nephi 6:3–4 and the title page of the Book of Mormon.)
• The Lord spoke of a servant who would help in the “great and … marvelous work” of bringing forth the Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:9–10). Who was this servant? (See 2 Nephi 3:3–8, 11–12 and 3 Nephi 16:7).
• What did the Lord promise to do after the fulness of the gospel was restored through the Gentiles?  (See 3 Nephi 16:11–12).
• The covenant that the Lord promised to remember was the Abrahamic covenant (See 3 Nephi 20:25, 27, 29; 21:4; Mormon 5:20). 
• What are the blessings and responsibilities of the Abrahamic covenant? (See Genesis 17:1–8; Abraham 2:6, 9–11.)
• What will happen to Gentiles who repent and turn to God? (See 2 Nephi 30:2; 3 Nephi 16:13; 21:6, 22. 
• President Joseph Fielding Smith said: “Every person who embraces the gospel becomes of the house of Israel. In other words, they become members of the chosen lineage, or Abraham’s children through Isaac and Jacob unto whom the promises were made. The great majority of those who become members of the Church are literal descendants of Abraham through Ephraim, son of Joseph. Those who are not literal descendants of Abraham and Israel must become such, and when they are baptized and confirmed they are grafted into the tree and are entitled to all the rights and privileges as heirs” (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 3:246).
• As members of the Church, what are our responsibilities in the gathering of Israel?
• What is the mission of the Church? 
• How does the mission of the Church contribute to the gathering of Israel?

3. The Savior prophesies of the temporal gathering of the house of Israel.

• What specific promise did the Lord extend to the Nephites? (See 3 Nephi 16:16 and 20:14 and 2 Nephi 1:5–7.) 
• What responsibilities accompany this promise? (See Enos 1:10; Ether 2:8–9.)
• What will happen in this land of inheritance in the last days?  (See 3 Nephi 21:22–29).
• The Savior said that He would gather His people and establish Zion again among them (3 Nephi 21:1). 
• How has Zion been described in the scriptures? (See D&C 97:21 and Moses 7:18–19). 
• How can we begin to establish Zion in our homes, wards, and stakes today?

Lesson 38 & 39: Old Things Are Done Away, All Things Have Become New Behold, My Joy Is Full

Purpose

To help class members feel the love of the Lord Jesus Christ and develop a greater desire to exercise faith in Him, to bear testimony of Him and to be true disciples of Jesus Christ by following His example and by living the higher law that He taught to the Nephites.

Reading / Watching:

• 3 Nephi 12-15
• 3 Nephi 17-19
• Joy and Spiritual Survival - Elder Russell M. Nelson
• "If Ye Had Known Me" - Elder David A. Bednar
• The Doctrine of Christ - Elder Brian K. Ashton
  
  

Questions to Ponder:

1. Jesus teaches the Beatitudes to the Nephites.

• 3 Nephi 12:3. What does it mean to come unto Christ? (See 3 Nephi 9:13–14, 20–22 and Ether 12:27.) How does being "poor in spirit," or humble, help us come unto Christ?
   
• 3 Nephi 12:4. What are some ways the Lord provides for us to be comforted? (See John 14:26–27; Mosiah 18:8–9.)
   
• 3 Nephi 12:5. What does it mean to be meek?

  President Gordon B. Hinckley said, "Meekness implies a spirit of gratitude as opposed to an attitude of self-sufficiency, an acknowledgment of a greater power beyond oneself, a recognition of God, and an acceptance of his commandments" ("With All Thy Getting Get Understanding," Ensign, Aug. 1988, 3–4).

• 3 Nephi 12:6. What do you think it means to "hunger and thirst after righteousness"? What will we be filled with as we "hunger and thirst after righteousness"?
   
• 3 Nephi 12:7. Why is it important that we be merciful? Why do we need the Lord's mercy? (See 2 Nephi 2:8–9.)
   
• 3 Nephi 12:8. Why must we be pure in heart to be able to see God? (See 1 Nephi 10:21.) In what ways can we purify our hearts? (See D&C 93:1)
   
• 3 Nephi 12:9. How can we be peacemakers in our homes and communities?
   
• 3 Nephi 12:10–12. Why are the righteous sometimes persecuted? How should we respond to persecution? (See 3 Nephi 12:44; Luke 6:35.)

2. Jesus declares that His followers are to be the salt of the earth and a light to other people.

Jesus said, "I give unto you to be the salt of the earth" (3 Nephi 12:13).

Elder Bruce R. McConkie:

"Among the ancient Hebrews salt … was used as a preservative, in seasoning food, and in all animal sacrifices. (Lev. 2:13; Ezek. 43:24; Mark 9:49–50. [Leviticus 2:13; Ezekiel 43:24]) So essential was it to the sacrificial ordinance that it was the symbol of the covenant made between God and His people in connection with that sacred performance. (Lev. 2:13;Num. 18:19; 2 Chron. 13:5.)

