Alma 31-32 Study Guide – to be discussed March 13
Day 1: Read Alma 31:1-11 (Note: In the 1830 edition of the Book of Mormon, our chapters 30 and 31 were one chapter.)
1. Who were the Zoramites and where did they live? Why did Alma want to preach to them?
2. Who did Alma take with him on his missionary journey to the Zoramites?
3. What “errors” had the Zoramites fallen into?
Day 2: Read Alma 31:12-23; Luke 18:9-14; 2 Corinthians 10:17-18
4. List the false doctrines included in the Zoramites’ weekly prayer.
5. Underline each “we,” “our” and “us” in the Zoramite prayer. Who was really being “worshipped” in the Zoramite’s synagogues?
6. Read the parable in Luke 18:9-14. How were the Zoramites like the Pharisees in Christ’s day? How can we avoid the “Zoramite Disease” today?
Day 3: Read Alma 31:24-38
7. List the things Alma tells us the Zoramites’ hearts were set upon, or swallowed up in.
8. For what, specifically, did Alma ask in his emotional prayer?
9. How was Alma’s prayer answered?
BONUS: Read Alma 31:35 with D&C 18:10-13. Why is the worth of souls great in God’s sight?
Day 4: Read Alma 32:1-12; Matthew 5:3; Matthew 13:3-8; D&C 101:8
10. Where did Alma and his brethren teach the Zoramites? Among whom did they have the most success?
11. Read Matthew 5:3 with footnote b. In what ways were the “poor” Zoramites poor? In what ways were they rich?
12. What question did the humble Zoramites bring to Alma? Why did this fill him with great joy?
BONUS: Read the parable of the sower in Matthew 13:3-8, with D&C 101:8. What kind of preparation had yielded good soil among the Zoramites?
Day 5: Read Alma 32:13-26; Hebrews 11:1; Ether 12:6
13. According to Alma 32:13, to what does humility lead? What is better than compulsive humility?
14. Alma, having found good ground, began to plant seeds of faith among the humble Zoramites. What did he say about the relationship between knowledge and faith? Between faith and hope?
15. Read Hebrews 11:1 (with footnote b), and Ether 12:6 with Alma 32:21. If faith is the first principle of the gospel, what is the first principle of faith?
Day 6: Read Alma 32:27-33; Joshua 1:8; 2 Nephi 32:3; John 5:39
16.What seed did Alma suggest we plant in our hearts in order to strengthen our faith? What does it mean to “give place” for this seed?
17. List the signs of a good seed.
18. How can we put Alma’s “experiment” to the test in our own lives?
Day 7: read Alma 32:34-43
19. In horticulture, what is the role of light in seed development? What does Alma say about light?
20. Count the number of times Alma said we must “nourish” the tree in order for it to take root. How can we nourish the word?
21. Review 1 Nephi 11:20-25. What does the tree represent? The fruit?
BOOK OF MORMON STUDY GUIDES
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Alma 27-30
Alma 27-30 Study Guide – to be discussed March 6
Day 1: Read Alma 27:1-15; Review Alma 24:20, 28, Alma 25:1-3
1. Review Alma 24:20, 28 and Alma 25:1-3. Who did the Amalekites want to destroy first? Next? And again in Alma 27:1-2? Why do you think they were so angry? (See also Alma 27:12.)
2. Why was the king of the Lamanites willing to die and allow his people to perish rather than impose upon the mercy of the Nephites?
3. What was the Lord’s instruction to Ammon regarding the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi? What was his promise?
Day 2: Read Alma 27:16-30; Alma 17:1
4. Review Alma 17:1. When Ammon and his brethren met Alma on the road to Zarahemla, Ammon was overcome with joy. Were his troubles over after spending 14 years as a missionary? Why were the old friends so filled with joy?
5. What was the decision of the Nephite people regarding the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi?
6. Where was the land of Jershon? Why do you think this land was chosen for the people of Ammon?
Day 3: Read Alma 28
7. How is the battle that took place in the 15th year of the reign of the judges described? Do you think the Nephites could have avoided war by refusing to defend the people of Ammon?
8. According to Alma 28:6, what did the Nephites’ mourning lead to?
BONUS: Read D&C 42:45. How does this perspective explain Alma 28:11-12?
9. Alma 28 ends with two verses that begin, “And thus we see….” What are the lessons we are to gain from this story?
Day 4: Read Alma 29
10. Why did Alma say he sinned in his wish to cry repentance to every people? How has his wish been granted in the latter days?
11. In what did Alma glory?
12. What did Alma remember? (See also Mosiah 27:16 for one reason WHY he remembered this.)
BONUS: Do you think Alma’s wish to be an angel was influenced by his previous encounters with an angel?
Day 5: Read Alma 30:1-20; Deuteronomy 13:6-8
13. What patterns of behavior among the Nephites brought peace for nearly two years?
14. List the doctrines Korihor preached. What kind of success did Korihor have in Zarahemla? In Jershon? (See also Deut. 13:6-8.)
15. Compare Alma 30:13 with Alma 30:28; Alma 30:15 with Alma 30:40; Alma 30:18 with Alma 30:53. Give an example from each comparison that illustrates the principle that wickedness does not promote rational thought.
Day 6: Read Alma 30:21-42
16. Korihor claimed the people of the Lord were in bondage to what? What was the flaw in his logic? The irony?
17. How did Giddonah and the chief judge in Gideon deal with Korihor’s blasphemy?
18. What weapons did Alma use in fighting Korihor’s lies?
Day 7: Read Alma 30: 43-60; D&C 88:42-47
19. List the “signs” Alma offered as witnesses to support the existence of God.
20. How was the sign the Lord gave Korihor fitting to his request and his personality? From Korihor’s amazing confession in vv. 52-53, list the steps in Korihor’s apostasy.
