Teenage Challenge Questions – Alma 13 Sentences 52-117

Teenagers and young adults love to be challenged and think at a deeper level than the trivia questions require.

Questions For Discussion Alma 13 Sentences 52-117

Who allowed them to teach in their synagogues? Were there people who were letting Alma and the other missionaries into their homes? Were they teaching anyone who would listen?

And it came to pass that they did go forth, and began to preach the word of God unto the people, entering into their synagogues, and into their houses; yea, and even they did preach the word in their streets.

Why were the poor class of people beginning to listen? Why do people need to wear nice clothes to church? Are the rulers of the churches casting people out of the synagogues? Why? Can this be beneficial to those who are being cast out?

And it came to pass that after much labor among them, they began to have success among the poor class of people; for behold, they were cast out of the synagogues because of the coarseness of their apparel—

Why did the people think they needed a synagogue to worship God? Does filthiness only refer to the clothing someone wears or could it also refer to someone who has ideas and questions that vary from what is correlated? What is dross? DROSS: something regarded as worthless; rubbish. foreign matter, dregs, or mineral waste, in particular scum formed on the surface of molten metal. If the poor class of people were considered as dross, did the wealthy class of people consider themselves as silver and gold? Where did they get the idea that wealth is a sign of God's blessings? Are those who are poor as to the things of this world necessarily poor in heart? What does it mean to be poor in heart?

Therefore they were not permitted to enter into their synagogues to worship God, being esteemed as filthiness; therefore they were poor; yea, they were esteemed by their brethren as dross; therefore they were poor as to things of the world; and also they were poor in heart.

What else happens at Onidah (Alma 47:5)? What prepared these people to even come to Alma? Can I be poor in heart without being poor as to the things of the world? Is being poor in heart the same thing as having a broken heart and a contrite spirit? “But blessed are the poor who are pure in heart, whose hearts are broken, and whose spirits are contrite, for they shall see the kingdom of God coming in power and great glory unto their deliverance; for the fatness of the earth shall be theirs.” D&C 56:18 How are they the same? How are they different?

Now, as Alma was teaching and speaking unto the people upon the hill Onidah, there came a great multitude unto him, who were those of whom we have been speaking, of whom were poor in heart, because of their poverty as to the things of the world.

Why were they despised because of their poverty? Do I despise others or worship others because of their material possessions? Why did the priests despise this poor class of people more than the congregation did? Why are they cast out of the buildings they built with there own hands? Does everyone in the congregation contribute to the building of churches, synagogues, and temples? Does everyone have an equal privilege participating in these houses of worship? Why do the priests get to make the rules for who can enter the church when everyone contributes to the building of these houses of worship? Why do we have churches? Where do most of the prophets meet God? In the church? On the mountaintops? In the forests? Why do the church leaders teach I must worship in the building built by men? What was their question? Why is it important that I have questions? Can I be taught without having a question?

And they came unto Alma; and the one who was the foremost among them said unto him: Behold, what shall these my brethren do, for they are despised of all men because of their poverty, yea, and more especially by our priests; for they have cast us out of our synagogues which we have labored abundantly to build with our own hands; and they have cast us out because of our exceeding poverty; and we have no place to worship our God; and behold, what shall we do?

Why did Alma look at these people with great joy? What had humbled them? Are afflictions a good thing or a bad thing? Can I have afflictions and harden my heart instead of letting my heart be softened? What does it mean to be truly humble? Can I be taught without being prepared to hear the word? Can I teach someone who is not prepared to hear the word?

And now when Alma heard this, he turned him about, his face immediately towards him, and he beheld with great joy; for he beheld that their afflictions had truly humbled them, and that they were in a preparation to hear the word.

Why did Alma turn from the other multitude? Does it do any good to teach someone who is not ready to learn? What does it mean “he stretched forth his hand”? What does it mean to be penitent? PENITENT: Suffering pain or sorrow of heart on account of sins, crimes or offenses; contrite; sincerely affected by a sense of guilt and resolving on amendment of life.

Therefore he did say no more to the other multitude; but he stretched forth his hand, and cried unto those whom he beheld, who were truly penitent, and said unto them:

Why are the lowly in heart blessed?

I behold that ye are lowly in heart; and if so, blessed are ye.

Why does Alma ask them to look at the question their brother just asked?

Behold thy brother hath said, What shall we do?—for we are cast out of our synagogues, that we cannot worship our God.

Why does Alma begin teaching them by asking more questions? How does he challenge their belief system? Why is this helpful?

Behold I say unto you, do ye suppose that ye cannot worship God save it be in your synagogues only?

How does he continue to get them to think about what it means to worship God? Why would anyone think they must worship God only once in a week? When we build churches and go to them once a week, does it help promote this belief? Why do the people in the church think devotion to God is a once a week thing?

And moreover, I would ask, do ye suppose that ye must not worship God only once in a week?

What does Alma think about their being cast out of the synagogues? If I am humble what will I learn? Why is it necessary that I learn wisdom? What brought these people to a lowliness of heart? What brings me to a lowliness of heart? Does life keep working on me until I am necessarily humble?

I say unto you, it is well that ye are cast out of your synagogues, that ye may be humble, and that ye may learn wisdom; for it is necessary that ye should learn wisdom; for it is because that ye are cast out, that ye are despised of your brethren because of your exceeding poverty, that ye are brought to a lowliness of heart; for ye are necessarily brought to be humble.

Will those who are compelled to be humble receive mercy if they choose to change? What does it mean to find mercy? How do I find mercy? Why must I endue to the end after I find mercy? What does it mean to be saved?

And now, because ye are compelled to be humble blessed are ye; for a man sometimes, if he is compelled to be humble, seeketh repentance; and now surely, whosoever repenteth shall find mercy; and he that findeth mercy and endureth to the end the same shall be saved.

Why am I more blessed if I humble myself because of the word? What motivates me to humble myself because of the word? What does it mean to be humble? What is it about the word that is humbling?

And now, as I said unto you, that because ye were compelled to be humble ye were blessed, do ye not suppose that they are more blessed who truly humble themselves because of the word?

How can I humble myself? How do I repent? How do I change my mind and come out of the darkness so I can see things in the light? Why am I more blessed when I humble myself because of the word than when I am compelled to be humble because challenges? Can I make greater progress if I come to God when life is good than if I only cry out to God in times of desperation?

Yea, he that truly humbleth himself, and repenteth of his sins, and endureth to the end, the same shall be blessed—yea, much more blessed than they who are compelled to be humble because of their exceeding poverty.

How is baptism a sign of humility? What makes a heart stubborn? If I need to know something before I will believe, how is my progress stopped? What brings knowledge?

Therefore, blessed are they who humble themselves without being compelled to be humble; or rather, in other words, blessed is he that believeth in the word of God, and is baptized without stubbornness of heart, yea, without being brought to know the word, or even compelled to know, before they will believe.

Why does a wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign? Why will they only believe what they can experience with their five senses?

Yea, there are many who do say: If thou wilt show unto us a sign from heaven, then we shall know of a surety; then we shall believe.

