Jesus Christ Will Come to Redeem His People

CFM: June 17-23

Alma 8-12

Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material

Media	​Lesson Extension
Scripture Central	Alma 8-12 Scripture Study Insights Insights with Taylor and Tyler: Revisited Scripture Insights
Follow Him	Alma 8-12 Part 1 Part 2 Transcripts
Line Upon Line	Alma 8-12 Not Yet Posted
Teaching with Power	Alma 8-12 ​Teaching Bundle for Book of Mormon, available on Etsy.
Don't Miss This	Alma 8-12
Book of Mormon Matters with John W Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson	Alma 8-12 John W. Welch Notes
​Unshaken	Alma 8-12 Alma 8-12: The Greater Portion of the Word Extended Version: Preparing to Meet God
​The Interpreter Foundation	Alma 8-12 ​Commentary by John Claybaugh
​Teaching Helps with John Hilton	Alma 8-12 The Book of Mormon, A Master Class 8-16 -The Power of God's Plan
​Scripture Gems	Alma 8-12 Book of Mormon Map
Come Follow Up	Alma 8-12
The Scriptures Are Real	Alma 8-12 Failed Successfully
Latter Day Kids	Alma 8-12 Fasting and Prayer
Scripture Explorers	Alma 8-12 Alma Meets Amulek
Gospel for Kids	Alma 8-12 Alma, Amulek, and Zeezrom
​Talking Scripture	Alma 8-12 Show Notes
Book of Mormon Minute, Brant A. Gardner Vol. 2 Volume 3: Alma	Alma 8 Alma 9 Alma 10 Alma 11 Alma 12
Saving Talents: Devotionals & FHE for Children	Alma 8-12
Grounded with Barbara Morgan	Alma 8-12
Our Mothers Knew It	Insights Alma 8-12 Video Object Lesson
Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class, Book of Mormon	The Ministry of Alma & Amulek Video Notes Slides/Handout

Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson

The Book of Mormon: A Cultural and Religious Dialogue

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Overview

Alma 8

Alma 8 narrates the missionary journey of Alma the Younger as he travels to the city of Ammonihah, facing rejection and hostility. After being cast out, he receives divine guidance to return, and with the help of an angel and a new companion, Amulek, Alma reenters the city with renewed vigor. This chapter highlights themes of perseverance, divine intervention, and the power of missionary work. It underscores the challenges faced in spreading the gospel and the importance of faith and obedience in overcoming adversity.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

• Perseverance and Endurance in the Face of Adversity: Alma’s journey illustrates the need for steadfastness and endurance in fulfilling one’s divine mission. Encouraging readers to persevere in their spiritual and missionary efforts despite challenges and setbacks.

  • Ammonihah: Measuring Mormon’s Purposes

  • Answering for His Order: Alma’s Clash with the Nehors

  • Conflicting Orders: Alma and Amulek in Ammonihah

  • When Less is More: The Reticent Narrator in the Story of Alma and Amulek

  • The Law of Apostate Cities

• Divine Support and Intervention: The narrative underscores the crucial role of divine guidance and the presence of angels in supporting and directing God’s servants.

• Role of Divine Messengers: Explore instances of divine intervention in religious texts and personal experiences.

• Building Partnerships and Supportive Relationships in Ministry: The story emphasizes the strength and importance of working together in the Lord’s work, as seen in the partnership between Alma and Amulek.

  • Learn from Alma and Amulek

• Linguistic and Cultural Insights

  • Book of Mormon Names Attested in Ancient Hebrew Inscriptions

  • The Possibility of Janus Parallelism in the Book of Mormon

  • Why Did Alma Bless and Thank God After Eating?