21. Why wouldn’t Alma reverse the curse? (See also D&C 121:18-20.) We have two more “And thus we see…” phrases in v. 60. What does the story of Korihor illustrate?
Day 1: Read Alma 27:1-15; Review Alma 24:20, 28, Alma 25:1-3
1. Review Alma 24:20, 28 and Alma 25:1-3. Who did the Amalekites want to destroy first? Next? And again in Alma 27:1-2? Why do you think they were so angry? (See also Alma 27:12.)
2. Why was the king of the Lamanites willing to die and allow his people to perish rather than impose upon the mercy of the Nephites?
3. What was the Lord’s instruction to Ammon regarding the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi? What was his promise?
Day 2: Read Alma 27:16-30; Alma 17:1
4. Review Alma 17:1. When Ammon and his brethren met Alma on the road to Zarahemla, Ammon was overcome with joy. Were his troubles over after spending 14 years as a missionary? Why were the old friends so filled with joy?
5. What was the decision of the Nephite people regarding the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi?
6. Where was the land of Jershon? Why do you think this land was chosen for the people of Ammon?
Day 3: Read Alma 28
7. How is the battle that took place in the 15th year of the reign of the judges described? Do you think the Nephites could have avoided war by refusing to defend the people of Ammon?
8. According to Alma 28:6, what did the Nephites’ mourning lead to?
BONUS: Read D&C 42:45. How does this perspective explain Alma 28:11-12?
9. Alma 28 ends with two verses that begin, “And thus we see….” What are the lessons we are to gain from this story?
Day 4: Read Alma 29
10. Why did Alma say he sinned in his wish to cry repentance to every people? How has his wish been granted in the latter days?
11. In what did Alma glory?
12. What did Alma remember? (See also Mosiah 27:16 for one reason WHY he remembered this.)
BONUS: Do you think Alma’s wish to be an angel was influenced by his previous encounters with an angel?
Day 5: Read Alma 30:1-20; Deuteronomy 13:6-8
13. What patterns of behavior among the Nephites brought peace for nearly two years?
14. List the doctrines Korihor preached. What kind of success did Korihor have in Zarahemla? In Jershon? (See also Deut. 13:6-8.)
15. Compare Alma 30:13 with Alma 30:28; Alma 30:15 with Alma 30:40; Alma 30:18 with Alma 30:53. Give an example from each comparison that illustrates the principle that wickedness does not promote rational thought.
Day 6: Read Alma 30:21-42
16. Korihor claimed the people of the Lord were in bondage to what? What was the flaw in his logic? The irony?
17. How did Giddonah and the chief judge in Gideon deal with Korihor’s blasphemy?
18. What weapons did Alma use in fighting Korihor’s lies?
Day 7: Read Alma 30: 43-60; D&C 88:42-47
19. List the “signs” Alma offered as witnesses to support the existence of God.
20. How was the sign the Lord gave Korihor fitting to his request and his personality? From Korihor’s amazing confession in vv. 52-53, list the steps in Korihor’s apostasy.
21. Why wouldn’t Alma reverse the curse? (See also D&C 121:18-20.) We have two more “And thus we see…” phrases in v. 60. What does the story of Korihor illustrate?
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Alma 24-26
Alma 24-26 Study Guide – to be discussed February 28
Day 1: Read Alma 24:1-16
1. What was at the root of the contentions leading to war among Lamanite factions? Why did the king command the new converts not to prepare for war?
2. List the things for which the king said he was thankful.
3. What did the bright swords of the Lamanites represent? Why did they need to be buried DEEP?
Day 2: Read Alma 24:17-30
4. Were the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi more concerned with their souls or their lives? From Alma 24:18, list three parts of their covenant with the Lord.
5. What were the two goals of the Lamanite army? What caused some of them to repent?
6. What is one of the lessons of chapter 24, as summarized by Mormon in verse 30?
Day 3: Read Alma 25:1-12; Mormon 4:5
7. What inflamed the anger of the Lamanites toward the Nephites? How was this manifested?
8. Read Mormon 4:5, Alma 15:15. What kind of people lived in Ammonihah? What kind of people destroyed them?
9. What was the final disposition of the descendants of Amulon and the wicked priests of Noah?
Day 4: Read Alma 25:13-17; Moses 5:4-9; Exodus 12:1-14; Galatians 3:24
10. As more Lamanites buried their weapons, this literal and symbolic action became a token of what covenant?
11. Why did the converted Lamanites keep the Law of Moses?
12. Read Moses 5:4-9; Exodus 12:1-14 and Galatians 3:24. How was the Law of Moses designed to increase faith in Christ?
Day 5: Read Alma 26:1-15
13. What two blessings did Ammon rejoice over in Alma 26:3? How were these blessings related?
14. Using the extended metaphor in Alma 26:5-7, what does the sickle represent? The sheaves? The garners? The storms? How did Ammon feel about his brethren the Lamanites?
15. Did Ammon sound boastful to you? Why or why not?
Day 6: Read Alma 26:16-26; Jeremiah 9:23-24
16. Read Jeremiah 9:23-24 with Alma 26:16. What do you think it means to “glory in the Lord”? How is joy a byproduct of praise?
17. What evidence did Ammon give of the profound power of God’s mercy?
18. In accepting a call to preach repentance to the Lamanites, how did the sons of Mosiah help bring physical as well as spiritual salvation to the Lamanites? What did they do for their own people?