Can I work by faith if I will only believe what has already been manifested by another being's faith?

Now I ask, is this faith? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for if a man knoweth a thing he hath no cause to believe, for he knoweth it.

Why am I more cursed if I know the will of God and do not do it than if I only believe and do not do it?

And now, how much more cursed is he that knoweth the will of God and doeth it not, than he that only believeth, or only hath cause to believe, and falleth into transgression?

What must I judge? What is on the one hand and what is on the other hand? What does Alma mean “ it shall be unto every man according to his work”? Why must I work by faith instead of requiring others to work by faith in my behalf? Signs shall follow them that believe (Mormon 9:24). How am I more prepared to be accountable for the sign if I am the one who must exercise faith to bring it about?

Now of this thing ye must judge. Behold, I say unto you, that it is on the one hand even as it is on the other; and it shall be unto every man according to his work.

What am I hoping for? How do I know what is true? Why do I need to have faith to have hope and have hope to have faith? How do these two work together? “Wherefore, if a man have faith he must needs have hope; for without faith there cannot be any hope.” Moroni 7:42

And now as I said concerning faith—faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true.

How is God merciful to all who believe on his name? Why is the first step to believe on His word? Can I obtain mercy without believing on His word?

And now, behold, I say unto you, and I would that ye should remember, that God is merciful unto all who believe on his name; therefore he desireth, in the first place, that ye should believe, yea, even on his word.

Why does God send angels? How is accepting the word of His angels an act of faith? How do I know the difference between a true angel and a false angel? Why do God's words confound the wise and learned?

And now, he imparteth his word by angels unto men, yea, not only men but women also. Now this is not all; little children do have words given unto them many times, which confound the wise and the learned.

Why does Alma call this group of people “beloved”? Why are these people interested in pursuing God even though they have been cast out of they synagogue?

And now, my beloved brethren, as ye have desired to know of me what ye shall do because ye are afflicted and cast out—now I do not desire that ye should suppose that I mean to judge you only according to that which is true—

Can Alma tell the difference between those who have been compelled to be humble and those who would humble themselves in whatsoever circumstances they might find themselves? Do I seek God when life is going great? Or do I only feel after him in times of hardship? Is this the difference between the two groups?

For I do not mean that ye all of you have been compelled to humble yourselves; for I verily believe that there are some among you who would humble themselves, let them be in whatsoever circumstances they might.

Faith lead to perfect knowledge, but where must everyone begin? What does it mean to know of a surety?

Now, as I said concerning faith—that it was not a perfect knowledge—even so it is with my words. Ye cannot know of their surety at first, unto perfection, any more than faith is a perfect knowledge.

What does it mean to awake and arouse my faculties? Why would these people even want to experiment upon Alma's words? Do they feel he has something to offer? Why is the desire to believe a beginning place for most? Can anyone start with a particle of faith? How can I let this desire work in me? What does it mean to believe in a manner that I can give place for a portion of the word? What do I need to cast off so I can accept God's words?

But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words.

Why do prophets often use the things in nature to teach me about God? Why must this seed be planted in my heart? Why would I cast out a true seed? What does unbelief look like? Do I know when I am resisting the Spirit of the Lord? What does that feel like? What does it feel like to have the truth swell within my breast? Is this the joy that keeps pulsating in my heart? Can everyone recognize when their soul is being enlarged? Will the truth always enlighten my understanding? What does God's word taste like? Is this something I would like to experience again and again?

Now, we will compare the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give place, that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it be a true seed, or a good seed, if ye do not cast it out by your unbelief, that ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it will begin to swell within your breasts; and when you feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me.

Why would this increase my faith? Is it important for me to know it is a true seed so I can continue to exercise faith in God's word? What is the perfect knowledge that comes from this fruit?

Now behold, would not this increase your faith? I say unto you, Yea; nevertheless it hath not grown up to a perfect knowledge.

Why will I say this is a good seed? How will this strengthen my faith? Why must I try and test every every word?

But behold, as the seed swelleth, and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow, then you must needs say that the seed is good; for behold it swelleth, and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow. And now, behold, will not this strengthen your faith? Yea, it will strengthen your faith: for ye will say I know that this is a good seed; for behold it sprouteth and beginneth to grow.

What does it mean, “every seed bringeth forth unto its own likeness”? Do I need to know something about the seed before I plant it? Do I need to have some information about what it is expected to grow into? Weeds grow. Do I want to plant weeds?

And now, behold, are ye sure that this is a good seed? I say unto you, Yea; for every seed bringeth forth unto its own likeness.

What does growth have to do with the experiment? Why would I want to keep a seed that doesn't grow? Do I want to waste my time with duds?

Therefore, if a seed groweth it is good, but if it groweth not, behold it is not good, therefore it is cast away.

What does the experiment to prove? Who planted the seed? How do I know it is a good seed?

And now, behold, because ye have tried the experiment, and planted the seed, and it swelleth and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow, ye must needs know that the seed is good.

When my knowledge is perfect, why is my faith dormant? How do I know the word is good? Do good seeds swell and sprout? What is my experience when my mind is darkened? What is my experience when my mind is enlightened? What happens when my mind begins to expand? How does this feel? Why would I ever want to go back into the dark?

And now, behold, is your knowledge perfect? Yea, your knowledge is perfect in that thing, and your faith is dormant; and this because you know, for ye know that the word hath swelled your souls, and ye also know that it hath sprouted up, that your understanding doth begin to be enlightened, and your mind doth begin to expand.

What is real? Why is it real? Why is light real? Why is light good? How is being discernible related to being good? Is it discernible when it enlightens my understanding,? When brought into the light, will all my questions be answered? Is this why God commands me to ask questions? What does light taste like? Is light expanding, enlightening, and delicious? Who would not want to live in the light? What is perfect knowledge? Can I have perfect knowledge of some things and not perfect knowledge of others?

O then, is not this real? I say unto you, Yea, because it is light; and whatsoever is light, is good, because it is discernible, therefore ye must know that it is good; and now behold, after ye have tasted this light is your knowledge perfect?

Is there ever a time to lay aside my faith? Does God still work by faith? How is faith exercise each step of the way? What did I learn from the experiment? Why must I know if the seed is good before I patiently nourish it with great care? What if I nourish a dud, will I loose confidence in the power of faith?

Behold I say unto you, Nay; neither must ye lay aside your faith, for ye have only exercised your faith to plant the seed that ye might try the experiment to know if the seed was good.

Why must I nourish this beautiful tree with great care? Why do I want to nourish the tree? Is there anything more important than nourishing the tree? Why must the tree get root? After the tree takes root, is it more resilient? How do roots help the tree weather the storms of life?

And behold, as the tree beginneth to grow, ye will say: Let us nourish it with great care, that it may get root, that it may grow up, and bring forth fruit unto us. And now behold, if ye nourish it with much care it will get root, and grow up, and bring forth fruit.

How do I neglect the word of God? How often do I think about the word of God? How am I not only thinking about it but nourishing it? What must I do to nourish the word so that it takes root in my heart? Is this a consistent effort? What does the heat of the sun feel like? When the sun shines upon a plant that has been watered and well cared for what happens? When the sun shines upon a seed that has been planted in barren, dry, weeded-infested soil what happens? Why would I throw away the withered plant? Would the plant have grown if I had watered and nourished it?

