Lesson 26: Converted unto the Lord

Purpose:

To encourage class members to strengthen their conversion and increase their desire to help others become converted.

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 23–29
• Converted unto the Lord - David A. Bednar

Questions to Ponder:

Alma 23:6 And as sure as the Lord liveth, so sure as many as believed, or as many as were brought to the knowledge of the truth, through the preaching of Ammon and his brethren, according to the spirit of revelation and of prophecy, and the power of God working miracles in them—yea, I say unto you, as the Lord liveth, as many of the Lamanites as believed in their preaching, and were converted unto the Lord, never did fall away.

• What characteristics or behaviors distinguish people who are truly converted?
• What did the king of the Lamanites do after he became converted?
• What actions of the converted Lamanites showed that their conversion was true and sincere?
• How did the Nephites help the Anti-Nephi-Lehies keep their covenant with the Lord? 
• How can we help others stay converted to the Lord?
• What “great blessings” did the Lord give Ammon and his brethren? 
• How can we become effective “instruments in the hands of God to bring about [his] great work”? 
• How can we “boast of [our] God” and “glory in the Lord”? 
• In what ways has the Lord blessed you with strength beyond your own to help accomplish His work?
• How had the people of Zarahemla responded when Aaron and his brothers first announced their mission to the Lamanites? (See Alma 26:23–25.) 
• What can we learn from this situation about prejudging people’s responses to the gospel instead of allowing them to accept or reject it on their own? How can we overcome this tendency?
• What experiences have taught you that living the gospel brings joy into our lives?
• How can we be content with what the Lord has given us while still striving to grow and improve ourselves?
• Alma said that God “granteth unto men according to their desire, whether it be unto death or unto life” (Alma 29:4). What does this mean? (See 2 Nephi 2:27.)
• Alma rejoiced in what the Lord had done for him and his fathers (Alma 29:10–13). What has the Lord done for you and your family that causes you to rejoice?
• According to Elder Bednar “The essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ entails a fundamental and permanent change in our very nature made possible through the Savior’s Atonement. True conversion brings a change in one’s beliefs, heart, and life to accept and conform to the will of God (see Acts 3:19; 3 Nephi 9:20) and includes a conscious commitment to become a disciple of Christ.”
  • In what ways have you made a conscious commitment to become a disciple of Christ?
  • What blessings have you experienced for having made a conscious commitment to become a disciple of Christ?
• What 5 elements taught by Samuel the Laminate did Elder Bednar say was the pattern that leads to conversion?
• Elder Bednar pointed out some possible “weapons of rebellion” such as selfishness, pride, and disobedience.  Can you think of others?  What are your ‘weapons of rebellion”?
• According the Elder Bednar, setting aside our “weapons of rebellion” requires more than merely believing and knowing. What is required?
• Do you and I still possess weapons of rebellion that keep us from becoming converted unto the Lord? If so, what council does Elder Bednar give?
• Elder Bednar note that the Lamanites were not converted to the missionaries who taught them or to the excellent programs of the Church, the personalities of their leaders or to preserving a cultural heritage or the traditions of their fathers. What were they were converted to?
• What promise does Elder Bednar give to those who come to a knowledge of the truth and are converted unto the Lord?

Lesson 25: "They Were Led by The Spirit of The Lord"

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 17-22
   
• "They Taught and Did Minister One to Another" - Elder James M. Paramore
   
• The Joy of Living a Christ-Centered Life - Elder Richard J. Maynes
   
• The Unspeakable Gift of the Holy Ghost - Elder Jay E. Jensen

Questions to Ponder:

1. The sons of Mosiah preach the gospel to the Lamanites.

• Why were the sons of Mosiah such powerful and effective teachers? (See Alma 17:2–4.) How does our personal worthiness and preparation affect our ability to be effective instruments for the Lord? How have you seen a missionary or someone else be blessed because of personal preparation?
   
• What sacrifices did the sons of Mosiah make to perform their missionary work? (See Alma 17:5–6.) Why were they willing to do this? (See Alma 17:9, 16; see also Mosiah 28:1–3.) How can we develop love and concern for others, as was demonstrated by the sons of Mosiah? (See Elder Paramore's Talk)
   
• The sons of Mosiah went to preach to "a hardened and a ferocious people" (Alma 17:14). What comfort and counsel did the Lord give them to help prepare them for their mission? (See Alma 17:10–11.) How did the sons of Mosiah feel after receiving comfort and direction from the Lord? (See Alma 17:12.) How can these verses help us as we face challenges in our callings?

2. Ammon serves and teaches King Lamoni, and many of the people are converted.

• Why did Ammon's heart become "swollen … with joy" when the king's flocks were scattered? (See Alma 17:29.) How did Ammon turn this into a positive experience? (See Alma 17:30–39.)
   
• How did the king respond when his servants told him how Ammon had defended his flocks? (See Alma 18:2–5.) What was Ammon doing when the king asked where he was? (See Alma 18:8–9.) How did this help prepare King Lamoni to be taught? (See Alma 18:10–11.)
   
• How did the king's servants address Ammon when he came to see the king? (See Alma 18:13.) How did Ammon's words to King Lamoni show that Ammon was still a humble servant? (See Alma 18:14–17.)
   