BONUS: According to Alma 26:22, what is the pattern for the penitent who wish to understand God’s mysteries and bring souls to repentance?
Day 7: Read Alma 26:27-37
19. List the afflictions suffered by the sons of Mosiah and their brethren in preaching among the Lamanites.
20. What quality among the converted Lamanites served as a witness of the sincerity of their changed hearts?
21. From Alma 26:35-37, list the characteristics and attributes of God, which caused Ammon to rejoice.
BONUS: Go back over Alma 26, underlining each time you find the word “rejoice” or “joy” What brought Ammon joy?
Day 1: Read Alma 24:1-16
1. What was at the root of the contentions leading to war among Lamanite factions? Why did the king command the new converts not to prepare for war?
2. List the things for which the king said he was thankful.
3. What did the bright swords of the Lamanites represent? Why did they need to be buried DEEP?
Day 2: Read Alma 24:17-30
4. Were the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi more concerned with their souls or their lives? From Alma 24:18, list three parts of their covenant with the Lord.
5. What were the two goals of the Lamanite army? What caused some of them to repent?
6. What is one of the lessons of chapter 24, as summarized by Mormon in verse 30?
Day 3: Read Alma 25:1-12; Mormon 4:5
7. What inflamed the anger of the Lamanites toward the Nephites? How was this manifested?
8. Read Mormon 4:5, Alma 15:15. What kind of people lived in Ammonihah? What kind of people destroyed them?
9. What was the final disposition of the descendants of Amulon and the wicked priests of Noah?
Day 4: Read Alma 25:13-17; Moses 5:4-9; Exodus 12:1-14; Galatians 3:24
10. As more Lamanites buried their weapons, this literal and symbolic action became a token of what covenant?
11. Why did the converted Lamanites keep the Law of Moses?
12. Read Moses 5:4-9; Exodus 12:1-14 and Galatians 3:24. How was the Law of Moses designed to increase faith in Christ?
Day 5: Read Alma 26:1-15
13. What two blessings did Ammon rejoice over in Alma 26:3? How were these blessings related?
14. Using the extended metaphor in Alma 26:5-7, what does the sickle represent? The sheaves? The garners? The storms? How did Ammon feel about his brethren the Lamanites?
15. Did Ammon sound boastful to you? Why or why not?
Day 6: Read Alma 26:16-26; Jeremiah 9:23-24
16. Read Jeremiah 9:23-24 with Alma 26:16. What do you think it means to “glory in the Lord”? How is joy a byproduct of praise?
17. What evidence did Ammon give of the profound power of God’s mercy?
18. In accepting a call to preach repentance to the Lamanites, how did the sons of Mosiah help bring physical as well as spiritual salvation to the Lamanites? What did they do for their own people?
BONUS: According to Alma 26:22, what is the pattern for the penitent who wish to understand God’s mysteries and bring souls to repentance?
Day 7: Read Alma 26:27-37
19. List the afflictions suffered by the sons of Mosiah and their brethren in preaching among the Lamanites.
20. What quality among the converted Lamanites served as a witness of the sincerity of their changed hearts?
21. From Alma 26:35-37, list the characteristics and attributes of God, which caused Ammon to rejoice.
BONUS: Go back over Alma 26, underlining each time you find the word “rejoice” or “joy” What brought Ammon joy?
Alma 21-23
Alma 21-23 Study Guide – to be discussed February 21
Day 1: Read Alma 21:1-11 (with headnote to chapter 21); Mosiah 23:30-34, 24:1
1. What three groups occupied the land of Jerusalem? Review Mosiah 23:30-34, 24:1. Who were the people of Amulon? Approximately how long had thy lived with the Lamanites prior to Aaron’s arrival?
2. What did the Amalekites believe? What did they NOT believe?
3. How did the people in Jerusalem react to Aaron’s preaching?
BONUS: Read 3 Nephi 9:7. What eventually happened to the Lamanite city of Jerusalem? What similarities can you think of between the Old World Jerusalem and the New World Jerusalem?
Day 2: Read Alma 21:12-23; D&C 134:4
4. What happened to Aaron and his brethren in Middoni? Were they discouraged?
5. How did Lamoni put his faith into action on returning to Ishmael?
6. Read D&C 134:4. Why is it critical that people have freedom to worship according to the dictates of their own consciences?
Day 3: Read Alma 22:1-11
7. Why was Lamoni’s father interested in what Aaron and his brethren had to say? What was troubling him?
8. What kind of foundation for faith had the Amalekites unwittingly laid?
9. What did the king already believe about the nature of God and His dealings with the Lamanites’ ancestors?
Day 4: Read Alma 22:12-20
10. What did Aaron teach Lamoni’s father? Do you think his teaching that “the sting of death should be swallowed up in the hopes of glory” might have been especially sweet to the king? Why or why not?
11. What did the king offer to give up in verse 15 order to know joy and hope? By verse 18 what was he willing to give up?
PERSONAL: What are you willing to place on the altar in order to have redemption and a fullness of joy?
12. Why do you think the queen was determined to have Aaron killed?
Day 5: Read Alma 22:21-35
13. Whose words allayed the fears of the queen, the royal servants and the people assembled?
14. What physically separated the Lamanites and the Nephites? How might this be a “type”?
15. What precaution had the Nephites taken to assure their deliverance from the Lamanites in times of war?
Day 6: Read Alma 23:1-7
16. What was stipulated in the king’s proclamation regarding the sons of Mosiah?
17. What was the result of this one proclamation?
18. How many less-active members were there among the converted Lamanites?
Day 7: Read Alma 23:8-18
19. Why was there only one convert among the Amalekites and none among the Amulonites?
20. Why did the converted Lamanites want a new name? (See also Mosiah 1:11.)
21. Review 2 Nephi 30:5-6. Why was the curse of separation from God lifted from the converted Lamanites?
Is this also a “type”?
