50 Questions of Alma 5 - compiled by John W. Welch and J. Gregory Welch

(Questions are numbered, and followed by the number of the verse in Alma 5 in which they are found.)
Remembering God's Acts for His People
1. Have you sufficiently retained in remembrance the captivity of your fathers? 6
2. Have you sufficiently retained in remembrance God's mercy and long-suffering towards your fathers? 6
3. Have you sufficiently retained in remembrance that he has delivered their souls from hell? 6
4. Were your fathers destroyed? 8
5. Were the bands of death broken, and the chains of hell which encircled your fathers about, were they loosed? 9
Knowing the Essential Logic of the Gospel
6. On what conditions were your fathers saved? 10
7. On what grounds had they to hope for salvation? 10
8. What is the cause of your fathers' being loosed from the bands of death, yea, and also the chains of hell? 10
9. Did not my father Alma believe in the words which were delivered by the mouth of Abinadi? 11
10. Was Abinadi not a holy prophet? 11
11. Did Abinadi not speak the words of God? 11
12. Did my father Alma believe them? 11
Being Personally Converted
13. Have you spiritually been born of God? 14
14. Have you received his image in your countenance? 14
15. Have you experienced this mighty change in your heart? 14
16. Do you exercise faith in the redemption of him who created you? 15
17. Do you look forward with an eye of faith? 15
Imagining the Judgment Day
18. Do you view this mortal body raised in immortality, and this corruption raised in incorruption, to stand before God to be judged according to the deeds which have been done in the mortal body? 15
19. Can you imagine to yourself that you hear the voice of the Lord, saying unto you, in that day: Come unto me you blessed, for behold your works have been works of righteousness upon the face of the earth? 16
20. Or do you imagine to yourself that you can lie unto the Lord in that day, and say - Lord, my works have been righteous works upon the face of the earth - and that he will save you? 17
21. Or otherwise, can you imagine yourself brought before the tribunal of God with your soul filled with guilt and remorse, having a remembrance of all your guilt, yea, a perfect remembrance of all your wickedness, yea, a remembrance that you have set at defiance the commandments of God? 18
22. Can you look up to God at that day with a pure heart and clean hands? 19
23. Can you look up, having the image of God engraven upon your countenance? 19
24. Can you think of being saved when you have yielded yourself to become subject to the devil? 20
25. How will you feel if you shall stand before the bar of God, having your garments stained with blood and all manner of filthiness? 22
26. What will these things testify against you? 22
27. Will they not testify that you are a murderer? 23
28. Will they not also testify that you are guilty of all manner of wickedness? 23
29. Do you suppose that such an one can have a place to sit down in the kingdom of God, with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob, and also all the holy prophets, whose garments are cleansed and are spotless, pure and white? 24
Assessing One's Spiritual Condition
30. If you have experienced a change of heart, and if you have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, can you feel so now? 26
31. Have you walked, keeping yourself blameless before God? 27
32. Could you say, if you were called to die at this time, within yourself, that you have been sufficiently humble? 27
33. Could you say that your garments have been cleansed and made white through the blood of Christ? 27
34. Are you stripped of pride? 28
35. Is there one among you who is not stripped of envy? 29
36. Is there one among you that doth make a mock of his brother, or that heapeth upon him persecutions? 30
Identifying with a "Fold"
37. If you are not the sheep of the good shepherd, of what fold are you? 39
38. The devil is your shepherd, and you are of his fold; and now who can deny this?
Obtaining Spiritual Knowledge
39. Do you not suppose that I know of these things of myself? 45
40. How do you suppose that I know of their surety? 46
Refusing to Repent
41. Can you withstand these sayings? 53
42. Can you lay aside these things and trample the Holy One under your feet? 53
43. Can you be puffed up in the pride of your heart? 53
44. Will you still persist in the wearing of costly apparel and setting your heart upon the vain things of the world, upon your riches? 53
45. Will you persist in supposing that you are better than another? 54
46. Will you persist in the persecution of your brethren, who humble themselves and do walk after the holy order of God, wherewith they have been brought into this church having been sanctified by the Holy Spirit, and they do bring forth works which are meet for repentance? 54
47. Will you persist in turning y our back upon the poor and needy, and in withholding your substance from them? 55
48. The names of the righteous shall be written in the book of life, and unto them will I grant an inheritance at my right hand. What have you to say against this? 58
49. What shepherd is there having many sheep doth not watch over them, that the wolves enter not an devour his flock? 59
50. If a wolf enter his flock doth the shepherd not drive him out? 59

Quotes from Alma 5 Lesson

1. Ezra Taft Benson said: “Can human hearts be changed? Why of
course! It happens every day in the great missionary work of the Church. It is one of the most
widespread of Christ’s modern miracles. If it hasn’t happened to you - it should. The Lord works from
the inside out. The world works from the outside in. The world would take people out of the slums.
Christ takes the slums out of the people, and then they take themselves out of the slums. 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.” (The
Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, pp. 77-78.)

2. An image is not just an outward
visual impression but also a vivid representation, a graphic display, or a total likeness of something. It is
a person or thing very much like another, a copy or counterpart. Likewise, countenance does not simply
mean a facial expression or visual appearance. The word comes from an old French term originally
denoting “behavior,” “demeanor,” or “conduct.” In earlier times the word countenance was used with
these meanings in mind. Therefore, to receive Christ’s image in one’s countenance means to acquire the
Savior’s likeness in behavior, to be a copy or reflection of the Master’s life. This is not possible without
a mighty change in one’s pattern of living. It requires, too, a change in feelings, attitudes, desires, and
spiritual commitment. This involves the heart. Andrew Skinner, Studies in Scriptures, 7:301.

3. Ted Gibbons – LDS Living, lesson 22:
The multitude of questions Alma asks are worth a careful, personal look. But it seems clear that there is
one question in the sermon, what we might call the critical question, that must be answered correctly.
That question is asked five different times toward the end of the sermon. The question is in verses 53-56
and it is this: if you are doing any of these things that are contrary to the teaching of the gospel, will ye
persist? If you have found something in this sermon that needs your attention, or that needs repentance,
will you repent? Or will you persist in rebelling against the commandments of God?

4. Elder David A. Bednar: Brothers and sisters, it is possible for us to have clean hands but not have a pure heart. Please notice that both clean hands and a pure heart are required to ascend into the hill of the Lord and to stand in His holy place.

Let me suggest that hands are made clean through the process of putting off the natural man and by overcoming sin and the evil influences in our lives through the Savior’s Atonement. Hearts are purified as we receive His strengthening power to do good and become better. All of our worthy desires and good works, as necessary as they are, can never produce clean hands and a pure heart. It is the Atonement of Jesus Christ that provides both a cleansing and redeeming power that helps us to overcome sin and a sanctifying and strengthening power that helps us to become better than we ever could by relying only upon our own strength. The infinite Atonement is for both the sinner and for the saint in each of us. Nov. 2007 Ensign

Alma 6-8

Study Guide: Alma 6-7 – to be discussed January 10, 2008
Day 1: Read Alma 6:1-8; review Alma 4:19
[Note: Alma 6 is an “interlude” chapter, inserted by Mormon as he abridged Alma’s writings.]
1. List five things from the first six verses of Alma 6 which Alma did to set the church in Zarahemla in order.



2. Where did Alma go first after he had strengthened the church in Zarahemla?


3. Review Alma 4:19. What two tools did Alma plan to take with him on his mission, in order to “reclaim” the people of the church? From Alma 6:8, how did Mormon further describe these two tools, or witnesses?



Day 2: Read Alma 7:1-9; Matthew 3:1-3
4. What two attitudes did Alma say he hoped to find among the saints at Gideon? What do these mean and how would they prepare the people to receive Alma’s message?



5. According to Alma, what was the most important message he had to share? Why did Alma feel an urgency to give this message?



6. Compare Alma 7:9 with Matthew 3:1-3 (with footnote 2a). List similarities between John the Baptist and Alma. For extra credit, use also JS-H 1:72, D&C 93:6-17, or any other scriptures that apply.




Day 3: Read Alma 7:10-16; D&C 19:16-19; Mark 14:33; Articles of Faith 3 and 4
7. List the specific afflictions Christ took upon himself in his act of atonement.




8. Alma explained reasons Christ needed to suffer these mortal afflictions. Underline the word “that” each time it appears in Alma 7:11-13. Now list the reasons given in each case.




9. Compare Alma 7:14-16 with the third and fourth articles of faith. Which basic gospel principles do they have in common?



Day 4: Read Alma 7:17-27; 2 Peter 1:4-8
10. Were the people of Gideon perfect? What path were they in? How did Alma feel about them?



11. Read 2 Peter 1:4-8 with Alma 7:23-25, listing virtues in order. Do we strengthen these virtues by following the promptings of the Spirit, or does the Spirit increase in us when we discipline ourselves in these areas?



12. In what areas did Alma’s apostolic blessing invoke the peace of God in behalf of the people of Gideon? According to what two things? Cross-reference John 14:27, Romans 8:6, 1 Corinthians 14:33.



Day 5: Read Alma 8:1-8; Review Mosiah 4:27
13. Read Mosiah 4:27 with Alma 8:1. Why did Alma go home and rest? Now read Alma 1:26. What do you think Alma was resting from? What is the lesson for us?


14. What was the result of Alma’s teaching in Melek? Where did the Spirit lead Alma next? If he averaged 15-20 miles per day, how far did he travel to his next missionary assignment?



15. What was the custom among the Nephites in naming their lands, cities and villages?


Day 6: Read Alma 8:9-17
16. How was Alma’s experience in Ammonihah different from his experience in Melek? What made the difference?



17. Why do you think the Spirit led Alma to Ammonihah? How did he feel when he left?



18. Under what circumstances had Alma met this angel before? (see Mosiah 27:11) What was his message this time? Do you think Alma was glad to see him again?


Bonus: Read Alma 8:10 with Enos 1:2 and Genesis 32:24. What does it mean to “wrestle with God”?

Day 7: Read Alma 8:18-32
19. What did Alma do after the angel left? Compare Alma’s reaction to the angel’s directive In v. 18 with the reaction of the people of Ammonihah to Alma’s message.


20. How had the way been prepared for Alma’s return to Ammonihah? Look back at Alma 8:10 and 14. How did the Lord answer Alma’s prayers? Do you think it was the way he expected?


21. Why do you think Alma tarried with Amulek “many days” (v.27)? What gave his missionary partnership so much power? Cross-reference to Alma 10:2-4.