But if ye neglect the tree, and take no thought for its nourishment, behold it will not get any root; and when the heat of the sun cometh and scorcheth it, because it hath no root it withers away, and ye pluck it up and cast it out.

If the seed doesn't grow, does it prove it is a bad seed? What makes my ground barren? Why would I refuse or forget to nourish the tree? Why do I want the fruit of the tree? Do I choose a quick fix and desire momentary pleasure or do I choose to use much care and receive everlasting joy?

Now, this is not because the seed was not good, neither is it because the fruit thereof would not be desirable; but it is because your ground is barren, and ye will not nourish the tree, therefore ye cannot have the fruit thereof.

What is an eye of faith? What does it mean to see with my eyes what I saw with an eye of faith? “And there were many whose faith was so exceedingly strong, even before Christ came, who could not be kept from within the veil, but truly saw with their eyes the things which they had beheld with an eye of faith, and they were glad.” Ether 12:19 Why must I continue to nourish the word looking forward to the fruit as if it had already happened?

And thus, if ye will not nourish the word, looking forward with an eye of faith to the fruit thereof, ye can never pluck of the fruit of the tree of life.

How do I nourish the tree as it beginneth to grow? Why is great diligence and patience necessary to have faith? What does it mean to look forward to the fruit? What kind of excitement and enthusiasm do I feel when I am looking forward to it manifesting? If I do these things will it take root in me? What is the tree of everlasting life?

But if ye will nourish the word, yea, nourish the tree as it beginneth to grow, by your faith with great diligence, and with patience, looking forward to the fruit thereof, it shall take root; and behold it shall be a tree springing up unto everlasting life.

What does it mean to have “patience with the word in nourishing it”? Why would I be impatient with the word? Will the word take root in me if I do not nourish it by my patience, my faith, and my diligence? Will I pluck of the fruit of the tree if I continue to nourish it? What is this fruit Alma is describing? What is the empty space in human souls that seeks to be filled?

And it came to pass that I beheld a tree, whose fruit was desirable to make one happy. And it came to pass that I did go forth and partake of the fruit thereof; and I beheld that it was most sweet, above all that I ever before tasted. Yea, and I beheld that the fruit thereof was white, to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen. And as I partook of the fruit thereof it filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also; for I knew that it was desirable above all other fruit.1 Nephi 8:10-12

And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. John 6:35

“That thou mayest say to the prisoners, Go forth; to them that are in darkness, Shew yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places. They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them. Isaiah 49:9-10

And because of your diligence and your faith and your patience with the word in nourishing it, that it may take root in you, behold, by and by ye shall pluck the fruit thereof, which is most precious, which is sweet above all that is sweet, and which is white above all that is white, yea, and pure above all that is pure; and ye shall feast upon this fruit even until ye are filled, that ye hunger not, neither shall ye thirst.

Do I always reap the rewards of my faith? Why has the order of faith and diligence been changed in verse verse 41, “ by your faith with great diligence” and verse 43, “the rewards of your faith, and your diligence”? Why do I need to be diligent, patient, long-suffering in order to exercise perfect faith? What does long-suffering mean? LONG-SUFFERING: Long endurance; patience of offense. Why must I wait for the fruits of my faith to manifest? What would happen if I killed the tree by giving up before it brought forth fruit? What do the Gods watch and wait until the are obeyed? What do this have to do with faith? “And the Gods watched those things which they had ordered until they obeyed.” Abraham 4:18

Then, my brethren, ye shall reap the rewards of your faith, and your diligence, and patience, and long-suffering, waiting for the tree to bring forth fruit unto you.

Teenage Challenge Questions – 3 Nephi 11

Teenagers and young adults love to be challenged and think at a deeper level than the trivia questions require.

Questions For Discussion

Why was there a great multitude gathered together round about the temple? Was the temple in Bountiful the only temple? Why were they marveling and wondering? Why were those in Helaman 5:49 told to marvel not neither should they doubt? Does marveling and doubting interfere with faith? What was the great and marvelous change which had taken place in the land of Bountiful?

1 And now it came to pass that there were a great multitude gathered together, of the people of Nephi, round about the temple which was in the land Bountiful; and they were marveling and wondering one with another, and were showing one to another the great and marvelous change which had taken place.

Why were they talking about Jesus Christ? What was the sign of Jesus Christ's death? Which prophets had prophesied of His death? How had the sign been given?

2 And they were also conversing about this Jesus Christ, of whom the sign had been given concerning his death.

Why didn't they understand the voice? If the voice came out of heaven, why were they looking round about? Were they looking at each other? Were they still talking to each other? How is the voice described? What does it mean “it did pierce them that did hear to the center”? What kind of message or voice would pierce you to the center? Where is your center? Where is your soul? What part of them was burning?

3 And it came to pass that while they were thus conversing one with another, they heard a voice as if it came out of heaven; and they cast their eyes round about, for they understood not the voice which they heard; and it was not a harsh voice, neither was it a loud voice; nevertheless, and notwithstanding it being a small voice it did pierce them that did hear to the center, insomuch that there was no part of their frame that it did not cause to quake; yea, it did pierce them to the very soul, and did cause their hearts to burn.

How could they hear the voice and not understand it?

4 And it came to pass that again they heard the voice, and they understood it not.

What is the significance of the number three? When God says something three times, what does it mean? What did they need to do to hear the voice? What does it mean “open their ears to hear it”? Where were they looking when they understood the voice? What does it mean to look steadfastly? Why did they need to look towards heaven instead of round about? Why did they need to look where the sound was coming from?

5 And again the third time they did hear the voice, and did open their ears to hear it; and their eyes were towards the sound thereof; and they did look steadfastly towards heaven, from whence the sound came.

What does it mean to both hear and understand? Had the voice been repeating this same message three times?

6 And behold, the third time they did understand the voice which they heard; and it said unto them:

What does it mean to be beloved? Beloved: Loved; greatly loved; dear to the heart. Is Beloved a title? Is Son a title? Are these titles we are to receive? Why was God well pleased in His Beloved Son? How did He glorify His Name through His Son? Who is this voice introducing the Son? Who has been speaking up to this time?

7 Behold my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased, in whom I have glorified my name—hear ye him.

Why couldn't they see a Man descending out of heaven until they understood the voice? What was He wearing? Where was Jesus standing? Where did they look? What is the significance of Jesus standing in the middle with all eyes on Him? Why wouldn't they dare open their mouths? Why did they stop talking? Why didn't they know what this manifestation meant? Hadn't they been talking about the sign of Jesus Christ's death? Then why did they think it was an angel when the voice introduced Him as God's Beloved Son?

8 And it came to pass, as they understood they cast their eyes up again towards heaven; and behold, they saw a Man descending out of heaven; and he was clothed in a white robe; and he came down and stood in the midst of them; and the eyes of the whole multitude were turned upon him, and they durst not open their mouths, even one to another, and wist not what it meant, for they thought it was an angel that had appeared unto them.

