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May 267 min read

“They Were Called the People of God”

Updated: May 30

CFM: May 27–June 2





Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material



Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson





The Book of Mormon: A Cultural and Religious Dialogue


I am currently working on my lesson for this week's material, and I will post that as soon as I get it wrapped up. This week's lesson has been a bit more challenging than anticipated, because there are so many things that I want to cover and share, but I am limited due to time and other factors. So, I thought I would at least publish the Overview material that I do have completed so you all can get started, and then I will try to add more throughout the week.


As promised, here is the powerpoint for the lesson I am teaching this week. This will probably need a bit more explanation, so I am working to put a video together that I will upload as soon as I complete it.


In some of the earlier sections of the overviews, I have included various links to Hebraic words and concepts that are quite insightful, especially as one considers that the people were still living under the Mosaic Law at that time. Examining these sections through a Jewish lense can help one to better appreciate the nature and significance of many aspects from the Book of Mormon that we often overlook and don't recognize as significant. I plan to continue to update these sections throughout the week.

 

Overview


Mosiah 25 details the gathering of the Nephite people in Zarahemla under King Mosiah II after the reunion of Limhi's people and Alma's followers with the Nephites in Zarahemla. This chapter emphasizes the importance of unity, recounts the various journeys and trials of Limhi’s and Alma’s groups, and describes the establishment of the church under Alma’s leadership. Key themes include the power of collective faith, the importance of righteous leadership, and the blessings of communal worship. The chapter highlights significant events and spiritual lessons, connecting them to broader scriptural themes, providing insights for contemporary application.



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


Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Mosiah 25

Verses 1-11: Gathering and Recounting of Histories


1-2: King Mosiah II gathers all the people together in Zarahemla.

  • Cultural Context: The significance of communal gatherings in ancient societies for worship, maintaining unity, and cultivating a shared identity. The Moedim, מוֹעֵד "appointed feast days"

3-4: The people of Zarahemla consist of Nephites, people of Zarahemla (Mulekites), and those who came with Limhi and Alma.

  • Narrative Development: The integration of various groups into one community.

5-6: King Mosiah reads the records of Zeniff’s people and Alma’s group to the gathered assembly.

  • Theological Insight: The importance of preserving and recounting historical records to maintain collective memory and faith, also to stand as a witness for God, that his prophecies were fulfilled.

7-9: The people are filled with joy, wonder, amazement, and sorrow as they listen to the accounts of deliverance and suffering.

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Similar to the reading of the Law by Ezra in Nehemiah 8:1-9, where the people respond with both joy and weeping.

10-11: The people recognize the hand of God in their deliverance and are moved to raise their voices in praise, gratitude, and worship.

Verses 12-24: Alma’s Leadership and the Establishment of the Church


12-13: King Mosiah allows Alma the Elder to organize the church among the people. The children of Amulon and his brethren (Noah's wicked priests) forsake the names of their fathers and change their names to Nephites.

  • Theological Insight: The role of righteous leadership in spiritual organization and governance, and the consequences of unrighteous dominion.

14-15: Alma preaches repentance and faith in Jesus Christ to the people.

  • Cultural Context: The continuity of prophetic teaching and its impact on the community.

16-18: Many people are baptized and join the church, indicating a communal commitment to live according to gospel principles.

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: The mass baptisms following Peter’s sermon on the Day of Pentecost (Shavuot the counting of 7 "Weeks") in Acts 2:37-41.

  • Miqvah, gathering/collection of waters (מִקְוֶה Gen 1:10, Lev 11:36) This link on Jewish traditions associated with Miqvah's adds some interesting perspectives. While there are some distinctions that differ from Christian or LDS theological doctrine,there are many valuable insights that one can glean from examining the Jewish perspective, especially as one examines Alma's experience, as it was based on Jewish tradition, prior to the fulfillment of the Law through Jesus Christ.

19-20: Alma ordains priests and teachers / rabbis to lead and instruct the people, ensuring the church's proper organization and functioning.

  • Theological Insight: This passage highlights the importance of priesthood authority and proper organization in maintaining the church's spiritual integrity. Greek word for Church: ἐκκλησία Ekklesia or συναγωγή synagōgḗ Hebrew word: קָהָל qâhâl, or מוֹעֵד môwʻêd

21-22: The church prospers and grows under Alma’s leadership, experiencing peace and unity.

  • Narrative Development: The blessings of collective faith and righteousness.