Alma 4-5

Alma 4-5 Study Guide – to be discussed December 13
Day 1: Read Alma 4:1-10
1. What awakened the Nephites to a remembrance of their duty? What did they do because of this remembrance?



2. For how many years did the Nephites enjoy peace at this time? What attitudes and tendencies in the eighth year of the reign of the judges disrupted their peace?


3. How do you think wickedness in the church became a “great stumblingblock” to those outside the church?



Day 2: Read Alma 4:11-20
4. What kinds of divisions or “inequalities” became evident among the Nephites in the ninth year of the reign of the judges?



5. What did Alma give up in order to devote himself more fully to leadership in the church? Around what year did he do this? List Alma’s goals as high priest.




6. Why do you think Alma, as chief judge, didn’t just change laws in order to change behavior among his people?



Day 3: Read Alma 5:1-13, with head note; Ezekiel 11:17-20, 36:25-28
7. What historical events did Alma relate to begin his discourse? Approximately how many years prior had these events occurred?


8. What, specifically, did Alma ask his people to remember? What did Alma’s father’s people sing?



9. Much of Alma’s address is focused on the “mighty change of heart” necessary for salvation (see. vv. 7, 12-13, etc.). Read Ezekiel 11:17-20 and 36:25-28. List what the Lord expects from those who have had their hearts changed.



BONUS: What do you think it means to have one’s soul “illuminated by the light of the everlasting word”? (Alma 5:7)



Day 4: Read Alma 5:14-25; Moses 6:64-68; Psalm 24:3-5; Alma 36:12-15; Review Mosiah 27:23-28
10. What three questions are asked in Alma 5:14? How do you think these questions are related? What does Moses 6:64-68 add to your understanding of what it means to be “spiritually born of God”?

BONUS: Compare the three-fold question in Alma 5:14 with Alma 5:19. What do “clean hands” represent? What does a “pure heart” represent? Cross-reference to Psalm 24:3-5.



11. Alma gives us a series of questions in this chapter, which we can use as a kind of measuring stick or “spiritual cardiogram” for our eternal progress. What does it mean to “look forward with an eye of faith: (v.15)?


12. Read Alma 36:12-15 and review Mosiah 27:25-28. When Alma says “can you imagine…” he is speaking from experience, having an understanding of what it would be like to stand before the Lord with filthy garments. According to Alma, how can we be cleansed?


Day 5: Read Alma 5:26-37; Review 2 Nephi 31:20
13. Is a mighty change of heart a process or an event? What do you think it means to “sing the song of redeeming love”? to “walk… before God”?



14. Alma shifts focus from our relationship with God to our relationships with others in verses 28-37 of Alma 5. Of what two things does Alma say we must be “stripped” in our interpersonal relationships?


15. What invitation is extended to ALL men (and women)?


Day 6: Read Alma 5:38-52; John 10:14-15, 27-28; Psalm 23
16. Who is the Good Shepherd? In what ways are we sometimes dumber than sheep?


17. List phrases Alma uses in sealing his address with his own personal testimony and witness.



18. Underline each time Alma wrote, “the Spirit sayeth,” in verses 50-52. Summarize the two main messages Alma was impressed by the Spirit to deliver.


Day 7: Read Alma 5:53-62; D&C 88:66-68; Ezra 6:21
19. How do we “trample the Holy One” under our feet?


20. Use D&C 88:66-68 with Alma 5:54 to explain what it means to be “sanctified by the Holy Spirit.”


21. From Alma 5:57, what three things do we need to do to follow the voice of the Good Shepherd? Cross-ref. D&C 133:5.


BONUS: Review all of Alma, rewriting some of Alma’s questions to make a list of indicators as to where you are in the path to exaltation. (Eg: From v. 6, “Do I remember and appreciate past blessings?”)

Alma 1-3: to be discussed December 6

Alma 1-3 Study Guide – to be discussed December 6
Day 1: Read Alma 1:1-14; Review Mosiah 19:4-8, 22:3-9; 2 Nephi 26:29; Topical Guide “Priestcraft”; Bible Dictionary “Antichrist”
1. What false doctrine had the man brought before Alma (Nehor) been teaching? Why do you think people were willing to pay him for his preaching?



2. What do we know about Gideon? (Review Mosiah 19:4-8, 22:3-9.) What weapon did Gideon wield? Do you think, even in his advanced years, he went down quietly?



3. Look up “Priestcraft” in the Topical Guide. What other entries are referenced and how do they define this destructive practice? (See also 2 Nephi 26:29.) Why do you think Alma said that if priestcraft was enforced it would bring destruction?
For EXTRA CREDIT, look up “Antichrist” in the Bible Dictionary. Who is the great antichrist?



BONUS: Which of Nehor’s teachings are taught in the world today?


Day 2: Read Alma 1:15-33
4. Why didn’t the death of Nehor and his last-minute confession put an end to the spreading of priestcraft? What kind of persecution did Nehor’s followers exact? Did church members fight back?



5. How did the members of the true church in Alma’s day take care of one another? What was the result?



6. List the iniquities of the dissenters. Which of these sins were punishable by law? Which one attitude seems to have been the source of all the other sins?



Day 3: Read Alma 2:1-15
7. What made Amlici dangerous? Why do you think his followers wanted to make him their king?



8. How did the Amlicites react when their candidate lost the election? Use footnote 9a to explain by what authority the Amlicites consecrated their king.



9. Where did the Amlicites gather their forces for attack?



Day 4: Read Alma 2:16-28; D&C 38:11-12; D&C 109:24-26
10. Who led the Nephites in battle? List casualties for both sides.



11. What was Alma’s strategy for preserving his people? Can you liken this strategy to ways we can protect ourselves against the hosts of Satan today? For EXTRA CREDIT use D&C 38:11-12, 109:24-26.



12. Why were the Nephites able to overcome the more numerous combined forces of the enemy? Are we ever really outnumbered? (See again D&C 38:11-12, 109:24-26.)



Day 5: Read Alma 2:29-38
13. What motivated Alma when he was in the throes of battle with the enemy?


14. What kind of leadership skills did the Lamanite king exhibit?


15. Draw a map showing Zarahemla, the river Sidon, the hill Amnihu (v.15), the land Minon (v.24), the valley of Gideon (v.26), and the wilderness of Hermounts. Mark where the two battles took place (Alma 2:17-19 and 2:27-34).


BONUS: Go back over Alma 2 and mark every place where the word “strength” or “strengthen(ed)” is used. What is the message of this chapter?

Day 6: Read Alma 3:1-12; Revelation 13:16, 14:1; 1Nephi 2:23, 2Nephi 5:21-25
16. List what was destroyed in the war with the Amlicites and Lamanites.



17. How and why did the Amlicites mark themselves? See also Revelation 13:16, 14:1.



18. Why had the Lord set a mark upon the Lamanites? See also 1Nephi 2:23, 2Nephi 5:21-25.



Day 7: Read Alma 3:13-27; D&C 10:26; Alma 30:60; John 8:34; Romans 6:23
19. How was the mark the Amlicites gave themselves a fulfillment of prophecy? How do people give themselves “marks” today?


20. How many wars had the Nephites fought during the first five years of the reign of the judges?

21. How do we receive “wages,” either from God or from the adversary? What are the wages of sin? See also D&C 10:26; Alma 30:60; John 8:34; Romans 6:23.

Mosiah 28-29

Mosiah 28-29 Study Guide – to be discussed November 15
Day 1: Read Mosiah 28:1-9
1. List all the reasons the sons of Mosiah gave for wanting to preach the gospel to the Lamanites.



BONUS: Why were Mosiah’s sons so concerned about the suffering of others for sin?



2. Why do you think Mosiah’s sons had to plead with their father to be allowed to go on this particular mission?



3. What did the Lord promise Mosiah concerning his sons? What do you think the sons of Mosiah had to sacrifice to serve?



Day 2: Read Mosiah 28:10-20
4. To what did Mosiah turn his attention after his sons left?



5. What was the reaction of Mosiah’s people to the record of the Jaredites (Book of Ether)?



6. What items did Mosiah give to Alma? Why?



Day 3: Read Mosiah 29:1-10; D&C 101:76-80
7. Who did the people of Zarahemla want to be their king? Why was this impossible?



8. What reasons did Mosiah give for not appointing another king?



9. Read D&C 101:76-80. Why is the Lord concerned with the governments of men?



Day 4: Read Mosiah 29:11-20
10. What system of government did Mosiah suggest for the people to adopt at his death?


11. Compare Mosiah’s arguments in Mosiah 29:13-16 with Alma’s thoughts on the same subject in Mosiah 23:6-9. What are the dangers of submitting to a king? Who is the only one worthy to be called King?

12. Why did the Lord intercede in behalf of his people to deliver them from bondage?




Day 5: Read Mosiah 29:21-27; D&C 134:1-2
13. What did Mosiah say about why it is hard to dethrone a wicked king?



14. What kinds of laws constitute good government?




15. What happens when the voice of the people (majority vote) chooses iniquity?



Day 6: Read Mosiah 29:28-36
16. What system of checks and balances did Mosiah suggest?



17. If everyone has agency and the Light of Christ, why are the iniquities of an evil king answered upon the head of the king?



18. In what ways is the monarchy a burden to the righteous monarch?



Day 7: Read Mosiah 29:37-47
19. Why did the people esteem Mosiah so highly?




20. Who was elected to be the first chief judge? What other office did he hold?




21. Two great Nephite leaders’ deaths are recorded at the end of the Book of Mosiah. If you were called upon to speak at the funeral services of one of these great men, which verse(s) from Mosiah might you quote?

Mosiah 26-27 to be discussed November 8

Mosiah 26-27 Study Guide – to be discussed November 8
Day 1: Read Mosiah 26:1-12; D&C 42:79-89
1. What three things are we told the rising generation of Nephites did not believe? List the results of their unbelief.



2.How were members of the church deceived? What did this lead to?



3. Why do you think Mosiah refused to judge the accused of Zarahemla? (see also D&C 42:79-89)



Day 2: Read Mosiah 26:13-32
4. What motivated Alma to pray with his “whole soul”? What do you think that means?



5. Underline the word “blessed” in the Lord’s response to Alma’s prayer. According to the Lord, who is blessed and why? Why do you think the Lord began his response with these declarations of favor?



6. From Mosiah 26:22-32, list the phrases in which the Lord specifically answers Alma’s prayerful question about how to handle dissenters and sinners in the church.



BONUS: Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “election.” Why do you think Alma was given the promise recorded in Mosiah 26:20?


