The Book of Alma is a major "turning point" in the overall narrative of the Book of Mormon because at this time the Nephites were a 526 year-old civilization (see Alma 30:6,) living in a democratic regime, with an ethnically diverse, mostly educated and wealthy population.  (Have you seen this "film" somewhere?)

From now on, Mormon will give us greater details about Nephite life, culture, politics, economy, and national security issues. However, his focus is not on teaching us about Nephite history, but he will teach us how true Christians can face and overcome the challenges and predicaments of a complex society with the help of the priesthood and the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Questions for Review:

1. What were some of the steps in Ammon and his brethren's preparation for missionary service?  (Alma 17:2-3)

2. How had Abish, the Lamanite woman, been converted unto the Lord?  (Alma 19:16) 

The sons of king Mosiah II return to Zarahemla after spending 14 years on a mission among the Lamanites (1,4)

Personal characteristics which helped in their labor

• They were strong in the knowledge of truth
• They possessed a sound understanding (2)
• Searched the scriptures diligently
• Had engaged in much prayer and fasting (3)
• Possessed the spirit of prophecy, thus preaching with power and authority
• They also endured many afflictions patiently: much suffering in body, mind, and labor in spirit (5)
• Their motivation for service was ... : see Mosiah 28:3

Ammon decided to mingle and live among the Lamanites before preaching (25)

. By learning their way of life he discovered how to gain their respect (see verse 29)

Lamanites had a faint idea of a "Great Spirit" (2)

. Yet, they had a rather utilitarian conception of right and wrong (5)

. He apparently knew what skills would catch the attention of the Lamanites
. He served king Lamoni without compromising his values (17)

• Concept 1: the supremacy of God (24-32)
• Concept 2: revelation (34-25)
• Concept 3: the creation and the fall of Adam, and a history of the previous dispensations--according to the scriptures (36-37)
• Concept 4: the apostasy, or the reason why Lamanites did not have the truth (38)
• Concept 5: the great plan of redemption and the coming of Christ (39)

. A few parallels in the scriptures:
. Moses - many hours (Moses 1:10)
. Alma the younger - 3 days and 3 nights (Alma 36:16)
. The Apostle Paul - blind for 3 days (Acts 9:9)

The power of God overwhelms the mortal body (6)

King Lamoni saw the pre-mortal Christ and received a testimony of his atonement (13)

. The queen was also dominated by the power of God, while others saw angels (13, 34)

. There had been previous conversions among the Lamanites, and even spiritual manifestations like visions

• This is a testimony that the Lord does not cast anyone righteous aside, regardless of race, ethnicity, political orientation, level of income, etc. (36)

Ammon used his knowledge of Lamanite culture to impress king Lamoni's father, and get him to receive the missionary discussions
 

Aaron and his brethren had chosen to teach dissidents, many of whom were Nehorites (21:3)

Aaron teaches king Lamoni's father using an approach similar to one previously employed by Ammon (12-14)

• Concept 1: the supremacy of God
• Concept 2: the creation and the fall of Adam--according to the scriptures
• Concept 3: the great plan of redemption and the coming of Christ

. Compare with 20:23; he offered half of his kingdom to save his life. Now, he offered everything to have eternal life

Copyright © 1994-2007 - Marcus H. Martins
This web page was published only as a support for classroom discussion.
For more information, contact Dr. Marcus Martins at: martinsm@byuh.edu