"Accordingly, our Lord's statement, made first to the Jews and then to that other great body of Hebrews, the Nephites, that they had power 'to be the salt of the earth,' takes on great significance. … They had power, in other words, to be the seasoning, savoring, preserving influence in the world, the influence which would bring peace and blessings to all others" (Mormon Doctrine, 2nd ed. [1966], 667–68).

• How can our influence help others receive peace and other blessings?

Elder Carlos E. Asay: "A world-renowned chemist told me that salt will not lose its savor with age. Savor is lost through mixture and contamination" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1980, 60; or Ensign, May 1980, 42).

• How can we avoid being "contaminated" by the things of the world?
   
• (See D&C 101:39–40 and D&C 103:9–10) What do these passages teach about being "the salt of the earth" and "the light of [the] people"? How can Latter-day Saints be "saviors of men"?
   
• How can we let our light "shine before [the] people"? (See 3 Nephi 12:16; 18:24.) What should be the result of our letting our light shine? (See 3 Nephi 12:16.)

3. Jesus declares that He has fulfilled the law of Moses. He teaches the people a higher law.

• Who gave the law of Moses to the Israelites? (See 3 Nephi 15:4–5.)
   
• Jesus declared to the Nephites that He had fulfilled the law of Moses (3 Nephi 12:17–19; 15:2–5). How did Jesus fulfill this law?
   
• What replaced the Law of Moses?
   
• How should the new law change our perspective on living the Gospel?
   
• How did the process of repentance change when the Law of Moses was fulfilled?

Lesson 37: “Whosoever Will Come, Him Will I Receive”

Purpose:

To help class members understand the fulfillment of Samuel’s prophecies and the blessings available to those who come unto the Savior.

Reading:

3 Nephi 8-11

Overview:

a. 3 Nephi 8. Great destruction occurs in the Americas at the time of Christ’s death. Many cities are destroyed.

b. 3 Nephi 9–10. Survivors hear the voice of the Lord inviting them to return to Him, repent, and be converted.

c. 3 Nephi 11. The resurrected Savior descends from heaven and teaches the people.

Questions to Ponder:

a. 3 Nephi 8. Great destruction occurs in the Americas at the time of Christ’s death. Many cities are destroyed.

Samuel the Lamanite had prophesied of terrible destructions that would take place when Jesus was crucified (Helaman 14:20–27). About 33 years after the sign of Jesus’ birth, the people “began to look with great earnestness” for the fulfillment of Samuel’s words (3 Nephi 8:3).

Samuel’s Prophecies Fulfillment

Helaman 14:21, 23 3 Nephi 8:5–7, 17–18; 9:8

Helaman 14:24 3 Nephi 8:8–10, 14

Helaman 14:20, 27 3 Nephi 8:20–21

Read each passage listed under “Samuel’s Prophecies” and then read the corresponding passage listed under “Fulfillment.”

• When the destruction ceased, the earth was covered with thick darkness (3 Nephi 8:19–23). 
• Why is total darkness an appropriate sign for the death of the Savior? (See 3 Nephi 9:18; see also John 8:12; D&C 11:28.) 
• In what ways has the Savior brought light to your life?
• What was the reaction of those who survived the destruction? (See 3 Nephi 8:23–25.) 
• How can reading about their experience help us prepare for the Second Coming?

b. 3 Nephi 9–10. Survivors hear the voice of the Lord inviting them to return to Him, repent, and be converted.

• After the destruction, the surviving Nephites heard the voice of Christ describing how different cities were destroyed (3 Nephi 9:1–12). 
• What reason did the Lord give for the destruction? (See 3 Nephi 9:12. Pay particular attention to how often He repeated this reason in verses 2–12.) 
• What invitation did He extend to those who had survived? (See 3 Nephi 9:13–14. Note that the word come appears three times in verse 14. 
• What do we need to do today to accept this invitation?
• Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said: “‘Come,’ [Christ] says lovingly. ‘Come, follow me.’ Wherever you are going, first come and see what I do, see where and how I spend my time. Learn of me, walk with me, talk with me, believe. Listen to me pray. In turn you will find answers to your own prayers. God will bring rest to your souls. Come, follow me” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1997, 88; or Ensign, Nov. 1997, 65).
• Jesus declared that the law of Moses was fulfilled in Him and that He would no longer accept burnt offerings and sacrifices (3 Nephi 9:17, 19). 
• What sacrifice did He say we must offer? (See 3 Nephi 9:20.) 
• What does it mean to offer a “broken heart and a contrite spirit”?
• President J. Reuben Clark Jr., who was a member of the First Presidency, said: “Under the new covenant that came in with Christ, the sinner must offer the sacrifice out of his own life, not by offering the blood of some other creature; he must give up his sins, he must repent, he himself must make the sacrifice” (Behold the Lamb of God [1962], 107).
• What did the Savior promise to those who make this offering? (See 3 Nephi 9:20.)
• For whom did Jesus say He had given His life? (See 3 Nephi 9:22.) 
• What childlike qualities do we need in order to come unto the Savior? (See Mosiah 3:19.)
• After Jesus announced the extent of the destruction and promised redemption to those who would believe, many hours of silence passed. When Jesus spoke again, what analogy did He use to describe His yearning to gather His people? (See 3 Nephi 10:4–6. Note that Jesus used this analogy three times but changed it slightly in each verse.) 
• Why does He want to gather us?
• The Prophet Joseph Smith taught: “What was the object of gathering … the people of God in any age of the world? … The main object was to build unto the Lord a house whereby He could reveal unto His people the ordinances of His house and the glories of His kingdom, and teach the people the way of salvation. … It is for the same purpose that God gathers together His people in the last days” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 307–8).
• How can we assist in this gathering? (See D&C 4:1–7.)
• After calling the people to repent and come unto Him, Christ ceased speaking to the people. Three days of mourning passed. Then the darkness dispersed, the noise and destruction stopped, and the people’s sadness turned into joy (3 Nephi 10:9–10). 
• Why had the people been spared? (See 3 Nephi 10:12–13.) 
• What blessings did they receive? (See 3 Nephi 10:18–19.)
• What is Mormon’s counsel to us, the readers of this account? (See 3 Nephi 10:14.)