Day 3: Read Mosiah 26:33-39; Revelation 20:12
7. What was the first thing Alma did after he received his answer?


8. Whose names did Alma blot out? Use Revelation 20:12 to tell the fate of those individuals if they did not repent.



9. What effect did Alma’s actions have on the church?



Day 4: Read Mosiah 27:1-9
10. Can equality be legislated? Why or why not?



11. What seems to have been the cause of peace and prosperity among the Nephites?

12. How did Alma the Younger gain so much power among the people?



Day 5: Read Mosiah 27:10-19; Acts 9:1-9
13. Why do you think Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah wanted to destroy the church? Compare the angel’s visit to Alma and his brethren with the experience Paul had on the road to Damascus as recorded in Acts 9:1-9.




14. For what two purposes did the angle say he had come?



15. List what the angel commanded Alma to do.



Day 6: Read Mosiah 27:20-31, with footnote 24d; John 3:3-6; D&C 19:10-11
16. What was Alma the Senior’s reaction when he learned of his son’s condition? Why?



17. How does Alma the Younger define being “born of the Spirit”? Use also Alma 5:14. Do you think he had been born of the water earlier in his life? Cross-reference John 3:3-6.



18. Alma reported having been “racked with eternal torment” – but was only unconscious for two days. Use D&C 19:10-11 to explain how this is possible.



BONUS: Read 2 Corinthians 7:10-11. How did “Godly sorrow” help Alma become a “new creature”?



Day 7: Read Mosiah 27:32-37
19. Why did Alma want to share his experience with everyone throughout all the land?



20. Why do you think the testimonies of the sons of Mosiah were so powerful?



21. Re-read Mosiah 12:21 with Mosiah 27:37. Did Alma Jr. and the sons of Mosiah have beautiful feet?

Mosiah 23-25

Mosiah 23-25 Study Guide: To be discussed November 1 (with Mosiah 19-22)

NOTE: Mosiah 23-24 contain the second flashback in Mosiah, describing the history of the group of people who fled the Waters of Mormon with Alma and began a new colony at Helam.
Day 1: Read Mosiah 23:1-15, with headnote to ch. 23
1. Why were Alma’s people able to stay ahead of Noah’s army?



2. Find three things Alma taught about kings and the reasons he taught those things.



3. What was Alma’s counsel to his people, now that they were delivered from the “bonds of iniquity”?



BONUS: Can you think of a time when you were “warned of the Lord” and strengthened by Him?


Day 2: Read Mosiah 23:16-28; D&C 20:46-59
4. How did priests and teachers receive authority? What were their duties? Cross-reference D&C 20:46-49.



5. How is our faith and patience sometimes tested? What promise from Mosiah 23:22 gives hope during those times?



6. How did Alma prepare his people to face the Lamanite army?



Day 3: Read Mosiah 23:29-39; Review Mosiah 22:11-16, 19:18-24, 20:1-5
7. Why do you think the Lord allowed Alma and his people to be placed in bondage to the Lamanites when they had repented and were righteous? (See also Mosiah 11:23, 12:1-2.)



8. Who was Amulon and how did he get an army?



9. How did Amulon demonstrate his lack of integrity? What did Alma and Amulon have in common? How were they different?




Day 4: Read Mosiah 24:1-12; 2 Nephi 32:8-9
10. Why did King Laman appoint teachers from among the wicked priests? What did they teach? What did they NOT teach? Why?

11. Why did Amulon persecute Alma? Why did Amulon’s children persecute Alma’s children?



12. What basic right did Amulon attempt to deny Alma and his people? Why do you think this was forbidden? Can it effectively be forbidden? (See also 2 Nephi 32:8-9.)



Day 5: Read Mosiah 24:13-25; 3 Nephi 1:10-15
13. Compare Mosiah 24:13-16 with 3 Nephi 1:10-15. List the similarities.





14. In what ways were Alma’s people strengthened in their adversity? List the blessings.



15. How did faith and patience help Alma’s people?



Day 6: Read Mosiah 25:1-12; footnotes for Mosiah 9:1, 24:25
16. Order these groups according to their relative sizes of population, least to greatest: Lamanites, Nephites, Mulekites, combined Nephites and Mulekites. How much more numerous was the most populous group compared to the second most populous?



17. Name the four distinct groups living in Zarahemla who gathered for General Conference. Use footnotes for Mosiah 9:1 and 24:25 to calculate how long it had been since the people of Zarahemla had been united with the party who left with Zeniff.



18. What were the reactions of the people as Mosiah read aloud the record we now have as Mosiah 9-24? How does reading and pondering the scriptures make you feel?



Day 7: Read Mosiah 25:13-24
19. What was Mosiah’s title among the people of Zarahemla? What was Alma’s role?


20. What kind of correlation program did the church have during this time? What were the people called?


21. What was preached in the church and why?

Mosiah 19-22

Mosiah 19-22 study guide – to be discussed October 25
Day 1: Read Mosiah 19:1-14; Bible Dictionary entry, “Gideon”
1. Why was there so much contention and unrest among Noah’s people? Compare them to Alma’s people.



2. Look up the name “Gideon” in the Bible Dictionary. What does the name mean? Who was the Gideon of the Old Testament (brass plates)? How did Noah stop Gideon from killing him?



3. What was Noah’s strategy for escaping death at the hands of the Lamanites?


Day 2: Read Mosiah 19:15-29
4. What were the conditions of the treaty between the Lamanites and the people of Noah?



5. When Gideon and his search party came upon those who had abandoned their families and fled with Noah, what had they finally realized about their allegiance to Noah?


6. In what ways were Limhi’s people in bondage? Whose fault was it?




Day 3: Read Mosiah 20:1-11
7. Why didn’t the wicked priests return to their families in Nephi?


8. In what way did the Lamanites feel Limhi’s people had broken their part of the peace treaty? Do you think the wicked priests knew their actions would lead to war?



9. Why do you think the people of Limhi were able to stand against the Lamanites even though they were out-numbered?



Day 4: Read Mosiah 20:12-26
10. What do you learn about Limhi from his decision regarding the Lamanite king? What would likely have been the outcome had he executed King Laman as advised?


11. How do you think Gideon knew how to counsel the king?



12. What kinds of bondage do we face today? How do we usually get into bondage? How do we get out?
Day 5: Read Mosiah 21:1-16
13. Why did the people begin to rebel against Limhi? What was the result?



14. How many times did the people of Limhi face defeat before they began to humble themselves?


15. Underline the words “humble” and “humility” in Mosiah 21:13-14. What did humility lead to?



Day 6: Read Mosiah 21:17-36
16. Why did Limhi want to capture the wicked priests?



17. Review Mosiah 7:7. We have now caught up with where we left off before the flashback began in Mosiah 9. What do we learn here about why Limhi had Ammon and his companions bound and imprisoned?



18. The record tells us Limhi and many of his people had entered into a covenant to serve God and keep his commandments (see Mosiah 21:32), but they were unable to be baptized. Why did they feel the need to be baptized? How did this desire impact their plans for escape from bondage?




Day 7: Read Mosiah 22; Review Mosiah 21:13-17, Mosiah 7:2-3
19. Did Limhi and his people show a lack of faith in their determination that a military victory against the Lamanites was impossible? Why or why not?



20. Review Mosiah 21:13-14 and 17. How did Limhi’s people prepare themselves to gain their freedom?




21. Review Mosiah 21:15-16; Mosiah 7:2-3; Mosiah 22:9. After they had prepared, in what ways did the Lord deliver the people of Limhi from bondage?




Bonus: Read D&C 58:26-28 and DD&C 1:19-28
Relate the principles set forth in these passages from the Doctrine and Covenants to how Limhi’s people gained freedom from bondage. What is the pattern for us today?

Arnold Friberg's Abinadi painting

A link to the entire article from which this post is taken is at right. Here is a clip from the article, giving the details we discussed in class as well as additional information on the subject after whom Abinadi is modeled in Friberg's famous painting. Following the information from the article is detail from my files, labeled, "Taped interview with Arnold Friberg, June 3, 1986." If anyone can find a link to the entire interview, please let me know.

Abinadi before King Noah (Mosiah 11–13). "I composed it the opposite of the well-known principle in art, the 'principle of the Jewel.' . . . It is like a jewel setting—the central figure is the most interesting part. You use the strongest color and the strongest and most vibrant contrast around the center of interest, and then it goes into surrounding neutrals. I reversed it here for the purposes of this picture. Against the simplicity of Abinadi in his grey prison garb was the opulence of the court. The richness of the colors set off this simple, humble man.

"And the jaguars—I spent days studying them at the zoo. There were several reasons for putting them in. One thing, it gives a royal touch to have the animals chained to the throne. They are not leopards; they are jaguars, which are more compact animals than leopards. Jaguars are found only in Central and South America, so they sort of help define the geographical setting. Animals are very sensitive to supernatural power. . . . The jaguars are snarling because they sense the awesome power that is surrounding Abinadi.

"Then there are the priests of King Noah. I had somewhat in mind the man back here at the right might be young Alma. He was mightily impressed by the courageous testimony of Abinadi, so much so that he became a prophet."

This is the artist's favorite painting of the entire set. The figure of Abinadi held special meaning for Arnold Friberg. When his family was converted in 1921 in Arizona through the missionary efforts of a Brother Altop, Arnold was seven years old. He was baptized the next year and remembers fondly the missionary teaching his family received from Brother Altop. As Friberg was at work painting this picture, Brother Altop visited him in Salt Lake City. Lean and muscular from years of working as a carpenter, the revered friend was immediately put to work posing as Abinadi.

Additional information from my files:

"I show the guards being thrown back by this great power surrounding Abinadi. They couldn't touch him. In John 18:6 it says,'As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.' This is commonly forgotten. People usually treat Christ as though he were a victim. I think that is why there are so many pictures of him looking gaunt and cadaver-looking, because 'this poor fellow was dragged through the streets - a victim.' But actually he was the one in charge at all times in Gethsemane. They didn't know who he was. The guards came to get him, and he said, 'Who are you looking for?'
"They said 'Jesus of Nazareth.'
"He said 'I am he.' And the force of his words hurled the guards to the ground. That is commonly forgotten. People act as if the guards just came out and took him. They couldn't have taken him. I think it is a tremendous story. This is where I got the idea. This same force surrounded Abinadi, that they could not touch him until he finished his message that he had to give.

"The elements of design (the steps, etc.) are all based on ancient American design.