• Why do you think it was important for Ammon to serve the king before trying to teach him? How can serving and developing a relationship of trust with others help us present the gospel message to them? In what ways can we serve those we teach? (See Elder Paramore's Talk)
   
• As Ammon began teaching King Lamoni, how did he help him gain an understanding about God and heaven? (See Alma 18:24–33.) How can we follow this example when teaching the gospel?
   
• After establishing a level of understanding with King Lamoni, what essential doctrines did Ammon teach him? (See Alma 18:34–39.) Why is the Book of Mormon an important tool in teaching these truths today?
   
• What did King Lamoni do after hearing and believing Ammon's words? (See Alma 18:40–41.) Why is it important for people to seek forgiveness when they are taught the principles of the gospel? Why is prayer necessary in the conversion process?
   
• After praying, King Lamoni fell to the earth. How did the queen demonstrate her faith when Lamoni appeared to be dead? (See Alma 19:1–5, 8–9.)
   
• What did Lamoni emphasize when he spoke to the queen after his conversion? (See Alma 19:12–13.)
   
• After speaking to the queen, Lamoni again fell to the earth, as did the queen and all of the servants except Abish (Alma 19:13, 15–16). Who was Abish? (See Alma 19:16–17.) What did Abish do when she understood what had happened? (See Alma 19:17.) How can we better recognize and use opportunities to share the gospel?
   
• What were some of the different responses of the people when they arrived at the house of the king? (See Alma 19:18–28.) How did Abish try to resolve the contention among the people? (See Alma 19:28–29.) How did the king and queen demonstrate their conversion after they arose? (See Alma 19:29–31, 33.)
   
• What do you think Mormon wanted us to learn from the experiences of Ammon and King Lamoni and his people? (See Alma 19:36.)
   

3. Ammon is led by the Spirit to deliver his brethren. Lamoni's father is converted.

• What did Lamoni want to do after the Church was established in his kingdom? (See Alma 20:1.) Why is it important for new converts to share their testimonies with others? How can we continue to have such enthusiasm?
   
• How did the conversation between Lamoni and his father demonstrate the depth of Lamoni's conversion? (See Alma 20:13–15.)
   
• What astonished King Lamoni's father about Ammon? (See Alma 20:26–27.) Why are love and testimony so powerful in softening a person's heart? (See Elder Paramore's & Elder Maynes' Talks)
   
• What did Aaron and his brethren do as soon as they were released from prison and fed and clothed? (See Alma 21:14–15.) Why is it important for us to continue in our labors in God's kingdom even when we face suffering and affliction?
   
• How did Aaron and his brethren know where they should go to teach the gospel? (See Alma 21:16.) How were they blessed as they were led by the Spirit? (See Alma 21:17.) How have you been blessed by heeding the promptings of the Spirit? (See Elder Jensen's Talk)
   
• Aaron was led by the Spirit to the house of King Lamoni's father (Alma 22:1). How had Ammon's example helped prepare Lamoni's father to be taught? (See Alma 22:2–3.) How have you seen the examples of Church members influence others for good?
   
• How was Aaron's teaching of Lamoni's father similar to Ammon's teaching of Lamoni? (Compare Alma 18:24–39 with Alma 22:7–14.) What did Aaron say when Lamoni's father asked what he should do to obtain a hope of redemption? (See Alma 22:16.)
   
• What sacrifices was the king willing to make to know God? (See Alma 22:15, 17–18.) What can we learn from the king's example? (See Elder Paramore's Talk)
   
• What did the king do following his conversion that helped the missionaries bring thousands to a knowledge of the Lord? (See Alma 22:26; 23:1–6.) What experiences have you had or known of where the conversion of one person had a positive effect on many others?

Lesson 24: Give Us Strength According to Our Faith-in Christ

Purpose:
To help class members better understand how the Atonement provides deliverance from trials and how the priesthood and following the counsel of prophets helps us enter into the rest of the Lord.

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 13-16
• The Power of Deliverance - Pres. Henry B. Eyring
• In the Strength of The Lord - Elder David A. Bednar
  (I know, I know...we've already read this one...but it is so good and applicable, we get to read it again.)
• Enter into The Rest of The Lord - Elder W. Craig Zwick

Questions to Ponder:

Alma 13 & Elder W. Craig Zwick

• When are men first “called and prepared” to be ordained to the priesthood? (See Alma 13:3.)
• How did men demonstrate in premortal life that they were worthy to be foreordained to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood? (See Alma 13:3–5.)
• What must we do in this life to remain worthy of our foreordination? (See Alma 13:8–10.)
• How should Alma’s teachings about foreordination affect the way we sustain those who are called to preside over us? How should these teachings affect our response when priesthood leaders extend callings or other assignments to us?
• What does it mean to "enter the rest of the Lord?"
  • How can we become worthy to enter into His rest?
  • If we understand the necessity of repentance, why do many of us procrastinate the day of our repentance? How can we overcome this tendency?
  • How is entering into the rest of the Lord connected to the Priesthood and Gospel ordinances? To teaching the Gospel?

