Alma 30-31 Apostate Individuals and Groups

Alma 30:1-18 Korihor the Anti-Christ

Verse 5 indicates that there was “continual peace” in the land of Zarahemla? Have students read Alma 30:1-5, 7-11 and discover why the country was at peace. What was the doctrine that Korihor preached? (See Alma 30:12-18.) What effect would this doctrine have on the peace the people were experiencing?

Alma 30:19-29 Korihor Defends His Doctrine

Korihor preached his doctrine among the people in Jershon? Ask students why this would not be a good place for Korihor to preach. (See Alma 23:6.) Have students find phrases that Korihor uses to cause the people to doubt what they believe; phrases such as: foolish traditions, usurp power, keep them in ignorance, they are in bondage, glut yourselves with the labors of their hands, etc. How does this kind of language confuse people? What can we do to avoid being deceived by such language today? Why would it be important for this man to persuade people that there would be no Christ?

Alma 30:30-47 Alma’s Testimony

In verse 39 Alma declares, “I know there is a God, and also that Christ shall come.” How does Alma know this? Have students review how Alma came to know these things by reading: Mosiah 27:13; Alma 5:45-46; 7:10-13; 8:15; 14:26; 15:6. Why would a man with Alma’s knowledge not be persuaded to believe the doctrines of Korihor? Have students read Alma’s testimony in Alma 30:39-44 and invite them to discuss the things that are most meaningful to them.

Alma 30:48-60 Korihor’s Testimony

Korihor asked Alma to produce a sign to show that the doctrines of Alma were true. Alma, by the power of God, gave him a sign. Korihor was struck dumb so that he could not speak. When this happened, he wrote his confession. Have students read his confession (verses 52-53). Have students explain how Korihor became a tool in the hands of Satan. How can we avoid having that same thing happen to us?

Alma 30:58-60 Scripture Analysis

Have students read these verses substituting nouns for pronouns and other analysis techniques shown in the model below.

58 And it came to pass that they [the people of Zarahemla] were all convinced of the wickedness of Korihor; therefore [because they were convinced of his wickedness] they were all converted again unto the Lord; and this [their re-conversion to the Lord] put an end to the iniquity after the manner of Korihor [sins that occur once a person believes there is no Christ]. And Korihor did go about from house to house, begging food for his support.

59 And it came to pass that as he [Korihor] went forth among the people, yea, among a people who had separated themselves [apostatized] from the Nephites and called themselves Zoramites, being led by a man whose name was Zoram--and as he [Korihor] went forth amongst them [the Zoramites], behold, he was run upon and trodden down, even until he was dead.

60 And thus [in this way] we see the end [final state] of him [anyone] who perverteth [deceitfully changes] the ways of the Lord; and thus [in this way] we see that the devil will not support his children [followers] at the last [judgment] day, but doth speedily drag them [his followers] down to hell.

Alma 31:5 Scripture Memorization

Invite students to memorize this verse. Discuss the principles that are in this verse and how they can assist parents and leaders in dealing with those they love and serve.

Alma 31:12-25 The Zoramite Form of Worship

Have students read these verses and mark the doctrines and practices of the Zoramites that were contrary to the doctrines of Christ. Why would Alma and his brethren be “astonished beyond all measure” (verse 19) when they saw the way the Zoramites worshipped? What is done in the Church to insure that our form of worship does not change?

Alma 31:26-35 Alma’s Prayer for the Zoramites

Find the phrase “wilt thou” and list the things that Alma asked the Lord to do to help the Zoramites return to the true form of worship. Have students read verse 35 and discuss the power that Alma requested of the Lord. What power would you request of the Lord if you could ask for anything? What do we learn about Alma from the request he made of the Lord?

Alma 31:36-38 Alma Receives and Gives Power

What was the power given by Alma to his brethren? How did the Lord provide for them as they ministered to the Zoramites? Why did the Lord do this? Invite students to review the life of Alma, his conversion, his sacrifices, his obedience. Ask them why they think it was right that the Lord would help him. What must we do to receive the Lord’s help?

