Scripture Mastery - Alma 17:2-3

Every Sunday we'll introduce a new scripture the family can study and master throughout the week. This scripture mastery comes from the chapter we've been studying during the week.

Read scripture in context.

In Alma 17:1, the sons of Mosiah meet up with Alma, “And now it came to pass that as Alma was journeying from the land of Gideon southward, away to the land of Manti, behold, to his astonishment, he met with the sons of Mosiah journeying towards the land of Zarahemla.”

It's been a long time since they've seen each other. In verse four we learn these friends have been separated for fourteen years. “And they had been teaching the word of God for the space of fourteen years among the Lamanites, having had much success in bringing many to the knowledge of the truth; yea, by the power of their words many were brought before the altar of God, to call on his name and confess their sins before him.”

The sons of Mosiah proceed to share with Alma the experiences they've been having. Alma chapters 17-27 is the account the sons of Mosiah give Alma of their ministry among the Lamanites.

Scripture to Memorize:

Now these sons of Mosiah were with Alma at the time the angel first appeared unto him; therefore Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God. But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God. Alma 17:2-3

Questions to Discuss:

What is the back story to this verse? Why did an angel come to the sons of Mosiah and Alma? Once someone is converted unto the Lord do they always remain converted unto the Lord? Why is Alma rejoicing? Who is the truth? What does it mean to know the truth? What motivated these sons to search the scriptures?  How did they become men of a sound understanding? What were their sacrifices? What is the spirit of prophecy and revelation? What does it mean to teach with power and authority of God?

Marking the Scripture:

• Underline the things the sons of Mosiah did to prepare in one color.
• Underline the gifts and abilities the sons of Mosiah obtained in another color.

The Meaning of Words: circle these words in another color

• exceedingly: to an extreme degree

• waxed: To increase in size; to grow; to become larger; To pass from one state to another

• sound: Founded in truth; firm; strong; valid; solid; that cannot be overthrown or refuted; right; correct; well founded; free form error

• diligently: With steady application and care; with industry or assiduity; not carelessly; not negligently.

Other Helpful Hints are listed at the end of this post - Remember and Hear God's Voice

Scrapbook Copy of Scripture:

After the children memorize the verse, they can put this colored copy in their Book of Mormon scrapbook. The sheep and pool of water are there to help them remember this scripture is found in the same chapter where Ammon protects King Lamoni's sheep at the Waters of Sebus.

If they want to memorize it for life, here is a chart to keep track of their progress. You can use this colored copy or use the simple copy posted at the end of the  Memorize For Life  post.