Alma 14, David A. Bednar & Henry B. Eyring

• Why do some people become angry when they are called to repentance? (See 1 Nephi 16:1–3.)
• What did Zeezrom do when he saw what “he had caused among the people”? (See Alma 14:6–7.) How did the people respond when Zeezrom confessed his guilt and defended Alma and Amulek? (See Alma 14:7.)
• What did the wicked people in Ammonihah do to the people who believed in the word of God? (See Alma 14:7–9.) Why does the Lord allow tragedies to happen? (See Alma 14:10–11; 60:13.)
  
  Spencer W. Kimball Wrote: "Now, we find many people critical when a righteous person is killed, a young father or mother is taken from a family, or when violent deaths occur. Some become bitter when oft-repeated prayers seem unanswered. Some lose faith and turn sour when solemn administrations by holy men seem to be ignored and no restoration seems to come from repeated prayer circles. But if all the sick were healed, if all the righteous were protected and the wicked destroyed, the whole program of the Father would be annulled and the basic principle of the gospel, free agency, would be ended.
  
   "If pain and sorrow and total punishment immediately followed the doing of evil, no soul would repeat a misdeed. If joy and peace and rewards were instantaneously given the doer of good, there could be no evil--all would do good and not because of the rightness of doing good. There would be no test of strength, no development of character, no growth of powers, no free agency, no Satanic controls.
  
  "Should all prayers be immediately answered according to our selfish desires and our limited understanding, then there would be little or no suffering, sorrow, disappointment, or even death; and if these were not, there would also be an absence of joy, success, resurrection, eternal life, and godhood." 
  Improvement Era, Mar 1966, p180 & 210) 
• After being persecuted in prison for many days, how were Alma and Amulek finally delivered? (See Alma 14:26–29; Ether 12:12–13; David A. Bednar & Henry B. Eyring)
  • What are some things from which we need to be delivered?
  • Why must our faith be centered in Christ to lead us to deliverance? (See Mosiah 3:17; Moroni 7:33.)

Alma 15-16

• What did Zeezrom ask of Alma and Amulek? (See Alma 15:5.) What does this reveal about his trust in them? In whom did he need to place his trust in order to be healed? (See Alma 15:6–10.)
• What can we learn from Zeezrom’s actions after he was healed? (See Alma 15:11–12.)
• What did Amulek give up by choosing to live the gospel and serve as a missionary? (See Alma 15:16.) What did he gain? (See Alma 8:30; 34:1, 8; Ether 12:12–13.) What sacrifices have you made in choosing to live and teach the gospel? How have you been blessed for this?
• What did Alma do for Amulek once the Church was established in Sidom? (See Alma 15:18.) What does this act reveal about Alma? In what ways can we administer to others and strengthen them in the Lord?
• (See Alma 16:2–3, 9–11.) How was this a fulfillment of Alma’s prophecies? (See Alma 9:4–5, 12, 18.) What prophecies have we seen fulfilled in our day?
• (Alma 16:13–21). How does the Lord prepare people’s hearts to receive His word? (See Alma 16:16.)
• How can we ensure that we preach the word of God “in its purity”? (See Alma 16:21; see also Mosiah 18:18–20; D&C 52:9.)

Lesson 23: More Than One Witness

Purpose:

To increase class members’ understanding of the plan of redemption and the power of having more than one witness to testify of gospel truths.

Read, Ponder, and Pray about The Following Scriptures:

a. Alma 8–9. After preaching in Melek, Alma calls the people of Ammonihah to repentance, but they reject him. He leaves but is commanded by an angel to return. Alma is received by Amulek, and both are commanded to preach in Ammonihah.
Specific Scripture Verses to Ponder:

• Alma 8:10
• Alma 8:18
• Alma 8:20, 27
• Alma 9:5
• Alma 9:2, 6
• Alma 9:8–11
• Alma 9:14–24
• Luke 12:47–48
• D&C 82:3
• Alma 9:16–17

b. Alma 10. Amulek preaches to the people of Ammonihah and describes his conversion. The people are astonished that there is another witness to Alma’s teachings. Amulek contends with unrighteous lawyers and judges.
Specific Scripture Verses to Ponder:

• Alma 10:6
• Alma 10:7–11
• Alma 10:12
• Alma 10:13–16, 31–32
• Alma 10:17

c. Alma 11. Amulek contends with Zeezrom and testifies of the coming of Christ, the judgment of the wicked, and the plan of redemption.
Specific Scripture Verses to Ponder:

• Alma 11:1, 20
• Alma 11:21–22
• Alma 11:26–39
• Alma 11:40–41
• Alma 11:42–43
• Alma 11:43–45
• Alma 11:46

d. Alma 12. Alma further explains Amulek’s words, warning against hard-heartedness and wickedness and testifying of the Fall and the plan of redemption.
Specific Scripture Verses to Ponder:

• Alma 12:1
• Alma 12:3–6
• Alma 12:9–11
• Alma 12:10
• 1 Nephi 2:16; 15:11
• Alma 12:13–14
• Alma 12:14–18
• D&C 19:16–18
• Alma 12:22–34
• Alma 12:32

Gospel Principles to Ponder:

• The Atonement - Alma 11:40, Alma 12:33–34
• Repentance - Alma 11:40, Alma 12:24
• Judgement - Alma 11:41, Alma 12:14
• Resurrection - Alma 11:41–42, Alma 12:24–25

Questions to Ponder:

• What can we do to qualify for the companionship of the Spirit in our lives?
• How can the companionship of the Spirit bless and strengthen us? Our testimonies? Our ability to answer questions about the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
• How can we be strengthened through modern day prophets and apostles?
• How can we recognize and respond speedily to the promptings of the Spirit?
• Why do you suppose the Lord desired Alma and Amulek worked together as witnesses of the gospel of Jesus Christ?
• How did Alma and Amulek strengthen each other and delivered powerful teachings about the plan of redemption?
• How can we strengthen one another in bearing witness of the gospel?