Alma 23-29 Success of the Sons of Mosiah

Alma 23:1-6 Converted to the Lord

Verse 5 indicates that thousands of Lamanites were converted. Ask students to read verses 1-6 and explain why thousands were converted. What caused the King to issue the proclamation that allowed the gospel to be preached among the Lamanties? What was the foundation that was laid by Ammon and Aaron? How can members of the Church prepare the way for thousands to be converted among them?

Alma 23:6 Converted to the Lord

Have students read this verse and explain why people converted to the Lord never fall away. If a person falls away what were they converted to?

Alma 23:7-18 Signs of Conversion

Thousands of Lamanites were converted to the Lord, but Amalekites and Amulonites were not. Why? Cross-reference: Alma 21:1-3; Mosiah 23:31-32. Why is it harder for apostates to return to the Lord than it is for those who have never heard the gospel before? Cross-reference: D&C 121:36-39.

Alma 24:7-16 I Thank My God!

There is a great contention between the former Nephites, the Amalekites and the Amulonites, and the converted Lamanites, who now call themselves Anti-Nephi-Lehi. The apostates are preparing to destroy the Anti-Nephi-Lehis. But the converts will not prepare for battle. The Lamanite King speaks to his people and commends them for their decision. Have students read these verses and look for all the reasons the Lamanite King gives for not preparing for battle. Explain that in later chapters there will be righteous men who go to battle. Why was it a righteous thing for the Lamanites not to go to war?

Alma 24:17-30 The Lamanite Covenant

The apostate Nephites come against the converted Lamanites. What do the Lamanites do to show they are people who make and keep their covenants? How can we show the Lord today that we will keep the covenants we have made? Cross-reference: D&C 20:77-79.

Alma 25:1-2 The City of Ammonihah

Cross-reference: Alma 8:16. How did the wicked Lamanites (who were apostate Nephites) fulfill God’s purposes against the people of Ammonihah?

Alma 25:7-12 The Wicked Priests of King Noah

Cross-reference: Mosiah 17:18. How did the Lamanites fulfill the words of Abinadi? What resources does the Lord use to carry out his words when His people harden their hearts against Him?

Alma 25:13-17 The Law of Moses

Find statements made about the Law of Moses in these verses. What was the significance of the Law of Moses in the lives of people who already had testimonies that Christ would come? What lesson can we learn from the Anti-Nephi-Lehis about preparing for the coming of Christ? Cross-reference: Alma 34:14; D&C 1:14-16.

Alma 26:1-16 The Psalm of Ammon

In these verses Ammon uses words that help him express the feelings of his heart about the success he and his brothers had among the Lamanites. Invite students to examine these expressions and interpret them in modern language. For example:

The darkest abyss (verse 3)

The marvelous light of God (verse 3)

The fold of God (verse 4)

The field was ripe (verse 5)

Thrust in the sickle (verse 5)

Reap with your might (verse 5)

Behold the number of your sheaves (verse 5)

The garners (verse 5)

The storm at the last days (verse 6)

Harrowed up by the whirlwinds (verse 6)

Racked with hatred (verse 9)

The pains of hell (verse 13)

The chains of hell (verse 14)

Everlasting darkness, everlasting light, everlasting salvation (verse 15)

Alma 26:17-37 Have we not reason to rejoice?

Despite all that the sons of Mosiah suffered when they ministered among the Lamanites, Ammon felt great joy. Have students read Alma 26:30-37 and discuss all the things that brought Ammon joy. What are the things that bring us joy today? What can we do to increase that joy?

Alma 27:1-16 The Sons of Mosiah Deliver the Lamanites

This point in the text represents the end of the flashback that started in Alma 17:1-3. The sons of Mosiah met Alma as they were traveling to Zarahemla to see if the Nephites might give the converted Lamanites protection from their enemies. What is the question that Ammon asked the Lord? (See verses 5-8.) What was the Lord’s answer? (See verse 12.) What was Ammon’s response to the Lord’s answer? (See verse 15.) What does Ammon’s experience teach us about faith and obedience?

Alma 27:17-30 A Place Is Prepared

The people of Zarahemla agree to let the converted Lamanites live in their land, under their protection. Compare the converted Lamanites, who were called the people of Ammon (see Alma 27:27-30), to the Lamanites before their conversion (see Alma 17:14-15). Why does accepting the gospel and being converted to the Lord cause such a change in people?