23-24: The people of Zarahemla and those from the land of Nephi live in harmony, unified in their faith and worship.

  • Cultural Context: The significance of unity and communal worship in strengthening societal bonds.

Overview


Mosiah 26 addresses the challenges that arise within the Nephite church as it expands. This chapter explores issues of apostasy, disciplinary actions within the church, and the importance of divine revelation in resolving complex spiritual matters. Key themes include trials of church leadership, the necessity of revelation, the process of repentance, and the importance of maintaining the purity of the church.


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

  • The Key Doctrine of the Resurrection:

  • The Healing Potential of Discipline: Encourages modern readers to support and embrace church discipline to support growth and integrity, both individually and within one's community.

  • Embracing Repentance: Inspires individuals to seek repentance and forgiveness, understanding the transformative power of these principles.

  • Seeking Divine Guidance: Highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance in making difficult decisions, both individually and collectively.

  • Dealing with Challenges: Provides insights on how to address challenges within faith communities with compassion, firmness, and reliance on divine instruction.

  • Literary and Linguistic Insights:


Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Mosiah 26

Alma the Younger Is Converted unto the Lord | Mosiah 27; Alma 36

Verses 1-6: The Challenges of Apostasy


1-2: A new generation arises that does not believe in the traditions of their fathers and begins to lead others astray and persecute the church.

  • Cultural Context: The impact of generational shifts on religious belief and practice, where not all who join a faith community remain faithful, or those in positions of authority, through pride and abuse of power, lose the trust of the faith community.

3-4: Many are deceived and commit sin, leading to significant apostasy "lack of faith/trust" within the church.

  • Theological Insight: The vulnerability of faith without proper teaching/leadership, and the importance of maintaining spiritual foundations and purity.

5-6: The leaders of the church, including Alma, are troubled by the increasing wickedness and seek guidance. Dissension arises, leading to disputes and divisions within the church.


Verses 7-14: Alma Seeks Divine Guidance


7-8: Alma, distressed by the situation, brings those who have sinned before King Mosiah, who refuses to judge them.

  • Theological Insight: Mosiah's refusal to judge the unrepentant discenters is indicative of the separation of ecclesiastical and civil authority according to Jewish law.

9-10: Alma turns to the Lord for guidance on how to handle the situation.

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Similar to Moses seeking guidance from God in Numbers 27:1-5.

11-12: Alma prays fervently for divine direction and understanding as he examines the details of the situation, pouring out his whole soul to God.

  • Theological Insight: The importance of seeking divine wisdom in leadership.

13-14: The voice of the Lord comes to Alma, providing revelation on how to address the issue of apostasy with love and compassion.

Verses 15-31: Divine Revelation and Church Discipline


15-20: The Lord, in his instructions to Alma, blesses him for his faith and diligence in teaching the people and bringing them to God. Alma receives his calling and election, and is promised eternal life. He is instructed that those who follow Alma's example and take upon themselves the name of Christ, willingly bearing His budens in diligent service and loving compassion for the welfare of the transgressor will also be counted as His and will receive the same blessings of the eternal covenant. Alma receives his Divine commision, to love and serve the repentant sinner. The Lord instructs Alma to appropriately discipline those who have committed sin, emphasizing the role of charity and maintaining spiritual integrity and purity within the Church.

  • Theological Insight: These sections enforce the importance of church discipline in preserving the integrity of the faith community.

  • Hebraic Insight: The concept of nacham (נָחַם) and teshuvah (תשובה), two very different aspects of repentance, and central to Jewish tradition are emphasized here.

  • Take up my Yoke (Matt 11:29)

  • Take up My Cross, and Follow Me (Matt 16:24)

17-20: The Lord reassures Alma of his authority and responsibility as the leader of the church.

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Similar reassurances given to Joshua in Joshua 1:5-9.

  • Theological Context: This section highlights the doctrine of repentance as a means of loving reconciliation with God, bearnign similarities to the Old Testament sacrifices for atonement (Leviticus 5:5-6).

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness in Matthew 18:21-22

21-23: Alma receives his Divine commision, he is instructed to gather and feed God's sheep, preaching repentance and faith in Jesus Christ to all.

  • Theological Insight: The central role of repentance and the Atonement in church teachings. Word for Atonement in Greek: katallage καταλλαγή , and in Hebrew: kippur כִּפֻּר or kafar כָּפַר

24-26: Those who repent and confess their sins will be forgiven and accepted back into the church, while those who reject Christ, refuse the power and healing of his redemption. "I am their Redeemer; but they would not be redeemed"

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Parallels to the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32.