Lesson 22: Have Ye Received His Image in Your Countenances?

Reading Assignment:

• Alma 5 - 7
• Born of God - President Ezra Taft Benson
• Beware of Pride - Pres. Ezra Taft Benson

Questions to Ponder:

1. Alma teaches the people how they can experience a "mighty change" of heart.

President Ezra Taft Benson taught why it became important for Alma to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ rather than serve as chief judge: "The Lord works from the inside out. The world works from the outside in. … The world would mold men by changing their environment. Christ changes men, who then change their environment. The world would shape human behavior, but Christ can change human nature" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1985, 5; or Ensign, Nov. 1985, 6).

• At the beginning of his address, Alma spoke of the previous generation, who had been delivered from physical and spiritual bondage (Alma 5:3–9). Why do you think it was important for the people to remember their fathers' captivity and deliverance? How did Alma describe their fathers after the Lord "changed their hearts"? (See Alma 5:7–9.)
  
• What are the answers to these questions? (See Alma 5:11–13.) What was the message that led to "a mighty change [being] wrought" in the heart of Alma's father? (See Mosiah 16:13–15.) What happened to the people who believed Alma the Elder when he taught them the gospel? (See Alma 5:13; see also Mosiah 18:1–11.) How can others' testimonies of the Savior help us experience a change of heart?
  
• We often use the word conversion when we speak of this experience. What does it mean to be converted? (See Mosiah 5:2; 27:24–26.) Is conversion a single event or a process?
• How can it be helpful to imagine ourselves being judged by the Lord? (See Alma 5:15–19.)
• Alma asked, "If ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, … can ye feel so now?" (Alma 5:26). Once a person has "felt to sing the song of redeeming love," what might cause that feeling to diminish? What can we do to continue in the process of conversion?

• How can we keep ourselves "blameless before God"? (See Alma 5:27, 50–51.)
  
• How do pride and envy make us unprepared to meet God? (See Alma 5:28–29.) Why are we unprepared to meet God if we mock or persecute others, as recorded in verses 30 and 31?
  
• What invitation does the Savior extend to us? (See Alma 5:33–35.) How can this invitation give us hope?
   
• To the unrighteous people in Zarahemla, Alma said, "A shepherd hath called after you and is still calling after you, but ye will not hearken unto his voice!" (Alma 5:37). Who is the shepherd Alma referred to? (See Alma 5:38.) How does the Savior call after us? What can we do to hearken to His voice?
   
• What can we learn from Alma 5:43–49 about the calling of a prophet?
   
• Alma warned the people that they should not persist, or continue, in their wickedness (Alma 5:53–56; note that Alma asked the question "Will ye persist?" four times). Why is forsaking sin a necessary part of repenting? (See Alma 5:56; see also Mosiah 16:5; D&C 58:42–43.)
   
• Alma commanded his people, "Come ye out from the wicked, and be ye separate" (Alma 5:57). How can we separate ourselves from wickedness while living in the world?

2. Alma and the people establish the order of the Church in Zarahemla.

Read selected verses from Alma 6.

• After Alma's discourse, many people repented of their sins and humbled themselves before God (Alma 6:1–2). Why were other people unwilling to repent of their sins? (See Alma 6:3.) How does pride prevent people from repenting? How can we overcome pride in our hearts?
  President Ezra Taft Benson said: "The antidote for pride is humility—meekness, submissiveness (see Alma 7:23). … Let us choose to be humble. We can choose to humble ourselves by conquering enmity toward our brothers and sisters, esteeming them as ourselves, and lifting them as high or higher than we are. … We can choose to humble ourselves by receiving counsel and chastisement. … We can choose to humble ourselves by forgiving those who have offended us. … We can choose to humble ourselves by rendering selfless service. … We can choose to humble ourselves by going on missions and preaching the word that can humble others. … We can choose to humble ourselves by getting to the temple more frequently. … We can choose to humble ourselves by confessing and forsaking our sins and being born of God. … We can choose to humble ourselves by loving God, submitting our will to His, and putting Him first in our lives" (in Conference Report, Apr. 1989, 6; or Ensign, May 1989, 6–7).
  
• Alma and the people in Zarahemla "began to establish the order of the church" by ordaining priests and elders, baptizing new converts, and gathering together often in fasting and prayer (Alma 6:1–6). How does such order in the Church help us continue in the conversion process?
  

3. Alma testifies of Jesus Christ. He encourages the people in Gideon to follow the Savior.

Read selected verses from Alma 7.