"One detail you might be interested in is the green feathers on Kind Noah's crown. They are from the Quetzl bird. They have these long green feathers. They are the nationial bird of Guatemala. The reason they are the national bird is that they cannot live in captivity. You cannot keep a Quetzl bird in the zoo, he will die. It is the symbol of liberty. He dies if he is not free. Often in the ancient American sculptures you will see the Quetzl feathers used in the head-dress, so I used them in the king's head-dress.

"It is a very powerful subject and I tried to show the dignity of this siimple man. He has no jewelry compared to the court which is filled with opulence. He stands up in his simple dignity with a certain emanation of light showing the power that is in him."

Mosiah 15-18

Mosiah 15-18 Study Guide – to be discussed October 18
Day 1: Read Mosiah 15:1-19
1.. In what way(s) is Jesus Christ the “Son”? In what way(s) is He the “Father”? In what way(s) are the Father (Elohim) and the Son (Jesus Christ) one God?




2. In Mosiah 15:5-9, Abinadi explains the verses just quoted in Mosiah 14:2-7 (Isaiah 53:2-7). How might this description of Christ’s life and ministry have been a test of faith for the wicked priests?



3. In Mosiah 15:14-18, having given sufficient background, Abinadi returns to the subject of the question Noah’s priests posed in Mosiah 12:20-24. According to Abinadi, who has published peace? Who is still publishing peace? Who shall hereafter publish peace, from this time henceforth and forever?



Day 2: Read Mosiah 15:20-31; D&C 137:7-9; Psalm 67:1-4; Alma 6:1
4. Who will be included in the first resurrection? (be sure to use D&C 137:7-9 for clarification) Who will not? Why not?




5. Is it that God will not forgive unrepentant sinners, or that He cannot?



6. Who are the “watchmen” and why are they singing together? (see also Ps. 67:1-4; Alma 6:1)



Day 3: Read Mosiah 16; D&C 88:4-13
7. Why will the wicked gnash their teeth instead of make excuses when “all shall see the salvation of the Lord”?



8. Read D&C 88:4-13 with Mosiah 16:6-9. Using these passages together, describe how Christ is the light of the world.



9.What three verbs does Abinadi use in Mosiah 16:15 to explain what the wicked priests should do?


Day 4: Read Mosiah 17:1-10
10. List three things we know about Alma from Mosiah 17:2.


11. What were Noah’s charges against Abinadi? (see also Mosiah 7:26-27) Under what circumstances would he be acquitted?
12. What were Abinadi’s charges against Noah and his priests?



Day 5: Read Mosiah 17:11-20; Alma 25:1-12; Mosiah 19:20
13. Why didn’t Noah release Abinadi?



14. Using Alma 25:1-12 and Mosiah 19:20, which of Abinadi’s dying prophecies came to pass?



15. Considering all you know about Abinadi, list similarities between Abinadi and Christ.







Day 6: Read Mosiah 18:1-16; Mosiah 23:9
16. Why do you think the people believed Alma when they had rejected Abinadi?



17. Make a list of what Alma taught the people regarding our part of the baptismal covenant. In other words, what do we covenant to do at baptism?




18. Make a list of what the Lord promises as His part of the covenant. What was the reaction of the people to these teachings?



Day 7: Read Mosiah 18:7-35
19. After the saints were baptized at Mormon, how did Alma organize the church?





20. How did Alma’s people become the “children of God”?



21. Of what did King Noah accuse Alma? Use Mosiah 23:1 to further explain how Alma’s people were “apprised of the coming of the king’s army.”

Mosiah 12-14

Mosiah 12-14 Study Guide – to be discussed October 11
Day 1: Read Mosiah 12:1-8; review Mosiah 11:20-25
1. [Note: Although the record states that Abinadi had lived among the people of Noah in disguise, when he began to bear witness in chapter 12 he identified himself by name (v.1).] After reviewing Abinadi’s previous warning in Mosiah 11:20-25, compare his speech in Mosiah 12:1-8, two years later. Are the warnings the same? What detail is added?




2. Abinadi gave a specific warning regarding the worth of King Noah’s life if he didn’t repent. At this point in the narrative, how do the people value King Noah? (see also Mosiah 12:13-14)



3. Why do you think the Lord was willing to give Noah’s people another chance at repentance? What does this teach you about the nature of God? Note also how the Lord refers to the people in verse 4.



Day 2: Read Mosiah 12:9-18; Isaiah 5:20
4. Of what crime was Abinadi accused? Was this a capital offense?



5. Who was Noah’s father? Do you think he had been taught regarding the nature of God and the plan of salvation? How might peer pressure have played a part in Noah’s reaction to Abinadi’s message?



6. Can you find a “pattern” for avoiding repentance in these verses (similar to the pattern in Mosiah 11:26-29)?




Day 3: Read Mosiah 12:19-37; 2 Nephi 28:7-8, 21
7. According to Mosiah 12:19, why did the wicked priests want to question Abinadi? In quoting Isaiah 52:7-10, the priests seem to imply Abinadi cannot be sent from God, as he was certainly not publishing “peace.” Read 2 Nephi 28:7-8 and 21 to identify the kind of peaceful sayings Noah’s priests wanted to hear.



8. In Mosiah 12:27, Abinadi identified the root of the problem, or why the wicked priests were clueless – what had they failed to do?



9. What false doctrine did the priests believe regarding the Law of Moses?



BONUS: As the trial of Abinadi progressed, who was in charge of the questioning?
Day 4: Read Mosiah 13:1-10
10. By what power did Abinadi rebuke the destroyers in his midst? What reason(s) did he give for stopping them?



11. Why do you think the wicked priests were afraid to lay hands on Abinadi? Were they ready to listen?



12. In Mosiah 3:10, Abinadi prophesied concerning his own earthly fate and the eternal fate of King Noah – and ultimately, all who do not repent. Why didn’t Abinadi care what they did to him physically?



Day 5: Read Mosiah 13:11-24
13. Abinadi began reviewing the Ten Commandments in Mosiah 12:33-36. In Mosiah 13:11-24 he continued that discussion. Why do you think Abinadi taught the Ten Commandments to the wicked priests?



14. For whom does keeping the first four commandments show respect?


15. For whom does keeping the last six commandments show respect?


Day 6: Read Mosiah 13:25-35
16. Why was the Law of Moses necessary?



17. Why didn’t the children of Israel understand that the outward performances of the law were merely types of greater things? Do we sometimes have the same problem?



18. Did Moses teach his people regarding the coming of Christ and his atonement? Did Noah’s priests have the words of Isaiah?


Day 7: Read Mosiah 14
19. Read Mosiah 14:1-5. What do you learn about the Savior from these verses?


20. Read Mosiah 14:6-8 with Mosiah 15:10-13. In what way(s) are we like sheep? (see also Romans 3:23) According to Abinadi’s explanation in Mosiah 15:10-13, who shall declare Christ’s “generation” or posterity?



21. Read Mosiah 14:9-12 and Romans 8:16-17. Substitute the word “although” for “because” in verse 9 (cf: Isaiah 53:9c). What is Christ willing to share with his “seed”?

Mosiah 9-11

Mosiah 9-11 Study Guide: To be discussed October 4
Day 1: Mosiah 9:1-9 (with chapter heading); see also Omni 1:27-28
[Note: This chapter begins an extended flashback. Chapters 9-11 cover approx. 200-150BC.]
1. Why did Zeniff want to protect the Lamanites from Nephite armies? What was his motivation for leading a group of Nephites into Lamanite territory?



2. Why were Zeniff’s people “smitten with famine and sore afflictions” on their journey?




3. Which two lands did the Lamanites give Zeniff for his people to inhabit? Why do you think Zeniff did not see any red flags as he worked out the treaty?




Day 2: Read Mosiah 9:10-19; Jacob 1:11
4. Read Jacob 1:11. What was the tradition among the Nephites regarding their kings? What does the title of the Lamanite king imply about the tradition of the Lamanites in this regard?



5. Why do you think King Laman allowed Zeniff to rule in Lamanite territory for 12 years before attacking?




6. How did remembering the power of the Lord to save increase the faith of Zeniff’s people? How can we apply this principle today?




Day 3: Read Mosiah 10:1-10
7. What precautions did Zeniff take to keep the Lamanites at bay for 22 years? What can we learn from this?





8. Was it a righteous battle for which Zeniff prepared his people?



9. According to Mosiah 10:10, how did Zeniff’s people go up to battle?



Day 4: Read Mosiah 10:11-22; Alma 37:31-34; D&C 93:39
10. How did Zeniff describe the Lamanites?



11. What false traditions did the Lamanites believe?




12. How do you cure eternal hatred? (see also Alma 37:31-34, D&C 93:39)




Day 5: Read Mosiah 11:1-7
13. What do you think it means to walk after the desires of one’s own heart? Is there another name for this?



14. Make a list of five things from Mosiah 11:2-7 that contributed to the downfall of Zeniff’s people under Noah.




15. What did King Noah and his wicked priests do to sway the people to wickedness? Why did this work?



Day 6: Read Mosiah 11:8-19
16. During King Noah’s reign, how was the temple used?



17. What was Noah’s first priority or chief motivation?



18. List five more things from Mosiah 11:8-19 that contributed to the decline of the Nephite settlers under Noah.




Day 7: Read Mosiah 11:20-29
19. Search Mosiah 11:20–25 and find the phrases “except they repent” and “except this people repent.” List the four punishments Abinadi said would come upon the people if they did not repent.




20. How did the people react to Abinadi’s warning? How did Noah react?

Mosiah 5-8

Mosiah 5-8 Study Guide – to be discussed September 27

Day 1: Read Mosiah 5:1-6
1. How did the people know that King Benjamin had told them the truth?


2. Why did Benjamin’s people rejoice?



3. What did the people of Zarahemla offer to do as their part of their covenant with God? What was God’s part?




Day 2: Read Mosiah 5:7-15; D&C 76:24; Romans 6:16-18; Mosiah 26:24
4. In Mosiah 1:11, Benjamin said he wanted to give his people a new name, because they had been diligent in keeping the Lord’s commandments. Can you think of people in the Bible who received new names? Why were their names changed?



5. In Mosiah 5:5, the people made a covenant to obey God’s commandments. Find two other covenants Benjamin asked his people to keep in Mosiah 5:7-15.



6. Read Romans 6:16-18 and John 10:1-5. How can we “hear and know the voice” of God? From Mosiah 26:24, what is the promise when we do this?