BONUS: What were the positive results of large-scale conversion?
Day 1: Read Alma 21:1-11 (with headnote to chapter 21); Mosiah 23:30-34, 24:1
1. What three groups occupied the land of Jerusalem? Review Mosiah 23:30-34, 24:1. Who were the people of Amulon? Approximately how long had thy lived with the Lamanites prior to Aaron’s arrival?
2. What did the Amalekites believe? What did they NOT believe?
3. How did the people in Jerusalem react to Aaron’s preaching?
BONUS: Read 3 Nephi 9:7. What eventually happened to the Lamanite city of Jerusalem? What similarities can you think of between the Old World Jerusalem and the New World Jerusalem?
Day 2: Read Alma 21:12-23; D&C 134:4
4. What happened to Aaron and his brethren in Middoni? Were they discouraged?
5. How did Lamoni put his faith into action on returning to Ishmael?
6. Read D&C 134:4. Why is it critical that people have freedom to worship according to the dictates of their own consciences?
Day 3: Read Alma 22:1-11
7. Why was Lamoni’s father interested in what Aaron and his brethren had to say? What was troubling him?
8. What kind of foundation for faith had the Amalekites unwittingly laid?
9. What did the king already believe about the nature of God and His dealings with the Lamanites’ ancestors?
Day 4: Read Alma 22:12-20
10. What did Aaron teach Lamoni’s father? Do you think his teaching that “the sting of death should be swallowed up in the hopes of glory” might have been especially sweet to the king? Why or why not?
11. What did the king offer to give up in verse 15 order to know joy and hope? By verse 18 what was he willing to give up?
PERSONAL: What are you willing to place on the altar in order to have redemption and a fullness of joy?
12. Why do you think the queen was determined to have Aaron killed?
Day 5: Read Alma 22:21-35
13. Whose words allayed the fears of the queen, the royal servants and the people assembled?
14. What physically separated the Lamanites and the Nephites? How might this be a “type”?
15. What precaution had the Nephites taken to assure their deliverance from the Lamanites in times of war?
Day 6: Read Alma 23:1-7
16. What was stipulated in the king’s proclamation regarding the sons of Mosiah?
17. What was the result of this one proclamation?
18. How many less-active members were there among the converted Lamanites?
Day 7: Read Alma 23:8-18
19. Why was there only one convert among the Amalekites and none among the Amulonites?
20. Why did the converted Lamanites want a new name? (See also Mosiah 1:11.)
21. Review 2 Nephi 30:5-6. Why was the curse of separation from God lifted from the converted Lamanites?
Is this also a “type”?
BONUS: What were the positive results of large-scale conversion?
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Alma 18-20
Alma 18-20 Study Guide – to be discussed February 14
Day 1: Read Alma 18:1-14
1. List the things Lamoni’s servants KNEW about Ammon.
2. What were the “traditions” of Lamoni’s fathers?
3. Why was Lamoni so impressed with Ammon? How did Ammon’s example open the door for serious dialogue?
Day 2: Read Alma 18:15-32; D&C 100:5-8
BONUS: Read D&C 100:5-8 with Alma 18:16. What is the promise to all who teach in meekness? What is meekness?
4. How did Ammon describe himself in Alma 18:17? What commitment did he make to Lamoni? In spite of Ammon’s humble declarations, what were Lamoni’s first questions in verse 18?
5. What was Lamoni’s promise to Ammon in Alma 18:21? What was the desire of Ammon’s heart? How is he described in Alma 18:22?
6. With what did Ammon begin in teaching Lamoni the truths of the gospel?
Day 3: Read Alma 18:33-43
7. How did Ammon explain his extraordinary abilities?
8. In order for Ammon to be able to expound the plan of salvation and relate scriptures and records, what kind of preparation must he have had?
9. What was King Lamoni’s reaction to Ammon’s teaching? Why?
BONUS: Review Alma 18 and list or underline each example of Ammon offering service.
Day 4: Read Alma 19:1-18; D&C 46:13-14
10. What might Ammon have been doing during the two days and two nights when Lamoni was mourned and lay in state? How did Ammon again demonstrate he was “wise yet harmless”?
11. What was the nature of the queen’s faith? In other words, on what was her faith based? See also D&C 46:13-14.
12. What evidence do we have that there were isolated individuals among the Lamanites who looked forward to Christ? How had the Lord made himself known to these Lamanites?
Day 5: Read Alma 19:19-36; 3 Nephi 11:29
13. What explanations were offered by the people as to why Lamoni and his court lay unconscioius? Were any of their theories correct? Who is usually behind contention? (see 3 Nephi 11:29)
14. How did Abish take the situation in hand?
15. Who was the first one to preach openly among the people? What was the result of this preaching?
BONUS: What lesson from this event did Mormon point out in Alma 19:36?
Day 6: Read Alma 20:1-13; Review Alma 17:19
16. Review Alma 17:19. Over what land was Lamoni king? Over what land did Lamoni’s father rule? Why did the Lord tell Ammon to go to Middoni?