What does it mean when he stretched forth his hand? What was this a sign of?

9 And it came to pass that he stretched forth his hand and spake unto the people, saying:

What is Jesus asking them to look at? How does Jesus Christ fulfill the words of His prophets?

10 Behold, I am Jesus Christ, whom the prophets testified shall come into the world.

What does it mean to be the light and the life of the world? What is the bitter cup? How did it glorify the Father when Jesus took upon him the sins of the world? What does it mean to suffer the will of the Father in all things from the beginning? Which beginning? Why did Jesus need to declare these things?

11 And behold, I am the light and the life of the world; and I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me, and have glorified the Father in taking upon me the sins of the world, in the which I have suffered the will of the Father in all things from the beginning.

Why did the multitude fall to the earth when the realized who Jesus was?

12 And it came to pass that when Jesus had spoken these words the whole multitude fell to the earth; for they remembered that it had been prophesied among them that Christ should show himself unto them after his ascension into heaven.

Why do they need to thrust their hands into his side and feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet? How does this give them sure knowledge that he is the God of Israel? How does this give them sure knowledge that he the God of the whole earth? How does this give them sure knowledge that He has been slain for the sins of the world? Can you have knowledge of God without this manifestation?

13 And it came to pass that the Lord spake unto them saying:

14 Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the nails in my hands and in my feet, that ye may know that I am the God of Israel, and the God of the whole earth, and have been slain for the sins of the world.

What does it mean to thrust? Thrust: To enter by pushing; to squeeze in. What is the significance of them going forth one by one? Is redemption ever a group event? How did seeing and feeling give them a sure knowledge? What does it mean to bear record? Bear: To show or exhibit; to relate; to carry, to convey; to withstand something difficult or painful, to support or hold up; sustain, cause to be born, bring forth, provide evidence for.  Record: To cause to be remembered; an authentic account of any facts and proceedings

15 And it came to pass that the multitude went forth, and thrust their hands into his side, and did feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet; and this they did do, going forth one by one until they had all gone forth, and did see with their eyes and did feel with their hands, and did know of a surety and did bear record, that it was he, of whom it was written by the prophets, that should come.

What does it mean to witness for themselves? Why is it essential that each one has this witness of Jesus Christ? What does it mean to cry out with one accord? Accord: Agreement; harmony of minds; consent or concurrence of opinions or wills.

16 And when they had all gone forth and had witnessed for themselves, they did cry out with one accord, saying:

Notice they started on the ground (verse 12), arose (verse 14), fell back down to the ground (verse 17). What does Hosanna mean? Hosanna: [Heb. save, I beseech you.] An exclamation of praise to God, or an invocation of blessings. Who is the Most High God (Alma 26:14)? Who do we worship?

17 Hosanna! Blessed be the name of the Most High God! And they did fall down at the feet of Jesus, and did worship him.

Who is Nephi? Why is Jesus calling him forth?

18 And it came to pass that he spake unto Nephi (for Nephi was among the multitude) and he commanded him that he should come forth.

Is kissing His feet a fitting response when coming before the Lord? Do we show this same reverence when we pray to Him?

19 And Nephi arose and went forth, and bowed himself before the Lord and did kiss his feet.

Would Nephi have preferred to bow before the Lord if not commanded to arise? No matter how unworthy he felt, must Nephi obey?

20 And the Lord commanded him that he should arise. And he arose and stood before him.

Does Jesus touch Nephi to give power to baptize? Why does Jesus tell him to baptize the people after Jesus ascends into heaven? Why doesn't he baptize them while Jesus is there?

21 And the Lord said unto him: I give unto you power that ye shall baptize this people when I am again ascended into heaven.

Does Jesus give power to baptize by speaking words? Why are there to be no disputations? What are disputations? Disputation: The act of disputing; a reasoning or argumentation in opposition to something, or on opposite sides; controversy in words; verbal contest, respecting the truth of some fact, opinion, proposition or argument.

22 And again the Lord called others, and said unto them likewise; and he gave unto them power to baptize. And he said unto them: On this wise shall ye baptize; and there shall be no disputations among you.

What is sin? What sins need to be repented of? How are sins repented of through words? What does it mean to be baptized in His name? What is His name?

23 Verily I say unto you, that whoso repenteth of his sins through your words, and desireth to be baptized in my name, on this wise shall ye baptize them—Behold, ye shall go down and stand in the water, and in my name shall ye baptize them.

What is Jesus asking them to look at? What is the significance of calling them by name?

24 And now behold, these are the words which ye shall say, calling them by name, saying:

Who gives authority to baptize? In whose name do they baptize? Does this name have three parts?

25 Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

Why is baptism by immersion essential? What is the meaning of this baptism?

26 And then shall ye immerse them in the water, and come forth again out of the water.

What is His name? What is he asking them to look at? Is Jesus explaining His name? What does He mean the father and the Son and the Holy Ghost are one? How is He in the Father and the Father in Him? What does it mean to be one? Does His name include the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost?

27 And after this manner shall ye baptize in my name; for behold, verily I say unto you, that the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost are one; and I am in the Father, and the Father in me, and the Father and I are one.

Can we be one in Him when we have disputations among us? Why are there disputations concerning the points of His doctrine? How do disputations work against the doctrine of Christ?

28 And according as I have commanded you thus shall ye baptize. And there shall be no disputations among you, as there have hitherto been; neither shall there be disputations among you concerning the points of my doctrine, as there have hitherto been.

Why do I argue about Christ's gospel and His doctrine? Does all contention come from the devil? Is arguing about the gospel of Jesus Christ an oxymoron? Does the devil care what we are stirred up to anger about, or just that we are stirred up to anger? Who is the father of contention? What does that mean?

29 For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contend with anger, one with another.

How are men stirred up to anger one against one another? Why are such things to be done away? How are such things done away?

30 Behold, this is not my doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men with anger, one against another; but this is my doctrine, that such things should be done away.

Why is Jesus declaring His doctrine?

31 Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, I will declare unto you my doctrine.

Who gave Him this doctrine? How does Jesus bear record of the Father? How does the Father bear record of Him? How does the Holy Ghost bear record of the Father and Jesus? Why does the Father bear record of Jesus and Jesus bears record of the Father but they do not bear record of the Holy Ghost? Why must Jesus bear record of the Father's commandment? Of what are all men everywhere commanded to repent? Why is it necessary to believe in Jesus?

32 And this is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of me, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me.

Is believing in Jesus and being baptized the only requirements to be saved? Why will these saved ones inherit the kingdom of God? What does it mean to believe in Jesus? Is baptism a symbol of belief?

33 And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God.

What does it mean to be damned? What signifies we believe in Jesus Christ? Why are we damned if we don't believe in Jesus Christ?

34 And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned.

Why can Jesus claim this doctrine which has been given from the Father as His own? If we believe in Jesus who will we also believe in? How will the Father bear record of Jesus? How will the Father visit those who believe in Jesus? What does this fire do to us and for us? Does the fire come from the Father or the Holy Ghost? Why is the presence of the Holy Ghost necessary when someone is visited with fire?