  • Blessing God After Eating One's Fill by Bokovoy, David E., and John A. Tvedtnes

  • Blessing God after Eating One’s Fill by Crowell, Angela M., and John A. Tvedtnes
    

Major Topics/ Themes	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
Alma 8	Alma and Amulek Are Delivered by the Power of God | Alma 8–15
Verses 1-17: Initial Rejection in Ammonihah
Challenges of Missionary Work Rejection and Hardship: Alma’s initial efforts are met with hostility, illustrating the difficulties missionaries often face. Perseverance: Despite being expelled, Alma does not give up on his mission.	What does it Mean to “Prosper in the Land”?
Verses 8-17: Divine Guidance and Intervention	The Lord’s Help
Angel’s Message: The divine messenger provides reassurance and direction, emphasizing the importance of divine support in missionary efforts. Obedience and Faith: Alma’s immediate compliance with the angel’s instructions shows his deep faith and commitment.	Why Did an Angel Send Alma Back to Ammonihah?
Verses 18-32: Return to Ammonihah and Encounter with Amulek	Why Did Ancient Prophets Follow Literary Patterns?
18-27: Alma meets Amulek, a resident of Ammonihah, who welcomes him into his home. Amulek has also been prepared by the Lord to assist Alma. Building Partnerships in Ministry Preparation of Amulek: The Lord prepares Amulek to support Alma, showing the importance of partnerships in fulfilling divine missions. Hospitality and Support: Amulek’s hospitality provides a necessary respite and reinforcement for Alma.	Why Did Alma Bless and Thank God After Eating?, Blessing Food after being filled in Jewish Tradition
28-32: Alma and Amulek begin teaching the people together, gaining some followers but also facing significant opposition from those in power. Collaboration and Strength in Numbers Teamwork in Preaching: The collaboration between Alma and Amulek enhances their effectiveness and resilience. Continued Opposition: The persistent resistance they encounter highlights the ongoing struggle between truth and societal norms.

Overview

Alma 9

Alma 9 continues the account of Alma the Younger’s missionary efforts in Ammonihah, focusing on his powerful and direct teachings to the people who have largely rejected his message. Alma warns them of the impending destruction if they do not repent, emphasizing the blessings they have received and the consequences of their rebellion. This chapter highlights themes of repentance, accountability, and the consequences of rejecting God’s commandments. Alma’s bold approach underscores the seriousness of the people’s situation and the urgency of his message.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

• Repentance and Accountability: Alma’s message underscores the necessity of repentance and the serious consequences of rejecting divine commandments.

• Divine Blessings and Responsibilities: Highlights the blessings that come from being a covenant people and the responsibilities that accompany those blessings.

  • Sojourn, Dwell, and Stay: Terms of Servitude

• Gratitude for Blessings: Reminds readers to recognize and be grateful for the blessings they have received and to live up to the associated responsibilities.

• Urgency and Seriousness of Divine Warnings: Alma’s urgent message conveys the seriousness of the people’s situation and the need for immediate action.

• Role of Prophets in Calling to Repentance: Reflect on the role of prophets in calling people to repentance and delivering divine warnings.

• Heeding Divine Warnings: Encourages readers to listen to and act upon divine counsel and warnings in their lives.

• Contrasting Outcomes: Discuss the contrasting outcomes for the Nephites and Lamanites based on their actions and faithfulness.