Alma 28:1-7 A Tremendous Battle

The Nephites have done a good thing. They have provided protection for the people of Ammon, people who have converted to Christ. Have students read Alma 28:2-6. Why would the Lord allow these things to happen after the people have been gracious to needy people?

Alma 28:8-14 The Words of Mormon

The words in these verses are a commentary by Mormon on the events he has recorded. It is as if he were pausing to reflect upon the history of the Nephites and learn something from it. Have students read these verses and discuss the lessons Mormon has learned. What lessons have they learned about the Lord and his doings as they have followed the events in the lives of the sons of Mosiah?

Alma 29:1-17 The Psalm of Alma

This chapter is a poem written in the style of the Jews to celebrate the great blessings that the Lord has poured out upon Alma. Among other things, Alma tells us what he knows about God after having gone through the experiences of his life. Have students scan these verses looking for things that Alma learned about God. Why would it be wise for us to remember these things as well?

Alma 17-22 Missionaries among Kings

Alma 17:1-4 They Taught with Power
In verse 3 is says that the sons of Mosiah taught with power and authority of God. Have students read verses 1-4 and discuss those things that made it possible to teach with this power and authority. How can we teach with power and authority of God today?

Alma 17:5-10 Be Comforted!
Compare the things the Lord did for the sons of Mosiah to the things the sons of Mosiah did for themselves. What must modern missionaries depend upon the Lord for? What should missionaries do for themselves?

Alma 17:11-17 Great Was the Work They Had Undertaken
Have students find things in these verses that would have caused discouragement or frustration. Compare the Lamanites to people today to whom the missionaries will be sent. Ask students why the Lord would ask missionaries to go to such people. Cross-reference: Moses 7:26-29, 32.

Alma 17:18 Ammon Administered to His Brothers
Have students read this verse and compare the what Ammon did with his brothers to things that leaders do to prepare missionaries for service today. How are modern missionaries prepared to serve? Who sets missionaries apart prior to their service? What is the purpose of the Missionary Training Centers? Cross-reference: D&C 88:118-126.

Alma 17:19-18:23 Ammon Prepares to Teach the King
In these verses are several events that lay a foundation for Ammon to be able to preach the gospel to the Lamanites. Review the characteristics of the Lamanites (see Alma 17:14-15). Have students identify in Alma 17:19-18:23 the actions taken by Ammon that prepared the heart of the King so he could be taught. What can modern Church members and missionaries to do prepare their friends and neighbors to be taught?

Alma 18:24-40 Ammon Teaches the King
Have students list the fundamental doctrines Ammon taught the King. How are these doctrines similar to the doctrines taught in Preach My Gospel, chapter 3? Why would it be important for students to be able to teach these doctrines from their hearts?

Alma 18:41-19:14 Being Overcome by the Spirit
Compare the things that caused King Lamoni, King Lamoni’s wife, and Ammon to be overcome to the point that they fainted as if they were dead. What are the things that cause us to be overwhelmed with joy today? Cross-reference: D&C 18:44-45.

Alma 19:15-36 The Work Begins among the Lamanites
Ammon, King Lamoni, and King Lamoni’s wife lie lifeless before Lamanites. Contention builds among the people and Ammon’s life is about to be taken. A Lamanite convert named Abish takes an action that stops the dissension and saves Ammon’s life. Have students read Alma 19;29-36 and describe how King Lamoni’s wife and King Lamoni were changed by their experience. Together with Ammon, these people become three witnesses to the Lamanites. What is their testimony?

Alma 20:1-8 Ammon and King Lamoni Are Friends
Compare how King Lamoni greeted Ammon in Alma 17:20 to the relationship between Ammon and King Lamoni in Alma 20:1-8. What has caused that relationship to change? What is it we can do to improve our relationships with others and prepare them to embrace the gospel?

Alma 20:9-30 King Lamoni’s Father
Invite students to read through these verses looking for the emotions of King Lamoni, his father, and Ammon. What is it that causes them to feel joy or sorrow or fear? How are God’s purposes being accomplished through this experience? What evidence do you see that God is working in your home, neighborhood, or community?