• Alma told the people in Gideon that there were "many things to come" but that the coming of Jesus Christ was of the greatest importance (Alma 7:7). What did Alma teach about the Savior's mission on earth? (See Alma 7:10–13.) Why did the Savior take upon Himself our pains, afflictions, sicknesses, and sins? (See Alma 7:11–14)
  
• In what ways was Alma's message to the people in Gideon different from his message in Zarahemla? In what ways were the messages similar? Why did Alma preach repentance to the people in Gideon even though they were striving to live righteously? (See Alma 7:9, 14–16, 22, 26.)
  

Lesson 21: Alma-Did Judge Righteous Judgments

Purpose:

To help class members understand righteous principles of government and avoid priestcraft and pride.

Reading:

• Mosiah 29
• Alma 1
• Alma 2–3
• Alma 4

Questions to Ponder:

1. Mosiah teaches principles of good government.

Mosiah 29. When all of King Mosiah’s sons refused to succeed him as king, Mosiah sent a written proclamation among the people, recommending a system of government to replace the rule of kings after his death.

• What counsel did Mosiah give his people about having kings? (See Mosiah 29:13, 16.) Which two men did Mosiah describe as different examples of kings? (See Mosiah 29:13, 18. You may want to briefly review the influence these two kings had on the people.) How did Mosiah describe the consequences of having a wicked leader? (See Mosiah 29:16–18, 21–23.)
• Mosiah suggested that the people establish a system of judges to replace the rule of kings. What qualities did Mosiah say these judges should have? (See Mosiah 29:11; see also D&C 98:10.) Why are these qualities important in leaders today?
• What was the foundation of the laws that the people would be judged by? (See Mosiah 29:11; see also Mosiah 29:12–14.) What blessings can people enjoy when they live by laws that are based on righteous principles?
• What did Mosiah propose to limit the power that could be obtained by wicked individuals or groups? (See Mosiah 29:24–26, 28–29. He proposed that they do all things by the voice of the people, appoint judges and make the judges accountable to the people, and have a system of appeals against judges who did not judge by the law.)
• What did Mosiah say would happen if the majority of the people chose wickedness? (See Mosiah 29:27.) What are some ways we can help others understand and choose righteousness?

2. Alma the Younger serves as chief judge and combats priestcraft.

Alma 1. The people had followed Mosiah’s counsel and appointed judges throughout the land, with Alma the Younger as chief judge.

• In the first year of the reign of the judges, a man named Nehor was brought before Alma to be judged (Alma 1:1–2, 15). What had Nehor been teaching the people? (See Alma 1:3–4.) What was the effect of his teaching? (See Alma 1:5–6.) Why do you think Nehor’s teachings were appealing to so many people? Which of these same teachings have you heard in our day?
• While Nehor was preaching to the people, he was met by Gideon, a member of the Church who served as a teacher (Alma 1:7–8; Gideon had served faithfully as a captain for King Limhi). How did Gideon respond to Nehor’s false teachings? (See Alma 1:7.) How does knowing and testifying of the word of God help us withstand false teachings?
• Nehor became angry with Gideon and slew him with a sword (Alma 1:9). When the people took Nehor before Alma, what two crimes did Alma find him guilty of? (See Alma 1:10–13. Priestcraft and murder.) What is priestcraft? (See Alma 1:16; see also 2 Nephi 26:29.) What warning did Alma give regarding priestcraft? (See Alma 1:12.) What evidence have you seen of priestcraft in our day?
• Although Nehor was put to death for his crimes, priestcraft and other wickedness continued to spread throughout the land (Alma 1:15–16). What began to happen between those who belonged to the Church and those who did not? (See Alma 1:19–22.) How should we treat people who disagree with our beliefs? (See D&C 38:41.)
• How did this contention affect some members of the Church? (See Alma 1:23–24.) What can we learn from those who remained in the Church of God? (See Alma 1:25.) How can we remain “steadfast and immovable” in keeping the commandments of God?

Alma 1:26–30 describes a time of peace and prosperity among the people of the Church. 

• How did the priests regard those whom they taught? (See Alma 1:26.) Why is this attitude important when we are teaching others? How have you been blessed by teachers who have taught with humility?
• How did Alma describe the way the members of the Church treated those in need? (See Alma 1:27.) How can following their example bring peace to our lives?

3. Amlici seeks to be king but is rejected by the voice of the people.

Alma 2–3.

• In the fifth year of the reign of the judges, a cunning man named Amlici was joined by many followers who wanted to make him king over the land (Alma 2:1–2). Why did Amlici want to be king? (See Alma 2:4.) What did he do when the majority of the people voted against him? (See Alma 2:7–10.)
• What was the result of the first battle between the Nephites and the Amlicites? (See Alma 2:16–19.) When Alma sent spies to follow the remainder of the Amlicites, what did the spies observe? (See Alma 2:23–25.) Even though they were fewer in number, how were the Nephites able to defeat the combined army of the Amlicites and Lamanites? (See Alma 2:27–28.)
• What did the Amlicites do to distinguish themselves from the Nephites? (See Alma 3:4, 13.) How were these markings a fulfillment of prophecy? (See Alma 3:14–19.) Why is it important for us to “see that they brought upon themselves the curse”? (Alma 3:19).

4. The Church prospers but becomes prideful. Alma resigns the judgment seat to devote himself to the ministry.

Alma 4.