35 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and I bear record of it from the Father; and whoso believeth in me believeth in the Father also; and unto him will the Father bear record of me, for he will visit him with fire and with the Holy Ghost.

How is the Father bearing record of Jesus? Why must the Holy Ghost bear record unto him of the Father and Jesus? What does it mean “the Father, and I , and the Holy Ghost are one”?

36 And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me; for the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one.

In this verse what must we repent of and do? What does it mean to become as a little child? Why do the learned and proud refuse to be childlike? Again what is the significance of baptism? What things will you receive if you become as a little child and are baptized?

37 And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and become as a little child, and be baptized in my name, or ye can in nowise receive these things.

Notice the order is reversed. . . be baptized and become as a little child? When the exact words are repeated with this one difference should it draw our attention to it? What is being communicated?

38 And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and be baptized in my name, and become as a little child, or ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God.

What is His rock? What does it mean to build upon His rock? What if I build on a foundation that is not true? Can I build anything on a sandy foundation that will stand up to the tests of time and eternity? What are the gates of hell?

39 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and whoso buildeth upon this buildeth upon my rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against them.

What if more or less than this is required for baptism? Is it a valid baptism? Why does it come of evil? If we don't understand and build upon the doctrine of Christ what will happen? Why is knowledge of correct doctrine essential? Why do the gates of hell stand open to receive the ignorant? What are the floods and winds?

40 And whoso shall declare more or less than this, and establish it for my doctrine, the same cometh of evil, and is not built upon my rock; but he buildeth upon a sandy foundation, and the gates of hell stand open to receive such when the floods come and the winds beat upon them.

What's the importance of declaring these words to others?

41 Therefore, go forth unto this people, and declare the words which I have spoken, unto the ends of the earth.

Teenage Challenge Questions – Alma 47

Things aren't always as they appear. There is so much to be learned in discussing the following story. There are hundreds of questions you could ask with every chapter you read. Ask as many questions as you can, and then dig deeper and find more questions to ask. In this process you'll find your greatest treasures. Teenagers and young adults love such things.

Questions for Discussion

Why did Amalickiah's small group have to flee into the wilderness? Why was Moroni able to see through Amalickiah's subtle plans? How did Moroni respond when he heard what Amalickiah was doing? How were Amalickiah's plans received by the Nephites? (See Moroni 46)

Have you ever been stirred up to anger? How? Have you ever stirred others up to anger? What was your motive? What were Amalickiah's motives in going up against the Nephites to battle? What did Amalickiah say and do to persuade the king to go to battle with the Nephites? What did the king think he was going to gain from this battle? How did Amalickiah use anger to control the Lamanites and get them to carry out his plan?

1 Now we will return in our record to Amalickiah and those who had fled with him into the wilderness; for, behold, he had taken those who went with him, and went up in the land of Nephi among the Lamanites, and did stir up the Lamanites to anger against the people of Nephi, insomuch that the king of the Lamanites sent a proclamation throughout all his land, among all his people, that they should gather themselves together again to go to battle against the Nephites.

Who usually starts a battle? What are the motives of leaders who declare war? What are wars fought over? Do the ones on the battle field want to be there? Why did the Lamanites fear to displease the king? Why did they fear to go against the Nephites to battle? What would you have done? Did they have to obey the king? Can you be forced to fight and go to war?

2 And it came to pass that when the proclamation had gone forth among them they were exceedingly afraid; yea, they feared to displease the king, and they also feared to go to battle against the Nephites lest they should lose their lives. And it came to pass that they would not, or the more part of them would not, obey the commandments of the king.

Before Amalickiah came into their land, did the king have a desire to go to war? How did Amalickiah control the king? Why did the king listen to and follow Amalickiah? How did Amalickiah gain control of the army? Is the king even listening to his people? How well does force and control work? How would you feel if you were compelled to go to battle?

3 And now it came to pass that the king was wroth because of their disobedience; therefore he gave Amalickiah the command of that part of his army which was obedient unto his commands, and commanded him that he should go forth and compel them to arms.

What was Amalickiah's plan? How did Amalickiah get the king to go along with his plan? What does it mean to lay a plan in your heart? Can you lay a good plan in your heart? Which has more power: a plan in your heart or a plan in your mind? What was clouding the king's vision so that he could not see through Amalickiah's plan? Definition of Subtle: making use of clever and indirect methods to achieve something. How was Amalickiah's plan subtle?

4 Now behold, this was the desire of Amalickiah; for he being a very subtle man to do evil therefore he laid the plan in his heart to dethrone the king of the Lamanites.

How did Amalickiah gain favor with the king and the Lamanites? Did he use flattery? (see Alma 46:10) Why were the Lamanites so open to Amalickiah's suggestions? Why did Amalickiah choose to gain favor with both armies instead of compelling them to arms? Since the rebel army won't be forced to go to battle, can Amalickiah accomplish his plan through flattery and appealing to lusts of the flesh?

5 And now he had got the command of those parts of the Lamanites who were in favor of the king; and he sought to gain favor of those who were not obedient; therefore he went forward to the place which was called Onidah, for thither had all the Lamanites fled; for they discovered the army coming, and, supposing that they were coming to destroy them, therefore they fled to Onidah, to the place of arms.

If these Lamanites were fixed in their minds with a determined resolution that they would not be subjected to go against the Nephites, how come Amalickiah succeeded in getting them to go to battle against the Nephites? (see Alma 48:1-3) Why did Amalickiah need to keep his real plan from these people? Did they even know they were being manipulated?

6 And they had appointed a man to be a king and a leader over them, being fixed in their minds with a determined resolution that they would not be subjected to go against the Nephites.

Why would these Lamanites rather fight the Lamanites than fight the Nephites? Were they on the offensive or the defensive when they were on top of Mount Antipas?

7 And it came to pass that they had gathered themselves together upon the top of the mount which was called Antipas, in preparation to battle.

How is Amalickiah's subtlety shifting the Lamanites' perception? Would you have seen through Amalickiah's hypocrisy? Explain. Was Amalickiah ever loyal to the king? Why did everyone trust this newcomer?

8 Now it was not Amalickiah’s intention to give them battle according to the commandments of the king; but behold, it was his intention to gain favor with the armies of the Lamanites, that he might place himself at their head and dethrone the king and take possession of the kingdom.

Why is Amalickiah having his army pitch their tents so near the rebellious Lamanites?

9 And behold, it came to pass that he caused his army to pitch their tents in the valley which was near the mount Antipas.

What was the purpose of this secret embassy? Why did Amalickiah want to speak with Lehonti?

10 And it came to pass that when it was night he sent a secret embassy into the mount Antipas, desiring that the leader of those who were upon the mount, whose name was Lehonti, that he should come down to the foot of the mount, for he desired to speak with him.

Did Lehonti trust Amalickiah? Did he have a reason to distrust Amalickiah? Why wouldn't Lehonti go down to talk with Amalickiah?

11 And it came to pass that when Lehonti received the message he durst not go down to the foot of the mount. And it came to pass that Amalickiah sent again the second time, desiring him to come down. And it came to pass that Lehonti would not; and he sent again the third time.