Day 3: Read Mosiah 6
7. Why do you think Benjamin recorded the names of all those who entered into the covenant?



8. How old was Mosiah when he began to reign? About what year was that?


9. Why did Mosiah pursue farming during his kingship?



Day 4: Read Mosiah 7:1-16 (with the chapter heading); Mosiah 9:1
10. Who was Ammon? What was his quest?



11. About what year did Ammon’s party leave Zarahemla? Use the date at the bottom of page 164 (associated with Zeniff’s departure into Nephi, Mosiah 9:1) to calculate approximately how many years had passed between Zeniff’s departure and Ammon’s journey to the land of Lehi-Nephi (Nephi).
12. What was Limhi’s first reaction to Ammon and his brethren? How did he react when he learned who Ammon was? Why?



Day 5: Read Mosiah 7:17-33; Mosiah 17:20
13. In what way(s) were Limhi’s people in bondage? How did they get into this situation?



14. Use Mosiah 17:20 to tell the name of the prophet who was called to preach repentance to the inhabitants of Nephi.


15. What does it mean to “sow filthiness"? Did Limhi depend on Ammon to rescue his people without any effort on their part? From verse 33, list what Limhi asked his people to do.




BONUS: Review Mosiah 7 and list parallels between Ammon and Christ – that is, how was Ammon a type of Christ?




Day 6: Read Mosiah 8:1-12
16. What two subjects of Ammon’s speech are identified in verses 2-3?



17. List the items found by the party Limhi sent forth to find Zarahemla.



18. Why was Limhi looking for someone who was able to translate unknown languages?


Day 7: Read Mosiah 8:13-21
19. Use the footnote to Mosiah 8:13b to give another name for the interpreters. Find these words in the Bible Dictionary and give the Hebrew meanings of the words.


20. What is a seer?



21. By what power was Mosiah able to translate?


22. What was Limhi’s reaction when he learned the Lord had provided a way to translate the 24 gold plates?


BONUS: What record did these plates contain?

Mosiah 3-4

Mosiah 3-4 Study Guide: to be discussed September 20

Day 1: Read Mosiah 3:1-8; Isaiah 52:7; Luke 2:10; D&C 128:23
1. In Mosiah 3, King Benjamin delivers a message from an angelic visitor to his people. What was the first thing the angel commanded Benjamin to do? Do you think the angel meant it physically or spiritually?



2. Use Isaiah 52:7, Luke 2:10 and D&C 128:23 to explain what good tidings angels are often charged to declare.



3. According to the angel, why would Jesus bleed from every pore?



BONUS: List names and titles of Christ from Mosiah 3:8.



Day 2: Read Mosiah 3:9-17
4. The angel wanted Benjamin and his people to understand the plan of salvation. From Mosiah 3:9-10, what was the purpose of Jesus’ life and mission?



5. How were Benjamin’s people able to repent and receive salvation before Christ had atoned for their sins?



EXTRA CREDIT: Benjamin taught his people that living the law of Moses could help them understand Christ’s atonement (see Mosiah 3:14-15). Read Leviticus 14:1-9 and list how the symbolism in these rituals specifically pointed toward an understanding of the plan of salvation. (eg: Leprosy can be symbolic of serious sin.)



Day 3: Read Mosiah 3:18-27; Alma 41:11; Moses 6:49
6. Why do you think it’s so important for us to become like little children?



7. Use Alma 41:11 and Moses 6:49 to explain who the natural man is. How does Benjamin say we can avoid becoming “natural” men and women?




8. How did King Benjamin’s teachings as received from the angel make his people accountable? Does it make us accountable too?


Day 4: Read Mosiah 4:1-7
9. Why did King Benjamin’s people feel they were “less than the dust of the earth”? For what did they cry out?



10. How was their humble prayer in Mosiah 4:2 answered? What did the people receive?



11. List three things from Mosiah 4:6 we must do to receive salvation.



Day 5: Read Mosiah 4:8-15
12. Underline or mark everywhere you find the word “believe” in Mosiah 4:9-10. What does it mean to believe? Is this word passive or active?



13. How can we reconcile Mosiah 4:11 and Moses 1:10 with D&C 18:10-16?




14. According to Mosiah 4:14-15, what do children need to learn? Why do you think this counsel came directly after Benjamin’s counsel on how to retain a remission of sins?




Day 6: Read Mosiah 4:16-25
15. In what way(s) are we all beggars?



16. What is our responsibility if we are wealthy? if we are not wealthy?



Day 7: Read Mosiah 4:26-30; D&C 104:18
17. According to D&C 104:18, what is the “law of the gospel”? How is this part of “believing”?



18. What do you think King Benjamin meant when he said, “it is not requisite [required] that a man should run faster than he has strength”? (see also D&C 10:4)




19. According to Mosiah 4:30, what do we need to watch? Why?

Mosiah 1-2

Study Guide 1: Mosiah 1-2
To be discussed September 13

Day 1: Review Omni 1:12-19; read 1 Nephi 1:4; Jeremiah 39:1-10
1. What kind of leader was the first King Mosiah? Why do you think the people of Zarahemla appointed him to be their king?





2. Who was Zedekiah? (see Jer. 39:1-10, 1 Nephi 1:4) Approximately when did the people of Mulek leave Jerusalem?




BONUS: What do you think would have happened had the Lamanites found the Mulekites first?




Day 2: Read Mosiah 1:1-8
3. What kind of men did King Benjamin want his sons to be? List what King Benjamin taught his sons.





4. Why were the records written and preserved?




Day 3: Read Mosiah 1:9-18
5. Which of Benjamin’s sons was to succeed him? Where would the ceremony take place?



6. What did King Benjamin want to give his people before he died? Why?





7. What physical artifacts were passed on to the new king?








Day 4: Read Mosiah 2:1-8
8. For what did Benjamin’s people give thanks?




9. In what direction did the families in Benjamin’s kingdom pitch their tents? Why?




Day 5: Read Mosiah 2:9-17 (This is the beginning of King Benjamin’s speech, which continues through Mosiah 5.)
10. What three things did King Benjamin ask his people to open?





11. Use verses 13-14 to list the kinds of rules or laws under which Benjamin’s people were governed.





Day 6: Mosiah 2:18-30
12. Why should we have gratitude toward God?





13. What are the promises to those who keep God’s commandments?





Day 7: Read Mosiah 2:31-41, 3 Nephi 11:29
14. What is the warning to those who harbor or encourage contention?





15. What do you think it means to be an “enemy to God” (v. 38)? List all the counsel King Benjamin gives in this chapter as ways to avoid becoming an enemy to God.

Enos and Jarom

Enos and Jarom Study Guide

Day 1: Read Enos 1:1-8; Genesis 32:24-28; D&C 10:5
1. Who was Enos’ father? Grandfather? How did Enos feel about his father?


2. Read Genesis 32:24-28 with footnotes 28 b and c. Who else “wrestled” before God? What does his name mean?


3. List the steps Enos took in order to receive revelation and forgiveness.




Day 2: Read Enos 1:9-14; 1 John 4:20
4. What was Enos’ first desire after he received spiritual healing? What did he do about it?



5. After Enos received peace concerning his first two petitions, what was the next desire of his heart?


6. Compare Enos’ mighty prayer with Lehi’s vision in 1 Nephi 8:10-18. What do these records teach us about true conversion? (use also 1 John 4:20)



Day 3: Read Enos 1:15-20; Mosiah 10:12-17
7. How had Enos’ faith grown from the time he first went into the forest to hunt beasts? How did his increased faith lead to his soul’s rest?



8. After Enos’ extended “wrestle” before God, what did he DO?



9. Use Mosiah 10:12-17 to explain why the Lamanites were filled with hatred. How did this affect their ability to feel the Spirit?



Day 4: Read Enos 1:21-27
10. How were the Nephites different from the Lamanites at this point in their history? How were they the same?



11. In what did Enos find cause to rejoice?



12. What principle of the gospel is most manifested in Enos’ last testimony?
Note from the Institute Teacher’s Manual:
There is no universal kind of spiritual experience, but some elements which appear to be basic are revealed in the book of Enos.
1. A consciousness of the reality and power of God.
2. A recognition of one’s human weaknesses.
3. A feeling of guilt and remorse for yielding to temptation.
4. A desire for reconciliation with God.
5. A knowledge of the joy of redemption through the merits of Jesus Christ.
6. A vibrant testimony that God lives and a desire to share this.

Day 5: Read Jarom 1:1-5
13. Who was Jarom? Why was his record brief?



14. What was the state of the Nephites during Jarom’s tenure?



15. What do you think it means to be “stiffnecked”? What was the reward for those who were not stiffnecked?



Day 6: Read Jarom 1:6-9
16. What part did the Nephites’ leaders play in strengthening them?




17. List the ways in which the Nephites prepared.




18. How was the word of the Lord verified?



Day 7: Read Jarom 1:10-15
19. What did the Nephite prophets, priests and teachers do to fortify the people?




20. What blessings resulted from the Nephites’ repentance?



21. To whom did Jarom give the small plates?

Jacob 6-7

Jacob – Lesson 3: Jacob 6-7
Day 1: Read Jacob 6:1-5
1. What was Jacob’s witness concerning the allegory of the olive tree?



2. How has the Lord “set his hand again the second time”? What is being done to nourish and prune today?



3. Jacob wrote that the Lord is merciful because he remembers both Israel’s roots and branches. What might the roots and branches represent in Israel as a nation? as individuals?



Day 2: Read Jacob 6:6-13; Ezekiel 18:25-32
4. What is the “good word of God” with which we can be nourished?



5. How do people “make a mock of the great plan of salvation”? What will happen to those who do?



6. Why do you think Jacob left us the allegory of the olive trees? What is our responsibility now that we understand it?




Day 3: Read Jacob 7:1-5
7. Jacob seemed to close his record at the end of chapter 6. After some years, he added chapter 7. Considering his message in the first six chapters, why do you think Jacob wanted us to know about Sherem?



8. How did Sherem indoctrinate so many Nephites? Look up “Antichrist” in the Bible Dictionary. What qualities of an antichrist did Sherem possess?



9. Why couldn’t Jacob’s faith be shaken?




Day 4: Read Jacob 7:6-9
10. What law did Sherem advocate? Use Galatians 3:24-26 to tell what the purpose of this law was. Why do you think Sherem was willing to listen to dead prophets but not the living prophet?



11. By what power did Jacob confound Sherem?



12. How do Sherem’s statements at the end of verses 7 and 9 contradict each other?



Day 5: Read Jacob 7:10-16
13. From Jacob 7:10-12, what three witnesses did Jacob give for the reality of the Savior who was to come?