• Even though the Nephites had been victorious in battle over the Amlicites and the Lamanites, many Nephites had died, and those who remained had suffered great losses among their flocks and their grain (Alma 4:1–2). What were some results of these afflictions? (See Alma 4:3–5.) How might our afflictions awaken us to remember our duty?
• How long did it take the members of the Church to return from great righteousness to pride and worldliness? (See Alma 4:5–6. One year.) Why do you think it is often difficult for prosperous people to avoid pride and materialism? How can we avoid these sins?
• How did pride affect the way the people of the Church treated others, both in and out of the Church? (See Alma 4:8–12.) How did this influence the way nonmembers viewed the Church? (See Alma 4:10.) Why is the example of Church members important to the missionary work of the Church? When have you seen people influenced for good by the example of Church members?
• What did Alma do in response to the increasing pride and iniquity of the people? (See Alma 4:15–18.) Why did he do this? (See Alma 4:19.) How can preaching the word of God “stir [people] up in remembrance of their duty”? How can preaching the word of God “pull down” pride, craftiness, and contention?
• What does the phrase “bearing down in pure testimony” suggest about the power with which Alma would teach? (Alma 4:19). How has your life been changed by hearing others bear pure testimony of the gospel? What problems in the world today could be solved by preaching and living the gospel?

Lesson 20: My Soul Is Pained No More

Purpose

To inspire class members to continually apply the principle of repentance, become converted, and share the gospel.

Reading Assignment:

• Mosiah 25 - 28

Additional Reading:

• Alma, Son of Alma - Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
• "Go Ye Therefore, and Teach All Nations" - Elder L. Tom Perry

Questions to Ponder:

• Mosiah assembled the people in Zarahemla and read the records of Limhi's people and Alma's people to them (Mosiah 25:5–6). How did the people of Zarahemla respond to these records? (See Mosiah 25:7–11.) How did their responses demonstrate their charity?
• How have you benefited from studying the accounts of Limhi's and Alma's people?
• After Mosiah finished reading the records, he invited Alma to speak (Mosiah 25:14). What did Alma speak about? (See Mosiah 25:15–16.) Why was it important that the people remember who had delivered them out of bondage? What effect did Alma's teachings have on Limhi and his people? (See Mosiah 25:17–18.)
• Mosiah authorized Alma to "establish churches throughout all the land of Zarahemla" (Mosiah 25:19–20). How were the people able to remain "one church" after being assembled into different congregations? (See Mosiah 25:21–24.) How can their example help us today as we face the challenges of remaining "one" in a worldwide Church?

• Why did many of the "rising generation" refuse to join the Church? (See Mosiah 26:1–4.) How can older generations help youth gain testimonies of Jesus Christ and His gospel? How can older generations help youth feel God's love and understand their relationship to Him?
• Whom did Alma consult when Mosiah declined to judge the people who had sinned? (See Mosiah 26:10–14.) How have you received guidance in your responsibilities when you have turned to God in prayer?
• What did the Lord tell Alma to do with the people who had sinned? (See Mosiah 26:29–30, 32.) Why is confession an important step in the process of repentance? Why is it important to "forgive one another"? (Mosiah 26:31). How have you been blessed by forgiving someone or by having someone forgive you?
• Although the Church "began again to have peace and to prosper," members of the Church were often persecuted by unbelievers (Mosiah 26:37–38; 27:1). What did King Mosiah do when Church members complained about this persecution? (See Mosiah 27:1–5.) In what ways might Church members be persecuted today? What are some productive ways to deal with persecution?

• Why did the Lord send an angel to speak to Alma the Younger and his companions? (See Mosiah 27:14.) How can prayer help us when a loved one strays from the gospel? (See Elder Holland's Talk)
• What are some ways the Lord sends help in response to the prayers of the righteous for loved ones who have strayed? How have you seen the power of prayer help in a situation that appeared to be beyond remedy? (See Elder Holland's Talk)
• What did the angel tell Alma the Younger? (See Mosiah 27:13–17.) What happened to Alma the Younger after the angel departed? (See Mosiah 27:18–19.) How did Alma respond when he heard about his son's experience with the angel? (See Mosiah 27:20.) Why did he rejoice?

• What led Alma to be delivered from his suffering? (See Alma 36:17–18.)
• How can Alma's experiences be compared to our own experiences in becoming converted?

• What did Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah do after their conversion? (See Mosiah 27:32–37.) How did this demonstrate that they were truly converted? How do our actions reflect the sincerity and depth of our conversion?
• Why did the sons of Mosiah and their companions want to preach the gospel among the Lamanites? (See Mosiah 28:1–3 and Elder Perry's Talk) What promises did the Lord give King Mosiah regarding his sons' missionary efforts? (See Mosiah 28:6–7.)
• Once we have been converted, how can we increase our commitment to share the gospel?

• How were Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah, along with other unbelievers, able to lead many members of the Church into sin? (See Mosiah 26:6;27:8–9.) How can flattery deceive us and lead us astray? Why is it important that we be careful about whom we allow to influence us? How can a foundation of faith in Jesus Christ help us avoid being influenced by the flattery of unbelievers?