Was it Amalickiah's plan to harm Lehonti while Lehonti still had suspicions of him?

12 And it came to pass that when Amalickiah found that he could not get Lehonti to come down off from the mount, he went up into the mount, nearly to Lehonti’s camp; and he sent again the fourth time his message unto Lehonti, desiring that he would come down, and that he would bring his guards with him.

How is Amalickiah abusing his position over the king's army? What did Amalickiah do to gain favor with Lehonti? When Amalickiah offered Lehonti command of the whole army, did he gain Lehonti's trust? Why would Lehonti trust a man who would betray his own army? How did Lehonti's lust for power cloud his vision? Why was Amalickiah okay with being a second leader?

13 And it came to pass that when Lehonti had come down with his guards to Amalickiah, that Amalickiah desired him to come down with his army in the night-time, and surround those men in their camps over whom the king had given him command, and that he would deliver them up into Lehonti’s hands, if he would make him (Amalickiah) a second leader over the whole army.

Why did Lehonti go along with Amalickiah's plan? Had he even considered Amalickiah's motives? Why was the king's army unaware of Amalickiah's betrayal?

14 And it came to pass that Lehonti came down with his men and surrounded the men of Amalickiah, so that before they awoke at the dawn of day they were surrounded by the armies of Lehonti.

How did Amalikiah get the king's army to want to surrender to Lehonti's army? What were they afraid of? How is fear used to motivate both armies? How did Amalickiah know what to do and say to get the Lamanites to move in the direction he wanted them to go?

15 And it came to pass that when they saw that they were surrounded, they pled with Amalickiah that he would suffer them to fall in with their brethren, that they might not be destroyed. Now this was the very thing which Amalickiah desired.

How are the king, the king's army, Lehonti, and Lehonti's army being used as pawns in the hands of Amalickiah? What was Amalickiah's end goal? Why was it so easy for Amalickiah to gain the trust of the Lamanites?

16 And it came to pass that he delivered his men, contrary to the commands of the king. Now this was the thing that Amalickiah desired, that he might accomplish his designs in dethroning the king.

If this was the custom among the Lamanites, to appoint the second leader to be their chief leader, why wasn't Lehonti suspicious of Amalickiah's plan?

17 Now it was the custom among the Lamanites, if their chief leader was killed, to appoint the second leader to be their chief leader.

Why did Amalickiah choose to have poison administered by degrees to Lehonti? Would the Lamanites be suspicious if Lehonti was murdered in another way?

18 And it came to pass that Amalickiah caused that one of his servants should administer poison by degrees to Lehonti, that he died.

When there is an automatic line of succession, can mischief go undetected?

19 Now, when Lehonti was dead, the Lamanites appointed Amalickiah to be their leader and their chief commander.

Are any of the Lamanites noticing how Amalickiah is gaining his desires?

20 And it came to pass that Amalickiah marched with his armies (for he had gained his desires) to the land of Nephi, to the city of Nephi, which was the chief city.

Why did the king suppose that Amalickiah had fulfilled his commands?

21 And the king came out to meet him with his guards, for he supposed that Amalickiah had fulfilled his commands, and that Amalickiah had gathered together so great an army to go against the Nephites to battle.

How are the servants of Amalickiah using a false pretense to approach the king? Does the king expect people to reverence him because of his greatness?

22 But behold, as the king came out to meet him Amalickiah caused that his servants should go forth to meet the king. And they went and bowed themselves before the king, as if to reverence him because of his greatness.

Where did the Nephites get this token of peace? What does the stretching forth of the hand token mean?

23 And it came to pass that the king put forth his hand to raise them, as was the custom with the Lamanites, as a token of peace, which custom they had taken from the Nephites.

How close was the army to Amalickiah's servants and the king? Did anyone from the army witness what happened?

24 And it came to pass that when he had raised the first from the ground, behold he stabbed the king to the heart; and he fell to the earth.

Why did the servants of the king flee? What would have happened if they had stayed? Why did the servants of Amalickiah immediately blame the servants of the king? Is it even reasonable that the king's servants would kill him right in front of so many people? They are with him every day. If they were going to kill him, wouldn't they have chosen a more private location? Did anyone see the obvious?

25 Now the servants of the king fled; and the servants of Amalickiah raised a cry, saying:

26 Behold, the servants of the king have stabbed him to the heart, and he has fallen and they have fled; behold, come and see.

Why did Amalickiah have the army march forth to see the dead king? Did this make his story more believable? How did Amalickiah use his pretended anger to deceive the Lamanites? How did Amalickiah use an emotional appeal to automatically try and convict the king's guards of murdering the king? Was it insinuated that the army would be guilty of not loving the king if they did not pursue the king's servants? How is Amalickiah manipulating the army with his words? Were the Lamanites acting or being acted upon? (see Free to Act . . . Obtaining Peace)

27 And it came to pass that Amalickiah commanded that his armies should march forth and see what had happened to the king; and when they had come to the spot, and found the king lying in his gore, Amalickiah pretended to be wroth, and said: Whosoever loved the king, let him go forth, and pursue his servants that they may be slain.

Why did those who loved the king pursue the king's servants? Did they even know what was going on? Do we ever fall into such traps? “If you love the Lord you'll do . . . If you are righteous you'll do . . . If you have good desires you'll do . . . etc.” Do we stop an evaluate each claim or do blindly rush forward doing what we're told? How was revenge used to cloud their vision?

28 And it came to pass that all they who loved the king, when they heard these words, came forth and pursued after the servants of the king.

What would have happened if the servants of the king weren't frightened? How is fear used to control us? Why does the Lord give us this commandment, “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.”? D&C 6:36 If we don't trust in the Lord, is our only other alternative to fear men?

29 Now when the servants of the king saw an army pursuing after them, they were frightened again, and fled into the wilderness, and came over into the land of Zarahemla and joined the people of Ammon.

Amalickiah not only gained control of the Army, but he gained the hearts of the people. How was he able to gain their hearts? Does this mean they loved and trusted him? How was this accomplished?

30 And the army which pursued after them returned, having pursued after them in vain; and thus Amalickiah, by his fraud, gained the hearts of the people.

Why would the Lamanite army come and take possession of their own city?

31 And it came to pass on the morrow he entered the city Nephi with his armies, and took possession of the city.

Because Amalickiah was the one responsible for informing the queen, did this make him more believable? Why did he only inform her with the information he wanted her to hear? How did Amalickiah show the queen that he had acted responsibly to take vengeance on those who killed the king? How did these communications add to the credibility of Amalickiah's story?

32 And now it came to pass that the queen, when she had heard that the king was slain—for Amalickiah had sent an embassy to the queen informing her that the king had been slain by his servants, that he had pursued them with his army, but it was in vain, and they had made their escape—

Why did the queen need to ask Amalickiah to spare the people of the city? Why did the queen want witnesses of the king's murder brought to her? Just because someone is a witness, does it follow that they are telling the truth? Do witnesses ever have ulterior motives?