17. Why did Lamoni go with Ammon to Middoni?
18. What false traditions did Lamoni’s father believe? Does this sound like racial profiling to you?
Day 7: Read Alma 20:14-30
19. Was it possible for Lamoni’s father to feel the Spirit when he was angry? Why was it better for Lamoni to die than his father?
20. What did the king offer if Ammon would spare his life? Had Ammon turned down a similar offer before? What did Ammon request? What additional blessing did his father bestow on Lamoni?
21. Why do you think Aaron, Muloki and Ammah were not miraculously released from their bonds in the same manner as Alma and Amulek (Alma 14:26-28)?
BONUS: Which of Ammon’s qualities seems to have changed Lamoni’s father’s attitude and opened the door to conversion?
Day 1: Read Alma 18:1-14
1. List the things Lamoni’s servants KNEW about Ammon.
2. What were the “traditions” of Lamoni’s fathers?
3. Why was Lamoni so impressed with Ammon? How did Ammon’s example open the door for serious dialogue?
Day 2: Read Alma 18:15-32; D&C 100:5-8
BONUS: Read D&C 100:5-8 with Alma 18:16. What is the promise to all who teach in meekness? What is meekness?
4. How did Ammon describe himself in Alma 18:17? What commitment did he make to Lamoni? In spite of Ammon’s humble declarations, what were Lamoni’s first questions in verse 18?
5. What was Lamoni’s promise to Ammon in Alma 18:21? What was the desire of Ammon’s heart? How is he described in Alma 18:22?
6. With what did Ammon begin in teaching Lamoni the truths of the gospel?
Day 3: Read Alma 18:33-43
7. How did Ammon explain his extraordinary abilities?
8. In order for Ammon to be able to expound the plan of salvation and relate scriptures and records, what kind of preparation must he have had?
9. What was King Lamoni’s reaction to Ammon’s teaching? Why?
BONUS: Review Alma 18 and list or underline each example of Ammon offering service.
Day 4: Read Alma 19:1-18; D&C 46:13-14
10. What might Ammon have been doing during the two days and two nights when Lamoni was mourned and lay in state? How did Ammon again demonstrate he was “wise yet harmless”?
11. What was the nature of the queen’s faith? In other words, on what was her faith based? See also D&C 46:13-14.
12. What evidence do we have that there were isolated individuals among the Lamanites who looked forward to Christ? How had the Lord made himself known to these Lamanites?
Day 5: Read Alma 19:19-36; 3 Nephi 11:29
13. What explanations were offered by the people as to why Lamoni and his court lay unconscioius? Were any of their theories correct? Who is usually behind contention? (see 3 Nephi 11:29)
14. How did Abish take the situation in hand?
15. Who was the first one to preach openly among the people? What was the result of this preaching?
BONUS: What lesson from this event did Mormon point out in Alma 19:36?
Day 6: Read Alma 20:1-13; Review Alma 17:19
16. Review Alma 17:19. Over what land was Lamoni king? Over what land did Lamoni’s father rule? Why did the Lord tell Ammon to go to Middoni?
17. Why did Lamoni go with Ammon to Middoni?
18. What false traditions did Lamoni’s father believe? Does this sound like racial profiling to you?
Day 7: Read Alma 20:14-30
19. Was it possible for Lamoni’s father to feel the Spirit when he was angry? Why was it better for Lamoni to die than his father?
20. What did the king offer if Ammon would spare his life? Had Ammon turned down a similar offer before? What did Ammon request? What additional blessing did his father bestow on Lamoni?
21. Why do you think Aaron, Muloki and Ammah were not miraculously released from their bonds in the same manner as Alma and Amulek (Alma 14:26-28)?
BONUS: Which of Ammon’s qualities seems to have changed Lamoni’s father’s attitude and opened the door to conversion?
Monday, February 4, 2008
Video Clips of Interest
FAIR (Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research) has posted some video clips on You Tube that touch on topics we have recently discussed. If you are interested in viewing these clips, please check them out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNt2aE_UM8g (Coins and The Book of Mormon) and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFZ0TOXNF9c&feature=related (The Book of Mormon and Temples). These are short clips giving the views of prominent Book of Mormon scholars - but are not produced by the Church. You can cut and paste these URLs into your browser, or click on the highlighted text here.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Alma 15-17
Alma 15-17 Study Guide – to be discussed February 7
Day 1: Read Alma 15:1-2
1. What was the cause of Zeezrom’s illness? In what way(s) did it manifest itself?
2. List three things which were required in order for Zeezrom to be healed.
3. What was the reaction of the people at Sidom to Zeezrom’s miraculous recovery?
Day 2: Read Alma 15:13-19
4. Why did the people of Ammonihah remain hard-hearted?
5. What did Amulek sacrifice for the word of God?
6. What was the result of Alma’s work at Sidom?
Day 3: Read Alma 16:1-11; Review Alma 3:25-27; Alma 25:1-3
7. After reviewing Alma 3:25-27, calculate approximately how long the Nephites had enjoyed relative peace.
8. Read Alma 9:18-19. What specific prophecies made by Alma in Ammonihah were fulfilled in the 11th year of the reign of the judges? Using the dates at the bottoms of pages 230 and 248, about how long did it take before his words were fulfilled? How long did it take to destroy Ammonihah?
BONUS: Read Alma 25:1-3. Why did the Lamanites attack Ammonihah?
9. How did Zoram and his sons achieve victory over the Lamanites? How can we use this same strategy in overcoming the forces of Satan?