c. 3 Nephi 11. The resurrected Savior descends from heaven and teaches the people.

• While the people were conversing about what had happened, they heard the voice of God the Father. 
• What was the voice like? (See 3 Nephi 11:3.) 
• How many times did the people hear the voice before they understood it? (See 3 Nephi 11:4–6.)
• How were the people finally able to understand the voice? (See 3 Nephi 11:5.) 
• What do you think it means that they “did open their ears to hear it”? (3 Nephi 11:5). 
• What can we do to better hear and understand God’s words to us?
• How did God the Father introduce the Savior? (3 Nephi 11:7).
• How did the Savior introduce Himself? (3 Nephi 11:8–11).
• What invitation did Jesus extend to all the people in the multitude? (See 3 Nephi 11:13–15; see also 3 Nephi 17:25, which says that there were 2,500 people in the multitude).
• What can we learn from this example of the Savior’s love?
• What did the Savior teach the Nephites about baptism? (See 3 Nephi 11:21–27.) 
• Why is it important to be baptized in the correct manner and by someone who has the authority to baptize?
• Jesus taught that there should be “no disputations” among the people concerning baptism or any other points of His doctrine (3 Nephi 11:22, 28). 
• Why is contention about gospel doctrines dangerous? (See 3 Nephi 11:29; D&C 10:62–63.) 
• How can we be unified in true doctrine?
• What did the Savior teach as His doctrine? (See 3 Nephi 11:30–38).
• What promise did He give to those who build their lives on His doctrine? (See 3 Nephi 11:39.)
• How can we more fully obey the Savior’s instructions to declare these words “unto the ends of the earth”? (3 Nephi 11:41).

Lesson 36: On the Morrow Come I into the World

Purpose:

To help class members understand the need to endurefaithfully in times of trial and temptation.

Reading:

3 Nephi 1-7

Additional Reading:

To the Saints in the Utah South Area - Elder M. Russell Ballard (This is a near identical talk to the one given in our recent stake/area conference telecast.)

Flags, Faith and Finishing the Race - Lynnette B. Erickson

 

Questions to Ponder:

1. The signs of the Savior's birth vindicate those who have endured in faith.

• While waiting for Samuel's prophecies to be fulfilled, "the people who believed began to be very sorrowful" (3 Nephi 1:7). What were some of the reasons for their sorrow? (See 3 Nephi 1:5–9.)
   
• In spite of these challenges to their faith, what did the believers do? (See 3 Nephi 1:8.) What can we do to remain steadfast when our faith is challenged?
   
• When Nephi saw the wickedness of the unbelievers, he prayed to the Lord for his people (3 Nephi 1:10–11). What message was revealed to Nephi after he had prayed all day for his people? (See 3 Nephi 1:12–14.) How were Samuel's prophecies fulfilled? (See 3 Nephi 1:15–21.) How does this account help strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ?

2. The Gadianton robbers come to battle against the Nephites.

• How did Satan try to turn people away from their belief in the Savior and His birth? (See 3 Nephi 1:22;2:1–3) Which of these tactics have you seen the adversary use today? What can we do to remember and preserve our spiritual experiences?
   
• As the people began to increase in wickedness, what dangers did they face? (See 3 Nephi 2:11–13, 17–19.) What kinds of behavior and attitudes threaten our safety today?
   
• In the 16th year from the time of Christ's birth, Lachoneus, the governor and chief judge of the Nephites, received a letter from Giddianhi, the leader of the Gadianton robbers (3 Nephi 3:1). What did Giddianhi desire of Lachoneus? (See 3 Nephi 3:6–8.)
   