14. What did Sherem ask for? Why didn’t he ask for the scriptures or the Holy Ghost?



15. If Sherem knew the truth, as Jacob said, why do you think he asked for a sign? In what ways was Sherem “nourished” by the Lord?




Day 6: Read Jacob 7:17-22
16. Of what did Sherem bare witness in his post-sign address?



17. What happened to the Nephites who heard his witness?



18. Why was Jacob pleased?



Day 7: Read Jacob 7:23-27
19. After their branch had been “pruned” of its bitter fruit, what marvelous fruits did the Nephites produce?




20. To whom did Jacob pass the responsibility for the small plates? What was his hope?




21. Do you have a favorite verse from the writings of Jacob?

Jacob 5

Jacob – Lesson 2: Jacob 5: The Allegory of the Tame and Wild Olive Trees (see additional study links in column to the right)
Day 1: Read Jacob 5 chapter heading, verses 1-3, 1 Nephi 19:10-16, Alma 33:3-15, Helaman 8:19
1. From 1 Nephi 19:10-16 and Helaman 8:19, what do we know about the prophet Zenos? Where might Nephi and Jacob have read Zenos’ prophecies? Why do you think these prophecies are not in our current Bible?



2. Alma quotes Zenos in Alma 33:4-11. In this quote, when does Zenos say he has felt the mercies of God?


3. From Jacob 5:3, to what is the house of Israel likened? Use footnote 3d to explain how the House of Israel could “decay.”


Day 2: Read Jacob 5:4-14 (First visit of the Master to His vineyard)
4. What did the master of the vineyard do first to save his vineyard?



5. When the “main top… began to perish” what did the Master and his servants do with the branches of the tame and wild olive trees?



6. Use footnotes 8a, 10a and 14a to help explain what the grafting of branches of the tame olive tree into the nethermost parts of the vineyard represents. What do the wild olive trees represent? Why was it necessary to scatter Israel?




Day 3: Read Jacob 5:15-28 (Second visit of the Master to His vineyard)
7. Why did the Lord and his servant revisit the vineyard? What was the state of the tame olive tree (Israel)? What brought strength to the wild branches?



8. What was the state of the tame branches grafted into trees in poor ground?


9. What part of the world have we been taught is “choice above all lands” (see 2 Nephi 1:5, Ether 2:7-10)? What was the problem with the branches grafted into good soil, and how was it addressed?



Day 4: Read Jacob 5:29-40 (Third visit of the Master to His vineyard)
10. What kind of fruit did the Lord find on the tame olive tree during his third visit? Use footnote 30a to explain what happened spiritually.



11. How were the roots kept vital? Why was the tree (the House of Israel) beginning to perish?



12. What had happened to the natural branches of Israel that had been scattered, or planted in the nethermost parts of the vineyard?



Day 5: Read Jacob 5:41-50 (Third visit continued)
13. Why did the Lord weep?


14. What does verse 47 tell you about how the Lord cares for the inhabitants of the earth?



15. From v. 48, what was the cause of the apostasy? How does the bad fruit of apostasy corrupt individuals and nations?



Day 6: Read Jacob 5:51-60 (Fourth visit of the Master to His vineyard)
16. According to footnote 52a, of what is the re-grafting of the natural branches back into the original tree symbolic?


17. What is the fate of any branch that continues to bear bad fruit after all the pruning, grafting and nourishing it needs to survive?


18. What are some things the Lord has done in your life to “prune” and “nourish” you?



Day 7: Read Jacob 5:61-77
19. Why do you think the Lord instructs his servants in the last days to prune the trees so that roots and tops are equal in strength?



20. Who do the servants in the vineyard represent? From vv. 71-72, who works with them? What is their reward?



21. What might the fruit of the tree represent?



BONUS: What were olives used for in ancient Israel? How are they used today?

Olive Culture
"Jacob's (or rather Zenos's) treatise on ancient olive culture (Jacob 5�6) is accurate in every detail: Olive trees do have to be pruned and cultivated diligently; the top branches are indeed the first to wither, and the new shoots do come right out of the trunk; . . . the ancient way of strengthening the old trees (especially in Greece) was to graft in the shoots of the oleaster or wild olive; also, shoots from valuable old trees were transplanted to keep the stock alive after the parent tree should perish; to a surprising degree the olive prefers poor and rocky ground, whereas rich soil produces inferior fruit; too much grafting produces a nondescript and cluttered yield of fruit; the top branches if allowed to grow as in Spain or France, while producing a good shade tree, will indeed sap the strength of the tree and give a poor crop; fertilizing with dung is very important, in spite of the preference for rocky ground, and has been practiced since ancient times; the thing to be most guarded against is bitterness in the fruit. All these points, taken from a treatise on ancient olive culture, are duly, though quite casually, noted in Zenos's Parable of the Olive Tree."39
39. Nibley, Since Cumorah, 238�39. See Nibley, Temple and Cosmos, 244�52.

Jacob 1-4

Jacob – Lesson 1: Jacob 1-4
Note: Jacob 1 is a preview of what Jacob would address further in chapters 2 and 3, which comprise the text of a sermon he gave at the Nephite temple.
Day 1: Read Jacob 1:1-8; 1 Nephi 18:7; 2 Nephi 2:1-4
1. Review 1 Nephi 18:7 and 2 Nephi 2:1-4 to explain who Jacob was and why he was qualified to preach and to continue Nephi’s record.



2. When did Jacob begin his record? What did Nephi tell Jacob to write on the small plates?


3. What do you think it means to “view [Christ’s] death” (see D&C 6:36-37), “suffer his cross” (see Luke 9:23-25), and “bear the shame of the world (see Matt. 5:11-12). How can the sacrament help us remember these things?



Day 2: Read Jacob 1:9-19
4. How did Nephi’s people feel about him at his death? Choose one verse of scripture from Nephi’s writing that you would have liked to quote at his funeral.



5. What are the two grievous sins Jacob tells us his people began to practice after Nephi’s death?



6. How did Jacob and Joseph magnify their callings and ordinations in their service to God and their people?



Day 3: Read Jacob 2:1-19
7. How did Jacob know that his people, although outwardly obedient, were “beginning to labor in sin”?


8. Why was Jacob’s soul burdened by the subject of his discourse?



9. According to Jacob, what should we seek before we seek riches? How would this change our motivations?


BONUS: Jacob refers to the “eye” of God in 2 Nephi 9:44, Jacob 2:10 and 15. What three qualities does Jacob attribute to God’s eye?


Day 4: Read Jacob 2:20-35; D&C 132:34-39
10. According to Jacob, what is a “grosser crime” than pridefully seeking riches?


11. Why did the Lord constrain Jacob to address this particular sin?



12. Why do you think the Lord (through Jacob) said that the Nephites had “done greater iniquities than the Lamanites”? (see also Jacob 3:5-8.)



Day 5: Read Jacob 3
13. What are the promises to the pure in heart who look to God for comfort in affliction?



14. What was the cause of the Nephites’ filthiness? What was the cause of the Lamanites’ filthiness?




15. What does Jacob say will happen to those who do not repent of their lasciviousness?



Day 6: Read Jacob 4:1-9
16. Why did Jacob “labor diligently” to engrave his words on the plates? What is his hope regarding the effect of the plates on his posterity?



17. In Jacob 4:6-7, underline the words “search,” “revelations,” “prophecy,” “witness,” “hope,” and “grace.” How can we attain unshakable faith?



18. By what power was the earth and all in it created? (see also Moses 1:30-32.)



Day 7: Read Jacob 4:10-18
19. In what ways do we sometimes seek to counsel the Lord?



20. What are the promises to those who are “reconciled” unto Christ through his atonement?



21. What “mystery” will Jacob explain by quoting Zenos’ allegory of the wild and tame olive trees in chapter 5?

2 Nephi 29-33

2 Nephi – Lesson 13: 2 Nephi 29-33 (to be discussed April 26)
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 29:1-2; Ezekiel 37:15-17
1. From 2 Nephi 29:1-2, list five reasons the Lord proceeds with his “marvelous work,” the restoration of the gospel in the latter days.



2. Why will many Gentiles reject the Book of Mormon? How have we thanked the Jews for giving us the Bible?


3. Give three or more reasons listed in this chapter regarding why we should study the Book of Mormon.



Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 30:1-8; Review 2 Nephi 19:2-3, 2 Nephi 3:5
4. From 2 Nephi 30:2, with whom does the Lord covenant?


5. Why does the coming forth of the Book of Mormon give Nephi hope for his posterity?



6. Use 2 Nephi 29:14 with 2 Nephi 30:7 to explain how the promises made to Abraham are fulfilled through the Book of Mormon.


Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 30:9-18; Isaiah 11:4-9 with footnotes
NOTE: Nephi, who quoted Isaiah 11 in its entirety in 2 Nephi 21, quotes key verses again here. Isaiah 11 was also quoted by Moroni to Joseph Smith, telling him it was about to be fulfilled. Nephi’s commentary precedes and follows this quote from Isaiah.
7. For who’s sake will the wicked be destroyed?


8. How do all of God’s creations bear witness of his sovereignty?


9. What added detail does Nephi give to explain how the earth will be “full of the knowledge of the Lord”?



Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 31:1-12; Article of Faith 4
10. According to Nephi, what does he want to leave us as his final topic, given as plainly as he can?


11. What four reasons does Nephi give for why Christ needed to be baptized?




12. Stated simply, what is the doctrine of Christ? (see also 3 Nephi 11:31-39)

Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 31:13-21 (Bonus reading: Moses 6:31-62)
13. Circle the word “if” in 2 Nephi 31:13. What are the promises to those who sincerely follow Christ into the waters of baptism (the “then” statements that follow)? Why do you think the first principles and ordinances of the gospel are referred to as the “gate” rather than the “destination”?




14. Why do you think it would be better for those who have received a witness of Christ to have never known him rather than to deny him?



15. Verses 14-21 in 2 Nephi 31 discuss the principle of enduring to the end. List ways we can “press forward” or endure to the end.



BONUS: What two things does Nephi record in chapter 31 that he heard directly from the voice of the Father? List also two things from the voice of the Son.



Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 32; Review 2 Nephi 30:13-14
16. What is the unspoken question of Nephi’s audience, pondered in their hearts, that Nephi answers in this chapter?


17. In answer to this question, Nephi tells us two ways we can be directed, or shown “all things what ye should do.” What divine help is outlined in 2 Nephi 32:3-5?



