Come Follow Me: Scriptural Insights - Alma 23-29

Anti-Nephi-Lehies Bury Their Weapons of War, by Jody Livingston

For the week of July 8, 2024, the Come Follow Me topic covers Alma 23–29. This section of the Book of Mormon is rich in missionary work and the transformative power of the gospel. Here are a few insights you might find meaningful:

Conversion of the Lamanites
In Alma 23, we learn about the conversion of many Lamanites through the missionary efforts of the sons of Mosiah. These converts, who called themselves Anti-Nephi-Lehies, demonstrate remarkable faith and commitment to their new beliefs by choosing to bury their weapons of war rather than continue in violence.

The Power of Repentance
Alma 24-25 shows the fierce opposition the converted Lamanites, now known as Anti-Nephi-Lehies, faced because of their beliefs. Their choice to lay down their weapons even in the face of death is a powerful testament to their repentance and new faith. It underscores the peace and strength that come from truly accepting Christ.

Joy in Missionary Work
In Alma 26, Ammon rejoices in the success of their missionary labors. His declaration, "I cannot say the smallest part which I feel," (Alma 26:16) reflects the immense joy that comes from sharing the gospel and seeing its effect on others.

Overcoming Trials
Alma 27 narrates how the Anti-Nephi-Lehies were accepted into the Nephite community and settled in the land of Jershon, showing us the importance of helping and supporting our fellow brothers and sisters, especially those who are new to the faith or in need.

The Power of Coming to the Lord
Finally, in Alma 29, Alma's prayerful longing to bring all to repentance is a profound insight into the love and desire for the salvation of souls. His words, "O that I were an angel," resonate with anyone who desires to make a significant difference in the world.

These chapters collectively teach powerful lessons about the transformative power of the gospel, the joy of missionary work, and the importance of enduring faith and willingness to sacrifice for one's beliefs.

Here's a set of 50 questions that you can use for studying or discussing Alma 23-29. These questions range from factual to more reflective and thought-provoking.

Chapter 23

1. What led to the mass conversion of the Lamanites in Alma 23?
2. How did the converted Lamanites show their commitment to their new faith?
3. What name did the converted Lamanites take upon themselves?
4. How did the conversion of the Lamanites affect the Nephite society?

Chapter 24

1. What was the response of the unconverted Lamanites to the conversion of their brethren?
2. How did the Anti-Nephi-Lehies react to the threat of war?
3. Why did the Anti-Nephi-Lehies bury their weapons?
4. What was the outcome of the Lamanite attack on the Anti-Nephi-Lehies?

Chapter 25

1. How did the surviving Lamanites react to the failure of the attack on the Anti-Nephi-Lehies?
2. What significant event happened that led even more Lamanites to convert?
3. How did the unconverted Lamanites view the Nephites and the newly converted Lamanites?
4. How did the Anti-Nephi-Lehies' faith affect their missionary efforts?

Chapter 26

1. What emotions did Ammon express in Alma 26?
2. How did Ammon view the success of their missionary efforts?
3. What attributes did Ammon credit for their missionary success?
4. How did Ammon and his brothers' sacrifices impact the Lamanites?
5. Why was Ammon so joyous and grateful for his missionary experiences?

Chapter 27

1. Why did the Anti-Nephi-Lehies seek refuge among the Nephites?
2. How did the Nephites respond to the Anti-Nephi-Lehies’ request for protection?
3. What name did the Nephites give to the land allocated to the Anti-Nephi-Lehies?
4. How did the Anti-Nephi-Lehies contribute to the Nephite society?
5. What promises did the Nephites make to the Anti-Nephi-Lehies?
6. How did the Anti-Nephi-Lehies maintain their faith while living among the Nephites?

Chapter 28

1. What major conflict is described in Alma 28?
2. How did the Nephites prepare for battle against the Lamanites?
3. What were the outcomes of the battle for both the Nephites and the Lamanites?
4. How did the Nephites mourn their losses after the battle?
5. What effect did the war have on the Nephite society spiritually and physically?

Chapter 29

1. What was Alma's desire expressed at the beginning of Alma 29?
2. How did Alma view his own calling compared to being an angel?
3. What did Alma express about the joy of missionary work in his prayer?
4. How did Alma reflect on the importance of repentance?
5. How did Alma describe his joy in seeing others come unto Christ?
6. What personal experiences did Alma recount to underscore the importance of the gospel?