Alma 21:9 The Doctrine of Christ
Compare what Aaron taught and how he taught it in these verses to what Ammon taught and how he taught it in Alma 18:36. How are their approaches similar? See also Alma 22:12-14. What pattern is there in their teaching that we should follow today?

Alma 22:28-34 A Geography Lesson
Have students read these verses and draw a map of the land of Zarahemla. Explain that we do not have any authorized or accurate maps of the land as it was 2,000 years ago. But, ask them to do the best they can. Why would Mormon want us to know these details? How is the situation of the Nephites similar to the situation of all righteous people today?

Alma 13-16 The Ministry of Alma and Amulek

Alma 13:1-13 High Priests after the Order of the Son of God

Alma explained that the priesthood of God was given to those who had been “called and prepared” according to the foreknowledge of God (see verse 3). Have students read verses 3-4, and verses 10-12 and ask them what kind of men were called to this priesthood. Why were some not called? What does this priesthood have to do with entering into God’s rest? (See verses 6, 12-13; cross-reference D&C 84:24.) For more information on Melchizedek and the Melchizedek Priesthood, see Bible Dictionary, pp. 730-731.

Alma 13:14-20 Melchizedek, King of Salem

Invite students to read Alma 13:17-19 and discuss the quality that made Melchizedek great. Cross-reference: D&C 107:1-4. How can you cause people to want to repent?

Alma 13:21-26 Angels Declare the Gospel

Have students explain what the word “it” stands for in verses 22, 24, 25, 26. How is it that “it” will be made known to all the world? Cross-reference with 2 Nephi 32:1-3 and ask students how they can be like angels.

Alma 13:27-31 Signs of Repentance

In these verses Alma explains what persons must do so that they will not be tempted beyond what they can endure. Invite students to list and discuss all the things Alma mentioned. Why must we all understand how to overcome temptation?

Alma 14:8-13 Our Work Is Not Yet Finished

The wicked people of Ammonihah turned against Alma and Amulek and burned all those who accepted their teachings. Have students read verse 11 and explain why Alma did not call upon God to stop the murders. What does Alma understand about death?

Alma 14:14-26 Alma’s Afflictions

In these verses Mormon tells of the suffering of Alma and Amulek. Have students make a list of the things these two servants of the Lord suffered. Why do you think the Lord would let them suffer this way? In what ways is God’s love for His people shown in these verses?

Alma 14:26-29 Alma’s Deliverance

Compare the things Alma and Amulek experienced as they escaped from prison to the things Christ experienced as he overcame death. Cross-reference: 2 Nephi 11:4.

Alma 15:1-12 The Recovery of Zeezrom

Have students read these verses looking for things that caused Zeezrom to be sick and “low with a burning fever” (verse 5). What things caused Zeezrom to “leap upon his feet” (verse 11). What should people who are depressed because of their sins do to feel joy and energy again?

Alma 15:18 Alma Ministered to Amulek

What things did Alma see that caused him to want to return to Zarahemla and minister to Amulek? (See Alma 15:13-17.) Why is it good to take advantage of time to relax? Cross-reference: D&C 64:33.

Alma 16:1-14 The Destruction of Ammonihah

The people of Ammonihah hardened their hearts against the words of Alma and Amulek, who had been sent by the Lord to call them to repentance. The city and people of Ammonihah were destroyed by the Lamanites. Some, however were taken captive. Read verses 4-8 and discuss what the Nephites did to rescue the captives. Compare what they did to things we can do to rescue people who are taken captive by sin.

Alma 16:15-21 The Church Is Established throughout the Land

Alma and Amulek preached doctrine which would prepare the people “to receive the word which should be taught among them at the time of [the Lord’s] coming” (verse 16). Have students read verses 17-20 and list the doctrines that were taught by Alma and Amuleck. How would these doctrines prepare them for the coming of the Lord? How can these doctrines prepare us for the Second Coming of the Lord?

Alma 8-12 Standing Before God to Be Judged

Alma 8:1-6 Alma Preaches in Melek

Have students find verses that show why Alma had success among the people of Melek. What did Alma do? What did the people do? How are these things like the things people must do to have success in missionary work today?

Alma 8:7-13 Alma Preaches in Ammonihah

Compare the reaction of the people of Ammonihah to the reaction of the people in Melek (Alma 8:1-6). Why was the reaction different? What can missionaries do when Satan has a great hold upon the hearts of the people?