18. What does Nephi encourage us to do in 2 Nephi 32:8-9, as an antidote to unbelief, wickedness and ignorance? How often should we do this? Who teaches us not to?



Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 33
19. From 2 Nephi 33:3, what does Nephi do for his people? How does this make you feel about him? about his words?



20. In what three things does Nephi say he glories? For what three groups does he have charity?



21. Having completed this study of Nephi’s writing, what would you like to do or say when you stand face to face with him before the bar of God?

2 Nephi 27-28

2 Nephi Lesson 12: 2 Nephi 27-28
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 27:1-5; Isaiah 29:6-10 with footnotes
1. Nephi quotes again extensively from Isaiah in 2 Nephi 27, inserting his commentary and related prophecies. Read the chapter heading for Isaiah 29. According to this note, who will speak as a voice from the dust? From 2 Nephi 27:1, when will these prophecies of Isaiah have their fulfillment?



2. Isaiah 29:9 is quoted in 2 Nephi 27:4. The prophecy states that men will be “drunken but not with wine.” According to 2 Nephi 27:1, with what will they be drunken? How will this cause them to “stagger”? (Hint: use 2 Nephi 27:5)



3. What will happen to all the nations that fight against Zion?



Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 27:6-14; D&C 5:5-15; Luke 12:3; “The Testimony of Three Witnesses” found after the Introduction to the Book of Mormon in the front of the book.
4. What is contained in the sealed portion of the Nephite records?




5. How can we read the Book of Mormon “upon the housetops” today? What will happen when we do?




6. How did Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris receive their witness of the plates?



Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 27:15-23; JS-H 1:64-65; Ether 4:6-7
7. According to 2 Nephi 27:16, why did “the learned” want to read the book? Use the footnote for 16a to give a name to this kind of motivation.



8. In what way(s) does the passage in JS-H 1:64-65 fulfill this prophecy from Isaiah and Nephi?




9. From 2 Nephi 27:23, what is Jehovah a God of? Use Ether 4:6-7 to help list the steps Gentiles will need to take in order to receive the sealed portion of scripture.




Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 27:23-35; Isaiah 29:13-24; JS-H 1:19
10. How do people today draw near to the Lord with their lips but remove their hearts far from Him?



11. What is the marvelous (astonishing!) work of the Lord today? List specific things you consider astonishing.


12. What role does pride play in trying to hide our works of darkness from the Lord? How does considering ourselves as “potter’s clay” keep us humble?



Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 28:1-6; Mormon 8:23, 26-32
Note: One way of looking at 2 Nephi 28 is as a playbook for Satan’s “game plan.” As such, it is also a commentary on 2 Nephi 27.
13. Without giving specific names of denominations, list ways in which churches today “contend with each other.”



14. Why would a church “deny the power of God” or teach that God is “not a God of miracles”?



15. Moroni, writing in Mormon 8:26-32, describes the day when the Book of Mormon will come forth. What does Moroni identify as a motivator for the contentions and false doctrine of the latter days?


Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 28:7-15; 3 Nephi 29:4-7
16. Of the two “false and foolish” doctrines outlined in 2 Nephi 28:7-8, which do you think is potentially most harmful? Why?



17. How many times is the word “pride” used in verses 11-15?


18. Read 3 Nephi 29:4-7. What is the fate of those who deny Christ for gain, or “pervert the way of the Lord”?



Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 28:16-32
19. According to 2 Nephi 28:19-20, what does Satan want to “stir up” in us?


20. From 2 Nephi 28:21-23, give two main categories of deceit Satan uses against us.



21. Use the last three verses of 2 Nephi 28 to list the main points of the Lord’s plan for us.

2 Nephi 25-26

2 Nephi Lesson 11: 2 Nephi 25-26
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 25:1-8; Revelation 19:10
1. According to Nephi, why are the words of Isaiah hard for us to understand? Why had Nephi not taught his own people much about Jewish traditions and culture?



2. To whom does Nephi say the words of Isaiah will be plain? According to Revelation 19:10, what is one definition of “the spirit of prophecy”?



3. From 2 Nephi 25:3, 7-8, to whom is Nephi writing? When will we better understand Isaiah’s writings?



Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 25:9-17; Malachi 4:2
4. By what evidence(s) does Nephi bear witness of the verity of Isaiah’s (“The Lord is Salvation”) and his two sons (“Destruction is Imminent” and “The Remnant Shall Return”) as signs regarding the fate of Judah?



5. Read Malachi 4:2 with 2 Nephi 25:13. What do you think the term “healing in his wings” means?



6. What does Nephi say must happen before the Jews will be restored from their “lost and fallen state”? Liken this principle to us today, how will we finally be restored as individuals?



Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 25:18-22
7. By what will we be judged at the last day?


8. What two miraculous powers listed in verse 20 were given to Moses for the sake of Israel? How do these gifts typify the work of the Savior?



9. Nephi was promised his words would be kept and preserved for what purpose?



Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 25:23-30; Bible Dictionary entry “Grace”
10. Use any of the footnote references or the Bible Dictionary entry “Grace” to explain in your own words how it is that by grace we are saved, after all we can do.



11. List the first five verbs in 2 Nephi 25:26. How does Nephi’s witness progress in these verbs? How can we use these same action words to strengthen our own testimonies?



12. Nephi says he will teach us the “right way” in verse 28, then repeats his counsel in verse 29. What two things does Nephi identify as “the right way”?



Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 26:1-11; 3 Nephi 8:5-13, 20-24; 11:8-14; 17:7-10
13. Nearly 600 years after Nephi wrote these prophecies they were fulfilled in spectacular detail among his own people. List some of the specific detail described by Nephi that was later recorded in Third Nephi.




14. Why do you think the Lord gave Nephi this vision of destruction? How did it affect Nephi?



15. When does the Spirit of the Lord cease to strive with man?


Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 26:12-22; Isaiah 29:1-6
16. Read 2 Nephi 26:12-16 with Isaiah 29:1-6. Isaiah’s prophecy speaks of destruction at Jerusalem (“the city where David dwelt”) – which was fulfilled at least twice. Nephi uses Isaiah’s words to foretell destruction among his descendants – at least twice. In what ways do these prophecies speak to us “out of the dust”?



17. List some modern “stumbling blocks” similar to the ones listed by Nephi in verses 20-22.



18. With what kind of cord does the devil begin to lead us? With what kind of cords does he finish?


Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 26:23-33; D&C 6:7
19. In contrast to Satan’s tactics, with what does the Lord draw all me unto him?


20. Nephi lists a number of things from which we are not forbidden, available to us without cost, and several evils we are commanded against. List two things from these verses we are commanded to do.


21. List the three elements of priestcraft.


BONUS: List the evils from verse 32 which are not included in the Ten Commandments (see Exodus 20:1-17).

2 Nephi 23-24

2 Nephi Lesson 10: 2 Nephi 23-24
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 23:1-5; Isaiah 13:1-5 with footnotes; D&C 1:16, 133:14
1. Read the footnotes for Isaiah 13:1. What is a “burden” as given by a prophet? According to these footnotes and the chapter headings, of what is the destruction of Babylon a type?



2. In verses 2-5, the Lord gathers his forces. Read D&C 1:16 and 133:14 to help explain what Babylon represents. How can we respond to the Lord’s call?



3. From what two locations does the Lord muster his ranks?


Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 23:6-18; Matthew 24:29-30
4. 2 Nephi 23:6-9 speak of the condition of (a) the Babylonians when the Medes and Persians invaded and (b) the wicked when Christ will cleanse the earth at his coming. According to these verses, what will happen to the hands of the wicked? their hearts? their faces?



5. Read Matthew 24:29-30 with 2 Nephi 13:10. According to Matthew, when will the sun and moon be darkened - after what and before what?


6. Which two verses in this scripture block specifically discuss the fate of the proud? What word is used in both verses as another name for the proud?


Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 23:19-22; Isaiah 13: 19-22 with footnotes; Jeremiah 50:1-3
7. What happened to Sodom and Gomorrah? Why? (see Genesis 19:24-25)



8. Read Jeremiah 50:1-3. Note: Bel and Merodach were false gods or idols of Babylon. What was the Lord trying to say to Babylon? Is spiritual Babylon any different?



9. Use the footnotes for Isaiah 13:22 to find an explanation for “houses” and “dragons” in 2 Nephi 23:22.


Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 24:1-5; Isaiah 14:1-5 with footnotes
10. Again, there are multiple meanings in chapter 24. The return of a remnant of Israel after the Babylonian captivity foreshadows the gathering of Israel today and the righteous remnant who will remain at the Second Coming. Substitute the word “Israel” for the pronouns “they” in the last part of 2 Nephi 24:2. Who holds the righteous captive today?



11. From what will the righteous be given rest in the last days?



12. If Babylon is a metaphor for wickedness, who is her king?


Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 24:6-15; Isaiah 14:6-15 with footnotes; D&C 76:25-27
13. According to the chapter heading, when will the whole earth finally be at rest?



14. Look up “Lucifer” in the Bible Dictionary. What does this name mean? Who was Lucifer before his fall? Who is he now?



15. What will the wicked rulers say to Satan when he is finally cast out of the earth? What will he receive, instead of a red carpet and a robe?




Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 24:16-22; Isaiah 14:16-22 with footnotes; Revelation 18:1-4, 19:17-21, 20:1-2
16. What will we think of Satan when we see him for what he really is?


17. Read Revelation 18:1-4. How can we escape the rise and fall of Babylon?




18. Use the footnote to Isaiah 14:21a to help explain the seeming injustice of 2 Nephi 24:20-22.



Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 24:23-32; Isaiah 14:23-32 with footnotes; D&C 97:21-25
Note: “Bittern” (v.23) means “owls” and bessom” means “broom.” The end of chapter 24 (Isaiah 14) shifts the message of burden from Babylon to Assyria and the Philistines (“Palestina”). The Philistines rejoiced at the death of Assyria’s king Shalmaneser (727-722) because Sargon II, his successor, was not as bad. What they didn’t see coming was Sargon’s son (“fruit”) Sennacherib – who was even worse than Shalmaneser.
19. According to D&C 97:21-25, who should rejoice and who should mourn?



20. 2 Nephi 23-24 mark the end of Nephi’s lengthy quote of whole chapters from Isaiah’s writing. Why do you think Nephi closed his quote with this burden of doom for the wicked? What message of hope is found in the last verse of 2 Nephi 24?