  • Contrasting Ideas- Literary Parallelism
    

Major Topics/ Themes	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
Alma 9
Verses 1-13: Alma’s Call to Repentance
1-6: Alma begins his preaching by recounting the history of the people of Nephi and the blessings they have received, calling attention to their chosen status and the promises made to their ancestors. Reminder of Divine Blessings Covenant People: Alma reminds the people of their heritage and the covenant blessings given to their forefathers. Gratitude and Responsibility: Emphasizes the need to recognize and be grateful for divine blessings and the associated responsibilities.
7-13: Alma then contrasts these blessings with the people’s current state of wickedness, calling out their hard-heartedness and the danger they are in if they do not repent. Consequences of Wickedness Hard-Heartedness: Alma rebukes the people for their stubbornness and unwillingness to heed divine warnings. Impending Judgment: Warns of the destruction that will come upon them if they continue in their sins, highlighting the seriousness of their situation.
Verses 14-23: Warnings and Promises	The Eternal Principle of Law and Justice
14-17: Alma speaks of the Lamanites, contrasting their eventual blessings with the Nephites' current state. He prophesies that the Lamanites will eventually receive the gospel and be blessed for their faithfulness. Contrast with the Lamanites Future Blessings for the Lamanites: Alma prophesies that the Lamanites, despite their current state, will one day receive the gospel and be blessed. Nephite Accountability: Highlights the greater accountability of the Nephites due to their greater knowledge and blessings.
18-23: Alma delivers a stern warning, emphasizing the justice of God and the need for immediate repentance. He reiterates the destruction that will come upon the people if they do not change their ways. Urgency of Repentance Immediate Action Required: Stresses the urgent need for the people to repent and change their ways. God’s Justice: Emphasizes the fairness and justice of God in dealing with His children, holding them accountable for their actions.
Verses 24-34: Alma’s Plea and Final Warnings
24-26: Alma continues his plea, urging the people to repent and return to God. He warns of the consequences of hardening their hearts against the truth. Continued Plea for Repentance Call to Repentance: Alma's plea is heartfelt, emphasizing the need for immediate repentance. Consequences of Rejection: Reiterates the severe consequences of rejecting the word of God.
27-30: Alma speaks of the fate of previous generations who rejected the prophets, drawing parallels to the current situation in Ammonihah. Historical Warnings Historical Lessons: Uses past examples to illustrate the outcomes of rejecting prophetic messages. Urgency and Seriousness: Stresses the urgency and seriousness of his warnings based on historical precedents.
31-34: Alma concludes by emphasizing the mercy of God and the opportunity for redemption through repentance. He warns that continued rebellion will lead to destruction. Final Warnings and Mercy Divine Mercy: Highlights God’s willingness to forgive and show mercy to those who repent. Final Warnings: Reiterates the dire consequences of continued rebellion and disobedience.

Overview

Alma 10

Alma 10 focuses on the account of Amulek, a prominent citizen of Ammonihah who becomes Alma’s companion in preaching. Amulek shares his background and conversion experience, providing a powerful witness to the people. He emphasizes the need for repentance and underscores the reality of divine judgment. The chapter highlights themes of conversion, testimony, and the importance of heeding prophetic counsel. Amulek’s testimony reinforces Alma’s warnings and illustrates the transformative power of the gospel.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

• Conversion and Testimony: Amulek’s story illustrates the power of conversion and the importance of bearing witness to the truth.

• Support for Prophetic Mission: Emphasizes the significance of supporting and validating prophetic missions through personal testimony.

• Consequences of Corruption: Addresses the serious consequences of leading others astray and the need for integrity and righteousness in leadership.

• Heeding Spiritual Promptings: Encourages readers to be attentive to spiritual promptings and act upon them.

• Integrity in Leadership: Stresses the need for honesty and integrity in all forms of leadership and the consequences of corruption.

• Impact of Corrupt Leadership: Reflect on historical and modern examples of corrupt leadership and the resulting consequences.

• Linguistic & Cultural Insights:

  • Piercing the Veil: Temple Worship in the Lost 116 Pages

  • Why is Amulek’s Household Significant?

  • ’Stretch Forth Thy Hand and Prophesy’: Hand Gestures in the Book of Mormon
    

Major Topics/ Themes	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
Alma 10
Verses 1-11: Amulek’s Background and Conversion	Why is Amulek’s Household Significant?
1-4: Amulek introduces himself, detailing his family background and social standing in Ammonihah. He admits to previously ignoring the spiritual promptings he received. Personal Background Social Standing: Amulek’s introduction establishes him as a credible and respected figure in the community. Spiritual Neglect: Acknowledges his previous failures to heed spiritual promptings, demonstrating humility and honesty.
5-7: Amulek recounts how an angel appeared to him, instructing him to receive Alma and assist him in his mission. Divine Intervention Angel’s Visit: Amulek’s encounter with an angel underscores the divine nature of his calling and mission. Call to Assist Alma: The angel’s message emphasizes the importance of supporting and working with Alma in preaching the gospel.
8-11: Amulek explains his subsequent conversion and commitment to the Lord’s work, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve. Conversion and Commitment Transformative Experience: Amulek’s conversion highlights the transformative power of divine encounters. Commitment to Service: His willingness to serve alongside Alma demonstrates his dedication and faith.
Verses 12-23: Amulek’s Testimony and Call to Repentance
12-16: Amulek testifies of Alma’s teachings, affirming their truth and urging the people to listen and repent. He emphasizes the importance of Alma’s message and the consequences of rejecting it. Affirmation of Alma’s Message Support for Alma: Amulek’s testimony reinforces the validity of Alma’s teachings. Urgency of Repentance: Emphasizes the need for the people to heed Alma’s warnings and repent.
17-23: Amulek addresses the corrupt lawyers and judges, accusing them of leading the people astray and seeking personal gain. He warns of the dire consequences they will face if they do not repent. Rebuke of Corruption Condemnation of Corrupt Leaders: Amulek boldly calls out the corruption and deceit of the leaders in Ammonihah. Warning of Judgment: Highlights the impending divine judgment that awaits those who continue in their wickedness.