27-29: Those who commit serious offences and who refuse to repent may need to be "cast off" (i.e. excommunicated) temporarily or permanently to protect the spiritual health of the church, allowing them an opportunity to repent and change from a carnal or fallen state to a state of righteousness, giving them an opportunity to be born again and redeemed of God.

  • Theological Insight: The difficult but necessary role of excommunication in Church Discipline.

  • Biblical insight: Adam and Eve were cast out or sent forth (shâlach שָׁלַח) from the Garden in Eden to learn for themselves the importance of God's Law, how to discern good from evil, and how to act in accordance with the Law.

  • Jesus taught Nicodemus the necessity of being born again in John 3:3-8. This "mighty change" or metamorphosis is essential for redemption and for our eternal progression and transformation.

  • Hebraic Insight: The concept of kapparah (כפרה), meaning atonement or reconciliation, is mirrored in the acceptance of repentant members.

30-31: Alma implements the Lord’s instructions and establishes a process for dealing with apostasy and sin within the church.

Verses 32-39: The Effects of Repentance and Church Order


32-33: Many people come forward to confess and repent of their sins, seeking forgiveness.

  • Cultural Context: The communal aspect of repentance and forgiveness in God's society.

  • Literary context: The differences between judge and condemn. (Matt 7).

34-35: Alma and the priests work diligently to restore those who repent and strengthen the church.

  • Theological Insight: The role of church leaders in guiding and supporting the repentance process.

36-37: Those who do not repent are excommunicated, demonstrating the seriousness of apostasy and the need for maintaining church standards and integrity.

38-39: The church grows stronger as members recommit to living righteously and supporting one another in their faith.

  • Theological Insight: The blessings of a unified and righteous community.



Overview


Mosiah 27 recounts the story of Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah, their initial rebellion against the church, and their miraculous conversion through divine intervention. This chapter emphasizes the themes of repentance, divine mercy, the power of prayer, and the transformative nature of spiritual experiences. It highlights the significant events and spiritual lessons, connecting them to broader scriptural themes and providing insights for contemporary application.


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

  • The Challenges of Youth ( Aren't we are all Infants on our Spiritual Journey?)

  • Restoration and Healing: These accounts highlight the efforts of Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah to repair the damage they caused and build up the church. Their troubled past provided them with valuable perspective and compassion, leading them to make valiant efforts in their own community as well as providing transformative service to the Lamanite community.

Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Mosiah 27

Verses 1-10: Rebellion Against the Church


1-7: The rising generation, including Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah, persecutes the church and leads many away.

  • Cultural Insight: Generational shifts often challenge established traditions and beliefs, seen throughout biblical history (e.g., Judges 2:10-12).

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: The wicked sons of Eli (1 Samuel 2)

  • Saul (Paul) Acts 7,9,22

The members of the church are troubled by the actions of these antagonists. Righteous members of the church fast and pray for divine intervention.

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Similar to the prayers and fasting of Esther and the Jews in Esther 4:16.

8-10: Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah are described as being very wicked and causing much dissension, hindering the work of the Church in their efforts to destroy the Church.


Verses 11-26: Divine Intervention and Conversion


11-12: An angel appears to Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah, as it were in a cloud, (עָנָן ʻânân, νεφέλη nephélē) calling them to repentance with a voice of thunder. (Hebrew: קוֹל qôwl, רַעַם raʻam; Greek: βροντή brontḗ)

13-14: The angel speaks with great power, with a voice that shakes the earth, causing Alma the Younger to fall to the ground and become unconscious. (Joel 3:16, Hebrew 12:18-29)

15-16: The sons of Mosiah are struck with fear and carry Alma the Younger to his father.

17-24: Alma the Elder rejoices because he understands what is happening. He gathers the people together so they can witness the miracle that is unfolding. The church fast and pray for Alma the Younger.

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Reflects the communal prayer seen in Acts 12:5 when Peter was imprisoned.

19-20: Alma the Younger is in a state of deep spiritual torment for three days and nights.

21-23: Alma the Younger experiences a profound change of heart and awakens, being born of the Spirit, declaring his conversion and testimony. (John 3:4-8)

24-26: Alma the Younger preaches repentance and the joy of redemption through Christ. "Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters;

26. And thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God.

27. I say unto you, unless this be the case, they must be cast off; and this I know, because I was like to be cast off."

Verses 27-37: The Aftermath of Conversion


27-28: Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah seek to repair the damage they have done and build up the church.