• When the Gadianton robbers announced their intention to destroy the Nephites, the people began at once to prepare to protect themselves, under the direction of Lachoneus and Gidgiddoni. What can we learn from their actions that can help protect us in times of temptation and fear? (See 3 Nephi 3:12–26)
   
  • "Lachoneus, the governor, was a just man, and could not be frightened" (3 Nephi 3:12). How might fear cause someone to give in to temptation? How can personal righteousness help us remain courageous when we face temptation or affliction?
     
  • Lachoneus told the people to "cry unto the Lord for strength" (3 Nephi 3:12). Why is it important to pray for strength to face temptations or challenges?
     
  • Lachoneus caused the people to "gather themselves together" (3 Nephi 3:13, 22). Why was it important for the Nephites to gather into one place to defend themselves? (See 3 Nephi 4:3–4.) How can our association with other members of the Church increase our ability to withstand the forces of evil? (See Moroni 6:4–6.)
     
  • "He caused that fortifications should be built" and placed "guards round about" (3 Nephi 3:14). How can we fortify ourselves and guard against temptation?
     
  • The Nephites did "exert themselves … to do according to the words of Lachoneus" (3 Nephi 3:16). How are we blessed when we follow inspired leaders?
     
  • "They did repent of all their sins" (3 Nephi 3:25). How does repentance help us receive greater strength from the Lord?
     
  • They were "strong with armor" (3 Nephi 3:26). What armor have we been counseled to put on? (See D&C 27:15–18.) Why are we taught to put on the whole armor of God? How can we wear this armor each day?
     
• In what ways did Elder Ballard suggest we should prepare?
   
• What was the result of these preparations when the Gadianton robbers came against the Nephites? (See 3 Nephi 4:11–13, 16–29.) How did the Nephites rejoice after their victory? (See 3 Nephi 4:30–33.) In what ways can we show our gratitude to the Lord for protecting and blessing us?

3. The Nephites live righteously and prosper, but pride and dissensions arise.

• For several years after the defeat of the Gadianton robbers, the Nephites enjoyed great peace and prosperity (3 Nephi 5:1–26; 6:1–9). What happened to disrupt their peace? (See 3 Nephi 6:10–15)
   
• As the people continued in their wickedness, prophets came to call them to repentance, but the people rejected and killed them (3 Nephi 6:17–23). Secret combinations increased, and the people were soon divided into tribes (3 Nephi 6:27–30; 7:1–5). What did Nephi do in response to this wickedness? (See 3 Nephi 7:15–19.) What was the result of his work? (See 3 Nephi 7:21–26.)
   
• What blessings could all the people have enjoyed if they had remained faithful? (See 3 Nephi 10:18–19)

Lesson 35: Repent and Return unto the Lord

Purpose:

To remind class members of the importance of repenting, turning to the Lord, and following the prophets.

Reading:

Helaman 13-16

Additional Reading:

Preserving the Heart’s Mighty Change - Dale G. Renlund - October 2009

Always Retain a Remission of Your Sins - David A. Bednar - April 2016

Overview:

a. Helaman 13. A Lamanite prophet named Samuel prophesies that the Nephites will be destroyed unless they repent.

b. Helaman 14. Samuel prophesies of the signs that will precede the birth and death of the Savior. He continues to call the people to repentance.

c. Helaman 15–16. Samuel tells the Nephites of the conversion of the Lamanites. Some Nephites believe Samuel and are baptized. Others harden their hearts and try to kill Samuel, but he is spared by the power of God.

Questions to Ponder:

a. Samuel warns the Nephites that they will be destroyed unless they repent.  Helaman 13. 

A Lamanite prophet named Samuel went to preach in Zarahemla, but the Nephites cast him out of the land. The Lord commanded Samuel to return to Zarahemla and prophesy. When the Nephites did not allow Samuel to enter the city, he stood on the city wall and prophesied to them (Helaman 13:1–4).

• Samuel warned the people that because of the hardness of their hearts, the Lord would take His word from them and withdraw His Spirit from them (Helaman 13:8). 
• ]Why do these consequences come to people who harden their hearts? (See Mosiah 2:36–37.) 
• What can we do to soften our hearts?
• Through the prophet Samuel, the Lord said, “Blessed are they who will repent and turn unto me” (Helaman 13:11). 
• How might some people attempt to repent without turning to the Lord? 
• Why is turning to the Lord an essential part of repentance?
• President Ezra Taft Benson taught:
• “Repentance means more than simply a reformation of behavior. Many men and women in the world demonstrate great will-power and self-discipline in overcoming bad habits and the weaknesses of the flesh. Yet at the same time they give no thought to the Master, sometimes even openly rejecting Him. Such changes of behavior, even if in a positive direction, do not constitute true repentance. …
• “… True repentance is based on and flows from faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other way. True repentance involves a change of heart and not just a change of behavior (see Alma 5:13)” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [1988], 71).
• The Nephites had “set their hearts upon riches” (Helaman 13:20–21). 
• In addition, they had not hearkened to the words of the Lord, who had given them their riches (Helaman 13:21). 
• Because of this, the Nephites and their riches were cursed (Helaman 13:17–22). 
• In what ways do people give more time and attention to worldly concerns than to spiritual concerns? 
• How can we assess whether we are giving enough attention to our spiritual welfare?
• Samuel said that the Nephites always remembered their riches but did not remember to thank the Lord for them (Helaman 13:22). 
• Why is it difficult for some people to remain grateful when they are blessed with abundance? 
• How does gratitude counteract pride? 
• In what ways can we show gratitude to the Lord?
• The Nephites persecuted and killed the prophets of their day, but they said, “If our days had been in the days of our fathers of old, we would not have slain the prophets” (Helaman 13:24–25; compare with Matthew 23:29–39). 
• Why do people sometimes praise past prophets and reject living prophets? (See Helaman 13:26.) 
• How do some people allow themselves to “be led by foolish and blind guides”? (See Helaman 13:27–29.)
• According to Samuel, the Nephites had “sought for happiness in doing iniquity” (Helaman 13:38). 
• Why is it impossible to find true happiness in sin? (See Helaman 13:38; see also Alma 41:10–11.) 
• How can we find true happiness? 
• How can we help others find true happiness?
• The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 255–56).