Alma 8:14-18 Alma Returns to Ammonihah

Have students list all the things they learn about angels from these verses. Cross-reference: 2 Nephi 32:3; Luke 1:11-38; D&C 49:26-27.

Alma 8:19-32 Amulek Joins Alma in the Ministry

Alma testified to Amulek concerning the mission the Lord had given him. What was Alma’s testimony? How did Amulek respond to that testimony? What power did they receive from God because of their faithfulness?

Alma 9:1-24 The Blessings of Heaven Forgotten

Alma tells the people of Ammonihah of the many ways the Lord has blessed them. List the blessings that have come from God to these people. What blessings have come from God in your generation that you may have forgotten or overlooked?

Alma 9:25-34 Alma’s Testimony of Christ

What things does Alma testify of concerning Christ? Why would people become angry at Alma for testifying of these things?

Alma 10:1-11 Amulek’s Testimony of Alma

Amulek testifies of Alma and his mission among the people of Ammonihah. What things does he say to try to persuade the people that Alma is a true messenger from God? How can you know if people are true messengers from God today?

Alma 10:12-16 Corrupt Lawyers

Find words that describe the lawyers mentioned in these verses. How are people today using the words that others speak to find fault with them and bring condemnation upon them? Cross-reference: 2 Nephi 28:8-10.

Alma 10:17-23 The Righteous Postpone Destruction

What does the Lord say by his own voice, by the voice of his angels and by the voice of prophets concerning the fate of the wicked? Why is it that the wicked are allowed to continue their existence on the earth? Why should we pray for wicked people?

Alma 10:24-31 The Influence of Corrupt Lawyers and Judges

A community or a nation does not go from righteousness to wickedness in a day. What is the foundation of the destruction of a community or nation? How is it built? Why will it ultimately fall? Cross-reference: Helaman 5:12.

Alma 11:1-20 The Money System of the People of Ammonihah

Mormon takes a great deal of space on the plates to describe the money system of the people of Ammonihah. Why would he do this?

Alma 11:21-22 Zeezrom’s Offer

Using the information found in Alma 11:1-20, what is Zeezrom offering Amulek if he will deny the existence of a Supreme Being?

Alma 11:23-37 Salvation in Sin?

Zeezrom asks Amulek several questions that have to do with the doctrines Amulek believes. He asks if there is a true and living God, if there is more than one God, how he knows these things, if the one who shall come is the Son of God, if the Son of God will save people in their sins. What are Amulek’s answers to these questions?

Alma 11:38-46 We Shall Be Brought to Stand Before God

What is there is Amulek’s words that would cause Zeezrom to tremble? What is there about the doctrine of Christ that would cause all people who are wicked to be afraid?

Alma 12:1-7 Zeezrom Trembled More Exceedingly

What does Alma say to Zeezrom that causes him to tremble more exceedingly? Why would wicked people, especially wicked judges and lawyers, be troubled by these words?

Alma 12:8-11 The Mysteries of God

How is it that a person can gain greater understanding of the mysteries of God? How is it that a person can lose what understanding of the mysteries of God he once had? How does Alma define the expression “the chains of hell”? What do people do today to bring upon themselves the chains of hell?

Alma 12:12-18 A Lake of Fire and Brimstone

What must a person do to take away the blessings of the Atonement of Christ? How is it that a person can stand before God as if there had not been an Atonement? Why would standing before God without the protection of the Atonement of Christ be like standing in a lake of fire and brimstone?

Alma 12:19-27 The Fall of Man

When Adam and Eve were in the Garden of Eden they could partake of the Tree of Life. They were commanded not to partake of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, but they were told they could choose for themselves (see Genesis 2:17; Moses 3:17; Abraham 5:13). Adam and Eve partook of the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. They could have lived forever if they had been allowed to partake of the Tree of Life. Why did God cut them off from that tree?

Alma 12:28-37 It Is Expedient that Men Should Know of God’s Plan

God cut off Adam and Eve from His presence and from the presence of the Tree of Life. What did He do, and what is He still doing, to help mankind come back into His presence? How can we take advantage of the effort God is making to bring us back to Him?