Lesson 19: None Could Deliver Them but the Lord

Purpose

To encourage class members to renew their determination to honor their baptismal covenants and trust in the Lord.

Reading Assignment:

• From last week's lesson: Mosiah 17:2-4
  2 But there was one among them whose name was Alma, he also being a descendant of Nephi. And he was a young man, and he believed the words which Abinadi had spoken, for he knew concerning the iniquity which Abinadi had testified against them; therefore he began to plead with the king that he would not be angry with Abinadi, but suffer that he might depart in peace.
  
  3 But the king was more wroth, and caused that Alma should be cast out from among them, and sent his servants after him that they might slay him.
  
  4 But he fled from before them and hid himself that they found him not. And he being concealed for many days did write all the words which Abinadi had spoken.
   
• Mosiah 18
• Mosiah 19
• Mosiah 20–22
• Mosiah 23–24

Additional Reading:

• Bible Dictionary, "Baptism"
• Celebrating Covenants - Bonnie D. Parkin
• The Power of Covenants - Elder D. Todd Christofferson
• Tomorrow the Lord Will Do Wonders among You - By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Questions to Ponder:

1. Alma teaches the baptismal covenant and baptizes many people.  (Mosiah 18)

• What does it mean to "come into the fold of God, and … be called his people"? (See Mosiah 18:16–17; see alsoHebrews 8:10; Alma 5:60.)
• What were the people willing to do as members of "the fold of God"?
  • Mosiah 18:8  
    • How can we "bear one another's burdens"? 
    • How does bearing one another's burdens make those burdens light? 
    • How have you been blessed as others have helped bear your burdens? 
  • Mosiah 18:9
    • Why is it helpful to "mourn with those that mourn"?
  • Mosiah 18:9
    • How can we appropriately offer comfort to others?
  • Mosiah 18:9
    • What does it mean "to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places"?
• Alma invited the people to be baptized and enter into a covenant with the Lord.  
  • What is a covenant? (See Mosiah 18:10.) (See alsoCelebrating Covenants - Bonnie D. Parkin)
    • President Joseph Fielding Smith taught: "A covenant is a contract and an agreement between at least two parties. In the case of gospel covenants, the parties are the Lord in heaven and men on earth. Men agree to keep the commandments and the Lord promises to reward them accordingly" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1970, 91; orImprovement Era, Dec. 1970, 26).
  • According to Mosiah 18:8–13, what do we covenant to do when we are baptized? (See also Moroni 6:2–3; D&C 20:37.) 
  • What does the Lord promise to do when we are baptized and keep our baptismal covenant? (SeeMosiah 18:10, 12–13; see also 2 Nephi 31:17.)
    • Referring to Mosiah 18:8–13, President Marion G. Romney said, "I know of no better explanation of the baptismal covenant" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1975, 109; orEnsign, Nov. 1975, 73). 
• What does it mean to believe in Jesus Christ? The Power of Covenants - Elder D. Todd Christofferson
• How did the people respond to Alma's invitation to be baptized? (See Mosiah 18:11.) 
  • What can we do to help others receive this great joy? 
  • Is there someone in your life with whom you can share the gospel?
• After the people were baptized, Alma commanded them to have "their hearts knit together in unity and in love" (Mosiah 18:21). 
  • What can we do at home and in our ward to follow this command? (See Mosiah 18:19–21.)
• Should covenants change the actions of our daily lives? (See Celebrating Covenants - Bonnie D. Parkin)
• What blessing come as a result of our obedience to the principles and commandments of the gospel? The Power of Covenants - Elder D. Todd Christofferson
• What does it mean to keep our covenants with honor and exactness? (See Celebrating Covenants - Bonnie D. Parkin)
• What does it mean to hold on to and celebrate your covenants? (See also Celebrating Covenants - Bonnie D. Parkin)
• What must we do to access divine power? The Power of Covenants - Elder D. Todd Christofferson

2. King Noah betrays his people and suffers death by fire.  (Mosiah 19)

• Some of King Noah's people began to turn against him (Mosiah 19:2–3). One of those people, Gideon, was about to kill Noah when Noah saw an army of Lamanites advancing toward them (Mosiah 19:4–6).
  • What did King Noah do when he saw the advancing Lamanites? (See Mosiah 19:7.) 
  • Who was Noah most concerned about? (SeeMosiah 19:8.) 
  • How does this compare to people today who, like Noah, try to lead us away from the Lord and His prophets?
• What had Abinadi prophesied about King Noah's death? (See Mosiah 12:3.) 
  • How was this prophecy fulfilled? (See Mosiah 19:18–20.)
  • Note that the people who eventually valued Noah's life "as a garment in a hot furnace" had at one time been blind to his wickedness, as shown in Mosiah 11:29.)