b. Samuel prophesies of the signs that will precede the birth and death of the Savior. He continues to call the people to repentance.  Helaman 14.

• Samuel prophesied of the Savior’s birth and death (Helaman 14:2, 15). 
• What signs did Samuel say would attend the Savior’s birth and death? (See Helaman 14:3–7, 20–28.)
• Samuel said that if the people would repent, they would receive a remission of their sins through the merits of Christ (Helaman 14:13). 
• Merits are qualities or actions that entitle a person to claim rewards. 
• Why is it only through the Savior’s merits that we can be forgiven of our sins? (See 2 Nephi 2:7–9; Alma 22:14.)
• President Ezra Taft Benson taught, “Even the most just and upright man cannot save himself solely on his own merits” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, 71).
• According to Samuel, why did Jesus have to die? (See Helaman 14:15–18.) 
• How does knowing of the Savior’s sacrifice affect you?
• Samuel said, “If [people] are condemned they bring upon themselves their own condemnation” (Helaman 14:29). 
• Why is this so? (See Helaman 14:30–31.) 
• Why is it essential that we be “permitted to act for [our]selves”?

3. Some believe Samuel and are baptized. Others harden their hearts and try to kill Samuel.  Helaman 15–16

• Why did the Lord chasten the Nephites? (See Helaman 15:3; see also Hebrews 12:6.) 
• How does the Lord’s chastening show His love for us? 
• What can we learn from the Lord’s chastening?
• The Lamanites who experienced a change of heart remained “firm and steadfast in the faith” (Helaman 15:8). 
• When we experience a change of heart, what must we do to ensure that the change is lasting? (See 2 Nephi 31:19–20.)
• How did the Nephites respond to Samuel’s prophecies and warning? (See Helaman 16:1–7.) 
• Why do you think many of the people did not believe Samuel even when they saw that he was miraculously protected?
• Although they saw that the words of the prophets were being fulfilled, the majority of the Nephites began to harden their hearts and depend on their own strength and wisdom (Helaman 16:13–15). 
• How did these unbelieving Nephites explain away the signs that they had seen? (See Helaman 16:16–23.) 
• What are the dangers of trying to understand the gospel with only our intellect?

Lesson 34: How Could You Have Forgotten Your God?

Purpose:

To help class members recognize the cycle that leads from righteousness to wickedness and back to righteousness.

Reading Assignment:

• Helaman 6-12

Additional Reading:

• Elder M. Russell Ballard - Learning Lessons of the Past
• Dean L. Larsen - The Lord Will Prosper the Righteous
  

Questions to Ponder:

1. The people are righteous and are blessed with peace and prosperity.

• What characteristics did the Lamanites have that helped them become more righteous than many of the Nephites? (See Helaman 6:1.) How did the converted Lamanites try to help the Nephites? (See Helaman 6:4–6.) What was the result? (See Helaman 6:7–14.)
   

2. The Nephites become proud and wicked. Nephi calls them to repentance.

• Why does prosperity often lead to wickedness? (See Helaman 6:17; 7:20–21.)
   
• What are the characteristics of the Gadianton Robbers? (see Helaman 6:21–24 and Helaman 7:4–5) Which of these elements exist today? How can we appropriately fight evil influences in our communities?
   
• Who was the source of the secret combinations? (See Helaman 6:25–30.) What did the Nephites do as Satan "got great hold upon [their] hearts"? (See Helaman 6:31.)
   
• Why did the Spirit "withdraw from the Nephites"? (See Helaman 6:35.) Why did the Lord "pour out his Spirit upon the Lamanites"? (See Helaman 6:36.) What can this teach us about how we can receive the influence of the Holy Ghost?
   
• How did the people react when Nephi rebuked them for their wickedness? (See Helaman 8:1–10.) Why did so many remain unrepentant?
   