Overview

Alma 11

Alma 11 provides a detailed account of the legal and monetary systems among the Nephites, which sets the stage for the confrontation between Alma, Amulek, and the corrupt lawyers of Ammonihah. The chapter introduces Zeezrom, a cunning lawyer who initially seeks to entrap Alma and Amulek through deceptive questioning. However, his encounter with them leads to his eventual conviction. Themes of justice, deceit, and the power of testimony are prominent as Alma and Amulek boldly defend the truth.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

• Justice and Corruption: The contrast between the righteous teachings of Alma and Amulek and the deceitful tactics of Zeezrom underscores the theme of justice versus corruption.

• Integrity in the Face of Deceit: Encourages readers to maintain their personal integrity and faith even when faced with deceit and corruption.

• Legal and Economic Systems: Explore the role of legal and economic systems in maintaining social order and the potential for corruption within them.

  • What is the Purpose of Democracy in the Book of Mormon?

  • How Did King Benjamin’s Speech Lead to Nephite Democracy?

  • Wordplay on Zeezrom

  • The Law of Mosiah

• The Importance and Power of Testimony: Amulek’s bold testimony in the face of opposition highlights the power and importance of bearing witness to the truth.

  • Consistent Elements in Nephite Declarations of Faith

• Resurrection and Redemption: Alma’s teachings provide a clear explanation of key doctrines of resurrection and redemption, emphasizing their importance in the plan of salvation.

  • Editor's Table: Redemption Beyond the Grave

  • The Doctrine of Resurrection in the Book of Mormon

• The Importance of Understanding Doctrinal Truths: Stresses the importance of understanding and internalizing key doctrines such as resurrection and redemption.

• Doctrinal Foundations: Reflect on the foundational doctrines of resurrection and redemption and their implications for personal faith and practice.

• Linguistic & Cultural Insights:

  • King Mosiah's Monetary System

  • The Utility of the Onti and Limnah

  • The Utility of the Gold Antion

  • Egyptian Hieroglyphs for Grain Measurement

  • Latest Findings in the Book of Mormon Critical Text Project

  • Table of Relative Values

  • A Nickname and a Slam Dunk: Notes on the Book of Mormon Names Zeezrom and Jershon
    

