Book of Mormon Studies (1 November 1928)

BOOK OF MORMON STUDIES1

Alma the younger, the loving and anxious father of some very human sons, is the personality who speaks in Alma 36 to 42 inclusive, which are the seven chapters to be read for this week. In these chapters Alma, the relentless denouncer of all evil and promoter of all good, appears to be somewhat mellowed—doubtless because of the tender love and compassion he held for his sons and because he was acutely conscious of his own youthful years, and of the anxiety he caused his own worthy father.

Despite all these deterrent considerations, however, Alma fully realized the obligations of parents to children. He did not neglect his duty as a father, but reproved, commended, exhorted and instructed his sons in firmness, but with love.

What sorrow the wayward youth of all ages have caused loving parents! But the beginnings of such sorrow in a majority of cases may be traced to homes void of that essential admixture of firmness and gentleness, of reproof and commendation, of correction and sympathy, of love and common sense. The lesson of Alma’s life and ministry may well be studied and applied in every Christian home to-day.

QUESTIONS

1. In chapter 36 Alma tells of bitter torment and sweet joy. What caused his misery? What caused his happiness? How may we apply these principles to our lives?
2. Name some of the purposes of keeping records, as given in chapter 37. What charges were placed upon Helaman by Alma concerning his stewardship of the sacred records?
3. Recount the practical, everyday instructions given by Alma to Shiblon. Do they hold true for our day? How?
4. Corianton ignored counsel and boasted in his own strength. What was the result of his disregard of counsel? In what light is the sin of. unchastity held by Latter-day Saints? See Alma 39:5.
5. What course of rectitude did Alma lay out for Corianton? Was Corianton beyond repentance and forgiveness? Are we ever justified in withholding forgiveness from anyone who is truly repentant?
6. Who shall be resurrected? See Alma 40:4. What, according to Alma’s opinion, is the intermediate state of those who have died?
7. Discuss Alma 41:10. Whether in mortality or immortality, will the wicked ever be happy? Can disobedient children of God be restored to righteousness without first repenting and paying the price of their misdeeds?

• 1.Lesson 22 of the Relief Society Course of Study—for use on the second lesson night in November.