• How did the people react after Seantum confessed to murdering his brother, the chief judge? (See Helaman 9:39–10:1.) After the people debated whether Nephi was a prophet or a god, they left him standing alone. What can keep us from listening to latter-day prophets?
  
  President Ezra Taft Benson said: "The two groups who have the greatest difficulty in following the prophet are the proud who are learned and the proud who are rich. The learned may feel the prophet is only inspired when he agrees with them; otherwise, the prophet is just giving his opinion—speaking as a man. The rich may feel they have no need to take counsel of a lowly prophet" (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [1988], 138).
   

3. The Lord gives Nephi the sealing power. The unrepentant Nephites face warfare and famine.

• The Lord gave Nephi the sealing power, saying that "all things [would] be done according to [Nephi's] word" (Helaman 10:5–10). Why did the Lord entrust Nephi with such great power? (See Helaman 10:4–5.)
   
• What happened to the people after they rejected Nephi and disobeyed God? (See Helaman 10:18–11:2.) What did Nephi pray for in order to help the people remember the Lord and repent? (See Helaman 11:4.) Why did Nephi pray for famine instead of war? (See Helaman 11:4.) How was Nephi's prayer answered? (See Helaman 11:5–6.)
   

4. The Nephites humble themselves and repent.

• What can we learn from the Lord's answer to Nephi's prayer to end the famine? (See Helaman 11:10–17.) What did the Lord require of the people before He would end the famine? (See Helaman 11:14–15.)
   
• How were the people once again blessed for their faithfulness? (See Helaman 11:20–21.)
   
• What was the first sign that the short-lived period of humility and righteousness was ending? (SeeHelaman 11:22.) How did Nephi, Lehi, and their brethren put an end to this contention? (SeeHelaman 11:23.) In what ways can teaching "true points of doctrine" help us put an end to contention?
   
• Following another period of wickedness and destruction by warfare, what helped the people repent and turn to the Lord? (See Helaman 11:28–34.) As we are surrounded by similar conditions of wickedness, what can we do to always remember the Lord?
   
• Two years later, the Nephites "began again to forget the Lord their God" (Helaman 11:36). Why do you think people are so quick to forget the Lord? In what ways might we be forgetting the Lord today?
   
• Mormon said that "the children of men … are less than the dust of the earth" (Helaman 12:7). On what basis did he make this statement? (Helaman 12:1–6, 8.)
   
• What did Mormon say will be the fate of those who disobey? (See Helaman 12:25–26.) What will be the fate of those who repent and obey the Lord? (See Helaman 12:23–24, 26.)
   
• How can people break away from the "pride cycle?" (See Alma 62:48–51; Helaman 12:23–24.) President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "Seek for the real things, not the artificial. Seek for the everlasting truths, not the passing whim. Seek for the eternal things of God, not for that which is here today and gone tomorrow. Look to God and live" (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [1997], 494).
  

Lesson 33: A Sure Foundation

Purpose:

To encourage class members to build their testimonies on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

Reading:

Helaman 1–5

Additional Reading:

A Sure Foundation - Dean M. Davie - April 2013

Spiritual Whirlwinds - Neil L. Andersen - April 2014

Overview:

a. Helaman 1–2. Internal strife develops among the Nephites as secret works and wickedness increase. Gadianton becomes the leader of Kishkumen’s secret band of robbers.

b. Helaman 3. Thousands join the Church and begin to prosper. Some Church members are lifted up in pride.

c. Helaman 4. Lamanites and Nephite dissenters defeat the Nephites because of the Nephites’ wickedness and pride.

d. Helaman 5. Nephi and Lehi remember their father’s counsel to build their foundation on the rock of Christ. Miracles attend their ministry as they preach repentance.

Questions to Ponder:

a. Internal strife develops among the Nephites.  Helaman 1–2. 

• Pahoran, the chief judge, had died, and three of his sons—Pahoran, Paanchi, and Pacumeni—contended for the judgment seat (Helaman 1:1–4).
• How did Paanchi and Pacumeni each respond when Pahoran was chosen to be chief judge? (See Helaman 1:5–7.) 
• What happened because of Paanchi’s rebellion? (See Helaman 1:8–13.)
• After Pacumeni became chief judge, the Lamanites came to battle against the Nephites (Helaman 1:13–17). 
• Why were the Nephites unprepared to defend themselves against an outside attack from the Lamanites? (See Helaman 1:18.) 
• How does contention weaken nations and communities? wards and stakes? families and individuals? What can we do to avoid or overcome contention?
• Gadianton, who was “exceedingly expert in many words, and also in his craft,” became the leader of the band of Kishkumen (Helaman 2:4). 
• What did Gadianton promise the followers of Kishkumen in order to persuade them to follow him? (See Helaman 2:5; see also Helaman 5:8.) 
• In what ways are people sometimes influenced by flattery and the promise of power? How can we avoid this influence?

b. Thousands join the Church; some Church members are lifted up in pride.  Helaman 3.