33 Therefore, when the queen had received this message she sent unto Amalickiah, desiring him that he would spare the people of the city; and she also desired him that he should come in unto her; and she also desired him that he should bring witnesses with him to testify concerning the death of the king.

What secret combination did Amalickiah have with his servants that held them loyal to each other to accomplish this evil plan? What motive did Amalickiah's servants have to lie to the queen? How was the queen to know the truth? What was the king's guards motive for fleeing? Can a story be twisted to make it appear different than what happened?

34 And it came to pass that Amalickiah took the same servant that slew the king, and all them who were with him, and went in unto the queen, unto the place where she sat; and they all testified unto her that the king was slain by his own servants; and they said also: They have fled; does not this testify against them? And thus they satisfied the queen concerning the death of the king.

How do you suppose Amalickiah gained the favor of the queen? How come all these people are giving their hearts to Amalickiah? Is he charming? Witty? Charismatic? Believable? Pleasant to be with? How did Moroni see through Amalickiah's subtle plans yet the Lamanites do not? Did Amalickiah immediately become king of the Lamanites or did the queen need to fall in love with him first? Did he come in the front door with force, or did he use flattery to get these Lamanites to follow him?

35 And it came to pass that Amalickiah sought the favor of the queen, and took her unto him to wife; and thus by his fraud, and by the assistance of his cunning servants, he obtained the kingdom; yea, he was acknowledged king throughout all the land, among all the people of the Lamanites, who were composed of the Lamanites and the Lemuelites and the Ishmaelites, and all the dissenters of the Nephites, from the reign of Nephi down to the present time.

Does instruction and information change hearts? What must be the condition of our hearts to be able to understand the Lord? When we turn away from the light we have received, do we go back to our previous state or do we become worse than we were in the first place? Why do people forget the Lord their God?

36 Now these dissenters, having the same instruction and the same information of the Nephites, yea, having been instructed in the same knowledge of the Lord, nevertheless, it is strange to relate, not long after their dissensions they became more hardened and impenitent, and more wild, wicked and ferocious than the Lamanites—drinking in with the traditions of the Lamanites; giving way to indolence, and all manner of lasciviousness; yea, entirely forgetting the Lord their God.

How does the devil use anger, fear, jealousy, flattery, revenge, lust for power and control, etc. to blind you and move you around like a pawn on his chest board?

Teenage Challenge Questions – Ether 3

We have a separate devotional for our older children before the younger ones wake up in the morning. We ask a lot of questions and are constantly discovering new things. It's amazing how much we miss when we read the Book of Mormon without stopping to ask questions, examining the meaning of words, and looking deeper into what is being communicated. A careful study of the Book of Mormon is really quite exciting. We are enjoying our early morning study time.

There are hundreds of questions you could ask with every chapter you read. Here's over a hundred questions to consider. Many more questions could still be asked.

Questions for Discussion

What is the significance of the number eight? Eight is new beginning. For example, on the eighth day a new week begins. Where else do you see the number eight in scripture? How many souls were on Noah's ark? What age can we be baptized? What day was John the Baptist circumcised? How many witnesses did Joseph Smith show the gold plates to? Can you think of other examples? What did the brother of Jared do to make 16 clear small stones? Who came up with the idea? How much effort did he put into the preparations? Is there any significance of getting the rock from the same mount where he prayed to the Lord? Have you ever cried unto the Lord?

1 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared, (now the number of the vessels which had been prepared was eight) went forth unto the mount, which they called the mount Shelem, because of its exceeding height, and did molten out of a rock sixteen small stones; and they were white and clear, even as transparent glass; and he did carry them in his hands upon the top of the mount, and cried again unto the Lord, saying:

Why did the brother of Jared think the Lord might be angry with him because of his weakness? See Genesis 11:1-9 and Ether 1:33. Has the brother of Jared seen what happens to those who experience the anger of the Lord? What is the brother of Jared concerned about? In Ether 2:14-15 he was chastened for not calling upon the name of the Lord for his brethren, how does his prayer in these verses show he has repented? Why did the brother of Jared reference the commandment of the Lord when crying unto the Lord? When we come to Jesus with His words are praying in the name of Jesus? How is fulfilling the commandments of the Lord show forth faith? How does the brother of Jared see himself when compared to Jesus?

2 O Lord, thou hast said that we must be encompassed about by the floods. Now behold, O Lord, and do not be angry with thy servant because of his weakness before thee; for we know that thou art holy and dwellest in the heavens, and that we are unworthy before thee; because of the fall our natures have become evil continually; nevertheless, O Lord, thou hast given us a commandment that we must call upon thee, that from thee we may receive according to our desires.

Why were the Jaredites smitten? Why were they driven forth? Yet, what did the Brother of Jared say about how the Lord has been toward them? In your troubles, do you see the Lord's merciful hand in your life? Can you imagine how the brother of Jared must have felt as he asked Jesus to look at the stones in his hands? This was his best work. He did carefully molten each one of those small stones out of rock.

3 Behold, O Lord, thou hast smitten us because of our iniquity, and hast driven us forth, and for these many years we have been in the wilderness; nevertheless, thou hast been merciful unto us. O Lord, look upon me in pity, and turn away thine anger from this thy people, and suffer not that they shall go forth across this raging deep in darkness; but behold these things which I have molten out of the rock.

How does the brother of Jared know the Lord has all power? Do we have the belief or faith to come before Jesus with confidence in the Lord's power?

4 And I know, O Lord, that thou hast all power, and can do whatsoever thou wilt for the benefit of man; therefore touch these stones, O Lord, with thy finger, and prepare them that they may shine forth in darkness; and they shall shine forth unto us in the vessels which we have prepared, that we may have light while we shall cross the sea.

Why does the Lord's great power, look small unto the understanding of men?

5 Behold, O Lord, thou canst do this. We know that thou art able to show forth great power, which looks small unto the understanding of men.

Was the brother of Jared still holding the stones in his hands when the Lord touched them? Do you think he could he feel the pressure on his hand as each stone was touched? Could he feel each stone being touch before he saw the Lord's finger? Why did the Lord touch each stone one by one instead of speaking and giving light to the stones? How could Jesus come in flesh and blood long before He is born? What is this veil which covers our eyes? Why was the brother of Jared struck with fear?

6 And it came to pass that when the brother of Jared had said these words, behold, the Lord stretched forth his hand and touched the stones one by one with his finger. And the veil was taken from off the eyes of the brother of Jared, and he saw the finger of the Lord; and it was as the finger of a man, like unto flesh and blood; and the brother of Jared fell down before the Lord, for he was struck with fear.

What would you do if you knew Jesus was standing right in front of you, but you couldn't see Him? What was the significance of Jesus telling the brother of Jared to arise? Why did Jesus ask him why he had fallen? Why did he think the Lord would smite him? What are your beliefs about Jesus that are not correct? After the brother of Jared saw the Lord's flesh and blood why did he think the Lord would smite him?

7 And the Lord saw that the brother of Jared had fallen to the earth; and the Lord said unto him: Arise, why hast thou fallen?