3. Limhi's people are chastened and eventually delivered by the Lord.  (Mosiah 20–22)

• After Noah was killed, his son Limhi became king. Limhi made an oath that he and his people would pay one-half of all they possessed to the king of the Lamanites in exchange for a promise that the Lamanites would not slay them (Mosiah 19:25–26).  After two years of peace, the Lamanites waged war against Limhi's people (Mosiah 20:7–10).
  • Why did the Lamanites seek to destroy Limhi's people? (See Mosiah 20:1–6.)
• When the Lamanites learned that they had misjudged Limhi's people, they returned to their own land in peace (Mosiah 20:17–26). However, "after many days the Lamanites began again to be stirred up in anger against the Nephites" (Mosiah 21:2). 
  • What did the Lamanites do to the Nephites rather than break their king's oath that they would not kill them? (See Mosiah 21:3.)
• How did the bondage of Limhi's people fulfill prophecies made by Abinadi? (Compare Mosiah 21:3–5, 14–15 withMosiah 11:20–25 and 12:2, 4–5.) 
  • Why were Limhi's people brought into bondage? (See Mosiah 7:25–32; 20:21.) 
  • Why is it important to remember that sin brings consequences?
• After failing three times to defeat the Lamanites in battle, what did Limhi's people finally do? (See Mosiah 21:13–14.) 
• Why was the Lord slow to respond to their cries? (SeeMosiah 21:15; see also D&C 101:1–9.) 
• Although the Lord did not deliver them immediately, what did He do for them? (See Mosiah 21:15–16.) 
• How does the Lord sometimes permit us to "prosper by degrees"?
• How did Limhi's people escape from the Lamanites? (SeeMosiah 22:3–12.) 
• How were they received by the people in Zarahemla? (SeeMosiah 22:13–14.)

4. The Lord delivers Alma's people from bondage.  (Mosiah 23–24)

• Notice the difference between the way the Lord blessed Limhi's people, who attempted three times to deliver themselves before they turned to Him, and the way He blessed Alma's people, who had turned to Him completely.  Compare to what Elder Holland teaches about our desire to do good in Tomorrow the Lord Will Do Wonders among You - By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
• When Alma and his people were in the place of Mormon, King Noah "sent his army to destroy them" (Mosiah 18:33). The Lord warned Alma's people and strengthened them so they could escape (Mosiah 18:34–35; 23:1–5). 
  • How was this different from the experience of Limhi's people? (See Mosiah 19:6. Note that the first time the Lamanites attacked these people, when Noah was still their king, the people received no warning.)
• How did Alma respond when the people asked him to be king? (See Mosiah 23:6–7.) 
  • How had Alma learned the danger of "one man think[ing] himself above another"? (See Mosiah 23:8–14.) 
  • What can we learn from Alma and his people to help us avoid this error? (See Mosiah 23:15.)
• Under Alma's leadership, his people lived righteously and prospered (Mosiah 23:15–20). Nevertheless, the Lord allowed them to be brought into bondage under Amulon, who had been one of King Noah's priests (Mosiah 23:23–39). 
  • How did the bondage of Alma's people fulfill prophecies made by Abinadi? (See Mosiah 12:2, 4–5.) 
  • In what ways can our poor choices bring lingering consequences even after we have been forgiven of our sins?
    • Elder Marvin J. Ashton said: "Our freedom to choose our course of conduct does not provide personal freedom from the consequences of our performances. God's love for us is constant and will not diminish, but he cannot rescue us from the painful results that are caused by wrong choices" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1990, 24; orEnsign, Nov. 1990, 20).
  • Although the Lord could not prevent Alma's people from suffering the consequences of their past sins, He comforted and strengthened them in their afflictions. The rest of this lesson discusses how He delivered them from bondage.
• Referring to the bondage of Alma's people, Mormon said, "The Lord seeth fit to chasten his people" (Mosiah 23:21). 
  • Why does the Lord chasten His people? (SeeMosiah 23:21; D&C 95:1–2.) 
  • How should we respond when the Lord chastens us? (See Mosiah 23:22.)
• According to Elder Christofferson, what enabled the ancient saints to endure all their afflictions and persecutions? The Power of Covenants - Elder D. Todd Christofferson
• What did Alma's people do when Amulon threatened to kill them if they prayed? (See Mosiah 24:10–12.) 
  • How did the Lord answer their silent prayers? (SeeMosiah 24:13–16.) 
  • How did this help them "stand as witnesses" for the Lord, as they had covenanted in the waters of Mormon? (See Mosiah 24:14.)
• Why are our burdens easier to bear when we "submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord"? (Mosiah 24:15). 
  • In what ways has the Lord strengthened you to help you "bear up [your] burdens with ease"? 
  • How has this helped you stand as a witness of God?
  • What is the source of moral and spiritual power and how do we obtain it? (See The Power of Covenants - Elder D. Todd Christofferson)
• Why did the Lord bless Alma's people while they were in bondage more quickly and abundantly than He blessed Limhi's people? (Compare Mosiah 21:5–15 with Mosiah 23:26–27; 24:10–16.) 
  • How does this apply in our lives?
• Before the Lord delivered them, both Alma's people and Limhi's people were in bondage to wicked rulers. Alma observed that in the days of King Noah, the people had also been "bound with the bands of iniquity" (Mosiah 23:12). 
  • How is iniquity, or sin, a kind of bondage? 
  • How can we escape the consequences of both sin and stupidity? (See Tomorrow the Lord Will Do Wonders among You - By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland)
  • What can we learn from Limhi's people and Alma's people about receiving deliverance from the bondage of sin? (See Mosiah 7:33; 21:14; 23:23;29:18–20; see also D&C 84:49–51.)