• Helaman 3 covers about 11 years of Nephite history. During those 11 years, the Nephites experienced periods of peace and periods of contention. 
• What disturbed the peace of the Nephites during those years? (See Helaman 3:1, 33–34.) 
• What was the cause of the Nephites’ pride? (See Helaman 3:36.) 
• How can pride disturb the peace in our lives? 
• What can we do to guard against pride? (See Helaman 3:27–30; see also Deuteronomy 8:11, 17–18; Alma 62:48–51.)
• Read Helaman 3:29. 
• What does it mean to “lay hold upon the word of God”? 
• How will we be blessed as we “lay hold upon the word of God”? (See Helaman 3:27–30; see also 1 Nephi 11:25; 15:24.)
• In the 51st year, some Church members began to persecute others (Helaman 3:33–34). 
• How did the humble followers of Christ respond to the persecution from the proud members of the Church? (See Helaman 3:35.) 
• How can their example help us when we face persecution, criticism, or affliction?
• Humble Church members were sanctified because they “[yielded] their hearts unto God” (Helaman 3:35). 
• What is sanctification?  See D&C 76:41; 88:74–75.) 
• What does it mean to yield our hearts to God?

c. Lamanites and Nephite dissenters defeat the Nephites.  Helaman 4.

• Nephite dissenters convinced the Lamanites to go to war against the Nephites. The Lamanites defeated the Nephites and obtained many of their lands (Helaman 4:5). 
• What did Mormon, who abridged the book of Helaman, observe was the cause of the Nephites’ weakness? (See Helaman 4:11–13.) 
• What parallels exist between the Nephites’ actions and the actions of some people today? 
• How can acknowledging our dependence on the Lord strengthen us?
• Moronihah, Lehi, and Nephi prophesied “many things unto the people … concerning their iniquities, and what should come unto them if they did not repent of their sins” (Helaman 4:14). 
• What happened when the people began to repent? (See Helaman 4:15–16; see also verses Helaman 4:21–26.)

d. Nephi and Lehi remember their father’s counsel. Miracles attend their ministry.  Helaman 5.

• Why did Nephi give up the judgment seat to preach the word of God? (See Helaman 5:1–4.) 
• What did Nephi and Lehi remember that their father had told them about their names? (See Helaman 5:5–7.) 
• How have the examples of prophets, other Church leaders, and other righteous people helped you?
• What did Helaman teach his sons about the Atonement of Jesus Christ? (See Helaman 5:9–11.)
• Read Helaman 5:12. 
• What does it mean to build on the rock of Christ? (See also 3 Nephi 14:24–27.) 
• What are some of the mighty winds and storms that Satan sends upon us? 
• How can Christ help us withstand these winds and storms?
• Why do we refer to Christ as our rock? 
• What foundations other than Christ do people sometimes build their lives upon? 
• How have you been blessed as you have built your life on the rock of Christ?
• What great miracles occurred in Zarahemla as Nephi and Lehi preached the gospel? (See Helaman 5:17–19.) 
• Why was it important that the Lamanites reject “the wickedness of the traditions of their fathers”? (See Helaman 5:19, 51; see also Mosiah 1:5.)
• Elder Richard G. Scott said: “I testify that you will remove barriers to happiness and find greater peace as you make your first allegiance your membership in the Church of Jesus Christ, and His teachings the foundation of your life. Where family or national traditions or customs conflict with the teachings of God, set them aside. Where traditions and customs are in harmony with His teachings, they should be cherished and followed to preserve your culture and heritage. There is one heritage that you need never change. It is that heritage that comes from your being a daughter or son of Father in Heaven” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 114; or Ensign, May 1998, 87).
• Read Helaman 5:21–32. 
• What happened after the people began to repent? (See Helaman 5:43–45.) 
• How did the Holy Ghost testify to the people? (See Helaman 5:45–47.) 
• How has the Holy Ghost testified of truth in your life?
• What did the people do once they had received a witness of the Savior? (See Helaman 5:49–52.) 
• What is our responsibility once we receive a witness of the divinity and saving power of Jesus Christ? (See D&C 33:9; 88:81.)

Lesson 32: They Did Obey-Every Word of Command with Exactness

Purpose: 

To help class members see that the Lord will strengthen them as they follow the example of Helaman’s valiant young soldiers.

Reading Assignment:

Alma 53-63


Additional Reading:
Alma 24:15–18
Alma 27:22–24
Alma 37:1–2, 14
Alma 46:64
D&C 21:4–5
D&C 21:6
Faith Obedience - R. Conrad Schultz - April 2002
The Three Rs of Choice - Thomas S. Monson - October 2010


Overview:
a. Alma 53:10–19; 56:1–8. Two thousand valiant young Ammonites covenant to fight for the liberty of the Nephites. They ask Helaman to be their leader.
b. Alma 56:9–58:41. True to their mothers' teachings, the young soldiers exercise faith in God and fight courageously. They are joined by 60 other young Ammonites. All 2,060 young soldiers are wounded, but not one of them is killed.