8 And he saith unto the Lord: I saw the finger of the Lord, and I feared lest he should smite me; for I knew not that the Lord had flesh and blood.

Faith is a principle of action based on a true belief. What were the brother of Jared's beliefs? What were his actions? What was the result of his faith? Why couldn't he have seen the finger of the Lord without faith? What was the Lord's purpose in asking the brother of Jared if he saw more than his finger? Is this question answer session essential so that we come to the Lord at our pace instead of the Lord setting the pace?

9 And the Lord said unto him: Because of thy faith thou hast seen that I shall take upon me flesh and blood; and never has man come before me with such exceeding faith as thou hast; for were it not so ye could not have seen my finger. Sawest thou more than this?

10 And he answered: Nay; Lord, show thyself unto me.

Why is Jesus asking the brother of Jared if he believes the words which he is going to speak? Did he have to hear the words of Jesus before he could determine whether they were true or not? How did he come to know the Lord is a God of truth?

11 And the Lord said unto him: Believest thou the words which I shall speak?

12 And he answered: Yea, Lord, I know that thou speakest the truth, for thou art a God of truth, and canst not lie.

Can you pick out the essential elements in the brother of Jared's walk back into the presence of the Lord? Can you be redeemed from the fall without being brought back into the Lord's presence? What does the brother of Jared now know?

13 And when he had said these words, behold, the Lord showed himself unto him, and said: Because thou knowest these things ye are redeemed from the fall; therefore ye are brought back into my presence; therefore I show myself unto you.

How was Jesus prepared from the foundation of the world to redeem his people? Who will Jesus redeem? How is Jesus Christ both the Father and the Son? What does it mean to believe on His name? What is eternal life? How come we can't have life eternally without believing on the name of Jesus Christ? When do we become Jesus Christ's sons and daughters? What happens to all who don't become Jesus Christ's sons and daughters?

14 Behold, I am he who was prepared from the foundation of the world to redeem my people. Behold, I am Jesus Christ. I am the Father and the Son. In me shall all mankind have life, and that eternally, even they who shall believe on my name; and they shall become my sons and my daughters.

How did Jesus show Himself unto the brother of Jared differently than the prophets who came before him? Enoch lived before the brother of Jared. Didn't Enoch and his people walk and talk with God (Moses 7:69)? Before this time did the brother of Jared know he was created after the image of God?

15 And never have I showed myself unto man whom I have created, for never has man believed in me as thou hast. Seest thou that ye are created after mine own image? Yea, even all men were created in the beginning after mine own image.

Did Jesus touch the stones with His spirit body or His flesh and blood body? What does it mean “man have I created after the body of my spirit”? What is the difference between a spirit body and a flesh body?

16 Behold, this body, which ye now behold, is the body of my spirit; and man have I created after the body of my spirit; and even as I appear unto thee to be in the spirit will I appear unto my people in the flesh.

Why couldn't Moroni make a full account of these things? In what manner did Jesus show himself unto the Nephites? What body did Jesus show unto the Nephites? Did the brother of Jared touch the wounds in Jesus' hands, feet, and side as the Nephites did?

17 And now, as I, Moroni, said I could not make a full account of these things which are written, therefore it sufficeth me to say that Jesus showed himself unto this man in the spirit, even after the manner and in the likeness of the same body even as he showed himself unto the Nephites.

How were the Nephites ministered unto? When you come into the presence of Jesus will He minister to you in like manner? Why did the brother of Jared need to be ministered to in this manner to know Jesus was God? Why did Jesus show him many great works? How did Moses tell the difference between God and Satan (Moses 1)?

18 And he ministered unto him even as he ministered unto the Nephites; and all this, that this man might know that he was God, because of the many great works which the Lord had showed unto him.

How did the brother of Jared get knowledge? How did knowledge give him access to see inside the veil? What is the veil? What is it to see inside the veil? Why did he fall with fear when he saw Jesus' finger? What does it mean to know without a shadow of a doubt?

19 And because of the knowledge of this man he could not be kept from beholding within the veil; and he saw the finger of Jesus, which, when he saw, he fell with fear; for he knew that it was the finger of the Lord; and he had faith no longer, for he knew, nothing doubting.

Why couldn't he be kept from within the veil after receiving a perfect knowledge of God? What happens when you see Jesus? What is covering Jesus from our view? What is this veil?

20 Wherefore, having this perfect knowledge of God, he could not be kept from within the veil; therefore he saw Jesus; and he did minister unto him.

Why didn't the Lord want these things to go forth unto the world until the time when He glorfied His name in the flesh? Is going forth unto the world the same thing as going forth to other believers (Mosiah 28:7)? This record was found before Jesus Christ came in the flesh (Mosiah 8, Ether 4:1)? Was the brother of Jared allowed to tell anyone about what he saw and heard? What does it mean to treasure up? What kind of treasures do we seek?

21 And it came to pass that the Lord said unto the brother of Jared: Behold, thou shalt not suffer these things which ye have seen and heard to go forth unto the world, until the time cometh that I shall glorify my name in the flesh; wherefore, ye shall treasure up the things which ye have seen and heard, and show it to no man.

Did the brother of Jared continue to come unto Jesus after this manifestation? What did he do with all manifestations of Jesus? Did the brother of Jared have the sealing power? How did the brother of Jared seal up the record? In what language did the brother of Jared write these things?

22 And behold, when ye shall come unto me, ye shall write them and shall seal them up, that no one can interpret them; for ye shall write them in a language that they cannot be read.

Why were two stones sealed up with the record?

23 And behold, these two stones will I give unto thee, and ye shall seal them up also with the things which ye shall write.

Was this language the same language which was confounded at the tower of babel? If so, was the language confounded for the brother of Jared? How would stones magnify to eyes of men these things?

24 For behold, the language which ye shall write I have confounded; wherefore I will cause in my own due time that these stones shall magnify to the eyes of men these things which ye shall write.

Why is showing the brother of Jared all the inhabitants of the earth an important part of God's ministry? How did this ministry give the brother knowledge that Jesus was God? How is the spirit of prophecy connected with receiving the testimony of Jesus?

25 And when the Lord had said these words, he showed unto the brother of Jared all the inhabitants of the earth which had been, and also all that would be; and he withheld them not from his sight, even unto the ends of the earth.

When had Jesus told the brother of Jared that IF he would believe in him that he could show him all things? How seriously and literally did the brother of Jared take Jesus' words? How did he know not merely believe the Lord could show him all things?

26 For he had said unto him in times before, that if he would believe in him that he could show unto him all things—it should be shown unto him; therefore the Lord could not withhold anything from him, for he knew that the Lord could show him all things.

Who would show these things unto the children of men? When?

27 And the Lord said unto him: Write these things and seal them up; and I will show them in mine own due time unto the children of men.

Did you notice the Lord repeats His instructions more than once? What is the purpose for this repetition? How many times does the Lord command him to seal up the record and show them not to the children of men (see also Ether 4:1)? Were these the two stones Joseph Smith used (JSH 1:52)?

28 And it came to pass that the Lord commanded him that he should seal up the two stones which he had received, and show them not, until the Lord should show them unto the children of men.