Reflective and Thought-Provoking Questions

1. What can modern readers learn from the Anti-Nephi-Lehies' commitment to peace?
2. How can we apply the principle of laying down weapons of rebellion in our own lives?
3. Why is it important to support new converts in their faith journey, as the Nephites did with the Anti-Nephi-Lehies?
4. How does Ammon’s joy and gratitude for missionary work inspire you in your personal missionary efforts?
5. What lessons can be drawn from the way the Nephites and Anti-Nephi-Lehies handled conflict and war?
6. How does Alma's desire to preach to all the world reflect the missionary efforts of the church today?
7. How can we find joy in our own callings as Alma did in his?
8. What similarities can you find between the faith journey of the Anti-Nephi-Lehies and your own?
9. How can the principle of repentance found in these chapters influence your daily life?
10. What examples from these chapters show the importance of community support in living the gospel?
11. What can the story of the Anti-Nephi-Lehies teach us about handling persecution?
12. How did the actions of the Anti-Nephi-Lehies demonstrate their love for God and their fellow men?
13. How can we emulate Alma’s deep desire for the welfare of souls in our interactions with others?
14. What role did faith play in the Anti-Nephi-Lehies' decision to bury their weapons?
15. How do these chapters illustrate the transformative power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ?
16. What steps can we take to ensure that we are always prepared to serve and support others in their faith?

Other Thought Provoking Questions that might help us in our study

Conversion and Self-Transformation (Alma 23-24)

• Personal Reflection: Reflect on a time when you had a significant spiritual transformation. What were the circumstances, and how did it change you?
• Application: How can you share the message of the gospel with someone close to you who might be struggling or seeking meaning in life?
• Daily Living: What steps can you take to more fully "bury your weapons of war" (Alma 24:17) and turn away from old habits or sinful behaviors?

From Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf in his talk titled "Your Great Adventure," he emphasizes the importance of personal conversion and faith. He encourages us to embark on our own journey of faith, much like the Lamanites who embraced the gospel. He stated,

"Faith is the starting point. It is the substance of hope, the evidence of things not seen."

Missionary Work and Sacrifice (Alma 25-26)

• Missionary Efforts: Think about the sacrifices that full-time missionaries make. What can you do to support them, whether through prayer, letters, or other means?

Elder David A. Bednar in his talk "Prepare to Be a Missionary," he highlights the joy and significance of sharing the gospel, which resonates with the missionary zeal of Ammon and his brethren. He said,

"Every member of the Church is a missionary, and the work of salvation is a labor of love for all of us."

• Overcoming Fear: How do you overcome feelings of inadequacy or fear when it comes to sharing your faith with others?

From Sister Bonnie H. Cordon in her message about "Courage to Hear Him," she encourages us to stand firm in our faith, much like the Anti-Nephi-Lehies did in refusing to fight. She said,

"Having the courage to hear Him and to trust in His words can bring peace and guidance into our lives, especially during challenging times."

• Unexpected Success: How has God surprised you with success in areas where you felt unprepared or weak?

Repentance and Forgiveness (Alma 27)

• Forgiving Others: How can you cultivate a spirit of forgiveness towards those who have wronged you?
• Self-Forgiveness: What steps can you take to more fully embrace the cleansing power of repentance in your own life?
• Community Building: How can you help create a more inclusive and forgiving community within your ward or branch?

President Russell M. Nelson in his talks about "The Atonement and the Value of One Soul," he speaks about the transformative power of the Atonement, much like what we see with the Anti-Nephi-Lehies choosing to bury their weapons and repent. He said,

"The Savior’s atoning sacrifice— the central act of all human history— is both the foundation upon which all gospel truths reside and the conduit for the blessings that flow into our lives."

Joy in Christ (Alma 28-29)

• Joy Amid Trials: How can you find joy and peace even during times of intense personal or communal trial?
• Testimony Sharing: What personal experiences can you share that testify of the joy found in Christ?
• Spiritual Goals: Like Alma, what are your hopes and desires for spreading the gospel, and how can you work towards achieving these goals?

Elder Quentin L. Cook in "The Joy of the Saints," he speaks about finding joy in the gospel, which Alma articulates so well in Alma 29. He said,

"True joy comes when the Holy Ghost is present in our lives and when we live in accordance with the teachings of Christ."

Love and Unity (Themes Throughout)

• Building Unity: Reflect on ways you can help build greater unity within your family, church, and community.
• Christlike Love: How can you demonstrate Christlike love to someone who is difficult to love or understand?

Elder Ronald A. Rasband in his talk "Behold! A Royal Army," he talks about the unity and love among saints, echoing the unity found among the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. He states,

"As we love and serve each other, we build a community of faith that is strong and united."

Deeper Personal Engagement

• Daily Actions: Reflect on how you can make small, daily changes to be more Christlike in your thoughts, words, and actions.
• Interpersonal Relationships: How has your understanding of God's love and the gospel message transformed your relationships with family, friends, or even strangers?
• Long-term Commitment: What practices or habits can you develop to ensure that your conversion remains strong and your faith continues to grow over the years?