Questions to Ponder:

a. Two thousand valiant young Ammonites covenant to fight for the liberty of the Nephites.

• The Nephites had promised to protect the Ammonites from the Lamanites (Alma 27:22–24; 53:12). What did the Ammonites want to do when they saw the afflictions of the Nephites? (See Alma 53:13.) Why did Helaman persuade the people not to break their covenant? (See Alma 53:14–15; 56:8.) What does this teach about keeping covenants?
  
  
• What did the Ammonites' sons do to help the Nephites? (See Alma 53:16.) How did the young Ammonites show the strength of their commitment to help the Nephites? (See Alma 53:17). They entered into a covenant and were determined to keep their covenant "in all cases."
  
  
• How will the Lord strengthen us as we make covenants with Him and keep these covenants "in all cases"?
  • President Ezra Taft Benson said: "Men and women who turn their lives over to God will discover that He can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace. Whoever will lose his life in the service of God will find eternal life" (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [1988], 361).
    
    
• The young Ammonites asked Helaman to be their leader (Alma 53:19; 56:1, 5). Helaman was a prophet and a high priest over the Church (Alma 37:1–2, 14; 46:6). Why would the decision to follow a prophet increase the young Ammonites' effectiveness in the battles they would fight? What kinds of leaders might weaken people in their spiritual battles?
  
  
• How did the young Ammonites respond to the commands they received? (See Alma 57:21). Why is it important to be exactly obedient to the teachings of the Lord's prophet? What are some specific things we must do today to follow the prophet "with exactness"?
  • President Harold B. Lee taught: "The power of Satan will increase; we see it in evidence on every hand. …"Now the only safety we have as members of this church is to do exactly what the Lord said to the Church in that day when the Church was organized. We must learn to give heed to the words and commandments that the Lord shall give through his prophet, 'as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me; … as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith.' (D&C 21:4–5.) There will be some things that take patience and faith. You may not like what comes from the authority of the Church. It may contradict your political views. It may contradict your social views. It may interfere with some of your social life. But if you listen to these things, as if from the mouth of the Lord himself, with patience and faith, the promise is that 'the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name's glory.' (D&C 21:6.)" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1970, 152; or Improvement Era, Dec. 1970, 126).

b. The young soldiers exercise faith in God and fight courageously.

• The first army that the young Ammonites faced was the Lamanites' strongest and most numerous army (Alma 56:34–43). What was the young soldiers' response when Helaman asked if they wanted to go against this army? (See Alma 56:44–47.) From whom had these warriors learned to have such great faith and courage? (See Alma 56:47–48; see also Alma 53:21; 57:21. 
  • President Spencer W. Kimball taught: "To be a righteous woman during the winding-up scenes on this earth, before the Second Coming of our Savior, is an especially noble calling. The righteous woman's strength and influence today can be tenfold what it might be in more tranquil times. She has been placed here to help to enrich, to protect, and to guard the home—which is society's basic and most noble institution. Other institutions in society may falter and even fail, but the righteous woman can help to save the home, which may be the last and only sanctuary some mortals know in the midst of storm and strife" (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 326–27).
    
    
• The young soldiers did not doubt their mothers' testimonies (Alma 56:48). Why is it important for children to know the strength and certainty of their parents' testimonies? In what ways can parents share their testimonies with their children?
  
  
• During one difficult battle, many Nephites "were about to give way" (Alma 57:20; see also verses Alma 57:12–19). What was the response of the young Ammonites during this battle? (See Alma 57:19–20).
  
  
• What were the results of the young Ammonites' faith and courage? (See Alma 57:22–25; 58:31–33, 39.) How can we remain "firm and undaunted," even when friends, associates, and others are "about to give way"? How can we strengthen those who are "about to give way"?
  
  
• In what ways were the young Ammonites "firm and undaunted"? (For some examples, see Alma 53:20–21; 57:26–27; 58:40.)
  1. "They were exceedingly valiant for courage" (Alma 53:20).
  2. "They were … true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted" (Alma 53:20).
  3. "They were men of truth and soberness" (Alma 53:21).
  4. They had "exceeding faith in that which they had been taught to believe" (Alma 57:26).
  5. They "put their trust in God continually" (Alma 57:27).
  6. They "[stood] fast in that liberty wherewith God [had] made them free" (Alma 58:40).
  7. They were "strict to remember the Lord their God from day to day" (Alma 58:40).
  8. They kept God's "statutes, and his judgments, and his commandments continually" (Alma 58:40).
  9. "Their faith [was] strong in the prophecies" (Alma 58:40).
     
     
• In one battle, the Nephite armies led by Helaman, Gid, and Teomner faced "an enemy which was innumerable," but they received very little assistance from the land of Zarahemla (Alma 58:1–9). To what source did the Nephites turn for strength? (See Alma 58:10).
  
  
• How did the Lord answer the Nephites' prayers? (See Alma 58:11–12.) In what ways can such answers to prayer help us "take courage"?