  • Hebraic Insight: The concept of restitution is a significant aspect of repentance (Leviticus 6:1-5).

29-30: Alma the Younger describes his joy and gratitude for God's mercy and forgiveness. "My soul hath been redeemed from the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity. I was in the darkest abyss; but now I behold the marvelous light of God. My soul was racked with eternal torment; but I am snatched (caught, ἁρπάζω harpázō), and my soul is pained no more."

31-32: The sons of Mosiah also experience profound spiritual transformation and express their testimonies of faith, dedicating their lives to preaching the gospel.

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Parallels the transformation and missionary zeal of Paul and the apostles.

  • Yea, every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess before him. Yea, even at the last day, when all men shall stand to be judged of him, then shall they confess that he is God; (Romans 14:11,)

33-34: Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah (Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni), go forth preaching and publishing peace and good tidings, as instruments of the Lord, bringing many to repentance and to a knowledge of their Redeemer, in spite of continued persecution. (Isaiah 52:7-10)

35-37: The church prospers and grows as a result of their efforts and the power of their testimonies.



Overview


Mosiah 28 details the account of the sons of Mosiah and their desire to preach the gospel to the Lamanites. It covers their preparations for the mission, King Mosiah’s reaction, and his subsequent actions regarding the Nephite records. The chapter highlights themes of missionary work, the transmission of sacred records, and the guidance of divine revelation in leading the church.


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

Major Topics/ Themes

​Cross-References, Videos & Resources

Mosiah 28

Verses 1-3: The Sons of Mosiah's Desire to Preach


1-2: The sons of Mosiah express their desire to preach the gospel to the Lamanites, hoping to bring them to repentance and salvation. "they could not bear that any human soul should perish; yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble."

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Reflects Paul’s missionary journeys and his desire to bring the gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 13:2-3).

3: Their desire is rooted in compassion and a sincere wish for the Lamanites to experience the joy of redemption.

  • Hebraic Insight: The concept of hesed (חסד), meaning loving-kindness or mercy, is mirrored in their motivation to serve the Lamanites.

  • The Everlasting Covenant: President Nelson "Once we make a covenant with God, we leave neutral ground forever. God will not abandon His relationship with those who have forged such a bond with Him. In fact, all those who have made a covenant with God have access to a special kind of love and mercy. In the Hebrew language, that covenantal love is called hesed (חֶסֶד). Hesed has no adequate English equivalent. Translators of the King James Version of the Bible must have struggled with how to render hesed in English. They often chose “lovingkindness.” This captures much but not all the meaning of hesed..."

  • Counting the Omer - Week 1: The Attribute of Loving-Kkindness (Chesed)

Verses 4-8: King Mosiah’s Response and Preparation


4-5: King Mosiah inquires of the Lord about his sons’ mission, and the Lord assures him that they will be protected and successful in their efforts.

  • Cultural Context: Seeking divine guidance before making significant decisions is a common theme in the Bible (1 Samuel 23:2, 4).

6-7: The Lord promises that he will deliver Mosiah's sons out of the hands of the Lamanites, King Mosiah trusts the Lord, blesses his sons, and sends them on their mission, demonstrating his faith and support for their endeavors, according to their request.

8: The sons of Mosiah prepare to depart, leaving behind their responsibilities and privileges as heirs to the kingdom.


Verses 9-20: The Transmission of the Kingdom and the Sacred Records


9-10: King Mosiah, concerned about the preservation of sacred records, inquires of the Lord and decides to confer the records upon Alma the Younger. (Plates: לוּחַ lûwach)

  • Biblical Cross-Reference: Similar to Moses conferring leadership to Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:7-13).

11-12: The records include those written by Mosiah, Alma, and other Nephite leaders, as well as the plates of brass and the 24 gold plates found by the people of Limhi.

13-14: Alma the Younger is entrusted with the sacred records, emphasizing his role as the spiritual leader and record keeper (scribe).

15-16: King Mosiah translates the Jaredite plates using the Urim and Thummim, revealing the history and destruction of the Jaredites.

  • Cultural Insight: The use of the Urim and Thummim for divine revelation and translation (Exodus 28:30).

17-19: The account of the Jaredites serves as a warning to the Nephites about the consequences of wickedness and the importance of adhering to God’s commandments.

20: King Mosiah finishes his reign by emphasizing the importance of the records and their preservation for future generations.



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