Major Topics/ Themes	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
Alma 11
Verses 1-20: Nephite Legal and Monetary Systems	What is the Purpose of Democracy in the Book of Mormon? How Did King Benjamin’s Speech Lead to Nephite Democracy?
1-4: The chapter begins with a description of the Nephite system of judges and lawyers, outlining their roles and responsibilities. Legal Structure Judicial Roles: Explains the organization of judges and their duties in maintaining law and order. Lawyers’ Influence: Highlights the power and influence of lawyers within the legal system.	How Were Judges Elected in the Book of Mormon?
5-20: A detailed account of the Nephite monetary system follows, including the names and values of different units of currency. Monetary System Standardization: Describes the standardized weights and measures used in Nephite currency. Economic Context: Provides context for the economic backdrop of the events that unfold in Ammonihah.	Why You Should Care About the Nephite Weights and Measures System, Complex Monetary System, Elegant Monetary System, The Nephite Monetary System, Near Eastern Measures, Pre-Columbian Measures, Metal Money in Meso-America
Verses 21-39: Zeezrom’s Challenge and Amulek’s Testimony
21-25: Zeezrom begins to question Amulek, offering him a significant bribe to deny the existence of God, attempting to entrap him. Attempted Bribery Deceptive Tactics: Zeezrom’s bribe highlights the corrupt practices used to undermine divine messages. Integrity of Amulek: Amulek’s refusal of the bribe demonstrates his unwavering faith and integrity.	Why Would Zeezrom Attempt to Bribe Amulek?, Attestation of Shilum
26-39: Amulek responds to Zeezrom’s questions with clarity and boldness, testifying of God’s power and the reality of the final judgment. Bold Testimony Defense of Faith: Amulek’s responses to Zeezrom’s challenges affirm his faith and understanding of divine principles. Final Judgment: Emphasizes the inevitability and seriousness of the final judgment for all souls.
Verses 40-46: Alma’s Teachings on Resurrection and Redemption	Resurrected Perfect Form, Resurrection
40-45: Alma joins the discussion, expounding on the doctrines of resurrection and redemption through Jesus Christ. He explains the purpose of the resurrection and the redemption of mankind. Doctrinal Clarification Resurrection: Alma explains that all people will be resurrected, with their bodies and spirits reunited. Redemption: Highlights the central role of Jesus Christ in the redemption and salvation of humanity.
46: Alma concludes by reaffirming the certainty of the resurrection and the reality of the final judgment. Affirmation of Doctrine Certainty of Resurrection: Alma emphasizes that the resurrection is a guaranteed event for all. Reality of Judgment: Reiterates the seriousness of the final judgment and the need for righteous living.

Overview

Alma 12

Alma 12 continues the intense dialogue between Alma, Amulek, and the lawyers of Ammonihah, particularly focusing on Zeezrom. Alma expands on the doctrines of resurrection, judgment, and the plan of redemption, providing profound teachings on these subjects. The chapter underscores the importance of repentance, the consequences of rejecting the gospel, and the ultimate justice of God. It highlights themes of divine justice, human agency, and the eternal consequences of our choices.

References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:

• Divine Justice and Mercy: Alma’s teachings emphasize the balance of God’s justice and mercy, highlighting the fairness of divine judgment and the availability of redemption through Christ.

  • Alma 12:5-6, The Power of an Embrace

• Human Agency and Eternal Consequences: Stresses the importance of human agency and the eternal consequences of our choices.

  • Alma 12, The Universal Pattern of Apostasy

  • The Probationary Nature of Mortality

  • Alma 12:3, ‘But Thou Hast Lied unto God

• Resurrection and Judgment: Provides a detailed explanation of the doctrines of resurrection and final judgment, reinforcing their centrality in the plan of salvation.

  • The Atonement of Jesus Christ: 2 Nephi 9

• Responsibility of Choices: Encourages readers to recognize the significance of their choices and their eternal consequences.

• Importance of Repentance: Stresses the need for continual repentance and reliance on the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

  • Alma 12:7-8, Zeezrom’s Response

• Seeking Greater Light: Invites readers to seek greater spiritual understanding and live by the truths they receive.

  • Why Did Alma Teach His Opponents about the Temple?

• Doctrine of Resurrection: Explore various religious teachings on resurrection and compare them with Alma’s teachings.

• Role of Prophets in Calling to Repentance: Discuss the role of prophets and spiritual leaders in urging repentance and guiding people towards righteousness.