Day 4: Read Alma 16:12-21; Moses 7:18
10. How did Alma and Amulek use the three years of peace to strengthen the Nephites?
BONUS: In Alma 16:13, we read that Alma and Amulek preached to the people in their temples, sanctuaries and synagogues. After reading 2 Nephi 5:16, Alma 15:17 and 21:6, and Alma 21:4, explain what seem to be the differences between temples, sanctuaries and synagogues.
11. Read Moses 7:18. In what way(s) did the Nephites become a Zion people?
12. From Alma 16:20, what new detail was given to the Nephites regarding Christ’s appearance among them?
Day 5: Read Alma 17:1-12, with headnote to Alma 17
13. From the headnote to Alma 17, what is recorded in Alma, chapters 17-26? According to the dates at the bottom of page 250, which years does this history cover?
14. What added to Alma’s joy in his reunion with the sons of Mosiah?
15. From Alma 17:1-12, list ways in which we can prepare for missionary service.
Day 6: Read Alma 17:13-25
16. Why had the curses of God fallen on the Lamanites? What was the goal of the sons of Mosiah in preaching to the Lamanites?
17. What did Ammon do for his brothers before they parted company?
18. As king, what might Lamoni have done to Ammon? Why do you think he treated Ammon as he did?
Day 7: Read Alma 17:26-39; Review Mosiah 28:6-7
19. Review the promise Mosiah received before his sons departed on their missions (Mosiah 28:6-7). How did this promise help Ammon avoid succumbing to the fear which overcame his fellow-servants?
20. From Alma 17:29, who did Alma hope to convert?
21. List qualities Ammon possessed that helped him in missionary work.
Day 1: Read Alma 15:1-2
1. What was the cause of Zeezrom’s illness? In what way(s) did it manifest itself?
2. List three things which were required in order for Zeezrom to be healed.
3. What was the reaction of the people at Sidom to Zeezrom’s miraculous recovery?
Day 2: Read Alma 15:13-19
4. Why did the people of Ammonihah remain hard-hearted?
5. What did Amulek sacrifice for the word of God?
6. What was the result of Alma’s work at Sidom?
Day 3: Read Alma 16:1-11; Review Alma 3:25-27; Alma 25:1-3
7. After reviewing Alma 3:25-27, calculate approximately how long the Nephites had enjoyed relative peace.
8. Read Alma 9:18-19. What specific prophecies made by Alma in Ammonihah were fulfilled in the 11th year of the reign of the judges? Using the dates at the bottoms of pages 230 and 248, about how long did it take before his words were fulfilled? How long did it take to destroy Ammonihah?
BONUS: Read Alma 25:1-3. Why did the Lamanites attack Ammonihah?
9. How did Zoram and his sons achieve victory over the Lamanites? How can we use this same strategy in overcoming the forces of Satan?
Day 4: Read Alma 16:12-21; Moses 7:18
10. How did Alma and Amulek use the three years of peace to strengthen the Nephites?
BONUS: In Alma 16:13, we read that Alma and Amulek preached to the people in their temples, sanctuaries and synagogues. After reading 2 Nephi 5:16, Alma 15:17 and 21:6, and Alma 21:4, explain what seem to be the differences between temples, sanctuaries and synagogues.
11. Read Moses 7:18. In what way(s) did the Nephites become a Zion people?
12. From Alma 16:20, what new detail was given to the Nephites regarding Christ’s appearance among them?
Day 5: Read Alma 17:1-12, with headnote to Alma 17
13. From the headnote to Alma 17, what is recorded in Alma, chapters 17-26? According to the dates at the bottom of page 250, which years does this history cover?
14. What added to Alma’s joy in his reunion with the sons of Mosiah?
15. From Alma 17:1-12, list ways in which we can prepare for missionary service.
Day 6: Read Alma 17:13-25
16. Why had the curses of God fallen on the Lamanites? What was the goal of the sons of Mosiah in preaching to the Lamanites?
17. What did Ammon do for his brothers before they parted company?
18. As king, what might Lamoni have done to Ammon? Why do you think he treated Ammon as he did?
Day 7: Read Alma 17:26-39; Review Mosiah 28:6-7
19. Review the promise Mosiah received before his sons departed on their missions (Mosiah 28:6-7). How did this promise help Ammon avoid succumbing to the fear which overcame his fellow-servants?
20. From Alma 17:29, who did Alma hope to convert?
21. List qualities Ammon possessed that helped him in missionary work.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Alma 12-14
Alma 12-14 Study Guide – to be discussed January 31
Day 1: Read Alma 12:1-11; D&C 10:22-27; 1 Corinthians 13:2; BD entry, “Mystery”; D&C 84:44-47, D&C 93:20, 27-28
1. Read D&C 10:22-27 with Alma 12:4-6. What do we know about Satan’s plan? What is his motivation? How can we guard against it?
2. What changed Zeezrom’s heart? What did Alma teach about the relationship between soft hearts and knowing the “mysteries of God” (See also 1 Cor. 13:2.)
3. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Mystery” (p.736 in the Bible Appendix). What did Alma mean by “the mysteries of God”? (See also D&C 84:44-47; D&C 93:20, 27-28.)
Day 2: Read Alma 12:12-24; D&C 88:15; Alma 40:26; Alma 42:4-5
4. In answer to Zeezrom’s newly-sincere question (v.8), Alma taught concerning the state of the hard-hearted at the time of final judgment and resurrection. What will we all acknowledge when we stand before God? Why?
5. Was Antionah familiar with the teachings on the brass plates of Laban? How do we know this? Read D&C 88:15 for the meaning of “soul” as used in this chapter.