2 Nephi 20-22

2 Nephi Lesson 9: 2 Nephi 20-22
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 20:1-4; Isaiah 10:1-4 with footnotes
Optional background reading: 2 Kings 16-19
1. Isaiah pronounced three evils on Ephraim at the end of chapter 19. The first four verses of chapter 20 explain the fourth and final evil of this pronouncement. What is the last evil of Ephraim?


2. How much mercy can the merciless expect from God?


3. 2 Nephi 20:3 asks three rhetorical questions. From D&C 104:17-18, what might be the Lord’s answer to these questions? In other words, where will Ephraim leave her glory?


Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 20:5-11; Isaiah 10:5-11 with footnotes; Mormon 4:5
4. The previous four evils explain why the Lord is angry. Use Mormon 4:5 to explain why the Lord used the Assyrians to punish Israel.


5. Does the Assyrian king know he is a tool of the Lord God of Israel? What proof can you find in this passage to support your answer?



6. NOTE: Calno, Carchemish, Hamath, Arpad, Samaria and Damascus were cities already conquered by the Assyrians. Why do you think the king of Assyria listed his conquests? Who are the Assyrians in your life?




7. Assyria boasted that Samaria’s idols couldn’t stop her and neither will Jerusalem’s idols. Who or what were Jerusalem’s idols?



Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 20:12-19; Isaiah 10:12-19 with footnotes; Moses 4:1; 2 Kings 19:35-37
8. Compare 2 Nephi 20:13-14 with Moses 4:1. Of whom do the Assyrians remind you?



9. In 2 Nephi 20:15, Isaiah again compared Assyria’s king to a series of tools, which brag that they are more powerful or important than He who wields them. According to 2 Kings 19:35-37, how were the Assyrians devoured “in one day” (see 2 Nephi 20:17).




10. Does D&C 59:21 apply to the Assyrians? Why or why not?



Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 20:20-34; Isaiah 10:20-34; 2 Kings 19:32-34
12. Read the chapter heading for 2 Nephi 20. Why do you think Nephi wanted his posterity and latter-day Israel to have this prophecy from Isaiah?



13. Use the footnotes from Isaiah 10:22-23 to explain how there is hope even in prophecies regarding the destruction at the end of the world (“consumption decreed”).



14. NOTE: Nob was just outside Jerusalem. What does the Lord promise Jerusalem in 2 Kings 19:32-34?


Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 21:1-9; Isaiah 11:1-9, D&C 113:1-4
15. According to D&C 113:1-4, who is the stem of Jesse? What is meant by the image of a “rod” or branch that is to come from the stem of Jesse?



16. Give the leadership qualities of the “rod” as listed by Isaiah in 2 Nephi 21:2-5.



17. During what time period, according to the chapter heading, will “the knowledge of God cover the earth”?


Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 21:10-16; Isaiah 10:10-16 with footnotes; D&C 90:2-4; D&C 113:5-6
18. What keys were given to Joseph Smith in D&C 90:2-4? What does this indicate regarding the “root of Jesse” in 2 Nephi 21:10?



19. Use the footnote for Isaiah 11:13a to help explain one interpretation of 2 Nephi 21:12-13.



20. The pronoun “they” in the first sentence of 2 Nephi 21:14 may refer to the Jews in the latter days. With this in mind, what fulfillment(s) of this prophecy have we seen in our lifetimes?



Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 22:1-6; Isaiah 12:1-6 with footnotes
21. According to the chapter heading, when will all men praise the Lord?



22. How can we “draw water out of the wells of salvation” today?

2 Nephi 17-19

2 Nephi Lesson 8: 2 Nephi 17-19
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 17:1-9 and Isaiah 7:1-9 with all footnotes; John 9:1-7
1. According to the footnote for Isaiah 7:3, what does the name of Isaiah’s son mean?


2. Find the pool of Siloam on the map of Jerusalem at the back of your Bible (map 12, C-7 in newer editions, map 17, C-4 in slightly older editions). The footnote for Isaiah 7:3c indicates this Pool of Siloam was where Isaiah and his son were to meet with Ahaz, king of Judah. Ahaz was probably worried about Jerusalem’s water supply being cut off by her enemies. Now go to John 9:1-7 where we read about an incident involving the same pool of water. Who did Jesus send to the Pool of Siloam seven centuries later? Why?



3. Use the footnote for Isaiah 7:4a to explain the term “fear not… the two tails of these smoking firebrands….” The last sentence of 2 Nephi 17:9 is explained in the footnote for Isaiah 7:9b. Use it to sum up the message of these verses.




Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 17:10-17 and Isaiah 7:10-17 with all footnotes; Matthew 1:20-23
4. Should Ahaz have asked for a sign? What might Ahaz have been trying to avoid?


5. What is the ultimate sign God gave the world?



6. Use the footnote for Isaiah 7:17a to clarify the message of these verses.



Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 17:18-25 and Isaiah 7:18-25 with all footnotes
7. How do the footnotes for Isaiah 7:18-25 explain the term “a razor that is hired”? Who hired the Assyrians? How are they like bees?



8. After the “razor” does its work, what will be left?


Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 18:1-10 and Isaiah 8:10 with all footnotes;
9. What is the meaning of Isaiah’s second son’s name? Compare this name to the meaning of the name Immanuel, which is “With us is God.”



10. In 2 Nephi 18:6, when the people reject the waters of Shiloah, this is another reference to the Pool of Shiloam (see footnote). What do you think this verse means? How do we refuse the waters of Shiloah today?


11. The footnote for Isaiah 8:9a indicates “associate yourselves,” means “form alliances.” In whom should Judah (and we) trust?


Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 18:11-22 and Isaiah 8:11-22 with all footnotes; D&C 109:45-46
12. How can the Lord be both a sanctuary and a “stone of stumbling”?




13. Read 2 Nephi 18:16 with D&C 109:45-46, which is the dedicatory prayer of the Kirtland Temple. What do you think it means to “bind up the testimony”?




14. What will happen to those who seek wisdom from sources that contradict the prophets and the scriptures?



Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 19:1-12 and Isaiah 9:1-12 with all footnotes; review 2 Nephi 3:5; D&C 84:53-57
15. Use the footnote for Isaiah 9:2a to explain one thing the “darkness” of 2 Nephi 18:20-22 and 19:1-2 represents. What is the “great light”? Use D&C 84:53-57 to make a modern application.



16. In what way or ways does the government rest upon Christ’s shoulder? Is there a future fulfillment?




17. 2 Nephi 19:8-21 is given by way of warning to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The first evil of Ephraim is outlined in verses 9-12. What is it?




Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 19:13-21 and Isaiah 9:13-21 with all footnotes
18. The second evil of Ephraim, wicked leaders, is explained in verses 13-17. What two kinds of corrupt leaders are described as the “head” and “tail” of Israel? What will happen to them?



19. Why will there be no mercy extended even to the widows and the fatherless of Israel?



20. The third evil of Ephraim is the fire of wickedness, shown in verses 18-21. What happens to the land when the people are wicked?

2 Nephi 14-16

2 Nephi – Lesson 7: 2 Nephi 14-16 (to be discussed March 1)
Day 1: Read 2 Nephi 14:1-6; Isaiah 4:1-6; Isaiah 60:18-21
1. According to the chapter heading, what period of time is described in chapter 14?


2. Use footnotes to Isaiah 4:1a and d to help explain 2 Nephi 14:1. What picture does this verse paint regarding the last days? (Note: Some commentaries suggest Isaiah 4:1 more rightly belongs at the end of Isaiah 3.)



3. 2 Nephi 14:2-6 give a more positive picture of the last days. Again, read the footnotes in Isaiah 4 to help understand the imagery in vv. 2-4. Read also Isaiah 60:18-21. From 2 Nephi 14:5, after the earth has been cleansed where will the Spirit of the Lord be manifested?




Day 2: Read 2 Nephi 15:1-7; Isaiah 5:1-7
4. How does the chapter heading define the Lord’s vineyard (see also v. 7)? Read the footnote to Isaiah 5:1b. From v. 2, list what the Lord did to care for his vineyard.



5. How did the men of Judah disappoint the Lord?



Day 3: Read 2 Nephi 15:8-17; Isaiah 5:8-17
6. Use footnotes from Isaiah 5:8-17 to help define the sins of the people in Isaiah’s day. List similar sins as we know them today.





7. (Note: The “ten-acre vineyard” should read “ten yoke” or in other words, the land plowed by ten yoke of oxen in one day. A “bath” is a relatively small amount of liquid measure, around 6-8 gallons. A “homer” is a large amount of seed, around 6 bushels; an “ephah” equals a tenth of a homer.) What are the consequences of these sins as described by Isaiah?



Day 4: Read 2 Nephi 15:18-23; Isaiah 5:18-23
8. Read the footnote to Isaiah 5:18c, then explain what kind of tendencies give the appearance that one is dumber than an ox.



9. Use footnote c for Isaiah 5:19 to explain one meaning for 2 Nephi 15:19.



10. More “wo’s” are pronounced in this chapter. Upon whom are the wo’s declared in verses 20-23? (see footnotes for help. Give examples of these kind of sins today.




Day 5: Read 2 Nephi 15:24-30; Isaiah 5:24-30
11. Verses 24 and 25 begin with the words “therefore,” introducing the consequences of the sins outlined in vv. 18-23. What do you think it means when Isaiah says the Lord’s “hand is stretched out still”?



12. Verse 26 shifts to a vision of the latter days. Using the footnote to Isaiah 5:26b, what is meant by Isaiah’s statement that the Lord will “hiss” to the nations of the earth?



13. How swiftly will people travel in the last days? What images in vv. 28-30 indicate war?




Day 6: Read 2 Nephi 16:1-5; Isaiah 6:1-5; D&C 77:4
14. Chapter 16 contains Isaiah’s mission call. The timing is around 740 BC. Where did Isaiah see the Lord in vision? What is the “train” in his vision?



15. After reading D&C 77:4, what do the wings on the seraphim represent? Why do you think these angelic beings covered their faces and their feet in God’s presence?



16. How did Isaiah feel about his worthiness to serve? Can you think of other prophets who felt the same?


Day 7: Read 2 Nephi 16:6-13; Isaiah 6:6-13
17. Where did the seraph get the coal which he placed on Isaiah’s lips to cleanse them? Does this sound like it would hurt? What might it represent?


18. What was Isaiah’s attitude toward his calling after he had been purified? What does this teach us about how to stand with confidence in God’s presence?



19. Does it sound like Isaiah’s mission will be easy? Successful?


20. What hope does Isaiah receive?