Some other studies below -

Hebraism in Alma 29 (Chiasmus)
A. Alma desires to cry repentance (v.1)
  B. Alma wishes he were an angel (v.2)
    C. Alma would declare repentance to every soul (v.2)
      D. Alma speaks of God's word going forth to ends of the earth (v.3)
         E. He is man and sins in his wish (v.3)
            F. Joy in fulfilling the will of God (v.3)
              G. What should he desire more than to perform the work to which he has been called? (v.6)
            F'. Glory in God's work (v.6-7)
         E'. He ought to be content in his calling (v.3, 6)
      D'. God grants wishes according to their will (v.4)
    C'. Alma rejoices not in his own success but in the success of his brethren (v.14-16)
  B'. Alma rejoices because God grants his righteous desires (v.16-17)

A'. Alma testifies of the deliverance of his soul (v.17)

The imagery of burying weapons of war, found in Alma 24, is incredibly powerful and speaks to deep themes of repentance, peace, and transformation. Here's a focused dive into this message -

Burying Weapons of War (Alma 24:17-18)

17 And they took their swords, and all the weapons which were used for the shedding of man's blood, and they did bury them up deep in the earth. 

18 And this they did, it being in their view a testimony to God, and also to men, that they never would use weapons again for the shedding of man's blood; and this they did, vouching and covenanting with God, that rather than shed the blood of their brethren they would give up their own lives; and rather than take away from a brother they would give unto him; and rather than spend their days in idleness they would labor abundantly with their hands.

Messages and Reflections

• The Depth of True Repentance

The Anti-Nephi-Lehies demonstrated a profound commitment to change by not only giving up their sinful behaviors but also making a public and lasting covenant with God. True repentance involves more than just feeling sorry; it requires a full transformation and a commitment to forsake sin.

Reflective Question: What "weapons of war" (bad habits, grudges, addictions) do you need to bury to fully commit to your faith and live more like Christ?

• Symbol of a Fresh Start

Burying their weapons signified burying their past and starting anew. It is a powerful symbol of letting go of things that no longer serve us or align with our values and spiritual goals.

Reflective Question: What actions can you take today to leave behind past behaviors or attitudes that hold you back from spiritual growth?

• Testimony and Witness

Their act was a testimony to God and men that they were serious about their covenant. It wasn't just an inward change but was visible to others, inspiring them and potentially encouraging similar changes.

Reflective Question: How can you make your commitment to follow Christ more visible in your everyday life to inspire others around you?

• Peace and Non-Violence

By choosing to rather die than shed the blood of others, the Anti-Nephi-Lehies set an example of ultimate peace and love, reflecting Christ’s teaching of turning the other cheek.

Reflective Question: In what ways can you promote peace and resolve conflicts lovingly in your family and community?

• Laboring Abundantly

Rather than spend their days in idleness, they chose to work diligently, thus showing another aspect of their conversion: contributing positively and productively to their community.

Reflective Question: How does your work, whether it's your job, church service, or community involvement, reflect your commitment to living a Christ-centered life?

Modern Applications

• Personal Application

Consider your own "weapons of war" — be it negativity, doubt, grudges, impatience, or any destructive behavior. Take a symbolic step to "bury" these by making a plan or even writing them down and discarding them to show your commitment to change.

• Community Building

Encourage a discussion in your next church meeting or family home evening about how everyone can individually and collectively bury their "weapons of war" to create a more loving and unified environment.

• Daily Commitment

Each day, remind yourself of the commitment the Anti-Nephi-Lehies made and look for ways to apply that same level of dedication in your daily actions and decisions.

Conclusion
The message of burying weapons of war is one of profound spiritual renewal, showcasing the power of true repentance, the need for public commitment, and the principles of peace and love. It's a call to action for each of us to examine our lives, make meaningful changes, and live with greater purpose and harmony, just as the Anti-Nephi-Lehies did.

Fun and Trivia

• How many Amalikites were converted? (Alma 23:14)
• How many Lands and Cities of Lamanite were converted? (Alma 23:8-12)
• Ammon's Sheep Situation: Ammon’s role as a superhero shepherd is kind of funny when you think about it. He shows up, and instead of preaching right away, he decides to take a job as a servant and ends up impressing everyone by single-handedly defending the king's sheep with some top-notch sling and sword skills (although this actually happens in Alma 17-18, it's closely related!).
• King Lamoni’s Father: Imagine being Lamoni’s father, king of all the Lamanites, and having a Nephite missionary totally change your perspective on life—enough to give up your throne! It’s a plot twist right out of reality TV: “Royal Shockers: He Gave Up Crowns for Christ!”
• Misunderstood Missionaries: The sons of Mosiah probably had some awkward moments when they first started their missions. Picture them showing up and trying to explain to the Lamanites why they left their lives of luxury—Lamanites had to think they were nuts!
• Anti-Nephi-Lehies' Name: The name “Anti-Nephi-Lehies” might sound a bit confusing to us today—like are they against Nephi and Lehi? No, they just picked an identity that would sometimes puzzle even their own contemporaries and definitely later readers!
• Too Much Joy?: Ammon gets so happy about their missionary success that he becomes speechless to the point where he is mistaken for being dead. Can you imagine your friend being so pumped that they literally pass out from joy? 😂
• King Lamoni's Absence: When King Lamoni spends three days in a spiritual experience after meeting Ammon, his servants and wife must have had some funny and awkward conversations trying to explain to visitors why the king is out of commission. “Oh, he’s...uh...on a deep spiritual retreat. Yep, very deep!”