BONUS: What is the Second Death? (See also Alma 40:26)
6. What principle of the gospel did Alma use to explain why Adam and Eve were barred from the tree of life? According to Alma’s explanation, what is the purpose of this life? (See also Alma 42:4-5.)
Day 3: Read Alma 12:25-37; D&C 84:19-25; Hebrews 3:7-13, 4:1-3
7. List promises to those who “hardeneth not” their hearts.
8. How and why does God converse with men? From Alma 12:32, which came first, knowledge of the plan of salvation or the first commandments?
9. Read D&C 84:19-25; Hebrews 3:7-13 and 4:1-3. Underline each place in Alma12 where you find mention of “the rest of the Lord.” What does it mean to “enter into the rest of the Lord”?
Day 4: Read Alma 13:1-13; Romans 8:1-5; Moses 6:59-62; Hebrews 13:12
10. From Alma 13:1-2, give two reasons the Lord ordains high priests among His people.
11. Is the priesthood an exclusive club? Why or why not? List the criteria for ordinations outlined by Alma.
12. Read Romans 8:1-5, Moses 6:59-62; Hebrews 13:12. What does it mean to be sanctified? By what means are we sanctified?
Day 5: Read Alma 13:14-31; JST Genesis 14:25-40; D&C 84:14, D&C 107:1-4
13. Who was Melchizedek? (See also Bible Dictionary entry “Melchizedek,” p. 730 in the Bible Appendix.) Over what land was he king? What happened when he exercised his mighty faith?
14. Why did Alma command the people to repent speedily?
15. From Alma 13:27-29, list things we can do to access the power of the atonement and be exalted.
Day 6: Read Alma 14:1-17
16. Alma’s speech divided his listeners into two distinct camps. What was each group moved to do?
17. What do you think caused Zeezrom’s “mighty change of heart”? How was his honesty rewarded?
18. Why did the Lord constrain Alma from exercising his priesthood in order to save the righteous women and children from death by fire?
Day 7: Read Alma 14:18-29; Matthew 27:11-14; Review Alma 1:12-16
19. Why do you think Alma and Amulek said nothing to the chief judge and all the lawyers, judges, priests and teachers of Nehor? List abuses against Alma and Amulek.
20. What was the final result of the hard-heartedness in Ammonihah?
21. Why do you think the people fled from Alma and Amulek instead of following them?
Day 1: Read Alma 12:1-11; D&C 10:22-27; 1 Corinthians 13:2; BD entry, “Mystery”; D&C 84:44-47, D&C 93:20, 27-28
1. Read D&C 10:22-27 with Alma 12:4-6. What do we know about Satan’s plan? What is his motivation? How can we guard against it?
2. What changed Zeezrom’s heart? What did Alma teach about the relationship between soft hearts and knowing the “mysteries of God” (See also 1 Cor. 13:2.)
3. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Mystery” (p.736 in the Bible Appendix). What did Alma mean by “the mysteries of God”? (See also D&C 84:44-47; D&C 93:20, 27-28.)
Day 2: Read Alma 12:12-24; D&C 88:15; Alma 40:26; Alma 42:4-5
4. In answer to Zeezrom’s newly-sincere question (v.8), Alma taught concerning the state of the hard-hearted at the time of final judgment and resurrection. What will we all acknowledge when we stand before God? Why?
5. Was Antionah familiar with the teachings on the brass plates of Laban? How do we know this? Read D&C 88:15 for the meaning of “soul” as used in this chapter.
BONUS: What is the Second Death? (See also Alma 40:26)
6. What principle of the gospel did Alma use to explain why Adam and Eve were barred from the tree of life? According to Alma’s explanation, what is the purpose of this life? (See also Alma 42:4-5.)
Day 3: Read Alma 12:25-37; D&C 84:19-25; Hebrews 3:7-13, 4:1-3
7. List promises to those who “hardeneth not” their hearts.
8. How and why does God converse with men? From Alma 12:32, which came first, knowledge of the plan of salvation or the first commandments?
9. Read D&C 84:19-25; Hebrews 3:7-13 and 4:1-3. Underline each place in Alma12 where you find mention of “the rest of the Lord.” What does it mean to “enter into the rest of the Lord”?
Day 4: Read Alma 13:1-13; Romans 8:1-5; Moses 6:59-62; Hebrews 13:12
10. From Alma 13:1-2, give two reasons the Lord ordains high priests among His people.
11. Is the priesthood an exclusive club? Why or why not? List the criteria for ordinations outlined by Alma.
12. Read Romans 8:1-5, Moses 6:59-62; Hebrews 13:12. What does it mean to be sanctified? By what means are we sanctified?
Day 5: Read Alma 13:14-31; JST Genesis 14:25-40; D&C 84:14, D&C 107:1-4
13. Who was Melchizedek? (See also Bible Dictionary entry “Melchizedek,” p. 730 in the Bible Appendix.) Over what land was he king? What happened when he exercised his mighty faith?
14. Why did Alma command the people to repent speedily?
15. From Alma 13:27-29, list things we can do to access the power of the atonement and be exalted.
Day 6: Read Alma 14:1-17
16. Alma’s speech divided his listeners into two distinct camps. What was each group moved to do?
17. What do you think caused Zeezrom’s “mighty change of heart”? How was his honesty rewarded?
18. Why did the Lord constrain Alma from exercising his priesthood in order to save the righteous women and children from death by fire?
Day 7: Read Alma 14:18-29; Matthew 27:11-14; Review Alma 1:12-16
19. Why do you think Alma and Amulek said nothing to the chief judge and all the lawyers, judges, priests and teachers of Nehor? List abuses against Alma and Amulek.