• Linguistic & Cultural Insights:

  • Alma 12, Review of the Feast of Tabernacles Drama

Major Topics/ Themes	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
Alma 12
Verses 1-7: Zeezrom’s Conviction and Alma’s Rebuttal	Pre-Columbian Lawyers
1-3: Zeezrom is struck with fear and guilt as Alma exposes his deceit and evil intentions, causing Zeezrom to tremble before them. Guilt and Conviction Zeezrom’s Fear: Zeezrom’s reaction indicates his recognition of the truth and his own guilt. Power of Truth: The truth of Alma and Amulek’s words has a profound impact, exposing Zeezrom’s inner turmoil.	God Knows the Thoughts and Intents of Our Hearts
4-7: Alma rebukes Zeezrom, explaining how Satan has a strong hold on the hearts of those who seek to deceive and lead others astray. Alma declares that Zeezrom’s intentions have been exposed by the Spirit of God. Exposure of Deception Satan’s Influence: Alma highlights the dangers of allowing Satan to influence one’s actions. Divine Revelation: The exposure of Zeezrom’s intentions demonstrates the power of divine revelation through the Spirit.
Verses 8-18: Alma’s Teachings on Resurrection and Judgment	Judgment
8-11: Zeezrom, now genuinely interested, inquires further about the resurrection and final judgment. Alma explains that those who harden their hearts against the truth will be given less light, while those who accept and live by the truth will receive more. Light and Understanding Gradual Revelation: Alma teaches that spiritual knowledge is given according to one’s willingness to accept and live by it. Eternal Progression: Emphasizes the principle of eternal progression based on one’s choices and receptiveness to truth.	Why Does the Book of Mormon Warn that a Lake of Fire and Brimstone Awaits Sinners in the Afterlife?
12-18: Alma elaborates on the resurrection and the judgment, teaching that all will be resurrected and judged according to their works and the desires of their hearts. He warns of the second death for the wicked, emphasizing the eternal nature of God’s judgments. Resurrection and Final Judgment Resurrection for All: Alma reaffirms that everyone will be resurrected, with their bodies and spirits reunited. Just Judgment: God’s judgment will be just, rewarding the righteous and condemning the wicked based on their actions and intentions. Second Death: The second death is described as eternal separation from God for the unrepentant.
Verses 19-37: The Plan of Redemption and the Need for Repentance	Why Did Alma Teach His Opponents about the Temple?, There Was a Plan of Redemption Laid
19-25: Alma outlines the plan of redemption, explaining that after the fall of Adam and Eve, mankind became subject to both physical and spiritual death. However, through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, all can be redeemed if they repent. The Plan of Redemption Fall of Man: Describes the consequences of the fall, including both physical and spiritual death. Atonement of Christ: Emphasizes the central role of Christ’s Atonement in overcoming these deaths and offering redemption.	Angels Ministered to Adam and Eve
26-30: Alma stresses that this life is a probationary state where individuals have the opportunity to repent and prepare for the final judgment. He highlights the importance of making righteous choices and seeking forgiveness. Probationary State Opportunity to Repent: This life is given as a time to repent and prepare for eternity. Importance of Choices: Stresses the significance of making righteous decisions and the availability of divine mercy through repentance.
31-37: Alma concludes by urging the people to not harden their hearts and to accept the word of God. He warns of the consequences of rejecting the gospel and choosing to follow Satan instead. Urgent Call to Repentance Warning Against Rejection: Alma warns of the dire consequences of rejecting God’s word. Call to Acceptance: Encourages the people to open their hearts and accept the gospel message to receive the blessings of redemption.

Church Videos & Resources

• Alma-Helaman Talks and References

• This Month in Come Follow Me

• Alma 8-15

Scripture Central

• Study Guide

Video Commentary

• Listed above in podcast section

Know Whys

Evidences

Written Commentary

Reading Plan

Maps & Charts

• Images

Bibliography & Additional Resource

BYU’s RSC

The Probationary Nature of Mortality

Ammonihah: Measuring Mormon’s Purposes

Books

• The Book of Mormon Made Easier Set, With Included Chronological Map (Gospel Study)

• The Annotated Book of Mormon

• Beholding the Tree of Life: A Rabbinic Approach to the Book of Mormon

• Gathered in One: How the Book of Mormon Counters Anti-Semitism in the New Testament

• Feasts and Festivals of the Messiah (Preparing for and Worshipping in the Latter-day Saint Temple: Understanding Symbolism, Promises, Learnings & Covenants)

• Passover Seder Script

• Days of Awe: Jewish Holy Days, Symbols and Prophecies for Latter-day Saints