20. What was the final result of the hard-heartedness in Ammonihah?
21. Why do you think the people fled from Alma and Amulek instead of following them?
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Alma 9-11
Alma 9-11 Study Guide – to be discussed January 17
Day 1: Read Alma 9:1-18; Alma 16:9-10; Deuteronomy 17:6 [Note: Read the head note that introduces chapters 9-14. Whose words are recorded here?]
1. Read Deuteronomy 17:6. What law did the people of Ammonihah invoke against Alma? What did they lack an understanding or knowledge of? What had they forgotten?
BONUS: Read Alma 16:9-10. How wrong were the people of Ammonihah?
2. What commandment of God did Alma deliver? What was the warning associated with the command?
3. Give three prophecies Alma expounded regarding the Lamanites.
Day 2: Read Alma 9:19-34; D&C 82:3; James 4:17
4. List in two columns the blessings from God Alma asked the Ammonihahites to remember: temporal and spiritual.
5. Why were the Nephites more accountable than the Lamanites? (see also D&C 82:3; James 4:17)
6. According to Alma, how can we prepare the way of the Lord? How did the people of Ammonihah react to Alma’s address? Why?
BONUS: From Alma 9:21, list gifts of the Spirit.
Day 3: Read Alma 10:1-15
7. Who were the prophets in Amulek’s genealogy.
8. How was Amulek able to recognize the truth when he heard it? What was the reaction of the people to his witness?
9. What was the apparent motivation behind the lawyers’ questions?
Day 4: Read Alma 10:16-32
10. How did Amulek know what the lawyers were up to? How are the ways of the righteous perverted today?
11. What had saved the people of Ammonihah up to this point? Is this principle true today?
12. What was the real motivation behind the attacks against Alma and Amulek?
Day 5: Read Alma 11:1-19
13. How much did judges earn per day? What was this worth in barley or grain?
14. What was the Nephites’ largest unit of currency? What was it worth?
15. Why do you think Alma and Mormon included a listing of the currency used among the Nephites? What does it tell you about their civilization? about our own?
Day 6: Read Alma 11:20-35; review Alma 10:4
16. Who was Zeezrom and what was his agenda?
BONUS: How many days’ wages did Zeezrom offer Amulek to deny his testimony?
17. Review Alma 10:4. Was Amulek a man of means? Was it his comfortable situation that kept him from accepting the bribe Zeezrom offered?
18. What was Zeezrom’s second approach in attempting to discredit Amulek?
Day 7: Read Alma 11:36-46
19. In answer to Zeezrom’s question in Alma 11:38, Amulek gave two examples of how Jesus can be called the Eternal Father of heaven and earth. What were they?
20. What do we learn about the resurrection through Amulek’s extended answer?
21. How did Zeezrom and the people react to Amulek’s powerful teachings?
BONUS: Why do people want to be saved IN their sins instead of FROM their sins?
Day 1: Read Alma 9:1-18; Alma 16:9-10; Deuteronomy 17:6 [Note: Read the head note that introduces chapters 9-14. Whose words are recorded here?]
1. Read Deuteronomy 17:6. What law did the people of Ammonihah invoke against Alma? What did they lack an understanding or knowledge of? What had they forgotten?
BONUS: Read Alma 16:9-10. How wrong were the people of Ammonihah?
2. What commandment of God did Alma deliver? What was the warning associated with the command?
3. Give three prophecies Alma expounded regarding the Lamanites.
Day 2: Read Alma 9:19-34; D&C 82:3; James 4:17
4. List in two columns the blessings from God Alma asked the Ammonihahites to remember: temporal and spiritual.
5. Why were the Nephites more accountable than the Lamanites? (see also D&C 82:3; James 4:17)
6. According to Alma, how can we prepare the way of the Lord? How did the people of Ammonihah react to Alma’s address? Why?
BONUS: From Alma 9:21, list gifts of the Spirit.
Day 3: Read Alma 10:1-15
7. Who were the prophets in Amulek’s genealogy.
8. How was Amulek able to recognize the truth when he heard it? What was the reaction of the people to his witness?
9. What was the apparent motivation behind the lawyers’ questions?
Day 4: Read Alma 10:16-32
10. How did Amulek know what the lawyers were up to? How are the ways of the righteous perverted today?
11. What had saved the people of Ammonihah up to this point? Is this principle true today?
12. What was the real motivation behind the attacks against Alma and Amulek?
Day 5: Read Alma 11:1-19
13. How much did judges earn per day? What was this worth in barley or grain?
14. What was the Nephites’ largest unit of currency? What was it worth?
15. Why do you think Alma and Mormon included a listing of the currency used among the Nephites? What does it tell you about their civilization? about our own?
Day 6: Read Alma 11:20-35; review Alma 10:4
16. Who was Zeezrom and what was his agenda?
BONUS: How many days’ wages did Zeezrom offer Amulek to deny his testimony?
17. Review Alma 10:4. Was Amulek a man of means? Was it his comfortable situation that kept him from accepting the bribe Zeezrom offered?
18. What was Zeezrom’s second approach in attempting to discredit Amulek?
Day 7: Read Alma 11:36-46
19. In answer to Zeezrom’s question in Alma 11:38, Amulek gave two examples of how Jesus can be called the Eternal Father of heaven and earth. What were they?
20. What do we learn about the resurrection through Amulek’s extended answer?
21. How did Zeezrom and the people react to Amulek’s powerful teachings?
BONUS: Why do people want to be saved IN their sins instead of FROM their sins?
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